Chapter 25
"Jed, please lay down. I got you sprung from the hospital on the promise you would rest here. So don't make me a liar."
Abbey was even more exasperated with her patient than she had been in the hospital. After 'Mr. Cranky' had been checked by the doctors, they had agreed that the President could heal just as well in the Residence, but under strict supervision by the White House Medical Office and his favorite female doctor.
Jed had dressed in causal clothes for the obligatory discharge picture from the hospital so the world would know they had a healthy President once again. Outward appearances which could calm a nation's worry. The ride back to the Residence was quiet as each was lost deep in their thoughts. Abbey had reached over and squeezed his hand but there was no indication he even noticed. They quickly exited the limo and made their way slowly to the Residence, where he then sat down and rested.
Admiral Johnson had come to check on his patient and get him settled. He had just left, after seeing that his patient was comfortable. Now it was Abbey's turn to tend to Jed.
"I'm not tired. I've been in that bed too long. Three whole days, mostly in bed, is enough for any person. I feel fine."
"Jed…"
Jed turned around angrily. "Don't Jed me! I know my own body."
"SIT DOWN!" Abbey finally had enough of him being such a difficult person to live with these past few days. She had tried to be patient, but his whole attitude had changed since the surgery.
Surprised by the intensity of her voice, Jed sat down abruptly on the sofa. "Abbey, what's wrong? Why are you yelling?"
"BECAUSE….." She took a deep breath, getting control over her anger. She walked over to where he was and sat down beside him. "Because you have been a real pain in the ass since the surgery and I want to know what's bothering you. I want the truth, Jed. Not half-baked answers."
"I haven't been acting…" But one stare from his wife told him this was not the best time to lie. He dropped his head momentarily and when he looked up again, tears were rolling down his face.
Abbey wiped them off his face and gave him a kiss. "Jed, what's wrong? You're going to be fine. The doctors have given you a clean bill of health from the cancer. So what's wrong?"
"I…"
"Jed, whatever is bothering you, please tell me. I can help."
Jed looked into the green orbs of his wife's eyes, knowing she meant every word. He needed her support. And her love.