Old endings, new beginnings 
By Heidi and Lisa
 
Disclaimers-These are not our characters and are 
making no money off of them.
 
Ratings Info-School Ties Series, Sam/Donna
 
Series-
 1. Back To School
 2. Class Act
 3. Roommates Together Forever
 4. Changes
 5. Transformation
 6. Trials and Tribulations
 7. It’s Always Darkest Before The Dawn
 
Spoilers-The Leadership Breakfast, Bad Moon 
Rising, Somebody’s Going To Emergency, Somebody’s 
Going To Jail
 
Special Thanks to my co-author Lisa who has seen 
this story through all of its changes and ups and 
downs. It’s only going to get better from here.
 
Special Notes-I only have a working knowledge of 
wedding planners from family experience. I am 
not trying to insult wedding planners or make light 
of what they actually do. It just worked for the 
development of the story. Please don’t hate me. 
I don’t want to take the chance of being flamed 
for any offense that I may have stepped into.
 
Plot Line Development-Donna has moved back to 
being Josh’s assistant.
 
 
 
Christophs Bar and 
Grill.........................................
 
The atmosphere of the bar was just what the staff 
needed to unwind. The week had been tough and 
difficult, but they had passed the education bill. 
Everyone was enjoying their day of jubilee. The 
senior staff and their assistants, plus Zoey and 
Charlie had made plans to celebrate their 
victory. Josh was in true form over bulldogging members 
of Congress to do things his way.
 
Sam knew that this was the right moment to 
propose. He had wanted to propose ever since he saw 
how much Donna meant to him and that he needed her 
in his life. He would do anything to make sure 
that she was happy. This was the right thing to 
do. He tapped on his glass to quiet their table.
 
 “I have an announcement and a question to make, 
so if you guys could all quiet down.” Sam said.
 
The rest of the table quieted and waited for Sam 
to speak.
 
 “I want to thank everyone for their support and 
love throughout the past several months for Donna 
and I. We truly appreciate what you guys have 
done and been through with us. Right now, I want 
to talk to Donna and have you guys as witnesses.” 
Sam said.
 
The table was puzzled, as was Donna, to what Sam 
was talking about. The ladies at the table 
teared up when they saw Sam pull out a ring box and 
get down on one knee before Donna. 
 
 
 “Donna, I love you very much and these last six 
months have brought us closer than I could ever 
imagine being with another person. I want to be 
with you for the rest of my life. Donna Moss, 
would you marry me?” Sam proposed.
 
 “Yes, yes, yes. I will marry you.” Donna 
shouted.
 
 
Sam picked Donna up and spun her around before 
setting her down and giving her a big kiss.
 
The rest of the senior staff and assistants got 
into the act with hugs, kisses, and words of 
congratulations to the happy couple.
 
 “I can’t believe I’m getting married and have a 
wedding to plan.” Donna said with a smile and a 
faraway look already mentally planning her dream 
wedding with her own prince charming.
 
 “Within reason, since we’re paying for it 
ourselves.” Sam added.
 
 “Don’t worry. I’m not going to do anything too 
outrageous.” Donna said with a saucy smile.
 
 “I’m glad for that. I wouldn’t want to have to 
explain it to the press.” CJ said.
 
 “Are you guys going to announce it from the 
press?” Toby asked.
 
 “No, they can read it from the society page. 
This isn’t going to be a thing.” Sam said.
 
 “I’d say since you made a public proposal and 
Donna’s enthusiastic response, it’s gonna be a 
thing.” Josh said.
 
 “ Then, we should prepare some sort of 
official statement.” CJ said in her ever present Press 
Secretary mode wanting to deflect any problems.
 
 “We can worry about that in the morning. 
Tonight is a celebration. Don’t worry about it, CJ. 
Everything is going to be fine.” Toby said as a 
waitress brought over a bottle of champagne and 
starting pouring.
 
 
Press Briefing, Monday morning............the 
engagement announcement appeared in the Sunday 
papers one month after the proposal(July)
 
 
 “CJ, does the White House have any comment on 
the engagement of Sam Seaborn and Donna Moss?” 
Kelly Holton asked.
 
 “The White House is happy for the engaged 
couple and wish them the best.” CJ added.
 
 “Does the White House want to comment on the 
fact that Miss Moss was working for Mr. Seaborn 
during their relationship?” Drew Mosky yelled from 
the back of the room.
 
 “The White House doesn’t comment on employee 
relations. However, I will say this. Miss Moss 
was working directly for Toby Ziegler and not Sam 
Seaborn. Please make sure you have your facts 
correct before asking a question. I’ll see you at 3 
for the next briefing.” CJ said and left the 
room.
 
 “That wasn’t too bad. I would safely say that 
any rumors were put to bed by tearing that 
reporter a new one.” Toby said, meeting CJ in the hall 
outside the press room.
 
 “Yeah. I think people are glad to be hearing 
good news coming from the White House for a 
change.”  CJ said, walking with Toby to her office.
 
 “Go to work.” Toby said.
 
 
 
Sam and Josh had been watching the briefing in 
the Communications Bullpen with everyone else. 
They had all been sitting on eggshells since the 
Sunday engagement announcement had appeared in the 
papers in California and DC. The press had 
finally asked “the” question and CJ rocked.
 
 “She’s good. I’m really surprised that this 
wasn’t leaked to the press the minute after Donna 
said yes.” Sam said.
 
 “Yes, she is. Maybe people have finally 
learned to keep their noses out of private affairs, 
but probably not. Now you can get on with actually 
planning this shindig.” Josh said.
 
 “I’m letting Donna handle that. She’s good at 
all of the little details stuff.” Sam said.
 
 “You’re not even married yet and you’re already 
extolling her virtues.” Josh said, joking around 
with his best friend.
 
 “We’ve been together for almost seven months as 
a couple and we’ve been friends since the 
campaign. I’ve been extolling her virtues for longer 
than that.” Sam said with a smile of his own when 
he thought about the woman who made him happy.
 
 “We should probably get back to running the 
country now.” Josh said.
 
 “Probably.” Sam said.
 
 
The Mess.............................Lunchtime, 
several days later
 
The other assistants and Zoey had hijacked Donna 
into eating lunch with them and asking wedding 
questions.
 
 “What are your colors going to be?” Carol 
asked.
 
 “I am planning on a traditional wedding, so 
pink and silver.” Donna said.
 
 “That is so sweet that you want a traditional 
wedding in this day and age of modernization and 
streamlining.” Ginger added.
 
 “You’ve been watching the Wedding Channel 
again, haven’t you?” Margaret mentioned with a smile.
 
 “Well, I’m glad that one of us found the right 
guy and is getting married. The rest of us need 
to find someone as wonderful as Sam.” Ginger 
said with a wistful look.
 
 “Hey, don’t worry. You’ll find the right guy 
some day.” Donna tried to cheer her friend up.
 
 “Well, I hear that Josh is hard up these days 
for a girl. Ginger, you should check him out.” 
Bonnie added with a smile of her own.
 
 “Not in this lifetime.” Ginger vehemently 
said.
 
 “You always find the one you love in the oddest 
places.” Donna added, getting into the teasing 
of her friend.
 
 “Enough already. Let’s get back to talking 
about this wedding.” Ginger said, desperate to get 
off the subject of Josh.
 
 
 “Are you hiring a wedding consultant?” Bonnie 
asked.
 
 “I really hadn’t thought about it. I don’t 
like the idea of someone else planning all of the 
details of my wedding. Plus, I just got engaged a 
month ago. I haven’t had the time to really 
think about things.” Donna said.
 
 “Just think about it. My sister hired one and 
it was the best thing she’s ever done. There was 
someone else to run all of the errands, but my 
sister and her husband got to pick and choose what 
they wanted.” Bonnie said.
 
 “Thanks for the idea. I’ll call around and see 
what they have to offer. It would be nice to 
have someone to run the errands.” Donna said.
 
 “Not to bring up a sore subject and tell me if 
I’m butting in, what about your family? Are they 
going to be involved?” Ginger asked.
 
 “You’re not butting in. My family isn’t going 
to be involved with this wedding at all. They 
made their choices a long time ago.” Donna said.
 
 “Have you thought about who’s going to walk you 
down the aisle or are you going to be non 
traditional and walk by yourself?” Margaret asked.
 
 “This is going to be a very traditional 
wedding. Sam and I thought about asking Leo. He has 
been so great and supportive through everything.” 
Donna said.
 
 “That’s a nice idea. I think Leo would be 
honored.” Carol said.
 
 “I want all of you to be in the wedding as 
bridesmaids.” Donna said.
 
 
There was a round of “of courses” and “yeses” 
from the girls. Donna thought of them as family. 
They had all been together since the campaign and 
grown close in the intervening years.
 
 
Leo’s Office............................several 
days later
 
 
 “Leo, can we talk to you?” Sam asked with 
Donna at his side.
 
 “Yeah, come on in.” Leo said.
 
 “We wanted to talk to you about the wedding.” 
Donna said.
 
 “What do you guys need?” Leo asked.
 
 “We wanted to ask if you would consider walking 
me down the aisle.” Donna said.
 
 “What about your own father or grandfather or 
brother?” Leo asked, honored at being asked, but 
not wanting to step on any toes.
 
 “They made their decisions to not be involved 
with my life a year ago. I want you to walk me 
down that aisle. You have been so supportive and 
there for me when I needed someone.” Donna said.
 
 “Then, yes, I would be honored to give you 
away.” Leo said.
 
 “Thank you so much. You don’t know what this 
means.” Donna said.
 
 
Josh’s 
office...............................several more days later, now into the month of August
 
 
 
 “Josh, can I talk to you?” Sam asked from the 
doorway.
 
 “Sure, come in.” Josh said.
 
 “I wanted to talk to you about the wedding.” 
Sam said.
 
 “Is Donna trying to bankrupt you with this 
wedding?” Josh asked with a smile.
 
 “No, she’s really keeping to a budget, but 
considering we haven’t done anything yet.” Sam said.
 
 “What did you want to talk to me for then?” 
Josh asked.
 
 “I want you to be my best man. You are my best 
friend and one of Donna’s closest friends, too. 
We want you to be involved.” Sam said.
 
 “I’ll definitely be your best man. Does this 
mean I get to throw you a bachelor party?” Josh 
asked.
 
 “Yeah.” Sam hesitantly responded.
 
 “Cool.” Josh said.
 
 
Same day, later that 
afternoon.............................
 
 
 “Hey Donna.” CJ said to the woman standing in 
her doorway.
 
 “I wanted to talk to you, but if you’re busy, I 
can come back later.” Donna said.
 
 “Come on in. I was just revoking press 
credentials on a few people.” CJ said with a smile.
 
 “Having fun?” Donna asked.
 
 “You bet your ass I am. What did you need?” 
CJ asked.
 
 “I wanted to ask you if you would be my maid of 
honor.” Donna said.
 
 “I’d be honored, but shouldn’t that honor go to 
a close family member?” CJ asked.
 
 “My family chose not to be involved with my 
life over a year ago. I don’t want those people 
anywhere near me on my special day.” Donna said.
 
 “So what’s going on with the wedding plans?” 
CJ asked.
 
 “We haven’t really done anything, but bask in 
the joy of being engaged.” Donna said.
 
 “Take all the time in the world. It should be 
something that you love. By the way, you might 
need to check with the Social Office on matters of 
protocol that any wedding planning book skips.” 
CJ said.
 
 “Thanks for the advice.” Donna said.
 
 “You’re more than welcome and thank you for 
asking me to be a part of your special day.” CJ 
said.
 
 
 
 
Donna spent the afternoon typing papers for Josh 
and calling around to wedding consultants. All 
of the ones that she spoke to were too expensive, 
to rude, or not willing to listen to her. Donna 
came to the realization that the only way to get 
the wedding that she and Sam wanted was to do it 
themselves. It was their wedding and Donna was 
determined to have it done her way. She made a 
mental note to tell Sam about not hiring a 
consultant and having her do it all.
 
 
Sam and Donna’s 
Apt...............................
 
 
Sam walked into the apartment, late to find Donna 
still up and pouring over what looked to be an 
oversized textbook.
 
 “Donna, what are you reading?” Sam asked.
 
 “This is a self planning wedding book. There 
is stuff in here that I hadn’t even thought 
about.” Donna said with a stricken look on her face 
that she had forgotten about little details.
 
 “What happened to hiring someone?” Sam asked.
 
 “The people I called were too expensive, too 
rude, or not willing to work with us.” Donna said.
 
 “So you went out and bought a book and are 
planning to do it yourself.” Sam said, amazed that 
she would go to these lengths for their wedding.
 
 “Yes and we are doing it.” Donna corrected him 
and gave him a look.
 
 “We’re doing it all.” Sam said.
 
 “We do need to make some serious decisions.” 
Donna said.
 
 “I know. When and where do you want to get 
married?” Sam asked.
 
 “First of all, we need to get a calendar and 
decide on the perfect date.” Donna said.
 
 “I like the idea of having a May wedding when 
it is not so hot.” Sam said.
 
 “So May 25, 2002 is the date we want then?” 
Donna asked.
 
 “Yeah, sounds good to me, but now the question 
is where. Maybe National Cathedral?” Sam said.
 
 “No way. That’s going to be a media circus. I 
was thinking maybe the Rose Garden?” Donna said.
 
 “I’m not sure. We’d have to get permission 
from the President. I can ask tomorrow if you 
really have your heart set on it.” Sam said, knowing 
that Donna wouldn’t ask herself.
 
 “It’s only a request. I don’t want the 
President to feel obligated to give us permission.” 
Donna said.
 
 “I will make that clear to him.” Sam said.
 
 “Thanks for doing it. I love you.” Donna 
said.
 
 “You’d better love me.” Sam said with a smile.
 
 “Forever and always.” Donna said with a smile 
of her own.
 
 
 
Staff 
Meeting..............................................
 
 
 “Anything else?” Leo asked.
 
 “I have a thing, sir.” Sam said.
 
 “What is it Sam?” President Bartlet asked.
 
 “Donna wanted to know if we could use the Rose 
Garden for the wedding. She wanted me to make it 
clear that this is only a request and for you to 
not feel obligated.” Sam said.
 
 “Somehow this reminds me of the Karen Cahill 
situation.” President Bartlet said to Leo.
 
 “Sir.” Leo said.
 
 “Sam, go ahead and tell Donna that it’s a yes. 
Have you guys finally set a date yet?” Jed 
asked.
 
 “We have decided on a May 25, 2002 wedding.” 
Sam said.
 
 “Tell Donna not to rush. This is the wedding 
of her dreams and she should take all of the time 
in the world.” President Bartlet told Sam.
 
 “Thank you sir.” Sam said.
 
 “You’re welcome. Now all of you get out of my 
office and run the country.” President Bartlet 
said.
 
 
There was a chorus of “yes, sir” and “thank you 
sir” from the staff as they filed out. Jed 
watched them and thought about how time had changed 
them all. Sam had changed from a fresh kid to a 
grown man who had found the best possible thing for 
him, Donna. Time changes everything and 
everyone, he mused to himself and his own ghosts.
 
Sam found Donna perusing over some files for 
Josh.
 
 “We’re okay to use the Rose Garden and the 
President told me to tell you to take all of the time 
that you need to do this right.” Sam said.
 
 “Wow. I wasn’t expecting him to say yes. Now 
only a hundred million other decisions to make.” 
Donna said.
 
 “There’s really only a few major ones to make 
and then we can take a rest from wedding 
planning.” Sam said.
 
 “Only a few? We have to find someone to 
officiate the ceremony, a photographer, a videographer, 
a caterer, and a reception hall.” Donna said.
 
 “Relax and take it easy. We will take care of 
all that when the time comes.” Sam said.
 
 “Yeah. It’s just that I want everything to be 
perfect for us.” Donna said.
 
 “I know it will because you’re on the case. I 
gotta get back to work before Toby comes to hunt 
me down.” Sam said.
 
 “Yeah, I’d better get these back to Josh too.” 
Donna said.
 
 
 
Donna sat at her desk and looked at the papers 
that the Social Office had faxed over to her. It 
seemed like the wedding was already turning into a 
media event. She grabbed the papers and headed 
to Sam’s office.
 
 “I think we should just elope.” Donna said, 
shocking Sam out of his thoughts.
 
 “Excuse me?” Sam asked, thinking he hadn’t 
heard Donna right.
 
 “I got these papers from the Social Office. 
The wedding is turning into a media event and we 
haven’t even done anything yet.” Donna said.
 
 
Sam skimmed the papers before talking to Donna. 
He loved the Social Office, but some of the stuff 
they were suggesting was way to over the top.
 
 “We are not inviting all these people. It is 
still our wedding and our decisions. Don’t worry 
about it. Everything will be ok.” Sam said to 
her.
 
 “It’s just that I want this to be a day to 
celebrate with our friends not a bipartisan photo op 
for Congress.” Donna said.
 
 “Don’t worry. It will be. Don’t worry about 
this stuff.” Sam said.
 
 
Sam and Donna’s 
Apartment........................September
 
 
 
The apartment was dark, but he could hear the 
sniffles coming from Donna’s room. Sam lightly 
knocked and pushed the door open. Donna was sitting 
on the floor with the phone next to her, crying 
so hard she could barely catch her breath.
 
  “Donna, what’s wrong?” Sam asked with grave 
concern.
 
 “Nothing.” Donna managed to get out before 
another round of tears.
 
 “There’s something wrong or you wouldn’t be 
crying like this. Now you can tell me here or we 
can go to the hospital?” Sam said.
 
 “Why would we need to go to the hospital?” 
Donna asked as the tears still rolled down her face.
 
 “You are crying so hard you can barely breath. 
Now what is going on?” Sam prodded her again.
 
 “I was watching tv when the phone rang. I 
thought it’d be you or Josh needing something, so I 
picked it up without checking the caller id. It 
was my mother.” Donna managed to get out before 
the tears started coming fast again.
 
 “Why would you mother call and what did she 
want?” Sam asked, warily.
 
 “She called to rail at me for getting married. 
It was another round of I can’t believe you’re my 
daughter stuff. That woman called me a slut and 
a whore and had the nerve to ask if I was 
pregnant and that’s why we were getting married. I 
tried to explain that we were in love.” Donna said.
 
 “What did she say to you after you told her we 
were in love?” Sam asked, cautiously.
 
 “She told me that I was going to get used and 
they won’t take me back when it happens.” Donna 
said.
 
 “I am not using you and love you very much. 
Don’t let your mother upset you.” Sam said and put 
his arms around her shoulders as a gesture of 
support.
 
 “Maybe we shouldn’t get married.” Donna said 
through her tears.
 
 “What are you talking about?” Sam asked, 
confused.
 
 “Maybe my mother is right. Maybe I am just not 
ready to be an adult and get married. I mean, 
look at my track record with Dr. Freeride.” Donna 
said.
 
 “Donna, listen to me. You are smart and funny 
and I love you. I want to marry you, no matter 
what has happened in the past or what happens in 
the future.” Sam said.
 
 “Thank you for loving me and listening to me 
rattle on.” Donna said as she rested her head on 
Sam’s shoulder.
 
 “It’s time for you to go to bed and get some 
sleep.” Sam said and helped her up.
 
 “Thank you for being here for me, even when I 
get a little crazy.” Donna said with a tear 
stained face and a small smile.
 
 “You’re welcome and I love it when you get a 
little crazy.” Sam said with a smile.
 
 
Donna slipped under the covers and fell into a 
restless sleep. Her dreams were haunted with 
pictures of her parents, Jacob, and Sam laughing at 
her for being so stupid about men. She woke up 
several times during the night and slept very 
little. Donna knew that she wasn’t making a mistake 
with Sam. This was the right thing to do and it 
felt right.
 
Sam slept very little too. He was worried about 
Donna and couldn’t believe that her parents 
wouldn’t let her alone to live her own life. He made 
a mental note to talk to Josh and see if the IRS 
or the CIA could handle the “problem”. Sam knew 
that Josh had a lot of friends and a lot more 
favors owed to him and that these matters could be 
handled discretely. It was worth a shot if Donna 
could be happy.
 
 
 
3 Months 
Later...................................December
 
Donna was sitting at her desk when the other 
assistants came to see her.
 
 “We know you don’t have much free time with 
working for Josh and planning this wedding, so we 
are going to plan a bridal shower for you here at 
work.” Carol announced.
 
 “You guys really don’t have to do this. I know 
that you are busy too. I really don’t need a 
shower anyway.” Donna said, not wanting her friends 
to go to any trouble for her
 
 “Yes, we do have to throw you a shower and all 
new brides deserve one. We’d be failing as 
bridesmaids if we didn’t and it is no trouble to throw 
a shower.” Bonnie said.
 
 “Plus it gives all of us an excuse to go 
shopping.” Ginger said with a glint in her eye.
 
 “Who’s going to be at this shower?” Donna 
asked.
 
 “Us, Zoey, the First Lady, CJ, and a few other 
friends from here at work.” Carol said.
 
 “I’m looking forward to it. Thanks for doing 
all of this. You guys are great friends.” Donna 
said.
 
 “It will be worth it. I promise.” Carol said 
with a smile as she walked away.
 
 
Capitol Steps.........................January
 
Sam and Josh walked down the steps in the 
unusually warm DC winter. They couldn’t believe that it 
was so warm in what was usually the coldest month 
of the year. Sam smiled at the thought of a warm 
winter that the California boy at heart never had 
lost, the desire for sun shine to warm him to the 
core. 
 
 “That could have been worse.” Sam said to 
Josh.
 
 “Yeah, I could have made them cry.” Josh said.
 
 “Leo will be glad to hear that we got them on 
board with only a few threats.” Sam said.
 
 “Yeah. I wanted to tell you that I’m working 
hard on the bachelor party.” Josh said with a 
gleam in his eye.
 
 “Nothing too wild and who’s all gonna be at 
this?” Sam asked.
 
 “Us, Toby, Leo, and a few other guys from work. 
The President wanted to be involved, but it would 
be too hard to work it all out.” Josh said, 
misdirecting his best friend. Josh was planning a 
surprise and didn’t want to spoil it.
 
 “Hey, I wanted to let you know. Donna’s mother 
called the other day again and upset her.” Sam 
said, broaching a subject that Josh was very 
sensitive about.
 
 “What did that hateful woman try to do now?” 
Josh asked in anger, already knowing that Donna’s 
mother called on a weekly basis to harass her 
daughter.
 
 “Tried to convince her that she was stupid and 
not ready to get married for like the four 
millionth time.” Sam said.
 
 “How’s Donna?” Josh asked.
 
 “She’s been off her game a little bit and 
stressed out by this crap and I’m getting stressed out 
because Donna’s stressed out.” Sam said.
 
 “I have really had it with them. I thought a 
nice, pleasant warning would be enough. Now it’s 
time to get tough. I am going to call in some 
favors and get them to back off.” Josh said.
 
 “Thanks for doing this. I don’t like to see 
Donna unhappy and I didn’t want to guilt you to 
into doing something.” Sam said.
 
 “You don’t have to guilt me to do anything. I 
don’t like to see Donna unhappy for any reason 
and especially now when she is supposed to be happy 
and planning her wedding.” Josh said.
 
 “Thanks alot.” Sam said.
 
 “No problem.” Josh said with a smirk as he 
figured out who he would need to talk to.
 
 
 
 
3 Months Later...........................April
 
 “We’re stealing you away this afternoon.” 
Bonnie said walking up to Donna and Sam.
 
 “Why are you stealing my fiancé away?” Sam 
asked.
 
 “We’re having a bridal shower for her today.” 
Carol announced.
 
 “Well, then. You go and have fun.” Sam said 
and kissed Donna.
 
 “You heard the man. Let’s go and have some 
fun.” Ginger said and pulled Donna in the direction 
of the Mural Room.
 
 
Donna gasped as she walked into the room. It was 
decorated with pink and silver streamers and 
balloons. There was a large pile of gifts on a table 
and an array of food on another.
 
 “Some of the girls couldn’t get time to come 
in, but they dropped off gifts and wanted you to 
know that they wish you all the best.” Carol said.
 
 “Wow! The room looks great. You guys did a 
fabulous job.” Donna said.
 
 “Now the fun can really begin.” Bonnie said.
 
The two hour lunch/bridal shower was fun. There 
were the traditional bridal bingo and bridal word 
scrambler. Zoey won the bridal bingo game and 
Donna won the word scrambler. The gossip and 
opening presents was the best. Donna couldn’t believe 
that so many people cared. She received towels, 
kitchen gadgets, candles, art work, and sexy 
lingerie guaranteed to turn a head. 
 
 “Donna, why don’t we chat a bit before the 
party ends.” Abbey Bartlet said.
 
 “Yes maam.” Donna said and followed the First 
Lady.
 
 “I’ve heard that you and Sam are waiting until 
you are married to have relations.” Abbey said 
with a straight face and not mentioning sex.
 
 “That’s right.” Donna said.
 
 “Well, I wanted to tell you that I think it’s 
good that you aren’t rushing into anything.” 
Abbey said.
 
 “Yes maam.” Donna replied.
 
 “Just a hint for you, have fun with it. Never 
forget to say I love you and don’t take things 
for granted.” Abbey said.
 
 “Thank you for the advice maam.” Donna said.
 
 
As the other assistants helped load Donna’s car 
with gifts, they chatted.
 
 “Now Sam isn’t going to be able to keep his 
hands off of you with all that sexy lingerie.” 
Bonnie added with a smile.
 
 “He hasn’t put any hands on me, so....” Donna 
trailed off.
 
 “Are you telling us that you and Sam haven’t, 
you know.” Ginger incredulously asked.
 
 “That is exactly what I’m telling you.” Donna 
said.
 
 “Well why the hell not?” Margaret asked.
 
 “I was recovering from the thing for a long 
time and he didn’t want to push me. We just 
accepted it and are planning to wait until we’re 
married.” Donna explained.
 
 “I can just see hot sex on the beach.” Carol 
added.
 
 “That’s a mental picture I don’t want to have, 
thank you very much.” Ginger added before 
bursting out laughing.
 
 “Where are you guys going for your honeymoon?” 
Carol asked.
 
 “We haven’t decided yet.” Donna said.
 
 “Go someplace hot and tropical.” Bonnie added.
 
 “It will be someplace nice for sure.” Donna 
said slamming the car door shut.
 
 “We’d better get back to work before our bosses 
come looking for us.” Carol said.
 
 
Sam’s office..........
 
 “Hey, I took care of that little problem.” 
Josh said as he walked into the office and shut the 
door.
 
 “How did it get handled?” Sam asked.
 
 “I called and talked to the Moss’ as well as 
Dr. Freeride. I told them to stop calling her and 
harassing her. I also explained that they were 
not to come anywhere near the White House or the 
wedding.” Josh explained.
 
 “That’s all well and good, but I don’t think 
threatening them is going to work.” Sam said.
 
 “Did I forget to mention that I told them that 
various agencies like the FBI, CIA, and the IRS 
all work for me and take an interest in people 
that continually harass members of the White House 
staff ?” Josh asked with his trademark smirk 
appearing on his face.
 
 “I owe you.” Sam said.
 
 “No, you don’t owe me anything but to be happy 
and love Donna. That is payback enough for me.” 
Josh said.
 
 “Thanks again.” Sam said.
 
 “I’m going to need your help on Saturday night 
to go over Mexico.” Josh said.
 
 “I was supposed to help Donna with wedding 
stuff. She’s gonna kill me. And when did Mexico 
happen?” Sam said.
 
 “Just ten minutes ago. Leo wanted us to 
research the stuff on the bailouts for the last fifteen 
years. He wants us to be prepared in case we 
have to do it again.” Josh explained.
 
 “And it just has to be on the weekend when 
Donna and I have plans?” Sam asked.
 
 “She’ll understand that work comes first. She 
always has.” Josh said.
 
 “Yeah. What time do I need to be here?” Sam 
asked.
 
 “Around 7ish. Meet me in my office. Leo 
wanted us to use the basement because there is going 
to be a cleaning crew upstairs doing some spring 
cleaning.” Josh said.
 
 “Do they not understand that it is the middle 
of the winter?” Sam mentioned.
 
 “All I know is that they’re here to clean.” 
Josh said.
 
 “Ok.” Sam said.
 
 
 
Sam and Donna’s Apt.....................
 
 
Sam decided to broach the subject of Saturday 
night with Donna before she heard it from Josh or 
somebody.
 
 “Donna, you know how we had Saturday planned?” 
Sam started off.
 
 “Oh no you don’t. You are not getting out of 
helping me with the wedding stuff.” Donna said.
 
 “I’d rather be here with you, but I have to 
help Josh with the Mexico thing. Leo wants us to 
research the history of the bailouts before we get 
too deep in it.” Sam explained.
 
 “I’m sure Ginger or Bonnie can come over and 
help me address invitations.” Donna said.
 
 “I want to help you with the wedding. I know 
that I haven’t done very much and I want to help 
out.” Sam said with a puppy dog look on his face.
 
 “We have two hundred invitations to address and 
mail. I promise that there will be plenty to do 
on Sunday.” Donna said with a devilish smile.
 
 “I can’t wait.” Sam said and kissed Donna’s 
forehead.
 
 
Josh’s Office Saturday 
Night........................
 
 “I’m here, so let’s get to work on Mexico. 
Maybe I can get out of here at a decent hour.” Sam 
said.
 
 “Let’s go.” Josh said.
 
 “Josh, aren’t you forgetting something?” Sam 
asked.
 
 “I don’t think so, why what am I forgetting?” 
Josh asked, puzzled by the question.
 
 “I don’t know, how about the files on Mexico.” 
Sam mentioned.
 
 “I already put them downstairs.” Josh replied.
 
 “Ok.” Sam said.
 
 “How did Donna take it that you had to work 
tonight?” Josh asked.
 
 “Pretty good, but I have to help her do 
invitations tomorrow. I still can’t believe that we are 
getting married in a little less than a month.” 
Sam said.
 
 “I know. I know that you will make her a good 
husband. She truly deserves to be happy.” Josh 
said.
 
 
Josh opened the door to a basement office and 
flipped on the light. Everyone in the room jumped 
up and yelled surprise.
 
 “What is this?” Sam asked.
 
 “This is your bachelor party. This was the 
only time that everyone could get together before 
the wedding, so enjoy it.” Josh said.
 
 
The evening was uneventful, but nice. Beer 
drinking, cigar smoking, and conversation rounded out 
the evening. The lack of strippers wasn’t 
detrimental to the party and no one even noticed or 
mentioned it.
 
 “Sam, why don’t we sit down over here and chat 
for a bit.” President Bartlet said.
 
 “Yes, sir.” Sam replied.
 
When both men were sitting and away from some of 
the louder guests, he began to speak.
 
 “Sam, you are getting a wonderful woman in 
Donna. I have seen you smile more in the last year 
than in the previous three. Make sure that she 
knows how much you love her and tell her at least 
once a day. Life has a way of changing in a 
moment. Don’t have regrets with Donna. Regrets can 
never be changed or fixed.” President Bartlet 
said.
 
 “Thank you sir. I make it a point to tell 
Donna that I love her. We both know how much life 
can take a u turn from its path.” Sam said.
 
 “Just keep remembering and talking to each 
other.” President Bartlet stood up and walked back 
to the other side of the room and rejoined the 
louder guests.
 
Sam looked at the man who had just given him some 
of the best advice in his life. President 
Bartlet was more than just a boss, he was a friend who 
knew the right things to say and do for everyone 
concerned.
 
 
Back at the apartment, Donna was busy addressing 
invitations. She was planning on making Sam lick 
all two hundred envelopes as payback for not 
being there to help her address them. By the time 
midnight rolled around, every invitation was 
addressed, stamped, and waiting to be licked shut. 
Donna had also written some payment checks out to 
the photographer, florist, and videographer. She 
was very proud of herself for being able to plan 
her fairytale wedding on a budget. Donna also 
knew that it was getting down to crunch time, but 
everything that she had looked at so far didn’t 
work for her and she refused to cash in on a new 
celebrity status that had designers like Donna Karan 
and Vera Wang offering up their services. She 
knew that the perfect dress was out there and all 
she had to do was find it. Donna looked at the 
calendar and couldn’t believe that she was getting 
married in a little less than a month. She 
looked at the calendar and saw that she was on 
vacation for a week, starting Wednesday and she intended 
to haunt the bridal stores until she had a dress 
because there was no way that she was getting 
married in anything less than a white dress.
 
 “Can you believe that I still haven’t found a 
dress yet and I’m getting married in less than a 
month.” Donna said to Margaret, her shopping 
companion.
 
 “I’m just happy that our bridesmaid dresses 
weren’t unusual.” Margaret said very delicately.
 
 “It’s okay. You can say that you’re glad that 
they weren’t ugly. I’ve been in enough weddings 
to know.” Donna said.
 
 “Hopefully, you’ll find a dress today.” 
Margaret said.
 
 “Yeah, because now I know what I don’t want. 
That oughta make the process easier.” Donna said.
 
 
Margaret sent up a silent prayer to the god of 
good wedding dresses as the two women entered the 
first bridal store on the list.
 
By the time shop six rolled around, both women 
had lost some of the optimism of the morning.
 
Donna headed to check out the clearance rack 
first. She noticed a few cute dresses and wanted to 
check them out first before looking at the 
overpriced dresses. Margaret watched Donna comb 
through the gowns. Suddenly, Donna stopped and pulled 
a gown off of the rack.
 
 “I found it. This is the dress.” Donna 
proclaimed.
 
 “Then go try it on and let’s see.” Margaret 
said.
 
 
Donna slipped the gown on. It was perfect. 
Plain white satin with tank straps looked amazing on 
her. It fit in all the right places. With a 
little luck, there wouldn’t have to be any 
alterations, Donna mused to herself as she looked at her 
reflection. She walked out to where Margaret was 
talking with the bridal gown specialist.
 
 “Oh my gosh. That dress is so perfect for 
you.” Margaret said as she watched Donna twirl 
around the room.
 
 “Okay, then. Why don’t we go back to fitting 
area and get things checked.” the gown specialist 
said and guided the two women back to the fitting 
area.
 
 
Donna was lucky. The dress only needed a slight 
hem and a few little tucks. The shop promised 
that she’d have the finished and pressed gown 
within the week.
 
Donna left the store a deposit and followed 
Margaret out of the shop and to Lisa’s Tea Room for 
lunch.
 
 “I can’t believe that it was only 480.00.” 
Donna commented.
 
 “Why so cheap? Especially for a gown like 
that?” Margaret wondered.
 
 “The woman said that the dress was from last 
summer and the bride it was made for called off her 
wedding.” Donna explained.
 
 “Isn’t it a little disconcerting to wear a 
dress that was made for someone else.” Margaret 
asked.
 
 “A little, but it’s now my dress and nothing 
but happy memories will this dress bring.” Donna 
said.
 
 “Are you planning on wearing a veil or 
something?” Margaret asked.
 
 “I’m going to wear my hair up in a tiara.” 
Donna said.
 
 “That will look so pretty.” Margaret said.
 
After lunch, both women returned to their 
marathon shopping session.
 
 
 
Sam and Donna’s 
Apartment...................................
 
 
Sam heard Donna come in the door. He hurried 
through his shower, threw some clothes on, and went 
into the living room.
 
 
Sam was shocked by the amount of bags covering 
the floor.
 
 “What did you buy?” Sam asked.
 
 “I finally found my dress and then I needed to 
buy all of the stuff to go with it like a tiara 
for my hair, shoes, pantyhose, makeup. Just the 
basics and I bought some stuff for the honeymoon.” 
Donna said with a smile.
 
 “I’m glad that you found a dress. I heard from 
both of my parents today and it’s not good news.” 
Sam said.
 
 “What happened?” Donna asked, dreading the 
answers.
 
 “My father is bringing *her* and my mother 
refuses to sit in the same pew with them.” Sam said.
 
 “Oh god. What are we going to do?” Donna 
asked, already in full on panic mode.
 
 “The first thing you’re going to do is calm 
down. I handled this problem. My mother is going 
to sit the first pew with a family friend and my 
father will be sitting in the second pew with that 
woman of his.” Sam explained.
 
 “Thanks for handling it. Oh, guess who called 
my cellphone while I was out today?” Donna 
asked.
 
 “Who?” Sam asked.
 
 “My sister. It seems that my parents are very 
disappointed that they didn’t get an invite to 
our wedding and want to come.” Donna said.
 
 “There is no way in hell that they are getting 
in.” Sam said.
 
 “I told them that they all made their choices 
over a year ago and that I don’t need them in my 
life and to just leave me alone.” Donna said.
 
 “I’m very proud of you.” Sam said.
 
 “Thanks. Right now, I’m gonna go put this 
stuff away and enjoy a long, hot bath. Shopping is 
hard work.” Donna said.
 
 “I’ll start dinner. We’re having 
mac-n-cheese.” Sam said.
 
 “Thanks. Mac-n-cheese is great.” Donna said.
 
 
 
 
Sam watched the woman who was going to be his 
wife in a few weeks. He marveled at how amazing she 
was. Donna had managed to plan every detail of 
their wedding with little to no help and had 
managed to spend only 1500.00. He was constantly in 
awe of her because of her love, loyalty, and 
strength.
 
 
 “Only a little longer until we are officially 
married.” Sam said.
 
 “Yeah. Are you ready?” Donna asked.
 
 “You betcha. I can’t wait for the wedding.” 
Sam said.
 
 
Night Before the 
wedding..................................
 
 “Are you ready for tomorrow?” Donna asked 
quietly.
 
 “Yeah, I am so ready for you to be my wife. 
Are you ready to be married to me?” Sam returned 
the question.
 
 “Of course I am.” Donna said.
 
 
 
 
Day of the 
wedding....................................
 
The assortment of women gathered in the Mural 
Room to finish getting dressed and ready for the 
wedding. The wonderful staff had even taped paper 
over the doors to prevent anyone from getting a 
look at the bride. Donna was touched that someone 
went to that kind of detail for her. It was 
still hard to trust that people were looking out for 
her interests and cared about her.
 
 “I can’t believe you’re the first to get 
married and in the Rose Garden.” Ginger said.
 
 “Yeah, I can’t believe it myself. This last 
year with Sam has been like a dream. I can’t 
imagine my life without him now.” Donna said.
 
 “Where are you going on your honeymoon?” 
Bonnie asked.
 
 “That’s for me to know and you to never find 
out. We want two full weeks without work 
intruding. This is probably that last real freetime that 
we will have together before the election and we 
just want to be with each other.” Donna said.
 
 “Now, it’s time for tradition to rear its 
head.” CJ said.
 
 “Excuse me?” Donna said, thinking she misheard 
CJ.
 
 “Something old, something new, something 
borrowed, and something blue.” Carol recited the song.
 
 “Oh god. What did you guys do?” Donna asked 
as she cringed.
 
 “Something old is this borrowed pearl necklace 
from me. This has been in my family for many 
years and I think that it looks wonderful on you.” 
CJ said as she helped fasten the necklace.
 
 “Something new is this pearl bracelet that I 
think goes perfect with the necklace.” Margaret 
said.
 
 “Something borrowed are these pearl drop 
earrings that I was given on my sixteenth birthday.” 
Bonnie said.
 
 “Something blue is this garter that Sam wanted 
me to give you to wear. He said that he picked 
it out himself.” Carol said and handed the box to 
Donna.
 
 “You guys are amazing and I thank God for 
everyday that you are in my life.” Donna said.
 
 
After a round of hugs and sniffling, CJ spoke.
 
 “Let’s put the finishing touches on and get 
ready to walk down the aisle.” CJ said.
 
 
The women picked up makeup and hairbrushes and 
got down to business before time ran out.
 
 
Meanwhile in the Roosevelt Room, the men were 
also preparing for the wedding.
 
 “Are you ready for one of the biggest 
commitments in your life?” Leo asked.
 
 “Yeah, I’ve been ready to marry that girl for 
more than a year.” Sam said.
 
 “What are you guys doing for the honeymoon? I 
couldn’t pry it out of Donna.” Josh asked.
 
 “It’s private. Donna and I want to be with 
each other without work and our well meaning friends 
bothering us.” Sam said and gave Josh a pointed 
look.
 
 
Mural Room..............................
 
 “Ladies, you have five more minutes to make 
yourselves beautiful and then we’ll start the 
processional.” Minister Blake informed them.
 
 “Thank you.” Donna said.
 
 “Are you all decent?” Leo called from outside 
the door.
 
 “Sure, come on in.” Ginger called back to him.
 
Leo walked into the room and was stunned. He 
couldn’t believe that these were the women he 
interacted with on a daily basis. They all looked so 
different and so grown up. CJ was a vision in a 
lavender gown. Bonnie, Ginger, Carol, and 
Margaret looked like angels in their pink gowns. Leo 
was about to speak when the minister re-entered the 
room.
 
 “We are ready to start. Will the bridesmaids 
and maid of honor get into the processional line 
and wait by the glass doors.” Minister Blake 
stated.
 
 “See ya out there.” CJ said as she followed 
behind everyone else.
 
 
Donna looked around and realized that this was 
actually happening. She was going to come back to 
this room as a married woman. For a fleeting 
moment, she thought about walking away from 
everything. Donna realized how lucky she was. She’d 
survived her parents, Dr. Freeride, suicide, and 
life to get to this point where she was happy, in 
love, and in control of her own destiny. She took 
a deep breath and waited by the doors with Leo 
for the signal.
 
 
 
Sam watched as each bridesmaid and the maid of 
honor made their way down the aisle. It felt good 
and right to be getting married. Sam didn’t want 
to admit it to anyone that he’d had his own 
doubts as to whether or not he’d be a good husband and 
able to support a family and a life. Sam knew 
that Donna was the one and that you only find the 
one once in a lifetime. He thought about all the 
regrets in his life and knew that they were what 
got him to this point where he was marrying the 
right woman.
 
 
It was finally time to move on to different facet 
of all their lives.
 
 “Are you ready for this?” Leo asked as the 
bridal music started.
 
 “As ready as I’ll ever be.” Donna said.
 
 
The door was opened and Donna started down the 
aisle with her escort who had been a boss, friend, 
confident, and supporter.
 
 
Sam looked at the vision before him, The white 
dress, tiara, and bouquet of lilacs looked 
smashing and highlighted Donna. Many tears were shed as 
the bride walked down the aisle from guests and 
the bridal party alike.
 
Leo stopped, gave her a hug, and sat down before 
Donna joined Sam at the alter.
 
 “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to 
witness the joining of these two lives before 
god, family, and friends.” Minister Blake began.
 
 
The candle lighting ceremony brought more tears 
as people pondered their own lives and loves.
 
The ring exchange and vows had many guests 
looking at their partners and wondering if life was 
really that simple and wonderful.
 
 “I now would like to present Mr. and Mrs. 
Samuel Seaborn.” Minister Blake said.
 
A thunderous applause exploded from the guests 
and bridal party.
 
A quick receiving line and pictures were done in 
short order and then it was onto the reception 
that was being held in the Sculpture Garden.
 
 
After the bridal party introductions and people 
were seated, Josh stood up.
 
 “As the best man, I want to say a few words to 
the happy couple. I’ve known Sam for many years 
and I’ve never seen him this happy. And to 
Donna, who I’ve also known for years. You are an 
amazing woman who can bring sunshine and smiles to a 
cloudy day. Donna and Sam, you guys are starting 
down a path that will be charted and guided by 
the love you have for each other. I wish you 
nothing but happiness on that path.” Josh finished 
his toast.
 
Donna had to wipe away tears and Sam had to clear 
his throat several times.
 
 “I’ve also known Sam and Donna for years. We 
all watched them grow from strangers to friends to 
boyfriend and girlfriend and finally to spouses. 
We can all hope that their love endures through 
the passage of years, Love is special and should 
be cherished everyday. Here’s to hope and here’s 
to love.” CJ raised her glass and was joined by 
the rest of the guests.
 
 
Donna and Sam held close to each other through 
the beautiful toast from CJ.
 
 “I’d like to say a few words about this couple. 
Love is special and love is a treasure. Don’t 
ever take it for granted. You have been given a 
special gift. Keep it close to your heart.” 
President Bartlet said.
 
 “Thank you all for the beautiful toasts and 
words. We are so lucky to have you in our lives.” 
Sam spoke.
 
 
The catering service began to bring the meals to 
the tables. Sam and Donna had opted for a sit 
down dinner to keep the reception moving along.
 
After dinner, they cut the cake which was a three 
layer raspberry and strawberry concoction. Donna 
and Sam bucked tradition to have a cake that they 
enjoyed. The rest of the guests thought the cake 
was a reflection of the new couple.
 
 
 “Now it’s time to get this party started. We 
want all of the single women on the dance floor 
and that includes all of the women from the bridal 
party. It’s time for the bride to toss the 
bouquet.” the DJ announced.
 
 
Donna waited for all the women to assemble on the 
dance floor before turning around. She made a 
mental note of where Ginger was. Donna knew that 
Ginger was down in the dumps after getting dumped 
a few weeks earlier by some jerk who was only 
interested in her White House connections. Donna 
tossed the bouquet and prayed for the best.
 
She heard the cheers and turned around. Much to 
her relief, Ginger was holding onto the bouquet 
and taking ribbings from the other women about 
being the next to get married. It was nice to see 
Ginger relaxed and happy.
 
 “Now it’s time for all of the single men to get 
out here for the garter toss.” the DJ announced 
and waited for the single men to assemble on the 
dance floor.
 
As the single men stood on the dance floor, they 
watched Sam take the garter off Donna’s leg with 
his teeth and they all started hooting and 
hollering.
 
Sam flipped the garter over his shoulder with no 
one in particular aimed for, so he was surprised 
when Josh was the one who caught it. 
 
After Ginger and Josh posed for pictures, the DJ 
made a little announcement.
 
 “We’d like the couple who caught the bouquet 
and garter to dance to a very special song that was 
picked out by the bride and groom. As tradition 
has it, these are the next two people who will 
get married and to each other.” the DJ informed 
the guests.
 
As Josh and Ginger danced, Sam and Donna were 
both lost in their own thoughts. Donna hoped that 
they wised up and stopped fighting their feelings. 
Ginger had a crush on Josh and Josh liked Ginger 
a whole lot. Sam watched his best friend dance 
with the only other woman who could put him into 
fits. He hoped that Josh would realize Ginger had 
feelings for him and the depth of those feelings. 
Only time would tell.
 
 “Now it’s time for our couple to dance to a 
song that is very close to their hearts.” the DJ 
announced.
 
Sam and Donna started dancing to their song and 
all of their friends couldn’t believe what had 
happened in that day. Two people who were meant for 
each other had found each other and overcome even 
the most terrifying of hurdles.
 
Josh watched them in awe. He couldn’t believe 
that these two people were his friends. They were 
amazing together and always remembered who they 
were.
 
Leo was thinking back to his own wedding day all 
those years ago. Life was simpler when love was 
the biggest part of you. He hoped that Sam and 
Donna wouldn’t forget who they were together when 
times got tough and love was hard to live on and 
sustain a family and marriage.
 
Toby was also thinking about his own wedding day 
to Andi. They hadn’t had the true love like Sam 
and Donna did. Sam was happy with Donna and he 
could only hope that their love would be able to 
be enough in the times where it counted the most.
 
CJ watched the couple dance and wondered if she 
would ever have that kind of special love. Danny 
wasn’t worth the time or the energy because there 
was no love or devotion in that relationship. 
She looked at Sam and Donna and wished nothing but 
a sunny path in life for them.
 
Ginger hoped that she was the next to get married 
in the White House and to the one man who she had 
carried a torch for, Josh. The dance had been 
wonderful and said more than words could ever.
 
Carol and Bonnie were in amazement. This couple 
was never expected to last. It had been seen as 
a flirtation, nothing worthy of marriage. Sam 
and Donna had proved them all wrong.
 
Margaret looked at the ending of an era. Playboy 
Sam was now taken by the best woman for him. At 
least the staff wouldn’t be hearing anymore about 
Donna’s local gomers.
 
The Bartlet’s watched, like the other couples. 
Today they were just that, another couple. They 
weren’t the stars of the day, that distinction 
belonged to Sam and Donna.
 
 
 
Later in the 
evening......................................
 
 “Are you ready to go?” Sam asked, coming up 
behind her and slipping his arms around her waist.
 
 “Yeah, let me get the girls and change. Then 
we can be off.” Donna said.
 
 “Then I’m gonna go get Josh and change too.” 
Sam said.
 
 
Donna quickly rounded up her bridal party and met 
back in the Mural Room. They were cleaning up 
and helping Donna to change.
 
 “Did you pack your sexy lingerie for tonight?” 
Ginger asked.
 
 “I packed a few special pieces.” Donna said.
 
 “Sam’s not gonna be able to keep his hands off 
you for the next two weeks.” Bonnie said.
 
  “That’s kinda the point.” Donna said.
 
 
 
Roosevelt 
Room.........................................
 
 “Are you protected?” Josh ground out.
 
 “Yes, dad. I packed condoms.” Sam said, 
glaring.
 
 “Hey. It was just a question. Am I correct in 
assuming that this is the first.....” Josh 
trailed off, trying not to think about Sam and Donna 
doing that.
 
 “It is.” Sam remarked.
 
 “Then have fun. I’ll see you in two weeks.” 
Josh said.
 
 “Thanks for everything.” Sam said.
 
 
After saying their good-byes and hugs, Sam and 
Donna headed for the airport where their rented, 
private plane would take them to Florida.
 
The start to a new life was beginning brightly, 
while their old lives were ending. 
 
 

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