Title: The Presidential Name Game
Category:
General/Humor/Romance
Rating: PG
Summary: Josh and Donna figure
out names for their next baby
Disclaimer: Ha!
Author's Notes: It's my Birthday and I had to post a fic, so here this goes!
Written: 6-9-05 to 8-22-05
Chapter 3
Later that evening everyone was in the library, Noah on the President's lap, listening while he read The Cat in the Hat. Donna had taken out her camera for a quick, candid snapshot. When he had reached the last line, Bartlet realized the boy was asleep and gently passed him to his mother. Donna and Abby went to put Noah in the nursery that the Bartlet's had and then spend some quality girl time together. The men stayed in the library, they were going to "do what men do" according to Josh. The President poured each of them a little brandy.
"You have quite the family, Josh." Bartlet grinned at him.
"That I do, Mr. President." Josh lifted his glass in a toast towards the President who returned it. After taking a sip of the smooth liquid Bartlet spoke again.
"How is it working for President Santos?"
"Well, he's no President Bartlet, sir, but he's working on it."
"That's what I like to hear." The men fell into a comfortable silence. Josh cleared his throat and spoke.
"Sir, Donna and I have been debating baby names and we were wondering if you would allow us the use of your name if we have a son, Josiah Matthew."
"Really?"
"Yes, sir."
"Well, Josh, I'm flattered. I really, really am. I don't know what to say."
Josh smirked.
"You always know what to say, sir. I figured you were going to go into the history of the name or something."
Bartlet slightly glared at him.
"I'm choosing to ignore that statement and tell you that I would be honored if you used my name, but I would like to make a suggestion." Josh's eyebrows rose.
"And what would that be?"
"No one loves their name more than me," the President said putting his hand over his heart in classic Bartlet fashion. "You know that. But maybe it should be the middle name."
"If I may ask, why, sir?"
"I hope I haven't offended you or Donna but, and this may sound like a dumb reason, but as your son grows up and you go to places where you can buy souvenirs and such with your name on it he won't be able to get one, because, let's admit it, Josiah isn't a popular name. Think how jealous he may get of Noah. I think Matthew Josiah would be better and it's easier for the little guy to pronounce." Josh paused for a second before replying, allowing his old boss's words to replay in his mind.
"Ok, sir, if you want the middle name instead we'll be happy to give it to you." Josh stood up and held out his hand for the President to shake, Bartlet looked at it.
"You know, Josh, we're not making a deal," he said but took the younger man's hand anyway as Josh turned a slight shade of red. "But thank you, truly. I'm touched."