“Why should I take any advice from you, “she yells out to him forcing him to turn around.

“Because an old fool used to be a young fool think about it, “he says smiling at her before turning around eventually disappearing down the street into the darkness. She stood there watching him walking away the tears pouring down her face as his last words and hidden meaning couldn’t have been clearer. Reaching in her back pocket she pulls out her cellphone and calls Dana when she didn’t answer she left her a voicemail message:

“Dane it’s me I know you’re still mad at me and have every right to be but please I know we can fix this. Please I don’t want to lose you, I can’t lose you. Me being at your side tonight was important to you and although I promised to be there I failed to honor my word. I kept putting you last no matter how many times you put me first and baby I’m sorry know you’re my main priority and have my full undivided attention please call me I am longing to hear your voice………I love you.”

Hanging up the phone she returns it to her back pocket looking at her watch she sees its 15 minutes till 10:00 p.m. in the morning it was clear she wasn’t going to return to Shanes anytime soon. Feeling defeated she walks back down the path grabs the 24 dozen red long stemmed roses that sat on the concrete and places them on the door mat. Getting in her car she drives to their condo not looking forwarded to being alone and missing the woman she loves.

Back at the Gala…..

“I want to conclude this amazing night, “Bette says stands at the podium addressing all her guest, “By sending sincere gratitude to you all for not only being here but sharing this epic night with me and my amazing staff. I’ve been doing for this for many years and to be presented with the opportunity to host my first gala has been a dream come true. To my staff, thank you for all your hard work and the sacrifices that were made in order to make all this come together. To all the guest, both news and media outlets, and the third party promoters who helped market this event a big thank you to you as well. And last but not least to my wife Tina and best friends thank you all for the support.”