Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"I have stated repeatedly that it was not necessary. However, Duchess Kate pointed out to me that it was a sign of respect, not only for me, but for Steve and my fellow owners of Lady in Red Productions. People appreciate the efforts we've made and continue to make for those experiencing difficult times, for whatever reason.

"I will not ask these wonderful people to stop their gracious gestures if it is something they want to do. As I stated earlier, many brave people have fought for the rights we enjoy in this great country. People can legally make all sorts of gestures, and often do, even if they're not always nearly as polite. I reiterate that these signs of respect aren't necessary in any way, but I do appreciate that so many thoughtful people choose to honor us in that manner.

"I've been the face of Lady in Red for years. I'm very proud of our company and the things we have accomplished. I cannot, and will not turn my back on those that wish to thank me and my company for our efforts. Sometimes, a simple bow or curtsy is the only way they can demonstrate it. I understand that and I always try to acknowledge them. It's only polite. If no one ever bowed or curtsied to me again, I would be fine with that, but as long as they do, I will respond as graciously as I can.

"I did not respond to them so I would become President of the United States. Rather, I became President of the United States because I have listened and responded to those voices that are never heard in Washington. All of our citizens deserve respect, the opportunity for education, health care, and decent employment. They do not need or want handouts from the government. They do need opportunity, and my administration is going to work every day to provide those opportunities to as many citizens as we can."

A portly man in the second row asked the next question. "Will you stop performing in concerts and movies, and curtail your music career now?"

"I will not rule out anything at this point. Obviously, finding time will be a big factor," responded Gwen. "I won't limit my future by making rash assertions this evening."

Gwen ended the news conference a few minutes later and once again met with her inner circle in the meeting room in Valhalla.

"That seemed to go well," observed William Patterson. "I'm glad we discussed the probable questions the press would ask, but you handled everything perfectly. Everyone broke into smiles at your response to the question about trusting a mere 'football player' with such delicate negotiations."

That statement caused Gwen's thoughts to linger on Steve's football successes. Her undergraduate career at Stanford had been far from average. After the success of her movies, especially her Oscar for 'Rise of the Queen' and her music career, she was the single most recognizable person on the large campus. Being the girlfriend of Steve Hammer only increased her visibility, although a new acquaintance named Colt Chance had required some time to understand that fact.

Gwen had found herself taking a required history course in the fall of her senior year. On the first day of class, a tall athletic looking guy took the seat next to her. He smiled and nodded at her as the instructor called the class to order.

The male instructor noticed both Gwen and the fellow sitting to her right. "Ms. Anderson, it seems that you attract quarterbacks."

"If you're referring to Steve Hammer, then your supposition is accurate," responded a somewhat confused Gwen.

Gwen was surprised at the chuckles her response drew from many of the other students as her instructor continued. "Actually, I was referring to the gentleman to your right."

"Oh, are you a friend of Steve's?" asked Gwen of the man next to her, while trying to determine the reason for the snickers from the other students. To her total surprise, the entire room broke into gales of laughter at her innocent question.

"Ms. Anderson, allow me to introduce you to Stanford's All American quarterback, Mr. Colt Chance. Many expect him to lead Stanford to the national championship this year," explained the grinning instructor, clearly enjoying the situation.

"Oh, I see," managed Gwen as she turned to shake hands with the man seated next to her. "It's nice to meet you, Mr. Chance. If you're serious about playing for a national champion, you really need to get appointed to the Naval Academy, as in yesterday. They could use another good safety."

"Miss Anderson, you're the first person I've met in two years that didn't already know who I was," chuckled Colt. "I appreciate your suggestion, but I'll take my chances with Stanford. Navy isn't even rated in the top ten. It's the first time they've ever broken into the top twenty, and they're eighteenth. We're the top rated college team in the nation, so I'm sure you can understand why I won't be joining the Navy anytime soon."

"I think it's probably because you prefer to remain a starter," quipped Gwen as the laughter increased in the room.

The Stanford quarterback's smile grew bigger. "I admire your loyalty, misplaced as it may be. I was runner-up for the Heisman Trophy last year. I didn't even see your boyfriend at the presentation in New York. Oh, wait! That's because he wasn't one of the finalists!"

"Steve isn't big on individual awards," allowed Gwen with a smile of her own. "I don't even know where he keeps his Oscar, his Emmies, Grammies, or other awards. I wish you luck if an individual award is important you. Steve's goal this year is for Navy to go undefeated and win the national title. He's never mentioned the Heisman."

"Except for a couple of good teams, they have an easy schedule, so they may go undefeated, but the title is out of reach for a team like Navy," declared Colt. "They don't have the horses to run with the big boys."

"January isn't that far away. We'll see how it all plays out," replied Gwen sweetly. "I'd caution anyone that bets against Steve Hammer that they're making a big mistake."

After that, Gwen and Colt would often exchange trash talk and light banter before and after class. In mid-October Chance went a little farther.

"My fraternity is having a party after our game with Notre Dame Saturday night. I was wondering if you'd like to come. It's going to be a great time and we'll be really jacked after beating Notre Dame."

"That should be a good game," acknowledged Gwen. "Navy beat them 45-17 two weeks ago, so you'll have your work cut out for you."

"It'll be more like a tune-up for USC next week," laughed Colt. "If you want to come to the party, I'll give you a pass. No one gets in without them. Not even you."

"It does sound pretty cool," admitted Gwen. "Could I bring a friend? If not, I'll just do something else."

Determined to show his influence within the fraternity, Colt quickly agreed. "Here's a pass. I'll just jot down a note that it includes a friend. Look me up when you get to the party and I'll show you around."

Saturday evening at the party, Colt was keeping his eye on the door as he waited for Gwen to arrive. Stanford had narrowly defeated Notre Dame earlier in the day and the school was abuzz about a shot at the National Championship. Colt Chance was considered the major cog in a great team and he was proud of the recognition. After the game, he had hinted to some of his friends that Gwen was going to be his date for the evening. His jaw almost hit the floor when she made her entrance, on the arm of Steve Hammer!

Suddenly, Colt was not the most important person in the room. Partiers gasped and clapped with glee when they saw Gwen dressed like a movie star and accompanied by one of the sexiest men on the planet. Gwen introduced Steve to people she recognized, which really wasn't very many people. Then she spotted Colt standing off to the side and led Steve over to introduce him.

"Colt Chance, please meet Steve Hammer. He played Thursday night on ESPN, so he has the weekend off. Colt plays football for the Cardinals," added Gwen as if it were an afterthought. "He says that he's very good."

"You sure had a good game today," praised Steve as he held out his hand to the other quarterback. "Throwing for three touchdowns and running for another against Notre Dame is pretty darn good!"

"Wasn't that the team that you threw five touchdown passes against?" asked Gwen innocently as she watched the two men shake hands.

Steve turned to look at Gwen. She knew his stats by heart and was a great football fan. She had to know that she was getting in a dig with Chase. He decided to ask her about it once they were alone.

Gwen beamed as she watched Steve stand near Colt. The two men were the same height, but Steve was broader in the shoulders and much better looking, at least in Gwen's opinion. She had been quite confident that once Colt Chance had the opportunity to meet Steve, he wouldn't be trying to ask her out again.

Gwen let the two men chat for a couple of minutes and then dragged Steve around to mingle with others. As she knew would happen, the students were quickly drawn to Steve and her. They posed for dozens of pictures and signed numerous objects for the party-goers.

Before they managed to leave, Steve and Gwen were prevailed upon to perform a few songs. Steve wrapped it up by singing the Elvis tune 'Can't Help Falling in Love' while playing the piano. The applause was loud and long as Steve and Gwen bowed several times before they bade everyone goodnight.

Gwen recalled how Steve had asked about her comments to Colt Chance as soon as they were alone. "The guy thinks he's the best football player in the world, so I wanted to bring him down a notch by introducing him to the actual best. Besides, he's been sniffing around my little panties lately and I wanted him to know exactly why I won't be dating him."

Gwen had been pleasantly surprised when Colt apologized before class the following Monday. "Gwen, I'm sorry for being such an ass. I was way out of line to even think you'd be interested in me. Steve really is an amazing guy."

"Apology accepted," replied Gwen with a smile. "He is something special, isn't he?"

"Jake Baron, our starting center, asked me if I knew what Jake's hometown was," related Colt. "I told him that I had no idea. Then he told me that Steve Hammer knew and had asked him about it. It made me realize how much I've become focused on myself, and how little attention I pay to others. I still have some time to get it right. I'll thank Steve next time I see him. I learned something about leadership Saturday night."

"I'll tell him that you said that," promised Gwen. "His interest in others isn't something he does to garner favor. He actually does cares about people."

It was funny how things turned out, mused Gwen. Steve and Colt went on to become good friends, as well as to forge one of football's greatest individual rivalries.

Gwen's brief daydreaming was interrupted by Lisa's next statement, which returned Gwen's focus to the meeting. "I'm already being contacted by various senators. You're going to have some work to do if you want to get Naomi, Kate, Jeff, and Jason confirmed. There's a lot of concern about so much change so quickly."

"Well, they'd better get used to the idea because I've already asked the current office holders to resign and they've all indicated that they would. They weren't too happy about it, but I'm not very happy with their efforts for the country," replied Gwen firmly.

"That's exactly what I told everyone I've spoken with," agreed Lisa. "I told them it was full speed ahead and that you'd be expecting the confirmations in a timely manner. I was more or less told that the Senate wouldn't act in haste just because you want speedy confirmations. I think they're going to stonewall the nominations until they get a feel for how you're going to handle this looming war."

"Then they're really going to be disappointed," retorted Gwen. "Steve and Naomi are going to do everything that they possibly can to find a peaceful solution. You know as well as I do that neither one of them tolerates failure very well. They'll find a way if it's at all possible."

The Red Lady landed at Heathrow shortly after eight AM, London time. Steve and Naomi departed through a VIP gate, which was located away from other travelers. As soon as they left the tunnel and reached the almost empty gate, Steve was enveloped in a fierce hug.

"I can't believe it! Gwen's President of the United States! Now she's sent you on the toughest mission of your life. I'm so proud of you both and love you to pieces."

"It's good to see you again, too, Steph," chuckled Steve as he held the woman tightly against his chest. "I hope this Limey is treating you well. If he isn't, I'll take a few minutes out of my schedule to have a little talk with him."

"Thanks for looking out for me. Regretfully, I have to tell you that James has been very bad. He's gotten me pregnant again!" revealed Stephanie with a big grin.

"Oh wow!" declared Steve as he drew Gwen's cousin even closer. "It looks like we're going to fill Valhalla up on holidays. I bet your folks are excited about having another grandkid."

"I just had it confirmed yesterday evening, so you're the first person I've told. I knew you'd be happy for us. Please don't tell anyone. I'm going to call Mom later this morning, when it's a decent hour back in the states."

"James, it's great to see you. Congratulations on the addition to your family," managed Steve as Stephanie clung to him. "I understand that you'll be joining us for the rest of the trip."

"Prime Minister Blake has felt from the outset that things weren't been going very well. When President Crawford passed and Gwen became president, he decided to shake up his team. Since you and I are practically related, he selected me to accompany you on this rather epic mission. I'm pretty much to keep my mouth shut and follow your lead. The prime minister will fill you in when you meet him in just about an hour.

"Stephanie and I are delighted at the prospect of having another child," admitted James Hawthorne. "We're trying to keep up with the cousins."

"Lots of luck with that. Lisa has been talking about having a fourth," revealed Steve. "Jordan seems content with three, but we all know how quickly that can change."

Steve thought back to the day Stephanie had approached Gwen and him with a worried look on her face. It was the week following Gwen and Steve's wedding. James was preparing to return to London and it was obvious that Stephanie was concerned about something.

"James asked me to marry him and I told him that I would. I'm so sorry to let you both down like this, but I really love the guy. We'll probably get married around Christmas. I know you guys depend on me, but I have to do this. We'll be living in London, so I won't be able to work for you after the wedding."

"Congratulations! This is great news and there's no reason to apologize," assured Gwen. "To be honest, Steve and I aren't overly surprised. We could see how James looked at you, and how he treated you. He's a great guy!"

"I'll miss working for Lady in Red Productions," admitted Stephanie. "I'll especially miss being able to be with you two while you change the world. It's been quite a ride for me."

"Steph, I've been discussing the future of the company with Lisa, Jordan, Charlie, Kate, and Gwen," confided Steve. "We've decided to expand globally and think London would be a great place to begin. Would you be interested in overseeing our expansion to England and the rest of Europe?"

"You're serious?" marveled Stephanie. "You'd place me in charge of a European division of Lady in Red Productions? You're not doing this just so I'll have a job, are you?"

"Hardly," laughed Gwen. "It's been something that Steve and I have been discussing for almost a year. We're missing many opportunities by not having a bigger presence in Europe. We should be selling more music, movie tickets and clothing, plus taking advantage of other business opportunities. It began looking likely that you'd be headed to London, so we thought we'd take advantage of your skills once again."

"I have to have the best friends and relatives in the world," sobbed Stephanie as she hugged Gwen tightly. "I'll take that position and make sure that you never regret putting me in charge. I can't wait to tell James. He was concerned that I'd not be willing to leave my family and job."

"Don't even suggest that you're leaving your friends and family," cautioned Steve. "That'll never happen. One or more of us will fly over to London as often as we can. I wouldn't be surprised if Diane, Will, and your little brother came along on some of the trips. Plus we'll be flying you back home now and then for business, and to see the family.

"I should train someone to assume my duties. It'll take some time to learn such a big and complicated business. Do you want to interview some candidates as soon as possible?" asked Stephanie.

"Actually, we already have someone in mind," revealed Gwen. "We've been spending some time with Tyler this week. He's qualified, but more importantly, he's a friend that we know we can trust. That means more to us than any other skill or training he could have.

"Would you be willing to work with him and show him the ropes? By the time you move to London, he should be up to speed and ready to step in," reasoned Gwen.

"Tyler? That's a great idea. He's always liked you two, he's smart, and his resume is very impressive," admitted Stephanie. "I think Sybil is falling for him, so there's yet another reason to keep him in Sparta. I know how much she means to you both. She's risked it all for you guys, and I know that you'll always be there for her."

Then Steve's mind snapped back to the present. He realized that there were several reporters watching the interaction between the friends, although they were too far away to hear the conversation. He quickly put on his poker face and addressed James and Stephanie.

"You remember Naomi, of course. She's Gwen's choice for Secretary of State. She'll be very much involved in any negotiations."

"Now I know I'll enjoy the journey," remarked James. "You're more beautiful than ever, Naomi."

"Don't let him sweet talk you," warned Stephanie. "He starts out low key and the next thing you know; he's gotten you pregnant."

"Don't worry about me. I know how to handle these Romeos," chuckled Naomi. "Steve has been trying to get into my little panties for years and I've managed to hold even him off."

"Is that any way for the Secretary of State to talk?" questioned Steve. "Now I'm concerned about your mental acuity. You should know very well that I prefer you without panties, or clothes of any kind."

"I certainly do," laughed Naomi. "I also know that I've been the cause of more boners for you than anyone but Gwen. Little Steve doesn't lie. He's made it very clear many times. He wants to get closer to my little kitty."

"Little Steve has a mind of his own, but big Steve makes the final determination," assured Stephanie. "There's a rather long list of boner causing women in his life, and I'm rather proud to be quite high on that list."

"Ladies, lest we forget, the world is on the verge of war. Boasting about who causes more erections is not appropriate in these troubled times," cautioned Stephanie's husband. "Besides, my money's on Stephanie's mother after seeing her and Steve in those movies."

"You're so lucky you've already gotten me pregnant," exclaimed Stephanie, "Because after that comment, you won't be getting any for a year. Steve, defend my honor! Tell my husband that you always get aroused when you see me. I bet you're hard right now. Give him the unbending truth, the hard facts, the... "

"Never mind!" interjected a grinning Naomi. "If he is feeling frisky, it's because he was admiring my ass when I walked down the stairs from the Red Lady in front of him."

"James, let's hurry up and get out of here. Gwen always became a bit demanding when she was a few months pregnant. Jason told me that Lisa was the same. I fear Stephanie is simply true to her genes. Naomi, you aren't pregnant, are you?" asked Steve jokingly.

"Not yet, but our trip is a long way from over," teased the beautiful woman as Steve groaned in response.

An hour later, Naomi, Steve, and James Hawthorne were sitting in Prime Minister Tony Blake's office, discussing the goals of the meetings to be held with Russia, China, and North Korea.

"We'll follow the lead of the US, up to a point," reasoned Prime Minister Blake. "We want a de-escalation of the situation, but we need to maintain our military positions until everyone agrees to pull back. I think you need to push for a multilateral withdrawal to positions held prior to June 1st, before this entire situation began."

"The President feels much the same," agreed Steve. "Secretary Carlton insisted that he pushed very hard for that very thing, but Russia, China, and North Korea wouldn't budge. I'm going to be insisting on a withdrawal. The world can ill afford to maintain the status quo. Any slight misunderstanding could result in war right now. We absolutely have to ratchet down the tension."

"Good luck, Naomi and Steve. James will be Britain's representative in these negotiations. He can't agree to anything major before consulting me, but his recommendations will be given a great deal of consideration."

Three hours later, Naomi, Steve, and James deplaned at De Gaulle in Paris. Once again, they were ushered through an out of the way gate. There were only a few reporters in sight and they were kept at a distance. Once again, Steve was met with a fierce hug and a quick kiss from a beautiful woman.

"Michelle! It's always good to see you," laughed Steve as he hugged the woman tightly.

"Gwen is now the president! Father will be going with you to bring peace to France and the world. I am so proud to be your friend!"

Steve gently withdrew from the embrace and then shook hands with former President D'Anjou as he greeted him in French. "Sir, it is always a pleasure to see you, as well as your shy little girl."

"Thank you, Steve. Some of my best memories involve you, especially that time in Moscow when you were so crucial to the success of those talks. My country has enjoyed a steady supply of energy ever since."

Steve then introduced Naomi and James Hawthorne.

"Gwen is so confident! If you were my husband, you would be traveling only with men, or very old ladies," chuckled Michelle as she greeted Naomi with a hug. "I would certainly not send you on a journey with such a beautiful woman!"

"These are the sacrifices I make for my country," quipped Steve as Naomi lightly punched his shoulder.

A short time later, Naomi, James, Claude D'Anjou, and Steve were meeting with French President Beauchamp. His goals were very much in line with those of Britain and the U.S. After a short meeting, the entourage left for Berlin.

Steve was mildly surprised when his group entered the VIP gate in Berlin. Once again, a beautiful woman was in his arms, welcoming him with a hug and not so brief a kiss.

"Hans and I are so proud of you both! I knew you were a special couple the first time I met you, but I never dreamed of this. I have so many stories to tell my children and grandchildren!" enthused Nadiya.

"Naomi! You will be Secretary of State and will travel with this handsome man? You are very fortunate. I was his girlfriend for an afternoon and it was your idea. Thank you so much for that memory."

"If you recall, my idea was for me to be his girlfriend for the afternoon," responded a smiling Naomi as she hugged her friend. "Somehow, I was replaced by some incredible blonde. I've never forgiven you."

"Hans! It's great to see you again," greeted Steve as he shook the tall blond man's hand. "Will you be escorting Naomi, James, Claude, and me to meet Chancellor Braun?"

"Not only that, but I've been selected to travel with you and represent Germany in these talks. The Prime Minister knows that we're friendly and has decided to promote me for this mission. She's eager to meet you formally."

Once they were shown into the Chancellor's private office, the group only had to wait a few minutes before Chancellor Braun strode into the room. Everyone stood immediately. Steve offered his hand, but the German Chancellor brushed past it and embraced the American warmly.

"I met you briefly in Paris years ago when you and your friends gave the most amazing concert I've ever seen. You performed from the top of the Arc de Triomphe under a full moon. The entire evening was magical. Now your beautiful wife is President of the United States and she has immediately given her warrior husband what may be the most difficult assignment of his career.

"Make no mistake about it. This situation is extremely tense. Between you and me, I never felt that your previous president had the necessary skills to avert this crisis. He was unyielding, yet he appeared weak and commanded very little respect from other nations."

"That's the same conclusion Gwen and I reached," agreed Steve. "Naomi and I have been instructed to find a way back from the edge. That's exactly what we're going to work toward. We'll need to be unified in this effort."

"I totally agree, although I have no idea how you can alter the apparent course of history. I truly hope that you manage to live up to the reputation you've garnered over the years, a fearless warrior willing to lay down his life for his lady and country. The video of you on your knees as that terrorist attempted to cut off your head, only to sever his own hand and then get decapitated by his 'helpless victim' is the single greatest example of 'never giving up' I have ever seen. Your resourcefulness and determination will be tested on this mission."

"I had held out hope that Lady in Red would someday perform in Berlin. You have many fans here. Now that your wife is president, that likelihood seems very small. Please relay to President Hammer that we would still very much like to have her visit our country while she is president," invited Chancellor Braun. "I can assure you that she will be warmly received, especially if her husband can somehow find a way to end the current tensions we all face."

Almost thirty six hours after departing Sparta, Steve and his entourage landed in Moscow. They were transported to their various embassies to rest, as well as to prepare for their scheduled meeting the following morning with Russian President Kozlov.

At nine AM Moscow time, Steve and Naomi, along with their allies, sat on one side of a large wooden table; while Kozlov, his aides, and interpreters sat across from them.

Once the formalities were complete, Steve spoke directly to the Russian leader in fluent Russian. "We are here for one purpose, President Kozlov. We want a peaceful resolution to the current situation. To cut to the chase, we are willing to accept a multilateral withdrawal from the present positions to those held the last day of May."

"Ha!" erupted Kozlov. "We proposed that very thing in mid-June, but your president would have nothing to do with it. If I accept this proposal now, my government will look weak. That solution is no longer an option, especially with the Chinese being so unreasonable.

"However, in the interest of peace, we will agree to withdraw once the American and other NATO forces have fallen back to their positions held in May, AND the Chinese and North Koreans have agreed to withdraw simultaneously with Russia. See how easily the situation can be resolved?" asked President Kozlov more than a little sarcastically.

"You are serious about this?" asked Steve, much to the surprise of Kozlov and the consternation of James, Claude, and Hans. "If the United States and the rest of NATO pull back to pre-June positions, you will withdraw your forces immediately?"

"Russia will withdraw, but only if China and North Korea have agreed to do the same," responded Kozlov. "Is this something you believe your country may consider?"

"The United States will consider any and all options to end this impasse before it escalates to war. Of course, the final determination belongs to President Hammer," replied Steve cautiously.

"I feel compelled to inform you that Britain is not likely to agree to this proposal," declared James Hawthorne, as Hans, and Claude echoed his sentiment regarding their respective countries. "And frankly, meaning no disrespect to Steve, I would be surprised if the even United States would accept this dangerous suggestion. We would be placing our countries at a serious tactical disadvantage."

"Regardless, that is the best offer I will make," asserted Kozlov. "Otherwise, we will continue to prepare for war. We cannot give up our positions when we are threatened on two fronts. Our superior military forces will be prepared for any eventuality."

"We'll be speaking with the leaders of China and North Korea. I expect to return within a few days with a concrete proposal," replied Steve calmly. "Meanwhile, consider your position carefully. I can assure you that if war breaks out, Russia will suffer greatly."

"All nations will suffer if it comes to war," agreed Kozlov. "But other nations will suffer more than Russia. We will see to that."

Once the group was airborne a few hours later, James Hawthorne moved to sit next to Steve. "I didn't mean to cut your legs off back there, but I felt compelled to state Britain's position. We can't allow Russia that sort of advantage in a potential conflict. You must understand that."

"I totally do. I also understand that Britain is in serious danger, regardless of how well your defenses are deployed. The same is true for France, Germany and all of Western Europe.

"I will not negotiate from fear," continued Steve firmly. "If we pull our forces back, we'll have to rely on our other weapons. It isn't perfect, but we'll be prepared to fight, and we'll expect to persevere. Let's see what China and North Korea are willing to do, shall we?" concluded Steve.

Back in Sparta, Gwen spent the first morning of her presidency reading reports and listening to various middle tier government officials explain what their particular agency was doing, hoped to accomplish, and reasons/excuses why it had not managed to attain its goals.

Lisa interrupted her just after noon. "Come and have some lunch. You need to maintain a healthy life style. Mom made some sandwiches and salad."

Gwen agreed and soon joined her friends and family in the kitchen of Valhalla. "Madam President...," began Jordan before Gwen cut her off.

"Jordan, please don't address me like that when we're in private. We're way too close to ever let my position harm our relationship. I need my friends and family to keep me humble and real. I didn't mean to interrupt you. I apologize. Please continue."

"Okay, Gwen," replied Jordan with extra emphasize on Gwen's name. "We had planned a fifth birthday party for Tim for Saturday. You told us that even though you were vice president at the time, you felt it was important for the kids to pursue their normal activities as much as possible.

"Now that you've managed a promotion, would you rather we scheduled the party for some other location? Our home is pretty close to yours and people will be curious. Security will have its hands full," stated Jordan.

"Please don't change your plans!"insisted Gwen. "Saint and Vicky are looking forward to it, as are a dozen or so other kids from Asgard, and a couple dozen more from Tim's preschool.

"I don't want to miss these important events in the kids' lives because I've somehow become president. Steve felt badly about leaving and having to miss the party. We know how much he looks forward to them.

"I know it won't be easy, but I'd really like to be a regular mom to the kids. It's not fair to them to have their parents taken from them, even for service to the country. I know military people often have to be away from their families, but I'm going to try to limit that as much as possible," promised Gwen. "Saint, Vicky, and I will attend Tim's party for sure. The kids are looking forward to it, and so am I."

Later that afternoon, Gwen met with Kate, Lisa, Paula, Ted, Julie and Jeff Wilson and Steve's grandfather, William Patterson. "Okay, let's go over the lists you drew up for my cabinet. We've got to move forward as quickly as possible."

"We decided to save some time by combining our efforts, and our lists," reported Lisa. "Two names kept coming up for VP. They were former President Rosen and former Senator Chatham. For cabinet and other posts, we have about twenty five names. I've had copies made and you can look it over at your leisure.

"Do you think Vince would be willing to return to public service?" asked Gwen. "I know how much Cynthia's death affected him. He spent almost two years taking care of her when she fell ill. During that time, he looked like he'd aged ten."

"He's been pretty reclusive since Cynthia died, but I'd think he'd enjoy having something new to keep him busy. It would help the healing. I didn't want to say anything to him until I found out if you'd be interested in having him as your VP," added Lisa.

"I like both recommendations. Senator Chatham did a great job when she was in the senate. Perhaps we could ask her to take a cabinet position if Vince will accept the vice presidency? Maybe even Secretary of Defense? She was chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee for a few years.

"Lisa, put out feelers to both of them. Try Vince first. If he's willing to return to public service, we'll ask Senator Chatham to be Secretary of Defense. If he isn't, we'll offer her the vice presidency," decided Gwen. "Thanks, everyone. I'll be going over the list later this afternoon and we'll meet again soon."

By one PM the next day, thirty three mothers, eight grandmothers, and thirty seven children were enjoying Jordan's hospitality as they celebrated Tim Burns' fifth birthday. All of the mothers were unsure about the proper protocol for attending a party with the President of the United States. It was the main topic of an anxious conversation as the group awaited Gwen's arrival.

"Jordan tried to put everyone at ease. "Gwen was tied up with some important issues, but she's on her way with Saint and Vicky. Please don't be all nervous and hesitant with her. She wants to be able to just be a mom and a friend when she's at the children's parties. Call her Gwen and talk about the usual things," she finished just as Gwen and her two kids entered the fenced in pool area.

"Hey, everyone! Sorry I'm late," apologized Gwen as she led her three year old over to play with the younger children while Saint sought out the bigger kids. "I made some potato salad."

As Gwen spoke, she set a bowl down on the table next to other food items. Then she placed several wrapped gifts down on an already impressive pile of unopened birthday presents.

The other mothers looked around at each other, wondering who was going to be the first to speak. Finally, Sandy Johnson Turner found her voice.

"It's good to see you, Gwen. You made your delicious potato salad? Great. Anything new in your life since the last time we got together?"

Gwen stopped, blinked her eyes a few times, and then broke into a huge smile. "As a matter of fact, there is. There's a great new shop on Second Street that carries all kinds of kids' toys, puzzles, and games."

Silence followed Gwen's statement for a few seconds before all of the ladies broke into loud laughter. Soon Gwen was the center of attention as all of the adults wished her success in her new position.

"Do you have any idea how cool it is to be at a birthday party with the President of the United States and we can call HER by her first name?" asked Laura Masters Watkins to the group in general. "My kids are playing with hers and she's a great friend. It's almost unbelievable."

"I just hope we can get over that and get right back to the same relationship we've always had," responded Gwen. "I need to be able to have friends who aren't trying to pressure me into supporting something, or opposing it. I want my kids to think of me as 'Mom' and not the President of the United States. I would really appreciate it if all of you treated me like any other friend."

"I guess we can treat you like all of our other billionaire friends that happen to be president," wisecracked Sandy Turner as she hugged Gwen. "Seriously, you make it so easy to like you that I don't think we'll have a problem with this presidential side job of yours, especially if you keep making your delicious potato salad!"

Soon the conversation was flowing and the other mothers began relaxing around Gwen. There were several Secret Service agents standing on the perimeter of the party area. They were close enough to be available if there was a problem, but remained removed from the conversation.

Everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves when seven year old Saint suddenly stopped playing Frisbee with Ruth Burns and Theresa Hunter and sprinted for the pool. He caught everyone's attention as he ran to the edge of the pool and without slowing down, dove into the waters. Just seconds later, he surfaced with a crying baby in one arm!

One of the mothers let out a scream as she ran to the pool deck where Saint had managed to place the child. "Jessica! Are you okay, Baby?"

The others sat in stunned wonder as the sobbing mother hugged the very wet two year old as she cried loudly. Of course the ruckus had drawn the Secret Service agents to the pool.

"Madam President, that son of yours was incredible," began the senior agent. "I saw the toddler fall and was trying to get here as fast as I could, but your boy sprinted over and dove in before I'd managed even a few steps. He may have saved that child's life."

"Thank you, Saint!" blubbered the infant's mother as she hugged the embarrassed boy while still holding her child on her hip. "That was amazing. You saved my baby!"

Meanwhile, Lisa, Kate, and Jordan shared knowing looks and slight nods. It was apparent that the boy was going to follow in his father's footsteps. It was obvious to all that the infant was fine, especially when she soon began happily playing with a toy sitting nearby.

"I'm amazed at how quickly he reacted and how well he swims," remarked another woman. "He's certainly a chip off the block! He isn't even eight yet."

"Steve has been spending a couple of hours a day every chance he gets with Saint. They swim, workout, run, and do all sorts of things together. My job is seeing that he learns the social graces, while his father works with him on the manly stuff," declared Gwen proudly.

"I hate to sound dumb, but how did you come up with the name 'Saint'? It's rather unusual," asked an older woman that had brought her granddaughter to the party. "I know I could probably Google it since you're so famous."

"That would be Kate's doing," admitted Gwen. "His name is Steven Theodore Hammer. Within a few weeks of his birth, we realized it was too confusing to call him 'Steve' since that's his father's name. Lisa started calling him 'ST', short for Steven Theodore. About a week later, Kate said something about 'Saint' and we all looked at her like she'd lost her mind. She insisted that ST was short for Saint and that's what she was going to call him. He became 'Saint' to all of us before he was even a year old. I held off as long as I could, but it was just so much easier to say. Plus, I think it's a pretty cool nickname."

"Yeah," agreed Kate. "At first I was thinking about calling him something short for 'Steven Theodore' and the first thing that came to mind was 'Stud' which is a cool nickname for a man, but not so good for a baby."​