Bette still marveled at their relationship with Helena and Peggy. Peggy had been so much more than a mentor to her. It was Peggy she went to first when she decided to search for her mother, and Peggy who offered her any kind of assistance needed, no questions asked. And her bond with Helena actually strengthened over the last few years, both women on the same unfortunate side of divorce. All of Bette’s feelings of resentment and jealousy she once felt towards Helena being with Tina during her pregnancy had long been buried. It was now twenty years later and the mother-daughter duo was standing with them looking as elated as the reunited couple felt.

Bette embraced the older woman. “How are you Peggy? I’m so glad you could make it!”

“Oh I wouldn’t have missed this. Are you kidding? Not many people have the story you two have!”

Bette gushed a thank you as a tear escaped down her cheek.

“Now’s not the time Bette, but we need to chat after your honeymoon. I may have something for you. In fact, I’ll let James tell you. James?” Peggy called out, a full grin now plastered on Bette’s face.

“Right here, Peggy.” James popped up behind her shoulder.

“Be sure to call her and don’t take no for an answer.” James nodded in agreement as Peggy cupped Bette’s cheek. “Congrats my darling. I am simply ecstatic for you and you look exquisite. Naturally.” Peggy winked as she moved over to hug Tina.

“Hi James,” Bette wrapped her former assistant in a big hug. “Ohhh I have missed you! Still working for Peggy I see.”

James shrugged. “She has me traveling all over the world for artwork. What can I say? I like bossy women.” He playfully hit Bette’s shoulder. “Happy for you, boss. I was getting a little worried about you. Glad I could be here this time.”

Bette’s breath hitched in response to James. She could only nod as she tried to dislodge the lump in her throat while overhearing Peggy whisper to Tina ‘don’t ever let her go again.’

As Tina got tucked into a Peabody sandwich, Bette couldn’t shake the feeling that she was living in a dream, just waiting for the bubble to burst.