The sound of Emilys sobs broke through Bettes reverie and she automatically moved forward, held out her arms and gathered these two precious people into a comforting embrace.

She looked at the tears in Tinas eyes and all she wanted to do was kiss them away.

Bette held them close, murmured soothingly into their ears.

And as they stood huddled together in the corridor the heavily-sprung door of Bettes apartment inched closed until it finally locked with a loud click.

Bette lifted her head but it was too late the door was shut *****.. were locked out. she muttered.

Bad word! Emilys said and clamped her hand over Bettes mouth.

Tina was unable to suppress the smile which tugged at her lips.

A chuckle started deep in Bettes chest.

And suddenly the tension of their first meeting was broken.

The absurdity of the situation hit them both and they rocked with laughter; companionably sliding down the wall and sitting together, tears of mingled relief and hope streaming down their faces.

Emily stood in her mothers arms, a little scared by these crazy adults who were laughing and crying at the same time.

Bette watched the puzzled frown form on Emilys face, watched as Emilys bottom lip started to quiver and her laughter died into a small chuckle.

She had a sudden urge to hold this beautiful little girl so she eased her long legs across the corridor and held out her arms encouragingly Hello Emily.

Emily looked from Bette to her mother and when Tina nodded she moved towards Bette and crawled onto her legs.

She looked carefully at Bettes face and when curiosity won out she lifted her hands and ran them gently over Bettes skin and into her hair Like Emees she said intrigued by this person who looked so much like her.

Bette draped her arms loosely around Emilys back and patiently waited while Emily explored her face. She playfully bit Emilys finger when it went into her mouth, making Emily laugh out loud.

Tinas smile grew brighter as she watched them together.

She was amazed at how easily they seemed to be bonding; surprised that Bette, whod always been a little uneasy around children, seemed to somehow just know what to do to amuse Emily.