Page 29 of State of the Union (First Family 3)

“But you’re planning to keep me and McBride around?” Sam asked, hoping for a moment of levity before they ended the call.

“For the moment, but as usual, you’re both skating on the thinnest of ice.”

“We like to live dangerously.”

“Keep me in the loop with Best and the marshals. I’ll let Jake know that I spoke to you and gave the go-ahead.”

“Thank you for everything. I don’t care what anyone else says about you, you’re the best.”

“I do what I can for the people.”

Sam’s mouth fell open in shock. “That is one hundred percent trademarked.”

“Did you or did you not allow one of your officers to defy a direct order from yours truly?”

“You should feel free to use that line to your heart’s content, sir.”

“Somehow, I thought you might say that. How’s Camp David? Is it as cool as it seems?”

“It is. Since you’re on vacation this week, too, you and Marti ought to take a ride up one day and check it out for yourselves.”

“Seriously?”

Nick nodded in agreement.

“Of course. Our camp is your camp. Let me know when you’d like to come.”

“Sam… Wait, is this and the Lincoln Bedroom blackmail to butter me up for future insubordination?”

“Blackmail is such an ugly word, Chief.”

His snort of laughter made her smile. She was relieved to know they were—as always—in accord.

“Please come up. We’d love to have you.”

“We’ll do that. I’ll text you. And let me know about Best.”

“Will do.”

“Tell McBride I’m not going to fire her and that I said good work.”

“I’ll do that, too. Talk to you later.” She glanced at Nick. “I need two more minutes.”

“I’m enjoying the fresh air. Take your time.”

“Is fresh air your new drug of choice?”

“It is.”

Sam put through the call to Jeannie. “I talked to the chief, and he gave the green light to call in Jesse and the marshals to take it from here. He wants you and Matt nowhere near the raid. You’re to pass on the info and then step aside.”

“Got it and will do.”

“I’m sorry to have to do this to you, Jeannie. You and I will know this is your arrest.”

“That doesn’t matter. All I care about is getting Carisma back to her mother, if she’s still alive and in there. I’ll make the call to Best and tell him the request comes from the top.”

“Keep me posted?”