“Hey Jo-Jo baby.”

“Hi uncle Serg. Hey Javi. Tina you remember my uncle Sergio, but I don’t think you’ve met my cousin Javier.”

“Pleased to meet you.” he said while shaking her hand. Tina just nodded her head she was still at a loss for words about this whole thing. Carmen came back out and began loading the car that Sergio and Javier came in. Sergio and Javier excused themselves to go inside and discuss more details with Toni. Tina was looking at everything moving in slow motion she watched as they loaded the car up with Carmen and Melito’s things in front and the shotguns in the trunk. This was totally surreal.

Toni approached them as she spoke softly to Tina. “Marlon and Javier are going to be staying with you and Carmen. Sergio and I will be here with Bette.” she then turned back to Bette “Marlon is already at the house so they’ll meet him there.” Toni took Melito from Bette and went to the car. That left Bette staring at a very scared and confused Tina.

“Baby you have to trust me. Otherwise I don’t know if I can do this. I need you to tell me you trust me.” Bette finished in a whisper with her forehead resting against Tina’s and cradling her head in her hands.

“Do you believe me?” she whispered.

“Yes.” she replied as she kissed her despite the tears that were free falling down her face. She kissed her again and repeated it “ Yes. I trust you.” Bette raised up and embraced Tina with all the strength she had in her and Tina wrapped her arms around Bette’s waist and let herself feel the intensity of the moment.

“Baby you gotta go.” Bette said releasing herself from Tina’s clutches and walking her over to the car. Tina got in the car and felt the sudden sadness of her heart pulling at her vocal chords. She wanted to tell Bette that she was scared, and she was not sure why. Javier winked at Bette and started the car up, he took off immediately. From the back seat Carmen placed a hand on Tina’s shoulder and reassured her that Bette knew what she was doing.