“Don’t worry.”  Bette attempted to mollify a clearly apprehensive James.  Then again he usually was this time of the quarter. 

Board meetings meant having to rely on his ability to marshal everything required and assist with compressing a multitude of facts, observations and recommendations coherently.   

In five pages or less. 

Limited space that was claimed by the preferred colorful and extravagant charts in lieu of straightforward detail that held more meaning.  Facilitating a nicely crafted report that was pleasing to look at, regardless of content on occasion.  Thankfully this version held more good than bad news in light of recent successes. 

Still, that meant nothing.  Members’ moods had a lot to do with how smoothly these meetings ran.  Pointless questions were not held in check necessarily. 

“I’ll be there soon.”  Bette urged once more, “Don’t worry James.”

With that she firmly placed the phone in its cradle, stood and walked to the bureau to select an appropriately sedate chain to adorn her neck.  Taking a deep breath, she picked up the accordion folder that contained relevant notes.  As she exited the bedroom, the empty mug with a trace of coffee coating the bottom came along to be deposited in the sink.

Glancing about to make sure appliances and lights were turned off, she moved to leave.  Distracted with the menial task, Bette didn’t immediately notice the person partly hidden and quietly seated on the sofa by the front door.  The presence was not really considered or expected after the time that had passed. 

Certainly not this early in the morning. 

Reaching for her keys, Bette’s brisk steps brought her closer to the exit.  It was then her eyes locked with that of the woman who was in the same room.  Bringing her to a complete stop.

Cocking her head slightly, her brows arched in question.  “Tina?” 

“I used my key.”  The quiet statement was posed in answer.  Which it did in part, though it ushered a multitude more.

A smiling Bette replied, “Of course”.  The response filled the awkward pause and defied the feeling of surprise from the visit.

Then it clicked. Thursday.  Tina’s day off.  The day she herself suggested almost two months ago would be good for her to collect her things without interruption.