Page 145 of State of Suspense

“So noted.”

“I’m kidding.” To Freddie, she said, “They know I’m kidding, right?”

“I sure hope so. She’s a wicked lightweight.”

“Shut up! That’s not true!”

“Yes, it is.”

“Not.”

“Yes.”

“Children…”

“God, he reminds me of my dad when he does that.”

“Me, too.”

“You couldn’t pay me a nicer compliment.”

“I was really wishing he was there to see us hosting a state dinner last night. He’d have been losing it.”

“He was there,” Vernon said. “He’s always right there.”

“You really think so?”

“I’m sure of it. I didn’t know him, but I feel like I do from your stories about him. That’s why I’m so sure he wouldn’t want to miss a minute of your time at the White House.”

“Well, I hope he’s not watching all of it.”

After a heartbeat of silence, the other three laughed.

Freddie scrubbed at his ears. “I want to unhear the last thirty seconds.”

“What? I’m just saying that if the ghosts are watching, I hope they’re being selective in their viewing. Are there parental controls or something we could employ?”

“You’re too funny, Sam,” Jimmy said as he wiped his eyes.

“Don’t encourage her.” Freddie’s tone dripped with disdain. “That’s how she got this way.”

“This is the most fun I’ve ever had at work,” Jimmy said. “I tell my wife every night how funny y’all are.”

“I hope you tell her I’m funnier than he is,” Sam said as Freddie rolled his eyes at her.

“You’re at your funniest when you’re with him,” Jimmy said.

Freddie sent her a smug smile.

“He’s my favorite victim.”

“If that ain’t the truth.”

“I’ve made you into the man you are today.”

“Sometimes I think she honestly believes the nonsense she spews.”

“All fact. Make yourself useful and get me some info on the people who were convicted along with the Peckhams.”

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