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hour, which meant no problem making the twelve-thirty luncheon. She was already dressed. |
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The third call was to her husband. |
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She felt a small ripple of excitement as she punched the numbers. She had never before dialed the White House. |
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After two transfers she heard her husband's voice. |
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"I'm on my way," she said. |
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"The good news," she said, "is that we're almost home." |
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There was a pause. "And the bad?" |
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"I'll tell you in person." |
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"Claire, I'm in the antechamber of the Oval Office." |
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"Nothing that can't be fixed." |
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"Fine. It's what I want to hear," he said. "Don't be late. We're having lunch with the president and secretary of defense at twelve-thirty." |
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"When was the last time I let you down?" |
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