So I got really bored at work and this kind of just popped into my head. I always thought Elizabeth would have a follow up conversation with Jason about everything so this is my take on how it might've gone.
Msec*
"Jason, can I come in?" Elizabeth asked.
A mumbled "yeah" was all she got in response. She tried to ignore the mess as she entered his room. Only when she called his name again did he peel his eyes away from his phone.
"What's up Mom?"
Elizabeth sat on the edge of Jason's bed unsure of where to start, "not much, but I finally have a few seconds free and I wanted to talk to you the whole scholarship ordeal."
Jason's face visibly deflated at her words, and Elizabeth couldn't help but feel partly guilty. She knew she was the cause of this mess.
"I know you didn't apply for the scholarships on time because you watched that campaign video and got freaked out, but what did that have to do with college?"
Jason shifted uncomfortably as he carefully considered his next words, "well, the thing is when I saw that video it all became real. I mean I had heard whispers around school, but then I saw that video. I knew that everything Stevie, Alison, and I do from now on will be analyzed and judged. And given my track record so far, I freaked. I just didn't think I could live with myself if I screwed up college and it was the reason you didn't win." He finished, hanging his head in shame.
"Jason, look at me." When he didn't move Elizabeth gently grabbed his chin forcing his eyes to meet hers. "You are allowed to make mistakes. Me running for president doesn't change that at all. I know none of my kids are perfect, hell I'm not perfect, and that's ok. You deserve the right to be a teenager, to make mistakes, and to learn from them. I know the media can be a bit much, but that's my problem, not yours. Do you understand?"
"Yes...I-I just didn't want to fail you."
Elizabeth had to blink back the tears that formed in her eyes. She suddenly saw a much younger version of Jason curled up in her arms crying about a spelling test he'd failed. He was so upset because he felt like he had let his mother down, and just like back then, Elizabeth was there to reassure him that he never could.
"Jason McCord you could never fail me. I love you and your sisters more than you could ever understand. Out of all the things I've done in my life what I'm most proud of are the three of you. I'm sorry that you saw that video before I had the chance to tell you myself, but Jase next time please come talk to me. Running for president is going to affect our whole family, so if there is something bothering you please tell me."
"Ok. I will. And mom... I'm really proud of you. I think you'll make a great president." Jason said as he embraced his mother.
"Thank you baby." Elizabeth replied, gladly returning the sentiment. In that moment she was glad Jason couldn't see her face as a few stray tears leaked out.
Msec*
I know this is kind of short but I don't invision this conversation lasting much longer so I decided to leave it there. I was thinking about maybe writing a second part that's a conversation between Elizabeth and Henry where she catches him up on everything. Let me know if you'd be interested in that! Also, please leave a review with any comments/critisisms. I don't consider myself a great writer but I'm trying to improve so any help I can get I will gladly take!
-N
