Bette wasnt prepared for how fast Carol was into asking questions. But she went along with as to please her, and to please herself. So Bette lay on her side facing Carol, who lay on her side chewing her lip. Carol cleared her throat and then began asking:

When was your last serious relationship?

Almost seven years ago

How long were you together?

Almost nine years

Why did you break up?

She went back to men…after getting back together…before I cheated

How old are you?

44

Are you happy?

Yes and no

Explain

Right this minute Im happy, but I want to sit down on a normal day and feel contented

What would make you happy?

I have a feeling it will be something small, but Ill blow it up to some big huge thing

Do you love me?

No

Why?

I really like you…really really like you. But Im not at the love stage yet, it takes me awhile. But I love your quirks, your beauty, your kindness…but I dont think im emotionally ready to fully love and appreciate another human being in a way that will do them justice

Whats the worst thing youve done?

Ripped one of my moms watercolors to get back at my dad…I was 14

What do you regret?

Too many things to count

How can I make you happy?

Bette was quiet for a moment, thinking. She chewed her lip; racking her brain…things were swirling around. She was answering the questions as quick as they came. To keep her honest.

You can make me happy by pushing me more

Thanks, thats all for now

For now eh?

Yea…for now…   Bette leaned forward and kissed her. Carol moved closer and put her hands on Bettes waist, pushing her even closer. They necked for awhile, satisfied that they understood each other a little better. Bette really liked Carol, she was just afraid when Carols traits that werent so great would show up. That always happened you know, the honeymoon period is over and the shit hits the fan. Well Bette could handle it. Thank god Carol was divorcing, thank god Carol hadnt asked Bette to use a dildo…it was too much of a reminder. Even though it was a hot turn-on. Bette kissed the tip of Carols nose and whispered that she was glad Carol was divorcing. Bette felt her stiffen and then whisper why. Bette cleared her throat…Because I cant stand anything hetero…..cmere But Carol had wriggled out of Bettes grasp and got out of bed. She turned around with her back facing Bette and started to dress. Bette cursed under her breath, lay fully on her back and closed her eyes. Whats wrong C?   Carol turned back to Bette, she was putting on her pants…Whats wrong? Your being a heterophobe elitist thats whats wrong. Thats a part of my life that I cherished while it was good, its not something I want you to shit on. Im sure you had wonderful moments with your last serious woman before it turned sour Bette flinched….Yea Im sorry. Carol stood by the bed, fully dressed…she hesitated. Arent you going to stop me? Or give me a kiss? Bette closed her eyes…No Carol walked to the bedroom door, Yea I understand. Bette shut her eyes even tighter. She heard Carol ask Bette…are you still in love with her?  Bette closed her eyes even tighter…No. Im not in love with her, Im just trying to forget the love we had.