Bette gently kissed it, whispers something then lays her head down placing her cheeks against Tina’s bump. It was the most intimacy that they’d shared in months. Tina caressed Bette’s hair and soothed her as warm tears dampened her flesh. After a while Bette composed herself and sat up on the bed. She looked at Tina’s red swollen eyes that matched her own.

Bette: I want a place in this baby’s life Tina.

Tina: Bette I’m not ready to make any decisions right now.

Bette: How can you say that? This is our baby Tina. Did you use Marcus’ sperm?

Tina: Yes. I used the sperm we had stored in the cryobank.

Bette: Then this is our baby.

Tina: We’re not a couple Bette. I’m prepared to do this on my own. I just wanted to tell you before someone else did. Look I know how confused you must feel about all this. It’s not how I planned it, but it is what it is. I have a lot to think about. I need to do what is right for me and this baby. I promise we will talk, but right now I’m really exhausted and I just want to get some sleep.

Bette: OK, I’m sorry. I’m being selfish. Do you think you’ll feel like talking to me tomorrow?

Tina: Maybe. Just give me time okay?

Bette: OK, but if your lawyer is putting any ideas in your head …

Tina: I don’t even have a lawyer anymore.

Bette: That’s good. It’s better if we work it out amongst ourselves anyway.

Tina: We’ll work it out, but it might not be how you want it Bette.

Bette: Tina please; please don’t shut me out again.

Tina: I won’t Bette. I promise. Good night.

Bette had a fitful night, and the next morning had to bite her tongue every time she was tempted to bring up the subject of the baby. She’d promised to give Tina time and she would keep her word. As she got ready for work she fantasized about becoming a mother to keep her mind off the battle she expected to face at the CAC with Franklin if they didn’t get the funding they needed.

***

Back at the center Bette and Tina were both startled to hear a rap on Tina’s office door, but it is Bette’s eyes that go wide when Helena Peabody appears on the other side. She greets Bette like they are long lost friends and her presence in Tina’s office was a normal everyday occurrence.