Title: Christmas 3/? Twilight Series 4 /?
By: chipmunk and leosimpishgrin 

Pairing: Leo/Margaret - Romance

Rating: R

Disclaimer: See Part 1-Posted 12-25-03

Warning: Sexual content –

The beginning has been read and rated a 'strong' R

*****

Tuesday morning - Dec 23

Margaret is still flipping and flopping like she has all night. Just knowing that the kids are across the apartment has her listening with one ear for them to call for her or anticipating one of them arriving at the bedroom door. Ever time after she wakes listening or if she actually goes and checks on them, she cuddles back closer to Leo, which brings him to awareness that she's pressing against him again.

Leo's more than pleased at her cuddling to him all night. He usually takes advantage each time to kiss on her bare skin at her neck and of course, his hand has to go exploring on the front of her, before he can settle back to slumber, with her firmly tucked tight to him.

A few times, Margaret finds the need to capture his hand and hold it in place against her middle, because he's definitely getting the night friskies. More than once she's aware that something else is firmly pressed between them. Morning seems like a long way off for her right now, with Leo tempting her.

Once again during the night, after Margaret stirs and moves against him, Leo sighs with acceptance, after his failing attempts to get some 'middle of the night' loving going is cut short. He gives up each time after her curtailing his night maneuvers, chuckling softly against her ear, kissing the edge and pulling her tight to settle his hips firmly against hers, letting her 'feel' how she's effecting him even in his sleep. He's not a patient man, not when it comes to his Margaret. Morning can't come soon enough for him.

Well before the winter dawn, Leo knows it's time for them to give up any attempt of actually getting any restful sleep. They're both unable to lie still for any length of time. They're both impatient for morning.

Margaret's antsy for two reasons; the sleeping kids in the guest room and Leo giving her little love kisses that he's been brushing against her sensitive skin all night, with his sleep soften lips. That man is going to make her crazy, but she's so willing to follow him there and he knows it.

With them still cuddled together, Leo starts again with his tiny soft kisses to her neck and slides his hand under the back of her pajama top to caress her warm, bare skin. She moans with pleasure at Leo cheating and using her favorite weakness of a back rub to get her to relax, but, before she gets drowsy again, he slides his hand to the front of her to again explore his favorite weakness of getting a nice response from her nipples.

Margaret again groans, but this time it's with satisfaction to his touches.

Leo shifts slightly away and rolls her toward him onto her back. He leans over her to kiss her lips in a passionate good morning greeting.

Margaret reaches up and slips her arms around his neck, to pull him down on top of her to deepen the kiss. She can feel against her thigh that Leo is again getting frisky and this time she's ready to discover his motives. There is just one hitch today to their usual morning pastime. The kids might wake up and come in on them and she now wants to feel his warm skin on hers, as well. Margaret's mind is still able to rationalize during Leo's attentions to her lips and body, but just barely, "Leo, we need a plan."

Leo pauses with his lips exploring her soft skin long enough to breathe out, "Sure, Baby, whatever you say." He's putty in her hands at this point. Leo has now unbuttoned her top two buttons and resumes kissing her soft creamy skin.

"Leo, we can't do this here, with the possibility of the kids walking in," She stops speaking. Leo is making his way around her breast. His sucks gently on her nipple making her check her breath.

She pulls his smiling face to hers, to get his attention and to enable her to think clearly. "Leo, I'll go check on the kids, to make sure that they're sleeping soundly and you go start the shower to warm up. I'd have you go check the kids, but the front of you tells me that you're already warmed up." She gives him a little rub to the front of his satin pants, to assure him she's correct.

Leo chuckles and gives her a kiss at her correct assumption, "Good idea, Baby, they should sleep for awhile and if they wake and come into our room, they'll hear the shower running."

"We can lock the bathroom door," Margaret adds to her rapid planning.

"And the agent will not let them out of the apartment," Leo points out to ends her worries.

"Ok, good plan. Lets move." Margaret is now in a hurry to get to shower, as much as Leo is.

"Right behind you, Baby," Leo agrees and slides out of bed to do as he's bid.

"Leo, that's where you've been all night and it's part of our problem this morning. You have us both all hot and bothered with your night friskies." Margaret puts the blame where it belongs, but with happiness in her soft voice.

Leo's soft, deep chuckles of admission can be heard by Margaret, as she crosses the living room. That man is so bad and they both love it.

*****

Margaret is back in a flash, "Leo, the kids are sleeping like angels."

"Wonderful, as I have the devil in me right now," he turns and pulls her into a kiss.

"Leo, we may not be able to fool around for a long time, even with it being so early this morning. The kids won't sleep forever." She tries to warn him logically, but with his lips on hers, logic seems to be long gone by now, for both of them.

Leo gives her his best devilish grin, "Oh, good. Fast and frantic is fun too."

"You might be right at that, Leo," in Leo's arms she tries to remember that showering is actually for getting clean. "Leo, drop em."

"Whatever you say, Baby." He's so willing and quickly hooks his thumbs in the band of his satin pants and slides them off his hips to drop to the floor, a shiny dark pile at his feet.

Margaret catches her breath at the sight of his arousal and quickly follows his example and drops her pajamas to the floor like a sky blue puddle. He pulls her to him for kiss and a fast fondle.

Margaret knows their time is limited and quickly suggests, "Sweetie, lets move this to the shower. You know that you like me wet."

"Baby, you talk like that much more and I won't make it to the shower." Leo reluctantly backs away from her creamy body.

Once in the shower's warm spray, Margaret figures that they might as well do two things at the same time. He likes lots of bubbles and she applies a plentiful amount of body wash to her bath puff. She flips the shower to spray straight down and not at them any longer. She doesn't want them to rinse off too soon. Soap can be wonderful to play with.

Leo is hard to distract from his passion with her wet breasts, but Margaret makes him pause, for her to soap her body as he watches with lustful eyes. Then she starts to rub the soapy puff over his upper body, teasing his nipples with the texture of the puff, both softly caressing and the netting stimulating to him as well. He moves back in, to take her in his arms. He kisses and nips at her warm and wet neck, just below her ear. She makes use of the puff to stroke him over the rest of his torso. Reaching behind him to rub the area with the tattoo, which interrupts his wandering hands and suckling mouth long enough for him to growl at her with a sexy tone. To again get a growl of satisfaction from him, she uses the puff to spread soap bubbles over his hips. He pulls them closer together and sliding his hand down her soapy arm, he confiscates the puff from her hand. Margaret is not surrendering her quest to simulate all of his skin with bubbles and reaches down with her hands to massage the bubbles around on the cheeks of his hips. Purposely pulling his hips in firmly to hers.

He manhood is now pressing on her springy mound and it's driving him crazy.

Leo tries to keep his voice down, "God, Margaret. I love you so much. I just can't touch enough of you, all at once."

She can tell from the breathlessness of his voice that Leo is climbing to the top of his passion. She moves her soapy hands to the front of him and caresses him with long soapy stokes and teases a few fast flicks at the top with her thumb. He moans and instinctively rubs himself against her.

Leo whispers in her ear, "Margaret, I might go insane at your touch." She kisses his lips and her hands now direct his manhood lower, so he will be able to rub between her legs and past her center, as they have before in bed.

He's surprised at her bold move and her trusting him not to hurt her. He gently asks her, "You OK with me stroking against you, while we're standing? We've not attempted this before in the shower." At her soft kiss and a shift of her hips, she lets him know that she is.

His voice is husky and soft, "Trust me, Baby. I know you're not able for me to enter you fully without pain yet. I can be careful."

She whispers to him, their wet soapy bodies nearly joined. "I trust you, Leo."

He gently thrusts for a minute or two and listens to her moans that are matching his. The soapy bubbles are helping now, as he slides against her, feeling the heat from her, but he's losing any sense of time. For Leo it's like a fantasy come true. He soon clutches her tightly against his chest with one arm for support, His face is buried in the crook of her neck and his breathing is shaky. His body starts small shutters and with his other hand he moves his manhood, to aim lower to the bottom of the tub, as he crashes over the edge. She places small kisses to his shoulder and makes long strokes up and down his back. Giving him the support he needs for the moment.

As soon as he recovers, he immediately starts his assault on her body again, hoping to return her kindness and bring her some sexual pleasure. She seems be really relaxed, after her prior worries about the kids, but Margaret's shown that she's as frantic as him and that she's there to play with her Leo. Well he's more than willing now, to play with his Margaret. He stokes his wonderful hands up and down her body, to bring all of her to a heightened awareness. His deepens their kisses to tease her tongue with his. He caresses her hips, before reaching his hand in between them to stroke against her center, now that she's in a high state of passion and is moaning her approval at his attentions. He's learned that she has to have several kinds of stimulus at the same time, for any chance of her reaching her peak.

He remembers something that they've not tried. He doesn't know if she'll be capable of achieving satisfaction. In bed it's still hit and miss, but the successes are getting better. He grins, as today he thinks she might be able to in the shower, after the eight hours of foreplay he's been giving her all night, as she tossed and turned. He has a new trick up his sleeve and it should be fun trying. He pulls his face back enough to look at her face, with her lips puffy from his kisses, "Baby, can I play around with the shower nozzle to stimulate you more?" At her quick glance at the detachable showerhead, he grins and sounds hopeful, "You know if you twist the head it pulses." At her happy look of understanding, he grabs it off the hook and twists it to pulse. He then lifts her leg to his hip. She grabs him firmly, in a trusting hug, as she turns herself over to his loving administrations. Leo leans back against the wall of the shower, to steady them, as he aims the shower at her pleasure point, it's warm pulses gently beat against it, while he also circles it with a finger of his other hand. At her surprised moan of joy that she muffles in his shoulder, he lowers his head to suckle at a nipple, sucking and licking and sucking again. He's working on her best erogenous zones.

It's too many sensations at once for her body to resist and in wonder she feels herself nearing the peak, a place she seldom even dreams of, let alone achieves. Only her Leo has the patience and persistence to give this to her. She's nearly sobbing in his shoulder as she breaks over the top and floats back down.

At the sign that she's peaking, Leo lets the shower nozzle swing free from his hand, to wrap his arms around her in loving support. His mouth finding hers to capture her moans of joy. It takes a great effort on his part, to give this gift to her, but he's not complaining. It's a labor of love.

Now that they're happy and complete, they return the nozzle to enable them to rinse and then exit the shower. Each grabbing a fluffy towel to wipe off, he dries her back and she dries his to finish. Due to the early hour of the morning they re-don their sleepwear, the children might wake early, as well.

With the apartment still quiet and the alarm not yet gone off, they return to bed to cuddle in the happy afterglow, after their not so fast and very satisfying shower.

*****

Margaret is once again resting with her back pressed against the front of Leo in bed. She's stroking the hairs on his forearm draped over her and can feel his warm breath against her neck, where he's pushed her red hair aside to enable him to place tiny kisses there, as he feels so moved to do so. She has been remembering the wonderful gift he gave her this morning. "Leo, I just have to ask, since I'm so amazed, but where did you come up with the idea for your 'new toy' in the shower?" He chuckles against the back of her neck and it sends goose bumps of delight down her back, making her wiggle at the sensation. She's definitely very aware of sensations to her skin this morning.

He should have known that she would have to ask, "Baby, I have to confess. Remember last weekend when Josh and Donna were here. Donna left to go take her shower and Josh followed her. Well, I was sitting closer to Josh than you were and when he got up, I heard him breathe to himself that she might enjoy him making her happy with the pulsing showerhead. He didn't realizing that I overheard him, but the more I thought about it, the more I thought that someday we might try it. Luckily, it seems to have worked like a charm." He chuckles with happy satisfaction at being able to give her the same joy she so generously gives to him.

"Thank you, Leo. You definitely are resourceful." She cuddles happily with a wiggle against him. The edge is now taken off their previous frustration.

Lying there and savoring the quiet time waiting for the alarm to start their day, Margaret speaks softly, "Leo, I wanted to thank you for suggesting that the kids stay here after Colin left and making yesterday so enjoyable for all of us."

Leo reassures her, as he rubs his hand against the skin exposed by her oversized top that's trying to slip off her shoulder, "Well, I really enjoy having them here. They're great kids and they're definitely unique individuals, for ones so young. Both of them seem to be really mature and yet little kids at the same time."

Margaret sighs, "Yeah, and I was impressed at how you handled Katie after she was down to Ron's office. I'm sure that I'd have either blown up at her or have resorted to wringing my hands with worry. You knew just how to handle her," Margaret honestly admits to him and then asks, "Was it instinct or did you learn it with Mallory?"

"Well, Margaret, actually it was from a lot of things. Most parenting is from instinct. Kids don't come with instructions and yes, I did get experience dealing with a strong-minded little girl, in Mallory. Then, add in the fact that I've been dealing with another stubborn Ryan female for over a dozen years." He chuckles as Margaret flips over in his arms and punches him gently on the chest, at his dig about dealing with her all these years of working together.

"What do you mean by that comment about another stubborn Ryan female?" Margaret asks with a teasing growl of her own.

Leo gives a low laugh as he captures her hand with his and entwines his fingers with hers. "You should have seen Katie with her arms crossed in defiance, as Ron packed her back to my office under his arm. She was not backing down to the head of the President's Secret Service detail. You wonderful Ryan females must believe in going up against anyone, to defend your point. You sure don't back down from me, till I actually growl at you."

"You might be right there, Leo." Margaret admits with a smirk of satisfaction, now taking his comment as a compliment. She snuggles in with her face tucked under his chin and they nod off for a moment, content to rest in each other's arms.

*****

The next thing that they're aware of is the sound of two little voices at the foot of the bed.

"I remember Mom and Dad sleeping like that. Adults do that when they love each other." Katie explains to her little brother, forgetting to keep her voice down in the room with sleeping adults.

"But, Dad said that they're not married. Don't people that love each other get married?" Ben is sure that the answer won't help him to understand. People are harder for him to figure out than math or computers.

Leo and Margaret are now awake and not moving, as they listen to the two small ones working out their relationship. Both adults are having a tough time of not snickering.

'Well, maybe they will sometime soon and we can come back to DC for their wedding." Katie has a superior, but hopeful tone to her voice. "We might even get to be in the wedding."

The kids now are leaning on the end of the bed, facing each other, each resting on an elbow. Both are very at ease, while having this discussion.

Ben glances at the couple in the bed and back to his big sister, "Katie, Aunt Margaret and Leo hug all the time, even when they're sleeping," Ben sounds like he can't figure out why two people would find this comfortable. He looks down at his bare feet and wiggles his toes in the thick carpet.

Katie watches Ben's toe wiggling and also wiggles her slightly bigger toes in the soft carpet. "At least they're not 'kissing' again, Ben. They do 'that' almost as much as they hug. We got to do better at breaking them of the habit." Katie gives a screech, as Leo pops up and grabs her from the bottom of the bed, dragging her up between the couple for a loud, smacking, good morning kiss.

At Ben's sound of protest at being left out, Margaret reaches down and pulls up a willing Ben, who giggles at his aunt giving him fast little kisses all over his face, as his good morning kiss.

Katie's now feeling shortchanged and wiggles out of Leo's arms and tries to wedge in between her brother and her aunt, to receive her fair share of kisses.

Leo reaches for Ben and drags him over, trading kids, tucking him backward against his chest. He proceeds to gives Ben loud smooches on his neck, ear and cheek, till Ben is breathless with laughing and is weakly trying to cover his face with his hands, which Leo is kissing on a well.

Margaret is kissing Katie all over her face and neck, as fast as she can, not stopping at Katie's laughing protests, till Katie is weak and surrenders.

While the adults lie back and the kids rest against them to catch their breath, Katie remarks that she remembers her parents doing this to them when they were really little. She snuggles in against her aunt savoring lying in a cuddle, with female arms around her that she so longs for as a little girl. It makes her feel safe.

Ben rolls over, now that Leo is lying back, to rest his head on Leo chest like he does with his dad. Leo is instinctively rubbing Ben's back and Ben is making happy sighs of contentment, while he recuperates from the fun of getting the adults awake. It such hard work for little kids.

"Margaret, is it a Ryan trait to love getting back rubs?" Leo smiles at the Ben's enjoyment.

"Must be, Leo. I can only speak for myself," Margaret grins at Katie nodding her head in agreement and immediately rolling on her stomach to get her back rubbed by her aunt.

With the kids content between them, the alarm soon rings to disrupt the quiet time that they're sharing. Ben immediately announces to them that he's starving.

Katie adds in her two cents, "Ben's always hungry. Dad thinks he's getting ready to do a growing spurt."

Leo scoops the giggling boy off the bed with him, "Ben, we better hurry to the men's side of the apartment to get dressed. We have pancakes to make this morning." Ben's eyes practically sparkle with delight. Not only at being included as one of the men by Leo, but that he gets to help Leo fix breakfast.

Leo is in as much of a hurry to get to the kitchen, as Ben is. His coffee is waiting. He starts to walk around the bed, still carrying Ben.

Katie pops off the bed to run to get her clothes from the guest room and calls back, "Aunt Margaret, wait for me in the 'ladies' side. I want to watch you as you do your hair and makeup."

Leo stops at the other side of the bed and bends to give a sitting up Margaret a kiss, with Ben now tucked against him, putting him in between the adults. Ben's protest at the yucky kiss has the adults laughing again.

Margaret smiles as she hears them planning the pancake making process in the guestroom's bathroom, as she comes out of the kitchen after getting a mug of coffee to enjoy while dressing.

After finishing her hair curling, with some added advice from Katie, Margaret is sitting at her vanity table with Katie at her elbow watching. Katie makes the statement, "Aunt Margaret, I can't wait till I'm old enough to wear make-up. I'm going to have a huge case to carry all my make-up and lotions and nail polish. I plan on being a independent woman that looks wonderful." Margaret looks at Katie's wishful face reflected in the vanity mirror, "Well, Miss Wonderful, how about just a little of this?" Margaret puts just a light dusting of blush on Katie. She then gives her a spritz of cologne, before applying it to herself.

Katie is so pleased at the touch of makeup from her aunt, just like she's grownup. Katie's face lights up at a thought, "Hey, Aunt Margaret, I have some lip balm that's tinted pink. I can use that for my lipstick."

Colin and Granny Wilson may choke Margaret for getting her started wanting to use makeup. All little girls want to play makeup. Margaret stipulates to Katie at her return, "Katie, It's only OK for the makeup, since it's the holidays and you're not in school. It's a treat, because you're going to work at the White House and we want to look professional."

Katie is in seventh heaven. The holidays just keep getting better and better.

*****

Margaret looks with astonishment at the amount of pancakes that Ben has eaten. "Leo, is he going to get sick later? He's eaten as many as you have."

Leo exchanges a look with Ben, "He's fine, Margaret. He's a growing boy. I imagine that when he gets to be a teenager, he'll match Josh at eating everything that is not nailed down in the kitchen."

Ben grins at Leo defending him, then turns to his aunt, "Yeah, growing up is hard work and I'm the shortest one here."

Margaret reaches over to ruffle his red hair so much like hers and he reaches up to smooth it back down. ~Girls, they just don't understand about being a guy.~ Ben goes back to finish his pancakes and cold milk.

*****

It's time to clear the table and get to the office. Katie wants a morning job to do and she gets to tell the agent that they'll soon be ready to go. This morning, she also has her own reason to talk to the agent. She takes the initiative and asks, "Agent Lewis, can you help me send a message to Agent Butterfield? I'd like to set up an appointment to see him again today on an important matter." She likes the formality of the Secret Service and is trying to sound professional.

Agent Lewis nods and replies, "Yes, Miss Ryan. I can convey that message. I'm sure that Agent Butterfield will contact Mr. McGarry's office about a time." He's sure that Ron Butterfield will make time for her, with her staying here with Leo and Margaret.

She knows she's just a little kid, so she reveals her reason to the agent, in hopes that it will add weight to her request, "I want to make an appointment with Agent Butterfield to apologize for something in person. I won't take up much of his time."

Agent Lewis is impressed with her honest character. She obviously comes from a good family. She just might have the makings of an agent in her.

With him being assigned to Leo's detail, he was apprised, before coming on duty that she might have a fascination with weapons, after her determined stand with Ron Butterfield yesterday. It also made the White House grapevine of Ron carrying her through the halls, like a sack of potatoes under his arm, to return her to Leo. The black look on her face at the time told everyone that she was not happy or backing down.

*****

In the car, the kids are in the back seat between them, with it being the safest place for them to be, for the short ride to the White House. Ben is sitting tucked under Margaret's arm and since he really can't see out the window, he's lost in his own world for the moment, holding his teddy bear facing him on his knee.

Once they're on their way, Katie speaks to Leo of what she's done, "Uncle Leo."

Leo looks over smiling at Margaret, "Oh no, Katie's using 'Uncle' Leo again." He looks down at Katie, "Confessing already this morning, Pixie, or do you need rescuing from another adventure?" He pulls her close against his side to let her know that he's not serious or upset. He's getting the idea that Katie is one of those kids that just naturally finds herself in scrapes, whether she goes looking for them or they just find her. Life with Katie will never be dull. He finds her to be a wonderful gift added to his life, but he knows that at times Colin must want to 'give her away', but then she looks at you with her light-blue eyes and you love her all the more, for her zest for life.

"Uncle Leo, I've been calling you that since yesterday," she sounds like it's been forever. Time passes differently for a child. She pauses to take a deep breath and sits a little straighter, before she continues, "I wanted to be honest and tell you what I did this morning. When I talked to the agent at the door, I asked him to set it up for me to talk to Agent Butterfield today. I want to apologize to him for my behavior, in person." She has a sound to her voice that is a mixture of both impending doom and the need to make it right that only kids seem to be able to master. She twists to look up at Leo's rugged face that she can already read. She quickly remembers the many looks it has had for her, over the last two days. She needs him to trust her again and not be disappointed in her, to prove herself again.

Leo leans down and places a kiss on top her head and pulls her in for a hug again. "You're a good kid, Katie. You're a good girl." It's high praise from Leo. He takes Katie's hand to hold for the rest of the trip. He knows that her facing Ron in his office will be a brave and somewhat scary thing. He reflects about yesterday with her and Ron, maybe not so much with Katie.

*****

When they arrive at the White House, Leo holds a hand of each kid, till Margaret gets them signed in, the process is faster today, possibly due to Leo waiting with them. He gives a small smile at the kids rapt attention to their surroundings. Katie is focused on the security check-in process and she would've slowed down the works, if she were allowed to 'help' Aunt Margaret. Ben is interested in the room and the people that pass through it going to the various jobs they perform for the White House, gently swinging his bear. Leo follows Ben's scan of the passing staff and flashes a real smile at the thought of how he must look to them. Just like a normal person visiting with children.

Ben looks at Leo's hand holding his, it's different than his Dad's, not tan and toughened by hands of labor, but still comforting to hold, with his firm grip and long fingers that are wrapped around his small hand. Ben gives the hand a quick two tugs and looks up at the face that's become familiar to him, "Leo, can I ask you something?"

"Sure, Sport, anything." Leo quickly assures him.

"Can I call you Uncle Leo, like Katie does," Ben looks at him hopefully.

Leo smiles gently down at the small boy, "I'd be very happy if you would, Ben."

"Thanks, Uncle Leo." Ben swings his bear happily with more energy. Looking, today, like the small boy he is and not the little man the world usually sees from him with his intelligence.

*****

After the senior staff meeting, the President has Leo to stay behind to discuss how they're escaping the White House for a shopping trip this morning.

"Sir, Ron will be here in a moment to finalize the last minute details for today's trip." Leo adds, "Mr. President, your annual trip to the old book store is set for tomorrow afternoon." Leo is trying to keep the interest of the President, who is happily anticipating the day's outing. The President is as bad as any kid at Christmas, with not waiting well.

Ron arrives on schedule, "Mr. President, the Secret Service has locked down the mall for an hour this morning for you. The only ones in the mall will be cleared employees that are scheduled to work."

"Ron, am I going to the same mall as last year? I need one with a good jewelry store. I want to get Abby a new set of pearls." Jed has a plan and he'll have Leo there to keep him from screwing up his selection.

Ron clarifies for the President, "Sir, we always use a different mall each year for security reasons. Mr. President, there's a variety of stores in the mall, including at least one jewelry store." Ron was careful to find a mall in the area with a good selection of small stores. It's easier to scan the smaller ones individually, than a few large one.

"When is Abby and Margaret going shopping?" the President asks Ron with some uncertainty.

Ron is glad he can answer this, as he never knows what the President will think to question, "Mr. President, The First Lady is schedule to do her shopping at a different mall this afternoon, after we do a quick sweep and double her detail. Sir, I assure you, both of the women will be safe."

"Yeah, but the credit cards won't be," The President jokes. "Hey, why can't the girls go with us at the same time? We can ditch them long enough to go into the jewelry store." Jed is warming to his new idea. He might even pick up a clue or two about what Abby is getting him for Christmas.

Ron hates to back the President down, but it is his job, "Sir, we really can't do that on this short of a notice. Mr. President, it will spread the agents too thin to cover both of you and 'you' are the agents first priority. That would leave the First Lady without adequate protection."

Charlie arrives at the door, "Mr. President, Toby, would like a moment with you when you're done."

The President sees Toby standing in the outer office behind Charlie, "Toby, come on in. We're just plotting my escape."

Toby enter hesitantly, "Yes, Sir, I heard you're shopping this morning with Leo. Sir, I can come back. I wouldn't want to interrupt you plotting your escape route." Toby says with a small sarcastic smile.

"No, Toby, sit. Sit. We won't be much longer." The President waves him to a chair with confidence that Toby will comply.

Leo adds a final point to the President previous question, "Sir, I like to remind you that Margaret and I have the kids with us today. We really can't both be gone from them, at the same time."

The President looks at him not understanding, "Leo, they have the run of the West Wing. I'm sure that the staff would watch them for a short while." The President tries to defend his request and to sway Leo into agreeing.

"Mr. President, I don't think so. Margaret would worry the whole time and really not enjoy herself." Leo hopes that his reasoning will change the Presidents mind. "Sir, Let's go with the original plan that Ron has set up."

The President throw up his hands, "All right, Leo, I give up. You know you're ruining my chance to catch Abby buying my gift." Leo gives him a look that said he should have known that his friend had an alternative motive. The President easily reads his friends face. ~He knows me so well.~ "All right, the girls will go later. Leo, does Ron knows what types of shops you want to visit?"

Leo smiles at his friend for even asking, "Besides the jewelry store, I'd like to look in at an electronics/computer store and possibly a toy store." He was hesitant to mention the last one to his friend. He hopes that store shopping goes well.

Even Toby rolls his eyes at the thought of the President in a toy store. Thank God he has not been commanded to go. Toby plans on a fast exit from here.

The President grins at Leo's worried look, "Ron, it's a go then."

Ron quickly gets up to leave, before the President changes his mind again and he has to change it back. Tactfully, of course, "Thank you, Mr. President."

"Now, Toby, what can I do to help you." The President is now getting impatient to clear his schedule. He gets to leave soon.

Toby shifts with a little nervous discomfort, "Sir, I just wanted to give you the Christmas toast suggestions, for you to look over and the Christmas blessing you wanted to start the dinner with."

The President scans the pages quickly, not really reading, which he knows drives Toby nuts, "Thank you, Toby, I'll look them over more carefully when I get back and let you know which toast I like later today."

"Thank you, Sir. If I may, I'd like to go and check with Sam about the speech notes you wanted for the start of the dance." Toby has other things to get done today, before the majority of the staff starts to disappear on him for the holiday.

"Sure, Toby, I'll get back to you." The President grants him permission to leave, as Toby is already shifting his weight toward the door.

"Yes, Sir, thank you." Toby leaves out the same door that he entered by, to the outer office.

Where he finds Ron just hanging up from a call at Charlie's desk and they fall into step together, as they leave.

Toby makes the comment, "Well, Ron, at least Leo put a stop to the President's idea of leaving the kids to roam free in the West Wing halls, unsupervised, going from office to office like elves."

Ron makes a sound of disbelief, "They'd be worse than elves, they're smart kids. What they could think of, to get into, is staggering. I think we should put a tracker ankle bracelet on each of them." He turns to look at Toby without breaking stride, "Wonder if I could sell it to Margaret? At least we'd know where they are at all times."

"Tied to a leash would work just as well," Toby suggests, even with the fact that he likes Ben.

"No, Toby," Ron replies sarcastically, "A tracker device doesn't require a person to check on them to see if they managed to get untied and are roaming loose." Ron gets serious again, "I still opt for going with the tracker idea." Ron has learned to rely on his security devices. Kids wandering freely in the White House could be a nightmare.

*****

At the closed mall, the President's limo pulls up at the side door, near the end where most to the shops are that the President and Leo are interested in, according to their input at the briefing.

The President gets out and as Ron has instructed him, he moves quickly to gain the safety of the malls inside area. Leo is whisked in the mall almost as quickly, right behind him. The two men are shortly walking shoulder-to-shoulder, as they walk toward the center aisle, where an assistant is waiting to guide them if needed. "Hey, Leo, you want to hit the toy store first, maybe they have a Toys R Us," Jed suggests, like they're boys looking for some fun at the mall.

Shortly after entering the Toy store, the President has already been playing with several noisy rescue trucks and arguing about the violence of some of the toys. Soon after that, Jed and Leo are easy found by their voices at the video games display, with joysticks going furiously. When they both won a game each, Jed demands a playoff game. Leo hands his joystick to Charlie. He can now guess accurately what little Gus is getting for Christmas from Grandpa Jed. He has real purchases to make. He has kids to buy for this year. Oh, boy! Now, how is he to get the gifts past Margaret's approval? For the gifts, he has a few ideas in mind, but he agrees with Jed that kids love video games. Leo has to keep in mind that they have to fly home, taking what they get for Christmas with them on the plane. So, he's thinking small, lots of small.

After he makes his purchases, the items are taken to the limo escorted by an agent and he knows right where to find the President. Leo smiles at Jed getting loud and making threatening declarations to the game's inventor, the joystick and, of course, Charlie, who is giving the President a total beating at the child's game. The President glances up when he hears Leo chuckling at him losing. "Glad to see you're so amused at me getting pounded by Charlie. He has the advantage of growing up with a joystick in his hand. Thanks a lot for tag teaming me here." The agents are getting restless at the President yelling and moaning in the toy store and keeping moving closer to his location. It really makes them nervous.

Leo takes Jed by the arm after he loses the game to Charlie, to pull him from the store. "Come on, old friend, let the kid enjoy his victory. I need to find the computer/electronic store." He tempts, "Mr. President, they should have games there for the computers."

The President pauses and looks back to Charlie. " Get them to bag one of those game machines up for me. Be sure to include that game."

Charlie grins, but has to be logical, "Sir, it's a kids toy."

The President barely hesitates before agreeing. "Then, get some other non-violent games that Gus will like and we can keep it at the White House for when he visits. If you're real good, Charlie, you and Zoey can use it once and awhile."

"Yes, Sir" Charlie grins, watching his timing and adds just loud enough to be heard, as the two older men pass out of the store's door. "Sir, we'll make sure 'not' to use it when you're around."

*****

Leo knows that his shopping needs are giving the President a great deal of entertainment. When they enter the electronic/computer store, the two men are tempted to check out the DVD's display, just inside the door.

The President confides, as he flips though the titles, "Leo, I can get any movie I want to view at the White House, new or old, but I still enjoy our movie nights in the residence the best."

Leo smiles at the good times they've had, after they introduced the First Couple to movie night and the fun of acting like teenagers again, necking with the lights down low. "Me too, Sir. We should try to do it again after the first of the year."

"Hey, Leo. Look at this one, 'Pirates of the Caribbean'. Looks like one the family would like as well as me. I guess everyone is going to these DVD's now instead of videotapes.

Leo looks around scanning the store, while the President decides on a few more movies, for him and Abby to watch while tucked in bed, according to him.

Leo glances back to the display and over to the near tower of DVD players waiting for Christmas shoppers. He has a brilliant idea for a gift he needs to purchase. He moves to the Presidents side and lets him in on his idea. "Sir, you think we could quickly pick out a few that are rated for families, for me?"

"You know, Leo, you're a big boy. Margaret and you can watch R rated movies, if you want." The President teases him.

"Sir, are you going to help or are you going to torment me some more?" Leo asks knowing what the President will answer and regrets immediately his question. "Sir, let me remind you that the sooner we get the movies picked out, the sooner we move on to computer games."

"Leo, you just said the magic words." The President is hoping for a display model to try out the games.

*****

At the computer store, Leo again leaves Charlie to explain how to play a new computer game, while he moves around the store to make a few more purchases for his newly expanded family. He even finds one that they can share with the kids, with their computer at their home.

Leo leaves his credit card with the assistant to finalize his purchases, while he goes to let Charlie know that it's time to unplug the President from the computer.

At the President ignoring Charlie's attempts, Leo leans in close to the President's ear and whispers" Mr. President, it's time to finally get to the main reason we came shopping today. The jewelry store."

The President turns and grins at him, "You mean it's time for you to spend some real money, Leo." Charlie takes the opportunity to remove the joystick from the President's hand and quits the game, even with the President voicing his displeasure at being out maneuvered by Charlie.

*****

While walking in the hall listening to the carols playing and doing some window-shopping, the President gives into temptation, "Leo, this is the best. It's an old fashion confectioner's shop. Look at the taffy machine in the window. Cool! The cook is adding red to the white to get it to stripe. I gotta have some to take back to the staff. Charlie, get a good amount of taffy from there and make sure he gives us some of the striped. I want to slip some to Gus and Annie when they get here."

Leo looks as his friend with exasperation, "We'll, Sir, I'm sure Liz and Abby will appreciate you giving them a sugar high. I better keep an eye on my two or you'll have them bouncing off the walls of my office." He rolls his eyes at the look of delight on the President's face, at his comment.

*****

Entering the jewelry store, Leo is surprised at the upscale look. He just might get all his shopping done in one place. Leo loves to give jewelry. It's one of the benefits of having money that he easily learned to enjoy. Jewelry selection is another of his hobbies that he has enjoyed for years. He knows his stones and he never has to worry about complaints from his gift recipients. This store is nice, it's hard for him get away from the office at this time of year, not counting the fact that he still has to take his agents with him out in public. Leo looks at Jed and sees the pleased look he's wearing, as he walks past the clear display cases in the center of the floor. He knows that Jed is not as knowledgeable about jewelry, as he is, so Leo needs to keep an eye on his purchases, Jed buys what catches his eye. Leo hopes this goes well, just how much trouble can the president cause in a jewelry store. The two men are semi-private in the store after Jed greets the owner, who discreetly waits to the side, watching to offer assistance if needed.

Charlie, being the only staff member roped into staffing the President, is there to finalizing the purchases for the President and he quietly signals to the owner and his assistant to hold a distance, as he does. This trip is for the best friends to spend an hour, stolen out of their hectic lives, to just be friends shopping for Christmas. It's just once a year after all.

Leo joins Jed at a case of pearl items tastefully displayed in a near rainbow of color shades to choose from. Leo is pleased at the high quality of selection. "Sir, you need to decide what shade of pearl you're wanting to get for Abby. Are you looking to add it to an ensemble that she already has and match that shade or go for something in a new shade she might fancy? Why don't I let you study the selection and have the owner show you some?"

Jed looks at Leo a little bewildered, "You're going to let me have a go at this alone. I'm honored, Leo. Most times you choose the best and let me pick from that. I trust you to guide me with jewelry."

Leo smiles at his friend, "Sir, you run the country and make decisions that touch the lives of thousands. I think it's time I let you have a chance at using the knowledge that I have tried to teach you about jewelry. Just keep in mind to judge the stone's size, cutting and shade, as it applies. Then look at the metal of the setting or how it is assembled and the style. You might do better than you think. When you have it down to a few items, just let me know and I'll give you my opinion."

The President is more self-assured after Leo's review. He has heard it several times before.

Leo knows that this is a small gift to his friend. Jed has always wanted to be able to purchase beautiful jewelry for his family, with confidence in his ability. It's time he gives him the opportunity try on his own.

The owner seeing that the two are separating to shop moves a little closer, in case he needs to assist the President with information and viewing of individual items. The President watches Leo stroll to another nearby case. "Leo, What are you going to view?" Jed then taunts him, "I take it you're going to look for something to get Margaret for Christmas?"

Leo turn slightly back to his friend and slightly smirks, "I've have found with women that diamonds always work."

The President pounces on that and takes a few steps toward Leo. He sweetly teases, "Oh, Leo, while your looking at necklaces, don't forget to check out the diamond rings. You know, like for an engagement ring."

Leo instantly drops the banter and actually blushes at his friends teasing, it hits too close to his dreams. He steps a few steps back to met the President for privcy. Who sees that Leo is now serious. Leo softly replies, looking at the floor. "Jed, I can't yet. I don't want to rock the boat and push her. It might scare her. You know, too much, too fast. My Margaret is just now setting in to sharing our lives together 24/7. With the office and my security, it might be too much right now." He pauses and nods his head to the side with a quick twitch, but his eyes are still not catching his friend's eye, as he speaks in confidence to him. "Jed, I'm scared about it, too. I don't want to mess this up. Our lives together are wonderful." Leo never reveals much of his inner heart to others, but this last half-year has been a revelation in trust for him. It's a close and bonding moment for the two men. They closely stand facing each other with bowed heads nearly touching and their hands naturally hidden in the pockets of their overcoats.

Jed softly replies to his friends worries, "I'm sorry, Leo. I shouldn't tease you with something that's your heart's desire. Keep the faith, my friend. You deserve all that's good in life. Margaret is your life, Leo. It will happen. I know it will, Leo."

Leo looks up shyly at his best friend, at his confidence in the miracle happening in his life. He feels reassured by his friend's words and sighs with some relief. He knows that they should move on now. Their time alone is limited and he's grateful for his friend's pep talk. Leo grins at the President's face now, "Diamonds, yes, for Margaret, but not a ring."

"OK, go look at necklaces and stuff, Leo. Go see how much of your credit card you can use up while we're here. I'll go back and try and muddle through picking out the best pearls this shop has for Abby." The President is back in his jolly holiday mood again.

Leo looks at a nice display of ladies necklaces and other lovely adornments, he's thinking of his comment to Jed. He knows that all females love diamonds of any size, the female or the diamond.

He finds something beautiful for Mallory, Abby, and even Donna, since she's played a personal role in his life this year. The jeweler's assistant is impressed at Leo's selections being some of the better pieces and is near awed at his purchasing with just a nod and not overly concerned at the prices that he's quoting to him, before signaling his approval and moving on. Over at the side cases, Leo finds a small something for another special female in his life. Next, he looks at some of the ensemble sets that they have of matching pieces. Margaret has shown him the new dress that she plans to wear to the Christmas dance and he's going to use that excuse to finally purchase her more valuable jewelry. He's a little afraid that he may have to justify her accepting the gift. It definitely has to be diamonds and he thinks possibly emeralds to go with her dress. He finds it. They have the perfect gift, fate must have saved it special, just for him to purchase.

Leo finishes up with all the gifts for the females in his life. While waiting for his purchases to be boxed up, he looks over some of the heavier pieces for males and finds a great gift for someone especially close to him. It will be perfect, after the president mentioned the gifts that he's giving to the little boys, Ben and Gus. He moves over to help finalize the President's purchase and they're both pleased at the success that they've had shopping together.

They're done with the shopping after the jewelry store and head for car, sweeping to the open door and to sit inside. The car immediately whisks them back to the safely of the White House.

*****

After lunch, Margaret and Leo are to join the First Couple in the Oval Office and to bring Katie and Ben with them.

Ben is pleased that it's his turn to knock for admittance. The President knows by the soft sound of the knock that it has to be one of the kids and loudly teases, "Who's knocking at my door? It must be a mouse chewing on the woodwork?"

Abby give her husbands arm a small slap at his playing with the kids. But, she knows he's a kid at heart. He used to pull this trick on the girls when they were little.

Leo grins down at Ben and reminds him that they wait for permission, "Wait, Ben, you better answer the President first."

Ben hugs his teddy bear tighter under his arm, "Sir, It's me, Ben. Can we come in?"

The President is having a fun moment with this, "Who did you say was at my door. Maybe it's the cat instead?" He moves closer to the door, listening for the answer. Abby is smiling at Jed's antics.

Ben is getting slightly frustrated now. He knows the President can hear him. Ben glances at Katie beside him, since she just let a snicker slip out. He tries again, "Mr. President, we would like to come in there, so Aunt Margaret can go Christmas shopping. She might be going to buy presents. If we wait too long, it might be too late for her to go." Ben gives, in his estimation, the best reason to worry his little boy's heart knows.

Abby scolds at him, "Ahh, Jed, it's not nice to worry Ben about presents. At six, this is a big year for him."

The President pulls the door open, "My buddy, Ben. Come on in, we can't let the ladies be late for present buying. That's serious."

Ben looks up at the President, "Yes, Sir, it is and especially this close to Christmas."

The President pulls Ben to his side, for him to walk in with him and gestures for the others to follow. "Ben, I'm sorry, I wouldn't want to risk anyone's presents."

As they move to the center of the room he announces, "Abby, this young man with me is Ben Ryan and the golden pixie over there with Margaret is his big sister Katie. Kids, this is my wife, Abby."

Abby is now standing before Jed and Ben. She shakes the hand that Ben thrusts out to her, after quickly changing his bear to the other arm. "I'm Abby, pleased to meet you, Ben. We should see you and your sister a lot this week. We have a lot of fun events to go to together and you'll be spending time with our grandson, Gus." She turns to Katie, ", Katie, you 'are' an adorable pixie. I hear you can hold down Margaret's job now."

"Thank you, ma'am. Aunt Margaret told me that you're a doctor. I think that's an awesome job." Katie smiles at Abby with genuine admiration.

Leo smiles at Katie and adds for Abby's benefit, "Yeah, but Katie really wants to hold down Ron Butterfield's job and they seem to be at a stalemate at the moment about it." Katie puts her hand on her hip and gives a small mock glare at Leo for his teasing comment, but breaks into a grin when he continues to just smile back at her. ~Yeah, he's right.~

Abby and Margaret grin at Katie mock scolding Leo, with a look.

"By the way, Kids, you two can call me Abby, instead of Dr. Bartlet" Abby pulls Katie into a small hug of approval and chuckles, "Girl, you really know how to start at the top. Taking on Ron Butterfield and Leo McGarry. Good luck to you."

Leo leans forward and kisses Katie on top the head, "I apologize, Pixie. I'll be good."

Margaret knows that Abby and herself need to get going, with Abby's Secret Service detail waiting on them. She addresses the kids, "Speaking of being good. You two are always good, but remember that the West Wing is different than most places and has strict rules." She kisses the top of each one, with 'I Love you' added for good measure. With her lifestyle and in this city, you just never know the risks.

Jed is naturally feeling deprived at someone getting kisses and not him. He shoots a look of mock disappoint at Abby, "Where's my goodbye kiss? I feel left out."

Abby rolls her eyes at him, to the kids delight and then really lays a big kiss on him. "Jed, you are such a kid yourself. You have to have what the other kids are getting and then bigger and better. But, I love you for it." She gives him a second quick kiss, because she can't resist his grinning face of honesty at her remark.

The kids scrunch their faces up at the 'kissy' adults. Leo sees it and wants to make them really squirm, "Margaret, I'm not getting left out, either." She grins at him, knowing what his motive is. He pulls her to him and gives her a long and loud kiss that always makes the kids just cringe.

The kids can't stand it and even though they're in the Oval Office the antics of the adults has them forgetting their manners. Katie and Ben both break down and sound their displeasure with, yuck and ugh.

The President is delighted and Abby is hard pressed not to laugh out loud at the kid's reaction. The President asks the kids, "You mean you two don't like to see them kissing?"

Ben answers first, 'No, Sir. No way. They're smooching it up all the time at home."

Katie seriously adds, "Yeah, we have to break them up all the time."

Ben replies again, "Uncle Leo is so 'kissy' he even smooches on us kids, too." Sounding likes it's a dreadfully bad habit.

Katie nods her head to confirm her brother's assessment of her Aunt Margaret and Uncle Leo. "Dad kisses on us too, but he says it payback for driving him crazy. It must be a Dad thing, because Uncle Leo is a Dad."

Margaret is definitely blushing at this point, with the kids over dramatic disclosure.

Leo on the other hand is chuckling with delight, along with the President, at the kids revealing that they are at the 'against kissing' age. Leo scoops Ben against him asking, "You mean like this, Ben," and loudly starts smooching him in the side of his neck. Ben giggles in protest, as he tries to answer yes.

The President is also game for some fun, like Leo, as he did when the girls were little. He speaks to Katie, "If you think you're getting out of getting smooches, your wrong." He reaches for her, as she squeals in fun and backs up against Abby and Margaret. It doesn't do her any good and she's pulled in against the President for her own torture of neck smooches. Katie soon joins her brother giggling, till she's weak from it. He reminds her that he's a Dad of three girls.

The men soon quit when Charlie opens the door to remind them that the agents are waiting. The President looks up at Charlie and releases Katie toward the nearby couch to catch her breath. Ben joins her, after Leo frees him and gives him a nudge toward Katie. Both happy kids are still unable to quite stop giggling just yet. Someday, maybe they'll learn not to challenge Leo or his best friend.

Charlie grins and nods to the kids that are collapsing on the couch, "What's the matter with them?"

The President grins, while Leo and he both straighten their suit coats and ties, "It's nothing, Charlie. Leo and I were just torturing them."

Charlie grins at the two smiling kids, who are panting and nodding in agreement to him, at the President's comment. "They look truly tortured to me, Mr. President."

Passing Charlie as he holds the door, Abby and Margaret wave as they leave the kids to the capable hands of the two fathers in the room. They can't tell who's having more fun, the kids or the men. This is definitely a week stepped out of time, here at the White House.

*****

Margaret is glad that the agents picked her regular mall this year for the shopping trip. It makes it so much easier for her. She's so thankful that Abby is volunteering to share her security, so she can shop without Leo. He is still afraid for her to go out in public alone, especially in large open areas, even if friends are escorting her.

Abby and Margaret enter the formal wear store first to choose outfits for the kids to wear to the Christmas dinner and to rent Colin a tux. Abby is experienced with formal wear for kids, after surviving gala events in a governor's mansion with three girls.

Margaret pulls out her list of sizes for her brother and his kids. Margaret is so pleased that Abby volunteered to help with the selection, because she knows that this is Abby's element and loves the opportunity to shop for kids. Talking to Abby, who's happily making for the girls formals section, Margaret reveals her plan, "I'm ordering Ben a tux to exactly match the adult guys, so he'll be easy, if they have one that small, but definitely one with a shirt needing cufflinks just like the big guys."

Abby happily reveals over her shoulder, "Jed plans on giving both the little boys a pair of the White House cuff links for a Christmas gift. I just know that five-year-old Gus will insist on wearing his, since Grandpa gave them to him. It's good that they're old enough to wear cufflinks and not eat them. It makes them look so adorable, like little men."

"That should keep both little boys happy." Smiling at the thought, Margaret then adds," He'll also need black patent dress shoes, since that's what the big guys are wearing. I'm so glad this shop is famous for last minute rentals. I need to order Colin's tux, before we leave here. He cleans up so nice, even if he is my brother. You'll meet him tomorrow night at your family gathering. Leo's tux is already here to be cleaned. It's one of their nice services here. Leo and I can stop tomorrow on the way home, long enough for me, with his agent, to run in and pick up all the tuxes. Leo will wait in the car with the kids and the driver."

Abby nods in wholehearted agreement to Margaret's plans, it sounds great to her. She then continues working her way down the line of dresses. Reflecting on the happy memories of her girls at this size.

Margaret gives Abby some extra pointers that should be used in selecting, "Now, getting Katie in a dress might be more of a challenge. She's definitely not a frillies kind of girl. She'd be more happy with simple and classic. I hope she takes well to wearing a fancy dress."

Abby hands Margaret a dress to hold that might work and she lists off the members of her family that might balk at wearing formal attire. "Tell me about it, Margaret. Ellie's dress is hanging in a guest room waiting for her to arrive and Annie has assured me that she has a dress packed and ready to bring with her. Zoey is wearing a sky blue little number that should keep Charlie torn between keeping track of her and/or Jed. Yes, Zoey is attending with Charlie. They're new at being together and dating, so it should be interesting."

Margaret smiles at Abby's comment about the young couple, she might be right about it being interesting. She thinks out loud about choosing for Katie, for Abby's consideration, "Now, I know we need a color for Katie that will go well with her strawberry blonde hair. Not black, even if she would love it. To her, she'd happily think she looks like one of the agents. I can tell her that Mallory is planning to wear her black dress. It's a long slinky formal with spaghetti straps and she's going to wear a black lace stole with it." She giggles in anticipation, "Sam will have to remember to keep his jaw closed." Getting serious as she watches Abby make her way through the dresses, "For myself, I found a long formal in emerald green that Donna says does wonders for my eyes. It has a sweetheart neckline and is sleeveless in a shimmering satin. Leo just loves satin.

Abby's face lights up at Margaret's description, "Yes, emerald will definitely go great with your coloring." Abby lifts out another dress for consideration and hands it to Margaret to hang on the hook near by.

Abby smiles in reflection and reveals what she'll be wearing. "I've opted for my famous Christmas red patterned satin. It drives Jed crazy. He loves me in red. So, I'm wearing the same one again for him, since he requested it. It's so perfect that I'll never find one that's better. Much to the disappointment of the other designers."

Flipping through Katie's size, Abby finds the perfect dress. A deep rich burgundy velvet with a simple white satin collar and a tiny burgundy Rose bud at the center. It has a white satin sash to tie in the back and white satin cuffs, under short non-puffy sleeves that have a matching burgundy rose bud on each cuff. Margaret comments looking at it, "This is nice and the dress length looks like it should fall half way between her knees and her ankles."

Abby adds as they seem to be in agreement, "She can wear white tights and black patent leather Mary Jane shoes. She'll look adorable for Christmas."

Margaret ends the dress search, "This is the one then, Abby. Let's go get the rest done here. I still have gifts to buy."

Abby's happy face tells that she's game for some real girlfriend shopping.

They make for the rental area, after handing the dress to the hovering assistant with instructions on the accessories they've decided on.

*****

Abby is mainly there to help Margaret and has only a few purchases she wants to make. Lilly, her assistant helped her to do the Christmas shopping early this year, but she didn't tell Jed, as he would be searching for her hiding place, harder than the kids ever did. The East Wing is a good place to hide things.

Margaret needs to select several photo frames and albums. So they go in search of a gift shop. Abby is more than willing to help with this fun project. Walking along Margaret reveals, "See, Abby, here is what we had in mind. We have been taking pictures of the kids around the West Wing, while they are here and at the apartment, so they can look at them when they get home and remember their visit with us. I know they'll want to show the photos to their friends, as well."

"Margaret, that is a wonderful idea. It's a better gift than anything you could buy. Time is more important than things to kids."

"I'm hoping it gives them a feeling of family with Leo and me. There's only the four of us in my Ryan family. I'm missing so much of their childhood and I know that they miss me too. Someday, when they're older and wonder why I wasn't in their lives, as much as we all want, they'll have the photos and the memories. I know that they're really too young to understand the work we're doing, these years we're in the White House, but they can look back at the photos and know that they were here and we included them. That they'll know and understand the wonderful people gathered here to work for a better future for kids just like them."

"Margaret, hopefully, now that they're older, they can come more often to visit you. Having the kids around will just reminds us why we're here. They could end up with a collection of albums of their White House visits."

"Thank you, Abby." Margaret's eyes are shiny with happiness. "You don't know how great that sounds to me. Everyone is so supportive and that my family is welcome."

"Margaret, dear, I know better than anyone that childhood will not wait, whether in the Governors Mansion or the White House. Life passes too fast and is too short, go ahead and make the time for them, even if that means having them in the West Wing with you. Kids are flexible and the adults can learn to be flexible. You'll see this week. I support you having them with you and I could tell that our men did as well."

They find a shop with a nice selection of frames and albums. Abby, I think I'll get them the scrape book type albums and we can pass them around and have some of the people they've meet to write a note on the pages. The kids can add notes to remember the visit, while the memories are clear.

That's even better, Margaret. Those albums are going to be a hit, not only with the kids, but also for the staff. You may have to get extra prints of the photos.

"We're already planning on making some of them as extras to frame, for us to have at the apartment to remember their visiting us.

"Well, just don't forget a set for us of the kids," Abby puts in her request. "You know Jed will want a set. Hey, how about this bi-fold frame set. They'd work well for your desks at work. You could get few of them and decide later how to use them."

"Yeah, you're right." Margaret agrees picking one up to inspect it better. "They would look great on our desks and I could have one a home. I want to get some for the 8X10's. Let's check out some larger single frames. I need a special one for a picture I have for Leo." Margaret sees the gleam in Abby's eyes, "And no, it's not of me. He sees enough of me at the office, Abby, he doesn't need a photo me on his desk."

"Took the fun right out of that for me, didn't you girlfriend?" Abby remarks with mock sarcasium.

"I just knew where you'd go with that one, Abby. I'm learning fast how to keep up with how your mind works and boy is it fun." Margaret grins at her new friend with happiness.

They both share a chuckle as they continue to select several frames and the albums.

*****

While walking, with Abby, to the next store on her list Margaret worries to herself that her gifts won't be good enough for Leo, but she knows that value means little to Leo and they come from her heart.

She ignores her worries and they enter Borders Book Store. She wants to select some books for Leo. Maybe something on one of his hobbies would be nice. He now admits that he loves to lie in bed and actually read a real book, once in a while, usually when she bans him from helping with her bubble bath. They both need time alone to forget the world of DC that they live in. She has been trying to guide him into enjoying more quiet time, to relax and get himself away from his hectic world, if just for a short while.

Abby makes a few selections for last minute gifts, while Margaret studies a couple different sections dealing with Leo's hobbies. She finds two that she is pleased to find. It's too late to find them on the internet.

The women made their way at a leisurely pace, enjoying some window-shopping on the way back toward the car, when they near a Victoria Secret shore. Margaret has an idea, but for Katie, not her. "Abby, what do you think of Leo and I getting the kids small bottles of cologne to match ours. Is that too corny or not. Katie enjoyed the touch of blush and cologne I put on her today and if she had it at home with her, she could seem closer to me." Margaret sighs and continues telling Abby, "I know that Katie seems adjusted to the fact that her Mom is gone, but I think that she's really enjoying being with me this week."

"That's is a great idea." Abby is in total agreement, but worries, "Can Leo get cologne for Ben this close to Christmas?" Abby stops them to look at a display in a shop window.

"Sure, if he has them to ship it overnight and I know he will, just to watch me cringe at the shipping cost." Margaret takes out her notepad and makes a note to get him to order it, when she gets back to the office.

"What gave you this idea, Margaret?" Abby asks out of curiosity.

"The Victoria's Secret store, right over there, brought it to my mind. That's where I usually get my cologne." Margaret honestly admits, "I normally just order it online from their website."

"Oh, Margaret, lets make the secret service guys nervous. Let's check out Victoria's new holiday styles." Abby is game for some holiday fun.

"I could get a new little something in there, come to think of it, Abby. How about yourself?" Margaret has learned to trust Abby's impulses.

"Yeah, Margaret, you might be right. I think I could use a new nightgown for the holidays. Lets go see if we can find a gift for the guys, in our size." Abby gives her wonderfully wicked little chuckle that makes Margaret agree again that learning how Abby thinks is getting to be more fun everyday.

After walking around looking at the racks of satin and lace that would have the guys needing oxygen, Margaret holds up a teddy for Abby's opinion. "Abby, do you think this is a good gift for Leo?" She holds up a pale blue satin teddy with lace around all the edges and white tiny rose buds placed in tasteful locations. " I know he loves roses." Margaret asks, sounding coy.

"Honey, get him that and he won't care what else he or anyone else gets for Christmas. That will 'be' his Christmas." Abby face lights up with inspiration. "Better yet, get him a gift certificate and a catalog. He can order online. You might be surprised."

"That settles it then. Leo will never guess what I bought him for Christmas." Margaret is very pleased with her find and Abby's idea.

"Margaret, I'm following your lead." Abby holds against her a black satin gown that won't be leaving much to the imagination, but it'll definitely accent her curves well.

The ladies head to the counter with their choices and both purchase gift certificates for their men and request boxes to fix a catalog, requesting the catalog as well. Both girlfriends are smiling, but not a big as the guys will be on Christmas.

Very pleased with all the purchases they made at the mall, the ladies finally relent and lead the agents back to the car. They decide on the ride back to the White House that they need to finish off the day's shopping adventure with hot cocoa up in the residence. The world can wait 30 more minutes. It's time to put their feet up and recharge. It's been a successful day.

*****

Back at the West Wing, while the ladies are enjoying themselves shopping, Leo is reading reports at his desk and making notes. The kids are entertaining themselves with either drawing or coloring at his conference table, with the TV once again tuned to the Disney channel, but Leo is not panicking, he has the TV behind him still on the White House news feed. When things get too quiet, Leo looks up and finds Ben missing. "Katie, where did your brother go?"

"I guess he just wanted to walk. He knows not to leave the West Wing. He'll be quiet and not disturb anyone, after his debate with Toby yesterday." Katie assure Leo not to worry.

Leo is still amazed that he was not aware of Ben leaving the room, "How long has he been gone?"

Katie smiles at Leo slightly shocked face. "Just about fifteen minutes ago. Uncle Leo, we're used to entertaining ourselves, so we're a little more independent, I guess. Dad trusts us to be responsible in places he thinks are safe for us, like when we have to go on business with him, because Granny Wilson is not at home. You said we were safe here?"

"You are safe here, Sweetheart. It's OK that he took a stroll." Leo's sure that Ben is safe here at work and he has been introduced to the regular staff, but it might be a good thing to take a quick circuit of the area and see what he has found on his stroll. "I'm just going to take a walk around and see that he's doing fine. He's OK. I just didn't see him leave. You want to walk with me?"

"Is it alright if I stay here an watch the end of Kim Possible?" Katie is hoping she can stay to see the end, not knowing if she is allowed to stay in the office alone. She knows that security can have some unusual rules, from what her aunt has told her.

"You and your Kim Possible. Yeah, It's fine. I'll be right back." Leo gives her a crooked grin and goes in search of Ben.

Katie stays dreaming and wishing, as she watches Kim Possible, 'agent for good', once again save the day. She's not aware that someone is now standing in the room watching with her, till she hears a WOW behind her, after an exciting moment in the show, just before the commercial. She turns in her seat to find the owner of the voice and immediately pops to her feet.

"Sir, I didn't hear you come in." Katie still has a slightly surprised look on her face.

"I just came in looking for Leo. What channel is that? Cool cartoon." The President is now checking out the kiddy commercial.

Katie grins at his approval to her favorite show. "It's the Disney channel and Leo went to see where Ben went to on his walk."

The President smiles at her happy face, "Well, I was just here to tell him I found something he lost. When you see him next, can you let him know?" At the President's huge grin, Katie knows what he found.

"Yes, Sir, I'll tell him you were here looking for him." Letting him know that she's not going to tell Leo what she thinks the President found. She can tell that he wants to do that.

"Thank you, Katie. You can go back to your girl hero show now." The President points to the TV and then waves as he returns to his office.

"Yes, Sir. Thank you, Sir." Katie happily hopes back up on her chair, just at the show starts back up. She's rather pleased with herself at doing so well talking to the President, all by herself.

*****

Leo is strolling around peeking into offices, as he walks, just nonchalantly looking in as he goes by. He finally makes his way to the President's outer office and as he walks up to Charlie's desk he sees a smile on his face and Charlie then nods to the Oval Office and Leo rolls his eyes.

Leo moves over and knocks on the door. At the President's call of enter, he strides in quickly, but is at a loss when he sees the President sitting at his desk and there is no sign of Ben sitting on the couches. "Sir, I didn't mean to disturb you, but I was lead to believe that Ben was in here."

The President looks up with just his eyes, from his work on his desk, "Did you lose him already, Leo? Margaret has only been gone a little over 30 minutes."

Leo ignores the dig from the President, "Ben went for a walk around the West Wing and I was just looking to see where he was. The kids know that they're safe to look around the West Wing. I just didn't want him to disturb you. I know that you, like me, are trying to get as much work done today so we can take it easy the next two days."

"Yeah, Leo, I guess you're really working hard to lose a child, while you were at it." The President looks up fully at Leo with a happy face at Leo's dilemma.

"Sir, I'll just go look for Ben out in the bullpens." Leo is now looking impatient, as he waits for permission to leave the Oval Office.

"Leo, look behind you." The President is so pleased at having one up on Leo.

There behind him, in the back area, is Ben grinning at Leo. He's sitting at a small table where the on-going chess game, from yesterday, has been moved.

"Hey, Uncle Leo." Ben was happy at tricking Leo with the President. "The President invited me in, when I was out talking to Charlie. We're still playing chess. After I make a move, he tells me where to move his piece and then I take another turn. This is so cool. He can do it better in his head, than I can."

"See, Leo. I'm cool." The President is so pleased. "We're just playing a nice game of chess."

"Sir, are you sure it's all right for Ben to stay in here?" Leo doesn't want Ben to distract the President.

"Yeah, Leo. We're fine." The President explains, "If he needs to leave, he can go out and talk to Charlie or just walk for a while and clear his head from the game." He bends a little to look around Leo and Leo steps aside. "That OK with you Buddy Ben?"

"Yes, Sir. I'd like to stay and I can leave whenever you need me to." Ben sounds hopeful.

"OK, Sir, if you're both happy. I'll just go back to my office and read. Katie is watching TV in there." Leo informs both of them actually.

"Yeah, I know. It was some girl-hero cartoon. Cartoons on the TV in the CoS office? Who would have guessed, Leo?" The President can resist teasing Leo.

Leo gives him a pointed look and retreats to his office by the connecting door.

A short while later, Leo pops his head in through the connecting door, he's just making sure that Ben is not in the way in the Oval Office. "Sir, I was just checking in Ben in here and I'm going to take Katie down to the Secret Service department. I just wanted to know if Ben wants to walk along or does he have permission to stay with you and the chess game."

"Well, Ben, you want to take a break and go down with your sister to see Ron?" The President leaves the decision up to the boy.

Ben knows his sister and that she'll be awhile in seeing Ron, "Sir, I'd rather stay here, if it's OK?"

"Yeah, you can, Ben." He turns to Leo at the door, "We're fine, Leo. Ben and I are getting along wonderfully."

"OK then, Mr. President, I'll check back in on you two, when I get back to my office." He gives a wink to a smiling Ben, before returning to a waiting Katie. Leo knows that this time of Ben 'just hanging out' in the Oval Office will be more important to Ben as he gets older and looks back on it. With Margaret in his life now, the kids might be around the President more often than they ever imagined.

Now, time for Katie get things straight with Ron.

*****

After a few more moves by each of the chess players, Charlie breaks up the quite of the room, "Sir, Admiral Fitzwallace is here for your briefing.

"Thanks, Charlie, Inform Leo, would you? He went down to Ron Butterfield's office with Katie. Go ahead and send Fitz in." He loves the surprised look on Ben's face, when Fitz walks in the door. The President is pleased to give Ben this treat.

Fitz comes in and nods to Ben, as he walks past to the President. "Good day, Sir. I see you have some competition with a chess game today."

Ben is wide eyed with wonder. ~An admiral! A big admiral! ~

"I sure do, Fitz, and he's holding his own so far and we're only in the second day." The President is a little proud of Ben's chess playing ability.

"Wow, a real chess marathon." Fitz looks back at the small boy, whose feet don't touch the floor from the chair he's sitting in. "You hang in there little buddy. You might beat the President yet. What's your name, so I can brag about you to the rest of the guys?"

Ben immediately hops off the chair. He knows the man is an admiral, but doesn't realize that the important man in front of him is the Joint Chief of the whole military. Ben in his excitement forgets and is still holding his teddy bear under his arm. This is a dream come true. Ben moves to stand right in front of Fitz and looks straight up and salutes him, while answering, "Admiral, my name in Ben Ryan and I'm six." Ben grin is nearly ear-to-ear and he cranes his head back to see all the ribbons and medals on Fitz's coat.

Fitz glances with a grin at the smiling President. The men both know that this is a real thrill for the small boy. ~Oh, to be a small boy again with dreams of glory. ~ The admiral returns the salute and looks done at Ben delighted face, "Well, Ben, good to meet you. If you like, you can call me Fitz, since my title and name make a real mouth full, for a boy of six."

"Thank you, Sir. You really have a lot of metals and ribbons, Sir." Ben's voice is full of awe.

"You have a good-looking bear there, Ben. Does he have a name?" Fitz is not at all uncomfortable talking to a small boy and his bear, in the Oval Office.

"I just call him Teddy. Teddy bears are named for Teddy Roosevelt and a baby bear that makes it a good name for him. I take him everywhere, since Aunt Margaret and Uncle Leo gave him to me."

"That's a very good reason, Ben. A boy and his bear are inseparable. I know, I had one once, myself." He grins in confidence to the boy, "Some people think I'm just a big teddy bear."

The President snorts at that. He doesn't know of anyone in the White House or the Military that could be accused of that, but he's been hoping for Nancy McNally to see the teddy bear in Fitz.

The President has and idea, "Hey, Fitz, while we wait a minute for Leo to return and we can start the briefing, can you and Ben entertain yourselves, while I step out a minute?"

"Yes, Sir. We'll just have a short chat while we wait." He looks back down at the grinning face of the little boy.

The President cuts though to Leo's office, on into Margaret's office and returns with her camera. He knows that Ben will want a photo of, Fitz almost as much as one of himself.

In the few minutes that the President is gone, Fitz asks Ben, "You want me to lift you up here, so you can get a better look at the metals."

"Yes, Sir, please." Ben holds his arms up, still hanging onto his bear.

Fitz lifts him like a feather and sits Ben on his arm. Holding onto him by an elbow to steady him.

Ben touches the gold wings of the top of the block of metals. He's serious when he asks Fitz, "You must be really brave to have so many metals?" Ben is looking at him eye-to-eye now.

.

Fits replies with a soft chuckle, "Maybe I am brave, Little Ben, but I need to be, so little boys like you, know that big men like me, are watching out for you. You can sleep happy at night, safe with your bear." Fitz touches the teddy bear tucked under Ben's arm. "I'm just your 'big' teddy bear."

Ben then looks back the block of many colors, noticing that a few even have tiny stars on them and he gently traces his little finger down the rows of them.

The president returns, "Good, Fitz. I wanted to get a few photos for Ben to take home with him." He snaps one of Fitz and Ben, with the teddy bear. If Fitz ever decides to run for office, he will personally send his committee a copy of this photo. To show the lamb side of Fitz, instead of the lion that Fitz has to play in keeping America safe.

Fitz is still grinning and asks Ben, "Can you give me a hug, as a reward for my bravery, before I put you back down?"

Ben grins and happily gives Fitz the requested hug and the President is fast enough to get another photo of them. With Ben back on the floor the President request one more shot of the two standing together. It makes such a contrast of a really big man and a small happy boy.

*****

Leo walks to Ron's office with Katie, holding her hand while going there for support, but drops it at Ron's door. They both agreed while walking there that she started this and she needs to finish it on her own. She wants to explore and learn about the Secret Services role in the White House security, but she first needs to face the music. If she's really lucky, Ron might let her stay a while again today, if she can assure him there will not be a repeat of yesterday behavior. She's in luck. Ron is in a good mood, with things running smoothly today and not only accepts her sincere apology, but grants her request to remain in the department for a little while this afternoon.

*****

Leo gets back to join the briefing and now Ben has to leave the room. "Uncle Leo, if Charlie is busy, can I take a walk and see if I can find Josh or CJ? I'd like to see them again and I think I can find my way."

Leo gives permission with a caution, "OK, Ben, as long as you stays inside the double doors to the West Wing. I'll be right here and when I'm done. I'll come and find you. Sound good to you?"

"Thanks, Uncle Leo. You're swell." Ben addresses the President, "Can we still play chess, after your meeting?"

"We'll see, Ben." The President turns to glance teasingly at his old friend and looks back, " 'Uncle' Leo might have other plans for you and your sister. Go take your walk and we'll see later."

"Thank, you, Sir." Ben walks over and lets himself out the door to the outer office and gently closing the door behind him.

*****

Down at the Secret Service agency, Ron decides to explain how a few things work in the security system, to keep Katie out of them, like how basic security alarms work. He knows she has the curiosity of a squirrel.

After she's attentive and shows him that she's truly willing to learn, he puts her to work to keep her out of trouble, knowing that Katie will probably keep him busy, not the other way around, as he hopes.

Katie is so pleased. She can be Ron's assistant this afternoon.

He has her checking the batteries to some spare earpieces, wrist mics and flashlights. Showing her that all the equipment has to be in tip-top shape and always ready for use. When her detail is completed, he lets her wear an earpiece to hear the check-in reports of the different agents, from around the White House. Ron tells her what they're doing and what they should be looking for, as they work an area of surveillance and what may set off an alarm. He next quizzes her on what she's heard from the agents, like code names and locations. It's good training for details and she needs to keep the information straight.

Katie now understands that the job of an agent uses both the mind and the body to do the assigned details. She needs work on being both smart and strong, as she grows up to become and agent.

Ron knows from his report on Katie that she's the athletic one of the two kids. Since she wants to know all about the physical side of the White House security, he decides to give her a taste of an actual day in the life of an agent and how they prepare for their job. "Katie, a big part of being an agent is keeping in shape. You've probably seen us run along side the President's car on TV. Well, I'm booked right now, in my time schedule, to go workout. So, for a reward for your good work, I'm taking you with me to the White house gym." He can do his work out there today, just as easy as at the department's workout area, where he can't take her for security reasons. The White House gym is for all upper employees and they won't mine him or Katie in there for a short while.

Katie is delighted, "Oh, wow, thanks. That would be great. I like to exercise at school. You said I have to start at the beginning and grow up strong."

Ron reports the change in their location with his wrist mic, instead of the phone, "Dispatch, Falcon and Pixie, moving to gym. Acknowledge. …Falcon out."

She follows him like his shadow all the way to where the locker rooms are located.

At the locker room lobby, out side the gym, Ron instructs, "Hang on a minute, Katie and I'll find one of the female staff to take you into the women's locker room." Ron has it in mind to look into the gym and getting one of the ladies to come and help her, but luck is on Katie's side today.

CJ arrives at that moment and Katie steps to her, "CJ, can I go in the locker room with you? Agent Butterfield is going to take me into exercise, after I get ready."

CJ gives Ron a sweet smile at him taking the time to make a little girl happy. She looks down at the pixie of a girl standing hopefully between the two tall adults. "Sure, Sweetie, I'd be happy to. We'll meet Ron inside, after we get changed." She's sure she can find some basic White House provided workout shorts that they can fasten tight enough to keep on her. Katie can always just wear a ladies small shirt in the baggie look. CJ knows that Katie is really thrilled.

After getting changed, the two go out to find Ron. He's waiting for them, before starting his warm up on a stationary bike. CJ helps Katie up on the smallest one in the row and the adults each take a bike on either side of her. Kate is so pleased to be joining the adults in a real activity, like she belongs to the staff.

When Ron and Katie dismount the bikes, CJ speaks to Ron, "Come find me when you're ready to leave and I'll help Katie in the locker room."

"Thanks, CJ. We'll do that. I don't think we'll be too long today. We're moving to the free weights, before we try a turn on the tread mills." He plans on taking it easy on Katie, as a child, but still wants her to realize that it takes work to become an agent.

As Ron and his assistant for the day move from one area to the other in the gym, Katie makes a good show of trying her best and is attentive to Ron's instructions on safety above all else. An agent knows that it's important to take care of them selves, to then be able to take care of their protectee.

Watching Katie exercising, he reviews her behavior this afternoon. Underneath he really admires Katie's persistence, willingness to try and observation. He smiles softly to himself, it's also nice to be someone's hero once in a while, especially a child's, if only during the short visit that she's here this week.

*****

Leo gets done with the President and Fitz at the briefing and true to his word he goes strolling through the halls. Which on a normal day might make the junior staffers feel that he's developing it into a bad habit. They never know now, when they'll discover him roaming the halls and keeping them on their toes, but this afternoon he's just looking for Ben.

*****

Two White House staffers, Steve Joyce and Mark Brookline in the Communication Office, are both pissed when things do not go their way, at the meeting with their boss Toby, and are stomping down the hall. Sulking back down to the basement office, where they're nearly hidden from the glamorous workings of the White House. They spot Ben, with his teddy bear, slowing walking toward them. They're unaware that Ben just left from Josh's office in search of CJ's office and is on better speaking terms, than they are, with the senior staff. They're mad at the world and everyone in it, after getting a royal ass tearing from Toby. The nastier one of the two decides that he'll teach the kid not to just be roaming the halls of the West Wing like he owns them.

Joyce calls out, "Hey, kid, who do you think you are just walking around loose in the West Wing? This is not a playground for little snot nosed kids. Brats have to be escorted my an adult."

Brookline joins in as soon as Joyce stops tearing Ben. "What's the matter kid? Can't you even answer an adult that asking you who you are? Seems that you're already lost from the people you came with. This is a big place to get lost in. We might have to call security and have them lock you up till someone remembers to claim you. You could be locked up a long time."

Ben can tell that they're just being snotty and he hugs his bear in front of him and informs the two men. "My name happens to be Ben Ryan and my aunt is Margaret Ryan."

Joyce barks with a laugh that has no amusement in it, "We'll I'll be damned, the little bastard belongs to the tall skinny bitch that works for the CoS."

Brookline now questions Joyce, as if Ben was no longer standing there. "You mean the one that tore us for smoking in the hall the other day? She 'is' a pain in the ass. I got a memo the next day on smoking rules for the White House."

Joyce sneers, "You know, we need to pay her back with some 'bitch' flowers that would fix her holier than thou attitude. She is nothing but a high-assed flunky around here."

Brookline smirks with a nasty chuckle, "Yeah, dead bitch flowers for a bitch with a big mouth. We'll arrange that as soon as we get back to the office."

Ben is a little vacuum for all things seen and heard, good and bad, most kids his age are. He also has sense enough, from the nasty tone of the men's conversation, that it's best keep his mouth shut right now. He can tell from their bad words that they do not like him or his aunt. These men are bad news. He starts to inch past the men, not tuning his back to them, to continue on his way.

Joyce spots Ben moving away, "Where are you going brat? You can't be in here. We'll just take you and turn you into security and they'll throw you out on the street, all alone." He hears Brookline suck in air and whisper 'shit'. Joyce looks to his face and then to the direction he's looking. " Damn, it's Leo McGarry, the bitch's boss."

Brookline states the worst part, "Yeah and he's our boss, too. How they hell can our day get any worse?"

Ben looks behind him and then back at the men and remarks, "That's my Uncle Leo" and watches the blood drop out of the two guys faces.

Leo can tell from a distance that Ben is uncomfortable with that whatever the men were saying to him. He can tell from their faces that the men are giving Ben a hard time. Leo lengthens his quick strides and arrives at Ben's side, "Ben, take my hand." He turns his famous glare on the men, "You two are lucky that Ben is still here or I'd ripe your head off and stuff it where the sun don't shine." Leo takes a menacing step closer to the men, "You are to 'never', in this White House, give a hard time to a child that I hear of or you're going to be looking for a new place to work. Do you understand me loud and clear?"

"Yes, Sir." They both echo at once.

"Then clear out. When I look back, you better be gone and back to what ever hole you call an office and I better not see you soon enough to remember your faces. Now move." Leo turns Ben away from them and they head off in the direction of his office. Totally cutting off contact with the two men.

Near the end of the hallway Ben asks Leo, " This might be bad, but you said I could ask you anything?" At Leo's nod Ben asks his real question, "What are 'bitch' flowers? I heard those nasty men mention them." Leo whips his head back toward were the two men had been standing and he tells him, "Ben, I'm not going to tell you. It's a bad curse word and very hurtful. Never repeat it. OK? Better to forget you heard it. I'll take care of it."

Ben wisely refrains from telling Leo the rest of what he heard, but looks back down the hall as well. With his own little dark look, so much like the one he saw on Leo's face.

*****

When they get back to the office, Margaret is back and sees the dark looks on the two males and asks, "What's the matter? What happened?" She can tell that both are mad, but not at each other.

Leo answers in a clipped tone, "Nothing, it's 'man' business."

She tries to get Ben to break down and tell her, when Leo goes to his office and closes the door leaving them both in her office, but he replies just as firm, "It's 'man' business." She's a bit taken aback, but she can definitely tell he's not going to crack. He's learning fast from Leo, but then again, it just as easily could be a Ryan trait.

*****

Later, as evening approaches, the kids are gearing down and so is the chess game, at least for today. Katie has been returned again by Ron, but under better circumstances today, than the day before. She's tired, but happy. Margaret gets a photo of Ron standing behind Katie, both looking serious with their fists on their hips, for Katie's album. Margaret snaps a second photo a few moments later, when Ron listens to a message on his earpiece, holding his hand to his ear to listen better, while he looks slightly down and Katie is at his elbow watching him with serious anticipation. It's a great slightly angled shot of Ron's face that Leo might possibly be able to crop and enlarge for Katie to have just of Ron.

*****

Later that night at the apartment, after retuning from swimming, they all decide that the kids should again showers first and then they'll have dinner.

Katie challenges, "I can shower and dress, before you can Ben."

Ben boasts back, "Boys are faster than girls,"

The adults go to help them shower, while dinner is baking and are encouraged the whole time to be fast and to hurry up, by each kid. Leo sends Ben to get dressed, after drying him and hangs up the wet towel. He leaves by the foyer door of the guest bathroom to join Margaret in the kitchen, to help finish getting dinner prepared.

Katie arrives shortly, "I win," she announces in triumph, hopping up on a stool at the small cart in the kitchen. Jubilant that she's finished first and has a devilish twinkle in her eye.

The three are surprised, as an angry Ben storms in the doorway to the kitchen, naked as a jaybird, holding his pajama shirt by the arm. He is red-hair mad and he doesn't care. He is only six and with family, now that Leo has helped him in the shower. Ben takes his anger out with slapping his shirt on the floor and leaving it to drape down from his hand. "I can't find my pajama pants. They're missing and now I've lost the race. I'm just not going to wear any clothes. All I ever do is change clothes and I'm too slow at it. I just have to take them off again in the morning."

Katie, having seen her brother bare all his life, replies sounding more superior, "I'm more modest with my body."

Ben is still mad at her for winning, "Who would care? You're just a flat girl." He pushes in on his tummy with his free hand and looks down at himself, "At least boys have something to show."

His proud little macho attitude is so cute. It just shows that males of any age are proud of their equipment. Leo and Margaret are trying hard not to laugh. Little kids can be priceless and they know that some could not care less about modesty.

Katie just answers her brother's bold statement indifferently with, "Humph, You're not a baby anymore, Ben, go put your clothes on."

Leo grins at Margaret, before informing Ben, "Sorry, Sport, There's a rule with the Secret Service that they insist on pants at night for sleeping. I always have pants on at night, Ben. In case the agents come in during the night to check on me. So, I'm sure that you have to wear pants." Leo is pleased to come up with a good plausible reason.

Ben looks at Leo with his fists on his hips and his temper is only slightly appeased. He was serious about no clothes at night and now Leo has a good reason to get him to wear them.

Leo sees that Ben is starting to relent on his vow, "Come here, Sport. I think you, little man, need some help." Leo ties Ben's pajama shirt backwards around Ben's waist, to get him decently back in the bedroom. While tying, Leo honestly confesses, "Ben, if it makes you feel any better. If it was up to me, I'd sleep nude at night, as well."

Katie innocently asks, at Leo confession to Ben, "Why would you want to be nude at night, Uncle Leo? It's too cold to sleep without clothes. It's December and DC is freezing cold."

Leo is momentary at a lost as to how to answer her, "Uh, uh, uh, I'm warm blooded and I get too hot sleeping." Lord, he can't tell her the truth.

Margaret smiles and happily adds, "He's like a furnace."

Katie accepts that and tells her aunt, "Ben and my dad are too, it's a guy thing, I guess."

Leo dodged the sex-ed bullet that time. He assumes at eight, she doesn't know about sex between adults. He's pretty sure that she can't remember interrupting her mom and dad, like most little kids manage to do, from more than three years ago.

Leo walks Ben back to the bedroom to help him and they find his pajama pants under the head of the bed, where they fell from under the pillow when the bed was made that morning.

Once the world is right again for the little boy, they return to the kitchen to have a nice dinner all together. The show of temper from Ben was probably due to a long day and that it's time to eat. The holidays can be hard on little kids trying to be good for Santa.

*****

Leo and Margaret are settled on the couch, waiting for the kids to get back from brushing their teeth after dinner, and getting in a little cuddle time in to whisper to each other and trade gentle kisses. They had promised the kids they would watch a Christmas video with them before bedtime.

The kids are in the guestroom bathroom brushing their teeth and between the fruit flavor bubbles of Kid's Crest, they have a little talk on how they feel about the adults in the other room. The talk is mainly about the grown-ups kissing so much, both with each other and on them. The kids secretly admit that they see how much the adults love each. They grin together when they agree they're learning to like the cuddling and they even kinda like it when they give them smooches. It's great having more family to love you.

Once the kids have their toothbrushes rinsed and hung up, they grab their bears off the bed in the guest room and go to find the adults. They just know what they're going to find, when they get there, more kissing. At the doorway, Katie stops to watch the couple on the couch and Ben stops just behind her, watching as well. They both seem to be reflecting on their recent talk. They see how they hold each other and brush kisses of love on cheeks and lips. The romance that they see is what is missing at home, since their mom died. They like being around it actually. Maybe they need to talk to their Dad about it.

After a few minutes of tender thoughts, the kids look at each other and the devil is back in their eyes. Even though between them they decided it's ok for them to be kissing, they just can't resist this opportunity to once again put a stop to the adults playing kissy face. They won't let them know their decision, just yet, because it's too much fun to catch them.

Leo and Margaret hear the kids running at them and look up just in time to brace for the kids flinging themselves on top of the reclining adults. The kids are growling and making other sounds of attack. Margaret and Leo defend themselves laughing and are warding off the attacking kids. Finally, the adults each get a child hugged tight to them and start their own attack of kissing them with loud smooches that really makes the kids squeal in protest. When the kids surrender in fits of giggles, the adults agree to a truce and the four of them enjoy cuddling after the surrender.

"Aunt Margaret?" Ben wiggles around to look at the two adults that are pinned to the couch by the kids. "Do you think we could ask the President and Abby, if we can call them aunt and uncle, like we do Uncle Leo. You said that Leo is like family to them and that the White House people are family to you." He ends the defense of his question with, "We're going to spend Christmas eve with them as family and we're even going to sleep over with Gus on Christmas. To me that sounds like family." Ben thinks he finally has it all straight in his head.

Margaret and Leo are smiling softly at Ben having worked out the relationship of the people in their lives and now in his life. Ben likes things neat and tidy.

Katie puts in her thoughts, "We'd be sort of adopting them. Ben and I don't have any other family, but you Aunt Margaret and you now Uncle Leo. It's been great here in DC to have so many people that really care and like us, like a family would. With aunts and uncles and lots of cousins."

Margaret looks to Leo for advice on this one, "Leo, you get to answer this one. You know Jed and Abby better than I do."

Leo goes with logic, "Well, the way they love kids and they seem fond of you two already, you should get a good response to asking them. They probably would be honored."

Margaret nods, "I agree. You could ask tomorrow morning. It will be more of a fun day tomorrow and you should be able to find a private time to ask."

Ben is pleased, "OK, we'll ask them tomorrow." He wiggles back down to cuddle and to have his back rubbed some more.

Katie, always the one for 'what's next' asks, "Did you guys put the tape in we wanted? I'm ready for you to start it. Can we stay on the couch with you guys? "

Leo gives her a final loud smooch on her neck for being bossy, "No, you can not stay on the couch. This couch is reserved for our movie watching and you two rug rats get to watch from the floor. Run and get your pillows off the bed and you can camp out down there." At the moans and groans of mock disappointment, Leo warns, "You better hurry or you're going to run out of time for your video, before bedtime. They kids tear off to the bedroom laughing and hurrying to get back and slide into a pile in front of the entertainment center. Luckily the coffee table has been moved to the master bedroom for the holidays, giving the kids more room to spread out, tummies flat to the floor, chins propped on hands and feet swinging in the air. "We're ready. Turn on the movie."

"Yes, ma'am. One, Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer movie coming up." Leo points the remote at the TV and the kids happily get quite to enjoy a holiday tradition for them.

*****

Settling in to watch the show, the kids grin at each other, when they hear Leo and Margaret making kissing sounds behind them on the couch. They like what they hear, knowing the grown-ups are so happy. They also know that at times their dad gets quiet, not sad really, just wishful, when watching a movie with a loving couple, they watch him too. They want this for their dad and in their home.

The kids keep looking back at the couple on the couch, giving them a running detail of each part of the movie. Leo and Margaret's problem is the kids keep almost catching Leo touching on Margaret and he has to keep freezing his hand in motion. The kids have eagle eyes and he likes to reach around her waist and go exploring under her shirt, laying his hand just under her breasts. Teasing her by flicking her nipple with his thumb, drawing it up tight under the satin covering, when the kids look back at the TV. He grins at the response from her that he gets, with her breath catching.

The kids glance back at her for a second, before deciding that Aunt Margaret is just watching the movie, like they are, but they don't know where Leo's hand is and she's being really careful not to let them find out.

Leo wiggles down a little behind her, to place kisses on her neck and behind her earlobe. With his hand still hidden under her shirt, he keeps trying to slip his hand inside her bra.

Margaret finally gets too worried and frustrated and she pulls the couch throw over the two of them to hide Leo's activity.

The kids look to see what the grown-ups are doing behind them at the rustling around. Margaret smiles and assures them, "I'm just a little cold, I had a shiver and you know I'm never warm."

Leo whispers in her ear that he knows she's shivering for other reasons. He periodically sneaks a look over her shoulder, at the kids, to make sure they're watching the TV show and not the show going on under the throw.

Margaret sucks in her breath, after the throw is over them, as he slides his hand down inside the front of her pants, now that they're well covered from little eagle eyes. After her initial surprise at his exploration inside her pants, his hands move lower seeking to find and touch her sensitive center. Leo breaths a whisper in her ear, "I can really make you shiver." Leo rumbles softy in her ear to tease, "my hands are cold and I know where to warm them up" He then slides a finger over her bundle and slowly circles it.

The kids are discussing the movie between themselves and ignoring the couple on the couch.

Leo and Margaret have to keep the arousal under control, but Leo's not helping. She opens her knees just slightly, to allow him easier access, trying not to draw attention to Leo's secret maneuvers going on underneath the throw.

Luckily, Margaret is facing the kids the whole time and keeping her eyes glued on them, for the first sign that the kids are going to turn around to look at them on the couch. She gives Leo a little payback, under the safety of the throw. She reaches behind her and slowly and quietly unzips his jeans and then slides her actual cold hand inside his pants. He tries to jerk his hips away from her cold touch. Now, it's his turn to catch his breath, as quietly as possible.

"Damn, Baby, no 'problem' is gonna happen now. Your hand is 'so' cold, 'it' may shrink." He honestly admits in a whisper.

She knows how to warm her hand, just like he does and continues her movements to place her hand around his manhood and caress it back to it's normal, happy, warm state.

Leo is pleased with her need to touch him, as much as he needs to touch her whenever possible, but he knows that they can't get too excited with the kids just a few feet away and he pulls back his hand slightly to just caress and stroke her secret curls. It's another new pastime of his that he likes to engage when they're cuddled together, just to alternate from fondling her breasts.

Margaret smothers a happy sigh of enjoyment, at them finding a way for them to secretly indulge in touching each other, even with the kids there. She admits to herself, they're just two horny 'almost' lovers, who can't keep their hands off each other.

They see that the movie is getting close to the end and they'll have to postpone their heavy necking, till after the kids are in bed. Bright kids are too smart at times. They don't miss a thing. Leo has to get back in practice.

*****

Then they finally get the kids tucked in after prayers and kisses. They put in a video movie for them to ignore, after the kids go to sleep. Now is the time for them to really cuddle. They waste no time, once they check on the kids and find them off to dreamland. Rolled nearly on top of Margaret, on the couch, Leo is working his kisses up Margaret's body from her waist that he's exposing as he works her shirt up in front of his lips. At her breast, he's teasing and sucking it into a peak, while he's teasing her other breast with his fingers. She is delighted and is trying to restrain her appreciative sounds. She moving her leg against the front of Leo to encourage him and can feel his response. They so love to neck on the couch like teenagers.

From the end of the couch at their head, a voice states, "Uncle Leo, only babies do that."

They didn't hear Ben come back in from bed, being so involved in each other.

Leo moans against Margaret's neck, as she immediately covers up and straightens her clothes, blushing brightly ~How does he explain this one to Ben?~

Ben pipes up why he's there. "I heard moaning and I thought something was wrong."

Leo gives Ben a brief explanation and hopes that it will be the end of it for tonight. "Ben, it's a grown-up thing. It's like kissing, but for grown-up people in love, when they're alone and in private. They just want to love and touch each other all over."

Ben studies Leo face as he processes this new info on kissing. He grins in childish understanding. "OK, Uncle Leo."

Leo gives Margaret a look and a nod to the side, to let her know that she'll have to go tuck Ben back in, as Leo can't politely get up right then.

Ben had already noticed Leo's condition, when Leo rose up on his knees to roll behind Margaret, to let her off the couch.

"You gotta pee, Uncle Leo? He leans in close to Leo, as if sharing something Leo doesn't know and should. "You know, that happens to us guys sometimes, when we gotta go. Dad too."

Margaret is relieved at Ben not making a big deal out of Leo explaining the situation he walked in on, so now, she's trying not to laugh at Ben still putting Leo on the spot.

Leo sighs with sad acceptance and gives Margaret a speaking look, before answering Ben's blunt question. Six years olds must have a permanent halo to protect them, when they misuse their innocence, "Maybe I do, Ben? I'll just go and see. Good night, Ben." Leo quickly leaves for the master bathroom. He's afraid that Katie will show up next and 'retreat is the better part of valor'. Leo is frustrated and venting to himself on his quick, but uncomfortable walk to the master bedroom. ~Those two little darlings need an alarm pad in front of their bedroom door and one for the foyer entrance to the guest bath. I need to ask Ron about getting some, first thing tomorrow. He needs a warning when one or both are on the loose at night.~

Leo gets more reasonable with his thinking as he cools off. The kids are definitely not used to having loving grownups in their home and Leo knows they're not used to hiding their loving touches from little eyes. They keep popping up at the most awkward times. Margaret and him are going to have to get sneaky, with touching each other. He'll have to get the alarm pads and tell the kids that the Secret Service said to use then for their safety. He's finally found a good reason to have the agents at the apartment.

Leo guesses that he gets to explain to Colin, about Ben finding them in an awkward situation. Not an easy thing to tell a female's brother, but Colin 'has' been married. Colin may use this situation to talk to them, about loving couples, because they haven't seen him like that around their home.

*****

Margaret finds that Katie is definitely asleep in the guestroom and Ben, once tucked back in with his bear and while she hums a song to him, nods right off.

When she comes back out to the living room, she finds that Leo didn't return. She smiles to herself, ~ I guess movie night is over.~ She shuts off the TV and all but one of the lamps, before moving to join him in the bedroom.

Margaret enters the bedroom and just laughs softly and shakes her head. She finds that Leo has changed into his satin pants and is waiting for her in bed, with a paperback book in his hand. "Well, Sweetie, I guess the kids win tonight. We can cuddle and hold each other in bed and look on the brighter side, there's always shower-time in the morning." She starts getting ready for bed, while she's saying this to him and his eyes follow her movements around the room, his book is forgotten in his lap. She knows that if the kid's need her they will come to her, so she's less worried tonight.

Margaret sighs with satisfaction, as she settles into Leo's welcoming arms and snuggles into his loving embrace. They're so content to hold each other close and just listen to each other breathing, as they relax. Exhaustion takes over, after the long day and little sleep the night before. With a final shifting to get molded to each other and sighs of contentment, slumber takes them to dreams of their new life together for the holidays.

*****

Continues in part 4

This posted on 01-22-04

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