Shane smiled her thanks and uncovered the mouthpiece. “OK, I should be there in about 15 minutes. Tina, are you sure everything’s OK?”

“Yeah,” Tina’s whispered. “I’ll see you in a bit.”

When Shane had ended the call, she was surprised to find Bette still standing in the same spot. The raised eyebrow and the crossed arms told Shane all she needed to know about the state of Bette and Tina’s relationship.

“Uh, I’m gonna go talk to her,” Shane mumbled as she started toward the door.

“Hey Shane?” Bette’s voice stopped her trek. “She doesn’t need to distance herself from the group.”

“You mean…”

Bette held up a hand to halt Shane’s words. “We’re all adults. If she needs to see Angelica, all she has to do is call.”

Shane understood. She hurried in, explaining she had an emergency and bade everyone farewell. Taking Shay one side, they spoke quietly before the boy threw his arms around her in an excited hug.

“I’ll help watch her!”

“I bet you will. Now take care of both of them for me, OK?” Shane chuckled.

The room had gone quiet when Bette returned. Realizing they were not getting any forthcoming explanation from her, Alice peeled her attention away from Angelica long enough to start her witch hunt.

“So, where did our little friend go? Who called?”

“You never waste any time, do you?” Bette smirked, her expression faltering slightly when she thought of the caller. “It was Tina.”

Everyone’s shocked look was quickly replaced by an uncomfortable silence.

“What does she want?” Alice asked slowly, careful to keep her tone neutral.

“No idea. Said she wanted to talk,” Bette smiled at each of them. “Look, this insanity has gone on long enough. Despite what had happened between me and Tina, I don’t want to see precious friendships go to waste.”

“If you’re sure,” Kit threw out nonchalantly.

Bette reached over to hold Kit’s hand. “We’re both trying to move on. I know you guys love us, but this is one journey we have to make on our own.”

Sensing the heavy air in the room, Helena stood up, breaking the stillness. “I think dinner is about ready.”