(Bette) I’ve met Fran at a number of functions over the years, and I’m always pleased to be interviewed by such a professional

They reach a doorway to an unoccupied office and Amanda gestures inside.

(Amanda) I hope this suits you. You’ll have privacy for any business you need to conduct between segments this morning.

(Bette) Thank you, everything looks fine.

(Amanda) Fran actually has a scheduling conflict this morning, so I’m afraid she won’t be interviewing you, though I’ll pass on your warm comments.

(Bette) Thank you. So who can I expect?

(Amanda) Well we’re a bit excited actually. (She smiles proudly) Tina Kennard

Bette stops and stares at her with a look of intensity.

(Amanda frowns at her) That’s funny, that’s the same look…

At that moment a voice down the hallway calls her in urgency, and she smiles an apology and makes her way out of the office.

Bette still hasn’t moved.

A little while later, Bette takes a deep breath and walks down the hallway towards the open doorway of the office Tina is occupying, and lightly knocks on the frame. Tina looks up and they stare at each other for a long moment.

(Bette) So why is the political editor of the New York Times filling in on morning radio? In Washington DC no less.

Tina continues staring at her while hovering over the desk holding various pieces of paper.

(Tina) Fran’s a friend, I fill in for her if it’s needed and I’m in town. For fun really.

(Bette) Ah. You always did have a wacky  idea of fun.

(Tina frowns at her) Come in and close the door

Bette does as she says.

(Tina) Look it goes without saying that I wouldn’t have taken her up on this if I knew it was you I’d be interviewing

(Bette) And I would have found a reason to decline Senator Kielson’s request to replace him.

(Tina sighs) But here we are

(Bette smiles faintly) Here we are

Tina narrows her eyes at her.

(Bette) You think this isn’t hard for me too?

(Tina) Well do you have to look so fucking smug about it?

(Bette) I’m pretty sure that’s just my face

Tina smiles despite herself.