Wonder what he’s gonna say when we tell him, Bette wondered aloud with a smile on her face. He is gonna be so excited. She leaned on the dresser for support while pulling on her pumps. What should we tell him when he asks about the last name?

Why do we have to bring it up? Tina asked as she relaxed on the bed.
Bette stood, slipped on her tailored jacket and walked to the bureau to get her jewelry.

Well, I’m not saying that we should, just, you know, if he does. Just might be easier to use Kennard-Porter, I think. Bette suggested.

I don’t think we should tell him anything that might not be true. You know how your father is.

How is he? Bette is clearly annoyed with Tinas phrasing.

I think we should do some sort of combo thing. You know? Instead of the whole hyphenated thing? Tina ignored Bettes question and launched into her idea on their future childs surname.

Bette continued to ready herself for her workday by placing a pink handkerchief in the breast pocket of her jacket.

What, like, “Portard”? Bette queried.

Tina sat up with a smile.

Bette… Tina started, and continued with a chuckle. “Hey, Poor Tard, how’s your two moms, ya big *****-mo?”

Bette smiles at Tinas delivery.

Or whatever it’s gonna be in 2015, Tina concludes.

Okay, fine. What about Kenter, then? she asked as she put on her earrings

It has a nice sound to it, doesn’t it? Tina asked with a tilt of her head.

You’re right. We should just… try not to talk about it tonight. Bette left the room as she made her final pronouncement that this conversation had ended.

Tina fell back onto the bed as she muttered quietly. That woman can be so ***** frustrating

T, Im just outside the door, I can hear you, you know, Bette poked her head around the corner, much to Tinas surprise.

Well, no I didnt know, but its true, youve decided what you want and arent particularly interested in hearing my point of view. Its frustrating to me. Tina would often acquiesce to Bettes wishes, but when it came to their child she was finding her voice. And she wanted to be heard.