Yes, I live practically in the centre of London.

So, how did you and Millie meet?

I couldn’t help the smile form on my lips.

At this art gallery a couple of weeks ago.

Tina frowned momentarily.

Youve only known each other for a few weeks?

Yeah, how long have you and Bette been together?

Tina seemed to ponder this, the smile on her lips growing as she looked back in her memory to find the answer.

Weve been together about six months now, I think. she answered, her voice soft and dreamy.

Beside her Bette had been subtly listening in on the conversation, obviously checking up that her girlfriend wasn’t getting chatted up or anything.

I think its more like six months, two weeks and four days T. she said, the two of them turning to share a smile.

Millie squeezed on my hand and we both basked in the love radiating off the two women standing before us.

Im sorry, how rude of me I haven’t even introduced you.

Tina smiled at me, rolling her eyes.

Baby, I think me and Trix can introduce ourselves.

Bette faked a look of shock at perfectly polite Tinas comment, then broke out into a grin, turning her attention to me.

I swallowed, finding that when Bette Porter looked at me it felt as though there was a huge spot light on me. She was certainly intimidating but after meeting Tina there must be some way of taming her.

Trix? That’s an interesting name. Bette said, her gaze wondering over me.

Its short for Beatrice. Millie interjected before I had a chance to reply.

That’s a beautiful name Beatrice, its nice to meet you.

I smiled, holding onto Millies hand as if my life depended on it. It was quite a contrast to talk to Tina and feel almost relaxed and comfortable in her presence. Then have Bette say a few words and feel completely helpless to do anything except look back into her intimidating gaze. I never felt at ease around people who seemed to hold an intellectual dominance over me, it felt as though they were trying to work me out. Analyse me even after only an introduction, but Bette was clever because she did it with a smile. And if it wasn’t for the kindness and warmth in her eyes I would probably question why Millie was even friends with this woman.

Its nice to meet you too Bette.

Bette seemed to take an interest in me then, maybe it was because I hadn’t swooned at her words and I felt more hostility towards her than attraction.

I love your accent, youre not from London originally are you?

Um…no Norfolk actually. I said, feeling ever so slightly on the spot.

Bette, how long are you staying in London for? Millie asked, taking Bettes attention form me to her.

I wanted to let out a sigh of relief but thought that wouldve been a tad rude of me. Especially as Tina would of seen it, although I glanced at her and she was still smiling genuinely at me.

Over by the door way I saw a glimpse of my father; he was standing half in half out and it looked as though he was arguing with someone. I couldn’t help but stare, he had lost weight and looked like he had been to the gym a few times. I still couldn’t get over that that was my dad, he looked younger than I remember him being. Or was I just getting older?

Tina noticed my distracted behaviour and followed my gaze over to the door. She looked back at me, her expression concerned. I hadn’t realised I was scowling and quickly masked it with a smile as I turned back to the conversation. Even though Tina had noticed this she didn’t say anything, but I felt her glance back at me every now and then.