Page 85 of State of Retribution

“I haveto go back to work,” Sam said to Nick and Scotty, who’d stayed close to her while the twins went back to playing.

Nick’s expression was pained.“I’ve been asked to request you stay home until we have more information about what happened today.”

“That’s not possible.My team needs me, and I have to be there, especially after just having four days off.”

He took her hand and drew her away from the others.“Sam, please.They were adamant that we not take any chances with you or the agents until we know more about who shot at you.”

“And you agreed to that?”

“I didn’t disagree.The thought of someone shooting at you while you’re at work is the stuff of nightmares for me, especially since it’s probably…”

“What?Your fault?As if plenty of people don’t have reason to shoot at me that have nothing to do with you.”

“Having this happen, one day after the drones, is too close for comfort.”

“So you expect me to stay in this house and not go to work or to see the agent who nearly gave his life to protect me…indefinitely?”

“They’ve asked for some time to investigate.”

“I’m sorry, but I’m not staying home.If the agents don’t wish to protect me in light of today’s events, that’s their call, but I’m going with them or without them.”

“Samantha…”

Sam raised a hand to stop him.“I love you more than anything, and you know that.I’ve supported you every step of the way during this unprecedented time.I said from the get-go that I’d never give up my job, and I meant it.That’s my line in the sand, Nick.”She went up on tiptoes to kiss his cheek.“Please make sure to spend some time with Aubrey.I’ll try to be back as soon as I can.”

They engaged in a visual standoff that set her already frayed nerves further on edge.Trouble between them was so rare that she was never properly equipped to handle it, even after more than two years of marriage.

She turned to the kids.“I have to go back to work for a little while.Hopefully, I’ll be home to say good night.”The three of them hugged her.“Love you guys.”

“Love you, too,” Scotty said with unusual trepidation.“Be careful out there.”

“I will.I promise.”

As she headed for the stairs, she glanced at Nick, who stood with his hands on his hips, glaring at her.That he didn’t tell her he loved her or to be careful with his wife left her feeling hollow inside as she continued to the first floor, calling Vernon as she went.

“I’ve got to go back to work.”

“They’ve asked us to hold you here for the time being.”

“I’m aware, and I’m still going, with you or without you.If you don’t want to take the risk, I completely understand.”

“I’m not letting you go out there by yourself.”

“Then I need you ready to roll right now.We’ve got another murder.”

“I’ll meet you in the foyer.”

“I’m already there.”

“On the way.”

“Do you need your coat, ma’am?”George asked.

“Yes, please.”

He retrieved it from the closet and held it for her as she put it on.

“Thank you, George.”

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