You know that I hate every minute of this, dont you, asked Bette, sighing into the phone.

Marie chuckled. I really like talking with you too, she teased. So, Thursday at 4:30 my time, right.

Okay. And Mariethanks.

Bette hung up the phone and wandered aimlessly from room to room. The house felt cold, even though the Spring night was mild. Bette stopped by the hall table lined with photos of the life she had been living until a few months ago. The frames stood in neat linear patterns like sentry men guarding the captured memories. She picked up each frame in turn and examined every photo painstakingly, looking for clues, looking for portals, looking for answers, looking for her life.

You cant just intellectualize all of your feelings and reactions to life and pack them away in neat compartments, Marie had said earlier that evening. Youve always thought that because you were smarter than most people that you could get away with that.

Bette was quiet for several minutes.

You still there? asked Marie.

Yes, Bette breathed wearily. Why is it that I can learn just about anything by reading it once, but I have to keep going through this lesson over and over again? I feel like an emotional *****.

Because the mind can know something, but only the heart can believe it, Marie had answered.

***

I insist Christina, said Helena pulling Tina through the door an exclusive Los Angeles boutique. This event is a once in a lifetime occasion for you and I will not have you wearing a maternity dress from Sears. You deserve to feel and look like a princess.

Helena, seriously, this is not necessary, Tina said with a weak smile.

Who said anything about necessary, Helena replied, snaking an arm around Tinas disappearing waist and guiding her to the formal dresses. Now I heard that this is where Julia Roberts shopped during her pregnancy so we should be able to find something appropriate.

With each dress Helena brought into the dressing room Tina felt her discomfort rising. I just dont want to be here right now, she thought. What is wrong with me? She is being nothing but sweet and attentive and I just want her to leave.