Page 126 of State of Affairs (First Family 1)

“It’s okay to say, and thank you for that. Part of me wonders if I’m crazy to think I can pull this off.”

“If anyone can, you can.”

“I guess we’ll see.”

“How’s Dominguez?”

“She’s doing better physically. The emotional part is going to take a while. The boyfriend is undergoing a mental health eval at a hospital in Richmond.”

“I’m glad she’s on the mend. I heard you did an awesome job in Fairfax the other night.”

“I’m just relieved it ended without anyone getting hurt. What’ve you got for me on Eduardo Carter?”

“Step into my office.” She led Sam into the morgue, where Carter was on her table, the distinctive Y-shaped incision on his torso the sign of a recently completed autopsy. Lindsey pointed to the small but distinctive stab wound on his chest. “One fatal blow that severed his aorta. He was dead instantly. I noted bruising on his arms and chest as well as abrasions consistent with road rash.”

“What about the tox screen?”

“Clean.”

“Interesting. We have information that he’s had addiction issues in the past. He’s estranged from his parents because he beat up his mother when she wouldn’t give him money for drugs.”

“What a nightmare. Those poor parents.”

“I know.”

“Are you really doing okay?”

“I’m just taking it a minute at a time. How about you? What’s new with the wedding plans?”

“Nah, we’re not doing that. It’s all about you for the next little while around here.”

“I’m sick of it being all about me. I really want to know how the wedding is coming along.”

“Everything is great, thanks to Shelby, the miracle worker, who makes it so easy that all I have to do is point and say, ‘That one.’”

“She really is the best.”

“That party for the twins was epic. Thanks for including us.”

“Of course we included you. You guys are family to us.”

“Likewise, Sam. If I can do anything for you—anything at all—please ask. We’re all so damned proud of you both and eager to help where we can.”

Sam gave her a hug. “Thank you. Very much appreciated. I’ll let you know. In the meantime, shoot me the report on Carter.”

“Already done.”

“See you later, Doc.”

Sam left the morgue and was on her way to the pit when she nearly ran smack into Detective Ramsey, the person she least wished to see.

“Well, look who it is. Little Miss I’m Going to Keep My Job No Matter How Disruptive It Is for My Colleagues.”

“Get the fuck out of my way, Ramsey.”

Sam moved past him, but he kept talking.

“Everyone is talking about you today, Holland, how you ought to do the right thing for the rest of us and step aside to focus on your fancy new life at the White House. I’ve even heard the union is taking up the disruption of your continued presence here at the next meeting. You’re not wanted, you selfish bitch.”