When her hair was dry, she moved back to the bedroom, staring at the woman before her. Bette could see the lust in Tina’s gaze. The intensity stopped her in midstride. Tina needed to get to work. They both needed to be adults. Bette needed to be strong for both of them.

She backed up to the doorway. “I – – – I brought your clothes, T. I don’t know if you wanted them or wanted to borrow something of mine.”

Tina exhaled and sat down on the bed. “What are we doing, Bette?” she asked.

“What do you mean?”

“I feel like I’m under a spell. I’ve known you for 2 days. And I’m here, in your bed.”

Bette didn’t know what to say and so she said nothing.

Tina looked up at her. “I should be scared. But I’m not. I feel like I’ve known you my whole life.”

“You never have to be scared with me, Tina.”

The blonde ran her fingers through her hair. “That’s a huge promise to make to someone you barely know.”

Bette stared at her, hoping that the depth of concern in her eyes was enough.

Tina looked down at her hands. It amazed her how much she craved touching Bette. Her desire was still peaked and she took a deep breath to calm herself.

Bette could see it. Could feel it. She didn’t leave her post by the door. She knew it was trouble. “We’re fine, T. Just get dressed. I’ll get your coffee ready.”

Tina stared at her, chewing on her lower lip, her right leg bouncing.

“Did you want to borrow something to wear or…?” Bette asked.

Tina shook her head. “No, Love. I only put on those clothes last night to come here. I showered before I came. I have a short day anyway.”

Bette nodded and prepared to leave.

“Bette,” Tina called.

“Yes?” Bette turned back to face her, still standing by the door.

“My flight leaves at 2. You know I’ll be in New York for the rest of the week,” she said.

Bette looked pained, but only for a moment. She caught herself and summoned an uneasy smile. With all that had happened between them, it had slipped her mind. “Right. When will you be back?”

“Sunday night. We have a production office there. I’m working on a film.”

Bette nodded, but she looked lost. She rushed away to prepare a to-go cup of coffee for Tina.

Tina began to dress, forgoing the panties. She moved as quickly as she could and met Bette in the kitchen. She kissed Bette’s lips. “I’ll call you every day and every night. I’ll come to see you when I get back on Sunday night.”

Bette nodded. “Okay.”

Tina lifted her lover’s chin until their eyes met. “I’ll see you soon. I promise.”

Bette worked and failed at a smile. “I know. It’s just – – – the whole week feels like a long time.”

“Bette, I couldn’t go 24 without seeing you. Yes, a week is a long time. But we’ll FaceTime. And then I’ll be back here with you.”

“Okay, T.”

Bette hugged her tightly and they shared a few more deep kisses before Bette placed Tina’s coffee in her hands and forced Tina out the front door.