A/N: There's not much to say on this one; I've fallen helplessly in love with Stockard Channing and her portrayal of Abbey Bartlet, and after watching the kitchen scene in 'Bartlet's Third State of the Union' about a million times and each time falling more in love with Abbey's exit and slight pause before her return to the party, I knew I had to write this. Short, to the point- a complete drabble. Let me know what you think!
Disclaimer: I do not own Abbey Bartlet, or any characters of The West Wing. I just like to play at being the First Lady and the President at times.
She had approximately two point five seconds.
That was how long she had to flip the switch from upset to happy. The guests were waiting, and she couldn't focus on the fact that her husband was breaking their deal.
She watched him walk away for a moment longer, eventually looking at the ground for a moment to blink away the thin film of tears. Taking a deep breath she walked out through the swinging kitchen doors, pausing a moment as she looked out into the crowd, all pleased by her husband's State of the Union Address. She inhaled again, calming her heartbeat.
She emptied her mind of the past few minutes, of Jed and their deal and their now murky future. She reminded herself of the important names, and then pushed through the doors into the noise of the party.
The important thing was the smile. It couldn't look faked- the ability to sell genuity was the key. Pull in the corners, part the lips, crinkle the eyes.
Then came the greeting. A quick, simple "Hello" or "Hi" or "Hey" is all that's necessary- adding a name or title if able to remember the correct one is beneficial and recommended, however. Meet their eyes, smile- focus solely on them for that moment.
The handshake is next; a simple, firm grasp- no floppy fish. If you know the person, a gentle squeeze is acceptable. Hold the grip for a moment and then release, keeping eye contact.
Then onto the next person.
And repeat.
And repeat.
And repeat.
And throughout the evening, First Lady Abigail Anne Bartlet played her role perfectly- and composed ever so gracefully all the while.
It was part of the job description of the wife of the President, after all.