ves. He held a press conference. He didn't shout or protest

the nation's security apparatus. He framed his current fight as a continuation

lets, suggesting a conspiracy within Homeland Security. He pa

gan to shift. The pressure on the administration

. Not deported, but released

ather's secure office. It was a setback,

y things. I knew it was a risk, but I had personal items I couldn'

h the scent of a stra

m, holding her son Luis's hand. She looked at me not w

os from Scott Global Security. They were dressed in tac

d dangerous. "I'm glad you're here. Maria w

t's mine. And they are not welcome he

And you will do as I say. You are going to help Maria. You will take her on as a p

do no su

Before I could react, they grabbe

ou still don't get it, do you? You have n

e towards the floor. My forehead hit the cold mar

he commanded. "Apologi

ld feel Maria's eyes on m

y's power. We can just as easily take it over. Maria will be the First Lady of a

eyes, but I held them back. I wo

shoving me away.

ake anything of value. S

ike common thieves. They took jewelry, art, anything they coul

the beginnin

on the floor of my plundered home, th