“They make a cute couple.”

“Yeah they are a good match.”

Oscar hesitated a bit before he spoke so Bette had an idea of what he wanted to talk about.

“Bette, I feel a little awkward bringing this up but what about you and Tina?”

“What about us?”

“I heard that you’ve separated.”

“We have. She moved out a few weeks ago.”

“I’m sorry Bette. Any chance you two can work things out?”

“I don’t know Oscar we still need to talk.”

“You know she’s accepted the position as the center’s new Director. She’s overseeing everything. All the program directors including Francesca report to her now.”

“No. I didn’t know. Congratulations on the selection. I think she will be a great asset to you.”

“Thanks. I agree which is why I brought it up. Considering your involvement in so much that we do here you’ll likely have some interactions with her. Is that going to be a problem?”

“Oscar whatever happens between Tina and me won’t interfere with my work here. I think I can speak for both of us when I say that neither one would do anything to the detriment of this center or any of the programs that we’re involved in.”

“Thank you for the assurances Bette. I know Francesca would be devastated if you were to pull away. She’s the main reason why I thought it was important to talk to you. She’s expressed some concerns and didn’t feel comfortable talking to Tina about it.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll talk to Francesca and eventually Tina and I will talk as well.”

Francesca came back to Oscar’s office and rejoined him and Bette after completing all the phone calls.

“Were you able to reach all the families?” Oscar asked.

“Yes everyone was home. I think they knew we would be making the calls today so they were sitting by the phone. They were all thrilled with the news. I also took the time to mail out the invitations to the dinner so we’re all set for three weeks from now.”

“Perfect. I’ve already arranged the van and driver to take us up on the Friday before the 4th of July weekend. This way the kids can see the fireworks display on the lake, and have a couple of days to get acclimated before we get started with the curriculum. Fran I could really use your help. I hope that you will change your mind and join us. You haven’t been in three years.”