Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"My Dear, you were truly a sight, and one that my husband is not going to soon forget. All of the other men present were rather upset when James offered you his overcoat. You were an absolute vision," praised the older woman.

Gwen chatted briefly with Justice Hamilton and his wife before they excused themselves to speak with a Senator. Gwen turned back to President and Mrs. Hanson.

"Could you both come with me?" asked Gwen. She then took the president and first lady by their hands and led them toward the contingent from Sparta. She stopped by the group from her high school first.

"Mr. President and Mrs. Hanson, these are students from our high school in Sparta," indicated Gwen as she began introducing President and Mrs. Hanson to the kids. Steve was amazed that Gwen was able to remember all of the names after hearing them just a few minutes earlier.

It was quite evident that the students were awe struck by meeting President Hanson. They flashed big grins even while they shook Hanson's hand nervously. Once all of the students had met the president, Gwen took him and his wife over to meet the folks from her home town.

William Patterson was practically stuttering as he whispered to Ted and Paula. "Gwen's leading President Hanson and his wife around like school kids! She's in total control of the situation without seeming rude or pushy. Look how pleased the Hansons are to meet her constituents. Now look at the other politicians watching her. They're stunned. They wish they'd been able to introduce the president to their voters. Your daughter is polite but confident, and people respond to her. There are no limits for that girl!"

The Sparta contingent beamed with pride as their freshman representative introduced them to President Hanson. It simply solidified their already very positive feelings for Gwen. Then Gwen led the first couple over to her group of personal friends to introduce them.

"Gwen, people are often judged by the friends they keep," observed President Hanson as he looked over Gwen's personal entourage after being introduced. "You have the most impressive group of friends I've ever encountered. These young men are accomplished and very capable, while these ladies are beautiful and extremely intelligent. You certainly attract good people, starting with your Lieutenant Hammer. You already have Washington eating out of your hand, and this is only your first day in office!"

Gwen was beaming with pride at the president's words when she noticed Ashley hurry toward the entrance of the large room. Looking ahead to Ashley's apparent destination, Gwen saw the same poorly dressed man that had assisted her from the frigid river earlier in the day. It appeared that the man had a small child with him and that hotel security was barring his entrance. Gwen quickly excused herself and headed after Ashley.

"You need to allow this man inside right now!" demanded Ashley as she hurried to confront the two security men. "He and this child are most certainly welcome! Step aside and let them enter."

"Ma'am, the President is here. There's no way we're letting homeless people into the same room. You handle the politics and we'll take care of the panhandlers," assured the bigger of the two men as he took Ashley's arm and tried to lead her away from the confrontation.

"Remove your hand from Ashley, immediately!" demanded Gwen as she took in the scene in a glance. "You're on very thin ice, and if you persist, you'll find yourself looking for a new job."

"I'm just following instructions," insisted the man as his hand remained on Ashley's arm. "She was interfering with the security of President Hanson, as well as your own safety, Ms. Anderson. That man and the kid can't be allowed into an event like this. It wouldn't be long and we'd have all sorts of trash trying to get in. You ladies need to go back to socializing and let us decide who's allowed in and who isn't."

Before Gwen was able to reply, Steve pressed up very close to the man and spoke in a very low, forceful manner. The big security man turned a sickly pale as he released Ashley's arm and hastily left the room.

Gwen simply looked into Steve's poker face briefly before smiling at him. "You sure have a way with words. I've noticed that whenever you talk all low and raspy-like, men seem to decide to leave the area in a hurry. Come on with me to welcome this man!"

As soon as Ashley had been released by the burly security man, she rushed to catch the man with the child before he was lost from sight as he headed back toward the exit.

"Sir! Please come in! I apologize for that unfortunate reception. It didn't reflect Gwen Anderson's methods, or attitude," managed Ashley as she took the man's hand and then reached down with her other hand to the child. The little girl looked at her hand, then at her father's hand being grasped by Ashley, and placed her hand inside Ashley's.

Gwen and Steve came upon them as Ashley led them into the ballroom. "Thanks, Ashley. Steve, this man was a tremendous help this afternoon. I had pulled Hardy to shore and a policeman took him from me, but my feet were numb. I couldn't feel the ground under my feet. This gentleman was up to his chest in water when he took my arm and escorted me back to shore. Once the water was ankle deep, all sorts of chivalrous guys rushed out to help me."

"Sir, anyone that helps Gwen does me a favor," stated Steve as he put his hand out and shook with the other man. "I don't forget them. I'm Steve Hammer. I haven't heard your name."

"It's Richard Drake," responded the shabbily dressed man as he shook hands and grinned at Steve. "You don't have to tell me who you are. Everyone knows you and Ms. Anderson, as well as your friends."

"Who is this lovely little girl?" asked Gwen as she squatted down to the same level as the young girl.

"I'm Ingrid. Mom died last year," responded the small, thin blonde girl as she looked from Gwen to Ashley. "She was pretty, like you and this lady. Daddy said we could come here and see some famous people and get something to eat."

"Ingrid!" sputtered her embarrassed father. "You don't tell people things like that!"

"Well, Sweetheart, you sure came to the right place!" insisted Ashley as she scooped the girl up. "We'll go over to the buffet and get something to eat. Do you like chicken, steak, potatoes, any vegetables?"

Gwen noticed Richard Drake's discomfort and decided to try to set him at ease. She took him by the hand and started after Ashley. "Come with me and we'll get something to eat. Then I want you to tell me how you came to be at the river this afternoon and how you realized I needed help. I thought I covered it up quite well."

Steve simply smiled and shook his head as everyone in the room watched Gwen as she graciously welcomed the poorly dressed man to her affair. She had just been speaking to the President of the United States and now she was warmly chatting with a man obviously in need.

"Isn't that the man that helped Gwen out of the river this afternoon?" asked Becky as she stood with the Andersons and watched her sister fawn over the small child while Gwen was extremely attentive to the girl's father.

"You're right! I have to thank him," announced Paula as she started over to Gwen, followed by Lisa, Kate, and several friends.

"Thank you for helping my daughter out of the river today!" praised Paula as she gave the surprised man a hug. If Paula's hug caught him off guard, he was soon totally flabbergasted as one beautiful woman after another gave him a warm hug and a sincere 'thank you' for helping Gwen.

Ms. Walker was speaking to the students from her school as they watched the interaction between the ragged looking man and Gwen's entourage. "That's why Gwen was elected to Congress and why she has so many important people here at her celebration. Every person is important to her. All lives matter. I overheard that he's the man that helped her out of the river after she saved Bill Hardy's life. He was on TV for a short while as he helped her ashore, but I had forgotten what he looked like, but not Gwen. She'll make certain that the man knows just how much she appreciates his assistance."

"Oh, my God!" mumbled one of the senior boys as his jaw dropped when a stunning blonde woman entered the room and made her way toward Steve.

"Steve! It's so good to see you. I just arrived in time to see you and Gwen on the TV monitors in the airport. You're such a brave man. You're a true American hero!" praised Nadiya Misko as she kissed Steve soundly on the lips before hugging him tightly. "Gwen is in politics now? I don't know how she does it all. I'll be going to the premier tomorrow night, even though I wasn't able to appear in the movie.

"You're always on the news in Ukraine. The hospital looks magnificent. I'm told it should be open by the spring. Will you be coming to Kiev for the grand opening?" asked the beautiful blonde while photographers circled the couple, snapping pictures.

"Yes, we'll be there!" responded Gwen as she tugged Nadiya from Steve's arms and warmly embraced her. "I hear that your dad has a lot of influence with the government these days. I'm so glad that cooler, wiser heads are prevailing."

"Father will be so glad to hear that you feel that way. He still speaks of that night in Moscow when you danced with him, twice! My mother just smiles and reminds him that Steve was very attentive to her as well.

"The hospital has been a godsend already. The construction brought many jobs to our city and when it opens, there will be many people with steady employment, not to mention all of the sick and injured children that will be treated and cured. I have to thank Jordan and Charlie, too. You four are heroes in Kiev and all of the Ukraine," gushed Nadiya as she remained close to Gwen.

"Come and visit President Hanson for a minute," invited Gwen as she took the blonde woman's hand and led her toward Hanson. Nadiya quickly grabbed Steve's hand with her free one and the trio made their way to where President Hanson and his wife were seated.

"Sir, you remember Nadiya Misko, don't you?" asked Gwen. "Her father is very influential in Ukraine politics and government. She's very active herself, although she tries to use the 'dumb blonde' routine quite often."

"Of course!" replied President Hanson as he shook the blonde beauty's hand. "Your father has been a very stabilizing influence in the government. Steve will be going to Hungary later in the month. Maybe he'll be able to stop in Kiev and meet with your father?"

"Steve might come to Kiev? I am certain that my father will see him," promised Nadiya. "I will personally take him home so Papa will have no choice!"

"I'm not sure that Steve will be available for that particular trip," interrupted Gwen with a smile. "He's promised to straighten out his sock drawer and that may be the week he'll be undertaking that task."

"What?" asked a visibly upset Nadiya. "He was socks to worry about and cannot come to Kiev?"

"I think Gwen may be teasing you," opined President Hanson with a grin. "It's my guess that you appeared a bit too eager to welcome Steve to your country, so she's asserting her influence with Steve."

"That was a joke? I appeared too eager to welcome Steve?" laughed Nadiya. "Gwen is so jealous. I steal her boyfriend all the time. She's used to it. Besides, when he is ordered by his President, he cannot disobey so that he can do things to his socks. If you ordered him to be especially nice to important Ukraine girl, he would have to follow your orders, would he not?"

"I'm not even going to comment on that," laughed Hanson. "It looks like you'll be collecting combat pay, Lieutenant Hammer. I'll be interested in hearing how your trip goes. We want to maintain good relations with all of our friends in Eastern Europe."

"There, Gwen. You heard your president. He wants Steve to have good relations with Eastern European friend. That would be me, and it will be very good!" asserted Nadiya as she possessively pulled Steve's arm to her ample chest.

For her part, Gwen simply stared at Steve until he pried Nadiya's hands off his arm and moved closer to Gwen.

"Hero is afraid of girl in red dress?" asked Nadiya as she arched her eyebrows and acted surprised. "What have you done to this man? He is under a spell or something. We still have practicing witches in Ukraine. We will have one remove the spell this woman has cast upon the poor man."

"I'm afraid that spell is stronger than any magic you may be able to find," stated Steve confidently. "Besides, if I'm happy with the spell, why would you want to remove it?"

"Have you not looked into a mirror?" questioned Nadiya. "You are strong, handsome, brave, wealthy, kind, and loyal. That's the ideal man, in any country. Gwen is very selfish."

Many people were watching the byplay between Gwen, Nadiya, Steve and President Hanson. They could almost guess what was being said by the way Steve removed himself from Nadiya's strong grip and moved closer to Gwen as President Hanson and his wife laughed quite heartily.

"Look how comfortable Steve and Gwen are with the President of the United States!" proudly pointed out Ms. Walker to her students. "You're seeing history tonight. I'm sure you all watched the movie that Gwen starred in about the making of a queen. Now you're seeing it in real life. The most influential and powerful politicians and leaders in the country are here this evening, paying tribute to a rising star. They can see the influence that Gwen and Steve have, and they're trying to curry their favor. The face of politics in this city is about to change."

Paula, Ted, and the rest of Gwen's family and friends watched the interaction between President Hanson, Nadiya, Gwen, and Steve with equal amounts of pride and amazement.

"Sis is joking with President Hanson, and he's laughing!" exclaimed Kate to the others. "This isn't something rookies in Congress usually do, I'm sure. Steve and Gwen are becoming totally awesome. They have the ear of every important person in the country. Oops! It looks like I should have said every important person in the world!"

As Kate had been speaking, Vlad Novokov had entered the ballroom with Anna Chekov. They briefly looked around until one of their security people pointed to Steve and Gwen still chatting with President Hanson and his wife. The couple made their way across the floor toward Gwen and Steve.

Steve broke into a big smile as he shook hands with Vlad and then hugged Anna. "Vlad! It's great to see you! Thanks so much for coming to our little celebration. Anna, you look stunning.

"President Hanson, Mrs. Hanson, this is Vlad Novokov and his beautiful fiancé, Anna Checkov," managed Steve as the two men shook hands. "This lovely lady next to me is Nadiya Misko."

"It is good to see you all again. We have met before, but it's always good to have memories refreshed," responded Vlad as he politely shook Nadiya's hand, and then Anna did the same. The rather cool greeting reminded Gwen that Ukraine and Russia weren't on the best terms.

After some small talk, Gwen excused herself and led Anna and Nadiya back to her family and friends as Steve and Vlad spoke with President Hanson. Her friends knew of the strained relations between Russia and Ukraine and quickly surrounded the two young women and began separate conversations, keeping the two women busy and separated. Soon they were all laughing and enjoying themselves.

Meanwhile, Ashley was still spending time with Richard Drake and his daughter. "Mr. Drake, would you come to our premier party tomorrow night? It'll be right here and begin around eight. You helped Gwen when she needed it and she always repays kindnesses."

"I don't think that would be a good idea," replied the man softly and with some embarrassment. "I have to care for Ingrid, and it's painfully obvious that we don't have the right clothes for an event like this. I probably shouldn't have come, but Ingrid's been asking about the beautiful woman I helped out of the river. I wanted her be able to tell her kids and grandkids that she had the opportunity to meet Gwen Anderson. We should be going."

"I don't know how to say this tactfully, so here it is. I'd be happy to go shopping with you tomorrow to get some new clothes for the premier. It's the least we can do for you," reasoned Ashley.

"I understand you have good intentions, but I can't accept charity. Ingrid and I are doing just fine," replied Drake icily.

"Are you? Look at your little girl. I mean really look at her! She's much too thin, her dress is too small, and she needs a bath. I can understand a man being proud, but it's wrong when stubborn pride harms a child!" responded Ashley with some heat.

"You think getting some clothes will solve my problems, or put weight on Ingrid? I'm doing the best I can and I don't need your patronizing attitude," insisted the man Ashley now knew as Richard Drake.

"I think a hot bath and a good night's sleep in a warm bed will be an excellent start for Ingrid. We have extra rooms reserved here. Haven't you ever heard about how Lady in Red Productions tries to help people? That's all I'm asking. If you don't do it for yourself, then accept it for your daughter. It's cold, and now it's snowing outside," added Ashley.

The man looked at his daughter standing beside him. He reached down and ran his hand along her thin face and sighed. "I guess we could accept your generous offer for one night. I've been worried about Ingrid's health."

Ashley flashed a huge smile as she once again took the little girl's hand and led her from the room with her father following closely. Twenty minutes later, Ashley was scrubbing what looked like weeks of grime off the little girl as she sat in Ashley's bath tub. She had been startled to see just how thin the little girl was as she helped her undress. As the child sat in the tub and tried to wash herself off, Ashley made a phone call.

By the time the little girl was clean and dry, a young woman that worked for the hotel delivered several boxes to her room. Ashley and Ingrid spent the next ten minutes looking at the items in the boxes after she had donned a pair of warm pajamas that Ashley had produced for her.

By the time they were finished, there was a knock on the door. Ashley smiled at the change in the man standing before her when she opened it. He was wearing a hotel robe, but he was clean shaven and looked much better. Ashley realized that he'd actually be quite handsome if he gained some weight and smiled more.

"Daddy! Look at my pajamas, and at all of my new clothes! Miss Ashley said I could keep them! Isn't she nice?" asked the little girl as she hugged her father.

"Yes, she's very nice. You look beautiful in your new pajamas. It's time for us to go to sleep, so thank Miss Ashley and tell her good night. Then we'll go to our room," replied Drake as he wiped at his eyes with the back of his hand.

It was just after six the next morning when Gwen and Steve heard knocking at their door. They had just finished making love and were enjoying the afterglow when they heard someone at their door. Gwen quickly pulled on a robe and headed for the door while Steve retreated to the bathroom.

"Ashley! And Ingrid! This is a surprise," greeted Gwen as she flashed a questioning look at her friend. "Come in. What can I do for you this morning?"

"Gwen, I want to ask a favor. I gave Ingrid and her father a room last night so they could clean up and have a warm place to sleep. We've already had a breakfast in his room. I asked Richard a lot of personal questions while we ate. I think we should give him a job! I can email you a list of his qualifications and some references. He's been having a tough time..."

"Absolutely!" replied Gwen as she smiled to hide her surprise since Ashley never asked for favors and this was totally unexpected. "I don't know how to make this any clearer to you. We have total trust in you and we'll do anything we can to help you in anything you want to do. You do what you feel is right for this wonderful little girl and her kind, gentlemanly father. Lady in Red Productions will support any decision you make."

"We all feel the same about that," added Steve as he stepped out of the bathroom. "I can see how this little princess could steal your heart. She's adorable."

"Thanks so much! I'll explain everything later," promised Ashley as she led Ingrid back out the door.

"That was unexpected," admitted Gwen as she hugged Steve. "She texted me last night and said that she was tired and going to bed early when I asked her where she disappeared to. You don't think she fancies that Richard Drake, do you? He was a great help to me yesterday, but he didn't look like Ashley's type."

"A shave and a haircut can make quite a difference," reasoned Steve as he slid his hand inside Gwen's robe and gently squeezed her breasts. "Now I'm curious, but you were right to tell her that we trust her implicitly. I'll see what I can find out about the man."

It was a happy group that gathered for breakfast in a reserved dining room. "I want to tell you how proud we are of you, Gwen," began Ted as Steve helped Gwen into her seat. "I can't believe that you're just twenty-five years old when I watch you interact with people, including President Hanson."

"Yeah! We saw you put Nadiya in her place when she making eyes at Steve right in front of everyone. Even President Hanson was laughing," recalled Kate with pride.

"Thanks, Dad, and everyone," responded Gwen. "It's no secret that I owe a lot to Steve, Jordan, and Charlie for any success that I've enjoyed. The rest of you have encouraged and supported me, so I feel this is a team victory and you all deserve credit."

"That's all touching, but what about tonight?" asked Charlotte. "We've got a premier to get ready for. I was in the movie and I expect critics to start recognizing my talent pretty soon. I may be in big demand by this time next year."

"Hey, you already are!" insisted Billy as he rubbed Charlotte's back possessively.

"I mean for my acting skills; not for my incredible love making abilities, unless it's a love scene with some sexy hunk."

"Okay, I'll do a love scene with you in our next movie," promised Billy just before Charlotte hit him with several sugar packets.

"If the children can quiet down, I have some important news," interjected Stephanie. "Yesterday, Ellen was in a car accident. She's going to be okay, but she needs surgery for a broken femur as well as some facial reconstruction. She won't be healed by Academy Award time, so the ABS Network is looking for a fill in host, or hosts. They asked if Jordan, Charlie, Gwen and Steve would be interested in sharing the duties.

"Unless there's some good reason against it, you're doing it! That show's seen by millions, if not billions. You guys would be perfect and it would garner a lot of free PR for the company. I told them that you wouldn't agree unless they gave Steve and Gwen a big dance number and Jordan and Charlie the chance to sing. That'll help promote the movies we'll be making next summer."

"We get to do a 'big dance number'? We don't have a big dance number," Gwen reminded her ambitious cousin.

"You will by then," insisted Stephanie. "Mom has a great idea for you guys. It'll take a lot of practice, but you'll show the world what you can do, and you'll pique interest for your next movie. I'm going to tell them they have a deal, unless I hear a good reason not to in the next few seconds.

"No objections? Okay. You all know that the sound track Jordan and Charlie wrote for the movie is taking off. They've already had a hit with 'Worth the Fight' and it looks like 'Diana' will be even bigger. It was released last Monday and is really catching on. Jordan and Charlie always come through for us, no matter what kind of movie we make. They just sit down and write great music.

"Reviews have recently been coming out about the movie, 'Diana', and they're raves! The critics thought it was going to be another stupid comic book adaptation with unbelievable people using super powers all of the time," continued Stephanie. "They were very impressed with how human the characters were in the movie. Gwen was perfect as a warrior princess who's totally clueless about men.

"That's what makes this movie so special. Gwen, as well as the other Amazon women, have to learn when to trust men and when not to trust them, just like real life. The super hero stuff is played down for the most part. The reviews all mentioned how sexy all of the women looked in their costumes and how hot the love scene between Gwen and Steve is. A lot of people go to your movies now just to see you two make love."

Gwen was blushing slightly at Stephanie's words when she recognized a couple standing by the entrance to the dining room and used their appearance to change the subject.

"Mr. and Mrs. Walker! Please come over and join us for some breakfast," insisted Gwen as Pete looked over his shoulder to see his parents moving in his direction. "Pete has some difficulty seeing past Becky, so forgive him for not noticing that you had entered the room."

"These are my parents, Mildred and Ben Walker," introduced Pete as he hugged his mother and shook hands with his father. "This is Gwen Anderson, Kate Anderson, Lisa Hunter, Charlotte..."

"Son, I've read enough on the internet to recognize everyone at the table," interrupted Mildred Walker. "Becky, is my son treating you with the proper respect? If he isn't, I'll take him aside right now."

"Yes, Mrs. Walker, he is," laughed Becky as she hugged the woman. "Since he made the effort to save my life, and my sister's, he's been very good to me. I have to commend you on having such a brave, capable son. He sure came through for us."

"That's what I like to hear," beamed Mrs. Walker. "It's so much better than finding out that he's been rude and insulting to a lovely lady like you. I was worried that he'd lost his mind when I heard that he treated a young, beautiful woman so poorly."

"Please sit down and join us," insisted Steve. "You're here for the premier tonight and to visit your son, as I understand it. Let me express my appreciation of your son's quick thinking and brave actions when we really needed it. Are you related to any 'Walkers' in the Sparta area? "

"It would have to be pretty far back, since my father and grandfather were the only boys in their families," offered Ben Walker. "We'd be proud to sit at table with you folks. We're familiar with the heroic actions you and your friends have done for others, and for the country. Our friends asked us to tell you personally how proud they are of your company and its efforts for children and our veterans, when we met you."

"Mrs. Walker, us ladies are going to spend the morning shopping. This afternoon, we're going to a salon to get our hair, nails, and makeup done. Would you please join us?" asked Gwen.

"You'd let me tag along? What about Ben? I hate to just leave him alone."

"Would he mind hanging with the men? They don't require the maintenance us ladies need for these big events. Maybe he could enjoy a couple beers, shoot some pool, and catch up on things with Pete," suggested Becky.

"You just described his perfect day!" laughed Mildred Walker. "Thank you so much for making us feel so welcome. My friends couldn't believe why we were coming to Washington and who we were going to be meeting. Now I can tell them that you're as nice in real life as you are on TV and in the movies."

That evening, there was a very large and boisterous crowd in front of the theater hosting the premier. The ladies and their escorts arrived every five to ten minutes and the crowd cheered and gave the appropriate reactions to the beautiful women dressed so elegantly.

Quite a few politicians and actors made appearances. They walked the red carpet and waved to the crowd, and especially to the crews that were filming for news bureaus and entertainment programs. Jordan and Charlie arrived next to last. Charlie was well groomed and looked quite handsome in a tux, but Jordan was a show stopper. Her black dress was open to the navel with a small silver chain holding it together at her bosom. The dress drew the eye to the swell of her breasts. She looked incredible.

Finally, Steve and Gwen stepped from the limo, with Steve exiting first so Gwen's modesty was preserved as she climbed from the back seat. Once he helped her stand, he turned and led her up the red carpet. He grinned as he heard the gasps and groans from the crowd.

Gwen was wearing a red dress, designed by her company for the event. It was slit in the front, exposing a lot of her long, shapely legs. The top molded to her substantial bosom and showed quite a lot of cleavage. Cameras flashed constantly as Gwen smiled and posed for the cameras. Steve did his best to smile while striking poses that he hoped would work okay. It took almost fifteen minutes for Gwen and Steve to reach their seats.

Steve had not previewed the movie and he was pleasantly surprised at how good it was. The human element had been stressed while the super power part had been downplayed. It blended romance and action very smoothly. Jordan and Naomi were especially beautiful in their Amazon outfits. Jordan was petite, but voluptuous, while Naomi looked like a true Amazon. She played the role of Nubia, a dark Amazon with skills equal to Wonder Woman's. As he watched, Steve found himself wondering how her top managed to remain in place.

Becky was gorgeous as Gwen's bodyguard, and her missing hand simply made her more believable as a woman in a tribe of Amazons warriors. But to Steve, and he admitted to himself that he could be biased, Gwen was the movie. She was incredible to watch when she was dressed as Wonder Woman. Her legs were long and toned, her waist was small, her stomach flat and her chest was impressive.

Even men with no interest in the plot would watch the movie a few times just to enjoy the beautiful, scantily clad women. Female fans would enjoy seeing the strength and ability of the Amazon women, but the real clincher was the tender love story in the movie. Steve found himself enjoying the movie a lot.

The party at the hotel after the premier was much more relaxed than the one the previous evening. Gwen was in tremendous demand for dances, interviews, and autographs. Through it all, she remained modest and thanked everyone that had been a part of the movie.

"You do realize that you have another blockbuster on your hands, don't you?" quizzed Stephanie as she danced with Steve. "I know this movie was Ashley's idea, and it was a great one. Gwen was unbelievably good and sexy as hell, but you stole the movie, in my opinion. You were just the right combination of shy and studly. It was so cool how Gwen did that double take when she first saw you remove your shirt. She had been told about men and thought she knew what to expect, but she sure didn't expect anything like how you looked.

"It was a lot like the first time we saw you at Gwen's house and you took off your shirt to race Kate in the pool. I got wet just looking at you, and I think every other female there had the same reaction. Kate was speechless when you climbed out of the pool, and as you know, that doesn't happen too often.

"Pulling Amber and that dumbass, Hardy, out of the river was the best PR possible for the movie. Our people think we'll have one of the best winter openings ever. I have to thank you for giving me this job. I know it's because I'm a cousin and not because of any proven skills, but that makes me appreciate it even more. Being around you and Gwen is the best thing that has ever happened to me. You're both so generous and kind to me. I just wish I was your girlfriend, even though I'd never want to see Gwen hurt in any way. You're far and away the best guy I've ever known."

"Steph, being a cousin did help you land the job, but we wouldn't have given you so much responsibility if we didn't feel you could handle it, and you've done a great job so far! We plan of keeping you around for a very long time. Do you need a raise or something?" responded Steve as he held the beautiful woman in his arms.

"No, I'm not asking for a raise! I couldn't believe it when I saw my first paycheck! There's way more being withheld than I used to take home. Then you're going to build a home for me in Asgard, at no expense to me. I'm just trying to tell you how grateful I am, and that I love you a lot, okay? Can we leave it at that?

"I used to be upset with Mom because she was so obviously infatuated with you. I was afraid it would make Dad jealous and cause a problem in their marriage. It finally dawned on me that Dad really likes you and he seems to enjoy seeing Mom flirt and tease you. He trusts you more than he does Mom, I think. Regardless, they are more romantic now than when I was a kid and they've been married twenty five years."

"Your mother is an extremely attractive woman," admitted Steve. "I don't want you, or her, to think that she's safe around me. She knows what she does to me, so maybe you'd better tell your dad to keep a close eye on her when I'm around."

"I know you're teasing me. Remember that I've known you for six years. You've had all sorts of gorgeous women practically throw themselves at you, including Mom and Aunt Paula, but I'd bet a year's pay that you've never had sex with anyone but Gwen," stated Stephanie with certainty.

"When you put it that way, it makes me sound pretty pathetic," reasoned Steve. "I should be sowing my wild oats, sleeping with a different babe every night."

"I know you're still teasing, but I want to be first if you do decide to go that route," laughed Stephanie. "I'd forgotten how much I enjoy being with you and what a wicked sense of humor you have at times. You and Gwen are building a dynasty and I'm just glad to be a part of it. You're legend!"

The song ended and Steve escorted Stephanie back to her seat. She blushed when she saw that Paula, Diane, Kate and Gwen were smiling knowingly at her.

"Maybe you should go change your panties," suggested Kate. "We were all watching you snuggling up to Steve and laughing at every word he said. Did you offer to sleep with him?"

"Well, the subject may have come up," admitted Stephanie with a big smile. "Steve did mention that maybe he should be sowing his wild oats, so I simply pointed out that I was available, but he seemed to want Mom more than me. He said that Dad had better keep an eye on her when she's around Steve."

"Steve really said that?" asked a pleased Diane before she realized how she sounded. "I mean, why would he say such a thing? I'm a married woman, and he's spoken for."

"Because he knows that I know that he thinks my mother is hot and he was using you to tease me. It's about me, not you, Mom. Even if he seduces you, it's just to get my attention," insisted Stephanie. "You'd be a sacrifice to reach his real objective, which is my much younger body."

"Did he mention me at all?" asked Paula with a grin. "Is he going to wade through the whole family, sowing his wild oats hither and yon?"

"Okay, I think we've gotten as far with this as we can carry it," complained Gwen. "I've been propositioned at least four times tonight but now I'm worried about my family stealing my boyfriend. He's not the only person in demand around here."

"Maybe you should take some of the guys up on their offer," replied Stephanie with a straight face. "You just might find a better lover; a stronger, braver, better looking man."

"Yeah, like that would happen!" snorted Gwen. "What I would find would be every female relative I have jumping into bed with my guy, the very best lover, best looking, strongest, bravest man on the planet. Of course you'd have to beat that blonde bombshell to the punch."

As Gwen spoke she looked at Steve leading Nadiya around the dance floor, indicating the bombshell to which she was referring. "You saw the love scene we did in the movie tonight. He's even more passionate and demanding in real life. I don't think you ladies could handle what he brings to the party. You're better off letting me handle him."

After Steve finished his dance with Nadiya, Gwen joined him for a slow dance. By the time the song ended, they were surrounded by photographers and reporters.

"Well, at least they waited until the party was almost over," sighed Gwen as she turned and began responding to questions. Steve found it interesting that there was an equal number of reporters from serious news organizations and from entertainment shows. He let Gwen handle most of the questions, responding only when a question was asked directly to him.

Questions ranged from how Gwen kept her Wonder Woman costume up to how she stood on the proposed pipeline from Canada. Gwen was very good at deflecting questions that she felt were either too personal, or too controversial. She finally ended the interview and took Steve by the hand and moved around to thank everyone for attending.

A familiar looking man approached Gwen and Steve. They exchanged glances and shrugged, realizing that neither of them recognized the man.

"You don't remember me, do you?" laughed the man. "I'm Richard Drake. I was here last night with my daughter? I look a lot better cleaned up, don't I?"

"Oh! Yes, you do!" exclaimed Gwen as she hugged the man warmly. "You look much more comfortable and relaxed."

"I just wanted to thank you for giving me a position with your company," continued the man. "I was pretty much at the end of my rope. I never guessed that helping you leave the river yesterday would benefit me so much. Ingrid is happier than she's been in a very long time. I just want you to know how grateful I am. I won't let you down, I promise."

Concealing her confusion, Gwen smiled and nodded to what appeared to be her newest employee. "I'm sure you'll do a great job! We always can use good people. Thanks again for helping me yesterday."

As soon as Richard Drake left them, Gwen whispered quietly to Steve. "It looks like Ashley's been busy today. That's why she wasn't with us at the salon. She said she had business to take care of. Mr. Drake cleans up quite well, doesn't he?"

"I just saw you talking to Richard!" came a worried voice from behind them. "I know I should have gotten it approved, but he was so despondent, I felt like I had to help him and his adorable little girl as fast as I could. I gave him a job! He's working for Lady in Red. I made up a position just for him. He's going to be working to help the homeless in the city.

"Please don't be upset until you hear me out," quickly added Ashley. "I thought that...'

"I've already heard enough," stated Steve flatly.

"I'm so sorry!" apologized a very contrite Ashley. "I'll hand in my resignation and explain to Richard that I overstepped my authority by about a mile."

"Why would you even think of doing that?" quizzed Gwen. "Are you trying to hit us up for a raise? Is that what this is about? Okay, we'll pay you ten percent more if you'll stay with us."

"What? No! I wasn't trying to get a raise. I thought when Steve said that he heard enough, he was angry about me making decisions for the company that I have no right doing," responded a confused Ashley.

"Ashley, why can't you accept that you're stuck with us?" chuckled Steve. "I heard enough to know that we'd go along with whatever you did. We have total faith in you. Look how well the movie is doing, and that was pretty much your brainchild. You hire whomever you want and pay them whatever you feel is right. You're a big part of our success, as well as a part of our family. Let's plan on discussing this on the trip to Sparta tomorrow, but rest assured that Gwen and I will back you completely."

Once again, Steve held a sobbing Ashley in his arms while many of the people at the party watched. He held her quietly until she calmed down. Then he tilted her chin and kissed her quickly on the lips.

"You've got to get over these insecurities. You're the whole package, smart, honest, beautiful, hard working, and beautiful. Work on your confidence. You're very important to us and we want you with us as long as you're willing to put up with us," concluded Steve.

"You said beautiful twice!" grinned Ashley through her tears. "Thanks Steve. Gwen, you've got the best guy in the world, but you deserve him. I'm so lucky that you both treat me so well. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow. Congratulations on the movie's reviews and the great party tonight."

"Excuse me," came a voice next to Steve as he felt a tap on his shoulder. "I think I owe this big lug some thanks."

Steve looked over his shoulder to see Amber Stahl smiling at him. She had a large band-aid on her forehead that obviously covered a small knot, but otherwise looked fine.

"You've ruined me for trying to be objective when I report about you two," confessed Amber as she hugged Steve warmly. "I don't remember much after we hit the water, but I watched the videos on TV and online. You saved my life, but you seem to make a habit of saving lives. I can't tell you how grateful I am. If you ever need anything from me, just ask. I'll never forget what you did for me. Gwen, this guy is a keeper!"

The next day saw Gwen and Steve in Sparta. The premier was scheduled for seven PM and the town was bustling with visitors. They gathered at Marsh's for a late lunch before preparing for the first premier ever held in the relatively small town.

"Lady in Red is now committed to funding a homeless shelter in Washington D.C." began Gwen. "Ashley set this up when she met the homeless man that helped me out of the river Thursday. I know that we usually discuss these things first, but Ashley was concerned about the mental health of the man and his little girl.

"She found out that he was a very successful stock broker until his wife was diagnosed with uterine cancer. He leveraged everything he had to try to find a cure. He took her to Mexico and then Hong Kong, hoping that alternative treatments might help. Sadly, she died last spring and he lost everything he had. He was finally evicted from his home just before Christmas and has been living day to day, sometimes being put up by friends and sometimes sleeping outside, with his six year old daughter.

"You might ask why a smart, successful guy would wind up on the street, but while his wife was dying, and after she died, he was an emotional wreck. He just gave up until he finally realized what it was doing to his daughter. Ashley feels he's worth helping. She's created a position for him to help homeless people and to shelter them. She wants to find a place to dedicate as a homeless shelter. You all know how neighborhoods resist them, and with good reason. One of his chores will be to find a way to do it, not by force, but by negotiation.

"Ashley gave him and his daughter a room on our floor, as well as a job. She did this on her own without asking permission, or seeking any input from any of us owners. How do the rest of you feel about it?"

Charlie looked to Jordan, who nodded slightly for him to proceed. "Jordan and I support the idea a hundred percent. Ashley can do no wrong as far as we're concerned."

"Ashley is running Gwen's office, not Lady in Red, so she overstepped her bounds by committing us to this effort," pointed out Kate. "I think we need to agree that from now on, she was the power to do that, even if it wasn't clear before. Ashley's trying to help people, so how can we not support her? She makes me proud of this company."

"I'd like to suggest that I be placed in charge of any and all splinter organizations or causes that crop up within the company. Stephanie is doing great handling the everyday business of the company, but we need to let her focus on that and not keep adding to it," argued Lisa. "Jason and I totally support Ashley and her efforts, but feel it would be best to have more structure. Jason's already been working on systems to help people during and after disasters. This homeless shelter would dovetail in nicely with it and I think it's a responsibility that Jason and I should take on.

"I think I have the best partners in the world!" proclaimed Gwen. "These were all good ideas. Ashley, get with Lisa and Jason to take over the homeless shelter plan. Have Mr. Drake report to them directly. If any of us has something new that we feel needs immediate attention, we can expect support from the rest, but it's really best if we discuss it when possible. Then we'll hand it off to Lisa and Jason to make it happen!"

"I'm sorry about assuming too much with your finances and time, but it's a great cause and I'm extremely thankful that all of you support it," responded Ashley gratefully. "You guys are the best!"

That evening was one the Spartan Nation would never forget. Celebrities and politicians were everywhere by the time the premier got started. Every hotel, motel, and bed and breakfast within fifty miles was booked full. The party was catered by local businesses. Locals, as well as tourists, got to meet Gwen and Steve, Jordan, Charlie, Naomi, Becky, and the rest of the cast. The movie managed the best winter opening in history and there was even Oscar buzz about the score written by Charlie and Jordan and the performances of Gwen and Steve.

As the evening was wrapping up, Steve took a call on his cell. He stepped into a small office for a few minutes before returning to speak to Gwen and their friends.

"There's been a terrorist attack in Paris. An orphanage was bombed and quite a few kids were killed. Senator Chatham wants me to be prepared to go to Paris with her for the funerals on Tuesday and Wednesday. She feels my presence will help," concluded Steve.

"That's terrible!" exclaimed a suddenly saddened Gwen. "We can't stay away from Paris that long. We may be able to help. Stephanie, please let the pilots know that The Red Lady is headed for Paris later tonight. They need to file their flight plan. I'm sorry everyone, but Steve and I have to leave now to get ready for a very difficult few days."​