Page 93 of State of Grace (First Family 2)

“Thank you for understanding. We’ll see you and Harry on Christmas Eve?”

“We wouldn’t miss it for anything. Who gets the Lincoln Bedroom?”

“We have a plan for deciding, which will provide much laughter.”

“I can’t wait.”

“See you then, if not before.”

“Sounds good.”

Sam so appreciated the wonderful, competent professional known as Lilia for running her offices as second and first lady with such wisdom and attention to detail. With a full-time job outside the White House, Sam didn’t make it easy for her staff, but they managed each situation with aplomb that astounded her.

When she walked into the Homicide pit twenty minutes later, she was surprised to find Gonzo still there. “Hey, what’re you doing here long after your tour ended?”

“I’m going to the meeting.”

“Oh. Okay.”

“Is it?”

“Of course it is. We’d love to have you there again.”

“Thanks. I figured it couldn’t hurt anything with the trial coming up.”

Sam leaned against O’Brien’s desk, facing Gonzo, who turned toward her. When he made sergeant, he’d chosen to remain in the pit rather than take one of the offices. “How’re you holding up with the trial looming?”

“As well as can be expected, I guess. I’ve been meeting with Hope and Faith to make sure my testimony is rock solid.” The Assistant U.S. Attorneys would prosecute Arnold’s accused killer. Grimacing, Gonzo added, “Nothing like being the only witness to the murder of your partner.”

“It’s a very tough thing to have to do, Gonzo. I hope you’ll reach out if there’s anything we can do to support you.”

“I will. Thanks. It’s just something I have to power through to get justice for him.”

“As long as it’s not at your expense. You’ve been doing so great.”

“I’m a lot stronger than I was a few months ago and determined not to let this be a setback.”

“I can’t tell you how glad I am to hear that.”

“It’s a daily effort not to let the darkness win, but I’m fighting that battle for myself as well as Christina and Alex and you guys. I’ve got too many people counting on me.”

“I’m really proud of you. I try to put myself in your shoes, and I just can’t do it, even for a second.”

“I pray that none of you ever have to know what it’s like. We’re going to get justice for AJ, and we’re going to do everything we can to keep his memory alive, starting with the road race in the spring to raise money for after-school programs.”

“Let me know what I can do to help with that.”

“I will.” He glanced at his watch. “We’d better get upstairs before Dr. Trulo sends out an APB for you.”

“I’m sure he regrets taking on this project with me. I can barely remember my own name these days, let alone when the grief group is meeting.”

“You’re holding up okay, though, right?”

Sam appreciated him asking. Over the last year, they’d learned the hard way to keep a closer eye on each other during difficult times. “I am, but thanks for checking.”

“It’s a lot on top of a lot after losing your dad. Don’t let it overwhelm you the way I did.”

“I’m working on trying to stay focused on the immediate moment and not let my mind get too far down the road. Kids, husband, work, friends, first lady duties, grief group… One thing at a time.”