Hi, Im here to see Bette Porter. Could you let her know Tina Kennard is waiting for her? Tina approached a young woman in an office off to the side of the main gallery. Her cool appearance fooled only herself. She felt as is shed rather die than have to go through with seeing Bette again. Well, that was almost true, she thought as she watched Bette walking towards her.

Tina, glad to see you again! Come with me to my office. I have your earring there. Bette smiled carefully watched Tina, especially her eyes.

Tina followed Bette in silence, not sure what to say. Usually in awkward situations, she was chatty, but today, nothing would come out. She watched Bette move gracefully ahead of her. She wore black dress pants and a dark purple turtleneck, dressy but casual as well. Tina felt as though she could follow this woman with her eyes closed; never had she smelled such a distinctly wonderful smell.

When they entered the office, Bette stopped behind her desk and opened the drawer, but she frowned. I swear it was in here…hang on just a minute Tina. Bette scrambled through her drawers, cursing under her breath, and Tina scuffed her feet while casually looking around the office. It was rather dull, but simple. Artwork guarded the walls, but Tina didnt see any personal pictures around; it was very designerly friendly.

Bette straightened up and smiled, placing both hands on the desk. Tina, Im sorry. I cant find it. I know it was put in this drawer, but maybe it fell out of the envelope along the way. That earring is causing a lot of trouble, huh?

Tina returned the smile, not sure what to say, and thought to herself, Maybe youre the one causing a lot of trouble, Bette Porter. But instead she said, Well, isnt that just my luck lately? Sorry to take up your time. If it turns up, just call me at this number. Tina reached in her pocket and took out a business card with her work number on it. She then borrowed a pen from Bettes desk and wrote her home number on it.

All the bases covered then? Bette asked as she took the card from Tina. Tina made sure not to accidentally touch Bettes hand in the process.

That about takes care of it. Thanks again. She turned for the door, but before she could leave, Bette stopped her.

Tina, a museum a couple of blocks from here is showing a new exhibit. Actually, its a collection of black and white photography from an up and coming new artist. I really think youd like his work. Want to come along with me? Bette searched her face, but couldnt quite read Tinas reaction. This woman was absolutely beautiful, and Bette knew that inside was just as radiant. If only Tina would let her in, just a little bit. Then shed find out theres more to the world than what Tinas seen.

Um…well…I dont know. I have a lot of work to do. So…maybe another time? Tina stumbled over her words, feeling like an idiot. How long could she avoid Bette?

You could bring Eric if you want. I know he likes art as well. Bette was willing to try anything to get to spend time with Tina.

Ill ask him, and Ill call you later. Is that ok? She smiled and cocked her head slightly in sync to the question.

Sure, heres my card. Ill talk to you soon.

Till then, Tina responded as she walked out the door, relief reaching from her head to her toes. She felt as if she hadnt breathed since she walked into the gallery until she left. Sighing, she quickened her pace to the car. She realized she was shaking when she tried to get her key in the ignition. Who is that woman? And why does she make me so nervous?

She decided to call Eric right away, so Bette wasnt waiting long.

Eric, its me. Hey, I have a question for you.

No, she didnt have the earring. Looks like it has a mind of its own – She smiled as she talked to Eric.

Well, apparently theres this show at a museum tonight. Its photography and Bette wants us to go with her. What do you say? Tina listened to Eric respond.

You have to work late? How late…. Damn. What should I do? … no, I dont want to go without you…. yeah, ok…. maybe youre right. See you later. Love you.

So, Eric wanted her to go without him. She didnt want to, but he insisted, saying it would be a good experience to have someone along who had professional insights. And hes heard about the show and wants her to get an idea of the prices of the photos.

Fine, Ill just go, she thought to herself. No harm done, right? Ive wanted to get to know her better and hopefully gain a new friend…

Tina decided to wait a while to call Bette, just in case she changed her mind. Actually, she did change her mind…about twenty times, but came to a final decision as she picked up the phone and dialed the Bette Porter gallery. She hung up on the first ring. She dialed again…hung up…dialed…hands sweaty and pulse racing, she took a deep breath and dialed one last time.

Bette Porter, please…this is Tina Kennard.

Tina took deep breaths. She didnt want to be out of breath when talking to Bette; she needed to sound calm and collected.

Bette Porter.

Hi, Bette, this is Tina…um, Tina Kennard, the earring lady.

How could I forget? Bette smiled. How could I forget those eyes, lips… She thought.

Im calling about your invitation tonight. Well, Im sorry to say that Eric cant go. Hes working late tonight.

Oh, well, I understand. I guess Ill just have to find another art lover to accompany me. Bette had trouble hiding her disappointment.

Actually, I am still willing to go, I mean, if thats ok. Eric wants me to check it out for him. Hes heard about the show. Tinas face reddened.

That would be great! Bette glowed foolishly and was secretly glad she was alone for that very reason. How about you meet me here at 7:00.

Sounds great. Ill see you then.

Tina hung up the phone and placed her forehead on her desk. Her assistant walked in and stopped abruptly.

Tina, you ok?

What, yeah…sorry, just thinking. Tina sat up, hair in disarray.

Well, take all the time you need…Im going home for the day. See you tomorrow.

Ill see you tomorrow only if I live through tonight, thought Tina as she put her head back down on the desk, eyes closed.