“What is wrong with this woman?” Bette asked with frustration when they stopped for a lunch break. They sat in the tent by themselves, enjoying some quiet time together. “I know Alice means well but sometimes doing nothing is the best policy.”

“I know, baby but give Alice some credit. I don’t think she will intentionally put you or anyone in harm’s way. She loves you and she’s just trying to figure things out.”

“I know she won’t do anything intentionally. I wish we knew more about this whole ATF investigation thing before doing anything irrational.”

“I think that’s what Alice is actually doing. She’s gathering information…and you know, she is a great investigative reporter.”

“Isn’t it strange though?” Bette asked pensively, “We have been out here for almost three weeks but I haven’t seen anything unusual.”

“It is strange…maybe it’s for the best. Either things are not that bad or the investigation was moved to another area. Didn’t Carmen say that Amy’s team was working near the mansion?”

“Yes, I think so.”

“See, it’s probably turned to nothing important and it’s over already because they couldn’t find anything. And the portal won’t be open for another month.”

“I hope you’re right, Tee. I hope you’re right.”

They finished filming by 6 pm and Tina called everyone for a short ‘end of the day’ meeting. “We are going to film inside the art studio tomorrow but we start in the afternoon and film until dark since it will be mostly interior shots. Good job everybody and we’ll see you back tomorrow.”

Tina looked at her watch and turned to Bette, “I think it’s a little early…do you want to take a walk back to the house? The air is so fresh here.”

“A little early for what?” Bette asked, taking Tina’s hand.

‘She doesn’t miss a thing,’ Tina thought and said out loud, “Hmm, I meant, we finished a little earlier than I have planned and I’m not ready to go home yet.”

“Sure, I would love to take a walk with you. Just imagine…we’re in the middle of December, a week away from Christmas and the weather is so lovely. The walk is a wonderful idea…as long as I can hold your hand,” Bette replied with a smile.