“Oh, I’m not a critic, Bette. I just like art, paintings in particular, so, you’re safe with me.” Bette became puzzled. “How is it that you know my name, but I don’t know yours?” Tina shrugged, “So this is your first painting?” Tina could feel Bette’s eyes cascading down her body. “No, not my first, just my first using oils.” Tina blushed, “Which…you already told me. Way to go, Tina.”

“So, that’s your name, then, Tina?”

Nodding, Tina turned and said, “Listen, I should be getting back out there. Your father is probably wondering what happened to me. Thank you, though, for showing me your painting. It’s amazing.”

Without breaking her stare, Bette said, “I think I’ll join you. I’m sure he’s wondering what happened to me, too.”

Tina returned to the seat at her mother’s side. “Bette, so nice of you to join us this evening,” Melvin said, standing and embracing his daughter. “Everyone, I’d like you to meet my daughter, Bette Porter, for those who already know her, my grown up daughter, Bette Porter.”

Everyone gushed as Bette took a seat across from Tina. “So wonderful to see you all again.” Melvin continued, “Bette just opened a gallery out in California. I guess she couldn’t get far enough away from her father because I managed to track her down and insist she make an appearance at our little gathering this year.”

Everyone but Bette continued listening as Melvin embellished at his daughters expense. “He’s really proud of you,” Tina said. “Well why shouldn’t he be,” Mary said, “Bette I’ve heard nothing but praise over the years from your father regarding your studies. Looks like all that hard work is really paying off.”

Bette smiled, “Well, starting to pay off, I just opened the gallery a month ago. I really should have stayed in LA if you want to know the truth. I have some nerve taking a vacation after only a month..” Melvin interrupted, “Nonsense. This isn’t a vacation, Bette, this is a business trip.” Looking around at all the people seated at the table, Melvin continued, “Now all of you dig deep into your pockets and start the contributing. My daughter owns the gallery, but she’s relying on the generous donations from people like you all to fund the shows.