..

“What’s the matter?”

“I’m sorry…”  Her voice was pensive. Wistful.

It was dreadfully late.  There was no need but a quick glance at the glowing clock that rested on a rich cherry finish nightstand confirmed it.  So did the black sky outside her window and the darkness in her bedroom.  Silently she chastised herself and frowned.

Again Tina apologized.  “I’m so sorry I woke you.”

Sourly, she knew she was going to be late for work.  Plus now she would probably make Bette late too because of the impulsive behavior.

“Don’t be.”  Bette answered gently.  She was pleased to receive the call even at the odd hour.  Reassured that she was the one Tina reached to for comfort.  It seemed to make this art director stand tall although she was flat on her back at the moment.

“Tell me what’s wrong.”

“Nothing’s wrong.”  She wouldn’t be able to convince a child even with cookies in hand.  “I just couldn’t sleep and…” There it was again — a voice drenched in emotions that left her severely compromised.

The woman who listened allowed a moment to pass.  Encouraging her girlfriend to say more.

“I’m not sure what’s wrong exactly but…”  Her eyes shut firmly.

The brunette’s chest tightened.  Early morning phone call.  Reluctance to divulge.  Sadness in her tone.  Uncertainty about ‘what was wrong’…

She tried to resist the doubt that surfaced but couldn’t help it.  There was a constriction similar to those few seconds right after you realize you neglected to do something of importance. Helpless in the ability to bring time back and do something to fix everything.

So instead Bette kept silent and held her breath.

“I think it’s because I miss you so much.”

Their cell connection was acceptable although there was a slight delay to the clearly relieved breath which echoed through their satellite link.

“Tina,” Bette gasped with some humor, “you fucking scared the hell out of me.”

“What?” the confused blonde responded in question.

“I thought you were breaking up with me.”  She laughed and Tina saw her smile through the phone.  Her upturned mouth and bright teeth.  The way her eyes glistened with joy, mischief, wit, disbelief or happiness when she broke into a heartfelt grin.

It made her miss the gallery owner even more.