Tina was so lost in thought that she never noticed her girlfriend coming home. She looked up in wonder when Bette passed her and gave her a peck on the lips. Where had the hours gone? She shook herself from her reverie and watched Bette dreamily as she entered the bathroom. She decided that the brunette would probably love to have a cup of coffee, as she always did. Tina stood up and went to the kitchen humming. A few minutes later, Bette joined her, looking delighted at the see-through can of coffee that was slowly becoming fuller. The brunette wrapped her arms around her girlfriend’s waist.

“How was your day?” she asked her.

Tina smiled. “Just fine – it’s so good to have a day off during the week, especially when it’s on Friday. “That reminds me – Hugh invited us to a dinner party yesterday. Did you have any plans next Saturday? They’re celebrating their fifth anniversary.”

“Sure,” Bette smiled. She looked at Tina moving about in the kitchen and sighed happily. If anyone had told her that her life would look like this three years ago, she wouldn’t have believed a word of it. “Your mom is really nice, T. I had so much fun with her.”

“I noticed. I can’t believe she had to tell you all the embarrassing stories already – but well, I should have expected that.”

Bette laughed. “I loved the story where you slapped that Josh-guy in high school! But can you really blame him for wanting you?”

“I blame him for stalking me!” Tina countered, walking over to Bette. She looked her in the eyes. “You’re just lucky that I don’t get to hear your stories.”

Bette looked away, trying to wipe away a tear without her girlfriend noticing.

“Shit,” Tina whispered. “I didn’t mean it like that, Bette, I really didn’t.” She took her hand. “We agreed to forget about it, remember? There’s no use in dwelling on something we can’t change.”

Bette nodded and gasped for air. She tried to speak without her voice trembling. “I know you didn’t mean it like that, it’s okay. It really is. Did I tell you about Alexandra’s new boyfriend?” She swiftly changed the subject.

Tina smiled. “You didn’t. I’m glad she found someone after the bastard she had last time – I still think it’s hilarious that Eric’s girlfriend cheated on him. Serves him right. So, who is this new guy? Anyone you know?”

“Jack Lively, he’s majoring in Art history. I only met him once, he seems to be a great guy. I’m sure she’ll bring him here sometime.”

They chatted some more, enjoying every minute of it. They also enjoyed every minute spent together the following weeks. Bette was feeling the stress for school, but knew that she could do it. Christmas was there before either of them knew it.