Tina continues watching her.

(Bette) With no regard for how it might look or what anyone else might make of it. All I’m suggesting is to do that here also

Tina turns off the water and turns to face her, leaning against the bench and thinking for a moment.

(Tina) I don’t know Bette, I’m not sure I’m comfortable with this

(Bette) I’m not wanting to pressure you, I just wanted to put it out there, because I’ve been thinking about it

Bette smiles at her.

(Bette) I want you there with me, why pretend that I don’t?

They smile at each other. Tina then raises her eyebrows and sighs.

(Tina) It would be such a public declaration

(Bette) It’s not a declaration unless we’re actually declaring something. Which we’re not. I just want you there with me, that’s all

Tina again looks at her uncertainly.

(Tina) Is this very important to you?

Bette smiles as she places the knife on the chopping board and steps towards her, placing her hands on Tina’s hips.

(Bette) It is, but not in the way you think. You’ve obviously been an enormous support to me through all of this, and I want to share it with you

Tina nods as she thinks things over.

(Bette) Can you tell me what you’re worried about?

Tina smiles as Bette moves her arms around her waist and pulls her closer. Tina reaches up and runs her fingers through Bette’s hair.

(Tina) I don’t know. My photo in the LA Times captioned as your partner?

Bette shrugs.

(Bette) Why should we care?

Tina laughs and Bette smiles at her.

(Bette) I think most people attending probably already think we’re in a relationship

Tina raises her eyebrows and gives a small laugh.

(Tina) Probably

(Bette) You’ve taught me to stop caring so much what people might think. So don’t start now

Tina smiles at her.

(Tina) Even if it’s all of LA?

(Bette laughs) Even if it’s all of LA

They smile at each other.

(Bette) I think you’re also worried that going might send me the wrong message

Tina sighs and shrugs, and Bette smiles.

(Bette) If you don’t want to go together, obviously that’s fine. But don’t say no because you’re worried about what I might take from us going together. I’m not up to anything, and you don’t need to be so careful with me. You can trust me