Six hundred journalists had come from all over France and Europe to watch the theatre of a dying relationship at the state’s summit, killed by a secret affair in a fourth-floor apartment around the corner from the gold, scarlet and crystal chandeliered room where François Hollande gave his press conference.
Instead, they were treated to a French paradox. In his dark suit and tie, with his pale, drawn face and pigeon chest, the man before them was more undertaker than Don Juan. Instead of boudoir secrets, they were subjected to two hours and 35 minutes of Mr Hollande droning on about reducing social charges and government spending.
Mr Hollande seemed to wince when Alain Barluet, the president of the presidential press association wished a happy new year to him "and those close to you". Valérie Trierweiler, long-time companion and first lady, is still in hospital, recovering from the shock of Closer magazine's seven-page spread on Hollande's affair with actor Julie Gayet.
"There is a need for clarification vis-a-vis the French and those who watch us from abroad," Mr Barluet said, posing the question all of France has been asking. "Is Valérie Trierweiler still the first lady of France today?"
“Everyone in their personal life goes through trials,” Mr Hollande replied. “That is our case. These are painful moments. I have a principle that private affairs are dealt with in private. This is neither the place nor the time to do it.”
Questions
The president said he would answer no further questions on the matter, but promised Ms Trierweiler's status would be resolved "before the rendezvous you mentioned" – his visit to Washington next month.
What about the lawsuit he'd threatened against Closer magazine? Because he enjoys presidential immunity, it would be a "double standard" for him to sue, Mr Hollande replied. Yet, he added, "my indignation is total. And I mean total."
The president seemed to distance himself from the woman who titled her twitter account “first lady of France”. “There is no status for a partner of the head of state,” he said. “There never has been. There have been practices which varied according to periods and personalities. What’s essential for me is that it be transparent, that the means dedicated to the partner be known, and that they be as little as possible.”
The president swore his security was never endangered during nocturnal scooter rides to join Ms Gayet.
Finally, someone asked how Ms Trierweiler was faring in hospital. “She is resting. I have no other comments to make,” the president said curtly.
