Sunday 24th January 1965
Camp David
2pm
Jack was splashing about in the pool with Caroline and John when Kenny appeared. “Mr President, Can we please talk? I have some upsetting news.”
Jack noticed the uneasiness in Kenny’s eyes. “Sure.”
He climbed out of the pool and wrapped a towel round his shoulders and followed him to his study.
“What’s up Kenny?” Jack asked as he flopped down on to the sofa.
“We’ve extended your visit to Europe.”
“What? Why?” Jack exclaimed.
“Because you have a funeral to go too.”
Jack paused. “Who’s?”
“Winston Churchill died this morning.”
Jack gasped. He was silent for a moment, not only was he sad that his hero had died but he was nervous about going to a funeral. He hadn’t been to one since Patrick’s.
“Jack?” Kenny asked.
“Ok.”
Once Jack was alone he hugged his knees. He was glad Jackie was coming with him now. He was alone with his thoughts when Jackie came in. “Jack what’s wrong?”
“Churchill died. We have to go to his funeral.”
“It’ll be fine Bunny I’ll be with you.”
He nodded. “Thank you.”
When they went back outside they joined the kids in the pool. The water eased his back. “Daddy!” John giggled.
“What?”
“Catch!”
Jack caught the rubber duck John had chucked him. “Thanks John.”
YOU ARE READING
The Distance Between Us
FanfictionAfter a nerve-racking election day, Jack and Jackie have to deal with the outcome. The sadness and grief felt by both the First Couple is a worry to Jack’s staff especially with the hugely important European tour coming up. Will Jack find comfort in...
