(Alice frowns) What came up?

(Bette) Nothing you need to worry about

(Alice) Something to do with Tina then?

Bette doesn’t respond and Alice sighs.

(Alice) You are all over the place on this one

Bette still doesn’t respond.

(Alice) OK, well just take care of yourself, whatever you’re doing here. I’m in your corner but you must know the odds are stacked against you. There’s a good chance it’ll end in a whole lot of hurt for you

(Bette) I appreciate the concern, but I’m fine

(Alice sighs) OK then, well good luck I guess

(Bette smiles) Thanks Al

That evening, Bette and Tina sit together at a small table in a cosy bar, enjoying a glass of wine before the main attraction commences.

(Tina) You must be excited about your new gallery space

(Bette smiles) I am, very much

Bette’s face lights up as she talks and Tina smiles watching her.

(Bette) It’s exactly the space I imagined when I first started thinking about opening a gallery

(Tina) Well I can’t wait to see what you do with it

They share a smile.

(Bette) And how is the campaign going so far? Is it crazy from the start or does it slowly get there?

(Tina smiles) Not crazy yet, but it will be soon enough I’m sure

(Bette) From what I’ve read it seems like he has an excellent chance at success

Tina nods.

(Tina) Yes, I guess you never know what’s ahead, anything can happen in this game. But he’s very popular so with any luck he’ll get there

Bette pauses for a sip of wine.

(Bette) So, First Lady of California. That’s the title isn’t it?

Tina nods and also has a sip of wine.

(Bette) Is that still the title if you’re not married?

Tina looks at her and takes a breath before responding.

(Tina) We plan to marry before he takes office

They look at one another intently before they are pulled from the moment as the lights dim, and a pianist begins to play a soft tune from the stage in the corner of the room. A woman’s beautiful deep voice joins after a few bars and they both turn towards the musicians and listen for a while together.