ONE HEART

Chapter 23 Next Step

A couple of weeks had gone by. Mariah and Tessa had still not had the chance to speak to either Sally or Devon. They had both been so busy. We can't keep doing this said Tessa when they met up for a cinema date, to watch a romcom together. I do know that Tessa said Mariah sharply. I have been snowed under with work. And so have you to be fair. Please tell me, when we have had the chance to tell them. I haven't even been on a date with Devon since My mom and dad caught us kissing. Have you had a date with Sally? Err. you know I haven't said Tessa feeling a bit tense. Your boyfriend has had me tied to the studio. I'm surprised I've had time to sleep. Well, you are putting together your first album. Aren't you? said Mariah a little perplexed. How did you know that? Did Devon tell you? "Tessa" For god's sake said Mariah stamping her authority. You told me! Oh, I err, forgot all about that said Tessa with a smirk. I hate all this sneaking around we have to do. So do I said Mariah. But until they know, we have to travel to places we know their not going to be in.

Tessa sighed. Was there any need for that sigh? I'm sorry okay, I know you are as frustrated as I am. We have to sort this out thought Mariah. We've got to find the time from somewhere said Tessa. I can't keep on doing this. It's mentally tiring for one. Trying to remember, all the things we've done together. Like tonight for instance. And then try not to slip up, on where we've been. I have to find the time to tell Sally. At least then, when we have a conversation on the phone or in person. I don't have to keep lying. "Tessa," said Mariah sternly to get her attention. If you have time to tell Sally, you won't have to worry about conversations on the phone or in person. She won't want to see you for the rest of her life! We will still have to see one another around Genoa City, said Tessa. She works for your dad. Remember? She won't want to leave her job. Also, I have to work with your boyfriend! So let's hope when you tell him. I won't lose my job! I hope not too said Mariah. Now, can we just enjoy the rest of our date? And watch the movie. Sure said, Tessa.

She didn't really watch the movie though. She was thinking about how she was going to tell Sally, about her feelings for Mariah. And how she wanted to be more than a friend to her. Did you enjoy that? asked Mariah as they were leaving the cinema. It was alright I suppose said Tessa being a little bit flippant with her answer. You hardly watched any of it said Mariah abruptly. I did watch it argued Tessa. Tell me what happened at the end then said Mariah. Tessa tried racking her brain for an answer. But nothing came to her. I err, okay I admit I never saw the end. Mariah huffed in disgust. I had so much on my mind said Tessa. Like what? said Mariah. Like, how am I going to sort all this out, so that we can be together properly? I want to be able to hold your hand, while we're out. Also kiss you, without fearing that someone will see us. They won't said Mariah leaning in for a kiss. "Mariah" shouted Tessa sternly. Which made people stop in the street to look at them. Which then made Tessa go red with embarrassment.

What? whispered Mariah. I want to kiss you. Not here in the open said Tessa. I just don't want anything to get back to Sally or Devon, before we've had the chance to say anything to them. I'm so paranoid about being found out, that I don't want us doing another date night. Until we've both been able to tell them about us. Awe, that's a shame said Mariah. I look forward to our date nights. But I do understand where you are coming from. And you are right we can't continue like this forever. It would never work. I have to find the time to tell Devon, It's not going to be easy. It won't be for me either said Tessa. They had both brought their cars on the date, so they wouldn't be found out! They had both told their parents, they were meeting for a date. So that if Sally and Devon called, they would cover for them by saying they were out with friends or something.  Both Gwen and Sharon said they didn't like lying to people. But Mariah and Tessa had convinced them, that this would be the only time they would have to do it. This is it then said Mariah at her car door.

I'm not going to see you again until the shit hits the fan so to speak. Tessa pulled her in for a kiss. Are you sure this is what you want? asked Tessa tentatively. Because I can walk away. And then you don't have to tell Devon anything, and I can just disappear. How are you going to do that Tessa? You aren't going to walk away from Hamilton Winters, are you? If I had to I would. To save you all the heartache, of telling Devon everything. I'd do anything for you Mariah. So I'll ask the question again. Are you sure this is what you want? Tessa had her fingers crossed, just for extra good luck. Mariah looked into her eyes. Yes, I'm sure I want this said Mariah. I want to see where this relationship goes. Tessa kissed her passionately. Thank you said Tessa. What for? said Mariah. For making my dreams come true. I can't wait, to be able to date you properly. Also maybe, we could look for a place of our own to move into? Wow! You don't hang around do you? said Mariah. Asking me to move in with you. Well lesbians, are known to be the U-Haul queens said Tessa starting to laugh.