“Hi” Tina greeted Helena’s secretary. “Is she in?”

“yes, and waiting for you”

“Come in, Tina,” Helena said. “Coffee?”

“No, thank you.”

-”How are things in local sales this week?”

“We’re above budget. I’m glad to report. I had to call Jenny in on the carpet this morning and give her a pep talk. I think__hope__she’ll shape up.”

“You’d better have everyone fired up. I got word that a group of bigwigs from the parent company is coming down in a few weeks. I’m sure they’ll want to increase your budget.”

“What else is new?” Tina asked dryly.

Helena nodded absently. “I’m sure you won’t disappoint us And you certainly won’t do anything between now and their visit that could cost us an account.” Helena cleared her throat , “Tina, Bette Porter came to see me this morning.”

“The muscles of Tina’s stomach tightened ,but she kept her expression impassive. “And?”

“And,” Helena said,drawing out the words, “ she wants you personally to handle this -OCEAN BREEZE account.”

“S-o she told me, but I don’t see the need for that. Jenny is very capable of handling this account”

“Yes, but the client doesn’t.” Helena replied. “I know why you have an aversion to her Tina ,…I’ve known you for a while and we’ve become friends, and listen to me you need to let go of this animosity you have towards Bette. I know that she seduced you the night before your wedding ,but she did not rape you Tina, you were willing to give her whatever she took. I wonder who you are more upset with? Her or you? Are you still mad because you succumbed to a woman? Are you still having doubts about your sexuality? I told you that you should have waited before you married that man. Take my advise” Helena said , “You’re too smart of a business woman, don’t let your personal feelings stand in the way of sound business conduct.”

“You think i’m not professional?”

“Yes,” Helena almost screamed. “I do! Where she’s concerned. For the first time i’m dissappointed in you. You’re not approaching this in a professional manner.”

That hurt, it hurt because it was the truth.

“C-an I tell her that you have consented to have dinner with her and the owner of OCEAN BREEZE tonight?” Jenny has been asked to go too.