Tina had reached the gate of her building wincing from the pain in her back and ankles she loosened her jacket and rubbed her swelling belly.  She was unaware of the approaching heels clicking on the sidewalk as she took her suit jacket before entering the building.

“How long?”

Tina jumped at the familiar intrusion and grabbed her chest in fright.

“I’m sorry I didn’t mean to scare you it’s just that I am looking at your belly in what appears to be a pregnant state.  Or am I being an assuming asshole?”

“What are you doing here?  How did you find me?”

“I think you need to answer my question first.”

“I’m really tired I’ve been on my feet since 6 this morning and I just need to get home and relax.” Tina’s exhaustion was apparent in posture and voice but Bette was relentless in her pursuit for answers but concerned for Tina’s health.

“Can we talk please?  There are some things that I need to say to you” Bette pleaded impatiently to the point where she sounded like she was whining.

 “Fine, but only for a little while I’ve got to get up early for work” Tina gave in.  She always gave Bette whatever she wanted.  She wondered if she would ever shake Bette off. 

 “Thank you” Bette tried to grab her brief case but Tina shook her off then opened the gate.

They made their way to Tina’s apartment which was thankfully on the ground floor.  Bette made a mental note of where she could find Tina.  In her mind she was hoping this would be temporary.  Tina opened the door and placed her purse and work bag on the dining table taking off her coat and resting it on top of them.  Bette just watched in amazement at how much Tina glowed.  Tina turned and caught Bette staring.

 “Can I get you anything to drink?” Tina asked after clearing her throat.

 “Um, water would be nice please” Bette needed this time to make things right with Tina.  She used the time it took Tina to get the bottled water from the refrigerator to think of an explanation for her mistake.  She couldn’t think of anything good enough.  Bette looked around the small 2 bedroom space and marveled at the beauty that surrounded them.