“I’ve got to ask.  It’s been over a month.  Is this the end for us?  Should we be getting together to split up our things?”  Bette was trying to hold things together.  Her throat constricted and she couldn’t breathe.  Before Tina could answer, Bette started to cough, then gag.  She sat up, throwing her legs over the edge of the bed as she coughed and hiccupped until she was able to get her breath again.

“Are you all right?” Tina sounded anxious.

“Yes, fine.”  Bette paused, but she hadn’t forgotten her question.  “Tina, is this the end?”

“No, Bette, it’s not for me.  I do still love you.”

“You do?”

“I always will.  It’s just that I’m so scared.  It scares me that your life became mine and my life faded away.  I’ve got to find myself again, take my voice back.”

“I understand.  I’m changing, too.  The past few weeks have been…enlightening.  I want to prove to you that I can be different, more of what you want and need.”

“For how long, Bette? How long could you maintain such a change?”

“Forever, Tee.  I could be what you need forever.”  Bette heard Tina sniff and knew she was crying.  “Tina, I could be the woman you want forever.  I swear.  I want to hold and love you always.”

“It’s late.  I can’t even think straight,” Tina said stifling a yawn.  “We’ll talk later when we’re both awake and sober.”

“I’m completely sober,” Bette corrected.  “I’ll let you go.  I’m sorry for calling so late.”  Bette was quiet for a few moments and Tina waited, sensing there was more that her estranged lover wanted to say.  “Tee, when you close your eyes tonight, see me smiling at you and see all the love I feel for you in my eyes.”

“I will, Bette.”

“Goodnight.” Bette’s voice was low and husky from the late hour.  “I wish I could turn and kiss your soft cheek goodnight.  I love you.”

“I love you, too,” Tina said without the anxiety that had been in Bette’s voice, but the emotion was there and Bette was encouraged by that.

Tina was the first to disconnect.  Bette held the phone to her ear for long moments before flipping the phone back into darkness.