After leaving Bette back at the gallery, Tinas step was remarkably lighter, as was her heart. She could not have removed the huge smile that was on her face even if she had wanted to, and she knew, she didnt want to.

The opportunity that had presented itself, in terms of their starting over, was something that was not afforded many couples and the gratitude that she felt to whatever being was watching over them, was unspeakable.

She was not exactly sure how to go about doing it, but she wanted the two of them to learn to love and trust each other again completely and without question, and figured that a fresh start would not be a bad place to begin.

As she made her way back to the apartment, an idea began to formulate in her head. Hmmm she thought to herself. Bette and I are taking things slow from a physical perspective, but that doesnt mean that I cant tempt the ***** out of her in other ways, right? Its ok to let her be aware of what she has missed all of these long months and will continue to do so until we take it to that next level, huh? she mischievously asked herself.

The smile on her face increased as she realized that she was going to have fun with this. Yes Bette, we will wait until you are ready, but baby, when the time comes and Im done with you, you are not going to be able to remember your own name she giggled conspiratorially.




The next morning, Bette left for work as usual with a kiss from Tina to send her on her way. Tina seemed somewhat eager to get her out of the apartment, and as today was Friday, she was happy to comply as the day promised to be insanely busy.

She had been at work for only an hour when Ansley came in unannounced. James had run out for more coffee and so she was there by herself with the exception of the workmen who were busy in the back part of the gallery.

Hey said Bette, smiling in her direction.

Hey there she replied, walking directly over to where Bette was standing, in front of James desk, reviewing some paperwork.

Well, this is an unexpected surprise said Bette. I thought you werent back from Atlanta until next week.

Well, what can I say? Im good. Got things wrapped up quicker than expected she replied, smiling at Bette.

Well, do you want to see what has been going on here since youve been away?

Ok, but lets sit down first and catch up. I feel like I have not been able to talk to you for a while now and I miss that.

Uhsure said Bette, but not really so sure at all. She started to look around as if to see if anyone else was there.

Ansley noticed that Bette seemed nervous and so said, Bette, Im just talking about talking. We used to do that, remember?

Of course Bette quickly said, embarrassed at her nervousness. Come on, lets head back to the office.

She pointed her hand down the hall, indicating that Ansley should go ahead and she would follow. As they reached Bettes office, Ansley headed to the sofa while Bette opted to take one of the chairs located across from the coffee table.

Ansley lightly chuckled at Bettes behavior causing Bette to look up and say, What?

What? You know exactly what! she said with a smile on her face.

I just she trailed off, looking away. Why dont you tell me about Atlanta and how things were down there? she said, attempting to completely change the subject.

And why dont you tell me what is going on with you? she said, her eyes never moving from Bettes face.

Well, I thought that I would show you when I took you around the gallery.

Ok Bette. We need to stop dancing around this.

Bette took a deep breath, but allowed her to continue.

Look Bette, I am very aware that your girlfriend is here in New York, presumably to salvage your relationship, and I think that that is great. I hope that the two of you are able to pull it off.

She paused to read Bettes response but as she had showed nothing, decided to go on.

You know, I am really sorry that I have caused this strain on our friendship by having asked you out, but I clearly didnt know the whole story, still dont actually which is fine, but dont really think that its fair to suddenly be completely uncomfortable in my presence just because I thought that we would have a good time together at dinner. If I remember correctly, you and I worked pretty well together and I would like us to get back to that place of not having things be so awkward between us. Does that seem fair?

Of course it does, and I am very sorry Ansley. I justLook, I really messed up with Tina and did something that I greatly regret. My actions caused our relationship of seven years to come apart and I have never really been able to forgive myself for that. When you asked me to dinner, it felt really good to have my company wanted again by someone because I had been trying unsuccessfully for six months to get Tina back, and well, after awhile, all of that rejection adds up she said while slightly smiling, trying to keep things light.

But, nonetheless, I didnt think that it was wise to accept your proposal, even though it would have been a very enjoyable evening I am sure. I just was not able to completely give up hope that there was not a chance at reconciliation with Tina.

And here she is said Ansley.

And here she is agreed Bette.

Can I ask you something?

Of course said Bette.

Did you know that she was coming here to New York?

I had absolutely no idea said Bette, slightly shaking her head at the memory of finding Tina in the gallery that morning.

Are you happy that she is here?

Happy? questioned Bette, tilting her head as she pondered this choice of words. I dont think that begins to describe the emotions attached to her being here with me. Lets just say that I can breathe again.

Wow said Ansley. So, she is the one, huh?

Always has been answered Bette.

The two women sat in silence for a moment, thinking about everything that they had shared.

You told her that I asked you out, didnt you? she asked, while smiling at Bette.

Well, I mean, after everything that had happened between the two of us, I mean, I just thought that being honest with her

Bette she lightly laughed, Its ok. If I were her, I would have wanted to know. She paused for a moment and added, And if I were her, I wouldnt think too much of me either.

Ansley, no please, she doesnt-

Bette she said, cutting her off. Its ok, really. I would protect what was mine as well, especially if that mine was you she quietly added.

Bette didnt really know how to reply to that and so just said, Thanks for understanding.

With that, both women jumped at the sound of the bell signaling that the front door had been opened. Bette turned to the monitor and saw a figure walking in, but the face was blocked by what appeared to be flowers. She stood up and said, I should really see who that is

Of course said Ansley who stood up to follow her out of her office, walking to the main part of the gallery.

As Bette turned the corner, she saw a young guy placing a huge arrangement of flowers down on James desk. She walked up to him as he reached out a clipboard towards Bette.

Bette Porter? he asked, not really caring what the answer was.

Yes she said, taking in the beautiful arrangement in front of her.

Sign here? he said while pointing a finger indicating the line for her to sign her name.

Having done as asked, she returned the clipboard to its owner who then without a word, turned and left.

Cheery guy said Ansley.

I guess so laughed Bette.

Well, those are amazing said Ansley. I would say that its safe to assume that someone is missed when she leaves the apartment in the morning, huh?

Well, I dont know that Id go that far smiled Bette, still looking at the arrangement.

Look said Ansley. I really have to get going. I have a meeting that starts in she said while looking at her watch, 30 minutes. And you know Peggy. It is fine for her to be late, but you keep her waiting for one minute, and she files it away for later use.

Both women laughed at this, acknowledging the truth in it.

What about the tour? asked Bette.

How bout some other time? I really came by just so that we could clear the air and get everything out in the open. I miss not being able to talk to you in a comfortable manner and so was just hoping that we could fix that.

Im glad you did come by. I feel a lot better having had this conversation. I should probably share with you though that as much as I like what I am doing here, Tina is my priority and fixing our relationship is, at the end of the day, all that matters to me.

I would be disappointed with anything less coming from you, Bette Porter

Just so were clear smiled Bette.

Crystal confirmed Ansley.

With that, Ansley waved good bye to Bette and left. Bette walked back over to James desk to finally read the card that had come with the flowers.

She slid a finger under the flap removing the card and smiled at Tinas handwriting.

Bette-

I wanted to tell you again how nice it was to meet you yesterday and to follow up on my invitation for dinner. If you are free, how would tonight at 6pm at Lubechis work? No need to call and accept as I will just plan on meeting you at the restaurant. But, if you are not free, call me on my cell, I think that you have the number.

I am very much looking forward to seeing you again as well as getting to know you.

Best-

Tina K.

PS- I asked the florist to try and come up with an arrangement that would come close to matching you in beauty, but after he used the best of what he had, knew that it still paled in comparison.

Bette re-read Tinas note again and couldnt help the butterflies that were circling around in her stomach. She felt like a teenager in love who was being asked out on their first date.

She loved this side of Tina and knew that it had been way too long since she had seen it from her.

Well, two can play that game said Bette out loud, tapping the card against the palm of her hand. You had best watch out Ms. Tina K. chuckled Bette, lets not forget who invented this game she continued to laugh as she turned and walked down the hallway towards her office.