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“You want to play nuclear chicken, Mr. President?”
“We have more options we need to consider. But we need to speak with one voice on this. Deterrence only works when Kirilov believes we’re going to act with a united front.”
“What are you asking for, Mr. President?”
“We take a stronger stand. Together. We stop this.”
“Good luck with that, Mr. President. You’ll have more luck getting the Germans to change their minds.”
I hang up on him before he can hang up on me, then rest the phone on the back of the sofa. The whole Outer Oval just heard that. They’re all staring at me.
Reese crosses to my door and slouches against the casing. His eyes shine like private stars for me alone. No one can see his face, but everyone can see mine.
“Mr. President.”
“Agent Theriot.” My fingers dance nervously over the Oval Office phone. The last time we were together, I was cradling his face. “How are you? It’s been a while.”
I miss you, he mouths. “I’m good, sir.”
Me too, I try to say with my eyes. “I’ve missed our runs. With everything going on… It’s hard to get away.”
He nods. A frown furrows his forehead. “I’m here whenever you need me, Mr. President. Day or night.”
I want to take his hand and pull him into my office, tell him now, right now, this is when I need you. Let’s close the door and—
The Oval Office phone rings.
Reese flinches.
“I’ve got to take this.” I’ve got calls lined up all afternoon with our allies. I don’t want to answer this phone, though. I want to carve out more time for Reese.
“Of course, Mr. President.”
Matt tugs Reese aside before he strides away, and I get one last look before I grab the phone and softly kick shut the Oval Office door.
