Two weeks later on Friday night The Bette Porter gallery was hosting a show of works by renowned photographer William Albert Allard. He was a Swedish- American photographer who had the respect and admiration of all his peers. Bette thought it quite a coo when he agreed to do a showing at her gallery.

He worked for National Geographic for years and his interpretations, photographing animals and landscapes were described as thought provoking and moving This was his last tour around the country, before officially retiring. And he was going to make an appearance himself, which Bette was eagerly anticipating.

Tina was very excited that she actually was going to be able to attend one of Bettes infamous shows. Every time, since the first day they had met, something always seemed to come up when Bette was hosting a show, and Tina would miss seeing Bette in action schmoozing the art world.

Tina was determined to not let anything stand in the way of her accompanying her love, on Friday night. She was even working a shift the night before till noon on Friday; no matter how hard she tried she couldnt get out of it, but Tina thought no matter how tired shed be she was going!!!! Ohwell. I can have a bit of a nap before the show Tina thought.

Tina had called Sarah earlier in the week, as well, when Bette had told her that William Allard was personally attending.

Tina had gotten to know, that her sister was religiously into all forms of photography and she called to invite her to the event.

RING, RING, RING.

Sarah: Hi this is Sarah!

Tina: Hey Sarah, hows it going over there in S.F. with mum? rolling her eyes.

Sarah: Well I met my father aye. what an(Sarah paused for a minute)…for want of a better word Tina. *****!!!

Tina: (concerned) Really??? What happened? You Ok?

Sarah: (dejectedly) Well he doesnt believe Nancysorry mum(shaking head) I cant get used to that,.and he insisted on a paternity test, so we took one. He reckons he cannot see any resemblance at all in me, to him or his family. We should be getting the results in the next few days.

Tina: Jesus! Are you and mum ok?.. You really did hit the nail on the head. What an *****!

There was silence for a moment; Tina could tell that Sarah was disappointed at the outcome of meeting her father, so Tina continued.

Tina: (trying to lighten the moment) Anyway, I called you with some good news Sarah. Actually to invite you to the Bette Porter gallery, for an artists show on Friday evening. Will you be back in L.A. by then?

Sarahs ears pricked up, and for the first time all day, her face lit up in a smile, Who Tina? Must be a photographer if you are calling especially to ask me? Which photographer? Would I know him or her? Thoughts of her father temporarily left her mind replaced with anticipation generated by Tinas invite.

Tina: (smiling) His name is William Albert Allan? or something like that?

Sarah: (questionably) William Allard?

Tina: YeahThats him, an old guy. This is his last show around the country before he officially retires.

Sarah: (excitedly) Youre fair dinkum. I can attend?

Tina: (grinning, knowing she just made her sisters day) Yeah thats why I called. so whatd ya say?

Sarah: (gratefully) I would be honored Tina. I should be finished up here by Friday, but if not, I dont care Ill return to L.A. especially.. Do you think Bette could introduce me to Allard? I would really love to meet him.

Tina: Sure, Ill arrange that, and Ill also get Bette to introduce you to the other photographic artists there too, if you would like. Practically all of L.A.s photographic community will be in attendance.

Sarah was touched that Tina would go to so much trouble for her, Thanks Tina. You just made my day I will see you on Friday then?

Tina: Alright, great! The function starts at 7pm, and is formal. You know where. and Alice, Shane and Dana are coming too, so you will know some friendly faces.

Sarah: (sincerely) Thanks for the invite Tina.. and for the support. Its really great having a little sister.

Tina: (touched) Yeah it is nice having a big sister too. Take care, and call me if you need anythingSend mum my love, and Ill see you on Friday.

Sarah: No worries, See you Tina.

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Friday approached quickly. Bette had been working 18-hour days for the last week preparing for the show. When she did make it home, she was so exhausted that all she wanted to do was have a bite to eat and snuggle up in bed, with Tina. She would be out like a light within minutes. Tina understood and totally respected that this was part of her job but she just missed Bette.

Bette was so caught up in the gallery that they barely had said two words to each other all week, but tonight Tina hoped they could make up for all that

Tina finally made it home from the station at 4pm, a little later than she had hoped. She was eagerly anticipating accompanying Bette later in the evening and planned to take a nap before it was time to get ready, she was exhausted, coming off a long shift!

Tina wanted to make sure she had some energy in reserve for after the show as well, when she planned to put on her own show, to let Bette know just how much she had been missed

Tina figured she still had an hour or so until Bette arrived home and they needed to get ready for the night ahead, so a quick nap wouldnt hurt. She collapsed onto the bed, not even bothering to change, and was just drifting off to sleep when she heard the front door open

Bette had come home early; it was only 10 past 4. Bette noticed Tinas car in the drive, aware that she was already home and walked through the door smiling.

She too had missed Tina throughout the past week, and was hoping they could finally attend a gallery function together, and maybe spend a little quality time together tonight and over the weekend, reacquainting themselves with each other, and catching up on each others lives.

Bette knew too well that her work just overtook her life when she was preparing for a show, and she was extremely grateful that Tina understood.

Bette arrived home to get ready and was now calm and collected. The show was all organized and all she needed to do was show up, looking stunning, and work the Porter charm. Tonight wouldnt be a chore though, like most showings were. because Tina would be there. and anytime Tina was by her side, Bette always enjoyed herself.

When she walked through the front door, Bette distractedly yelled out for Tina not realizing she was trying to sleep. When she didnt hear Tina respond, she approached the bedroom and opening the door finding Tina up on one elbow staring at Bette with a thanks a lot look.

Bette was totally unaware of what she had just done, staring lovingly at Tina, walking over placing a delicate lingering kiss on Tinas lips

Bette: (in anticipation) Hey Baby, Are you all set and excited about tonight? lying down next to Tina on the bed, wrapping her arms around Tinas waist, pulling Tina into her

Tina had to smile, no matter how distracted Bette was, she was still her loving caring sweet Bette. Tina just looked into her eyes and could see it the Bette that no one else saw!!!!

Tina: (smiling at Bette) Hi babe, ***** yeahIm excited. I just got home 10 minutes ago though, (looking at Bette with begging eyes) and was hoping for a bit of sleep?

Bette: Tee, we need to get ready really soon.

Tina: (cheekily) I know babe, but if you want to enjoy some extra curricular activities after the show, I need just hour sleep, to recharge my batteries, and then I should be good to go, all night! wiggling her eyebrows.

Bette grinned wickedly at Tina and without saying a word, quickly gave Tina a kiss and got up leaving her to sleep!

Bette let Tina sleep for about 45 minutes. She made sure to be extremely quiet, having a quick invigorating shower, just before she re-entered their bedroom just after 5, in her robe, waking up Tina to get ready.

Bette leaned over and planted a soft, sweet kiss on Tinas lips. Tina felt the sensation and slowly opened her eyes, a smile gracing her lips.

Bette: (smiling warmly) Hey Tee, Its time baby. You need to get up and get ready!

Tina: (sleepily) Hey babe! Ok, but first pulling Bette down next to her, giving her a smoldering kiss that had Bette thinking she couldnt care less if they were late.

She didnt have to however, the kiss woke Tina up and she jumped out of bed and made her way to the shower. gazing at Bette over her shoulder, in her robe, Babe, you dont want to join me, do you? winking.

Bette: As much as Id love to, I need to get ready. She walked over and playfully swatted Tina on the *****, Now goget ready Chief Kennard!!

Tina laughed and went to take her shower.

Bette got dressed in a white tailored suit with a pale pink undershirt, her hair tossed up in a loose bun, strands of soft brown curls chiseling her facial features.

Tina dressed in a pair of black silk pants and a matching sleeveless top, deciding to leave he hair down in loose curls, just the way Bette liked it.

Bette looked at Tina as she exited the bathroom, (grinning) Wow babyyou look better to me every day, if that is even possible!

Tina smiled and walked over to Bette, taking Bette in her arms, Thanks babe, you look pretty gorgeous yourself too, you know. Leaning in grabbing Bette around the waist; whispering seductively into Bettes ear, And I cant wait to get you out of all this later, because whats underneath is even more gorgeous!

Bette gave Tina a tender kiss, I cant wait either Tee! But we got to get going, right now, or else we will definitely be late looking Tinas body up and down, smiling in appreciation!

Individually the women looked absolutely stunning, but together, well they were in a class of their own. They were both finally ready and grabbing their purses Bette grabbed Tinas hand and they were out the door.


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Bette and Tina arrived at the gallery at 6pm, arm in arm; making a grand entrance. All eyes in the room shifted the moment they entered, both guys and girls were staring at the gorgeous couple as they walked over to the bar and grabbed a glass of red wine each.

Bette never let go of Tinas hand as she introduced Tina to the artist Allard, and to some other V.I.P. guests.

Tina spotted Sarah and the gang, so while Bette was immersed in a conversation with some L.A. photographer about Allards work, Tina leaned in and whispered to Bette, Ill be right back babe, just going to say hello to Sarah and the girls. Kissing Bette on the cheek.

Bette looked at Tina, smiling Ok baby.

Tina walked over and spoke to Sarah first.

Tina: Hey Sarah, How are you? Everything ok in S.F.?

Sarah had already had a few cocktails and was at the happy stage, Gday Tina, (giving her a bear hug) Have I got some news for youyou know the *****.he wasnt my father after all Mum went off her head. The only other person she had a relationship with was your dad Stephen, so looks like theres your reason why we look so much alike, aye?

Tina listened intently, surprised, letting Sarah talk; she knew she had to get it all off her chest.

Sarah continued, Mum is upset because she reckons she never shouldve given me up? And she regrets that Stephen never got to know he had another daughter Tina I dont regret my life at allI love my mum and dad back home. I didnt know what to say to Nancy

Tina: (compassionately) Im just really sorry you never got to meet dad our dad StephenHe was a great manIll ring mum. Dont worry about that ok.

Sarah: Thanks Tina.

Tina bought Sarah over to Bette, I know whatll cheer you up. Bette introduced Sarah to William Allard. Tina noticed while listening to Sarah, that Bette was attracting an extreme amount of attention, from the female guests in particular.

They seemed to be flirting with her, shamelessly, touching Bette lightly on the arm, and Bette didnt seem to be minding!??!!

Tina left Sarah to chat with Allard and asked Bette, Babe, you got a minute? Tina didnt want to cause an unnecessary scene, it wasnt a big deal, but she just didnt like Bette acting like the flirting was Ok.

Tina: (calmly) Babe? (touching Bettes arm lightly) whats all this about?

Bette: (confused looking Tina in the eyes) What are you talking about Tina? taking Tinas hands in her own.

Tina: (sincerely looking into Bettes eyes) Alright babe, I know you love just me, but you hardly let me touch you all week; you are too tired, then you let these women flirt shamelessly with you, touching you suggestively, and youre not even discouraging it? Whats that all about Bette? Tinas voice was rising slightly.

Bette doesnt even think, Tee, Its nothing I know most of these women. Theyre just being friendly.

Tina: (controlled anger) Ah, now I get it, theyre all your exs?

Bette: (looking around, sensing she has to reassure Tina, and she needs to get back to her guests) BabyIm sorry, this is just my work! Just relax ok? Ill be done soon, it doesnt mean anything, youre my one and only!! Bette said, rather dismissively

The lack of sleep and Bette telling her to relax pissed Tina off, Fine, you come and find me when youre done ok!

Bette didnt notice the tone of Tinas voice, Ok, sure baby! I wont be long! Bette smiled giving Tina a quick peck on the cheek before returning to her guests.

Tina was ropable; she walked over to Alice and the gang, and joined them in sneaking outside to have one of Alices special smokes to try and RELAX. That was what she was told to do right, Tina thought to herself and although Tina rarely indulged in that stuff, tonight was a rare night!!


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The evening was winding down and the gang had become extremely intoxicated, indulging in free cocktails all evening. Sarah decided it was time to call it a night, as she could barely stand up, calling a cab to take her homeShane, ever the charmer, insisted she tag along, because she didnt want Sarah taking a cab by herself back to Alices, at this time of night.

Alice and Dana were having a blast and wanted to stay, they too were drunk and enjoying schmoozing with the artistic crowd

Sarah and Shane said their goodbyes to the gang, well Alice, Dana, and Bette anyway. They couldnt seem to find Tina. The two women didnt think much of it though. They were using all their concentration on merely staying upright.

They ventured out the front of the gallery, their left and right hips pressed together and arms around each other to hold the other up, needing some fresh air; waiting on the cab.

A strange silence fell upon them as they reach their destination, still pressed against the other, their eyes locking into each others gaze. Sarah broke the silence by giggling; and without thinking she leaned in and placed a soft delicate kiss on Shanes mouth, slightly, gently parting Shanes lips and touching the very tip of Shanes tongue with her own. Their lips lingered on each others that way for a few minutes.

Sarah broke away, breathlessly, just as suddenly as she had started; not knowing what had come over herShe had never really given much thought to her sexuality. She had dated men in the past but every relationship always seemed to lack something. The more time Sarah spent with Shane, and the rest of Tinas mates, she was beginning to realize maybe what that something was and then there was Shane, Shane. there is something about Shane that is so. irresistible. Sarah thought.

A surprised Shane was also breathing heavy after the breathtaking kiss, but was so intoxicated that when she slowly opened her eyes to gaze upon the woman who just took her breath away, all she saw was Tina. Shane quickly pulled away from Sarah, *****. Bette is gunna kick my *****!! Im so sorry Tina, I dont know what came over me?

Sarah laughed and tried to convince Shane that she wasnt Tina. Shane had made some distance between the two of them, her burning desire building between her legs, not abating any time soon. But no matter how hard Sarah tried, Shane just wouldnt listen.


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The evening was almost completed. Bette had been stuck all night chatting with various artist and time had certainly got away from her.

Only now, did Bette manage a minutes breather, seeing as the function was nearing its end and regrettably thought she wouldve much rather spent it with Tina by her side. With that thought Bette wondered where Tina was, looking around; she could not see her anywhere.

She thought back to their last conversation, I didnt say anything to upset her did I?No I dont believe so?

Bette spotted Alice and Dana, obviously intoxicated, and went over to speak to them.

Bette: Hey you two. Have you seen Tina around anywhere? I cant seem to find her?

Alice: (slurring her words slightly) Nah. I havent seen Tina for a while. She came out with us for a special smoke Bette, to RELAX!!!!! Like you told her to, and the last I seen she woz still out in the fresh air chilling with some woman, that I think she knew?

What?? a twinge of jealousy overtook Bettes body, at the thought of Tina even speaking to this woman she apparently knew. Just then she got it; what Tina was trying to tell her earlier, she understood exactly.

Bette trusted Tina, but was getting worried about where she had disappeared to? What woman Alice?so where is she now? Alice just shrugged her shoulders and giggled, I believe she went home with Shane (looking at Dana and bursting out laughing). Chill Bette I was talking about Sarah!

Bettes relief was evident, but she was still worried, Why did you let her smoke that ***** Alice???? She wouldnt have left without telling me! a bit embarrassed that it took her this long to notice that Tina wasnt around.

Bette searched every room in her gallery for Tina, with no sign of her.

All the guests had left by this time, except Alice and Dana. They helped as best they could, considering their level of drunkenness.

Bette tried looking outside, its the last place she could think of, cursing on her way out, by this time extremely worried, Where the ***** are you Tee???