#joshua lemon lyman

[fandom-imagines-stories]

Learning Teamwork

Josh Lyman x Reader

Words: 2184

Summary: Two colleagues that usually butt heads are forced to play nice when the President sends them to attend to a Governor's Ball in his home state.

Notes: I have so much Josh angst I wanted to write something a little fluffier that I could still capture his signature snark in. (For the purposes of this, I made up a Governor that would fit the story so if there was one discussed in the show, they aren’t in this one.) I also wrote this in two days so… bare with me.

-

If you hadn’t been in the presence of the President, you might have thrown something at him.

“If the President addresses this now, the Republicans will stop at nothing to get back at him for it.” He spoke in that smug, know-it-all tone that drove you insane.

“This is about real people, Mr. Lyman, not the little politics games that you play all day.”

“Okay, everyone, I think that’s enough.” The President’s order may have halted your argument, but you could still feel the heat rising to your cheeks as you stared Josh down. The rest of the team made a very quick exit, hoping to avoid becoming casualties in you and Josh’s on-going battle. But when the two of you started for the door, President Bartlet’s voice called you back. “Not. You. Two.”

You grimaced and turned back around, reveling a little in the fact that Josh looked just as uncomfortable as you did. One stern look from Jed Bartlet, however, was enough to diminish that.

“Is it physically impossible for the two of you to let me get through one meeting without going at each other’s throats?” He urged, his irritated gaze switching rapidly between the both of you. “Not only are you both a part of this team, you are adults for Christ sake!”

“Sorry, sir.” You gulped.

“My apologies, Mr. President.”

God, even apologizing, he had to try and sound smarter than you.

“I’m not finished yet.” The President walked around his desk and grabbed an envelope from under a pile of other papers. “The Governor of New Hampshire is hosting a ball on Saturday to celebrate something that I can’t even remember. Frankly, I think it’s because his wife enjoys parties a little too much, but who am I to judge?”

You and Josh exchanged a look that consisted more of confusion than anger.

Bartlet continued, “Well, seeing as I used to be Governor of my home state, he’s been kind enough to invite me, though I also think this is more of a way to get more Democratic backing for his next election. Nevertheless, while I am unable to attend due to this whole mess with possible terrorism, I know just the two members of my senior staff to send in my place.” He looked pointedly at both of you.

The excuses tumbled over each other as you and Josh blurted them out, desperately pleading to find something that would change his mind. You hated political gatherings in general but the idea of being forced to go with Josh? It twisted your stomach into so many knots you thought you’d throw up.

“There’s going to be political fallout from all of this and I should really be around-”

“C.J. and Toby are going to need me to-”

“Y/N could go by herself.” Josh said suddenly, making your jaw drop. That little snake. “I’m sure there are plenty of young men that’ll be thrilled to see you.”

“Says one of the White House’s most eligible bachelors.” You fired back, forgetting who you were standing in front of.

“Enough!” The President slammed the invitation down on the desk in front of the two of you. “This isn’t about who is more desirable than who. This is about you two learning how to work as a team and not biting each other’s heads off every time you’re in the same room together! Now, I am calling Governor Thompson and telling him you’re going and the two of you are going to be the picture of grace and maturity. If I hear one word of anything else, so help me god, your careers will be so buried, it’ll take years before they see the light of day.” His voice echoed through the Oval Office, rattling you down to the bone. “Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes, Mr. President.”

“Yes, Mr. President.”

“Good. Now go do whatever you need to to free up next Saturday.” He sat down, putting on his glasses to look over other documents. “Oh, and find something nice to wear. Mrs. Thompson has always been a bit of a stickler with the dress code.”

With that, you were dismissed and you felt the dread settling in your chest. You were going to a ball. In New Hampshire. With Josh Lyman for a date. As you shouldered out the door together, you cast glowering looks.

“I hate you.”

“I hate you more.”

-

If the snickers from Sam and C.J. weren’t enough to drive you crazy in the week leading up to your flight, scrambling to find a dress was not something you originally had on your schedule. Even when you had found one you liked, there was the matter of rescheduling everything you had the weekend you would be gone.

At least Josh seemed to be having as difficult a time as you were. Any time you saw him in passing, he looked frantic and disheveled- which would usually bring you a small amount of joy, but for some reason, knowing you were in the same boat actually made you feel better about going with him.

“Hey.”

You looked up from the piles of work from your desk, surprised to see your unfortunate date standing in your doorway. It was the day before you were set to leave and you both had mountains of work to try and finish.

“What can I help you with, Josh?”

“I just came to say that this might not be such a bad idea.” He moved from the door to the chair, but he didn’t sit down. He just stood anxiously behind it, leaning on the back. He actually looked sincere- and a voice in the back of your head pointed out that, without his usual cloud of arrogance that always hung around him, he was actually very attractive.

No. Definitely not. You hated him.

“Which part? Going to a ridiculous dance so that Governor Thompson can get more clout with Democrats or the fact that we have to go as a bonding exercise?” Your tone was cold, even more so than usual. Call it overcorrecting for your brain’s traitorous thoughts.

“I think the President is right.” Josh’s posture changed, standing up a little straighter as his tone grew defensive. “If this is what it takes to get us to work together, then I guess we deserve it.”

“Funny, since when he first proposed the idea you suggested that I go alone.” You stood up, crossing your arms.

Josh mimicked your stance, his brow furrowing with anger. “Look, I came in here to make some kind of peace with you, and I don’t understand-”

“I know what you came here to do, Josh. You want to show me that I don’t understand Bartlet the way you do while you play some kind of martyr for going on this trip.” You leaned forward with your hands on your desk and he did the same. Your faces must have only been a few inches apart.

“Fine!”

“Fine!”

You’d never wanted to kiss Josh Lyman more than you did in that moment and couldn’t hate him more for it.

-

Your seats on the plane were right next to each other. Because of course, they were. Josh got the window seat despite your protests, sticking you in the middle between him and a rather obnoxious businessman who was speaking loudly on his phone.

“Sir, I need you to turn that off as we prepare to take off.” The flight attendant instructed.

“Yeah, just give me a second.”

“Now, sir.” Her voice was a semi-irritated monotone that left little room for any argument. The man gave her an annoyed look and ended his call. “Thank you, sir.” She continued down the aisle to berate somebody else. Without the distraction of work, he sought out a new way to pass the time- you.

“What takes you to Concord?” He leaned a little closer to you than you would have preferred, but leaning back would basically put you in Josh’s lap so you stayed put.

“My coworker and I have an event to attend.” You motioned to the seemingly oblivious man on the other side of you.

“Just coworker?” His casual expression turned into a suggestive smirk and you felt his fingers run up your knee. You jerked away from him.

“Husband, actually, so how about you keep your hands to yourself?” Josh snapped suddenly, giving Mr. Handsy a death glare. You stared at Josh with wide eyes and forced your mouth shut to keep it from gaping in shock. The man beside you must have been as surprised as you because words came out as a whispered stutter.

“Sorry, I didn’t- she said- and I thought-”

“Yeah, well you thought wrong.” He stood up. “Here, honey, why don’t you take the window seat?”

You sat there, without moving, for a few seconds before he nudged your leg with his foot and you climbed over him to get to the seat by the window. Once you were both situated, the other man got suddenly very interested in the papers from his briefcase.

You leaned over and whispered in Josh’s ear. “Honey? Really?”

“Don’t start.” Though his voice sounded irritated, there was almost a small smile playing at his lips. You shifted awkwardly, trying to keep a smirk from your own lips.

“You really didn’t have to do that.”

“Do you want the window seat or not?” Now his smile had grown into a snicker, making you laugh lightly.

“Who would have thought you were such a gentleman?”

“Well, I’m a married man now, apparently.” He teased. You rolled your eyes.

“In your dreams, Lyman.”

-

After an hour of shaking hands and dancing with the Governor’s persistent son, you were ready to knock your head against the wall until you passed out. Oddly enough, you had yet to see Josh. Mrs. Thompson invited you to come early for tea so you hadn’t arrived together. You were beginning to think he’d bailed when you saw him across the room.

Pushing your way over to him, his eyes widened when he finally saw you.

“You look amazing.” He gasped, his eyes scanning your silky blue dress before settling on your eyes. “I mean… wow.”

You felt blush tint your cheeks as a smile spread across your lips. He cleaned up pretty well himself and you found yourself checking him out for what you wished you could say was the first time ever. What could you say? The man looked good in suits.

You must have stood there, staring at each other, for a few minutes before Ned Thompson came into view. Without a second to think, you grabbed Josh’s hand.

“Dance with me.”

“What?”

“Just do it.” You yanked him with you onto the dance floor, losing sight of the Governor’s persistent son.

Josh looked around, trying to see who you seemed so desperate to avoid as the two of you began to sway to the music. “What was that about?”

You checked one more time to make sure the coast was clear. “Ned.”

“The Governor’s kid?”

“Yes.”

“Isn’t he, like, ten years younger than you.”

“He’s only eight, but yes.” You rolled your eyes, annoyed by his pestering. On the bright side, he was a pretty good dancer. “If I dance with him one more time, I think he’ll propose.” You couldn’t help but laugh at the ridiculousness of the situation.

“Just tell him you’re married to me.” Josh smirked. “Worked the last time.” You both chuckled and continued dancing. For a while, you forgot why you were here to begin with. You were enjoying yourself more than you cared to admit. In a room full of people, the only one you wanted to dance with was the man you loved to hate.

Maybe it was the other way around.

-

You sat up in bed, sipping coffee and reading the paper while the sound of the hotel’s heater droned on. The fluffy white robe enveloped your body perfectly, but the real warmth came from the sleeping form beside you as he turned over, swinging his arm so it was around your waist and pulling you closer to him. You smiled in both amusement and complete bewilderment as to how you got here.

“I don’t think this is what the President meant by ‘teamwork’.” You noted, folding up the paper and setting it aside.

Josh peeked up at you, half his face still smooshed against the pillow.

“Goodmorning.” He greeted groggily, rubbing his eyes as he slowly sat up.

“I made you coffee.” You handed him the little Styrofoam cup and waited until he’d had enough to wake up a little more. “What are we supposed to tell him when he asks how everything went?”

He thought for a moment. “You know, we didn’t fight at all last night.” He was right. Between the ball and, well, everything after that, not a single argument was had.

You shrugged and held out your cup of coffee for a cheers. “To teamwork,” Josh smirked and tapped his cup against yours.

“To teamwork.”

#josh lyman x reader #the west wing #bradley whitford #jed bartlet #the west wing imagines #josh lyman #c.j. cregg #sam seaborn #joshua lemon lyman

[safflowerseason]

Who’s your favorite West Wing character?

#the west wing #the one and only #joshua lemon lyman #josh lyman

[meganwritesfanfics]

Fresh Bruises (Josh Lyman x Reader) Part 7

Donna was running behind that morning. She quickly put all of the files she had gathered from the night before into her box which she very securely and safely buckled into the seat next to her. She drove, faster than she should have, to the hospital almost blowing through a few red lights on her way there. She knew that she needed to have enough time to go over everything with Josh and then make her way back to work. CJ had been right, Donna was utterly exhausted from doing double duty for the past two weeks. But she knew that Josh was going through hell, and she cared about him deeply, and wanted to help whatever way she could. 

She was practically sprinting by the time she reached the hospital, bounding up the stairs on her way to Y/N’s room. 

“I’m sorry I’m late Josh I…” Donna started entering the room but she quickly froze when she found the bed empty, and no sign up Josh. She set her box on the floor before she ran out into the hallway towards the nurses station. “Where is Y/N. Room 1220, she is gone and she…” 

Suddenly her eyes caught sight of two figures at the end of the hallway and she gasped. 

Making their way towards here were Josh and Y/N. Josh had his arm wrapped tightly around her waist and a giant smile on his face. They were moving slowly as Y/N legs wobbled and shook as they had lost all strength. 

“Oh my God!” Donna cried as she closing the distance between them. “You’re awake, oh my God.” 

Using what strength she had Y/N wrapped her arms around Donna pulling her in for a hug. Josh stood behind his hands outstretched ready to catch Y/N if she fell. 

“Thank you so much for taking care of Josh. I will never be able to repay you.” She cried. 

The two stayed like this for a moment before Y/N could feel her legs giving out and she reached her hand out to Josh who quickly wrapped his arm around her waist again supporting her. 

“Lets go get you back into bed, ok.” Josh said as they walked back into the room and Josh lifted Y/N up and back into bed. 

“You need to get out of here Josh, you need to go home and change before work.” Y/N insisted. 

“You are coming into work?” Donna asked trying to hide the sound of relief in her voice. 

“I’m not sure…” Josh started but Y/N lightly hit him in his arm. 

“Yes you are, Donna needs a break. Now go.” Y/N smiled as she pulled him in for a long kiss. 

“Alright, fine, but I will be back when work is done to take you home.” He said lingering on the word home. A fear sat in the pit of his stomach making him think that this might all be a dream and that he would wake up and Y/N would be gone. 

“Home,” Y/N sighed smiled as she held onto Josh’s hand for a moment. 

“I could stay…” Josh started. 

“Donna, drag him out of this room.” Y/N laughed and Josh smiled leaning forward kissing her forehead.

“Ok, ok, I’m leaving.” 

Before leaving the room he turned back to look at Y/N once more. 

“Joshua Lemon Lyman I will throw something at you. Now go!” She laughed using the nickname he had mistakenly told her about. 

Josh and Donna made their way out of the hospital and to her car, Josh carrying the box of files. 

“Donna, I really don’t know how I can ever thank you for everything you have done these past two weeks. Hell everything you have done since I met you.” 

“Josh, you know you don’t ever have to thank me, I’m not doing it for praise or for money or gifts although I’m still waiting on those skis you owe me.” Josh smiled. “You are my closest friend and I care about you. I’m always going to be there for you.” 

Josh hugged her tightly before they both loaded into the car. 

“Where is my car, I left it at work when we all got ready for the gala and then…” 

“The secret service put it in the garage at the White House. You should be able to pick it up today when you go pick up Y/N.” Donna said. 

“I’m going to have to go through a shit ton of security to get my car aren’t I?” Josh groaned. 

“Oh you better believe it.” Donna laughed. 

They were all used to arriving far earlier than most of the other people that worked at the White House. It was nice to have an hour or so in the morning to yourself before the hustle and bustle of the day got started. Josh didn’t end up going home to change, he figured since no one was expecting him there, and he wasn’t probably going to be staying the whole work day, there really wasn’t a point. 

He could feel the stares he was getting as he walked through the walls, but he didn’t care, he was too happy to care. Plus he was on a mission, there were a few people he needed to tell the good news. 

It didn’t take him long to reach Toby’s office, when he did he found him with a cup of coffee in one hand and the newspaper in the other. Josh could see how tired Toby was, the sleep still lingering in his eyes. This made him feel a bit guilty, he knew that everyone was having to work doubly hard since he was gone. 

Toby looked up at Josh and the minute he saw him he stood up. “Is she…?” Toby whispered afraid to know the answer.  

“She’s awake.” Josh said and it came out as almost a laugh. 

Toby let out a sigh not realizing that he had been holding his breath. He set the coffee and newspaper down as he made his way towards Josh embracing him. 

They then turned to the window knocking on it, and Sam’s head popped up from her was looking at, turning to see the two. A look of concern quickly spread across his face. 

Josh smiled as he pointed to his face, knowing that Sam would understand immediately, and he did. He bolted from his office into Toby's, grabbing onto Josh. 

“Oh my god Josh. When, how, I…” 

“She woke up a few hours ago, the doctors say that everything is looking great, she will have to take it easy for a while so she doesn’t rip her stitches open, but she is going to be fine. I’m picking her up at the hospital later tonight and then we are going home.” Josh smiled. 

Just then the sound of someone screaming in excitement rang throughout the halls. 

“Damn-it, I told Donna I wanted to tell CJ.” Josh said as they all made their way towards CJ’s office. 

“I would just like to point out, I didn’t tell her, she saw me opening your office, and then she asked me if you were coming back and if everything was alright with Y/N, and you know me Josh I don’t have a good poker face and…” Donna started as Josh, Toby, and Sam got to Josh’s office.

“Josh!” CJ exclaimed, hugging him. “She’s such a fighter. I knew she was going to be ok I just knew it!” 

“For the love of everything good, why are we screaming?” Leo said as he walked in, but he froze a smile spreading across his face when he saw Josh. “Well, it looks like the full team is back. We have a meeting with the President in less than an hour, you all better make sure Josh is caught up and ready to go.” Leo placed his hand on Josh’s shoulder. “He’s in the Oval. I'm sure he will be just ecstatic to hear that Y/N is alright.” Then Leo went back into his office.

Everyone talked for a moment, Josh telling them everything that happened, leaving out the dream he had, he still wasn’t quite sure what to make of it.  But then it was time to get back to work, and everyone dispersed. 

“Donna, will you get me those files on the budget report we grabbed from the hospital. I need to review them again before the meeting.” Josh called. 

“Yep I will have them on your desk by the time you come back from talking with him now.” She smiled knowing that Josh was chomping at the bit to go tell Bartlett. 

Josh returned the smile as he made his way towards the Oval. 

As he passed through the outer office, he couldn’t help feel a twitch of sadness as he looked at the empty chair. He missed Mrs. Landingham, it had been less than a year that she had been gone, and he still hadn’t fully processed her loss. He knew most of the West Wing hadn’t, especially Bartlett. 

“Josh,” A voice said and he turned to see Charlie coming back into the office. “How are you doing?” 

“I”m good Charlie, Y/N woke up this morning, I was just coming to tell the President.” Josh smiled 

“That is amazing Josh, the President has been asking about her every single day. He will be ecstatic.” Charlie laughed as he hugged Josh. 

As he held onto Charlie, Josh was getting a bit emotional. He had an immense amount of respect and love for Charlie, in the family dynamic the West Wing shared Charlie was definitely the younger brother, so seeing him so happy that Y/N was alright, made Josh’s heart swell. 

“He’s just reading some files, I will show you in.” Charlie said as the two made their way into the Oval Office. “Mr. President, Josh is here to see you.” 

President Bartlet’s head quickly snapped up, and a sad smile appeared on his face. “Thank you Charlie.” 

Charlie patted Josh on the shoulder before heading out leaving the two men alone. 

“Abby said you would be in today. How are you doing? I meant to come see you again this week.” Bartlet started. 

“Sir…” 

“And I’m sorry if Abby came off a little strong, we have just all been so worried about you and we know that Y/N wouldn’t want you to stop living your life. Plus its been a bit crazy around here without you…” 

“Sir…” 

“I know Toby has been extra nervous about everything, even though he would kill me for telling you this. He is constantly calling the hospital asking for updates on Y/N’s condition and…” 

“Mr President!” Josh yelled silencing him. “She’s awake. She woke up early this morning.” 

Bartlett beamed. “Well why did you say so in the first place. We need to celebrate!” 

Josh chuckled. “Maybe soon, I have a lot of catching up to do, plus Y/N would be so angry at me if I had a party to celebrate her instead of working.” 

“Fair, I will have to tell Abby when she gets in, she was praying for Y/N, we both were. But Abby always said, ‘there is no way that girl is going to leave Josh’” Bartlett smiled. 

“I’m bringing her home tonight from the hospital, we can swing by here to see you and Dr. Bartlett, I’m sure Y/N would love to see you too.” 

“No, she probably needs her rest, we have plenty of time to catch up.” Bartlett insisted. “Now if I’m not mistaken I have a meeting with you all in a little while.” 

“Yes sir, in about an hour.” Josh said taking the hint that Bartlett probably had a ton of things he needed to do. “Thank you Mr. President.” 

“Josh,” Bartlett called before Josh had fully left the room. “I’m extremely relieved Y/N is ok.” 

“Thank you sir.” And Josh left to go back to work. 

The day went on agonizingly slow for Josh as all he wanted to do was be back at the hospital with Y/N, holding her, kissing her, and he wanted nothing more that to take her home and hold her in their bed. 

“You can go Josh, I think everyone has gotten everything under control. Go get Y/N.” Leo said coming into Josh’s office. 

“Are you sure, I can stay…” 

“Don’t pretend like you aren’t dying to go see her, I have seen you checking the clock every five minutes.” Leo smiled. 

“Thank you Leo.” Josh said as he grabbed his bag which he had already packed twenty minutes before. “I will see you tomorrow.” And then he was out the door. 

Josh had been right about it taking forever to get his car out of the White House garage. There were stacks of paperwork that had to be filled out, his security clearance was checked, and checked again, and checked for a third time before he was finally given the keys. He rushed to the hospital where he was faced with even more paperwork to fill out to check Y/N out. 

But he didn’t care, he couldn’t stop smiling. Y/N was coming home. He couldn’t stop staring at her only stopping to sign whatever form was handed to him. When everything was done, the staff brought Y/N a wheelchair even though she protested. 

“Darling, humor me will you, let me get you to the car and then after that I will help you walk wherever you need to go.” Josh insisted and Y/N conceded. 

By the time all the paperwork was signed and they were headed out to the car Josh was practically sprinting down the hospital hallways. 

“Josh, you can slow down, home is still going to be there I promise.” 

“Sweetheart, I’m already home, anywhere with you is home.” 

Y/N could feel tears welling up in hers eyes as she stared up at him lovingly. 

The whole car ride back to their apartment, Josh held Y/N hand tightly, afraid that if he let her go, she would vanish. 

“When are we going to talk about Joan.” Y/N said out of the blue. 

“What?” Josh said taken aback. 

“I heard you Josh, everything you said, I could hear you.” 

“You heard everything?” His voice cracked. 

“I want to marry you Josh, I want to have children with you, I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” She said crying. “And I think you were right, I think Joan was watching out for us, she was taking care of me.” 

By this point Josh was crying as he held her hand up to his mouth kissing it. 

“I love you so much Y/N.” He cried. 

“I love you too.” She carefully leaned over and kissed his cheek before sitting back in her seat holding onto Josh’s hand with both hands. 

By the time they reached their apartment, Josh wanted nothing more than to propose to Y/N right there in that moment. But he knew he couldn’t, he knew it was going to have to be special. 

“Now, I would just like to say before we head in that I have only been back to change and shower, nothing else has been touched so I don’t want to be yelled at for the mess.” Josh teased as he helped Y/N out of the car wrapping his arms around her to support her. 

“I think for once I will let it slide.” Y/N said as she snuggled into his embrace as the two made their way up the stairs. It was a slow process but soon Josh was pulling out his keys and opening the front door, butterflies filling his stomach. He didn’t understand why, but he was extremely nervous about Y/N being home again. Not that he wasn’t excited, but it just felt like it had been forever since she had been home. 

The lights in the apartment were off, Josh was about to help Y/N to the stairs so she could sit when suddenly the lights turned on. 

“Surprise!” Voices yelled and Y/N and Josh turned to see the entire West Wing Staff in their living room, a giant banner on the back wall that said Welcome Home Y/N. 

CJ quickly made her way towards them pulling Y/N in for a giant hug. 

“I’m so glad you are ok.” She whispered. 

“I take it you were in charge of this?” Josh said to Donna who came up next to him. 

“It was actually Toby’s idea, I just had the key to your apartment.” She smiled. 

“Toby,” Y/N gasped as she looked at the man standing in the back corner of the room with a slight smile on his face. “I knew he was secretly a softy.” She laughed. 

As Josh held Y/N he looked around the room, seeing all the people he cared about, his family. He couldn’t help but feel incredibly grateful. 

“Welcome home baby,” He said as Y/N leaned her head back onto his shoulder as she entangled her fingers with his.

I hope you guys enjoy! I’m planning on keeping this series going. Let me know if there is anything specific you would like to see from this story. I have some ideas but will gladly take suggestions. 

#josh lyman x reader #josh lyman #west wing #fanfiction #imagine

[joshllyman]

a current list of names the boys have earned

Lemon: lemon, Lem, lembot, Josh, Josh Lyman, Joshua Lyman, lembean, bean, beanboy

Seaborn: seaborn, Sam, Sam Seaborn, seabean, seabot, bean, beanboy

#wwcats #seaborn the cat #lemon the cat

[comepraisetheinfanta]

Like Toby, one of my purposes in life is to remind everyone that Joshua (the most Lemon of) Lyman(s) is a (secular) Jewish man. (Though my kindred spirit Tobus chooses to focus more on the secularness of Josh's Jewishness lol)

#a fanfic author asked for suggestions of what holiday they should write Josh and Donna celebrating #and some people suggested Tgiving Xmas and Halloween #but my monomaniacal ass said Yom Kippur bc it's probably the only time of year Josh goes to temple #also I'm just hella bored of all the Josh and Donna fic chapters that cover Josh and Donna 'doing the holidays' #and the holidays that are written about are for the most part Christian or secular holidays #though there are some amazing fics out there that do cover Rosh Hashanah - Yom Kippur - and Hanukkah #though they are definitely in the minority

[glamazord]

the many

phenomenal faces

of joshua “josh lemon” lyman

ft. donnatella “donna” moss

#tv #suprise #faces #the west wing #the westest wing

[fandom-imagines-stories]

Black Umbrellas

Josh Lyman x Reader

Words: 2277

Part One

Summary: The funeral arrives and everything seems to fall apart. Josh tries to keep his temper in check with Celia, but soon the reason behind their ongoing feud is revealed. 

Notes: Josh is definitely one of my favorite fictional characters and it seems like more of you are liking his imagines. As always, comments are always welcome!- Side note: I know that it’s been forever since I posted part one to this, and I’m very sorry. I hope to be writing for more West Wing, including more characters. 

-

It was just like he would have wanted. The morning was bright and sunny and began with laughter. Josh was standing in the kitchen with your mother and something he had said made her laugh, making the rest of you feel a little lighter on a day that would leave a great deal of weight on your hearts. It’s how your dad would have wanted his funeral to start. Not with sorrow, but with the sense of being together. 

Your mother made blueberry pancakes for breakfast using your dad’s famous recipe and  the three of you had coffee on the porch. Celia and Thomas were still asleep, so there was no danger of an argument breaking out for now. 

“It’s a beautiful day.” Marissa hummed, taking a sip of her coffee. Josh nodded in agreement, wrapping an arm around your shoulders, drinking in the morning sun as it rose over the trees. 

“How are you feeling?” He whispered as you rested your head on his shoulder. You shrugged. 

“Best that I can be, I guess.” He nodded in understanding and sweetly kissed the top of your head. 

“I’ll be here the whole time.” You placed a hand on his leg, drawing circles on the denim. You loved it when he wore jeans. It made him feel like he was yours for the day and not rushing off to assist in a national crisis. But even now, he was still the Deputy Chief of Staff. 

You probably noticed his pager buzzing before he did. He looked at you mournfully, his tone apologetic. “I’ve got a call from Leo.” 

You gave him a small smile and a node. “You better take it.” 

He moved out onto the lawn for some privacy and your mother gave your hand a gentle pat. 

“You picked a good one.” She smiled. You both watched as he ran a hand down his face, his expression morphing from saddened to angered to calm in a matter of seconds. 

“Is he seriously working right now?” Your sister’s shrill criticizing voice emerged from inside the house. 

“He’s the Deputy Chief of Staff for the President,” You scoffed, “the world didn’t stop just because he’s here.” 

“Sorry, I forgot. Not all of us are lowly small town journalists like me and dad.” 

“Are you serious, right now?” 

“No, you’re right, I’m sure it’s a matter of national security.” She spat and you stood up from the swing. 

“It very well could be!” You shouted. You wanted to slap her. Who was she to criticize Josh? 

“Girls!” Your mother finally interjected. You both turned your heads towards her and you immediately felt guilty, seeing the tears welling up in her eyes. “Don’t do this today. Please.” 

“Sorry mom.” You both said, hanging your heads. While you could feel everything start to burn up in your chest, you pushed it down. You had to be strong today. Luckily, your own pager went off before any more arguing could occur. 

“Hey Sam.” You sighed in greeting, grateful for a distraction. 

“Hey, how are you doing?” His voice was sympathetic and sweet. Typical Sam. 

“Okay, all things considered.” You laughed lightly, hoping to keep the conversation from getting too emotional. “How are things there?”

“Crazy as usual.” He chuckled. “I just wanted to call and check in.” There was something in his tone that told you there was more. 

“Sam… something is wrong with the speech, isn’t there?” 

“Well,” He blew out a breath, “Since you pushed it back, we’re speaking after Congress is handing us our asses which means that Toby needed to make some changes so we don’t sound like-”

“Kids trying to start a fight on the playground?” You finished. Josh had said the same thing. 

“Yeah…” 

You thought for a moment, but couldn’t focus on any one thing. “Just make sure that he sounds like we’re still coming out on top.” It was the only thing you could do. 

“We’ll try.” He paused, but you already knew what he was going to say. “And Y/N-”

“I know.” You smiled slightly to yourself. “Thanks Sam.” 

You strolled along the wrap-around porch, hoping to avoid Celia for at least a few more minutes, telling yourself it was the stress of the day. She would cool off eventually. 

“I hope everything is doing okay.” Your mother’s comforting tone helped to calm you down. You shrugged. 

“As okay as it ever is.” She nodded with understanding. She knew how messy the political world was. It didn’t stop because someone died. 

Josh came back, the stress clear on his face. When he locked eyes with you, he tried to brighten up, but you could tell that there was something weighing down on his shoulders. You implored him with a look, but he shrugged it off. 

“The usual.” He whispered, draping his arm around you again. “Don’t worry about it.” He turned to your mother with a sad smile. “Leo McGarry and The President send their deepest sympathies.” 

“I appreciate that.” She nodded and looked out over the orchards. How was she so strong through all of this? You felt ready to fall apart at the seams, but your mother was the picture of grace. She always did everything for everyone else and now she wasn’t giving herself the chance to grieve. 

Celia had gone inside to make calls to the funeral home and Thomas was in town picking up groceries. He wanted there to be one less thing for all of you to worry about. 

With a few hours until the funeral, all you wanted was to make it through the day without any more arguments. Josh had a few more calls with Leo and did his best to hide it from your judgmental sister but there was still that tension between them. You took a few sympathy calls from Donna and C.J.- both of whom were very kind in expressing their regrets in not being able to make it to the funeral. 

It was about noon when the President called. Your mother must have spent an hour talking to him in her office before she came back into the living room, passing off the phone to you. 

“Good afternoon, Mr. President.” You started, forcing yourself to keep it together. 

“I’m sorry I didn’t catch you the other day before you and Josh left.” He sighed. “I wanted to give my condolences in person.” 

“My family and I appreciate it nonetheless, sir.” 

“I am truly sorry for your loss, Y/N.” His fatherly tone made you want to cry. Truthfully, you’d always seen President Bartlet as your work-father more than your boss. “Bill was a good man and a good friend.” 

“He would have been honored to hear you say that, sir.” There was a long moment of silence between the two of you as you both let those words sink in before he concluded. 

“He was always very proud of you, Y/N. I hope you know that.” 

Your breathing hitched as you held back a cry. “Thank you, Mr. President.” As you hung up, you tried to keep the tears from falling. Your quiet moment to yourself was interrupted by the sounds of whispers growing into shouts on the front porch. Celia and Josh. 

As you approached, their words became more and more clear. 

“When are you going to stop treating her like a child?”

“I’m sorry, but I figured I would let her go on thinking that her sister is a crazy lunatic!” 

“Keep your voice down! She’ll hear you.” 

“Let her hear, Celia.” Josh’s voice became a growl. “Let her hear that after all these years, you’ve just been jealous of everything that she’s been able to accomplish and you couldn’t.”

“I don’t know why we’re even having this conversation.” Celia scoffed. You opened the door a crack and watched her step closer to him. “I’m not jealous, Josh. I’m right. Y/N has had everything handed to her since the day she was born. She doesn’t deserve her job.. And she doesn’t deserve you.”

“You’ve got to be kidding.” Josh ran a hand down his face and turned away, but she was persistent.

“We met first, Josh. We started seeing each other and then you fell for her little charms just like everybody else.” 

“You two were seeing each other?” You gasped, finally stepping out from behind the door. Josh let out a frustrated groan. 

“No, honey, we weren’t-”

“Is that why you two are at each other’s throats all the time? Because you were together?”

“We were never together!” He exclaimed. He reached to put his hands on your shoulders, but you stepped away, staring down your older sister. 

“You really think I don’t deserve my job… my husband… my life?” 

She said nothing. Her mouth formed a thin line as she gave you a silent, hard stare. You wanted to slap her. You wanted to scream. Instead, the sky let out a low, tumbling growl of thunder that served as the final straw. You looked up at the darkened clouds as the first raindrop landed on your cheek. 

“No no no no no. This isn’t what he would have wanted.” You cried, holding out a hand as more water fell. “It’s supposed to be sunny and beautiful and… and…” 

“Y/N,” Josh started, but you didn’t hear him. 

“I can’t deal with this right now.” Was all you said as you took off down the steps and towards the road. You didn’t know what to think, but the rain hitting your skin was enough to fuel your fury to hide your sadness. 

“Where is she going?” Marissa asked, feeling the tension in every thunder roll. Josh slammed his hand against the porch railing. 

“I don’t know. But I’ll take care of it.” He gave Celia a glare that could halt an army before running after you.

-

You ended up in an old tool shed somewhere in the orchard, your cries drowned out by the rain pounding against the wooden walls. Your clothes were soaked but you didn’t care. There was just an hour until the funeral and the storm didn’t show any sign of stopping. This was all wrong. 

Your dad was the only one who could have fixed this mess. Whenever either you or your husband fought with Celia, he was the one that could settle everyone down and make you all laugh until your sides hurt. What if you never laughed like that again? 

The rain turned into a soft- but consistent- drizzle and you were sure you heard the sound of a car approaching the shed. You heard your husband calling your name before you even opened the door. 

“How did you know I’d be here?”

He gave you a long, sad look. “When you ran off, your mother said it’d be best if I took a car so we’d have someplace warm to sit and talk. She said you’d probably come here.” He opened the passenger door of his car and just waited. 

Instead of running into the warm heat of the car, you ran into his arms. While you felt like you had no more tears to shed, your body just shook with silent sobs. After a while, he picked you up and put you in the car, quickly going over the driverseat so he could take you in his embrace again. 

“I feel so stupid.” You sniffed. “We’re supposed to be mourning dad and I’m running off like a child.” 

“Don’t beat yourself up.” He muttered into your hair. “Grief does something to our heads… everyone has to deal with it.” He pulled away to look at you. “I shouldn’t have argued with Celia.” 

“No.” You shook your head. “No, I’m glad I know what she really thinks of me. Of us.” 

He pushed a hair behind your ear and gave you a small smile. “You have to know that I would never hide something like that from you unless I thought it didn’t matter. Celia and I got drinks one time before I met you and now she likes to hold it over my head.” He sighed. “And don’t beat yourself up about what she said. You’re one of the hardest working, badass women that I know. You deserve everything that you’ve built.”

He kissed your forehead and you fell into silence again. Without any words, he knew that you believed him about Celia and that the whole thing was blown out of proportions by your sister’s need for attention. He just hoped that you and Celia could start over. As much as he despised her most of the time, he knew what it was like to lose a sister. 

“Why don’t we head back to the house and try and dry off before the funeral?” He suggested softly. You just nodded, laying your head on his shoulder as he drove back to your childhood home. 

-

It wasn’t the sunny day that you wanted it to be. Everyone stood with black umbrellas and somber faces and you did your best to keep it together. Josh held your hand the whole way through, his support not faltering for a single second. You knew this couldn’t be easy for him either and yet he was your rock through all of it. 

The clouds blocked the sun for the rest of the day but you told yourself that it was okay. They were the cloud-kingdoms your father always talked about. The ones he wrote in those little books tucked away in the house. And you took comfort in the fact that you knew, now, that he was up there with them. 

#josh lyman x reader #josh lyman #the west wing #west wing imagines #jed bartlet #bradley whitford #this is kinda a mess #oh well #joshua lemon lyman #angsty #sam seaborn

[safflowerseason]

For the fandom ask: West Wing (an old favorite) or Succession (a new one)!

Both great choices!! I'll go with The West Wing, but maybe I’ll come back and do Succession later 😉

send me a fandom and i’ll tell you…

the first character i ever fell in love with: Joshua "Lemon" Lyman

a character that i used to love/like, but now do not: Sam Seaborn has aged the most poorly as a character, in my opinion.

a ship that i used to love/like, but now do not: I think I'm slightly less invested in CJ/Danny than I used to be, although I still like them.

my ultimate favorite character™: Josh Lyman

prettiest character: Ainsley Hayes

my most hated character: Probably that jackass Speaker of the House character in S5-S6.

my OTP: Josh x Donna, of course

my NOTP: idk, Josh x Sam, probably

favorite episode: Ugh, I could never choose definitively...King Corn in S6 remains a fave, Celestial Navigation in S1 is a classic too, The Leadership Breakfast in S2 is also a favorite.

saddest death: Leo's, of course

favorite season: S2 in terms of quality, but S7 is one of my favorites to rewatch in terms of sheer comfort

least favorite season: S4...it's worse than S5 and I will die on this hill.

character that everyone else in the fandom loves, but i hate: god, I don't know...Sam Seaborn? I don't hate him but he's by far the *worst* member of the main ensemble.

my ‘you’re piece of trash, but you’re still a fave’ fave: Cliff Calley!! The Dan Egan of the West Wing universe.

my ‘beautiful cinnamon roll who deserves better than this’ fave: Toby, for what the S7 writers did to his storyline.

my ‘this ship is wrong, nasty, and makes me want to cleanse my soul, but i still love it’ ship: Ooof, this is hard in The West Wing...maybe Bruno and Jane, Vinick's campaign managers in S7. They had fun hate-sex energy together.

my ‘they’re kind of cute, and i lowkey ship them, but i’m not too invested’ ship: Will and Kate in S7.

#the west wing #fandom asks #fandom ask games #ask away ask away

[fandom-imagines-stories]

I’ll Be Home for Christmas

Josh Lyman x Reader

Words: 2074

Summary: After spending two weeks on a tiring case in New York, you want nothing more than to spend the holidays with your husband in D.C. A snow storm has other plans.

Notes: This is a late Christmas present for my sister @bensolocanbesaved

-

With one final click of closing your briefcase, your time in New York was finally over. You’d been assisting on a case for two weeks and you wanted to go home. When your friend had asked for your advice, you expected to be there for a few days, not for the entirety of the trial. 

The New York City streets were bustling with last-minute holiday shoppers. It was December 23rd and the city was bursting with Christmas spirit. You were a New York native, but all you wanted was to get back home to D.C. where your husband was waiting with gallons of hot chocolate. It was your first Christmas as husband and wife and you couldn’t wait to go home. Tucked in the bottom of your suitcase was your present for Josh. It was a silver watch with the words Merry Christmas Lemon. Love, your wife engraved on the back. 

You shuffled along the crowded sidewalk, double-checking the time for your flight on your ticket. You were supposed to fly out at 8:00 that night, but the news channels were warning of a snowstorm headed towards the city. The storm wasn’t supposed to start until 10:00, so you hoped that you would fly out on time. You could hardly wait. 

Josh, on the other hand, was buried behind a rather large pile of papers that covered his desk. He had been busy looking through statistics and economic essays all day and he was nearly finished. He was preparing for an interview about the President’s new plan for inflation (this one not being a secret/nonexistent one). He could just see the blond hair head peeking over one of the stacks. 

“I checked the weather,” Donna informed him. 

“Hmmm?” He didn’t even look up from the paper he was reading. 

“I checked the weather for tonight and things aren’t looking good.” 

“Donna, context.” He broke away from reading to finally look at her.

“Please tell me I’m not the only one worried about your wife making it back for Christmas.” Donna turned on the weather channel and an ugly blue mass was moving towards New York. Josh put down the paper and pulled his chair up to the television. 

“You have got to be kidding me.” He ran a hand down his face. Christmas was your absolute favorite holiday and you had been over the moon about decorating and presents and baking cookies. You would be heartbroken if you spent the holiday at a crowded airport. “It isn’t supposed to hit until later tonight. She’ll fly out before, right?” 

“Now they're saying it’s moving faster than they thought.” Donna sighed, pointing to the ominous red blob heading straight for his wife. He let his head fall into his hands, letting out an irritated groan. 

“How long is it supposed to last?” He muttered from behind his fingers. He was afraid to look at her expression and when he did it was not promising. According to the weather channel, the storm was supposed to last until midnight… on Christmas Day. “She can’t miss Christmas!” Josh turned off the television and threw the remote. 

“Don’t panic. I’m sure that…” Donna tried to think of something that would make him feel better. “Maybe there will be a Christmas miracle.” Josh narrowed his eyes at her and she quickly exited his office, brushing past Sam on her way out.

“What’s going on?” Sam wondered, seeing the troubled expression on Josh’s face. 

“My Christmas spirit is dwindling on empty, Sam.” He blew out a long breath. 

“You had any, to begin with?” Sam smirked, leaning against Josh’s desk. “Snowstorm in New York?”

“Yup.”

“Can she rent a car and drive here?” He suggested. Josh shook his head. 

“The roads will be closed.” 

“It’s that bad?” 

“Yup.” Sam gave him a half-smile and a pat on the shoulder. 

“If things don’t work out, you can come spend Christmas with me.” Josh returned the smile and sighed. 

“Thanks.” Sam went back to his office and the phone started to ring. “Lyman,” Josh answered. 

“Josh?” Your voice started from the other end. “So there’s been a problem with my flight and I don’t know when I’ll be getting back.” 

“I saw.” He leaned back in his chair. “Are you okay? Where are you?”

“I’m at the airport. I’m fine, just a little hungry.” You laughed, trying to keep your attitude bright. “I just wanted to call and tell you what’s going on. They’re not sure how long the flight will be delayed.” 

“Don’t worry, honey, I’m sure that the snow will pass. It’ll be a…” Josh blew out a breath. “Christmas miracle.” 

“I hope so.” You smiled, although there wasn’t much hope for the situation. “Merry-”

“Don’t say it.” Josh blurted. “You can say it when you get here.” You laughed. 

“Okay, okay.” You leaned against the wall, the rest of the terminal forgotten. You would give anything to just see him smile. “I love you.” 

“I love you too. I’ll see you soon.” 

You hung up and found a seat amongst the other irritated passengers. Taking the watch out of your bag, you looked at its surface and felt each engraved letter under your fingers. The snowflakes drifted down, turning the world into a blur of white. You looked up at the sky, feeling your hope fade. With a heavy sigh, you put the watch back in your bag, muttering to yourself. 

“This is what you get for wanting a white Christmas, Mrs. Lyman.” 

-

The next morning came around and there was little improvement in the weather. The blizzard howled on and you were stuck sleeping in an uncomfortable chair in the terminal since you were far too stubborn to check into a hotel- something Josh feared, but entirely expected. 

“You slept at the airport, didn’t you?” You didn’t have to see Josh to sense his disapproval. 

“I am not going to spend hundreds to stay in a hotel I don’t need to stay at!” You defended a little too loudly. The seemingly grouchy older woman sitting across from you gave you a dirty look. “I’m perfectly fine, Josh.” You said, this time quieter. 

“I really don’t like the idea of you sleeping in a dirty airport with who knows what kind of people.” When he was worried, Josh tended to talk faster than usual. He went on about the crime rates in New York while you tried to get a word in. 

“Josh… Josh… Babe… Joshua!” You finally yelled, earning another dirty look. 

“What?” 

“I’m fine.” You laughed. “Besides, if anyone tries to mug me, I’ll just hit them with the briefcase that C.J. gave me last year. This thing weighs more than my whole desk!” 

“If you’re trying to make me feel better, it isn’t working.” He scowled, though you could hear a slight chuckle in his voice. 

“Really, honey, I’m fine.” You looked at your watch, feeling your stomach growl for breakfast. “I’m going to grab something to eat, but I’ll call you if there are any updates.” 

“Okay.” Josh tapped a pencil on his desk, his glum expression returning. “Love you. Bye.” When he put the phone down, Sam knocked on the door frame. 

“Still stuck?” 

“Yup.” Josh tossed the pencil across the desk in frustration. “It’s just my luck, though, isn’t it? First Christmas married and my wife is stuck in an airport!” 

“What’s he yelling about?” C.J. asked, appearing next to Sam. 

“Y/N’s flight was delayed because of a snowstorm and now she’s spending Christmas at LaGuardia.” He explained. 

“She’s not going to be back in time?” C.J. exclaimed. “Is there anything we can do?” 

“Unless you want to ask the President to control the weather, I don’t think so.” Josh rested his chin on his hand. He looked like a kid who just found out there was no Santa. C.J. and Sam exchanged a glance before heading back to work. 

You spent most of the day reading travel books at one of the little shops in the airport. Frankly, you were more bored than anything else. There still weren’t any updates on the delay and you didn’t want to call Josh again since you knew he was probably busy. The overhead speakers were playing an endless drone of Christmas songs, all failing to lift your spirits. You missed the tree and the lights and the mistletoe, but most of all you just missed your husband. 

Josh’s day didn’t go much better, either. He worked on figuring out the number of votes they would have for legislation over the new inflation plan. He tried to get his mind off of the holiday, but his heart still dropped every time he saw a wreath. He almost snapped at Margaret for humming “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”. 

“Where’s your holiday spirit?” Leo wondered, sensing Josh’s unpleasant attitude as Josh entered his office. 

“In New York,” Josh mumbled. 

“Snowstorm?” 

“Yup.” 

“Ah, I’m sorry Josh.” He set his glasses down on his desk, looking up at the gloomy Deputy Chief of Staff. “You know, we’re pretty much finishing up for the day. Why don’t you go home? Or at least go spend the holiday with Sam or someone.” 

“Is there any chance Air Force One-”

“No.” 

“I figured.” Josh gave him a small smile. “Merry Christmas, Leo.” 

“Merry Christmas, Josh,” Leo responded. “Don’t be too much of a Scrooge. Who knows, there could be a-”

“Christmas miracle?” Josh laughed, shaking his head. “Not this year.” The two said goodnight and Josh started back towards his office. He turned to corner, nearly running into the excited blond. “Damn it, Donna!” 

“I was right!” She exclaimed. “You mocked the miracle, but I was right!” 

“What did I say about context?” Josh ran a hand down his face, trying to keep his temper in check. He was tired and frustrated, which was not a great combination. 

“The roads might be dangerous and traffic would take all night to get through, but the Christmas miracle is real!” She squealed. She pointed to her computer screen. “There is one road from D.C into New York that’s open. You could make it there by midnight.” Josh’s eyes widened and a smile spread across his face. 

“Donna, you are the Christmas miracle.” Josh cheered, giving her a quick hug before rushing to his office to grab his keys along with the small, rectangular box containing a gold charm bracelet. As he hurried out, he called back to Donna. “Get me some mistletoe because I am kissing my wife on Christmas!” 

-

“Flight 1-7-2 to Washington D.C. has been canceled until further notice.” The voice over the speaker dreadfully announced. You heard a chorus of groans from the other passengers and let out a disappointed sigh. You let your head fall into your hands, feeling the rest of your hope fade. 

“Miss?” A voice said quietly. One of the airport employees stood in front of you, holding a small sack. “Merry Christmas.” She held up a candy cane, giving you a bright smile. You tried to mimic her grin and took the striped candy. You tried to get some sleep, but it was no use. The clock was nearing midnight but people still bustled around you. You got yourself a cup of coffee. If you weren’t going to sleep, you would fuel your caffeine addiction. You had just lifted the styrofoam cup to your lips. 

“Can I have Mrs. Y/N Lyman to the front desk please?” A smug new voice said over the intercom. You dropped your coffee as you whirled around, seeing the smiling face of your husband standing across the terminal. You couldn’t reach each other fast enough, both of you sprinting across the sleek tile floor. He opened his arms and you ran into them, burying yourself in his embrace, laughing as joyful tears filled your eyes. 

“How did you get here?” You asked, pulling back to see his beaming face. 

“There was one road open and I drove all night.” You smacked his shoulder. “Ow! What was that for?” 

“You drove in a blizzard?” You exclaimed, smacking him again. He just shrugged, giving you another grin. 

“I’m taking you home for Christmas.” You tugged on his scarf, bringing him in for a kiss. It was that moment, however, that you both realized that you were already home. 

#josh lyman #happy holidays everyone #bradley whitford #west wing #what's next #josh lyman x reader

[meganwritesfanfics]

Baby Bottle (Josh Lyman x Reader Story)

Word Count: 1486

“Hey Y/N” She heard the chipper voice say as she made her way through the familiar halls. While she worked in the White House she hardly ever was in this part. 

“Hey Donna,” She smiled her hands instinctively landing on her stomach but she quickly dropped them not wanting to give anything away. “Is he in his office?” 

“Yeah, but I wouldn’t go in there if I were you.” 

“Is it that bad?” 

Just as she said it, the familiar voice called through the halls. 

“Donna!” 

“Told you,” Donna smiled as she grabbed a stack of folders heading towards the office. 

Slowly the short brown haired woman followed behind, praying that no one could hear the rattling coming from her purse. 

“Josh there is someone here to see you.” Donna said as she handed him the folders. 

“I don’t have time for…” Josh started but the minute he saw her he softened. “Hey what are you doing here?” He said instantly coming towards her pulling her into his arms. She felt his shoulders drop as he held onto her tightly. He was stressed, not that he wasn’t always, but today it was especially bad. 

“I didn’t have anything going on and I was wondering if you had any time to squeeze me in for lunch Mr. Lyman.” She teased. 

Josh sighed as he pulled away. “I wish I could Mrs. Lyman, but I have so much I have to do.” 

“That’s ok, I just need like five minutes I need to…” Suddenly there was a knock on the door. 

“Josh…” Sam said as he leaned through the door. “Oh hi Y/N” 

“Hi Sam,” Y/N smiled. 

“Am I interrupting something?” 

“No,” Josh quickly said. “What’s up.” 

Y/N looked at Josh slightly hurt. 

“Toby needs us in his office.” 

“Yeah,” Josh then turned to Y/N seeing the hurt. “Y/N I’m sorry, what was it you wanted to talk about.” 

“No it’s fine go. I’ll wait.” She smiled as she sat down in his desk chair. 

“Ok,” He smiled as he leaned down and kissed her. “I’ll see you later.” Then off he went 

She knew she shouldn’t be upset. This was their lives, he was the  White House Deputy Chief of Staff and she was the First Lady’s Press Secretary. Crazy was their normal, but for something like this, something as major as this, she just wanted a moment where the two of them could focus on them. 

As the time ticked on Josh came in and out of the office but only for a few moments at a time never even acknowledging her presence. 

Before she knew it her lunch break was over and she needed to head back to work. 

Sighing she pulled the baby bottle out of her bag, it was filled with M&M’s, Josh’s favorite candy and they each said dad on them. She put it on Josh’s desk before she stood up heading out of the office. 

“Y/N” She heard someone call her names, she felt her heart racing hoping it was Josh, but instead she found her secretary. 

“Stacy, sorry I…” Y/N started. 

“The First Lady is in the Oval Office and she would like to speak to you.” Stacy said. 

Y/N sighed knowing exactly what it was The First Lady wanted to talk about. While Y/N knew the first person who should have known about the pregnancy was Josh, but she also knew that being pregnant was a lot of commitment, especially for The First Lady’s Press Secretary. So of course The First Lady was the first person who needed to know. She was in on the planning of telling Josh, it was her idea to personalize the M&M’s. 

“Ok, I’ll head there. Thanks, I need you to start getting some prep for our interview tomorrow.” She said as she turned and made her way towards the Oval Office. 

“Hello Mrs Lyman, how are you today.” 

“I’m good Mrs. Laningham how are you?” 

“Oh fine dear, you can go on in she is waiting for you.” 

“Thank you,” She said and then she made her way through the doors. No matter how many times she had been in the Oval Office it still took her breath away walking, seeing the seal. 

“Y/N” It drew her out of her fog as she looked up to see both the President and the First Lady looking at her. “Did you tell him?” It was the First Lady who was speaking looking at her beaming.

“No I haven’t, he’s been pretty busy.” Y/N smiled. 

“Well I can call him in here and then you can tell him.”The President responded causing Y/N to giggle. 

“With all due respect Mr. President I think you have much more important things to worry about then helping me tell my husband we are going to have a baby. Besides I left the bottle on his desk so…” And with that suddenly she heard her name yelled out. 

“I think he figured it out.” The First Lady said with a laugh as suddenly Josh burst into the room holding the bottle. 

“Mr. President, First Lady I’m sorry I…” He said completely out of breath but his eyes were locked on Y/N. “Are you…” 

All Y/N could do was nod, her eyes filling up with tears when she saw the tears in Josh’s eyes. 

Josh gasped as he ran his fingers through his hair. “A b...baby.” 

“Yeah,” Y/N laughed breathlessly. 

“Is it a boy or girl?” He said as he slowly made his way towards her. 

“I don’t know it’s too early to tell.” Y/N said wanting Josh to close the gap between them but she wasn’t exactly going to jump him in front of the President of the United States.

“When… when is the due date?” 

“You aren’t going to like it.” She smiled and he quickly looked at her concerned. “November.” 

“You mean I might have to share my birthday with this kid.” He replied back smirking 

“Joshua.” Y/N snapped teasing. 

“You know I’m joking.” Josh said finally reaching her his hand landing on her stomach. “A kid, we are going to have kid.” 

Y/N nodded again. 

“I…” Josh started. 

“Oh for the love of God kiss her Josh.” Jed Bartlet yelled causing both of them to jump. 

Josh laughed as he leaned in giving her a big kiss before picking her up and swinging her around. 

“Careful Joshua.” Mrs. Bartlet said. 

Josh laughed again wiping the tears from his eyes as he set Y/N down his fingers interlocking with hers. 

“Well I think this calls for celebration, after work tonight why don’t we get a bunch of people to celebrate.” President Bartlet stated. 

“Only if you two are alright with telling everyone.” Abbey chimed in. 

“Of course we are alright with telling everyone!” Josh said excitedly. “I mean,” He paused for a second turning to look at Y/N. “We are alright with telling everyone?” 

“Yes of course! They are bound to find out anyway, you have a terrible poker face Joshua Lyman.” 

His face beamed. “I’m going to be a dad.” As he started for the door when suddenly he froze. “I’m going to be a dad.” This time his voice was filled with fear. 

“Come on let’s go Lemon.” Y/N teased as she patted Josh on the back as they left the Oval Office. 

That night while everyone was partying, Josh stood arms wrapped around his wife taking everything in. They swayed together to the music breathing in sync. 

“What are you thinking?” Josh asked kissing the top of her head. 

“Names,” She said as she turned to look at him. 

“Already, I still have barely wrapped my mind around the fact.” Josh laughed. 

“Now if this is going to upset you we don’t have to…” 

“I swear if you suggest Toby or Sam I will divorce you now.” Josh laughed but when he looked at his wife’s face he stopped. “Ok I’m listening what are you thinking?” 

“If it is a boy I was thinking Noah and if it’s a girl Joan.” Y/N said hesitantly. She knew how much it bothered him whenever he talked about his father or his sister. 

Josh froze for a moment just looking into his wife’s eyes.

“Josh if it upsets you…” Y/N started but Josh quickly lead in kissing her passionately. 

When they broke away Y/N saw the tears in Josh’s eyes. 

“I don’t think I say this enough but I love you. So much Y/N. You are amazing.” He said kissing her again. 

“You’re right you don’t say it enough.” She said causing him to laugh. “I love you too.” 

He wrapped his arm around her chest pulling her into him as they began to sway again to the music. 

#west wing #donna moss #josh lyman #x reader #sam seaborn #toby ziegler #abby bartlet #jed bartlet #bartlet2020 #cj cregg

[meganwritesfanfics]

Born in the U.S.A (Josh Lyman x Reader)

Part 2 of 3

Word Count:  2083

I know that my medical knowledge is not sound but its a fanfic so it doesn’t have to be logical 

The office was frantic trying to figure out a way to get Y/N to a hospital without drawing the attention of the press, the last thing they needed was for someone to see an ambulance at the White House. 

“We can’t have an ambulance show up at the White House, we will never be able to convince people of what actually happened.” Toby said as he paced back and forth. 

“I agree with Toby, can we just use the car?” Y/N said breathlessly as another contaction hit her. “Sam,” She cried and the man who was in the corner on the phone. 

“He won’t answer his phone.” 

“It probably died.” Y/N said before she let out a scream due to another contraction. 

Elsewhere on the hill Josh, unaware of the fact that his wife was in labor, was fighting. 

“Listen, we are not talking about gun reform today Josh.” The man screamed at him as Josh laughed head in hands. 

“No that is exactly what we need to talk about.” Josh exclaimed. 

Suddenly a woman burst into the room. 

“Josh Lyman you have a telephone call.” 

“Who is it?” Josh sighed as he pulled out his cellphone noticing that it was dead. “Damn-it.” 

“Sam Shepard, he says its urgent.” 

“Will you excuse me,” Josh said as he quickly made his way after the secretary who looked positively terrified of him. “Sam what do you want.” Josh snapped slightly angry for being pulled out of his meeting but that anger was quickly replaced with fear when he heard the sound of a woman screaming more specifically, Y/N. “What is it what’s wrong Sam!.” Josh screamed tears in his eyes 

“Y/N went into labor.” Sam said seriously. 

Josh almost took off running until he remembered he wasn’t on his cell phone. 

“Where is she what hospital did you take her to.” He said gripping the phone tightly. 

“Um…” Sam started. “We didn’t.” 

“What do you mean? Sam what is going on.” 

“She’s in the Oval Office we are arguing over how we need to get her to the hospital.” 

“You are what!” Josh said dropping the phone as he began to run back to his car. “Tell him I’m on my way!” He yelled back. 

“Josh, Josh!” Sam called into the phone freaking out. 

“What is it what’s wrong?” Y/N asked panicking. At this point Leo and CJ had made there way into the room, CJ was holding her hand. 

“He’s on his way.” Sam insisted as he went over to Toby. 

“We need to get her to a hospital,” Leo said as he stood by the president. “I don’t care how we can deal with that later.” 

“That’s not going to be an option.” Abby quickly said. 

“What do you mean?” 

“She’s 7 centimeters dialated, she is having this baby now.”

The whole room went silent as the reality of the situation set in. 

Within minutes the room was filled with as many doctors and nurses as they could find, Y/N was laying on the floor with Abby helping as best she could to comfort Y/N. Everyone else had been ushered into Leo’s office including the President. 

“You know the last time there was a baby born in the White House it was Grover Cleavland.” Jed said trying to ease the very clear tension in the room. 

“Where is Josh, he should have been here by now,” CJ insisted as she paced back and forth trying to ignore the screams coming from the next room. 

“He might have hit traffic or gotten lost, who knows with Josh.” Toby sighed. 

“Should I go after him, I feel like I should go look for him right, I’m going to go look for him.” Sam panicked as he started to leave but CJ grabbed him by his coat tails and pulled him back. 

“Don’t worry he will be here.” Leo said. “He wouldn’t miss this for the world, let us not forget that this has been the only thing he has been talking about for months.” 

           In the other room, they had gathered a few doctors mostly men, but Y/N really only felt comfortable with Abby. 

          “Where is he Abby, I don’t want to do this without him.” 

          “Y/N sweetie he is on his way, but for right now this baby is coming and you are going to need to push.” 

          Y/N shook her head as she felt the pressure of a contraction once more and she let out a loud scream. 

          “Damn-it!” Josh screamed as he sat in traffic. Of course Y/N had to go into labor right during rush hour. “Move!” He slammed on the horn only to get the finger from the person in front of him. He looked at his watch once more even though he had been checking it every second. “Screw it.” He said as he quickly through the car into park, pew the car into park,yanked the keys out of the ignition and bolted out of the car heading in the direction of the White House. 

        “Sam!” A voice in the Oval Office screamed causing Sam to jump. Quickly he headed in that direction. “Where is he?” Y/N cried. 

“I don’t know, he said he was on his way…” Sam started nervously when suddenly Josh burst into the office. “Oh thank god.” 

“Josh,” Y/N breathed reaching her hand out for him. 

“Hi baby.” He said as he rushed towards her. The minute he reached her she punched his arm. “Oww.” 

“Where were you?” Y/N screamed.

“I’m sorry, I got stuck in traffic.” He said grabbing her hand. “Speaking of, Sam I left my car in the middle of traffic will you please go get it.” 

“You did what!” 

“I wasn’t going to miss this for the world.” He said kissing her forehead. “That being said why in the hell is my wife giving birth in the Oval Office and not a hospital.” 

“We couldn’t have an ambulance come to the White House.” Toby said as everyone slowly crept their way into room. 

“Joshua,” Bartlet said coming over to Josh placing his hand on Josh’s shoulder. “Let us not worry about what happened let’s focus on what is happening, you are going to be a father.” 

“Jed, I need you to go back into Leo’s office ok, and Leo I need you to call that person you and I talked about.” Abby quickly said and instantly everyone knew that something was wrong. As everyone,who didn’t have a medical degree, hurriedly left the room Josh looked at Abby terrified. 

“What is it, what’s wrong?” He said as Y/N gripped his hand tightly as another contraction hit. 

“Josh I’m not an OBGYN, I can’t…” 

“Abby,” Y/N cried as she looked at her pleading. 

“I think the baby is in the wrong position.” Abby sighed. 

           “What does that mean?” Josh said worriedly. He was now behind Y/N so her back was against his chest. He was running his hands up and down her arms trying to comfort her. 

“Josh again I’m not an OBGYN, I don’t want to…” 

Y/N let out another scream as she gripped Josh’s hand harder. While Josh’s hand felt like it was being broken, it pained him more to hear Y/N in such pain. 

Suddenly a man was rushed into the room. 

“Dr. Carter, thank you so much for coming.” Abby quickly said and she quickly got up and went over to the man whispering. 

“Josh,” Y/N cried as the panic began to kick in. “I don’t think I can do this.” 

“Y/N you are the strongest woman I know, just think about the fact that we are going to meet our baby soon.” Josh said kissing the top of her head. 

“I’m going to tell C.J and Donna that you think I am the strongest woman you know.” Y/N teased. 

“I love you,” Josh said as Y/N looked up at him. She was covered in sweat and had tears streaking down her face, but he thought she looked so beautiful. 

“I love you too Lemon.” She said as she kissed him. 

“Hello, Mrs. Lyman.” The man said coming over. “I am Dr. Carter, I’m going to help you meet your baby.” 

Y/N smiled but the smile quickly faded as a contraction hit. 

“Now Abby thinks your baby is being stubborn and not wanting to come out.” 

“Josh Lyman’s baby is stubborn who would have guessed.” Y/N laughed trying to stay positive. 

“Hey it’s your baby too.” Josh said as he squeezed her arms.

“Do we know what the sex of the baby is?” 

“I do but Josh doesn’t want to know until the baby is born.” Y/N insisted.

“You can be really sweet sometimes Josh, you know that.” Abby said smiling as she brought a tray of very scary looking medical instruments to Dr. Carter.

“Alright well I’m going to take a look and see what’s going on. I’m going to need you to lie back.” 

Josh quickly moved positioning himself so that Y/N’s head was laying in his lap. 

“Now this is going to be very uncomfortable, maybe even painful.” The doctor said and Y/N nodded closing her eyes as she held onto Josh’s hands. 

“You know I told Toby that I would go into labor today just to spite him.” Y/N said trying her best to talk through the pain. 

“I’ll kill him,” Josh teased looking down at her lovingly. 

“How was your meeting?”

“You really want to talk about my meeting?” Josh laughed. 

“You know you should be grateful that I’m speaking to you nicely. My mother told me that when she had me, all she did was scream obscenities at my dad.” Y/N said gripping Josh’s hands tighter as a wave of pain hit. 

“Oh I would imagine that part is still to come my love.” Josh said kissing her forehead. 

Suddenly Dr. Carter looked up at Josh with a look that instantly made Josh nervous. Within in an instant Dr. Carter was up talking to Abby and the other doctors confirming. 

“Josh what’s wrong?” Y/N said panicking 

“Hey it’s ok just breathe.” Josh tried to calm her down even though he had now started to panic as well. 

That panic only worsened when Abby slipped out of the room into the room where everyone was waiting. 

“Josh.” Y/N said. 

“Mr. and Mrs. Lyman, I’m afraid this birth may be more complicated that we first anticipated.” Dr. Carter said seriously. 

“Will someone please tell us what in the hell is going on.” Josh snapped angry at all the secrecy. 

“The baby is in the wrong position and it’s shoulder is stuck at Y/N’s pelvic bone.” 

Y/N let out a noise that Josh wouldn’t even describe as human. He couldn’t tell if she was screaming because of the pain of another contraction or at what the doctor had just said. 

“Ok what does that mean,” Josh said.

“Mr. Lyman, may I talk to you alone for a minute.” 

“No, anything you have to say you can..” 

“Josh go talk to the doctor,” a voice said and suddenly Abby came back into the room followed by C.J and Sam and Toby. 

C.J quickly came over grabbing Y/N’s hand again. 

Sam and Toby quickly helped Josh to his feet then they walked with him over to the doctor. 

“In order to safely get your baby would be a c-section.” 

“Ok then let’s do that.” 

“We don’t believe that we can safely get Y/N to the hospital because the baby is in a space where any movement could be dangerous.” 

“Well what is the other options.” 

The doctor sighed. “The procedure would be me trying to manipulate the baby back into the right place. It will be extremely painful for Y/N and there is a high risk.” 

“I don’t get what you are trying to tell me, both those ideas sound bad, what are the other options.” 

The doctor was silent. 

“There are no other options Josh.” Toby said. 

“You need to prepare for the fact that we may lose the baby, and in a worse case scenario we may lose Y/N.” 

Josh didn’t have any words, for the first time in his life Josh couldn’t find the words to express how he was feeling.

#west wing #josh lyman #x reader #donna moss #sam seaborn #cj cregg #toby ziegler #abby bartlet #president bartlet #leo mcgarry #jed bartlet #bartlet2020 #imagine

[comepraisetheinfanta]

By having Joshua (the Most Lemon of) Lyman(s) quote King Arthur in Camelot Aaron Sorkin basically made Josh watching a 3 hour long musical film/theater production canon and I find that tremendously amusing