The next words were out of Bettes mouth before she even realized it. Sid, who says we have to stop? Who says Im not ready now. I need to feel you Sid. I need you.

What Bette really needed was to forget, and Sidney was the perfect distraction.

Sidneys eyes shone with wonder and the impact of Bettes words settled in around her. Are you sure?, she asked.

Bette looked intently into Sidneys eyes, hoping she could convince her that she was indeed ready to take this step. Sidney, Im way beyond sure. I am so ready, right now.

Sidney bit her lip and tried to quell the temptation to push Bette onto her bed and attack her with reckless abandon. There was a little bit of reason left at the back of her mind and she knew that she didnt want things to go this way. She wanted to be so gentle and loving with Bette. She only wanted the best for her. And that didnt include skipping classes to make love. Bette never skipped class. Her Type A temperament dragged her to class rain or shine, sick or well, tired or well-rested. Sidney didnt want to be responsible for any type of negative influence on Bette.

Sidney shook her head and lowered her gaze. Bette, I dont really know why Im saying this, but I dont want our first time to be like this. I want to take my time with you. I dont want you skipping classes.

Bettes total exasperation was making itself known as her dark brown eyes opened wide in disbelief. This was not the reaction shed expected. This makes no sense. Tina and I get together with her barely asking. I cant get ***** from Sidney when I practically beg her for it. I dont believe this.

Sidney, please, she began.

Sidney bought her fingers to Bettes lips, silencing her lovers protest. No. But, Ill tell you what. Lets both go to class and then this afternoon, well grab a late lunch and we can head to the Getty. They have this new exhibit on French neoclassical sketches. Ive been meaning to mention it to you anyway. Lets do that. We can really enjoy our time together and you can forget all about this messy fight you had with your roommate.

Bettes eyes filled with tears and Sidney thought they were due to her rejection of their shared intimacy. She rushed to remedy the pain she thought shed inflicted. Oh, Bette. Im sorry. Its not that I dont want to be with you. I just dont think we should rush into it right this minute.

Bette blinked and a few tears slid down her caramel cheeks. She shook her head and said, No, no. Sidney, thats not it. I justyou really care about me. You really care and Im just overwhelmed. So many people would just take what they want, but not you. Thank you.

Sidney smiled. No. Thank you. Thank you for walking into my life. I meant what I said before. You are a very special woman and I am not about to mess this up.

Bette returned Sidneys smile and the two finalized their afternoon plans. As Bette left Sidneys and walked slowly to class, she realized that things were much more complicated than she had ever imagined. Shed spent years without love and now there were two women that loved and cared for her. This was going to be a very interesting weekend. How would she get herself out of this situation? And was it really such a bad situation to be in?