2

Bette watched proudly as Tina made her way to the dais with the other people being honored tonight. God, Tina looked fabulous! Pregnancy really suited her, and the thought of her carrying THEIR baby? Well, it was quite a turn-on. Then again, Bette had been buzzing all evening, *****, shed been on a high since their illicit little liaison the other day. Wow-ee!

She wondered how long she would have to wait to grab a word with Tina tonight. Bette had already been mulling over where to take Tina on their date. Somewhere flashy? No, Tina wouldnt be impressed by expensive when she had Miss Moneybags at her beck and call. Somewhere romantic? Hmm, might be a bit presumptuous and Bette wasnt keen to get her face slapped again. Maybe that art show she was going to on Friday. OK, so not the most impressive date, but she wanted to involve Tina in her life, and art would always be a big part of it. Then again, knowing Tina these days, she probably had it all figured out.

Bette was unfamiliar with the role of the pursued rather than the pursuer. But for another chance with Tina, a chance to be a family again, she was prepared to do anything. It made her think of Candace for a moment. She had been Candace’s prey, in a way. Powerless or unwilling to resist. Bette would always view that as a weakness – a fatal weakness. But somehow it felt right for Tina to be setting the pace this time.

She caught Tina’s eye as she applauded along with the rest of the audience. Tina was definitely giving her that look. The one that she used to know signified that Tina meant business in the bedroom. Tina rarely took the aggressor role in ***** during their marriage, but when she did, it had always been totally mind-blowing. Bette kicked herself mentally for not allowing her that role more often. What a total idiot she had been, in so many ways.

Finally, the formal part of the evening was over, and everyone mingled, making connections and saying the right things to the people with the money – people like Helena ***** Peabody. Fortunately, Helena was popular tonight, so Bette could make her way to where Tina was chatting with some boring looking business men.

Tina sensed her presence almost straight away, and smiled in her direction, trying to escape tactfully. Soon, the small talk ended, and Bette could approach.

“Hey” she said quietly. “Congratulations T, I’m so proud of you.”

Tina smiled. “Thanks Bette. It means a lot to me to have you say that.”

They stood there looking at each other for a moment. Finally, Bette couldn’t hold it back any longer.

“Did you mean it Tina? About..us dating?”

Tina’s smile faltered a little

“Of course I did Bette. Did you think I was just teasing you or something? I’d really like us to spend more time together. I can’t make any promises, but…”

“No, that’s OK T, I understand,” she interrupted, very large grin back on her gorgeous face. “Listen, I know it’s not a terribly romantic date, but I’m at the surrealists show at the Getty on Friday. Would you come with me?”

Tinas face fell as she saw the thinly disguised eagerness in Bettes expression.

“Oh Bette, I’m sorry, but I’m already going to that show with Helena.” Tina said apologetically. Bette tried not to grind her teeth. “But how about dinner on Thursday?”

“Sure, that’d be great. Erm, how about that Mexican place off Sunset?”

“Oh I don’t know Bette, spicy food doesn’t really agree with me right now, ” Tina laughed patting her stomach. “Giorgio’s?”

“OK, shall I come pick you up? Say 7.30?”

“I’ve got a better idea, why don’t I pick YOU up,” Tina replied, “That way you can have a drink and not have to worry about driving.”

Always so considerate thought Bette dreamily. Or was it just Tina wanting to be in control of things? Maybe it wasn’t just a kind gesture on Tinas part, it was her not wanting Bette to have the power. Or maybe she was over analyzing.

“Do you want me to book us a table?” she asked.

“OK, and I’ll see you at 7.30.” Tina could see Helena watching her and Bette. Helena was no fool, and Tina knew their flirtatious smiles were a giveaway. She’d have to have that talk with Helena. And soon.