CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE
In fact, they had little explaining to do. The Vice President, now serving as President, knew that the men had no control over what Nic Santori did. It was easily explained that he was carrying out the mission of his uncle to cause chaos in the U.S.
“We shouldn’t have let him go,” said Chief, staring at the Vice President.
“You did what you thought was right. I would have done the same. I know you have a severe distrust of this office but I’m hoping that we can work together in the future.
Our country needs men and women like your team.
We’ve always needed them but we were too afraid to open the doors, and peek behind the curtains.
“I’d like to change that relationship. Right here, right now. Senator Ming trusts you and so do I. You don’t have to answer me now. Think about it. And in case you’re wondering, there’s no pressure for G.R.I.P. to provide secrets or weapons to us without serious discussions on how we handle that.”
“Sounds like you want to make sweeping changes, Mr. President,” said Ham. The man shook his head, frowning.
“I’m going to need to get used to that,” he said.
“Yes. I’m willing to make sweeping changes.
I’m not perfect, gentlemen. Far from it.
But I don’t believe any man is. According to the CIA your team has helped us get rid of one of the biggest players in drugs and trafficking in South America.
No need to confirm, I’m just stating facts.
“We should have done that for America. Not you. It wasn’t your job but you did it because we weren’t doing ours. I’m going to change that from now on.”
“You’ll have a lot on your plate, sir,” said Chief. “Maybe take it one step at a time.”
“Believe me, I will and I’ve convinced one of your own to advise me,” he smiled.
“Michael?” laughed Ham.
“The one and only. He was the best modern day president we’ve ever had and it doesn’t matter party affiliations.
I trust him and it’s very clear that the American people trust him as well.
Hell, I’ve gotten six phone calls from allies asking if he’s going to be a part of my cabinet. That tells you all we need to know.”
“I’m happy for you,” said Ham. “For you and for our country. Michael is a good man and he’ll help to make sure things are kept honest.”
It was hours before the men were able to get out of D.C. and home again. The news had already reached everyone about Michael and about Nic. It was a mistake they wouldn’t make again. Not all bad guys could be turned. They would have to live with that error.
“We deserve a break after that one,” said Ham. Chief and Gator nodded, smiling at him.
“We do but we all know it won’t happen. Just helping Robicheaux Oil and Gas figure out everything will take many of us,” said Gator. “I guess they call that job security.”
“I guess they do, brother. I heard they brought Mitchell in with an injury. He okay?” asked Ham.
“He’s doing fine,” laughed Chief. “I don’t think he was prepared for our new ER doc. Great doctor, even prettier lady. In fact, I believe while he was out of it, he proposed to her.”
“Oh, shit, don’t tell Mama Irene. Around here proposals are sacred. You can’t go back on them.”
The men laughed as they walked to dinner. When they heard a rustling in the bushes, they all stopped to see which animal was walking around. Except it wasn’t just an animal. It was a very large, very slithery anaconda.
“What the fuck?” muttered Ham.
“Sam! Sam, where are you?” called Gaspar.
“Sam? You named the fucking snake, Sam?” asked Ham.
“Oh, hey fellas. I didn’t name her, it’s a her, she knew her name. She said it was Sam. Actually, it’s Ssssam,” he smirked.
“That’s not funny, Gaspar. That thing eats people and other animals. We can’t have that here.”
“She’s promised to help with the nutria problem and will not eat any of the animals we care for. I’m shocked at you boys. We take care of animals that need it. She’s really quite gentle and just wants to live in peace.”
“She an anaconda!” yelled Chief.
“She knows that,” said Gaspar calmly. “Really. You guys need to relax.” He turned and walked away, Sam slithering behind him.
“Anyone else feel like this is a bad dream?” asked Gator. Ham just shook his head, walking on ahead.
“I need a drink.”