Tina nodded – she didn’t say that what had terrified her the most was that they might not have the time to create fresh memories. Bette took Tina’s hand and kissed it

“We have 50-60 years ahead of us Tina “

“I hope to hell that we have “

“We have – come on driver “

Tina smiled and started the car. Tina felt her tensions starting to ease as they drove home. Bette was looking out of the window and making comments about other drivers. It was so normal for them to be doing this – chatting while driving home. Bette looked across at Tina

“What news of Jailbird Willow ?”

“Dad put the bail up and she’s out and now in deep shit with the college authorities”

“Good “ Bette commented “I know that she’s obsessed with money but there are ways to make money at college and selling weed and speed really is the laziest and stupidest possible thing”

“I know “ Tina said “I don’t think she is ever going to forgive me for what I said to her”

“You care ?”

“Not really. I know how mom and Finn feel about what she has done and it was only dad who was prepared to get her out”

“Maybe it’s the only way she is going to mend her relationship with him “

“Yeah  – that’s what mom says “

“How is your mom ?”

“She made a very mild offer to come over and help me with you but it was an offer that was easy to refuse without offending her. She is busy with the farm “

“And Jonathan ?”

“Going well with him “

“Niall ?”

“I do think he is getting himself together – he’s signed the lease for an apartment and he’s working in a farm store”

Bette was silent for a few minutes “ Are you trying to tell me that your family are sorting themselves out ?”

“Yes “

“Its good of Finn to come and see me so many  times “

“He loves you to pieces  – you know that “

“I do – I think its made me realise how many truly wonderful people I have in my life – especially my future wife “