Irene Fitzgerald Kennedy

Graduation

   The days seemed to turn into weeks; weeks turned into months; months turned into years. Irene soon enough found herself dressing in her cap and gown for graduation. "Dad!" she called bounding down the stairs, "I'm ready!"
   "You look wonderful, Irene! I-" he sighed, "Irene, when you came here two years ago, I couldn't imagine having you here, but now..." he didn't finish and Irene noticed his voice seemed to catch.
   Irene grabbed his hand, "Dad, I might be graduating, but it doesn't change anything. I'm going to work at your office next year."
   Jack nodded as Caroline ran out of the kitchen and into Irene's arms, "Hey, cutie!"
   "Re-Ne!"
   "What are you and mummy up to in there?"
   "Cake!"
   Irene smiled and carried Caroline out of the house as Jackie caught up with Jack. "Are you doing alright?" she asked quietly.
   "This is tougher than I thought it would be."
   "I didn't realize how much I've bonded with her. We've become a mother and daughter," Jackie whispered tearing up.
   "Kid, we can't let her see us cry."
   Jackie nodded sucking in her breath. The family went to the commencement ceremony and then went home to eat dinner.
   "Well, it's official! You've graduated," Jack said trying to smile.
   "I know. Can you believe it?"
   Both Jack and Jackie shook their heads. Jack stood to put his plate in the sink. "Jackie, did you buy these pink elephants. I don't like them very much."
   "Jack, what are you talking about?"
   "Dad?" Irene said standing and walking towards him, "Are you alright?"
   "I don't feel so-" and with a thud, Jack hit the floor.