“Yes. Thank you, Peggy. We have so many more people attending this year it will be great to have the extra room. If it’s okay James and his family can stay there instead of the house in West Hollywood, so they won’t have the commute.”

“Absolutely.”

“Thank you, Grandma. We’re going to have the best birthday party ever!!”

“You’re welcome honey. I’m almost as excited about this summer as you kids are. It’s so wonderful to be surrounded by family and friends. I really enjoyed meeting everyone at the wedding and now I get to spend more time with them.”

“It is a good feeling. We are so happy to have you and the kids here with us. So, who’s ready for dessert?” Tina heard a chorus of Me!!

Bette and Tina clear the table and set out dessert for everyone and coffee for the adults. After dinner the kids were off to the media room to watch a movie and play games. Tina stayed with them while Peggy and Bette take a walk on the beach for their private talk.

***

Bette and Peggy are standing outside the building looking into the gallery space.

“Bette this really was an ingenious idea. The gallery space is marvelous, and I love what you’ve done in the loft. It’s so warm and comfortable and made even better with the children’s laughter. Your little Angie is something else.”

“We do have our hands full with her, but she is such a treasure Peggy. I can’t tell you how she’s changed my life. I think she literally saved it.”

“I can see the changes dear. I remember when we first met. You had that little gallery in West Hollywood. You were so young, yet you impressed me to no end. You had such extensive knowledge of art and art history. I think what impressed me most was your ability to recognize raw talent and you weren’t afraid to take chances. You helped me make some good buying decisions back then. Not only from a beauty standpoint but several of those young artists became quite renowned and their early pieces really increased in value. But you were so intense and serious, way too mature for your age. I’m happy to see you more relaxed now. You seem to have a good balance between work and family.”