“When do you plan to resign from CU?”

“I will definitely finish the semester and make sure things are on schedule before I resign. I will likely leave just before the winter break. I may need to do some traveling this summer to start scouting out some new talent. James already has a few artists’ work that he wants me to look at. He is almost as excited as I am about opening the new gallery.”

“That’s really great Bette. I’m happy that you’ll soon be able to have your dream.”

“Thanks Tee. Your support means a lot….Oh by the way I almost forgot. I received the invitation to Jodi’s exhibit opening in New York. It’s scheduled for next month. Do you think you can get some time off to go with me? When I spoke to Peggy Peabody she insisted that we come. She’ll arrange for her private jet to transport us and she wants us to stay with her. I’d really love for you to come with me.”

“I could probably take the time off. What’s the date?”

“It’s the Friday before Memorial Day weekend. I figure we could leave on Thursday and return on Wednesday of the following week. Jodi’s show is going to attract a very affluent crowd. I want to make some contacts. There are also several other events that weekend that Peggy thinks would be good for me to attend. She’s was so excited about the idea to use the storefront for an art gallery. She couldn’t believe that she hadn’t thought of it herself. She’s already making some calls on my behalf. She’s really been amazing. I’d love to spend time with her. It’s been several years since I’ve seen her.”

Tina tried not to sound disappointed that Bette hadn’t mentioned the fact that the Friday before Memorial Day was her birthday. As much as she would enjoy being in New York for a few days she certainly wasn’t looking forward to spending her birthday with Jodi Lerner. She decided she was being selfish so she kept the thought to herself. After all if Bette was going to make a successful re-entry into the art gallery business then she would need these important contacts.