Chapter 4

Jane and Bette shook hands after finalizing everything.

“It was nice meeting you, Ms. Porter. I wish you and your gallery much luck.”

“Thank you, Jane.” She waved as the real estate agent climbed into her Escalade and drove off. She then walked back into her newly bought space to find Alice.

“All done?” Alice asked, as she watched Bette walk in.

“Yeah, there’s just the minor stuff to clear up now.”

Alice felt the awkward silence between them, not knowing what to say from here. Bette was the first to break it.

“So I just wanted to thank you, officially, for this. I appreciate it so much more than I really show.”

“It was no problem. I’m glad I could help.” Alice smiled sadly as she thought this was their end.

“You should get home,” Bette said. Alice glanced at her feet and nodded her agreement fighting the tears she felt coming.

“Yeah, you’re right. It’s been a long day.”

“I mean, how else are you going to get ready for our date tonight?” Alice’s head snapped up.

“Are you serious?” Her face lit up with excitement.

“Very,” Bette replied and closed the distance between them. She moved an errant strand of hair behind Alice’s ear. “Go home, make yourself even more beautiful than you are right now, and I’ll take you out for a night you won’t soon forget.” Bette confirmed the promise with a soft kiss, then watched happily as Alice smiled and literally skipped out of the building.

***

Bette waited patiently inside Alice’s apartment as she touched up the last of her make up and clothes. Finally she walked out of the bathroom and into Bette’s presence. The smile on her face was very telling as to how happy Bette was making her. Bette returned the smile with sincerity.

“Wow you look gorgeous,” Alice said

“I could say the same to you, but you’re are so above gorgeous right now, gorgeous doesn’t even cut it.” Alice blushed at the compliment. Bette held out her hand, which Alice gratefully took. “Come on, we have reservations to make.”

***

At the restaurant, the ease with which the two women conversed was evident in their laughter and brief touches across the table. Alice never imagined a week ago that she would be on a date with one of the most wanted women in West Hollywood, and Bette, to be honest, never imagined she would enjoy it as much as she did.