Chapter 22

I love you, not for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you. ~ Roy Croft

“Babe, where are we going?” Tina asked Bette who was running around the house gathering things for what seemed like a picnic.

“We’re going on a picnic by the beach.” Bette stated with a smile. She knew how Tina loves the water so when she woke up she started preparing the things for their picnic.

“You mean that?” Tina asked with a huge smile.

“Yes, now go and get dressed. I’ll be done in a few.”

Bette drove all the way to the far end of the beach. It was a secluded spot near a huge rock that she knew so much. She wanted to share the spot with Tina.

“How about here?” Bette asked Tina before laying the blanket on the ground.

“This looks perfect. Here let me help you.” Tina offered.

The two got settled in and ate the food Bette had prepared.

“Do you come here often?” Tina asked.

“I used to. I discovered this spot when I was passing time by the beach. I always come here when I needed to reflect. I find this place to be peaceful and it calms me. The sound of the wave, the scenery, the sand and as you can see there are less people around.”

“Thanks for sharing your spot with me.” Tina said while scooting over in front so that Bette was hugging her from behind.

“What’s mine is yours now, babe. And I wouldn’t want to share this place with anyone else. Did you know that you have brought me to this place a lot?”

“Huh?”

“When we were still working together and I was so confused with my feelings. I liked going here to analyze and reminisce our time together. I always had a smile in my face. You never fail to bring a smile on my face. And I thank you for that.”

“No need thanking me, Bette. I love seeing you smile. It warms my heart whenever I see you happy.”

“Really? I thought I was not your type?” Bette said teasing.

“I thought so too. You did say the same thing about me.”

“I was in denial, Tee. I kept saying it hoping it would be true. But that was just short-lived. You were my type alright. You made me fall head over heels in love with you.” Bette ended her statement by kissing Tina’s head.

“I love you very much, Tee. Don’t ever forget that.” Bette whispered.

Tina turned to Bette “I won’t as long as you do the same. I love you too, Bette” And Tina softly kissed Bette.

===

“Tina, Bette is on line 1 for you.”

“Thanks, Cynthia!”

“Hey babe!”

“Hi Tee! I called to run by something with you.”

“Oh yeah, what’s up?” Tina asked.

“Well, if I were to put up a show for Jodi, would you in any way feel uncomfortable about it?”

“No, why do you ask?”

“I saw some of her work the other day and I want to put up a show for her but I wanted to make sure that it is fine with you.”

“Bette, you’re making it sound like I should be worried about something. Should I be worried?” Tina cautiously asked.

“Tee, I didn’t mean it that way. Of course you have nothing to worry about but I just want to run it by you and not surprise you with the idea. We’re in a partnership and I want to make decisions with you.”

“Thanks, Bette. We have been seeing her for over a year already. She’s a friend Bette. Do what’s good for the business and our friend.”

“You mean that? Because Tee whether you know it or not, you’re my first and primary priority and concern.”

“I’ll be OK babe. Thanks for checking. That meant a lot to me. What time will you be home?”

“I’m just wrapping up some loose ends then I’ll be able to get out of here. You?”

“I still may be an hour to two tops. I still have a couple of things I need to finish.”

“OK. How does salmon sound to you? I can cook dinner for us.” Bette offered.

“That sounds great. I’ll see you at home.”

“I’ll see you at home, baby. Take care and I love you. I love you so much.”

“I love you too, babe. Later!”