"Sorry m’am I have specific orders from Ms Porter not to have anyone but either herself or Kit Porter sign for this package. I’ll have to take this back."

Fury and bewilderment bombarded Tina simultaneously at the delivery man’s words.

"What!!! That’s outrageous…"

Her next words were cut off by the deep tones of her sister-in-law.

"Give me that I’ll sign for it. I’m Kit Porter” Kit reached for the clipboard that the stunned driver (unaware that there was anyone behind him) held in his hands.

Somehow he managed to stammer, "I’ll need to see some ID M’am"

"Just give me the damned paper you fool. I’ll show you my ID in about 3 seconds if you don’t" Kit rumbled as a reply, hands planted firmly on her hips.

Deciding not to push his luck the driver handed the bill of receipt to Kit and walked swiftly down the sidewalk toward his vehicle. Turning now to Tina, Kit spoke as she shut the door behind her, “So looks like I walked into something girl. What’s going on?"

Thankful that Angelica and Austin were safely playing in their play room Tina took a couple steps back, sitting on the side of the closest chair before answering. Her heart pounded in her chest as fear galloped wild inside her soul. What the hell is going on? Bette’s secretiveness and her explicit orders not to have T sign for anything only confirmed to her that Bette was returning to her old belligerent ways.

You know what’s going on Tina–you’ve been down this road before. She’s shutting you out is what’s she doing came the nasty tones of Tina’s hurt. Like hell she is Tina almost responded out loud. Realizing that she hadn’t answered Kit who was hovering near her Tina managed to answer in a voice far calmer than she felt,

"I wish I knew Kit. You know about as much as me."

Concerned at the pallor of Tina’s skin (she had blanched significantly before she sat down) Kit reached over to clasp Tina’s hand as she spoke,” Are you alright girl? You’re as white as a ghost"

Squeezing Kit’s hand Tina rallied, steadied herself and headed toward the kitchen as she replied, "I’m fine Kit it was just a surprise to be told I couldn’t sign for something. I am her wife after all. I’m glad you’re here. Thanks for signing for it. The children are almost ready to go." Following closely behind the blond Kit could tell that things were far from alright.