“Hon, he’s not a bad man.  Granted he’s made mistakes, some of them very big.  It takes a mighty big man to admit to the error of his ways.”

“Yes, I know.  I’ve had to do a lot of my own admitting lately.”

“Well, baby, it’s not pleasant and it’s difficult to do, but thank goodness the both of you were up to the task of doing it.  See, you both had to move mountains to get to a certain place and you’ve done it.”

“Ha, they’re not completely moved but at least they’re not totally blocking my way.”

“She’s such a beautiful baby. And she really seems to be bonding with you.  I don’t think she’s taken her eyes from you since we’ve been talking.”

“I wish I could explain what having her in my life means.”

“There’s no need to explain.  It’s written all over your face.  And your daughter sees it and hears it in your voice.  Trust me, I know.”

“I know you do.”

“I love you very much.” Bette sighed.

“And I love you more; I always have.  You’re a terrific mom already.”

“I miss you so much, Mom.” The tears began to well in Bette’s eyes.

“I miss you, too, baby girl.  But remember what you told Tina, if Fate should take you from her.   You need only put your hand over your heart and know that my spirit and love for you beats within.   So really I’m only a heartbeat away.  I will always be with you.  And each time Angelica looks into your eyes, remember to take in the love and the trust she feels for youand then reflect back to her the silent, unique knowledge of safety, protection and love that only a mother can give to her child. 

“You and Tina have been blessed with each other – never let your daughter forget that.  Let it shine on her everyday in every way. It will be the foundation for her journey to finding and knowing what true love is.”

Bette looked down at Angelica.  She had finished the bottle and her eyelids were fluttering to stay open.  Bette took the bottle, leaned forward and put it on the coffee table. 

When she leaned back into the couch, the hand did not return to her shoulder.  The kind and gentle voice was gone along with the reassuring touch.

Bette again looked at her now sleeping daughter and smiled.  She put her casted hand over her heart and whispered, “Thanks, Mom.  I’ve never forgotten how you let your love shine on me.”

Bette put Angelica over her heart with her head resting on her shoulder, held her closely to her, leaned her own head and body back and closed her eyes.  

She and her daughter both slept the peaceful, undisturbed sleep of babies.

TBC