The letter had arrived two days ago from Barrett, Jones and Fenwick, the law firm that was representing. In Bette’s opinion they didn’t need lawyers to sort this out, they needed time, space and each other. Sadly Tina didn’t see things her way anymore. The letter basically informed Bette of what were supposedly the wishes of their client. Bette had visions of some slick man coercing Tina into agreeing to what he thought was fair and right. The more she got, the more he was going to make and it made Bette sick to see anyone profit from their misery.

Bette called Tina’s cell leaving a message telling her that lawyers were unnecessary and surely they could work this out if Tina would just come over to the house and meet. Tina called back and told Bette that she wanted to come over to the house but it wasn’t to talk.

“OK well how about Wednesday morning?” Bette offered.

“You’ll be at work?” Tina asked cautiously.

“That’s the plan” Bette responded.

It wasn’t a big lie but Bette felt guilty all the same. She knew that lying to Tina was a huge risk but these were desperate times and so she was forced to take desperate measures.

“I don’t want you there Bette” It was as though the blonde could read Bette’s mind.

“I know” Bette sighed, knowing that she was caught red-handed.

“I mean it, if you’re there…” Tina Started.

“Tina, I get it” Bette responded sharply, not wanting to hear any more. “I promise you that I won’t be there on Wednesday morning. I won’t get in your way.”

“OK” Tina responded softly, she was caught off guard again by Bette’s willingness to yield.

“And T?”

“Yeah”

“Whatever you want from the house, take it, it’s yours.” Bette said sadly

“I don’t think you’ll be too happy if I take your entire CD collection” Tina tried to lighten the mood

“Guilty feet have got no rhythm, I have no use for music” Was the despondent reply.

“Please don’t be like this” Tina sighed

“It’s just stuff Tina”

“But there’s seven years of memories in that house.”