“I see.”

Kit says I see but she really couldn’t imagine what this had to do with her sister. She stayed silent and allowed Bette to continue.

“Kit I know this is a sensitive subject for you but that’s why I wanted to talk to you. I need your perspective on this. Marcus and his girlfriend Francesca came to see me today and they asked if I would adopt their baby. They want to know that the baby is going to a good home with a family that will love and care for the child. They asked Peggy to help them with the legalities of a private adoption and to help find a suitable adoptive family. Would you believe she suggested me?”

“Bette I couldn’t agree more that you would be a wonderful parent. I know how much you want to have a family but are you ready to take on the responsibility of being a single mom?”

“That’s just it Kit. I know how you struggled with David and eventually had to give him up. I don’t want to find myself in a situation where I can’t care for my baby.”

“You can’t compare our situations Bette. I was a child myself when I had David. I was strung out on drugs, I was drinking. I didn’t have any business bringing a baby into this world much less trying to raise it. You are a very successful woman with a great career with family and friends that love and support you. I know you could give this baby a wonderful life and he or she would be well loved and cared for. The thing is that having a baby changes your life dramatically. You can’t just up and go jetting around the world with Peggy looking for art or party all weekend with your friends or spend the night with some random woman. You have to be sensible about the people that you let into your life that will influence your child. You’re not with a partner now but eventually you might meet someone and she has to accept this child as her own. You are going to have to choose that baby’s needs over your own wants and needs time and time again. That’s not always easy. I can’t tell you what to do Bette but you have my support in whatever you decide.”

“There another piece to consider Kit. Peggy wants me to curate her art collection and build two museum sites to house them; one in New York and one in L.A. If I do this it would mean living in New York for about a year. The baby will be born in three months.”

“Well if I know Peggy Peabody and I think I do. I’m sure she’s already laid out a feasible plan on how this can work.”

“You know she has. She’s even suggested that maybe the baby and I just live with her while we are here in New York. She’s already thinking like a grandmother and planning all the ways that she could spoil the baby.”

“I was thinking the same thing. You know I am ready to retire and make the move to Los Angeles by the end of this year but if you’re going to be in New York then maybe I’ll just come there. We have plenty of room in the loft. I could help take care of the baby. It’s not the same as having a partner but I’m willing to get up for 3 am feedings and diaper changes.”

“Really? You would do that?”

“In a heartbeat baby girl. I missed out on so much with my own child. I want to be a part of your life and I want to be in your children’s life. Whether it’s now or in the future; whenever you decide to start your family I’m going to be there for you.”

“Thanks Kit. That means so much to me. I feel better now after talking to you. I have a lot to think about. I’m seeing Marcus and Francesca again tomorrow to talk some more. I’ll call you in a couple of days OK?”

“OK baby sis. I’ll be here. I love you.”

“I love you too Kit.”