Bette scared her too. Tina’s eyes searched Bette’s. 

“I couldn’t help myself.”

“Shit, Baby.”

“Sorry.”

The look on Bette’s face signified she wasn’t sorry at all. 

“Baby, you don’t have to ever apologize for the way you show your appreciation for my body. I love how affectionate you can be.”

“I really, really appreciate your body, Tee.” Bette said, licking her lips.

Tina laughed. With her back still facing Bette, she took a step forward just out of Bette’s reach. She turned around to give Bette a full view of her exposed breasts. Then she quickly put on a sports bra and some shorts before things escalated between them. She knew if they didn’t get out of the bedroom, they would never get out of the bedroom.

Tina pecked Bette on the lips as she walked by her.

“Let’s go, Baby,” Tina blinked, making Bette laugh.

45 minutes later, Bette and Tina were ambling through Griffith Park. Although the trail itself was flat, it was also steep in many areas. Tina’s heart was pounding. She paused for a moment and noticed the creek flowing around some sculpted rocks. The simplicity of the flowing water gave her a sense of peace. She was so happy. Tina never knew this level of happiness was possible. She looked over at Bette and saw this odd expression on her face.

The closer they hiked to Bette’s oasis, the more excited she was to share it with Tina. It was a not-so-secret garden filled with magnolias, eucalyptus, honeysuckle, squirrels, lizards and pines. And the views were astonishing. 

Tina wondered if Bette realized she had been holding her hand for the last quarter mile or so. Bette was extremely doting when they were alone but she wasn’t huge on public displays of affection. At least not in the beginning of their relationship. So when she reached for Tina’s hand, Tina’s heart skipped a beat. She felt safe with Bette.

When they finally arrived, Bette explained the significance of this very spot. 

“Dante Orgolini was a Brazilian journalist and artist, who lived in and loved Los Angeles. Building this garden was a labor of love started with only Dante, a pick and a shovel. At first. Eventually other outdoor enthusiasts and park rangers joined him to build this mountainside garden oasis.”