Tina picked up on it. ‘Why, Bette ? Am I forbidden to visit you now ?’

Bette kept her cool. She wouldn’t loose her temper with Tina again, all for the sake of her relationship with her daughter but first and foremost for her own well being. She had long ago acknowledged, that the pointless fights were only depleting her own energy.

Now her grilfriend smiled at her and she answered into the phone, “That’s not it, Tina and you know it. But I have a full plate these days and mindless driving seems unproductive. I’m glad that you decided to let me have her and I thank you for the favor, but I don’t have to explain myself to you.”

Bette’s face hardened and that was the moment Alice decided to leave. She would get into the middle of all this soon enough, but for now she had no intention getting information which could be her downfall come Sunday.

Helena stepped next to her lover and took Bette’s hand. Bette smiled grateful at her while Tina still contemplated Bette’s words.

I wish I knew what she is thinking now. Bette thought.

She got a kiss on the cheek from Helena, then Helena leaned her head on Bette’s free shoulder.

Tina was having a hard time with Bette’s reaction. She is so controlled. Like the time we first met. She sure changed in the past months I haven’t seen much of her.

Tina had to admit to herself that it irked her to no end not getting a reaction like she was used to in the last two years.

‘You’re right, Bette. It’s not my place to make your plans. So let’s meet at the Planet after noon and you can bring her back when you can fit it into your schedule.’ She wanted a reaction… now. But she didn’t got her wish.

Helena felt Bette’s body tense up and pressed closer to her side. That helped Bette to anchor herself and she just said, “Thanks, Tina. I appreciate it. I’ll see you on Sunday then.”

‘Okay, bye.’ And the connection was gone.

Bette put the phone down, wrapped Helena in her arms and sighed.

Helena kissed her on the forehead. “You did very well, Darling. What was she up to anyway ?”