“Why not?”
A cloud passes over her face, making me feel like a total ass. “Luv, you were just kidnapped. You might’ve killed two of the men but the other one is still out there.”
“But honey, the Secret Service will be there along with dozens of famous politicians and their bodyguards. No place safer.”
When she cups my cheeks, it shakes my resolution. “And luv? Senator McAlister will be more suspicious if you show up without me. If I come, he won’t throw you to the street and you can talk some sense into him.”
“Nope. Not happening. Sorry.” I almost lost her once and until I find who is responsible, she is staying put.
“If you go to the party, I’ll be here, all alone.” Her pretend pout makes me chuckle.
“Lucky can guard you.”
“He’s here? Oh my God. I love him. He was so sweet when you ditched me in Utah.”
I wonder, after we’re married for thirty years, how many running jokes we’ll have like this. Leaning in, I whisper, “I did not ditch you. You ditched me.”
She puts an index finger to my forehead, pushing me back. “Nuh-uh. I left a million messages. Who’s the one who didn’t respond?”
“Not fair. I thought Lucky was trying to give me shit for leaving you at the safe house.”
“Ha. There. You admitted it. Youwerethe one who left.” She crosses her arms in triumph but I let her win, wanting to take her mind off the party.
Suddenly, a bit of the devil creeps into her eyes. “Sure. Whatever. I’ll stay home, play cards with Lucky or something while you go to probably the fanciest party in Washington and hobnob with the most powerful men in DC.”
“Play cards?” My brows raise.What is she getting at?
“Mm-hmm. I just love Australian accents. He’s is so damn cute.”
“Cute?” I may have to kill one of my best friends. I know she’s baiting me but it won’t work.
However, while we’ve been arguing, I’ve been thinking she might just be right. I’ll have a better chance with the senator if she tags along. Plus, she’ll be safer with me.
“Alright. You can go… but only if you stay by my side. If you see or hear anything off, you have to promise to tell me.”
She bounces up out of her chair and salutes me, face mocking seriousness. “Yes sir, scout’s honor.”
“You were a girl scout?”
“Seriously? The Church of Heavenly Bliss?”
“Sorry.” I kick myself for bringing up her past but she just grins.
“Don’t be. Thanks to you, that part of my life is over forever.” Her hands cup my face and bring my dark thoughts away from her childhood and into the light of her love.
“Hey Prince Charming, Cinderella needs a dress.”
I roll my eyes as she hits me playfully on the arm. “I just texted Isabella. She said Patten Securities would foot the bill.”
“You mean her husband.”
“Whatever. He can afford it. Besides, it is a business expense. Almost.”
Wanting a little more backup for the shopping trip, I text Lucky.
Me: You busy?
Lucky: Playing with me wonker
