Badlands
By Deenalynn
Part 4:Keeping it in the Family
"Oh My God. Tell me you're kidding." Donna gasped.
"Yeah, because my mother bringing her *boyfriend* is such a joke worthy situation," Sam sulked.
The two were ensconced in Sam's office. Sam having hauled her in there as soon as he returned to work after dropping Kate and *Michael* at their hotel.
Donna looked as though she didn't know whether to laugh or cry. The whole situation really was absurd. "Did you tell her your dad is here?"
Sam looked up sharply. "No," he snapped. "I was too busy dealing with the fact that the guy she has with her is closer to Josh's age than hers."
Donna bit her lip. "I'm sorry, Sam, I wish I knew -" She was interrupted when the door slammed opened admitting an irate Toby, mid rant.
"He went off the script."
Both Sam and Donna looked at him blankly.
Toby waved his hands around vaguely. "The President, the speech, you know, the thing we're supposed to do for a living around here."
"Toby, what happened?" Sam asked with a sigh.
"We spend weeks, *weeks*, getting it right. Weaving the language. Making sure every word flows, every meaning is clear. Everything is just-- And he goes off the damn script to talk about some - some -flowers!" Toby bit out, his jaw clenched tightly.
"Well, it's not exactly the first time he's done it," Donna offered helpfully.
Sam winced, knowing there was an explosion imminent and sought to intervene. "She has a point, Toby. He changes things all the time."
Toby just stared at them for a moment. "Yes, he does. He will on occasion shuffle things around, adding his anecdotes here and there. This time, however, he abandoned the entire speech in favour of a lecture on chrysanthemums." He growled.
"Oh. Well then I don't know what to say."
The look Toby gave Sam clearly said he thought the younger man was an imbecile. "Shouldn't you be in California?"
Sam grimaced. "I wish."
Toby opened his mouth to ask, then appeared to change his mind, choosing to address Donna instead, "You still braving the hoards for dinner tomorrow?"
"Yup." She smiled up at him. "You sure you and Andi can't make it?"
Toby winced. "I, am breaking bread with my once, and hopefully future, in-laws. We're telling them about the babies," he said with the air of a man announcing his own execution.
Donna dipped her head to hide her smile. Sam, however, had no such reservation. "Sounds like a really good time."
Toby shot him a glare then stomped from the room.
Donna and Sam both giggled. "Well at least we aren't the only ones whose Thanksgiving has the potential for disaster," Sam snickered.
Donna sobered and buried her head in her hands. "This is going to be a mess." she groaned.
"I'm sorry, Donna, if I'd known - " Sam started
Donna held up one hand to stop him. "How could you have? I don't even remember whether I told you about Angela."
Sam squirmed in his chair. "Well. . . " he hesitated. "You didn't."
Donna smiled her understanding. "It's okay, Sam. What did Josh tell you?"
"I'm sure he didn't mean to break any confidence "
"Sam, it's okay, I knew he talked to you. I told him it was fine."
"Oh." Sam was silent for a minute. "He told me your birth mother was only seventeen when you were born." She nodded, but remained silent. "She left before you even came home from the hospital, saying she was too young to be a mom. He told me that your dad married Lynnie when you were three, and that she's been your *mom* ever since."
Donna sniffled slightly and smiled. "Yeah, we really hit the jackpot with Lynnie." Her smile softened even more. "My dad was only 18 when I was born. He had no clue, my gran helped, but for the most part, it was just him and me."
"Angela was gone completely?" Sam asked incredulously.
Donna nodded. "Yeah, at first. She showed up again when I was five. Lynnie was already firmly entrenched as my mommy."
"That must have been confusing"
She shrugged one shoulder. "I don't really remember the first visit all that clearly. To me, at that time, she was just another stranger." Donna shifted on the couch, tucking her feet under her. "I only heard from her once a year or so after that. Sometimes she'd send a birthday card."
Sam hesitated. "She would have been with my dad by then."
"Yeah. When I was eight she showed up again. Brought presents and told me she was going to stay for a while. Then she got a call. I figure she and your dad were fighting and when he called. . . She left again." Donna bit her lip before continuing. "After that I didn't see her again 'til I was twelve. It went on like that. She'd show up out of the blue, stay around for a couple of weeks, then disappear again for years."
"That must have been tough on you."
"It was-- I mean, every kid wants their mother to love them right?" She smiled. "I had a real mother in Lynnie. She was the one who kissed all the boo boos better, made Halloween costumes and attended a thousand horrible recitals. She was, and is, an amazing mom. I never felt that gap in my life. I had a mom and dad who loved and supported me. Angela was like a distant relative who called rarely and visited even less."
"I'm glad you have Lynnie."
"Me too."
**********
"Josh!" CJ hollered from her office as he walked past.
He stuck his head around the door. "Yeah?"
"Come in."
"What's up?" Josh asked, taking a seat.
"You know a reporter named " CJ paused briefly to check her notes. "Allison Lewis?"
Josh thought for a moment. "I don't think so. Why?"
"She's trying to get hold of you."
"Me, why?"
"No idea. She said it was important."
Josh looked thoughtful for a moment. "Wait a minute, you said Lewis?"
CJ nodded. "Yeah."
"A.L. Lewis. She's the reporter who did the interview with Annie." He stood. "You got a number?" he asked impatiently.
"Yeah, here." CJ handed him the phone message. "What's this about, Josh? Why would this reporter be trying to get hold of you?"
"I don't know but I'm going to find out." He headed quickly for the door.
"Josh?"
"What?"
"Can I bring anything tomorrow?"
Josh snorted. "You gonna cook it?"
"Well, no. But there's a German bakery in my neighbourhood that is just amazing."
Josh grinned. "Talk to Donna, I'm just providing the venue."
CJ grinned and waved him away.
**********
"So, you're a secretary in the White House."
Donna looked up from her work to find Angela standing in her cubicle. "Actually, my title is 'Senior Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Planning," she stated proudly.
Angela just quirked an eyebrow. "Well, that sounds nice, but isn't that just a glorified way of saying secretary?" She glanced around the cubicle focussing on the desk. "I mean, you do his typing and appointments "
Donna's chin came up. "Did you want something, Angela?"
"Just wanted to see where you ended up after you left that poor doctor." She fingered a few of the pictures Donna had on display.
"I've done fine thank you."
"Really, you think so?" It was obvious from Angela's tone she wasn't impressed.
"As a matter of fact, I do." Donna stood to confront her mother. "I have a job I am not only good at but proud of. I work only a few feet from the Oval office. I have been asked to do research for, and consult with, the President of the United States. I am proud to count the President and his family amongst my friends. I do important work for a man who does very important work. I am responsible for running the office of the Deputy Chief of Staff. I oversee several assistants and countless interns. I am liked and respected by good people. I have good friends and a full life." She smiled proudly. "So yes, *mother* I think I've done very well for myself."
Angela stared at the daughter she hardly knew. "Well, if you're willing to settle for--"
"I'm not *settling* for anything." Donna interrupted forcefully. "What we do here is important. I contribute to that." She turned back to her desk. "Now, if you don't mind, I have work to do."
She waited until she heard Angela move away before she let he shoulders slump.
"Donna? Can I see you in my office please?" Josh's voice made her jump. She looked up and saw him standing in his doorway.
She grabbed a pad and followed him into the office.
Josh closed the door behind them. "I hope you're not going to let what she said get to you?"
Donna closed her eyes. "How much did you hear?"
"Enough."
"I'm sorry."
"For what?"
She just looked at him "My family seems to be making themselves a little to well known today."
Josh shook his head. "I wouldn't worry about it." He ducked his head to catch her eye. "You know everything you said out there is the truth, don't you?"
Donna shrugged. "I just wanted to show her I was doing something worthwhile."
Josh laughed. "I'll say. Do you remember telling me once, a long time ago, that I might someday find you valuable?" He grinned at her, dimples out in full force. "I wish I'd known then what an understatement that was."
"Josh "
"No, really, Donna. You are good at what you do. You do an important job and you do it well. You're not a secretary. You are my assistant. At the risk of sounding arrogant--"
Donna snorted. Josh smirked at her. "Funny. Anyhow. As I was saying, what I do here is important, and you contribute to every aspect of it. You make my job--hell my life-- easier."
Donna's eyebrows shot up. "Okay, who are you and what did you do with my boss?"
"You're a funny girl, you know that?"
"Well you have to admit this isn't exactly, you know, *you*."
"I know, and don't get used to it, it's probably a one shot deal." He grinned for a moment then sobered. "But seriously, Donna. I don't want you to take the things she said to heart. How can someone who has had at best, superficial contact with you, make judgements about who you are? Concentrate on what Nick and Lynnie have to say about where your life is going."
Donna smiled shakily. "Thank you."
"I mean it. You really have made my life, and a lot of other lives, nicer places to be."
**********
"Mr. President, You wanted to see me?" Josh asked as he entered the Oval office.
"Leo said you met with Senator Laughton?"
"Yes, Sir. I believe things have been settled."
"He agreed to drop it?"
Josh hesitated.
"Well?" the President urged.
"Sir, he didn't exactly agree," Josh hedged.
"What *exactly* did the man say, Josh?"
"He offered to drop the whole thing if we short listed him for Marshall"
"He what?" Jed surged to his feet. "Tell me a member of the United States Senate didn't try to blackmail us using my granddaughter."
"Yes, sir."
"Into how many pieces did you carve the man, Josh?"
"Well, sir, he understands that he will get nowhere trying to blackmail this White House"
"Well that'll have to do, won't it? But I want you to keep an eye on him, Josh."
"Already done, Sir."
Jed returned to his seat. "I hear you're having a family get together at your home."
"Yes, sir. My mom and Donna's family, along with CJ, Sam, and Sam's family."
The President looked worried. "Who's cooking?"
Josh laughed. "Donna, mostly, my mom and Mrs. Moss will be giving a hand."
"Well then it should be wonderful. Donna and I had a lengthy conversation just the other day about the origins of what we consider a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, barring that which was served at the first of course."
Josh sighed resignedly. "Of course." And he settled in for the history of sweet potato pie.
**********
"Sam, come in dear. Josh isn't home yet." Dev opened the door wide to allow Sam to enter the townhouse.
"I know. He's talking turkey with the President." Sam laughed at Charlie's description of the scene in the Oval Office.
"Pardon?" Dev looked confused.
"I'll let Josh explain when he escapes. Actually, I wanted to talk to you if you don't mind?"
"Of course not, Sam." She led him to the living room. "Can I get you something? I made fresh coffee."
"That would be nice, thank you."
Dev busied herself in the kitchen. "So what can I do for you, dear?"
"Did Josh tell you what's happened with my parents?" Sam took the steaming cup she offered as she joined him on the chesterfield.
"He told me what happened a few years ago, and that you hoped to help repair their relationship with this weekend." She reached out a patted his hand. "He also told me your father brought his girlfriend."
Sam nodded. "Yeah, well, what he didn't know yet was that my mother brought her boyfriend."
"Oh, Sam, I'm so sorry dear," Dev said sympathetically. She watched him for a moment before she continued. "Is he nice?"
Sam looked up startled. "What?"
"Your mother's friend," Dev clarified. "Is he nice?"
"I don't - I didn't -" Sam stopped. "What difference does it make whether he's nice or not?"
"Well, I would hope your mother would have found a nice man to spend her time with."
Sam was shocked. "But -"
"Sam."
"He seems okay. I guess." He grimaced. "He's young."
Dev's eyes widened. "How young?" she asked apprehensively.
"I don't know, late forties, I guess. Younger than her," he grumped.
Dev hid a smile. "That's not that much younger, Sam."
"My mother is fifty-seven!"
This time she couldn't hide her smile. "Well, she's hardly into her dotage, dear." She put a reassuring hand on his arm. "But really, if she's found someone with whom to spend her time and he makes her happy, does it really matter how old he is?"
"I guess not," Sam said begrudgingly.
"But I'm curious, Sam. You said he's is his late forties?" She waited until he nodded then continued. "Isn't that the same age as the woman your father is involved with?"
"Yeah?" Sam answered not sure where she was headed.
"Yet, it doesn't bother you that Angela is ten years younger than your father?" Dev asked gently.
"It's different," Sam insisted.
Dev shook her head. "It really isn't, dear, it just feels different because she's your mother. And contrary to what many people want to believe, mothers are people too."
Sam stared at his hands in his lap. "I had plans this weekend."
"I know, and while I am sorry they didn't work out the way you wanted, it really isn't your place to interfere in your parents' lives that way."
Sam stood abruptly. "I'm their son!"
"Yes, you are. And as their son you have to be willing to admit that they are adults who are going to live their lives in the way that suits them." Dev took his hand and drew him back down beside her. "The only thing you need worry about is being there if either one of them needs you, just like they have always been for you." She touched his cheek gently. "Marriages end, Sam. It's unfortunate and sad for all involved, but sometimes it is also the best thing for everyone."
"She was so devastated when she found out about Angela, how could she . . .?"
"It's been a couple of years hasn't it?"
Sam nodded. "Yeah, two."
"Then she's had time to work through some of the pain. She's also had time to decide whether she is going to allow that pain to ruin the rest of her life, or to try to make a new and better life for herself. Don't begrudge her that, Sam. It's not fair."
"Am I wrong to want my family together?"
"No, and they will be tomorrow. You just have to realise that your family is structured a bit differently than it used to be. Angela and your mother's friend can become a part of it." She smiled reassuringly. "Both your parents have a right to find their own happiness, Sam. The best thing you can do is be a part of it."
**********
"Leo?" Josh tapped on the doorframe.
"Yeah, come in." Leo looked up from his paper work. "I hear you had a *discussion* on the finer points of holiday cuisine." He grinned evilly.
Josh sighed and dropped into the chair in front of the desk. "I now know more than I ever dreamed was possible about brussels sprouts."
Leo just smiled. "Yeah, well, I got the history of the green bean earlier."
"He doesn't even like green beans," Josh noted.
"That's never actually stopped him before, why should it now?" They shared a fond smile for their geeky President, before Leo asked. "So what are you still doing here? Shouldn't you be home with your mom?"
"I was just heading there, I just wanted to ask if you heard from Laughton yet?"
"Nothing." Leo looked at him sharply. "Why, what have you heard?"
"Nothing, that's the problem. I've tried calling others on his committee, the votes he claims to have in pocket, no one's returning."
"It's Thanksgiving, Josh, most of them aren't even in town."
"Yeah."
"You're not worried are you? I thought you said he understood." Leo asked, concerned.
"Well, if I was worried after the meeting, I'm not now," Josh grinned smugly.
"What have you got up you sleeve now?"
"Just a little something. I hope I don't have to use it." Josh's smile took on a decidedly evil twist. "Though it might be worth it to see the look on the pompous ass's face."
"Just make sure you handle it."
"Yes, sir." Josh stood up to leave. "Happy Thanksgiving, Leo."
"Yeah, you too. Now go home, before Devorah accuses me of overworking you again."
Josh laughed. "Yes, sir."
**********
"Sammy!" Kate cried when she opened her door to find her son.
"Hi mom," Sam said as he returned her hug. "Sorry I'm so late."
"It's okay, I know you had to work." She grabbed his hand and dragged him into the room. "But I have you now."
Sam shot an awkward glance at the man by the window. "I um, well I thought maybe you and Michael would like to join me for dinner. Just the three of us."
Kate's eyes welled up. "I think that's a wonderful idea." She turned to Michael. "What do you think, honey?"
Michael's smile was warm and loving as he moved to stand next to Kate. Wrapping an arm around her waist he said, "I would love the opportunity to get to know you better, Sam. Dinner sounds perfect."
*********
Angela answered the door to the hotel room, her eyes widened when she saw the man standing there. "Nicholas?"
Nick moved past into the room without waiting for an invitation. "Stay away from my daughter," he snapped without preamble.
David came forward to intervene but Angela waved him away. "Pardon me?" Her chin came up in a move very reminiscent of her daughter. "Who the hell do you think you are barging in here telling "
"Who the hell do you think you are trying to demean the choices Donna has made and the life she's built for herself."
"She's a secretary for god's sake." Angela shouted.
"She is a valued and integral member of the White house staff."
"Fancy it up any way you want, she's still a secretary." Angela scoffed. "She could have been anything she wanted to be. Hell she dumped that nice doctor to come here to fetch coffee for that man."
"Oh and she should have what, followed in your footsteps?" Nick asked, his tone laced with acid.
"I'll have you know I had a career architecture." Angie stated proudly. "Donna could do worse"
"Yeah, she should be just like you. A woman who could abandon her only child to be a high class whore for a married man." Nick snarled
"Okay, that's enough!" David stepped between them putting his hand on Nick's shoulder. "I think you've said enough, Moss."
Nick shook him off. "You've hurt Donna enough to last ten lifetimes, Angela. Tomorrow is special to her, if you can't be supportive and at least pretend you give a damn about her, don't bother to show up."
**********
"Mom? You here?" Josh shouted as he entered his home.
"Must you bellow, Joshua?" Dev said as she came in from the kitchen.
"Sorry, I didn't know if you were here."
"Where else would I be you foolish boy?" she teased reaching up to ruffle the dark auburn hair he had inherited from her, though hers was mostly snowy white now.
"I thought maybe you went to dinner with Donna and her folks. She said she was going to invite you." He removed his coat and dropped his backpack on the floor.
"And she did, she really is a very sweet girl." She gave Josh a leading look which he chose to ignore. She sighed and continued, "I just thought they should have some quiet time alone. They've had a bit of a day." She smiled up at him. "Besides, I wanted some alone time with my handsome son."
"Mom. . ."
"Oh hush, come sit, I made your favourite." She started to head into the kitchen.
Josh grabbed her arm and pulled her into a tight hug. "Have I ever told you how lucky I am to have had such great parents?"
Devorah, knowing exactly where this was coming from hugged him as tight as she could. "We were all lucky." She drew back and touched his cheek gently. "Your father and I had a long and very happy life together. And you, my child, make us both so very proud."
Josh pulled her close again. "Thanks, mom," he said, his voice muffled. "For everything."
*********
the end part 4
By Deenalynn
Part 4:Keeping it in the Family
"Oh My God. Tell me you're kidding." Donna gasped.
"Yeah, because my mother bringing her *boyfriend* is such a joke worthy situation," Sam sulked.
The two were ensconced in Sam's office. Sam having hauled her in there as soon as he returned to work after dropping Kate and *Michael* at their hotel.
Donna looked as though she didn't know whether to laugh or cry. The whole situation really was absurd. "Did you tell her your dad is here?"
Sam looked up sharply. "No," he snapped. "I was too busy dealing with the fact that the guy she has with her is closer to Josh's age than hers."
Donna bit her lip. "I'm sorry, Sam, I wish I knew -" She was interrupted when the door slammed opened admitting an irate Toby, mid rant.
"He went off the script."
Both Sam and Donna looked at him blankly.
Toby waved his hands around vaguely. "The President, the speech, you know, the thing we're supposed to do for a living around here."
"Toby, what happened?" Sam asked with a sigh.
"We spend weeks, *weeks*, getting it right. Weaving the language. Making sure every word flows, every meaning is clear. Everything is just-- And he goes off the damn script to talk about some - some -flowers!" Toby bit out, his jaw clenched tightly.
"Well, it's not exactly the first time he's done it," Donna offered helpfully.
Sam winced, knowing there was an explosion imminent and sought to intervene. "She has a point, Toby. He changes things all the time."
Toby just stared at them for a moment. "Yes, he does. He will on occasion shuffle things around, adding his anecdotes here and there. This time, however, he abandoned the entire speech in favour of a lecture on chrysanthemums." He growled.
"Oh. Well then I don't know what to say."
The look Toby gave Sam clearly said he thought the younger man was an imbecile. "Shouldn't you be in California?"
Sam grimaced. "I wish."
Toby opened his mouth to ask, then appeared to change his mind, choosing to address Donna instead, "You still braving the hoards for dinner tomorrow?"
"Yup." She smiled up at him. "You sure you and Andi can't make it?"
Toby winced. "I, am breaking bread with my once, and hopefully future, in-laws. We're telling them about the babies," he said with the air of a man announcing his own execution.
Donna dipped her head to hide her smile. Sam, however, had no such reservation. "Sounds like a really good time."
Toby shot him a glare then stomped from the room.
Donna and Sam both giggled. "Well at least we aren't the only ones whose Thanksgiving has the potential for disaster," Sam snickered.
Donna sobered and buried her head in her hands. "This is going to be a mess." she groaned.
"I'm sorry, Donna, if I'd known - " Sam started
Donna held up one hand to stop him. "How could you have? I don't even remember whether I told you about Angela."
Sam squirmed in his chair. "Well. . . " he hesitated. "You didn't."
Donna smiled her understanding. "It's okay, Sam. What did Josh tell you?"
"I'm sure he didn't mean to break any confidence "
"Sam, it's okay, I knew he talked to you. I told him it was fine."
"Oh." Sam was silent for a minute. "He told me your birth mother was only seventeen when you were born." She nodded, but remained silent. "She left before you even came home from the hospital, saying she was too young to be a mom. He told me that your dad married Lynnie when you were three, and that she's been your *mom* ever since."
Donna sniffled slightly and smiled. "Yeah, we really hit the jackpot with Lynnie." Her smile softened even more. "My dad was only 18 when I was born. He had no clue, my gran helped, but for the most part, it was just him and me."
"Angela was gone completely?" Sam asked incredulously.
Donna nodded. "Yeah, at first. She showed up again when I was five. Lynnie was already firmly entrenched as my mommy."
"That must have been confusing"
She shrugged one shoulder. "I don't really remember the first visit all that clearly. To me, at that time, she was just another stranger." Donna shifted on the couch, tucking her feet under her. "I only heard from her once a year or so after that. Sometimes she'd send a birthday card."
Sam hesitated. "She would have been with my dad by then."
"Yeah. When I was eight she showed up again. Brought presents and told me she was going to stay for a while. Then she got a call. I figure she and your dad were fighting and when he called. . . She left again." Donna bit her lip before continuing. "After that I didn't see her again 'til I was twelve. It went on like that. She'd show up out of the blue, stay around for a couple of weeks, then disappear again for years."
"That must have been tough on you."
"It was-- I mean, every kid wants their mother to love them right?" She smiled. "I had a real mother in Lynnie. She was the one who kissed all the boo boos better, made Halloween costumes and attended a thousand horrible recitals. She was, and is, an amazing mom. I never felt that gap in my life. I had a mom and dad who loved and supported me. Angela was like a distant relative who called rarely and visited even less."
"I'm glad you have Lynnie."
"Me too."
**********
"Josh!" CJ hollered from her office as he walked past.
He stuck his head around the door. "Yeah?"
"Come in."
"What's up?" Josh asked, taking a seat.
"You know a reporter named " CJ paused briefly to check her notes. "Allison Lewis?"
Josh thought for a moment. "I don't think so. Why?"
"She's trying to get hold of you."
"Me, why?"
"No idea. She said it was important."
Josh looked thoughtful for a moment. "Wait a minute, you said Lewis?"
CJ nodded. "Yeah."
"A.L. Lewis. She's the reporter who did the interview with Annie." He stood. "You got a number?" he asked impatiently.
"Yeah, here." CJ handed him the phone message. "What's this about, Josh? Why would this reporter be trying to get hold of you?"
"I don't know but I'm going to find out." He headed quickly for the door.
"Josh?"
"What?"
"Can I bring anything tomorrow?"
Josh snorted. "You gonna cook it?"
"Well, no. But there's a German bakery in my neighbourhood that is just amazing."
Josh grinned. "Talk to Donna, I'm just providing the venue."
CJ grinned and waved him away.
**********
"So, you're a secretary in the White House."
Donna looked up from her work to find Angela standing in her cubicle. "Actually, my title is 'Senior Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Planning," she stated proudly.
Angela just quirked an eyebrow. "Well, that sounds nice, but isn't that just a glorified way of saying secretary?" She glanced around the cubicle focussing on the desk. "I mean, you do his typing and appointments "
Donna's chin came up. "Did you want something, Angela?"
"Just wanted to see where you ended up after you left that poor doctor." She fingered a few of the pictures Donna had on display.
"I've done fine thank you."
"Really, you think so?" It was obvious from Angela's tone she wasn't impressed.
"As a matter of fact, I do." Donna stood to confront her mother. "I have a job I am not only good at but proud of. I work only a few feet from the Oval office. I have been asked to do research for, and consult with, the President of the United States. I am proud to count the President and his family amongst my friends. I do important work for a man who does very important work. I am responsible for running the office of the Deputy Chief of Staff. I oversee several assistants and countless interns. I am liked and respected by good people. I have good friends and a full life." She smiled proudly. "So yes, *mother* I think I've done very well for myself."
Angela stared at the daughter she hardly knew. "Well, if you're willing to settle for--"
"I'm not *settling* for anything." Donna interrupted forcefully. "What we do here is important. I contribute to that." She turned back to her desk. "Now, if you don't mind, I have work to do."
She waited until she heard Angela move away before she let he shoulders slump.
"Donna? Can I see you in my office please?" Josh's voice made her jump. She looked up and saw him standing in his doorway.
She grabbed a pad and followed him into the office.
Josh closed the door behind them. "I hope you're not going to let what she said get to you?"
Donna closed her eyes. "How much did you hear?"
"Enough."
"I'm sorry."
"For what?"
She just looked at him "My family seems to be making themselves a little to well known today."
Josh shook his head. "I wouldn't worry about it." He ducked his head to catch her eye. "You know everything you said out there is the truth, don't you?"
Donna shrugged. "I just wanted to show her I was doing something worthwhile."
Josh laughed. "I'll say. Do you remember telling me once, a long time ago, that I might someday find you valuable?" He grinned at her, dimples out in full force. "I wish I'd known then what an understatement that was."
"Josh "
"No, really, Donna. You are good at what you do. You do an important job and you do it well. You're not a secretary. You are my assistant. At the risk of sounding arrogant--"
Donna snorted. Josh smirked at her. "Funny. Anyhow. As I was saying, what I do here is important, and you contribute to every aspect of it. You make my job--hell my life-- easier."
Donna's eyebrows shot up. "Okay, who are you and what did you do with my boss?"
"You're a funny girl, you know that?"
"Well you have to admit this isn't exactly, you know, *you*."
"I know, and don't get used to it, it's probably a one shot deal." He grinned for a moment then sobered. "But seriously, Donna. I don't want you to take the things she said to heart. How can someone who has had at best, superficial contact with you, make judgements about who you are? Concentrate on what Nick and Lynnie have to say about where your life is going."
Donna smiled shakily. "Thank you."
"I mean it. You really have made my life, and a lot of other lives, nicer places to be."
**********
"Mr. President, You wanted to see me?" Josh asked as he entered the Oval office.
"Leo said you met with Senator Laughton?"
"Yes, Sir. I believe things have been settled."
"He agreed to drop it?"
Josh hesitated.
"Well?" the President urged.
"Sir, he didn't exactly agree," Josh hedged.
"What *exactly* did the man say, Josh?"
"He offered to drop the whole thing if we short listed him for Marshall"
"He what?" Jed surged to his feet. "Tell me a member of the United States Senate didn't try to blackmail us using my granddaughter."
"Yes, sir."
"Into how many pieces did you carve the man, Josh?"
"Well, sir, he understands that he will get nowhere trying to blackmail this White House"
"Well that'll have to do, won't it? But I want you to keep an eye on him, Josh."
"Already done, Sir."
Jed returned to his seat. "I hear you're having a family get together at your home."
"Yes, sir. My mom and Donna's family, along with CJ, Sam, and Sam's family."
The President looked worried. "Who's cooking?"
Josh laughed. "Donna, mostly, my mom and Mrs. Moss will be giving a hand."
"Well then it should be wonderful. Donna and I had a lengthy conversation just the other day about the origins of what we consider a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, barring that which was served at the first of course."
Josh sighed resignedly. "Of course." And he settled in for the history of sweet potato pie.
**********
"Sam, come in dear. Josh isn't home yet." Dev opened the door wide to allow Sam to enter the townhouse.
"I know. He's talking turkey with the President." Sam laughed at Charlie's description of the scene in the Oval Office.
"Pardon?" Dev looked confused.
"I'll let Josh explain when he escapes. Actually, I wanted to talk to you if you don't mind?"
"Of course not, Sam." She led him to the living room. "Can I get you something? I made fresh coffee."
"That would be nice, thank you."
Dev busied herself in the kitchen. "So what can I do for you, dear?"
"Did Josh tell you what's happened with my parents?" Sam took the steaming cup she offered as she joined him on the chesterfield.
"He told me what happened a few years ago, and that you hoped to help repair their relationship with this weekend." She reached out a patted his hand. "He also told me your father brought his girlfriend."
Sam nodded. "Yeah, well, what he didn't know yet was that my mother brought her boyfriend."
"Oh, Sam, I'm so sorry dear," Dev said sympathetically. She watched him for a moment before she continued. "Is he nice?"
Sam looked up startled. "What?"
"Your mother's friend," Dev clarified. "Is he nice?"
"I don't - I didn't -" Sam stopped. "What difference does it make whether he's nice or not?"
"Well, I would hope your mother would have found a nice man to spend her time with."
Sam was shocked. "But -"
"Sam."
"He seems okay. I guess." He grimaced. "He's young."
Dev's eyes widened. "How young?" she asked apprehensively.
"I don't know, late forties, I guess. Younger than her," he grumped.
Dev hid a smile. "That's not that much younger, Sam."
"My mother is fifty-seven!"
This time she couldn't hide her smile. "Well, she's hardly into her dotage, dear." She put a reassuring hand on his arm. "But really, if she's found someone with whom to spend her time and he makes her happy, does it really matter how old he is?"
"I guess not," Sam said begrudgingly.
"But I'm curious, Sam. You said he's is his late forties?" She waited until he nodded then continued. "Isn't that the same age as the woman your father is involved with?"
"Yeah?" Sam answered not sure where she was headed.
"Yet, it doesn't bother you that Angela is ten years younger than your father?" Dev asked gently.
"It's different," Sam insisted.
Dev shook her head. "It really isn't, dear, it just feels different because she's your mother. And contrary to what many people want to believe, mothers are people too."
Sam stared at his hands in his lap. "I had plans this weekend."
"I know, and while I am sorry they didn't work out the way you wanted, it really isn't your place to interfere in your parents' lives that way."
Sam stood abruptly. "I'm their son!"
"Yes, you are. And as their son you have to be willing to admit that they are adults who are going to live their lives in the way that suits them." Dev took his hand and drew him back down beside her. "The only thing you need worry about is being there if either one of them needs you, just like they have always been for you." She touched his cheek gently. "Marriages end, Sam. It's unfortunate and sad for all involved, but sometimes it is also the best thing for everyone."
"She was so devastated when she found out about Angela, how could she . . .?"
"It's been a couple of years hasn't it?"
Sam nodded. "Yeah, two."
"Then she's had time to work through some of the pain. She's also had time to decide whether she is going to allow that pain to ruin the rest of her life, or to try to make a new and better life for herself. Don't begrudge her that, Sam. It's not fair."
"Am I wrong to want my family together?"
"No, and they will be tomorrow. You just have to realise that your family is structured a bit differently than it used to be. Angela and your mother's friend can become a part of it." She smiled reassuringly. "Both your parents have a right to find their own happiness, Sam. The best thing you can do is be a part of it."
**********
"Leo?" Josh tapped on the doorframe.
"Yeah, come in." Leo looked up from his paper work. "I hear you had a *discussion* on the finer points of holiday cuisine." He grinned evilly.
Josh sighed and dropped into the chair in front of the desk. "I now know more than I ever dreamed was possible about brussels sprouts."
Leo just smiled. "Yeah, well, I got the history of the green bean earlier."
"He doesn't even like green beans," Josh noted.
"That's never actually stopped him before, why should it now?" They shared a fond smile for their geeky President, before Leo asked. "So what are you still doing here? Shouldn't you be home with your mom?"
"I was just heading there, I just wanted to ask if you heard from Laughton yet?"
"Nothing." Leo looked at him sharply. "Why, what have you heard?"
"Nothing, that's the problem. I've tried calling others on his committee, the votes he claims to have in pocket, no one's returning."
"It's Thanksgiving, Josh, most of them aren't even in town."
"Yeah."
"You're not worried are you? I thought you said he understood." Leo asked, concerned.
"Well, if I was worried after the meeting, I'm not now," Josh grinned smugly.
"What have you got up you sleeve now?"
"Just a little something. I hope I don't have to use it." Josh's smile took on a decidedly evil twist. "Though it might be worth it to see the look on the pompous ass's face."
"Just make sure you handle it."
"Yes, sir." Josh stood up to leave. "Happy Thanksgiving, Leo."
"Yeah, you too. Now go home, before Devorah accuses me of overworking you again."
Josh laughed. "Yes, sir."
**********
"Sammy!" Kate cried when she opened her door to find her son.
"Hi mom," Sam said as he returned her hug. "Sorry I'm so late."
"It's okay, I know you had to work." She grabbed his hand and dragged him into the room. "But I have you now."
Sam shot an awkward glance at the man by the window. "I um, well I thought maybe you and Michael would like to join me for dinner. Just the three of us."
Kate's eyes welled up. "I think that's a wonderful idea." She turned to Michael. "What do you think, honey?"
Michael's smile was warm and loving as he moved to stand next to Kate. Wrapping an arm around her waist he said, "I would love the opportunity to get to know you better, Sam. Dinner sounds perfect."
*********
Angela answered the door to the hotel room, her eyes widened when she saw the man standing there. "Nicholas?"
Nick moved past into the room without waiting for an invitation. "Stay away from my daughter," he snapped without preamble.
David came forward to intervene but Angela waved him away. "Pardon me?" Her chin came up in a move very reminiscent of her daughter. "Who the hell do you think you are barging in here telling "
"Who the hell do you think you are trying to demean the choices Donna has made and the life she's built for herself."
"She's a secretary for god's sake." Angela shouted.
"She is a valued and integral member of the White house staff."
"Fancy it up any way you want, she's still a secretary." Angela scoffed. "She could have been anything she wanted to be. Hell she dumped that nice doctor to come here to fetch coffee for that man."
"Oh and she should have what, followed in your footsteps?" Nick asked, his tone laced with acid.
"I'll have you know I had a career architecture." Angie stated proudly. "Donna could do worse"
"Yeah, she should be just like you. A woman who could abandon her only child to be a high class whore for a married man." Nick snarled
"Okay, that's enough!" David stepped between them putting his hand on Nick's shoulder. "I think you've said enough, Moss."
Nick shook him off. "You've hurt Donna enough to last ten lifetimes, Angela. Tomorrow is special to her, if you can't be supportive and at least pretend you give a damn about her, don't bother to show up."
**********
"Mom? You here?" Josh shouted as he entered his home.
"Must you bellow, Joshua?" Dev said as she came in from the kitchen.
"Sorry, I didn't know if you were here."
"Where else would I be you foolish boy?" she teased reaching up to ruffle the dark auburn hair he had inherited from her, though hers was mostly snowy white now.
"I thought maybe you went to dinner with Donna and her folks. She said she was going to invite you." He removed his coat and dropped his backpack on the floor.
"And she did, she really is a very sweet girl." She gave Josh a leading look which he chose to ignore. She sighed and continued, "I just thought they should have some quiet time alone. They've had a bit of a day." She smiled up at him. "Besides, I wanted some alone time with my handsome son."
"Mom. . ."
"Oh hush, come sit, I made your favourite." She started to head into the kitchen.
Josh grabbed her arm and pulled her into a tight hug. "Have I ever told you how lucky I am to have had such great parents?"
Devorah, knowing exactly where this was coming from hugged him as tight as she could. "We were all lucky." She drew back and touched his cheek gently. "Your father and I had a long and very happy life together. And you, my child, make us both so very proud."
Josh pulled her close again. "Thanks, mom," he said, his voice muffled. "For everything."
*********
the end part 4