“…unfortunately at the moment we are unable to confirm exactly how many have been injured as we are still getting numbers. So far all we know for certain is that an unidentified child, male, perhaps about eight years of age has died. Information coming in says that a special team of four stormed the building in an effort to rescue the hostages. An unknown assailant allegedly shot one of the children before they can take her out. It was reported that the killer was posing as a hostage…”

“Oh my God.” Was all Tina could say as she continued to listen to the news report in sheer disbelief and horror. She sat on the sofa, eyes glued to the television as she listened. The doorbell ringing startled her. She lowered the volume and headed for the door. When she got to the door she checked through the peephole. “What?” She opened the door. “Hey.” Bette stared at her with tears in her eyes. She was mumbling something below her breath. Tina was unable to hear what she was saying. “Bette? What is it?” She put her arm around Bette’s shoulder and guided her into the apartment and onto the sofa. Bette’s attention turned to the television. Tina realising this turned it off so she can give Bette her full attention. “Talk to me.” She urged. But Bette still seemed distant. Tina decided not to push her and instead allowed her to cry in her arms.

“It wasn’t supposed to go like that.” Bette finally said, her head still cradled on Tina’s chest. “We were supposed to go in and get them out.” Tina didn’t respond for fear that she might clam up and not say anything more. “I should have killed her when I had the chance.”

“What?” Tina gasped and pushed Bette up.

Realising that she had said too much Bette stood up, “I got to go. I’m, I’m sorry. I have to go. I didn’t mean to. I have to go. I’m sorry.”

“Wait. Don’t leave. Talk to me.” Tina grabbed her hand to stop her. Bette turned and looked at her. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t expecting that. I’m sorry. But talk to me. Please?” Tina pleaded her hand in Bette’s.

Bette shook her head, tears still streaming down. “I can’t. I can’t.”

“Why? Why can’t you tell me? You’re obviously distraught about something. I want to help. Please, talk to me.”

Bette turned towards the door. She placed the free had on the knob. She turned back to face Tina “I wish I could.” She sighed. “I really do. But there are things about me I cant let anyone know. Not even the one I would like to spend the rest of my life with.” Bette didn’t realise what she had said until she saw the expression on Tina’s face changed. “Um, I didn’t…”

“Its ok.” Tina reassured her. “Well if you cant tell me I understand. But you don’t have to leave.” Tina continued.

It was evident that Bette was extremely emotional. She wrapped her arms around Tina and held on as if for dear life. Tina rubbed her back. “Its ok baby. Its ok.” This was soothing for Bette. “I’m here.” They parted and walked back to the sofa. Bette still held on to Tina’s hand. Tina sat on the couch while Bette rested her head on her lap. Tina unconsciously stroked Bette’s head as she rested there. Within minutes Bette fell asleep.