Page 167 of State of the Union (First Family 3)

After breakfast with the kids and seeing them off to school with their details, Sam kissed Nick goodbye and rode to HQ with Vernon and Jimmy. She probably had two more weeks to go before she’d feel confident driving herself, which gave her something to look forward to.

They pulled up to the morgue entrance as Sam’s phone rang with a call from Jeannie.

“What’s up, Deputy Chief?”

“Not quite yet,” Jeannie said with a nervous laugh, “but that’s why I’m calling. The swearing-in is at four today at city hall. Can you make it?”

“I wouldn’t miss that for anything.”

“I just bought the white shirt,” Jeannie said with another laugh. “I still can’t believe this is happening.”

“Believe it. You’ve earned it. What does your family think?”

“They’re losing it! My mom hasn’t stopped crying since I told her.”

“I love it,” Sam said, chuckling. “I’ve just gotten to HQ. I’ll see you at four and, Jeannie?”

“Yes?”

“I’m so fucking proud.”

“That means everything to me, as you know,” Jeannie said, sounding tearful. “None of this would be happening for me if it wasn’t for you.”

“Sure, it would.”

“No, it wouldn’t, Sam. You put me back together on the job after the attack. I never would’ve come back without you and the support of our squad.”

“We love you.”

“Same. So much.”

“I’ll see you at four. We’ll all be there to cheer you on today and always.”

“Thank you for everything.”

“You got it.” Sam slapped her phone closed, feeling like a proud mama bear. “Deputy Chief McBride. What a thing.”

“It’s wonderful,” Vernon said. “The way you support your officers is lovely.”

“They’re my people.”

“They’re lucky to have you.”

“And vice versa. I’ll see you after a bit.”

“Looking forward to seeing her sworn in.”

“I am, too.”

“Have a good day at the office, ma’am.”

“Thanks.” She wondered how they didn’t go mad with boredom while she was at work. Inside, she ducked into the morgue to check in with Lindsey. “How’s it going?” Sam asked her.

“No complaints. You’re getting around better.”

Sam did a little jig that she instantly regretted. “Got to do it missionary this morning.”

“Hallelujah,” Lindsey said, laughing. “That’s progress.”

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