Tina’s thoughts were interrupted by a pair of strong arms, sliding around her waist.

“Let’s get out of here,” Bette whispered softly, kissing behind Tina’s ear.

“Are you okay?” the blonde asked with concern.

“Yes, I’m fine…my mother and Christina were really good friends. Maybe after my disappearance and Christina’s death, mother gave the chest to Daniel Kennard as a remembrance gift…who knows. We probably will never know. So, what do you say? Ready to go and check out the school?”

~~~~~~~~

“Bette, I’m really sorry,” Tina said when they drove away from the former Kennard’s house.

Bette was quiet after they left the attic and said their goodbyes to Mrs. Parker. Bette looked at Tina and smiled through tears, “It’s not your fault, Tee. I’m afraid we won’t find anything, it’s all lost.”

“Don’t give up hope, Bette…never give up. I have a feeling that all those events are connected somehow. Leaking roof in August…this was the month when you had that disastrous encounter with Eric…and didn’t you tell me that it was raining a lot during that month?”

“Yes, it was,” Bette nodded.

“See…I think it was another sign. It was meant to be that Mrs. Parker found the chest exactly at that time and not before or after.”

“But why?” Bette asked with disbelief.

“I don’t know, baby…I don’t know.”

Place: Los Angeles, CA – the Planet

Year: March 10, 2006

Alice was frantically typing on her laptop, sitting alone at their usual table, oblivious to her surroundings and the busy lunch hour at the Planet. She didn’t hear or see Shane and Carmen approaching until they joined her at the table.

“Busy ruining someone’s life?” Carmen laughed, trying to get Alice’s attention.

“No,” Alice replied indignantly, “I have to finish this article on Tina’s documentary before my ass is fired.”

“Wow,” Shane raised her eyebrows, “You know, Carmen…since I’d met Alice this is the first time I’ve actually seen her working on something real besides her Top Ten lists and intervention questionnaires. Our dear friend is all growing up.”

“You know, Carmen…” Alice replied in the same tone, “Since I’d met Shane this is the first time I’ve heard a real compliment from her and not just bullshit comments about my craziness. Your girlfriend is softening up.”