Bette leaned over and kissed Tina.

And that was for?

Its my way of saying thanks, too.

Tina pulled Bette closer and kissed her longer this time. Thanks for a nice time at the beach.

Bette brushed her lips against Tinas and kissed her. Thanks for a great picnic.

They were now standing so close their bodies were touching and they could feel each others breath on their faces. Their lips were an inch away from colliding.

I guess we could stand out here and thank each other all night, huh? Bette whispered.

Would you mind? Tina asked, barely able to breath.

Bette shook her head and kissed Tina again, holding on for a long time. Thanks for dancing with me at that funny little bar.

Tina looked at Bette and whispered, Thanks for coming to Provincetown this week.

Bette smiled. You took the words right out of my mouth.

Then put your mouth to better use. Tina whispered.

They kissed and kissed, no more thank yous uttered. Instead, they let their actions be all the thanks they needed to express to each other. The next morning, Tinas friends found her cuddled up on the large porch swing with Bette wrapped around her. They shook their heads and smiled, letting them sleep in peace before the hot late morning sun woke them.

***

I love that story. Alice sighed. Its so sweet. Thanks for telling it again. Brings me hope.

Now its time to sleep. Tina said.

One more thing, Tina.

Whats that?

If you had the chance to go back to that day, would you? If you had once more chance to make it all right?

Let me sleep on it and Ill answer in the morning. Tina replied, unwilling to comment.

Ill take that as a yes. Alice said.

Back in the living room, Bette and Shane were still chatting.

Man, that is the sweetest story. Shane said. I dont know how it didnt work out with you guys that week.

Me either, but not everything goes according to plan.

Thats true but how did you guys ***** it up so badly after that?

Bette shook her head. Sometimes life throws you curve balls and sometimes you shouldnt mess with the past.

You guys had *****, didnt you?

Bette avoided Shanes stares and looked away.

Totally. I can tell by your silence. Shane smiled. But before you continue let me say one thing. I agree that you shouldnt mess with the past, but when it comes to Tina… shes more than your past…. shes your now and future as well.

Bette rolled her eyes. You young ones so naive and full of false hope, especially when youre in love.

Sometimes you need us young ones to help you see whats right in front of you. You need a fresh perspective on things.

I already have a fine perspective on things.

Thats now how I see it. Shane replied quietly.