At that moment Bruce Fergy walks up behind both Bette and Tina but in clear view of Gloria. Bruce was someone who knew of Bette through her previous life and was wondering if this Bette Porter was the one and the same. Well I guess that question was answered. Despite the circumstances Bruce had to smile, he loved Bette’s fire.  “Could I be of any assistance here?” Bruce speaks up from behind Bette.

Bette turns on her heals and gazes at Bruce with steely eye which soften as she recognizes him immediately. “Bruce, its a pleasure to finally meet you in person, I’m Bette Porter. I just was discussing with Gloria here that placement and presentation of my paintings.” Bette politely offers.

Looking at Bette and then Gloria, Bruce immediately moves to rectify this situation Gloria let me take care of Miss Porter here. He says as way of dismissing Gloria.

With that Gloria takes the hint, “Sure Bruce” and leaves.

Turning back to Bette, “I am so sorry I wasn’t here when you arrived. Miss Prantick is new so I have her in charge of making sure we have all the artist’s organized.  It’s my responsibility for the final layout.  Your paintings were hung last night so I haven’t had a chance to review their positioning but I can see we have placed them in the wrong position. If you will follow me I would like to show you where I originally intended them to be presented.”  Bruce says making a nice save for himself in the process. “I don’t know if you remember me but I was on a teleconference with you about four years ago when you had your own gallery.”

Bette looks at Bruce.  “Sure but if I remember correctly we were competing for the same artist, something to do with Grace in Aging exhibit by Claress Vandering.”

”Exactly, your memory is quite good.”  Bruce says complimenting Bette.  “My memory seems to recall that you won that show.” Bruce goes on to say.

“So sorry I hope I didn’t cause you any discomfort.”  

Bette quickly inserts, “Bruce first before we go any farther let me introduce you to my wife, Tina Kennard.” Bette says as she proudly pulls Tina to her side with a loose embrace.