Punctual as always, Eric arrived at Tinas at 6:30. She didnt even let him come to the door for her; chivalry was not really her thing.

You look good as always, Eric said as Tina pulled herself into the car.

Thanks. I do it for you, hun. Tina smiled. She didnt usually like to get really dressed up, but every once in a while was fine with her. Besides, she knew tonight she really did look great with her long black dress that flattered her body perfectly. It wasnt a fancy outfit, but Tina didnt need to go over the top to look fabulous.

Im kinda nervous, are you? Tina asked as she pulled at some stray curls falling out of their place.

A little maybe, but this will be fun.


They arrived at the gallery fashionably late and were seated for dinner. Some people hadnt shown up yet, and dinner wouldnt be served for another half hour; Tina and Eric decided to mingle and get to know some people. Tina lingered behind Eric and took a turn towards the end of the table to look at some artwork she enjoyed the night before.

Hello again. Im glad you could make it, Bette said as she approached Tina.

Hi. Thanks again for inviting us, Tina smiled, heart beating and beating.

Wheres your other half? Bette looked around.

Oh, Eric is getting to know some people. I thought Id look at some work that I might be interested in purchasing. This one here fascinates me. Tina quickly looked at the work, avoiding Bettes eyes.

This is one of my favorites. You have good taste, Tina. What is it about this piece that intrigues you? Bette never passed up a conversation about work she liked, and this woman was so easy to talk to.

I dont know, Im not much of an art buff.

I wont hold it against you, Bette laughed. But Im curious. Just tell me what you see and what it is you like with what you see.

Ok, well…the colors hold me in this place. Its like I cant move. Im drawn in. But its not a happy piece; its more of a conflict. The strokes here dont match, and the colors seem to be fighting each other. This struggle brings me close, like to the edge of a cliff, and I have the choice to jump or turn back.

Tina blushed, Sometimes I can ramble.

Im glad because you have an eye for art, whether or not you know it. You should come to another show some time…

I tour the galleries around here often. Bette noticed apprehension in Tinas voice.

Alone, or does Eric go with you?

We go together, or sometimes I go with friends if I need time away, you know. Tina knew she liked Bette but felt very intimidated by her.

Maybe we could go together sometime if you need time away. I could give you some advice on the art and the galleries. It is my thing after all, Bette joked. Tina smiled and agreed to get together sometime, thinking there was no harm in getting to know a new friend. She just never had a ***** friend before. It kinda freaked Tina out, even though she had no problem with the whole ***** thing. She just felt funny.

Interrupting her thoughts, Bette reached over to Tina and gently tugged and earring out of Tinas hair.

Oops, its your earring. Here you go, Bette quietly said as she placed the jewelry into Tinas palm, cautiously touching her hand. Tina immediately responded to the sensation of feeling Bettes hand on hers, and she just assumed it was mutual friendship forming…a strong friendship. After all, she had felt this way for other women before, right? Its normal friend stuff. Tina held Bettes gaze until Bette motioned to sit and eat.

The dinner went smoothly, and Tina thoroughly enjoyed herself. She met so many interesting people, and she felt happy to understand the art world a little better. Bette glanced at Tina often, perhaps a little too often, but nobody saw the looks, except Bettes friend Alice. She didnt miss much, though. Tina felt Bettes stares, but never acknowledged them because she figured Bette was that attentive to everyone at the dinner table. She placed her hand on top of Erics and whispered I love you into his ear. He smiled and gently kissed her on the cheek. Bette smiled a fake smile and started a conversation with a woman next to her, determined to shift her gaze.

The dinner ended, and the guests began to filter through the doors as they had come. Eric and Tina decided to leave after talking to the artist who produced the work Tina liked so much.

I think Im going to buy that piece, Eric. I love it. Tina said as he wrapped his arm around her. They were walking out the door.

Its a nice piece, Tina, but it wasnt her best. Why not buy one thats more…traditional?

I dont know. Its something about that piece I like. Its contemporary, and I want to try something different. It fits me, she said.

They both stopped outside the gallery as someone was calling them. Turning around, arms around each other, they saw Bette Porter calling out to them to wait.

You two cant sneak away without saying goodbye to the gallery owner! I wanted to thank you for coming. Ill be sure to invite you to the next dinner. Until then, stop by anytime for anything. She smiled and shook their hands. Tina quickly took her hand into a firm shake and let go.

Oh, by the way Tina, if youre still interested in getting together, let me know. Stop by or call. You know where to find me. Bette turned around and walked away not missing a beat.

Are you hanging out with her sometime? Eric asked.

Maybe. She mentioned going to some other shows to give me her opinions and expertise. I might. She seems like a cool woman. Tina quickly started to walk to the car, letting go of Eric.

You should. Maybe shell expand your horizons a little. After all, shes an expert.
Eric got into the car after he let Tina in.

Shes something, thats for sure, Tina said under her breath as Eric drove away.