Tina smiles and runs her hands down Bette’s arms.

(Tina) It’s fine, I want to. And you have enough on here. Let me take care of this

Bette smiles at her.

(Bette) OK, if you’re sure

(Tina nods) I’m sure. And do you mind if I ask Helena as well? She’s been at basically every gathering I’ve hosted since I was eighteen years old, I’d feel weird not having her there

(Bette smiles) Of course

Saturday night, Tina’s house. Bette, Alice, Shane and Dana stand around Tina’s island bench, having a drink and sharing a platter Tina has prepared. Tina moves around the kitchen as she finishes the dinner preparations.

(Bette) Can I really not do anything else to help?

(Tina smiles) No, you’ve helped enough already. Just relax now

Bette smiles at her as Tina moves outside to the patio. Alice turns to her.

(Alice) I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so relaxed a week out from an opening before Porter. And with a last minute show too

Bette shrugs as she pops an olive in her mouth, and Alice looks at her and laughs. She nods towards Tina, who is still occupied outside.

(Alice) Well, you should think about holding onto her. I think she’s good for you

They smile at each other. Helena appears from the hallway and they all turn to her and smile, and everyone greets each other warmly. Helena glances around the kitchen.

(Helena) God, I’m dying for a drink. Is there something on the go?

(Alice) I’m used to you showing up at these things with a decadent bottle

Helena looks at her and smiles.

(Helena) Yes, I do like to do that. But not with Tina. She hates me showing off, so I’ll drink whatever she has going

Helena shrugs as Tina walks in from outside. They smile at each other as they step towards one another and hug hello.

(Tina) Can I get you a drink?

Alice holds up a bottle to Helena.

(Alice) Would you like a beer?

Helena looks at Alice for a moment and then shifts her gaze to Tina with a raised eyebrow, and Tina laughs.

(Tina) There’s wine on the bench

Helena smiles at Alice as she moves past her.