Page 153 of State of Grace (First Family 2)

“How’s your arm?”

“It’s fine right now. I hear it’ll hurt like a bitch when the numbness wears off.”

Nick winced at the sight of her blood-soaked blouse. “Another close call.”

“He got off a lucky shot.”

Nick kissed her cheek and then her lips. “Too close for comfort.”

“I’m fine. I swear. Did it go okay with Henderson?”

“All good.”

“Did you apologize to her for me?”

“I told her you were detained at work but sent your regards. She said she looks forward to getting to know you.”

“Thanks for covering for me. I really wanted to be there.”

“I know you did. It’s no big deal.”

“This is going to happen sometimes. You’re going to need me for some first lady thing, and the cop thing is going to get in the way.”

“I’m well aware of that, and I don’t want you to worry about it. You’ll do what you can, and I’ll understand when you can’t make something.”

“As long as you know I’d always rather be wherever you and the kids are than anywhere else.”

“That’s what matters, babe.” He gently wrapped his arms around her and held on for a long moment, seeming to need the reassurance that she was really all right. “Let’s not worry about the shit we can’t control.”

“I hear there’s barbecue for dinner,” she said.

“I’m starving.”

“Me, too. Let me grab a shower, and I’ll find you guys in the dining room.”

“You need help?”

“Nah, I’ve got it.”

Nick released her, seeming reluctant to let her go. “Did you get the guy?”

“We got them all. Two homicide cases locked and loaded today. All in all, a very good day that’s better now that I’m home. Oh, and I’m supposed to be on R&R tomorrow, so bonus Thursday off, although I’ll have to call in to work and do some paperwork and stuff.”

“So we’ll both be working from home. Maybe we can sneak some alone time into the schedule.”

“I’m here for that,” she said, borrowing Shelby’s term.

“Me, too.” He kissed her again. “Take your shower.”

“I’ll be quick.”

Dinner was in full swing by the time Sam joined her family in the dining room. The smell of the barbecue made her mouth water as she took in the chatter of kids and adults. “How is it?”

“So good,” Scotty said around a mouthful.

“The best,” Nick added.

Both the twins and Noah had smears of sauce on their faces that only added to their over-the-top cuteness.

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