True Power

Doors close solidly against flashes, microphones and the noisy, questioning barrage.

“Damned reporters! How dare they question my motives and values?”

“You performed wonderfully, Sir.”

“You’ve just faced the best! Nobody can crack you on this war!”

“You stood proudly! Resolved to do the right thing.”

“Impressive show of strength against reports that you are cold, inhuman, untouchable, an assassin with no emotions.”

Doors close as the office empties of staff.

Wide, blue eyes look up from an iPod.

“Daddy, is it true? Are you a cold-blooded killer?”

The President meets his daughter’s innocent gaze and flinches.

A sob breaks.