I was attracted to her for a reason all those years ago Tee. She’s still that same person that I would want in my life whether or not we ended up being lovers. We share the same passion for art and we can help each other to reach new heights. She is going to be a great asset to my team at CU. We are planning several fabulous shows for her in Northern California and that is a coup for James. It will help his career to say nothing of the income Lisa will receive from the promotional material she’s creating. It’s a win-win situation for all of us.”

“I understand that now babe. I’m sorry.”

“Tina this is good. This issue wasn’t about Bette even though you tried to make it about her. It’s good that you realized that you had to deal with your own stuff before you could fully understand where the feelings were coming from. You made several assumptions without having the facts and all you had to do was to go to the source. Bette has explained a lot of what was going on with Leigh and Helena at the time but I think it will really put your mind at rest if you and Leigh deal with this one on one.

I’m sure she might have some unresolved guilt especially knowing that she not only hurt Bette but she was also used by Helena to inflict some pain on you. As innocent as their interactions were when you saw them I get the feeling that Helena made it appear as if they were lovers to perhaps make you jealous or to hurt you because you were starting to reject her. Make it a point to talk to Leigh. She is obviously going to play an important role in your partner’s life and Bette has to know that you are really OK with that. She’s assured you that Leigh is not a threat to your romantic relationship and she has to know that you trust her without a doubt.

Bette, you and Leigh need to set boundaries for your relationship that everyone is comfortable with. As much as you have your convictions we all sometimes find ourselves in compromising situations. Don’t open yourselves up for any misinterpretation of your intention to pursue a platonic friendship. If Leigh has any lingering romantic feelings for you then you need to deal with that and distance yourself from it. I can understand your motive in trying to help her to get reestablished but don’t get so wrapped up in it that you jeopardize your relationship with Tina. I know how single-minded you can get when you’re on a project and you know how devastating that can be to your personal relationships. You have to maintain the proper perspective and the proper balance.”