Bette reached in her bag and pulled out a worn pack of cigarettes. She looked over at Shane and offered her one.

Shane raised an eyebrow. I quit a long time ago, Bette.

Me too. Bette grinned. But I thought all rules were gone this week.

Shane shrugged and smiled as she took one and lit it with the car lighter. The windows were rolled all the way down and the wind blew all around them, cooling both of them off. The moon was bright and the sky was clear. Shane didnt know what to think of the late night pajama ride with Bette, but she kept quiet, letting curiosity consume her.

Talk to me Shane. Bette said, not taking her eyes off the road.

What do you want to hear?

Whatever you have to say. Im all ears.

Shane thought for a moment. I miss Fred.

Tell me about her.


***


Wear whatever you want. Fred said, tossing a shirt onto the bed.

You mean you dont care?

Nope.

So I could wear jeans with big rips in them and a tank top? Shane asked. She knew that Fred’s family was trying their best at accepting her as part of the family. Fred brought her to every family event and always introduced Shane as her partner. At first, Shane loved to try to do things to shock them and make them feel uncomfortable. But as time passed, she wanted Fred to be happy. Her family upset her at times, and Shane decided to do everything she could to make them accept her. And slowly, they started to treat her like family, and in return, Shane actually began to enjoy having people she could call family, though she would never admit it yet to anyone, including Fred. But Fred could always see right through Shane.

Fred shrugged, holding back a smile. Shane walked up behind her and wrapped her arms around her, tickling her stomach. They fell onto the bed laughing and poking each other. Shane lifted Freds shirt and kissed her stomach, blowing a raspberry on her.

You have such a cute little belly. Shane said as she kissed her again.

Me? Look at you. Youre the scrawny one. Fred laughed.

Youre different than just skinny. Look at how defined you are. See these lines here? Shane traced a finger from the hip bone sticking out down to her underwear. This is so attractive to me.

I think youre attractive too. Fred smiled.

Shane grinned and rested her head on Freds stomach listening to the noises inside.

What are you thinking? Fred asked.

Do you really want to know?

Of course.

Well. Shane began. To be honest, I was just wondering what you would look like pregnant.

Fred laughed. Fat? Swollen ankles?

Im serious! Shane sat up and faced Fred. Have you ever thought about having kids?

Shane, you know I have.

Well?

Well what? Are you saying you want to have kids with me?

Maybe. Shane looked Fred in the eyes. Maybe I do.

When?

Whenever you want. I want to have a baby with you. Were settled enough, you have your job and Im done with school now. Weve been together for quite some time and theres nobody else I want to share the rest of my life with. And that means I want a family.

Shane grabbed Freds hands and squeezed them, letting her know she meant every word that came out of her mouth. I mean, only if thats what you want. Youve said before youve always wanted a baby. But we can adopt or something.

Fred shook her head and smiled, holding back tears. Shane reached over and tucked some hair behind Freds ears. You do want this, dont you?

You always could read my mind, huh? Fred joked.

And nobody else. Shane kissed Freds hands. So, what do you say?

I think we need to get ready to go or well miss the ceremony.

Your brothers third wedding can wait. Shane grinned. Now tell me what you think about everything I just said.

I want a baby with you. So lets do it.

Shane tackled Fred again on the bed and kissed her belly, giggling. After playing like kids, they reluctantly dressed and barely made it to the ceremony where they held hands and grinned, knowing they both had a secret.


***


You sure have settled down and mellowed out over the years. Bette said, parking the car.

Shane shrugged. Doesnt everyone at some point?

Usually, I just never imagined you doing it. And school? I never knew you went to school. Good for you.

I thank Fred for that. She got a great job and practically supported both of us while I struggled through classes.

Im glad you found Fred. Id like to meet her some time.

You should come down after the babys born.

I might take you up on that.

Shane looked out the window. What are we doing here? You and Tinas old house?

Bette nodded. Feel like getting your hands dirty?