Page 64 of Campaign Season
“No, sweetheart. He didn’t know. He wanted to be prepared.”
Scott appeared in the doorway. “What’s going on?”
Marianne’s voice trembled. “It’s Dad. He’s gone.”
Scott sighed. “Oh no. I’m so sorry.”
“I’ll make the call,” Jameson said.
Candace nodded her thanks. “Let me go up before Shell and Jonah,” she added softly.
“Mom—”
Candace gave her daughter a small smile. “Just a minute.”
“I’ll come,” Scott said quietly, understanding.
Candace nodded, and together they climbed the stairs.
At the bedroom door, Scott touched her hand. “Candace?—”
She managed a faint smile. “It’s never easy, Scott. There’s no way to prepare.” She stepped inside.
Jonathan lay still, his features softened in rest. Candace moved to his side, brushing a lock of hair from his forehead. “Oh, Jon,” she whispered, bending to kiss him.
“Would you get me a cloth?” she asked, her voice breaking slightly.
Scott nodded. "I'll be right back."
"Pancakes," Candace muttered, gently stroking Jonathan's cheek.
Scott handed her a washcloth, and she gently washed Jonathan’s face, tears welling. “Tell Lucas I’m glad he’s there for you,” she murmured.
Jameson’s voice came from the doorway. “Candace.”
Candace drew in a long breath, turning to her. “He was ready,” she said, her lips curving into a solemn smile. “He told me last night he couldn’t wait to see Lucas. I should have known.”
“You couldn’t have,” Jameson said softly.
Scott laid a hand on Jonathan’s chest. “He looks peaceful.”
"We need to tell Cooper and the kids," Jameson said.
Candace nodded. “I know. Not yet. Let them enjoy breakfast and a movie. We'll tell them when the nurse gets here."
"I'll let everyone know the plan and send Jonah and Shell up,” Scott said, heading for the stairs.
Jameson crossed the room and folded Candace into her arms. “Whatever you need, I’m here.”
Candace kissed Jameson gently and then pulled back with quiet resolve. “I know. Now come help me with breakfast. He’d never forgive me if I didn’t keep my promise about pancakes.”
Jameson lingered a moment as Candace walked out, her gaze falling back to the bed. She nodded once, a whisper meant only for him: “Rest easy, Jonathan.”
Wednesday Afternoon
Candace glanced out the back door, watching the kids rake small piles of leaves that immediately scattered with the breeze. “I never thought I’d see the day when I hoped more leaves would fall,” she mused.
“Candy,” Pearl said softly.
