Somehow, our interactions always end up going this way. It starts out fine and rather innocuous and ends with one of us feeling frustrated and annoyed. This has got to end. After I eat dinner, I am going to try and talk to her again. Hopefully, the words that need to be said will flow from my lips with ease. Somehow the words form just fine in my mind; but they have a hard time exiting my mouth when I am in her presence.

** Bette sighs repeatedly, thinking about the talk ahead when she hears Tina approach**

As Tina arrives in the kitchen she says, ‘Thanks for cooking, do you want me to fix you a plate?’

No, thanks I can do it myself. After preparing my dinner I retreat to the photo viewing room so that I can work while I eat. I have taken on the role of photo critic in addition to my administrative duties. Now I view every image before it is given to the client. Tina says that this makes her feel comfortable because she trusts my judgment. It also relieves her from the responsibility of picking out which photos the clients will see.

**Tina enters the room and sits down**

Without looking at her, I say, ‘What’s up, do you need something?’

No, she replies. What are you doing?

Working.

Do you need any help?

No, T, I don’t. But thanks for asking. How was dinner?

Delicious as always, thanks again for cooking. I haven’t felt much like cooking recently.

Yeah, I understand.

Bette?

Yes?

Uuuhhh, nevermind. I’ll be upstairs in my room if you need me.

Tina, before you go…

Yes, Bette, what’s on your mind?

Uuummm, let me know when you are done with the Smith wedding photos so that I can review them.

Oh, ok. I’ll let you know. See you, I’m going upstairs now.

Sure, see you later. By the way, Tina?

Yes?

Do you think we should start looking for a therapist? I mean since I am starting to feel better physically. I am definitely able to move around more.

Sure, Bette. That sounds alright, she says with an unreadable expression.

Do you have any criteria that I need to be aware of, so that I can compile a suitable list of options for us?

I’d like to try a gay woman this time.

Anything else?

No, that’s it. I’ll be in my room. Have a good night.

You too, Tina.

**Tina leaves the room and Bette returns to her thoughts** 

Well, that wasn’t exactly what I had in mind to say to her. But, I guess it’s something. At least I brought it up. I am not sure why talking to her is so hard. I mean that’s Tina, My Tina. I’ve been with her for years. Well, I guess I’ll start making a list of possible therapists tomorrow. Hopefully, we can get this show on the road. I’ll sleep a little better tonight knowing that I said something.

I hope whoever we find will be able to help us jumpstart this thing. If not, we’re doomed.