“I do feel that I’m getting there, it’s just the accident set me back. It’s still hurting a little in certain positions… and…” Tina says and looks briefly down.

“Baby, no rush. Take you time. I’m not going anywhere.” Bette says, she lifts Tina’s chin up and leans in for a soft kiss. “I’m not going anywhere.” She whispers one more time.

“Okay. I love you.” Tina says.

For the next hour they make small talk and just enjoying each others company.

“Babe, I think we should get back now, my leg is hurting.” Tina says.

“Okay, come on, let’s go.” Bette says. “Can you walk all the way? Or shall I run back and get the car?” Bette asks concerned.

“I think I can make it home, it’s only about 10 minutes right?” Tina says.

“Yeah, I think so.” Bette says.

15 minutes later they walked through the door of Tina’s apartment.

“Go, take a seat on the couch, do you need a heating pack or ice pack?” Bette asks.

“I think I’m good. Give it a few minutes.” Tina says as she takes a seat on the couch. Bette helps lifts in into the couch.

“You want something to drink? I can make some hot chocolate?” Bette suggests.

“Actually that sounds good. You’ll find what you need in the cabinet over the fridge.” Tina says.

Bette disappears into the kitchen. Tina picks up her cell phone. She dials home.

“Mom, hey, how are you?” Tina asks.

“Christina, honey I’m great, how are you? How’s the leg?” Joanne asks.

“Still hurting a little, but it gets better everyday. Me and Bette just got home from a long walk.” Tina says. “Relaxing on the couch while Bette makes some hot chocolate.” She adds. “How’s Meg and Mikey?” Tina asks.

“They’re both good, Megan is really blossoming at school, she’s in the Christmas pageant this year, the show is December 22^nd. You’ll come and see it won’t you?” Joanne asks.

“Well, that’s what I’m calling about actually.” Tina says.

“Oh? What about it?” Joanne asks.

“Well, mom, I want to spend Christmas with Bette this year…” Tina said before Joanne cut her off.

“Christina, you can’t, it’s Christmas, it’s about family.” Joanne says.

“Mom, Bette is also my family now and will be for a really long time. What I wanted to ask, is if I can take Bette with me, is she welcomed?” Tina asks seriously.