"When did that happen? Someone just delivered it? Don't you mean if it goes to trial? I think we both know that isn't going to happen. My. . .uh, people don't believe in using taxpayers' money. They prefer to take care of matters on their own. Yes, there is a lot to be said for that. The incoming director of the FBI is in town. You might want to share your newfound treasure with him to. . .avoid any future difficulties. Well, now that you ask, there is something you can do for me. . ."

Ted almost fell off his chair as he tried to hear whatever it was Lizzie wanted the person on the other end of the line to do for her, but he simply couldn't pull it off. He just knew that whatever it was, Maggie was going to go into a snit when he couldn't tell her. He listened again.

"Actually, we'll be wheels up in two hours and fifteen minutes. Yes, well, it was nice meeting you, too. You take care of this end, I'll take care of mine, and I'm sure one of these days we'll meet up again."

Lizzie closed her cell phone, turned around, and looked at Ted, her eyes bright and shiny. Ted thought she was going to cry at any moment. The awesome Lizzie Fox crying. The odds of that happening were about the same as a hurricane hitting the desert.

Ted knew this was a very important moment in Lizzie's life. Sometimes, according to Maggie, people didn't have the good sense to take advantage of such moments.

"Lizzie, it's okay to be tough as nails, and I admire that trait in you. But it's also okay to wear your heart on your sleeve once in a while. I wasn't eavesdropping," he lied, "but I assume that was Cricket you were talking to. Why don't you call him back and invite him to Washington or, better yet, stay over another day? Take some personal time. That guy is yours for the asking. If you want him, that is. I'm a guy, I know these things. There must have been a time in your life when you were. . .you know, into guys and all the romance that goes with it. Let your hair down and go for it. Let it all hang out."

Lizzie's features softened. She leaned over, touched Ted's cheek, then kissed him on the tip of his nose. "I don't know how, Ted," she whispered.

Ted saw the tears, heard the anguish, felt the body tremors. And then the moment was gone, and Ted wasn't sure if he'd imagined it all or not.