Tina was struck by Bette candid speech. “Bette  ...”

“Tina, I don’t expect anything now. I expect that we are going to work on our friendship and let things progress. I am not pressuring you. I am merely going to remind you that I love you always! T  ...  I have and will always love you. I am so glad that you are back in our home, if only for the evening, it feels right and I hope you find comfort here.”

Tina had to look away as Bette’s loving eyes filled with tears. Tina heard the words but she was still having trouble believing them. Guilt is such a consuming emotion. Tina knew if she was to ever be able to rebuild her relationship with Bette, she would have to trust Bette’s truths and rid herself of her guilt.

The front door opened and Kit’s voice broke the silent bond in the kitchen between Bette and Tina. As Kit walked in, she sensed that she had interrupted something.” Wow, sorry girls, let me just make a hasty exit and give you guys a couple of minutes.” Kit turned to quickly leave through the door still open. She quietly closed the door as she went through it.

Tina looked at Bette who was trying to compose herself. “You alright?”

“Yes, please go let Kit in, I’m going to the bathroom to get myself together.” Tina walked toward the door and Bette disappeared down the hallway. Tina opened the door and Kit had sat down on the front step.

“So Miss Tina, what was you and the baby girl talking about. You looked all together and everything?”

“Kit, she told me that she loves me, that she has always loved me and that she was going to keep telling me that until I let it sink in.” Tina was still standing just to Kits side.

Looking up at Tina. “You know she is like that Tina. She is not going to let you slip away from her. She is a woman possessed when it comes to you.”

“Kit, I am not sure that this was a good idea.”

“Girl, this is the first step. You’re here, in this house, under the same roof. It is the first step. It will get easier. Let her love you Tina. It is not going to end everything that has happened to you both, but, let her love you. Her love is a powerful thing and you know that better than anyone. When you are loved by Bette Porter, girl, there is just nothing more complete than that.”

As Kit was saying that, Alice and Shane walked up the front walk. They had heard Kits conversation with Tina and Shane had something to add. “Tina, you are a lucky woman to have someone love you so much. So unconditionally.” Shane walked up the front step and gave Tina’s shoulder a soft squeeze as she passed her.