“That sounds wonderful, but we’ve imposed so much already. I can’t ask you to help with dinner too.”

“Tina it’s hardly an imposition. You’re doing me a favor besides I’m not used to being idle when everyone else around me is busy.”

“OK. Suit yourself. Just check the fridge and the pantry over there. I’m sure we probably have everything you need for your salad.”

After washing her hands Bette checked the fridge for the salad makings while Tina got out the cutting board, knifes, and salad bowls. Tina and Val obviously enjoyed a lot of home cooked meals. The fridge and pantry were fully stocked and they seemed to have all the latest culinary gadgets. Bette’s kitchen was similarly outfitted with the gadgets but she didn’t know how to use half of them and her fridge and pantry were usually pretty bare. It also didn’t help that she didn’t have anyone to cook for or with. She found herself enjoying the way she and Tina moved around the space together as they got everything they needed.

“Bette will you excuse me for a few minutes? I just need to wash up a bit. I’ll be right back.”

“Sure Tina. Take your time.” Tina goes into her bedroom to get her things then heads into the bathroom to wash up and change. She’s back in about 20 minutes.

“Do you find all the makings for your salad?”

“Yeah. I’ve got everything. I found some other ingredients so I’m improvising on the original recipe. I’m adding butter lettuce and using the toasted walnuts instead of pecans. I hope you like it.”

“I’m sure we will. If you want to add citrus we have some oranges or kumquats.”

“I didn’t think of adding citrus but that sounds good.” Tina got busy seasoning the fresh salmon while Bette worked on the salad. Afterwards they went out to the backyard to prepare the gas grill. They took their drinks and a raw veggie platter with ranch dressing outside with them so they have something to munch on. After heating up the grill they sat on the deck chairs in the backyard and made small talk while they wait for Valerie.

“Bette do you have family in LA?”

“No my parents are both deceased. I have a half-sister on my father’s side. She’s a musician currently living in Chicago but tours a lot; she’s talking about retiring soon and moving to Los Angeles.”