Chapter 6
CJ and Josh were watching the President's practice session on a monitor.
"CJ?" Josh asked. "Do you think the President looks very well? He's sweating and seems more cranky than normal. He also seems to be rubbing his right arm almost constantly."
"Yeah, I noticed that as well. Wonder what's wrong?"
"Well, he was roaming the West Wing late last night. Do you think he and the First Lady had a fight?"
CJ looked at Josh. "You know, that's none of our business. What happens behind their doors should stay behind them."
"Well, gee whiz, CJ. I was only asking."
"Shut up Josh."
"Okay."
They continued to watch the monitor. The President was having a hard time staying focused on the prompter. Every fifth word he would stumble and then try to start again. This was obviously not doing anybody any good.
Finally, Leo took matters into his own hands. "Let's take a break."
The President gathered up his papers and headed toward the office.
"Mr. President, is everything okay?"
Jed turned to Leo and said, "I just don't feel well. Let me rest for a few minutes and then we can start again."
"Mr. President, do you want me to call a doctor?"
"No Leo," a bit of anger in his voice. "I just don't feel well. I just need to rest."
Jed turned and headed to the office.
Leo and the rest of the staff followed.
"Mr. President?"
Jed turned to the sound of CJ's voice. "Yes?"
"You don't look so good."
Frustrated, Jed let loose. "I'm fine. And I don't think my health is any of your business."
A joint "Yes sir" echoed through the hall next to the Oval Office.
Jed turned and went into the office.
Knowing that the President was not in a good mood this morning, Leo motioned for the staff to stay out in the hall. As they stood in the hall, talking about getting the speech right…
CRASH!