Breaking Her Resolve

Chapter Four

The entrance to the Reception hall was littered with paparazzi and several media outlet vans. Although it was private, exclusively for the high profile members of the global society, cameras would not stop rolling.
"Here we go, ready?" Luke asked as the door of the limousine opened.
"As I'll ever be," she exhaled, gathering the train of her gown to avoid tripping on it.
"That's my girl," he grinned proudly.

He took her hand in his and slowly stepped on the red carpet, her tippy toe silver pumps making a soft thud. Flashes of light and click sounds went off all around them.
"Who are you wearing Madam Secretary?"
" What is your relationship with Mr. Sinclair?"
" What is your stand on the current reform bill?"
The questions went on and on,she smiled politely and moved forward without responding to them.

Seline had felt scared and violated her first time on the spotlight, but now she reveled in it. She was however grateful for Luke's support, the man exuded confidence that was contagious.
The decorations and set-up was not only sparkly but also glamorous, an indication of class and elegance of the event held there. They greeted the people present and were surrounded just as they got to their table.
"You look spectacular Madam Secretary,"

"Beauty, brains and power! what a combination Madam Secretary," said another. She acknowledged and returned the pleasantries. They made a few rounds in the banquet hall, moving flawlessly from table to table making small talk and engaging with the parties present.
"Delightful to see you here Madam Secretary, you look stunningly beautiful," commented the Italian Prime Minister.

"Thank you Mr.Prime Minister, how is your family doing?" She knew the man personally and respected him a lot. They chatted for a few minutes before they were interrupted by the host.

"Seline my dear, thank you for coming. You look gorgeous as always," said the Crown prince as he kissed her hand and pecked her cheeks. Luke just stood on the side squinting his eyes.

"Congratulations your Highness, it is such a beautiful ball, wishing you many more success."
They conversed for a while longer before the master of ceremony announced the courses were about to be served.

"Excuse me Seline but please save me a dance,"
"Yes your Highness," she smiled.

He politely walked away after hugging her lightly.
"What's he trying to do? Seduce you?" Luke who was pulled away, joined her again and complained looking genuinely displeased.

"Relax Lucas, the man is married and is our ally." She assured him with her palm softly caressing his jacket.

"Doesn't matter, he has the hots for you and everyone can see it." he grumbled.
"Get back to your chair, a hungry man is an angry man," she instructed jokingly.
"I am hungry...but not for this food," he arched his brows up and down suggestively. She chuckled.
"You're  going to kill me one of these days woman," he mumbled.
Without another word, he pulled a chair and pecked her cheek.

"That's better," she winked at him thoroughly enjoying having him around. She intertwined her hand to his for comfort as he sat down beside her.