Page 102 of State of Bliss

“Awesome.”

“Are you okay?”

“I’m fine. The shooting is far more upsetting than a few tomatoes.”

“Still, that must’ve been shocking.”

“It’s all shocking, and Nick is beside himself because the shooter was heard before the shooting going off about having to work for an illegitimate president.”

“That has to be so awful for him.”

“It is, but I keep telling him that he hasn’t done anything other than what his country asked of him, and if people don’t like it, that isn’t on him. He gets that intellectually. Emotionally is another whole story.”

“I hate when people use that word to describe him. His ascension to the presidency happened exactly the way the framers intended.”

“You sound like a social studies teacher.”

“I read that on theWashington Stareditorial page a few weeks ago.”

“Ah, I see. Well, the reason I called is that I heard there’s a hearing in Spencer’s case next week, and I wanted to check in with you.”

“Yes, Captain Malone called yesterday to let me know. He’s such a nice guy.”

“He’s the best. How’re you feeling about it?”

“I’m okay. I know it’s all part of it, and I want justice for Spencer and the other families.”

“You don’t have to go to every hearing, Ang. Trace and I can do some of them.”

“I may take you up on that.”

“Please do. Don’t put yourself through anything you don’t feel you can handle. We’re right here for you.”

“I know, and that’s getting me through.”

“How’s my Jack Sprat?” Sam asked of her young nephew, who’d been so close to his late dad.

“He’s okay. Good days and bad days. Lots of questions at bedtime.”

“Poor guy. I can’t wait to squeeze him on Friday.”

“We’re really looking forward to it. It’ll be a nice change of scenery for us.”

“And you’re all set to ride out with Tracy and Mike, right?”

“Yep! They’re picking us up at four thirty.”

“Can’t wait for you all to get here.”

“Are you having any relaxation time?”

“We’re fine. It’s all good.” There was no way Sam would talk about her wonderful marriage to her newly widowed sister.

“Glad to hear it.”

“I’ll see you soon. Love you.”

“Love you, too. Thanks for checking in.”

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