Im sorry you feel that way, Tina.  Just like Helena.  Im sorry you feel that way rather than Im sorry and I was wrong.

            Tina opened her mouth to respond, but over Helenas shoulder she saw her sister and brother walk through the door.  They, unlike her, got lucky and saw Kit immediately.  Tina watched for a moment as Kit kissed Caroline and shook her brothers hand.  Helena noticed Tina staring and turned to see what Tina was looking at.

            Theres my sister now, Tina said, nodding in her general direction.  Helena turned.  Im meeting them for lunch. 

            Caroline looked up and saw Helena and Tina.  She smiled and made her way over to her sister, leaving Danny to regale Kit with stories of dancing with his wife to her last album.  Ann loved loved loved Kit Porter, mostly because Caroline bought her the CD for her birthday.  Caroline hugged Tina good morning and put her hand out to Helena.  Helena shook it and they said good morning.  So, Helena, I, um,

            Why didnt you just tell me you had been in touch with Tina? Helena asked.

            Caroline cocked her eyebrow and looked at her sister, who was wearing the exact same expression.  Um, because you creeped me out?

            Tina smiled ruefully.

            Helena opened her mouth to speak, but Caroline cut her off.  Im sorry, Helena.  I should have told you.  I just didnt want to mess anything up with Tina.  It had been so long since I had seen her and I had just met Bette.  I didnt know what to think.

            Meanwhile, Bette had arrived, noticing immediately her partner’s dire situation, what with the evilness less than five feet from her.  She kissed Kit and handed Angelica off to her Uncle Dan, who was more than happy to hold the baby.  Ill be right back, she said, leaving them and heading for Tina.

            Let me guess, Danny said to Kit, Helena.

            Mmmhm, she answered.

            Bette laid a hand gently on Tinas shoulder.  Hey, baby.  Tina turned, smiling, and kissed Bettes lips.

            Hey, lady, we were just talking about you, Carrie said, allowing Bette to kiss her cheek.

            Bette gazed warily at Helena.  I shudder to think.  Bette put her arm around Tina, staking her claim in every possible way.

            Hello, Bette, Helena said, coolly.

            Hello, Helena.

            Caroline looked at her sister.  Is it me or did the temperature just drop in here?

            Helena took a deep breath and looked between Caroline and Tina.  Sensing she had lost her battle with Tina, she changed her tack.  Her gaze settled on Caroline.  Caroline, I hope this little  I hardly know what it is.  Anyway, I hope it doesnt hurt our business deal.  I would still very much like to buy the rights to your book.

            Caroline shook her head, slowly.  I dont know Helena.

            Unbeknownst to everyone present, Helena wasnt done surprising them.  When Jacob sent me an advanced copy, I just couldnt put it down.  I think it would make a great film.

            Who is Jacob? Tina asked, looking at her sister.

            My boyfriend, Jake Sloane, Caroline sighed.  I figured it was him.

            Your boyfriend? Tina asked, with a suggestive half-smile.

            Wait, said Bette, her brow furrowing.  Jake Sloane Spencer Jacob Sloane the Third?

            Thats his father, Carrie explained.  He would be the fourth.  What does he have to do with anything, Helena?

            Helena shrugged.  Clearly, he thought I would be the best person to invest in you.  Weve known each other since he was a tiny little boy.  He trusts me.  Maybe you should too.

            Caroline was obviously swayed by this argument.  But she did not immediately cave.  Well talk, Helena.  Call me later this week.  As of right now, we are going to be late for lunch.

            Well, then I wont keep you, Helena said brusquely, and made her exit with nodded good-byes to everyone she saw.

            She is something else, Caroline commented watching her go.