Alice turned toward Tina’s mother. “Dana’s mother just decided that she should start collecting art and she has this opportunity to buy this really great painting.”

“Yeah, but since my mother knows nothing about art. I want to make sure that she’s not getting ripped off. It wouldn’t be the first time that she’s put a hole in Daddy’s bank account. But a few more and he might divorce her, which means I might inherit her, and I love my mother, so I really don’t want to have to kill her.” Dana went along with the story hoping that she sounded convincing. She had never been an amazing liar before. Alice had sat back down at the table and whispered in her ear that she was going to give Bette a way out of dinner if she wanted to take it and that Dana should follow her lead. Then she had whispered her idea into Dana’s ear and told her to speak up.

Bette looked at the two of them and nodded. “Umwell, if it’s possible I probably should reschedule. Is there a deadline for her to decide whether she wants it or not?”

“I don’t know. I didn’t ask.” Dana said caught off guard.

“Bette, why don’t you go help this young lady’s parents. It awfully nice of you to offer your expertise and I don’t think it’s right to back out of this type of commitment. You can just meet us at the restaurant if you get done early enough. Or else We’ll see you tomorrow night at Helena’s.” Bette smiled. Tina’s mother actually sounded impressed that she was helping Dana’s mother.

“Well, thank you. I really don’t want to let Mr. And Mrs. Fairbanks down. So tell your husband that I’m sorry I couldn’t make it.”

“I will. Now Tina. If we could get you and your sister and this beautiful baby into the car we can go back to the hotel to pick up your father. It was nice meeting all of you.” All of them smiled and waved as they watched them go.

“Thanks, Dana.” Bette said when they had gone.

Dana shrugged. “Don’t thank me that was they incredible genius of the most beautiful woman in the world.” Dana smiled over at Alice and Bette shook her head.