She told Philip how Luke began gifting her with artichokes from the time they were children, and he confessed to being equally baffled as to how the artichokes could have appeared in a locked White House room.

She showed Gray the back of the note. “Does November 15th mean anything to you?”

He thought for a moment but shook his head.

“It’s a Tuesday,” Philip offered. “And it’s my parents’ anniversary. Aside from that, I can’t think of anything special.”

She would simply have to wait until next month to discover the surprise, even though every nerve ending in her body tingled with curiosity. But more importantly, she wanted an update on Luke.

She turned to Gray. “Did Luke really fire the attorney you hired for him? Again?”

“He really did,” he said, the frustration palpable in his voice.

“Hire him back.”

Gray shook his head. “Luke swears he’s turned over a new leaf and wants to accept his punishment with no excuses and no defense.”

That didn’t sound like Luke, and she swiveled her gaze to Philip. “You must know people in high places. Who is the best person to start negotiating a plea deal with?”

Philip shrugged. “If Luke doesn’t want to cooperate, we aren’t going to get anywhere.”

How could her daredevil brother become such fierce friends with the timid, rule-following Philip Ransom? She fought to keep her voice serene. “Philip, please understand that I am prepared to unknot that tie around your throat and use it to strangle you unless you cooperate.”

Philip flinched. “I don’t know anything!” he squeaked. “I report to the officer in charge of navigation, and he’s got even fewer connections than I do.”

“What connections do you have?” Gray asked, leaning forward.

“I know her,” he said, pointing at Caroline. “I think knowing the first lady’s secretary is pretty highfalutin.” He accidentally knocked a slide rule to the floor, and he grimaced when the tiny screw securing the cursor rolled off. “Drat, this is my favorite slide rule,” he muttered, trying to fit it back into place. It was hopeless. He was all thumbs.

“Give it to me,” she sighed. If Philip’s head wasn’t attached by flesh and bone, he’d probably lose it too.

“You’re both invited to my house for dinner tonight,” Gray said. “I’ve got a new variety of paprika I’d like your opinion on.”

Caroline wasn’t free to escape the White House, and Philip didn’t seem any more eager.

“I’ve got a dance class tonight,” he said, which surprised them both. Philip seemed too timid to venture into something so engaging. “Mrs. Barclay’s finishing school always needs men to partner with her students. I earn a little extra income.”

“Are you in need of funds?” Gray asked.

“The money is welcome,” Philip replied, not meeting anyone’s eyes.