Chapter 3

It has been a year since Tina started working at the gallery. Over time she and Bette became close. Tina told Bette about her dream of penetrating the movie business and explained to her that working for the gallery was a means to get by when she first started. She never knew she would enjoy it as much as she did.

Bette was surprised at how easy it was to work with Tina. It has been a year and she enjoyed Tina’s company professionally and personally. There would be times that their relationship would go beyond the realms of their professional world. Her tantrums has been less not because she and Tina shared a personal relationship. They were less because Tina was great at her job and has really helped Bette with the gallery.

One day while having lunch at Bette’s office, Tina was shifting uncomfortably on her chair and that didn’t go unnoticed.

“Tina, what’s the matter? You have been shifting on your seat for quite some time I would think your ass had formed a groove on the chair already.” Bette asked.

Tina gave Bette a death stare which made the brunette laugh. “You think you’re so funny, don’t you?” Tina replied sarcastically.

“Tee, just tell me OK. Before I start to think that you don’t want to share lunch with me anymore.”

“What? Where did that come from?” Tina asked.

“Well, if you would just tell me then I won’t have to guess, right?”

“OK. Fine. It’s just that, I don’t know how to tell you…” Tina said, her voice trailing off.

“Whatever it is, Tee. It’ll be OK. You’re not breaking up with me are you?” Bette replied giving Tina her best impersonation of a baby’s beautiful eyes.

“What?!? You are nuts. I’ve told you before and I am telling you again, you are NOT my type.” Tina replied with laughter in her voice. “Anyway, back to the matter at hand… Uhm, Bette… I started giving out my applications for a couple of production companies around the area.” Tina said almost in a whisper.

“Oh… Is that it?” Bette delicately asked.

“Yes. Are you mad?” Tina replied, slowly looking at Bette’s eyes searching for the truth.

“No. Why would I be? We’ve always talked about it. Sooner or later it’s bound to happen.” Bette carefully replied.

“Thanks!” Tina softly said taking Bette’s hand in hers.

“For what?” Bette asked.

“For understanding.” Tina said giving Bette a smile.

“No biggie, Tee. Just tell me how it goes so we can look for your replacement.” Bette said while rubbing her thumb on Tina’s hand with a hint of sadness in her eyes.