Page 92 of State of Grace (First Family 2)

“No,” he said, laughing, “they certainly don’t. I’m going to have to add a second daily workout to my schedule to keep from gaining twenty pounds a year while we live here.”

“I need to add a first workout to my daily schedule.”

“No, you don’t. I love you just the way you are.”

“You have to say that.”

“That isn’t true, and you know it. Now, go finish your stuff and get your sexy ass home to me ASAP. I have a surprise for you.”

“What surprise?”

“You’ll have to wait and see.”

“Ugh, why did you have to tell me about it when I have to wait hours to see it?”

“Because I knew you’d flip out about it, and that makes me laugh.”

“You’ll pay for this later.”

“I can’t wait. Love you.”

“For some strange reason, I love you, too.”

Nick ended the call laughing, leaving her with a big goofy grin on her face. That was his superpower—making her laugh and smile when the rest of her life was often chaotic and full of the darkness that came with working the homicide beat. His love sustained her through good times and bad, and all it took was one ten-minute conversation with him to brighten her mood.

She stood to wash and dry the glass she’d used and put it back on the shelf with the rest of the dishes that would be waiting for them to return to their home when their time at the White House came to an end. Part of her couldn’t wait for that day, but another part of her was determined to enjoy this adventure of a lifetime to the best of her ability while it lasted.

There was literally not another man alive for whom she would’ve taken on the role of first lady. For Nick, she’d proven once again that there was nothing she wouldn’t do for him—and was certain that worked both ways.

Leaving the house, she felt energized to return to HQ for the grief group meeting and to leave as soon as she could make a clean escape so she could get home to her family. At her request, Dr. Trulo had scheduled this meeting for six rather than seven so she could get home that much earlier. Her plan was to attend the first part of the meeting and leave during the break. She felt strongly about being present for the group she’d founded, but didn’t feel obligated to attend every second of every meeting.

She hoped the attendees would understand.

Chapter Seventeen

Her regular cell phone rang with a call from Lilia, her chief of staff at the White House. “Hi there,” Sam said. “I heard you were going to call.”

“Hope I’m not disturbing your work.”

“Not at all. I’m driving, so your timing is perfect.”

“Excellent. So we’re thinking a post from the first lady expressing her condolences to the families in Des Moines might be in order.”

“I’m in favor of that. What do you have in mind?”

“How does this sound? ‘The president and I wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the people lost in Des Moines to this senseless tragedy. As a mother, my heart breaks for the loss of innocent children enjoying an annual tradition. As a law enforcement officer, I agonize over the toll gun violence is taking on our society and vow to work closely with the president to bring about sensible changes that will make all of us safer.’ What do you think?”

“That’s perfect. Couldn’t have said it better myself.”

“Great, we’ll get it posted to your social channels and then monitor them for commentary.”

“Thanks, Lilia. You always make me look good.”

“That’s my job.”

“I left a message for Roni today and told her we’ll hold the job for as long as she needs us to. I know that puts an extra burden on you—”

“I don’t mind at all. You should have the person you want in that role, as she’ll often be speaking for you.”