“It doesn’t matter – this is a really difficult period for you “

“Our sex life has been non stop since your birthday “

“And it will be again  – when it’s the right time for both of us “

“You have needs “ Tina said looking away. Bette touched Tina under the chin and brought her head round so she was looking at her

“My main need is to take care of the only woman I have ever loved. And our child and even that kitten. We are a family “

Bette sighed “I know that word has bad connotations for both of us. But you and I can make this work because of what has happened to us. We know how not to bring up a daughter don’t we ? “

Tina nodded

“I don’t think for a second that Melvin didn’t love me – he did. He was just so bad at showing it – that’s never going to happen with Angie is it ? We both love her and we show it by giving her our time and attention. And we will be cool if she likes girls not boys “

“I think you will need to be cool if she likes boys and not girls “

“I want her to be happy and I need to tell myself that and in 13 years time you will need to remind me of this conversation “

Tina smiled – it meant so much that Bette was thinking of how they would face Angie bringing a partner home. That was a reassuring feeling  – to know that Bette wanted the same long term future that she wanted as well.

“Thank you “ Tina said

“Nothing to thank me for – I am just walking the walk and not just talking the talk. I promised you the moon when we were together in LA – I swore I would be the wife and mother you needed me to be. Well I failed at that  “ Bette held up her finger to stop Tina’s protests “I have learnt since then that what you do is the most important thing. I am walking the walk Tina because its what I want to do and its what you and Angie need me to do “

“And Sheba” Tina added smiling

“Her as well “ Bette smirked

Angie had moved onto the climbing frame – Bette turned and watched her daughter.

“I wish she wouldn’t do that “

“She is okay “

“I know I am freaking out for no reason “

“There is every reason why you are so anxious at the moment – I think I better go over and supervise our little monkey “

Bette kissed Tina on the lips and walked across to stop Angie hanging upside down.

Their walk took it out of Angie so after lunch Bette ordered her two girls to go to bed while she got on with some work. She worked quietly with just the kitten for company. After an hour she gathered her jacket and left a note for Tina saying that she had popped out for some groceries. Outside the grocery store she smiled at Casey who she had arranged to meet.

“How are things ?” Casey asked

“Okay – lets go inside – I better get some shopping as that is supposed to be why I am out “

“How are Tina and Angie ?

“Angie’s got a bug – we thought she was okay this morning so we went for a walk – she’s worn out now though – okay – here is what I need you to do …..”