“And that’s going to take time. This is not going to be easy.”

Julia reminded Tina that Bette had perfected protecting her heart for many years until she came along. Everything was great until this bump in the road derailed them both. Julia told Tina not to get frustrated but to love her through it and to give herself grace and Bette space.

Tina knew Julia was absolutely right. This was going to be hard.

Before they got off the phone, Julia reminded Tina that the only way to rebuild trust was to be completely open and honest especially with things she knew could possibly push Bette further away. Tina had to earn it back and that was going to be a long road but worth it in the end if they both allowed themselves to be vulnerable.

***

“I can’t believe it’s already time for you to go back. It has been a joy having you both here. Thank you.”

Bette smiled. She admired KiKi Smith even though she put her in a fucking awkward position. Bette knew KiKi’s heart was in the right place. She couldn’t fault her for trying to put love back together especially since she has been consumed with the layers of love for the past 10 years. KiKi promised she would tell Bette why after the show. Bette was going to hold her to it.

“It has been an adventure, KiKi.” Bette laughed.

“James will be back in a few weeks to get everything ready to ship. We have everything catalogued. The only thing we are waiting on is the feature piece you are working on. You are working on it, right?”

“Yes, Dear. And it is going to blow your mind. But you will not be returning with James?”

“No, he is very competent. He will take great care of your work.”

KiKi looked at James and he nodded. KiKi didn’t want to push the subject but she made a mental note to figure out how to get Bette back to Vancouver for the Love’s sake.

KiKi hugged Bette and told her that everything was going to be okay and for some reason Bette believed her.

Bette and James returned to the hotel to find Tina’s crew setting up for the shoot. She didn’t see Tina anywhere. Bette entered room 1445 hoping Tina would still be there while at the same time hoping she wouldn’t. She was glad Tina left a note.