“So what are you thinking?”

“I was thinking to maybe put it off at least for one more school year. We would move next summer. The renovations for the gallery space will be done by October. James and I have already earmarked several pieces that will be delivered as soon as the space is ready but we won’t have the grand-opening until January. During the holidays I would like to hold a few receptions or artist dinners just as an introduction to the community. The first big show with a renowned artist will be in the spring when we introduce Leigh Ostin’s work. I have several others lined up including Marcus Allenwood. The gallery should be pretty well established by next summer and then we can move our residence.

In the meantime once the renovations are completed on the loft space we can spend weekends and holidays there. I will do the commuting to the gallery so you and Angie won’t have any disruption in your schedules. The only thing we might need to switch is having me take Angie to school in the morning and having you or Kit pick her up. This way if I get stuck at the beach I don’t have to worry about not being able to get across town to get her in time. What do you think?”

“I agree that it would be hard trying to get the gallery going and adjusting to the family life all at the same time, but I want us to be together Bette. I know how exhausting it gets when you have a show. I don’t want you driving when it’s late and you’re tired but at the same time I want you at home with us.”

“I want to be home with you too. Most nights I will probably make it home for dinner.”

“I’m going to hold you to that.”

“I promise.”

“OK we’ll give it a try, but if it’s not working out or if it gets too hard then we re-think things OK?”

“If you ever feel like I’m being neglectful or spending too much time away you raise the red flag but one of the things Emma suggested to counteract that is that I include you more. She suggested that you go with me when I take trips to find new art work or when I seek out new talent and such. Would you be interested in doing that with me? That way we can spend more time together and take Angie with us when it works out.”