Page 105 of Executive Decision

“Who is he?”

“The head of the Illinois Democrats,” Cal said. “So, sort of my boss. He’s been up here constantly planning the DNC.”

“Oh, that’s right! That’s happening here.”

“I am speaking at the DNC,” Cal said. “Two weeks. No stress. Just tons of public safety meetings while my entire police force wants to kill me. What could go wrong?”

“It will work out.”

Cal nodded. “Itwillwork out. Speaking of which, do you want to come with me to the afterparty?”

“Afterparty?”

“It’s a party convention. There aredozensof parties. But this one is a big cocktail party. Come with me.”

The hope in Cal’s face made me want to say yes.

“Please.”

Our drinks arrived and I tried to hide my disappointment. We were here at a beautiful restaurant on a perfect night. We had this chance to have a lovely evening—an evening just about us—but it always turned into something. I felt like an object.

Cal sensed my disappointment. “What did I say?”

“It’s not you. It’s just this. Cal, I’ve played the Good Wife most of my adult life. I don’t know how I feel about debuting our relationship at a political gala.”

“Oh,” Cal understood. “You don’t have to. I… I get it. That wasn’t my motivation, though.”

I’d hurt him.

I squeezed his hand. “I love you. I know that’s not your intent. I just… I want more time before we entangle those two things.”

Cal said. “Whatever you want, baby. In time, it will work.”

* * *

Cal

As Daphne slept, I couldn’t. We’d had a nice evening of drinks, dinner, and fabulous sex. All I could think about was her telling me no. It wasn’t even ano. It was a “let’s see”, but it was enough that it hurt. This was a big moment for me. I wanted to share it with her. But, just like what happened with Kristy, she didn’t want this. And if she didn’t want this, what was the fucking point?

Daphne slept curled up on my chest, trusting and sweet. I rubbed her back, feeling her soft skin. I loved that she encroached. It proved she loved and trusted me. After all she’d been through, she trustedme. And here I was doubting her sincerity? That was cruel. She had her reasons. She needed time.

I couldn’t fall asleep, extricating myself and tucking her in. She was peaceful and I couldn’t wake her.

I pulled my phone from the charger and walked to the living room. The city was just beginning its evening sleep. The lake was calm. Why couldn’t I be?

While we’d been in bed, Kristy texted.

KRISTY

Heard you were giving a big speech

ME

Cat is out of the bag.

I didn’t expect her to text back. It was two in the morning. Then, the typing bubbles appeared.

KRISTY

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