Bette, dont say that.

The ringing phone stops her words. That should be Andy.

Hello?

Bette, its him, is everything alright? No, but I cant tell you about it in front of Alice. Just the thought of being able to talk about the situation makes me feel better.

Are you busy, I ask him, not knowing if Sundays are bad for him.

My day is busy, he says.

Okay, I cant hide my disappointment.

You need to talk, dont you?

Youre right, I need to see you, I answer.

I have some time right now, but youll have to come here.

Sure, my countenance improves.

Ill see you in ten minutes? His words are both a question and a confirmation.

Okay, I say. Ill see you in a bit. I hang up the phone and break the news to Alice. I have to go. You can stay here or not, but Im leaving for a while. Without waiting for her answer, I pick up my coat and leave the house. As I pull out and drive away, I glance back to see Alice walking to her car. I hope I can talk to her about this in the future. Alice has always been one of my closest friends.

The short drive to the church seems longer with my anticipation reeling on my mind. I knock on the rectory door and am led to Father Andys office by Susan. After a brief explanation of what my current, twisted situation has turned into, the priest closes his eyes in deep thought.

Why do you think you slept with that other woman? His words once spoke cut straight to my heart.

I wish I knewbut I dont, Im hopeful that ***** help me figure out the answer.

Tell me something Bette, he requests.

Okay, I feel like a child sitting in front of a teacher whos about to ask why I broke a rule.

Now, dont take this the wrong way, butbefore you met Tinawere youpromiscuous? Why would he ask me that? Im not sure if I want to answer. Will he think less of me if I say yes? Will he know Im lying if I say no?