Chapter 25 – Discovery

Tina stood there stunned. Moving closer to the painting, Tina was looking for the signature of the artist. In the very bottom left corner were the smallest of initials BP. Was this Bette? Tina couldnt think clearly. The guy was rambling on. Im sorry Tina shook her head and asked What are you saying?
Jason: The artist will be back later this afternoon but can I help you with anything?
I want this painting but I really didnt come prepared to purchase anything today. Tina started as Carol walked up. Tina turned to Carol Carol, can I borrow twenty bucks till we get back?
Carol: Sure as she begins to pull twenty dollar bill out of her wallet and hands it to Jason. Carol then offers to Tina You know, I can come back after work and get this for you if you want?
Tina agreed and with that, Jason put a hold on the picture and put down Carols name on the sold sign her attached to the picture.
Tina went to the ATM on the way back to the Oriana House and handed Carol enough money to pay for the painting. She couldnt get her mind off the possibility that this could be Bette. Had Bette ever painted? No.. not that she could recall. If anything it was more the opposite, Bette had never had the patience or vision to create from scratch. Besides if Bette had created something so beautiful, she would have proclaimed her work with bold signature stroke not just puny little initials. This couldnt be Bette. Or could it? I must really be missing her more than I thought to be reading these thoughts into a painting.
This was pretty much the way Tinas thoughts went for the rest of the day. One thing was certain she needed to find out for sure. Going home that night, Alice was already gone by the time Tina walked in. Tina was actually relieved. She wasnt ready to share her discovery, if it even was a discovery, with anyone yet. Tina had decided on a plan of action.