“There was quite a bit of whimpering when I told him I’d turned down Nelson’s offer.”

Laughing, Leo said, “I bet there was. He sees big things in your future, son, and so do I. Don’t be too quick to say no. Ask all the right questions before you rule it out.”

“Thanks for the advice, Dad. I appreciate it.”

“Let me know what happens.”

“I’ll do that. See you Thursday?”

“We’re looking forward to it. See you then.”

Nick had no sooner hung up with his dad when Derek called him back. “What’s the word?” Nick asked when he answered.

“The president would like to see you at the White House at four.”

Flabbergasted, Nick was momentarily speechless.

“Nick? Can you come at four?”

“Today?”

“Yes,” Derek said with a laugh. “Today.”

“That’s all you got? Come at four? Nothing more than that?”

“That’s all I’m permitted to say.”

Nick thought about it for a second, and realized that even if he wasn’t interested in the VP position, he was still a United States senator. Declining the president’s invitation wasn’t in his best interest. “Is it okay if I bring Terry?”

“I’m sure that’ll be fine.”

“We’ll be there.”

“I’ll meet you at the West Wing visitor entrance.”

Nick sent a text to Sam. Talked to Derek and I’ve been “invited” to the White House for a 4 pm meeting with Nelson...

What does he want?

Derek wouldn’t say.

The plot thickens. What will you say if he asks you again?

My answer hasn’t changed.

Maybe you should consider it.

Have you lost your mind since I saw you last?

Power looks hot on you.

LOL. Shut up.

You shut up. Going back to work. Keep me posted.

Will do. Love you, babe. Be careful out there.

Always am.

She made him smile with her witty comebacks, but he had no doubt that power wouldn’t look so good on her. She’d chafe against the confines with everything she had, and she’d come to hate him for forcing her into the gilded cage.

No, his answer hadn’t changed, and he fully intended to tell President Nelson that when he saw him.

Chapter Ten

Chapter Ten

Sam arrived at the address Hill had given her in the city’s Northwest corner. He was waiting with Gonzo, Cruz and two other agents whom he introduced to her. “Sorry for the delay,” Sam said. “I had to do a dog-and-pony show with the press.”

“No problem,” Hill said.

“What’s the plan?” Sam asked.

“We were just discussing that when you got here,” Gonzo said. “We’ve agreed to overwhelm them with our numbers so they know right away this is a big deal.”

Freddie handed a bulletproof vest to Sam, and they suited up.