***

 

Daniel and Smith combined their staffs to rework Bill H.R. 285016. The vote for Jones’ bill was in less than two hours.

 

Beth was hounding the staff, driving them forward like the handler of a dog sled, pushing the interns past their own capabilities.

 

The plan was to have Smith speak before the vote to propose his bill. If H.R. 285016 could pass, then they knew Jones's bill would get downvoted. This bill would be the light in the darkness for everyone to rally behind.

 

“Do you still have the research from the chemicals?” Daniel asked.

 

“Yes, it should be in our files somewhere. Why?” Smith asked.

 

“What's the biggest reason the bill didn't pass last time?”

 

“Jones introduced some very questionable evidence that the purification process caused cancer and health concerns. I had dozens of scientists debunk it, but it was no use. Once everyone heard the ‘c’ word, it was over.”

 

“People didn't understand the science. It was too wordy. We need to take that research and break it down, make it easier to understand. Then we print those few pages out and give them to the representatives. I think it'll help the confidence level when everyone votes.”

 

“It's smart,” Beth said. “We could give those FBI lab techs a call and have them work something up. They did a good job explaining it to you.”

 

“Make it happen,” Smith said.

 

Beth smacked one of the staff members on the shoulder, barking at him to dial a number. Smith pulled Daniel aside and out of the conference room. He closed his office doors, giving the two of them time to talk in quiet.

 

“Can I get you anything to drink, Daniel?” Smith asked.

 

“No, thank you. I'm fine.”

 

Smith gestured to the chairs circling a small oval table. Daniel leaned back, letting the soft cushions ease the tension of his neck and back.

 

“I can't thank you enough for what you did today,” Smith said.

 

“You made a very compelling speech,” Daniel said.

 

“I've been known to have a few well-placed words come together every now and then, but even I knew that it was a long shot. It would have taken more than just me to change your mind. So what was it?”

 

“I reversed it. I thought that if it were my family in the Southwest, how would I want my congressman to vote? I would be furious if Jones's bill passed.”

 

“Well, that decision just started the process of saving the lives of millions of people.”

 

“Truth is, I was just thinking of three.”

 

“Your family will be okay, Daniel. I know the ties you have with Jones. I'll make sure nothing happens to them.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

Daniel wasn't sure if Smith would be able to make good on that promise, but it was one he let himself believe. Doubt was a commodity he couldn't afford right now.