"It takes a special kind of strength to be a conservative megaphone as a woman. Like a lamb jumping into the lion's den. I think I'd like her a lot more if her politics were different, but that woman is braver than I'll ever be."
"You tell people to point loaded guns at you."
"Only when the odds are on my side." Olivia shook her head. "This world's only going to keep getting crazier, isn't it?"
"Looks that way."
"It's hard to think what world Noah might have to step into as an adult. What his children might have to endure."
"Woah, Liv. Noah is five. I think grandkids are a long way off."
"Or a decade if I really screw up."
"That's not going to happen." Barba lightly squeezed her hand. "He'll do you proud."
Olivia took a slow, deep breath as she inched her hand just so, ultimately turning her palm up to meet his.
Barba swallowed, his heart racing in his chest. He dare not move. All faded but the sensation of Olivia's hand in his.
And then Olivia's phone rang. The hand pulled away.
"Benson."