Chapter 20

After Tina left, Bette took a deep breath and her whole body involuntarily collapsed onto the nearby bench. Holding her heavy head in her hands, feeling like she had the weight of the world on her shoulder, Bette broke down and she cried.

She couldnt help it. It had taken all her inner strength and determination to do what she had just done, and now that it was all overin more ways than one Bette had to release all her pent up emotions or she felt like she was going to die!!!

For as long as she could remember, since the first day Tina had left her all those years ago, Bette had dreamed of a second chance with Tina. In the beginning it consumed her every thought. Bette was obsessed with what she could do, how she could make things right with Tina, for subjecting her to the hurt that her infidelity had caused.

The thought became weaker after she had met Kristie but, if she was totally honest with herself, every day, at least for one moment, she had still contemplated the same thought and longed for that second chance with her Tee.

And then there was the lookthe look in Tinas eyes just before she walked off earlier; the look that had totally shattered what was left of Bettes cool demeanour. Bette could tell how Tina felt. she knew Tina well enough to know that she had totally and utterly crushed hershe had chosen random love over her soul mate and all the assurances she tried to make with herself never even came close to reasoning why she had done that.

Having to LIE to Tina, to tell her she wasnt in love with her anymore, was the single hardest thing she had ever had to do. Bette had been handed a second chance with her Tee and she had turned her downWhat the ***** was I thinking? Bette berated herself.

Bette contemplated that fact to herself and a realization dawned upon her, something that scared the ***** out of her. The old Bette Porter was back. with avengeance.. trying to control everyones life and decide on her own what was right for everyone else!!!!

Ultimately though, Bette had made her decision and now she was going to have to live with it!

Bette knew that with Kristie she would be happy.. but with Tina, she would have had a life worth living, a life that only dreams were made of.

Bette was lost in her own thoughts.. in her own immense regrets, when her cell phone rang and startled her back to reality. Through her tears, she casually looked in her purse and noticing the caller I.D., decided to just let the call ring out. She just couldnt talk to Kristie right now..she wasnt prepared..she had to compose herself and get her bearings back!!!! It was going to take as much strength and conviction as Bette could muster to convince Kristie that she was the one she wanted, and Bette was feeling all out of that right now.

Bette was afraid too, because if Kristie got one glimpse into Bettes heartdeep within her soul. if she let her mask down, even for a momentKristie would know, Bettes little charade would be over.

Bette had to ensure that Kristie didnt ever know, that she didnt ever seeshe had already ruined Tinas life; she wasnt going to ruin Kristies too!!!

She had to figure out a way to get past this incredible emptiness she felt, and go home to her girlfriend, convincing her that she was committed to her and her alone

About 20 minutes later Bette had had enough, the decision had already been made, she was feeling more confident, her momentum swinging back her way. She bit the bullet, picked up her cell and phoned the woman she loved..

Kristie answered immediately, (worriedly) Bette..I was concerned when you didnt answer you phone sweetie, (hesitantly) are you ok?

Covering the phone with her hand Bette took a deep breath, and then taking her hand away Im fine baby..(sighing) It was just .an emotionally draining day!!

Kristie: (cautiously, hopeful) So. is everything sorted out then baby?

Bette: (adamantly) Yes.Yes it is! Kris, could you meet me at home in..say an hour, ok babyand can you call Shane and ask her to drop Jack off at our place when theyre finished at the Water Park? Bette thought she had better make sure Tina was at least ok before she got into it with Kristie. She needed to make sure Tina was ok!!

Kristie: (comforting) Sure baby, are you sure youre ok? Kristie could hear a hint of sadness in Bettes voice. She put it down to the issues that had now been sorted out and Kristie was not going to push, not just yet anyway. She was content in the knowledge that Bette had, in effect, chosen her!!

Bette: Yeah Kris, an hour ok. I will see you then!

Kristie: Ok bye babe!!

Bette hung up the phone and walked to her car. She was going to swing by Shanes, figuring that was where Tina would be. She just had to see for herself that Tina was ok; she was so upset when she left the WaterfrontBette was concerned! Shouldve thought about that before Porter Bette scolded herself.

Bette was nearly at her car when she saw Tinas rental car parked just down from hers. Bette looked over and saw Dr Stephanie Hunter, with her arm around Tinas shoulder, obviously comforting her. She observed them entering the car and driving away, finding the stirrings of jealousy returning to the pit of her stomach, at the vision of Dr Stephanie touching Tina, comforting her, when she should be the one to be doing so!

Oh well, thats the end of that!!!!! Tina doesnt need my comfort. I just well and truly pushed her into the arms of another woman. Good one Porter!!!! Bette rationalized to herself.

Bette got in her car and drove straight home. She was there early, but she was appreciative of the extra time, realizing she needed that time to prepare. Tina was moving on now and she had to gain control of her own life once again!

Bette decided to reassure Kristie but refrain from any details about the meeting, for the time being at leasther eyes would not betray her that way, but discussing the earlier conversation with Tina surely would.

She steeled herself, closing herself off, ready to reassure her lover that she was hers, hers and hers alone. That Tina and her were completely over, and they had sorted out their issues.

Doing basically what Bette Porter used to do best, hiding her true feelings, telling herself that this was for the best, that she would get over Tina in time and so would Tina, trying desperately to convince herself of that.knowing full well that was a lie too.

In 5 years she couldnt get over Tina, why would she be able to now?

Was that what she wanted to become, a liar? After Tina left and Bette had changed, sure she vowed she wouldnt ever hurt another woman like she did Tina again, but didnt she also plan on being more open and honest How was this open and honestthis was the old Bette in full flight, closing down, hiding her feelings. and she really didnt want to be that old BetteThere was a reason the old Bette had changed!How long could this possibly last?.She had grown to despise the old Bette, why would she willingly bring her back?



Bette was deep in thought as she heard Kristie arrive home, a little early.

She walked through the front door searching their home, finally finding Bette laying on the lounge chair out in the back yard. She took a moment to just lovingly gaze upon the woman she hoped to spend the rest of her life with.

Walking out the back door meeting Bettes eyes with her own, Kristie spoke, Hey BabyI thought youd still be a while? (genuinely concerned) Are you doing ok??

Bette knew the underlying tone in the question. Kristie wanted explanations, but she just couldnt give her any not right now anyway, maybe never? Ok here it goes Porter, dont ***** this up too. (Looking lovingly into Kristies eyes, a serious look gracing her face) Kris, sweetie..I would love to get into it and tell you everything Tina and I sorted out today, but please..not right now baby!!..I am so mentally exhausted, I just need some rest for my weary brain..Just know that Tina and I are completely finished, and I love you baby. I am totally committed to you and.. to our familyCome here and just lay with me for a while Kris?? letting out a sigh.

A huge grin graced Kristies face when Bette declared she was committed to our familythat was the first time Bette had ever said that to her and that was what Kristie had been hoping for all along.

Kristie searched Bettes eyes to make sure she was for real. Kristie couldnt see any doubt or trepidation in Bettes eyes, so she took Bette at her word, she had no reason not to. She could wait for explanations; there was no need to push, because after all they had the rest of their lives together.

Kristie approached the woman she loved more than anything else in the world, smiling like she had just won the lottery, Sure baby. Thatd be nice! snuggling into Bettes back, laying wrapped in Bettes arms totally content, thanking the heavens above that Bette was still hers to love.




Tina woke up the next morning with a splitting headache. She felt groggy and disorientated. As her senses began returning to her, the first sensation she felt was the warmth of a body lying next to her. Tina could feel someones soft, warm hand against her skin, on her bare midriff.

For a moment Tina panicked, unable to distinguish in her mind at that moment who this person lying next to her was, almost fearful of turning to look, unsure of whator rather who she would find.

Tina slowly, cautiously turned her head, realizing that she was in ..a hotel room? Oh no!!! What have I done? Tina berated herself.

Tina swung her head around far enough to face the person lying next to her. As soon as she observed a peacefully sleeping Dr Stephanie, instant relief washed over the entirety of Tinas face.

Thank God. Its just Steph!!! Tina thought to herself, erasing the idea that she had done something the previous night, that she wouldve certainly regretted.

As she just lay there, staring at her good friend, all the events of the previous night came flooding back into Tinas memory. She went a bright shade of red, when her thoughts came across the memory of the kiss her and the doc. shared.

No matter how hard Tina tried to recall what occurred after that, her memory was sketchy, she couldnt remember. *****, what did happen after that? Tina thought to herself.

She looked down at her body and found herself still fully clothed, her black sleeveless top had hoisted up during the night, while she had slept and her midriff had been exposed, but otherwise her clothing seemed to still be intact.

Tina jumped out of the bed, she was feeling nauseas and needed to be sick. She ran to the bathroom and made it just in time.

Stephanie had felt Tinas weight shift from the bed, causing her to wake up. She lay quietly in bed hearing Tina in the bathroom, obviously sick, deciding to let her empty her stomach before she inquired as to how Tina was feeling this morning.

A few minutes later Tina returned from the bathroom.

Stephanies eyes followed Tinas every movement as she re-entered the room. Stephanie had never really harboured any notions of her and Tina being anything more than friends. She hadnt had a relationship with anyone since her husband had died three years ago.

Stephanie was too consumed with her job and her little boy to have had time to pursue anything anyway, and she could see, from the first morning she had met Tina, the look in her eye when she spoke of her one true love, Bette Porter. As far as Stephanie knew Tina was off limits.

But after yesterdays events and last nights kiss Stephanie was beginning to maybe feel differently about her dear friend Ms Tina Kennard. She was going to play it cool though, Tina was currently in a state of being heart broken and if they were to begin a relationship Stephanie didnt want to be a rebound fling. The maintenance of their friendship was foremost the important thing. First things first, Stephanie thought I need to see how Tina feels!!!

Stephanie: (cheerily) Good morning babe? How are you feeling? Not good I bet??

Tina: (flush with embarrassment, holding her head, groggily, quietly speaking) Good Morning Steph. Um, no not feeling goodUm, Im sorryabout last night. We didntWe didnt.? Tina couldnt finish; she was too embarrassed.

Stephanie interrupted, (internally smirking) No!! No!! Tina, after you kissed me(pausing) you do remember that right? looking over at Tina cheekily smiling.

Tina nodded.

Stephanie: Well after you kissed me you passed out cold and I put you to bed!! So even if I wanted to take advantage of you (gently laughing) I couldnt have.(seriously) and by the way I wouldnt have!!

After her friends explanation, Tinas embarrassment abated, as did her uncertainty, and she smiled, approaching and laying back on the bed. Stephanie opened her arms promoting Tina to snuggle into her, which Tina gratefully did. That wasnt a good option for Stephanie, being so close to Tina, unsure of her new feelings, she felt a jolt of desire course through her body.

Tina was still feeling vulnerable and hurt. The idea that someone, anyone actually WANTED her brought out feelings in Tina that she didnt know she had, Ohso you WANTED to take advantage of me doc.? Tina looked at Stephanie, semi jokingly, waiting tentatively for her response.

Stephanie: (staring seriously into Tinas eyes) I honestly dont know Tina…Youve always been off limits. Ive always known Bette and you were itsoul mates, meant to be!!, but after yesterday and then the kiss (raising her eyebrows) last night, I guess you could say Im confused!! looking fearfully at Tina, dreading what may be coming.

Tina: (thoughtfully) Steph

Before she had a chance to say anything Stephanie continued: Tina, I dont expect you to say anything..Your friendship is more important to me than anything, so I am more than content to remain friends babe.I just wanted you to know that I felt something when you kissed me, (smiling) and it was the most scary and the most wonderful feeling all at the same time. The option is there for you if and when you may be want to take it? looking hopefully at Tina.

Tina: (surprised, looking back into Stephanies eyes) Wow Steph, I had no idea.I was, truthfully, too embarrassed to even think about the kiss since I woke up this morning. I cant believe I was so forward with you.(sadly) Until yesterday, I had never really contemplated spending my life anywhere other than right her in L.A. with Bette and our son. A tear trickled down Tinas eye.

Stephanie: (compassionately) I know sweetie. If I could fix that for you I would, in a second.

Tina: I know you would Steph. I couldnt have got through any of this without you.

Stephanie:(hugging Tina tightly) No matter what happens I will be here. You can always count on that OK!!!!!

Tina pulled back looking into the eyes of the woman lying next to her, realizing how amazing Stephanie really was.

A thought entered Tinas head; maybe Stephanie and her could have a happy, loving, fulfilling relationship together. Tina knew she still had to get over Bette first, but why couldnt she at least date this gorgeous doctor before her, take things slow and see what happens?? She had to move on with her life and she had no doubt that Steph and her could be happy together. They already possessed an important aspect of any good relationship; they were friendsgreat friends!!!!

Tina: (hesitantly) Steph, Umwould you be interested in going out on aon a date with me?

Stephanie looked at Tina perplexed, thinking to herself Did I just hear that correctly responding, Sorry Tina What did you just say? I dont think I heard you right?

Tina smiled at the almost shocked look on Stephanies face, I said would you go on a date with me?..Listen Steph, I was thinking, why dont we go slow, tentatively date and see how we feel.I obviously have a few issues I need to sort out and..I value our friendship way too much as well to stuff it up, but I would love to explore a relationship with you.but if either of us arent feeling it at any stage we need to be honest with each other, our friendship needs to come firstWhat do you think?

A smile graced Stephanies lips as she leaned in and bought her lips to Tinas in a soft, sweet, tender kiss. Tina responded to the kiss lightly grazing Stephanies bottom lip with her tongue, prompting her to part her lips, which she did. Tinas tongue entered and explored her new girlfriends mouth, their tongues meeting and probing, feeling each other out, tasting each other frequently as they engaged in their first official, sensual lip lock.

Stephanie broke the kiss before it became too heated; she wanted to do this right.

Stephanie: (smiling at Tina, breathlessly) Ok. so I think that answers your question Tina? pulling Tina back into her arms, into her warm embrace.

Tina: (flushed with desire, suggestively) Yeahbut if you keep kissing me like that Steph, I dont know how slow I could stand to take things??

Stephanie laughed, This is too important Tinayou are too important!!! Well know when its right!

Tina smiled, Your right!

Stephanie and Tina lay in each others arms in comfortable silence, both content with their decision, eagerly waiting for what this new phase of their lives had in store for them.

It wasnt long before both women drifted back off to slumber




Bette woke up the next morning with the amazing sensation of a soft smooth hand caressing her *****. She could feel her body responding to the womans touch. Bette knew she had to be dreaming because she looked over at the womanthe incredible woman who was making her feel this way, and she couldnt quite make out her face.her vision was blurred.

This mystery woman was increasingly arousing Bette; her subconscious was moaning, as the womans fingers travelled tenderly down Bettes body to her dripping core. She looked over at the woman one last time before she was ready to give into her desire, and this time she saw the womans face. The face she saw was..Tinas..her beautiful Tees face, smiling back at her.

The shock woke Bette up suddenly, and when she fully immersed herself in reality it was in fact Kristie caressing her *****, running her fingers down Bettes torso, trying to surprise Bette with an early morning wake up call.

Kristie was so into what she was doing she missed the look in Bettes eyes as she hastily awokeor did she????

Tbc