Lyn, veronica, chakasb, nat, trecelovinit, Tamaratag, Paula, 24betteandtina, c2bc, B, strtgirl, maybeyes, moonshadow, wo`wo, marsupial, rebakathy1, Jwet, Trolle, shades, wadeSA, M99, Thumbs, Amanda..(Hotpepper), Shazthank you all for taking the time to drop me a line and comment. Sorry for the wait but I think you all will be happy with this one??

Meiji- dont worry I too am a hopeless romantic. At least I think I am ~hehe~ Thankyou for taking the time to comment.

Slacker- lmao.there are all those Bette benefits to follow if Tina decides to stay aye?? Thanks for commenting:)

Wildtouch- you are very sweet. You would do the same 4 ur girl aye? Well I would too for the one I love :) Thanks for your words of encouragement.

Nix- sorry to make you cry mate ~dropping my head~ but I figured I owed you one ~hehe~ Thanks for commenting.

Kay- I think you will like this one, just the thing for a hard working, studying woman with an IC broken heart.~lol~ Thanks for your comment.

t-boz- Mate. Tinas brain is working fine, apparently mine is not! ~lol~ believe it or not I did know that San Francisco and L.A. are both in Cali (same state)..I dont know what come over me ~shrugs~ I mustve had a temp. brain lapse. Thanks for pointing it out for me, and your encouraging comments:) Hope this one was worth the wait:)

temerity- Bette may just have healing hands, youll have to read and see ~hehehe~ Thanks for commenting!

Blue Eyes- the suffering may just be over!!!!! Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment:)

chasemenow- WOW- Tina better stay. or else??? ~cracked me up laughin~ youd better read and find out then aye? . Thanks for commenting.

Al- cest trop beauuu??? Forgive my naivety but where are you from al? And what does that mean? Glad u are enjoying. Thanks for commenting.

Nightswim- again I am deeply humble by your encouraging inspiring words, hope this one doesnt disappoint. Thanks mate:)

Laurel- Nice try babe!! ~lmao~ hope this helps with your INJURIES *wink* I always appreciate your words of encouragement and support:) Talk to you soon

To all the readers I would love you to introduce yourself some time, if not hope you continue to enjoy

Ok so on with the story


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Bette gently put her finger up to Tinas lips, (her voice oozing with sincerity) Tee, you are my life! Im asking you to complete me once again and staystay here in L.A., in our homewith me? Staring warmly, lovingly at Tina in anticipation, Bette made her final plea, Will you Tee? Will you stay?

Tbc.

Chapter 41

Tina stared lovingly back at Bette, her heart filling and overflowing with the intensity, the strength and the sheer magnitude of Bettes love. She heard every single word Bette had so eloquently declared; saw ever emotion, and every thought that passed through her eyes, as she spoke. Tina knew Bettes love was genuine, she knew this woman in front of her would do anything for her. Could she really deny them that chance they both so obviously craved?

Tina closed her eyes momentarily, trying to regain a slither of composure; just enough to speak audibly, to answer the woman she loved. Unable to control her emotions; she surrendered to them letting all her tears go, hoping they would wash away her nagging doubts as they trickled down her face.

Tina: (quietly, through her tears) Baby, I cant believe you did all this for me?

Bettes happiness was hanging by a thread, she smiled lightly repeating her question, So Will you stay Tee?

After everything that Bette had done, all the thought and care she had put into their home, into their future, Tina knew without question, what her intentions were. She wanted to just give in to Bettes request and staystay right there, in that moment, staring into the warm, sincere, intense eyes of Bettes, forever. That wouldve been so easy for Tina, to submit to her love and stay, but Tina had a huge lingering doubt that she was afraid of volunteering, terrified of what the response would be.

Bettes openness and sincerity however gave her the confidence to share her doubt and Tina felt she owe it to Bette to at least be honest, (hesitantly, looking briefly back towards her home) You really love me this muchhuh Bette?

Bette: (simply) Yes Tee! I do!!

Tina: (still teary eyed) Bette, will you really love me that much when you see that I am unable to do what I used to? How can I possibly make you happy? (Tinas hands began to lightly tremble as she disengaged eye contact and dropped her head, her eyes glued to the ground) How can Ihow can I satisfy you Bette? We used to engage in such passionate, amazing, mind blowing lovemaking! How could I possibly do that now? I may never be able to do that again? Tina had beared her innermost fear hoping Bette had the answer that would banish it from her mind, to a place where it would never return.

Upon hearing Tinas words Bette finally understood why Tina was so insistent on leaving; she was terrified of rejection, terrified that she wouldnt please her. A knowing, concerned look enveloped Bettes face, This is one thing I can fix. she thought determinedly to herself, This is not an issue that is going to keep my Tee from staying here, where she belongs!!

Bette took Tinas left hand and placed it directly over her heart. With tears in her eyes she smiled and gently spoke, (softly, lovingly) Tee, look at me. Please baby!

Tina: (shyly, quietly) No Bette, I cantI cant take it, you not wanting me! Just tell me and get it over with.

Bette: Oh baby, why on earth would you think that I dont want you?

Tina: (insecurely, slowly raising her tear stained face and blurred eyes) Look at me Bette. Im not the same woman I used to be!

Bette: (smiling, desperately trying to repair Tinas wounded soul) Yes you are Tee! You are that same woman I fell in love with all those years ago! You always will be!!!!

Bette held Tinas hand firmly over her rapidly beating heart, (looking into Tinas saddened eyes) Tee, can you feel that? (Tina nodded gently) I just have to look at you, even after all this time, and my heart beats so fast that I think its going to jump right out of my chest baby. This feeling you evoke in me, its much more important than *****.you are much more important to me than *****. (with a hint of desire in her eyes) Dont get me wrong, I do want to make love to you; and I want you to make love to me too. I love you very much Tee, so of course I want to show you, but we will work it out when the time comes. I told you no pressure baby and I meant it!

Bette saw the look of uncertainty on Tinas face and knew it was important to convey her love and want to Tina but not pressure her, so she continued, Tee, no matter what the circumstances, when youre ready and we do make love, it will always be mind blowing to me, no matter how tired or stressed or weak or strong.. or disabled either of us are feeling, because baby, as long as you and I are loving each other, thats all I need to be satisfied. You are all I need to be satisfied.

That was exactly what Tina needed to hear. Her fear of rejection was abruptly quelled! She knew right then and there that she couldnt possibly leave. The love that Bette had for her, that was reciprocated in kind, was a once in a lifetimeactually more like a once in forever kind of love and she just couldnt turn her back on that.

Tina: (a pleasant surprised look spreading over her face) Are you really sure Bette? I mean this is it?

Bette: (sincerely) Yes I am baby! (pleading) But Tee before we really get into all that, do you think you could please just answer my question? Im kinda dying here?

Tina: (playfully grinning, putting her finger up to her tear soaked chin) Umsorry what was the question again Bette?

Bette furrowed her brow; of all times for Tina to be playful she had to choose right now. Bette didnt care though she had a good feeling about the answer, Tee, Im only going to ask you one more time baby, Will you stay?

Tina: (raising her eyebrows, biting her lower lip) Only on one condition baby!

Bette: (rolling her eyes in slight frustration) God, and what might that be Ms Kennard?

Tina: (looking directly into Bettes soft brown eyes) I want you to kiss me Bette, let me feel our love! I am not talking about one of those pissy weak little light kisses either you have been teasing me with. Show me babeshow me how much you want me to stay! Make me feel alive, you are the only person in the world who can do that with just one kiss!

Bette signed contentedly, she knew that was one request that she could accomplishaccomplish well; and Bette was more than happy to oblige. With her eyes fixed on Tinas, Bette slowly leaning into her until their lips were mere centremetres apart, (grinning cheekily) I want you to answer me first Tee!

Tina opened her mouth ever so slightly to respond to Bette. Just as she was about to speak, Bette guided her lips onto Tinas and tenderly commenced her love filled assault. She slowly, sensually began kissing Tinas bottom lip, sucking it purposefully into her mouth, licking Tinas soft, moist lips with her tongue before she felt Tinas own tongue venture out meeting, connecting with her own.

As soon as their tongues met both women simultaneously moaned, their kiss going from passionate and sensual to smouldering and frenzied as both women held onto each other and let their need and want and desire for each other take over, their lips and tongues wantonly exploring each others mouths, jostling for control, both happy to submit to the other.

Tina eventually pulled away breathlessly, her heart pounding, (panting) Yes Betteyes I will! she huskily whispered.

Bettes eyes remained closed; she slowly, delicately ran her tongue over her lips, forever etching into her subconscious the taste, the softness, and the passion that coursed through those lips just moments ago.

Bette was still lost in the warm sensations flowing through her body; she heard Tinas voice but didnt have any idea what was said. She slowly opened her eyes, instantly meeting Tina loving gaze and her broad smile, (breathlessly) Sorry Tee, what did you say?

Tina: I said yes, Bette! Yes I will stay!

Bettes whole face lit up, she was so incredibly happy, so completely contented, all she wanted to do right then, desperately, was to kiss Tina again. She looked into Tinas eyes once more, feeling her love and desire building, increasing with every passing second, her heated body resting between Tinas weak injured legs, as she ran her fingers through Tinas golden blonde locks, gently pulling Tina closer into her.

Tina could feel the blood rushing through her veins, to every part of her, her heart beating faster and faster. This was exactly what she was talking about; this was how Bette made her feel soalive!

Bette: (whispering) Tee, you wont regret this! I promise baby. You and me, the two of us, we are forever baby. forever!

Bette smiled then leaned back into Tina and resumed their kiss. As their kiss deepened Tinas hands started to wander freely, from Bettes waist, tenderly up and down her back between the fabric of her shirt and her jacket, before making their way down cupping and squeezing Bettes tight, well moulded *****.

Bette became totally lost in her desire, her hands instinctively finding Tinas *****, her fingers lightly skimming over Tinas aroused nipples. Tina moaned at the incredible sensation, the seductive touch, that she hadnt felt in what seemed like a lifetime ago.

Nancy walked back through the house and out through the back doors. A considerable amount of time had passed and she was dying to know what had transpired, how Bettes plan had gone.

As soon as she entered the back yard a heart warming grin spread over her entire face as she observed her daughter and Bette sharing a tender, intimate moment. Way to go girls she softly, genuinely stated.

Nancy stood there, thinking briefly to just let the two women be, to leave them to enjoy their re-connecting moment for all it was worth, but looking at her watch she decided unfortunately that she needed to get going shortly, to catch her flight. Nancy coughed loudly, clearing her throat, to aware Bette and Tina of her presence.

The noise broke the two women out of their trance like state. Immediately they pulled away from each other, ending their kiss and began frantically straightening out each others clothes.

Tina whispered, breathlessly, her voice filled with desire, Sorry babe, I guess we got a bit carried away!

Bette: (sexily winking) You can get carried away like that anytime you like Tee!

Nancy approached the happy couple, Well girls whats going on here then? slyly grinning, Are you ready sweetheart to go. We need to be at the airport in 45 minutes?

Tina looked contentedly at Bette, grabbing hold of her hand, before addressing her mom, Um. mom, Im not going to be coming with you! I am staying right here (looking back, smiling at Bette) where I belong!

Nancy hugged her daughter tightly, That great sweetheart. I had a feeling that you would change your mind. I think this is where you belong too Tina!

Tina: (thankfully) Thanks for understanding mom!

Nancy then stood up and hugged Bette too, (whispering proudly for Bettes ears only) Well done girl! I knew you could do it! Make my daughter happy!

Bette: (sincerely) I will do my absolute best. Thankyou Nancy.

Nancy: Bette, I guess you had better call the girls and tell them not to worry about going to the airport.

A look of regret enveloped Bettes face, she had totally forgotten about the girls. Looking at her watch, Oh *****! Ill be back in a minute baby, I better call the girls! running inside and grabbing the phone.

After Bette had retreated inside, Nancy looked at her daughter. She could see the glow, the life, back in Tinas eyes and felt content leaving her daughter in more than capable hands.

Nancy: (smiling happily at her daughter) So sweetheart, this is what you really want? Nancy already knew the answer; her mothering instinct just had to ask.

Tina: (nodding her head for emphasis) Yes mom, it really is!! (humbly) Do you realize how much Bette didall of this mom, just for me, just for love!

Nancy: Yes sweetie, we could all see how much Bette loves you. You just had to see it for yourself!

Tina: (adamantly) I see it mom! I see it!!!!!!!

Nancy: Thats good. Tina Im am going to have to get to the airport sweetheart. If you need anything at all I want you to call me ok? Anytime, I dont care? Nancy hugged her daughter warmly, lovingly kissing her on the cheek.

Tina: Mom, I love you. Thanks for looking out for me.

Nancy: (with a warm heart) I love you too my girl!

Bette walked back out into the yard, wrapping her arms comfortably, snugly around Tinas neck, Ok so the girls have been informed. Alice asked me every question that she could possibly think of, but the bottom line, they are all really happy for us baby!

Tina just looked up at Bette and smiled, Me too babe!

Nancy went over and gave Bette a nice friendly hug, Bette, I have got to be going. You two take good care of each other ok!

Bette: Hang on a minute Nancy, we will walk you out.

Bette wheeled Tina inside, Nancy following close behind; they wandered through the house and approached the front door. After saying their last goodbyes Nancy walked out the door, turning around as she got to the car, to take one last glance at her daughtersitting on the front porch of her home with her wife!

The driver had left Tinas suitcase at their front door, which Tina noticed just after her mom had pulled away from the curb, (playfully) Confident aye Porter?

Bette: (confused, following Tina’s eyes with her own, sighting the suitcases) Um. That mustve been your mom, (cheekily) but Tee, you should know, I have that Porter charm, works with you everytime! The two women smiled at each other, stealing a loving glance.

Before they were just about to go back inside, to get Tina settled in they heard the unmistakable voice of Alice entering the front yard, Hey you two! Tina your welcoming committee has arrived! Alice boisterously stated to just about the whole neighbourhood as she approached Tina and Bette and engaged them both in a big bear hug!

Dana and Shane were following, shaking their heads at Alices antics, also giving Tina a friendly hug as they passed by into the house.

Tina just looked at Bette and Bette shook her head vigorously, I didnt tell them to come over Tee! Do you want me to ask them to come back tomorrow?

Tina: No babe, course not! I just wouldve liked to have spent the day with you!

Bette: Me too baby, me too. Ill go and ask them to leave?

Tina: No come on there our friends and we love them, lets indulge them a little!

Bette: (smiling) Ok, youre right.

Bette wheeled Tina back into the house, carefully extracting her from her chair, placing her comfortably on the couch.

For the following few hours the gang engaged in chatter, friendly banter and simply enjoying each others company. The huge deal that Bette and Tina were finally at home, together was not lost on any of them, each woman at one time, at least once, throughout the few hours spent together gazed thoughtfully around the room; good friends, family, together once more, just like old times. The way it was always meant to be!

During the chatter, Bette seemed to disappear for a while. Tina became a little worried at her longish absence, so Alice volunteered to go check up on her.

Alice searched the entire house and finally walked into the back yard finding Bette frantically preparing and setting up an intimate dinner for two nearby the pool!

Alice: (cheerily) Hey Bette, you really shouldnt have, you know! What would Tina think?

Bette initially jumped at the voice, not expecting anyone out there with her, (returning Alices humour) Jesus, you scared the ***** out of me Al!!

Alice: (seriously) Bette, Tina sent me out here after you. How about I give you a hand and you can get back to your woman before she suspects anything.

Bette: (smiling gratefully at her good friend) Thanks Al, thatd be great.

The two women quickly finished setting up dinner and return to the living room, to their friends. Bette went and sat next to Tina, enveloping her in a warm, tight embrace, looking lovingly at her love, So Tee, what did I miss?

Tina: (a bit concerned, whispering) Are you ok babe?

Bette just nodded and smiling broadly gently kissing Tina, Im much better than just ok Tee!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It became late in the afternoon and Tina let out a big yawn. She was more than happy siting conversing with her friends but she really wanted a little more time with Bette before the whole day passed them by, (sighing) Sorry guys, Im really tired!

As soon as Bette heard this she shooed their friends politely, but abruptly away, Guys, well see you all tomorrow ok? Tina needs to get some rest! It has been one ***** of a long day!

Alice: (jovially) Ok we get it! Were going; were going. Dont look so stressed Porter.

All the girls gave Tina a warm, friendly hug, grabbed their belongings and were on their way.

Bette showed them to the door, exchanging hasty goodbyes and then immediately returned to Tina, standing directly behind the couch, looking down on the woman she loved, taking a brief moment to truly appreciate the fact that her Tee was with her, in their home.

Bette leaned over behind Tina and spoke softly into her ear, (slightly disappointed) Are you really tired baby? I know its been a long day but I was hoping we could talk a bit more? I have something really important I need to talk to you about and I was hoping we could have dinner together? Bette began to rub Tinas shoulders with her warm, smooth fingers, kneading out all the tension and the stress.

Tina: (purring) Mmm. that feels so good baby! Tina was instantly oblivious to everything. The thing that consumed her entire concentration was the feeling of Bettes fingers, expertly guiding over, massaging her tired, sore back.

Bette: (smoothly) So would you do me the honour of having dinner with me, or do you want me to help you into your bed Tee?

Tina had no idea at that moment that the world existed outside of Bettes magic touch, (relaxed) Mmmmwhat babe?

Bette: (statedly) Are you tired Tee, do you want to get some rest.

Tina shook her head, (looking up lovingly into Bettes eyes) Nope, Im not tired. I just really wanted to spend a bit of time..(grinning) with you, that is if you dont mind?

Bette: (smiling profusely) What? I would love that baby! Bette leaned down and planted a few soft wet kisses on Tinas neck, How would you like to have dinner with me Tee?

Tina: I dont know babe, I dont really feel like going out!

Bette: (knowingly, smiling sexily) No I dont want to take you out baby.

Bette removed her warm, soft, inviting hands from Tinas considerably better, relaxed back and wandered around to the front of the couch. She kneeled down and carefully picked up a her baffled Tee in her arms. Gazing into her eyes Bette didnt say a word, silently carrying Tina through their home, until she arrived at the back door slowly kicking it open.

As soon as the pair entered the back yard Tinas eyes were instantly drawn to the pool area. Bette had set up a simple, yet elegant romantic dinner for two. Candles were burning brightly on top of the water in the pool, illuminating the whole back yard, creating a flickering effect with the setting sun, and an intimate setting for two lay before them about 15 feet away, complete with what appeared to be all of Tinas favourite delicacies.

Tears again consumed Tinas eyes as she looked in awe from the romantic, thoughtful setting, back to the woman who was holding all of her in her arms. Smiling at Bette, with tears streaming down her cheeks Tina looked over once more at the care and though that Bette had taken, thinking about the abundant care and thought that Bette had put into the entire day that made her feel so special, so alive.

Tina: (tears of absolute joy still evident in her eyes) Baby, this is too much. I am completely overwhelmed! How did you?

A huge grin appeared on both womens faces, sharing a knowing look, as Tina realised what Bette and Alice had been doing when they disappeared earlier on!

Bette just continued to smile lovingly into Tinas eyes, gently placing her down in the chair on one side of the meticulously set dinner table, tenderly, briefly kissing Tina, before she joined her on the other side. Looking at Tina Bette spoke solemnly, grabbing Tinas hand across the table, Thank you baby, for staying in L.A. with me, and giving us a chance to do this together!

Tina: Babe, Thank you for loving me enough to fight for us!

Bette suddenly became serious, caressing Tinas slender, smooth fingers in her own, Tee, until my last breath drained from my wilting body and my last thought escaped my humble mind, I would always fight for you!

Tina: (acknowledging) I know that baby. After today, I can feel how much you really love me! Thank you. I love you Bette!

Bette: (happily) I love you too Tee. Lets eat shall we?

Tbc