Bette started to rouse and felt her arm still around Tina’s shoulder.  With her eyes still closed she smiled and said “Good morning, T.”  She thought to herself that she had not slept so well in years.  She opened her eyes and met the gaze of this striking blonde.  Tina smile back and said, “Good morning to you too.  I can’t believe we fell asleep like this.”

Bette responded, “You didn’t get much sleep the night before, remember?  When you dozed off, I didn’t have the heart to wake you.  I hope that was OK to just let you sleep.”

Tina thought how OK it was.  She too, had not slept so well in years.  She felt safe and warm and Bette’s arms.  Bette’s arms shielded her from the ravages of the day and allowed her to relax.  “It was fine, Bette.  I can’t remember the last time I woke feeling so rested.  You know, you missed a fantastic sunrise.” 

“I did,” asked Bette.

“Yes, but I think we can arrange to share more in the future,” said Tina with a shy smile.  Bette now smiled broadly.  She jumped up and extended both hand to Tina to help her up, at the same time asking, “What are your plans for the day, T?”

Tina replied, “I didn’t really have any.”

Bette immediately asked, “Would you like to spend the day with me?”

Tina pondered the question for all of about a half a second, “I’d love to!”

Bette:  “Great, let me get cleaned up and we’ll drive over to your place so you can do the same.  Start thinking about what you’d like to do today.  I’m going to jump in the shower.  I’ll be right out.  OK?”

Tina:  “Sounds like a plan. Do you have any coffee in the kitchen?  I’ll make some and have it ready when you’re done with your shower.”

Bette smiled and joked, “Ah, a woman after me own heart.  Yes, the coffee is in the freezer.”  Bette revered her morning java and could not tolerate drinking it if it was stale.  “Um, T?”

“Yeah, Babe?” Tina responded.

“I like it strong.”  She said while she savored the fact that Tina called her “Babe.”