They were soon standing under a stream of hot water, relishing the tender touches that accompanied what was usually a five minute ritual.

So much for being time efficient.
____________________________________________________________________________

”Were you here last year?” Bette asked as they entered the hotel lobby after leaving the car with the valet.

”No, I didn’t attend,” Tina replied.

”For a formal event, it’s actually quite casual in its set up,” Bette said. ”We’ll be able to mingle for around an hour before we’re expected to take our seats.

”Then this is when we can introduce our relationship to as many people as possible,” Tina replied.

”You’re sure?” Bette asked. ”Last opportunity to back out…”

”You can back out too,” Tina offered.

”Not a chance,” Bette slipped her hand into Tina’s as they approached the room where the event was being held.

They’d barely entered when they both turned at the sound of a rich booming baritone.

”Bette, so nice to see you here,” the voice rang out, demanding their attention.

”Mayor Sanders,” Bette replied, reaching for an embrace of greeting. As she backed away, she spoke to introduce Tina. ”You must know Tina Kennard, from the District Attorney’s office.”

”Of course, Tina, I’ve been hearing some good things about you,” he said. ”We have to keep people like you on our side…don’t let Bette sway you into thinking defence is a force for good.”

”I think she knows by now, I’m not easily swayed, Mayor Sanders,” Tina replied.

”Good! And tonight we’ll dispense with the title. Call me Don,” he said. ”We should touch base later in the week, you and I. I’d like to hear your thoughts on some of the rumblings I’ve heard on your office’s politics. Maybe we can find a way to make better use of your time.”

”Hard to avoid politics when positions are elected,” Tina said.

”Something I know all too well,” he replied. ”Well, I can tell from your lack of beverage that I interrupted your arrival. Please, enjoy the evening.”

”It’s a wonderful fundraiser, I wouldn’t want to miss it,” Bette said.

Tina nodded her agreement before they parted ways.

”So much for undermining my career by attending this as a couple,” Tina said.

”He’s the consummate politician,” Bette said. ”You have a professional relationship with the prosecutorial side and a personal relationship with someone in defence. I wouldn’t be surprised if you end up with a job offer by the end of the week.”