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“You did.” She picked up the keycard from the dresser and opened the door. “Shall we?”
Giselle sat in an uncomfortable folding chair, listening to the President talk about the importance of patriotism and the vital role ambassadors play in maintaining good communication. The President had some very nice things to say about Giselle, but her praise made Giselle feel uncomfortable. She wasn’t anything special, but the President made her sound like a saint.
“It is with great pleasure that I introduce you to Giselle Baptiste,” the President said. “Ms. Baptiste, will you join me?”
Giselle got out of the chair and stood next to the President.
“Will you please raise your right hand and place your left on this bible in my hand?” the President said.
Giselle was too awe-struck to pay close attention to what the President said and even hesitated when it was her turn to speak.
The ceremony quickly ended, and the President invited everyone to a reception in the Rose Garden. The few reporters covering the ceremony bombarded the President with questions, but she politely ignored them and focused all her attention on Giselle.
“I am thrilled to start working with you. Tristan had so many wonderful things to say about you.”
Giselle looked around the room and found Tristan talking with his brother, Blake. As if he sensed she was watching him, he turned to see her and smiled.
The President followed Giselle’s gaze. “Looks like Tristan might know more about you than what he’s shared.”
Giselle’s cheeks warmed. “Oh, not at all, Madam President. Tristan and I have worked together before, but nothing inappropriate is happening, I can assure you.”
The President placed a hand on Giselle’s arm. “You don’t have to worry about anything. I’m just happy Tristan hasn’t been as grumpy as normal in the last couple of weeks, and now I know why.”
She didn’t know what to say to that.
A man Giselle recognized as the Chief of Staff approached them. “Madam President, we need to go to the briefing.”
The President looked annoyed. “Oh yes, of course.” She turned to Giselle. “I wasn’t sure what the appropriate gift would be, but I did get you something. My assistant, Penny, will find you in a few minutes and give it to you.”
Giselle’s eyes opened wider. “You didn’t have to do that.”
“My momma would skin me alive if I didn’t get you something.”
Giselle smiled at the slight hint of the President’s southern accent.
The President waved to someone. “There’s Penny right now. If you’ll excuse me, maybe we can have dinner before you leave. Maybe we could even arrange a non-formal dinner in my home.”
“Oh, um, yes, Madam President. That would be lovely.”
The two women hugged, and Giselle watched as the President walked away.
A woman backed into Giselle. She turned and said, “Oh, excuse me, I wasn’t paying attention. I didn’t mean to run into you.”
Giselle gave the woman her best politician smile. “Think nothing of it, Senator Van Houten. I’m so honored that you came to my ceremony.”
Beatrice waved her hand in front of her face. “Oh, Dear, it’s my pleasure. I love these things, and so many people have sung your praises. You are a rising star around here.” She stepped in closer and said, “You aren’t thinking of moving to Arkansas, are you?”
Giselle laughed and let her head fall back a little. “Now, Senator, are you worried about me taking your job?”
Beatrice winked. “I’m not worried about that. Many people have tried, but none have succeeded yet. However, I think you’d give me a run for my money.” She stepped back, tilted her head, and looked Giselle up and down. “Have we met before?”
Giselle thought for a moment. “No, I don’t think so.”
“Are you sure? You look so familiar, and I don’t forget a face.”
Giselle put a hand on the Senator’s arm. “Trust me, if I had met such a fantastic woman as yourself, I would remember.”
Beatrice waved a hand in front of her face. “Oh, well. I’m not sure what I’m thinking.”
