“Was he convicted?” Bette asked, afraid she knew the answer.

“He got off on a technicality. He raped three more women after that except for his last victim who was found murdered in a dumpster. He raped and murdered a twelve year old girl.”

“It’s not the same MO how did they know it was the same guy?”

“He left her a rose.” She stated simply. They found his body a few days later in some abandoned warehouse. I guess he could handle killing his own daughter.”

“Tina I am so sorry that you had to go through something like that.”

“I am too.” She smiled. “But I have Sean.”

“He’s the father?”

“I’ve never been with any other man and I certainly didn’t do artificial insemination and the stalk flew south for the winter.” She joked. “When I found out I was pregnant I was so torn between keeping him or having an abortion. I chose to have him.”

“Will you ever tell him?”

“If he asks. But it’s not important. He’s my son and I love him.”

“Does he remind you of,” Bette asked reluctantly. “Of the uh,” She struggled to say the word.

“My attacker?” Tina asked. Bette shook her head yes. “I’m not going to lie to you. There are times when I look at him and I remember how he was conceived. But he is such a joy. He is a gem. I couldn’t ask for a better son.” They remained silent for a moment. “Do you think Becky would forgive me?”

“You’ll have to ask her.”

“Would you uh. Would you come with me?”

“Sure.”

“Thank you.” Tina hugged Bette.

“I’m sorry I called you a conniving evil bitch.”

“Its ok. I deserved that.”

“No you didn’t.” Tina got up and walked to her table. Bette watched her as she gathered her things and clearing her desk of files. “Look we don’t have to do this today if you don’t want to.” Bette said joining her and steadying her hand with hers.

“No no it’s ok.” Tina looked at Bette. “I want to do it today.”

“Ok, well I will be sitting.” Bette started as she turned towards the couch.

“Bette.” Tina stopped her. She held Bette’s arm forcing her to turn around to face her. “Thank you.” She smiled. “Thank you for being here.”

“Does that mean you forgive?” Bette joked

Tina gave her a friendly tap on her shoulder. “Yes.” She pulled Bette into a hug. “I had forgiven you long before I saw you a couple months ago. They lingered in the embrace. Tightening it as the moments went by. Tina reluctantly pulled away. “I better finish up here.” She said pulling away further.

“Tina.” Bette pulled her closer. They looked into each other’s eyes and it was as though they were both hypnotised. In that moment they lost control, they forgot who they were and everything that happened. Before they knew it their lips met. Softly, nervously but comfortably. Bette’s tongue parted Tina’s lips slightly asking for permission to enter. Tina obliged. Their tongues danced together, taking turns in exploring each other’s mouths. Bette was the first to come out of the trance. She pulled away, “We should get going.”

“Ok.” Tina said.

”I’m supposed to meet up with the girls afterward, you can join me if you’re up to it.”

“I’d like that. But I don’t have a baby sitter for tonight.”

“I could come over.” Tina gave Bette the look. “Just to talk.” She laughed.

“Sure, I’d like that.”