"The answer is NO!"

Vin was trembling with fury, his body rigid as he squared off against an equally angry-looking Chris.

"It wasn’t a request, Tanner, it was an order!"

"Ain’t gonna happen," Vin muttered.

"You have no choice," Chris countered.

"Always gotta choice, cowboy."

"Not when the invite's from the State Governor, Vin."

Chris held out the embossed invitation. "You’re the one getting the Agency’s highest medal for bravery, so you have to attend. Period."

"But…. b… but that means… I’ll hav’ta get a damned monkey suit!"

"Yep." Chris couldn’t help but smile smugly. "Duty’s a bitch, ain’t it, Vin?"

"Up yers, Lar’bee!"