The EMS tech adjusted the oxygen flow and doubled checked that the IV hadnt loosened, then checked her vital signs again. She had been trying to talk but the suction on the mask was too tight and her anxiety level increased. The tech calmed her back down and moved so Bette could comfort her again. Bette rolled her eyes at the tech for pushing her and ignoring her request to know what they were doing. She held Tinas hand tight until they arrived at the hospital. The tech asked Bette to exit so they could pull Tina out and take her to the ER.

An eager staff of interns who looked like they all could use more rest and less caffeine greeted them. Bette was immediately irate. She barged past them all and insisted on speaking with a real doctor so she could be properly advised of Tinas condition.

I provided all of the pertinent information at the scene, and on our way here. Is there anything else you need to know? Bette informed the doctor who was reading the EMS report.

No, I think I have sufficient information for now. What I do need is for you to wait over there, pointing to the waiting area, until I return. And for future reference, Id advise you not to insult my residents. I was one too and I turned out just fine. The doctor spoke with authority and indignation toward her.

Bette made a face and walked to the waiting area. She paced the floor unable to rest or think. She wrung her hands, checked her watch, and mentally prayed for Tina to get through whatever happened to her. Only twenty minutes had past, but it felt like an eternity. She tried not to make eye contact with the other people in the waiting area. She couldnt stand to see their pain nor did she want to show hers.

The doctor came out and walked back into the curtained room without saying a word to her and she became instantly furious.

Who the ***** does he think he is? Dont toy with me like that! She cursed out loud.

An elderly woman looked at her and rolled her eyes making the tsk sound.

Sorry, Bette mouthed, slightly embarrassed.

Thirty-five minutes passed.

What is taking so long? She fussed. I cant take much more of this. Bette walked to the nurses station. Can you tell me if theres any update on Tina Kennard?

The nurse looked at the computer screen.

All I know is that shes still with the doctor whos ordering a CT scan.

A CT scan? What the ***** for? Is something seriously wrong with her?

I dont think so. Its pretty routine. I think he just wants to make sure she didnt hurt her head when she fell. The nurse informed a very sad looking Bette. Dont worry hun, Im sure its nothing.

Bette didnt feel much relief from the nurse, but tried to believe what she said was true. She walked outside to get some air and heard her phone beeping. She pulled it out to see who called. It was Alice.

*****! She exclaimed. I forgot all about her place. Shes probably having a fit right now.

She dialed her voice mail and listened to Alices message. She told Bette that the police department had repaired the door and left a report with the building attendant informing her of what happened. She sounded pissed and concerned. Bette felt bad and was about to call back when she saw the doctor in the waiting area. She rushed back in to get an update on Tinas condition.

HowHow is she doctor? Is she okay? Can I see her now? Bette babbled.

Relax Ms. Porter. Ms. Kennard is fine. She suffered from a severe anxiety attack, dehydration, and exhaustion. Bette was about to interrupt and the doctor put his hand up. Shes resting comfortably now and will be fine. She will need plenty of rest, a balanced diet, avoid stress, and follow up with her own doctor.

Bette nodded the entire time the doctor spoke and kept looking back at the curtained room anxious to see Tina. Before she could speak the doctor spoke again.

Yes, you can see her now. Shes still a little groggy though. We had to give her something to relax her and help her rest comfortably. Be easy with her.

Bette rushed to the room. Thank you doctor, she yelled behind her.

Bette slid the curtain back and entered the room. Tina was pale and very disheveled. Bettes heart broke for her and she wanted to cry.

Bette? Is that you? Tina whispered.

Bette kissed Tinas face and held her tight.

Yes baby its me. Im here baby.

Am I gonna be okay? My whole body aches. Ouch!

Dont try to speak. The doctor says you need rest baby. Im gonna take you home as soon as they say I can. Just relax now and Ill hold you. I just wanna hold you.

Bette climbed onto the bed next to Tina holding her on her chest. She rubbed her head until she dozed off again. She kept fading in and out making funny sounds and her body twitched startling Bette every time.

I was so worried about you baby. You had me so scared. I almost lost it when I saw you lying there so helpless. Im so glad I called you back or theres no telling how long you might have been there. Baby, Im sorry. Im so sorry this happened to you. This is all my fault. I dont blame you if you hate me Tee. I didnt mean to make you sad or for this to happen to you. Baby, I am so damn sorry forfor making this bad thing happen. I know you may never, but I hope that one day youll forgive me. I will do whatever it takes to make this right with you baby, I promise. Bette cried as she poured her heart out.

Tina only heard parts of what Bette said as she drifted in and out of consciousness. She lifted her hand and put it on Bettes.

Im okay. Im gonna be okay.

Bette dozed off and woke up when the nurse came in to check Tinas vitals and check the IV. She rubbed her eyes and slid off the bed so the nurse could do her work. The nurse worked intently and in silence as she performed her duty.

Will I be able to take her home soon?

Im not sure. The doctor has to make that determination sweetie. I can check for you though. The nurse compassionately informed.

Is everything all right with Tina? Did all her functions check out okay? Bette inquired.

Yes, everything is fine with your friend. Ill get the doctor for you. The nurse patted Bettes shoulder.

A total of four hours had passed since they arrived at the hospital. Bette still hadnt called Alice back and knew that Alice was panicking, but was pleased that neither she nor the others had shown up. She couldnt face anyone, especially not Alice. She knew that Tina probably told her what happened and she was not ready to see the look of pain and disappointment in Alices face. Alice knew her well and would blame her for everything even unintentionally. She remembered how she hurt Alice when they dated and it made her feel really bad. All she could do was hope that Tina would let her take care of her and stay at the house until she had completely recuperated and they had a chance to talk. She didnt want to share their business with their friends until they knew for sure what they were going to do. She knew her thoughts were premature and it was up to Tina to decide what she wanted to do, but she prayed things would go her way at least for now.

The doctor came in and gave Tina one last look before signing her discharge papers. Bette stayed out of his way, sitting in the corner until he was finished.

Okay, Ms. Porter, Ms. Kennard is being officially released into your care. Here are some instructions for the next twenty-four hours. Everything you need to know is contained here, he pointed to the paper, and should you require any additional information, you should contact her doctor.

Thank you. Thank you very much doctor, Bette extended her arm. Thanks for everything and I apologize for my rudeness. My emotions got the best of me.

Its okay. I understand how that can be. Now, if youll excuse me I have to check on my interns. He stated with a wink and half smile.

A nurse came back in and helped Bette put Tinas clothes back on, and eased her into a wheelchair. Ill push her to the door and you can get your car.

Car? *****, I dont have my car. I rode in the ambulance.

The nurse stopped in her tracks. Maam, Ill wheel her over here, she motioned to the waiting area. You can use the phone at the desk to call someone.

Can you sit with her until Im done?

The nurse smiled sweetly. Of course.

Bette picked up the phone and nervously dialed Alices number. Alice picked up on the first ring.

Bette? Alice didnt say hello. Is that you Bette? Alice asked sounding tearful.

Yes. Its me Alice. Listen, Im so Alice cut her off.

Is Tina all right? Tell me shes gonna be fine.

Bette inhaled then exhaled.

Yes. Shes gonna be fine. Before you say anything Al, Im sorry. Im really sorry. I know youre probably pretty pissed right now, but can we put that aside until later?

Silence! Alice was furious. Not just because of what Bette did, but for not calling her sooner and letting her know what was going on. She paced the floor leaving Bette on the other end to suffer for a minute.

Alice? Alice are you there? Bette yelled through the phone.

Yes. I just needed a moment.

Okay, but I need a favor. Can you please put your anger with me aside for Tinas sake? I need that from you right now.

What is it?

I dont have my car and theyre ready to release Tina. I rode in the ambulance to the hospital. Can you come and get us and take us back to our place?

Yeah, Ill be there. And before you ask, no I havent told anyone else. Youre lucky though, I almost called Dana before I saw the police officer and read the report.

Thanks Alice. See you soon.