Chapter 7
On his way to the hospital, Leo began his calls, starting with CJ. She was downtown with the rest of the traveling party. She had been the only other Senior Staff member brought on the trip.
"CJ? It's Leo."
A sleepy voice answered, "What time is it?"
"It about four. I need for you to get up and meet me downtown. There was an explosion at the Embassy and the President…"
"Oh god, Leo. How bad?"
"Well, they're still alive. I think Abbey got the worse of it but I don't know the details. I'm on my way to the hospital. Get dressed and meet me at the American Hospital. I've sent a car for you. This will be all over the news in a matter of minutes and since it is still evening in the States, we have to start some damage control. I bet CNN and Fox has already heard about this. A bomb going off at the American Embassy, even if it didn't contain the President of the United States, would be big enough news."
"You got that right. I'll be right there."
"Thanks, CJ. I have some more calls to make."
The next phone call was to Bob Russell. The White House Operator tracked the Vice-President to his home in Colorado.
"Mr. Vice-President?"
"Yes Leo."
"There's been an explosion at the Embassy in Moscow and the President and First Lady have been severely injured. The networks should have this momentarily. I think you need to issue a statement, you know prayers and wishes, etc. That kind. Then get on Air Force Two and come back to Washington. You'll need to be there to take care of matters. I'll call Josh and Toby to help you maintain some semblance of normal while I'm sorting things out here."
"Of course, Leo." The Vice-President paused, and then asked the main question. "Leo, how bad? What about the Twenty-Fifth?"
"Not yet. Let me get to the hospital and I'll let you know. I don't want to do anything if it's not as bad as I think it is."
"Okay. Call me with any changes."
"Of course, Sir. I will."
The next call was to Liz.
"Liz, hi. It's Leo." He made very effort to keep his voice calm but it cracked as he spoke.
"Leo, why are you calling? Is something wrong?"
"Yes, Liz. I don't know how to tell you this. There's been an explosion at the Embassy here in Moscow and your parents were injured in the attack. They're on their way to the hospital now."
"Oh!" Leo could tell Liz was trying to maintain her composure. "How bad? Tell me the truth."
"I don't know. They were injured and were both unconscious when they left the scene. They should be at the hospital by now. I need for you to call Ellie and Zoey. It will be all over the news any minute now and I don't want that to be the first time they hear about it."
"You'll keep me informed?"
"Of course. Listen, I'm just pulling up right now at the hospital. I'll get you some information as soon as I can."
"Leo, I'll pray for them. When they wake up, please have them call us. Please!"
"I will Liz. And they can certainly use your prayers. I have to go now. I'll call you as soon as I get some news."
"Bye. Tell them we love them."
By now, even Leo's strength was fading. In a choking voice he replied, "I will Liz. I certainly will."