Story 5: Blueprints to Reconciliation (Sequel to Anatomy of a Breakdown)

            The sound of a crying infant shock Bette and Tina out of restful slumber. Bette rubs her eyes and places a hand on Tina’s back before getting out of bed to retrieve Angelica. She lulls and soothes the baby before sitting in the rocking chair to feed her. The soft light of the moons glow illuminates their bedroom she glances over at Tina and smiles. Her life had changed dramatically in the last few months. Her heart continues to be overwhelmed by love and joy. She looks down at her daughter as she drinks her milk.

            “I love you.” She whispers. The sound of Bette’s voice makes Tina stir a bit.

            “Babe?” She reaches across the mattress feeling a cold spot where Bette would normally be. She rises slowly blinking the sleep from her eyes, she turns to see Bette feeding Angelica.

            “Sorry I woke you T.”

            “No worries babe. You should’ve woken me. I know you have an early class tomorrow.” She gets up from the bed and walks over to her two favorite girls. She kisses Bette softly before placing a kiss on Angelica’s forehead.

            “I wanted to spend some time with her before I had to go to work.”

            “Are you ready for your first day?”

            “I think so. It’s going to be different for sure. What time is it babe?” She looks up at Tina.

            “About 4:30… Come to bed.”  She places her hand on Bette’s back and encourages her to rise from the rocking chair baby in arm. They make their way to the bed.

            “She’s so beautiful T.” Tina runs her fingers through Angelica’s hair.

            “She really is.” Tina smiles at Bette. “Babe why don’t you try to get a little more sleep and I’ll put Angie back to bed.”

            “Okay.” She hands the baby over to Tina and snuggles into the warmth of their bed. As soon as her head hit’s the pillow her eyes are closed. Tina cradles the baby allowing her to finish her bottle. She looks down at Bette before getting up to tuck Angelica back into her bassinette.