Bette went back towards the living room and realized what was supposed to be a happy evening had turned awful once again courtesy of Miss Simone Lennox. How in the ***** did she know we were expecting? Did she follow us when we went to Dr. Wilsons? Did Tina tell her”but we didnt find out until later that night? How does she know? Bette was consumed with this but as she approached her family and friends she decided to push her thoughts and fear aside. Bette reclaimed her joy about her growing family and decided to reclaim her evening too.

Bette: You guys this isnt at all what Tina and I had in mind. We actually had”have good news”great news and Id like to focus on that if thats okay with you. Tina babe I know it may be hard for you to understand but please dont look at the painting”lets move on and enjoy the evening as planned.
Tina: Ok babe, lets.

Tina wrapped her arms around Bette and gave her a warm reassuring smile.
Tina: Ok thenBette and I want to tell you
Bette and Tina share a glance.
Bette and Tina: (in unison) Were having twins!
Kit: Oh wow!
Alice: ***** twinstwins, Porter youll never get out of diaper duty now.
Bette: (laughing) I dont want to get out of it.
Dana: Twins”thats amazing.
Shane: (smiling) You just have to over do everything, dont you?
Bette: Funny.

The mood shifted from one of fear to happiness with the announcement and Bette recruited help for the remodel for the nursery. The girls were actually happy to help.

The conversation ebbed and flowed and Shane found herself watching Bette. Bette smiled throughout the evening but Shane noticed occasionally weariness washed across her friends face. At one point Bette and Shane locked eyes. Shanes heart felt as if it would beat through her chest she wondered if Bette could read her mind she became flushed. Bette tried to hide her fear concerning Simones antics with a fake smile that didnt reach her eyes. Shane put any romantic feelings she may have had on hold and nodded for Bette to step into the kitchen away from the others. Bette stepped into the kitchen as Shane followed.

Shane: Look Bette you dont have to put on your brave face.
Bette: Im ok
Shane: No you arent Bette. Just talk to me.
Bette: (fighting tears) Ive got to be strong for T. I dont want to scare her but Im terrified. Its like Simone is trying to wipe Tina out of my life”if that painting is supposed to be a family portrait shes taken out Tina and replaced her. What the ***** is she thinking? Is it a threat”is she planning on hurting Tina? It cant mean anything else and the baby stuff”how did she know we were pregnant? Shane ImIm so scared.
Shane: Bette let it go. Im here and you dont have to be strong for me”we will fix this. Simone wont hurt you or Tina I wont let her. How can I help?
Bette allowed herself to fall into Shanes embrace, This helps; she said as she let Shane hold her.

Shane closed her eyes as she momentarily became Bettes crutch. She held Bette and breathed in the scent of her hair and basked in the softness of her skin. What was offered as an embrace of comfort strictly as a friend became an internal struggle for Shane. The restraint she HAD TO exercise was being tested, stretched, and pulled. Just when she thought she couldnt take anymore Alice walked in the kitchen and cleared her throat, opening Shanes eyes to Alices knowing glare filled with at silent warning so loud Shane immediately broke her embrace.

Alice understood Bettes fear and need to confide. ***** Bette had no idea Shane had anything other than friendship for her. Alice also knew Shane did in fact have strong feelings for Bette and felt them being in close proximity was a bad idea thankfully her presence alone was all that was needed to reel Shane back in.

Alice rubbed Bettes arm, hey, shes crazy but she wouldnt hurt you guys. She isnt stupid. Well get through this”dont worry about Simone Alice offered. Bette wiping her eyes, yeahyeah youre right. I hope. Just then Tina walked in and Bette straightened up quickly.

Tina: So did the party move in here?
Bette: Yeah T I guess it did. Join us please.
Bette kissed Tina softly on her lips. Shane wanted to look away but made herself look at the display of love and affection. She needed to see, realize, and know that would never be her fate. Shed never know those lips and that embrace—not like that. Tears filled her eyes as the realization tried to seep in past the undying, unrequited love she had some how developed for her friend.

Alice stood silently watching her teary eyed friend and patted her arm wanting to offer her some comfort knowing it wasnt enough.

TBC