Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"Sir, you never asked me a question. You simply stated that I couldn't possibly know that I'm pregnant with a son. I see no point in responding to a random statement. You've already determined that I'm either lying, totally mistaken, or making a really wild guess," observed Gwen calmly. "I won't accept any questions from you."

The entire press pool went very silent as they considered President Hammer's response to the belligerence of their fellow reporter. She was normally very cordial and considerate, but the reporter had all but called her either a liar or a fool. They had many other subjects to broach, so from that point forward no one questioned why Gwen felt she was pregnant.

"Madam President, congratulations on your pregnancy," began a tall thin man from a Budapest paper who had quickly determined that Amber Stahl had the correct approach by being conciliatory on the issue. "Your first ever concert in Budapest drew an audience estimated at a million and a half people. Was the size and enthusiasm of the crowd a surprise, and how do you like Budapest?"

"Let me begin by stating that I simply love this beautiful and ancient city. I'm so glad we made it part of our world tour. I'll cherish the memories of this visit the rest of my life. I was very much surprised at the size of the crowd that attended our concert. The energy they brought to the performance was incredible. My grandmother was born in Hungary, so I have more than a little Hungarian blood coursing through my veins.

"I feel like I've been welcomed home by the people of this great country. I'm honored and humbled by the reception my family and friends have received here. I wish to thank President Áder for his warm reception, as well as being so kind as to invite us. The people of this great country have made me feel very welcome, to the extent of making me and my family citizens. I hope to build on that, and further improve the already cordial relations the United States has with Hungary."

"Your tour, and especially the response by you and your Lady in Red company to the earthquake, has been covered extensively by the media back in the United States. Opinion polls show that the American public supports your actions in almost unbelievable percentages," prefaced a woman from a major American network. "Do you expect Congress to be more amenable to approving your cabinet choices, considering the strong grassroots support you're receiving?"

"I have no expectations regarding Congress," replied Gwen tersely.

"Are you concerned about having your cabinet selections approved?" followed up the lady reporter.

"Make no mistake, I do want my appointments approved, but I'll not be wasting any time trying to placate and mollify a fickle Congress. They are the ones that approached me about becoming vice president. My wealth and position were never even mentioned when both houses voted to approve my appointment as Vice President. Nothing has changed, except for the attitude of many of our elected representatives.

"I've never campaigned for any office in my life. I accepted the vice presidency because I felt it would help our country get past a possible constitutional crisis. I am now President of the United States, but I am not a politician and I refuse to become one. I'm extremely honored to serve my country, but I will not waste one minute of my time trying to convince the legislative branch of government to do the right thing for our great nation. They are, for the most part, driven by personal and party agendas. I have no interest in pursuing either."

"Madam President, congratulations on your pregnancy," began another network reporter. "Your relationship with many members of Congress has been contentious almost from the first day you assumed the presidency. Can you explain why that has come about?"

"I hardly think that an explanation is necessary," replied Gwen immediately. "Many members of Congress feel that their role in government is to promote themselves and their party. They do so at the expense of our nation and its citizens. However long I serve as president, I will always do what I feel is best for the United States. That radical approach seems to cause more than a little consternation in Washington."

"Madam President, did you realize that you were pregnant that evening you spent kneeling and praying for your husband and son's safe return?" asked a reporter from another Hungarian paper. "Can you describe what your thoughts were that night?"

"Yes, I knew I was carrying Steve's son even then. My thoughts centered on the safe return of Saint and Steve and how much I loved them. I came to love my friends, relatives, and the Hungarian people even more as they worked together tirelessly to stabilize that old church and free the victims trapped beneath, even though they had no real reason other than my assertion to believe anyone was even in it. That act of faith was a tremendous source of comfort for me. I am humbled to have such friends. I have seen firsthand how men and women of courage and honor conduct themselves, which is yet another reason I have so little concern for the opinions and actions of Congress."

"You still haven't explained how you could know you're pregnant with a son!" broke in the belligerent reporter that had so recently been rebuffed by Gwen.

"Please allow me to handle this, Madam President," responded Steve, stepping to the microphones. "Ladies and Gentlemen of the press, President Hammer has to prepare for her flight to Kiev, so she must terminate this session. However, I'm already packed and ready to travel. If Mr. Kingston would care to remain behind, I'll be quite happy to pursue this discussion with him."

The aggressive reporter turned a bright red as a scowl crossed his face. Unable to meet Steve's eyes, he turned and hurried from the now silent room.

"Madam President, thank you for your time. Remind us never to imply that you're not forthcoming and truthful," chuckled Amber Stahl. "Kingston's desire for the truth wasn't strong enough to motivate him to pursue a one on one with your husband."

"Thank you, Amber. I thought Steve was quite generous with that offer. I'm sure he'd have found the proper response for Mr. Kingston's rude behavior," chuckled Gwen as she gave Steve a brief kiss on the lips before taking his hand and leading him from the room.

Air Force One landed in Kiev two hours later. The Ukrainian people were extremely proud that President Hammer had included Kiev on her world tour. She and her husband had always treated Ukraine very well. The state of the art hospital Lady in Red had built and funded was the pride of Kiev and all of Ukraine. People from across Europe and beyond traveled to Kiev to receive the best possible health care, often at no charge to the patient. The facility had already expanded once, and more wings were said to be in the planning stage.

As the motorcade wound slowly through the streets of Kiev, Ukrainians lined the sidewalks, waving and cheering their welcome for President and Steve Hammer, along with the other owners of Lady in Red. The city was already feeling the effects of thousands of travelers entering the city in anticipation of the concert to be performed in Independence Square the following evening.

The state dinner that night was a gala affair. Steve and Gwen made certain that Nadiya and Hans received a great deal of their attention. Nadiya's father had retired from government service, but Nadiya herself was extremely well known and popular in her homeland. The fact that she had been a strong personal friend of President Hammer for many years increased her prestige and popularity.

Steve was of the opinion that in the future, under the right circumstances, Nadiya could attain the position of Prime Minister, and eventually President. Her father had been held in high esteem in Ukrainian politics and had developed many lasting friendships among government officials. That possibility was only enhanced as Nadiya and Hans were constantly seen chatting and laughing with the Hammers and their close friends and relatives. It was apparent to all that they had an easy and warm relationship with the Americans. In Kiev, and the entire Ukraine, that friendship was a source of great pride. Nadiya's star was still rising. Gwen and Steve both realized the advantages of having strong allies in governments around the globe and felt that Nadiya would be one of the best.

"I remember that night in Paris many years ago when that skier thought he would steal Gwen from you," recalled Nadiya as she and Steve enjoyed a dance. "He had no chance but was way too full of himself to realize it. No real woman would give you up for a fool like him, and Gwen is the smartest woman I have ever met. I do wonder if that fellow had managed to entice Gwen if I would have had a chance with you."

"You're an extremely intelligent, beautiful woman," began Steve before Nadiya interrupted.

"But, you're so in love with Gwen that you can't even imagine any scenario where you are not with her," finished Nadiya. "Naomi and Jordan are two very dear friends and we talk. They said you told them both the same thing when they asked you similar questions years ago. That loyalty of yours may be your strongest trait. You are a man of honor and totally devoted to your wife. That devotion has played no small part in carrying her to the Presidency of the United States. Your support and friendship has lifted me higher than I ever dreamed, and it could boost my career to even greater heights. You already know that I will never forget or forsake my American friends. I understand why you are so good to me and I truly appreciate it."

"Gwen didn't need any help from me to get where she is. You never did, either," replied Steve sincerely.

"And that is another trait women find so appealing," laughed Nadiya. "You are very modest and always downplay your role in the lives of those you love. Your modesty is refreshing in this jaded world.

"Gwen did have a little help to become an expectant mother again, didn't she? It's very uplifting to see the love you have for each other. But now that I know about the old blind woman, I realize that fate had plans for you two from the beginning. That little girl, Lena, is adorable and Saint already demonstrates the same strengths of character his father possesses. Your family is going to be very interesting to watch over the next decade or so."

"I'm glad you're enjoying it," replied Steve. "I feel a tremendous responsibility to see that Saint learns life's lessons and becomes the best he possibly can be. If he's meant for great things, the burden's on me to see that he's prepared."

"I would think that watching and helping you save those people trapped in that earthquake is exactly the sort of thing that instills your values in your son. You worry about it, but just being who you are and doing what you do will ensure that Saint learns the right values. With you as a father, he can do no less."

The next morning began with an emotional breakfast as Vince Rosen, Cindy Quick, Kate, Lisa, Jason, and Naomi, along with Chip and Jared were scheduled to fly back to Washington to appear before various Senate committees.

"Let me see if I have this right," stated Kate. "You want us to tell the truth when we're questioned. Does that pretty well cover it?"

"That may oversimplify it, but not by much," asserted Steve with a grin. "Make no promises except to serve Gwen and your country to the best of your ability. Don't apologize for your success, or your wealth. Stress that you will not be accepting any compensation for your service and that you'll assist Gwen in any way possible, whether you're officially approved or not. Be as courteous and respectful as their behavior merits, but if they attempt to bait you, push back. Keep in mind that they have nothing you need. You aren't dependent on them."

"Yeah!" interjected Jared. "That reminds me of the first few days of training camp in our rookie year. We were almost twenty seven years old, had served in the military as officers, but we were considered rookies. They have a lot of little hazing traditions in pro ball. The Skins had one where rookies carried the duffel bags of the veterans.

"Steve and I were lugging huge bags around for two veterans that were younger than us. They had stuffed some weights in with their clothes just to bust our balls a little. One day we were taking a team bus to a media event and these two guys insisted that we carry their bags, even though they weren't needed and no one else was taking any.

The guy Steve was carrying for, Mad Dog Jones, wasn't content with just busting Steve's chops a little. He began making some pretty inappropriate comments about Gwen and how big her smile would be when she met Mad Dog and he showed her his prized possession. This is where it gets good," laughed Jared as he recalled that day.

"We stepped off the bus lugging these bags of weights when Steve makes like a hammer thrower in a track and field event. He spins around a few times and lets go of the bag. We were all watching in amazement as it cleared the railing and landed in the middle of a small retention pond, scaring away a dozen geese that were calling the pond home.

"Mad Dog got all pissed and yelled at Steve that he had just disrespected him and his property. Steve snarled right back at him that he owed no respect to him, or anyone else that would speak that way about a lady. If he wanted his shit back, he could go diving for it."

"I never heard that story," chuckled Billy. "Mad Dog Jones was a huge defensive end. He was traded to Minnesota the year you guys joined the Skins. He played as a back-up there for a couple years before he was cut."

"That's the guy," agreed Jared. "The entire team, as well as the coaches saw the whole thing. Mad Dog wanted to rip Steve's head off and Steve just stood there, grinning at him with the confidence we're so familiar with. When it came right down to it, Mad Dog just didn't have the nerve to try Steve. He finally turned and walked away. The team owner heard the story from the GM and they traded him later that week.

"I think the coaches were pretty happy about the whole scene. Steve sent a message to every player on the team by tossing Mad Dog's bag into the drink. He was perfectly willing to go along with the silly tricks and games they played on rookies, but no one was ever allowed to disrespect him, or his lady. That little stunt secured his role as team leader. Not many teams have a quarterback that can kick the crap out of everyone on the team. You have to remember this happened just a month or so after he had cleaned the butcher's clock and tossed him into the ocean. The guys were well aware of what Steve was capable of doing."

"Thanks for that tale, Jared. It pretty much sums up Steve's approach to people. He treats everyone with respect until they demonstrate that they don't deserve it. I'll keep that attitude in mind when I'm being grilled by those Senators," stated Lisa.

"Listen, everyone. I know I'm sending you back to Washington where they'll probably insult you, your family, your friends, and your family pet. Try to be as patient and respectful as possible under the conditions you'll be facing. Know that Steve and I love all of you and we'll support you until hell freezes over," added Gwen. "You mean more to us than this job ever will."

"Speaking of your job," began Lisa. "South Korea's Park is out and the new government wants very much to correct what it feels was the poor decision by Park to not honor you at a state dinner. I told them that you'd be receptive to meeting with representatives of the newly formed government once your world tour was concluded and you've had an opportunity to get settled back in Washington."

Ashley then joined the conversation. "I have some news. I received a call from the president of NBS last night. It seems that they've reassigned Andrew Kingston. He asked me to convey his deepest apologies for Mr. Kingston's unpleasant statements at your last press conference. He insisted that they did not reflect the opinions or policy of the network. He especially wanted me to tell Steve. He said that he hoped it would be enough, but if Steve wasn't happy with the decision, he should call his private number and the network would be sure to make it right."

"I wonder if that apology has anything to do with the three year deal they signed with Lady in Red Productions to broadcast the annual Christmas show you guys put on," wondered Kate. "Now that you're President of the United States, that deal must really look very sweet to them. If Kingston had screwed that up, they would've had him sweeping up the mail room."

"It's interesting that he wanted to be certain that Steve was placated. One of the biggest reasons not to insult the President of the United States is fear of her husband," pointed out Naomi. "It was pretty evident that Steve was pissed big time at Kingston. He was smart to get out while he could still walk."

Gwen, Jordan, Charlie, and Steve spent the afternoon touring the hospital Lady in Red had built years before. They were greeted warmly by everyone they met, patients and staff alike.

"This is why we won't be placing our company in blind trust of any kind," explained Gwen to members of the press as their visit concluded. "You've just seen firsthand how this hospital is benefiting people of Kiev and the entire Ukraine. The hospital we built in Moscow has been very well received and serves thousands of people every year. We fund these institutions generously, thus ensuring that everyone entering our buildings receives the best possible medical attention. That's why we work so hard at keeping Lady in Red Productions a growing international business. We have some very heartfelt and substantial obligations to meet."

Kiev was one of the few cities on the tour that had previously hosted concerts by 'Lady in Red', but that didn't dampen the enthusiasm of the huge crowd gathered to enjoy the American musicians as they once again performed in Independence Square.

Knowing how well the Ukrainian people cared for her and what Lady in Red had done for them, Gwen was not surprised to have the vast audience go to one knee as she moved to the front of the stage. She sported a huge smile as she waved to the crowd before motioning everyone to stand. By the time they had gained their feet, Charlie had signaled the band to begin. The crowd was immediately dancing in the streets.

For Gwen and the rest of the musicians, it was almost like playing in front of their home town. They were relaxed yet energetic as they entertained around a million of their closest friends. The huge audience was vocal and very enthusiastic as they sang along and danced to the music for nearly five hours.

The following morning Gwen and Steve took time to once again answer questions from the reporters traveling with them. They weren't scheduled to depart for Moscow until noon and had time for a more detailed press conference.

The first thing Gwen noticed as she stepped into the room to meet with the press was Heather Jensen standing on the left side of the group. "Heather? This is a pleasant surprise. Are you reporting for a news outlet?"

"Thanks, Madam President," replied the attractive young blonde as the pool of reporters turned their attention to her. "I've been assigned to replace Mr. Kingston, who had to attend to pressing matters back in New York. I arrived a few hours ago. It's an honor to be here covering your world tour and all of the things you're accomplishing."

"Thank you, Heather," responded Gwen, stepping to the microphone. "It's always nice to see someone from Sparta doing well. Why don't we begin the questioning with you?"

"Rumor is swirling in Washington that your husband has been summoned to appear before a Senate committee to determine if he should be approved as your national security advisor, and he declined. Can you comment on that?"

"Wow! I can see you won't be lobbing softballs at me," chuckled Gwen as she considered her answer.

"Congress is well aware that Steve is committed to this world tour. We need him for his talent and stage presence in our concerts. As you well know, Heather, a great many people would be very disappointed if he failed to appear on stage with us. The fact is that I also rely heavily on his advice when I meet with foreign leaders. I'd be foolish not to take advantage of what I feel is the most knowledgeable person in international diplomacy available anywhere.

"Then there's the fact that above all, Steve's my husband, my confidant, and my lover. Why would we even consider being apart at a time like this? We don't take orders from Congress, especially if they interfere with our family, my job, and national security," finished Gwen firmly.

"Is your husband your national security advisor?" asked the next reporter. "Doesn't he have to be given security clearance and approval from Congress to hold that position?"

"Steve and Naomi are the two people that I turn to for advice on international matters. Naomi is back in Washington and prepared to appear before a Senate committee in a few days. The short answer would be that Steve really is my national security advisor, although he does not hold that official title. As far as security clearance is concerned? He's my husband. Has any president ever had a spouse who required a security clearance? Do you think any president has ever discussed sensitive issues with a spouse? Steve needs no vetting. You all know that. For Congress to suggest that a highly decorated former Navy Lieutenant Commander, Navy SEAL, and trusted advisor to several presidents needs its approval is ludicrous. I'll proudly compare Steve's qualifications, integrity, patriotism, and knowledge with any Senator or Congressman that questions his credentials."

"Does your husband currently have total access to any and all information available to you, Madam President, including classified documents?" asked another network reporter.

"Absolutely," replied Gwen succinctly.

"Are you concerned about how this response may appear to Congress? Your husband has refused to comply with a summons from the Senate Intelligence Committee," continued the same reporter.

"Steve has not refused to appear before the committee. In fact, he's already informed them that he'll be willing to appear later in the fall, once this tour is over and our schedules become more stable," replied Gwen. "As far as Congress' reaction is concerned, you need to submit that question to them. I'm sure their constituents will be interested in their responses"

"It appears that the sale of the Washington Redskins to your company is a mere formality at this point," pointed out Heather. "Are you going to go through with the purchase if the NFL grants final approval?"

"We submitted our offer over eighteen months ago, long before I was even considered for Vice President. We knew it would be a slow process, but now that it may finally be approved, we'll move forward as quickly as the situation allows."

"Will Steve come out of retirement if you gain ownership this season?" pursued Heather.

"We've been far too busy to even think about that possibility. I'll support Steve if that should be his decision. He and Jared would certainly make it a better team," added Gwen as she glanced at her handsome husband and smiled.

"Do you blame the officials for the Super Bowl loss earlier this year?" asked a cable news reporter.

"Steve would be very upset with me if I did," responded Gwen. "Games are won and lost by players and coaches. It's that simple. Steve never assigns blame for a loss. He simply looks for ways to improve. We have no dispute with the officials and we very much appreciate their professionalism and knowledge of the sport."

A reporter standing in the back asked, "Do you think Congress will approve Vince Rosen as Vice President? Will the Senate confirm your sister, your brother-in-law, Naomi White and her father, Jeff Wilson to cabinet level positions?"

"Again, you should direct those questions to members of Congress. I've submitted the names of extremely qualified people for positions in our government," replied Gwen. "It's my hope that they'll be approved, but we're all aware of the current climate in Washington. Time will tell."

"Did you or your husband have anything to do with Andrew Kingston being called back to New York, and a personal friend of yours, Ms. Jensen, replacing him?" asked a cable news reporter.

"Let me assure you that we did not contact his network, for any reason. They did contact my Press Secretary, Ashley, to apologize for his behavior and she acknowledged that apology. Neither I, nor Steve, had any intention of having him removed from this tour," stated Gwen firmly. "That said, I think it was obvious to everyone that Steve was irked by Mr. Kingston's attitude toward me. He may have intended to have a private discussion with Mr. Kingston, but neither of us indicated to anyone in any way that we wanted him removed."

"Is it appropriate for your husband to physically threaten people, especially reporters, when he perceives some sort of insult has been directed toward you?" asked the same reporter.

"Steve did not threaten Mr. Kingston. He simply suggested a more private opportunity to explain our position to Mr. Kingston. You may assume there was a threat, but I know Steve. He's never physically harmed anyone that didn't start the fracas. He will, on occasion, intimidate others. If you just stand your ground and calmly discuss any disagreement you have with him, he'll never harm you.

"That said, Steve will not stand idly by when someone becomes overly offensive or inappropriate toward me or my children. He's my husband and he considers protecting his family to be a top priority. I see no fault in that and I doubt that many other women would either.

"As all of you know, I have a flight to Moscow this morning and I have to prepare. Thank you for your time," concluded Gwen as she took Steve's hand and walked side by side with him as they left the room.

Once Air Force One was in the air, Ashley asked the question that was puzzling her. "Isn't Heather awfully young to be a White House correspondent for a major network? She wasn't afraid to ask questions however, was she?"

"Steve pretty much jump started her career when she was a reporter in Charlotte, North Carolina," recalled Gwen. "It was two years ago that she tried to contact Steve in the off season. The station she was working for was scheduled to participate in the local version of 'Dancing with the Stars'.

"You know how they usually go. News anchors are coerced into trying to look good in tuxedos and gowns as they attempt to learn some basic moves for the dance floor. Heather's station had an excellent female anchor about sixty years old. She flat out refused to participate. It was certainly her right, but Heather thought the determining factor was that a rival station had an extremely attractive woman who happened to be a former gymnast, anchoring their morning news. She had been selected to represent her station. She was tough competition, even for a much younger woman.

"The older news woman shrewdly insisted that Heather, who was young and quite beautiful, be the female representative for their station. Heather accepted the assignment and was told to find a dance partner, hopefully a professional. That was all the effort her station put into it. After spending a week visiting every dance studio she could find, Heather asked us for help. I still remember how anxious she was," reminisced Gwen.

"Heather had been a high school classmate of Cheryl Baxter's. She knew that Cheryl worked for Lady in Red and called her to ask how to get in touch with Steve. Cheryl promised that she would pass Heather's contact information to Steve, and she should wait to hear from him. To Cheryl's credit, she gave the information to me, rather than Steve. Cheryl's reasoning was I probably wouldn't want someone giving my husband the phone number of a beautiful single woman. That's why she's doing so well with Lady in Red. She's considerate, smart, and loyal," offered Gwen with a smile.

"Heather was surprised when I called her. She had been hoping to hear from Steve. She knew what a soft touch he is for beautiful women. Once Heather explained her situation and how all of the proceeds were to benefit shelters for battered women in the Charlotte area, I told her that I'd discuss it with Steve and let her know.

"Heather told me that the Skins were scheduled to play the Panthers in Charlotte that weekend, so it wouldn't involve extra travel. She offered to come to Washington to spend a few days working on their dance routine. The girl had it all worked out! Steve agreed, but they rehearsed in Sparta rather than Washington, with Diane's help.

"I remember that now! Steve had a bye week and you both spent the weekend in Sparta. We didn't get to hang out too much because Steve was busy all the time," recalled Billy. "I thought he was studying game films or something."

"Yes, Steve and Heather worked all weekend to perfect the routine. Charlie and Jordan rehearsed with me because we decided to have them dance to live music, which we provided. We didn't tell anyone because we wanted everything to be a total surprise when we performed in Charlotte," revealed Gwen.

"So dancing with Steve that night made that big a difference to Heather's career?" asked Ashley. "I was pretty busy going over things for a senate vote the following week, so I didn't really follow the event too closely."

"With all due modesty, Steve, along with Jordan, Charlie, and me made Heather's career that night," stated Gwen. "Pretending nerves, Heather had maneuvered the dance rotation so that she was last to perform. She never told anyone who her partner would be, and truthfully, not many people seemed to care.

"The woman from the rival channel was really good. Her partner was actually a back-up dancer from the network show 'Dancing with the Stars' and they performed a beautiful routine. It looked like it was all over but the trophy presentation. Then Heather, still without a partner anywhere in sight, stepped up to the microphone and announced that her band would need a couple of minutes to set up and asked everyone to be patient.

"The small orchestra that had played quite well all evening grumbled a little until they saw Jordan, Charlie and me carrying out some equipment. They couldn't help us fast enough once they realized who we were. Charlie had brought along a drummer and another guitar player to fill in around Jordan and him. The crowd came alive while we quickly set up. Once we were ready, the lights on the dance floor went out for several seconds.

"When they came back on, Heather was posed like a dancer from 'A Chorus Line' in a short, low cut, sexy black dress that she had worn under the more modest gown everyone had assumed she would wear for her performance. She was facing Steve, who I have to admit looked sexy as hell. He had on a loose pair of silk trousers held up by suspenders that fit snuggly over his exposed chest. Women in the audience oohed and aaahed as soon as the lights came on.

"We played 'Dirty Laundry' while Steve and Heather performed the sexiest dance I'd ever seen. I was jealous and aroused at the same time as I watched them. I actually had trouble remembering the lyrics. They brought the house down! Afterward, people cheered and applauded for several minutes while Heather and Steve bowed and waved to the audience.

"Then they motioned for Jordan, Charlie, and me to join them in the spotlight and the cheering increased," reminisced Gwen. "The emcee came over to interview us and everyone, including Heather, was stunned when Jordan announced that Lady in Red Productions was donating a million dollars to the benefit, and that we had asked a few corporate friends to help this very worthy cause. They had come up with another million, for a two million dollar total. The stated goal had only been forty thousand dollars.

"I think that station still plays the video of that dance every chance they get. Heather became a bit of a celebrity. Within a few months, she had several offers from larger market stations and wound up in Chicago with an affiliate of ABS. She moved up to anchoring the evening news for the Chicago affiliate a few months ago. Now she's the network's White House correspondent."

"I bet that being on good terms with you and Steve was considered when she was promoted. They sure don't want to jeopardize the contract they have with you to broadcast three Christmas shows on their network," surmised Ashley.

"But she asked some pretty good questions," observed Paula. "She didn't act like she was worried about upsetting you in any way."

"She's smart, Mom. If she were a sycophant, she'd have no credibility. I'm sure that a lot of people think she got where she is because she's got nice boobs and a pretty face. She has to perform as a top journalist or she'll lose any credibility she has. I would hope that she knows that Steve and I expect no special treatment; just some common courtesy."

"So Heather pulled off a promotional stunt that carried her to a network position? That's a great story," insisted Billy.

"Make no mistake, Heather is very talented and, as beautiful as she is, she was bound to make it big eventually. We just sped the process up a bit," replied Gwen.

"That girl is absolutely stunning," observed Paula. "You were very understanding to go along with Steve dancing with her. She could have set her sights on him."

"Of course she would, Mom," acknowledged Gwen. "He's wealthy, famous, handsome, athletic and a bunch of other things women look for in a man. I trust Steve totally. He proved himself years ago when he managed to resist my sisters, Jordan, Stephanie, Nadiya, Naomi, Diane and even you. He loves all of you but he's never strayed, so I'm confident that he's my guy as long as I treat him right."

Moscow was teeming with activity in anticipation of the concert Lady in Red had scheduled for Red Square. A large stage had been erected and the huge jumbotrons were in the process of being installed around the huge square as President Hammer's motorcade made its way through the city. People lined the streets and waved and cheered their approval as the motorcade made its way to the luxury hotel Gwen and Steve had first visited just after high school.

"This brings back memories!" exclaimed Paula to Gwen as they arrived at the hotel. "It seems like yesterday that you and Steve were solving that Russian spy issue with France, and you were barely out of high school!"

"That was pretty much all Steve," replied Gwen as she clutched her husband's hand. "All I did was smile and try not to look dumb."

"That line might work if I hadn't been there to witness the entire thing. You certainly did your share to bring the dispute to a reasonable resolution," recalled Paula. "I should have known back then that one of you'd become President of the United States."

"I wouldn't have been surprised if it had been Steve," admitted Gwen. "Instead, he made a path for me to succeed, always placing my welfare ahead of his own. Have I mentioned lately that I love the guy?"

"I seem to recall hearing that someplace," laughed Paula as she gazed at the couple sitting so close together. "You're an inspiration to the whole country, or more accurately, to the entire world. Sometimes I have trouble believing you're my daughter."

The remainder of Gwen's day was spent in their suite reviewing files and documents concerning the recent interactions between Russia and the United States. Steve and Gwen felt that America had to develop some stronger ties with Russia, finding common ground and some measure of trust. War had appeared far too likely a few short weeks ago and the couple was intent on finding ways to scale back the conflicts with President Kozlov and Russia.

The next morning, Gwen and Steve were driven to the Kremlin to meet with President Kozlov. After giving photographers enough time to get hundreds of photos of the world leaders looking gregarious, Kozlov led the American couple into a large meeting room and offered them comfortable seats near a chair that was obviously his.

"I understand that you are fluent in Russian, Madam President. May I suggest that we dispense with any interpreters and enjoy a private conversation?" began Kozlov politely.

"I think that's an excellent suggestion," replied Gwen with a genuine smile. "We can be more candid without concern for what others may hear or take away from our meeting."

Steve remained silent as Kozlov and Gwen engaged in a far ranging conversation. He couldn't help but marvel at how well Gwen interacted with her Russian counterpart. It was obvious that Kozlov was impressed with Gwen's knowledge of issues concerning the two nations, but there was something else and it took Steve a few more minutes to put his finger on it.

Kozlov was under Gwen's spell! Steve had sat across the desk, looking Kozlov in the eye, insisting that Russia withdraw to previous positions and even subtly suggesting that the United States might resort to using its nuclear arsenal. The man's eyes had been hard, but they showed no emotion. Kozlov masked his emotions very well.

Steve felt like he was now looking at a different person. Kozlov's eyes seldom left Gwen as he smiled and nodded at her comments. For her part, Gwen was as charming and persuasive as Steve had ever seen her, and she was having a noticeable effect on the crusty Russian.

Kozlov had served in Nobokov's administration and had seen Gwen several times over the years, but had never been introduced, or even gotten near the beautiful American. That didn't mean that he hadn't been impressed with her beauty and grace. He had collected all of her movies and had even employed the use of the 'pause' bottom on his player more than a few times during some of Gwen's steamier scenes. To sit so close to the American icon of beauty and see her smile at his remarks caused the older man to feel genuine affection for the President of the United States. It was that softening of attitude that Steve noticed as he quietly observed his wife spin her magic.

"Gwen? Mr. President? I apologize for interrupting, but I would like to be excused to visit the men's room. I hope you don't mind. I'll only be gone a few minutes," promised Steve as he watched the Russian leader turn his attention away from Gwen.

"I understand perfectly!" chuckled the older man. "Please feel free to visit our bathroom. Just step outside and one of my aides will show you the way."

Meanwhile, Gwen had a slightly amused look on her face as she nodded in agreement with President Kozlov. She knew that Steve never had any bladder issues. She always claimed that he had cast iron organs, and he had used the bathroom a few minutes before they left the hotel. He must have determined that Gwen being alone with President Kozlov would somehow be an advantage.

It was almost half an hour later when Steve tapped softly on the door before opening it. "Sorry, I took so long. All of this traveling seems to be taking its toll on me," apologized Steve as he entered the room.

"Again, I understand completely," commiserated the Russian. "Our time is up for today, but President Hammer and I will be meeting once more before you depart, and there is the dinner tonight in her honor. I will see you both then."

"Thank you for your hospitality and candid conversation, Mr. President," replied Gwen as she stood and without hesitation, moved to embrace the Russian leader. "It's my hope that Russia and the United States will be able to work together to resolve issues before they again become so dire as they recently were. You have been most gracious."

Steve saw surprise and then pleasure on Kozlov's face as Gwen hugged him. Once Gwen stepped back, Steve shook the Russian's hand firmly. "Thank you for being so kind to us and for making Gwen so comfortable. You'll find that she's very loyal and considerate to those people she cares for. We look forward to the state dinner and any future meetings."

"Your wife is a remarkable woman," replied Kozlov as he shook Steve's hand. "America has a leader with compassion and strength. It's my hope that Russia and the United States can work together to resolve many of the issues facing our nations.

"Madam President, please feel free to call me any time of the day or night. I believe that communication between you and me will benefit our countries significantly. I will arrange my schedule so that I can visit the United States next year. Thank you for the invitation."

"We look forward to your visit," smiled Gwen. "I only hope that you will feel as welcome in the United States as Steve and I have felt in Russia."

After the meeting Gwen and Steve traveled back to their hotel for a late lunch with their group before preparing for the state dinner later that evening. "You wanted me to be alone with Kozlov and it did make a difference. Once you left the room he began opening up on a variety of topics. Surprisingly, the biggest one on his mind was the health of his granddaughter"

Steve simply raised an interested eyebrow and nodded for Gwen to continue. "She's five years old and was recently diagnosed with leukemia. Her doctors recommended our hospital here for her treatment. Her doctor told him that it was one of the very best children's hospitals in the world. I was taken completely by surprise," admitted Gwen.

"That's pretty serious, but she can be cured, right?" asked Steve.​