Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"Oh, wow!" managed Paula as the rest of the group sat silently, recalling the events of the day, and how Gwen looked as she held the baby.

"At least she's not a virgin, so she won't have to worry about that embarrassing comparison," opined Kate between bites of chicken. "I'm just glad I wasn't the one holding the baby. I'd be known as 'the virgin' the rest of my life!"

After the laughter subsided, Amber continued. "They're showing the cover of Maxim alongside the photo the woman from Nebraska took of Gwen today. There've been all sorts of phrases bandied about on the internet. Things like 'The Lady Madonna in Red', 'Special Delivery', 'Red Handed' and 'Red Dawn'.

Before Amber had finished speaking, Charlotte had her phone in her hand. "Hey, there's wifi here! We can use Google and find that picture! Wow! Look at this!"

Charlotte handed her phone to Billy, who studied it for a few seconds and handed then it to the next person. "How about this picture of the guys all standing together after they rescued those people? Their muscles all big and bulgy looking!" exclaimed Lisa as she held her phone up. "These American guys look like real studs; even you, Dad!"

The group retired early that evening, worn out from the events of the day. Gwen was feeling melancholy and asked Steve to hold her tight until she fell asleep. Her joy of delivering a healthy baby had been reduced by the deaths of the innocent victims. Steve held her to his chest and stroked her hair long after she had fallen asleep. He knew his time with Gwen was drawing to a close. He stayed awake well into the night, just concentrating on her smell and feel. He would want those memories when they were separated by three thousand miles.

The next day saw Gwen, Jordan, Steve, Charlie, and the band get everything set up at the stadium, and then practice for a few hours. The venue was bigger than anything they had previously played. The sound system was brand new and seemed to work very well. By Friday afternoon, they were confident that they were as prepared as they were ever going to be for the biggest live show of their careers.

People had been streaming into Sochi all week. By the time the first band took the stage that afternoon, the stadium was packed. Over forty thousand people shouted their approval when the music began. Steve felt the first band, which was pretty well known in Russia, did a credible job. The second band took the stage an hour later. They appeared rattled by the size and volume of the crowd and played haltingly. The audience became restless and began chanting insults. The band ended its stint after just forty minutes on stage.

Next up was a well known female Russian singer. She hit every note perfectly. The small orchestra that accompanied her played flawlessly. Even so, the crowd seemed pleased when she finished her set. Steve's group was given ten minutes to set up for their performance. They were the last act. That fact was not lost on any of the performers. It indicated that they were the main attraction, even in a place half way around the world from their homes.

When they were ready, a small spotlight lit a ten foot circle on the stage. Steve and Gwen stepped into the light and the crowd went wild. They had to take bows and gesture for the audience to quiet down before they were able to start. When the cheers finally reached an acceptable level, the band began playing as Steve led Gwen to the center of the small lit area.

On cue, Steve and Gwen began dancing and then Steve began singing 'Lady in Red', but in Russian. When the audience realized that he was singing in their native language, they screamed and shouted their approval. Steve stopped singing and simply danced with Gwen until the din abated. The band easily picked up where he had left off and Steve gave a performance the crowd would long remember. The large screens placed strategically around the arena showed Gwen's dazzling smile and classic beauty as she responded to Steve's singing and dancing.

When the dance ended, the crowd once again cheered its approval while the stage again went dark. It only required a couple minutes for Gwen and Steve to find their positions and for Steve to strap on his guitar. As the audience quieted down, the band began their signature opening number with Queen's 'We Will Rock You'. The lights came on as Gwen stepped to the microphone and began singing. They had the capacity crowd eating out of their hands the rest of the night.

The highlights were songs they performed in Russian. Steve and Jordan stunned those attending with a very well done, sexy Russian version of their first hit song together. Later, Steve and Gwen teamed up to perform their current hit, 'The Glory of Love', again sung in the Russian language. Gwen and Jordan had the crowd rocking in the aisles with their Russian version of 'Dancing Queen'.

At the end of their first hour, the audience refused to let them stop. Steve checked with the head official of the event and was given a huge smile and the go-ahead to play another set. Gwen started it with 'I Need a Hero' followed by Jordan doing her two biggest hits to the delight of the crowd. The three singers then joined forces on 'Lyin' Eyes'. After Gwen did her version of 'Addicted to Love' Steve performed two Elvis songs. He sang 'I Can't Help Falling in Love With You' in English. The large screen focused on his face as he sang. Sighs were heard from every woman in attendance. For his Russian fans, Steve sang 'Love Me Tender' in their native language. The applause for his effort has loud and long.

"I haven't been to a concert in thirty years, but these kids amaze me. I heard Sinatra and Elvis live and they weren't in the same league as these three," offered a biased Beatrice to Paula between sets. "I've never seen a crowd respond like this one is. I'm so glad that your daughter persuaded Steve to invite me, and to forgive me."

"Forgiving you was Steve's decision. He's the one you should be thanking," asserted Paula.

"Paula, you're not very convincing. We both know that Gwen exerts a lot of influence on Steve in certain areas. He listens quite closely to her on matters of family and relationships. She pays close attention to him on other issues. They feed off the strengths of each other. Together, they are extremely capable and confident. I'm very favorably impressed with your daughter."

After three solid hours on stage, Gwen finally put the evening to rest with 'My Heart Will Go On'. As she finished, the lights onstage dimmed and remained dark. Over forty thousand fans left the stadium delighted with the performance.

"I feel like I'm seeing history this week," stated Ashley when the group gathered in a private dining room at their hotel after the performance. "It was exciting watching you guys entertain at that lounge for a couple nights. It was great meeting and traveling with Vlad and Anna. Seeing how quickly and decisively you responded to that terrorist bombing at that school was something I'll never forget. But years from now, I'll be telling my kids and grandkids about how I was there when Steve Hammer, Gwen Anderson, and Jordan Quick conquered Russia in one incredible night."

"I think you may be right," agreed the usually quiet Jason. "It'll take time, maybe years, to accurately gauge the effect this trip to Russia will have on relations between the US and Russia. I'm pretty sure that at this moment, the Russians have a warm and fuzzy feeling for Americans, at least certain Americans."

The next morning saw the entourage board a bus for the trip back to the airport. They took a different route to avoid the area where the school had been bombed by terrorists. There was a large crowd at the airport when they arrived. It was made up mostly of young people and it was clear they were there to see Jordan, Gwen, and Steve. Against the wishes of the people running security, the threesome went over to the edge of the crowd and shook hands and posed for pictures about ten minutes.

Finally, and much to the relief of the people in charge of security, Gwen, Jordan, and Steve returned to the secured area and waited for their flight. Vlad and Anna were once again flying with them. On the return trip, Gwen sat next to Vlad and Steve chatted with Anna. Gwen wondered why Steve had suggested it to her as they were preparing for bed the previous evening. As she listened to Vlad discuss his country's concerns and dreams, she realized that Steve wanted her to understand Russian people and politics better. Her appreciation for Russia increased greatly that afternoon, as did her appreciation for her surprisingly deep and observant boyfriend.

Upon their return to their Moscow hotel, Steve declined the offer to perform in the lounge for an upgrade. The disappointed hotel management gave them the upgrade anyway. He explained that he had seen the news reports of how they had assisted his countrymen after the terrorist attack. The events of the previous week had taxed the travelers. They welcomed the opportunity to rest before the state dinner Sunday evening.

Once again, Steve surprised Gwen. This time by inviting Michelle D'Anjou to join them for quiet dinner in a private room reserved for the three of them. Gwen paid close attention to Steve as he directed the conversation toward President D'Anjou's impasse with Russia. Without seeming to pry, Steve skillfully extracted everything Michelle knew about the situation with the Russian spy and the looming trade discussions.

Sunday morning the entire group met for a big breakfast in the hotel dining room. The conversation centered on the state dinner to be held in the Kremlin that evening. Steve noticed Nadiya enter the dining room and quickly invited her to join them for breakfast. He dragged a chair from an empty table and placed it between his seat and Gwen's.

Paula, Lisa, Charlotte, and Beatrice all noticed where Steve positioned his beautiful guest and exchanged glances with each other. Placing her between him and Gwen could be construed as significant by the beautiful blonde girl.

"It is such an honor to sit between the two famous American heroes," began Nadiya as she took her seat. "I saw that incredible picture of you two with the newborn baby and the little girl in Steve's arms. It looked almost biblical. I was also in the stands for your concert in Sochi. It was far and away the best performance I have ever seen. For a little girl from the Ukraine, your friendship and attention is very overwhelming."

"Somehow, I don't think you're nearly as naïve and innocent as you would have us believe," laughed Gwen. "You are a beautiful woman, fluent in several languages, and very much a part of the political scene in the Ukraine. I Googled you and found out quite a bit, like you have a degree in government from Kiev University."

"It is flattering that a famous person like you would try to learn more about a humble girl from the Ukraine," responded Nadiya, before breaking into a big grin. "In politics, it is often to my advantage to appear unaware and uninterested in affairs of state. I hear much more when people believe I am not paying attention and do not care. Even in the Ukraine, we have blonde jokes."

"Tell us more about your country's position on these trade talks," suggested Steve. "Do you expect to increase trade with the West?"

"That was our hope when we came here, but it does not look like that will happen. Russia is very upset with France. In its anger, it is insisting that we remain a close partner of Russia, with very little interaction with the West. Father is very disappointed. The plan was to meet all next week with trade groups from the US, Canada, and Western Europe to agree on easing restrictions of goods and services flowing both ways.

"Our government is under heavy pressure from Russia to resist trade with the West, while the people of my country are pressuring it to be more receptive to trade with the West. Father thinks it may bring our current government down if it is not resolved soon."

Steve was listening closely as the beautiful girl spoke knowledgeably about her concerns for her country's economic and political future. The Eastern European Bloc wanted more trade with the West. Russia was the stumbling block and France was exacerbating the situation by holding the Russian Olympic hero. Both sides had drawn lines in the sand and would not budge.

William Patterson and Ted Anderson were mildly surprised at Steve's interest in the trade position of the Ukraine. They listened with great interest as Steve questioned Nadiya. It was quite apparent that Steve was not just making idle conversation.

After breakfast, Steve and Gwen were headed back to their room for a little extra recreation when they were hailed by Senator Chatham. She motioned for them to follow her into a side room.

"You kids pulled off the job we gave you!" praised the Senator as she motioned for Steve and Gwen to sit. "You made Novokov look good. His new stadium was filled to capacity and a few thousand watched the big screen from the parking lot. The President was very relieved that it worked out so well.

"Then there's that response you kids had to the bombing on the outskirts of Sochi. That photo of you two with the newborn baby and the little girl in your arms was absolutely the best thing that could have come out of that terrible event. The news media in Russia is not often very kind to Americans, but they can't get enough of you two! They've played the videos and shown the still shots all week long.

"Your concert was broadcast over the entire country and people loved it. Singing in Russian was a stroke of genius. No one ever dreamed that you two would do so much to improve relations with Russia when you were invited. To be honest, when you insisted on bringing so many family and friends, the deal almost fell through. The president's advisers wanted him to drop you, but he refused. That's why he's president. He was a certain feel for things. He sure got it right with you kids!

"The trade talks will stall because of France and Russia being at odds, but your work here will make it a positive event, all things considered," allowed the talkative legislator.

"Senator, this event is pretty important to a lot of countries, especially the smaller Eastern Bloc nations. It would be wrong to not try to find some sort of compromise," worried Steve.

"Tell me about it. If you think of something, let me know. There's going to be some tension tonight since the presidents of France, Russia, and the U.S. will all be there. This is unusual. You seldom have three heads of state at a dinner like this at the same time. France accepted before all of this trouble started, but it would have been even worse if President D'Anjou decided to cancel at the last minute. It may be a bit frosty tonight."

Gwen and the rest of the women had reservations for early afternoon in the hotel spa. They enjoyed every service the hotel provided. By the time the ladies rejoined the men in the lounge a little after 4 PM, they looked fantastic

The men were speechless. In fact, when the women entered the lounge, all conversation stopped as every head turned to admire the beauty of the American women.

"Paula! My God, you're beautiful!" blurted Ted without hesitation or thought. "All of you are incredible!"

All of the men in the group echoed Ted's sentiments. Charlie moved close to Jordan to give her a kiss. She quickly stopped him with her hand pressing against his chest.

"No you don't, Buddy! We just spent hours getting all dolled up. You guys can't so much as touch us until after the dinner tonight. Right girls?"

"Well, to be honest," quipped Kate, "if Steve really likes what he sees, loses control, and carries me off to his room, I'd consider all the time and effort to look like this well spent. We could catch up with everyone later."

"Believe me, I like what I see, but your Dad's here, so I don't dare lose control," laughed Steve. "I'll just have to admire you from afar."

"I knew you'd have some excuse. Dad's too busy drooling over Mom to even notice anyone whisking me away. I think Gwen's got you under her thumb. You're afraid of her," taunted Kate.

"You sure have that right, Kate, but he's under a lot more than just her thumb," added Lisa. "I can still see her on that lounge chair by our pool. She had Steve under all her bits and pieces. Except for certain important parts, he turns to jelly when Gwen's near him."

"That's a story I'd like to hear," stated Steve's grandmother to the surprise of everyone. "How has Gwen gained control over such a brave, strong young man? What would possibly account for my grandson being so meek around this young woman?"

"If you'd seen the two of them naked on that poor lounge chair, you'd know how they have so much control of each other," laughed Kate. "Gwen was actually stuck to the guy when Mom literally pried them apart. Gwen's 'bits and pieces' were reluctant to separate from Steve's masculine chest and rock hard abs."

"You're mistaken, Kate. It wasn't his abdomen that was rock hard," replied Lisa quickly.

"Okay! I don't see any need to tell the world about what was supposed to be a private moment between my boyfriend and me," complained Gwen, with a hint of a smile.

"And I told you that anything happening on our pool deck in broad daylight was not private," interjected a smiling Paula. "Don't blame your sisters for being unable to forget that scene. They've been scarred for life. It's taken me some time to come to terms with my memories of that morning. Sleeping together on a lounge chair in the night air seemed to make Steve all stiff and sore."

Once the laughter at Paula's pronouncement died out, Kate asked a question. "So it was the uncomfortable chair and the night air that made him stiff? I was giving Gwen all the credit!"

Steve was a bright red by this time. Gwen was laughing with everyone else. When she saw that Steve was embarrassed by the conversation, she leaned into him and gave him a quick kiss.

"I'd gladly take all this teasing for another night by the pool with you. These ladies are just jealous. Don't let them bother you," stated Gwen loud enough for everyone to hear.

"I've never seen sisters so close and enjoy each other the way your daughters do, Paula. I might add that they really love and admire you and Ted as well. I'm so pleased that Steve found such a wonderful family to share his life with," admitted Beatrice with emotion. "I wish I had the wisdom to have that sort of relationship with my daughters."

The big night finally arrived. The American entourage arrived precisely at 6 PM and was admitted immediately. They were ushered into a large ornate room with dozens of different hors d'oeuvres. Gwen and Steve recognized Nadiya chatting with her countrymen. Before they could speak to her, a woman behind them called their names. Gwen and Steve turned to see Varvara Suchkov smiling at them.

"Varvara! It's great to see you!" exclaimed Steve to the Russian woman. "How's your mother doing? I hope she's recovered from that horrible incident in Washington."

"You can ask her," revealed Varavara as she hugged Gwen and then Steve. "She's running just a little late, but she'll be here tonight and she's very anxious to express her gratitude to you for saving her from that man. Could I be so bold as to ask you to save a dance for me?"

"It would be my pleasure," replied Steve warmly. "I have a few questions I'd like to ask you about this trade conference. Would you mind if we spoke about business and politics?"

"Not at all," responded the red headed beauty. "As long as everyone sees me dancing with the American hero, you can ask me anything you like. You both are very well known and liked in Russia. Saving my mother was a good start, but your actions after that bomb exploded cemented it. Many Russians like the photo of your family and friends praying for the victims of the attack even better than the one of the 'Madonna'. Your sincere sense of grief was greatly appreciated by my countrymen. The fact that you two sang and danced so well was icing on the cake."

Steve and Gwen mingled with other guests for half an hour before the presidents of France, United States, and Russia were introduced. Steve and Gwen were extremely flattered when Vlad made a point of introducing them to his father at his first opportunity.

"My son was extremely impressed with your courage and genuine concern for the injured at the scene of that terrorist bombing. You seem to have a sixth sense for situations like that. You are becoming known as something an anti-terrorist expert, and this troubled world can use as many of them as we can get. Ms. Anderson, the photo of you with the newborn baby is remarkable," praised the Russian leader as he shook hands with the couple.

"Thank you, sir, for your kind words and for inviting us to this affair," responded Steve in perfect Russian. "Gwen and I are honored. You can be very proud of Vlad and Anna. They responded very well to the emergency that afternoon."

Gwen was unable to determine what Steve had said to the Russian president, but she had no trouble identifying the pride displayed by their host at Steve's comment. As Novokov moved away to greet other guests, Gwen was quickly filled in by Steve.

Just as Steve finished his explanation, President D'Anjou and his wife approached them. "You've managed to win over Russia in a week's time. I could be here a hundred years and they would still have little use for me."

"Sir, I would like to ask you a few questions about the Russian spy situation, if I could. Can you find a few minutes for me this evening?" asked Steve.

"For you, I can, but do not expect me to release that spy. That is not negotiable," flatly stated the French President before he led his wife away to greet other attendees.

"It sounds like the trade talks are in trouble," reasoned Gwen. "D'Anjou is unyielding on this situation."

"The one thing about politics is this; there are no certainties," countered Steve as he guided Gwen toward the American delegation. "At least he didn't shout and pound his shoe on a table, so we shouldn't take his statement as a definite 'no'. He just needs 'persuasion' in the form of something his nation needs, or wants."

The couple had been chatting with several American representatives to the conference when Gwen noticed that the people near her had become quiet and somewhat rigid. Glancing around, she looked directly into the face of President Hanson. The president offered his hand, but Gwen stepped by it and hugged him. Grinning, the President of the United States patted her gently on her back.

"Steve, don't blame me," laughed President Hanson as Gwen released him. "I was going to shake her hand, but this was much better. You two have done all we could've hoped for, and a lot more on this trip. I can't tell you how much you've helped us with the Russians. I almost think we could trade you two for Siberia."

"Sir, Gwen's far better than I at making friends and influencing people. That hug just demonstrated that. I'll be happy with a simple handshake," joked Steve as he shook the President's hand. "Any success we've had on this trip is because of her brains and charm. I just tag along and try to not create any problems."

President Hanson studied Steve for a moment before he grinned again. "You don't mind if I use that line, do you? Gwen is certainly everything you say she is, but your attempt to diminish your own accomplishments is a waste of effort. My people have kept me well informed. That modesty works well for you, however."

Beatrice and William Patterson had been chatting with Paula and Ted when President Novokov greeted Steve and Gwen. As they watched, the Russian leader left them to speak to other guests. Soon the French President began chatting with Gwen and Steve. A short time later, Beatrice almost swooned when Gwen stepped up to the President of The United States and hugged him!

"My God! Is that girl confident, or what? She just hugged the President like they're old friends. Look how easily Steve smiles and speaks with him! I never thought I'd live to see this. My grandson has just spoken with the Presidents of France, Russia, and the US. And they all treated him like a friend."

"We've almost become accustomed to it," laughed Paula as she beamed with pride. "They've met President Hanson several times and he's called a couple of other times. He treats Gwen and Steve very well. I will say that."

Soon everyone was summoned to the ballroom, where dinner was to be served. Remembering how far they sat from the head table the first time they attended a state dinner, the group drifted to the far end of the room in search of a table reserved for them. They had scanned several tables without finding theirs when a well dressed man approached Steve and spoke to him in Russian. Steve nodded and the man quickly walked away.

"It seems that we're looking in the wrong area," revealed Steve as he gently took Gwen's arm. "May I escort you to our table, Madam?"

The entire group was dumfounded when Steve led them to one of several tables directly in front of the main table. They looked for, and found, their name tags placed next to the dinner ware.

"Holy Cow!" gasped Kate. "Last time we sat by the bathroom. Now we're at the best table in the place. I bet Gwen and Steve will be sitting at the main table with the President the next time we come to one of these!"

The group remained standing until all of the dignitaries sitting at the head table were introduced. Both Presidents D'Anjou and Hanson gave short speeches. President Novokov welcomed everyone and then singled out the table of Americans for special notice. He spoke glowingly about the bravery and compassion demonstrated at the site of the bombing. He praised their response and even mentioned how emotional it was to watch the group kneel and pray for those killed in the attack. He then asked Gwen, Jordan, and Steve to stand and be recognized for the great performance they presented at the opening of the Olympic Stadium.

Once again, the Patterson and the Anderson families absolutely beamed with pride. The three kids received a long ovation and bowed several times before resuming their seats. Jordan had a huge smile as she sat back down between Steve and Charlie.

"A few months ago, I was in rehab for all sorts of addictions. My career was circling the drain. Then Clyde put me with Gwen and Steve. The rest is history!" stated Jordan with obvious pride.

After everyone finished dinner, a small orchestra began playing dance music. Beatrice and Paula looked at each other in surprise as Steve leaned over the table and spoke to Gwen loud enough for the rest to hear.

"Remember to tell the big three just enough to whet their appetites when you're dancing with them. I have to have their undivided attention for a few minutes. Believe me, they all understand English well enough to know what you're telling them. Since it's unlikely that they'll be asking me to dance, this falls on you. I can't imagine any of them not asking for at least one turn around the floor with you tonight. You're incredibly beautiful!"

It was apparent to those at the table that Steve and Gwen had formulated a plan of some kind and Gwen was going to make the initial contact with the world leaders. Before anyone could ask any questions, Steve stood, took Gwen's hand and led her out to the dance floor.

"Do you have any idea what your daughter and my grandson are up to?" asked a confused Beatrice. "It sounds like they have business with President D'Anjou, President Novokov, and President Hanson. Gwen is going to ask them to speak with Steve about something, if and when they dance with her."

"I have no idea what they've got planned, but I'm sure it'll be successful," opined Ted proudly as he responded to Beatrice's observation. "Those two constantly do things others wouldn't even think of. Let's just watch and see what develops."

Steve danced with Gwen. The next dance saw him dancing with Nadiya while Gwen danced with her father. "You have made many friends in Russia with your bravery and your compassion, as well as you're singing. Father says that he has never seen Russia embrace Westerners the way they have you. He just wishes that this conference would result in more trade with the West. Russia has exerted its influence to prevent the smaller countries from making new agreements, and it's mostly because they are angry at the French. It's so unfair!"

"Nadiya, don't get your hopes up, but Gwen and I are going to try to help France and Russia find a solution to that issue. If that happens, this trade conference could be very successful."

Nadiya suddenly stopped moving. Her jaw dropped as she stared at Steve. She replayed his comment over in her head several times. A huge smile returned to her face as she once again began dancing with Steve.

"I think that if the big, brave American hero and his beautiful, smart 'Lady in Red' try to solve this problem, it will be resolved. No one else in the world has the ear of these three leaders the way you and Gwen do tonight. If you manage to pull this off, I will see that the Ukraine is aware of your efforts and shows you the proper appreciation!"

The dance ended and Steve found himself guiding Mrs. D'Anjou around the dance floor while Gwen danced with her husband. Steve wasted no time in starting his plan in motion.

"This impasse with Russia is harming trade relations, as well as diplomatic efforts. I want to speak to your husband about releasing the Russian spy. It return, France could receive a guaranteed supply of energy at a set price, well below market. Do you think he would listen?"

"Young man, my husband has been striving to find a pathway out of this situation. If you can offer him something that our people will benefit from, he just might be able to release the spy, yet maintain our national pride. If you can back up your statements, he will listen. I will put a small bug in his ear about this. He will be looking to speak with you privately, I am certain."

Two dances later, Steve escorted Michelle D'Anjou onto the dance floor. "My father has asked me to relay to you a message. He will be over admiring that huge, ugly painting on the west wall when this dance is over and would like you to join him. It seems that you and Gwen have piqued his interest on some important matter. You are even more than you appear to be, which is saying a lot. If you help my father, and my country, you will always be welcome in our home. Good luck!"

A short time later, Steve found himself speaking in low tones to President D'Anjou as the two pretended to admire a large painting of wolves pulling down a huge stag. No one else was within hearing.

As they exchanged thoughts, they became slightly more animated. Both men used their hands to emphasize certain points. As the conversation continued, more and more people became aware of the private meeting between the two men. By the time the two nodded and shook hands, almost every head in the huge room was turned in their direction.

Nadiya had taken Steve's seat at the American table while the conversation between the two men was in progress. "Your handsome male 'friend' is right now performing a miracle. It is obvious why you all love him so much, especially the ladies. I think he can do anything, and I have only met him a few times. I fear I am as hopeless where he is concerned as the rest of you. You must be very proud."

"You've got that right!" exclaimed Kate, deciding instantly to state Gwen's claim on Steve. "He and Gwen are going to do some amazing spy stuff and probably save a few million people, or more. I'm not exactly sure how, or what they're doing, but I sure love the guy. I couldn't be prouder that he's my sister's boyfriend, actually my sister's lover. This is way too cool!"

"It appears that Gwen has some more competition," stated Beatrice with a smile after Nadiya returned to her table. "That young Ukrainian girl is as beautiful a woman as you're likely to find. Does Gwen ever suffer from envy? Women appear to be drawn to my grandson, as is evident everywhere we go."

"Strangely enough, Gwen is actually pleased that women find Steve so attractive. She's very secure with him now. She's had her moments early on, but they've reached an understanding. They trust each other completely. I guess it was forged when they saved each other's lives a few times. That's the sort of thing that builds trust," replied Paula thoughtfully.

Steve danced with Kate and Lisa next. They had practically jumped him when he returned to their table. Both girls insisted that he explain what was going on. Steve gave them some background but explained that 'lose lips sink ships', so he couldn't go into details.

Meanwhile, Gwen was grilled by Ted and then William Patterson as she danced with each man. "All I can tell you is that Steve feels that he can help offer a very simple solution to a very complex issue. I'm trying to warm up the big three so they will allow Steve to deliver his pitch. We have no idea how this will play out."

Steve escorted Varvara Suchkov for the next dance. "You said that you had questions for me? Everyone saw you in conference with President D'Anjou. It appeared that you had a very serious discussion. How does it involve me, if I may be blunt?"

"I believe that France can be persuaded to release your full time hero and part time spy, if President Novokov is willing to negotiate a little. It would pave the way for a successful Olympics."

"I will mention this to my father, who has Novokov's confidence. I know he wants very much to free our most famous Olympic hero, who is not a spy! He may have been a bit too inquisitive, but he is not a spy.

"Will you hold me a bit closer? I have some friends watching us? You have become favorites in Russia. Your efforts to help Mother were well publicized here. The wonderful concert you gave, along with your group's quick and compassionate response to that horrible bombing, have all gone a long way to making you a household topic of conversation, in a very favorable way. My friends will be so envious seeing us dance together."

Paula was next to dance with Steve. She kept the conversation light, not wanting to disturb Steve's concentration on his task. Gwen danced with her father. As they finished, President Novokov bowed to Gwen. Soon she was dancing with the leader of Russia while Steve found Mrs. Novokov in arms.

"My husband is very curious about your thoughts on freeing our innocent Olympic champion from the clutches of the French. He would like to speak with you at his table after this dance, if he remembers that he asked. Your lady friend is very beautiful and he does appreciate beauty."

Steve didn't have the time to ask Mrs. Novokov what she meant by her comment. The dance ended and Steve quickly moved to meet President Novokov at his table. He saw the Russian leader escort Gwen to a seat. As Steve approached, Novokov gestured to a seat next to Gwen.

"What is this talk about finding a way to persuade the French to release Sergei? If you know of a way, please share it with me," insisted Novokov in Russian. "What will it cost Russia?"

Once again, those in attendance watched closely as Steve had an animated discussion with a world leader. The two men spoke around Gwen, who had no idea what was being said, but could easily tell that Steve was very firm and self assured. Suddenly the two men stood, stopped talking, and shook hands. Gwen felt relief immediately. The conversation had been quite intense for a couple of minutes.

Steve guided Gwen to her feet. President Novokov bowed to her and smiled. "Thank you for the dance, as well as the work to free Sergei," stated the Russian in broken English.

Most of the guests in attendance were openly staring at Gwen and Steve as they returned to their table. As soon as they were seated, Senator Chatham plopped down without ceremony in a seat next to Steve.

"The president is extremely curious to know what you're up to. Are you making deals without his knowledge or permission? This is not a game. If you've managed to screw up our improving relations with Russia, he'll come down on you like a ton of bricks," promised the senior senator. "I'm the one that suggested that you keep your eyes and ears open for information. Now it looks like I'll be lucky to find a spot on some agricultural committee after this mess."

'Senator, you've got to stop talking so much, and so loudly. Take a deep breath and relax. I'm aware of what's at stake here," responded Steve quietly and calmly. "You're being watched by a lot of people from a lot of nations. We don't want them to get the wrong idea. When President Hanson's efforts to resolve the French/Russian disagreement come to fruition, he'll want to accept credit. If people see you flying off the handle, they'll be far less likely to believe he was instrumental in the solution. It would be good if you smiled at Gwen and me, shook our hands, and left to ask President Hanson to speak with Gwen and me for a few minutes."

Senator Chatham had stopped talking when Steve urged her to do so. She just stared at him as he explained what he expected from her. William Patterson, Beatrice, Ted, Paula, and Jason were stunned at the way Steve addressed the powerful senator. They knew enough about national politics to know that the senator was a close confidant of the president's. The held their collective breath as they waited for the inevitable explosion from Senator Chatham.

Slowly, she began to nod her head. She extended her hand to Steve, who shook it firmly. Then she did the same with Gwen. "If you two will excuse me, I have to speak with President Hanson."

"Jesus, Steve! Senator Chatham is one of the most powerful members of congress!" exclaimed the usually reserved Jason as he worked to keep his voice low. "She can sink your career at the Academy in a heartbeat. Where'd you get the balls to talk to her like that?"

"That was pretty harsh," agreed Gwen, "but she should have kept her voice down and been a lot less demonstrative. She knew people were watching and she was distancing herself from us, so if this deal goes into the crapper, she won't go down with us."

"Yeah, I had the same feeling," agreed Steve. "She was assuming far too much. I think she's seen the light. She'll be our best friend by the end of the evening. That's the way politics work, and that's why I'll never be a politician. Total honesty and transparency are unheard of in Washington. We'll see how this all shakes out before I worry about my career, although I do appreciate your concern, Jason."

An aide of the president approached Steve's table and spoke quietly in Steve's ear. Steve listened carefully and then responded, "I think it'd be best if President Hanson met Gwen and me over by that ugly painting of the wolves and the stag. The other presidents didn't conceal our discussions and I don't think it'd help their trust issues if we meet in private."

Everyone at the table watched the aide walk away. Suddenly William Patterson broke into a smile. "You just told that man to tell the President of the U.S. to meet you under your terms, while rejecting his. My God, how I could use you at board meetings! Either we'll be escorted out of here in chains, or you'll be talking with the President of the United States under that big painting. Anyone care to place any wagers?"

"Come on, Gwen, we may have to go meet with the President," urged Steve as he stood and then helped Gwen gain her feet. "Let's wander over and study Russian art."

As Steve and Gwen made their way to the far end of the room, Gwen noticed the intense interest their actions drew. "Everyone's watching us. Do you think they know what you're trying to accomplish? This is very exciting. How do you dare speak to these powerful men like you do?"​