Bette and Tina walked across Central park following the pathways towards the lake thinking it might amuse Rosie to watch the ducks squabbling or the squirrels darting across the pathways and leaping up the trees. There were people everywhere enjoying the sunshine and taking the chance to get some exercise or to just sit and stare into each others eyes.

They were both dressed casually but because theyd had to pack lightly Tina was still carrying Rosie in her baby carrier strapped around her front. Bette slowed her pace and looked at Rosie who was happily gurgling away. Rosie loved being carried this way but Bette worried about Tina, her frame was so slight she was afraid shed be hurt. When shed brought it up though Tina had just laughed and assured her she was stronger than she looked and she loved having Rosie so close to her. Bette looked longingly at Rosie, wishing she could carry her but plane flights aggravated her back and carrying Rosie would only make the ache worse and the weekend intolerable.

So, how was your Moms show? Tina looked up at Bette.

Great..fantastic.. said Bette trying to muster a bit of enthusiasm.

But? said Tina wondering what Bette and Maggie had been arguing about.

Mom seems to have lined up a few interviews for me. said Bette hesitantly.

What! Tina said exasperated.

Umm..she thinks its time I moved back here..

But were happy in LA she looked at Bette Arent you?

Bettes chocolate eyes filled with anxiety and she looked away from Tina not wanting her to see the question marks which were plaguing her.

Tina threaded her fingers through Rosies fists and jiggled them up and down focusing on Rosie rather than Bette. I didnt know you were thinking of moving..

Bette looked down Im not..

But this would be a great opportunity for you.. Tina continued understanding that for Bette, regardless of what she said New Yorks galleries were bigger and more famous and must be tempting her.

Yeah..but youve just got settled in your job and we have friends and family in LA Bette didnt mention the CAC, didnt bring up her concerns over continuing there.

Not to mention that were a whole continent away from your parents.. said Tina quietly.

Yeah..all of that.. Bette sighed aware it wouldnt be fair on Tina after all theyd been through to ask her to move away from somewhere she was happy, where they were happy together.

But? Tina looked up briefly at Bette.

Bette sighed, took a deep breath and continued. Tina deserved the truth and shed promised herself when Tina came back to her that shed talk to her. But shes got some big names interested and theyre talking big..real big ..what dreams are made of kinda stuff.

Well then maybe you should talk to them Tina looked hard at Rosie while she tried to speak reassuringly to Bette.

I cant said Bette determinedly I cant do that to you.to us..

Tina took Bettes hand and led her towards a nearby bench so they could talk. Babe, well survive if its what you want…

Bette looked down at their intertwined hands I dont know what I want anymore..I thought I didI know I dont want to be without you and Rosie..

You wont be.. said Tina quietly trying to reassure and encourage Bette at the same time as every fibre of her screamed that she didnt want to come to New York.

How could it work.. said Bette trying to be practical ..you cant leave LA at the moment and Id be here in New York or travelling. When would we ever see each other?

When do they want to talk to you? said Tina as calmly as she could.

Monday afternoon.. said Bette sighing again.

So go.. Tina said Its just talk..see what theyre offering..

Id need to change the flights home.. said Bette thinking about the logistics Can you stay longer?

No.. I have to get back.. Tina lifted a hand, stroked Bettes cheek you know that babe..we have a conference early Tuesday..I need to prepare..theyve been really good about me working around Rosies timetable and letting me have Monday off..I cant ask for more.

But youd be on your own with Rosie.. said Bette already thinking about going to the interview.

Its OKIll manage..maybe Alice can pick us up in my car..otherwise Ill get a cab Tina sighed, Bettes intentions were always good but it seemed in practice it was her who was left carrying the baby as Bette pursued her dreams.

***** …it wasnt supposed to be like this.. said Bette under her breath.


TBC