’I smell popcorn.’ Renee called in a raspy voice.

I brought her a cup of tea. ’Why did the popcorn break up with the butter? Because it found someone else to pop with!’ I said and felt silly when her weary eyes looked at me puzzled. From the bathroom, Bette’s snicker wafted in my direction. It sounded like a gentle gust of wind on a warm spring day—unexpected and refreshing.

’Why are you still here?’ Renee asked as Bette walked out of the bathroom wearing a crimson red sheat dress.

’Because I want to try the popcorn.’

’Oh shit.’ I hurried back to the kitchen and gave the pot a gentle shake, ensuring that the kernels were evenly distributed and had a chance to pop to their fullest. In the living room Bette leaned slightly toward the big mirror, slowly applying mascara, every meticulous brush stroke elongating her already long lashes. When she caught me staring I looked down. And the lid rattled slightly in response to the bursts of heat within.

As the pace of popping slowed down, I carefully lifted the lid, greeted by a cloud of steam that carried the rich aroma of freshly popped corn. ’What are you auctioning tonight?’

’I believe Sylvie arranged some VIP-event or something, I’m not sure.’ She walked into the kitchen putting her earrings in. ’Is this ok?’ She meant the pearly earrings but I took the liberty to slowly examine the contours of her face. It was the same and yet it looked different. It was like listening to a melody you’ve heard a hundred times, only to suddenly notice an intricate harmony you’d never caught before.

’Perfect.’ I made an effort not to say it too fast. ’Which shoes are you going to wear?’

In the living room the Zippo clicked. And we both cringed. ’Do you want a wine?’ Bette asked taking a glass.

I looked at the clock on the wall and raised my eyebrow at her. ’If you want to be there on time you should start.’

She handed me a glass and lifted herself up on the counter. ’It will be ok. Which movie are you going to watch?’

’Bette you’re going to be late!’ Renee’s voice echoed from the other room.