“Ms. Porter is in her office. May I tell her who’s asking?”

Just at that moment Bette stepped out of her office and walked into the main gallery area in search of James. She had just gotten off the phone with her former employer Ivan Claybourne. Bette was about to call out to James to let him know that she was expecting a new potential client when she noticed him near the entrance in conversation with a woman she immediately recognized as Mrs. Peggy Peabody; often referred to as ’the billionaires raving lunatic’.

Peggy looked in the direction of Bette’s approaching footsteps and was taken aback first by her beauty and as she got closer by her apparent youthfulness. Bette had a brilliant welcoming smile on her face as she walked towards them with an air of confidence and professionalism. As she observed the tense scene in front of her she could tell immediately that Mrs. Peabody had not taken kindly to James’ attempt at playing gatekeeper. The situation could easily have escalated into an unwelcome confrontation had it not been for her impeccable timing. James was grateful for his boss’ interruption and immediately relaxed his stance; however Mrs. Peabody would not be so readily placated.

***

Normally Bette would extend her hand in greeting but Peggy’s hands were occupied with the puppies and her handbag; additionally she didn’t seem much in the mood for pleasantries.

“Mrs. Peabody? I’m Bette Porter. It’s such a pleasure to meet you. I just got off the phone with Ivan and he mentioned you would be stopping by.“

Bette was as charming as she was beautiful but Peggy wasn’t ready to acquiesce just yet. She wasn’t accustomed to not being revered, and it was obvious by James’ treatment of her that he was unaware of her prominence. Peggy contemplated turning around and walking out of the gallery but Bette had come highly recommended by Ivan Claybourne whom she held in the highest regard. She told herself Ivan was the reason she stayed but it was actually Bette herself. The young woman had piqued Peggy’s curiosity which didn’t occur very often.

“You’re Elizabeth Porter? Ivan didn’t mention that you were a child.”

Even though Bette was 27 years old her youthful appearance typically got this reaction especially when people learned of her advanced education and profession as a gallery owner and renowned art consultant to a discriminating clientele.