“I think you just pointed out the problem” Tina pushed herself off of the sink and took the seat next to them “Authority and system, classic dislikes for some artists”

“No her problem is that” she covered the baby’s ears who wasn’t too thrilled about it “she’s a bitch”

Flutes of champagne and platters of hors d’oeuvres floated around Phyllis’ party as she introduced the new dean and her partner to the faculty and heads of various departments.  Bette had excused herself to find the restroom leaving Tina in Phyllis’ care.  They carried on discussing the joys of motherhood when someone came up from behind them.

“Good evening Chancellor Kroll” the woman said

“Oh Professor Lerner!” Phyllis gave Jodie a kiss on the cheek “So glad you could make it” releasing her

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world” Jodie looked at Tina “Hi, I’m Jodie”

“Tina Kennard” she shook the offered hand

“Where’s Tom?” Phyllis asked looking around for the interpreter

“Right here” Tom appeared out of nowhere

“Tell Jodie that Tina is Dean Porter’s partner and that they have a daughter” she looked at Tina “I’ve seen the photo of you and her on Bette’s desk, beautiful family” she looked at Tina with admiration who looked a bit overwhelmed by the attention

“Thank you” Tina blushed from the compliment

“Chancellor I can read lips” Jodie said matter-of-factly

“Really?  Which lips are you reading?” Phyllis was the only one laughing at her own joke unaware of Tom ‘exiting stage left’, Tina’s growing discomfort or Jodie’s eye roll

“Oh there is Diana Lancaster, excuse me ladies” she left the two women standing looking after her as she briskly walked toward an attractive red head “Diana! Hi!”

“Whoa” Tina looked at Jodie and let out a breathy laugh

“Only the brightest at CU” Jodie shook her head at her obnoxious boss “How old is your daughter?”

“She just turned a year old”

“You know sign language helps children learn faster, especially if they’re taught very young”

“Yes I’ve heard that” Tina wondered “Maybe I can learn then teach my daughter how to sign”

“There are some classes at CU you could register for”