Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"The irony of the situation hasn't escaped me," replied Chatham as she considered the question. "Members of Congress removed Gwen from the presidency out of fear of her increasing power and influence. I think that very move will prove to solidify Gwen's position as the most powerful and influential person in the world, not just in the United States.

"It appears very clear to me that the front runner for the presidency will be whomever Steve Hammer decides it should be. There can be no road to the presidency that doesn't pass through Steve Hammer. He's avoided politics as much as possible in the past, but he's a brilliant tactician, and he's as mentally and physically tough as any person on the planet. He also has unlimited financial resources.

"He's going to dismantle the Washington political machines and create an atmosphere which encourages healthy debate among men and women who have the nation's best interests at heart. The days of personal and party agendas deciding policy will come to an end," predicted Secretary Chatham.

"That would certainly be quite a change," agreed Amber. "But back to my question. If you had to pick the next President of the United States today, who do you believe has the best chance to be elected in three years?"

"Honestly? At this moment in history, I can see only one possible outcome in the next presidential election. This nation has the luxury of having already seen how she can govern and how well she and her advisors combine patriotism with international diplomacy and worldwide respect. Unless she forbids it, Gwen Hammer will be drafted by the populace and elected as President in an historic landslide," predicted Chatham confidently.

"You're telling us that voters will return President Hammer to the White House in three years, even though she is the first United States President ever to have been removed from office through impeachment?" asked a very surprised Amber Stahl. "Wouldn't it seem possible, or even likely, that she would again be impeached and convicted by a fearful Congress?"

"That won't happen," replied Secretary Chatham with a small chuckle. "I've already told you that Gwen's husband is going to reshape the face of Congress. Next fall, every seat in the House of Representatives will be up for election. A third of the Senate will be in that same boat. In three years, during the next presidential election, another third of the Senate and the entire House will again face the electorate. That gives Steve Hammer time to replace two-thirds of the Senate and all of the current members of the House, if he so chooses. You may rest assured that new members of Congress will look far more kindly upon President Gwen Hammer's efforts to govern the United States."

"What about the whole 'Queen' thing?" wondered Amber. "Gwen's going to accept the title and proceed to serve as Queen to millions of people. Would that disqualify her from holding the office?"

"I'm not a Constitutional scholar, but I've never heard of any provisions barring candidates because they're too popular, or because they're loved and respected too much," replied Secretary Chatham wryly.

The events of the day had pushed Congress into complete disarray. At dawn, Senators and Congressmen had watched in fear as a very angry mob had surrounded the Capitol Building. While they had anticipated some negative reactions to their decision to remove President Hammer from office, they had believed the vast majority of the voting public would see the wisdom behind the decision.

The United States had always been a Constitutional Federal Republic, but early that morning most members of Congress had agreed that Gwen Hammer's influence was exceeding what the Constitution intended for a President of the United States. They felt it had become necessary to terminate the upward spiral of power she was enjoying, before she gained absolute control and destroyed the Constitution and all it represented.

But immediately following the public announcement of their actions, there was chaos! As the size and anger of the street mob increased, so did their concern for their own safety. Broadcasts from all the major networks discussed the removal of President Hammer and the ramifications of that course of action. It seemed like the more it played on television, the larger and angrier the mob became.

"There's talk on the networks that the military might restore Gwen Hammer to the Presidency!" worried Senator Dawson. "An action like that would render the Constitution worthless, along with both Houses of Congress. We need to contact the Joint Chiefs and see where they stand on this."

"The sooner Vince Rosen is sworn in as President of the United States the better," insisted Senator Burke. "Technically, he's already the President, but the people need to see him sworn in and taking command!"

"Check this out!" yelled a congressional aid as he pointed at a large TV screen. "The Hammers and the Rosens are leaving the White House on foot to confront the mob! Together! It doesn't look like they even have any security with them. Can you believe this?"

In a very rare occurrence, all conversation came to a halt in the Capitol Building as everyone gathered around various monitors to watch the drama unfold. Many legislators found themselves holding their breath as the Hammers and Rosens were recognized by the mob.

"Christ!" exclaimed New Mexico's junior senator as people began to kneel. "They're actually kneeling down to her! If the Hammers can control that mob, things may get very ugly for us."

"You don't know what the hell you're talking about," rebuked Senator Roberts. "She'll use her influence to calm the crowd and prevent any bloodshed or property damage. You're seeing exactly why I voted against convicting her."

"You're seeing exactly why we had to remove her," countered Senator Lancer. "Even without the Office of the President, she's able to control and manipulate thousands of people at a time. We had to separate that threat from any position of power in the Federal government. The President needs to be grounded in reality. Quite frankly, I think this whole 'Queen' bullshit has gone to her head. She wasn't stable enough to carry on as President."

Reporters stationed in the halls of the Capitol Building recorded the exchange by the senators and reported it, along with appropriate bleeps. Lancer was soon shown arguing his concerns about Gwen's mental stability.

As Gwen and her party made its way to the National Mall and the stage, members of Congress began to relax. The mob that had surrounded Capitol Hill gradually lost its anger and drifted toward the stage.

Once the immediate threat was removed, Senators and Representatives started congratulating each other on their performance of the early hours. The dust would soon settle, and everything would once again go back to how it used to be. They had worked with Vince Rosen before, and were confident he would be much easier to influence than Gwen Hammer had been.

The euphoria members of Congress were experiencing was tempered somewhat by the remarks Gwen Hammer made to the crowd. They were delighted to hear her admit that Congress had acted within its power and that she accepted no longer being the President. She and her husband were even going to be on hand for Vince Rosen's swearing in!

Then Steve Hammer addressed the crowd. As he spoke, murmurs of concern could be heard in the halls of Capitol Hill. When Steve told the crowd he would use his influence and considerable resources to replace many members of Congress, there was no doubt he was referring to those who'd just voted against Gwen Hammer!

Even the representatives and senators that had been in office for decades and had no substantial opposition for re-election felt concerned as Steve Hammer promised to lead Lady in Red into the political arena with the objective of removing them from office.

All eyes turned to Senator Lancer when Steve mentioned him specifically as the person he most wanted to ruin politically. Lancer turned red and huffed a few times.

"That bastard thinks he can meddle in Presidential elections?" snarled Lancer. "If we have to, Congress can address his intentions with some sort of law to prevent extremely wealthy people from spending their money to influence the voters."

"Lots of luck with that," replied Senator Roberts with a grim chuckle. "You've already built up a substantial war chest so you could buy the election. How are you going to spend your own money, yet stop Hammer from doing the same?"

"Mine was raised legally from donations," insisted Lancer. "That's a lot different than just being so rich you can buy enough votes to win an election."

"There's no law you'll be able to shove through Congress that won't be obvious as hell. You'll be announcing to the world how you intend to prevent Steve Hammer from exercising his constitutional rights. Besides, he won't have to spend any money to beat your ass! He can just use all the media outlets at his disposal to destroy you without spending a dime," pointed out Senator Roberts.

"Some of you so-called ladies and gentlemen are just beginning to realize what I warned you about. Steve Hammer is emerging from this debacle mad as hell! That anger is going to be directed at those of us that voted against his wife. I'm very glad the record clearly shows I voted against conviction. I just hope it's enough to have him pass me over when he drops a major shit storm on Capitol Hill!"

About that time, Amber's interview with Secretary Chatham was being broadcast, and the Secretary's comments caught everyone's attention. "If you're asking whether I'd put my money on Steve Hammer or Senator Lancer, I'll take Steve every time. I'll even give odds. Lancer may as well apply for his pension. His career will not only end badly, but any legacy he had hoped to leave will soon be destroyed."

"There can be no road to the presidency that doesn't pass through Steve Hammer," was another observation that caused consternation as Lancer turned and stomped off toward his office, but not before hearing Chatham's next statement.

"At this moment in history, I can see only one possible outcome in the next presidential election. This nation has the luxury of having already seen how she can govern and how well she and her advisors combine patriotism with international diplomacy and worldwide respect. Unless she forbids it, Gwen Hammer will be drafted by the populace and elected in an historic landslide!"

"Jesus! She just might be right!" exclaimed Representative McGraw of Maryland. "What have we done?"

Kathy Perrine met with Jordan and Gwen an hour before Gwen's 'coronation' was to begin. "Guys, let me know if I'm asking too much. I was in high school when I watched you host the Academy Awards and perform 'Sharp Dressed Man'. It was the coolest thing I've ever seen. Could we do that song? Could I sing and dance it with you, or is it too risqué?"

"We already have a backdrop set up, so we'd be somewhat shielded from prying eyes, but Gwen now has to consider her image," reminded Jordan. "We were younger and more daring back then."

"Steve! Charlie!" called Gwen to the two men as they stood off to the side preparing for the concert.

By three o'clock, the National Mall was once again packed with a cheering, chanting sea of humanity. Chief Justice Hamilton was onstage to administer the oath of office to Vince Rosen. He solemnly addressed the millions watching on television as well as the incredibly large and well-mannered crowd that was patiently waiting.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, the first order of business today will be for President Hammer and Mrs. Jordan Burns to perform our National Anthem," was all the Chief Justice said, as Gwen and Jordan moved forward on the stage.

The ovation was loud and long for the two women as they finished the anthem. Chief Justice Hamilton waited for the cheering to abate before addressing Vince Rosen, who placed his left hand on a Bible held by his wife Cindy.

Vince completed his oath and Gwen and Jordan hugged him tightly once Cindy concluded her long embrace with her husband. There was a loud cheer from those watching, although not as enthusiastic as it might have been.

Jordan then moved forward to address the crowd. "We all know that Congress has deprived us of the honor of having Gwen Hammer continue as our President. It was a foolish and self-serving effort in an attempt to prevent Gwen from fulfilling her destiny. But there's nothing on God's green earth that Congress, or anyone, can do to prevent our love and respect for this woman to nurture and grow.

"I was on site in Hungary when she ordered the rescuers to excavate that old church to save Saint, Steve, and a couple dozen other people! In Cuba, I saw her save that baby on the beach of Havana!"

Jordan smiled as a huge ovation echoed across the National Mall. She smiled and pointed to signs proclaiming Gwen as the Queen of Peace. Then her smile increased as she pointed to a large sign being held by several people to her left with bold print declaring "Our Queen for President!" The large Jumbotron flashed the image across the Mall, and television cameras picked it up as well.

"I personally witnessed the honor and respect people around the world have demonstrated for my dear friend Gwen. Every concert featured huge crowds that willingly kneeled before her, unless they were prevented from doing so by a military presence. Gwen is truly the face and the conscience of Lady in Red. She leads by example and the rest of us follow," shouted Jordan as the crowd began to make more noise.

"Citizens of the World! I present to you The Queen of Peace!" managed Jordan before the entire Mall erupted into deafening cheers, whistles and applause.

Jordan walked over to Lisa, who handed her the same tiara Gwen had worn in 'Queen's Ransom' and the 'Rise' trilogy. Jordan carefully placed it on Gwen's head and secured it with several clips. Once she finished her task, Jordan stepped off to the side, leaving Gwen alone in the center of the stage.

As if on signal, nearly a million people dropped to a knee and began chanting 'Long live the Queen' as tears poured from Gwen's eyes. Holding her head high, she walked to the front of the stage and gestured for everyone to stand.

"Your Queen asks that you stand!" managed Gwen as she wiped at the tears on her cheeks. "I accept this honor in the names of all people who seek an end to hunger, disease and terrorism! I have no idea how this honor has come to pass, but please know that I am committed to helping as many people of the world as I possibly can. You have bestowed a tremendous honor on me, but it comes with a huge responsibility. I can only promise to do my best!"

Gwen waved and smiled for several minutes as the ovation continued. Then she turned and motioned for Steve to join her. The cheers suddenly became even louder as she wrapped her arms around her husband and kissed him passionately.

Gwen then turned to the crowd and waited for the cheering to subside. "My Warrior husband is the strong one, the compassionate one, the person who has encouraged and protected me every step of this amazing journey! He'll fight for you too, for your freedom, for your honor, and for your families. You may have made me your Queen, but Steve is the very best of us all. Of that I am certain!"

Amber Stahl was covering the event from a small TV platform near the stage. Viewers were able to see tears trickling down her cheeks as she addressed her audience.

"Again we're seeing history being made. Gwen Anderson Hammer and her husband Steve have turned what most would have considered a crippling political blow into a rousing victory and celebration. When Capitol Hill created chaos and mob hysteria, Gwen and Steve Hammer seized the situation and molded it to meet their objectives.

"Secretary Chatham mentioned earlier today that Steve Hammer was a brilliant tactician. Anyone who has seen the manner in which he orchestrated events today would have to agree. He and Gwen turned an enraged mob into a huge pep rally. He had the foresight to legitimize Vince Rosen's presidency by calling for a public swearing in ceremony, a ceremony Gwen and he attended as they offered our new President sincere wishes for success.

"In a brilliant piece of promotion, Steve Hammer told the world that today's concert was going to be known as 'Queen's Ransom', which dovetails very effectively with the blockbuster movie Lady in Red released around the world Thursday night. From the statistics already in, it will have the largest opening weekend ever, and it appears destined to become the highest grossing film of all time," announced Amber. "Critics are universally praising the film, and Academy Award rumors are already circulating.

"Every musician who toured with Lady in Red for the 'We Come in Peace World Tour' has returned here today to perform in this 'Queen's Ransom' concert. The National Mall and its surrounding areas look every bit as crowded was they were yesterday. The Park Service will no doubt give us a much better estimate later," conceded Amber.

Once she ended her short speech, Gwen spent time waving to the crowd as she moved across the stage while still wearing her tiara. She couldn't help feeling a bit vain and even foolish wearing a royal tiara in front of so many people, but they enthusiastically approved her every move. Steve had explained that he felt it was important for her to publicly accept her role as Queen. Her unfettered reign would begin the same day she had been removed as President of the United States. Gwen had come to trust Steve implicitly in these matters. He had plans for every contingency, and he always seemed to be right.

Charlie cued the band as the din began to abate. Gwen moved back to center stage and the 'Queen's Ransom' concert was off to a roaring start. Charlie felt it would be a mistake to simply play the same songs for the second day, so he had the band play numerous songs they had rehearsed over the previous weeks but hadn't performed in public.

Once their signature 'We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions' was concluded, the band moved into Bohemian Rhapsody with Steve singing lead. With all the talented singers in the group, the operatic section of the song sounded extremely impressive, and the fans reacted enthusiastically. Gwen then moved to the front of the stage as the band began its next number. Her audience immediately identified the U2 song and went unusually quiet as they waited for Gwen to pick up the lyrics. Jordan and Kathy Perrine stood just behind Gwen and to each side as they sang back-up.

"I have climbed the highest mountains; I have run through the fields, only to be with you, only to be with you!" sang Gwen as a thunderous roar went echoed across the capital, forcing Gwen and the band to circle back and begin again.

The crowd joined in when Gwen sang "I have run, I have crawled, I have scaled these city walls only to be with you. But I still haven't found what I'm looking for!"

Charlie had predicted the song would be well received when he added it to their repertoire, but even he had failed to gauge the emotions Gwen's rendition would evoke. The entire sea of humanity swayed back and forth as they joined Gwen in singing the stirring lyrics. As Gwen took a modest bow, fans whistled, yelled and clapped their approval.

News clips showed Gwen Hammer's back as she sang while the camera panned over the huge audience, which stretched as far as the camera could focus. Although she was no longer the President, it was obvious she owned the city like no other person ever could.

The band played some older songs and worked in quite a few they had never performed before an audience. The reception by the hundreds of thousands in attendance and the millions watching on television was spectacular.

It was after the first intermission that the fans began buzzing. The Jumbotron showed Gwen, Jordan, and Kathy Perrine walk back onstage wearing robes and then sitting down on folding chairs. Charlie and Steve lazily strolled onto the stage to stand near the ladies. They were also wearing robes.

"Please?" begged Kathy Perrine into her microphone. "Can we do 'Sharp Dressed Man' now?"

"I don't know if our fans would care to see that old routine," replied Jordan, also speaking into her mic. "Gwen and I haven't done that one in years."

"Maybe that's the problem!" exclaimed Kathy. "You two seniors may be getting a bit long in the tooth to shake it up. What about you, Charlie? Steve? Will you do that number with me?"

As she spoke, Kathy Perrine stood with her back to the audience and dropped her robe! Charlie and Steve stood rooted in place as they stared at the young beauty, clad only in a small thong. The Jumbotron clearly showed the beautiful young woman's naked back and skimpy garment. The crowd began what seemed like a low growl!

Jordan and Gwen jumped to their feet, critically examined their husbands staring at the front of the beautiful Kathy Perrine and then nodded to each other as their robes slid from their shoulders, revealing their own backsides and the small thongs they too were wearing.

"Too long in the tooth?" repeated Gwen. "What about it, Steve? Are we too old?"

"Yeah, Charlie, are we too old?" echoed Jordan.

Charlie and Steve snapped out of their trance simultaneously and shrugged their shoulders, allowing their own robes to fall to the floor as they faced the three topless women and the huge crowd. They wore only boxers, with the Lady in Red logo featured front and center. The two men reached behind their chairs and picked up guitars.

They moved to the front of the stage and started the driving rhythm of Sharp Dressed Man as the three women swayed enticingly upstage to a low wall that had been set up at the back. Each of them picked up a pair of boy shorts and erotically pulled them up over their hips as the crowd roared. They then grabbed strapless halter tops and reached behind their backs to snap them on. Gwen had trouble fastening hers, so when it came time to face the crowd and sing, she simply held the small garment over her considerable charms with one hand while she joined her friends in singing the opening stanza.

The crowd reacted with even louder roars and whistles. Jordan, seeing Gwen's predicament, stepped behind her and fastened her top for her. Once the stanza was over, the ladies danced back to pick up only slightly larger garments to cover their bras before singing the next stanza.

The cameras constantly moved from Steve and Charlie's ripped torsos to the cleavage, beautiful faces and shapely legs of the three women. Fans watched the huge Jumbotrons intently as three of the world's most beautiful women gyrated and swayed to the music. Once the song was over, Steve and Charlie moved seamlessly into ZZ Tops' 'Gimme all Your Lovin', with Kathy Perrine singing lead.

Steve and Charlie managed to slip on some jeans and tee shirts a little later while Kathy Perrine sang one of her older hits. Then Steve joined Kathy to sing their hit song, which had been written by Kathy on their flight to Rome. That was followed by Jordan and Charlie performing the theme song for the Queens's Ransom movie.

When Charlie and Jordan finished singing and the applause died down, Gwen pointed to her old friend Heather Thomas, who was standing near the stage as she covered the event for her network.

"Heather, how would you like to revive your dance routine with Steve?" asked Gwen of an obviously surprised Heather. "Come on up and shake that booty!"

Heather needed no second invitation. She knew the world was watching, and she was being handed the opportunity of a lifetime by Gwen Hammer. Heather was a well-known TV personality, admired for her reporting as well as for her great beauty. As she reached the top step, the crowd began cheering loudly. Steve greeted her with a hug.

Charlie briefly conferred with the band as Gwen embraced Heather once Steve had released her. "I can't believe I agreed to this! It's been years since we performed this dance. We haven't even practiced it!"

"Just trust Steve to take care of you. It's like riding a bike. You'll do great!" encouraged Gwen as Charlie nodded to signal that the band was ready to play 'Dirty Laundry'.

With only a couple of minor mistakes that went totally unnoticed by everyone but Heather, Steve and Heather delighted those watching with the same dance routine they had used years ago to win the little dance contest in Charlotte. Steve had often expressed his opinion that maintaining a good relationship with the press was essential to success in business and politics.

Knowing that Heather was at least a little in love with Steve, as well as an up and coming star on her network, Gwen had made the snap decision to feature her in a dance with Steve, who had always referred to gestures of this sort as 'building capital for the future'. She would always strive to remain on good terms with Heather Thomas and Amber Stahl.

Kathy Perrine stepped close to Gwen as Steve and Heather took their bows. "If Steve were my husband, I'd never let him dance with her. She's beautiful, and she's in love with him. You know that, don't you?"

"He wouldn't be your husband very long if you didn't trust him completely," responded Gwen with a grin. "Maybe I shouldn't let him dance with you, if it's dangerous to let women who love him get too close."

"Oh, Gwen! I'm so sorry!" apologized the horrified Kathy. "Is it that obvious? I'd never try to take him away from you!"

"Don't worry about it. He got an eyeful just now when you dropped your robe, and you got your wish when he saw your amazing boobs. You're incredibly beautiful and Steve loves beautiful women, but he's got this thing about loyalty. He loves me. He'd do anything for me. I stopped worrying about other women a long time ago. For whatever reason, he's my guy as long as I want him, and I'll want him forever."

"I guess that's why he's your husband. I've never seen a couple trust each other like you two do. Heather doesn't have a chance, does she?" chuckled Kathy.

"No, but she's having a lot of fun dreaming about him. Some guy will come along who's perfect for her, and she'll forget all about being in love with Steve. The same thing will happen for you sooner or later," predicted Gwen.

"I may find a great guy of my own, but I doubt either Heather or I will ever stop daydreaming about Steve," replied Kathy with a weak smile. "But enough about my daydreams: we need to get ready for the next number!"

The concert ended at five o'clock Sunday afternoon, but it took several more hours for the streets of Washington again to allow vehicular traffic. Thousands of very happy people began leaving the city to return to their home towns. Lady in Red had contracted to have a company clean the city after the weekend's activities and by dusk, the lion's share of the cleanup had been completed.

"We need to get over to Maryland and FedExField," reminded Kate. "Our team is having its home opener, and we want to be there for the pregame festivities. This'll be the D.C. Spartans' first home game. Let's hope we win!"

"Don't bet the ranch on that," offered Chip. "They didn't do very well last week, and our head of football operations traded away our starting quarterback. I wonder where we can find a player to replace him?"

"Steve won't be suiting up tonight! You can bet on that," responded Gwen as she hugged her husband. "They'll have to go another week or two without him. We need some rest and relaxation after the hectic schedule of the last two months. The division is weak this year, so we can stand to lose a few games and still make the play-offs. Steve'll play a lot better if he gets the chance to recharge."

"What about the rule about owners not playing for their team?" asked Jason. "If the NFL is anything like Congress, they'll enforce that rule to the letter."

"It seems that a person can't buy a team and then put themselves on the roster, but a player who's already on a roster can buy a team and still play for it," declared Kate. "I had a team of lawyers pour over the NFL rules, and Steve won't be breaking any of them if he plays for the Spartans. Although he retired last spring, the team kept him officially on the roster. He'll be able to play; if he can make the team, that is."

"If he can make the team?" repeated Billy Marsh. "If he doesn't make the team, there should be a Congressional investigation, or have they already done that?"

The group arrived at FedExField two hours before the 8:20 kick-off. The parking lot was already filled with fans enjoying tailgate parties.

"Everyone has so much fun at these games!" exclaimed Lisa. "We should have a tailgate party, too."

"We will, Sis, but it'll be in our skybox. Now that we're the owners, we get the best box here. I think we'll have the same caterers we always had, but the accommodations should be even nicer."

"Yeah, but that's not the same as visiting with other fans and trash talking the Giants, Eagles and Cowboys," replied Lisa. "That's the fun part."

"How about we invite a few fans up to our box every week to watch the game with us?" asked Jordan. "The box is huge, so we'll have lots of room. The only rule will be no Senators or Congressmen... or pretty women."

Jordan and Gwen were scheduled to sing the National Anthem, so the entire group went down to the field to watch the teams warming up. Gwen noticed a section of seats already occupied by fans in military uniforms and she asked about it.

"Jared reserves fifty sideline seats every week for active service personnel," explained Tyler. "The various branches of the military select men and women to represent them each week. Apparently, they like to get here early."

Gwen and Jordan headed straight toward the group as soon as Tyler explained the situation. When it became apparent where the women were going, every person in the group stood and saluted. Gwen noticed that a few of them struggled to stand and had to use the chair arms to support themselves.

"Please sit down!" pleaded Gwen. "I'm just a regular citizen now. There's no reason to salute me. Jordan and I just came over to thank you for your service and for coming to the game tonight. We appreciate it."

"Ma'am, if I may speak?" asked a ramrod-straight Marine with a well-muscled neck and sergeant stripes.

"Of course you may, but please be at ease," replied Gwen. "I was never comfortable having brave men and women like you folks saluting me. I've never served and never felt I deserved a salute, especially from decorated combat veterans."

"Ma'am, believe me when I say no one deserves our respect more than you. All of us feel that way, and we think it's a damn shame the way Congress treated you today. We're all proud as hell to have had you as our Commander-in-Chief. We're right grateful you gave us these great seats, too. We never would have been able to come to the game otherwise."

"Tell me something," interjected Jordan after seeing Gwen's agreeable nod. "Do you people have some other friends in the military who could get here in time to watch the game? We'd like to invite all of you up to our skybox to watch the game and to enjoy some refreshments. We could make arrangements for the others to use these seats. Would you be willing to be our guests tonight?"

"Are you kidding?" gushed a young sailor. "I'd love to watch the game and share a few beers with Steve and President Hammer. I have a buddy that can be here in ten minutes!"

After listening to other people in the contingent accept the offer and assure Jordan they had friends to utilize their seats, Tyler began making arrangements. Then a young female Marine spoke for the first time.

"If I could, I'd like to be nearby when President Hammer and Mrs. Burns sing the anthem. I love the way they sing it, and I'd love to be close enough to hear them without any amplifiers."

"This is Corporal Melanie Baker," introduced the Marine sergeant. "She always sang the anthem at our events on base. She even sang it a few times while she was stationed in Kabul before her convoy was hit by an IED this summer and she lost a leg. She's the best singer I ever heard, next to you ladies, of course."

"I've played your CDs and sung along with both of you hundreds of times," admitted the corporal. "If I could just stand close enough to hear you sing, I'd be so very grateful."

"Of course!" agreed Gwen immediately. "Would you like us to find you a wheelchair, so you can sit nearby while we sing?"

"Ma'am, not to be rude, but I don't sit when the anthem is playing. I lost a leg, but not my pride of country. Thanks for the offer, but no matter what, I'll be standing when you sing the anthem," promised Corporal Baker.

"I am so sorry if I offended you!" apologized Gwen. "I should have realized what sort of person you are. I can go you one better. You've sung along with Jordan and me on recordings. Would you do us the honor of standing and singing the anthem with us tonight?"

"That's a great idea!" approved Jordan. "We'd be honored to have you with us. Please say you'll do it, Melanie."

"I'd really love to, but I have trouble balancing and I'd need a cane or something to lean on. I may be awkward," worried the young woman.

"You'll stand between Jordan and me," decided Gwen. "We'd be honored if you'd lean on us a little. You've given so much for your country, and we'd love to have you stand with us."

"I don't have a dress or anything. You're both so beautiful and I'm so plain. I'm wearing fatigues. I'm afraid I'll embarrass you."

"It will be one of the proudest moments of my life," assured Jordan. "Tyler, please be sure that the public address announcer and the media people are aware of Corporal Melanie Baker's full name and all pertinent information about her service history. She deserves recognition and appreciation from the fans. She'll be singing the National Anthem tonight with Gwen and me."

Steve was discussing the game plans with Jared when they were approached by a network sideline reporter. "May I interview you for our broadcast? It'll be live and we'll be ready in two minutes, if you're willing. Do you want to know my questions beforehand?"

"Sydney, you never offered to tell me your questions ahead of time," responded Steve. "Why now?"

"I'm supposed to ask you about your wife's impeachment and your feelings about Senator Lancer, and I don't want you to think I'm trying to ambush you. You've been very good to me when you played football, which I'm also going to ask about," explained the pretty blonde woman.

"Feel free to ask me anything. If I don't like the question, I'll just talk about something else, like any politician would do," replied Steve.

A little later, sports reporter Sydney Trout was given the signal she was on the air. "I'm here with one of the owners of the DC Spartans, Steve Hammer. Until this morning, his wife Gwen was President of the United States. Steve, can you tell the viewers how you feel about your wife being removed from office?"

"It's a mixed bag for us, Sydney. President Rosen is very capable and he'll do a great job going forward. Gwen needs a vacation, the past few months have been extremely stressful for her. She served her country with grace and honor, which is much more than I can say for the Senators and Congressmen that removed her from office this morning. It saddens me to know that our nation has so many self-serving, hypocritical, cowardly people in positions of power."

"There was a huge crowd assembled this morning in anger over President Hammer's ouster, and you told them of your desire to remove many of these politicians from office. Have you changed your feelings about that?" asked the reporter.

"No, Sydney. That wasn't a spur of the moment thing. I knew there was a chance Gwen might be impeached and convicted, so I'd planned ahead accordingly. Lady in Red is going to enter the political arena and work to change the attitude of entitlement that's so pervasive in Washington."

"Your wife and Jordan Burns are scheduled to sing the National Anthem. The press has just been informed that Marine Corporal Melanie Baker will sing with them. What can you tell us about that?" asked the reporter.

"Truthfully, this is the first I've heard about it," replied Steve as he gazed in his wife's direction to see her standing with Jordan and a young woman in uniform who was obviously missing a leg. "I can tell you though, that they'll do a great job with the anthem and I'm extremely proud they've invited a member of our military to sing with them."

"Will you come out of retirement, now that your wife no longer holds public office?" questioned the blonde reporter.

"Gwen and I need a little break from all of this to recharge and refocus. We'll discuss that possibility, as well as a lot of other topics, and together we'll make that decision later in the week," promised Steve.

"What about players sitting or kneeling during the National Anthem? Will you punish or discipline players that fail to stand for the anthem?"

"Ownership has made its position quite clear on that matter. I hope nobody is foolish enough to test our resolve," answered Steve.

Ten minutes later, Steve found his resolve was going to be tested. Gwen, Jordan, and Corporal Baker sang the anthem beautifully. Melanie had a strong voice which melded with Gwen's and Jordan's to produce a very strong presentation of the anthem. The crowd cheered and yelled its approval as the song ended.

Brandon Twig, the team's star middle linebacker, remained seated during the anthem. His long blond hair flowed behind him as a light breeze circulated through the stadium.

Steve was annoyed by the player's actions, but he was more concerned at the anger displayed by Jared. His friend was obviously enraged. Steve followed close behind Jared as he strode to the bench once the anthem was over and Twig stood to join his teammates.

"You just disrespected our nation, as well as the owners and management of the team," snarled Jared, his face inches from Twig's. "Get your sorry ass back to the locker room and get changed. You'll never wear that uniform again!"

"I have a right to sit during the anthem!" yelled the player. "I was just exercising my rights. I'm not a slave! You don't own me!"

"No, thank God, we don't," retorted Jared hotly. "We do however own that goddamn uniform you're wearing, and I want you out of it right now. You've disgraced yourself and the team. Get the fuck back to the locker room or I'll drag you back!"

The man glared from Jared to Steve but then shrugged in response. "My lawyer will take this fucking team to the cleaners. The players' union will have a field day with you, you right wing bastards. You're about to make me very rich!"

The team's coaches and players stood silently by as the two men yelled at each other. As Twig turned and headed for the locker room, the coach quietly announced, "Danson! You're starting at middle linebacker!"

"I'm sorry that happened, Steve," apologized Jared. "I really thought we'd weeded out the assholes before tonight's game. I can't believe that clown showed Gwen and Jordan such disrespect. The team owners sang the anthem while that dickhead sat and twiddled his thumbs!"

"The previous owners were the ones who signed him to that huge contract this spring. We bought the team knowing he was overpaid," responded Steve, before breaking into a big grin. "He's a good player, but he knew our policy. You enforced it quite emphatically. That was something to watch!"

"I'm sorry to interrupt, but is Brandon out for the entire game?" asked the team's defensive coach.

"Yes! He's out forever as far as the Spartans are concerned," responded Jared with some emotion. "I'm sorry to put you in the position of losing your middle linebacker, but that shit won't fly on this team!"

"I think the rest of the team got the message, if they had any doubt before tonight. We'll do the best we can without him," assured the coach before going back to speak to his players.

Jared's very public dismissal of the Spartan's middle linebacker had been broadcast live on network television. The play-by-play announcer expressed surprise that Jared would weaken a team that was already struggling to win, by dismissing their star linebacker. Their color commentator, a former player, insisted he had anticipated such an immediate response from ownership.

"I played against Steve Hammer the last two years of my career and I got to know him a little. He's a great guy, but his dedication to family and country stand out as soon as you meet him. He's always been a team player, and it's his belief that those who don't respect the sacrifices of our military, or who try to subvert that respect for personal gain, should never have a place on his team.

"The NFL is going to have to decide whether an owner has this type of control over their players. Can players take the money and wear the uniform and then act in a manner that ownership finds disgraceful and disrespectful?" posed the former player. "I'm certain that Steve Hammer will fight any attempt to force him to allow players to act in such a manner while wearing his team uniform. To be blunt, it'll never happen. He'll sell the team before he permits that type of behavior."

The Spartans had a tough game, losing 42-10. The players who'd been expected to start at quarterback and middle linebacker before the season had started were no longer part of the team, making the team's first home game a disappointment. Starting the season at 0 and 2 was not what Jared had expected when he took over football operations. Steve and Gwen remained to discuss the team's options with Jared once the game was finished, while the rest of their group drove over to Anna's Place.

When Gwen, Naomi, Jared and Steve arrived at the restaurant, paramedics were loading two gurneys into the backs of ambulances. Gwen urged their group to hurry inside to make sure their family and friends were unharmed. They found their group seated at a large table. They all appeared to be in a jovial mood, so Gwen immediately relaxed.

"You missed all the excitement!" blurted Kate. "If you haven't already placed Twig on waivers, you can now put him on the disabled list. He and his big brother were in here bragging about how they were going to get wealthy taking us to court."

"It seems they believe we violated Twig's rights by sending him to the showers before the game even began," added Lisa. "They were making all kinds of brags about how they were going to make the Spartans rue the day Twig was disrespected in such a public way."

"That explains the ambulances," responded Steve with a nod. "Those two idiots decided to come over to this table and berate some of the owners?"

"You think you're so smart!" quipped Jordan. "Tell us who did what to whom, if I said that right."

"I imagine Chip messed up Twig's knee and broke one of his arms," offered Steve as he mulled things over. "Jason probably put the brother out for the count with a couple of shots to the throat and face."

"Did you see the security footage or something?" demanded Charlotte. "Those jackasses decided to visit our table and drop some nasty insults on Lisa, Kate and Jordan. I'm not sure, but I think they may have also called me a dumb cunt. Regardless, Jason and Chip stood up and suggested they leave us alone, like immediately!

"Well, two big tough guys don't back down from a couple of washed-up Rangers and SEALs, or so they claimed. I think Chip baited Twig with a few girly-man barbs, while Jason just grinned at Twig's brother. The next thing you know, Twig threw a punch at Chip, and his brother did the same to Jason."

"The key word is 'threw'. Neither of them came anywhere close to connecting," added Billy. "The next thing you know, the two brothers are on the floor. Twig was trying to hold both his arm and leg with one good arm and crying like a baby. His big brother was sleeping under the table. I was tempted to take them both down for insulting Charlotte, but Chip and Jason jumped in first, and ended it damn quick."
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