Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

Billy looked at Paula stretched over Steve's knee and then over at Charlotte, who was slowly shaking her head. "I think you'll have to show me how that's done. I don't seem to have the necessary nerve to perform that simple task. I guess that's why you're the master and I'm just a grasshopper."

Steve grinned at Billy and released his grip on Paula. To everyone's surprise, she didn't jump up immediately. She slowly slid around so she was seated on Steve's lap.

"That was disappointing!" quipped Paula before she gave Steve a quick kiss on the cheek. "Maybe later today my husband will manage what these so-called young studs couldn't?"

"Paula, I'm going to take you up on that," assured Ted with an evil smile. "That lovely ass will be glowing red when I'm done with it."

"Why, Ted, I would hope you wouldn't be done after you made it glow!" joked Paula in a husky voice.

"Where's my mother? What have you done with her?" demanded Kate. "Mom would never allow herself to be stretched out over Steve's lap with her ass in the air, practically daring a well know pervert to help spank her. She certainly wouldn't suggest that her husband spank her!"

"Never mind Paula's ass. I want to know why Billy didn't try to look down my top when I dropped my spoon and had to bend over to pick it up," asked Naomi. "Am I losing my appeal?"

"Actually, I was behind you and got a great look at that nice round booty," replied Billy with a wink.

"Billy, I was only going to take one piece of bacon until I saw you perving down my top, so I took another and then another. You think I don't know what you're up to all of the time. I was just being nice to you," declared Jordan.

"And I was going to have Jason pick up Theresa until I saw that drool form at the corner of your mouth, so I decided I'd better bend over and get her myself just so you'd be happy," added Lisa. "Merry Christmas, Billy."

"After all of this time, I find out that you ladies are giving me free shots?" asked Billy as he pretended to stagger to a chair and sit heavily. "God bless everyone!"

The entire group was laughing at Billy's antics when Sybil stepped up to Steve and kissed him on the lips. As she moved back, she smiled and pointed to the mistletoe on the fixture over Steve's head. Once again laughter broke out when Janice looked up, saw the mistletoe, and also kissed Steve soundly.

"We're engaged less than two full days and you've already stripped Mom, spanked her, and kissed two secret agent ladies?" observed Gwen with a big smile. "I'm afraid to think what will be happening after we get married."

"It's been my impression that Steve's done his best to show you what'll be happening after you get married," responded Jordan. "Your eyes will be permanently rolled back into your head while you tremble and shake uncontrollably."

"Well, yes, there is that," agreed Gwen. "I was more concerned about his interactions with other women."

"I've been engaged two minutes and my guy has admitted looking down several rather big breasted ladies' tops just this morning, and enjoyed looking at one really big ass" pointed out Charlotte as Naomi glared at her. "I've come to the conclusion that our guys are male and that's what guys do. I sure wouldn't want a husband that doesn't like to look at women, and doesn't think about sex most of the time. That just wouldn't be my kind of guy."

"That's why we were destined to be together! I promise I'll never stop looking at these ladies' boobs and butts," pledged Billy. "I won't keep you guessing about it because I'll always be obvious. I'm not like Steve who pretends to not notice, but actually memorizes every curve, every freckle, every hair, every..."

"Okay, Billy, we get the picture," laughed Charlotte. "Looking is okay, but never forget that I've got the only boobs you'll be fully enjoying."

"I don't think I've ever seen such a compatible couple," joked Jordan. "He's a perv and she revels in it."

"It's time for a brief discussion on our company's plans for the next few months," broke in Stephanie. "The gentleman sitting next to me is James Hawthorne. He's from England and he's probably totally scandalized by now. Last night he watched my big love scene with that studly guy engaged to Gwen, then he saw my mom get the full treatment, and I have to say this. Mom, you were really good and really sexy!"

With that comment, everyone voiced agreement and cheered and clapped as Diane blushed while she smiled at Will and then everyone else. Her smile got even bigger when Paula came over and hugged her and whispered into her ear.

"Then James got to hear how Steve stripped and spanked his future mother-in-law and how Billy has been trying to see every inch of breast and every nipple in the building since he arrived this morning. What must he be thinking right now?"

"Truthfully? I was thinking I'd like to spend more time with you and your family," replied James in a British accent. "I've never seen a group enjoy each other, and be so comfortable with each other as all of you are. It's inspiring."

"Or were you inspired by how sexy Stephanie looked with her clothes off in that movie?" asked Kate as the others laughed. "I have a feeling that you may be just as bad as Billy and Steve."

"Back on topic," blushed Stephanie. "We've been approached about Jordan, Gwen, Charlie, and Steve hosting the Academy Awards again. Last year was the highest rated show they've ever had. They want to start advertising that you guys will host again, if you're willing. Unless you have some really serious objection, you will be doing it. That show was huge for this company. The PR was tremendous.

"No objections? I'll tell them that you'll do it. They mentioned that they would like Gwen and Steve to perform that 'Billie Jean' dance live as they sing it, so you two may need to brush up on the routine before then. Charlie and Jordan will be expected to perform a couple of their hits from 'Jurisprudence'. They also want Becky and Pete to be presenters."

"Really? We get to present at the Oscars? That is so cool!" gushed Becky. "Meeting Gwen, Jordan and Steve was the best thing that ever happened to me. Thanks so much!"

"That brings us to the movies we released this year," continued Stephanie. "Singlehandedly has earned over $135 million so far. That makes it a huge hit and almost a blockbuster. You guys did great!

"I can tell you that 'Jurisprudence' is a bona fide blockbuster with over $250 million at the box office, and it's still playing in theaters and doing quite well. Last week it was number three at the box office and that was after being released a month ago.

"Then there's 'Billie Jean' which was just released Friday evening. Early indications are that it's going to be absolutely huge. Reviews for all three movies were very positive. I think they'll be some Oscar nominations for some of the people in the room.

"All of the success with the movies will more than cover the expenses the company incurred building hospitals and helping people after disasters. Then there are the sales of our music, clothing line, posters, and action figures, as well as the animated movies we'll be releasing this winter. The company's net worth will increase quite a bit, even with our considerable humanitarian efforts. How cool is that?"

"Lady in Red has decided to show it's appreciation to Jeff and Julie Wilson for turning around the factory they so graciously agreed to manage. They will receive a substantial salary increase as well as a generous profit sharing package."

As Stephanie finished her sentence, everyone began clapping and cheering as Jeff and Julie finally stood and smiled to everyone. It was obvious that they were delighted by the praise and recognition.

"Lady in Red is also giving Becky and Pete a bonus for doing so well in their movie and hopes it will encourage them to keep working for us," stated Stephanie. "Mom will be getting a big bonus for her amazing contribution as the sexy cougar and choreographer for 'Billie Jean'. I've been told that my check will be a little bigger this week, too, so thanks guys!

"As you all know, Gwen has been elected for another term as Congresswoman. She and Steve feel that Ashley has outperformed their high expectations. She will be compensated accordingly for doing such an incredible job in Washington.

"Please be patient," urged Stephanie. "Everyone that has action figures in their likeness will be receiving some healthy checks since sales have been very brisk. Those of you that do voices for your characters in the animated movies will be paid handsomely as well. The owners of Lady in Red are extremely proud of everyone and appreciate of all that you do to help make the company a success.

"We all know that we'd do it for free because we feel the same about helping less fortunate people as the owners, but it's nice to be paid. It symbolizes the appreciation of Lady in Red," asserted Charlotte.

"Our Super Bowl commercials were huge hits last year. We outperformed some very expensive ads. I think Gwen and Jordan had something to do with that. The rest of us didn't hurt, either. We'll shoot some commercials while we're in Hawaii on the beach. For some reason, pretty women wearing little or nothing seems to sell.

"Finally, Jordan, Gwen, Charlie, and Steve are doing a live New Year's show again this year. It's going to be from the beach on Maui, and all of you are invited to go! All expenses will be paid by the company. This includes everyone in this room and the rest of Sybil's associates that are not here this morning. This show is Billy's fantasy. Please bring the smallest swimsuits you dare and plan on being part of the audience and on TV when the cameras pan the audience. Last year we had a great time in Key West and expect to enjoy Maui at least as much. Thanks, and Merry Christmas!"

"I'd like to say a few things before everyone leaves," announced Jason. "All of you know that we've been helping in natural disasters and emergencies for the past year. We've spent $338, 584, 000 last year to help people caught in these disasters. This was possible because Jordan, Charlie, Kate, Lisa, Gwen, and Steve are so generous and concerned about other people. I just wanted to publicly thank them."

Once the applause died down, Kate strode out in front of the group. "As many of you know, I've been writing or helping to write some of the screenplays for our movies. I want to make a movie next spring with Steve, if he has the time and is willing. It's going to be along the lines of 'The Graduate' and I'll be the fine young lady that catches Steve's eye. I want Mom to play the part of my mother and Steve's other love interest. Will you be in the movie with me, Mom? It would be so cool for us to star in a movie together."

Paula showed her surprise at Kate's request as she looked at Kate and then Ted. He was grinning and nodding. When Paula turned her gaze to Gwen, she saw her smiling broadly and also nodding.

"I don't know how well I'd do," stammered Paula. "How big would my role be and what would I have to do? Would I be in scenes with Steve where we were, ah, romantic? I don't want to embarrass Ted, or myself."

"Then it's settled," quipped Ted. "I'm good with it. I can't let Will stay one up on me. I'm sure you'll do great and Kate will come up with an excellent storyline."

Those gathered gave a cheer and a little applause for Paula. Then Chip moved to the front. "I want everyone to know that my father and I are partners in the family business now. We're getting along great and we hope to be your tire supplier. The thing I really want to announce is that we're going to build our new headquarters right here in Sparta. My parents will be living in Asgard by this time next year!"

"I'd like to say a few things," announced Steve once everyone quieted down from Chip's announcement. "I want to thank Jeff and Julie Wilson for doing a spectacular job with the new business. They did great!

"We have to acknowledge what an incredible job Stephanie has done for us. She's been everything we could have hoped she'd be. Next, we need to thank Ashley for her amazing work in Washington. She's run Gwen's office flawlessly. She handles politicians, reporters, and lobbyists extremely well. I've seen her firsthand, and she's very good.

"Our quarterly magazine is doing very well and it keeps the public informed and interested in us, regardless of how dull we are in real life. As I looked around the room this morning, I realized that we are not utilizing a very important asset. Look at how beautiful so many of the mothers in the room are! I suggest that before too very long, we devote an entire issue to these amazing women, how great they look, and how important they are to our success in so many ways."

Steve's suggestion was met with unanimous agreement. Stephanie quickly pulled her phone out and typed in some notes as Steve continued.

"Finally, I need to ask all of you to keep us informed if you have any problems, any misgivings, any health issues, any doubts about where you stand with us. We get swept up in all of the hoopla and sometimes don't pay enough attention to those closest to us. We're family. We can't help you if we don't know there's a problem. I've briefly spoken to Gwen about this. We're going to try very hard to make a point of spending some quality personal time with each of you.

"I'm telling you this so you won't panic and think you've failed in any way if I ask for some of your time. We've been a little lax in personal interaction and we want to change that. Expect us to find time for each of you. If there are any problems, it would be a good time to discuss them. Please let Gwen and me know about any issues that you may have."

"Now it's my turn," declared Charlie as Steve finished his announcement. "Jordan and I have received permission from Gwen and Steve to produce a musical for their wedding. We expect almost all of you will have parts in it. It's going to be a musical tour of the amazing journey that Gwen and Steve have shared since they met that day at the local mall. You won't be asked to sing if you are not comfortable with it, and many of you won't be asked because we won't have the time or material. You will be asked to participate much like you do in their lives. This is a big undertaking and we'll need everyone's help to pull it off."

Everyone stayed another hour or so, visiting and catching up on events in everyone's life over the past year. The trip to Maui was a major topic of conversation as everyone looked forward to ringing in the New Year on a warm beach with good friends.

"So what did you and Mom talk about that kept the rest of us waiting this morning?" asked Gwen once she and Steve were back home.

"Paula was acting out of character, so I decided to find out why," replied Steve. "It's hard to believe, but she's feeling insecure, lonely, old, and unattractive. Diane's performance and how well she looked and was accepted has caused you mother to start questioning her position in the family and the company."

"Mom is insecure?" repeated Gwen. "She's always been the steady, solid one that kept us grounded. Why do you think she feels that way?"

"Pretty much because she's always been just what you said. She doesn't flirt, she doesn't dress too provocatively, she acts like a mother, and now a grandmother. She's fine with being a grandmother, but not with being Diane's less sexy older sister. She loves you and your sisters, but she's beginning to feel that you girls define her life. She's seen as a mom, not an attractive, strong, sexy woman."

"Is that why you stripped and spanked her?" quizzed Gwen with a grin. "I never expected her to say something like that. What brought that on?"

"That was Paula not acting like a mother and grandmother. She's trying to be more spontaneous and interesting. We need to encourage her to take chances and do things that make her happy instead of always trying to make everyone else comfortable and safe. That was a great idea that Kate had, by the way. Paula was caught by surprise, but I know she was really pleased to be asked to take a major role in a movie. I think she'll do great."

"I bet you do!" retorted Gwen. "Love scenes with Mom and Kate? You'll be like a kid turned loose in a candy store."

"That's another thing," replied Steve. "I told your mom that I'd stop acting like I wasn't crazy about her. I told her that everyone seems to know how we feel about each other, but from now on, I'm not going to shy away from it."

"Exactly how do you feel about Mom? Is there something I need to know?" wondered Gwen.

"You already know everything. I adore your mom. I think she's beautiful, intelligent, sexy, and desirable. I'm going to treat her more like I do Jordan, Lisa, Kate, Naomi, and the rest of our lady friends, and less like a mother. Are you going to be okay with that?"

"As long as we're clear," affirmed Gwen. "We all know that you carry a bit of a torch for her and that's always been okay. Just don't hurt her, or Dad, okay? I know you won't make love to her or anything, but don't make Dad resent you or feel like he has to compete with you. As long as you and Dad have a strong, respectful relationship, like you have with Jason, it'll be fine. Jason knows that Lisa loves you dearly, but he's smart enough to understand that neither of you will ever act on it, so he's fine with it. He really admires and respects you, Steve. Be sure that you never give Dad reason to be jealous or angry at you."

"I'll speak with Ted to see what he thinks," agreed Steve. "I respect him way too much to risk losing his friendship and support."

The day before the New Year's show, Steve found himself sitting next to Ted as the two men relaxed in lounge chairs on a beach in Maui. "Ted, I need to discuss something personal with you. If you feel I'm out of line, just let me know. I don't want to upset or embarrass you in any way."

"I imagine this will involve women?" responded Ted. "I'm a lot more comfortable with that subject than I used to be. Fire away."

"It's about Paula. She's indicated that she feels like she's older and undesirable. She envies the nerve and great figure that Diane displayed in our movie. You've heard how impressed people were with Diane's acting and her figure. Everyone agrees that she looks like she's in her thirties.

"Paula feels unappreciated. Diane has taken some chances and they have paid off for her and Will. I think Paula is second guessing herself. She's always been the calming voice of reason and now she equates that with boring."

"I've pretty much come to the same conclusion with Paula," revealed Ted. "I feel some guilt that I married her and tied her down with kids when she could have been so much more. I'm afraid she blames me, at least in part for life passing her by.

"I don't know if you realize it, but Paula has been using our home gym religiously since we've moved to Asgard. She's lost a few pounds, toned up a lot, and looks great. I admit that little sister Diane looked great in your movie, but I honestly believe that Paula has a better figure. Do you have any suggestions on how to make Paula realize that she's far from old and undesirable?"

"Honestly, Ted, I think I've got to compliment her more and flirt with her more, and so do the other guys in the group. We've been treating her more like a mom than like a woman. You've seen how we tease the girls about all sorts of sexual things and they love it. We've sort of ignored Paula, at least a little," stated Steve.

"I understand what you mean, but why are you telling me? You don't plan on seducing her or anything, do you? That would be very out of character for you and a sure way to create huge problems in the family," declared Ted.

"I totally agree. I promise you that I'll never be unfaithful to Gwen. I'd rather have my heart ripped out than betray her. I'd never want you to think I don't respect Gwen, Paula, or you. I'm asking you if I you would object to the guys and I being a bit more flirty with Paula. We've been paying more attention to Diane since her big movie scene and I think Paula feels left out. She worries that she's not as attractive as she used to be," concluded Steve.

"I'm afraid that I am part of the problem," confessed Ted. "I recognized early on that Paula and Diane, and even their mother, have a bit of an exhibitionist side. It turns out that my daughters are exhibitionists to some extent as well and they're happy, respected, and doing great.

"I did my best to suppress Paula's. I told her she was a wife and a mother and needed to behave like one. You remember how I was when you first met me. I was a tight assed, sanctimonious asshole at times. I allowed my insecurities to affect my relationship with my family. It's only since I met you and your friends that I realize that trust is the key to a relationship, not control. I've learned to trust you, and I certainly trust Paula. I need to show her how much. I only ask that you don't embarrass me, or hurt Paula, or the girls."

Later that afternoon, Steve and Gwen began singling out their friends from the group and chatting with them. The couple was surprised at how much they didn't know about their friends' concerns and hopes. Stephanie was wondering if she should sleep with James to keep him interested. Gwen counseled against that while Steve volunteered to speak with James soon.

Lisa was back in great shape after having Theresa and wanted to appear in more films. She also wanted Jason to be able to appear with her. She felt it would be something they could do together and always be able to look back on as they aged.

Becky had been offered a big part in a movie being filmed in Spain. There was no part for Pete and she didn't know what to do, or even how to tell him the situation. Steve offered to look into the production company more thoroughly to be certain everything was legitimate. It was well known that some of the smaller film companies used pretty girls as props for their movies, which usually included being naked or topless for no apparent reason.

Naomi was concerned about continuing her career in the Navy. She enjoyed being an officer and her father was extremely proud that she was. But Jared was leaving the service before too long and she didn't want to continue being away from him so much.

Kate seemed quite content. Her law school classes were going well and she enjoyed the writing part of movies and planned to star in one with her mother and Steve. Her relationship with Chip was strong and she felt very fortunate.

Diane was ecstatic. Will couldn't stop talking about her movie role. He was extremely proud of how great she looked, how well she acted in it, and the incredible choreography job she had managed.

Cindy Quick admitted that she had to work hard to remain sober and clean. She told the couple that having a granddaughter gave her an even better reason to stay on the straight and narrow. Then she asked if she could appear in some films, even in smaller roles. She spoke of her pride for Jordan and how she'd like to have some good memories for herself.

Ashley was happy working in Washington. She confessed that being with Richard Drake and his daughter was a big reason she was enjoying her time there. She was a little worried that Richard might tire of her and move on now that his life was on track. Steve made another mental note to speak with him before too long.

Steve found that his male friends were happy as long as the woman in each of their lives was doing well. They liked their work and Jared was looking forward to playing professional football. He felt like he was in the best shape of his life and ready to take on the challenge. His enthusiasm carried over to Steve, who began giving football more serious thought. Playing on the same team as Jared was a big plus. They could support each other in their efforts to make the team and maybe play full time.

The TV show was a big ratings success, as expected. Gwen performed in various bikinis while Jordan didn't feel comfortable wearing one since she had not yet regained her hourglass figure. She more than made up for it with suits that displayed her amazing milk swollen breasts. Male viewers were groaning all over the country every time Jordan shimmied on stage. Steve and Charlie wore board shorts and were bare-chested the entire time. It did seem pretty strange counting down to midnight at six PM and with the sun shining brightly, but the time difference to the east coast made it necessary.

By midnight in Hawaii, the friends were pretty much played out. Everyone gathered for a late buffet at the hotel and retired for the night soon afterward. It was a happy, well rested group that returned to the mainland two days later.

Gwen flew to Washington with Steve, Naomi, Kate, Ashley and Richard and Ingrid Drake. Gwen's immediate family also traveled with them to Washington to see Gwen once again take the oath of office. On the flight, Steve found the opportunity to speak with Richard Drake in private and was surprised at what the man asked him.

"I know I've made some mistakes. I was pretty much at rock bottom that day I helped Gwen from the river. Your company has given me purpose and restored my pride. Ashley has given me her love," began Drake.

"I would like your permission to ask Ashley to marry me," he continued. "She thinks of you as the one man that cares about her welfare. She's beginning to believe that I care deeply as well. I'm asking for your blessing."

Steve had not been expecting anything like this to happen. He had planned to ask Drake what his plans were regarding Ashley. Now he knew.

"Richard, I can't make myself too clear on this. Ashley is extremely dear to me. She has a place in my heart. I will never stand by and allow her to be hurt in any way if I can prevent it. If you love her and treat her with the respect she deserves, I'll be your biggest supporter. But if you ever stop showing her love and respect, I'll come down on you so hard you won't even know what hit you. Can you live with the knowledge that I'll always be a part of Ashley's life and will do whatever I feel is necessary for her happiness?"

"I expect no less," replied Richard Drake. "She's a wonderful woman and Ingrid loves her like a mother. If I go stupid and do something to harm Ashley, please do what you feel necessary to straighten me out. I don't think you'll ever find the need for that, however."

"Then Gwen and I will always be there for your family. You realize you'll be getting more than a beautiful wife, right? You're getting the entire family that is Lady in Red Productions. Welcome to the family!" declared Steve as he shook Richard Drake's hand.

A short while after Steve and Richard rejoined the others, Richard Drake dropped to one knee by Ashley's seat. Ashley's eyes suddenly got very big as she gasped in surprise.

"Ashley, I've loved you from the moment we met. Will you do me the great honor of becoming my wife?"

Ashley had tears streaming down her cheeks as she looked at the ring Richard pulled from his jacket pocket. Then she turned to look for Steve. Finding his face, her smile increased as he returned her smile and nodded his head.

"Yes! I'll marry you. You've made me so happy. I love you and Ingrid so much," cried Ashley as she flung her arms around her new fiancé. Ingrid had been sitting next to Ashley and she quickly wormed her way into the couple's embrace.

"It looks like we're going to be attending a lot of weddings," observed Gwen as she squeezed Steve's hand. "Is that what you and Richard were discussing a little while ago? Did he ask for your approval?"

Steve barely managed to nod a yes to Gwen before Ashley landed in his lap. "Thanks, Steve! I'm so happy. Richard said that he spoke to you before he asked me. That was the right thing to do. I need you and Gwen in my life. You've helped me so much and shown more faith in me than I had in myself at times."

Ashley planted a big kiss on Steve's lips and then moved over to embrace Gwen. "I'm so happy that I have a good guy of my own. I won't be leaning on your guy quite so much from now on. Thanks for understanding what Steve meant to me and letting me embarrass myself over him so many times. Now I'll be embarrassing myself with Richard. He's my guy!"

Gwen's family, along with Steve, attended Gwen's swearing in at the Capitol Building. Unlike the year before, Steve and Gwen were able to return to their hotel for a reception for her constituents without taking a quick dip in the frigid Potomac.

Gwen had Steve by her side as she did her best to meet and greet everyone that took the time and made the effort to attend. The pride the voters from Gwen's district felt was obvious to all. Even as the tremendous wealth of the couple increased almost exponentially, their accessibility remained the same. They used first names for almost everyone from Sparta. One woman, upon being introduced to Gwen for the first time, actually curtsied, much to the surprise and delight of everyone watching.

"Mom, that woman acts like Gwen is a queen or something," whispered Kate to her mother. "We call her our queen at Asgard, but it looks like other people are thinking along those lines. My law professors think that Gwen and Steve are the top power couple in the world today. They sure seem to garner a lot of respect from everyone here."

As sometimes happens, the curtsy went viral on the internet within minutes. TV and web sites played it over and over. The lady was interviewed by various news agencies about her actions. Her response was simple, yet eloquent.

"I've followed Gwen Anderson's achievements over the years. I watched 'Rise of the Queen' a hundred times. I've seen and heard about all of the generous, kind acts she's performed, mostly for children and the less fortunate. I couldn't believe it when I actually met her. She's so beautiful and regal looking that I just felt that she deserved a curtsy. She's everything a real queen should be!"

Gwen spent the week in Washington going over proposed legislation and meeting with various representatives, lobbyists, and more constituents. Her final semester in Medical School began the following week. She would be returning to Washington on January 20th for the inauguration of President Rosen. In February, she and her friends would again host the Academy Awards. Her schedule was extremely full.

Gwen found herself somewhat flustered when more and more women she met for the first time would curtsy, much like the lady had done in the viral internet video. Men began bowing to her upon introduction, or when they were simply near her. She decided that she would be relieved to go back to Stanford where she was just another med student. She was certain that the being treated like royalty thing would fade as quickly as it started. To her surprise, more than a few of the underclassmen at Stanford began to bow or curtsy to her. She could be in a line for a cup of coffee and a bagel when a random young woman unknown to Gwen would simply walk up to her and curtsy.

After she finally got over being embarrassed by the action, Gwen began smiling and graciously thanking the person, even though she felt she was being shown far more respect than her position deserved. The first dozen times it happened, Gwen had attempted to assure the person that she was just a regular citizen and she neither required nor warranted such treatment. Eventually, Gwen gave up trying to dissuade people from what she hoped was a passing fad. It seemed to make people unusually happy when they greeted her like that, so she simply smiled and thanked them.

Gwen returned to Washington two days before the inauguration. That same day, the nominations for the Academy Awards were announced. Not surprisingly, Steve and Gwen received nominations. 'Billy Jean' was nominated for best picture. It became interesting when the couple learned that Jordan and Charlie also garnered best actress and actor nominations while 'Jurisprudence' was also nominated for best picture!

The friends were delighted with the success of their films and the Oscar nominations, but they all seemed to take special pride when Diane's name was announced in the supporting actress category. Gwen, Jordan, Paula, and Diane spent well over an hour chatting about the nominations, with Gwen participating on Skype from Washington.

Steve was surprised when she insisted that she go to Senator Chatham's office with him the next morning, but he readily agreed. When he entered the office, Senator Chatham explained that they were going to the White House. That was when Steve realized that Gwen knew something was going on, that he did not. She had taken the time to have his dress uniform dry cleaned and ready for him to wear that morning.

Once inside the White House, they were shown to a small office. Once again Steve was surprised to see his grandparents, Aunt Janice, and Cousin Jen along with Gwen's parents and sisters waiting for him with huge grins. They refused to answer any of his questions.

Soon they were summoned by a White House staff member and led out to the Rose Garden. They were seated in the front row with dozens of photographers and reporters. Steve was extremely curious by this time. His glances at Gwen resulted only in her smiling back.

Everyone stood when President Hanson strode up to the podium. He welcomed everyone and then began a glowing account of Steve's adventures while Hanson had been in office. It began with the river rescue which had occurred just after Hanson had been elected and continued through to Steve being injured while rescuing the girls on the recent ill-fated bus trip.

Finally, Steve was asked to come forward to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom! Steve was caught totally by surprise. Luckily, all he had to do was stand still as Hanson asked Gwen to come forward to help affix the medal to his uniform. Once Gwen managed that feat, Hanson nodded to her and she immediately pulled off his old ranks from his uniform to reveal new ones underneath them.

"Congratulations, Lieutenant Commander Hammer," grinned President Hanson. "You've just been promoted. Stand at ease and greet your loved ones."

Gwen wasted no time wrapping her arms around Steve's neck and kissing him soundly as cameras recorded everything. Kate and Lisa quickly followed suit with kisses. Steve was surprised at how warmly Paula kissed him. Then his grandmother wrapped her arms around him. Tears trickled down her cheeks.

"You're such a fine young man. I've never been so proud of anything or anyone. Thank you for letting me be part of your life," was all she said before William Patterson reached out to proudly shake Steve's hand. His Aunt Janice was next, followed by Jen.

"I thought you were angry with me," suggested Steve to Jen. "I haven't seen you much in the past few years. What've you been up to?"

"After I finished my masters in business, Grandpa put me in charge of his company's Australian office," responded Jen. "I haven't been back to the states in over a year, but you know that. You read my emails and write back."

"Yeah, I knew you were in Australia, but I missed you. I hear you're doing great there and you're being groomed to take over the whole business someday."

"That's what Grandpa tells me, but I'd feel better if you took more interest in the business. I know how good you are at negotiating and how well people respond to you. We could really grow the company if we worked together."

"My plate is plenty full right now. Besides, you're doing a great job from what I hear. If you ever need me, just let me know and I'll do anything to help," promised Steve.

"Not to interrupt you two catching up, but we've been asked to go inside where it's warmer for some photographs," whispered Gwen. "We can't keep the President waiting!"

Reporters and camera crews went inside with the group to set up for more pictures and possible interviews. The White House photographer was speaking to an assistant when Gwen was approached by a member of the staff.

The young woman gracefully curtsied before asking Gwen what beverage she would prefer. Gwen, being somewhat used to being approached in that manner, smiled and asked for a bottle of water.

That little byplay was captured by two network cameramen. The young woman returned with beverages and a short time later the pictures were taken. Once it was announced that questions would be allowed, a network reporter asked if the young woman standing off to the side could be questioned. He was assured that as long as it pertained to the ceremony, it would be fine.

"Miss, we all saw you curtsy to Gwen Anderson when you approached to ask her what she would like to drink. Was this because it's become some sort of new fad?"

"Sir," responded the young woman earnestly. "I've seen the video where that lady first curtsied to Miss Anderson, but that wasn't why I did it. It simply made it easier for me. My grandfather is a wounded Vietnam veteran. He has health issues, so he went to the VA near our home. They kept giving him prescriptions for medicine that was expensive, and didn't help.

"Lady in Red Productions recently rehabilitated an older hospital in Nashville and let everyone know that no veteran would be refused care, so Grandpa finally went there. They wouldn't even let him leave after his tests came back. He told them that he couldn't afford the bills, and he was told that there'd be no bills! He had triple by-pass heart surgery the next day. That was three months ago and he feels great!" gushed the young woman.

"You're asking why I treated Miss Anderson like a queen? It's because she and her company treat veterans and children like royalty every day. I promised Grandpa that if I had the chance, I'd thank her for him and for so many others that she's helped so much."

Gwen was obviously caught by surprise at the woman's response to the reporter's question. She quickly moved over to the young woman and embraced her.

"I'm so happy to learn that your grandfather is doing well! He's exactly the reason why we're rehabilitating some older hospitals. With the success of the recent movies we've released, we'll have enough capital for more projects in other cities. Thanks so much for sharing that with me. Could we exchange contact information later?" asked Gwen.

Steve couldn't stop the smile that spread across his face. The interview that was supposed to be about his promotion and being awarded the honor of the Presidential Medal of Freedom had been usurped by a discussion of Lady in Red's generous acts and the appreciation of a young woman working on the staff at the White House. Steve was delighted. He had no real desire to be in the spotlight.

Eventually, he was asked about the award and why he appeared to be surprised by it and his promotion. Steve admitted it was a total surprise, but a very pleasant one. He thanked the Navy, the President, and his family and friends for the support required to perform at the level he hoped to maintain.

Then Gwen was asked a totally unrelated question. "Do you feel it's proper for you to co-host the Academy Awards when there is so much controversy around the awards?" asked a newsman from a large Washington paper.

"Are you referring to the discussion about diversity?" replied Gwen calmly. "The film industry often leads the cultural changes of society with its totally uncensored product. That same industry also reflects society and its values. My company makes movies. We try to use family and friends. We do not discriminate. We do have a limited number of black, Asian, and Hispanic friends. I do believe that we need to work on widening our appeal and the ethnicity of our films. That said, we are a private, family owned company and reserve the right to determine what films we make, and who will appear in them."

Steve was then asked to comment. "We do not tolerate discrimination in any form. Naomi Wilson has appeared in our movies and even won an Oscar. We hope to make a 'buddy movie' this summer with friends and that should include Jared and Naomi. We are always open to new ideas and suggestions, but as Gwen pointed out, we will make the final determination regarding every aspect of our films. Giving up freedoms and rights in an attempt to gain a momentary balance of some kind is pure folly.​