New York, LA… my life is so different now.  I can’t even remember a single moment I was this happy while in New York.  Don’t even remember having this much fun.  Don’t even remember feeling this much joy. 

Tina:  Everything ok Bette?

Tina’s voice brought me back to reality.  I smiled, looked around and I can tell my smile just grew wider.  I turned to Tina.

Bette:  Yes, everything is good.  Everyone seems to be enjoying their time.

Tina:  Yeah they are.  Actually I haven’t seen them having this much fun for a long time Bette.

Bette:  Really?  That’s hard to picture.

Tina:  Yeah.  I guess it’s cos you’re here now. 

I looked at her.  God I’ve missed looking at her.  Just looking at her.  She’s more beautiful than I remembered her to be.  And this isn’t the drink talking.  This is for real.  No joke.

Bette:  If you say so, how come you’re not dancing?  You’re not having a good time?

Tina:  I am.  I’m just happy sitting here and watching them.

Bette:  So would you like to get on the dance floor?

Tina:  I’d love to but

But?!?!?  There’s a but?!?  I was confused. I thought I felt she wanted me.  And there’s a but to dancing with me?  Ok Bette calm down.  Stop being the old Bette!  Show her that you’re the NEW Bette.  Ok I’m calm… I’m calm… I’m the new Bette.  The NEW Bette.

I closed my eyes and smiled.  Waiting patiently for the BUT.

Bette:  But what?

Tina smiled and shook her head.  She pointed at my blood stained shirt. 

Tina:  That.  You might want to have it checked or cleaned at least

Bette:  (rather embarrassed)  Oh yeah yeah I should shouldn’t i?  (feeling rather relieved)

Tina:  I’ll get the first aid.  You stay here.

Tina left but before she did, she turned around and smiled.  But somehow she gave me this look.  Is it the drink?  What is wrong with me?  Why am I imagining things?  I feel a little giddy but I know I’m still ok.  Was that a wink?  Did she just wink at me?  I must be out of my head.

I kept staring at her as she disappeared into Kit’s office.  I smiled to myself.  Maybe it wasn’t a wink.  Maybe I was just imagining it.  Why would she do that?  Maybe she was a little tipsy.  But she only had one drink.  Maybe it is me who’s had more than enough to drink.  Whatever, I’ll just assume it was a wink.  At least, for now, it’ll give me something to hang on to.