“Hewouldn’tleave,” Greystone confirmed.
“How’s our sniper?” the President asked.
“She’s good,” Teddy replied.
“And her spotter?” President Garrison asked.
“Also good,” Greystone said.
“I’ve beenadvisedto return to the skybox suite,” the President said, “but not before I toss that damn coin.”
“I have to agree with your advisors,” Teddy said.
“Exiting now is a demonstration of fear,” Garrison murmured. “Are there any terrorists left?”
“One,” Teddy replied. “The leader, Muhammad Haqazzii.”
“Are you sure he wasn’t gunned down?” asked the President.
“Yes,” Teddy replied.
“Excellent work.” The President shook their hands. “Time to get this game started. At this point, it’s more of a distraction than anything, but it’ll be good to get everyone’s minds off what they just witnessed.”
“Let’s get you on the field,” Greystone said.
Surrounded by Secret Service Agents, Teddy led the President along the fifty-yard line, while Greystone took up the rear. Both men gripped their guns, still secured in their holsters.
The agents moved aside, creating a narrow lane for the President who made his way over to the ref. Someone handed him a mic.
“Good afternoon, it’s an honor to be here,” began the President. “What you just witnessed was shocking and disturbing.” He paused to gaze out at the crowd. “We are Americans, resolved in our commitment to freedom, to uphold theconstitution of the United States of America. For a while now, a terrorist group has been working to destroy our country, but we have courageous and brilliant Special Forces working to ensure our safety. You witnessed that, firsthand, today. I’d like to personally extend my heartfelt gratitude for their outstanding skills. Special Forces Team, you are the absolute pinnacle of professionalism, and we are eternally indebted to you.”
He paused while the crowd erupted in cheers.
When it quieted down, the President continued. “We are not going to allow what happened today to stop us. We have a long-standing, Army-Navy rivalry. Afriendlyone, I might add. These top-tier athletes have trained hard. Let’s give them our full attention and utmost support. Let’s show the forces of evil that theycannotintimidate us.”
A high-spirited applause and shouts of agreement filled the stadium.
He held up the coin, fixed his sights on the opposing football captains. “Players, I wish you a healthy and competitive game.”
The referee stepped forward. “Army, you’re the visiting team. Please call it.”
“Heads,” said the Black Knights captain.
The President tossed the coin into the air.
After it landed on the grass, the ref called out, “It’s tails. The Midshipmen have won the toss. How do you elect to play?”
“We’ll receive,” said the Navy captain.
Once the President shook the captains’ hands, Teddy, Greystone, and the Secret Service agents escorted him off the field.
Up the elevator they rode, down the corridor, and into the sky suite.
The First Lady hurried over, and the President hugged her. “I feel much better that you’re off the field,” she said.
He kissed her before hugging each of his sons. Then, heasked the servers to deliver waters to him, Greystone, and his Secret Service detail.
After guzzling down the water, Teddy glanced around the room.
