“And how’s our overachieving young neighbor? By the way, you think she can babysit this weekend? We need to go out and celebrate after everything that’s happened.”

“I’m pretty sure that she’d be willing to babysit anytime we ask,” Zack said jokingly.

“Don’t you dare take advantage of that girl,” Steph said disapprovingly and punched him in the right arm.

“Ow,” Zack said, pretending to flinch. “I won’t. Scout’s honor.”

“But you were never a scout, or is that something else you didn’t tell me?”

Zack laughed. “No. I was never a scout. I promise. As for Sam, she’s holding up well. When I took her out to lunch, I told her almost everything I’ve told you about my past, but especially about who Griffin was. She deserved to know. That kid is strong, and I mean really strong. Most people would’ve folded under the pressure and fear, but she didn’t. She’s accepted what she did, and I know her dad has been a big part of helping her cope. God bless that man for preparing her. I also think she and Ben have a very good chance of being one of those couples you hear about later in life, high school sweethearts still happily married thirty years later.”

Steph smiled. “That’s good. I like her a lot. We’ll do whatever we can to help.”

“I’m pretty sure she thinks it’s cool to have such a badass as myself as her next-door neighbor. She’s taken to calling me Jack Bauer.”

“Oh, good Lord,” Steph said, mocking him. “I need to have a chat with that girl.”

Zack laughed. “I promise I won’t take advantage of my newfound pedestal . . . too much.”

In addition to honoring his promise to Sam, he’d visited the Flores residence after attending Esli’s funeral. He’d told the Floreses everything he could as well. More than anyone, they deserved the truth, as the siege had cost them dearly in family blood. Stephen Flores had no regrets or guilt, and Zack respected him for it. He’d done what Zack would’ve had he been in the same position. Zack had offered to help, to listen, to talk, or whatever Stephen and his family needed.

He’d had a similar conversation with the Harpers after an incredibly large funeral procession and burial at Arlington Cemetery. Brandon Harper’s reputation and relationships were global, and in addition to senior leaders and the president, several former adversaries from multiple countries showed up to pay their respects and honor the legendary spy, which Zack knew Brandon would’ve appreciated.