“Tina?”

Tina blinked her eyes open. When they finally focused, she recognized the figure kneeling next to her.

“Tina? You okay?”

“Sam? Hey… Yeah… I’m okay.”

Sam was the Director of Photography on the movie. They were lucky to get her. She was one of the few things that wasn’t a disaster on set. Everything else was in shambles. Sam did everything in her power to make Tina’s job a little easier…at least where she could. Tina appreciated Sam for all of her help. A few weeks ago, she made a note to send Sam a gift basket at the end of the shoot.

“I tried to catch up to you a couple of miles back but you kept pushing the pace.”

“Oh. Sorry. Just trying to clear my head. A good hard run usually does the trick.”

“You must have a lot on your mind.”

You have no idea, Tina thought. Tina smiled shyly showing her signature chin dimples. Sam examined Tina, making sure she was okay. Sam helped Tina up and steadied her when she threatened to fall back down. Tina was a little lightheaded and her legs felt like jello. Sam held on until Tina felt confident enough to take a step back.

“Know what you need?”

Tina slowly shook her head no.

“Ice cream!” Sam said with a smile.

“Ice cream? That actually sounds amazing.”

“There’s a place just over there that is going to change your life.”

Tina’s eyes followed to where Sam was pointing. She’d run by that place dozens of times and never paid it any attention.

“Think you can walk about 25 feet or do you need to lean on me?”

“I think I can make it.”

They walked slowly along the banks to the ice cream shop. Sam kept a watchful eye on Tina. She had never seen anyone run with such intensity.

“Have a seat. Do you mind if I order for you? I’ve had every flavor they have to offer and I think I know what you’re gonna like,” Sam said confidently.

“Okay. Sure.”

Sam quickly returned with two scoops of Earl Grey & Salted Honey for Tina and a Maple Walnut for herself both in waffle cones.

This made Tina blush for some reason and images of Bette flooded her brain as Sam handed her the ice cream.