Chapter 10: The Heir and the Waiting

The following year, Rachel’s legitimate eldest son was born and made heir apparent after three months. The news was everywhere—headlines, talk shows, even late-night comedians joked about the first diaper change in the West Wing.

When I heard the news, I was stunned for a long time. I sat at my desk, staring out the window, unable to process the loss.

At that time, his family still only included Jessica Lynn.

In my previous life, after I entered the White House, Rachel almost exclusively favored me. Many staffers complained to the First Lady that I monopolized the president’s affection. Gossip traveled fast—whispers in the corridors, sidelong glances during official dinners.

Rachel ignored them, and as always, came to my room to spend time with me, doting on me alone.

Dad said the cabinet urged him to expand his circle. "It's politics, Anna," Dad told me one night. "They always want more connections."

But a month passed.

Rachel went to Chicago to oversee a major infrastructure project. The newspapers showed him in a hard hat, grinning with city workers, sleeves rolled up.

A few months later…

Rachel predicted a major flu outbreak in Houston in advance and prepared the city, averting disaster. His press conferences were calm, reassuring, and everyone praised his foresight.

Everyone praised him, saying his work was like that of a true statesman, benefiting the people.

That year, he was busy with national affairs and still did not hold a partner selection. His schedule was a blur of travel, summits, and late-night briefings.