I sat in my office, reading over the resumé of Candace Jewell, my Provocations contractor. I was trying to familiarize myself with her, as I would be working with her for the next couple months. We were set to debut Provocations in about four months, and it would make or break my career so I needed to make sure this woman knew the importance of this show.

"Bette," I heard as my door slid open slightly.

"Yes James?"

"Candace Jewell is here to see you."

"Send her in please."

My door slid all the way open and Candace walked in. She had mocha colored skin like me, her long brown hair in a braid. She wore a wife beater with denim overalls and tan colored work boots. Her tool belt hung off her hips as she walked towards my desk.

"Candace Jewell," she said and stuck her hand out, "Ms. Porter, it’s great to meet you."

"Please call me Bette," I said as I shook her hand, "sit and let’s talk about the plans you have for the show."

We sat and talked for a good two hours. She really did have a wonderful idea for the show. We were able to draw it out on paper and we went to the showroom and walked through our ideas. She got measurements and ordered all the supplies. Construction for the show would begin next week and I couldn’t contain my excitement. I picked up my phone and realized I didn’t have anyone to share it with. I had the girls yeah, but I didn’t have anyone at home to be excited for me. Jodi was never around and she was seemingly disinterested lately.

I arrived at the agency’s office just as I saw Jodi’s car pull up. We’d been called to come meet with our adoption agent. We exchanged a kiss and held hands as we walked into the building. My heart was pounding so hard in my chest.

"Ah, Bette, Jodi, thank you for coming on such short notice," she said as soon as we walked in.

"We came immediately, what’s the news?"

"Well we’ve found someone who would like you to adopt their child," she said and smiled. Both Jodi and I sat back. Jodi had read her lips and I had translated.