Bette woke up at six o’clock in the morning. She had to get out of here, back home, and then off to work. She got off of the sofa-bed, rubbing her sore back. She couldn’t understand how Helena could sleep there and not complain about it. Maybe she was just a better person than Bette was and it wasn’t like Helena had much else she could do. Bette would let her stay in her guest room, but she was sure Helena wouldn’t go for that. Especially now that she felt that Bette didn’t like her.

That was not true. She loved the way she felt next to Helena. She loved the air that surrounded Helena when she was around her. Bette changed quickly into the clothes that she wore the night before, folding the clothes that she borrowed from Alice into a neat pile on the sofa. She wrote a little letter to Helena and left it on Alice’s bed, where Helena was sound asleep.

Bette escaped from the apartment and found herself at her own place in less than thirty minutes. She took a quick shower and ate breakfast.

This is going to be a long fucking day. Bette thought to herself as she got into her car and drove off.

***

Helena woke up at eight o’clock. She felt a piece of paper, crumbled beneath her cheek. She pulled it away and straightened it, bringing it closer to her face. She read the letter aloud and smiled.

If you ever want to speak to me again, you know what to do.

Bette was romantic, without trying. Constantly, Helena wondered if Bette knew the effect she could have on a woman. Helena answered her own question: she probably did. Helena got out of Alice’s bed and cleaned herself and the house up. She sat on the couch, staring at the telephone, wondering if she should call Bette. Would that be too cheesy? Maybe she could show up at her job and see her in person. Would that be to pushy for Bette? Her contemplation was cut short by Alice as she walked in.

"Good morning, Helena."

"Morning."

"I’m glad to see you alive after spending the night with Bette."

Helena rolled her eyes, "We’re civil."