We quickly went through the exhibit, I conversed with a few patrons, and then I found a small spot to rest. I had been so very busy the last few weeks, I just needed some time. Nikki had gone to talk to some reporters, and give interviews. She was going to knock this exhibit out of the park for me. I was surprised to get this much alone time. But Peggy Peabody, a woman who’s supported me almost my whole life, my surrogate mother after my mother passed, came to speak with me.

"Splendid job Bette, I couldn’t be more proud."

"Thanks Peggy," I said and hugged her.

"Is your father here?"

"Peggy, what do you think?"

"Oh that man! I have the right mind to march into his office next week while I’m in Philadelphia and give him a piece of my mind. He should be here!"

"No, Peggy, don’t bother. He’s busy and just couldn’t make it."

"Don’t make excuses for him. This has to be one of the biggest nights for you and he can’t even show up!"

"Seriously, I don’t care. You’re more of a parent to me than he ever was or ever will be."

"No honey."

"Yes, you’re the only one I can talk to or run to with my problems or ask advice."

"I only wish Helena could have been more receptive to my wisdom as you are," she said and sighs.

"How is Helena? I haven’t seen her in a while."

"She’s doing well, very well infact. Her movie studio is doing wonderful."

"Yes, I heard. Nikki Stevens, my date for the night, is actually staring in a Shaolin Productions film slated for next summer."

"Ah yes, Helena’s money maker. She’s learning to be successful on her own, I am actually quite proud. She’s also dating this new woman. I’ve never met her, but Helena is head over heels, so hopefully this one sticks."

"Oh Peggy, she’s probably some blonde air head with big breasts."

"Probably, but I hope she settles down soon. I’d like some grandchildren before I pass."

"Peggy, you’re not going anywhere. Plus, you know I am about to adopt an infant. The mother is days away from birth. You’ll have a grandchild soon."

"I’m glad you got rid of Jodi, that woman was dreadful. I don’t know how or why you stayed so long with her."

"Peggy."

"Really. She was rude, obnoxious, and hung all over you like a horny school girl, plus she’s never liked the idea of children."

"Well, I loved her."

"You don’t sound too sure about that."

"Obviously I wasn’t, she wasn’t either. I mean she slept with her TA, Nadia and I was using her to get a baby. We were a train wreck waiting to happen."

"You need to find someone worth your time, I know where you heart lies."

"Peggy, don’t," I said, knowing where she was going.

"I know you’re still hung up on that Tina."

"No, not here," I whispered as the tears glossed my eyes.

"I only want you to be happy."

"I will be."

She smiled at me and I smiled back. I wiped the tears away and she gave me a look of longing. I knew she was right, of course she was. I was still in love with Tina and no matter how hard I tried to fight it I couldn’t. I felt someone walking up behind me, and then I felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned and the air left my lungs. Beautiful porcelan skin, the blonde locks, the lips and those hazel eyes. She was here, am I imagining things?

"Tina?"

As her name escaped my lips, she smiled. It was her, she was really here. I faintly heard Peggy shockingly say ‘Tina’ as well. I didn’t know what to do, all these emotions came flooding over my body. I wanted to hold her, kiss her and scream at her, but I couldn’t. I just turned and walked away.