Tinas mind was spinning as she drove. What the ***** was that all about? Why did I just leave like that? Am I insane? Alice and Bette probably think Im mentally unstable. I am so conceited to think that Bette Porter would be interested in me! And besides, I am not *****, and she knows that. She just wants to be my friend. What am I going to do?

She looked in the visor mirror at herself, studying her face, the softness in her brown eyes. She saw a sadness there, but brushed it aside as she tucked a strand of blonde hair behind her dainty ear.

Pulling into Erics driveway, she didnt hesitate before opening the front door and quietly walking to his bedroom. He was sleeping, of course, and she silently removed her clothes, down to her socks; crawling into bed and reaching out to tempt him, she thought, This is what I want.


Bette awoke the next morning late, but Sundays were meant for late starts. She decided to go to the gallery and make sure everything was in order after the dinner the night before. Her gallery was her pride and joy, and she was starting to feel accomplished. Looking around the rooms, things seemed to be in good order, but as she stepped through another doorway, she saw something glittering on the tiled floor. The sunlight was hitting it just right so that it caught Bettes attention. She simply stood there, already knowing what it was.

The memory of the night before came flooding back much to her surprise; she hadnt realized until now just how much she liked Tina. Bette thought of their hands touching, gently, and the passion Tinas smooth skin radiated. Tina looked young and fresh, but not naive or completely innocent. Her eyes spoke volumes, and Bette could see that being a weakness for Tina. Bette wondered if Tina saw weaknesses in her. She was intrigued, and wanted to learn more about Tina, but this was a first for her, in so many ways.


Tina hadnt slept much during the night after Eric had called out her name and passed out next to her in bed. Her mind was in fifth gear and not downshifting. She couldnt explain why she ran to Erics in the middle of the night, but at the time it felt like something she had to do. She needed to feel secure. Unfortunately, the morning after a mistake left her feeling anything but security. Instead, she felt dirty; she wanted to be alone, to take a hot shower, to cry like a little girl, arms wrapped around her knees.

Eric stirred, Honey, you awake already? He reeked or morning breath.

Yeah, hun, just waking up. Think Im gonna head home and get a jump start on some new writings Ive been working on.

Stay and we can get breakfast, He pulled her close to him.

Not today, she said as she slipped out of his embrace and began dressing, back to him.

Last night was great, Tina. Glad you changed your mind, he said as he grinned, hair sticking straight up.

Tina couldnt help but laugh. She did really love him, just in ways that confused her. Ill call you later. As she walked out the bedroom door, she stopped, remembering something and turned back to Eric. Could you do me a favor today?

Anything for you.

Will stop by the Bette Porter gallery to see if my earring was found?

Wont it be closed on a Sunday?

Maybe, but stop by and check anyway. I would, but you know how I get when I start working on a project…I dont like to be interrupted.

Ok. I will. Bye.

Thanks, bye.


Later in the day, Eric stopped by the gallery. He peered in the front door, but turned away, realizing it was closed. As he took a step he heard the door swing open.

Eric, can I help you with something? Bette smiled and motioned for him to come in.

Yeah, Tina lost an earring, and she thinks she might have lost it here last night. Seen it? He stepped inside.

Bette was at a loss for words, wondering why Tina hadnt come for it herself.

This place sure is different without crowds of people here, Brian commented, looking around.

It is, Bette said quickly.

Well, I dont want to keep you. But the earring?…

Oh, right, the earring…. um, no, I havent seen it.

Ok, thanks anyway, take care. He started to walk down the sidewalk.

Wait! Eric! Bette yelled, finally coming to her senses. Come back tomorrow, or have Tina come. Its just that our cleaning crew comes in on Sunday nights before the gallery opens up on Mondays. They might find it. Ill leave a note for them to hold it in my mailbox.

Ok, Ill send Tina by. She was interested in buying a piece anyway, and she has more freedom in her schedule. Thanks Bette.

Bette sighed and walked back into the gallery, glad she had stopped him. She smiled, pulling the earring out of her pocket and rolling it around her long fingers. Thank goodness for mistakes.’