As Bette went over the proposal for the New York project and began to wonder if moving to the east coast would be a better place for her. It was far away from her now pained life in LA and it presented her with a fresh start and it was also an opportunity for her to be in the professional position she wanted to be inat the top! Her position at the CAC no longer meant much to her and she felt that her talents were being squandered and dealing with Franklin was not a favorable activity. At least if she was the one in charge, she would have the autonomy she craved. Being closer to Rayne wouldnt be so bad either.

Bette Porter.

Damn woman! Rayne shuddered, arent you ever just plain Bette?

Hey there! The sun conceded to the radiance of Bettes smile. I was just thinking about you. Bette was happy that she and Rayne had worked through their differences.

Rayne laughed. I hope that doesnt mean you have a headache now?

Hmm? Not exactly, but lets just say, if I were a man, I might, Bettes implication amused Rayne.

Oh, is that right?

Sure is, Scouts honor.

I think I like the sound of that, Rayne was sitting by the gurgling hot tub obviously full of wit and mischief. Got plans for this evening?

No.

Okay, you do now,” Rayne put her feet in teh water. “Come over around 6:00; bring a bathing suit and a couple changes of clothes. Cool?

Sounds delightful.

Okay, see you then.

Raynes decisiveness turned Bette on and she wished it were already 6:00. Oh God, how am I gonna get through the next few hours in this condition, Bette slid her hand between her thighs and squeezed hard. She has no idea what she does to me.

In shining armor
I never saw it coming, Tina sniffed. It was like I was listening to someone elses conversation, she continued. It was worse than getting sucker punched.

I know it hurts sweetie and nothing I say is going to make it easier or go away, but Im here for you if that means anything, Erics sympathetic tone soothed Tina and she stopped crying.

In two days, I lost the two women who meant the most to me outside of my mother, the tears started again.

Eric felt really bad for Tina. The last time they spoke, he thought things were on the brighter side and that she was moving in the right direction, but this was more than he could bear.

Tina, why dont you come to Texas for a long weekend?

What? Are you serious, Tina asked between sobs.

Yes, Im serious. It sounds like you could use some time away and I have more than enough room, Eric suggested, knowing he could use the company too.

Tina blew her nose and wiped her tears away. She felt like a blithering idiot for crying so much and thought about Erics suggestion.

Eric, your invitation is sweet, but do you really think you can put up with an emotional wreck like me?

Of course. I once dated you remember? Erics easy tone and infectious laugh made Tina laugh too. Now theres a pleasant sound, Eric encouraged. So, whatcha think? You gawn come? The gentle, acquired drawl was enough of an invitation.

Give me a second to look at my calendar, Tina put the phone down and then picked the phone up again. Eric, Tina Tina paused. If I push my meeting up by a day and reschedule an appointment, I think I can come out there this weekend. Or is that too soon?

Eric was elated. No, thatll be fine.

Okay, Ill plan to arrive Thursday late afternoon and stay until Monday midday. Are you sure thats good for you?

Yes, yes, stop worrying. If I cant pick you up, Ill send a car for you; you know Im good about that, Eric chuckled. Now, just try to get through the rest of the week without a breakdown okay?

Ill try. Thanks again Eric, you have no idea what a difference youve made.

Okay, so Thursday it is, just call me back with the airline info. I have to go now.

Okay.