Page 36 of Campaign Season
She thanked Ryan as he opened her door and smiled when Cassidy appeared on the porch.
“Nice costumes,” Cassidy quipped.
Candace laughed. “I told Ryan the detail should all bring bags and ask for candy.” She heard Ryan McCarthy chuckle behind her.
“Ma’am,” Ryan said, professional again. “Agent Reardon will bring the cars around back so they’re not visible from the street.”
“Thank you, Ryan.”
“Agents Mendoza and Bryant will remain outside. They’ll do their best to stay out of the way.”
Candace nodded her thanks.
“Agent Lamkin is inside with Cooper,” Ryan added.
Candace smiled. Agent Jeff Lamkin had been assigned to Cooper’s protection the day after the election. Safeguarding a child required a unique skill set. Cooper saw Jeff not just as a protector but as a friend—another fine line to walk, one Candace thought Lamkin managed beautifully.
“Let’s hope Jeff doesn’t come out covered in cobwebs or silly string,” she teased. “Might want to assign someone to his protection.”
“She has a point,” Cassidy agreed, leading Candace inside.
Ryan shook his head with a quiet chuckle as the door closed.
A moment later, Agent Mendoza approached. “Perimeter is secure,” he reported.
“I’m sure it is.”
“All due respect, sir,” Mendoza pressed, “this still feels risky.”
Ryan’s tone cooled. “Agent, you won’t find any place more secure than Alex Toles’ home.”
“I think it would be wiser if we made our presence more visible.”
“Trust me—anyone who matters already knows we’re here. Stick to the plan. Nothing obvious. The president and first lady depart at nine. Understood?”
“And their son?”
“Agent Lamkin has Cooper’s plan,” Ryan said firmly, ending the exchange.
He walked to the side of the house, pulling out his phone.
“Ryan?” Alex answered quickly.
“Sorry to bother you while you’re out with the kids,” Ryan said. “Everything’s fine here. The president’s with Cassidy. It’s Mendoza.”
“What about him?”
“He pressed me again about security. We’ve reviewed these plans six times already. He’s new—maybe just trying too hard. But it feels like posturing.”
“Do you want him pulled?” Alex asked.
“No. Anderson handpicked him. Better to keep him close.”
“Agreed. I’ll engage him when I get home—subtly. The last thing we need is to tip him off if there’s a problem.”
“Understood.”
“Good. I’ll see you soon.”
