Chapter 6
Jed placed a call to Leo to update him. It was five am in Washington, but Jed doubted that Leo would be asleep. By now, he would probably know as much as the people on the plane.
"Did I wake you, Leo?"
"No. sir. I'm on my way back to the White House. I got a call from Nancy about your situation and I'm going back to see what I can do from this end. You know a back-up plane is on its way to Hawaii?"
"Yeah. Colonel Hargrove has already told me."
"Well, you should have some F-18s from a nearby carrier group on each of your wings soon. This is strictly a precaution but with the engines not running at full power, we thought it would be best to have some chase planes surrounding you."
"Thanks for the good news, Leo. I appreciate it."
"Yeah. Thought you would."
Jed could picture Leo's crooked smile as he laughed. The Presidential humor was finally beginning to have an effect on somebody.
"Well, we're also facing a bumpy ride. The crew is putting everything away so there won't be any flying debris. Is there any public information out yet on the problem with Air Force One?"
"Nothing yet. But you know that won't last long."
"Yeah. I need for you to do Abbey and me a favor. Will you call the girls and tell them not to worry? We would from here, but the crew has just motioned for everyone to buckle up. I guess I need to go."
"Good luck, sir."
"Thanks, Leo. I hope we finally have some. Bye."
"Goodbye, Mr. President."