Fan Fiction
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Amicus Curiae
Story written on May 16, 2013 by justkeepswimming.
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"That late night whisper almost always includes something more," Tina said. "But I’ll take even a brief phone call over nothing."
"Then call, no matter how late," Bette said.
"I will," Tina promised.
"You’re ready for this. I know you are."
"I have every intention of accomplishing some degree of victory," Tina said. "I’m just disappointed we have to wait until June for the ruling."
"We’ll get to celebrate together that way," Bette offered the bright side.
It was the advantage of the inevitable delay – they could hear the result together, with their friends surrounding them, and with the group that worked so hard to make it happen.
**********
"How is it that you look so fresh after a morning of travel and multiple sleepless nights?" Bette asked the question as they embraced in greeting.
"I’m running on pure adrenaline," Tina replied. "You can expect me to crash at any moment."
"You might even fall asleep on the way home," Bette said. "But I’m excited to hear more of your take on how everything went."
"I’m cautiously optimistic," Tina said. "We’re not expecting a sweeping ruling, but something is likely to go our way."
"Either way, it’s out of your hands now," Bette said. "You can bask in the glory of a job well done before moving on to the next battle."
"I’m not giving even one moment of thought to whatever the next battle might be," Tina said. "I need some time to relax. And I want that time to be spent with you."
"I feel like I’m welcoming the valiant soldier back from a tour of duty."
"It’s like I’ve been in the trenches," Tina said. "But courage is a characteristic that rests with those that fought long before I had to."
The baggage carousel startled them as it started to turn. The first bags were being deposited on it shortly thereafter.
Tina feigned falling asleep on Bette’s shoulder as they stood side by side.
"I know you want to rest, but every black bag looks like yours to me," Bette kissed her temple after she spoke.
"It’s okay if it takes a couple trips around, I’ll open my eyes in a minute."
"The bed is ready for you if you want to start with a nap," Bette suggested.
Tina lifted her head and opened her eyes, turning to face Bette.
"Will you lie down with me? And for real, I do need to rest for a while."
"I’d love to. And of course I’ll let you sleep."
"It won’t take me long to re-energize," Tina said. "Then we can enjoy the weekend."
"I’m so proud of you," Bette said. "You take all the time you need. I’ll revel in the bliss of your triumphant return."
Tina soon retrieved her bag and they were in Bette’s car for the short drive back to her house.
"I already picked up a few groceries," Bette said. "We don’t have to leave the house until Monday morning."
"I’m thankful I have Monday off," Tina said. "I’ll head home after you leave for work and get a few things done."
"I’m going to enjoy the time you’re with me rather than anticipate when you’ll be gone again."
Bette reached across the console to hold Tina’s hand.
"At least we’re in the same state for the foreseeable future," Tina replied. "You don’t have any pending travel plans, do you?"
The traffic had slowed to a crawl as soon as they exited the LAX parkade, even though it was Saturday.
"How do you feel about a weekend away together? Before your schedule gets filled with a new project?"
"Do you have something in mind?"
"Solvang?"
"Wine country – that would be a nice get away," Tina sighed. "It’s not too far – especially if we leave from my place. The drive only takes a couple of hours."
"We’ll look at possible dates some time this weekend."
They fell into a silence as the short trip continued. Bette focused on the traffic and Tina occasionally glanced at her, comforted by how she felt at the prospect of spending so much time away from what she had previously considered her life’s routine.
They were both developing new routines, including the reality of an ever evolving commitment to each other.
(tbc)
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