The call came on a Tuesday morning.
Ray was in his office when his phone rang—not his assistant's line, not his direct business number, but the private line. The one he gave to a specific, short list of people. Senator Hargrove's office.
He picked up on the second ring.
"Senator." His voice was easy. Unhurried. The tone of a man expecting good news delivered slightly ahead of schedule.
"Ray." A pause. The specific quality of a pause that contained something the speaker hadn't finished deciding how to say. "I appreciate you taking my call directly."
Ray's attention sharpened. Slightly. Imperceptibly to anyone watching. "Of course. What can I do for you?"
Another pause.
