Adressing The Press

"...I, Maria Santiago-Valdez, will do my best to better our state. Education will be a priority in making our future bright. The people will see change, they will be apart of the change. We will overcome as a whole. No one will be left behind. Thank you all for your support and remember to vote for the future."

Cheers erupted through the auditorium. Maria walked across the stage waving to her supporters. As she went back stage she saw John talking to Officer Brian.

"...She can be. But, I love her she's my everything." Maria heard John say as she got closer.

"Speak of the angel." Said Officer Brian. She pointed to where Maria was standing. Maria walked over closer, John wrapped his arm around her pulling her close.

"You'll protect her I'm sure." He said looking in to Maria's chocolate eyes.

"Yes sir. She's my number one priority."

Maria was beginning to feel uncomfortable. "Mmm, Officer Brian, we can head back to the officer now."

"Please, Mrs.Valdez, call me Nicole."

"Nicole." Maria didn't know why but she liked the way Nicole's name felt coming from her lips. Like silk incasing her. She snapped away from her thoughts, "John, I'll see you at home. We still have a lot of work to do."

She gave him a kiss on the cheek. John left out of the back door. Joanna came up behind Maria tapping her on the shoulder. "Ready?"

Maria shook her head. Nicole smiled and looked at the back door John had left only moment earlier.

"Mrs.Valdez, for your safety I think we should use the side door. I already have the driver there."

'She's so sexy. I wonder what she looks like....'

"Mrs.Valdez?"

Maria was pulled from her thoughts. God why does this woman do this to her. "Yes, yes. Whatever you say."

Maria followed Nicole, who with the other officers lead her out of the side door. As the door opened Maria was greeted with the bright light of the sun. It felt so good warming her skin.

•BOOMmmm•

Before Maria had a chance to react, she was pushed into the car and it sped off. "Wh....what was that?" she asked, her voice full of fear.

Nicole didn't answer. She was looking through the windows making sure that Maria was safe. She turned looking at Maria's face, still in shock. "I'm sorry. Are you alright? You're not hurt are you?"

Maria nodded. 'God, even when I'm in danger I can't help but see how sexy she is. She's so strong' Maria was stuck in her thoughts. How could she think of Nicole when her life was in danger?

Maria's phone began to ring. "Hello?"

Heavy breathing came through from the other end.

"I said hello!"

•click•

"Mrs.Valdez, what's wrong?" concern filled Nicole's voice. "Mrs,Valdez!"

Maria looked up. "What is going on?"

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Maria walked through the door of her office. "What!?" she yelled feeling fear in her voice.

"Maria I'm sorry. There was some people there that were in outrage. That's why Officer Brain is here." Joanna said.

"Joanna, please. Just leave me alone right now."

Joanna walked out of the room. Nicole stood there watching Maria pace.

"Joanna, I said, GET OUT!"

"Mrs.Valdez, it's me. Nicole Brian."

Maria looked up from where she was standing. She locked eyes with Nicole, holding her gaze. "I'm sorry." she said.

"It's ok."

Maria walked to her big brown wood desk sitting in the plush brown chair. She sat her head in her hands. "What am I going to do?"

Not sure if Maria wanted an answer, Nicole walked over and placed her hand on Maria's shoulder.

"Don't worry. My job is to protect you. I will not let anything happen to you."

Maria looked up, she saw the sincerity in Nicole's eyes. There was heat running from her body to Nicole's.

Joanna walked in and Nicole pulled away from her. Maria stood, "What?"

"The security men have found a suspect. They are asking that you and John not return home until they have a case. And, until they build a case you have tighter security." Joanna said.

"And where do they expect us to go, Joanna? My parents are all the way in Virginia. I am not leaving without a fight." Maria had determination in her voice.

Joanna nodded, she left Maria's office leaving her alone again with Nicole.

"Mrs.Valdez..."

"Please call me Maria."

"Maria, you and your husband can stay at my home."

Maria looked at Nicole hoping she was dreaming. She was overcome with the fear of the election and the growing spark she felt looking at Nicole. "Nicole, I...we could never put you out of your home. I'll figure something out."

"Not to be rude, but it is my job to make sure you are safe. And, as my job, I will do whatever it takes to ensure your safety." Nicole said as she walked closer to Maria. She looked Maria in the eyes, "My place is big enough and it would make me feel better."

"Ok." Maria was reluctant but she knew it would be in the best intrest. Plus, it was Nicole's job. Nothing was going to happen and John would be there so she could still live her life. Somewhat.

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Hope you all like this.

Much love

-M