leads the police can develop from the photo might make for some very
uncomfortable questions.”
“Something like that. Remember, it’s the allegations that can kill you.
You’re up for reelection. He probably sees that as an ace for him. Bad
press can be just as deadly to you right now.”
The President pondered for a moment. Nothing, no one would interfere
with his reelection. “Buying him off is no good, Burton. You know that.
So long as Graham’s around, he’s dangerous.” Richmond looked over at
Russell, who had sat the entire time, hands in her lap, eyes pointed
down. His eyes bored into her. So weak The President sat down at his
desk and started to sift through some papers. He said dismissively, “Do
it, Burton, and do it soon.”
FRANK LOOKED AT THE WALL CLOCK, WENT OVER AND SHUT his door and picked
up the phone. His head still ached, but the doctors predicted a full
recovery.
The phone was answered. “D.C. Executive Inn.”
“Room 233 please.”
“Just a moment.7 The seconds dragged by and Frank started to get
anxious.
Jack was supposed to be in his room.
“Hello?”
“It’s me.”
“So how’s life?”
“Better than yours, I bet.”
“How’s Kate?”
“She’s out on bail. Got ’em to let her go into my custody.”
“I’m sure she’s thrilled.”
“That wasn’t the word I was thinking of. Look, it’s getting close to
shit-or-get-off-the-pot time. Take my advice and run like hell. You’re
wasting valuable time right now.”
“But Kate–2′
“Come on, Jack, they’ve got the testimony of one guy who was trying to
hit her up for an exclusive. His word against hers. Nobody else even saw
you. It’s a slam dunk she’ll beat that charge. A slam dunk. I’ve talked
to the Assistant U.S. Attorney. He’s looking seriously at dropping the
whole case.”
“I don’t know.”
“Goddarnmit, Jack. Kate is gonna come out of this a whole helluva lot
better than you are if you don’t start thinking about your future.
You’ve got to get out of here. That’s not just me talking. That’s her
too.”
“Kate?”
“I saw her today. We don’t agree on much, but on that we do.
Jack relaxed, then let out a heavy sigh. “Okay, so where do I go and how
do I get there?”
“I get off duty at nine. At ten o’clock I’ll be at your room.
Have your bags packed. I’ll take care of the rest. In the meantime, stay
put.”
Frank hung up the phone and took a deep breath. The chances he was
taking. It was better not to think about them.
JACK CHECKED HIS WATCH AND LOOKED AT THE SINGLE BAG ON the bed. He
wouldn’t be running with much. He looked at the TV set in the corner but
there wouldn’t be anything on he cared to watch. Suddenly thirsty, he
pulled some change from his pocket, opened the door to his room and
peered out.
The drink machine was just down the hallway. He plopped on his baseball
cap, donned his Coke-bottle glasses and slipped out. He didn’t hear the
door to the stairwell at the other end of the hallway open. He had also
forgotten to lock his door.
When he slipped back in, it struck him that the light was off. He had
left it on. As his hand hit the switch, the door was slammed shut behind
him and he was thrown onto the bed. As he quickly rolled over and his
eyes adjusted to the light, the two men came into focus. They were not
wearing masks this time, which spoke volumes in itself.
Jack started to lunge forward but twin cannons met him halfway. He sat
back down, scrutinized each of their faces.
“What a coincidence, I’ve already made each of your acquaintance,
separately.” He pointed at Collin. “You tried to blow my head off.” He
swiveled to Burton. “And you tried to blow smoke up my ass. And
succeeded. Burton right? Bill Burton. Always remember names.” He looked
at Collin.
“Didn’t catch yours though.”
Collin looked at Burton, then stared back at Jack. “Secret Service Agent
Tim Collin. You pack a nice little wallop, Jack. Must’ve played some
ball back in school.”