Bette voiced sincere wishes of well-being.  While looking at him directly she offered her hand and shook the one he extended in return.  Excusing herself, she gave them time to exchange words in private.  Regardless of where the women were in their relationship, what he and the blonde had together merited a personal conversation. 

After all they had shared much more than words.  Their bodies had been joined intimately.  The laughter between them real.  More than one picture had been taken, material evidence of their connection.  The period of time spent together negating the categorization of a simple fling.  Tina exposing their daughter to this man’s presence and entrusting him with her safety.  Henry sharing personal space and participation in his son’s life in return.  Words of a potential future expressed though eventually not pursued.

In a way, their relationship held more meaning.  Openly being with him, letting their friends know of him and that they were together.  Unlike the secrecy that buried her association with Candace.  Granted that reasoning was tainted with a desire to selfishly perpetuate her affair leaving all else untouched. 

The women’s eyes met in a silent exchange. Tina’s look was solicitous as Bette left.

Meeting at the register, the couple paid for their purchases.  Each taking the time to contemplate the encounter in the stillness of their own thoughts. 

After signing and handing the appropriate receipt back to the cashier, the brunette folded the yellow copy and slipped it into her pocket.  Quickly, she reached to carry the bags, occupying both hands.  Taking the short walk back to the Planet where the car was parked, the earlier mood was displaced completely. 

Bette spoke.  Her suggestion cloaked in a request.  “Would it be all right if you caught a ride back with Alice?"

"She said it was okay.  I called her.  Just now."  Bette’s instruction and reasoning would not have alerted her friend’s burning curiosity.  Keeping Tina free from an uncomfortable grilling during the way home.  "She won’t ask questions."

“Or Kit can drop you off before heading to her apartment,” she volunteered further. 

Her mettle was tested and challenged that afternoon.  The unexpected interaction coercing a somewhat despised vulnerability to the fore.  Then she admitted with a voice that broke in desperation and soulful eyes that bore into Tina’s, “I need to go.”