Their bodies stilled, their needs fulfilled, they rested in a warm embrace as the suns rays flickered through the cracks between the curtains in the room they shared, in the house that was their home, as they strove to build their family.
_______________

Im going to head out to the Planet right now, then we can head off to work from there, okay? Bette suggested as Tina was just getting out of the shower.

Sounds good babe, I wont be long, Tina agreed. They rarely took separate cars anywhere anymore, but with Tina back to work this week, it had become a necessity.

What would you like me to order for you?

Whole wheat bagel and a non-fat caf au lait, please Tina requested as she towelled off quickly.

It will be awaiting your arrivalas will I, Bette finished her sentence and kissed Tina quickly before making her way out the front door.
____________

And youre okay with Tina going back to work? Alice asked, a bit surprised that Bette was taking this news so well.

Of course Im okay with her going back to work. I wasnt particularly pleased with how I found out she was going back to work, but wetalked that out this morning. Bette replied. She couldnt keep the grin from curling up the corner of her mouth as she spoke.

Oh you talked that out did you, Alice replied as she rolled her eyes in Danas direction. Honestly, sometimes its a ***** miracle you can hold down a job with as much time as you two spend in bed

***** is an important part of a healthy relationship, Alice, Dana interjected.

Yeah well these two must have the healthiest relationship in the world then, Alice responded. Itll be interesting to see what happens when that baby comes along.

Shane, Dana waved at Shane to get her attention as she made her way into the restaurant.

Hi guys, let me just get my coffee and Ill be right over, Shane sauntered up to the counter and tilted her sunglasses up onto her head as she ordered her double shot of espresso.

Oh perfect timing, Bette said. The server placed their breakfast order on the table just as Tina was walking towards them.

Tina, its been a long time since weve seen you dressed to take on the corporate world, Dana said. Congratulations on the job, Alice told me the news.

Oh she did, did she Tina threw a glance in Alices direction.

What, I told her this morning, I didnt know it was a secret Alice started.

Its okay, Alice, we have already discussed the issue, Tina ran her hand down Bettes back as she took a seat beside her. Its only until the baby is born, then Ill be back home full time again.

Bettes eyes took in Tinas appearance. It would take her more than a day or two to become accustomed to seeing Tina in anything more than casual wear, and her silence betrayed what she was thinking.

Earth to Bette, Alice said, snapping her fingers to gain her attention.

Bette looked over at Alice, aware she had been distracted by Tinas presence the moment she arrived.

Sorry she began. Then she paused before continuing No actually Im not sorry, I have a hot looking wife and I was staring at her, Bette then uncharacteristically wrinkled her nose at Alice and put her arm around Tinas shoulder.

Shane had witnessed the exchange and had to comment.

Were all just jealous of you two, you know that, she slouched down onto one of the remaining chairs at the table and blew over the top of her coffee. And TinaI have to saynice, very nice! Shane not so subtly looked Tina up and down as she spoke.

Shane! Bette said sternly, but with a hint of amusement, as Tina blushed lightly.

Shane laughed. God, Bette, its so easy to get a reaction out of youits not even a challenge

Am I that predictable? Bette asked, of no one in particular.

YES, everyone responded in unison, and then they broke into the laughter that friends share, that came about as a result of gentle teasing that is not merely tolerated, but welcomed from a true friend.

The light banter continued as the day stretched out before them. Each woman knew that though personal circumstances change and aspirations evolve, the support they found in this group would remain constant, and that this was as much their family as anyone related by blood. Though it was unconscious, they all felt comforted by this fact and faced their futures with confidence.



(Thanks again for reading. Peace.)