Bette rolls her eyes and disappears inside.

Alice watches her go. “She is in a mood.”

Tina smirks. “I told you.”

“Wow, so that’s your girl, huh? Dena grins and holds out her fist. “Respect, boss.”

Tina hesitates, then lightly taps it. “Now go get started on that list.”

Dena gives a playful salute. “Yes, ma’am.” She high-fives Angie, then jogs out the back gate.

Alice watches her leave, amused. “She’s cute.” She leans back, smirking at Tina. “…And she definitely has a little crush on your woman.”

Tina doesn’t look up as she eats a piece of fruit. “It goes along with the territory. Dating Bette Porter is not for the weak.”

Alice grins. “Oh, I remember. We only dated for six weeks, but just walking down the street with her was an adventure.”

Tina laughs. “I believe it.”

“I’m serious,” Alice says. “People would just stop. I saw a woman walk straight into a parking meter staring at Bette.”

Angie’s head snaps up, confused. “Why were they lookin’ at Mama?”

Alice smiles as she reaches over and gently pinches Angie’s cheek. “Long story, kid….”

Still not understanding, Angie shrugs and goes back to her breakfast.

Tina smiles at her daughter. “Go get your things so we can go, baby….”

Angie runs inside.

Alice looks at Tina. “Is she hanging out at work with you today?”

Tina shakes her head. “No, this is her first day at soccer camp…a few kids in her class are going, so she begged us to enroll….”

Alice smiles. “Nice…” She steals another slice of fruit. “Well, let me get out of your hair. I have a few more ambushes on my list this morning…”

Tina laughs. “Of course you do…”

Alice stands and blows Tina an air kiss. “Love ya…kiss Angie and tell her to have fun for me…”

Tina smiles. “Will do…”

Alice exits through the back gate.

Tina lingers for a moment, then begins clearing the breakfast dishes, a quiet smile settling on her face as she thinks about Bette, the kids, and the life they’re rebuilding …

***

Later, Bette pulls into the circular drive of Westwood Hills Academy, the iron gates already open for morning arrivals. The campus is pristine, with rich greenery, modern buildings with wide glass windows, and a quiet calm that practically hums with exclusivity. She cuts the engine and exhales once before stepping out.