Tina and Bette sat in their tender, comforting embrace, staring into each others eyes, in complete and utter silence, for the next few minutes. Words were unnecessary; their thoughts not allowing them to look away from each other; trying to read what was lurking in the others mind.

Both women in unfamiliar territory, unsure of themselvesand each other; knowing that the ensuing conversation was going to be the defining point of their new relationship, determined to speak the truth, and come away from all of itas a family.

Tina took a deep calming breath, closing her eyes for just a moment to appease her over active nervousness.

Why am I so nervous? Its only BetteMy Bette. we love each other, we can do this!!! Tina adamantly told herself, deciding to take the sooner the better approach in getting everything sorted, so they could arrive at the most rewarding part.spending the rest of their lives together.

That though alone soothed Tinas nerves and softened her eyes. Bette immediately noticed the change, still searching Tinas eyes with her own, the same realization washing over her, this is TinaMy Teewe love each otherwe can do this! Bette thought starting to gain back a bit of confidence and momentum.

Tina smiled shyly, extracting her body from Bettes caring arms, taking Bettes warm, sweaty hands in her own, Babe, before we get into this I want you to remember, I love you and I know you love me too, ok I need us to be completely honest here? In order for us to start again, we need to make sure we tell each other how we are really feeling!!

Bette just nodded in understanding, a smile tugging at the corner of her mouth, maintaining her intense eye contact with Tina, thinking to herself how alike her and Tina still thought.

Tina: (cautiously) What happened to us Bette? Why did you remain with Kristie when you were still in love with me?..(inquisitively) you were still in love with me werent you? Tina asked a little hesitantly.

Bette: (sincerely) Yes Tee, I have always been in love with youalways!!Dont ever doubt that!

Tina: (questioningly) Why then Bette? That is what I need to know. (pleading) Make me understand babe; I need to understand? You broke my heart so much more with the declarations you made since I returned, than you ever did before. (sadly) before I left. At least I knew you still loved me then, there was never any doubt in my mind about that. When I returned, I couldnt feel your love. I couldnt see it in your eyes, in your heart Bette, how could you tell me(and make me feel like) you didnt love me?

Bette: (looking longingly into her Tees eyes, tears forming in her own) Tina, when I broke your heart all those years ago, I vowed I would never do anything like that to someone I loved, EVER again. I never thought Id meet anyone else that Id want to share my life with..but I thought I had no choice, I had to move on and I did. I loved Kristie and as much as it killed me to hurt you, over and over I just couldnt hurt her

Bette sighed, taking a deep breath, seeing the unshed tears in Tinas eyes, I promised myself Tina, I became a better person and I didnt want to go back to my old ways.but I began to and I was holding everything back, again, like I always used to do (shaking her head for emphasis) That was until yesterday morning when I couldnt take it anymoreWhen I saw you and Jack together (a single tear trickled down her cheek) and when you told me how it was; Tee my faade came crashing down and I realized I was hurting Kristie. and you more because we were living a lie. Instead of yanking off the bandaid that was holding our relationship together in one foul swoop, we were slowly, torturously peeling it off, bit by bit..I realized that ultimately, it was always going to be the same result, my love would lead me back to you!!. So I had to be honest with her and let her choose!

Tina: (confused) What??You let her choose?

Bette: (gently caressing Tinas hands with her soft, soothing fingers, trying her best to explain) Yes I had to baby, so I told Kris the truththe truth that I tried hopelessly to hidethat I was in love with you.. But Id stay with her if she wanted me too. (Tina wrinkled her eyebrows at the remark, not yet understanding) .I knew in my heart she wouldnt want that, so thats probably why I said it

Shifting her weight nervously, looking deeply into Tinas eyes, Bette continued, Tina I need you to forgive me.forgive me for reverting back to the old Bette and telling you lies. I had to close off the most important part of memy heart, (bringing Tinas hand, intertwined with her own, placing them over her sacred beating muscle) when I told you I didnt love you, that was one of the hardest things Ive ever done in my lifeI will not do that again, I got rid of that Bette for a reason, I wanted to be better for you so if or when you did come back I could. Bette didnt finish; she was getting choked up, her speech cracking with emotion.

A calm look overtook Tinas face, as she finally understood what Bette was trying to say.

Tina: (calmingly stroking Bettes fingers in her own) Baby, I understandbut dont forget I was completely and utterly in love with the old Bette.(cheekily) but I have a feeling Ill grow to love the new Bette even more, (broadly smiling at the vulnerable woman right in front of her) if that is even possible.I already gave you my forgiveness I think the problem here is you need to forgive yourselfBette you need to forgive yourself for being human, for making a mistake. It was a long time ago, you need to let go of that..so we can move on together

Bette: (despairingly) I cant forgive myself Tee! If I do Im. scared I will forgetand I never want to forget!

That one statement had Tina realizing just what Bette had been going through; her internal struggle to do what was right for the last 5 years. How and why she had derived at this new Bette. Tina wasnt the only one who had lost the last 5 years. Bette hadnt been able to right her wrongthe wrong that she had exposed to Tina, and she lived her whole life for the last 5 years in regret, trying to do just thatnot being able to make it up to herto Tina!!! Tina finally understood!!!

Well she could now well and truly move on, let go of the regret and the pain; Bette finally had the chance to right her wrong!

Tina: We wont forget baby, It will make US stronger ok

Bette let Tinas words sink in, (she could never really say no to Tina anyway), Tee as long as you are with me, I will work on forgiving myselfand we will be stronger. I know now how much it aches . to live without you and I will never do anything to jeopardise our family, or to have to live without you again!!

Tina: (smiling) Thats good sweetie! I will help you if you need me too ok!! (questioningly) Now Kristie let you go babe! Are youre sure you are ok with that?.. No regrets?.. No remorse?

Bette: Yes Babe.None at all!!! This is totally what I want! I have always dreamed of a second chance with you TeeYou are the one Ive always wanted, from that first moment I laid my eyes on you I knew that I would love you foreverI loved Kristie and I will always be thankful to her, but Im in love with youI always have been and I could never give my heart to anyone else because I gave it to you a long time ago, and I never wanted it back!It was yours even if you didnt want it!!

Tina: (lovingly) OhI wanted it babyall I really needed to gain out of this conversation was that you would talk to me, and be true to your heart. I can feel it nowI have kind of felt it since this morningbut I know it now for certain, that youre all mine again. Thats all I need Bette! Thats all I want!

Bette: Tee I was always all yours, I just got lost for a while

Tina: (playfully pouting) Well just make sure you dont get lost again ok baby

Bette: (with all the sincerity she could muster) I promise!

Tina: (holding Bettes hands tightly) I want us to start fresh okno regret about the past, only remembrance so we ensure it doesnt happen again

Bette looked lovingly at Tina nodding. She needed to know what the current nature of Tinas relationship with her Dr Stephanie was, before she could move forward with Tina, with total and complete abandonment.

She knew that they had been dating, and that Tina had spent at least one night with Stephanie. Although Bette knew Tina loved her more than anything, she was a little scared, maybe even insecure, that when things got a bit tough, Tina may run into the arms of Dr Stephanie, and she just wouldnt be able to bare that!She needed to know if there were any unresolved feelings between them.

Bette: What about your doctor Stephanie, Tina?.Um, arent youwerent you (She stuttered slightly) dating her? Bettes voice was awash with sadness.

Tina saw the change in Bettes eyes, and the twinge of (what was that? I believe that was a hint of jealously Tina thought, Yes definitely nodding her head slightly in confirmation), jealousy appear, (smiling modestly, happy that she still had that kind of effect on Bette) Steph and I, were just friends baby. We tried dating for a while, but like Ive told you all along, I couldnt see past YOU!! Steph knew that and so did I pretty quickly

Bette spoke in a whisper, lowering her head, loosing eye contact with Tina for the first time during the whole conversation, I heard you tell her you loved her Tee.. Last night. I thought that was it. That you had really moved onthat I had lost my second chance a look of complete loss graced Bettes face, and tears welled in her eyes as Bette raised her head, once again locking her eyes with Tina.

A stray tear escaped and trickled down Bettes cheek. Tina wiped it gently, with care, away with her thumb.

Tina: (somewhat confused) Baby what are. (initially oblivious to what Bette was talking about then remembering hers and Stephs conversation the previous evening) how did you know about that?

Bette: (quietly) UmI was just at the other side of the door with Jack, about to knock when.

Tina interrupted, blurting out, You shouldve knocked babe. Steph got some incredible news about her son..

Tina started rambling out loud unintentionally, remembering for the first time, since the previous night, that she hadnt heard from Stephanie, Oh god I need to ring her too. Ive been too wrapped up in us to think about how she went.

Bette looked at Tina, a look of total disappointment clouding her eyes and enveloping her face. Bette was a little hurt that at this crucial time in their conversation when she was desperately searching for answers, that Tina was thinking of the doctorthe doctor she was declaring her love to less than 24 hours ago. Tina saw the look on Bettes face and her heart felt instant remorse, she knew she had to explain.

Tina: (looking deeply into Bettes eyes, ensuring her true love knew she was talking from her heart) Baby, we only went out once ok… I never slept with her(smirking) well we did sleep together(Bettes face dropped, she was expecting that, but that still didnt mean she liked it! It killed Bette to know that Tina had shared her body with another woman, but Bette knew she had no right to feel that way; it was her cross to bear. Tina let out a slight involuntary chuckle at Bettes reaction) as in fast asleep babyI never had ***** with Steph. Stephs son is well hopefully was in a coma for last 3 years. The doctor rang last night to tell her that Jason was possibly waking upWhat you heard was two dear friends saying goodbye to each otherYou do not have to worry about Steph sweetie, or anyone else for that matterI am and will always be yours and yours only!

Tina leaned in and laid a sweet passionate kiss on Bettes unsuspecting lips, lightly tracing Bettes bottom lip with her tongue, reaffirming her words. Bette was processing the information in her mind and before she realized Tinas lips were on her own, Tina had pulled away. Bette closed her eyes and licked her lips, the familiar taste of Tina hitting her senses, reinvigorating and awakening them.

Bette was feeling much better about herself; sorry that she had jumped to the wrong conclusion once more. She knew her Teeshe knew that Tina was kind and considerate and warm and loving, especially when it came to her friends, and obviously she held this Dr Stephanie in high regard. That was Tina, and that was one of the many things she loved about her.

Bette: Im sorry baby I just..

A though just occurred to Bette that bought a tentative smile to her lips, (inquisitively) So does that mean Im still your only one Tee? Your only woman. I mean? raising her eyebrows playfully.

Tina: (laughing at Bettes reason for the sudden mood change, leaning in and whispering sexily in Bettes ear) Yes, you are baby!! her tongue slowly licking, then blowing softly on Bettes ear lobe before she pulled away.

Bettes body shivered at Tinas antics. She loved the effect that being close to Tina had on her, no one could ever competehell no one could even come close to duplicating that, I got to tell you Tee, I find that really hot!!!!But wont you ever be curiousI mean.wont you ever be..??

Tina interrupted again, sensing Bette was kind of searching..lost for words, (smiling into Bettes eyes) Sure I will baby, but I have a feeling that I already have the best, why would I want anything else? Besides you are the only person in this world that has the ability to fulfil my every want, my every need, my every desireintellectually, emotionally and physically, thats why I love you so much!..(seriously) You and Jack are everything to me Bette!

Bette knew she had without doubt made the right decision, she leaned in and hugged Tina tightly, never wanting to let go, God TeeI love you so much!!I have missed you so much!!

Tina: (smiling into Bettes curly brown locks, breathing in the scent of Bettes shampooanother thing that Tina had missed desperately) I love you too babyalways!

Tina and Bette pulled back and looked into each others eyes for a moment, confirming silently, their hearts re-commitment to each other.

They slowly leaned into each other, maintaining eye contact till the very last second, bringing their lips together in a tender, loving kiss. Instantly accepting each others probing tongues into their eagerly awaiting mouths. What started as a soft, sensual kiss quickly became more intense as the two womens tongues intertwined with each others in what became an erotic kiss that was all about reclaiming their connection, re-establishing their bond, realizing that they were exactly where they were supposed to be. together.

Tina was the first to break away, feeling her desire building, immediately missing the amazing feeling of Bettes smooth soft lips on her own, her breathing shallow and erratic.

Tina opened her eyes to find a delighted Bette grinning back at her.

Tina: (smiling) Ok baby..(hesitantly) so what now? Where are we going to liveGOD, what am I going to do for a job?..

Bette: (hugging Tina tightly, Tinas head resting on her shoulder) Dont worry about all that Tee..I…We still have our old houseI was hoping we all could move back in there. Thats where we planned to raise our family baby and Id really like to have a go at that now.. Once we get settled, then we can think about everything else ok.

Bette looked down at Tina, gently raising Tinas head with her hand to meet with Tinas teary eyes, But that is only if youre ok with itthere may be too many painful memories for you thereOnly if you

Tina placed her index finger up to Bettes lips, (sincerely) Bette, 1 or 2 painfully memories pale in comparison to the 7 wonderful years we spent together and the 4 amazing years we spent in that house. Well get through the painful ones and remember the happy ones babewe are going to make it affectionately caressing her fingers along Bettes tear streaked cheek.

Bette: (sighing contentedly) Yeah, TeeI do believe we will!!!

Tina: (excitedly, changing the mood) So.When did you want to move babe?.. I cant wait to wake up, lying next to you.. (leaning in, whispering) every single morning for the rest of our lives..

Bette: (in anticipation) Well I was hoping too. today, this afternoon. Most of my belongings are packed. There is still enough furniture in our old house to make it liveablewe will just need to do some food shopping. I really want us to be a family as soon as possible Teewhat do you think?

Tina: (snuggling back into Bettes safe, strong arms) That sounds good to mereally good to me baby!!

As if on cue, they heard Jack restlessly moving around in his bed, awaking from his noon nap.

Bette gave Tina a quick tender kiss on the lips, before extracting herself from Tina practically jumping off the couch, (happily) Ok thenheres the plan Tee extending her arms to help Tina up, wrapping her in her arms when she did.

Bette continued, (without thought) Ill take Jack and arrange to move all our belongingsyou come with us baby, because(smiling) I dont want to spend one minute without you (winking at Tina). And when were finished well come back and get your thingsthen tonight(whispering sexily in Tinas ear) tonight youre all mine baby!!.

Tina felt a jolt of desire course through her body at Bettes insinuationshe couldnt wait till tonight!

Tina felt her cheeks become a little flustered, but she was still composed enough to realize that she didnt want to go to Bettes homethe home that she had made with another woman. Um. Bette, I think you should go and grab your belongings yourselfJack and yourself. I am not really interested in seeing the home you made and shared with KristieI am feeling a little stuffy anywaythought I may go for a run in the fresh air, to clear the head you knowIll pack up everything here and, you two come by and get me when youre done ok!!!

Bette didnt even think about that, how Tina would feel seeing Bettes home without her, instantly agreeing, Sure Teethat would be greatOf course you wouldnt want to come! feeling like hitting herself over the head, at even having the thought.

Bette extracted herself from Tinas loving embrace and went and scooped a, now wide-awake, Jack up out of his bed.

Bette: Alright kiddo. You ready, were going home!

Jack: (grinning at his mommy) Is Tweena commig too mommy? I wont Tweena to come toooo!

Tina approached immediately after she heard Jacks words, her heart melting at his sweet, innocent request; she wrapped her arms around Bette and Jack, (broadly smiling) Sweetie, you and mommy are coming back to see me later ok

Jack: Owkay

Tina gave Jack a peck on the cheek, and then leaned in and sweetly kissed Bette on the lips.

Tina: (whispering in Bettes ear) Babe. youd better hurry. Tonight cant come quick enough for me!

Bette: (smiling sexily at Tina) Ok Jack. lets go sweetiewe have some moving to do! ..See you soon baby ok!

Tina: You bet!! tapping Bette on the ***** as she walked past, receiving a seductive glare from Bette as she looked back, before disappearing out the front door.

After Bette left, Tina changed into a pair of sweats and a t-shirt grabbing her keys and walkman, heading out the door. Tina knew a jog would clear her thoughts; it always used to. that was what she envisioned anyway.

She was hoping to move back into their home with Bette and Jack, with her thoughts and her mind at peace. She was contented that all their issues had been sorted, and they were more than ready to move forward together, but she just wanted to clear the cobwebs away you might say.

This time however, Tinas brisk run did just the opposite. It was the first time she had gone running since she had woken up from her coma and as she jogged the memories of the accident, the hit and run she had be a victim of 5 years ago, all came flooding back.consuming her mind and her body.

Tina had to stop and compose herself, her legs were weakening, and she almost fell in a heap on the ground, thankfully coming to rest on a nearby park bench. Her mind vividly reliving the memory of the accident, intensely recalling the physical pain she felt at the time, the sharp stabbing pain in her head, the unconscionable hurting in her whole body, in her legsthe sight of blood, her blood, all over the footpath then the seemingly endless darkness and the numbness that enveloped everything, her whole being. God, no wonder she tried to forget it!!

Tina sat on the bench, the memoriesher memories of that day, the day that almost cost her everything, playing over and over in her mind like a bad moviea movie that you are not interested in watching, but has you intrigued enough that you just sit there glued to the screen in anticipation of the ending!

Tears flowed freely down Tinas cheeks; holding her heavy head the palms of her hands, she felt complete and utter despair! She sat on the bench, in the park, in the afternoon and just cried. She cried for all the years she had lost, for all the pain she had suffered, and for all the lives that her accident had affected. It was the first time since the accident that she really just mourned all she had lost

After a considerable amount of time, she managed to get herself back together and return to Shanes with yet another saddened memory of the past clouding one of the happiest days of her life. Her instant though was that she needed Bette. She needed to be held by Bette, to feel her warm, comforting, safe arms around herTina was hurting and Bette was the only one in the whole world who could take her pain away.

Tina rang Bettes cell, the moment she arrived back. The phone went straight to the message service. Tina was kicking herself, that she had neglected to get the address of Bettes place from her before she left.who would know? I really need to see Bette now Tina thought to herself. She picked up her phone
….

Bette (and Jack was trying to help) was packing the remainder of their belongings in bags and suitcases; Bette was eagerly anticipating the night aheadthe first night of the rest of their lives, with her Tee. There were times in the last 5 years that she thought this night would only ever be in her wildest dreams, but now all her dreams appeared to be coming true and Bette felt on top of the world.

She was just gathering the last items, eagerly wanting to get back to Tina, when there was a knock on the door

Bette wandered over to answer it, surprised at who she saw!..

Tbc..