Chapter 22

Bette and Tina arrive at the hospital 30 minutes before the appointment. Bette did not want to stress. She wanted to be completely relaxed on the days she would be in for treatment. So, showing up early was one of the things she could control. Bette had a good grip on Tina’s hand. Tina could feel the nervousness coming from Bette and she tried her best to make Bette feel loved and relaxed as they walked towards the elevator. The appointment was on the third floor. The cancer wing. The closer they got the more tense Bette got.

“Babe, relax.” She whispers as she leans in closer to Bette.

“I can’t help it Tee. I’m nervous.” Bette replies and takes a extra grip on Tina’s hand.

Tina stops and pulls Bette to a stop also and pulls her close.

“Breathe Bette. Take a moment.” Tina says and put her hands on Bette’s cheeks. And softly stroke them. Bette closes her eyes from the touch and takes a deep breath. After a few moments she opens her eyes and looks into Tina’s smiling eyes. “Better?” Tina asks in a whisper.

“Yeah… Thank you. Still nervous though.” Bette replies with a smile.

“That’s okay. It’s okay to be nervous. But if I can help take some of the edges of, then I’ll do it.” Tina says and leans in for a soft kiss.

They reach the waiting room where they were told to meet. Bette registers at the small reception there and is told to take a seat. A nurse would come and get her when it was her time.

They took a seat, they were the only ones in the room.

“You know, yesterday when you said you had a bad track record.” Bette starts.

“Yeah?” Tina says.

“It’s not only you. I know what started all our mess was my infidelity. I set everything in motion.” Bette says.

“We don’t have to talk about this now Bette.” Tina starts but is interrupted by Bette.

“I just have to get it off my chest. I have thought about it since yesterday. I should have said something then, but… I did not find the right words. I just want you to know that I am not without fault. You cannot take all the blame.” Bette says, looking lovingly into Tina’s eyes. Tears comes out right away and Tina leans in once again for a soft kiss. “We’ll talk more at home later.” Bette says as a nurse comes out and calls her name.