Yes, thats correct. Ive been running it for nearly ten years now and its like another child to me, Stephen boldly stated, still trying to deflect Bettes intense stare. Uh, yes. Yes, I am, Stephen admitted. Im just so into it that I feel like its mine, he cleaned up.

Stephen, does Ariel Schneider know the full details of what youre trying to accomplish and how much of the JCCs money youre willing to throw around? Bette knowingly implied his deceit.

Franklin was now incensed by the probing and tried to take some of the heat off Stephen. What I think Bette is trying to ask Bianca is that

Pardon me Franklin, but I think Im quite capable of discerning what Bettes saying. She is quite an astute and attentive woman is she not? Franklin nodded sheepishly. Alright then, Bianca returned her attention to Stephen. Im new to some of the wrangling of art politics as Ive always considered that my husbands ground, but seeing as Im currently acting in his stead, let me say this, Bianca looked around the room, cementing her stare with everyone in the room. Franklin, you may not have known that I knew Bette prior to this meeting and you may not be aware that I am rather good as picking up on vibes, and Im here to tell you that something is amiss here, so Im going to remove myself from this meeting until you or Stephen find a way to remove the wool youre trying to pull over my eyes, Franklin sputtered and tried to respond. Silence! Bianca growled and put her hand in the air. Bette smirked! And Bette, Id like to meet with you if I may?

Bette nodded and excused herself from the table and led Bianca to her office.

What the ***** was that all about? Bianca fumed.

Bette peaked out her office door to make sure the coast was really clear and then closed it again before answering. Please have a seat, Bette ushered Bianca to sit. Have you had a chance to speak with James?

No, should I? He attempted to speak to me when I arrived, but Franklin shooed him away.