Interlude: First Noel (The Executive Office #1.5)

by Tal Bauer

He paid for his ticket to DC at the counter and made his way through security before any media showed up. He waited at the coffee shop, tapping his foot as he sipped his latte and nodded to his federal shadow, who arrived thirty minutes later, wide-eyed and surprised. A fresh cup of coffee was waiting for his shadow at the counter. Finally, just before boarding began, he pulled out his phone and texted Jack. [Can you talk?] Give me a minute. His phone rang. “Hey, love.” “Hey.” Jack sounded ragged, like he hadn’t slept at all. “What’s up?” “I’m on my way. I’m coming to DC. Shepherd gave me some time off, so I’m coming out there.” “What…” The call for boarding started, and Ethan hefted his duffel. “I don’t want you to have to write those letters to the families alone, Jack. I’m coming out there for you. I want to be with you for this.” He passed his ticket to the boarding agent and headed down the ramp onto the plane. He’d bought a coach ticket, not first class, and he made his way to the back. “Is that all right?” “Ethan…” Jack sounded breathless, shocked and pilloried, but wonder ran through his tone. “Ethan―” His voice choked off, and he coughed, clearing his throat. “When do you get in?” “Three thirty. I texted Scott. He’s sending someone.” Ethan shoved his duffel overhead and sat in his seat, buckling himself in as the first passengers filed onboard. “Ethan…God, I’m so glad you’re coming. I need you right now.” “I love you, Jack. And I’m with you all the way.”