Tina awoke early and had coffee with her mother. She felt groggy and melancholy from the emotion evoked by her memories the night before and the fitful sleep that followed. By contrast, Diane was cheerfully moving about the kitchen and chatting.
Well probably get up there around dinner time. The weather is supposed to be clear so we can have dinner and stroll around. Oh youre just going to love it, honey.
Mmmm was all Tina could reply. Her mothers enthusiasm about their getaway to Taos hadnt penetrated Tina yet. She should be excited because Taos was a place she had wanted to visit for a long time. Bette had been there several times and told her about the beauty of the town and the mountains and the incredible art scene. Bette was weighing on her mind this morning; there was no denying that.
Dianes voice brought her back. Wayne will be in around one, I think, and Ill be home by three and we can get on the road soon after that, OK?
Ok. Are you sure Wayne wont mind us leaving him right away.
Oh trust me honey, hes going to be thrilled to have the place to himself to sleep and putter around and get over his jet lag. Then, when hes all chipper and just starting to feel lonely, well be home!
Tina had to smile at her mother. She could see contentment in her now that shed never seen before. Diane was so comfortable with herself and her life that her joy radiated out from her. Suddenly Tina felt a rush of envy and insecurity. She wanted to stay here forever, basking in her mothers happy glow and being protected. Yeah, thats realistic, she thought.
After Diane left, Tina fought the urge to crawl back into bed and not get up. Instead, she stood up and called the dog, who trotted happily to her side.
Lobo, are you up for another run? Tina said.
He wagged his tail in response. Great, lets do it.
On the way home from their run, Mary pulled up in her truck.
Good morning.
Tina smiled.
They made some small talk until Mary said. Would you like to come in for some coffee? Or, no, um – water – or whatever youd like.
Tina smiled again at the sweet awkwardness of the invitation. She wasnt sure shed be good company this morning, but she felt like she needed some.
Yeah, that would be nice.
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Bette was awake before the sun rose. Her mind was at work on a plan. A plan to climb out of the hole she fell into last night and another plan of what to do when she got back up to the surface. She rose quietly and dressed for her drive home. She left Kit a note of thanks and a promise to call her later.
Outside the air was still cool and the sky was showing just a hint of light. In her rumpled clothes from the night before she felt like somebodys one night stand or worse, a *****. Jesus, she muttered. She needed to get home, have a shower and some coffee and get to work. She drove with purpose and speed to her destination.
Less than an hour later she was unlocking the front door to the CAC. It was rare for her to be here so early and she turned on only one bank of lights and locked the door again behind her. In her office she settled into her chair, popped open her laptop and sipped her coffee as she searched for spas in New Mexico. Later she would, tear through her e-mails and work phone calls and set up a chain of command for her absence. Sometime this morning she would speak to Franklin and tell him not to expect to see her for a while. Oh, and she needed to make an important phone call to Edward. She hadnt spoken to him in a long time, but he knew just what Tina would like.


Ah, Taos Mary said enthusiastically. The energy up there is amazing.
Energy?
Yeah, I dont know how to describe it, but theres just a feeling up there. Some people think its spiritual, I dont know. It can be energizing or healing if youre open to it.
Sounds good Tina said, lowering her eyes.
Mary wasnt sure how to respond so she just kept quiet for a moment. Tina was still looking down and seemed to be lost in thought. They were sitting on the patio of Marys house and the morning sun was shining on them. Tinas hair was pulled back into a ponytail and her skin had a slight glow from the exertion of running. Mary was captivated by her guest, but tried not to be too obvious. Finally she said, The art scene in Taos is really vibrant and varied, but you probably know about that already.
Tina looked up. She really didnt want to get into the role that art played in her life right now but Mary continued.
I mean I think Diane told me that your partner owns a gallery.
Tina inhaled sharply, She used to.
How little can I say and not seem rude? Tina wondered.
Mary sensed that she had touched a sensitive point and didnt want Tina to feel uncomfortable.
Oh, I see. Soooo, do you have any special plans for the trip?
We dont have any plans, Tina said, relieved to be able to talk about something else. Or, I should say I dont. My mother may have some that I dont know about.
Mary smiled, Your mother is so great. I feel lucky to have her next door.
Thanks, I think shes great too.
Mary took a deep breath and folded her hands together. Her cheeks filled with color. I went through a difficult time last year and your Mom was a good friend to me. Im very thankful to her.
Tina looked up and into Marys eyes, which were soft with emotion. She vaguely remembered her mother saying something about Marys relationship breaking up.
Oh, I Suddenly new emotions invaded the conversation and Tina was disarmed. She realized that Mary had been to this place where she was now – this landscape of heartache Tina was trying to navigate. She knew her words were hanging in the air. Im sorry Im glad she was helpful
Tina, did I say something to upset you? Mary said quickly.
No, no you didnt. Tina felt her chest tightening. Um Im sort of in transition now and I came here to try to figure some things out. Her voice began to waver. And my mother has been amazing so I understand what you mean. She exhaled for what seemed like the first time since she started speaking.
Mary reached across the table and touched Tinas hand lightly. It sounds like youve come to just the right place.