Previously.

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. I can feel how much you really love me! Thank you. I love you Bette!

Bette: (happily) I love you too Tee. Lets eat!

Tbc

Chapter 42

Tina and Bette spent the next few hrs totally engrossed in each others company, smiling profusely into the others eyes, acting similarly to 2 teenagers on their first date.

Bette was extremely attentive to Tinas needs, almost as if she was trying to woo her all over again, this time being seemingly easier though, this time she already knew that Tina did love her!

Bette was determined to let Tina set the pace, she had already achieved her desired result for the day; Tina was staying, anything else would be. a pleasant bonus!

The two women ate the deliciously prepared cuisine, slowly, seductively, savouring every bite, mostly for the others benefit, not for a moment daring to break eye contact with each other while doing so.

They stole loving glances between courses as Bette went and obtained each additional dish from the kitchen; conversed about everything and anything, just like they had the first 3 or 4 years of their fateful life together.

Bette had bought a chocolate cheesecake for dessert, Tinas favourite, and once they had completed their meal she briskly entered the kitchen and dished up two servings. Bette re-emerged swiftly and served Tina the delectable dessert, returning to her seat.

She had been working up the courage, desperately trying to convince herself to talk to Tina for practically the entire evening. Bette had one remaining, important matter to discuss with Tina that she was hoping would be well received. As dinner came and went Bette became more and more nervous and now that the evening was subtly winding down she knew it was now or never. Leaning over the table, she nervously took Tinas soft inviting hands into her own slightly shaky ones intently making eye contact with the woman she loved.

Tina could see the nervousness in Bettes eyes and feel the gently shaking of her hands, instantly wondering what had Bette feeling that way. Tinas mind started to drift aimlessly as she saw into Bettes mind and realized Bette was struggling with the right words, What could possibly leave Bette Porter. speechless? Tina thought, feeling the bile immediately starting to protrude up her throat, Maybe she has changed her mind? Maybe after spending the last few hours with me she has decided this is just too hard? Maybe its just too hard to love me?

All the confidence that Tina had managed to slowly regain because of the unquestionable love and devotion that Bette had shown her was hastily fading as Bettes nervousness emitted from her eyes.

Tina: (whispering) Babe, what is it? You can tell me? tears welled in her eyes but she determinedly kept them in, she had to know what Bette was thinking, why she was so nervous. Deftly afraid of the response but needing to know the answer Tina hesitantly continued, searching Bettes big brown eyes, (insecurely) Have youhave you changed your mind Bette?

That last sentence hastily snapped Bette out of her thoughts, What? Bette blurted out, quickly making her way around to Tina, pulling up a seat right next to her, her eyes meeting and fixing on her wifes, (adamantly, reassuringly) NO of course I havent changed my mind Tee. Dont you ever think that ok! I love you ok! I will love you. always!

Tina exhaled the breath she had been holding, and let the tears of relief trickle down her cheeks as Bette pulled her into a warm, comforting embrace.

Bette: (quietly) Baby, I justI want to talk to you about something and I dont know if its too soonum, to discuss it with you?

Tina pulled back from their embrace, looking lovingly into Bettes eyes, (genuinely) Bette, babeI want you to be able to discuss anything with me! That is what us, doing this together means. I want to be here for you too, this is not a one-way street you know; we wont work if thats what is going to happen. We can work out together if its too soon, just let me in!

Bette smiled broadly, wondering why she had been nervous in the first place, it was, after all, Tina and she knew she could tell her Tee anything, (sincerely) Ok well, since you have been in the hospital Tee, since the accident really, I have been doing a lot of thinking. After I found out the extent of your injuries baby, I just wanted to protect you and.love you. (with her voice crackling, Bette smiled and held Tina tighter) I have always wanted to make your dreams come true baby.. I have always felt I owed you that much, because you fulfilled mine, the moment I laid my eyes on you. the emotion of the moment was becoming a bit much for Bette.

She paused looking away from Tina briefly, taking a deep soothing breath, ensuring to maintain her composure, then finding Tinas (now teary) eyes once more, (rambling slightly) I dont know if its too early to consider this and I dont know if its something you would even wantbut Tee, I want to have a baby with you, I want to have the family we have been dreaming about for so long and Im hoping you still do too!

Tina looked at Bette in total confusion; she heard Bettes words but didnt know what Bette was actually saying. How could they have their family? Didnt Bette hear the doctor say she could never have children? Tina didnt yet comprehend the bigger picture, and undoubtedly she was going to be immensely surprised when it hit her, just what Bette was proposingwhat Bette was prepared to do for herfor them!

Bette saw the confusion envelop Tinas eyes and realized she left out the most important part, rectifying that immediately, Tee, I want to carry OUR child. I want to be the birth mother of our child. I will carry your egg or we can pick out a new donor together, whichever you prefer. I have researched the costs and the procedures and the pros and cons associated with all our options. I even checked my contract with the CAC and if its something we both want then there is nothing really stopping us! (her eyes awash with tears and consumed with emotion) I want nothing more than to spend the rest of our lives happy, contently, and together as a family Tee!

Tina sat there, gazing into her wifes eyes, totally awestruck; tears steadily streaming down her cheeks. Just when she thought the day, her life really, couldnt possibly become any better, Bettes proposition had well and truly blown her away.

Bette was prepared to carry their child; Bette was prepared to give them their family, the family that Tina was no longer physically able to; Bette had even researched all the options; she really wanted to do this! Tinas heart felt like it was going to explode, she couldnt even comprehend, let alone put into words, the depth of love she felt for the woman sitting in front of her, right at that moment.

Bette was becoming a little nervous at Tinas lack of response, she didnt know if it was a positive sign or a negative one, she searched Tinas light brown eyes, but was unable to read them through her teary, blurred vision.

Bette: (disappointed, slowly lowering her head) Its too soon hey baby. I understand, just know that the option is there for us if you are interested Tee! Bette felt deflated, Tina still hadnt said a word; she had just stared deep into Bettes eyes and hadnt stopped crying..

Bette really thought this was what Tina wanted, and as she came to accept her decision whole-heartedly, over the last few weeks, she was actually excited about it. Bette Porter was actually looking forward to having their baby. It didnt matter now though, that obviously wasnt what Tina wanted.

Tina was speechless, shocked and overwhelmed with emotion. She didnt realize that she hadnt actually responded to Bette, until she lost eye contact with her.

Tina jolted back to reality and regained her somewhat husky voice. She also gained the sudden realization that the mood had changed; Bette was.she was disappointed, *****! Tina thought, I havent even answered Bette yet!

Tina put her palm under Bettes chin and steadily bought her watery eyes up till they met with her own. Smiling almost shyly into her loves eyes Tina began, Baby, Im sorry I neglected to respond to your amazing proposition immediately. The truth is I wasI am totally in awe! I cannot believe you would do that for me baby, for us. (tears again trickled steadily down Tinas cheeks) I really am at a loss for words at how much this means to me babe! I love you so much

Bettes eyes softened, she could see the genuine look in Tinas eyes, (inquiring) So I take it that us. having a baby, would be something you would be interested in Tee?

Tina: (a look of mock horror on her face) Are you ***** kidding babe? Of course it is!!

Tina wrapped her arms tightly around Bettes neck and held her as close as humanly possible.

Bette: (whispering into Tinas ear) Lets do it then ok baby!

Tina: (smiling) Yeah, lets do it babe! Tina pulled away from their embrace and stared lovingly into Bettes eyes.

The two women stayed that way for quite a while, in sublime silence, until Bette finally spoke, (delightfully) I thought we could discuss all the details once you are settled in Tee. We just need to decide when we want to start trying? If we want me to be inseminated, or to be implanted with one of your eggs? And the donor? looking on at Tina in expectation.

Tina: Ok! One thing at a time babe, (excited) I think we should start trying really soon, (winking playfully at her wife) I agree with your suggestion, as soon as Im settled, (smiling genuinely) and I already feel like I am home so it wont take long babe! Besides we have wasted enough time already dont you think?!

Bette: Yes I do, (in jest) and I certainly am not getting any younger either Tee!

Tina: (laughing) Hey you said that not me!!!

Bette: (taking her hands from around Tinas waist and grabbing both hands in her own) Ok seriously, we can contact the cryobank and Dr Wilson in the next few days and arrange all the details then!

Tina: (running her thumb in circles over Bettes soft fingers) That sounds great, and Bette I want you to carry OUR child. I want us to conceive him or her together, out of our love and we cant do that babe if we are going to have eggs implanted and everything else associated with that. Thank you so much for that thought but it doesnt matter if I am biologically linked to this child, because I will be linked to him or her by our love and that is more important to me. Tina had a sudden memory moment; a flash from her coma-induced dream came crashing back into her thoughts, of little Jack! As soon as it did she knew who the donor should be, And babe I want us to us Marcus, as our donor!

Bette: (surprised) Really Marcus?

Tina: Yeah babe? Is that ok?

Bette: Yes sure it is, I just, um WOW. Bette was speechless, she didnt think after the miscarriage and all that they had been through the past few months that Tina would want to use the same donor? (questioning) Are you, um, sure about that Tee?

Tina could hear the concern and doubt in Bettes words, and was determined to allay her fears, (smiling melancholy, despite her painful memories, a tear appearing in the corner of her eye) Yes baby! That way.. both our children will be connected, not only by the two of us but by their father too, that will truly make this child our child, part of our family.

Bette: Tina we will never forget our little boy. He will always hold a special place right here, (placing both their hands on her heart) and we will always love him!

Tina: I know babe! Thank you! (trying to lighten the sombre mood that had just overtaken what should be a joyous happy moment) So how soon is too soon to start?

Bette: (ecstatically) Well if my calculations are correct I should be ovulating in about three weeks. We have till then to arrange and discuss everything.

Tina: (elated) Ok, so were really going to do this hey babe? We are really going to have our baby!

Bette: (sharing in her joy) We are really going to try Tee! warmly embracing the woman she loved.

Tina: (her voice riddled with sincerity and love) Bette, thank you so much for such an incredible evening and beautiful day. I love you so much, and you know what you said about dreams, well you are all I need for my dreams to come true! YOU make my dreams come true baby!

Bette: (smiling) I just wanted to show you Tee, just how much I love you!

Tina felt a sudden wave of exhaustion overtake her body, she had been on an emotional roller coaster all day and it was abruptly taking effect on her weary body and mind, You showed me babe, you showed me!! (whimsical) I wish this evening would never end. but I really got to have a bath and go to bed, (doing her best to stifle a yawn) it has been a very long, emotional day.

Bette was disappointed that their evening had seemingly reached its conclusion, but she was elated that Tina was home with her, and understood the enormity of the days events; she too was feeling mentally exhausted.

Bette got up swiftly, (considerately) You stay right where you are, Ill draw you a bath Tee! Ill be right back. kissing Tinas hand lightly before letting it go.

Bette wandered inside and started the bath, pouring in some lavender scented bubble bath and sprinkling jasmine bath salts in the streaming water before returning back out to Tina.

Once Bette got back outside she observed Tina mesmerised, staring out at the slight ripples in the pool water. She walked up behind her wrapping her arms snugly around Tinas shoulders.

Bette: Hey, What are you thinking baby?

Tina: (her eyes glazed over, looking over her shoulder at Bette) Actually I was thinking how incredibly lucky I am to have you babe, (hesitating briefly). and I was kind of imagining our little boy. or girl, what they would look like learning to swim.

Bette: (smiling broadly) That sounds so great Tee, but we both are incredibly lucky! Come on, lets get you into that nice hot bath!

Tina had a reflective look in her eyes, Mmmm..

Bette swiftly grabbed Tinas chair from inside and after helping Tina in, wheeled her in to her room

Tina grabbed her night wear and essentials for her relaxing soak in the tub while Bette ventured back into the bathroom, testing the steaming hot bath water before proceeding to turning the taps off. Bette was doing so just as Tina wheeled herself in to the bathroom.

Bette: (hopeful) Do you need any help babe?

Tina thought about it for a minute, realizing immediately that the relaxing soak in the tub definitely wouldnt be that if Bette was in there with her, and a relaxing bath was all she needed right now, (uncertainly) No I will yell out if I do, thanks babe!

Bette: (determined not to push) Ok, sure Tee! kissing Tina gently before leaving her to it!

Bette walked out to the living room, collapsing onto the couch, unsure of what to do with herself until Tina finished her bath, thoughtfully wanting to stay close by just in case she was needed.

Bette was feeling uneasy, her desire was intensifying with every passing minute, images of a naked vulnerable Tina in the bath seemed to consume her thoughts, but she resisted her urge and determinedly stayed away, deciding the day had gone so well already, now was as good a time as any to catch up on some reading.

Tina mustve been in the tub for at least half an hour before Bette heard her sweet voice yell her name, for a little assistance

Bette briskly made her way into the bathroom finding Tina clad in her blue striped p.js sitting on the edge of the bath, her chair had gotten away from her. Tina had a look of cheeky playfulness mixed with complete embarrassment as her eyes met Bettes when she entered the room.

Tina: (pouting playfully) Um, sorry babe. I had a minor disagreement with the chair! Can you give me a hand please?

Bette smiled, Sure baby! deciding to take Tina to the chair, not the chair to Tina. She locked eyes with Tina, picking her up. Immediately Bettes senses were overloaded, breathing in the clean, fresh, unique scent of her love, and she couldnt resist; Tina smelt so good, she felt so good in her arms. Bette leaned in and they shared a lip lock, a smooth, sensual kiss that seemed to go on forever, neither woman wanting to be the first to pull away.

Bette had to eventually, her breathing becoming ragged, (frustratingly) Im sorry Tee, I justI cant resist you! Im determined to be patient, but Im driving myself crazy! (smiling joyfully) you have to stop looking at me like that!

Tina was extremely happy with the effect that she still had in Bette, (innocently) Like what babe?

Bette: Like(laughing) How about you just stop looking at me altogether.. until you are, you know ready?

Tina: (giggling) Its ok babe, you are driving me crazy too! When Im ready you will be the first to know!

Bette put Tina in her chair, helping her to her room. Tina went to move to her bed, and Bette stopped her, Its ok baby, let me! I love holding you in my arms.

Bette carefully scooped Tina up and lay her down in the soft comforter, pulling the covers up, Are you comfortable Tee?

Tina looked into Bettes eyes and Bette could see a slither of longing looking back at her from deep within Tina, (sweetly) Yes babe, thank you!

Bette: (grinning devilishly) Now, do you want me to tuck you in baby?

Tina could read the playfulness in Bettes voice and grinned herself, deciding to banter a little, No babe, but I would loooooove a goodnight kiss

Now thats what I wanted to hear!! Bette thought happily; she didnt need to be asked twice. Bette bought her lips to Tinas and engaged Tina in another intimate kiss; laying one of the most passionate; scorching kisses she had ever given Tina.. she had ever given anyone.

Bette pulled away minutes later, breathless and dizzy. She didnt know if that was a result of the kiss or the lack of oxygen, but she didnt care.

Bette didnt want to leave her wife, in bed all alone; she wanted Tina next to her, even if it was only to sleep, she needed to feel her, safe in her arms, beside her again, but she didnt want to push. Surely Tina wanted that too though?

Tina was still lost in the passion of Bettes kiss, running her index finger smoothly along the curves of her lips, revelling in the feel and the taste and the smell, everything she had missed, all of it seemed so familiar but so new, the whole amazing day seemed so familiar but so new!

Tina knew that after the events of the day, she no longer harboured doubt or insecurity, there was nothing really stopping her from becoming Bettes wife and lover again, she could feel the desire coursing through her body; feel the immense love that Bette had for her, but accompanying that was absolute exhaustion, she wanted their first night back together to be special, memorable; she needed, at least, a good nights sleep first before really being able to let go and give herself completely to Bette once again!

Tina knew Bette was feeling it too, she could see the desire in her eyes; she had to explain before they both reached the point of no return.

Tina: (lovingly but hesitantly) Baby, thank you so much for todayfor every incredible thing you said and did. I love you, so much Bette(sighing) and there is nothing that would give me greater pleasure than to become your wife once again and make sweet, passionate love to you right now..

Bette heard Tinas words and was cautiously elated; this was much more than she hoped for. Her primary objective for the day was to convince Tina to stay, in L.A., where she belonged; she shouldve realized and remembered the arousing, undeniable physical effect that they always had had on each other.

Bette could see though the look of uncertainty mixed with desire in Tinas deep brown orbs, and couldnt help but feel a but coming on, (curiously) But baby???

Tina smiled at Bettes reasonable response, (sincerely) ..but babe, I am so tired it has been a long day and I need to work out a few things in my head. I just wanted you to know Bette that I want you, I want you so much that sometimes I cant think straight.

Bette was confident after Tinas declaration that it was only a matter of time before she had her wife back, completely and unequivocally, and she was content in that knowledge. Bette gave Tina a lingering peck on the lips, smiling sexily as she pulled away, (whispering seductively in her ear) Just so you know I want you too, desperately baby, but I will wait for you Tee, I will wait!

Bette pulled back and the two women just stared at each other, in comfortable, thought provoking silence. Bette knew it was time to bid Tina goodnight and return to her cold, lonely bed, comforted at least by the knowledge that, if things progressed like she hoped they would, she wouldnt have to spend too many more nights in there alone; and once she had Tina back, once Tina was hers once more, she was never letting go!

Bette made a move to extract herself from Tinas warm embrace. Tina immediately felt the shift, (quizzically) Where are you going babe? grabbing Bettes hand, immediately missing her warm touch.

Bette: (thoughtfully) Um, I am going to bed so you can get some sleep baby, you are right it has been a very long day Tee! running her soft fingers in circles over Tinas moist palms.

Tina: (smiling cheekily) Bette, do you really want to go to bed all alone? Why dont you ask me to accompany you babe? Tina winked playfully for emphasis; I mean, thats if you can handle just holding me in your arms, all night.

Bettes face lit up in a huge grin that reached every crevice of her face. She didnt bother to ask, there was nothing Bette wouldve rather done; the declaration from Tina, that was all she needed. She scooped Tina up in her arms, smiling into her eyes; carrying her the short distance to the master bedroom and their own king sized bed.

Bette lay Tina down caringly on her side of their bed and quickly went over to her draws and grabbed a pair of boxer shorts and a t-shirt

Without thinking Bette swiftly disrobed and began putting on her bedclothes, eager to complete the mundane task and join her Tee, in their bed

Tina propped herself up on one elbow and watched the whole display, never once looking away, recalling, witnessing, just how heavenly Bettes body really was.

Just as Bette was pulling up her boxer shorts, Tina couldnt resist any longer, (suggestively) God, you still have one desirable ***** there babe? staring Bette up and down, wiggling her eyebrows.

Bette suddenly realized what she was doing, becoming a little subconscious, *****, sorry Tee, I wasum, it was just habit; I forgot that..

Tina interrupted with a shy laugh, No dont be sorry babe, I like what I see, I LOVE what I see, and Ive really missed it. Ive really missed you Bette

Bette got into bed and crawled over intending to envelop Tina in a tight caring hug, (sighing) I missed you too baby! looking into Tinas eyes, Bette could see the desire evident, undoubtedly mirrored in her own eyes, (cheekily) Are you sure youre too tired babe sliding under the covers sinking warmly in her wifes inviting arms.

Tina: (yawning) Mmmsorry babe, I kinda am, but after a goodnight sleep. well there will be nothing in our way. really? Will there Ms Porter? breathing in scent of Bettes shampoo, as her head lay on her chest, re-committing the alluring fragrance to her memory.

Bette became turned on just hearing Tinas words; looking up at her love, (sexily stating) Dont say things you dont mean Kennard!

Tina: (yawning once more) Oh I mean it BetteI mean it!! Tina leaned down and kissed Bette, softly, sweetly, Goodnight babe, I love you

Bette: Goodnight TeeI love you too!

Bette laid contently next to her wife, a warm smile enveloping her whole face; her safe, caring arms wrapped tightly, protectively around the woman who owned her heart; and as she progressed slowly, deeply into a much needed slumber, eagerly anticipating what was waiting for her when she woke; she couldnt help but feel that Tina wasnt the only one who had returned home that day.

Tbc!