“I don’t “ Bette replied smiling

“You should and you should stop indulging me “

“I like indulging you “ Bette replied

Tina drank her beer and looked at Bette

“You are the best thing that has ever happened to me – you are wonderful and I love you. There is nothing that would hurt me more than screwing up what you and I share because I like getting my own way. When we started out I worried that it wouldn’t work because we are both pretty alpha but you have so chilled out and whether you admit it or not you give in to me for the sake of keeping the peace or just to keep me happy “

Tina paused in her long explanation – Bette sipped her beer and smiled

“You have been thinking a lot haven’t you ?”

Tina nodded “You and I are going to make a life time commitment to one another – something that fills me full of happiness and joy and so much love for you. How about a we strike a deal ?”

“Name your price “

“Stop indulging me – even if we end up arguing about the little stuff I would rather that than in a few years time you walk out on me because I have turned into a nasty, spiteful bully “

“You finished ?” Bette asked

Tina nodded – Bette shook her head and put her beer down

“You are not selfish or spiteful or whatever other silly things you have put into your own head. I agree that I let you make some decisions because I really don’t care where we go on holiday. If there is somewhere I want to go I will tell you – in fact I may as well tell you that Hawaii is going to play a large part in our honeymoon “

Tina laughed – that idea had not crossed her mind but now that it had – it was a great one.

“I have chilled out about my gallery and about all the egotists who pass themselves off as artists. I did it because it’s a means to an end now. Yes I love art – but it’s a bit like law and sausages. You know the old quote – if you care about either you shouldn’t see either being made. Well art is getting like that – I love exhibitions and art and there are few things that give me the goose bumps quite like a striking piece by a talented new artist. In the past the gallery was my life – now I appreciate other things like going out with my camera and capturing some really beautiful part of nature. I am at peace when I am at the beach or even wandering around your parents farm with my camera. And I appreciate being with you and this house and I have to say it – spending time with Elizabeth “