Franklin: Bette, as
generous as the Porter-O’Brien Foundation’s offer is, I don’t think that I can
make that decision without first consulting with the rest of the board or
directors. If you don’t mind, I’d like to request that you and the rest of your
“entourage” allow us the time to deliberate over the decision. (Directly
speaking to the board) Being that it is so late in the day, I would like to ask
the board to reconvene tomorrow morning at 9am to further discuss the grant
offer and Bette Porter’s future here at the CAC. (Turning back to look at
Bette) Does that seem reasonable to you Bette?

Bette knew that Franklin
had most likely already made the decision in his head, but being the coward
that he could be, wanted the support of the board to help emphasize his
decision. Bette had anticipated that this might happen so it really was not as
shocking as Franklin had hoped it would be. Bette kept her poker face intact
when she delivered her response.

Bette: Yes Franklin. I
don’t think that it is unreasonable to want to “discuss” the situation with the
board.

Franklin: Good. Then
Bette, we will have an answer for you tomorrow – 11am. I suspect that you will
be bringing along your “partners” in this new endeavor?

Bette knew the game
Franklin was trying to play with Bette. She didn’t want it to appear that she
was weak in her decision to force the issue with the CAC and her contract, but
she also didn’t want it appear that she wasn’t willing to give up her job for
the Porter-O’Brien Foundation. Tina felt Bette’s grip tighten slightly. She
gave Bette’s hand a gentle squeeze to let her know that she was there to
support Bette in whatever she decided. Bette turned to look at Tina and saw the
kindness and reassurance that Tina exuded in her eyes. Bette turned back
towards Franklin and the board.

Bette: Actually Franklin,
Amanda O’Brien, Kit Porter and myself will be here tomorrow at noon to tie up
all the loose ends and discuss your decision further. (Bette turned to the rest
of the board) Thank you for your time. (To James) Please see to it that the
board is given any information that they may need to aid them in their
decision. (Signaling to Kit with her free hand) Kit – Please join us for a
personal tour of the CAC. I’m sure that you would like to see where your money
would best be spent (Winking at Kit).