“Ha!” Bette laughed, “I don’t really remember.  That was ten years ago.  I got a car from Dad and a camera from Kit.  That’s really all I remember about it.”

“Did you go to prom?”

“I went for about a half hour and skipped out with friends.”

“What about school?”

“Pursuing a doctorate in Art History now.  I’m interning with Peggy Peabody.”

“Please tell me you didn’t get married yet.”

“Oh, wow…” Bette started, “No, definitely not married.  And no kids, before you ask.”

“Are you dating someone?”

Bette sat back.  She’d thought about this moment on the ride to the Planet and had contemplated it in the case that her mother would contact her.  Coming out was difficult the first time.

“Uh, yeah.”

“Well, what’s his name?  What does he do?”

“Her name is Helena and she is currently on summer break before she starts her pursuing her masters degree in Film and Film Studies.”

“Her?”

“Yes, her.  I’m a lesbian.”

Maxine sat back in her chair and breathed deeply, “You’re gay.”

“Yes, I am.”

“How does your father feel about that?”

“You were married to him, so you should know exactly how he felt about that?”

“Where is he now?”

Bette shrugged, “He’s living in Philly still, but we don’t talk very often.”

“Is it because of the gay thing?”

“Probably.” Bette smiled, “It’s not a big deal.  How do you feel about it?”

Maxine smiled, showing the smile that Bette thought was uniquely hers.  “Bette, are you happy?”

“Yes.”

“That’s all I want for you.  That’s all I’ve ever wanted.”

**

Helena sat at the kitchen counter, wondering where Bette was and when she’d call her.

“Where’s your girlfriend?” Helena looked up to see Luke staring at her, only in shorts, “Has she left you?” He smiled at the idea of his sister being heartbroken.

“She had an emergency.”

“You know she’s quite beautiful, Helena.  Probably the most attractive girl you’ve ever been with.”

“Yes, I know that.”

“So, then you should understand why I’m going to find a way into her underwear?”