Chapter 36 – The Morning After

Shane I need Bettes phone number and her address. I have too many questions that only Bette can answer and I not going to let anymore time get between us. Tina had pulled Shane aside after Shane a gulped down her triple shot.

Shane was grateful that Tina was taking charge. She had that sparkle in her eyes which warmed Shanes heart. Shane just handed over Bettes number and address saying: Go tiger.

The girls were all at the Planet as they are every Sunday morning. This was the morning after the auction and they had all sharing their thoughts on how successful the evening had been.
Can you believe we raised over a quarter of a million dollars? I knew I could put it all together. Alice cooed as she was singing her own praises.
OOOhh, OOHH, did I tell you that the art critic is all over my answering machine wanting to know who the artist was. She thinks that HE, can you believe she thought Bette is a he, will be the next big find. Alice continues.
Yeah, Yeah you told us Alice, but you know we promised Bette we would keep that to ourselves. Shane admonished Alice.

Well you never know, she was more open maybe I can talk her into it. Alice says more to herself than anyone at the table.

Yeah I believe it but I still cant believe the Mighty Taurus, who was that guy anyway he really made me go a lot higher than I intended but I wasnt about to let him win. Dana complained all in good fun.

All the girls were exchanging their views of the previous evening, all except anything to do with Bette. Tina herself had to bring up Bette, mainly because she need all the facts and also because it felt like the elephant in the corner.
Ok, guy I have had my coffee, now tell me about Bette. Tina instructed.

All the girls looked at each other and to Tinas surprise it was Shane who took the lead. I found her at your house, Kit and I eventually got her to see that she need help, well Kit actually. Thats were I go all the time. I have to tell you that I thought the world of Bette before, but now I cant describe how much she means to me. She has changed in some very positive ways. I feel like her sister, you know as if we have the same parents kind of closeness. I can talk to her and she listens, I mean really listens and doesnt judge me. There is no hidden agenda anymore. What you see is what you get. I dont know what else I can say other than I would take this Bette any day of the week over the old one.
Tina just sat back and absorbed what Shane was saying. Tina had never heard Shane be so articulate. Shane spoke with passion and when she was done Tina had to just shake her head. She still didnt know what Bette feared.

Shane, I understand that this is a different Bette, she couldnt speak through her paintings with such an elegant voice if she wasnt more open. But why is she so afraid?
Shane just shakes her head looks at Tina and quickly bows her gaze. She knows. Thought Tina.
Well Tina what did Bette say to you? Shane asked looking back up to Tina.
I dont know something about not being good enough. I didnt know what she meant? Tina responded.
Im sorry Tina, youre going to have to talk to Bette about her fears yourself. Maybe thats what you ask her? Shane responds.

Shane knew alright but how do you tell Tina that Bette didnt think she was good enough for Tina anymore and that no matter how much Shane argued with her she wouldnt budge. Maybe Tina could get through to her, Shane thought.