"It's nothing at all." She insists. "Maybe he has something work related to talk to me about." "Sure. You can pretend around the others, but I know you Celine." She reminds. "And I've known Rene long enough to recognize that look in his eye. I don't think anyone at this party has missed it." "Don't say that." Celine whispers. It's too tempting to believe which isn't fair. She knows Rene loves her, but it's impossible for them to be out in the open and the more people that know the more danger they'rereally in. The press is unforgiving and people are unpredictable. She sits back down with Eddy and Mia and catch up, trying not to think about or look at Rene. She hopes he understands that it's not anything about her being angry, it's just wanting to keep what's private, private. They're public figures and they have to keep their reputations in mind, even if it would be easier to forget for just a moment. How easy would it be to cross the room and just sit in Rene's lap, to feel his arms wrap around her, to be swallowed up by his warmth and affection?And how easy would it be for the press to say that she only has the career because she seduced Rene? That their relationship is unnatural and wrong and an abuse of power? Both are too easy which is exactly why she has to keep her distance. But as the night winds down, people start falling asleep, making space for themselves. Some of the kids fall asleep right by the tree, as if they were checking the presents. Others make space on the pull out couch or the other couches. The window seat is stolen, others go to their rooms until Celine decides to give in.
