Dammit Bette thought to herself as she was rudely awakened by the new days sunlight. Im going to have to turn this bed the other way so this never happens again.

Bette opened her eyes and smiled. Tina had spent the night with her last night and she was thrilled that they might be able to start over again this morning. When she rolled over she was disappointed to find that she was in the bed all by herself as had become the norm after 7 months of loneliness. Where the ***** did she go?

Bette threw herself out of the bed and grabbed her robe to cover up her semi nude body. She walked to the bathroom and noticed Tina wasnt there, so she made her way to the kitchen. Before she got there she could hear something cooking. Shes still here, Bette said relieved. When she turned the corner she just stopped. She wanted to make sure her eyes werent deceiving her. There Tina was standing at the stove cooking and shaking her ***** while singing. Bette had to smile at the sight. Damn that woman is *****, Bette thought to herself. After watching Tina perform for a minute or two she decided to interrupt.

Umm, Umm, Bette said pretending to clear her throat.

Tina turned around and smiled. Good morning, babe.

Babe. She just called me babe, Bette thought.

Good morning T, Bette said walking over to her. She threw her arms around Tinas waist and kissed her on her bare shoulder. Tina had only grabbed a camisole and some shorts to wear this morning.

Im making you breakfast. How does pancakes and scrambled eggs sound? Tina asked.

Sounds perfect.

Good. Go ahead and sit down, it will be ready in a couple of minutes. I already got todays paper out of the driveway and its sitting in the chair. Ohh, and the coffee is fresh too if you want a cup, she said turning back around to tend to her skillet.

Bette couldnt believe her eyes or her ears. I have got to be dreaming. I am waking up to my wife singing and dancing and cooking me breakfast. She got my paper out of the yard and theres fresh coffee.

I hope nobody pinches me, Bette said under her breath.

Whats that babe? Tina said

Nothing, just talking to myself.

Bette walked over and poured herself some coffee and went to the table. She pulled the newspaper out of the plastic and started reading it. A couple minutes later Tina came over.

Watch out, hot eggs, Tina warned.

Bette pulled the paper back out of Tinas way so she could put them on her plate.

How much do you want? Tina asked.

Just a couple of spoonfuls. Tina put some on Bettes plate and scooted some onto hers also.

I made you two pancakes. Is that enough?

Yeah thats fine T.

Tina came and loaded Bette and her plates and sat the empty pan back on the oven. She came back over to the table and sat down. Bette folded up the paper and sat it in the empty chair next to her.

So how long have you been up? Bette asked pouring syrup on her pancakes.

About 30 minutes. I thought the coffee would wake you up but it didnt. So I decided to cook something. And lo and behold, here you come around the corner, Tina said smiling.

Thats a nice trick Tina. You must know the way to my heart then, Bette returned the smile.

I hope so.

They continued eating silently for a while because neither one of them wanted to bring up last nights events. Bette knew they were going to have to talk about it though and avoidance could was not the answer in this situation.

Tee?

Yeah, Tina said looking up from her plate.

Dont you think we need to talk? Bette said softly trying not to disturb the mood.

I was hoping you wouldnt go there so soon, Tina said trying to brush the question off.

Tee, as much as I would love to not talk about all that has happened, I think its necessary for us. We cant act like nothing has happened.

Tina sat her fork down on her plate and looked at Bette.

Okay what do you want to talk about?

Come on T, you know what I want to talk about. I came home last night and you were on the porch crying. To me, thats something to talk about. And not to mention our rendezvous in the club bathroom. Dont you want to try to clear all of this up? Bette asked.

Bette, if you want to know the truth, I only wanted to have a nice Sunday breakfast with you and take it from there. I dont know if Im ready to face all the demons we have yet to slay.

Bette looked down and started moving her eggs around with her fork.

I know Tee, but I cant avoid it. I want to know what had you broke down last night.

After a long pause and short sigh, Tina looked at Bette.

Carlie kicked me out of the house last night. She told me to never come back, Tina said softly. When I finally got to the house last night, she was sitting in the living room in the dark. I turned on the light and saw her crying. When I tried to hug her she pushed me away. She told me to leave. Well, of course I said no, not until we talked about everything. But she didnt want to hear it. She told me I used her, and that she gave her heart to me and I gave her nothing but heartache in return. And even though it hurt me to hear her say that, I knew she was right. I never wanted to hurt her, but I am not in a position right now to give her what she wants.

Tina looked back down at her plate. All I know is that Im still in love with you and until I figure that out, I am not going to be any good to anyone.

Bette just sat there listening, surprised to hear Tina say that she still was in love with her.

Well, where are you going to stay at T?

I called Alice this morning and she said I could stay over there for a while, at least until I get a new place.

Why cant you stay here with me?

Tina looked back up at Bette, You know I cant stay here with you Bette. Its still too soon.

I dont understand Tina. You stayed here last night and everything was okay.

I know I did and I thank you for being there for me and holding me, but its too difficult. Bette, do you know how hard it was for me to not wake you up this morning and make love to you? When I looked at your body, I was flooded with emotions, but I knew it was wrong.

Bette sat there happy that Tina had expressed her desire for her. I dont know about you Tina, but I wouldnt have had a problem with it, Bette said offering a small smile.

Stop it Bette, Im trying to be serious and talk. Thats what you wanted right, Tina said partly scolding Bette.

Okay, Im sorry, Bette said putting another serving of eggs in her mouth.

Now where was I, Tina said trying to continue.

Something about it would be wrong, Bette said trying to help jog Tinas memory.

Ohh yeah, and I knew it would be wrong. So I had to get up and do something. After last night in the bathroom at the club, I realized that I am a little out of my league with you Bette.

What the ***** is that supposed to mean Tina?

Bette, I have always heard stories about you and how you used to be. Alice and Shane always would inform me of your many escapades and your way with the ladies. I was never a witness to that. I only saw the gentle Bette when we got together. I knew you had some kind of magnetic charm, but what you did in that bathroom was beyond me. I was so turned on by your confidence and complete control of the situation. What was so bad was that you knew it and you showed me.

Tina, I didnt mean.

Wait Bette, Im not finished. The look in your eyes broke down any defense I had against you. And just to feel you against me again, was too much for me. I never knew you could be like that. I was embarrassed and turned on all at the same time. Then you left me and went out there with Layla. I couldnt bear to watch you two together. Not after what had just happened in the bathroom. Then I realized Carlie was gone, and I knew I was in trouble, but I didnt think she would have kicked me out. But I had it coming because I let my jealousy get the best of me. I was mad because you were kissing and rubbing on Layla, and then I was mad for being mad at you. I had just told you the night before that we were through, but I just couldnt fight the urge to pull you away from her on the dance floor. A part of me knows that I still want you, but I have another part that is scared to death to trust you again, Tina said finally finishing her thoughts.

Bette sat there stunned at all of Tinas revelations. Im going to kill Alice and Shane when I see them, she thought first.

Tina, I am sorry for last night. When you pulled me to you, all I wanted to do was make love to you. I was dying for your touch. But halfway through I realized it was wrong, but you didnt want to hear that. Something in me just snapped. I really do apologize for acting that way with you. That was definitely a side of me that I have never shown you. Ill be honest with you Tina, before you when I was single, I would give these girls what they wanted and would be on my way. But when I met you, it all changed. Something about you was different and I didnt want you to ever be a witness to that kind of behavior. I dont know what to say. When you said ***** it it was almost like I didnt see you as Tina anymore. It was like you were one of those other women. But as soon as I got outside that door I regretted it. You are my wife, not just some woman. I just didnt know how to fix it, so I left you in there. I really am sorry Tina.

They both just sat there looking at each other. They knew they were both extremely sorry for how they acted, but where did that leave them now. They still loved each other, they still desired each other, but there were mountains still to climb before they could go back to what they were. And there was no guarantee that they would get back there.

Since we got that all out in the open, is there anything you want to do today? Tina asked breaking the silence.

Well I didnt have anything planned. Is there something you would like to do?

Not really. I would love to go swimming though. I havent done that since I moved out.

Sounds good to me, Bette replied.

Im going to go get showered and go back over to Carlies house so I can get some clothes and other personal items and take them over to Alices house. I should be back sometime this afternoon, Tina said.

Okay, Ill be here.

Tina got up and started clearing the table.

No Tina, Ill get this stuff. You were nice enough to fix me breakfast. The least I can do is clean up, Bette said standing up taking the plates out of Tinas hands.

Its not a problem Bette, I can do it.

Tina I said put the plates down before it gets ugly in here, Bette said frowning at Tina.

Okay, Okay. Good grief, I was just trying to be nice.

Pointing to the bedroom, Go Tina, Bette said with an air of finality.

About 30 minutes later Tina came back out wearing an old T-shirt and shorts that belonged to Bette.

I love it when you wear my clothes Tee, Bette said picking at Tina.

I love it too, but I know I left at least one change of clothes over here when I left the first time.

Ohh yeah, they are in a box in the closet. Do you want me to get them for you? Bette asked getting up from the table.

No thats okay, they can stay in there. You never know when Ill need them, Tina said smiling at Bette.

Bette smiled back. So when are you going to be back?

It shouldnt take too long. I gotta go get some boxes then go get my things. Once I drop it off at Alices I should be back. Im hoping Carlie isnt home. I dont know if Im ready to face her yet. But if she is, I guess I have no other choice, Tina said sadly.

It will be okay T, Bette said walking over to grab Tina. If you need me, just call. Ill be here all day.

Bette kissed Tina on the forehead and pulled back. See you in a few.

See you later, Tina said walking towards the door.

Bette watched Tina pull out of the driveway and closed the door. It was her turn to take a shower.

>>>

A little after 2:00 that afternoon Bette heard the doorbell ring. Why is Tina ringing the doorbell, she has a key. But when Bette looked out the peep hole she saw Layla standing there.

She opened the door, Hey Layla.

Aloha Bette.

Ha, Ha, I know what that means, Bette said smiling.

I would sure hope so Bette, Layla said grinning.

Would you like to come in? Bette asked.

Sure, if everything is okay, Layla said looking around Bette into her living room.

Everything is fine, come on in, Bette said opening the screen door.

So what did I do to deserve such a pleasant surprise so early? I didnt expect to see you until later on this evening. You are still leaving tonight arent you? Bette asked.

Actually no, Bette. Im going to return to San Diego in about an hour. Im going to go rent a car and drive back. They cancelled my flight back out until tomorrow morning and I cant wait that long to get back to work, so I decide to get a refund. Im going to drop the top on the convertible and take in the California coast. Its a beautiful day and the drive will be good for me. It should only take about 2 hours to get home.

Im sorry youre going back so soon. I wanted to at least sit down and talk with you before you left. I know last night was awkward and I apologize. It seems like I am constantly apologizing to you, Bette said looking down.

Bette you dont have to apologize. I knew Thursday night that you and Tina had something special. I am not nave enough to think that I could come in and replace her. I have no place to get jealous. You dont owe me anything Bette.

I know Layla, but you are such a beautiful person and I still feel bad getting you involved in all of this. When I met you Thursday, I wasnt expecting to gain a new friend. I really dont want to tell you what was on my mind.

Bette, I think I know what was on your mind, because I was thinking the same thing, Layla said interrupting.

It happens Bette, and I admit I have grown very fond of you. I hope that we can stay in touch and become even better friends. And maybe one day I can take you to Hawaii with me, to show you my native home.

I hope so too Layla. I really would love that. You are a precious find Layla, and I hope someone can make you very happy. If I wasnt going through all this with Tina, I would have to try to and pin you down myself.

Layla smiled. I would hope so Bette. Im pretty smitten with you too.

There was a long pause between those statements. They both realized they had a connection but the timing was all wrong. If it was another time and space, maybe they would be a couple, but right now friends would have to do.

Layla decided to break the silence. Ohh yeah, I have something for you, reaching inside her handbag.

I dont want a gift Layla, Bette said already embarrassed by the gesture.

No, its not a gift. Its something we talked about yesterday and I just want to help you on your way. I know you said you liked to read when you were younger and stopped because life got in the way. Well I want to put you back on the path of taking time for yourself. Like I said yesterday, I just finished Angels and Demons by Dan Brown and I want you to have the book. I want you to read some everyday, just to get back in the habit. Hopefully youll get back into a routine and youll be able to regain your passion for reading, Layla said handing the book to Bette.

I cant take this Layla. I was going to Borders tomorrow to pick this up. You dont have to do this.

I know what I dont have to do Bette. I want to do this. I believe that helping you will help me. You know, the whole karma thing. You said reading takes you away, so I hope this book can take you away in the brief moments you are reading it. Away from all your worries and troubles. No Tina, no friends, no family, no work, just you and the book. Please, I beg you to take it, Layla said pushing the book into Bettes hands.

Bette took the book and continued to look at Layla. She was blown away by Laylas generosity and thoughtfulness. Her beauty was striking inside and out. She knew that Layla had the potential to be someone very special in her life, and if Tina didnt act right, Layla was definitely a potential candidate for new love.

You are something else you know, Bette said smiling.

Well I try, Layla said. I guess I better get going. I have to go get the car and get down the road. If you want, I can give you my number and whenever you want to call me, dont hesitate.

Sure, I would love your number. Hold on, while I go get some paper.

No, Ill write it in the book. Now every time you open it, youll think of me and I might get a phone call.

Layla grabbed a pen out of her handbag and took the book from Bette. After she got through writing in it she handed the book back.

Now, if I dont hear from you, I wont be mad. I know you and Tina are working on your relationship. But if ever you need someone to talk to, just open the book and give me a call. And when you get through reading it, you should call anyway so we can discuss it, Layla suggested.

Layla, I dont need a reason to call you. Im going to call you tonight to make sure you made it home safely.

Ill be looking forward to it Bette.

Well let me go, Layla said walking towards the door.

You mean Im not going to get a hug before you go? Bette asked sticking out her bottom lip like she was pouting.

Of course you can have a hug nani, Layla said walking back to Bette.

Ha, Ha, I know what that means too, Bette said pointing at Layla.

I would hope so Bette, Layla said laughing.

Both women slowly stepped into the embrace. They both felt rushes of desire run through them when they touched.

No, no Bette, do not do this, Bette thought.

Fight it off, Layla said to herself.

Jesus, she is so soft and smells so good. Let go Bette, she continued to say in her mind.

They allowed the hug to linger a little too long. When they pulled back both were almost weary with desire. Layla bent down and kissed Bette. As much as she didnt want to, Bette returned it. But before they could get too deep into it, they heard the door open.

Bette didnt even open her eyes. She didnt have to look to know that it was Tina who had returned and was standing in the doorway. Oh *****, not again.