Chapter 11
"Abbey, that was one hell of a ride going through that storm. Why didn't you stay buckled in?"
They were relaxing on the bed, an hour before landing.
"Well, you were throwing up your toenails and I wanted to get some medicine to help you out. And I could ask the same question, why didn't you stay buckled in?"
"I had to see about you."
"Yeah. And all it did was get us both in trouble. I agree with you. I'll just be glad to land."
Turning their head at the sound of knocking, Jed yelled, "Come in."
Ron entered the room with Colonel Hargrove behind him.
"Don't tell me there's something else."
"Yes, sir." Colonel Hargrove really dreaded this one. "During the storm, we had a hydraulic line rupture and our landing gear won't come down."
Jed shook his head. "You know, this plane cost a hell of lot of money and you're telling me that something else is broken? Could it be another bad light?"
"It could be, but I doubt it. Before I came to see you, I had the chase planes visually inspect the bottom of the aircraft and the gear is not down."
Jed sighed. "Okay, so what happens next? Do you have to land in Hawaii? Can we make it to Washington?"
"Yes, sir, we could. But considering all that has happened so far, I would feel much better stopping in Hawaii."
"Ron, what do you say?"
"I agree with Colonel Hargrove, sir. I recommend landing in Hawaii and getting off this plane. The runway will be foamed, but it will still be rough. You can't take a plane this size without landing gear and put it down gently."
"That's an understatement, Ron."
"Yes, sir."
Jed looked at Abbey, took her hand, and sighed. "Okay, where do you want us?"
"Mr. President, if you will go back to your office and wait there, it would be best. I'll be there with you and after the plane stops, I want both you and Mrs. Bartlet to follow my directions quickly and completely."
"Okay. And Colonel…"
"Yes, sir?"
"I want my money back." At least the Presidential humor was still intact. Jed only hoped he would be after this hard landing.
"Yes, sir."