Eric knocked on the door. “Tina? Are you in there?” He opened the door slightly and peered inside.

Tina looked at him from where she was perched on the edge of the bed. “What does she want?”

“To speak to you. She found out what happened at the barbeque and told me what that woman said to you. I’m so sorry, Tina.” Eric’s eyes were sympathetic.

“So she knows then? About…”

“Yes. She heard it from one of the neighbors a while ago. You know how people talk.”

Tina made a sudden decision and stood up. “I’ll see her,” she said. Eric gave her the briefest of hugs and Tina went into the living room to face Bette.

She was sitting on the couch, twisting her hands, looking distressed. Tina stood in the doorway for a minute before entering.

“Hey,” Tina said.

“Hi.”

“Eric said that you wanted to see me.”

“Yes. I just wanted you to know how sorry I am. About –” Bette faltered for a brief moment. “About the party.” Bette finished. “I saw how upset you were. Believe me, it’s the last thing I wanted to have happen.”

Tina sat down in a chair near the sofa. “I know. It’s not your fault. I don’t blame you at all. I’m sorry, too, for running away like I did. I was upset, but I should have said something.”

“You don’t have to apologize to me,” Bette said, shaking her head.

“Let’s call it even then,” Tina said, attempting to smile.

Bette gazed at her with sad eyes. “I can’t imagine what you’ve been going through. Are you seeing anyone? A grief counselor?”

Tina shook her head.

“This might be out of line, but I know someone who specializes in helping people in your situation. I could give her your number, and maybe –”

“Thank you, but…” Tina looked at the floor. “I need to deal with this in my own way.”

“Are you dealing with it?” Bette asked gently.

“I’m trying to. Going to your party was a part of it. I’ve been trying to – to pick up where I left off. Seeing people again… I thought it would help.”