Bette was taken back. Bette herself never had someone say it to her before. Haven been abandoned by her mother, a small child, and emotionally abandoned by her father this was something she equally was denied. 

“I love you more.” She said thru tears. Tina pulled the sides of Bette’s face close to hers with both hands and the couple shared a passionate kiss that left them gasping for air.

“Bette?” Tina caught her breath.  She was still sitting on Bette’s lap.

“Tee?” Bette was so scared Tina had second thoughts. Maybe she didn’t mean to say it? To say I love you? She thought.

“My parents they passed away seven years ago.” Tina shared her secret.

“Oh Tee.” Bette pulled Tina into her arms, cradling her.  She felt terrible now for pushing Tina to open up about her family before. She cursed herself. “I’m so sorry, baby.” She began to rub her back, letting Tina know she was here for her, she would protect her.

Tina’s eyes were filled with tears now. There was no stopping them, as this was the first time she was opening up to anyone about losing them. Today was an important day.

“I found something out this morning,” she sniffed and shook her head, “Bette it’s the anniversary of their death today and I’m not miserable anymore.” She smiled through her tears. “You make me feel so happy, so loved, so wanted, so needed. I love you so much.” She pushed Bette back and lay on top of her, cuddling her.

Bette looked up at the ceiling thanking God. She too had tears in her eyes. She was going to treasure this precious moment forever. Tina trusted her with her secrets. Tina loved her. Tina loves me. She loves me! She really loves me!

Tina looked up from Bette’s chest. “Thank you for stepping on my heel a month ago at the Planet.” She laughed. She could feel Bette shaking underneath her joining in the laugher.

“Tee, can’t you be serious for once!” She covered her face and giggled. Tina began tickling her.

“Tee stop!” Bette tried a stern look. It didn’t work Tina continued. Too bad for Tina, Bette was stronger than her. Bette pulled her off gently and stood to her feet.