Tina felt a tear slowly move down her face feeling the love emanating from the woman sitting beside her.  This woman who held her heart and would be the only one who she would ever love this deeply. 

The car slowed as the women shared this private moment.  Bette looked up and smiled.  ”We’re here.”  She opened the door and slid out.  She reached out for Tina’s hand and helped her out of the car.  Tina looked up as Bette leaned in and spoke to the driver.  Showman’s Jazz Club Tina read the large white sign over head. 

Bette reached out for Tina’s hand as they walked into the club.  They were seated in the back in a private corner.  Tina saw the server remove the ”reserved” sign as she caught Bette staring while pulling out her chair.  ”You know everyone is looking at you,” Bette smiled as she kissed the top of Tina’s head.  ”You look amazing.”

Tina blushed, ”I think they are looking at you, my love, but I will take the compliment.” 

The two women listened, danced to the soft jazz and got lost in the conversation with each other.  They indulged in Soul food appetizers and drank more then they should have, all while absorbed in each other’s company.  After they had their fill of the old-fashioned style bar, Bette called for their driver to take them to their next destination.  As they headed out Bette commented about how the history emanated from the place while Tina looked at the portraits of music legends on the walls.

”Where next,” Tina inquired with a bit of excitement.

Bette smiled, as she opened the car door. ”Wait and see, my love.”

After a short drive, the car pulled up to the Gramercy Park Hotel.  Tina smiled as she knew this was Bette’s favorite hotel.  Bette led Tina towards the elevator as she had already checked into their room.  Bette slowly opened the door and guided Tina in ahead of her.  Tina’s eyes welled up as she looked around the room.  Red and white roses were everywhere as well as petals on the bed.  The room glowed from the candles that were lit and strategically placed.  Tina turned and looked at Bette who smiled with so much love in her eyes.  ”Happy Valentine’s Day.

PRESENT TIME

”Wow, Mom, that’s so cool.”  Angie smiled as she watched the smile come across her mother’s face.

”Yes it was a great evening for sure,” Tina smiled as she thought about what occurred after they had gotten into the room.  The very large tub, the vase of yellow roses sitting on the bathroom counter and the loving that took place that night.  ”Your Mom is very creative when it comes to planning dates and special evenings.” 

Angie smiled, knowing there was more to this story, but knew better than to ask.  ”Well mom, I am sure she has something planned for you tonight.  She told me to remind you to be on time to the Gallery Showing.”  Angie leaned in and gave her mother a hug.  ”Happy Valentine’s Day.”

Tina watched Angie walk out the door.  As she reached for her toast, she saw the card.  She opened it and smiled as she saw the broad strokes of Bette’s handwritten note. 

Tina,

I believe dreams do come true, because mine did when I met you and when you came back to me. I will love you with everything that I have till the day I die and when we unite in the heavens above, I will love you for eternity.

Happy Valentine’s Day my beloved.
See ya tonight.
B

Tina sunk into the bed bringing the card to her heart as tears began to fall. I love you too, my beloved, always and forever.