Page 162 of State of Retribution

Nelson had murdered Sam’s ex-husband after having him tortured for information about Sam and Nick that Peter had refused to divulge.In the end, he’d shown some honor despite putting her through hell for years and conspiring to keep her away from Nick after they first met.

“I’m prepared for whatever they throw my way.I’ve made no secret of the fact that our relationship was terrible, but he sure as hell didn’t deserve what Nelson did to him.”

“No, he didn’t.”

“It does get old,” Sam said, “fending off attacks left and right.”

“I’m sure it does, especially from the old boys’ club.”

“Yes!Enough already.”Sam gathered her stuff and walked out of the office with Faith, who promised to touch base the night before the trial began.“Talk to you then.”

Vernon, who stood watch in the hallway, straightened when he saw her emerge from the office.

“Anything new?”she asked him.

“Just a much bigger detail for the time being.”

“Oh joy.”

“Somehow, I knew you’d say that.”

“I’m worried this could drag on.Offenbach knows how to stay off the radar.”

“He’s made himself the most wanted man in America with that video threatening the lives of the first couple.We’ll find him.”

“Is Ramsey saying anything?”Sam asked as they walked toward the morgue exit.

“He was in surgery the last I heard.They’re waiting for the chance to interview him.”

“He won’t help them find Offenbach.”

“You never know what someone will do when they’re facing the prospect of dying in prison.”

“I guess we’ll see, but I’d be surprised if he gives up anything helpful.”

The lights were off in the morgue, which meant Lindsey had left for the day.Sam nodded to Agent Q, who stood inside the door.That alone was a change of procedure.Usually, Jimmy waited outside with the vehicle.

When Q pushed open the door, Sam saw that Vernon wasn’t kidding about the much larger detail.The number of cars rivaled what they used to transport Nick.

“Holy smokes.”

Vernon held the back door for her as he scanned the parking lot.“Yeah, we’re not taking any chances.”

When they were on their way to the White House, Sam asked how Jimmy was doing.

“He’s hoping to go home tomorrow,” Vernon said.

“That’s good news.”

“He’s driving Liz crazy wanting to get out of the hospital.”

“I’m sure.I’d be the same way.”

Vernon glanced at her in the mirror.“As I recall, youwerethe same way when you fractured your hip.”

“Don’t use my past against me.It’s against the rules in the SUV.”

Vernon’s snort of laughter seemed to take Q by surprise.

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