“I'll understand if you prefer if I send someone else to you for security purposes. I would like it if you accept that I stick around. No one is getting to you with me hanging around.” 

Teresa flashes a huge smile, placing her hands on her hips, her feet firmly planted. 

Mary’s mind jumps to how Teresa abandoned her when she needed her most. “You say that now. I remember you dropping me like I was radioactive when you thought being near me would out you.”

“I was wrong to do that to you. I only ask that you allow me to redeem myself in your eyes. I was young and deeply closeted. I’ve changed since that awful day when I turned away out of fear.”

Teresa’s words touch Mary. She knows all too well how fear of judgment and hatred can meet you up. 

She returns the smile. “I’d like that, I think.”

Mary explains that she is committed to doing a book reading and talking the next day at the LGBTQ Camping and Resort and that she won’t let them down. Teresa insists on tagging along as a precaution. Teresa smiles, and Mary wishes it were under more comfortable circumstances. 

After letting out a sigh. “Ok, you get to play bodyguard, but don’t think I cannot protect myself.” 

“Oh, I know. I remember the smackdown you gave those cadets who messed with you back in the day. I’ll be the best damn companion possible.” Another big smile from Teresa. 

“You can have the guest room. I will be busy working on a new novel and preparing material for tomorrow’s event. We’re eating baked lemon haddock with salad. There’s beer in the fridge if you like.”