She murmured her pleasure then explained, “Policy allows eight weeks, then she’s taking personal time accumulated.  So in total just shy of four months.”

“Which you, Bette, are not.”  Tina whispered huskily.  “Not shy at all.”  The topic of conversation was not necessarily arousing however Bette’s stimulating hands and lips belied the matter. 

“You weren’t exactly complaining earlier were you?”  Bette facetiously replied.  She touched the side of Tina’s breast.  Lightly working her fingertips to the underside and soft skin of her stomach.

“I’m not doing so now either,” Tina answered softly.  “But if you want to talk then…”

She was on the precipice of wakefulness and sleep.  Awaiting her lover’s next move.  More than willing to sacrifice the tempting comfort of darkness and allowing her presence slip into the landscape that dreams provided for the reality of Bette’s warm touch.

“I do.”  Bette sighed contentedly.  “I like hearing about what’s going on at Alphaville.” 

The brunette stilled, pressed herself closer then remarked, “Besides I know you’re tired.  Especially after the last three weeks you’ve had at the office.” 

Grinning she finished,  “We can fool around tomorrow. Or…maybe a little later.” 

They caressed tenderly.  Enjoying the feel of each other.  A warmth that almost glowed visibly surrounded and wrapped the women protectively.  Akin to an early morning fog that nestled intimately close to the ground.  Invitingly serene and seemingly softer to the touch than anything that could ever be imagined.

“Anyway…four months.” Tina revisited the question from earlier.  “It should be interesting.”

“I’m going to have to pick up some of her projects. I can just imagine how busy things will be for a while.  For Melissa especially.  She has two other young ones – ten and eight – so she’ll have her hands full.”

Her tone subdued, “She and Tom have always wanted three.  They had a hard time conceiving this last go around…”

Bette interrupted “How old did you say she was Honey?” 

“Thirty-nine so perhaps part of the reason why it was a bit difficult…I can hardly describe how thrilled and excited she is.” 

Tina went on, “It’s infectious.” 

The build-up from recent weeks invaded her physically leaving her lethargic in the familiar arms that held her with ease.  Her arm moved to rest flat on the bed, placing her hand on top of Bette’s which still lay on her abdomen.  Yes, she could have easily succumbed to the calm darkness that beckoned but chased away the weariness to share a little more.