On Wednesday Bette had a studio visit planned with a young artist who she had wanted to use for a group show she was putting together for a small gallery in Santa Monica..
It was the first time since Angelica’s birth that Bette had made any effort to
get back to work and Tina was really happy to see it.
She was dressing herself with care, readying her best Bette persona to finally go back out into the world and engage herself in the art life again.
It had been way too long.

When she came into the kitchen all turned out in her tight jeans, short leather jacket and heels Tina couldn’t help herself. She walked up behind her circling Bette’s waist with her arms, and whispered into Bette’s ear – you are SO HOT!
Bette laughed and turned herself to face Tina. She looked at her and then bowed her head and leaned into Tina’s forehead with her own. It was kind of an odd response, and Tina sort of pulled back so she could look at Bette.
You okay babe?
Are you nervous on your first day back to work?
Bette shook her head no.
You look fantastic, I think I would freak out if you walked into my studio in those pants- but don’t forget, you are MINE!
Bette laughed, just a little. What’s the matter T, don’t you like me in my usual sweatpants outfit?
It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you in anything else girl. I was beginning to worry that those sweat pants might grow into your skin!
I don’t know T, Bette said – I don’t know if I can do this anymore.
I just don’t feel prepared, I’ve been out of it for so long.
Don’t be silly Babe, it hasn’t been that long, and you are so so prepared. No one has an eye like yours, and as soon as you start looking at art again you’ll start feeling sure of yourself again – just go get em!
She got a weak smile from Bette.
Thanks Baby.

I’ll be back early afternoon, Shane will have Angie till I get back so take your time at work, go ahead and be late if you need to be and don’t worry.
She zipped up her jacket, picked up her keys and headed out the door.