“Okay.”

“Good. After the first five sessions I want to bring Tina in for couples therapy.”

“Okay, I think she will agree to that.” Bette hoped.

“Good… Well, even under these circumstances it was very nice to meet you Bette Porter. Should I schedule you for the same time next week?”

“Yeah, the same time will work. Thank you Melinda.” The two women shook hands.

Bette finished packing her things and headed for the front door of the CAC. She checked her cell phone again to make sure she hadn’t missed Tina’s call. It had been over two hours since her appointment. A small part of Bette wished that Tina had called right after. Tina knew that her appointment was at 2:30pm. Bette had been waiting for the call ever since. She hadn’t talked to her since Saturday and really wanted to hear her voice. It made her sad to think that Tina may not be as anxious to hear her voice.

She spent the drive home thinking more about her therapy session. Melinda told Bette that part of winning Tina’s trust back was being held accountable for all of her time. She needed to make Tina feel safe. Melinda explained that if she worked late she should let Tina know where she was and offer a number where she could be reached at any time. Bette didn’t have a problem with that. She had nothing left to hide and would do whatever it took to win Tina’s trust and love back.

As Bette turned onto her street she wondered why Tina hadn’t called yet. She fought the urge to pick up the phone and call Alice’s apartment herself.

When the house came into view she saw something in the driveway that made her heart do a small flip and land on her stomach. Tina’s car.

Bette pulled her own car into the driveway and quickly gathered her briefcase and purse. Her heartbeat quickened as she briskly walked to the front door. She unlocked and opened it, looking around.

“Tina?”

No answer.

Bette set her stuff down on the nearest table and started looking around the house. On the kitchen counter was a note from Kit.

Bette-
I made you dinner. Baked Ziti. It is in the oven. Please eat. I love you, Baby girl. I will call you tonight. -Kit