But there had doubtlessly been small things here and there, little hints and signs and signals that I should have picked up on telling me that my girl... needed that little bit extra, that nudge, that firm touch that assured her I was watching her and knew she was having a rough time and I was there to make it better. And just like that, I knew what needed to be done for her. I made a mental note to be more vigilant and attentive, and rose to pursue my solution. I walked casually to where Jess was. There sat President Trump's personal secretary, a young, beautiful woman who couldn't have been more than twenty. She was smiling widely and recrossing her legs from behind her desk. She clearly enjoyed watching the aide's anguish as he had strode past."Missy, baby, who's next on my schedule?" came Trump's voice from her phone.She flashed Ted Cruz another smile, "That would be Senator Cruz, Don- I mean, Mister President." Great! I'm on fire this morning! Send that loser in!"Missy giggled and. "He drove into downtown and parked the car. From behind his seat he retrieved a paper shopping bag. Together they entered the restaurant and were seated.Hollis removed a box from the bag. "Happy birthday," he said.Annie's eyes brightened. She opened a card taped to the box, read it and smiled. Then she tore off the wrapping paper. "That cashmere sweater I've been admiring," she remarked. "Oh, Hollis -- it's way too expensive." It's just right for you." I never thought of myself as a sweater. "I'm doing fine dad," I told him, after thanking him for the money. I hated lying to him but just didn't want to get into it over the “C” on my paper. Mom got back on to tell me that Burton was probably going to get elected mayor, and that he was really looking forward to seeing us next time we got some leave. Yeah, I bet, I thought, suspecting what the dirty old man really wanted. She went on to say that he was going to offer us his lake place for some relaxation time. I didn't say much,.