Pleasantly surprised, I couldn’t help the sense of pride beaming within as I expressed a self-conscious appreciation for her praise. She’d obviously read it in full.  Carefully citing particulars as we conversed.  A folder with documents supplying names of artists along with an overview describing their work, select thumbnails of their portfolios and contact information accompanied the returned binder. 

Bette identified two of the artists as parents thus may be more inclined and receptive to make themselves available given the project’s theme.  She’d offered to coordinate future contact but made it clear she was confident I would make the right choice and handle the engagements competently. 

“I made the initial call mentioning a friend would be contacting them to discuss specifics.”  She went on, “Your name will be familiar and they won’t be surprised to hear from you should you decide to pursue any of them.  And of course you know Ken.”  He was an artist featured in a past show and we had all gone out to dinner once.

Also provided were additional specialty supply stores that were likely to be convinced to donate materials for the artists’ use.  Recommended based on past joint successful projects with her gallery and the CAC.

“Thank you Bette.”  Feeling giddy I offered, “Everything’s coming to place.  Everything.”

She reached to take a sip from her cup while a gentle and thoughtful crease marked her forehead.  Obviously something was on her mind.  My ability to read into her movements no longer as sharp so I dared not hazard a guess. 

So I asked.  A plain ‘What?’ hopefully enough to prompt her to tell me what she was thinking.

Hesitating, as if ruminating how and whether to respond, she finally spoke.  “I’m really happy for you.  How far you’ve come in such a short time. What you’ve accomplished.”

Evidently she was spurred to reveal another confidence.  Softly she said, “That you have Helena.”  The glow in her look marked her sincerity.  “She’s lucky to have you and you…her.”

I responded honestly. “She’s good to me.” 

“I’m glad.  I’ve had the pleasure of her company albeit briefly thus far.”  With solemn assurance she remarked,  “She seems to be a wonderful person.”