Meanwhile, while the little tryst went on in the bedroom, Bette and Tinas party was winding down. Just after they walked the last guest to the door, they heard a hesitant knock. Thinking it was someone whod left something behind, Bette opened the door expectantly, unprepared for the sight that was about to meet her astonished eyes.

There, on her doorstep, stood Candace Jewell, clutching a bouquet of wildflowers.

Bettes mouth fell open in shock and she just stood there gaping. I thought I told you to stay the ***** away from me, she finally managed to gasp out.

Before Candace could reply, Bette heard Tina come up behind her. Who is it, honey? Did someone Tinas voice trailed off as she saw who stood on the doorstep. Tinas usually calm demeanor evaporated as she stepped forward threateningly. What the ***** are you doing here? She whirled, turning her anger toward Bette. Did you invite her?

Candace answered for her, No, she didnt. Please, let me explain. I came to apologize. I know you dont want to hear this from me, but I feel so guilty for coming between you two and nearly ruining your marriage. Dont blame Bette for what happened, Tina. It was all my fault. I just wanted to apologize before Ileft. Tomorrow Im leaving to move to San Diego, and I just couldnt go without getting that off my chest. Whether or not you accept my apology, I hope you can find it in your heart to one day forgive Bette for her horrible lapse in judgment. These are for you, she said, thrusting the flowers toward Tina almost shyly. Tina accepted them wordlessly.

I wish you two the best of luck, Candace said softly, and then turned to leave.

As she walked away from the house, Tina found her voice. Wait. Candace paused and turned around expectantly. Thank youI think. That tookcourage.

Candace nodded silently, then turned and melted into the shadows of the dark night.

Bette closed and locked the front door in shock, leaning against it. Tina looked at her thoughtfully before saying, I will never like that woman, but I must admit, that took guts. And Bette, I really am beginning to forgive you. However, though I may forgive, I will never forget. Remember that.

Bette turned to her with a tentative smile, and they embraced lovingly, nearly smashing the flowers between them. Come on, lets go put these in water, Bette told her.

Walking past the guest bedroom, they both paused when they heard a throaty groan travel through the door. Tina put a hand over her mouth, trying not to giggle, as they listened at the door for a moment, hearing more pleasurable moans coming from within.

Whos Alice in there with? Anyone we know? Tina whispered.

I dont know, but they sure do seem to be having some funsome LOUD fun, Bette hissed back, taking Tinas hand in hers. Smirking, they deposited the flowers in a vase in the kitchen and went to get in bed.

They lay together, cuddling in the darkness, Bette holding Tina tightly as they hovered on the edge of sleep. Suddenly, they heard a loud thump and a moan.

Damn you, Alice, Bette whispered in frustration, pulling a pillow over her head. Tina laughed and rummaged in the bedside table until she found two sets of earplugs, which finally allowed them to drift into a peaceful, contented sleep.