Capital Offense полностью

Working as a prosecutor, she had fought for justice on a case-by-case level, but, as Warner’s partner, she would be positioned to design the much needed legislative reforms in social services and drug enforcement for the entire country. The time had come for Warner to present her ideas as a part of his political platform, his vision for the country. They both knew that he owed her that much. And she intended to collect on that debt.

Carolyn sat next to her assistant. Katherine Seals, in front of her computer. “Internet lesson number nine-hundred-fifty-four.” Carolyn said with a laugh. “Will I ever digest all of this?”

“Of course.” Katherine responded. “You have to remember, I’ve been working with computers for years.”

Carolyn knew that information was the key to success. And, she had to admit, finding herself on the learning curve again was exciting.

“I know you majored in computer science in college, but how did you become so proficient?”

“My real education came from my old boss, Clayton Small, at the National Security Agency,” Katherine said.

Carolyn paused, searching her memory. “Wasn’t he part of the espionage story Jack Rudly broke? Something about trapping a German spy who tapped into our military computers.”

Carolyn saw pain flash in Katherine’s eyes.

“After I graduated, Clayton offered me a job at NSA in Information Systems Security. I worked with him for several years, and learned more about computers in that time than I learned in my four years at Berkeley. He’s an incredible man.”

“Why’d you leave?”

Katherine met Carolyn’s gaze. “I had no choice. Jack Rudly saw to that.”

“What happened?”

“I’d rather not go into it. Let’s just say that I thought my trust was well placed, but I was wrong. Never date a journalist.”

Carolyn nodded. No wonder they related so well; they both had suffered at the hands of men. Carolyn considered Katherine more than a kindled spirit. She viewed her as a strong ally for the future, because Katherine wielded her computer skills like a weapon.

Carolyn pulled her pumps from her feet, and settled into the seat of the limousine next to Warner. Life has definitely improved, she reflected. With Katherine minding Warner’s Missouri office, Carolyn spent more of her time in D.C. Since the last election, Warner hadn’t done anything without consulting her first. Finally, they were equals in their marriage.

Warner stretched, then leaned his head back against the seat and closed his eyes.

She studied his handsome profile. Their relationship had fallen into a comfortable rhythm. And her elevated status to confidant and consultant gave her hope that their personal relationship might be salvageable. Maybe all the ugliness was behind them.

“I’ve summarized some topics you might want to address with a few key players.” They were on their way to a reception in the East Room of the White House with the party leadership and other dignitaries.

His eyes remained closed. “That’s good. Have you written it down?”

“Of course. It’s all right here.” Carolyn pulled a document out of the leather portfolio next to her. “We need to push for more funding for the war on drugs. Congress talks a big game, but nobody’s coming up with serious programs.”

Warner took the file from her. “I agree.” Within minutes, he read through the typed pages, loading the information into his brain like a computer. That skill still amazed her. She knew that even under the influence of a few cocktails, he would be able to articulate their agenda eloquently.

“Any questions?”

Warner smiled at her. “Not one. As usual you’ve handled it all. I’ll make sure to spend time with Alex Major.”

Alex Major was the chairman of their political party, and his support would be crucial to securing the nomination for president.

Warner kissed her cheek. “What would I do without you?”

His compliment warmed her. “Warner, I-”

His gaze met hers.

Could they move beyond their mistakes into a real marriage again? A warning flashed in her mind- too soon too fast slowdown.

“Yes?”

She shook her head and gave him a gentle smile. “It’s nothing.”

“Can I get you a glass of champagne?” Warner asked as they entered the party.

“I’d like that.”

“Wait here. I’ll be right back.”

Feeling buoyant, Carolyn turned her attention back to the party. It was imperative that she spend time mingling. There were senators, Congressmen, various foreign diplomats, the most prestigious members of the press, and, of course, the president and first lady. She mentally took notes. It wouldn’t hurt to be seen on the society page attending a gala at the White House.