The centrepiece for the show, as you know requires sound, so we were aware that we would have to bring in the necessary audio equipment and specialist to operate it for the duration of the show. Of course the necessary promotion for the show has all been arranged, and agreement has been made with the artists for the use of copyright of their work in order to promote it effectively.

The programme for the event, has been approved, we have obtained biographical information and a foreword from the artists to be included, and the first proof arrived last week.

I have agreed our requirements with the caterers, and the serving staff have been arranged. And of course the guest list has been completed and the invitations sent.

So as you can see, I have left no stone unturned, which if I recall, Franklin, is the precise reason you spent 6 months persuading me that the CAC would be the perfect canvas for me to practice my art! Bette finished with a flourish.

Bette sat back in her black leather executive chair. Resting her elbows on the cushioned arms she bought her hands together resting the tips of her slender fingers together. She studied Franklins face with a feeling of victory. Bette Porter knew that Franklin was well versed in her talents as an arts director, after all he had been determined in his efforts to bring her on board..whether she wanted the job or not!

Franklin noted Bettes body language, and the satisfied smile on her face, and realised that Bette thought she had the upper hand in the conversation. Franklin leaned forward in his chair, deciding it was time to bring this meeting to an end.

Then as ever your preparation has been suitably thorough?

Of course

And the artwork?

 Arrived two days ago, as you know. Franklin, I really fail to see where you are going with this.

Well Bette, where I am going with this, is that you have completed all of the pre exhibit preparation, the art work is here, the installers are already on site, your assistant is handling all of the press enquiries, and the gala opening has been arranged.

Bette nodded her head yes, the self satisfied smile curling the corners of her mouth.

 So you see Bette, your preparation has been SO thorough that we CAN afford for you not to be here for the next two weeks!

WHAT?! Bette couldnt believe it. Franklin had blindsided her, and now she had no idea how she was going to talk him round.

Franklin pushed a large A4 envelope onto Bettes desk. I think you will find everything you need in here. Theres a list of essential items that you will need to pick up before your flight leaves, which is in 2 days time by the way.

Oh, and Bette? Bette looked up from the still closed envelope, a look of resignation on her delicate features. Yes Franklin

I dont think there is anyone more qualified than you for this. If anyone can bring this off its you.

Thank you Franklin” Bette responded without enthusiasm.

Franklin stood from his chair, and paused before leaving Bettes office. I appreciate I am not giving you much notice of this Bette, so I do not expect to see you back here until after your trip, ok?

Fine muttered Bette as she turned the envelope over in her hands.

Franklin left Bettes office and made his way out of the entrance of the CACDamn, he thought, looking at his watch they will have teed off without me. If I get a move on I may just be able to catch them up before they get to the 3rd hole.

Back in her office Bette picked up the envelope and impatiently ripped it open. Out fell her flight tickets, a map, and a checklist.What the ***** thought Bette as she started to read the list

Medical:

Malaria pills

Motion sickness pills

Oral rehydration tablets/sachets

Aspirin

Immodium

Insect repellent

The list fluttered gently onto Bettes desk, as she sat frozen, as a feeling of total disbelief slowly washed over her. Bette rose from her desk, and dived towards her office door which she flung open with a strength her slender arms belied.

FRANKLIN!!!!!!!! she screamed

TBC