◊◊◊

Bette and Tina settled down at a quaint little café a few blocks from the office, after ordering their drinks and a light lunch, Tina smiled widely at Bette, anxious to catch up.

“How are things with you,” Tina asked.

“I’m ok, as you know, we just closed this case, which is a great relief considering the time we’ve spent on it. Other than that, I’m the same.”

“Seems like something’s bothering you,” Tina said, picking up on a Bette’s slightly unenthusiastic tone, “Troubles with someone you’re seeing?”

Bette smiled, until today, Tina seemed to be able to read her so easily, “I was seeing someone, but I guess the timing is all wrong and, I don’t know.”

“Do you love her?”

“I guess I would say that I could have loved her, and maybe I do.”

“Who is she?”

Bette hesitated for a moment, mentally deciding if she should tell Tina who it was, “Well, it’s Gen Taylor. The doctor working on this case.”

Tina’s raised her eyebrows as she laughed, “I can see why you would like her, she is very good-looking.”

“Ok, enough about me, how are things with you?”

“Oh, B, you know me, still the same. Marriage life is wonderful, the family is good, the girls are growing up beautifully. I know Ollie came to get you from the hospital last week. It’s good to know that despite everything that happened, we still can be such great friends.”

“T…”

“No, Bette, I know that what happened was tough for you in the beginning, but I’m so grateful that everything worked out.”

“I only wanted you to be happy, T. And I know Ollie makes you happy.  When you’re with her, you glow in a way you never did when you were with me. After we ended things, I knew you needed a shoulder to cry on, and naturally, you turned to Ollie. She was the only person who was close to the both of us. And now, the both of you have a fantastic family together. I really couldn’t be happier for you.”

“B, I want that for you too.”

The women smiled at each other, knowing smiles that exchanged love and sincerity between them.