He continued, “I saw the message Ray Caldwell sent Abby’s father. Something’s going on.”

“Yes, we know. You…I’m sorry to ask this. You don’t think Lauren’s involved, do you?”

He sighed. “I don’t know what to think. I hate to say this, but I’d be circumspect with her. She’s told me at least two lies recently.”

“About what?”

“She said she hadn’t heard from Ray Caldwell in years, but apparently she received the same message as Abby’s father. That was just weeks ago. Then she told me her inheritance from Ray was the same as Abby’s, but that can’t be. Abby would have received her father’s share too.”

I checked the Grid time. “I’d better get back. I don’t want to look suspicious.”

We rose and shook hands.

“Creighton—”

I waited for him to continue.

“I’m not saying Lauren has any ill intent. Campaigning…it makes Lauren unpredictable. She may just be keeping quiet about something for political reasons. Don’t tell her we’ve been in touch. Maybe she and I…Well, who knows.”

I nodded. “I appreciate your help.”

I exited VR. Lauren looked over at me when I reemerged but said nothing.

It was 9:15 p.m. when we walked into the office of Lauren’s physician. The facility was deserted save for the four of us. While the doctor treated Abby’s ear, Lauren motioned me into the hallway, closing the door behind us.

“Creighton, let me make something clear. Abigail Caldwell remains in the country, unindicted, because of my intervention on her behalf. Her legal issues aren’t over; the AG’s office is simply taking time for due diligence in regard to her case. I’ve done this as a personal favor to Abigail. During this delay I’m providing her the opportunity to speak to the U.S. Congress on behalf of her people and disadvantaged people everywhere. Maintaining a low profile is essential to keeping her in the country during this brief respite from prosecution. Publicity concerning a shooting in Dallas will bring her back to the public’s attention and put political pressure on the attorney general to indict her. Do you understand?”

I nodded.

“As unfortunate as this incident is,” she commented, “most likely this man was simply a lunatic who saw Abigail on Global Sunrise, objected to her views, and chose to respond with violence. Assuming he’s been apprehended, the danger has passed.”

I didn’t know how to respond without revealing much more than I desired.

She went on. “I’ll contact the Dallas County DA myself. No doubt he will want a statement at some point from Abigail. Concerning your stay here, I’m confident of Abigail’s safety at my residence. But to put her at ease, I’ll have DC police posted outside my house for the duration of your stay.”