“Umm…thank…thank you,” Tina stammered.

She took a side step allowing her shoulder to brush against Bette’s. She made an excuse and took her leave. Bette pirouetted just in time to catch a glimpse of Tina escaping through the door. Her smiled illuminated broader, trying to figure out how long it would be before she could taste more than Tina’s lips.

James cleared his throat. Bette’s Artist Dinners were an opportunity for people from all sectors to engage with artists in a conversation inducing setting surrounded by intellectuals, critics, socialites and Alice. Bette chuckled internally and realized this would be the perfect way to re-introduce KiKi Smith to the world. Bette loved being part of something when she could tell it was really honest. She saw the honesty in KiKi and she thought about a sign she had on her desk that said, Be the space where all kinds of greatness can happen.

“Let’s do it,” Bette said.

James sat up a little straighter, taking in his boss. Bette nodded at him, letting him know that it was okay.

Kiki had been told that Bette would probably say no. She had prepared for that rejection. But now couldn’t contain her joy. She was simply giddy.

“Peggy was absolutely right. You are the epitome of art in human form,” KiKi gushed. KiKi gave Bette the biggest hug that prompted her to laugh. James escorted KiKi out. KiKi was practically skipping.

Bette sat back down and stared out the window.

***

Liz came to get Tina at 1:45. Liz thought she seemed to be in a better place.

“You ready?”

“Yes. Thanks, Liz. For everything. After the meeting, I’d like to figure out a time to apologize to the crew. They didn’t deserve my crazy this morning.”

“It’s already on the agenda for the morning meeting. I titled it Crow.”

Tina laughed. “Is that because I need to eat some crow?”

“Exactly,” the red head smiled. “Let’s go. The set designer is already here. Waiting for you.”

Tina made sure to nod and smile at everyone she saw as she walked by. It was a small but significant gesture. It was important to Tina to atone for her actions. Liz escorted Tina to the meeting area.

“Tina Kennard this is our new set designer, Candace Jewell.”

Tina went white but her hazel eyes flamed. Candace swallowed hard. Liz was oblivious to the undertones.

Tina’s phone lit up. It was Dr. Julia Flowers.