Around ten, the place was so packed that people had a hard time getting around. Bette was relieved that everything was going great. She had put on the brave face in front of her friends, but she didn’t want any trouble either with the city officials. Bette turned around when she felt a hand on her shoulder. «Sara, hi ! I’m glad you could make it!»

«Hey, this place is fantastic ! Lots of pretty ladies… Listen, I’d like you to meet a very good friend of mine». Sara looked around and spotted someone. «Over here !», she said, waving. Bette went white when she saw Tina walking toward her. «Come here, I want you to meet Bette, one of the owners. Bette, this is my best friend Tina»

«I hope you have a good explanation for this Miss Porter», Tina wanted to know, obviously in no mood to chit-chat. «You two know each other ?», Sara asked. «I didn’t want to tell you Sara, but this club wasn’t supposed to open tonight because of a zoning problem. I’m working on that case for the city», she explained to her friend. Sara looked at Bette. «Oh my God, I’m so sorry»

Bette sighed. «It’s not your fault Sara. Listen, I have to talk to Miss Kennard, do you mind?». Sara didn’t waste any time disappearing.

«Did you think I wouldn’t find out about this ?»

«If Sara hadn’t called you, you probably wouldn’t have…», Bette replied.

«I’ll have to report this you know and I might as well tell you right now, there will be a fine to pay», Tina warned.

«Then we’ll pay. I’ll let you know that I always take the consequences for my actions… Speaking of that, does your husband know you’re in a gay club with your friend Sara ?»

«My husband ?»

Bette pointed to her left hand. Tina finally smiled. «You know, you should make up your mind about me… Yesterday, you accused me of being anti-gay and now, you think I lead a double life… So which is it?», Tina smirked. Bette hated her smile for two reasons: one because it was the most beautiful thing in the world and two, because Tina always seemed to have fun at her expense. One thing was for sure, Tina Kennard was one cool cat and Bette liked that about her. Actually, she couldn’t think of one thing she hated about the woman, other than the fact that she worked for the city and was making her life miserable…

Bette was about to answer when Alice showed up. «Bette, come here you have to… Oh shit!», she said when she saw Tina. «I don’t think you’re here for your own pleasure, aren’t you ?»

Tina shook her head no. «How did she find out ?», Alice asked Bette.

«Well, I would like to stay to hear that explanation, I really would, but I have a report to fill. Good night ladies», Tina said, heading for the door.

Alice looked at Bette. «Tell me, how did she find out ?»

«Promise you won’t get mad…», Bette started.