Rating: PG 13 to be safe

Pairings: Lots, plenty of romance, children

Spoilers: None I can think of but say season three

Summary: The gang arrive at the Bartlet Farm many years after leaving office, with happy news, with sad news and the usual complications.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow

Prologue

It was snowing in New Hampshire; the light showers overnight had turned into flurries with the first sunrise. The streets were covered in a light dusting of white powder; the roads were still passable due only to the ploughs. In Manchester the last few stray shoppers were braving the elements to buy that last all important present. Further out of town citizens were clearing their drives, collecting firewood while children built snowmen and threw snowballs.

Inside the Bartlet Farm final preparations were underway for a Christmas to remember. Zoey and Annie were dressing the tree, outside Liz and her husband were collecting firewood for the many open fires that would rage. Jed watched from his study window as the snow fell, remembering the last Christmas they had all been together, December2006, in the White House. Then he had been the one to organise the festivities, now he was frailer in body though not in mind. The MS remained in remission but the two strokes the previous year had taken their toll, he relied heavily on his frame to move around and on his wife for the simplest of things. That Christmas had been one of the happiest of his life.

The West Wing had been filled with the sound of carollers and musicians throughout December as the staff tried to shake off the thought they would be packing up and moving on a few weeks later. There seemed to be an endless stream of parties, Democratic Party, Congressional, Staff, and various senators and judges. He watched his staff celebrate; even when the end was nearing they were the consummate professionals. On Christmas Eve they had all gathered in the mural room as the National Cathedral Choir sang carols and he had seen even the strongest man shed a tear. Later that day the Blue Room had been filled to the brim with family, friends and flowers as Josh and Donna stood before the Justice of the Peace and made their vows. The party that followed left everyone in high spirits and more than a little emotional. At the National Cathedral later he had attended mass, his family, Leo and CJ by his side. Christmas Day had been spent in the residence with his daughters and the senior staff. That had been the last time they had been together celebrating. The intervening years had been hectic for all of them as they followed their own projects and their hearts. For four days they were putting their lives on hold at his request to spend Christmas together again.

Part One

Abbey watched from the doorway as her husband lent on the window, she knew he was thinking of the past while she thought only of the future these days. The last visit to the hospital had not been a happy one. The doctor had been sure, and had confirmed her suspicions; one more stroke would probably kill him. They both knew it would not be a quick exit and the thought of sitting by and watching him leave her was almost too much. This was his way of keeping his promise to them all. He had kept them in the dark before and that was something he would never do again. This time they would sit together as a family, and she would answer their questions. She heard his voice and moved towards him.

‘The weather is getting worse, will they make it?’ He asked, running his fingers down the pane of glass.

Abbey entwined her fingers with his, ‘Josh is driving down, they left early to allow plenty of time. Leo and Charlie are meeting the others at the airport. No one is going to miss this, Pumpkin.’

He smiled at her endearment. ‘Sweet knees.’

Abbey’s heart lurched at his pet name and her eyes glazed over. Jed turned at her silence and saw the first falling tear; he lifted his free hand to wipe it away and stumbled. Abbey moved on instinct, resting him against her and shifting them both towards the chair.

‘Are you okay?’

Jed held tightly on to her hand, ‘I hate this. I hate being so useless. I can’t even comfort my wife anymore.’ He turned away so she couldn’t see the anger in his eyes.

‘You comfort me just by being here.’ Abbey sat on the arm of the chair, careful not to lean on his legs, and rested her head on his chest. ‘You can still put your arm around me like this.’

Jed sighed, ‘I want to make love to you.’

‘Right here?’ she teased.

‘Abbey,’ he warned.

‘Jed, at our age sex doesn’t seem so important. That’s for the youngsters.’

The conversation was interrupted by the sound of a doorbell. Abbey kissed him gently on his forehead and made her way through the house to answer the door. The maids she knew were all busy preparing food and rooms for the guests and besides now that she no longer had a title it was good to play hostess again.

Pulling open the heavy oak door she grinned at the sight before her. Donna stood hand on hip, back to the door as she engaged in a heated discussion with Josh. Noah was throwing snowballs at the car while Theo stood on the threshold looking up at her with the big blue eyes that had all of them wrapped around her little finger.

‘Aunt Abbey, thank you for inviting us.’ Hearing her talk it was hard to remember she was only seven.

‘You’re very welcome. How was the drive?’

Theodora Joanie Lyman shook her head in mock disgust, ‘Dad got lost, AGAIN. He took the turning for Kenne…’

‘Kennebunkport?’

‘Yeah. So Mom yelled and we had to turn around,’ the girl emphasised by waving her arms in the air.

Donna turned at the sound of Abbey laughing, and crossed the porch to greet her. Hugs exchanged Donna called to her son and husband to come join them. Josh bounded up the steps and stood before Abbey, ‘Ma’am, how’s the President?’

‘Jed is well, are you going to hug me or are we going to stand out here all day?’

Josh wrapped his arms around her and let her squeeze him. Pulling away he pushed his children inside.

‘We’ve put all of you in the annexe, the secret service’s only legacy. That way if you and Sam want to stay up all night I can get some sleep.’

Josh grinned in response. The children spotted the tree and dashed off in that direction, Donna on their heels, calling out to them to take their shoes off as she went.

‘Jed’s in the study, go on through.’

Josh headed in the direction as Abbey followed Donna.

Zoey and Annie stopped what they were doing at the sound of the commotion. Theo reached them first and skidded to a halt,

‘Wow, that’s some tree, it must take the federal budget to dress it. Can I help?’

‘Sorry Abbey, Josh is teaching them the finer points of politics,’ Donna explained as they all entered the Living room.

‘Tact not one of them?’ She replied.

Donna laughed and moved to help her children out of their coats.

‘Mom, we’ve almost finished, we can’t put the rest up until Charlie comes back, and Dad says he wants to put the star up.’ Zoey explained. ‘So…. Can we bring the presents down?’

‘Santa hasn’t brought them yet,’ Abbey tried helpfully.

‘Oh Aunt Abbey, Santa doesn’t exist, everyone knows that, Uncle Toby says we all get presents and he’s Jewish so he should know. And even if I’m bad I’ll get presents, though not so many as when I’m good,’ Theo exclaimed.

Abbey smiled, ‘She’s her father’s daughter. Okay you two can help the girls bring the gifts down.’

The four scattered before she could finish, ‘Good job there are presents hidden where they can’t find them, there’s going to be some shaking going on. Coffee, honey.’

Donna nodded and they headed back out into the hallway as the door opened.

Charlie entered carrying luggage, Sam following behind with more cases.

‘Abbey, Donna.’ Sam called dropping the bags to the ground. He stepped to embrace them both, ‘where’s Josh, the President?’

‘They’re in the study, Mr Vice President Elect,’ Abbey answered grinning.

‘Sounds good doesn’t it. I have to see Josh…’ he called heading in the direction of the study.

Margaret crossed the hallway dragging with her a dark haired boy and her overnight bag. She stopped when she saw Abbey and Donna, dropping the child’s hand, ‘Hey. Sorry about this but Leo jnr is sulking. Daddy just told him he can’t have a pony.’

Abbey dropped to her knees in front of the three year old, ‘No pony hey, want to ride Mary Marsh while you’re here.’ She paused at the raised eyebrows around her. ‘Jed named the horses after everyone who f… annoyed him in office. Mary is a Shetland, and a walk over. Leo will be fine.’

‘That’s good because Sam is petrified of horses and Leo snr has never ridden in his life,’ Mallory noted bringing in the rest of the bags. ‘Hey everyone, Leo say hello.’

The child mumbled in reply and dashed behind his mother’s skirt. Mallory shuffled forward and greeted the others with a kiss.

‘Charlie, will you take the bags through? Donna and I were just about to make coffee, care to join us?’

Charlie disappeared into the corridors of the house while the women walked into the kitchen. Abbey motioned to the servants to take a break and filled the kettle. Putting it on the aga Abbey reached into the Refrigerator and brought out a box of cream cakes.

‘Especially for the occasion. But don’t tell Jed, it’s on the banned list.’

‘What about my hips?’ Donna whined.

‘Not my problem,’ Mallory laughed.

‘That’s cause your pregnant,’ Margaret said, and her hand flew to her mouth, ‘foot in mouth again.’

‘You’re pregnant?’ Donna screamed.

‘Yeah, now a little louder, maybe Washington didn’t hear.’ She stroked Margaret’s hand in reassurance, ‘It’s okay. We aren’t making it public until after the inauguration.’

Donna rounded the table and grabbed her, finishing up by patting her stomach. Abbey patted her on the back, ‘Perhaps you and Zoey can deliver together.’

Abbey poured coffee into three cups and made lemon tea for Mal. The women settled into talk about babies and family.

Part Two

Leo stood at the gate waiting, the plane had been delayed an hour due to the snow, but had landed twenty minutes ago. They still hadn’t emerged from the plane. He would never understand them; they were practically married in all but name, but insisted on having separate houses in separate cities. Which for him meant there was still a chance. Toby had chosen to base himself in New York, writing, lecturing and hanging out at the Stadium. CJ had stayed in Washington, running communications for various senators in the intervening years. It seemed to work for both of them. And enabled Leo to visit her whenever he was in town, and visiting invariably lead to dinner and dancing, time which he always cherished. He spotted her first, you couldn’t miss the six foot fifty something woman, then he saw the bald head. There weren’t many people left in the airport and she began to move quickly across the concourse towards him. Leo grinned as she wrapped herself around him, kissing him gently on the cheek.

‘Leopold. How’s it going?’

‘Hey CJ. You brought him I see.’

‘He seems to tag along.’ She confessed as Toby came to a halt beside them and shook Leo’s hand.

‘It’s snowing, and I’m guessing below zero outside, should we not get somewhere warmer,’ Toby growled.

‘Nice to see you too.’

With their bags safely in the trunk Leo shifted the car into drive and headed out of Manchester in the direction of the farm. CJ chatted amicably on the journey as Toby sat silently in the back reading his paper. The snow was coming down heavier now and the traffic was backing up in the main street. The usual twenty-minute route across town took nearly an hour, but once on the open road and in four-wheel drive they were soon home. Parking as close to the building as possible Leo moved around the car and helped CJ out of the car, she ran across the steps and opened the door. Once inside she shed her coat and went in search of the others. It didn’t take her long to follow the sound of the voices and find herself in the kitchen.

‘So anyway I withheld sex for a week and he hasn’t mentioned it since,’ Donna finished.

‘You actually withheld it from him,’ The four women turned at the sound of the voice.

‘CJ,’ Donna cried launching herself across the kitchen to grab her. ‘We thought you weren’t going to make it.’

‘Have you ever known Toby miss out on free food and drink? Besides I promised Theo, and who am I to break a promise. Hi Abbey, Margaret, Mal. Where are the kids?’

‘Zoey is on operation present; they thought they would lend a hand. Liz is lighting fires and Ellie is still at the hospital. Coffee?’ Abbey asked moving back to the pot.

CJ took an empty chair and settled down, ‘So what’s new?’

Mallory Seaborn looked across at Donna, waiting for her to speak, when nothing came she put down her drink, ‘I’m going to have a baby.’

CJ raised her eyebrows, ‘The press doesn’t know?’ She acknowledged the shaking head and continued, ‘That’s the first newscycle shot away. Looking forward to the move?’

Mal shrugged, ‘The movers do it all. Leo gets to spend more time with Margaret and I get to swan around at dinner parties. Sam’s aide thinks I should give up work. Needless to say I don’t agree. I’ve worked hard in education; I’m not giving it up now. Sam doesn’t care what I do as long as I’m happy.’

‘That’s because he knows he would have to answer to Leo if he didn’t.’

The women continued to chat for the next hour until the children finished the tree and came looking for their parents. As the servants set about preparing dinner the guests congregated in the annexe.

The annexe was actually an old barn, which the US government had financed to be renovated to house the secret service. These days it was used to put up guests and joined to the house by a semi covered portico. Apart from a small rec room downstairs the rest of the building was taken up with bedrooms. The Lyman and Seaborn families settled in upstairs leaving Toby and CJ with a choice of two downstairs rooms. CJ chose the largest, leading out on to the lawn. As she stood under the shower letting the warm water take away the stresses of the day she heard Toby talking on the phone to Andi. It had long since stopped bothering her that he could be close to his ex wife; in fact it was reassuring to know even if they fell apart he would still keep in touch. She turned off the water and wrapped herself in a towel. Padding through the bathroom she watched as his eyes wandered over her and he quickly ended the call. She dropped the towel and joined him on the bed. This was how it had always been for them, after days or weeks apart they made love, passionate and explosive, leaving no one in any doubt as to what was going on. As they lay afterwards wrapped in each other he brought the conversation back to them.

‘So have you thought about it?’ He asked, drawing circles across her stomach.

‘Yes and I don’t have an answer.’

‘When?’

CJ sighed, ‘When I’m sure, just give me a few days.’ She kissed his neck.

‘Okay. The President doesn’t look so good.’

‘Neither would you with Sam and Josh under your roof for four days, too many open fireplaces, an overstocked bar and snow. A somewhat lethal combination.’

Toby smirked, ‘You’ve been known to partake in drunken snowball dares.’

She hit him; ‘You know Donna withholds sex when Josh is mean.’

‘Too much information,’ he groaned. ‘We need to get dressed, dinner is at eight sharp. And my date is waiting.’

CJ raised an eyebrow as he pulled himself up off the bed and padded into the bathroom, ‘Date?’

‘Miss Theo Lyman requests my pleasure. You know she would marry me in a second.’

CJ laughed, it was true, for as long as she could walk and talk Theo had worshipped Toby. She would follow him everywhere and ask no end of questions. In the end Josh had changed his will, leaving his precious child to Toby’s guardianship much to everyone’s amazement. And for his part Toby loved the little girl, showering her with gifts and playing with her when nobody was looking.

Dinner was a lively affair as they caught up on the gossip cycle. Christmas at the Bartlet’s was known for its traditions, the endless decorations, the nightlong trivial pursuit games and enormous supplies of food. This was no exception as a four-course dinner was rolled out, complete with wine, brandy and port. Certainly no one was going outside to play with the snow, instead opting for the next hour to relax around the tree and discuss their forthcoming plans. The children long in bed and much of the old protocol set aside they looked to any outsider as the large happy family deep down they were.

Part Three

The Bartlet’s along with CJ and Leo set off at eleven for Mass, taking it steady on the now icy roads. The service was beautiful, leading each to thank God for all that they had been blessed with. When it was over they walked out of the cathedral en mass and headed back to the vehicles, laughing and enjoying the stunning winter’s night. Shortly after they reached the farm and headed indoors for cocoa.

‘I’m going for a walk, I couldn’t sleep if I tried.’

Leo looked back towards the house as the others filed indoors and made a decision, ‘Fancy some company?’

CJ grinned pulling her hat down over her ears, ‘Sure, why not?’

As they walked neither spoke, both focusing on where they thought the path should be. CJ took a step and sank into the snow, her left leg flailing in the air as she tumbled sideways. Leo grabbed her, his hands settling on her waist, as she tried to pull her foot out. Leo held on tightly, lost in the feeling of having her in his arms. Her foot finally loose she lifted her head to face him and caught the look in his eyes. It didn’t have time to register that he wanted her before his lips grazed hers gently. When she didn’t pull away he pressed harder, nipping at her lower lip. His hands moved from her waist to wrap around her back pulling her closer as his tongue flicked against her lips. She responded by sticking her tongue out to meet his. The two tangled, grazing against teeth and each other. Finally they pulled apart breathless. CJ’s cheeks were flushed and not from the cold but the most intense kiss she had experienced since, well Danny. They stared at each other neither knowing quite what to say. CJ glanced down at his arms and he pulled them away.

‘I’m sorry. CJ. I don’t know what came over me.’

She started to walk away and hit a tree.

‘Are you okay?’

CJ waved him off, ‘Yeah, it’s not the first time I’ve walked into something. Leo, I don’t know what to say. Toby and I….’

He sighed, ‘It’s okay CJ. I overstepped the mark.’

She walked back towards him, ‘No. If I wasn’t with Toby then I’d be flattered. CJ was still in shock at the intensity of the kiss. ‘He’s asked me to marry him.’ She blurted out.

‘Oh, so why haven’t you?’

CJ shrugged, ‘I’m not sure Leo. He’s Toby and I’m me.’

‘Are you going to?’ Leo whispered, dreading the answer but knowing he needed to hear her say it.

CJ touched his arm, ‘That’s something I need to tell him first.’

Leo nodded.

Part Four

CJ was sat in the kitchen nursing a mug of coffee someone had handed her when Abbey found her. She dismissed the servants and pulled up a chair.

‘Have you slept at all?’ She began.

CJ sipped her coffee, ‘I think there was an hour somewhere.’

Abbey placed a hand on hers, ‘Want to tell me what’s wrong?’

CJ shook her head and laughed, ‘I never thought I’d be in the middle of a love triangle.’

Abbey blinked, ‘Love triangle?’

CJ turned to her, ‘Leo. Abbey. He kissed me last night and I kissed him back.’

Abbey raised her eyebrows, ‘Really. He finally made a move. What did you say?’

CJ went wide-eyed, ‘Finally made a move? How long have you known about this?’

Abbey shrugged, ‘He’s had a crush on you for years. He’s never mentioned it and I’m not sure anyone else has ever noticed.’

‘I told him Toby asked me to marry him, ‘ CJ stated. ‘And that I wasn’t sure it was what I wanted.’

‘Is that the truth?’

‘Yes.’

Abbey sighed, ‘Is this going to make things complicated?’

CJ shook her head, ‘If anything it means I have to think about what I really want and not just do it to keep Toby happy.’

‘Do you love him?’ Abbey asked.

‘Who?’ CJ asked back.

‘I meant Toby, but yeah, Leo too.’

This time it was CJ who sighed, ‘I’ve been thinking about that all night. I love Toby, he’s my best friend and when we’re together it’s great, but after all these years can we really work living in the same city? And Leo, yeah there’s something there, we enjoy each other’s company and last night I felt something.’ She looked at Abbey expecting some reaction.

‘I can’t help; it’s your decision to make. Just don’t do anything for a couple of days, okay?’

CJ noted the importance of the time frame but merely nodded.

The house seemed to come alive with the sound of voices. The children emerged from the annexe followed closely by their parents. Donna pulled back the curtains in the living room and switched on the tree lights. Beneath the seven-foot spruce presents lie unopened. Three children’s jaws dropped at the sight of double the gifts from the day before. Toby shuffled through the house and leaned against the doorframe as little hands searched through the brightly coloured packages for their name. CJ and Abbey came in search of the noise. Toby caught CJ as she entered the room and pulled her towards him, his hands encircling her waist as his lips kissed hers. She pulled away and stood in his embrace.

‘What was that for?’

‘Because I love you and it’s Christmas,’ he whispered moving towards her lips.

‘Ekk. Toby put Aunt CJ down,’ Theo ordered. ‘When mom and dad did that we ended up with Noah.’

The room erupted as the adults laughed at the innocence of youth.

‘And who told you that?’ Jed asked shuffling to join them, aided by Charlie.

Theo stood up straighter and faced her grandfather, ‘Daddy, he said I wasn’t to kiss a boy until I was thirty because I didn’t want to have a baby.’

Jed looked at Josh directly and raised his eyebrows as the others tried to stifle giggles. ‘Really Josh, thirty, you and I really need to talk.’

Abbey moved towards the children and dropped to her knees, ‘Now that Liz has got all that on camera why don’t we see what presents we can find, Zoey, Ellie, Annie, come help.’

The elders of the group took seats around the tree as presents were handed out. Soon the room was littered with remnants of paper, boxes and toys. The offspring of the Bartlet clan had always been spoilt and this year was no exception, the only difference was that they were all in the same room. When the children were suitably occupied the grown ups began to open gifts, sharing in the wonder of a Christmas like no other. When only the tree gifts were left Abbey hustled everyone for breakfast, a hearty farmhouse breakfast.

Stomachs full and everyone dressed the children gazed out of the window at the pure white wonderland. Everywhere they looked there was a blanket of snow, the animals all inside and footsteps from the night before filled in. Noah rushed from the window and searched for his father.

‘Daddy, can we go play in the snow, please.’

Josh shook his head, ‘It’s too cold out.’

‘I’ll wear my coat, scarf and gloves, please.’ The child looked up at him eyes bright and pleading.

Leo stood in the doorway grinning, ‘You’re going to lose that one Josh. It’s the look children inherit from their mothers.’

‘Grandpa, can I go too?’

Leo looked down at his namesake and rubbed his head, ‘yep, we’ll build a snowman.’

The three children ran into the hallway shrieking with delight, hunting for winter wear.

‘Want a hand?’ CJ asked enjoying the genuine warmth that surrounded the room.

He looked back at her, his grin widening, ‘Can’t promise you won’t get hit.’

‘I’ve got better aim.’

‘Oh, snowball fight,’ Sam cheered, ‘Josh and I versus’ you two.’

Within minutes the adults were wrapped up and following the small ones outside. Abbey helped Jed to the window seat and left him in the safe hands of Zoey and Mal to join the others. She opened the front door and ducked as the first snowball hit the frame above her head.

‘Oops,’ Josh exclaimed, ‘Sorry Abbey. That’s cold,’ he added as CJ pushed a snowball down his neck. He set off in chase, a snowball in each hand. He turned sharply when he felt a thump on his back and found Leo grinning from ear to ear as he squatted on the ground building the snowman with the youngsters. The play went down hill from there on as inevitably snow hit the wrong person and retaliation broke out. Abbey watched from the porch as they enjoyed their winter fun and smiled as Josh and Donna disappeared into the trees hand in hand.

‘Aunt Abbey, we need a carrot and a scarf,’ Noah said tugging at her coat.

‘We had better go and get them then.’

They returned minutes later with the required accessories and found Sam and Toby putting the finishing touches to the now six-foot snowman. Zoey emerged in the doorway camera in hand,

‘Dad wants photos. And that means everyone,’ she called into the distance.

Josh emerged pulling Donna with him, hair dishevelled and coat buttoned askew.

They spent the next twenty minutes snapping photos until a servant emerged to call them all to dinner.

Jed offered grace as they all gathered around the two tables for lunch, most pink from the cold air and more than ready for the mulled wine. When he had finished he offered his knife to Charlie and instructed him to carve. Nobody ever went hungry at the Bartlets on Christmas, the turkey was big enough to feed an army and the trimmings alone filled a side table. Dinner descended into chaos as so many of the celebrations with party poppers, streamers and crackers. Jed watched them and the most peculiar thought entered his head.

‘I feel a bit like Papa Walton,’ he said to no one in particular.

‘Who?’ Leo asked.

‘You really did lead a sheltered life. The Waltons on Waltons Mountain, papa, mama, grandpa, grandma and seven kids. They gathered every night around the table,’ Sam offered.

‘You are a freak,’ Toby interjected.

‘Children please play nicely,’ Jed ordered.

They all looked at him sheepishly.

Dinner ended the group retired to the living room to relax and listen to the President’s address. A cheer erupted as he mentioned the Vice president Elect and Sam stood and bowed. Josh turned away from the scene and concentrated on his son. Jed and Abbey shared a look and frowned, Josh was known for his jealousy but they had never imagined it would mean him letting his best friend down.

‘Uncle Toby, will you play Twister with me?’ came a little voice.

CJ stifled a giggle as Toby’s eyes darted around the room as he tried to find a way to say no.

‘Toby would love to play,’ CJ answered.

Toby glared at her for a second and added, ‘yeah and CJ will play too.’

No one was really sure how it happened but Theo took control of the spinner while the adults played the game. Toby’s head ended up sticking out from between Josh’s legs, Donna and CJ were twisted around each other and the only way Sam could reach the red space was to practically leapfrog Toby. Zoey continued to snap away. Finally they all collapsed in a heap and refused to play again. Sensing unrest from various quarters Abbey positioned herself beside the tree and started to hand out the remaining presents.

Part Five

More snow fell over night and Boxing Day dawned crisper than the day before. Everyone awoke late, still not recovered from the previous days over indulgence and a collective groan went out as they entered the dining room for breakfast. Not wanting to offend they tucked in and soon the trays were empty. When Liz disappeared and re emerged with toboggans the morning was mapped out. Leo, Sam, Toby, Josh and Charlie set off with the children into the hills. Liz and Mike stayed behind to watch Jed leaving the women to take a walk.

Abbey led the party away from the house towards the lake and dropped back to talk to Donna.

‘He still won’t take the job?’ she asked.

‘Nope. He’s putting his foot down.’

‘He’s jealous, want Jed to talk to him?’

‘Hit him over the head with a stick more like. He could have run, god knows the party wanted him too but he refused. After everything in the 2002 election he said he didn’t want to put us through that. So when Sam gets on the ticket he starts sulking. He is happy for him, it’s just I suppose he thinks it should be him.’

Abbey grinned, ‘The Presidency wasn’t all bad, we met you guys, we righted some wrongs. Josh should be Chief of Staff, in four years, maybe eight he would achieve his destiny. Sam needs him. They need each other.’

‘Preaching to the converted.’

Abbey squeezed her hand, ‘I have ways and means.’ She walked forward and caught up with CJ, who was kicking at the snow rather than walking through it.

‘Snap out of it.’

CJ snapped back, ‘That’s easy for you.’

‘I walked away from Ron to be with Jed.’

CJ stared at her, ‘I didn’t know.’

‘There was no major fight. I met Jed, fell in love and finished with Ron. A week later Jed plucked up the courage to ask me out. We’ve never been apart since.’

CJ sighed and played with her hair, ‘How could you be sure?’

‘Easy, Ron was fun, we partied, we fooled around and never planned for anything. Jed talked about the future, we went to the theatre, we waited until we were engaged to do anything. Too much info for you.’

A blush had covered CJ’s face at the idea of two of her closest friends having sex, and too many memories of campaign stops.

‘Yeah.’

‘You can always go out on your own, CJ Cregg doesn’t need a man to survive.’

‘Do any of us?’ Mal called from behind.

The women started laughing as the conversation turned back to the men in their lives and their obvious flaws.

When they returned to the house it was silent, Jed was sleeping and the others had yet to return. Enjoying the peace and solitude the women disappeared to their own rooms to relax. The house came alive an hour later as the men returned and everyone returned to the living room for more games and even more food.

Part Six

Theo, Noah and Leo safely asleep Abbey led everyone through to the private sitting room. Unlike elsewhere in the house the room was devoid of Christmas paraphernalia. Jed settled himself on one couch; Abbey to oneside and Leo to the other, Donna, Mallory and Liz took the other, Liz’s husband on the arm. The rest of the women took the armchairs leaving Charlie, Josh, Sam and Toby to sit on the floor. Everyone waited in baited breath for the President’s speech, knowing as they did it was going to be emotional.

‘This is something I’ve rehearsed a hundred times but never wanted to tell you. I’ve made mistakes in the past with who and what I tell but this time I wanted to get it right. Christmas isn’t the time for this, not that there is a time, but I wanted my family all together, and this seemed the only time. And seeing as there are no interruptions I want to add a few things. I’m proud of all of you. And thankful for the children you let me share. My life has been richer for having you in it.’ Jed paused to sip water. ‘This is hard for me. So I’m going to say it and let Abbey answer your questions. The two strokes have weakened me significantly, but surprisingly the MS is still in remission. Unfortunately medical opinion has it that one more stroke will kill me. And the likelihood will be that it will happen sooner rather than later.’

A collective silence covered the room as the fourteen people took on board what he was saying. They looked at each other as Josh moved closer to Donna.

‘Why didn’t you tell me?’

‘God, Leo. I wanted to but we thought you should all know together.’

‘How long, Abbey?’ It was CJ who spoke, her voice barely audible.

Abbey shook her head, ‘We honestly don’t know, a few days, a few weeks, but not longer than a few months.’

Toby rose to his feet and began to move around the room, his fingers running across his scalp, stopping to say words he never uttered. Finally he stopped by the door, ‘I, um, I need some air.’ He was out of the door before anyone could follow. CJ watched him go, leaning back in her chair as she fought to hold off the tears. Zoey was openly crying, Charlie’s arms around her as Ellie asked the questions they all wanted answered. The room became a blur as they dealt with the news in their own way. Abbey and Jed sat side-by-side, fingers entwined, as they watched helplessly. Leo saw the first tear fall on CJ’s cheek and moved to her side. Kneeling in front of her he pulled her body forwards and rested her head on his shoulder, wrapping his arms around her as she allowed the tears to fall. No one heard the words of love he whispered nor caught the look Abbey shot him. Slowly as if by telepathy the daughters moved to embrace their father, imparting their love and strength to the frail man he had become.

Eventually Abbey broke the silence, ‘We’ve talked about this and we don’t want the little ones to know, they should be able to enjoy the time they have with him. And we aren’t making this public. This time it stays in the family. When the time comes the press will be all over us and for now I want to take care of my husband here.’

Josh broke away from his wife and walked the few steps to his former President, ‘Sir, if there’s anything you need we’re here for you.’

Jed turned to look at each of his former staff, each looked back at him, eyes bright, the truth of Josh’s words apparent. He smiled, ‘Firstly you can call me Jed. And then someone can get the beer it’s time we played poker, CJ deal.’

‘Dad, how can you be so flippant?’ Ellie asked, anger sparking in her eyes.

‘Ellie!’ Her mother warned.

‘It’s okay Abbey. I’m going to die, soon. But tonight I have all the people I care about most in the world here and I want to enjoy their company. I don’t want to spend my last days worrying about what will be. God has made his decision, just as he did when he took Delores. There’s still much I want to do. I have an inauguration to attend, two babies to meet and who knows maybe a wedding. Allow me to live to the end. Now Abbey help me to the dining room I have money to win, and children to torture.’

Abbey rose to her feet and eased Jed to his frame, Sam moved to help but Jed waved him off. ‘Tomorrow I want time with each of you, Josh, Sam get the beer.

They were all seated around the table, CJ, Josh, Sam, Jed, Leo and Charlie, while the others sat in the sitting room. CJ was dealing the first hand when Toby strolled in, pulled out the wad of money from his wallet and sat down. Grabbing a beer he motioned for CJ to deal him in and settled into the game.

Part Seven

The farm was eerily quiet the following morning, the children having awoken early and crawled into their parents’ beds. Josh and Sam were probably hungover and regretting their foray into the snow at midnight. Jed and Abbey sat at the breakfast table alone, not saying much just enjoying the peace, which once upon a time had been so treasured. The snow had laid once more over night covering the farm in a blanket, and in the distance a lone figure ploughed through the snow.

‘I want to talk to her first,’ Jed said watching her.

‘She’s going to take all this the hardest, you saw her last night.’

Jed sipped his coffee and reached for his wife’s hand, ‘And she’ll probably be the strongest. I need to talk to each of them, things need to be said, they need each other.’

Abbey walked around the table and wrapped her arms around his neck, planting a kiss against his hair. She knew he had been anxious about telling them he was dying but this was something else, this was about bringing his family together. Their friendship had been what had made the administration so strong, and for the Bartlet’s so special, each the support for the other. When the administration had ended they had gone their separate ways, having spent so long in each other’s pockets it seemed only natural they would want time apart but he had seen them struggle. Toby had given up on his vision and his passion, finding the safe way out in a bottle and in New York. CJ had continued to work for the sake of it, putting aside her own needs to be there for Toby. Jed was most concerned about Josh and Sam, the Vice Presidency threatening to destroy their friendship as drink had threatened to destroy his and Leo’s. He wasn’t going to let it happen, he was going to make it his legacy to bring them full circle.

CJ walked up to the door and knocked, smoothing down her jeans as she waited for him to call her in. She barely recognised his voice, so timid and frail. Jed sat in his office chair, his glass paperweights as always on his desk, photos of family complemented by photos of his extended family.

‘Good walk?’

CJ smiled, ‘It cleared the head.’

‘Come sit here, I want to tell you some things.’

CJ took the chair and allowed him to take her hand in his frail one.

‘You have always been like a daughter to me and I haven’t always been fair to you.’ CJ moved to interrupt but he waved her down.

‘I should have supported you more often. Even when it was against policy you were right, and I agreed with you. I never needed to punish you for your mistakes you did that yourself, and you’re doing it now. Toby will survive, he loves you but he would hate you for marrying him for the wrong reasons. He will always be part of your life, they all will, and it’s you that keeps them together.’ He paused to take a sip of water. ‘Anyway Claudia Jean I have a job for you. In my will there is provision for a charity, The Josiah Bartlet Trust, there’s a million and I know the right person can raise more. I’d like you to run it here in New Hampshire. The girls are trustees but you would have a major say and a salary to live comfortably off. I’m asking for a few years, or more if you want. But it’s yours to do what you think is best, money for battered women, research for womens health.’

CJ stared back at him, ‘That wasn’t what I expected. I need to think about it.’

‘I didn’t mean to add to your burden but it would mean a lot to Abbey and I.’

‘Yes Sir, no pep talk?’

He laughed, ‘You don’t need it, you’re independent, smart and you make good decisions. My only regret is that you didn’t get to have a family of your own.’

CJ shrugged, ‘I made my choice and I don’t regret it. Working for you was the best thing that ever happened to me, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity.’ tears welled up in her eyes. ‘Jed, if you don’t mind I would like to stay on a little longer.’

Jed squeezed her hand, ‘I’d like that, stay as long as you want. I’m sure my other house guest would love the company.‘ He grinned. ‘Now can you send Josh in.’

Josh was sat on the stairs, head in hands, groaning. He looked up at the sound of footsteps and stood when he saw CJ. She was wiping her eyes with her sleeves, her hair falling into the tears.

‘You okay?’ he asked pulling her into a hug.

She nodded, ‘He just surprised me that’s all. He wants you to go in.’

Josh let her go and went in the direction she had come.

Jed motioned for him to sit, when he was sat he started, ‘My son, that’s how I’ve always seen you, I’ve never forgotten the sacrifices you made to get me to The White House. And I’m proud of you, and Donna and my grandchildren. My only regret is I won’t get to see the next generation grow up and get married.’

Josh turned his head away so he wouldn’t see him cry.

‘Josh, without Leo I wouldn’t have been anything, he was always in the background, keeping me going. And the same is true for Sam. Everything you have been through I can understand why you wouldn’t want to go back but he wants you there, he needs you. Josh, take the damn job, put the crap behind you and work for him. Do it for me, for Donna.’

Tears were running openly down Josh’s face.

‘Sir, I can’t, I said things to Sam…’

‘Rubbish, I know he still wants you to be Chief of Staff, go find him and tell him.’

Josh stood and hovered before he leaned down and hugged Jed, overwhelmed by the fragile man he had become.

‘On one condition, you come to the Inauguration.’

Jed let him go and pushed him away, ‘Wild Horses wouldn’t keep me away. Find Toby.’

Part Eight

CJ sat on the bed as Toby packed, well rather threw clothes randomly into his bag, and tossed in his presents on top. He had not acknowledged her presence since his meeting with the President and he was more glum than usual.

‘Toby, what’s wrong?’ she tried.

‘Why aren’t you packing?’ He replied.

She paused for a second to prepare for his reaction. ‘Toby, I’m staying on for a while.’

His eyes lifted from his chaos and stared at her, ‘How long’s a while? CJ, what are you telling me?’

‘Maybe permanently. He offered me a job when the time comes and I think I owe him that much.’

‘He told me to get my head out of my arse and stop wasting my talents,’ He laughed coldly. ‘What a joke.’

CJ moved across the bed and knelt next to him, ‘This isn’t what you wanted to do. You have always been an operative; you belong out in the game. You won two elections you can do it again.’

Toby extended his hand and gently stroked her cheek, ‘Is this your way of saying it’s over?’

‘It will never be over, I think we’re destined to be apart of each other lives for ever. But I can’t marry you and I don’t think this arrangement can work much longer.’

He moved away from her, ‘I guessed as much, you’ve been distant the last few days. And he said as much. Maybe we left it too long. So if I want…’

‘You can call me here; I’ll pack up the apartment when I find somewhere else. You will call won’t you,’ she asked urgently.

Toby moved back over to her and wrapped his arms around her, ‘In time. I’ll have to let you know what campaign I’m working on and there’ll be the funeral.‘ He kissed her on her forehead and whispered, I love you.’

CJ hugged him close, ‘I love you too. Make sure you keep in touch, Theo is very good at emailing.’

Toby picked up his case and headed in the direction of the main house, ‘Are you coming to say goodbye?’

She followed him and joined the others gathered in the main hallway. The parting had much the same feel as when the Administration ended, a sense of finality with a determination for the future. Hugs and kisses were exchanged as the family parted, each knowing that the next time they would all be together one would be missing. Josh and Sam embraced each other as only men can, but holding on a second too long. They stood on the steps minutes after talking in part sentences of what they were going to do, of future elections and the inauguration. Mallory and Donna stood back watching the men they loved embracing their renewed spirit. Tears welled up in Abbey’s eyes as she watched Jed hug each child close to him, talking to them tenderly knowing he would never see them again. Theo let go of her grandfather and went to embrace her grandmother. Abbey held on to her tight, stifling the tears. Theo looked around at her aunts and uncles and noted the desolation in all of them. She may have only been seven but was far beyond her years. Letting go she ran back across the wooden floor and launched herself against her grandfather, squeezing him.

‘I love you grandpa.’

Jed allowed a tear to fall down his cheek before he waved to Toby. In one smooth movement Toby lifted her up and carried her to the car. CJ followed him out and watched as he kissed Theo, trying to calm her down, until Donna appeared and climbed in, resting her daughter against her. Toby turned away so as not to upset the child further. He saw CJ and moved towards her,

’I’m glad I won’t have to be the one to tell her.’

CJ took his hand, ‘I wish no one had to tell her. Can we do our goodbyes here before we go back inside?’

Toby wrapped his arms around her waist and lowered his forehead to hers, ‘Take care of yourself and if you need me, find a way of calling me.’ he kissed her lightly on the mouth, savouring the last taste.

Pulling away CJ nodded, squeezed him one last time and turned to go back inside.

The hallway had cleared, the Bartlet girls had retired into the house, and Ellie was waiting in the car to take Toby and Charlie to the airport. All that remained were the senior staff and Abbey.

They all stood, staring at each other, no one sure what to say or what to do, all too emotional for their usual flippant comments. Abbey took the initiative and crossed to hug first Josh, then Sam, then Toby to her, promising each a silent promise. Jed stood, resting against his frame, CJ on oneside, Abbey on the other.

‘You know we can stand here all day but I’m going to have to pee.’

CJ stifled a grin and pulled Josh towards her. He wavered for a second then hugged Jed to him, whispering against the pale cheek, ‘I love you Jed.’ Jed held him as firmly as he could before releasing him.

Sam moved next, ready to shake hands when arms encircled him, ‘Remember what I told you son.’

Sam nodded and followed Josh to the door. Toby shuffled from foot to foot and glanced around at the women.

‘Toby, stop being a monumental pain and come here.’

Toby shuffled forward and allowed himself to be hugged briefly.

‘See, not so bad. Now I want weekly reports on the campaign, see if you can find yourself another cretin, that was the right phrase wasn’t it?’

Toby grinned beneath his beard.

‘Go, before it gets dark, I’m going to sit here with Abbey.’

The five friends and former colleagues went out into the cold, closing the door behind them Briefly they exchanged embraces before three got into cars and waved. Leo took a step closer to CJ and placed his arm on her back as tears flowed down her cheeks.

‘So you’re staying a while?’

‘Yeah, I need to go back and pack but I’m here to stay.’ She wiped her eyes. ‘Toby and I are over. I didn’t do it for you and I’m not about to rush into anything. Okay.’

Leo held his grin in check and moved his hand in small circles on her back, ‘Okay, but you don’t mind me moving into the annexe, do you?’

CJ linked her arm through his and headed back indoors, ‘I get first choice of rooms.’

He laughed and knew with a little time things would work out.

Epilogue

As it turned out wild horses did keep former President Josiah Bartlet from attending Sam‘s inauguration, in late January he suffered a third stroke. Instead CJ, and Abbey sat on either side of his bed as they watched the Vice President be sworn in on CNN. Later that evening a rather jubilant Sam phoned on his way to the Governor’s ball to share his delight and quickly stiffened when the barely audible voice came on the line. The following morning Abbey picked up the phone and called her daughters and Leo back to New Hampshire. Josiah Bartlet fought on for another week, willing his fragile body to spend just one more day with the woman he had loved for over thirty five years. The former President died in his sleep, his wife and best friend at his side.

Leo descended the staircase to the hallway and stopped when he saw her standing there, her back to him. She turned when she heard him and tears openly flowed at the look on his face. His arms were around her in seconds as they fell to their knees, holding each other together. It was a brief moment of relief before Leo stood and made his way into the study to make the calls.

Donna rolled over in bed and reached for the phone, lifting it to her ear.

‘Hello?’ she said in a sleep induced voice.

‘Donna…’ was all he managed before she let out a cry.

Josh jumped up and took the phone from his shaking wife.

‘Hello.’

‘Josh, it’s Leo.’

‘When?’ he asked pulling his wife to his chest.

‘About thirty minutes ago.’

Josh lowered the phone back into the holder.

‘Josh, we have to tell Theo and Noah.’ Donna cried between sobs.

‘Let them sleep.’

In New York the phone rang and switched to answer phone.

‘Toby, it’s Leo. Jed died half an hour ago. Call me when you get this.’

Toby stared at the machine, a solitary tear falling into his glass.

At the Observatory the agent on night duty answered the switchboard and walked down the corridor to knock on the bedroom door. Sam pulled himself from the bed and bleary eyed opened the door.

‘Mr Vice President, Mr McGarry is on the phone.’

He closed the door and fell on to the bed, unable to take the call. Mallory sat up and focused on the blinking light.

‘Who?’

‘Your father.’ The two words filled her with dread as she picked up the receiver and took the three minute call. Later she held her husband as he curled up in a ball and cried for the man who had betrayed him but had in so many ways won back his respect.

On a cold day in February they all made their way to New Hampshire to gather once more at the Farm. There were no joyous celebrations, no games, no laughter, instead they mourned together. The service was held at the cathedral he had attended for most of his adult life, with no more than fifty of his closest family and friends. As his youngest daughter spoke of his love of family, his best friend spoke of his love of country. That afternoon he was laid to rest in the Bartlet family plot, surrounded by the generations that had gone before and the eighteen people he cherished most.

They returned to the House, ignoring the carefully prepared food, instead choosing to sit in the small family sitting room where six weeks earlier he had broken the news. Abbey watched them all fighting to keep their grief in check, Leo and CJ sat as far apart as they could, each watching for signs the other was breaking. Josh held Donna close to him, her head against his chest, her face buried into him. Sam sat on the floor, Mallory between his legs, his hands resting on her now prominent stomach.

‘Abbey, we’ve been talking about it, and if it’s okay with you we’d like to call it Jed if it’s a boy,’ Sam said.

Abbey let her eyes rest on him, ‘I’d like that, he would to.’

‘Toby shifted in his seat, and Theo clung to him harder. He wrapped his arms tightly around her, needing the comfort as much as she did.

‘Did he say anything Abbey?’ Josh asked.

Abbey looked at him softly and smiled, ‘He said what’s next?’

They shared a smile and for a brief second they were transported back to the campaign headquarters in New Hampshire. Josh had just left the prospective candidate to work for another liberal governor from New England and now thirteen years later he was working for the candidate tipped to win the election in 2014. Sam had walked away from his fiancee and a highly paid job to write speeches, and now he was married and walking away from a successful law firm once more. Toby, was putting failure behind him again and had begun campaigning. Thirteen years on CJ was facing new challenges, a career change and a prospective new relationship, which she knew would have be for keeps. They had all come full circle. Abbey stood and crossed to the window as the first flakes of snow began to fall, placing her fingers against the pane she allowed herself to grieve, whispering into the night, ‘So what’s next Jed?’