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“Sorry. Sometimes it hits me—everything Candace sacrifices for this job.”

“Like wine.”

I nod. “I think I have an idea what’s on your mind,” I say.

“JD, I think we’ll keep the Senate. The House?—”

“I know.”

“And that will complicate things for Candace. We both know that. They’ll try to find any grounds to launch an impeachment inquiry,” Dana says.

“She hasn’t done anything.”

Dana sighs. “JD. We both know what Alex and Joshua are doing isn’t all going through proper channels.”

“And that is new?”

“Probably not,” Dana admits.

“For Christ’s sake, Dana. The only difference between Candace and many people who’ve held this office is that she is trying tostopall the back alley dealing.”

“You know that I agree with you. Listen, I’m onyourteam now. You need to prepare yourself for whatever lies ahead.”

“Afraid I’ll take a swing at someone?” I quip.

Dana stares at me until I laugh.

“I know you won’ttake a swingat anyone,” Dana says. “You want to protect Candy. I get it.”

“I know.”

“But the best way to do that is never taking the bait.”

“Did I make a misstep with Mr. Late Great America?” I ask.

“No. You didn’t. And that’s why you need to be in that kind of situation more often.”

I groan.

“JD, you are Candy’s biggest asset these next two years, most of which she will be thinking about reelection while she tries to govern.”

“And having me talk to people who take issue with—what did he say? Lesbians in the White House? That will help?” I ask.

“Yes.”

“I love you, Dana. You’re my best friend.”

“JD—”

“I do. And I also know you’re the best at what you do. So, forgive me if I don’t understand. People like Ivey are never going to get on Candace’s bandwagon.”

Dana takes a deep breath and exhales. “No. I doubt that asshole will ever vote for Candy. But some people who listen to himmight.”

“How many? Two?”

Dana chuckles. I know where she’s headed with this conversation, which explains why she suggested liquor. A few people in Candace’s orbit have the insane idea I can move people who are against Candace to the supporter column. It’s ridiculous if you ask me.

“You don’t agree,” Dana says.