“You know me Bette, you have my word.” Shane adds, she stands up. “What did they find?” She asks carefully, afraid of the answer.

“A tumor.” Bette simply says, looking at Shane.

“A tumor? Where?” Shane asks as she takes a step closer to Bette.

Bette just points to her head, tears streaming down her face again. She can’t speak. She brings her hands up and covers her face. The reality of the situation comes on like a wave. Shane takes the two final steps close to Bette and takes her into her arms and holds her while she let the tears out.

After a few minutes, Bette eases up. “How do I tell Angie this? I’m selfish, she shouldn’t be here with me, I don’t want her to have to take care of me. But at the same time, if she moves to Tina, then I’ll be alone. And I can’t depend on you guys either. You have your jobs and lives. I’m alone.” Bette says as new sets of tears runs down her face. Shane just stands there. Feeling incredibly sad for her friend. Not sure how to respond.

“I didn’t want anyone to know…” Bette adds. She looks up at Shane… “Angie talked to you didn’t she?” She asks, this time with a small smile through the tears.

“Yeah, she’s really worried about you and sees the changes, not for the better. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. But I made a promise to her that I would help her in some way.” Shane replies.

“I’m glad that she could talk to you and that you’re there for her. It warms my heart.” Bette says smiling.

“Yeah, I love her. She’s my favorite niece.” Shane says and breaks out in a smile also

“She’s your only niece…” Bette states.

“Haha, that was what she said. God you two are alike, it’s scary sometimes.” Shane adds.

“Yeah…” Bette agrees.

“So, what now, what happens with you, are you in treatment? Or waiting?” Shane asks.

“I’ve been to the hospital to do a biopsy of the tumor. I did that last week.” Bette says and takes out her headband and parts her hair, so Shane sees the small bald spot. “I’ve been covering this up…” Bette says. “Waiting for the results. I’m getting them tomorrow.” Bette says as she walks over to the sofa again and takes a seat. Shane follows.