The day after the dinner with Mrs Stone and Philip, Bette called the old woman. «I knew you’d want to talk to me», she said as soon as Bette identified herself.

«Then you know what this is all about», the brunette replied.

Mrs Stone stayed silent for a few seconds before answering. «I didn’t tell my son about my condition simply because I don’t know how to find the words… He lost his father five years ago and he’s about to lose his mother too. I’m so glad he has you in his life now, his only sibling», Mrs Stone explained with tears in her voice.

Bette didn’t really what to say to her. After all, it was her life, her decision. She had no right to interfere. «When are you going back to New York?»

«In three weeks… I still have a lot of people to see before I leave»

«I hope I’m one of them», Bette asked sincerely. She heard Mrs Stone chuckle. «Of course you are dear. You’re the most important one of them all. I have to go now… I’ll call you later», she said before she hung up.

Bette was feeling a bit depressed after talking with her birth mother. She thought about Tina being at home doing some research and on an impulse, she grabbed her purse and her car keys. «James, I’m going home for a few hours. Don’t call me unless it’s important», she told her assistant.

«Yes ma’am», he replied with a smile, knowing too well what her boss was up to. Bette drove as fast as she could. The only thing she wanted and needed right now was to be in Tina’s arms. She couldn’t bear to think of Philip’s reaction when he would learn about his mother’s illness. Life was so short, there was no time to waste to tell your loved ones how much you appreciated them. She parked her Saab right behind Tina’s car and hurried inside.

«Baby?», she yelled as she opened the door. Then she saw Tina seated outside, concentrated on her laptop. She stood there for a few seconds, admiring the woman of her dreams. She looked so beautiful and serene. Once again, Bette thanked God she had met Tina all those years ago. As if sensing someone was watching her, Tina looked up and smiled at Bette. She got up and walked inside the house.