Almost time for the Summit
Chapter 12
Jade sat with her three kids, wrapping up their time together before her next round of meetings. Hazel, who had been listening intently, leaned forward with that familiar spark of curiosity.
"Mom, can I come with you to the environmental summit?" Hazel asked, her eyes lighting up with interest.
Jade smiled, a little flattered that her teenage daughter wanted to join her on something so significant. "Of course, Hazel. I'd love for you to come."
She turned to Ivy, who was lounging comfortably on the couch. "Ivy, how about you? Want to join us in Sweden?"
Ivy shook her head, her expression calm but firm. "No, thank you. I'm good here."
Before Jade could respond, Luke piped up, his little face full of determination. "I wanna go with Mommy!"
Jade and the girls exchanged amused looks. "Sweetie, it's going to be lots of meetings and grown-up stuff," Jade explained gently.
"But I wanna go!" Luke insisted, his lower lip jutting out in a pout.
Hazel leaned over and ruffled his hair. "Trust me, Luke, you'd be bored out of your mind. How about I bring you back a cool souvenir?"
Luke considered this for a moment, then nodded, somewhat appeased. "Okay, but it better be really cool."
Jade laughed, hugging him tightly. "Deal." With that, the kids left the Oval Office, and Jade stood, smoothing her dress before heading to the conference room where her cabinet awaited.
As Jade entered the room, she found her cabinet members already deep in discussion, a stack of papers in front of them. Eliza, her Communications Czar, glanced up and handed her the final draft of her State of the Union speech. Jade took it and began reading, her brow furrowing in concentration as the voices around her continued.
"I'm just saying," Eliza began, "Shouldn't we be thinking about the optics here? Do we really want to take Beck to the summit?"
Another aide chimed in, "Fewer appearances with Beck now could make the divorce announcement smoother later."
Jade looked up from the speech, her gaze thoughtful. "Does it really have to be announced? I mean, Trump and Melania separated without any official acknowledgment."
Eliza raised an eyebrow, smirking. "True, but they also became a meme every time she slapped his hand away. We don't need that kind of publicity."
The room erupted in light laughter. Another aide piped up, "Honestly, who could blame her? The man was… well, gross."
Jade chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Alright, point taken. We'll figure out the best way to handle it at the right time."
Eliza leaned in, lowering her voice with a mock-conspiratorial tone. "Maybe we can slip it into the speech tonight. You know, something subtle like, 'In other news, I'm totally single now.'"
The room erupted in laughter again, and Jade shook her head, smiling. "Yeah, I'm sure that'll go over well."
They continued to banter as Jade finished reviewing the speech. The mood was light, collaborative, and full of camaraderie. Despite the challenges they faced, the team was a well-oiled machine, working together with a sense of humor and mutual respect. As Jade set the speech down, she felt a renewed sense of confidence.
"Alright, everyone, this looks good. Run it."
With that, she excused herself, heading back to the Residence to get ready for the speech that night.
The Speaker of the House stood at the front of the chamber, his gavel tapping lightly to bring the room to order. The chatter among the members of Congress gradually subsided as the anticipation in the room grew palpable. Everyone knew what came next—the entrance of the President of the United States, a moment steeped in tradition and significance.
"Mr. Speaker, the President of the United States!" announced the Sergeant-at-Arms, his voice ringing out clearly across the room.
The heavy doors at the back of the chamber swung open, revealing Jade standing tall and poised. Dressed in a sleek, dark suit that exuded both authority and grace, she began her walk down the center aisle, her gaze focused yet warm. Members of Congress, dignitaries, and guests rose to their feet, applauding as she made her way toward the front. The applause swelled, filling the room with a powerful, unified sound. Some members leaned over the aisle to shake her hand, offering words of encouragement or simply a respectful nod as she passed.
Jade returned each gesture with a smile or a brief word of thanks, moving steadily forward. Cameras followed her every step, broadcasting the scene to millions of Americans watching from their homes. The applause was continuous, a show of respect for the office she held and the work she had done.
As she reached the front of the chamber, Jade ascended the few steps to the dais, where the Vice President and the Speaker of the House were waiting. She shook hands with both of them, exchanging a few quiet words before turning to face the room once more. The applause continued for a moment longer, the weight of history hanging in the air, before finally tapering off.
The chamber buzzed with anticipation as members of Congress, dignitaries, and special guests filled the seats. The air was thick with the weight of history, the importance of the moment pressing down on everyone present. Jade walked into the Congress chambers with a steady stride, her face composed but determined, reflecting the gravity of the occasion. The applause grew louder as she made her way to the podium, nodding to the Vice President and the Speaker of the House before turning to face the assembled lawmakers and the millions of Americans watching at home.
She took a deep breath, allowing the room to quiet down before beginning. The cameras zoomed in, broadcasting her every word, her every expression, to the nation.
"My fellow Americans," she began, her voice clear and resolute. "Tonight, we gather in this hallowed chamber to reflect on our journey, to assess our progress, and to chart a course for the future. I stand before you with immense pride in what we have accomplished together, and with unwavering confidence in the path that lies ahead."
She paused, letting her words sink in, before continuing.
"Over the past few years, we have faced unprecedented challenges—socially, economically, and environmentally. But through it all, the American spirit has prevailed. Tonight, I want to share with you the story of our collective resilience, and the incredible strides we have made to secure a brighter future for all."
Jade adjusted the microphone slightly, her gaze sweeping across the room.
"Let's start with the environment. The Renewable Energy Act, passed under this administration, has moved us closer to our goal of net-zero emissions than ever before. By integrating solar, wind, and other renewable sources into our energy grid, we have not only reduced our carbon footprint but also created hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country. Middle America, in particular, has seen a resurgence in manufacturing as we build the solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage systems that power our nation."
She allowed herself a small smile as she continued, the pride in her voice unmistakable.
"Our infrastructure plan—perhaps one of the most ambitious in our nation's history—has transformed the way we move, work, and live. The Maglev bullet trains now crisscross our country, connecting cities at unprecedented speeds and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. Highways have been magnetized, allowing for more efficient, safer transportation. These advancements are not just about convenience—they are about sustainability and ensuring that future generations inherit a world they can thrive in."
The room erupted in applause, and Jade took a moment to let it wash over her before pressing on.
"Our economy is booming. With an unemployment rate of just 3%, more Americans are working now than at any point in the last two decades. But we didn't stop there. We've increased benefits for the needy and unhoused, ensuring that the prosperity we enjoy is shared by all. The cost of medication has continued to drop, thanks to our relentless pursuit of affordable healthcare for every citizen."
Her tone grew more serious as she transitioned to the next topic.
"But we cannot rest on our laurels. There is still work to be done. Our environment remains under threat, and we must take bold action to protect it. That's why I am proposing a new set of initiatives to tackle the most pressing environmental issues of our time—cleaning up our oceans, reducing plastic waste, and preserving our natural landscapes. These are not just environmental imperatives—they are moral ones."
She paused again, her gaze intense as she delivered her next point.
"And let's not forget our workers—the backbone of this nation. Unions have played a critical role in securing the rights and benefits that workers deserve. This administration will continue to stand with them, ensuring that every American has the opportunity to work in safe conditions, to earn a fair wage, and to retire with dignity."
The applause was thunderous now, the support for her policies evident in the room. Jade took a moment to sip from the glass of water at her side before concluding her address.
"We stand at a crossroads, my fellow Americans. The choices we make now will define our nation for generations to come. I have faith in our ability to choose wisely, to continue the progress we have made, and to build a future that is just, equitable, and sustainable for all."
She looked around the room, meeting the eyes of the lawmakers, her voice growing stronger as she delivered her final words.
Over the past year, our administration has worked tirelessly to navigate the complexities of international diplomacy, especially concerning Yerba. The situation there has been a focal point of both our foreign policy and humanitarian efforts. As many of you are aware, Yerba has undergone significant political and social upheaval, leading to a regime that has posed challenges to global stability and human rights.
We have approached our relationship with Yerba with a careful balance of firmness and diplomacy. Our primary objective has been to address the humanitarian concerns while safeguarding our national interests and global security.
"Firstly, I want to acknowledge the progress we have made. Our coordinated international efforts have brought attention to the human rights abuses and have supported grassroots organizations fighting for change within Yerba. We have used our influence to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in need and have worked with our allies to apply targeted sanctions against those who perpetuate violence and oppression."
She paused letting that sink in. the applause rang loudly in her ears.
"Secondly, we have actively pursued diplomatic channels to foster dialogue with the new leadership in Yerba. While we maintain a critical stance on their policies, we have extended an offer for constructive engagement. This includes discussions on trade, environmental cooperation, and regional security. We believe that by engaging in open dialogue, we can encourage positive change and contribute to a more stable and just world."
She exhaled hoping Tori was watching.
"Furthermore, our focus on environmental issues has extended to our relations with Yerba. We have proposed collaborative projects that aim to address climate change and promote sustainable development. By offering to share our advancements in renewable energy and green technology, we hope to assist Yerba in transitioning towards more sustainable practices while also fostering a cooperative relationship that benefits both our nations and the global environment."
"Our approach to Yerba is a reflection of our broader commitment to global leadership. We remain steadfast in our support for human rights and environmental stewardship, and we are committed to working with our international partners to create a world where justice and prosperity can thrive. As we move forward, we will continue to pursue policies that reflect our values and advance our national interests while striving for a more harmonious and equitable global community."
She really liked the reaction of her audience. She wanted to hear the Republican response to this.
"This is our moment. Let us seize it together. Thank you, and may God bless the United States of America."
The room erupted in applause once more, and as Jade stepped away from the podium, she knew that tonight she had not just delivered a speech—she had delivered a message of hope, determination, and unwavering commitment to the future of her country.
The interior of Air Force One was a study in luxurious calm, an oasis of quiet after the bustling energy of the State of the Union. The President's bedroom was a serene retreat, designed with muted tones and plush furnishings that spoke of both comfort and sophistication. The large bed, draped in a soft, ivory silk coverlet, was flanked by high-backed armchairs, and the walls were adorned with tasteful artwork that added a touch of personal elegance to the space.
Jade and Hazel stepped out of the motorcade and onto the plane, their faces etched with the fatigue of a long day. The motorcade's bustle had given way to the calm of the plane, and now, in the private sanctuary of the President's bedroom, they were free to relax. Hazel, her expression a mix of exhaustion and curiosity, sank into the plush cushions of the bed, stretching out with a sigh. Jade followed suit, sitting beside her daughter and loosening the buttons of her jacket.
The hum of the engines provided a steady, soothing backdrop as Jade looked over at Hazel, who was staring up at the ceiling, her thoughts clearly racing.
"You look like you have something on your mind," Jade said softly, smoothing a strand of hair from Hazel's face.
Hazel turned her head, looking at her mother with wide, inquisitive eyes. "Mom, have you ever loved anyone besides Dad?"
Jade's heart skipped a beat. She had expected the question eventually, but it still caught her off guard. The air in the room felt a touch heavier as she contemplated her response. She took a deep breath, then reached out to take Hazel's hand.
"There was someone, a long time ago," Jade began, her voice gentle. "Her name was Tori."
Hazel's eyes widened with interest. "What was she like?"
Jade's gaze grew distant as she recalled the past. "Tori was... someone special. We met when I was still trying to figure out my place in the world. She was vibrant, passionate, and we had a connection that was hard to put into words. We were young and life was complicated. Things didn't work out, but she was important to me. I've never really talked about her before."
Hazel listened intently, her fingers squeezing her mother's gently. "What happened?"
Jade paused, her thoughts drifting to the bittersweet memories. "We were in different places in our lives. I was focused on my career and my responsibilities, and she was... she was just as driven but in her own way. It was a different time, and we both had to make choices that led us down separate paths."
The silence that followed was thoughtful. Hazel shifted closer to her mother, resting her head on Jade's shoulder. "Do you ever think about her?"
Jade smiled wistfully. "Sometimes. I think about what might have been, but I also cherish the memories. It's part of who I am."
Hazel's voice was soft but filled with understanding. "I'm glad you told me. I've always wondered about your life before Dad."
Jade wrapped her arms around Hazel, pulling her daughter close. "It's important to me that you know these things, Hazel. It's part of our family's story."
As they sat together, the plane's gentle rocking and the soft hum of the engines seemed to cocoon them in a moment of intimacy and connection. Hazel's head rested comfortably against her mother, and Jade felt a surge of maternal love, grateful for this moment of closeness.
After a moment, Hazel spoke again, her voice trembling slightly. "Mom, I think I'm coming out. I don't want to hide it anymore. I like girls too."
Jade's heart swelled with pride and love. She held Hazel tightly, her own emotions a mix of relief and support. "I'm so proud of you, Hazel. I love you just the way you are, and you can always talk to me about anything."
Hazel's eyes shone with unshed tears as she looked up at her mother. "Thanks, Mom."
And the two of them fell asleep like that.