I asked questions but I didnt get any answers. Tina laughed. The first thing out of my mouth was, where have you been the last six years, Shane? You know how she is… brushed it off like it was no big deal. What is she up to?

I have no idea. She left six years ago and never came back. Ive barely heard from her since then.

Still as vague as ever, isnt she? Tina asked putting wine glasses on a tray.

Let me guess… youre talking about Shane? A familiar voice came through the kitchen door. Alice and Tina turned around and faced Bette.

Howd you guess? Alice asked, handing her two bottles of wine. They worked their way out to the living room with Dana who was sitting alone, flipping through a photo album.

Tina lingered behind a few steps watching Bettes figure take long strides as she walked, the same as always. At times, she thought if she closed her eyes, shed be back to the days before everything fell to pieces. When her eyes were open, she couldnt believe how much had happened in the last six years. Tina never thought shed be in the same room as Bette and their friends again.

***

Tina… Im leaving. Bette took a step up one stair on the front porch of Tinas new apartment, leaning on the railing as Tina sat in the porch swing looking up from a book she was reading.

Where are you going?

New York City. I thought I should tell you before I go. I know we havent been talking or anything but I wanted you to know and hear it from me instead of someone else.

Bette flashed Tina a weak smile in the early sun of the Saturday morning. She stopped by because she knew Tina would be awake. Predictability served Tina well as she sat cross legged, book in one hand, coffee mug in the other. Her hair was messily tied back and her ***** hung freely in her loose tank top.

Whats in New York? Tina asked.

A job. Actually its a gallery Im looking to start up with another woman who contacted me about a partnership. I leave tomorrow.