Intro:

Hands fold
to rest
in a skirted lap
heat hidden
behind
tight knit stockings.
Across the room
she bore
her teeth
and waved,
fingers alive,
boys on either side.


Chapter 1:

When Bette Porter’s gallery had an opening night of a new show, few guests were sure to stop by. This night was an exception. Even though it seemed as if a thousand people walked through the door, Bette’s gallery was just beginning to gain respect; many local papers were covering stories about her work for the first time, and this helped her success. Tonight was just what she needed, and the excitement inside of her glowed. Three artists were being shown, and people Bette didn’t even remember inviting showed up. Wine flowed and so did conversation. One person Bette did recognize was Eric; he had come to several other shows, despite the gallery’s popularity.
“Bette,” Eric said, approaching the woman.
“Hi there, Eric.”
“Bette Porter, this is my girlfriend, Tina Kennard.”
Eric asked about an artist while Bette directed him to her; he left Tina behind, as she wished.
“Tina, I’m glad you could make it to the show. Is this your first?”
“Actually, I’ve been to several other local galleries, just not yours. I like it, though. It seems much more…progressive.” Tina’s strong point wasn’t art, but she loved gallery hopping in the “townie” parts of the city. But this woman’s gallery was unlike anything she had seen before. It intrigued her; so did Bette.
“Thank you. I try to incorporate the artists who have a strong voice, but aren’t heard because they appear too radical to other gallery owners.”
Bette liked this woman. Their conversation continued, and they instantly clicked. They found they had much in common, regardless of different professions. Tina felt an instant kinship with Better, and had an urge inside of her to want to instantly be friends. Eric returned, and Tina fit back onto his arm. It was all she knew at that time, and Bette understood that. If Tina had been something…different, Bette would have been bold, but she knew her place.
Instead, she invited them both to a dinner the following night at the gallery. She was hosting the event in honor of the artists’ show. Bette knew both Eric and Tina have a strong interest in the artists, and she thought they might have fun. Besides, seeing Tina again wouldn’t hurt.