She closed the door with a laugh and Bette finally opened her eyes, “She’s your friend.” Tina laughed and Bette continued, “Do we really have to get up? I feel so lazy and comfortable in here with you. I don’t want to move.”

“Me neither,” Tina kissed Bette’s lips and smiled. “We will have more time, now that you are back. We’ll have all the time in the world.”

The ride to Los Angeles was relatively smooth for Thursday early afternoon and an hour later they were parked outside the Planet. Kit always reserved a few spots for the VIP’s, since parking in L.A. was scarce.

Except for Dana, who was still driving from the airport, everyone was there. Bette received a long and heartfelt group hug from everyone, as the servers brought their food and drinks. Kit served a round of mimosas for everyone to toast Bette’s return. A few regulars stopped by their table to say hello and Bette’s face was slowly turning red from all the attention.

Tina squeezed her hand and laughed softly, “Remember the first time you joined us at the Planet and everyone was trying to pick you up while Alice and I were talking to Kit?”

Bette nodded and laughed as well, “I remember it well. Dana told them I was a movie star and she was my manager. She ended up with a lot of phone numbers…as if anyone would stand a chance. I only had my eyes for you.”

Tina smiled as she leaned for a kiss and they both forgot where they were for a moment, until Alice cleared her throat. Bette blushed again but held on to Tina’s hand. She placed it against her face and kissed the palm, reveling in its warmth and softness.

Alice rolled her eyes, “You are so adorable, I need an insulin.” Her phone began ringing and Alice answered. “Dana, honey, where are you? Aha…aha…well, we are all here…what? I can’t hear you…what? Damn, she’s disconnected.”

“Well, ain’t that sweet…” they all heard a familiar British accent and everyone turned around to see Helena standing behind the table with a smug smile. “Feel like the old times.”

“What in the hell are you doing here, Helena?” Tina asked quietly but loud enough to be heard over the café’s chatter.