“Tina, do you want me handle this?,” Bette asked her, rubbing the blonde’s arm affectionately, to try to calm her down. 

Tina ran her hand through her hair, her diamond ring flashing as she did. 

“We can sort it out,” Bette smiled.  “Besides, how bad can it be? We’re getting married in a week, T.” 

“Our getting married….that’s what’s important, right?,” she continued, speaking in calm tones, grabbing hold of Tina’s restless hand, then kissing the fingers affectionately. 

Tina took a deep breath.  Bette had entrusted the planning of the honeymoon to her, even as the brunette had taken up much of the work to plan their wedding, because of Tina’s insane schedule.  Tina knew the arrangement was significantly imbalanced, and she really wanted to make things up with Bette through the honeymoon she was planning.  Now, William’s request was throwing all of her plans for them out the window. 

The blonde nodded, tears of frustration welling up in her eyes.  Bette was right, of course.  She shouldn’t burn her bridges with William. 

Bette was about to unmute the call, when William spoke again, anxiously, “Look Bette, Tina.  Your wedding won’t be affected. And I wouldn’t ask if there was another option.  But I really trust you Tina.  And this is an important film for the studio.  A cornerstone of our strategy to become more active in the action film category.  The film is a thoughtful one, unusual for a film in that category, as I’m sure you agree, Tina.” 

Bette looked at Tina, who nodded. 

William continued, “And as soon as you pull things together on this one, Tina, I’m bringing you up to the senior management level, to run things in the program development area — a more strategic role, and less involved with day-to-day production on set.  The key guys are here, and they can hear me say this.”  Bette and Tina heard a murmuring in the background as William talked. 

Tina’s head snapped up.  That would mean she’d be spending more time in New York, less on set, and be around Angelica and Bette much more.  And would most likely involve a raise, on top of everything. 

She mouthed to Bette, I’m okay if you’re okay. 

Bette smiled and nodded at the blonde.  She responded, “Look William, if Tina’s help will be that important to you …”