12 Years before Present Day

            Since getting married two years earlier, it had been difficult for Tina to make friends.  Everyone in John’s circle of friends and colleagues seemed so stuffy; so arrogant.  Tina was expected to make nice with John’s work associates’ wives, who constantly sat around gossiping in the tea room, wearing pearls with their ankles crossed modestly.  This is how Tina always thought of them.  She called them the “Tea Hags” behind their backs.

            On this particular day, she was out with a woman, about her age, named Dana Fairbanks.  They had never met before.  Essentially, every time Tina was presented with a new friend it was in a blind date sort of way.  She wished that she could meet her own friends for once, regardless of their social status.

            Dana and Tina were walking along the cobble stoned streets, window shopping.  Upon meeting each other, Tina could tell that this was different.  Dana, a professional tennis player, actually had an enjoyable personality.  It seemed the two could actually become friends.

            “If we’re being honest,” Dana started, “I’m so glad you’re normal.”

            Tina laughed.  “Thanks, I think.”

            “Ugh, no really.  My parents are constantly trying to buddy me up with other rich snobs.  I mean, you’re rich, don’t get me wrong.  But I actually like you.”

            “I actually like you, too,” Tina said, smiling.

            As they continued walking, they came upon a music store.   Tina stopped short.  Through the glass, she saw a series of CDs propped up on display.  It was clearly a new artist, and apparently very popular.  The picture on the cover was unmistakable. 

            “What is it?” Dana asked, realizing after a few steps that Tina was no longer walking beside her.  She backed up to stand beside her new friend.  She looked through the window at what Tina was looking at.  “Hm, Kit Porter,” Dana said.  “Hey, I just heard her song on the radio!   She’s good.  Are you a fan or something?”

            “Or something,” Tina responded, still in a daze.  She made it, Tina thought.  While she was incredibly happy for Kit, the sight of her was bringing back a flood of memories.  “You know, I think I’m gonna buy this.  I’ll be right out,” she said, walking into the music store.