Page 2 of The Devil Goes to Washington

“Ms. Burgh, have you reviewed the prenuptial agreement?” Starting the formal proceedings, Heath didn’t seem surprised to see Evelyn. As the family lawyer, just like his father was before him, Heath would be thoroughly aware of all the details involved in today’s meeting.

“Yes.” Evelyn’s simple answer gave away nothing.

Many of his opponents said that he was just ‘riding his daddy’s coattails.’ Maybe he had won his state senate seat when he ran in honor of his father who had died while in that office, but it had taken hard work and dedication to earn the trust of his followers and the votes for a national position.

“You understand you will be required to live in the same house as Mr. Harding for one year, during which an assistant will closely monitor your schedule. In addition, there will be functions you will attend as Mrs. Harding, the happy newlywed.” Heath’s skeptical tone reminded Michael of how much his friend had always disliked Evelyn.

“Yes.” Her placid facade was unfailing, even under Heath’s scrutiny.

While his focus and drive made him an admirable leader to some, others found him cold and standoffish. This was especially problematic in dating, at least beyond the first meeting, which was usually some official function.

“Do you have any questions or concerns?” Stacking his papers together, Heath seemed to be ready to conclude the conversation.

“I asked to have a line added about traveling. Has it been included?” The hint of concern in her question piqued his interest.

“Yes, if you review page twelve, it is under the public appearances section.” If Heath was annoyed at someone doubting his thoroughness, he hid it well.

“Wait, what is this about?” Sabrina leafed through the document to find the item in question.

“No, you can’t do that! Only one weekend a month for non-local events? How are we supposed to work with that?” Ethan sputtered as he shoved his chair back and stood up.

“Ms. Burgh has been more than accommodating in all the demands. This is the only thing she has asked for.” Miss May came to Evelyn’s defense. And here he had thought Miss May was only in this for the money. She must have a soft spot for his soon-to-be-wife.

“That and the cash.” Michael sneered, chin propped on his hand, he observed Evelyn. She wasn’t making eye contact as she fiddled under the table. He assumed she was playing with the hem of her skirt like she used to do when she got anxious.

“Someone pleasant to look at is sufficient,” he had replied when they said he could set any requirements for his future wife. He had scared each prospect away as he grew bored with their insipid conversation, shallow interests, and obsession with his money.

“In exchange for the fulfillment of your side of the contract, you will be compensated handsomely. $500,000 will be deposited into your account upon completion of the marriage ceremony. You will receive $10,000 per month for the first 12 months, out of which all of your and your child’s personal expenses, minus food and shelter, shall be derived. There will be a $500,000 bonus at the completion of the first year. At which point, you can choose to reside anywhere you like and will continue to receive your monthly stipend unless you divorce. Is all of this clear?”

“Yes.”

“Imagine your perfect wife and give us a list of attributes. We found this great agency that can work miracles, even for the pickiest of people,” his campaign team had said. Him. They meant that he was the problem. When he finally gave them a list of specifics, he didn’t think about what he had said, nor did he expect them to find her. Not just a facsimile, but the actual woman that has invaded his dreams. The same one that had deserted him when he needed her most.

“Anything to add?”

“No.” The short responses seemed apathetic in response to so much money. Maybe she was accustomed to such wealth but recently found herself in need of more.

“This is a contract. You can’t just decide it doesn’t fulfill your needs one day and bolt.” Michael cut in, stabbing the table harder with each enunciation.

“I didn’t...” She stopped at the sound of Heath clearing his throat, her shoulders hunched.

“Didn’t what?” Michael demanded, not oblivious to the tension building in the room.

“Nothing. I’m here now. Believe the same vicious things you always have of me. We’re stuck in this situation, so do your worst.”

This wasn’t the person he remembered. She sounded defiant, but he could have sworn he heard her voice catch.

“If there is nothing else, please sign and initial the marked areas on both the prenup and the license. By the power vested in me by the city of Washington, DC, I now pronounce you husband and wife.” Heath announced to cheers from his team that didn’t understand all of the ramifications of what he had just done.

“Miss May, can you please get Micah?” Evelyn asked, her hand shaking as she scrawled her name on the documents. Miss May nodded and left the room, returning by the time she finished signing her life away.

“Mama!” The door opened and the child launched himself across the room to his mother.

“Hey, sweetie. Did you stay out of trouble?” Evelyn crouched to hug the boy.

“Aw, mama. Of course, I did,” he stated, arms wrapped around her neck.

“Micah, may I present Michael T. Harding the Fourth.” She stood, easing her son forward.