Robert exited an office, a sheaf of papers in his hands. On spotting Josh, he stiffened a fraction before stretching his mouth into a welcoming smile. The type a crocodile wore before it snapped its dagger-sharp teeth together.
Josh inclined his head. “Is Ashley ready to go to her meeting?”
“I can drive her while her car is at the mechanics,” Robert said. “You must have other things to do.”
“Nope.” Josh took pleasure in disagreeing because it was no hardship to spend time with Ashley. “We haven’t seen each other for ages. We’re catching up.”
“She can’t afford a distraction.” Robert scowled. “I question your timing during her campaign.”
Pompous twit. “I understand Ashley’s ambitions. We’ve discussed it, and I support her wholeheartedly.” He turned his back on the man, rapped his knuckles on the door and stuck his head through the doorway. “Hey, sweetheart. Just wanted to let you know I’m here.”
“Come in,” she said. “Shut the door.”
Josh took one look at her face and slid into her office. “What’s wrong?”
“I received flowers today. Robert threw them away because they were dead, but he kept the attached card.” She opened her handbag and handed him a green card.
I know what you did.
Josh lifted his head to study Ashley’s pale face. “Any ideas who might’ve sent the flowers?”
She shook her head. “No. According to Robert, they were on the doorstep when he arrived.”
“We should install security here too,” Josh said.
“I want people to feel welcome. Security cameras everywhere do not signal hospitality to the people who live in my electorate.”
“Whatever you think. Louie might have something to blend into the background. A less obvious camera, its position unknown to staff and visitors. Think about it. Ready to go?”
“Yes.” Ashley stood and grabbed her handbag. “I’m looking forward to this. By the way, I’m flying to Wellington tonight. I asked Robert to book you a ticket.”
“I’d better pack then. What will we be doing in Wellington?”
“I’ll be in a strategy meeting. You’ll have to amuse yourself for two hours.”
“Where is your meeting?”
“At the Condor Hotel. It’s near the Beehive.”
Josh had gone on a school trip to the Beehive, the colloquial name for New Zealand’s parliament buildings, and knew the area well. “Do you have everything you need?”
“Do you mind going to Wellington?”
Josh winked at Carrie who was unashamedly eavesdropping on their conversation. “We can hold hands on the plane and catch up.”
“Ashley needs to study the notes sent to her, ready for the Labor caucus meeting,” Robert said, his voice stuffy.
Josh rolled his eyes. He’d be checking on Robert. He had an entire list of names to review and with Summer’s help, he’d ferret out anything suspicious. This latest note suggested something from her past. He hated to upset Ashley with his prodding, so he’d contact Frog again and hope his friend wasn’t away from base.
The press ambushed them as they arrived at Wellington airport later that night.
“Ashley, the Labor party is behind in the latest poll out this morning. What do you think is going wrong with your campaign?” a reporter demanded.
“Well.” Ashley dredged up a smile for the young reporter in his ill-fitting black jacket and crooked red tie. “It’s still early days. Of course, we’ll take the results on board and discuss our action plan, but we’re not worried. Other polls have reported different results.”
Josh stood behind her, carrying their overnight bags.
“Ashley! Ashley!” The short brunette struggled to push past the taller reporters blocking her way. “Ashley, I understand you’re engaged. Who is your fiancé, and why have you kept your engagement so hush-hush?”
