Separation of Power

"What did you say your name was?"

"Mitch Kruse."

Over the loud music of the band Clark said, "I've heard that name

somewhere before."

Rapp shrugged. "Tell me, Senator, did Congressman Rudin jump, or was he pushed out your window?" Rapp was still holding on to dark's hand and wasn't about to let go.

Clark tried to pull away, but Rapp was too strong. "I don't find your attempt at humor very entertaining."

"There's nothing humorous about it, Senator. I think you killed him"

Clark tried to pull away again and swayed a bit. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

Rapp noticed a heaviness in the senators speech. "Senator, you don't look so good." Still holding Clark's hand, Rapp stepped to the side revealing an armchair he'd been saving. "Here. Sit." Rapp guided him into the chair and took his glass of wine. He handed it to Donatella who wiped it with a napkin and set it on the bar.

Clark clawed at his bowtie. "Something isn't right. I'm having a hard time breathing." The words barely made it out.

"You're having a heart attack. Senator. Just try and stay calm, it'll all be over in a minute."

There was horror on Clark's face. He tried to speak, but nothing came out.

Rapp leaned in real close and said, "By the way, Senator, my name isn't Mitch Kruse, it's Mitch Rapp."

There was a flutter of recognition in Clark's eyes, but he was too far gone to react.

"I just wanted to meet you face-to-face before you died." Rapp stepped away so he could see the look of absolute horror on Clark's face fade to a death stare.

With Clark sitting wide-eyed, Rapp turned and extended his arm for Donatella. She grabbed it and they walked across the dance floor to the sounds of music, conversation and laughter.