“You could see things that I couldn’t or didn’t want to

– that mattered a lot to me – it still does. “

Bette finishes her meal and leans back “That was just lovely “

“I really enjoy cooking “

“I really enjoy eating “

“I know its old fashioned but I do just want to be a wife and mom “

“You are both and you do it really well. You are also a great First Lady

– only my wife could be as beautiful and controversial at the same time”

“Thanks for the support “

“You know how I feel “

“I do and I know how you feel about the crazy twins”

“When Shane and Carmen got together I used to think that she was sorted

– that was when Alice was going from one unsuitable date to the next – and she was the one I was worried about “

“As much as you care for both of them

– they are not your kids – they have to stand and fall by their decisions. Yes you can be there for them and yes you can pick them up when they stumble – but they are adults.” I shake my head “Was it just me today or has Alice suddenly been infected by the mature bug “

Bette laughs “That crossed my mind when she offered to hand her resignation to CJ rather than me so she could tell Shane that CJ handed her resignation and I didn’t “

“I like this new version “ I say

“Typical that she doesn’t grow up until she’s ready to leave”

“Bette

– I know you think that you are sheltering Shane from all of this but in 13 months time we will all be looking for new things to do when we get up in the morning. Alice realises that – that’s why she’s leaving now under her own terms. Peggy isn’t going to take Shane on and you should not ask her even as a huge favour to you. Shane needs to get away from all the things in her life that are toxic – and that includes the White House”

“Yeah

– I know that babe –its just hard. I hate knowing that she is suffering”

“I know that

– and we will do what we can but until she realises that there are no circumstances in which she can drink or take drugs and she has to move on. Kit moved on and so did Helena but it’s a real reminder to me that in 13 months time we are all going to be packing up and moving out “

I know that Shane has issues but at the moment I could happily kick her butt. Bette doesn’t deserve this

– maybe someone needs to remind Shane about the famous falling on your sword for the sake of the President speech. She reminded me of it when things were at the most confrontational possible between me and the rest of the team – maybe she needs to be told that she is going to go quietly for Bette’s sake. I have tremendous respect for Shane but someone needs to tell her what her actions are doing to the person she claims to have such love and respect for – namely the President