I jump out of bed and call Alice for a ride. I dont want to be here if Bette shows up now. How will I react to her? How will she react to me?

Hello?

Alice, its Tina, I say almost frantically.

Well, well, well, she quips, the prodigal child calls. How did things go with you two last night? Good I assumesince youre still there.

Look Al, its a long story and I dont have time right now. Can you just come pick me up? Ill tell you all about it later. Please, just come get me.

Okay, Ill be right there. I hang up the phone just as she speaks the final words. The slamming front door startles me back to the present. I turn around quickly and see Bette walking inher head is in her hand. She looks upset. She must have seen me standing here and got upset with me all over again. Shane was rightshe WAS at Milk. She walks past meignoring me and enters the kitchen.

Bette? I say quietlyhesitantly. She looks at me quickly as if startled.

Tina, she says, I didnt see you there. a confused look enters her eyes. Whatwhat are you doing here? Her question tears at my heartI live here. But I cant say that.I moved out because she cheated.now I have to explain that I DIDNT and ask her nobeg her to take me back.

Babe, I begin. Shane saw you last nightleaving Milk.

She closes her eyes and swallows. Look, I can explain, she says opening her eyes. Shes hurt by what she saw. I have to make this right. She shouldnt have to explain storming out like thatI have to explain to her. Her chin begins to quiver.

Babe, nothing happened, I reason with her. I wanted it to, but I just couldnt. You saw me kissing that woman, but I must have pulled away right after you walked out. I came straight here and waited for you. A look of terror blankets her face. She doesnt understand what Im trying to tell her. Babe, you have to believe me. I didntI couldnt cheat on you. She lets out a quick breath and turns to the bedroomtears forming in her eyes. I follow her to the bedroom and find her already laying on the bed. Her back is to the door and her coat is strewn across the divan. I walk around the bed where she can see me and I sit down. Placing my hand gently on her trembling shoulder I try to compose my thoughts. Tell her she has to believe you Tina. Tell her she means the world to you. Baby, please.you have to believe me. I went there last night trying to escape. I saw you yesterday. She looks up at meher eyes are filled with questionstears and questions. I was at the park yesterday at lunch time.