"I got to thinking, once you two left, about how Ace kept wanting to get you a tank, Sureshot."

Amanda's eyes widened at 'tank', while Lee just grinned. He knew he'd pay for it later, but he was fairly positive he'd find a way around her.

"... And I remembered my buddy over in R&D has been working on this new proto-type for a sport utility vehicle. Something for Bush and his hunting buddies. It has all sorts of bells and whistles. A hidden compartment for all sorts of toys, bulletproof glass, a built-in tracking device, and 4 wheel drive. He's anxious to see how it'll hold up in the suburban jungle."

He ushered them over to the new Jeep Grand Wagoneer, dangling the keys out to Amanda with a grin. As she approached cautiously, the television ad played through her thoughts. "Jeep Grand Wagoneer has no rival — why do you suppose it's the solitary entry in the full-size, 4 wheel drive luxury wagon class?"

Sliding his hand along the unobtrusive wood and cream decals before patting the reinforced front end, Leatherneck couldn't resist the final selling point. "And best of all, Mrs King. It's Stetson-proof!"

Stretched out in the passenger seat lazily, Lee watched the Maryland scenery drift past. Somewhere in the distance, hazy in the afternoon humidity, was Camp David. He sent a fond salute towards the Vice President and his hunting buddies. The song on the radio had both of them laughing as Amanda turned down another quiet country lane.

"Hey hey what do you say
Someone took your plans away
So what's all the fuss
There ain't nobody that spies like us"

Life was looking pretty damn good.