Engines hummed on the rain-slicked tarmac as Air Force One prepared for takeoff. Reporters watched from behind velvet ropes, tension thick in the air. Inside, aides moved briskly, checking manifests. One question echoed: Would Don Jr., Eric, or Jared Kushner be joining the President?

At a press briefing, Deputy Press Secretary Mark Daniels, tie slightly askew, said, “I’m not tracking any of the President’s family members joining us at this time.” Yet uncertainty lingered.

Rumors swirled. Maya, a young reporter, whispered to her colleague Tom, “He didn’t say no.” Moments later, Daniels returned to announce takeoff. Maya asked again. “None that I’m aware of,” he replied, but a flicker of doubt crossed his face.

In the air, Maya received a tip: “Look for the sealed doors near the rear cabin.” She spotted Secret Service posted outside.