Holding Their Own XI: Hearts and Minds by Joe Nobody Page A

Bishop and receiving a reassuring nod, the Alliance’s top elected official popped the question that troubled the fledgling Texas government the most. “While I agree with the concept, Mr. President, I have to ask; does this mean that the United States is officially recognizing Texas as an independent republic?”
    There was a pause, Diana always uncertain if the gap was due to the other party considering her words, or if the computers that scrambled their conversation were having a slow day.
    Finally, a chuckle sounded, followed by an audible inhalation. “No. I’m neither prepared, nor authorized to offer such a permanent status. Like you, I’ve got my hands full just keeping this runaway train on the track. Be that as it may, I still believe we would both benefit from having a trusted advisor in both capitals. They could assist in economic discussions, trade, joint development, resource allocation, and a host of other topics. Most importantly, they might keep innocent misunderstandings from getting out of control.”
    Diana threw another quick glance toward Bishop. She wasn’t seeking permission, more akin to asking a reliable consultant, “Do you see anything wrong with this?”
    The Texan shrugged a response. The idea had face value.
    Turning back to the microphone the Alliance leader responded, “I can’t see any issue with better communications and representation, sir. Like you, I’m not a dictator. I’ll have to clear this with the council, but I don’t foresee anyone having an issue with it.”
    “Good,” the president’s voice assertively boomed through the speaker. “I have the perfect man already in mind to represent our side of the equation. He’s a native Texan from Houston, former military, and someone who has proven valuable in our own recovery. Let me know of your council’s final decision, and good day, Miss Brown.”
    “Before you go, sir…. There’s someone here that would like to say hello.”
    Bishop stepped forward, bending to the microphone. “Good day, Colonel. I hope your current duties go well, sir.”
    “Bishop? Well, hell’s fire and brimstone, son. It’s good to hear your voice. That was some excellent work over in New Mexico. Saved a lot of lives and trouble for all concerned. Give my regards to that exceptional woman that lets you hang around. Terri’s giving my people fits out there, but they’ll be stronger for the experience. And that fine looking boy. I hear he’s charmed everyone from my representatives to the local tribes. Good thing he takes after his mother, eh?” A genuine chuckle drifted across the airwaves, Bishop smiling at the insult. It wouldn’t be a conversation with the Colonel without such banter.
    “Thank you, sir. I’ll pass along your best wishes.”
    As they left the HQ building, Diana meandered along the sidewalk, her mind a whir of electrical impulses and a tumble of thoughts. “We need to come up with two different people if the president’s idea is to be effective,” she mused. “We need somebody we can trust to move to Washington, and we must identify a liaison for their ambassador here.”
    “I’m not moving to Washington if that’s what you’re thinking. Nope, not going to do it.”
    Grinning, Diana replied, “You are a lot of things, Bishop, but an ambassador isn’t one of them. No, that’s not what I was thinking. I do, however, believe your lovely bride would be a perfect fit to work with whomever Washington assigns to us. She could stay right here and help me plan my wedding. Might be my best chance and getting a ring on that man of mine,” Diana chuckled.
    The Texan rubbed his chin, considering the concept. “You’ll have to talk to Terri about that. I learned a long time ago not to stand between her and a career move.”
    “My gosh, Bishop. What good are you?” Diana teased. “You won’t commit to keeping my future husband out of trouble, and now you’re shying away from talking to Terri about re-entering