Bette nodded, thinking of how many of those family holidays Tina missed, how many of those family holidays Angelica would never be invited to, the grandparents she would never meet.  Its awful.  Isnt it? Carrie asked, almost reading Bettes mind.

            Its heartbreaking, Bette agreed.  Especially now, she added looking at Angelica.

            It changes today.  Dannys on his way here, Carrie said.

            Bettes eyes widened.  Does Tina know that?

            Carrie nodded.  I asked her if she would like to see him.  She told me to call him.  He wants to see her.  He wants to meet you too if thats ok.

            Um, who? Carmen pried.

            Our brother, Carrie responded.

            When will he be here? Shane asked.

            Carries cell phone rang.  Excuse me a sec.  She stepped away from the table.

            Bette sighed.  Danny called Tina a blasphemous *****.  Told her she was going to *****.  Packed her bags for her and threw her out of their parents house himself when she told them she was in love with me.

            Oh my God, Carmen said.

            It was almost ten years ago, Bette, Shane said.  Carrie seems to have turned around.

            From what Tina says Caroline was a different story.  She just sat there and said nothing while their parents disowned her and ordered her out and their brother blew up at her.  She was fifteen.  Im not sure she could have stopped it if she tried.  Im sure she didnt know what to think.  Bette sighed.  I know how much Tina wants her family to accept us, but I dont want to see her get hurt.  Bette shook her head.  She was clearly worried.  Things had just started looking brighter for her and Tina.  This could either make things even better or bring them crashing down.

            Caroline returned to the table.  ***** be here at 6 tonight.

            Is  forgive me, Caroline, but is he just going to upset Tina? Bette asked.

            If he does, Carrie answered seriously, I will kill him.

            Bette smiled.

            Im here for real, Bette.  I swear to you on the life of my niece.  I will never hurt Tina again.  Bette took in the look on Carries face.  Her eyes, so like her sisters, were round and sincere.  Bette relaxed.  Carrie smiled, knowing she had gotten through.