At the same time Tina was leaving Bette’s place, Barbara had entered her kitchen to speak with her chef. Their conversation was easy, interrupted only by the shrill of the woman’s cell phone.  

“Barbara Grisham.”

“It’s Sam.”

She smiled. “Everything ok in D.C.?”

“The movers are almost done. We only have the living room left.”

“You do know there’s no rush, right?” the former senator implored.

The man squared his shoulders, hoping that would boost his confidence. “Would it be ok if I stayed an extra few days? I’ll be back by Wednesday.”

“That’s fine, Sam.”

By the time Barbara ended the call, the distinct roar of a Saab alerted her to Bette’s arrival. She smoothed her outfit absentmindedly and made her way to the door. Swallowing the little bubble of nervousness, Barbara leaned against the doorframe and watched Bette.

Even as she pulled into the driveway, Bette could feel herself relaxing. The conversation with Tina was a distant memory; she held on to the happy times. Quickly checking her makeup in the mirror, Bette exited the car under the watchful eyes of the former senator.

She offered Barbara a smile, focusing her attention on the woman. “Hey.”

“You look nice,” Barbara commented.

“I don’t hold a candle to you,” Bette grinned, leaning in slowly to plant a greeting kiss on her cheek.

“Practicing to be a politician, Bette?” Barbara moved aside to allow Bette in. She led them both to the living room, detouring to the kitchen to grab some drinks. “Lunch should be ready soon.”

Bette nodded. “Thanks for taking in a wayward dean.”

“The pleasure’s all mine,” Barbara replied huskily. The resulting laugh was music to her ears, disposing the last shred of nervousness between them.

“You do get brownie points for consistency.”

“I’m a politician; I do whatever it takes to get the job done,” Barbara said with a straight face.

“Whatever it takes?” Bette raised an eyebrow.

She chose not to answer Bette, offering the woman a knowing smile instead. With Bette by her side, it was easy to leave behind the ugliness of politics and just enjoy the day.