But its a possibility?

I think its highly unlikely, Miss Kennard, most children make a full recovery, we got to her just in time. He smiled.

Thank you Doctor. Tina replied, breathing a sigh of relief.

 Can we see her Doctor? Asked Bette.

I dont see why not. Follow me, although shes heavily sedated at the moment, so she wont know you are there.

Bette helped Tina to her feet and they followed Dr Roberts to Ellies room.

Ill leave you to it. He said as he closed the door behind him.

Oh God T. She looks so small and fragile. Bette took hold of Ellies hand, stroking it across her tear stained cheek. 

Tina half smiled at her, as she sat in the chair at the side of Ellies bed opposite Bette, she ran her finger down, the side of her daughters face, before leaning over and kissing it.

Were here baby, mom and me, were here. Please get better Ellie, we love you. 

Bette gently placed Ellies arm back down by her side and walked round the bed to Tina. She knelt down beside her and took her in her arms.

Shes going to be alright T, I just know she is. Bette softly cried.

I know she will . . . She has to. Tina said, as all the pent up emotions she had been suppressing flooded her body and she collapsed in to Bettes arms sobbing.

Ive got you T, let it go baby. Bette consoled Tina.

Bette held on to Tina until her sobs subsided and she felt her body relax.

Im sorry Bette.

Bette rested her forehead against Tinas and peered in to her eyes. She gently wiped the tears from her cheeks with her thumb.

What for? Youve got nothing to be sorry for Tina. Bette whispered.

This is all my fault. Tina choked.

What?  . . . T, how can this be your fault?

I should have known Bette, I should have known it was more than a tummy bug.

T, I was there too, I didnt know, I dont think anyone would have thought it was meningitis baby. No one ever suspects that. Its not your fault, its nobodies fault T.

But I should have known. Tina insisted.

Tina, listen to me. Bette said sternly. This is not your fault, do you hear me. How many times has Ellie had these symptoms in the past and its just been a regular illness that all kids have?

A lot, I suppose. Tina said defeated.

Well there you are, okay baby, you couldnt have known. Bette assured Tina.

I guess youre right.

I am right. We got her here in time T, thats what matters. Our baby is going to be okay. Bette said, kissing Tina softly on the lips.

Yeah she is. I love you Bette.

And I love you, and we both love that little girl laying in that bed, so no more self blame, okay?

Okay. Nodded Tina.

Okay. She kissed Tina again. Do you think I should call Kit? Bette said, suddenly realising they hadnt let any one know about Ellie.

Oh my God Bette, yes . . . And then it dawned on her. Helena, I have to call

 Helena and let her know.

Bette got to her feet.

Do you want to call Helena first and Ill stay here with Ellie?

Do you mind if I call her before you call Kit? asked Tina.

Of course not T, she has a right to know about Ellie. Bette replied, although she secretly hoped Helena wouldnt come to LA, wanting to see Ellie. She knew Helena thought of Ellie as her daughter and Ellie thought of Helena as her mom, but she didnt have to witness it, cause Ellie always flew out to New York. Bette just didnt like, having to share Ellie with anybody other than Tina. She knew she shouldnt feel that way but she did, she couldnt help it. She hated being reminded that Tina and Helena were once married and that the three of them were a family.

 I wont be long Bette. Said Tina as she exited the room.