“It is true what they say no matter how well you chew it corn still comes out whole, “she says before reaching up to flush the toilet. Forcing herself to her feet she walks back into the living room plopping down on the couch. Looking down at the coffee table she notices the red notification light on her cell phone flashing.

“Alice, “she says panicking mad at herself for missing her call. When she opened her phone she had two missed phone calls and three text messages from friends and work related matters but nothing from Alice. She was disappointed as she had been looking forward to hearing from her all day. She stopped herself from calling her, given the time difference she knew she would be asleep and her call would go to voicemail. So, she did the next best thing and sent her a text.

“I love you…..good night.” After hitting the send button she fell asleep on the couch where she remained until the following morning.

“Bette, when I asked did you need any help I didn’t actually think you would say yes, “Shane says slamming a heavy box down on the floor.

“Will you stop complaining besides you’ve only been here for like10 minutes.”

“10 minutes that’s all!  Are you sure cause it sure as hell feels like I’ve been here a lot longer!?”

“You know if I wanted to hear bitching and complaining I would have asked Alice for her help.”

“Ooooooh Alice huh?”

“Yup, “she says handing her another box.

“Low blow.”

“Time is non-refundable now grab that last box and follow me to the stage.”

“Less than 24 hours until the big day.”

“Yes, and it can’t get here fast enough I’m excited and at the same time ready for it be over and done with. Place that box near the left side of the stage.”

“Hey Shane.”

“What’s up James, “she says after putting down the box.

“You’ve seen Bette anywhere?”

“Oh, yeah she’s over there signing for something, “she says pointing in that direction.

“Thanks.” Standing on top of the stage she looks around first at the displayed art, the bar, the kitchen, then the decorations, and then finally at Bette. She had to hand it to her she definitely gave it her all in putting the gala together.