Page 70 of Campaign Season
“What on earth are they doing up there?” Melanie asked.
“Probably building a fort,” Marianne said.
“Now?”
“Probably,” Jonah agreed.
“JD almost got put in time-out last time she built one for Brody and Amanda,” Michelle said.
“Why?” Marianne asked.
“She used the curtains in the Lincoln Bedroom.”
A stunned beat of silence gave way to boisterous laughter.
“No way,” Laura said.
“Way,” Melanie confirmed.
“Cooper even told her it was a bad idea,” Michelle added.
Marianne laughed so hard that she wiped away her tears. “Did she get grounded?”
“No, but I’ll bet she didn’t get any Bible study for a few days,” Michelle teased.
From upstairs came Candace’s indignant cry: “Jameson! My mother’s quilt?”
“You said it was ugly!” Jameson shouted back.
The whole room dissolved into giggles until Marianne, catching her breath, said softly, “I’m so glad we’re all here.”
Jonah nodded. “Whose side do you think Dad would take?”
The answer came quick and sure. “Jameson’s.”
More laughter bubbled through, lighter now, warmer.
Upstairs, Candace leaned her forehead against Jameson’s shoulder as the kids tumbled around them with pillows.
"You okay?" Jameson asked.
Candace swore she heard Jonathan say, "Get the curtains, JD." She pulled away with a smile. "Let's see your plan."
Jameson scurried away to help the kids.
Candace shook her head.Give Lucas my love.
Already done, Candy. Already done.
Chapter
Eight
Thursday, November 5th
The kitchen table was crowded, every chair filled. The air felt thinner without Jonathan. Plates of eggs, toast, and pancakes sat half-eaten, coffee cooling in mugs that remained full. Family gatherings usually carried lively energy—plans being made, kids interrupting with laughter, Jameson and Michelle teasing each other, and Pearl rolling her eyes. This morning, the rhythm faltered.
Michelle absently stirred her coffee. Marianne pushed syrup around her plate without touching it. Jonah stared at the folded newspaper beside his fork, not really reading. Even the children’s chatter was softer, as if they’d absorbed the mood of the adults.
