Before the kiss could escalate, Bette pulled back once again, but kept her hands where they were, stroking her hips through the fabric of her jeans. Tina looked into her eyes. What was Bette thinking? She didnt look regretful. Bette didnt seem the type to apologize for a kiss, although, Tina was a little surprised to realize, neither of them had said a word for some minutes.

She felt Bettes fingers stroke across her cheek, gently, soothingly. There was a buzzing noise in Tinas ears, probably her brain shaking from the intense feelings racing around up there, she thought.

It was such a perfect moment, and Tina wanted to savour it. She had no idea where it was leading, but she had no regrets at all.

I should go, she broke the silence, but accompanied her words with a warm smile. She didnt want Bette to think she was running scared. No doubt that would come later.

Can I call you? Next week? Bette asked quietly, intensely.

Id like that, she had replied before floating out of the gallery and back to her car. She hadnt come back down to Earth for a while.

As Tina sat, bored by Erics tales, she wondered if she actually had yet.

Over 24 hours, and she hadnt regretted her actions once. Not even when looking across at the ever-faithful Eric. He was nice, comfortable, and he liked her. But his kisses had never had the effect that Bette Porters had. Her heart didnt leap at his touch.

Listen Eric, I need to talk to you, she cut into his story abruptly. Iwell, I think Ive met someone, and well, I have to be honest with you, I want to see how it might develop. Eric looked stunned. So I think you and I should take a break.

Tina wondered if she was crazy. Her mother would certainly think so. She adored Eric, and had encouraged Tina to marry him. Tina had no idea if this thing with Bette would turn into something more, but she knew she had to be free to try. Tina didnt believe in cheating, and so letting Eric down gently, but swiftly was her only course of action.

What? Youre breaking up with me Tina? He looked more astonished than annoyed. Tina couldnt blame him. It had come out of the blue for her too.

I’m sorry Eric, youre a great guy, but we both know this wasnt going to last forever. She patted his hands, that were clenching and releasing a napkin in agitation.

Who is he Tina? Hmm, now he was sounding annoyed. Who are you cheating on me with?

Tina felt her own ire rise.

I havent cheated on you Eric, I just have really strong feelings for this person, and I want to be free to explore the possibilities.

Eric snorted in disbelief. Youre breaking up with me over someone you havent even fucked yet? Does he love you Tina?

This was NOT a conversation she felt comfortable with. Tina stood up, and gathered her purse and her coat.

Look Eric, you can think what you like, but I just wanted to be fair to you. I’m sorry, Tina said, before leaning down to give him a brief kiss on the cheek. The way he flinched away from her was not that surprising. She knew his rather large ego was bruised more than anything else.

As she headed out to find a cab, she wondered if she had just been incredibly stupid. She was taking a huge risk on someone who was definitely not a sure thing. However, as the image of Bette Porter appeared in her mind, she felt a little thrill of excitement run through her. Mistake? Maybe, but she was sure going to enjoy finding out.

Tinas thoughts returned to the present, and she realized she was home. And no nearer to a decision about what she wanted to do.