Page 135 of State of Suspense

Sam kissed his forehead. “She’s keeping you on a good schedule.”

He and Skippy walked her down the stairs as they headed outside for Skippy to pee.

“Have a good day. Love you.”

“Love you, too.”

As she zipped up her own coat, Sam knew she should’ve told him to put a coat and shoes on, but that was pointless. Tracy had told her that teenagers often disdained coats and shoes, and it was a battle not worth fighting in the grand scheme of things that came with kids that age.

Vernon was waiting for her and opened the back door to the heated SUV.

“Morning.”

She got in the back seat, thankful for the heat and the ride to work. “Morning.”

“Has Cinderella’s coach turned into a pumpkin this morning?”

Sam chuckled. “Something like that. Too much partying, not enough sleep makes Cinderella cranky.”

“You and the president were stunning last night. We were so proud.”

“Aw, thank you. That’s nice to hear. It seemed to go well.”

“Very well.” Jimmy handed the Washington Star to her. “You got rave reviews.”

“Did we?”

“Yep.”

Sam scanned the headlines and photos from the state dinner. “We clean up pretty well.”

“Very well,” Vernon said. “The whole world is buzzing about the elegant first couple.”

“How’d the tea go?” Jimmy asked.

“It was actually fun. She asked for wine because she doesn’t like tea either.”

“That’s great,” Jimmy said. “I love it.”

“Any word on Agent Hill?” Vernon asked.

“I haven’t talked to Shelby yet today. Let me text her.”

Shelby replied a few minutes later. He had a good night, and thankfully so did we. Mama got some sleep so she can take care of everyone else. Heard you guys were a huge hit last night, not that there was ever any doubt.

Glad to hear all is well. We were a huge hit thanks to you and the incredible team that supports us. We were dazzled by it all.

It was a pleasure to put it all together. So much fun. I still can’t believe I work for the first lady and the president. Pinch me!

I’d rather hug you when I see you later.

That’ll work! So proud of my friends.

I’m so thankful to hear Avery is doing well.

God, me, too. Let me know what you hear about the investigation.

Will do.

---