Nick was riveted to the scene in Juneau, his heart aching for the parents and families of those trapped in the school as well as the nearby homes and businesses.
“Mr.President,” Terry said.
Nick looked up at him.
“We need to get you upstairs to make a statement.”
“Right.Okay.”
If compassion and empathy were the two most important qualities in a leader, Nick felt them both in spades for the families dealing with the unfolding tragedy in Alaska.The way natural disasters struck out of nowhere… People never saw it coming until they were buried or stranded or shattered… And it was his job to respond to every one of them, to offer reassurance, help and support, not that any of it would matter to the parents who’d possibly lost their precious children.
As they took the elevator up to the West Wing, Nick felt hollowed out inside, his legs wooden under him as he went through the motions of walking, breathing, thinking, processing.
His communications director, Trevor Donnelly, and press secretary, Christina Billings-Gonzales, were waiting for him in the Oval Office.
“Good morning, Mr.President,” Trevor said.“We’ve prepared a statement regarding the events in Alaska.”
“Morning.”Nick sat at the Resolute Desk to scan the statement, which laid out the details of the situation as well as the federal, state and local response.“Thank you for the quick work.”
“Thank you, sir.We figured you’d want to add your personal thoughts as well.Shall we notify the press that you’ll be making a statement in fifteen minutes?”
“Yes, please.”
After they left the room, Nick looked up at Terry.“Are we having fun yet?”
“An absolute blast.”
Julie, one of the admins, called on the desk phone.“Mr.President, Lieutenant Commander Rodriguez is here to see you.”
Hearing Juan’s name immediately raised Nick’s spirits.“Please send him in.”
Nick got up to meet his military attaché, who’d recently been presumed murdered until they learned he was cooperating with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service in an investigation into the former Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Juan stepped into the office, wearing his uniform and a big smile.
Nick walked over to embrace his friend and aide.“I’ve never been so happy to see anyone.”
“That’s surely not true, Mr.President.”
“In this case, it is.”Nick kept his hands on the younger man’s arms as he stepped back to take a good look at him.Other than seeming a bit tired, he appeared no worse for wear.“How’re you holding up?”
“I’m doing okay.It’s nice to be back to work.”
“It’s nice to have you back.”Nick released him.“I’d appreciate it if you didn’t do that to me again.”
Juan smiled.“I’ll try not to, sir.”
“I realize the reason you were sucked into such a situation was because of your loyalty to me, which will never be forgotten, Commander.”
“Thank you, sir.I was raised to do the right thing.I have no regrets.”
“Honor has gone out of style in some quarters.It’s a quality I appreciate in those closest to me.I hope you’ve been cleared to return to full duty, as I requested.”
“Yes, sir.I’m back as of today.”
“I’m very glad to hear it.”
“Excuse me, Mr.President,” Terry said.“We’re needed in the briefing room.”
