After a moment of silence, Marina wiped her eyes and replied, I love her more than anything else in my life including the Planet. Bette could see by the look in her friends eyes that she meant what she was saying.

Then use that! Use your love for her to give you strength! You have to end it with Francesca for Cecilias sake. Dont worry about the house or this place! Bette waved her hand to indicate the shop. This is much easier to replace than someone you love is. Trust me I almost lost Tina because I was blind to our love and I was miserable until I got her back. Dont you lose CiCi! Marina sniffled a bit and used a napkin from the table to wipe her nose and eyes.

Yes I can do this

Thats it! And if you need anything absolutely anything you know where we live.

Marina nodded her head and wrapped her arms around Bette. Thank you Bette… thank you for being here.

No problem but I have to admit that we wouldnt be having this conversation if it werent for Cecilia. Shes changed you Marina and for the better!

I know and thats why I have to give her everything I have even if thats just me.

Bette smiled sadly and squeezed Marina close once again. I think shed be perfectly happy with that. Now go take care of what you need to do. Im going to go wake up sleeping beauty and make her watch Saturday afternoon classics with me. Well be at home if you need us. Bette stood and looked down at Marina. Everything will be OK. She picked up her paper and walked to the counter to pay. Before she left, Bette turned to look at Marina as she still sat with her head in her hands. I hope that ***** doesnt decide to hit below the belt, she thought as she left the caf and walked to her car.

After a few more minutes, Marina finally stood and took a deep breath. She retrieved her purse and headed back to her home. It was confrontation time.

******

When Marina walked in the front door, Francesca was sitting on the couch with a glass of wine in one hand and a picture in the other. Whos Cecilia? Shes awfully hot, Francesca said waving the picture so Marina could see it. Francesca turned the picture over and read what was written on the back. Since I cant be there with you, this will have to do for now. Yours, Cecilia. Marina walked over to where she was sitting and snatched the picture from her hands.