Chapter 7

Dana stood on the stage she had been talking and thanking people for about 10 minutes.
She hasnt even mentioned me. Alice complained to Bette who hadnt been able to take her eyes of Tina since she had walked into the hall. Alice followed the womans gaze and rolled her eyes. If you have to stare at least look in her eyes. This took Bette out of her daydream.
What?
Exactly. Alice shook her head.
And I would like to thank Alice. Dana said looking to the Blonde. Shes been amazing giving me continuous support. Alices face lit up with a smile. And my friends they constantly believe in me and thats more important than anything thing. So thank you. And with that she came running off the steps with her award running straight into Alices arms. Lets party. She kissed the blonde with such passion and love that Alice pulled away.
Wow if this what getting an awards does for you, you should get more!
Bette watched the exchange and smiled and felt someone tap her on the shoulder. She turned around and saw Shane standing behind her wearing a black trouser suit.
Youre looking very dashing tonight. Bette smiled at her.
And youre looking exceptionally beautiful. Shane returned. Would you care to dance? Shane offered her a hand.
I would love that. They walked to the dance floor and Bette place her hand on Shanes shoulder while the other was in the younger womans grip. Youre hand had better stay on my hip. Bette joked.
Yes maam. They swayed silently for a while just content to get lost in the music. Just talk to her.
What? Bette replied confused.
I know that you are looking at Tina over my shoulder.
Well thats fine because youre looking at Jenny over mine. Bette retorted. Dont push something away because youre scared of getting hurt Shane.
Not you too? It didnt mean anything.
Then why do you keep looking at her, why cant you stand to be near her? Bette asked her knowing she was hitting a nerve.
You have room to talk. Youre in love with someone and youre letting her get away.
It not easy Shane I hurt her really bad.
That was two years ago. From where Im standing youre a coward Bette. That woman over there is amazing and if I end up with someone just half the woman she is I will be so lucky. So dont give me any excuses. If you love her Bette and I mean really love her go get her. Because Rachel might just be the girl to steal her heart away from you.
I dont have her heart away more. Bette said stopping and looking at the floor and then turned to walk away, Shane grabbed her arm and turned her around.
Yes you do, she wears it around her neck. Shane let go and walked off in the opposite direction. Bette watched her walk away before heading out on to a balcony over looking at city. She became lost in thoughts of what Shane had said to her.
Beautiful isnt it. A voice said from head her. Turning to look for its owner she saw Tina, she moved to stand beside Bette.
I dont know Ive some equally as beautiful sights tonight. Bette said sincerely. You look stunning tonight.
I was going to say exactly the same thingthat dressyou look Tina blushed at herself and her inability to finish her sentence.
Thank you. I did it for you.
You did what?
Looked like this. Bette told her looking directly in her eyes and she had Tina locked. I want you to look at me and miss me I want you to look at me and remember what we had. Tina was shocked at Bettes forwardness. I know Ive been back only nearly 3 weeks but seeing you nearly everyday smelling you or feeling youre skin on mine as you walk past. I feel like I cant breathe I have to remind myself to keep breathing or Ill just die. Tears were beginning to well up in her eyes. I love you Tina I always will. Bette walked forward and stood in front of her, Tina was lost in Bettes eyes and her honest words. The brunette leaned in and softly brushed her lips against Tinas for only a few seconds and pulled away. Tonight when you go home just remember that. The taller woman walked back into the party and bumped into Rachel. They eyed each other up.
Hey. Rachel Merritt. She offered Bette her hand and after a moment she accepted.
Bette Porter.
Yeah I know. I just wanted to say sorry for not introducing myself before, its been a crazy month. The younger woman laughed. But I want to get to know you Bette being the ex and all. She laughed. Im sorry when Im nervous I laugh a lot.
No worries well youre girl is outsideRachel?
Yeah.
Look after her, wont you?
Always. Rachel smiled and Bette knew she would.