Chapter 2

THE FOLLOWING MORNING AT 10:00

Jessica stuck her head over Tinas cubicle Bette wants to meet with us in her office.

Bette?, So youre on first names now. Sarcasm written all over that statement.

Tina, dont start

Ok, ok, kidding.

KNOCK KNOCK

The girls entered Bettes office. Morning Bette. Jess greeted with a smile.

Good morning Miss Porter. Tina was not as friendly but polite enough to get a half smile from Bette.

Morning ladies. And its Bette. Showing then to the chairs, Please, have a seat. Bette made herself comfortable in her chair before starting the meeting. Well, I dont want to keep you all back too much this morning. But I wanted to get some things in place before we settle down to business.

Bette made copies of the initial proposal that Tina and Jessica made for the project. She spent the greater part of her evening reading through getting up to speed with what has been happening so far. Even though this isnt the only project she would oversee it was made pretty clear by Emmett that this one should take priority over the others. So, Bette continued, Here you go. She said as she handed a copy each to Tina and Jessica. Um I have read through your report and as much as this is good. But I am concerned about one thing though. The production and development costs are too high for a domestic electronic game and unless we can get the costs down I cant see us selling this game for under $2000.00. I mean if I were a parent thats one present I would be happy to cross of my childs Christmas list. So we need to cut costs or I am going to have to cancel this project.

You cant do that! Tinas voice was raised as well as herself from the chair.

Tina Jessica grabbed Tinas hand in an attempt to calm her.

No Jess. Tina said as she pulled her arm away from Jessicas hold. We have worked hard on this project. Its taken us over a year to get where we are. And we are this close, (putting her index and thumb almost toughing) to finishing, you cant terminate it Tina calmed herself, not after all this time.

I know this is important to you, but you cant let your passion for your hobby nor your dislike for me cloud your better judgement on this. Bette sighed and in a more understanding tone she continued, From what I have seen here I know we can cut some costs with respect to the attachments to the game. If we work together on this we can make it work. You dont have to like me, but we do have to work together as a team, so meet me half way on this and see where it takes us.

There were a few moments of an uncomfortable silence with both women staring at each other Jessica was afraid to breathe.

Finally Tina said still looking at Bette I dont dislike you. Its just. she sighed never mind.

Bettes eyes didnt move from Tinas. She knew there was some underlying resentment and it was directed at her and she was determined to find out why. If not now sometime soon hopefully. But for now she wanted Tina to be comfortable with her and at least try to be build Tinas trust in her as a boss and more importantly as a friend. Um, Jess, would you mind giving us a few minutes please?

Sure, gladly.

She seemed happy to leave. Bette tried to lighten the tension in the office and for the first time she actually got Tina to smile. Now that were alone, care to tell me whats your beef with me?

Its nothing, really. Forget about it. Tina gave in, Ill see what I can do with the game and I will get back to you on it.

Ok. But I dont want you to think that I am all work. I mean you can talk to me. About anything. Ok?

Yeah, ok. Can I go now?

Sure. Oh and Tina you do great work. Amanda would have been proud.

Tina gasped. She was almost to tears but fought it back. How? Tina asked in a confused tone.

Smiling at Tina Bette said, I pay attention.

The day went quickly and before long Tina was pulling into her driveway. Before she could get out of her car properly, Timmy was at her door very excited. Look Tina, look. Look what mom got me.

Hey buddy. Tina took him in her arms. Lets say we throw a few round after dinner.

Yay!!!

So how was your day? What new did you learn today?

Well we more numbers. And you know what?

No what?

I got all my spelling right.

Thats great. See so the cookies paid off.

Hi sweetie. Tinas mom interrupted

Hi mom. Tina kissed her mom and put Timmy down before going to wash up. When she was done she headed for the kitchen. She attempted to pick at the batter when she got a smack on her hand. Ouch

You seem in a better mood today. How did it go today?

We had a meeting today. And the strangest thing happened. Bette

Bette?

Yeah, Miss Porter. Anyway, she threatened to terminate the project if I cant find ways to reduce the cost.

Can she do that?

Well yeah, but thats not the weird part. She paused, She said that I do great work and that Amanda would be proud.

Amanda? How did she know about Amanda?

I dont know. She probably asked around.

We all miss her dear. And I know how hard it must be for you to continue this without her but maybe you should give this Bette woman a chance and work with her. You never know what can happen.

Its hard. You know? Sometimes I miss her so much. I guess it makes this all the more exciting. And then for her to come a threaten to shut it down.

Tina, sweetie, come here

I love you mom.

I love you too sweetie.

Bette looked at her watch. It was almost 6:30pm and it was her turn to prepare dinner. She rushed out the office and decided on the quickest meal. Take-out. She opened her phone. Call home

Hello.

Shane honey, I am running late I got kept back at work. Would you mind take out tonight?

Tacos?

Ok Tacos.

Oh, Alice called and Danas here so pick up some extra ok?

Sure.

Ok, see you in a bit.