Bette placed the phone on the receiver and before she turned around, knew that Tina was behind her. She slowly turned, and saw Tina leaning against the doorframe that led into the kitchen, with her arms crossed in front of her. The expression on Tinas face was almost quizzical as she continued to watch Bette.

Bette stood there, taking a step backwards, herself leaning against the counter. Bette could not have put any more space between them and still be in the same room.

Bettes movement received a raised eyebrow from Tina, who just watched her, waiting to see what Bette was going to do next. She still said nothing, just waited for Bette to continue this unchoreographed dance that the two of them were in.

Beginning to feel uncomfortable with the silence, Bette opened her mouth and finally spoke. Well, lunch should be here in 30 minutes or so. I ordered a couple of salads and sandwiches, not really sure what you were hungry for she rambled.

Tina just watched, remaining where she was with her arms crossed. She knew what Bette was doing. She had seen her do this a thousand times, avoiding the subject that most needed to be discussed, in order to carry on about everything that was of no importance.

And I was not sure what you wanted to drink, so-

Bette Tina finally spoke.

Bette jerked her head in Tinas direction, almost surprised to hear her voice.

Enough Tina firmly said.

Bette just looked down, not looking at Tina.

Enough she repeated, just as strongly.

Look at me Tina commanded.

Bettes eyes remained on the floor in front of her.

Bette, look at me she again repeated.

Bette finally looked up. She lifted her eyes slowly, finding it tortuous to take them off of the ground, and shyly moved them in the direction of Tina.

Tina waited patiently for Bette to do as she asked, and could at the same time, not believe the woman standing in front of her. Gone was the take charge woman who only hours ago, had basically carried Tina from the gallery to her apartment. Gone was the confidant woman who had undressed her, placed her in bed and then allowed Tina to gain comfort by wrapping her body around hers.

What had transpired in the 7 hours that she had been in Bettes company? What had caused Bette to change so much and become, what was it? Tina thought. Afraid? Is she afraid of me?

In all of the years that they had been together, Tina had never known Bette Porter to fear her. There were many emotions that Bette had showed Tina, but fear was never one of them. Tina did not think that she had ever in her life, seen Bette afraid, but the more that she thought about, the more that she knew that that was what she was seeing here.

Bette finally made eye contact with Tina, and Tina uncrossed her arms. She rested them by her side, wanting to convey a sense of safety for Bette. How was she going to reach Bette, especially since she didnt know what had gotten her here.

Tina took a step towards Bette, and then she saw it. She saw the one tear that had escaped Bettes eye and started its downward movement. Tinas heart broke at that moment because she finally realized that as much as Bette had hurt her, she had done just as much damage to Bette.

She closed the distance between the two of them, and put her arms around Bettes neck, pulling her into her.

Oh baby Tina whispered.

Bettes arms remained by her side as the tears increased. Tina reached down and put Bettes arms around her waist.

Hold on, baby. Hold on to me. Tina pleaded.

Bette did as she was told, and held on.

The moment was tender and yet terribly painful. Neither knew where they were going but both knew that they had to start somewhere. And here, in each others arms, was certainly one place to start.