Why arent you friends anymore?

Were still friends. Its just that we live far away, right T?

Right. Tina said.

Why dont you live near each other anymore?

Well, I got a job out here and your mom found a job where you live now. Sometimes people like to travel to new places. Bette explained.

Did it make you sad to leave and never see my mommy again?

Bette looked down into Dakotas big brown eyes and was reminded of a Precious Moments doll. She had an urge to scoop her up into her arms and squeeze, smelling the innocence of a young child, breathing it in.

Yes, it made me very sad. Bette replied.

Its too bad you dont live near us. I like you.

I like you too, Dakota. Youll just have to visit me every time you come to New York, ok?

Dakota nodded and smiled. Were going to see the Lion King tonight.

Thats supposed to be a good show. Im jealous.

Mommy, can Bette come with us?

Tina looked flustered and stammered, caught off guard with the question. Bette challenged her with a stare, curious as to how shed answer. Um… sure I guess. If she wants to, but Bettes a busy woman.

Im free tonight. Bette replied.

Great. Tina said as she stood. Excuse me, I need to go to the restroom. Dakota, you have to go?

She shook her head and once Tina was out of earshot, Dakota talked to Bette quietly. Do you want to see something funny?

Ok. Bette said.

I have a plan for when mommy comes back. There was a twinkle in Dakotas eyes that looked like mischief to Bette.

What is it?

I cant tell you but youll find out.

Before Bette could pry more out of her, Tina returned and sat down. Bette noticed Dakota was fiddling with something under the table, but kept her comments to herself. She was curious to see what this little girl was up to.

So, what did I miss? Tina asked.

Nothing. Dakota quickly responded, smiling sweetly.

Tina raised an eyebrow as she looked over at Bette, but before she could say anything, her thoughts were interrupted by something under the table rubbing on her leg. She didnt think anything of it at first, but when it persisted, she finally lifted the tablecloth to look under the table. On the floor next to her foot she spotted a black snake, wrapped into a tight circle, its body coiled. Tina took a moment to suck in a quick breath before letting out a squeal. She pushed her chair back and jumped on top of it, causing a scene in the dining room. Her scream caught the attention of the waitress and in her haste in climbing onto the chair, she lost her balance and fell to the ground, scrambling to move as far away from the snake as possible.

When the waitress arrived at the table, Tina pointed towards the reptile, her finger shaking. The waitress prodded the creature and when it didnt respond to the touch, she bravely picked it up, showing Tina that it was fake. As the color in Tinas cheeks turned a bright red, she looked around the room and realized she was the center of attention as several chuckles were released. Bette covered her mouth, holding back a burst of laughter. When Tina looked over at Dakota, she was wide eyed, not smiling.

Dakota, do you know how that snake got under the table? Tina hissed as she pulled the chair back to the table and sat down.

Dakota shook her head, biting her bottom lip. This was something she did when she was lying, and Tina was ready to call her bluff.

Are you lying to me?

Dakota scrunched up her face and a smile broke out. Mommy, Im sorry.

Why would you do something like that?

I dont know. I thought it would be funny.

Tina looked at Bette who was laughing. Whats so funny Bette?

Watch out for the monster under the table, T. You never know when ***** strike again as long as you have this little one around.

Bette wrapped her arm around Dakota and Tina saw a strong resemblance between the two that it caused her to shiver slightly. The mischievous look in their eyes were one in the same, and Tina smiled despite herself, wondering where her daughter got her sassy behavior.

***

Sounds like you have your hands full. Dana said as Tina finished the story.

She is a feisty little thing, thats for sure. Tina replied.

That wasnt a regret, though, was it? Shane asked.

Bette glanced at Tina, wondering how she would respond. Something suddenly tugged at the corner of her heart, but she dismissed it, assuming it was nothing more than nostalgia.

No, I dont regret anything about that day. Tina replied, meeting Bettes gaze just for a moment before looking away, something inexplainable grabbing her heart as well.