The blonde felt her body instantly respond to her girlfriend’s words.

“You don’t play fair,” said Tina.

Bette winked at her. “Right now is cocktail hour. The dinner should be starting soon. They will serve us. And there’s a silent auction going on.”

Tina nodded, but her eyes were studying Bette’s crimson lips.

Bette smirked. “And then the aliens will suck out our blood.”

Tina nodded again and Bette laughed. She placed an index finger under Tina’s chin and gently lifted it until she had her lover’s attention. Tina shook her head. “I’m sorry. I can’t focus, Babe.”

“I’m sorry for teasing you,” said Bette.

Tina held Bette at her waist. “You should be.
Bette leaned into Tina said softly, “Tina, you’re the most beautiful woman in this room.”

The blonde blushed again and then Bette pulled out her chair. They sat down together and made small talk with a few couples at their table. They were warmly welcomed and maintained physical contact, holding hands in the space between their touching legs.

A mistress of ceremonies dressed in a smart black tux with a rainbow bow tie made her way to the stage and kicked of the event. She introduced the president of Toronto Pride and the ball’s planning committee. After her, a comic took the stage and was the perfect act to start off the entertainment and get the guests laughing.

Bette had ordered the chicken option for both her and Tina. Their table was served, and they all toasted to the evening with their glasses or ice water or watered down iced tea. The evening continued on with a musical number by a local drag performance team. The group got the guests on the floor, loosening up the vibe in the room even more. Every now and again, the winner of a silent auction item would be announced.

The keynote speaker was the minister of a local church. He introduced himself as the original gay Episcopalian and everyone laughed. Bette had always been a little wary of religious people, remembering the hypocrisy of her own father. Melvin was quick to tout scripture when it came to Bette’s sexuality, yet he seemed ignorant of the text’s instructions regarding adultery. Yet, she found herself relaxed and smiling at the handsome older gentleman, dressed all in black with a white clerical collar.