"Maxon", Celeste shrieked, her voice far too high, and far too happy for this early in the morning.
"Celeste" Maxon greeted, trying to keep the grimace out of his voice as he forced himself awake. "How can I help you?"
"No, silly!" She giggled, swatting his arm, "it's what I can do to help you. Everyone in the palace can see how obsessed you are with America, and since I know I'm leaving anyway, I figured I might as well help out my friend." she grinned.
Celeste was not Maxon's friend. Far from it in fact, and he did not like the look in her eye, something so fierce it was nearly evil. But, he had to admit, he and America had been going through a bit of a rough patch, and Celeste might have some very helpful advice, so he decided to give her the benefit of the doubt.
"How kind of you, Celeste." he relented.
"Of course," she sighed. "Anything for a friend. Anyways, I was thinking I could stop by your room tonight, maybe give you a few ...tips." She smiled seductively.
"I can't wait." He forced a smile. "YOu must excuse me I have some work to do. I look forward to this evening."
"As do I." she whispered, then sauntered off happily.
Maxon finally retired to his room after a long dinner, during which America didn't even look at him, and a budget meeting that had dragged on for hours. He couldn't wait to take a quick shower and go to bed, but when he opened the door to his room he was met with a rather unwelcome face. Celeste. He had completely forgotten about their meeting.
Celeste lay on his bed, her hair ragged, wearing a dress so revealing he couldn't even look at it without blushing.
"Hey, Maxon." she breather, keeping her eyes locked on his.
"Celeste." He squirmed awkwardly. "How ...wonderful to see you." He was beginning to consider kicking her out and postponing their 'meeting' when a siren rang out. The Rebels, he thought, and jumped to his feet, pulling Celeste out of the room with him.
A guard led them as they ran to the nearest safe room, the fast pace robbing all of them of their breath. As the guard closed the door behind him, all he could think of was whether or not America was safe.
