“Oh, Elizabeth’s husband had to go out of town suddenly so she asked if it was ok if she brought a friend who’s visiting her from out of town. I told her it wasn’t a problem.” 

            The doorbell rang announcing the arrival of their guests.  Bette opened the door and there stood Elizabeth Dobson the University President and her boss and Senator Barbara Grishom.  

            “Please come in.”  Bette the ever gracious host ushered them in.

            “Thank you so much for being gracious at the last minute change.  Bette, Tina please allow me to introduce my friend Barbara.”

            “Senator Grishom it’s always a pleasure.”  Bette extended her hand.

            “Barbara, please. I thought we settled that.” Barbara held Bette’s hand a fraction longer than was appropriate before Bette responded.

            “Barbara.”

            Tina moved forward as Bette reached out her hand to pull Tina closer to her. “Sen.. Barbara, this is my partner Tina.  Tina, Barbara.”

            “It is nice to meet you.” Tina replied offering her hand which Barbara took but did not hold quite as long as she did Bette’s.  “It’s nice to see you again, Elizabeth.”  Tina said greeting their other guest and subtly moving them into the living room.

            “What a lovely home you have.” Barbara remarked as she studied some of the prints and paintings that adorned the living room.  “Being the unexpected guest I brought an exquisite bottle of scotch that I discovered.” 

            “That is very kind of you.” Bette replied smoothly, taking the bottle and excusing herself to get glasses.

            The hairs on Tina’s neck stood on end.  She engaged Elizabeth in conversation as she subtlety watched Barbara watching Bette.  Angelica stood in her crib and smiled at the newcomers.

            “And who is this gorgeous girl?” Barbara asked aware that Tina observed her frank appreciation of Bette. 

            Bette set the glasses down.  “This is Angelica.”  Bette scooped her up placing a kiss on her satiny cheek.

            “She is gorgeous.” Elizabeth agreed.  “I can see she inherited Tina’s nose. May I hold her?”

            “Of course.” Bette passed Angelica to Elizabeth.  Angelica settled easily and proceeded to examine Elizabeth’s hair and earrings her latest favorite toy.  Tina poured scotches around and opted for a glass of wine for herself.  Bette settled beside her and took her hand. Angelica discovered Barbara who was seated next to Elizabeth and the two of them soon became fast friends.  By the time they went into dinner Barbara was lobbying to allow Angelica to have the meal in her lap.