“Oh, Bette this is Joe Wilson, my um, husband.”

Bette casually reached her hand toward Joe.  “Mr. Wilson, it’s nice to meet you.”

Ms. Porter, it’s nice to meet you.  Thank you for having us.”

Tina broke in quickly, Joe, Ellie can I get you a drink?”

“No thanks Mom, we only have a little while and I want to see as much of the show as I can.”

Joe then responded, “I’d love a drink.”

Bette stood staring, “Um, Tina, why don’t I give Ellie the grand tour. Um, this way you can spend a few minutes with um, Joe.”

Tina and Bette’s eyes met.  Even though Bette behaved graciously, there was something there something…sad, they just stared into each other’s eyes, searching when Tina pulled herself together to respond. 

“Bette, that’s really sweet but you’re really busy…

“No, Tina I insist it’s the least I could do besides, you said that Ellie is an aspiring artist.  Please Tina, I’d really like to do this.”  Bette finished and smiled at the three people looking at her with awe.

Tina smiled, looking directly into Bette’s eyes.

“Thank you”

Joe broke the silence.  “Tina, how about that drink?”

“Um, sure.  We’ll see you guys in a few minutes, okay.”

“Thanks mom I promise I won’t keep her too long.”

Bette looked on as Joe put his hand on Tina’s lower back to lead her away.  She stood stunned as if she’d been awakened from a beautiful dream and the pain in her heart was so visceral and real that she could barely sense the room around her.

“Bette…Bette… Are you ready?”

The excited voice of the young woman reached her and she responded. 

“Oh, oh yeah, the grand tour.  Shall we?”

Bette smiled her biggest smile and led them onto the main floor.  Ellie was beyond excited by each piece and Bette welcomed the opportunity to immerse herself in the beautiful art.

Tina had walked to the bar with Joe.  “So what do you want Joe?”

“Well Tina, I think you know what I want, but I guess I’ll refrain from being an ass and say a Scotch.”

“Joe, please.”

“I’m sorry.  You know Tina this place looks amazing.  And you, wow, you really look amazing.  I mean you look so alive, so in your element.  It’s really wonderful to see. You know I’m happy for you, right?”