The Return of the Manhattan by Lee Ecker

grandmother rushed to her and enfolded her in her arms. “Laura my baby!” She didn’t say much more as she could hardly control her emotions. She held Laura for a few minutes before leading her into the kitchen where she served freshly baked cookies and milk. “My how you’ve grown since I last saw you. Let’s see, you were about two years old I believe. So young to have lost your Mama and so far from home. Whatever did you do all those years?”
    Laura felt right at home and chatted about everything aboard the Excalibur except for any reference to the time machine. Brenda sat watching, munching her cookies, but not saying much. Grandmother listened with fascination, occasionally interjecting a question. She led Laura into another room and opened a closet full of girl’s clothing. “These used to belong to your mother. You can take what you like. Maybe some of them will fit. You’re tall and lanky like your mother was.”
    Laura exclaimed in glee, “They’re beautiful. Look at this!” She pulled out a red party gown with gold thread woven into the fabric.”
    Brenda watched with amusement as Laura’s grandmother exclaimed, “My daughter had a taste for the exotic too. She was way too young to wear anything like that as you are. But, no matter, your father will probably let you wear anything you like. Too bad your mother isn’t here to teach you how to be a lady, but I suppose Brenda can do the job, if she can stay around long enough.”
    Laura picked several articles and changed into one to wear for the rest of the evening and Brenda programmed the house computer to have the rest delivered to her apartment. Time passed quickly as Laura became acquainted with her grandmother, but Brenda finally suggested they start for home. “You know the way and can walk here as often as you like; it’s quite safe even after dark. Of course you can use public transportation anytime you like.”
    As they were walking, Laura asked, “Why do you call her Mom? You’re not her daughter are you? You couldn’t possibly be my aunt, could you?”
    “Heavens no! Your mother and I were close and I was at your grandmother’s almost every day. I’ve called her Mom as long as I can remember. You don’t mind do you?”
    “No, of course not.” She hesitated for a moment before asking, “Can I call you Mom? I know you’re not old enough to be my Mom, but… .”
    Brenda wrapped her arms around Laura, not wanting to ever let go, and replied with tears in her eyes, “I’d love that! But, maybe your Dad would object?”
    “Too bad! Serves him right for going along with President Albee when I didn’t want to stay here. I get along with Dad and I love him, but I’ve wanted a mom a long time.”
    “I’ve wanted a daughter a long time too. I’m so glad you’re going to be staying with me.” They hugged each other as if trying to make up for all the lost years. “Oh, and have you changed your mind about staying with me here in Washington? I love you, Laura.”
    “I love you too Mom, and Yes, as my father says, I’m in hog heaven!” She was happy for most of the evening, but when she remembered her flying that afternoon, she lapsed back into a subdued mood.
     
    The next morning, they spent hours shopping, getting all the necessities along with several outfits practical for school. That evening, Laura insisted on wearing the red dress that had been her mothers. It fit perfectly and Brenda was pleased.
    They arrived at the White House on schedule and met David as they got off the transport. He had been there a few minutes, but waited for them. He almost didn’t recognize Laura and marveled at how beautiful Brenda looked in her evening gown. He took her arm to escort her into the White House dining room, while Laura took his other hand.
     
    The room was filled with cabinet members and a few select Congressmen, former President Gardiner, along with Roger and Warren with their wives. The president paid high tribute to David