Bette and Tina checked into their one bedroom suite at one of the finest resorts in the West Indies. It had a secluded terrace with private plunge pool. The terrace was furnished with a dining table, chairs and chaise lounges. The living area featured an entertainment unit with cable TV and DVD player. They also had a stereo system with surround sound speakers and high speed internet access which they would not need on this trip.

They especially loved the old fashioned four poster bed and the marble bathroom which included a deep soaking tub and separate glass-enclosed shower. Upon arrival they ordered room service which had just been delivered. They sat on the chaise lounges enjoying a sample platter of local appetizers and tropical rum punch. They were just relaxing and talking after spending several hours in flight from Los Angeles to New York and then to Barbados.

“What’s going on Bette? I thought we were on our way to see Peggy this morning and to join her for Jodi’s opening this afternoon?”

“Would you rather we were?” Bette asked stretching out her legs and popping a slice of pineapple in her mouth.

“You’re asking me that when we are sitting in the middle of paradise? Of course I’d rather be here with you. I just don’t want you to blow off an important opportunity to make contacts for your gallery. I thought this weekend was important for your career?”

“It is baby, and we’re not missing anything. We’re still going to N.Y. just not today. For the next three days we are going to enjoy Barbados. We’re flying to N.Y. on Monday afternoon and we’ll arrive at Peggy’s in the evening. Jodi’s exhibit is on Tuesday.”

“Why did you tell me it was today?”

“I wanted to surprise you with this trip. I didn’t forget your birthday Tee. I never made plans to be anywhere but here with you on your special day.”

“So you had this planned all along. What if I’d asked you to cancel the trip?”

“Then I would have had to figure out something or else just tell you what I was planning but it was much more fun this way.”

“And I take it Peggy and the Concierge were both in on it?”