AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Rapp thought about it for a moment and then admitted, “Maybe.”
“Well, let’s just chalk this one up as a learning experience. You’re probably having a more difficult time transitioning into your new duties than either of us predicted.”
Rapp shook his head and frowned. “I’m not having any problems.”
“Yes you are. In not-so-subtle ways. We need to sit down and clearly outline the parameters of your job.” She watched Rapp frown and said, “Don’t worry, I just don’t want any ambiguity in the future. You’re too valuable to this country, and too valuable to me as a friend, to be risking your life needlessly.”
Somewhat reluctantly, Rapp replied, “All right.”
In a conciliatory tone Kennedy asked, “Is there anything else you’d like to discuss?”
“No … not really. I’d just like a little less screaming and a little more gratitude.”
“I can work on that.” Kennedy smiled. “And as far as the gratitude thing is concerned … well, I think you’re going to get plenty of that.”
47
Rapp had never really taken the time to look around the Oval Office. He was usually ushered in, sat where he was told, and then left as soon as his audience with the president was over. This time, having declined to sit, he meandered around the room checking out the various pieces of art and waiting for the president to appear.
It was painful knowing that Anna was downstairs in her office. During the ride over from Langley he had relayed his version of last night’s events to his boss. She informed him in the gentlest of ways that he had neglected to do the single most important thing, which was to simply say he was sorry.
Rapp told Kennedy he felt torn. Yes, he was sorry that he’d hurt his wife’s feelings, but she didn’t marry an advertising executive. His injury shouldn’t have been entirely unexpected. Kennedy stressed that, expected or unexpected, it didn’t change the fact that in her mind Anna could have lost the man she had just promised to spend the rest of her life with. Kennedy asked Rapp how he would feel if the shoe were on the other foot and it was Anna who had been shot.
The thought of losing Anna sent such a pain through him that he began to see her point more clearly. When he was done with this meeting he would have to find her and apologize. Maybe he could even milk the shiner for a little sympathy. Despite his injury, he desperately wanted to be alone with her.
Rapp was studying a portrait of Thomas Jefferson when Valerie Jones entered the office. For some reason she was all smiles, which as far as Rapp could recollect was a first.
“Good morning, Irene,” she said.
Kennedy replied with a simple, “Hello, Val.”
Jones turned her attention to Rapp. “How are you, Mitch?”
Rapp remained facing the portrait of one of America’s greatest presidents. Instead of turning around he looked over his shoulder at the chief of staff. He and Jones had never gotten along. In fact, he could think of no other woman who he currently detested more.
Regarding her suspiciously he answered, “I’ve been better,” then returned his attention to the portrait of Jefferson.
“Oh … that’s too bad. How’d you get the black eye?”
Fortunately for Rapp the president entered the room before he could answer. “Sorry I’m late.” Hayes dropped a leather-bound folder on his desk and hurried over to greet Rapp.
“Mitch, once again you saved the day. Great job over there in the Philippines.”
“Thank you, sir.” Rapp took his hand.
The president’s attention locked in on Rapp’s shiner. “Did things get a little rough for you over there?”
“Not too bad.” Rapp shrugged it off.
“It looks like it hurts.”
Rapp shook his head. “No … not really. I’ve had worse.”
The president nodded. “Yes, I suppose you have. Well, listen, have a seat.” Hayes gestured to the couch opposite Kennedy and Jones. “There are a few things we want to discuss with you.”
“If it’s all right with you, sir, I’d prefer to stand.”
Hayes stopped and gave Rapp a questioning glance.
