Chapter 18

Two weeks later, Jed and Abbey were resting in the Residence. The Vice-President was doing fine so Jed was in no hurry to return. Besides, Abbey wouldn't even talk to him about it. They both knew he had been lucky.

"Abbey, I need to ask you something."

"Sure babe." She walked over and sat down next to her husband, who was lying on the sofa. She gently pulled his still sore legs down to the floor so she could sit as close as possible.

"Leo, how did he take the news? I mean when you first told him about the MS? Was he angry at us for keeping this from him?"

"Well, how did he seem to you?"

"I couldn't tell any difference. But then he had had time to digest the information. So how did he respond to you?"

Abbey took Jed's hand and squeezed it. "I think he was hurt. Hurt that we didn't trust him with this important information. But he continued to be my rock. My support." Looking into her husband's very blue eyes, she continued. "I was scared, Jed. Scared I would never see you again. Never hold you again. I was scared and Leo supported me. That's what friends do for other friends."

Jed reached out and drew Abbey into a loose hug. "I know you were scared. I was too. Our last discussion was full of angry words. And I didn't want you to remember me that way."

Abbey drew away and gently tapped his chest. "Hell yeah, I was angry. You don't take care of yourself. You eat junk. You stay up to all hours of the night. You get very little sleep. And relaxation, hell, I don't even think it's in your dictionary." Tears started to fall. "Then you don't tell me you're sick. Of course I'm angry. I love you Jed. This scared me to death. I can't lose you. You are my life."

"Shhhh, Abbey," drawing her back into his embrace, resting her head on his chest. His heart beat told her that he was alive. "You are my life as well."

"Jed?"

"Yes?"

"You need to change. Change what you eat, change your lifestyle. Try and get some more rest."

"Abbey, you're managing my life again."

"Yes I am. I love you and I will manage your life so you will have a life. And Jed?"

"Yes dear?"

She pulled away again. "Next time, you call me. I don't care if Canada is invading Michigan. Next time you aren't feeling well, you call me."

Jed laughed, realizing quickly that his incision was still fresh. He put his hand on his chest and smiled at his wife. "Yes, Abbey. I'll call you."

He leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on Abbey's lips. "I love you."

As Abbey returned the kiss, she spoke from her heart as well. "I love you too Jed. And I want you here for a long time."

Jed smiled. "Yes, babe. My heart hears you loud and clear."

THE END