Nick had been to many a meeting at the White House, but he’d never before stepped foot in the Oval Office. The closer they got to their destination, the more the butterflies stormed around in his belly and the more surreal this entire thing became. What was he doing here? He recognized the outer office from having seen it on TV.

Derek approached the closed door, knocked and stepped inside, gesturing for them to follow him.

Looking for something to do with his hands, Nick reached up to make sure his tie was straight.

President Nelson was also casually dressed in jeans and a sweater. He was with White House Chief of Staff Tom Hanigan and Secret Service Director Ambrose Pierce in the sitting area in the middle of the Oval Office. All three men stood to greet the new arrivals.

“Senator,” the president said, extending his hand. “Thanks so much for coming in on short notice.”

“Of course,” Nick said. “No problem. I believe you know Terry O’Connor, my deputy chief of staff.”

“Yes.” A longtime friend of Terry’s father’s, Nelson shook Terry’s hand. “Good to see you again, Terry.”

“Likewise, Mr. President.”

“I’m sure you both know Tom and Ambrose.”

More handshakes, more small talk, more bullshit, Nick thought as they all took a seat. Nelson offered bourbon, and Nick gratefully accepted, hoping the liquor would calm his nerves. He also found it intriguing that Nelson recalled from their meeting on Air Force One that Nick enjoyed a good glass of bourbon. He couldn’t deny it was flattering to have the president of the United States remember such an insignificant detail.

When everyone had drinks in hand, Nelson crossed his legs and looked extremely relaxed and comfortable. Nick figured anyone twice elected to the highest office in the land had the right to be comfortable and relaxed.

“I’m sure you’re wondering why we’ve summoned you today,” Nelson said.

“I have a pretty good idea,” Nick said dryly, making the others laugh.

“The last time we talked, you indicated this wasn’t a good time for you or your family to make a big change. I want you to know I truly respect that you put your family first. I honestly do. However, you’re the one I want, Senator. You’re the one the party wants. You’re the one the people want, if our polling is to be trusted.”

“Is that how the press caught wind of your offer?” Nick asked. “Because you polled on it?”

“Perhaps,” Hanigan said. “We apologize if the leaks have caused you any discomfort.”

“My wife wasn’t too pleased to hear about it from a reporter.”

Nelson winced. “Sorry about that.”

“My own fault,” Nick said with a shrug. “Since I’d turned down your gracious offer, I hadn’t bothered to mention it to her.”

“Ahh,” Nelson said with a wry smile. “A rookie error.”