Tina looked into Kit’s pleading eyes and she could see the love she had for Bette. Kit waited for Tina to speak and smiled at her. Tina thought anyone who could elicit such love and admiration from another person must be worth saving.

“I will do my best, Ms. Porter, to help your sister.”  Kit jumped up from her seat and grabbed Tina into a bear hug almost lifting her off her feet.  

“Thank you Ms. Kennard, thank you!”  Kit let her go and ran toward the bar to tell Bette.  Just as Tina was trying to get herself back together, Jody walked in meandering over to their table.  She stood behind Tina taking in the sight.  “Well, well, well, what do we have here?  I’m stuffed but you sweetheart, look good enough to eat.”

Tina’s skin felt like it was literally crawling. Jody ran her long, dirty fingernail down Tina’s neck.  Her breath reeked of warm blood.  “Yeah, well I’m not on the menu tonight. Sorry.”  Tina knew she was having an encounter with a not so charming vampire and she didn’t have to guess at what her soul must have looked like.  “I was just leaving actually.” She tried in vain to remain calm.

Just then Bette appeared next to her having witnessed the beginning of this impromptu meeting.  “Are you ready to go sweetheart?”  Bette looked at Tina trying to convey her plan.  “Oh, hey Jody.  You’re back early.  How was your…dinner.”? 

“Actually I was just saying how I was looking forward to having dessert but I see that this cupcake has been claimed.  Nice job Porter.  I thought you were losing it but I guess I was wrong.”

“Yeah, well I still have a trick or two up my sleeve.  Will you excuse us, we were just going to go and find some place a little more private if you know what I mean.”

“Yes, please by all means.  She’s a keeper Porter.  Don’t use her all up in one shot.”

Bette held Tina’s shaking hand tightly in her grip as she pulled her toward her. She kissed her cheek for affect and handed her purse to her as she pulled her out of the club into the night air.