Tina looked at her.  She stared at the woman who swept her off her feet.  The one who now hesitated to advance what they shared and if she heard correctly, all because of her youth? 

Although at the brink of tears earlier she wasn’t going to regress from challenging this especially feeble rationale.

“So you’re saying you don’t want us to date because I’m…,” the fair-haired woman paused for full effect, “young.”

“Well yes I’m quite older and this is all new for you.”  Reasons one and two – check.  While Bette meant this more in terms of lifestyle choice and experience again her phrasing caused this particular argument to stumble.

“I’m not that young you know.” 

In point of fact, they were both still in their twenties and unless canine converted, the difference in years was not significantly far apart.  Not for her at least.  Tina kept this to herself and instead pursued another facet of contention.  

“Bette I admit you’re right in that this is new for me but…but what exactly are you saying?”

“I’m not sure I have time for a relationship right now.”  Reason number three – check.

“Really?”

“Yes the gallery is in good shape but I need to focus.”

“I haven’t met anyone with laser-like focus like you do actually.”

Progress.  “I’m glad you see that…”

“But correct me if I’m wrong – we’ve seen each other almost every night for the last month.”

Relapse.  “Yes but…”

“Including weekends.”

Bette couldn’t argue with fact.  They had spent a lot of time together.  Throughout the period they spoke of their past and mentioned future goals.  Sharing stories and meeting friends.  Watching movies, discussing books and art.  Weekends spent walking hand in hand.  She tried another approach with a determined sigh, “Don’t you want to meet…other people?”

Inside Bette crumpled a bit as she thought of Tina with ‘others’; to be inferred as ‘female companions’.  Shouldn’t the one new to same sex relationships take a minute to explore?  See if there…if this was what she really wanted?  She was letting go somewhat to give her that chance but deep within Bette hated the very thought. 

“Other people.”  Tina remarked.

“Yes, I mean…”

“Younger ‘people’?”

Even if she tried to conceal it the humor was evident as she responded, “Perhaps.”