Bette, what’s going on…

Nothing, Kit is just driving me nuts.

Yeah, well I spoke with her earlier and she was acting weirder than normal, so I know something is up and you’re gonna tell me before this evening is over young lady.

Yes mam, come on let’s go before she calls again and/or beats the shit out of me when I walk through the door.

Helena primps just before they exit the car and reaches over to Bette’s hand.  I meant what I said, I love you with my whole heart and you must always know that.  Bette leans in and kisses Helena, her eyes glistening…I love you more…

With that, they exit the car and walk toward the Planet.  Helena pauses before walking in thinking that she sees someone that she recognized.  Baby, are you okay, Bette asks.  Yeah, I’m fine, just thought I saw a flash from the past.  Bette allows Helena to walk in first while holding her hand.  Although she can see lips moving, she couldn’t hear a word, everything moved in slow motion.  She looked around and saw her mother, Alice, Kit, Shane, Jenny, Max and a host of other friends.  As things began to move in real time, she could here everyone saying Surprise, Happy Birthday and offering well wishes.  Helena was besieged by congratulations and signs of affection. 

Helena turns to Bette. You did this for me?  I can’t believe that you put this together for me and I’ve been a colossal ass today.  I don’t know how I could ever doubt you.    This is why you have been so mysterious.  Helena begins to laugh hysterically at her behavior and Bette just hugs her kissing her ear, whispering, you deserve all of this and more.  I love you so much and I wanted to celebrate your birthday and our love with our family and friends.  I hope you enjoy this evening – it is all for you from all of us.  Oh Bette, just when I think that I can’t love you more, you find a way to make me happier than I ever thought possible.

Mummy, I’m so happy to see you.  Darling, I wouldn’t have missed this for the world.  When Bette called, I just couldn’t resist.  I had to come and see for myself – the woman who  captured my daughter’s heart  –  the woman who declared to me that she will love and protect you fearlessly…I wanted to come and celebrate your birthday and the birth and development of what will be a beautiful union.  Now dears…please tell me, is it Porter-Peabody or Peabody-Porter…how are you lesbians doing it these days?   Everyone chuckles at Peggy’s delightfully crude humor as she continues.  Dear, you couldn’t have made a better choice.  The gang all thought Peggy was referring to Helena, but she reached for Bette’s hands and said, I’m glad you learned what I have known all of Helena’s life – she is a kind, loving and giving soul.  Bette, love my daughter well, she is deserving of everything that you can give.  Now, will someone bring me a glass of champagne to toast this marvelous evening.