Alecia stood at the edge of the tarmac, listening to Ryder profess his love for her again. She kissed his cheek before turning to get on the plane but he took her arm, stopping her, and then pulled a brown envelope from inside his coat pocket. “It’s for your dad,” he said.

She opened it. Inside was a picture of President Richard speaking, written across the picture was, “Thanks for your dedicated support Mr. Bell. Can’t wait to meet you, Richard.”

Alecia jumped into Ryder's embrace, wrapping her arms tightly around him. “My father is going to be so happy. I love you so much.”

He kissed her on the...