“We’re looking forward to it.” They’d decided to have it there so that Nick could attend without a big hassle, and when they’d offered the idea to the Arnold family, they’d been thrilled. One of the best aspects of their new situation was sharing the White House with the people in their lives.

Sam and Gonzo followed them out and stood by their side when they gave a statement thanking the U.S. Attorneys who’d prosecuted the case and their son’s colleagues in the Metro PD, especially his beloved partner, Sergeant Tommy Gonzales, Lieutenant Sam Holland, former Detective Will Tyrone and the other Homicide detectives, who’d seen them through their darkest hours.

“We have to believe our son is looking down on all of us,” John Arnold said, “and is proud of the battle we fought for justice. This conviction doesn’t bring back our son…” His voice caught, and he took a second to collect himself. “But there’s comfort in knowing that no one else’s son or daughter will be killed by this vile career criminal.”

They stood by while U.S. Attorney Tom Forrester praised the team of prosecutors who’d worked tirelessly to convict Sid Androzzi. “The murder of Detective Arnold was one of the most brazen and senseless killings I’ve seen in my career, and it gives me and my team tremendous satisfaction to see the man responsible for ending the life of this promising young man convicted on charges that’ll ensure he never again sees the light of day outside of prison.”

Sam couldn’t seem to stem the swell of emotion that overtook her, listening to the Arnolds and Tom. She was taken right back to the terrible first hours after learning Arnold had been killed and the nightmare that had unfolded for Gonzo in the ensuing months. Justice for the victim could be a hollow win for their loved ones, because it didn’t bring back the person they’d lost. Hollow was a good word to describe how she felt now that Arnold’s killer had been convicted.

While the gathered media shouted questions at her, many of which had nothing to do with Arnold or the conviction, Vernon, Jimmy and Gonzo surrounded Sam and escorted her back to the waiting SUV.

“They’re still asking about Nick bringing me back on Marine One,” Sam said to Gonzo when they were settled in the back seat. “They’re not letting that go since he hasn’t given them anything else to gripe about in the meantime.”

“They’ll be all over the FBI report tomorrow.”

“That ought to change the narrative for a few days.” Sam laughed even as more tears threatened. “I’m an emotional basket case since the verdict was announced.”

From the front seat, Jimmy handed her a tissue.

“Thank you.”

“We’re so happy to see that scumbag convicted,” Vernon said.