FOREVER I PROMISE: Chapter Twelve – part seven

Tina rolled over to snuggle up to Bette and found the bed empty. Worried she jumped up looking for her. She ran to the bathroom, then into the kitchen. She checked every where for Bette. The doors were still locked from the inside so Tina knew Bette hadnt gone outside. Tina ran back into the bedroom. She heard a whimpering sound.

Bette baby where are you? Tina heard crying coming from the closet. She opened the door and there Bette was. Her arms wrapped tightly around her knees. She was as far back into the closet as she could get.

Tina knelt down to Bette. She could see her trembling. Tears falling down her cheeks. Bette come on out baby. I swear to God nothing is going to hurt you. Tina gently touched Bettes hand. Bette take my hand. Come on baby. Let me help you up please.

Bette finally opened her eyes to see tears falling down Tinas face. She reached up to wipe them away. Why are you crying?

Tina: I’m crying because you were hurt and I wasnt there to protect you.

Bette: I thought youd be mad at me. I thought you hated me?

Tina: No Bette. Honey, I’m not mad at you and I could never hate you. Why would you think such a thing?

Bette: The last time you saw that woman with me you hit me.

Tina: Oh god no Bette. Is that why you are hiding in here?

Bette lowered her head and whispered, Yes.

Tina: Bette I am not mad at you baby. You did not do anything wrong. Candace did. This is not your fault. I love you baby. I promise I will never ever hit you again. I swear Bette. That was wrong of me to hit you that time. Both times. Baby please let me hold you. Please dont be afraid of me. I dont think my heart could take it if you were afraid of me.

Bette took Tinas hand and allowed her to help her up. As they stood and backed out of the closet Bette timidly moved closer and placed her head on Tinas shoulder and began crying.

Tina: Come on baby lets lay down on the bed so I can hold you. You look so tired. I’m so worried about you.

Bette and Tina laid in the bed facing each other. Bette finally began to relax and snuggled up closer with her head on Tinas chest. Sweetly Bette placed her hand on Tinas tummy.

Bette: Tina, when will our little girl be here?

Tina: Two months baby. Are you excited.

Bette: Uh huh.. Very. Tina?

Tina: Yea baby.

Bette: I’m sorry.

Tina: For what honey?

Bette: Candace. I wish I never met her.

Tina: Me too baby, me too. But its not your fault Bette. I dont want you feeling this way any more. I dont want you to blame yourself or feel guilty for what she did to you. OK.