Tina took a shower as Bette packed up last nights dinner for lunch. They didnt want to waste time lunching in public. They had decided to go for a hike. The last they hiked was with each other and both were glad do start it all over again. Tina decided to wait for the taking till they got there. The hiking trail had always brought them closer; it was their good-luck trail. The first time they went there, was there third weekend together after they started to date. They both felt so connected to the place and each other. The hike lead them up to a small hill which looked over the city. It was like getting away from the world and being alone in the world. It was quiet and serene.

It was an hours drive after they left the city. Tina was very quiet and it worried Bette. She was scanning her mind to find if something she said was upsetting Tina. After struggling for 20 mins she took the easier wayshe asked: T, are you okay? We can go back if you are tired. Tina looked over and smiled.Bettes constantly thinking of me..No, I want us to be theresoon. Tina was surprised how Bette kept her energy with so less sleep, food and Tina to worry about. Tina could see she was hurting for Tina, mad like ***** at Kyle and scared or them to talk about what happened between them. Bette was strong and yet she looked vulnerable. And fragile. Emotionally and physically. Tina started to have doubts if its the right time to talk. She was concerned if Bette would be able to take it. Strange! I am constantly thinking of Bette too.

Bette put the bag around her shoulders as Tina stepped out of the car. They were very familiar with this place. It was their lucky-charm. They immediately started their ascend up the hill. Tina took a step forward to hold Bettes hand. Bette was so thankful. She squeezed Tinas hand, pulled it up and kissed it softly. They drank in the quiet beauty around them, including each other. It was a Monday. Except a couple of tourists, they hardly saw anyone on the trail. Once up Tina sat on the rock looking at the city and Bette stood behind her with her arms around Tinas neck and her chin just touching Tinas head. After about five minutes, Tina pulled in Bette closer by pulling her arms down. Now almost touching Bettes face she and choosing her words she softly said: Baby, can we talk a bit before we eat. Bettes body immediately stiffened but as she felt Tinas grip tighten on her, she felt much better. She knew sooner or later they had to talk and she also knew she was ready to talk. Bette had craved to Tinaeven if it were things that she knew might hurt both of them.

Bette: Before we do that T, I need you to know that this past day has been such a blessingto have you with me.I have felt alive. I love you with all my heart and no matter what happens I will love you forever. She gently kissed Tina on her shoulder and moved to sit beside her on the rock facing the city. Tina took Bettes hand in hers, Bettewhat happened the last time we were together was something I had never thought could happen to us. I knew we were having trouble communicating and I knew it was not all your fault. I do remember how strong and supportive were you when we lost our boy and how you were trying to give me space and time. I knew you were hurting and struggling but you were not coming to me and I do think I tried more than you did to open up to you and make you want to talk. I never fathomed you would need someone else to make you feel ..things. she was getting heavy lumps in her throat now.she was quiet for a minute before she spoke again.

I thought I would never trust you again and somehow manage to force myself to fall out of love with you. But, yesterday I knew its not something I can ever do. I have and I can never love someone as I love you. Every moment, every day and every night.past months, I have missed you. Your touch, your voice, your body.and yesterday I realized theres no one I trust more than you. Remember I said how I use to see pride in your eyes. How you made me feel safe and great and how it was not happening. Well, yesterday it did. I have never felt saferthan last nightin your arms. Theres no one and nowhere I could think of goingbut you. And you were there waiting for me. I can see how you feel for me and I can see how you have changed but Bette you need to talk to me, fill me in for past months and the months before thatwhen we were together but we really werent together. I dont know if I have forgiven you, I dont know if I have healed but I do know I cannot stop loving you and I know I belong to youwith you.

Tina: I know I need to be with you but I also know things will be different but I also think they should be. Things have changed.we have changed in past months and I am sorry for not giving us this chance to talk soonerbut baby, if you want to walk with me to build a new life together you need to tell me and you need to tell me how you feel and what happened. With that Tina looked up at Bette.