Chapter 9

Something woke Tina, she reached for Bette and she was not there beside her. She called out “Bette, Babe? Where are you? Tina glanced at the clock it was 3:AM, As she climbed out of bed, she checked the bathroom, then Angelica’s room, The baby was sleeping peacefully. As she continued to search, she caught a faint light by the pool. Tina could see Bette sitting in a lounge chair, she could tell she was crying and was clutching something in her hand. Tina sat behind Bette and took her in her arms, as Bette leaned into Tina’s embrace, Tina asked” Babe are you ok?” I am not sure T, In the last couple of days, we have lost Dana, I have met a sister I never new existed, found out my mother is still alive, but dying and the sister I love dearly, has lied to me for most of my life. “What can I do for you? Tina asked. “Just hold me T, that is all I need” as she continued to cry softly. After a few minutes Bette sat up and handed Tina the letters from Dana.” I will give the girls their letters tomorrow at breakfast. We should read ours now, don’t you think T?” Tina gently pulled Bette up, and told her ” Lets go to bed Babe, We can read the letters there, while I hold you”. Bette kissed Tina, and followed her back to the bedroom. ” Tina I love you so much,’ I love you too Baby, come to bed. Bette watched as Tina lay down on their bed, waiting for her to join her. Bette started to relax, and let Tina hold her tight. Tina picked up the letter for Bette and started to hand it to her, “Babe, Can you read it for me, I am so drained and I love hearing your voice. Tina nodded and quietly began reading.

“My dear Bette, I want you to know how much you meant to me in my life. You have held a very special spot in it since the day we met. I was in awe of you, Bette Porter, the famous art gallery owner, most popular lesbian in West L.A, who walked with the confidence of knowing what she wants in life and just how to get it. Hanging out with you and the gang, helped me to believe in myself, and not be so afraid or ashamed of whom I was. You were my mentor, you always took the time to talk to me, and help me with my insecurities of coming out, and of course how to meet women, and learn to use my gaydar. Ha When you think of me smile, remember the laughter, and all the fun we all had together on family nights, Please don’t think of me with sadness, I was Blessed to have you in it, my new friend Becky is helping me write these letters to each of the gang. Take care of Tina and don’t lose sight of your love. Please be there for Alice, she is going to need a little extra attention and compassion, when I am gone.

I love you Bette, Dana

“T, I am going to miss her so much,” So am I Babe’” She picked up her letter from Dana to her and slowly began to read once again.

Tina,

I am getting a little help here writing this letter to you, as you know I am to weak to hold a pen or to even feed myself, But these are definitely my words to you. I am so glad; my life had you in it. Your sweetness and gentleness and your compassion, was something that was so effortless for you to give to the people you loved. I always felt loved by you, and I always felt like part of your family. I loved watching you and Bette together, it gave me hope of finding that same love and peace with someone special. Take care of Bette and your beautiful Angelica and know, when I leave this earth, I will be at peace. I love you Tina

Dana

Bette & Tina let the happy memories of Dana wash over them as they slowly drifted to sleep.