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published this week,” the Senator said. “Well researched, succinctly stated, and extremely compelling.”
    “Thank you, Senator,” Kellan replied, waiting for the other shoe to drop.
    “Why did you publish this information in this manner?” asked Senator Billings. She was a handsome woman, serving her fifth term in the Senate. “Why not address your concerns to the Senate Armed Services Committee, the Joint Chiefs, or the Department of Defense?”
    “Please don’t be cagey, Senator Billings, it insults us both,” said Kellan. “You know I know that you sat on the committee that held hearings in two-thousand-eight to address the egregious lack of medals awarded for our two current conflicts. The military establishment is well aware of this issue. Given that your hearings went nowhere in oh-eight, that leads me to believe that they aren’t concerned. Certainly not enough to address the issue.”
    Billings smiled indulgently. “They warned me not to underestimate you, Mr. Reynolds,” she said. “So, you’re attempting to generate public sentiment for your cause.”
    “It’s not my cause, Senator,” replied Kellan. “It’s a set of facts taken within a certain context. It does seem to indicate an imbalance at best, an injustice at worst.”
    “If we decided to make this a cause,” Senator Lopes interjected smoothly, “would you be willing to work with us in an investigative and advisory capacity?” Lopes was a youthful man of obvious Hispanic heritage. He was already establishing a reputation for reason and moderation, while still fighting diligently for the rights of all ethnic groups.
    “As much as the Marine captain in me would like to pick a side in this issue,” Kellan answered carefully, “my role as CEO of Keystone Consulting demands impartiality.”
    “I believe that’s what we’re asking, Mr. Reynolds,” Gilchrist said. “Are you willing and able to step outside of your role as CEO of your consulting firm with regard to this issue?”
    “You mean act as a private consultant?” Kellan asked incredulously.
    “More as a public consultant,” replied Gilchrist. “On the payroll of the United States Senate, taking guidance from and providing guidance to ourselves, and the President.”
    “The President?” Kellan was wary now. Access was coveted and often dangled as incentive.
    Gilchrist splayed his hands, palms up. “He’s the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces and has a vested interest in their welfare and morale.”
    Kellan’s mind raced. He had come here prepared to defend his position or to provide additional information. He hadn’t anticipated a job offer. He pressed his fingertips to his lips thoughtfully.
    “We don’t expect your answer right now,” Senator Billings said, interrupting Kellan’s thoughts. “You need time to consider it, discuss it with family and staff.”
    “Speaking of staff,” said Kellan abruptly, “it would be unethical to utilize Keystone staff for any of this work.”
    “We don’t expect you to work alone, Mr. Reynolds.” Gilchrist seemed surprised. “The offer includes a team that you would select and assemble. You’ll need at least an assistant and a few investigators.”
    “Most likely a military liaison, as well,” remarked Lopes.
    “Jonah Carver is a First Sergeant now, isn’t he?” Billings asked. “His transfer to MCCMOS at Quantico could be delayed for the duration of this project.”
    Kellan struggled to suppress his smile. He wasn’t worried that these Senators seemed to know something; they were all pushing for the repeal of DADT.
    “If I can have a week to see if I’m able to line up the team members I’d need,” Kellan proposed. “Discuss this with key people at Keystone and a few of my own personal advisors.”
    “Absolutely, Mr. Reynolds,” Gilchrist said with gracious enthusiasm. “And please, advise us of any concerns or requests you have. There is much we can do to accommodate you in order to get you on