“And your name is?” she asked, putting down the card and stretching her hand towards Tina.

“Oh, I’m Tina,” she said, putting on her most professional smile. “At your service.”

Bette smiled back, but continued staring at her, “Tina,” she said, pondering the name. “Sweet.”

Tina rolled her eyes, “Please”

“No, it is. I mean, you are.” Bette stopped. “Do you really think I’m gorgeous?”

Tina frowned. “Are you serious?”

Bette felt suddenly exposed but couldn’t stop herself. “Well, you said it.”

“Yeah, I said it because it’s obvious,” Tina said, another genuine laugh building, cutting the tension inside of her, ‘it’s not exactly what I’d call a matter of opinion.”

Bette’s eyes bore into her, dancing. “Tina, that’s all it is.”

Tina stopped, then laughed outright. “Right,” she said. “Ok, I think you’re gorgeous. Happy?” she said, her voice light.

“Enchanted,” Bette said slowly, her voice a slight drawl. Tina couldn’t help but notice the change in tone and looked in Bette’s eyes for what seemed the first time.

“Wellif you need anything, let me know?” Tina asked, now staring. “I mean, I’m only a lowly desk clerk…but still.”

Bette shook her head, smiling, “Uh huh.” A beat passed where Bette allowed her eyes to roam the blonde’s face.” She’s lovely, Bette thought. And so obviously bright. I’d kill myself if I had that job. Tina raised an eyebrow in Bette’s direction and Bette caught herself. “Ok,” she said, finally. “I guess I’ll go up.” She gathered her things before looking again at Tina, who motioned towards the elevator bank to her right before blessing her with another wicked smile.

“Goodnight Bette,” Tina called out, just before the tall, dark, incredibly ***** figure disappeared around the corner.

“Goodnight Tina,” Bette called back, without turning around, not wanting to catch the blonde still staring at her, as she knew she would be.

Tina exhaled at her post, touching her fingers to her forehead. “Holy *****,” she breathed, fanning herself. She couldn’t help but laugh at her audacity. “Ok, quit dreaming, dork. That woman is so out of your league.” She flopped down into the chair behind the desk and closed her eyes, squinting in frustration.

Around the corner, Bette hit the up arrow and shifted her weight to one side, defaulting into an all too familiar stance of impatience, one hand on her hip, the other at her brow. Her head felt hot and her mind distracted. On the one hand she was tired, still half grumpy, and knew she should just crash, sleep, get up and fly home.

But strangely, she didn’t feel sleepy. And on top of that, she wasn’t sure she had what she needed for the night. Or whether she might need something more.