“Yes, I see what you mean, Alice,” Shane said pensively, “But how do you propose we find an answer to that question?”

“I’m preparing a romantic compatibility quiz. All the questions asked and answered would determine if Bette and Tina know each other and in love with each other, or they love each other as Elizabeth and Christina. Will you help me?”

“Why do you need their help, Al?” Tina asked, walking to the table with Bette, holding her hand. They both sat down and waited for Alice’s response.

“I…well…um…I have hair on my butt and we were discussing butt waxing.”

Place: Chapel Hill, NC – former Kennard house

Year: March 10, 2006

They finally arrived to Tina’s childhood home and stood before the front door for awhile as Tina was getting the courage to knock. An old lady opened the door and looked at the girls, adjusting her glasses.

“Hello…my name is Tina Kennard and I…”

“Christina, dear…you’ve grown so much since I saw you last,” Mrs. Parker interrupted her but seeing the confusion on Tina’s face added, “I was a friend of your grandmother, Lydia…I think last time I saw you, you were only nine or ten.”

“Are you one of those nice ladies who used to gather once a month for some afternoon tea and discussion with grandma Kennard?” Tina asked, recognizing something familiar in the old lady’s appearance.

“Yes, I was,” Mrs. Parker’s face brightened up. “You know, it actually started as a book club but gradually turned into a discussion club. We were talking about everything, from family problems and cooking recipes to politics and feminism. How’s Lydia doing? I haven’t heard from her in years,” she added, inviting them inside the house.

“Not that good,” Tina replied gravely, “She has Alzheimer’s and is living in Boston…she’s in the nursing home.”

“Oh, dear…” Mrs. Parker exclaimed, clasping her hands. Just then they heard the oven timer going off and she smiled, “Good timing, girls…would you like some fresh oatmeal raisin cookies with tea or lemonade?”

After the table was served, Mrs. Parker looked at Tina and asked, “So, dear Christina…what are you doing here and how may I help you?”

TBC…