Chapter 2:

I didnt know Bette Porter is a *****.
Yeah, its fairly well known within the artist community, but Im surprised you didnt know.
Well, Id never heard of her before tonight. It just didnt seem like she was…
*****? Tina, not everyone has short spiky hair and wears overalls, Eric laughed as he watched Tina try to process what Eric told her. He had many ***** friends, and it didnt make any difference to him whether or not someone was *****.
I know, but she was so…I dont know, attractive…I guess, Tina frowned, looking deep in thought.
She is definitely attractive, Eric smiled.
Hey! Watch it, buddy, Tina playfully slapped him on the arm as she unbuckled her shoe. She sat at the couch in her living room and suddenly realized how exhausted she was, physically and especially mentally.
Eric, Im tired. Lets just go to bed tonight. Ok? Eric gave her the puppy dog look.
You are pathetic, Tina laughed. Im serious, though. I wont be much fun, and I have a lot on my mind.
Youve been working too hard lately. Dont think I cant tell, cuz I can. But all the same, I need some sleep, too. I think Ill stay here, though. You mind?
Eric, you know I dont care, Tina gently patted his hand as she stood up from the couch and headed to the bathroom.
Viiii hvvvff hlllttt noo dooo ftomorvro, Tina slobbered while brushing her teeth.
I have no idea what the ***** you just said.
Tina spit and said, I have a lot to do tomorrow.
Oh, so do I. Sometimes Saturdays just arent as fun as they used to be. Remember when we were in college and all you had to do on Saturday was sleep, hang out, and maybe study?
How could I forget? But I guess we all grow up because I have to do laundry, buy groceries… Tina fell asleep and Eric laughed as he snuggled in next to her, holding on for dear life.


The next morning came with a slow start, as do most weekend mornings after a long week at work. Eric shuffled out of bed, smiling as he saw Tinas clothes awaiting her body on the bathroom floor. He thought hed surprise her in the shower.
Jesus, Eric! You scared the ***** out of me!
Sorry hun, thought you might like some company. Eric wrapped his arms around her. Tina was not in the mood.
Babe, I dont have time this morning. I really am sorry. I have a hair appointment in 20 minutes, and I need to stop and get coffee. Seeing Eric’s face, she cut him off before he had time to say anything, No I cant reschedule. My hair dresser is hard to schedule, especially on a Saturday.
She left the shower and Eric yelled, Thats fine, but you owe me!
Dont worry, you can wait, she hollered back.
As she was getting dressed Eric walked into the bedroom, and put on some clothes he had stashed away in Tinas closet.
So, what time do we need to leave tonight? Tina asked.
For what? Eric asked while zipping up his jeans.
For the artist dinner thingy, you know…
Oh, right…I almost forgot about that. You still want to go?
Course I do. Im not one to pass up something like this-
Or the free food, Eric quickly cut in. He couldnt resist. Tina had a weakness for food, but no matter how much she ate, she still stayed thin. High metabolism.
Tina glared at him and continued, Besides, Bette Porter is different than all the other gallery owners Ive met, and the artists being shown at her place are great. Maybe Ill buy a piece.
The work there last night was cheaper than other places Ive seen, but I just think thats because these artists are trying to gain more support and get the word out about them. Youd do a good thing by buying one of their stuff.
Youre right, Tina said as she left the bedroom and headed for the kitchen, Eric following behind.
And Bette is different. I can agree to that.
Why do you say it like that? What do you mean?
I just mean shes…bold, confidant, secure…and she knows it, Eric struggled for words.
I can see that. Youve never mentioned her before, though. Why not?
Never thought of it I guess. Anyway, how about I pick you up at 6:30 tonight?
Sounds good. Oh, and Eric, what are these dinners like, I mean artist dinners? Ive never been. Tina grabbed her keys and opened the door.
He closed the door behind him and said, Youll find out tonight. You and me both.