“Years.” Tina simply stated as tears again just started. She was tired and weak and scared. Scared that her husband would find out that she’s told someone. Bette did what she wanted to do since she saw the tears the first time. She takes Tina softly into her arms and hugs her. Giving her a warm embrace. For the first time in years, Tina feels safe.

“Can I help you?” Bette asks, almost afraid to ask.

“I don’t see how you can.” Tina says as she moves out of the embrace and walks over to the sink and starts splashing some water onto her face.

“You shouldn’t have to live like that. It’s wrong. You have to get away from him.” Bette says concerned.

“It’s not just me, I have a son too.” Tina says.

“Then it’s even more important that you get away from him. Take your son and leave.” Bette says. “Has he ever… I mean… to your son?” Bette asks.

“No, he’s never hit Evan. And he didn’t hit me either when I was pregnant with him. He changed when I got back from college. We married after High school and then I went away to college for three years. And when I got back, he changed and the beating started , it’s been almost 4 years.” Tina says as more tears roll down her cheek.

“Please let me help you.” Bette asks again.

“I don’t see how you can.” Tina says again.

“I know people, I won’t be able to relax if I know you’re going back to him tonight.” Bette says.

“You barely know me.” Tina starts, but is interrupted by Bette.

“That doesn’t matter. I hate to see people in pain. You don’t deserve to be treated like that Tina, you have to know that. I can’t sit by and just do nothing. Please let me help you.” Bette pleads again.

“How are you going to do that? He’s a strong man, and a violent man.” Tina says.

“He doesn’t scare me. I’m a detective with the Nashville PD. So you see, I know people and I can help you.” Bette says.

“You’re a police officer?” Tina asks with a soft voice.

“Yes Tina, I am.” Bette replies.

“Can I ask why you’re here at the Chapel Hill High School’s student movie premiere?” Tina asks.

“Well, my niece is in your class I believe, Megan Harris. She’s my brother’s daughter. So when I heard she made a movie, I had to come and check it out.” Bette says with a wide smile.

“You came all the way from Nashville to see this movie?” Tina asks surprised.

“Yeah, I got a few days off of work, and I don’t get to see my family that often so I decided to come down and spend some time with them.” Bette says. “Should we get out there soon. I bet they are waiting for you.” Bette says.

“Yeah.” Tina says a little defeated, and a little sad that her closeness to Bette will end soon.

“Can we continue this after the showing?” Bette asks.

“I have to get home straight after, or else he’ll be mad, really mad.” Tina says.

“Let’s talk about it after, please?” Bette pleads.

“Okay, come find me when the movie is done.” Tina says and walks out of the bathrooms and into the theatre. They were only about 5 minutes late, so Tina got straight up on stage, she was going to introduce the movie.