“And you couldn’t have lost yourself with me?  Found comfort with me? We couldn’t have done that together?” Tina queried softly.  “I needed someone, too.”

“I didn’t think I could.  I was wrong.  But Tee, what you said at Tim’s is just about killing me.  Do you really believe that?”

Tina sighed before answering.  “No. I was angry and swept up in Tim’s rage.  Almost immediately after saying it, I regretted it.  I spent all evening thinking about that and wondering why I said those things.  I’m sorry you heard them and I know how that must have felt for you.  I hope you didn’t let those words consume your evening.”

“No.”

“What’d you do tonight?”  Tina asked in between a yawn as she attempted conversation.

“Nothing of any consequence,” Bette hoped she didn’t sound guilty.

There were a few moments of silence before Tina said, “I just can’t believe you of all people would do what you did.  I meant it when I said that I admired your conviction.  For you to travel down that path shocked me.  It bent me completely out of shape.  Bette, we were lovers, partners, friends.  We used to be able to talk about any and everything.  And didn’t we have a good ***** life?  Hadn’t I pleased you?  I mean, I know that maybe the ***** had become more occasional than you liked, but didn’t you like making love with me?  Why did you go to her?’

“I am so confused,” Bette sighed deeply.  “I have no idea what to say or do anymore.  There is nothing in my experiences that can explain my actions.”

“The ***** wasn’t good?”  Tina noticed that Bette hadn’t answered her questions.

“Oh, Tee.  You shouldn’t have to ask that question at all. It was wonderful.   I’m so lonely without you.  I need you so much.  This bed is empty without you beside me and my heart and soul are empty, too.”  Tina sighed, but said nothing.  Bette waited and finally she felt compelled to ask, “Aren’t you lonely?  Don’t you miss me?”

“I’ve been trying not to think about it, Bette.  It hurts so much when I do.  I’ve been spending long hours at the Center with Oscar, getting that ready, hiring staff, making sure our tax-exempt status is processed.  When I start thinking about us, I become immobile and shut down.  I’d rather keep busy.”