Farnsworth sat back in his big chair and studied her. “I have to ask how you managed to get two degrees while battling dyslexia.”

“I got lucky with professors who worked with me, but everything took me twice as long as it took everyone else. And I’ve always choked on standardized tests. I just can’t get them done in the time allotted.”

“I can only imagine how much harder you’ve had to work to compensate. Knowing that only adds to my respect for you and your work.” He stood up, came around the big desk, and offered his hand. “Congratulations.”

Sam’s throat closed as her hand was enfolded between both of his. “Thank you, sir. I’ll do my very best to be worthy.”

“I have no doubt. Let me know what you uncover in Chicago.”

“I will, sir. Thank you again. For everything.” She closed the door behind her, managed a nod to the chief’s admin, and made for the nearest ladies’ room. The relief, the sheer overwhelming relief, left her staggered. She gave herself ten minutes to fall apart before she pulled it together, wiped her face and blew her nose.

Studying her reflection in the mirror, she whispered, “Lieutenant,” as if to try it on for size. For once her stomach had no comment. Taking that as a positive sign, she splashed cold water on her face and decided to leave on time for a change. The report could be written and transmitted from home. Besides, she needed to go tell the only other person in the world who would care as much as she did that she would soon become Lieutenant Holland.

Chapter 19

Before Sam could call for him, she heard the chair.

“What’s this? Home on time?”

She went to him, rested her hands on his shoulders and was startled to encounter sharp bones where thick muscle used to be. Jarred by the discovery, she bent to kiss his forehead. Eye to eye, she said, “I should be furious with you.”

“For?”

“Don’t play coy with me.”

“It should’ve been in your jacket. From day one. I’ve always said that.”

“It wasn’t for a reason. I don’t want people feeling sorry for me or treating me differently. You know how I feel about it.”

“That fierce pride of yours is only going to get you so far.”

“And my daddy is going to get me the rest of the way?”

“I simply gave him a piece of information he didn’t have. What he did or didn’t do with it was up to him.”

“No, Dad, it was up to me. I don’t want you interfering in my career. How many times do I have to say it before you get the message?”

“I’ve been duly chastised. Now, are you going to tell me what he did with it?”

“Not until you’ve suffered a little first. What’s for dinner?”