Bette returned to the table with an older, attractive woman beside her.  They sat at the table simultaneously as Bette spoke.  “Ms. Kennard, this is my sister Kit.  She owns the Planet and she can serve as my reference.  I have already explained briefly who you are and what you need and now I’m going to excuse myself so that you two can speak freely.  I’ll be by the bar.  Again Ms. Kennard, please accept my sincerest apology for my reaction before, I can assure you I am very serious about proceeding with this. I’ll leave you two to talk.” 

Bette walked away with her usual grace, attracting the attention of everyone she passed.  Tina noticed her affect on everyone, it was unusual even for a vampire. She offered her hand to Kit and they greeted one another.

“Does she always have that affect on people?”

“Oh, you mean the stares.  Yea, baby girl always got that reaction from people.  Even before she became a …well.  Yes, she could always turn heads.  She’s beautiful isn’t she?”

Tina didn’t answer out-loud. She’s breathtaking. “Um, alright Ms. Porter, I just have a few questions for you.  Your sister mentioned that you know a little about what she wants to do.  I just want to know from you what kind of a person Bette was before she turned. I like to know my subjects before I make a decision about whether they are a good candidate or not.”

“Oh, well, my sister…my sister…”  Kit’s eyes glossed over and a few tears began to trickle down her face.  Tina handed her a napkin.

“Thank you.”

“I’m sorry, Ms. Porter.  I know this must be hard.  Just tell me about Bette.”

“She is the most loving and caring person you could ever know Ms. Kennard. I’m not just saying that because she is my sister.  She would give you the designer shirt off her back.  She is warm and giving, compassionate and intelligent.  She is a Yale graduate, you know.  She owned a successful art gallery and was very well respected in her field.  She is a true friend and I couldn’t have asked for a better sister.  I want so much for her to be whole again.  Please help her Ms. Kennard, please.”