Milaine was following the throng of people who, like her, had just arrived from New York. They were following the signs to baggage claim, where she was supposed to be meeting MaBe. She was excited, but nervous at the same time. She knew this trip was a big deal. She could tell by the way her Mother had looked at Tina Kennard that day in the gallery, that they shared a great deal of love. But, for as much as she wanted MaBe to be happy, there was a part of her that was nervous about the changes that may be in store for them, should this relationship blossom again.

She saw them, before they saw her. They were looking at each other, giggling about something. Milaine stopped in her tracks, just watching the two women for a moment. ‘Oh my God, she’s absolutely glowing!’ There was no way that you could miss the love flowing between MaBe and Tina. Milaine could feel tears forming in her eyes, trying to remember the last time she saw her Mother looking so happy…so content. ‘When was the last time I actually saw her giggle? It certainly hasn’t been anytime during the last three years.’ She started walking towards them again, knowing that the big smile on her face was totally genuine. “MaBe!”

Upon hearing her nickname, Bette looked up, and seeing her daughter, let out a small yelp of delight. Not being able to contain her excitement, she half walked and half ran to towards her. “Milaine!” The two women fell into to each others arms, holding on tight and laughing at the same time. “I can’t believe you’re finally here!” Bette leaned back a little and reached over to stroke Milaine’s hair. “I can’t tell you how happy I am that you came. It means so much to me to have you here. Come on, come say hi to Tina.” They walked over to Tina, who had been standing, watching the obviously happy reunion between Mother and daughter.

Tina reached out her hands to take hold of Milaine’s. “Welcome to Seattle, Milaine. It’s so nice to see you again.”

Taking hold of the hands that were offered to her, Milaine smiled at Tina, instantly put at ease by her kind eyes and welcoming smile. “Hi Ms. Kennard, it’s nice to see you again as well.” Tina let out a light laugh. “Geez Milaine, don’t call me Ms. Kennard, that is way too formal for me. Please, call me Tina.” Not being able to help herself, she then reached out and pulled Milaine in for a hug. After all, this young woman was Bette’s daughter, and was now a part of her family.

Milaine was surprised by the hug, but leaned into the warm embrace, feeling much more comfortable than she thought she would. She grinned at Tina, knowing at that moment, that maybe a few changes might not be all that bad. “Thanks…Tina.”

Bette knew her daughter very well, and could tell by her body language that Tina had done just the right thing, and that Milaine already liked her. Bette’s eyes filled with tears, as she watched her partner….that’s right, her PARTNER, hug her daughter. Once again, she couldn’t believe her luck. She stepped over to them and putting an arm around both of their shoulders, pulled them in close to her for a group hug. Tina and Milaine laughed at her. “Sorry guys…I can’t help it. I’m just so excited to be here with you both.” She reluctantly released them. “Ok honey, let’s get your bags, and head back to the hotel so you can change clothes.”

~ ~ ~

“Milaine, what do you want for dinner?”

The three women had just come back to the hotel after spending the afternoon at the Seattle Art Museum, which happened to be just a couple of blocks from where they were staying. Tina had enjoyed the museum, and made a mental note to bring her children here, but she mostly had enjoyed watching Bette and Milaine wander through the big rooms, talking away, not only showing their appreciation for the artwork itself, but critiquing how it was displayed, the lighting, etc. They stood so close to each other, lost in their own little world, sometimes holding hands, sometimes linking arms, always in very close proximity to the other. Tina could see the incredible bond between the two…and totally understood where it came from. She knew that when Bette met Nica, and finally allowed herself to love her, that she was so thankful for a second chance, that she gave the relationship everything she had. And when Milaine had come into their lives, Bette shared the same love with her, that she had wanted to share with their unborn son.
Milaine was also thankful. After spending the first eight years of her life in foster homes, some of which had been abusive, she had hung on with everything she had when she came to live with Bette and Nica…first as a foster child, then when Social Services gave the Ok, as their legal child. Tina just watched them, her love for them both growing as the afternoon progressed. ‘Who says that blood is thicker than water?’ After watching these two women, there was no doubt in Tina’s mind, that saying held no credence whatsoever.

“Well, we are in Seattle…so shouldn’t we have salmon?” Milaine asked.

Bette laughed at Milaine’s question and looked over at Tina, who giggled. Milaine sensed that they were laughing at something she was not privy to, but she didn’t mind. She loved the fact that her Mother was so happy. It seemed like every time MaBe looked at Tina, she just beamed, and Milaine was learning to understand why. Tina was so nice and down to earth. She had a gentle energy about her, but also had a playful side as well. Milaine loved how MaBe laughed so much more when she was around Tina. In fact watching them together reminded Milaine of how MaBe use to be with Mama Nica. That thought made her sad for a moment, but only because she missed her other Mother very much. But she could feel the deep love that Tina felt for Mother, and that kept the sadness at bay.

“Salmon it is.” Bette looked over at Tina, and smiled. “T, can you take us to your favorite place for salmon…that doesn’t involve a back yard BBQ?”

Tina couldn’t help but laugh. “Yes, we can go to Anthony’s. It’s right on the water, and tonight would be a beautiful night to sit outside…and they serve an alder planked salmon that is perfect every time!” She walked over and kissed Bette on the cheek. “But don’t think your getting out of my BBQ! I’m cooking it for you before you leave town…so just be prepared!!”

Bette laughed and hugged Tina, kissing her on the cheek. “You know that I love your cooking Baby, and will eat anything you make for me. God T, it’s been fifteen years…you know I’ll eat every bite!” They both started giggling…until they heard Milaine clear her throat.

Bette stood up straight. “Right…Anthony’s…salmon…water…sunset…and…” Bette reached out, taking hold of both Tina and Milaine’s hands, “…and the two of you…Oh yea…life as I know it, is very, very good!”