Page 32 of Power
“Damn, it’s good to see you,” Jerod said.
“It sure is,” Peter agreed.
The two men sat beside each other, Simone sat across from Peter.
“It’s been a while,” Simone said.
“Too long,” Jerod added.
She and Jerod had worked a handful of cases together during her five years as a Special Agent. He was a total team player, a hard worker, and someone Simone had always liked.
“What have you been up to, both of you?” Simone asked.
“Working,” Peter said.
“Peter’s a muckety-muck at the Bureau now,” Jerod said, and both men laughed.
“A few years back, I took a job in Philadelphia,” Peter replied. “It was a great opportunity. I came back to HQ last year.”
“He’s a Deputy Director,” Jerod said.
“Nice,” Simone replied.
Peter leaned close. “I’ve got the Director’s ear.”
She smiled. “I’m not surprised.” Pausing, she sipped the drink before regarding Jerod. “Are you still with ATF?”
“Jerod is Deputy Director of Field Ops,” Peter said.
“Congratulations,” Simone said. “You’ve done well for yourself.”
“I got promoted, moved to Atlanta,” Jerod explained. “Recently, a position at HQ opened up, and I applied, never thinking I’d get it.” He broke into a smile. “Crazy bat-shit world. Here I am running my own department.”
“Well deserved,” Simone said.
“Are you still a kick-ass Special Agent?” Jerod asked. “No, wait, you’re a supervisor now, right?”
“I left years ago,” Simone replied, sadness swirling through her.
Jerod furrowed his brow. “Really? I thought you’d be a lifer.”
“I did too,” Peter agreed.
So did I.
“What are you doing with yourself?” Jerod asked.
She glanced from Jerod to Peter. “I’m a personal shopper.”
Jerod’s eyebrows shot up. “Really?” He pointed to his clothes. “I could use your help.”
“Nah. You look great, but I’ll add you to my wait-list.” Eager to change the subject, she said, “Are you two working on something together?”
“I have a meeting nearby,” Jerod said. “I texted Peter to see if he had time for coffee.”
“I remarried,” Peter volunteered. “My first wife had an affair?—”
“Peter, let it go,” Jerod murmured.
