Bracken steps up to speak. He’s got a deep, rolling voice and a folksy, off-the-cuff delivery. “Amy and I are so pleased to welcome the First Gentleman to Manchester. And we’re happy to pledge our unwavering support for the Wright administration’s agenda. As I’ve said many times, the president’s plans are good for Manchester, good for New Hampshire, good for America!” The mayor nods to Cole, claps enthusiastically, and steps back. The rest of the welcoming party join in, giving Cole a small ovation.

Cole squares himself in front of the mics and locks his eyes at the level of the camera lenses. He notices two people standing to the side of the press scrum. A man and a woman. Badges around their necks.

More local security, he assumes.

“Thank you, Mayor Bracken. We are glad to have you on our team! I’m happy to be back in New Hampshire and in the Queen City. New Hampshire is a state that means so much to Maddy and me. As you know, this is where it all started four years ago, with Dale Bracken’s support. And I’m honored to be here to help him as he plans his bright future. You’ll hear more about that tonight!”

The administration’s endorsement of the mayor is in the bag, of course. This is pure theater. Leave ’em in suspense. Cole steps back from the mics and shouts, “Thank you!” He gives the press a brisk wave.

“Mr. Wright!” a reporter shouts. “What can you tell us about the Grand Bargain?” Other reporters join in. “Is the president really getting ready to blow up entitlements? Is she about to touch the third rail?”

Cole turns to Bracken. His smile is gone now. “Let’s move.”

The troopers form a cordon leading to a row of sedans and SUVs. A police car with flashing lights idles at the front with motorcycle cops on both sides.

Bracken places his hand on the small of his wife’s back and hurries her toward the first SUV. An agent by the side of the second SUV holds the rear door open.

As Cole heads toward the car, he sees two people approaching to intercept him. A tall man and a woman with dark hair parted in the center. The same pair he saw standing near the press.

The next few seconds are a blur. Cole sees Agent Lambert step in front of him. He feels another agent’s hands on his shoulders, pushing him to the ground. A third agent sprints toward the pair from the greeting area as he pulls an automatic machine pistol from his jacket.

“Friendly!” the man shouts, holding his badge high. The woman at his side holds up her badge too, and they both extend their other hands, palms open.

Lambert yells, “Stay back!” He has his Glock out now.

“Official government business,” the guy calls. “Stand down!”