She was startled by a knock at the door. Opening the door, she found Tim standing there with a bunch of flowers. Bette, I just came by to tell you that Im sorry about your father.

Thank you, Tim! This is really nice of you! Let me put these flowers away and you can come in. I was just thinking I might die of boredom, Bette replied, taking the flowers from him and motioning for him to enter.

Well, I dont know how interesting or entertaining I can be, but Ill try to keep you amused, Tim replied with a smile.

Would you like something to drink? A beer maybe? Bette offered, opening the refrigerator door.

Beer is fine, Tim answered.

She got out a pair of beers and led him into the living room, where they took a seat on the couch together. So, Tim, whats new in your life? Bette asked, opening her beer bottle.

Not much. The usual, Tim replied simply with a shrug, peeling the label off his bottle

Bette looked at him, concerned. Tim, how are you doing? I know youve kind of been through a lot lately.

Tim glanced at her. Im surviving, I guess. I dont know – Im still reeling from all that happened. I never expected life to throw something like this at me.

I know the feeling, Bette murmured in understanding. All you can do is try and pick up the pieces and move on. It sounds impossible now, but trust me, it will happen. No one ever expects their life to take such a turn, but these things happen.

Tim looked at her seriously. Bette, was it my fault? Did I drive Jenny to do it?

She looked at him sadly. Tim, of course not! Jenny justshe wasnt ready. I dont think she was mature enough to handle the thought of getting married. It wasnt your fault at all. Youre a good man, Tim. She laid a hand gently on his arm.

He looked at her, his eyes sad. Thats what Jenny said, too – right before she left.