Rachel's POV
"Hurry while it's still halftime."
"Ok, ok....Do you want another White Claw?"
"Ugh not really, it's starting to have this hot piss like aftertaste", I grimace taking another sip.
"It kinda does doesn't it?"
We both stare at each other with a straight face until we can't hold it any longer. We erupt in laughter, "Two more coming up."
Shortly after Natalie's retreat to the kitchen she sits back down beside me on the couch.
"Here you go."
"Thank you."
"You're very welcome", she smiles.
Ok, I know what you're probably thinking. "Rachel what the fuck are you doing?"...Believe me I had that same talk with myself, but things have been hell lately and I could use the distraction. And what better distraction is there than my seemingly newly reformed ex?
"Are you having a good time?"
"No I'm having the absolute worst time of my life. I'm trying to come up with an escape plan as we speak", I smile.
"Damn I'm that bad of a host?"
"You're that bad."
She clutches her chest as if she's offended. I shake my head at her silliness.
My phone rings grabbing my attention. Looking at the caller ID I press reject.
"So-"
I hear the notice of a text message and I quickly glance at it before putting it on silent and flipping it over on the coffee table.
"Ok what's that about?", Natalie says raising her eyebrow.
"It's Olivia."
"I can pause the game if you want to take it."
"No it's cool I'll call her back later. I'd never hear the end of it if she knew we've been hanging out."
"Ah I got it, I'm a secret."
"A secret would imply that I'm doing something wrong."
Natalie bats her eyes.
"On second thought, yeah you're absolutely a secret."
"I'm a punching bag in my own place."
"Hey you begged me to come over."
"I'm glad that I did", she says looking down at my lips.
"Coming up on the 10 o'clock news we will hear from presidential candidates former Vice President John Bell and Senator Jennifer Abner on the eve of primary election night. We will also take a look back at how each candidate got here and weigh their odds for each of the remaining states."
I shift in my seat uncomfortably as Jenn is shown on screen.
"I know you have to be excited to find out if your boss wins or not tomorrow."
"So excited."
"How's it been working for her?"
"It's cool."
"She seems bad ass. Although I remember you hating her a few years ago."
"You do? I don't remember that."
"Sure I do, you were pissed that she decided on Terrance's case."
"So you're telling me that you actually did pay attention during our relationship?"
"It was hard not to when you got so passionate...I always knew you we're going to make a great lawyer."
"Yeah, I still have to pass the fucking bar exam to become one."
"I thought you posted about taking it already?"
"I did but I guess they're short staffed due to layoffs so it's delaying the processing times."
"That sucks but come on you know you passed."
"I hope so because I've never wanted anything more."
*******
"Oh my god that was so close!"
"LeBron is the king of clutch shots that's why he's the GOAT."
"Hard to argue that", I say getting up and putting on my jacket.
"Don't tell me you're trying to leave already?"
"Do you see what time it is? Big day tomorrow remember?"
"You sure you're ok to drive? You can always take my bed."
I give her a glance.
"Boundaries, I know sorry."
I grab my purse and walk towards the door.
"So when do we get to do this again?"
"Were you always this annoying?"
"Were you always this rude?"
"I'd like to think I'm a lot nicer with old age."
She laughs.
"There's going to be this big viewing party for the results tomorrow night. I'll be working it so I'll have to stay a little later but why don't you pick me up after that? We can get dessert from Canter's or something."
"Oh man I've missed those cupcakes."
"They're literally the best."
"I remember you specifically having me take you there after class all the time. I thought you wanted to grab a sandwich...you know what they're famous for but no, we sat in hours of traffic for dessert."
"Can you blame a girl for her sweet tooth?"
"I can't", she smiles."I guess I'll see you tomorrow."
I turn the doorknob to exit and she stops me.
"I don't get a goodnight hug?"
"No Natalie, that's how it begins."
She smirks, "Are you saying I'm so attractive that you can't handle a hug from me?"
"Oh please, I hate your face."
"I hate your face too."
"Luckily you don't have to see it for the rest of the night then", I say walking out.
"Hey that was a setup."
I shake my head, "Goodnight Natalie."
"Goodnight Rachel."
I arrive home shortly after leaving Natalie's apartment. I toss my keys on the counter and take off my jacket. I take a look at the time and have a seat on the couch turning on the tv.
"ABC presents 'The Road To The White House' featuring appearances from the two remaining democratic nominees. First let's take at how Senator Jennifer Abner's journey began."
**********
Jennifer's POV
"Hahaha. You hear that babe? If things don't go our way tomorrow you'll have a fallback here with Mike."
I fake smile pretending I haven't been zoned out for the last hour and a half. Tomorrow is one of the most important days of life. Everything I've worked for could potentially conclude.
The sounds of cutlery clashing against the tableware fills the lively restaurant. Besides my thoughts it's the only thing I manage to hear.
I look around the table to see the smiles on Greg, Mike, and Wendy's faces.
"You ok honey?", Greg nudges me gaining my attention.
"I'm great. If you'll all just excuse me for a second, I'll be right back. "
They all focus on me as I get up from the table and walk outside.
Finally I get what I want, silence. I find a spot around back to have a cigarette and take a breather.
Putting the cigarette up to my mouth I take a look at my phone to see it filled with messages from my team regarding tomorrow.
"Earth to Jennifer."
"What is it Greg?", I say rolling my eyes.
"It's impolite to leave our guest unattended."
"Your guest. You and Mike have been edging each other so much tonight that I thought no one would notice if I disappeared for awhile."
He smirks taking the cigarette out of my mouth and throwing it to the ground, "See this is why our little arrangement works. I'm a distinguished businessman who has a great eye for new opportunities and you're...well you're a fucking mess, but on a good day you know how to clean it up and appear stable and logical."
"Oh fuck off Greg."
"Listen, just hear Mike out and if you don't agree I'll drop it forever."
"Business propositions are not how I imagined spending the eve of one of the most important nights of my life."
"Yeah and how did you picture it then?"
"Forget it", I say brushing past him to enter the restaurant.
I take a seat back at the table to find all eyes back on me.
"Everything ok Jenn?", Wendy questions clutching my hand.
"Yes, just nervous jitters for tomorrow."
"Oh dear, where there's a will there's a way. God is on your shoulders."
"Thank you."
"I think you would be a lot less nervous if it wasn't for that spineless bastard Snyder. Only reason he endorsed Bell is for a potential cabinet position. Little does he know Jennifer here is going to win this thing tomorrow. Isn't that right Greg?"
"That's right. There's no one better for the job than my wife", he says kissing my hand.
"I agree and that's why I think you should start preparing for what's to come. Looking past tomorrow-"
"It would be ignorant of me to look past it when it hasn't arrived yet."
Greg rubs my shoulder, "She's a modest one. Always has been and always will be."
"That's why the people love her so much", Mike smiles. "Look Jennifer I'm sure you've had talks with your team about what happens if you win tomorrow. The first thing is solidifying your running mate. I'm here to say look no further. You and I get along like no other, we'd be quite the duo."
I glance at Greg and he gives me a look telling me to go along with it.
"Of course take your time with it, but Jennifer I'd think this would be a great partnership. What do you say?"
***********
Rachel's POV
The next day
"Fuck no!"
"Would you lower your voice?", Jacob whispers.
"Are you out of your mind? I'm not risking my job so you can get into some girl's pants."
"Come on you have pull being on the campaign team. If you added her to guest list no one would even notice."
"What part of employees, family, and friends don't you understand? I think the secret service is even going to be there."
"Cara is my friend."
"You're ridiculous."
"When did you get so lame, miss change the town hall date for shits and giggles?"
"When I grew up, maybe you should try it. My job tonight is to help make sure everything goes by smoothly, not help you fuck some girl you're trying to flex for."
He shakes his head frustrated and walks away.
"Rachel, just a reminder that the team is meeting in conference room A in less than an hour", David says frantically.
"I'll be there."
I watch in amusement as David becomes off his rocker navigating around the office. That's the common theme around here today. I've never seen people move so fast and with purpose. I just wonder how the woman of the hour or should I say day is handling things.
**********
Jennifer's POV
"Jared you are going to make late. Hurry it up please!"
"Why don't you go ahead? He doesn't need to sit around your office all day. He can stay behind with me."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes."
"Thank you that will at least take something off my plate...His suit for tonight should be delivered shortly. Please make sure you're both on time and he's on his best behavior."
"He'll be fine."
"Ok see you tonight."
"Yeah."
No good luck or well wishes? I don't know why I still expect any kind of decency from that man. I can hardly even look at him since Rachel walked into my office catching us in a compromising position.
In her mind I did what I always do, take the safe route rekindling things with Greg. Although that is the furthest from the truth. I wish I could explain myself but there's no use to doing so because even if I'm not with Greg I still can't be with her and we both know it. That realization hurts me more than anything.
It's one thing that's been bothering me about the entire situation. I want know what she had on her mind that day she came to visit me.
Trying not let it put a damper on my day I get in my car and start my drive to work. Today is the moment of truth. Did I work hard enough to connect to the people? Are my policies what they want? Do they think I stand the best chance against Trant? I guess I'll find out shortly.
Arriving in my designated parking spot I take a deep breath before exiting the car. I know this will be my only moment of peace for the rest of day.
I walk into the office and it's reminiscent of Wall Street. Everyone and everything is moving a mile a minute.
"Good Morning Senator, today's the big day", Mia says looking stressed beyond recognition.
"Good morning. What do I have in store for this morning"
"Nonstop press. You have interview after interview, they're already lined up in front."
"Ok let's get this day started then...Is the team meeting still going on? I would like to peak my head in and say thank you."
"I believe it is."
"Perfect. Thank you Mia for all your hard work. I know at times it isn't pretty but you always get the job done."
"Oh that's so sweet, thank you boss."
"Sure. But just so we're clear my schedule is exactly that. You, me, and David should only have access. Favors for my husband are not exceptions."
"Yes of course", she responds with a fading smile realizing that I know what she did.
I walk away heading to the conference room leaving her behind.
I lightly knock on the door and peak my head in to see the meeting still in session.
"There she is! Everyone give our brilliant leader a round of applause", David says ushering me into the room.
I smile and look around the room. My eyes immediately fall on Rachel.
"I don't mean to interrupt your meeting, I know you all are probably busier than I am today. I just wanted to stop by to show my appreciation and personally thank all of you for your endless hard work. None of which goes unnoticed. No matter what happens tonight I am lucky to have each and every one of you on my team."
They all smile and clutch their chest like it's an honor.
"Ok I don't think we could end the meeting any better than that. You all have your assignments. The shuttles will take us over to the event location shortly. Be great everyone. Dismissed."
Everyone walks out and I stand by the door thanking them on their way out. But I need to do more than just thank the person who has been by my side.
"Hi Rachel."
"Hi Senator", she says while continuing to walk away.
Like I said Rachel shutting down is far scarier than her being angry. At least she shows me some type of emotion when she's angry. When she shuts down it's impossible to read her.
"Ready for the circus?", David says grabbing my attention.
"Always", I say with a false smile.
**********
Greg's POV
hours later
"Jared I'm back. You ready to go buddy?"
"Jared?"
I walk into the guest room to see him passed out on the bed with a empty bottle out of the bar cabinet.
"Fuck!"
"Jared, wake up bud. We gotta get you ready."
He grunts as I try to pull him up.
"Come on, your sister is going to blow a fucking gasket if I don't get you there."
After a few tries to get up him I realizes there's no hope.
I pull out my phone to look at the time. There's only 30 minutes until the event starts.
I run my hand through my hair and decide to bite the bullet and call Jenn.
After ringing her cell twice. I make the decision to just head over to the event.
I park my car and flash my ID to enter the venue. Upon entering I'm flooded with cameras in my face and people trying to pull me in each direction.
"Greg you handsome son of a bitch, get over here would you?"
"Hey how are you all doing tonight?", I smile.
"Excited to be here. It's a close race but we think your wife is going to pull it through, and hopefully for us she does. I have 100k riding on it."
"Oh you gents are really making this into a party. I'll raise your 100k to 250k. Going towards my wife of course."
"Wow."
"I like your style Greg and no offense to the Mrs, but I'm throwing 150k towards the guy who can't even remember what state he's in for safe measure. My wife says sexism is still a thing."
"No offense taken. Look I'll find you boys later, the wife will have my head if I don't show my face in the next few minutes."
"Keeping you on a short leash as she should. That's a smart woman", they wink.
"Hey Greg let me walk with you, I have a quick question for ya", Mike suggest as I leave the group.
"Yeah what's up?"
"She seemed receptive last night. Any word today?"
"Look she's a one step at a time kinda woman. We hear what we need to hear tonight and I can assure you she'll be calling you up by tomorrow."
"I'm trusting you Greg."
"And you're smart to do so."
"You come through with your end of the deal and your days of betting on your wife will be over. You'll be a very wealthy man in your own regard", Mike says patting my shoulder walking away.
**********
Jennifer's POV
"Has anyone seen my brother or husband?"
"I'm here I'm here."
"You're late", I say kissing his cheek for show.
"I'm sorry, everyone wanted a comment."
"Where's Jared?", I say noticing his absence.
"Have you checked your phone?"
"When would I have time to do that honey?"
"Silly me, I know you're so busy. Jared wasn't feeling well so I suggested he stay home and rest up."
"Not feeling well?" I say raising my voice until all eyes turn on me. "What do you mean honey, is he ok?"
"Yeah he'll be fine. It's probably that flu bug that's been going around."
Anger fuels inside me but I'm currently surrounded by any and everyone.
"No need to worry. He's stocked up with medicine and plenty of liquids."
"Thank you for taking such good care of him", I say giving Greg a look to haunt him. I knew leaving Jared unattended would be a mistake. I would have liked someone from my family to be there for support but I guess that's just another thing I'll have to compromise.
"Of course. He's family."
"Ok it's showtime people. Jennifer I would like to have a word. Can everyone please clear the room?"
"Is everything ok?"
"Yes I just wanted to pull you aside to say what an honor it's been working with you. No matter what happens tonight I'll always be in corner."
"Thank you David", I say reaching for his hand.
"Now back to business. I know you wanted to make welcoming remarks to your guest, afterwards did you want to stay on the floor or come on back to where the magic is happening? We have the whole team from your advisors to your communication director back there monitoring the results before they are sent to the media. We're connected to each Secretary of State and polling officials. It's your call."
"My friends and colleagues came to see me, I can't just can't hide out back. Besides it's better for all of us if I keep busy."
"That's why you're the boss and I'm not", he smiles. "Let's get you out there then, your crowd awaits you."
**********
Rachel's POV
"I guess you're my date for the night since you couldn't do me a solid the one time I asked you."
"If you want me to keep you company all you have to do is ask Jake. No need to throw out the d word. We both know you're not my type", I say poking at him.
"Yeah I'm not a psychopath."
"Touché."
"Did you ever think when we first started we'd be here witnessing this?"
"No. I thought I would for sure be fired by now."
"Same actually, but the Senator always seemed to have a soft spot for you. If I was her your ass would've been gone."
"I'm an acquired taste, maybe she realizes just how awesome I truly am."
"Awesome is certainly not the word I would use."
I lightly shove him and he laughs.
The music in the room stops and the lights flash on stage. Before I know it Jenn is walking out in a regal all white suit with her American flag pin attached to her lapel.
She smiles and waves at the crowd, almost bowing with honor as they clap and cheer for.
She takes the podium and I notice she takes a deep breath before speaking. I'm sure tonight is nerve racking for her.
"Good evening everyone and thank you for being here to offer your support. The only reason I am here is because of all of you and that's why there is no place I rather be than here tonight watching with you as the results flow in. I want to thank you all for your support over the course of my campaign. To my staff thank you for your hard work, to my colleagues thank you for your guidance, to my family thank you for your sacrifice. And to my husband who I owe the biggest gratitude to, thank you for not running for the hills during this stressful time."
The crowd erupts in laughter.
As fate would have it we lock eyes and her smile slowly fades away.
She looks down clearing her voice and back up at me. It begins to feel like we're the only two people in the room.
"From the bottom of my heart thank you for always being by my side. I know that it hasn't always been easy, but you're here. On a night that means the world to me. Many of you have heard my story so I won't bore you with it again, but holding office has been a dream of mine. With the help of you I am standing on this stage today. You push me, encourage me, and support me in ways that are unimaginable."
She breaks eye contact and surveys the room.
"So thank you, each and everyone of you."
The crowd claps and cheers and I join in as we meet eyes again.
"It's crazy how good at speeches she is."
"She's almost too good at them", I interject.
**********
Jennifer's POV
"Jennifer you look gorgeous. We were just talking about Trant and his inevitable meltdown if you become his opponent."
"Thank you", I smile.
"We were also discussing how we would like to help if your campaign should continue on."
"Thank you Mary that is so kind of you."'
"Of course, I'll have my people call your people to work something out."
I smile,"It was nice seeing you, thank you for coming."
As I navigate through the crowd. I'm pulled in every which way as my friends and colleagues propose ways in which they can help me, or should I say help themselves.
"Jennifer, Jennifer I was hoping I get a chance to speak with you tonight."
I see Rachel who I was walking towards mingling in the corner. I put on a smile to greet my latest proposer. Speaking with Rachel will unfortunately have to wait.
"Hi George."
"It's Jorge."
"Oh of course, I'm so sorry."
"No that's ok. I wanted to see it down the line you needed any sponsors. My company is booming right now and-"
I zone out. It's apparent that none of these people are genuinely here for me, but only for what I can offer them.
"Excuse me, I'm sorry", I say walking away leaving him there.
"And where are you off to so fast?", a voice says behind me catching my attention.
"Frank, oh thank God it's you."
"That's the first time I've heard those words in a minute...You doing ok?"
I usher him to one of the back rooms where we can get some peace and quiet.
"You having a good time?"
"The turnout is great but none of these people could give a shit about me."
"You sure because all I see is a room full of love and support out there."
"They love what I can do for them. The only people that are genuinely here for me are you, David and-....", I pause before I say it. "It doesn't matter, Jared is at home and I've barely seen Greg all night."
"What's the real issue here? Look you're a politician, you more than anyone knows how slimy these bastards are. You haven't had a problem with it."
"I've always had a problem with it."
"So why make an issue out of it tonight? You're minutes away from finding out what you've always wanted. You're going to let the company of others get you down?...Nah that's not the Jennifer I know."
I look down feeling chastised, but he's right. In actuality it's not about any of these people.
"My sister and your grandfather would be so proud of you right now. You did what your promised them no matter what those results turn out to be. But they would also want you to enjoy tonight. If I can't bring a smile to your face I know someone who cares about you a lot out there that could probably do so in seconds."
I reach out giving him a hug, "Thank you for being a true friend and standing by me even when we don't see eye to eye."
"Of course. I'll always be here, even if you try to swap me out for some mall cops again."
I smile. "I guess it's time for the moment of truth."
**********
Rachel's POV
"Look why don't you take down my number and give me a call when things here settle down?"
"Wow thank you."
"No problem, we are always looking for young talent and after the conversation we just had I'm sure you'd be a great fit."
"Thank you. Enjoy the rest of your night."
I turn to Jacob and hold up the business card I just received.
"Networking? Looking for girls? Networking looking for girls?"
"In this moment I'm going to say looking for girls. Now if you'll excuse me I'm going to go finish my conversation with blondie over there."
"Good luck with that."
I look down to see that I got a text from Natalie after sending her the address.
"My sweet tooth is having trouble holding out"
I shake my head and put my phone away.
I hear heels approaching behind me and I feel a hand placed on my shoulder.
"Rachel."
I don't need to turn around to see who it is.
"Senator."
"Jennifer there you are I've been looking all over for you. The team just got word that the race is moments from being called."
"Right now?"
"Yes right now. They call it election night for a reason", David says.
"Ok I'll be right there...Rachel please don't leave tonight until I get the chance to speak with you."
"Yeah sure"
She flashes me a soft smile and rushes away.
I'm trying to find a balance but honestly it's difficult. I want her to know how much she's hurt me but then again I don't want to give her that power. Walking in on her and Greg really woke me up. It was just what I needed to kill the silly fantasy of us getting back together.
**********
Jennifer's POV
"Ok everyone quiet, quiet they are about to make the announcement", David says on the microphone.
Silence fills the auditorium for a few seconds until the news anchor appears back on screen.
"Breaking news it is being reported that Senator Jennifer Abner has been elected as the democratic nominee beating out VP John Bell 2,700 to 1887 delegates. Senator Abner well over exceed the 1,991 needed to secure the nomination."
My heart sinks into my chest as I see the words projected winner Jennifer Abner flash across the screen.
Things only become reality when I hear the screams and shouts of my counterparts.
I did it. I'm one step closer.
I smile and hold my hand close to my heart in shock. I never like to express worry, but the days and even weeks leading up to this moment have been a lot to handle. But it has all been worth it. I've worked incredibly hard to hear those words, and now I'll work even harder to complete what I started.
I look out into the crowd to see everyone hugging and congratulating each others. It feels like an eternity until someone actually congratulates me.
"You did it, you did it. You're the democratic nominee", David shouts out giving me a hug. "How does it feel?"
"It feels like all the hard work and sacrifice has paid off", I say putting on a smile.
**********
"Everyone who is not hair and makeup please exit the room. We are on a tight schedule to deliver this victory speech", David instructs.
Greg walks closely kissing my temple. "We did it...I'm so proud of you honey."
I smile rubbing his hand, "Thank you."
"My parents and everyone else are so ecstatic."
"Tell them I send them love."
"Of course", he says exiting the room.
Hair and makeup touch me up while I silently practice my speech in the mirror over and over again.
"Ok it's showtime, we only have one shot at this let's make it perfect."
I walk up the stage flashing a smile and offering a conservative wave as everyone cheers.
"Thank you. I want to start off by thanking Vice President John Bell and all of his supporters. It was an honor being able to share the stage with you over the last few months. Your passion to make America a better place is where we find common ground.
At this pivotal moment in our country's history it means the world to me that the great people of America have nominated me as their democratic nominee. I want to assure you that I will fight endlessly to be your voice whether you voted for me or not because our democracy is at stake. The fight doesn't end here, come November I will face off against President Trant who has done immense damage to our nation. America I work you but for to us be successful we all need to unite and work as one because we're stronger together. Thank you, have a great night and God Bless America."
Greg walks out joining me on stage and kisses my lips.
Years ago this would have been the perfect moment, but now it's all an illusion.
**********
Greg's POV
"What did I fucking tell? I knew she had it man."
"Woo wee. I'm not going to lie Greg I was a little nervous there."
"No need man, no need. The plan is going accordingly", I say slurring my speech.
"Vice President nominee sure does have a nice ring to it."
"All the zeros that come with that sound even better to me."
"Yes it does...hey let me get back in there before Wendy starts a search a party for me."
I nod my head.
"Congrats Greg", he says pointing at me.
I loosen my tie and try to make it down the hallway without stumbling.
I reach the bathroom and do business. Before leaving I look in the mirror and splash some water on my face.
I dry my hands and exit the bathroom to find Mia sitting on a bench down the hall.
"Hey Mia."
"Hi Greg", she says wiping her tears.
"You ok?"
She nods her head.
"Doesn't look like it, I've never seen you cry."
"I can't talk about it with you", she says getting up and walking down the hall.
"Sure you can."
She leads us to empty conference and I follow her inside.
"Your wife."
"What about wife."
"No offense but she's a -"
"Bitch?"
She looks at me and doesn't confirm or deny.
"She's my wife I can say that."
"I put everything into my job and all I get is a backhanded thank you", she says picking up the papers from the table throwing back down. "She's shunned me all day for helping you out with her calendar."
"Don't worry about that. I'll talk to her and get it all sorted out."
"You will?"
"Yeah you helped me it's the least I can do. Like I said she's been stressed but I know she appreciates all that you do. We all know you're the real rockstar here."
She giggles stepping closer to me, "You're so sweet and funny Greg."
I run my fingers through my hair and smile as my buzz kicks in more.
"I wish they made more men like you."
At that I pull her in close bringing her to my lips where she sinks into me.
She aggressively plays back as I slide my tongue between her parted lips.
She sucks on my tongue and I feel her hands reaching below my belt. I pull back.
"What are you doing?"
"I know that you and her have secrets."
I lean back against the wall not saying anything as her hand finds her way to my zipper.
She slowly gets on her knees unzipping my pants.
She looks up at me smiling when she finds what she was looking for.
"Fuck"
I push the back of her head down as she goes down.
After a few minutes she finds her rhythm.
"Does that feel good?"
"That feels great", I say smiling until the door opens.
Mia jumps up and I turn around to cover myself.
"Shit!"
David walks in closing the door behind himself.
"Ok I'm going to pretend that I didn't see the just announced presidential nominee's husband and chief of staff engaging in oral sex in the middle of her victory party. I didn't see that did I?"
I zip my pants up turning around.
"Look David."
He puts his hand out telling me to stop talking.
"This stays between us. Jennifer would be crushed if she found out about this."
"Thank you", Mia says looking down in shame.
"You Ms. Choi are very lucky I don't say anything. You'd be down at the employment office tomorrow...But you are great at your job and we can't afford any changes in staff."
He smacks his lips in disappointment.
"What the hell are you two thinking? Greg you'd really risk your wife's campaign for a cheap moment of pleasure?"
"I've been drinking and she came on to me."
"Greg", Mia shouts out.
"Look I don't care who came on to who. This is never happening again...This is the first time that this has happened right?"
"Yes."
"Good. Mia go home. Greg find your wife and stay glued to her side."
Mia walks out the door with her head hung low and I take a deep breath.
"Greg you know better than this. Even the littlest indiscretion puts a pin in things. You aren't the first husband to screw up and certainly not the last, just don't ever let this happen again."
I nod my head.
"I'm glad we're on the same page. Now go get back out there", he says shaking his head.
**********
Jennifer's POV
"Hey champ, you doing ok?", David says sneaking up behind me.
I smile and nod.
"It's been a long day and the circus amplifies tomorrow. Why don't you get out of here a call it a night?"
"I will, I just want to take this all in a little longer."
He smiles and pats my shoulder waking away.
As the night starts to wind down I find myself longing for tranquility.
I exit the auditorium doors and step out on the entrance stairs to get fresh air.
I turn right looking up at the midnight sky.
"Escaping your own party?", I hear from a voice to the left of me which makes me smile.
"Just catching my breath for a moment."
Rachel nods her head in response.
"What are you doing out here all alone?"
"Waiting on my ride to pick me up. I figured the nights still young why not make the most if it", she responds. "What did you want to talk about earlier?"
I stand in silence wanting to ask her what she had on her mind that day and also wanting to express myself, but knowing it's not the right thing to do.
A sound of a car pulling up brings me back to reality.
"Looks like my ride is here."
"Go, it can wait."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes", I smile.
"Ok well congratulations. I'm genuinely happy for you", she says meeting eyes with me.
"Thank you, that means a lot coming from you."
"We've had many talks about tonight... Is it everything you hoped it would me?"
"Almost everything."
The sound of the car door opening grabs our attention.
Rachel offers a small smile to bid me goodbye before walking down the steps to meet a unfamiliar the face.
The slender built girl opens the passenger door for Rachel smiling.
They exchange words and Rachel hugs her before getting inside the car.
As they drive away I look off into the distance as I stand there alone hearing the music from "my party."