I laugh at the image of uptight Tyson trying to relax.
“How’s campaign life?” I ask.
“Nothing new. I got an unexpected visit from your father, though.”
“My father?”
“Yeah. I take it you didn’t know he was coming either?”
“No. I haven’t talked to him in a while. And I would’ve let you know if I knew he was coming. He just showed up?”
“Yeah.”
“What did he want?”
There’s a pause. “Oh, I’m sure you can imagine, given what’s going on.”
“I can imagine a lot of things he might say. What did he want, Jude?”
Another few moments of silence pass. “I don’t think we should talk about it now.”
“Why not?”
“I just…I need you to tell me you and I are good. That you’re still all in.”
“Still all in?” I sit down on a large, flat rock, smoothing my windblown hair away from my face. “Why are you being so cryptic? Tell me what’s going on.”
He sighs into the phone. “Babe, I can’t. We hired a new security team, and the tech guy told me I need to assume none of my communication is secure.”
“You mean…someone could be listening?”
“Yeah. Same with our texts. Some conversations are going to have to be in person.”
I consider, then say, “Okay. But why are you asking me if things with us are good? I’m just here with—”
“Don’t say it. I don’t want photographers finding you.”
I’m quiet for a few long moments, not sure what it’s safe and not safe to say. I’ve been deliberately avoiding the news, but what am I missing?
Oh God. Are there new accusations against Jude? Is that why he’s asking me if we’re good? The thought makes my stomach roll nervously.
Until I know, I have to assume things are the same. “Of course we’re good. I love you.”
“I love you too. And I miss you. I’m thinking of you guys, babe. Both of you.”
“I know. Thank you.”
“Any idea when you’ll know?”
“Should be in a couple days.”
“Okay.” His voice sounds weary. “I’m sorry, babe, but I have to go. Tyson’s about to have a coronary. We’re on our way to a meeting.”
“I understand.”
“I’ll call you tonight, when I’m all done.”
“Okay. Bye, babe.”
