Wearing the new long red wool coat her designer, Marcus, had sent over, Sam followed Nick’s lead and waved to the press assigned to record their every movement, knowing their walk across the lawn would make the news. Reporters called out to Nick, asking for comments on the bomb, North Korea, former Secretary of State Ruskin’s latest swipe against him and whether he had anything to say about an editorial in the New York Times about an unelected president having his finger on the nuclear button.

He ignored them while smiling and waving like he hadn’t a care in the world, laughing at Skippy galloping along with Scotty, excited for an adventure.

Sam, Celia and the kids went ahead of Nick up the stairs, but Sam fell back to watch him salute the young marine who greeted him at the bottom of the stairs. Sam gave Nick’s salute an A-plus.

“Mrs. Cappuano, I’m Colonel Stone Walker, your new chief pilot, and it’s my pleasure to welcome you on board Marine One.” He was tall, with dark hair and eyes, and wore an impressive uniform covered in pins and ribbons.

Sam shook his outstretched hand. “Pleasure to meet you, Colonel. This is my stepmother, Celia Holland.”

“Lovely to meet you, ma’am,” the colonel said as he shook hands with Celia.

“You as well,” she said. “This is all so exciting.”

“We’re glad to have you on board.”

Watching Celia’s delight at the perks that came with life in the White House was fun for Sam. She was thrilled her stepmother had agreed to be part of their grand adventure.

Nick entered the aircraft, and the colonel introduced himself to Nick, who shook his hand. “What’s your handle, Colonel?”

The man seemed slightly embarrassed. “It’s, um, Taco, sir, due to my unreasonable love of them.”

Nick smiled. “I love me a good taco myself. I think we’ll be great friends.”

“I’d enjoy that, sir. We have perfect conditions for our flight to Camp David.”

“That’s what the first lady wants to hear. She’s not a big fan of flying.”

“I promise you’ll be perfectly safe, ma’am.”

“That’s good to know. Thank you.”

“Please make yourselves comfortable, and we’ll have you there in no time. When we arrive, you’ll be greeted by Captain Martin, CO of Camp David, and the staff, all of whom will come out to the pad to welcome you, since it’s your first visit.”

“Got it,” Nick said. “We’re looking forward to meeting them.”

The kids were excited about the gifts the crew had left for them, including Marine One toys and T-shirts to commemorate their first ride.