A tense silence stretched for a few seconds, before Helena smiled a strained smile.

Tina, its fine. I mean, you havent dropped a bombshell or anything. After all,  its not like were exclusive. I just feel bad that you were under the impression that we were. She was not very good at hiding her feelings, Tina realized. She could see that Helena was hurt, but her immense pride and ego wouldnt allow her to show it.

So, you dont mind if I see other people?

Tina, youre a free woman. If you want to go back to someone who treated you so badly, its your decision, your choice. Helenas eyes had hardened for a moment, and were the coldest Tina had ever seen. She realized that her days of being spoilt and pampered by the rich English woman were numbered. Tina tried to decide which was stronger: Helenas affection for her, or her dislike of Bette. Probably – and sadly – the latter.

Shall we go? Helena signaled for the check and rose tersely from her seat.

Hey baby girl, how are you doing? Kit kissed her sister on the cheek. The Planet was busy, but not too crowded tonight, and her staff seemed to have everything under control.

Bette smiled wanly. She had found it hard to concentrate on anything today, and decided to seek some distraction.

Kit, Im fine. She smiled. I thought you might be out with Benjamin tonight. Isnt he coming in this weekend?

Yeah, Kit sighed, But not til tomorrow morning. Some unavoidable delay, you know?

Bette patted her sister on the shoulder sympathetically. Affairs with married men were never going to be easy.

Are you OK Bette? You look kind of washed out? Kit said, concerned at Bettes distracted look. How did Tinas reception thing go last night?

Bette perked up immediately.

Oh, it was wonderful! I was so proud of her Kit, standing up there with all these people. She looked beautiful. Bettes eyes had a faraway dreamy look that Kit knew well.

Baby Girl? What happened? Bette looked sharply at her sister. Kit had a knowing smile on her face.

What do you mean?