Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"For some reason, it never occurred to me that the success of Lady in Red Productions could be viewed as a negative thing," admitted Gwen. "I can see how people that don't know us might assume that we're going to use my presidency to increase our personal wealth, when the fact is that not one of us would place our personal financial well-being ahead of the country's. That's a simple truth."

"I have one final word of advice and then I'll climb off my soapbox," joked William Patterson. "You have the best support group I've ever seen. Trust them and listen to what they tell you. But, at the risk of appearing biased, there's no person in the world better able to assist you to make the right decisions than my grandson. His understanding of politics and diplomacy far surpasses anything I've ever seen. His devotion to you cannot be questioned. I don't have to tell you this, but you can depend on him to be completely loyal to you to the end. Take advantage of his insight and wisdom."

"You're preaching to the choir on that one," responded Gwen. "I don't know how I ever managed to reel him in, but he's the best! I know that. Every day I try to show him how much I appreciate and love him."

"We'll go over these talking points a few times," insisted Lisa. "You need to have responses ready when the press starts grilling you. We've had a bit of a temporary setback in South Korea, but everything is picking up now."

"Gwen, you need to know that there are no 'conflict of interest' laws regarding the president and vice president," chimed in Kate. "There are some vague laws about taking payments from foreign nationals and sovereign nations. Lisa, Jason, and I will probably be accused of having conflicts of interest that could make Senate approval of our appointments more difficult."

"We'll face that when the time comes," replied Gwen. "I am not going to appoint anyone I do not trust completely to be among my closest advisors. I'm going to continue relying on you three heavily, officially or unofficially if necessary, regardless of what the Senate decides."

The next day Gwen was taken sightseeing by several Japanese government officials. Every place she went, crowds quickly formed. When she faced a group of people they would quickly drop to a knee and bow their heads and remain in that position for a short time before returning to their feet.

The state dinner that evening was an elaborate affair, as Prime Minister Koda pulled out all the stops to honor and impress the American President. Steve never left Gwen's side throughout the entire evening. Once again, the folks back in America were treated to news clips of their President as she represented them in a very receptive Japan. Much was made of her beauty and poise by members of the media, as well as by the general public.

James and Stephanie Hawthorne were traveling with President Hammer's group. Gwen and Steve were very careful to demonstrate to the Japanese, as well as to the members of the press that the two couples were very close. Steve had discussed it with Gwen during the flight from Washington to North Korea, and they felt strongly that keeping James and Stephanie in the limelight would enhance James' political career, which in turn, would strengthen relations between the United States and Great Britain.

Of course Stephanie had always been extremely comfortable with her cousins and their close friends, and James had been welcomed as part of the family, so it required no real effort for Gwen and Steve to make it obvious that they thought very highly of Prime Minister Blake's representative. That evening, Gwen managed a couple of dances with James, while Steve managed the same with Stephanie.

"James really appreciates what you and Gwen are doing for his career. Being seen with you two is always good, but especially now. Britain stuck its neck out to support your peace initiative. It wasn't a universally popular move in Great Britain, but James managed to convince Prime Minster Blake that you were up to the task and that you were the world's single best bet to avoid war.

"It helped the Prime Minister's popularity, but it also brought James to the front in the political arena," stated Stephanie. "His wife is first cousin to the incredible Gwen Hammer, President of the United States. Highlight reels of James accompanying you as you enter into negotiations with various world leaders are constantly playing in London.

"You've been great to my family, including James. I've loved you for years and that's only gotten stronger. Diamond talks about her 'Uncle Steve' all the time. Whenever she sees you or Gwen on TV, she starts smiling and calling out your names as if your images might respond. Who could have guessed that when fate put you and Gwen together at that mall that day it would change the course of history?"

"You're overstating things more than a little," replied Steve modestly. "Nothing would have kept Gwen from achieving great things, with or without me."

Stephanie broke into a big smile as she gazed into Steve's eyes. "You've convinced my family that you believe that to be true, but we all know better. Gwen's incredible. We all realize that, but you're the guy that made it possible for her to achieve so much more than she ever would have on her own."

At the end of the evening, Prime Minister Koda prevailed upon Gwen and Steve to once again perform the dance that had begun their journey. Steve was outfitted with a microphone so he could sing as he and Gwen glided around the dance floor. At the end of the performance, he leaned down and kissed the President of the United States with passion, as onlookers cheered and clapped their approval.

The next evening saw Gwen, Jordan, Charlie, Steve and the other musicians climb a raised platform erected near Shibuya Station. Fans had packed every square inch of available space, including the streets from curb to curb as far as the eye could see.

Gwen moved to the front of the temporary stage to speak. She had barely managed to begin thanking the people of Japan for their gracious reception, when those near the stage went to one knee. The gesture quickly spread and in less than half a minute, each member of the huge audience had dropped to a knee and bowed their head!

Once again, Gwen had difficulty articulating her feelings. Tears formed in her eyes as she motioned for the crowd to stand. Once her audience had regained its feet, Gwen gracefully moved across the stage, stopping to bow numerous times and in every direction as the crowd roared its approval.

Gwen managed to deliver a shortened version of the speech she had planned as she constantly wiped tears from her eyes and cheeks. It was all shown very clearly on the many large monitors Lady in Red had erected prior to the show. The citizens of Japan loved her honest emotion. Gwen finally managed to collect herself enough to announce that the show was about to begin.

Hours later, as the singers and other musicians were relaxing and enjoying food and refreshments after the show, Charlie made an observation to the group. "I've never been involved in anything like this before. The energy and passion that Gwen invariably brings has raised all of our performances beyond my greatest expectations. Every last one of you was amazing. This tour is going to be one for the history books. Normally, I'd expect improvement as we grow more comfortable with each other, but after tonight I wonder if that's even possible."

"If we're able to maintain the level we've managed so far, we'll be doing pretty darn good!" proclaimed Kathy Perrine enthusiastically. "I've done a lot of concerts in the past five years, but I've never seen anything like what we have going. Of course, the fact that we're performing right along President Hammer and Jordan Burns is the biggest reason for the success. No one's sold more music or placed more butts in concert seats in the last ten years than Jordan. She's on the top of the music world, and President Hammer is only slightly behind her. I've never been so proud to be a part of anything as I am with touring with all of you."

It was quite late when the performers finally made their way back to their hotel. Everyone was exhausted and retired for the night in preparation for the morning flight to Beijing. Ashley reported to Gwen's room shortly after she and Steve had finished their breakfast.

"Madam President, the press is requesting an opportunity to ask you some questions. They're pointing out that they haven't had much access to you the past few days."

Gwen looked at Steve to learn his thoughts. "You need to have a good relationship with them. You promised to be transparent and answering tough questions is a big part of doing just that. Keep in mind everything we talked about the other evening. You'll do fine."

"Okay. Ashley, tell the press Steve and I will be down to the media room the hotel has provided us in half an hour. That'll give us time to answer questions and still keep to our schedule. We don't want to arrive in Beijing late."

"Madam President," began a network reporter soon after Gwen and Steve had stepped to the podium. "Members of Congress have expressed concern over your great wealth and the very real possibility of conflicts of interest for you. How do you respond to those concerns?"

"I was wealthy when Congress approved my appointment to become Vice President. Nothing has changed, except that I'm now President, and they're suddenly voicing concern. Congress as a whole, always seems to do what it perceives as politically expedient, be it right or wrong. I won't."

"Are you denying that there is potential for conflict of interest for both you and proposed members of your cabinet?" followed up the reporter.

"That would be akin to denying that gravity exists," reasoned Gwen calmly. "Unless the President of the United States is completely penniless, that possibility always exists. But I do deny that I or any members of my cabinet will ever consider personal wealth when making decisions that affect the nation. Lady in Red Productions is a very strong, viable company. It will have a large income stream regardless of my executive decisions."

"What steps will you take to avoid any perception that you and your family are using your position to further your personal wealth?" quickly questioned another reporter.

"None, other than always doing what I feel is best for America. I really can't be bothered worrying about perceptions. I will not be running for reelection, so I'm not going to even give it a thought. Let it be known, however, that every decision my team and I make will be predicated on what we feel is best for the United States."

"Do you expect Americans to believe that your wealth won't increase substantially while you're in office?" pursued the reporter.

"Please allow me to respond to that question, Madam President," interrupted Steve. "Harold, the President has been very clear, but either you're not listening or you're unable to understand what she is saying.

"Lady in Red Productions is guaranteed to increase in value over the next three years. We receive royalties from music, films, and television every week. We have a new movie coming out that will do extremely well, and we fully expect to make more films. We have a clothing line that is extremely successful. Our action figures, as well as our animated films are quite profitable. I have several lucrative promotion contracts from my sports career.

"Can you see where I'm going with this? Lady in Red Productions is a large and profitable entity, and will continue to be one long after my wife leaves office. What you have not mentioned is the billions of dollars our company has spent on disaster relief around the world. You haven't asked about the hospitals we've financed, with no taxpayer dollars, so our veterans can receive the best possible care. You've neglected to bring up the hospitals both in America and around the world that bear our logo, where children receive the best health care available, free of cost. The people of the United States can rest assured that our charitable donations will only increase as time goes on.

"My wife has no need to apologize for her talent, wisdom, or success. The United States is extremely fortunate to have a person with her skills working to improve the lives of all Americans. This will not end the unfair speculation that Congress and the media thrive on, but it will serve for the moment to end any questions directed to her about conflicts of interest, understood? It's a huge waste of her time, and if you check, you'll see that the president and vice president are exempt from the federal conflict of interest statute," concluded Steve firmly.

"Madam President, you were essentially snubbed in South Korea because of your visit to North Korea and meeting with Chairman Jong. Do you hope to restore friendly relations with South Korea, and if so, how will you accomplish it?" asked Amber Stahl.

"I want to improve relations with all nations of the world, but no nation will dictate with whom the President of the United States can negotiate, or even visit. South Korea is a valuable ally and we very much want them to remain an ally. That said, South Korea needs to determine its own course. I'll be responsive to any requests or suggestions they may have."

"Madam President, you made a film earlier this year when you were a United States Senator. It's reported that you appear nude in the film. Do you believe that sort of behavior is appropriate now that you're President of the United States and leader of the free world?" asked a cable news reporter.

"George, there's famine, disease, war, poverty, and so many other issues that we need to be concerned with and you're asking about a movie. I'm an actress and sometimes I appear topless or even nude. Again, long before I became the Vice President, I appeared in the Spartan trilogy where I appeared naked, as well as in several other films. No one is required to watch any of my movies, and if my costumes, or lack of same, are objectionable to someone, I'd strongly suggest that they do not watch my films. I'm comfortable with my performances as long as my husband feels the same. His opinion is the only one that really matters to me on this subject."

"Do you believe that members of Congress are retaliating against you because of the way you spoke to them at the joint session?" asked a Japanese reporter.

"That's a question you should pose to the members of Congress," smiled Gwen. "I can only guess what motivates them. The usual suspects are power and money. More than a few of them are jockeying into position to run for my job in a few years."

Gwen ended the session a short time later so she could make preparations for the morning flight to Beijing. Four hours after takeoff, the American contingent was driven through the densely populated city of Beijing to the Ritz-Carlton. Once they were settled, the hotel served the travelers a gourmet luncheon in a private dining room.

The rest of the day was spent discussing international issues and the political problems at home, but the next day saw their Chinese hosts proudly transport the group to many of the more famous points of interest in the area. They spent several hours at the Great Wall of China. Steve and Gwen walked along the wall with Saint holding Gwen's hand while Steve carried Vickie on his hip.

"This boggles the mind," marveled Gwen as she studied the manmade wonder. "It goes farther than we can see. Did you ever imagine we'd be here some day? It's incredible!"

"I never gave it much thought, but I'm certain I didn't anticipate walking along the Great Wall of China with my wife, son, and daughter. Of course, I never expected you'd become President of the United States, either," admitted Steve as he fondly squeezed Gwen's shoulders to his chest. "You've been a source of amazement ever since I first laid eyes on you. I never knew I could love anyone the way I love you."

"You promised to show me the world, Sailor. You certainly lived up to that promise," smiled Gwen as she leaned back and gently kissed Steve's lips.

The news that morning in the United States featured a short video of the President of the United States strolling along the Great Wall with her family before stopping to lovingly kiss her husband. That little exchange was featured prominently on the morning news. Americans were becoming so accustomed to seeing their president and her husband demonstrating their affection for each other that a new term had come into use, PPDA's. They were proud to be represented by a couple that was so unwavering in their love and support for each other. After all, wasn't that the way it's supposed to be?

The Chinese government ensured that the American dignitaries were shown the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace as well as several modern architectural accomplishments. It was a city of contrasts, with many ancient sites located not far from some very modern facilities.

That evening was the State Dinner. Once again the President of the United States was radiant in a red gown. She and her husband spent considerable time chatting with Chinese leaders in government and industry. Following Gwen's lead, Lisa, Kate, and Naomi made a serious effort to work the crowd and win over the movers and shakers of China. By the end of the evening, Steve was certain that progress had been made in improving relations with China. President Xi proved somewhat susceptible to Gwen's charms. Steve pretended not to notice when the eyes of the President of the People's Republic would linger on Gwen's cleavage as she engaged him in conversation.

Later that evening, Gwen discussed the affair with Steve when they reached their room. "That seemed to go quite well. I think we have some budding relationships with Chinese leaders. Hopefully, we'll be able to build on them in the future."

"You certainly had President Xi's attention," agreed Steve. "He had trouble pulling his eyes away from that magnificent chest of yours."

"Hey, if the 'girls' can help improve international relations by permitting a few little peeks, they'll be happy to do their part," chuckled Gwen.

"Yeah, he was peeking at the peaks," laughed Steve. "I was trying to keep his wife distracted so she wouldn't see how far his eyes were bugging out. I'd say that you and the girls managed to impress President Xi quite nicely."

"But what about my husband?" asked Gwen, beginning to undress. "Does he see anything he likes? In addition to international relations, do you think he'd be interested in improving an interpersonal one?"

"He plans on making love to his beautiful wife at least once in every country on the tour," promised Steve as he dropped his jacket on a nearby chair. "There's something especially erotic about sleeping with the President of the United States!"

"Uh, oh! It looks like it's going to be a very long three years in the White House," giggled Gwen as Steve gently toyed with her nipples. "The things I endure for my country!"

The next evening saw Gwen standing on a stage in the center of Tiananmen Square preparing to address a huge crowd that had begun gathering hours earlier. She couldn't help but notice the large police presence. Men in uniform were scattered throughout the audience, constantly monitoring the crowd, paying far more attention to those in attendance than to the activities on stage. Gwen made certain to walk to all sides of the stage, which was encased in bullet proof glass, as she spoke to the crowd. She kept her speech brief, simply thanking the President of the People's Republic for working so hard to avoid war, and for inviting Lady in Red to perform for the people of China. She was very careful to avoid any controversial topics.

The huge crowd, estimated at over a million people loved the show and frequently roared its approval, forcing the singers to wait for the din to abate before they could continue. The show went a little long as the appreciative crowd was treated to several encores.

Later that evening, after making love, Gwen and Steve found time to discuss the performance before nodding off. "The heavy police presence was to make certain that there wasn't a repeat of the kneeling you saw in North Korea and Tokyo. Xi didn't want it to appear that his citizens held you in higher regard than their own leaders," informed Steve.

"That never occurred to me," admitted Gwen. "I thought they were just keeping order. I never expect anyone to kneel for me. You know that."

"I sure do," replied Steve as he ran his hand lightly over Gwen's breasts. "I also know that you've become a symbol of hope, peace, and a better life to people all around the world. You're much more than the President of the United States to these people."

"Tell that to Congress," quipped Gwen. "They don't seem to share your high opinion of me."

"That's their mistake. We're going to have to make some decisions about how you're going to work with them by the time we return to D.C. The first issue will be getting your appointments passed. It seems fairly obvious that Vince is going to have no problems being approved as Vice President, and Chatham looks like a safe bet for Secretary of Defense, but your other nominees are going to have tougher rows to hoe."

"That's what Lisa keeps telling me. I'd be a lot more worried if I didn't have you to lean on," whispered Gwen, sliding her hand down Steve's torso. "Right now I need you to make love to me again."

Gwen and Steve used much of the twelve hour flight to Sydney discussing policy and issues with their inner circle. They were interested in pursuing the concerns and impressions of the others.

Gwen was surprised when Jordan revealed a potential problem. "As you know, my mom stayed in Washington to help with the homeless shelters Richard started when he first met Ashley. They've become the main source of food and shelter for a lot of unfortunate people in Washington. Ever since he married Ashley, Mom's been helping run the shelters when he's traveling with her.

"Your mom has been great," praised Steve. "She's been spending a lot of time working for charities. That's why she's on the board of directors that oversees our charitable donations."

"I hope you'll think so after you hear what she's been up to while we've been traveling," worried Jordan. "I don't know any easy way to tell you so I'm just going to blurt it out. She's been dating Vince Rosen!"
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