Tina looks concerned.  “Why does Bette have to be involved with that woman?”

Mel sees that Tina is a little jealous.  Tina’s afraid something might happen between them again.

Mel asks Tina, “Tina are you worried for Bette’s safety, or are you afraid they might get it on again?” …..   “Tina I’m sorry I didn’t mean anything by … (Tina interrupts Mel) “Bette told me about Terri.  I know what happened.  Don’t worry you’re not letting anything out of the bag.”  (Tina looks sad.)

Mel continues.  “Tina this is an ongoing investigation.  We still don’t really know what this is all about.  Terri plays a very important part here.  We have to do whatever it takes.  I promise you Bette will be protected.”  (Mel takes Tina’s hand.)  “Tina your private security will be here tomorrow morning.  Their names are Jeff and Tony.  Tina have a little faith.  Now go and comfort Bette, and Tina thank you for all your help.  I’ll call you later when I get some new information.  Now relax and have a good evening!”

***CHAPTER TWENTY***

Tina enters Bette’s room and goes and sits down on the sofa.  Patty is getting Bette settled in bed.  She is taking Bette’s temperature before she gives Bette her antibiotics for her wounds.  Patty notices that Bette is becoming agitated when she notices Tina.  Patty decides to give Bette a Valium too.

Patty arranges the phone and water pitcher on the table next to the bed.  “Bette if you need anything just use the buzzer clipped to the bed.  I’ll be at the Nurse’s Station.”  Bette smiles.  “Thank you Patty, I’m fine.”  Patty leaves the room.

Tina comes around the bed to Bette’s side and holds Bette’s hand.  “Babe I was so worried about you, how are you feeling?”  Bette is avoiding Tina’s gaze as she snaps back, “How do you think I’m doing?  The doctor’s harassed me for over three hours.  Tina why don’t you just leave?   I’m really tired.”

Tina let Bette’s sarcasm pass without responding.  Tina speaks again.  “Babe dinner will be here in about a half hour.  Just like you ordered.”

Bette ignores Tina’s comments.  “Tina did you get your AIDS test?”  Tina nods ‘Yes’ and says, “It wasn’t to bad.  It was just a blood test.  We’ll have the results tomorrow.”