Author’s note: This is a possible reaction of a certain family member this story takes place
between the end of In This White House and before Lame Duck Congress. I was going to dump this
story because I really don’t like it but then I figured out a way to make it work so feedback is
welcome (Good or Bad)

Rated: G

Spoilers: Ainsley confides in Leo and looks for guidance.

Title: “Sounding Board.”

----

“You are being ridiculous. No you are! Fine! That’s fine!” Ainsley slammed
the phone down and put her head in her hands. Since she started working her she had gotten the cold
shoulder from almost everyone and it was beginning to take its toll. She really needed to talk to
someone, but who?

----
“Leo.”

“Ainsley.”

“Do you have a minute?”

“Yeah, what’s wrong?”

“Can I ask you something/’

“Sure.”

“If your daughter decided to work for a Republican how would you react?”

“I would yell at her.”

“That’s what I thought.”

“But then I’d get over it. Why do you ask?”

“My father has made it clear that I’m no longer welcome at home. I’m really upset and I needed
someone to talk to. To be honest you were the first one I thought of.”

“Ainsley, you knew going in this wasn’t gonna be easy.”

“Yes but I didn’t expect to have my father disown me.

“I know it doesn’t sound like much but I’m sure your father will come around. In the mean time I’m
here if you need anything, anything at all.”

“Thanks Leo that means a lot to me. Well, I’ll leave to do your work and thanks again.”

“Anytime.”