Chapter 9



And so Franklin James interrupted Bettes thought. Bette, a Dr. Wilson is on the phone. She says its important.

Bette felt the blood drain from her face. Franklin, I need to take this call. Thats Tinas doctorOh God, I hope nothings wrong.

Take it Bette – we can talk later – or whenever you get the time. Give my best to Tina. Oh, and Bettewere very happy with you here at the gallery -everything is running smoothly- so if you need some time to be with Tina, I want you to take it.

Thank you Franklin. Bette managed a smile.

Bette picked up the phone. Dr. Wilson?

Bette – I dont want to alarm you, but I need to speak with you about Tina. First of all, the babies appear to be thriving. Its Tina that concerns me. Its her ongoing nausea and vomiting that has me worried. I really thought we would have had it under control by now

Bette could feel herself begin to panic, I dont mean to interrupt you Dr. Wilson (she lied) but where is Tina?

She called me about an hour ago and told me she wasnt feeling well. She met me at the Emergency Room. Bette, Tina is very dehydrated and weak. Im admitting her to the OB/GYN Unit. I am putting her on IV fluids. I need to get more of a handle on this situation before it does begin to impact the pregnancy.

Dr. Wilson, please tell Tina that Im on my way. Bettes voice cracked as she fought off tears – And Dr. Wilson? Please tell her that I love her.

I will Bette. Oh, and by the way – Tina told me to tell you the same thing.

Thank you – Im on my way.

Bette gathered her things, and told James to tell Franklin that she was taking the next week off, to take care of Tina. She grabbed her things and quickly left her office.

Bette sat in her car and began to sob. She stopped herself. Ok – compose yourself Porter – for Tina. Its all about Tina now. Be strong – for Tina. She started the car and pulled out of the parking garage.

The ride to the hospital seemed endless. She took care not to drive as fast as she wanted to. She wouldnt be of any use to Tina if she got there faster – but died doing it.


Bette stood in the doorway of Tinas room. Tina had an IV in her arm. She was curled up on her side facing the other direction. Bette slowly approached her and studied her face. She was asleep. She was so paleso pale. She looked so helpless. Bette choked back tears. She kissed her gently on the forehead and quietly said I love you Baby and turned to look out the window.

As she stared out the window, Bette couldnt help but notice how dark and dreary the day was. The sky was overcast – the ground was wet from a passing shower. Bette bit her lower lip and quietly muttered What a ***** – ***** day.

Bette thought to herself – I feel as helpless as Tina looks. I cant fix this. What if Tinas fears were playing out in real life – today. Bette pushed the thought out of her head and continued to stare out the window. This was just so unfair – after all they had been through – now, when things were going well this had to happen. Its not fairits just not fair.

Bette picked up the phone and called Kit.

Kit arrived about an hour later – Tina was still asleep. I brought you some things to eat. And I brought you guys some sweats and t-shirts so youll be more comfortable. Kit grabbed Bette and gave her a hug – If you need anythinganything – you call me baby girl. Give Tina my love. Bette began to cry as Kit held her – it was the first time that day that she felt some comfort. She felt it in her big sisters arms.

Kitthank you so much. Ill call you later with an update. Will you be home?

I will be now – I dont want to miss your call.

Kit left the room after giving Tina a quick kiss on the top of her head.

Bette returned to her spot at the window. She let out a heavy sigh.

Tinas voice was weak and barely audible, Hey you – come here.

Bette turned to look at Tina. She made her way over to her and kissed her tenderly on the lips. Hey, hows my favorite girl? Tina just looked at her – as if she was too weak to speak.

Hey Kennard, nice lingerie – Victoria Secret I presume. Tina had to smile as she glanced down at her Johnny Coat. Lets get you into something a little more comfortable.

Tina was so weak that Bette had to undress her and help her get dressed again. Bette had also ditched her suit and was decked out in sweats and a t-shirt.

Bette climbed into bed behind Tina and put her arm around her. Her hand came to rest on Tinas left breast. There was nothing sexual about her touch – Tina found it comforting.

Dr. Wilson appeared in the doorway – she was ready to enter the room when she heard Bette say to Tina. Im here Baby – Im not going anywhere. Bette began to sing to Tina in a soft voice. A pretty voice. (Who knew?)

At first, Dr. Wilson felt guilty that she didnt move on and leave them alone. She was overwhelmed by the tenderness between the two of them – and couldnt help but continue to watch and listen. What a beautiful couple she thought.

Tina moved Bettes hand from her breast to her slightly protruding belly.

Bette sang softly.

When the light fades on a long bad day, I sometimes weaken.
Then I turn to see you’ve been waiting for me, I know I’m not beaten. ‘Cause you lift me up, you do.
Coming home sometimes
I catch the headlines.
It’s been raining since
Saturday night.
And the trains run late,
I’m stuck at Notting Hill
Gate.
But you’ll make it alright.
‘Cause you lift me up (you make it
alright), you do.

Such a little thing, our love won’t make the world alright,
but love makes sense of life and that’s enough, at least tonight.

So late at night maybe, when you call me baby,
the day will just fall away.

‘Cause you lift me up, you do.

Tina placed her hand on top of Bettes – their fingers intertwining, instinctively protecting their babies. Bette buried her face in Tinas hair and kissed her gently.


Dr. Wilson turned and left. Whatever she had to say to them could wait – shed come back later.