Well, then I wont keep you, Helena said brusquely, and made her exit with nodded good-byes to everyone she saw.

            She is something else, Caroline commented watching her go.

            Your boyfriend is Spencer Jacob Sloane IV, Bette said, staring at Caroline.  Hes from one of the most powerful families in the country.

            Dont remind him, Carrie said.  Hes a nice guy.  Dan likes him, which is saying a lot.  His family is really into art, arent they? she asked Bette.

            Yes, they funded a Noble project a few years back.  I couldnt believe anyone funded it, Bette commented.  Danny and Kit joined them.

            What was that about? Kit asked, gesturing at Helenas wake.

            Tina just shook her head and looked over at Caroline.  Did you just tell her that she should call you to torture her further?

            Caroline just smiled sheepishly.

            Caroline, she warned.

            I didnt do anything.

            But youre going to.

            And it will have be fun and you will played along.  No one gets Bette Porter fired and gets away with it, Caroline commented, poking Bettes arm.  I am a defender of talent and beauty.

            You flatter me, Bette teased.

            Yes, she does, Tina answered, quieting Bettes feigned protest with a kiss.

            Insult me more often, Bette muttered, kissing her again, if thats how you apologize.  She smiled seductively and kissed her again.

            Stop showing off, Carrie complained.  Youre happy.  Thats gross.  We all hate you for your blissfulness.

            If I didnt know you were kidding, I would slap you for that, Danny said to Carrie as Bette and Tina released one another. 

            Carrie met her brothers eyes.  Defending them now are we?  Ok, she could play that game.  Like I treat you and Annie any differently.

            You do.  You like Annie so much better than you like me, Danny observed.  You call her and you talk to her.  I never hear from you.  I have to get all my news from my wife.  Your sister got into NYU.  Your sisters writing a book.  Your sisters a published author.  Your sisters bringing her boyfriend to Thanksgiving.  Danny rattled each off so nonchalantly Tina almost missed the last one.