“Probably not. But I can’t think of a thing.” The two women shared their first laugh together and Bette thought for the first time that maybe Melinda was a good match for her brother.

“‘This is the Modern World’ huh?” Bette asks Melinda looked at her skeptically.

“What?”

“The record you’re playing.” Bette says looking over at the player. “Or were playing. It seems as though this side is over”

“Oh, shit.” Melinda took the headphones off and turned the player off. “I was bored and it was the first record on top.”

“It’s his favorite at the moment. That’s why I thought he was home”

“I understand. No, I just thought that I would listen to his music while he wasn’t here. I want to understand his tastes, but he gets so irritating when he’s describing chord progression and band history. I just want to hear for myself if it’s good or not.” Bette nods in understanding.

“It’s a family trait.” She laughs. “I’m that way about art pieces and he and Kit are rabidly enthusiastic about music. It can be a bit much.”

“But what’s the point? Is he going to do anything with this knowledge? He’s going to be a doctor.”

“Well one should have many passions, not just with our chosen profession.” She says simply.

“I don’t know, Bette. The way he talks about music sometimes, it seems like he would rather be roadie, than a doctor.”

“Hey.” Bette says putting her hand on Melinda’s knee. “He is obviously made space in his heart to be utterly passionate about you. I mean he doesn’t talk about music nearly as much since he met you.”

“Really?”

“Really. He’s just an intensely focused guy.”

“Ok. Wow, that was pretty good. Thanks for the pep talk.”

“No problem.” Bette replies suddenly realizing that Melinda took a different position and is now shoulder to shoulder with her. She also in this moment realized that her hand was still on Melinda’s knee. She quickly removed it. “Sorry about that. Habit.”

 “Bette it’s ok. We’re going to be family. You can put your hand on my knee in times of comforting. Here.” She says placing Bette’s hand back, albeit above her knee, settling on her thigh. “Can I get some of that blanket? It’s getting cold.” She didn’t wait for Bette to reply, instead grabbing on end and wrapping it herself.