As they separated, Bette turned, "Shane, thanks for the compliments; they were great for my ego."

Shane turned and continued in the same direction, walking backwards. "I might've gotten lucky," Shane shrugged philosophically.

Shane continued home thinking that maybe Bette would become a friend. She respected the kind turn down and Bette's reasons. Next week she would call Bette about a tour of the art gallery.

She was actually sort of glad that Bette had turned her down. But if Bette had said yes..well. Anyone would like to sleep with the most attractive and exciting woman she had ever seen.

Bette was smiling as she got into her car. She liked this bold kid, Shane. The youngster showed a lot of guts hitting on her and she did it with directness and candor. She could say things that might be annoying or insulting from someone else, but was not insulting coming from her.

Bette had been approached by many women and she had approached many women, but there was something unique about Shane's style. It was sincere and polite and honest with an unforced sexy effect.

Shane was so cool, she was hot. Bette thought that Shane would have a busy love life in West Hollywood. And not too many people showed that kind of friendliness and charm after being turned down.

Shane had been evaluated by the master and had scored very high marks.

But she looked so young. Bette was afraid that was a sure sign of her advancing age.

She hoped Shane would call her about a tour of the gallery because she enjoyed the kid's company. Maybe more important, Shane had actually taken her mind off Tina for a couple of hours and Bette was grateful. But now it was back into the world of Myst.