***

TINA
I know Id said I would call. But I dont want to talk to her right now. I bet she would ask me difficult questions that I dont wish to answer. But I do owe her an explanation. And that day when she totally blacked out, it really scares me. Bette is so weak and fragile now. Not the Bette that I knew. Or used to know.

***

BETTE
Hello, Bette Porter speaking. Theres silence on the other side of the line. Hello? I asked again. Still, no answer. As I was about to hang up, a familiar voice was heard. I couldnt maintain my excitement. Tina?! Tina is that you?! Yeah. Her voice soft and barely audible. Tina, you going to have to speak up. I cant hear you. She cleared her throat and said, Sorry it took me a while to call you. Im so preoccupied nowadays. No, its ok. Im glad that you called. I said smiling to myself. If only anyone would see me right now, they could see that I look like an idiot who had just found his long lost marbles. We need to talk, she said weakly. I know. Thats all I could say. The silence was awkward. Baby I mean, Tina, you want to meet today? I will cancel all my appointments if you want to meet today. A nervous laugh came out from her. Why is she laughing? You, Bette Porter? The busiest woman in LA, canceling all her appointments? Im kind of hurt by Tinas sudden comment. What? You dont believe me? I said sadly, trying to control my tears. Hah! Since when? When have you ever cancel your appointments just to see me? Last time, all you did was postponed them and after youve meet me to do something, youd always go back to work, said Tina coldly. I thought of screaming at her that I can change and I have changed but I have to control myself. Tina is pregnant. I dont want to hurt her. Ok fine, you dont believe me dont you? Meet me at our house at 7. Why must we meet there? she asked. I have something to show you. Ok. Then she hung up. Why is she saying all this? To hurt me? Cant she see that Im already hurting? James, cancel all of my appointments for today. As I pressed the intercom. All of them? he asked. Yes! All of them! And if you need me, just leave me a message on my cell. I wont be answering any calls today. Ok. I slumped back on my chair, thinking about the meeting with Tina later. I know its not going to be a pleasant one.