Chapter 21
As the motorcade made its way to the George Washington University Hospital, Jed noticed that Ron kept his hand to his ear, apparently receiving updates on the security of his family.
"Any news, Ron?"
"No, sir. Nothing but normal chatter."
"You're lying. I can see your face. Tell me what's going on."
"Sir, I…." His hand flew to his ear one more time as Jed's heart momentarily stopped.
"What is it? It's my family there. Tell me what's going on."
As the motorcade pulled up to the side entrance of the hospital, Ron answered the Presidential order. "Sir, apparently Ms. Marsh has taken your daughter hostage. I want you to stay here so….."
"HELL NO!" Jed leaped from the car and started running into the hospital.
Ron and two other agents leaped after him and were able to grab their protectee before he got on the elevator. "Sir, I said stay here. Let us fight this battle."
"Ron, that's my family. I need to be there. Mary wants me. She doesn't care about Zoey. She wants me. I have to go."
Ron saw those same pleading eyes he was able to refuse earlier today. This time, however, he couldn't. "Stay with me, sir." Even as Ron said those words, he knew they fell on deaf ears.
Ron was not a religious man, but right now he asked for any God's protection for the entire Bartlet family.