She giggles, but does as she's told, returning to bed so Rene can spoil her with breakfast. He gives her fresh coffee with cream and sugar, then lays out the food. They eat together and Celine giggles. This must be what cloud nine is. When she's talked with her girl friends about their dates and their boyfriends, none come close to Rene. Rene who always puts her first, who loves her constantly and consistently, no threat of change, and always makes himself clear. "Do you really love me?" Celine asks around a bite of the crepes he made. He rolls his eyes. "You know I am a terrible liar. It is why I can never play poker. I love you. I love you ever minute of every day and can't imagine loving anyone else the way I love you. You're passion, your love for life, your compassion, and your dedication ... all of it is so perfect, so unique to you." Celine swoons and covers it by putting more food in her mouth. She asks Rene about the future, about Jean-Pierre, about anything that will allow her to forget without having to make a declaration quite like that. But soon enough, breakfast is over and Rene settles in with her, playing with her fingers. "And you Celine, do you love me?" "Of course I do. I love you so much and in so many ways I don't think I can put it into nice little sentences." She admits, meeting his eyes. "It would just come out ... less than." He kisses her softly and then he takes a call from Jean-Pierre. Rene asks about a million times if he's okay, making Celine roll her eyes. It's sweet that he cares so much, but Jean-Pierre looked at nearly full health when she saw him. "I'm fine, Dad. Don't worry." He says over the speaker phone. "It's my job to worry. That's what dads do." Rene argues."I wanted to tell you about a great idea I had! We should invite Celine and her family to our New Year's ball. I know it's a little late because of everything, but it's tradition." "I'll ask her about it." Rene says, putting his hand playfully over Celine's mouth when she tries to agree. She quiets her laughter and squirms against him anyway. "Let me know if you need anything." Rene continues. "Love you, Dad!" Jean-Pierre says. "I love you too." Rene finishes before hanging up the phone. "What was all that about?" Celine asks, pushing Rene down to sit on him. "I want all the details." "I wish I would have thought of it first. We throw a ball every year. Family and friends join. We get all dressed up and dance the night away. You've clearly already agreed to go." "I like to spend time with you." Celine grumbles. "Don't say it like it's a bad thing." "I never would. You and your family are invited. As many people as you'd like to join." "When is this ball." She drags out the word to try and sound like a princess. "I'll clearly need prep time." "I'm sure it'll be in a week." Rene says, holding Celine's hips. "Well, I think I'll need an escort to join such a fancy event." "Is that a yes?" Rene asks, dumping her off his lap. "I'll think about it."
