Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"Depending on the subtype, the success rate is often pretty good and getting better," replied Gwen. "Kozlov asked a lot of questions about treatment and cures. He's extremely concerned. I reassured him as much as I could without seeing any files on the child. He asked me to look at her records to see what I think and to personally look in on the little girl."

"He knows that you're a pediatric surgeon, doesn't he?" questioned Steve. "You're a great doctor, but leukemia is outside your area of expertise."

"He knew that, but I took the time to explain it to him anyway. He still wants me to go over her diagnosis and treatment just to be sure she's being treated properly. He's looking for emotional support for his family and himself. It's not uncommon. I told him that we're scheduled to visit the hospital tomorrow and I'd check on her, on the QT. As you know, this is a private matter and not for public consumption."

"Interesting how it all works. He's one of the world's most powerful people, but he's at the mercy of technology and the skill and knowledge of the doctors treating his granddaughter," offered Steve. "This sure makes him seem more human than he appeared when I met with him just a few weeks ago."

Gwen's friends and family gathered in a private dining room in their hotel for lunch. "Now that we have Hans, Claude, and James here, I'd like to know what was said to Kozlov about possible nuclear options during the negotiations," stated Gwen as she looked at the three men that had accompanied Steve and Naomi on his diplomatic mission a few weeks prior. "I thought Steve might gloss it over, so I'm asking you gentlemen to fill me in."

Hans quickly glanced at James and then Claude. "James would be the one to ask. He discussed it with Steve while we were flying to China."

"You were sitting right next to me!" pointed out Stephanie's husband. "I really think that Steve would be the best person to explain the entire process."

"James, why don't you tell me?" prodded Gwen. "Steve already told me his version. I'm just curious about anything he may have left out."

"If you insist, Madam President," responded a clearly uncomfortable James Hawthorne. "Kozlov was inferring that he wasn't about to be pushed into realigning his troops because of some casual promise he made to Steve. He more or less told Steve to go pound sand, as you Americans like to say. Steve simply informed him that, as president, you were prepared to do whatever was necessary to protect the United States in the event of a war. Since Russia had you at a tactical disadvantage, all options were on the table.

"Steve never mentioned a nuclear response, but Kozlov assumed that Steve had implied it. He became a bit agitated, but then he agreed to keep his promise."

"You sat at the negotiating table and threatened Russia with nuclear war?" gasped Paula as she turned to Steve. "Wasn't that extreme? Gwen would never use atomic weapons!"

"Mom, please don't assume what I would or wouldn't do to protect the United States. Kozlov pretty much told me the same story that James just gave us. He asked me if I was really prepared to use nuclear weapons."

"Well, what did you tell him?" asked Paula.

"I told him that Steve has my complete confidence and I would follow his advice on any decision if Steve felt it was necessary," replied Gwen calmly.

"My God! You'd actually do that?" asked a stunned Paula.

"There are two things I had to consider when I responded to Kozlov's question. I had to protect Steve's credibility. If I hadn't told him that I'd use those weapons, I would've cut Steve's legs out from under him for any future negotiations. The second thing is quite simple. I will listen to any advice Steve gives me and if he feels strongly that I should do something, I will do exactly that. His knowledge of these situations far outweighs mine. I trust him implicitly. As you can see, I was being totally honest with Kozlov."

Silence ensued for a full minute as Gwen's statement was absorbed by everyone at the table.

"When I think about it that way, you're absolutely right," admitted Paula. "If I were the president, I'd feel the same, but I truly hope it never comes to that. I agree that Steve certainly understands military and political developments better than anyone else."

"Of course, you have to realize that Steve is the most gentle, kind person on the planet most of the time and would never consider using nuclear weapons if there were any other options," added Gwen.

"I don't think that Kozlov was seeing the kind and gentle side of Steve that day," laughed Claude D'Anjou. "He blinked before Steve did and the rest is history, as they say."

President Kozlov made certain that the state dinner that evening was planned and executed to perfection. He was the consummate host, always polite and gracious as he introduced Gwen and Steve to numerous government officials. A short time after they finished eating, Steve saw Vlad and Anna Novokov and ushered Gwen over to greet them.

"Vlad! It's so good to see you!" gushed Gwen as she hugged Vlad Nobokov. "You're looking well. You've got to stop in and visit with Steve and me and see our kids. I'd really like to meet your children, too."

Meanwhile Steve was hugging an obviously pregnant Anna Novokov. "You've put on some weight since the wedding, but you look great! You have a certain glow about you."

"The same glow that you put on your wife's face," laughed Anna as she moved over to hug Gwen. "These men think getting their poor wife pregnant is some kind of amazing feat. I tell Vlad that ordinary men have been doing that for thousands of years, but he just smiles at me."

"I know," agreed Gwen. "Steve's had a silly grin on his face since the moment I told him that we were having another son."

"Which is another thing most people, especially men, cannot understand," replied Anna. "You have only been pregnant a week or so, yet you knew that you were and that it was a boy. So many want to know how you knew to look for Steve and your son in that old church, and how you know that you are with child, a son.

"I tell Vlad that some things have no explanation and that he should not assign the usual limitations of mankind to you and Steve. He is living proof of that. Those quick actions of yours saved his life on our wedding day. Without you and Steve, we would not be here tonight," stated Anna appreciatively.

"I haven't seen you since your father's funeral. How have you been?" asked Steve as he shook the hand of his Russian friend.

"Anna and I are doing well, as are the children," replied Vlad. "I want you and Gwen to know that we greatly appreciate that you took the time to come to Father's funeral. It was a difficult time for us. His death was totally unexpected."

"We're your family's friends and we wouldn't have missed it. Your dad was a good man that always had the best interests of Russia in mind. I understand that you're also quite popular in political circles. Some observers think you may become the next President."

"A lot can happen in the next two years," warned Vlad. "President Kozlov has already stated that he has no interest in another term. He was a compromise candidate and has served reasonably well. He governs more from the center than the other candidates would have, and that has been good for Russia.

"There are those that would not like to see me become President of Russia. Father had his enemies and they are now mine. Everyone in Russia was very pleased when Gwen became President. We watched Gwen take her oath of office and Anna told me at the time that the two of you would put an end to the tensions of imminent war that were so prevalent at the time.

"Believe me when I say that no one in Russia wanted a war, but sometimes foolish pride and old ways are stronger than common sense. You and Gwen were willing to take a huge risk to reach a peace, and the people of Russia understand how difficult that decision was. We greatly appreciated your wisdom and courage. To the people of Russia, and to the world, President Hammer truly is the Queen of Peace."

Gwen and Steve found themselves enjoying the evening. They danced with Russian dignitaries and their spouses. Gwen's smile was especially wide when Vlad escorted her onto the dance floor. Once again, the calming influence of President Hammer was felt in a foreign capital. Everyone knew the story of the heroics of Steve and Gwen on that fateful day when terrorists attacked the Novokov wedding party, but tonight Steve had the lovely and very pregnant Anna Novokov laughing gaily as they danced. Those witnessing President Hammer and her husband interacting with Vlad and Anna Novokov saw clearly that the friendship between the couples was very real.

Gwen and Steve, along with Jordan and Charlie, spent the next morning visiting the hospital they had financed for the people, especially children, of Moscow and all of Russia. Gwen managed to discreetly spend some time with the team treating President Kozlov's granddaughter. It was not common knowledge that the Russian President's granddaughter was being treated in a hospital built and funded by Americans. Gwen felt more than a little relief when she was told that the child was responding very well to treatment and was expected to make a full recovery.

Touring the hospital was an extremely gratifying experience for the friends. "I can't tell you how proud I am to be a part of something doing so much good!" exclaimed Jordan. "I know the concept was originally part of international negotiations, but it turned out so well! I think there'll be some real excitement when we announce our next hospital location. It's almost like cities vying to host the Olympics!"

"I think you're right," agreed Gwen, before adding. "You and Charlie will be making that announcement, so be prepared. I think that it's important that everyone realizes that Lady in Red is building the hospital and not the United States government."

"That'll be our pleasure. Charlie's Spanish is pretty good, so I'll let him do most of the talking," replied Jordan. "I love seeing people react when we do something really nice for them. Joining with you guys and meeting Charlie vastly improved my life. You guys have been great to me."

The hospital tour ended in the early afternoon to allow the travelers time to prepare for the concert to be held at Lomonosov Moscow State Univeristy's main building that evening. "Why is the concert being held at the State University rather than Red Square?" asked Gwen as the group was being transported back to their hotel.

"It's a combination of a couple of things," replied Charlie. "Russia is extremely proud of the University. It's one of the best in the world and attending it is quite prestigious. They love to showcase it. The other reason is the size of the venue. It was estimated that three and a half million people attended a concert there by Jean Michel Jarre back in the nineties. They're expecting an even larger crowd tonight."

As they approached their hotel, Jordan laughed and pointed out the window. "I can't read Russian, but I bet the shirts those teens are wearing say 'Queen of Peace'. It's the same shirt we saw in Hungary, but written in Russian, or at least I think it's Russian."

"It is," confirmed Steve. "Look at all of the people wearing them. It looks like we're going to have a big crowd tonight. Gwen is building quite an international following."

"They'll be coming to see all of us," protested Gwen. "You know that as well as I do. Jordan and Charlie are the top selling artists in the world and Kathy Perrine isn't far behind. Toss in Jack Timberline and a great band with Jody playing the sax and you've got something very special. People all over the world realize it. A few misguided ladies may even show up just to see Steve sing and strut around the stage in those tight shirts and jeans."

The concert in Moscow was carried live in the United States. When the tour had been set up, it had been decided that there would be two performances broadcast live. The first would be from Moscow. The previous concerts had segments broadcast, but Russia, with Lady in Red's permission, sold TV rights to stations and networks around the word, promising the revenues would be used for charities across Russia.

Their feed would be under the control of the Lady in Red directors and would be the same as those displayed on the Jumbotrons on site. When the musicians took the stage at seven PM Moscow time, noon on a Sunday afternoon in Washington, the screen showed the backs of the performers as they gazed out at an incredible crowd estimated in the millions. Gwen's mouth was partially open in wonder as she stepped to the front of the stage, only to be greeted by millions of people dropping to a knee and chanting "Queen of Peace" in Russian. Gwen shook her head in amazement as she flashed her trademark smile and motioned for everyone to stand, even as tears once again trickled down her cheeks.

Once the crowd regained their feet, a long and thunderous ovation echoed across the city. Charlie waited until the din was down to a low roar before signaling for the band to begin. For the first time, Americans got to watch a live performance of their president while on her 'We Come in Peace' world tour. Viewers were stunned as they experienced the single most incredible greeting of an American leader they had ever seen. It was very apparent that President Hammer was extremely popular in Russia!

Those watching on television were treated to close-ups of their president wearing a short, red leather outfit that exposed a great deal of cleavage. Jordan and Kathy Perrine were similarly dressed, but Jordan was in bright blue and Kathy in white. By the time Gwen finished 'We are the Champions', estimates of the crowd size began crawling across the bottom of TV screens. Russian officials determined that over four million people were packed into every available space possible to watch history being made.

As usual, some Americans watching questioned the appropriateness of Gwen's outfit, but far more viewers simply felt pride and wonder as Gwen entertained and pretty much owned the huge crowd. This was their president! Occasional close-ups of Steve brought gasps from more than a few wives and mothers watching from their homes. He wore a tight fitting tee-shirt with 'Queen of Peace' blazed in Russian above the likeness of Gwen kneeling in the cemetery in Hungary as she prayed for the rescue of her son and her husband.

The songs featuring Gwen singing lead with Jordan and Kathy Perrine singing back-up while dancing on either side of her were the biggest crowd pleasers. When the trio performed 'Hate Myself for Loving You' with Steve and Charlie featured on guitars, millions of people began dancing in place and clapping with the driving drum beat.

Gwen's interpretation of 'Addicted to Love' was another crowd favorite. Watching Gwen, Jordan, and Kathy dance and strut in perfect unison brought groans as well as cheers from the men in the vast audience. Jodi was prominently featured with her sax as she stood just behind Gwen. She blew away the four million fans in front of her as she showed the people of Moscow and around the world why she was considered by many to be the best sax player ever.

As the final encore, Steve and Gwen performed their 'Dirty Dancing' routine. Fans recognized the song after a couple of bars and began cheering and applauding wildly as a spotlight fell on Gwen while Steve sang. Because of the crowd reaction, Charlie signaled to his band mates to vamp until the noise abated enough for Steve to be heard. As the huge audience realized that the musicians were waiting for them to settle down, the entire venue became eerily silent. Charlie started the band again.

Steve joined Gwen in the spotlight and their performance began. The dance routine had been extremely popular in their earlier concerts and was still one of the most frequently watched videos on YouTube. Steve and Gwen brought the house down with their performance that warm night in Moscow.

Back in American tears flowed down the cheeks of viewers across the nation as millions watched President Hammer and her husband dance and sing flawlessly as they 'dirty danced' around the stage. A huge roar of approval thundered across the city when Steve held Gwen aloft while Jordan and Charlie took over the singing as Steve slowly lowered Gwen until her face was even with his. As the lights began to dim on stage, Gwen's lips met Steve's as the audience whistled, cheered, and clapped with absolute delight.

"And that, Ladies and Gentlemen, is how you put on a concert!" exclaimed Charlie to his friends once the equipment was turned off.

The next morning, Steve waited as Gwen briefly met privately with President Kozlov. "I've spoken with the team caring for your granddaughter, President Kozlov. They assure me that she is responding extremely well to treatment and see no reason she shouldn't recover fully. It looks like you'll have her with you for a very long time."

President Kozlov's relief flashed across his face. He thanked Gwen profusely as they wrapped up their private meeting. A few minutes later, he posed with Gwen for another photo session before she and her group departed for their next destination. Everyone was surprised when Gwen stepped inside the Russian's proffered hand and hugged the burly man. Kozlov's face first reflected his surprise and then his delight as he warmly embraced Gwen as dozens of cameras flashed continuously.

Steve was delighted when he saw the emotion on the Russian leader's face. Gwen had managed to get past the man's defenses and had secured a place in the man's heart. Steve understood that the man would always place what he felt was Russia's best interests first, but he would at least be willing to listen to Gwen and consider her thoughts on international issues. That accomplishment had been a priority of his for Gwen's presidency. She was building her sphere of influence around the world with her engaging personality and generous acts, as Steve had anticipated when the world tour was planned.

Steve's reaction did not go unnoticed by James Hawthorne. On the flight to Berlin, he brought the subject up to the entire group. "Steve's orchestrated this trip brilliantly. He's been very careful to present Gwen in the best light possible and trust that her beauty, grace, charm, and gentle nature will win over world leaders, as well as the citizens of the countries we've visited."

Everyone turned their undivided attention to James. "Have you noticed how he places the rest of us in situations to help our standings in our home countries? He and Gwen were extremely warm to his cousin Jen and her husband, who just may become Prime Minister in the not too distant future. Look how well he and Gwen supported Nadiya in Ukraine. They took great pains to showcase Vince Rosen and Cyndi Quick when they flew out to join the tour. They've made it obvious that they regard Stephanie and me quite highly. I like to think that I have some influence in the politics of Great Britain. I'd be very surprised if Hans doesn't receive a great deal of positive exposure when we visit Berlin. Michelle will be quite prominent when we reach Paris. She may well be their next Mayor.

"You're right!" gasped Paula as realization washed over her face. "Gwen and Steve have a master plan for this world tour. I just thought that they were being generous and supportive, but James has opened my eyes. You've been building support for the future as well as the present, haven't you, Gwen?"

Gwen smiled with pride. "We've been trying, Mom. It was pretty much Steve's idea. He's always promoting me, as well as our friends. He's so good at it that people seldom realize he's doing anything at all. He's always looking out for me and working behind the scenes to improve my sphere of influence. Notice that he never makes any effort to take his place in the limelight? He's content keeping me front and center. That's why I insist that he accompany me to as many of the press conferences as he can. I want it made obvious to everyone that we're a team. I think people like knowing that Steve is very much involved in the decision making process. Everyone respects and trusts him."

"It's almost nine AM back in Washington," observed Steve as he smoothly deflected the subject. "Naomi, Jeff, Jason, Kate, and Lisa are all scheduled to go in front of Senate committees today. I'm very curious to see how they're received by the Senate. Lisa doesn't need Senate approval, but since she was asked to appear to discuss Gwen's presidency, and since we want Jason approved to head FEMA, she's cooperating as much as possible."

In Washington, Jason was already testifying, although his appearance was not expected to be as contentious as Kate's and Naomi's. The Senate committee first wanted him to explain how Lady in Red had been able to respond so quickly and effectively to the natural disaster in Hungary.

"It took some time to put it all together, but essentially, we have thousands of businesses contracted to supply us with whatever services or goods we could conceivably require. We give them a reasonable good faith deposit once they meet our standards and they maintain a larger than normal inventory. Many vendors across the country, and now in Europe and much of Asia, are contractually obligated to respond as soon as they are notified. When they are needed, those vendors that are compensated above the going rate in their area for their goods and services," explained Jason.

"Do you own any of the equipment, building materials, or health supplies that your company delivers to disaster sites so quickly?" asked a curious senator.

"We do not. We rent the equipment when we need it and pay for all supplies upon delivery. We have no equipment or supplies in storage anywhere."

"You believe that is less expensive and faster than buying the equipment, building materials, and temporary housing before the emergency occurs?" pursued the same Senator.

"Absolutely. FEMA has thousands of fully stocked single wide mobile homes parked in fields and lots all across the country. Most of them will never be used. They'll simply deteriorate until FEMA has to pay someone to dispose of them," reasoned Jason.

At the same time, Naomi was preparing to answer questions from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the Dirksen Building. Jared sat quietly behind her as Naomi was introduced and then sworn in before the questioning began.

"Thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to appear today," began the committee chairman as he posed the first question. "As soon as President Hammer assumed office, you were dispatched on a global diplomatic mission with President Hammer's husband. Neither of you carried any official position in this nation's government. Do you feel that it was legal, ethical, and reasonable for President Hammer to place you in that difficult position?"

"Yes, sir," was Naomi's brief reply.

"You couldn't have had time to be properly briefed on the negotiations in which you were expected to participate. Don't you think it would have been more prudent for President Hammer to send seasoned diplomats that had been involved in the negotiations from the outset?" demanded the Senator.

"No, sir." responded Naomi once again.

"Ms. Wilson-White, this committee expects more detailed responses to the questions," chastised the committee chairman. Naomi made no response to his statement and simply waited for him to continue, which seemed to annoy the powerful Senator.

"Do you understand what I'm telling you?" asked the man, obviously irked.

"Yes, sir," responded Naomi as the gallery broke into loud laughter.

"Okay, Ms. Wilson-White, we'll do it the hard way," pressed her red-faced questioner. "Please explain to this committee exactly why you feel that you were qualified for this extremely sensitive assignment."

"Yes, sir," responded Naomi with a quick smile. "President and Steve Hammer explained the situation to me. They then told me that they felt that I was well qualified for the position of Secretary of State and that my name would be submitted."

"That's it?" exclaimed the chairman when it became apparent Naomi had completed her response. "Two people said that you were qualified and you believed them? Please explain what your thought process was that led to your conclusion."

"Sir, I may be oversimplifying the situation, but essentially that really is all there is to it," responded Naomi thoughtfully. "I had more than a few doubts when President Hammer told me that she was placing my name into consideration for the position of Secretary of State. As Steve, Mr. Hammer and I looked over files on the situation, Gwen and Steve made it a point to explain why I was selected. It boiled down to their absolute confidence in my ability. I realized that if the two most accomplished, most patriotic Americans I had ever met felt I was qualified, I certainly was. I trust their judgment implicitly."

"That's just incredible," complained the Senator. "Do you know if there was a background check of any kind? Wouldn't it seem prudent, even for the all-knowing Hammers, to scrutinize your background before appointing you to such an important position?"

"President Hammer didn't need a background check. Steve has known me for twenty years and Gwen for almost as long. They also knew that the Senate would conduct an extensive investigation into my past, which I'm sure that it did. Since I'm here today and no horrible bits of information have been leaked about me, it's pretty apparent that nothing untoward was discovered," reasoned Naomi.

"You seem extremely confident, Ms. Wilson-White. Are you and President Hammer expecting the Senate to simply rubber-stamp its approval?"

"Steve cautioned me against expectations of any kind, Senator. I have no reason to be nervous. I've been involved in some very delicate and stressful negotiations recently," explained Naomi, "all of which turned out extremely well. I'm simply here to respond to direct questions and to tell the truth. My role here is quite simple."

"It may sound simple to you, but the members of this committee take this responsibility seriously," insisted the Senator. "There's a very real possibility that the committee will recommend that you not be approved. What would you do then?"

"I'd continue to assist Gwen any way I could while we determined whether the American public was willing to allow the Senate to place personal and party agendas above duty to your country," replied Naomi calmly.

"Are you threatening this committee?" demanded the angry Senator. "You're saying that if we don't approve your nomination, we're somehow shirking our duty to make certain that we have a highly qualified individual for Secretary of State."

"No, sir. I am not making a threat. I was simply answering your question about my reaction to not being approved by the Senate. The reaction of the citizens of this country would dictate my actions," explained Naomi.

"Exactly why do you think the public would be so upset if you were not approved?" posed the Chairman.

"Sir, I've been back in the United States for several days now. Before that, I had a firsthand view of President Hammer's global power and influence. The United States has never had a couple represent it like this couple has for the last seven weeks or so. I've seen the response she gets from the citizens of the world. If Americans don't get behind her and support her efforts to bring peace and stability to the world, I'll be extremely surprised and disappointed.

"She's being hailed as the 'Queen of Peace' around the world. She and Steve are in a place no one could have ever imagined a couple of months ago. They represent the best of us, and the best of humanity. The citizens of America need to express their feelings to their elected representatives," concluded Naomi.

"Again, you're assuming that the people of America want you as Secretary of State," countered the Senator. "I would like you to tell me what makes you qualified for this extremely important position."

"Senator, with all due respect, you have my dossier in front of you right now. Perhaps it would facilitate things if you simply stated any reasons you may find to question whether I am qualified. I've studied the qualifications of the last ten people to hold the office. We both know I compare favorably to all of them," replied Naomi.

"That is not the way things are done!" thundered the exasperated politician. "We ask questions and you answer them. That's how this works."

"Sir, that approach simply prolongs the process, as well as lengthens the time that your face remains in front of numerous cameras and microphones. Everyone on this committee knows my entire life story. If you have any specific questions, I'll be happy to respond," promised Naomi with a beautiful smile that contrasted sharply with the tense demeanor of her questioner.

"You are trying my patience and not helping your cause with your confrontational attitude," insisted the Chairman before asking his next question. "Some think that President and Mr. Hammer are far too friendly with the Russians. What sort of promise did you and Mr. Hammer make to Kozlov to persuade him to withdraw his forces? Was there a promise or some sort of deal that the American people need to know about?"

"Actually, Steve did make a somewhat veiled promise to President Kozlov that appeared to further the outcome we were seeking," admitted Naomi.

"Why am I not surprised?" asked the Senator rhetorically. "Would you please tell us what was promised to the Russians that turned the tide of the negotiations?"

"President Kozlov had referred to the American Congress as a 'sad collection of career politicians, afraid of their own shadows'. Steve promised President Kozlov that our self-serving Congress would never have the fortitude to prevent President Hammer from taking whatever steps she might deem necessary should Russia renege on its agreement. Steve told President Kozlov that the United States had deliberately placed itself in a weakened tactical position to attain peace, but if war were to occur, the United States, under President Hammer's leadership, stood prepared to defend its people, as well as its allies, in any fashion necessary."

Naomi's response was met with silence at first. Then whispers and mutterings raced across the chamber. It was Naomi Wilson-White's contention that no secret agreement had been reached. Steve Hammer had simply made it clear to Russia that there would be extreme consequences if the prior informal agreement was not honored.

"Are you telling this committee that Steve Hammer threatened Russia with nuclear war?" asked the incredulous Senator.

"No, sir. He simply explained that Congress was in no position to prevent President Hammer from defending our great nation in whatever manner she felt necessary," answered Naomi. "I might add that observing Steve Hammer negotiate with heads of state was extremely educational. He has the well-earned reputation of being open, frank, and fearless. World leaders know before he even speaks that he'll stand by his promises, as well as support his friends and allies."

Reporters quickly scurried from the room to file their stories. This was a side of the negotiations that had not previously been revealed! President Hammer's husband had issued a veiled threat to President Kozlov, and it had achieved its desired effect. Steve had dismissed the ability of 'a self-serving' Congress to impose its will on his wife, President Hammer, or to prevent her use of every weapon at her disposal if it came to war.

Politicians on both sides of the aisle felt anger, as well as some embarrassment, over this revelation. The Hammers considered Congress weak and unable to stand against the power and influence of the First Couple, and to add insult to injury, President Kozlov must have agreed with that assessment since he had pulled his forces back so quickly.

Kate was testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee the same time that Naomi was appearing in front of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

"Mrs. Martin, thank you for appearing before this committee began the committee chairman once Kate was sworn in. "Senator Lancer will begin the questioning."

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mrs. Martin, I have a few concerns about you becoming Attorney General. You're very wealthy. You are an owner in a company that has business dealings around the globe. How do you propose to divorce yourself from possible conflicts of interest and the appearance of making decisions simply to further your great wealth?"

"I don't, Senator" responded Kate frankly. "However, I will decline any salary or compensation for serving in the capacity of Attorney General."

"Considering your great wealth, that wouldn't be a hardship of any consequence," responded Lancer quickly. "You'd make far more on any given business transaction than you'd ever collect in salary. That's a token gesture, at best."

"It would mean that I'm not a government employee and thus not subject to laws restricting their activities," replied Kate calmly. "The simple truth is that every attorney general we've had over the past thirty years has been a millionaire. They all became wealthier while they were in office.

"You're personally a man of above average wealth and you serve in the Senate. You'll be wealthier when you leave office than you were when you were first elected. Why does my similar situation concern you so much?"

"I placed my holdings in a blind trust! That's why!" replied Lancer with some glee as he felt certain that he had ensnared Kate.

"You seem to be asserting that having your very wealthy brother assume control of your extensive portfolio would exempt you from any negative publicity when decisions you make as Senator increase your personal wealth. You expect everyone to believe that you've forgotten what stocks you own, and that your brother would never inform you if he bought or sold any in your name.

"You supposedly had no idea that you owned five thousand shares of Caterpillar when you so strongly supported FEMA purchasing over ten million dollars' worth of equipment from them. I assume you'll be surprised to learn that your vote on the recent communications bill caused Verizon stock to jump almost ten percent, which caused your shares to increase in value by almost fifty thousand dollars," stated Kate.

"Exactly what are you accusing me of?" demanded the red faced Senator.

"Nothing at all, Senator. I'm sure you're innocent of any wrong doing. Any financial gain you received from your political decisions was simply coincidence. If I am allowed to serve as Attorney General, I will never make a decision based on how it will affect me, or any friends or relatives, financially. You've already pointed out that I can easily forego my salary, Senator. It would follow that I don't need to use my position to improve the bottom line of my company. That is not a priority for me.

"Lady in Red is a very profitable, viable, and well-managed company that requires no political assistance from anyone. We pay our full share of taxes. We have no hidden overseas accounts. We've published our financials that anyone can examine every year since Gwen was first elected to Congress. We will not place our company in a blind trust or engage in any sort of sham to make it appear that we don't know full well what is happening within our company," promised Kate adamantly. "It's the belief of the owners that the continued financial wellbeing of Lady in Red will benefit more people around the world than any decisions we make from any office or position we may attain here in Washington.

"Lady in Red helps millions of people in many different ways, and we won't allow that mission to be compromised by political hacks that place person and party ahead of the welfare of our people," stated Kate emphatically. "Do you think that we're wrong to feel that way, Senator Lancer?"

"Do you really want to know what I think?" shot back Lancer. "I think your company's owners are using the occasional good works to create a smokescreen to cover your greed and desire for money and power! This committee is not so naïve as to think Lady in Red is some sort of Utopian entity that exists only to assist those less fortunate. No one needs a hundred billion dollars in assets!"

"It's a rather common trait to project your own goals and ambitions onto others," replied Kate calmly. "My sister, the President of the United States, has asked me to serve her, and my country, as Attorney General. That's a tremendous honor. It demonstrates the faith she has in my abilities. You have approved wealthy nominees many times in the past. Failure to do so now could indicate to the electorate that your inconsistency in this particular decision is a matter of political expediency."

At that moment, an aide hurried to the side of the committee chairman. After a very brief conference the Chairman broke in. "I've just been informed that there's been an attack on the presidential motorcade in Berlin. There's been at least one explosion and shots have been fired. This hearing will adjourn until a future date and time to be determined!"

Kate didn't bother to reply to the stunning announcement. She simply stood and turned to Chip, who was already on his feet. He took her arm in his and led her from the room as rapidly as he could. Chaos ruled as politicians, observers, and reporters rushed to learn more. A large monitor in a library was carrying a cable news station feed. Viewers were gathered around watching in stunned disbelief.

The screen clearly showed a limousine with one front fender that was badly smashed against a street light, while the other front fender still sported a small American flag. The camera was obviously situated on a tall building, or possibly a helicopter. Thick black smoke billowed from an alley and rolled across the street, at times totally obliterating the view of the limousine. When the smoke would drift in the other direction, bodies could be seen strewn about the street and especially near two white vans parked less than a hundred feet from what was obviously President Hammer's limousine.

Police, with weapons drawn and protective shields raised were cautiously approaching the limo. Then the camera zoomed in on a figure standing in the center of the street, Kate gasped as the figure's face came into focus. It was Steve! He was covered in grime with splashes of blood on his neck and seeping from his shirt. He clutched a gun in his right hand as his eyes scanned the scene in front of him. He took a step toward Gwen's limousine before slowly collapsing to the pavement!

I thank Tex Beethoven for editing this chapter and making it a better read.
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