Chapter 1
The fierce northern wind was blowing snow into drifts everywhere on the farm. The porch thermometer showed that it was already below freezing. With the wind chill, it was probably below zero.
But the Bartlet family didn't care. They were inside a toasty warm 100 year-old home, having a rare family get together that wasn't tied to a holiday. It was just a winter get away that the President and First Lady had arranged several months ago. With crazy schedules, both Jed and Abbey just needed some downtime. To have all of the family here was icing on the cake.
Both had arranged a three day workweek and flew to the farm on Thursday for a four-day weekend. Zoey and Ellie had come with them. Liz had brought the family out on Friday night and planned to stay the weekend. Doug had to stay in town on business, but would try and come out for the day on Sunday.
Not even the Service violated the privacy of the house. Agents monitored the status of the house from the outside. With modern technology they kept a watchful, yet respectful eye on everything going on at the main house.
"Look at this snow. This could be a Nor-Easter before the night is over."
Jed took the hot chocolate Abbey was offering and started sipping the rich, warm liquid.
"Liz, I don't think Doug is going to be able to make it out tomorrow. Even for New Hampshire, this is a lot of snow."
Liz nodded. "Yeah, Dad. He would want to be here, but he's not stupid either. We'll just see what happens tomorrow."
Annie and Gus were playing cards with Zoey and Ellie. Every once in a while, someone would yell and laughter from the whole group would follow.
Jed and Abbey sat together in front of the fire, cuddled in each others arms. This was the family life that they missed so much and was looking forward to having again once their life in the White House was over. Abbey was counting the days, less than a year now. She could hardly wait.
"No cheating." Jed smiled as he said that to the children and grandchildren.
"Dad, there is no way one can cheat with this game. You know that." Zoey also knew that her dad was one of the worst cheaters during games if he could find a way.
Something about having to be a winner all the time.
Abbey poked him in the ribs and said, "Jed. My girls do not cheat. Even if their father does."
Abbey leaned over to give him a kiss to cut off any remark that might be coming.
Jed's reply was another kiss, this time harder.
"Do you want to finish this upstairs?" he whispered to Abbey.
Abbey's reply was to put down her hot chocolate.
"Girls, make sure you turn off the lights. We're going to bed. See you in the morning."
"'Night, Mom. 'Night Dad." This was repeated three times.
"'Night Nana and Grandpa." This was repeated twice.
But the children never wavered from the intense attention they were giving the game. In a few seconds, they forgot that Jed and Abbey had left. Even though it was only 8:30.