Page 7 of State of Alert

He heard something in the background before a man said, “I’m sorry, but my aunt isn’t up to talking anymore.”

“I understand. This is Nick Cappuano. Please tell her I’ll see to it personally that Juan is afforded full military honors.”

“I’ll let her know.”

“Would you also mind notifying me of funeral arrangements?”

After a long pause, the man said, “Yes, of course.”

Nick gave him the phone number to call to get the details to him. “Juan meant a lot to me. I’m very sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you. What do you know about what happened to him?”

“Nothing yet, but there’ll be a full investigation and more information forthcoming. Should I pass along your contact information to the officers in charge?”

“Yes, please. My aunt is in no condition to deal with police.”

Sam released his hand to produce her notebook and pen.

“Go ahead and give me your number,” Nick said.

Sam wrote down the number.

“And your name?”

“Francisco Alba.”

“I’ll make sure the police are in touch, and again, my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your cousin.”

“Thank you for calling.”

Nick pressed the button to end the call.

Sam reached for him, and he fell into her embrace, thankful as always to have her by his side for the good times, the bad times and the truly dreadful times.

He held on to her and soaked in her love for a few minutes before he pulled back to kiss her. “Thank you for knowing just what I need.”

She wiped the remaining tears from his face. “I wish it could be more.”

“It’s everything.”

He pushed the button for Julie again. “Would you pleaseask Secretary Jennings and Acting AG Conrad to come in? I’d also like to see Admiral Malin and NNSA Administrator Gilmore as soon as possible. Please get a message to Vice President Henderson and the cabinet that I won’t be rejoining the meeting.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Thank you.”

“What is NNSA?” Sam asked.

“The National Nuclear Security Administration. They oversee the safety of the nation’s nuclear stockpile, and as the agency that acts as the first responder in a nuclear emergency, they work closely with the military personnel responsible for the nuclear codes.”

“Just when I think I’ve heard of every federal agency, there’re more.”

“There’re so many, it would make your head spin.”

A knock on the door sounded.

“Come in.”

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