Page 129 of State of Suspense

“I understand our hosts recently celebrated their second wedding anniversary,” Jon Bon Jovi said from the stage. “I was honored to perform at their wedding, and if they’d come to the dance floor, I’ve got a throwback to that day ready for them.”

Nick stood and offered Sam his hand. “Shall we, my love?”

“Yes, we shall, Mr. President.”

Tracy fanned her face. “Swoon.”

Nick led the way to the dance floor as everyone in the massive tent applauded.

After recently having had tomatoes thrown at them by protesters, it was nice to be surrounded by a friendly crowd.

Sam would never get used to being the center of attention, so she chose to focus on her gorgeous husband and the opportunity to dance with him to music by her favorite singer.

The opening notes of “Make a Memory” reminded her of a few special moments, including the night he’d come home to find her reading Congress for Dummies because she wanted to understand his job as a senator. She’d had the song on blast that night. It also made her think of their glorious wedding day and all the amazing days since then.

“You and me, kid,” he whispered in her ear. “Forever and ever.”

His sweet words gave her goose bumps. For him she juggled two full-time jobs while trying to be a halfway decent mother. He was worth all the stress and aggravation.

“Best part of my day, hands down,” he said.

“Same, love.”

Being held by him, even with hundreds of people watching, was the best thing ever.

Jon invited the Hutchinsons to join them on the dance floor for the second half of the song.

“Am I drooling?” Courtney asked Sam as she gazed at Jon.

“Hands off. He’s mine.”

“She’s not kidding,” Nick said.

They laughed as they swayed to the final notes of “Make a Memory.”

Then Jon played an up-tempo set that got everyone dancing.

She and Nick posed for photos with most of their guests. Fortunately, he knew just about everyone and handled most of the small talk for both of them. She was beginning to run out of steam after the long, busy day and was beginning to crave her bed—and some time alone with him.

They’d sent Scotty up to bed after dinner since it was a school night.

Nick, being Nick, tuned in to her exhaustion and orchestrated a smooth escape that included a few minutes with the Hutchinsons before they headed for the door without drawing much attention from guests who were now dancing to music from a jazz band.

“What time will the party go to?”

“Probably after two.”

“Jeez. Thank God we don’t have to stay until then.”

“I could see you were starting to wilt.”

“Long day.”

“Yes, it was.”

He guided her up the stairs to the residence, where they looked in on sleeping kids and a dog before heading into their suite.

“I’m ready to kick off these heels and get comfy.”

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