Ten minutes ago.
The White House Chief of Staff, Lucas, didn't even knock before pushing open the walnut door of the President's office.
President Barack Obama was discussing the debt ceiling issue with the Secretary of the Treasury. Upon seeing Lucas's expression, he immediately realized the seriousness of the situation.
Lucas was a retired Marine Corps Colonel, having participated in three wars, known for his calmness.
At this moment, however, he looked grim, clenching a remote control tightly in his hand.
"Sorry, Mr. Secretary."
The President spoke as he closed the folder.
The Secretary of the Treasury perceptively packed up his files and swiftly left.
As soon as the door closed, Lucas had already turned on the four screens on the wall.
