Bette’s reluctance was overshadowed by her need to see her daughter. She reached for her keys and shut off the engine before unbuckling her seatbelt. Tina smiled brightly and quickly exited the front seat.

The blonde waited on the sidewalk with concealed excitement for Bette to make her way from around the SUV. They trotted up the pathway to the front door with Tina slightly leading the way. More than once, she turned to look at Bette to make sure she was really following her, giving her a shy smile when she was caught.

As Tina rummaged in her purse for her house keys, Henry swung the door open wearing a toothy grin.

“Hey babe, you’re home early.” He said as Tina began to make her way inside. “How was the show?”

“Long story.” She answered. Henry leaned in to kiss her, but she shifted her face so that it would land on her cheek. It didn’t go unnoticed by him or by Bette.

“Hi Bette, how are ya?” He asked, offering his hand out.

Bette reciprocated the gesture and shook his hand. “Hello, Henry. I’m doing well, thanks for asking.” He stepped out of her way as she stood in the entryway. The awkwardness in the air was palpable.

“Where are the kids?” Tina asked.

“I just put Angie down, and Mikey is watching a movie. I think she wore him out tonight because he’s just about down for the count.”

Tina walked further inside to the living room area. “Come on, Bette.” She instructed her ex, almost dismissively of Henry’s reply. Bette smiled tightly at Henry before following Tina.

“Hi, Tina!” The curly haired boy yelled as he jumped off her couch and ran to her, clutching her leg in a big hug.

“Hey, Mikey, how are you?” She asked as she patted his back and stroked his hair.

“Good. Wanna watch a movie with me?” Asked the spunky little boy. “We got popcorn and everything.”

“I’m sure the popcorn is cold by now, buddy.” Henry said as he peeled Mikey off of Tina’s leg and guided him back to his seat on the couch.

“Let me just go check on Angie real quick, okay?” Tina placated the little boy.