Bette and Tina continued to sit on the sofa, holding each other, neither one moving. They listened to each others heartbeats, felt the life flowing between the two of them.

Tina felt Bette begin to pull back a bit, and so she moved away a little as well, but kept her arms around her neck.

Tina looked at Bettes face in order to see what her expression would say. She did not see much of one at all though, just Bette looking back at her, waiting to see where this would go next.

As they remained seated, Bette looked at Tina and said, T?

Hmm? was her only reply.

You know what I was thinking?

Actually, no. I can safely say that I have absolutely no idea what you were thinking she chuckled to Bette.

We need a break.

WHAT? came Tinas shocked response. But I thought

Oh no, T, Im sorry Bette quickly said. From this, I mean from all of this she said as she waived her arm around the expanse of the apartment.

We have been in this apartment for hours now, and I think that we should get out, go get some fresh air, maybe have a glass of wine somewhere? I mean, its only 3:30. We should try to salvage part of this day, right?

The relief that flooded Tinas face upon hearing Bettes explanation was visible and not missed by Bette.

Ok Tina chastised herself. I dont need to start jumping to conclusions every time that she opens her mouth. That could help absolutely nothing.

I would love to Bette she quietly responded.

I mean, dont you want a break from this? asked Bette.

Bette, I am fine, really I am, but if you need some fresh air and a change of scenery, then lets do it. she replied in an encouraging manner.

Ok said Bette.

You know something that I do need though? Tina asked.

Whats that? responded Bette.

A shower!!! she claimed emphatically. So, what do ya think big boy? Got a shower a girl can borrow? she tried in her best Mae West impression.

Bette just looked at her and while shaking her head, said You cant possibly think that that was good can you? Please tell me that you cant? she repeated.

Tina, with an expression of mock hurt and anger said, Who are you kidding? You wouldnt know a good impression if it bit you in the butt Tina laughed.

That may be the case said Bette, but I feel pretty confident that my rear end is safe, at least from that impression.

Ya never said anything. Is that a yes? she continued in her Mae West.

Oh my God Bette said as she shrew her hands up in the air. Anything! Anything to get that to stop!!!

They both laughed at the interchange, and for the first time, Tina noticed that the smile actually reached Bettes eyes. It was not the overpowering smile and laughter from Bette that always managed to bring Tina to her knees, but it was a start.

Bette stood up and reached her hand down to offer Tina assistance. She quickly took it and stood directly in front of Bette. The playfulness lingered in Bettes eyes, and Tina reached out to run her finger across her forehead. Her finger trailed down her cheek, allowing it to trace just beneath Bettes bottom lip. Tina flattened her hand on Bettes cheek and just rested it there. Neither moved, neither spoke. There was no need.

With a sigh, Bette said I think that you mentioned something about a shower, Ms West?

Tina dropped her hand and laughed.

I guess I did she replied.

Bette turned Tina around so that her body was now facing the bedroom.

After you Bette said.

Tina looked over her shoulder and with a smile on her face said, I certainly hope so.