As soon as she entered the gallery, she was immediately assailed by some of the remaining guests gathered in the main hall. They all wanted to shake her hand and tell her that she was a strong new voice in the art world and that they could see a bright future for her. It took Jodi’s self control to smile and say thank you. Truth was those comments were just annoying her; most of the people here didn’t know a thing about art. They only cared to come to these events because it was the fashionable thing to do, and because they were looking for stylish ways of incrementing the size of their portfolios by investing in art that was surely to increase in value.

Besides, all the lip reading tonight had gotten her eyes very tired. If it hadn’t been for Tom’s help, blood would probably be oozing out of the sockets.

Lucia saved Jodi from embarrassing herself in front of a particularly forceful stock guru by taking her by the elbow and pulling her away. When Jodi turned her head to face the curator, she read “There’s someone I need you to talk to” on her lips. The woman nodded to Tom, who came to Jodi’s side. “A potential investor didn’t make it on time to the opening and has now just begun to browse the exhibit. I need you to work your magic”.

Jodi was so tired she didn’t notice the uncharacteristic bounce on Lucia’s step, and she failed to see the secret look shared between her two companions. The artist just wanted the night to be over so she could go home to Mr. Jack Daniels.

“What’s gotten into her?” Jodi asked Tom when Lucia pushed her into the wing that held the new exhibition. It was deserted as far as she could tell; the guests had foregone all pretenses of interest in art for the free champagne and caviar in the main hall. Tom shrugged his shoulders in reply and took a look around.

He must have seen something he liked, for Tom’s expression changed from one of curiosity to one of appreciation. He turned to face Jodi, finger-spelling the letters “Nebu”. Jodi walked to where he was standing and saw what had captured his attention.