demanded harshly.

"Unfortunately, my boy, as a result of refusing a challenge—you may recall the laws about a political candidate refusing challenges—your election was questioned. The Regulusian Lower Court—the highest in the land, by the way—ruled against you. They couldn't have done otherwise considering the evidence. Luckily, by the use of a little influence, we were able to have a good Republocrat, Xelia Zon, appointed to finish your term."

But neither Manning nor Vega heard his last sentence. They had turned to look at each other as they realized the meaning of what he was saying.

"Oh, darling," said Vega as she came into his arms, "I'm so sorry. How could I have ever doubted you?"

For once, Manning was smart. He didn't even try to answer that question. Instead, he bent his head and kissed her.

When they came up for air, several minutes later, neither of them spoke. They stared deeply into each other's eyes, then, moved by a common thought, they turned and walked in the direction of their bedroom.

They didn't even hear J. Barnaby Cruikshank chortling happily as he let himself out of the house.

 Prev. P 50/50