The Other Man

Chapter 1

"Oh not this again." Jack thought to himself as he could hear his wife's breathy voice arguing with Mrs. Lincoln outside of the Oval Office. In the days following the death of their infant son Patrick in August, Jackie had become increasing angry and would argue with anyone on anything. 

Jack stuck his head out of the office, offering Mrs. Lincoln a sad smile, as he spoke. "What's the problem, ladies?"

Jackie turned and promptly began to list off everything that had been wrong with her day and how Mrs. Lincoln not allowing her to just barge into Jack's office had set her off.

Jack nodded sympathically, coming over and kissing his wife's forehead. "It's alright, darling. From now on, Mrs. Lincoln will let you into the office whenever you want. Why don't you go take a warm bath? I'll be up shortly and we can talk, okay?"

Jackie nodded and let without a second glance at either one of them.

"Mrs. Lincoln, I do apologize..." He began.

"No apologies are needed, Mr. President. She is struggling. I understand."

He nodded. "Well thank you. Jacqueline will be back to herself soon, I hope. But from now on just try and avoid her. Let her do what she wants."

Mrs. Lincoln smiled. "Like I let you do?"

He rolled his eyes, stealing a piece of candy from her desk. "Hardy, har. Very funny. Have a good night, Mrs. Lincoln."

"You as well, Mr. President."

She watched as he left, whistling, as he made his way up to the residence. Sighing at the thought of Jackie starting an argument with him when he arrived.