"July told me you're a Marine," I finally say. I want to hear him talk.

"I'm a former Marine. We don't retire."

He's moved during our walk and is now striding alongside me. He's so much bigger when he's so close.

"So you're the agent that bosses all the other ones around?" I give him a teasing smile.

"As of a few moments ago, yes. And while the president is gone.

"No more Agent Sweet?"

"Is that a problem?" he asks, cutting his eyes to me.

I shake my head. His tone is reprimanding and for ...