At this point James was boiling mad he couldnt hide his angry. As he slide Simones documents regarding her criminal background he shouted at Franklin. If that doesnt mean anything, maybe this will.

Zandra: Franklin my word dont be foolish this is at the least extremely inappropriate and deserves some further evaluation. Lets not forget Bette has already been placed in harms way once”when she was attacked in the garage here. Were fortunate to have her back. If its in our power to help prevent any other safety issues”we must. After all Bette is whats best for the CAC. (winking at Bette)
Franklin: Of course you are right. I apologize Bette I never meant to imply that we werent concerned about your safety. But we may have another problem”the contract has been signed for Simones show already.
Bette: Well Franklin and Zandra, Im actually hoping that we can postpone her show and go with Megan Freemans sculptures in that time slot while Simone gets much needed help. I still believe in her ability and talent. You know her giving Tina and me the painting prompted me to look into her background and she has been through so much. Art has been the one thing to sustain her. I dont want to take this from her. I just know its best if she gets help so she deals with her issues properly instead of developing inappropriate attachments and acting out.
Zandra: Bette we will support anything you suggest. Well get legal in here to wrangle with the contracts. You work on Megans show and steering clear of Simone.
Franklin: (reluctantly) Ok”Ok, but Bette its important that we keep Simone because if another museum or gallery offers her an individual show she wont be nearly as profitable for us”if we arent first.
Bette: Franklin I understand. I hope to get her later when shes stable. I cant control when that will happen or if another museum will get her in between now and then. Well try to retain her but again my first priority is now and will always be the safety of my family.
Franklin: (sheepishly) Understood Bette, understood.
Bette: Thank you heres another copy of Simones background check along with a scanned image of this ridiculous portrait to add to the file.

Bette thanked both Franklin and Zandra as she and James left the conference room. James put his arm around Bettes shoulder and squeezed, see Bette that wasnt too bad now we can breathe a bit easier, right?
Bette: I dont know James I mean I wont feel good about this until Im certain shes no threat. This will keep her away from here. I still have to worry about home.
James: Youre right. Bette let me know what I can do to help out there too.
Bette: (smiling) Thanks James. Ok now I have to head home. But now I really do have to
James: (finished her thought) set up a meeting with Megan to get her show set up now instead of later.
Bette: Yes”ok, are you reading my mind these days?
James: No but I know youll fell a bit better as soon as this is done. Consider the call made and go home to check on Tina and talk to Shane. Honestly Im curious to know how her confrontation with Simone played out.
Bette: OK James thanks”thanks Ill call you later. You have been a huge help.
James: Bette anytime. One thing is certain working with you is definitely exciting.
Bette: (smiling) Thanks James, I think.

Bette left the CAC relieved about the support and grateful for James and Zandra. She knew Franklin still wanted the show but she was pleased more cautious heads prevailed. Now she was about to find out what news Shane had as she headed home.

TBC