"James, I am speechless. I don’t know what to say."

"It’s ok Bette, this is a very important show and I didn’t want to let you down."

"You would never let me down," I said, a tear came to my eye, "you’re the best assistant and friend. Thanks."

"No worries Bette, but you have to sign their hours sheets and write reccomendations for jobs."

"Of course."

We watched them work, and it was truly amazing. With the sheer amout of them, they were all done that evening. We had everything hung to perfection by the day’s end and I was truly thankful and very excited. I had invited all the workers to the opening, Candace’s Architect firm would get no recognition, all thanks would be given to the Art Institute, I made sure there was a huge sign saying so.

****

Today was the day, today I was leaving a mark on the art world. I’d be bringing Provocations to life. My house was very busy, I had my friends over getting ready, business associates and security there. As I got dressed, I was so unbelievably nervous. I can’t believe I did it.

"Bette," I heard and looked up, Nikki was there, in a very elegant gown. Her hair and make up was done to perfection. Her black gown matched my pants suit perfectly. She was absolutely stunning.

"Nik, wow, you look amazing," I said walking to her and giving her a small kiss, "what are you doing here?"

"I told you I wanted to be here for you."

"I know, but I don’t want you to get in trouble."

"I won’t, we had the day off. My friend and EP Tina and our other friend Lara have tickets."

"That’s awesome, and why haven’t I met them yet? I barely see Carmen as it is."

"Well, you know Shane has Carmen occupied most days," she says as I continue to get ready, "And Tina is busy with work and her kid, and Lara has two jobs, running her restaurant and teaching at california University."

"I’d very much like to meet them sometime."

"Of course, perhaps someday. I think you’d like Tina, she’s a hottie."

"I knew a Tina once, back home," I said, trying not to give too much away about how I felt about her, "I have you, what more to I need?"

"A steady relationship for your child."

"Babe, this conversation is getting too serious for tonight. Can we talk about this later?"

We arrived in a tinted out black limo. All of my friends were completely buzzing and so proud. I saw the spot lights coming from the CAC and security was tight. I didn’t want anyone from Faye Buckley’s group trying to get in, if they didn’t have the proper credentials, they were thrown out.

The limo stopped on the curb and I got nervous. My breathing became erradic and my friends just showered me with encouraging words. Finally, my week was here, the greatest week of my life. I’d be putting on the biggest show ever, and hopefully, I’d be a mother. What a week. What other good things could happen?