President Kennedy's Struggle

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter 19

Wednesday 4th December 1963

Air Force One

“You okay bunny?” Jackie asked.

“Yeah I suppose.”

“Baby what’s wrong?”

“I’m just worried in case I go back into the depression.” Jack sighed.

“You won’t bunny, I’ll help you. We’ll keep your schedule light and I’ll make sure you have plenty of time for rest and time with me and the kids.”

“Thank you Jackie, I don’t know what I would do without you.”

“You would be strong Jack.”

Jack nodded before embracing her tightly.

Washington DC

When they arrived back at the White House Jack held on to Jackie tightly. When they entered the residence Jack’s staff were waiting with a welcome back banner. He smiled before going to thank them.

“I’m glad you’re feeling better Jack.” Kenny smiled.

“Me too.”

Both men laughed.

“If you put too much pressure on me you’re going to have to deal with Jackie.” Jack teased.

“I know sir I’ve already been given my instructions.”

Jack laughed.

Thursday 5th December 1963

The Oval Office

6pm

Jack was sitting rubbing his forehead; his glasses and pen were lying on top of a document. He’d just finished for the day when Mrs Lincoln came in.

“Hectic day?” Jack joked.

“Yeah but I’m glad you’re back, Johnson was hard to deal with.”

“I’m glad I’m back too.”

“How have you enjoyed your first day?” Mrs Lincoln asked.

“It’s like I’ve never been away.”

Mrs Lincoln smiled. “The First Lady’s here to see you.”

“Send her in.” Jack smiled.

Mrs Lincoln nodded before walking out of the Oval.

When Jackie entered she closed the door behind her. She then flopped on to the sofa and smiled at Jack.

“To what do I owe the pleasure?” Jack teased.

“I’m here to escort you upstairs after your first day back.”

“Well it was very productive, it’s like I never left.”

Jackie grinned as she took his arm. “Let’s go.”

Once in the residence Jack went and changed into slacks and a shirt, he then went to the kitchen.

When Jackie found him he had made fish chowder. “You really do like cooking.”

“I know it’s relaxing.”

Jackie nodded. “It looks nice.”

“Go get the kids.”

“Ok.”

Once they were all seated round the table Caroline couldn’t stop smiling. “Buttons what do you keep smiling at?”

“I find it funny you made this.”

Jackie giggled.

“John’s on my side.” Jack protested. “Isn’t that right John?”

John looked up. “I…um wasn’t listening.”

Jack laughed. “That’s my son.”

John grinned before going to sit on his Dads knee. Things were finally beginning to get back to normal.