Booktree.ng_Forgotten-Witness

They didn’t have far to go and yet it felt like Josie was
walking the green mile. Josie caught the eye of an aide who
was speaking on the phone. He seemed to look through her. At
another desk, two young women were engaged in serious
debate about the order of a presentation book. This could have
been any office in any city in any state but it wasn’t. This was
the office of the man who could help Josie get justice for her
parents, Ian Francis, and all the people who were harmed by
what the government had done.
“Here you are.” Norma held open the door to Ambrose
Patriota’s office.
“Thank you,” Josie murmured and stepped inside.
The senator sat behind the desk dressed in a dark grey suit,
an eggshell colored shirt, and a salmon colored tie. His arm
was on his desk and Josie noted the glint of light off his gold
cuff links. He was listening intently to Eugene Weller who
looked exactly the same as he had weeks ago. He was the
forgettable man in a well-cut suit. But when they looked at her,
Eugene Weller took on the appearance of a man alight with
purpose.
“Ms. Bates.” Senator Patriota rose but made her come to
him.
“Senator. I appreciate you taking time to see me.” Josie
shook his hand when she got close enough.
“Not at all.”
He gestured toward a chair that was just far enough away
from the desk to make a visitor feel slightly unwelcome. Josie
pulled the it closer.
“Mr. Weller.” Josie gave him a nod as she put down her
briefcase.
“Ms. Bates.”
“Well,” Ambrose began. “I won’t insult you with small talk.
I understand that you have something grave you wish to share
with me.”