“She said we needed to get Tina here, so that’s what we did.  In the ambulance I—I knew it was bad.”  Tears started to fall from Bette’s eyes and Dr. Wilson moved around to her side, placing a welcoming and comforting arm around Bette’s shoulders.  “I don’t understand what happened.”  Bette Porter turned, broke down completely, weeping against Dr. Wilson’s chest.

“Bette?  Bette?” Dr. Wilson spoke softly into Bette’s ear.  “It’s going to be fine.  Dr. Zambrano is taking good care of Tina.  She will want to speak with you.  There are some procedures that she’ll want to do in the next hour or so.  You’re Tina’s Medical Power of Attorney and Dr. Zambrano won’t make any decisions regarding Tina’s health without talking with you and receiving your input.” 

“What kind of decisions?  Like taking her off of life support?  No, no.  She stays on life support,” Bette commanded.

“We’re not talking about anything like that, Bette.  Please trust me.  Tina is getting exactly the care she needs.”  The doctor raised her head and looked into Bette’s eyes.  “Have you spent time with that new baby of yours?  Angelica is quite a beauty.  I think she looks just like you.  If I didn’t know that biologically it’s impossible for you to be the other natural parent, I’d swear she was.  We’ll take care of your spouse.  Go spend some time with your baby.”  Dr. Wilson’s hand slipped to Bette’s back and she began to guide her down the hall.

Bette looked back at the window.  “Will you tell Tina I love her?”

“Of course.  Of course, I will.  She knows that.”

* * * * *

Tina drifted in an out of consciousness.  She knew she had delivered a baby.  A baby girl.  She had a vague memory of telling Bette the baby’s name.  What had she said?  It was on their list.  Angelica?  Yes, it had been Bette’s first choice and her fifth, but when the baby came, she was sure she wanted the baby to be Angelica.  Her angel.  Their angel.