“I’m sure it’s just the sentimental bump from Senator O’Connor’s loyal base.”

“It’s much more than that, Senator. You’ve struck a chord with people in the Old Dominion, and your romance with the pretty police officer hasn’t hurt anything.”

Nick scowled. He’d never understand why people were so interested in them.

“That leads me to the reason I’m here.” Judson shifted in his seat, seeming uncomfortable all of a sudden. “I know we said we needed you for a year and that we’d run Cooper in the election.”

“I hope his wife is doing better,” Nick said.

“We heard just yesterday that her cancer is in remission.”

“Well, that’s a great relief.”

“Indeed. However, the party is no longer interested in him as our candidate for your seat.”

“Why not?”

Judson gave him a “come on, Senator, you’re a smart guy” look.

“Wait a minute. You said one year and out. We had a deal.”

“Why in the world would we go looking for another candidate when we have the perfect guy already in office? You’re our man, Senator. You’re the one the party wants. The only one.”

All Nick could think of in that moment was the far more important deal he had made with Sam when he accepted the position in the first place—one year in the Senate. “I, ah, I don’t know what to say.”

“Say yes. You’re a natural and the very best thing that’s happened to our state in years. We’re invested in you for the long haul.”

“I appreciate that, Judson. I really do. But I need to give this some thought.”

“We’ll need a decision in the next week or two. Campaign season is right around the corner.”

The idea was so overwhelming that Nick couldn’t begin to process it. A lengthy campaign, the prospect of a six-year term that he won on his own merits. “Have you talked to Graham about this?”

Judson shook his head. “He wasn’t at the meeting today. He’s taking Sinclair’s death real hard. Such a tragedy, and right on top of losing his son. Well, I guess I don’t need to tell you.”

“No, sir.”

“I have no doubt, however, that Graham will fully support your candidacy. You know he’s your staunchest supporter.” Judson got up. “You’ll think about it?”

Nodding, Nick stood and offered his hand. “I’ll be in touch.”

“Mrs. Sinclair, how long have you harbored a hatred for homosexuals?”

Diandra blanched at Sam’s question. “I don’t hate anyone, Lieutenant.”

“All right then, how about you tell me your views on homosexuality.”

“I find it to be an abhorrent lifestyle. However, I have no ill will for people who choose this way of life.”

“What about it do you find so abhorrent?”