Nah I think Ill stay here. You two go ahead. Bette and Tina walked to the exit hand in hand. When they reached the outside, they walked down a flower lined sidewalk that circled the hospital. They let themselves enjoy each others company and ignored the many looks they received as people passed them by. When Marinas phone began to ring with a song neither of them recognized, they both became excited.

CiCi? Bette asked without saying hello first.

Yeah is this Bette? the familiar voice said on the other end.

Yes.

So whats going on? Is Marina OK?

Shell be fine.

Shell BE fine? Cecilia questioned with more concern in her voice than at first. Come on Bette, what the ***** happened to her?

Well to make a long story short Bette gave Cecilia a brief history of what had happened (including Shanes adventure) and then went into Marinas latest prognosis from the doctor. When she finished, Bette could hear only the noise of a car engine in the background. CiCi? Are you alright?

Ill be there tomorrow the next day at the latest, came the abrupt reply. Is she conscious? Can you tell her Ill be there as quick as I can and Im sorry I wasnt there to begin with? I should have been there with her!

Hey none of us knew this would happen! Dont beat yourself up because you werent here. As for her being awake, the doctor said she was still out but that she should wake up as soon as the anesthesia wears off. Ill make sure to tell her youre coming.

OK.. and Bette?

Yes?

Thanks for calling me.

Why wouldnt we call you? Bette asked in disbelief. We know how you feel about each other and wed expect you guys to do the same for us.

You know we would what hospital is she in? Bette gave Cecilia all of the pertinent information before hanging up. All through the conversation, Bette could hear the emotion in Cecilias voice.

How is she? Tina asked as soon as Bette lowered the phone.

How would you be?

That bad, huh? Tina said with a slight smile. Bette let out a short laugh and put her arms around Tinas waste.

Yeah that bad. Bette leaned in and gave Tina a light kiss before turning her woman back towards the hospital. Lets get back in there.