Gratefully, Bette’s stomach grumbling means I can focus on something else for a little bit.

“I see we have to feed you now.” I say letting her know I’m awake.

“I’m sorry, did I wake you?” She sound so concerned about this little thing. I hope she can see the smile that’s making its way to my face.

“How long have you been awake?” She asked me.

“Not sure. I guess when you started doing that.” Even though her thoughts are troubled and I know that we need to talk about that, this simple act is calming me to the point of almost falling asleep again.

“*****, I didn’t mean to wake you.” She starts to untangle her hands from my wild mane until I protest. We continue like this for a few minutes, again ignoring the huge pink elephant in the middle of the room. Might as well start slow.

“I love you Bette. More than I care to admit sometimes.” I know that came out wrong. Especially knowing that before she knew I was awake she was struggling with something. No doubt the idea/reality of us. Old subject, really, still for her really fresh. Maybe me too.

“I’m sorry, Tina.” For me loving her? For this whole mess that was last night? For making love to me? What? Again, better tread lightly, this could be an explosive conversation.

“Ha. You’re apologizing to me? I should be apologizing to you. After last night and this morning, you should be running for the hills.” She’s not laughing. Which could only mean that there’s no time for jokes. Ok, bring on the serious. Hopefully it won’t last too long.

“Why would you apologize for this morning, it was wonderful.” She looks down at me, trying to read my expression. Hopefully, it’s saying ‘please let’s be playful. Please lets’s let the drama and the theatrics of last night die right now.’

“Well should I start with the psycho best friend or the scratch marks running up and down your back?” I’m sure she sees me blushing a deep, deep red. In the bright light of the afternoon, I finally get a good look at those things. To say that my desire/passion/lust whatever was unchecked last night would be an understatement. I hope those don’t hurt to much.