Hows the show going Bette? Tina asked, feeling just a touch of tension in the silence that filled the car.

The strained look that came over Bettes features told her that it was probably not the best question.

Um, its ok. The usual endless problems, you know. Bette wondered whether she should say anything about Helena. If she was hoping for a relaxed evening, she might be better off keeping quiet. Unfortunately Tina didnt take the hint.

To give Tina her due, she was thinking that Bette probably needed someone to vent her frustrations with. She knew Bette and the way she dealt with work. Tina wanted to be supportive and allow her that release.

Problems? Whats wrong? She asked.

Bette pondered whether to be open with her about everything. Yes, the secret to a successful relationship was communication.

OK, here goes, though Bette with a slight frown.

Well, if you must know T, Helena is making my life a misery. Shes questioning me like Im a novice, pushing Franklin into being an even bigger ***** than usual, which is some feat. So hes jumping around like a little lapdog while Helena watches my every move. Honestly, every time I think about hiring contractors, I think hit man rather than carpenters!

Bette glanced across and saw Tinas lips pressed together tensely. Damn, why cant I just keep my big mouth shut, she thought.

I didnt realize she was taking such a hands on role, commented Tina. Is she really being so unreasonable Bette, or are you being bloody minded with her?

Bloody minded?! T, she made me spend 45 minutes explaining why the walls were blue today! I dont know whats going on, but this last week she has been like a ***** tax inspector, trying to find fault with my work. Its making me so mad because I know I cant even turn round and tell her to ***** off!

Tina looked even more tense. Bette thought she must be some sort of record breaker with Tina by now. How to ***** up a date v2.0 Lesson one, bad mouth her other girlfriend.

However, Tinas annoyance was not directed at Bette.  While she knew Helena disliked Bette intensely due to her friendship with Peggy, there was one big reason she could think of for Helena badgering Bette at work like that. She was getting her own back for the two of them dating. Tina was surprised Bette hadnt worked it out. Helenas behaviour was, sadly, less surprising.

Bette, I’m sorry you are going through all this. She sighed. Helenas mad at you, because..well…

Bette looked round in shock. Tina wasnt annoyed at her. Bette was a clever woman, it didnt take her long to join the dots, and then mentally slap herself on the forehead. Of course! How could she have missed it? Bette had been putting it down to Helena being a total ***** and not getting over the jealousy about her close friendship with her mother. Peggy had pretty much forced Helena into supporting the CAC financially. Helena had so many reasons to resent her; Bette had missed the most obvious one. Tina.

You really think thats the reason T? I thought she was ok with us dating?

Well, she SAID she was OK Bette, but I have a feeling Helena isnt used to sharing. Besides, you cant honestly tell me that youre happy with me dating her. Tina cast a long look across as Bette tried to keep her eyes on the road. She had resolved not to ***** about Tinas dating choices tonight. It wasnt her right anymore.

Im sorry Bette, Tina went on, this is all my fault. She looked sadly at the passing traffic, regretting the fucked up situation.

Bette was silent, unsure what to say to that. Yes, it was Tinas fault in a way. Juggling two girlfriends never worked. Bette had done it once years ago, and even though both relationships were very casual, it still turned out badly, with much acrimony all round. Still, it wasnt her place to tell Tina what to do.

Look T, lets just forget about it, just for tonight ok? I wanted this to be a pleasant evening out for us, and talking about Helena isnt on my list of relaxing topics of conversation. She grinned, wanting to ease the tension she could see on Tinas face.

It was Tinas turn to be silent. You have more thinking to do, she told herself. And no more avoiding the situation.