LesFan

Lesbian Fan Social Network

    Fan Fiction

    This story has been set to a rating of R. Age verification is required to proceed.

    Age Verification

    I am years of age as of today, November 8, 2026

    Enter your current age into the field provide above. Stories with a rating of R or NC-17 may contain material not suitable for children. LesFan requires that all individuals wishing to read these stories confirm they are of at least 17 years of age. LesFan uses the MPAA rating labeling system for all stories.

    LesFan will also make a best attempt to filter profane words in stories that are not rated R or NC-17 unless the individual confirms they are of at least 17 years of age.

    LesFan uses the following rating scale for stories.






    Submit

    Eternal Flames—Chapter 11

    Story written on August 11, 2025 by jjos23.
     Login to add story to favorites
     Login to add author to favorites
    Genre(s): , , ,
    Rating:
    fanfiction(s):
    Character(s): ,
    Number of Comments: 9
    Words: 3534
    Story Shortlink: https://lesfan.com/?p=118196
    Author Notes:
    Summary:
    Chapter 11 Small Steps

    “If you let yourself care,” Marisa supplied gently.

    Bette gave a quick, defensive shake of her head, then stilled. “If I let myself care more than I already do. I panicked.”

    Marisa didn’t speak right away. She let the admission hang in the air, the quiet not uncomfortable, but purposeful. “You shut it down before you could feel more vulnerable,” she said finally.

    Bette’s spine pressed into the cushion behind her. “I should be further along than this. Six months in, and I’m still retreating.”

    “Small steps,” Marisa reminded her, “are still steps. Six months ago, you wouldn’t have even asked Tina to lunch.”

    Bette’s mouth twisted. “Small steps feel like… not enough.”

    “They are enough,” Marisa said, and there was no hesitation in her voice. She set her pen aside and leaned forward, elbows resting on her knees. “From everything you’ve told me, Tina is committed to having a romantic relationship with you. But she’s also building her own life here—with Carson. That’s independent of whatever happens with you. Don’t you see? She’s showing you she’s here without expectations. She’s here for you in whatever capacity you’ll allow.”

    Bette let the words settle in, her gaze unfocused on the window.

    “She told me that,” she admitted quietly. “That’s the problem. I don’t want to be just her friend. I’ve loved her my whole life. I just… panicked because my walls are crumbling, and it’s scary.”

    Marisa took off her glasses, folding them carefully in her lap. “Bette, Tina has agreed to your boundaries. She’s watched you get to know Carson, been patient while you kept her on the sidelines, never pushed. When you canceled lunch, she replied simply—with understanding—and asked about Carson’s science project. She’s giving you exactly what you’ve asked for.”

    Bette’s throat worked, but she said nothing.

    “Spending time with her without Carson doesn’t break your boundaries,” Marisa continued. “It shows her you’re willing to take a step toward forgiveness, toward connection, without expecting more from either of you in that moment. And maybe…” She let the pause linger. “Maybe it shows you that, too.”

    Bette stared down at her hands. Her fingers had gone still. After a long beat, she nodded once, slow and deliberate. “I see now. I know what I need to do.”

    Page 2 of 6‹ Previous1234Next ›Last »
    «
    FF Main Page

    Comments

    1. Small steps indeed, glad Bette asked Tina to have coffee with her.

      Marissa seems to be the perfect therapist for Bette and i like the friendship between Rachel & Tina.

      Thank you for the update!

    2. Small steps are still steps. Love the slow approach to them renewing their relationship. Being hurt is an anchor on your life not easily removed. Bette is getting there and Tina is willing to wait. Thanks for posting!

    3. Thank you for the new chapter. I love this story it’s different from others with Tina having a son. Bette is so taken with Carson I think she will finally start showing Tina more affection. Hope you post again soon.

    4. I’m so happy you posted this. I want more and more and more. . . This story line is creative and reflects the core of Bette and Tina personalities in a new story line. I love it and need more. Thanks

    5. Hi jjos23

      Is there any chance you might continue with this story? It’s so well written and I’m longing to see Bette let Tina back into her heart. I love your descriptive writing and the way you’ve constructed this alt universe is very engrossing.

      Please pretty please another chapter???

      Thanks anyway for what you’ve written so far.

      Largo

    6. I agree with Largo. Please more and more! You have created a new version of their relationship and their challenges.

      Your writing/story is really wonderful!

      Again, thanks

    8. Done with the re-read. Wonderful story! The slow pace works really well for them. After all they’re not alone in this now – they have to consider Carson in all their decisions. Though it feels like the status of “best friends” might be possible in the very near future.
      I really, really hope that you find the time and enough creative energy to continue your story. Keep my fingers crossed and hoping for the next chapter.

    9. Hello jjos23, I remember reading this when you first started writing it. I have enjoyed it both times. If you are still out there and are so inclined, I would love for it to be continued to a lovely ending.

    Leave a Reply