Page 27 of Revisions

“Any time,” Jessica replies. “Talk soon.”

I continue to chuckle when Jessica disconnects the call. I need to find some way to let Shell know that Jessica and I have discussed Bible study. I can imagine the look on her face. Maybe she’ll think twice about her advertisements!

Chapter Four

Candace

Typically, being on the campaign trail energizes me. Today, I feel exhausted. Ryan was in my hotel room at five this morning to give me an updated threat assessment. No matter how many years I’ve spent in politics, I still struggle to understand why anyone believes violence is a viable solution to problems. I now have Luke and Ryan standing in front of me, warning me to exercise caution. I don’t think I’ve ever been so glad to see Cassidy walk into a room.

“I’ve listened to everything you’ve said. I’ll agree to avoid interaction with the crowd outside the barriers. I’m not stepping off the platform to be herded like cattle into a car.”

“Madam President, please,” Luke says. “Be?—”

“Donotsay reasonable,” I warn him, turning my attention to Ryan. “Ryan?”

“I understand, Ma’am. I’d prefer it if we added an extra layer of security close to the platform.”

“Go on,” I say.

“I know you prefer these events to be authentic—first come, best access. Given the presence today, I think it might be wise to know whom you’ll be shaking hands with,” Ryan says.

I groan. I could press this issue. The Secret Service’s job is difficult enough without me adding another layer of resistance orinsistence.“Okay.”

Ryan nods, and Luke exhales.

“On one condition,” I say.

“Ma’am?” Ryan asks.

“You should have someone screen a few people at the front of the line—respectfully. Inquire if they are willing to undergo a more thorough screening. I want at least a few of those people to shake hands with both the congressman and me.”

“It won’t change the optics,” Luke says. “It might?—”

I hold up my hand. “Optics matter,” I conceded. “But not more than access. You are only thinking about the short term.Iam making a long-term investment. People need to know andbelieve thatthey matter to their leaders. Do you know what it’s like to wait in line for hours to attend a rally?”

“Well—”

“Well? I remember,” I tell Luke. “Do you know what it’s like to get up early, stand in a line for hours to see someone you support, only to get seated at the back when peoplefarbehind you haveaccess?”

Luke is ready to pounce. Cassidy clears her throat from behind him.

“Sorry to interrupt,” Cassidy says.

I smile.

“It sounds like an interesting conversation,” Cassidy says as she walks over to the sofa and sits beside me.

“Maybe you can talk some sense into the president,” Luke says.

“Sense?” Cassidy asks. She looks at Ryan. “What did I miss?”

“The American Brethren plan to protest at today’s rally,” Ryan explains.

“Mm. So I heard on the news,” Cassidy says. “And?”

“Given their role in the New York bombing,” Luke begins. Cassidy cuts him off.

“Members of the group were implicated,” Cassidy reminds him. “There are plenty of groups like ABL,” she offers, looking back at Ryan. “Do you have some reason to believe they’ll attack anyone?”

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