Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"Your response is simply that he cannot prove the claim?" pressed the reporter. "That isn't quite the strong denial we were expecting."

"It'll have to do," retorted Steve.

"It was reported by a local police officer that Mrs. Smith identified herself, as well as you and Charlie Burns as Federal Officers," pointed out an older man working for AP. "Was that a ruse to get you inside the hospital more quickly?"

"Please allow me to respond," asked Gwen as she looked for and found Steve's approval. "During my tenure as President of the United States, I appointed Steve, Charlie, Chip, Jason and Sybil to the Secret Service. I also issued an executive order granting them authority to operate within Homeland Security, the FBI and ATF. Once I was removed from office, I requested that these five individuals be allowed to retain their rather unorthodox designations. In return, I signed off on any and all Secret Service protection. They are indeed, Federal Agents."

The next few days were spent in Asgard as Steve and Gwen relaxed as much as possible. They spent a fair amount of time with their house guests Adam, Lena and Hanna Kiss.

Gwen revealed a major surprise the second afternoon of their stay. The two couples were joined by Kate, Lisa, Sybil, Jordan, Paula and their spouses. Ted had just returned from his business trip.

"Hanna and I have had the same recurring dream," began Gwen to get the attention of everyone. "It isn't very clear, but we always see Saint and Lena as young adults battling unimaginable creatures as well as humanlike enemies."

"It's odd you're both having the same dream," admitted Chip. "Is this more like sharing a vision?"

"Is it that obvious?" asked a surprised Gwen.

"You've been dropping some rather strong hints lately, Sis," stated Kate, joining the discussion.

"What we see isn't of this Earth!" interjected Hanna. "Logic and science tell me mankind will never see travel to other worlds in the kids' lifetime, so on the surface it all seems distinctly impossible."

"It's impossible, yet you have more to reveal, don't you?" asked Lisa intently.

"Yes. We think it's possible that while the inhabitants of Earth won't develop interstellar space travel within the next several generations, other life forms may travel here," admitted Gwen.

No one spoke for over a minute as Gwen's declaration was digested. It was Chip who finally broke the silence.

"You do realize this all sounds pretty crazy, don't you? Is this theory based on anything more than a dream, or a vision? I'm not disputing you. I'd just like to see some evidence."

"We don't have any, except for sharing the same dream," replied Gwen softly. "And we both see that old fortune teller in the dream every time. She's constantly urging us to prepare, especially Saint and Lena."

"That, and I've been granted access to signals from deep space," stated Hanna. "The Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment, or CHIME, in British Columbia has detected a Fast Radio Burst, or FRB. It's my belief it originated from intelligent beings in deep space."

"Even if that's true, the time required to travel to Earth from deep space is astronomical, pardon the pun," argued Kate. "It's impossible for any creature to reach earth in less than thousands of years, unless they do the Star Trek thing with warp speed and travel faster than light, which simply isn't possible."

"That's the flaw in our theory, unless they began their journey to earth eons ago" admitted Hanna. "To base such an unbelievable theory on visions and short radio wave bursts just isn't reasonable. Which is why I'm asking Lady in Red to help me build a smaller, yet stronger radio telescope based on my calculations and design. It would require almost two years building, and costing over two hundred million dollars, again going by my calculations. We could build it on the hill west of the lake and would require less than ten acres of your land."

"Wow! You don't beat around the bush, do you?" asked Lisa rhetorically. "May I assume you believe this telescope of your design will answer your questions about alien life forms and their intentions?"

"I believe it will give us data," replied Hanna with a scientist's precision. "Data that Adam and I would have to analyze and interpret. This project will take years. Gwen and I both place the ages of Lena and Saint in our visions at around 20. That means we have less than 13 years to get this right, if it's an eventuality. Or it may be that Gwen and I are imagining it all."

"It's up to you guys," added Gwen. "I'd never blame you if you refused Hanna's request, I know how weird it all sounds. And either way, we need to keep this among ourselves. It could create all kinds of unpleasant situations, including but not limited to my being burned at the stake as a witch, wasting $200 million dollars and years of Hanna and Adam's time, and our possibly becoming the laughing stock of the world. It could curtail much of the power and influence we've accumulated over the years."

"So our choice is between saving the world, or saving a couple hundred million bucks?" quipped Kate. "I've seen too many things I can't explain to go against Sis and Hanna. I vote we go for it."

"Agreed. What do we need to get this started?" asked Lisa.

"I say we give Hanna a blank check to get whatever she needs. Tyler can oversee the ordering and contracting," Jordan chimed in.

"That's it?" marveled a stunned Hanna Kiss. "No long discussions? You've made your decision that quickly? You're trusting me to spend $200 million of your money so easily?"

"It appears so, Hanna; we're not exactly broke you know, and saving the world seems kinda worth doing," quipped Kate.

"There's something else you and Gwen sort of glossed over," pointed out Paula. "You both believe Saint and Lena will be involved in this future battle, or whatever it is. Are they the only two involved? Surely there'll be lots more people helping!"

"That's the rub, Mom," answered Gwen, studying her mother's face. "Lena and Saint will be doing this... whatever it is, on their own, with no help of any kind from anyone else on Earth. We've both seen that quite clearly."

"We've got thirteen years; so for now, let's take a swim and relax for a few hours," suggested Kate to break the tension. "We'll bring the kids and have a fun family gathering and keep our mouths shut about all this. Let's go about our daily business as if we have no idea what's going to happen, which is truthfully the case."

That evening as they prepared for bed, Steve asked Gwen a question which had been on his mind. "With all this going on in Saint's future, it would probably be best if I remained retired from football, don't you think?"

"Hanna and I discussed that. You can't spend all your time working with Saint. He and Lena still need to be kids as much as possible," reasoned Gwen. "Thirteen years is a large chunk of our lives and we need to live it, not fear its ending. I know you want to play again, so if it were up to me, I'd encourage you to get back with the team. You know Saint wants to see his Dad play another year. He's older now and can better appreciate what you do. It's your decision but if you're asking me, I say play."

"What about all the things Saint needs to learn? I'll be pretty busy for a few months, with very little time for you and the kids," worried Steve.

"That's the downside to possibly knowing the future. We could get so wrapped up in our concern for it that we'd no longer enjoy the life we have," replied Gwen. "You have to do things for Steve now and then. You're a wonderful husband and father, but please don't stop being Steve Hammer, quarterback, actor, writer, musician, and whatever else. You've always placed us ahead of your personal wants and needs. But especially now that I'm no longer President, I want my husband to do the things he loves."

"You realize that list of things "I love to do" puts you at the top, don't you?" responded Steve with a chuckle as he cupped his wife's left breast. "I think I'll do you first, and then get around to the other stuff later."

Gwen, Jordan, Lisa, Kate and their husbands joined Jared and Naomi in New York for the Spartan game against the Giants that Sunday. Jared was delighted to see his friends again.

"My bosses are here to check up on me? We've lost our first two games, so you're already looking for my replacement?" he joked.

"You know us better than that," answered Jordan. "Your contract has clauses allowing us to renew it a few dozen times. You'll be running the Spartans until you're sitting in a rocking chair in a retirement home."

"I've managed to find a way to bolster our defense, beginning next week!" revealed a pleased Jared. "I've been cleared to play again. I'll practice this week and be in the lineup next weekend. It'll take a few weeks to get back into game shape, but I'll be able to play at least somewhat well at first, and hopefully help the team."

"That's great news!" squealed Kate as she hugged the big man. "You're better at half strength than most of these guys on their best days. I love watching you play."

"That still leaves us with a glaring weakness at quarterback," replied Jared as he looked toward Steve. "The kid we've got starting has real potential, but he was never expected to step in and lead the team during his rookie season. If we only had a smart, experienced guy to mentor him, he'd be the real deal in a year or two."

"I'm not a football genius, but I think I have the solution to your problem," responded Gwen with a smile. "Are you willing to take a chance on an older player, someone that's a little rusty?"

"By older, do you mean someone my age and probably still the best quarterback in the league?" asked a delighted Jared. "We can still make the play-offs if we start winning some games!"

That weekend, the Spartans lost their third game of the season 32-17. Sports writers were pointing out how difficult it was to begin a season with 0-3 and still reach the play-offs. One reporter made that very observation to Jared in a postgame interview.

"I understand we have a difficult road ahead, but we're making some changes this week that should strengthen the team. I've been cleared to play and all modesty aside, I think I can make a difference to our defense. We've also been able to add an experienced quarterback. He'll help our rookie quarterback develop without so much pressure on him."

"Tell us Steve Hammer is coming out of retirement!" yelled an excited reporter.

"Okay, Steve's coming out of retirement," obeyed Jared with a laugh. "I have no doubt his ability and leadership will immediately make us a far better team. My goal isn't just making the play-offs but winning the Super Bowl."

"You have a home game against Dallas next weekend. Will Steve be ready to play by then?" asked a blonde female sidelines reporter.

"He'll definitely be playing," replied Jared with a grin. "Colt Chance will have two more shots at Steve in head-to-head meetings this season, not that he'll win either of them. This is the matchup every NFL fan loves. They'd better savor it!"

The following Sunday night found Gwen and Jordan singing the National Anthem before a packed house of raucous fans. When it was announced that Steve and Jared would be in the lineup, the network airing the Sunday night games exercised an option in its contract. The scheduled starting time of 1 PM was changed to prime time, and the network anticipated a huge viewing audience.

The network had made certain fans knew Steve was playing in its Sunday night game. It hyped the game with clips from the various activities Steve had participated in during the previous few months. Even viewers who had never watched a football game tuned in to watch what the network billed as "The Return of The Warrior", as well as to see his beautiful wife, the woman who had so recently been President of the United States and was still proclaimed Queen of Peace. Congress impeaching and removing her from office had only made her more popular and admired by many of the citizens of the nation.

Steve had practiced hard all week to regain his timing with his backs and receivers, but he knew he was still rusty and would be missing plays he had been accustomed to making easily. So he went into the game determined to minimize his mistakes and give his team a chance to win.

This season The Cowboys had drafted a middle linebacker, Leon Baker from Ohio State, in the first round. He was off to a fast start with four sacks in his first three games. He was also an excellent run stopper and had really stiffened Dallas's defense.

The rookie had soon become known as a showboat. He celebrated his plays a little harder and longer than his opponents felt appropriate. He had also made a point of telling reporters Steve Hammer was too old to give him or his team any problems. He promised to sack Steve at least once during the game.

The kid quickly made good on his promise, as he dropped Steve for a loss in the first offensive series. Thereafter the Spartans began keeping the tight end or a back near Steve, just to help block Baker.

Home team fans became incensed when the rookie hit Steve late and very hard at the very end of the third quarter. To compound the fans' irritation, the kid stood over Steve beating his chest as an obviously shaken Steve slowly rolled over and regained his feet. The play was assessed a 15 yard penalty, allowing the Spartans to make a field goal early in the fourth quarter to bring them within 4 of Dallas.

Jared and the defense stopped Colt Chance's offense just beyond field goal range. Dallas punted and pinned the Spartans down on their own 7-yard line with less than 7 minutes to play.

Steve missed two passes he would have made with more practice. Then with a 3rd and 10, he once again threw behind his receiver. As he watched the ball hit the ground behind his target, he was bowled over yet again by Baker.

The crowd was silent as Steve lay stretched out on the field with the young linebacker again beating his chest and prancing around in some sort of dance. Several flags flew as everyone waited to see if Steve was okay. Two trainers were trotting onto the field as Steve slowly managed to stand up. They asked him questions and examined his eyes and memory before clearing him to remain in the game.

The penalty advanced the ball to the 22-yard line and automatically gave the Spartans a first down. Steve told his concerned teammates in the huddle, "We'll have to run the ball to give me some time to clear my head. Just block your men."

After three running plays, the Spartans still needed 4 yards for a first down. Steve never looked to the sideline to see if the coach wanted to punt; he simply called the next play. He handed the ball off to the tailback, who promptly ran up the middle for 6 yards! The Spartans then slowly marched down the field and reached the Dallas 20-yard line with a minute left in the game.

The fans were on the edges of their seats when Steve moved into the shotgun and backpedaled once he received the ball. He found his running back open as he raced across the middle of the field, just 8 yards from the end zone. Steve hit the young back right in the numbers with a perfect spiral. But the ball bounced off the receiver's hands and shot upwards and slightly closer to the goal line!

Thousands of fans let out a collective groan as Leon Baker gathered the ball into his arms and quickly headed downfield with the interception. He evaded several tackles before putting a spin move on a Spartan receiver trying to bring him down. As he finished his spin and once again turned downfield, he was met by Steve Hammer hurtling towards him at full speed! The loud crack of their pads colliding echoed around the stadium.

Steve had watched the play go south and instinctively knew the young linebacker would try to run the ball back for a score rather than go to the turf and let his team's offense run out the clock for the victory. With no Dallas players near enough to block him, Steve raced up the middle of the field and timed his hit perfectly, just as Baker came out of his spin. Steve's left shoulder hit the young linebacker in the chest as he tightly clutched the football.

The force of the collision lifted Baker completely off his feet and sent him flying backwards, forcing the ball from his grip. Once again it seemed to float upwards before yielding to the forces of gravity and beginning its downward journey.

The Spartans running back who had bobbled Steve's original pass had been chasing down Baker when Steve hit the man and dislodged the football. Incredibly, the ball dropped right into his arms for the second time in a single play! This time he tucked it in and raced toward his end zone. In a stunning reversal of fortune, he crossed the goal line to give the Spartans the lead. The extra point would make it a 4-point lead, with just 20 seconds left to play.

The extra point attempt was delayed while the Cowboys training staff worked on young Leon Baker. He was finally helped to his feet and guided off the field as the home fans whistled and yelled their pleasure at his misfortune. After the successful point after attempt, the Spartans' defense held Dallas back, clinching their first win of the season. In the locker room, the players were jubilant.

Jared went to the middle of the room and called for silence, which was quickly granted. "Today you guys saw how it's done. Never give up on a play! That kid had us beat, but Steve didn't accept that and made the play we needed. That's why he's the team leader, he finds ways to win. He was rusty as hell tonight, but he stuck it out and fought for the win. He won the game with heart. The rest of you need to learn from him. There's no quit in Steve Hammer! That's how I want this team to be on every down!"

When Steve slowly walked up on the small stage and stood in front of the microphones for the postgame interview, he was holding Gwen's hand and smiling gingerly. He responded to each question thoughtfully and with good humor.

In his rookie season, Steve had begun asking Gwen to join him for postgame interviews whenever she was available. His reasoning was simple. The reporters asked as many questions about his wife as they did about the game. Bringing Gwen to the interviews allowed the reporters to address their questions directly to her, as well as giving her more press. Steve had no problem sharing, or even yielding the limelight to Gwen. The reporters looked forward to the interviews, and Gwen almost always made the highlight reels the next day. It seemed many sports fans enjoyed seeing a beautiful woman knowledgeably discussing football.

"Steve! Do you think Baker hit you with a couple of cheap shots today?" asked a network reporter.

"The officials judged that he hit me late and handled the situation appropriately. The two 15-yard penalties he drew allowed us to score twice and win the game. It all worked out quite well," replied Steve with a smile.

"How about that hit you smacked him down with after he caught your deflected pass? Didn't you hit him especially hard?" asked another reporter.

"Hard enough to knock the football loose, which was my intent," replied Steve with a wry grin. "He's young and he'll learn. If he'd simply gathered the ball in and hit the turf, Dallas would have won the game. Football is a team game, and players always need to do what's best for the team, not for their individual stats."

"Are you saying Baker isn't a team player?" asked the same reporter.

"I'm not saying that. You'll have to ask him why he risked the game by trying to run back that play, when simply dropping down and covering the ball would have guaranteed a win," suggested Steve. "Maybe he had a logical reason for risking the game, I just can't think of one. Dallas would have had possession with very little time left in the game. As quarterback, Colt could have simply taken a knee a time or two for the win."

After spending several minutes questioning Steve, reporters directed their attention to Gwen. She graciously responded to the questions posed by the reporters. She answered several before drawing the session to an end.

"Thanks, everyone. Steve needs to eat and relax a little. He'd like to stay here answering questions all night, but we have friends waiting for us. The Spartans are for real! The fans can start making their Super Bowl reservations. Jared and Steve were the missing parts to the team puzzle. We've got this!"

"Will you be having dinner with Colt Chance?" questioned a female sports reporter.

"It's common knowledge Steve and I consider Colt a dear friend. We try to get together whenever our schedules allow it," responded Gwen. "He's been invited to join us tonight for a very late meal, and I hope he can make it."

Gwen, Naomi, Jared and Steve were enjoying a midnight dinner at Anna's Place with Colt Chance. The restaurant was teeming with fans that had attended the game and had decided to stop by for a good meal, and hopefully to catch sight of Steve and Gwen Hammer. Gwen noticed Heather Jensen sitting alone at a table in the corner. She excused herself and walked over to speak with her.

All the patrons stopped talking as they watched Gwen Hammer, the most beautiful and popular woman in the world, casually stroll past them. Many had their phones in their hands as they snapped pictures and videos of what would be one of the biggest highlights of their lives.

"Heather, would you like to join us at our table? We have room, and we always enjoy your company. Naomi, Jared and Steve will be glad to see you, and I know Colt will be ecstatic."

"I'd love to join you, Madam President," replied an obviously pleased Heather Jensen. "I've been told by my network not to refer to you as My Queen so often. I'm sorry about that."

"That's fine, I don't mind. Call me whatever you like. Just come with me," insisted Gwen as she reached for Heather's hand and led the reporter back to her table.

Steve had seen Gwen returning with Heather and had quickly pulled an unoccupied chair from a nearby table and placed it next to Colt's. Gwen nodded her approval as Jared and Colt stood to greet Heather.

"You know Steve, Jared and Naomi of course, but I don't know if you've ever met Colt Chance. He's a football player of some kind," added Gwen with a chuckle.

"I should say he is! When Steve isn't winning the Super Bowl, Colt is. It's amazing to me you three men are friends. Jared planted you on the turf twice tonight, and Steve just about ripped your star linebacker into pieces," stated Heather with a big smile.

"Baker learned a thing or two in tonight's game," replied Colt with a smile as he shook Heather's hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Jensen. I watch you on TV all the time."

"Please call me Heather; I did a piece with your Courtney when I first got into broadcasting," recalled Heather. "It was about breast cancer and how hard she worked for her charity. I really admired her; she was very beautiful. I'm so sorry she succumbed to the disease."

"Thanks," responded Colt. "I miss her every day, but our two kids, along with football, keep me pretty busy."

"You played a great game tonight," praised Heather as she took the proffered seat next to Colt. "If Baker hadn't made so many bone-headed plays, you would've won the game, but then our Spartans wouldn't be celebrating our first victory."

Steve glanced at Gwen with a raised eyebrow. She smiled and winked back with her head turned so Heather and Colt wouldn't notice. Steve and Gwen had often discussed the tragic death of Chase Colt's wife Courtney from breast cancer at the age of 29. They had long hoped he could somehow find another love with whom to share his life and family.

Dinner was almost over when Heather checked a text message on her phone. "Mom just asked me if I'm dating Colt Chance!"

"I didn't say anything, but my agent texted me the same question about you," revealed Colt. "Being out in public with Gwen, Naomi, Jared and Steve draws a lot of attention. I'm sorry if this causes you any embarrassment."

"Embarrassment? Being linked with Colt Chance while dining with the Whites and the Hammers?" chortled Heather. "I can't imagine how it could get any better! The tabloids have printed stories about me and some rather unsavory characters over the past few months. Being seen with a true gentleman who works so hard for a worthwhile charity when he isn't winning Super Bowls is a pretty good thing in my mind."

"Yeah, Steve's a great guy, but how do you feel about me?" asked Chance with a straight face.

"I was referring to..., you're pulling my leg, aren't you?" countered Heather with a laugh.

"Would it be okay if I called you sometime?" asked Chase nervously. "I've had a great time tonight and I'd love to see you again, if you're okay with it."

Heather's face lit up in an even bigger smile as she pulled a card from her purse and wrote on the back of it. "This is my cell. Only my Mom and a few close friends and relatives have it. Call me anytime."

Later that evening as Steve and Gwen were snuggling in bed, Steve asked the question Gwen was expecting. "Was it a coincidence Heather was at the restaurant tonight, or did you two have something cooked up?"

"Whatever do you mean?" responded Gwen innocently. "Can't a girl introduce a good friend to another good friend without it being a conspiracy? They're two great people and if they happen to hit it off, so much the better. Besides, she'll stop making those doe eyes at you all the time if she falls in love with Colt."

Just two days after the first Spartan victory, Gwen Hammer was announced as the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize! Her work as President of the United States had prevented a world war. Added to that, her humanitarian efforts through Lady in Red, made her selection an easy decision. She had been nominated by charitable organizations supported by Lady in Red two years running, but this time, The Queen of Peace was actually awarded the Peace Prize!

The Spartans entered the easiest part of their schedule and managed to squeak out victories against three of the league's weaker opponents. Meanwhile Steve was slowly working back into playing shape and regaining his timing with his receivers. The biggest problem he now had was his porous offensive line; it was allowing him to get hit too often.

By the time the Spartans entered the heart of their schedule, Steve's passes were sharp and on target, so the opposing teams began sending more players after him. And of course, when he was given little or no time to look for receivers, he was less effective. As the season went on, Steve was spending more and more time being treated for bruises and contusions by the trainers. The Spartans continued to win, but Steve was paying a heavy price.

The Spartans had won six consecutive games when they lost their starting halfback to a leg injury. Steve approached the head coach before practice.

"Hank, we have to start getting Ben some snaps in these games. He didn't play badly in the first three games, even though we lost. He just needs more experience and confidence to become a major asset to us. I'm beginning to realize I'm not 21 anymore, and it's getting harder for me to recover from the beatings I've been taking. I have a suggestion."

Steve didn't tell his coach he had decided this would be his last season of football. He wanted to spend more time with Gwen and the kids, and his enthusiasm for the game was waning. Their second-string quarterback needed to gain some serious experience, since he would be starting the following season.

Half an hour later, Steve stood next to the coach while he addressed the team. "Men, I've talked it over with Steve, and we have to adjust, or we'll never make the play-offs. You all know Steve's been taking a beating every game, and it's taking a toll. Sunday we lost Dexter to a leg injury, and he was our best blocking back. So to help keep Steve healthy and ready for the play-offs, we're going to play Ben a lot more."

"You're going to sacrifice his scrawny body to help keep our diva healthy and in the lineup?" asked a grinning Jared.

"That's pretty much what I'm thinking," agreed the coach with a chuckle. "Ben needs more experience, so he'll be ready to take over if Steve goes down. So he'll be practicing with the first team and getting more playing time, but not in any ordinary way.

"We're going with a two-quarterback offense. By that, I mean both Steve and Ben will be on the field at the same time. One will line up at quarterback and the other as a halfback or receiver. Ben's a strong runner, and Steve does pretty well in a pinch."

The Spartans played the Eagles, a division rival, the following Sunday. The Eagles were taken by surprise when both Steve and Ben took the field on the first offensive play. Ben lined up as the only back behind Steve, who stood at shotgun. Steve took the snap and tossed the ball back to Ben, who appeared to be sweeping around the right end.

But then Ben suddenly launched the football downfield to a wide-open tight end! The receiver managed to reach Philadelphia's 20 before being shoved out of bounds. The Spartans lined up the same way for the next play. This time Steve began calling the signals until he went in motion, much to the surprise of the Eagles and their fans. The center then hiked the ball to Ben, who looked right before firing a tight spiral over the middle to Steve, who caught the ball on a dead run and reached the end zone before the surprised defensive backs could recover.

The first set of downs established the style of offense the Spartans would utilize for the rest of the season. Steve and Ben would run the ball often enough to keep the defense honest, but the wide-open and often unpredictable passing game combined with Jared's stubborn defense carried the team to the play-offs. They only dropped one more game for their only loss after Steve and Jared had rejoined the team. That loss was their second game with Dallas.

In December, Steve skipped a Friday practice to travel with Gwen to Oslo to accept her Nobel Prize. They were accompanied by jubilant family and friends. Gwen's acceptance speech was filled with praise for others.

"I want to thank The Norwegian Nobel Committee for this incredible honor," began a beaming Gwen as she looked over the audience. "I think everyone knows it was the hard work and strong negotiating skills of my husband Steve Hammer and my very good friend Naomi White, which allowed the world to avoid a devastating war. I accept this award not for myself, but for all the people of the world who seek only to enjoy peace, prosperity and good health. My promise to everyone listening is this. I will work as hard as I can to make it possible for everyone to attain those goals. That's my pledge to you."

The Spartans faced the Cowboys in the second round of the play-offs. Before the game, Leon Baker approached Steve.

"I owe you an apology for the way I played in our first meeting. Colt wanted me to talk to you before our second game with you guys, but I was too pigheaded. He pretty much told me to man up and do it today, or he'd make my life hell in the locker room, and now I get the point. I was a jerk for hitting you late. I thought I'd knock you out of the game, or make you so angry you'd do something stupid. That isn't the way the game's meant to be played, and I apologize."

Fans watched as Steve reached out to shake young Baker's hand. The two men smiled, slapped each other on the back and parted. Baker, and of course Chance, played very well, but the Spartans prevailed to win 22- 20 and advance to the NFC Championship game against the Saints.

The following week the Spartans rode the efforts of the defense to beat the Saints in a low-scoring game, and to punch their ticket to the Super Bowl. Jared was playing extremely well, and the defensive unit had become the stingiest in the league.

As luck would have it, the Academy Awards were held the weekend between the conference championships and the Super Bowl. Charlie and Jordan were the co-hosts for the third consecutive year. Steve had been nominated for Best Actor, as well as Best Original Screenplay, while Gwen was up for Best Actress. Becky was thrilled to be one of the contenders for Best Supporting Actress. Charlie and Jordan were once again in the running for Best Original Song. The Queen's Ransom had smashed all box office records and was favored to win Best Picture.

Fairly early in the evening, Becky's name was called for Best Supporting Actress. She held her statuette in her hand and flashed her trademark smile to the crowd. Her acceptance speech was brief but emotional.

"I lost a hand years ago while I was still in high school, and I believed my life was over. I felt like a freak. Then my amazing sister introduced me to Steve Hammer. Can you believe a single prom date with him saved my life?" asked Becky as the crowd broke into laughter.

"My wonderful husband Pete and I agree on this. Any success we've enjoyed is the result of our friendship with Steve and Gwen Hammer. She's truly our Queen, and there is no doubt Steve is her Warrior. They're also our friends. I dedicate this award to the Hammers!"

Jordan and Charlie took home the Oscar for Best Original Song. The crowd cheered long and hard for them as they took the stage. Jordan thanked Charlie before mentioning Gwen and Steve as inspirations, as well as their best friends.

A short time later, Steve was awarded the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. His acceptance was gracious and poignant.

"I want to thank everyone that helped make our movie the great success it's been," began Steve. "You know who you are. I've been fortunate to have a great support group, but it all begins with my wife, the Lady in Red. All I am is a direct result of her love and faith in me. I proudly accept this honor and devote it to the woman who so recently brought peace to a very troubled world. I live only to serve my Queen!"

Steve received a standing ovation as he headed offstage. The camera panned the crowd and settled on Gwen. She wiped tears from her cheeks as she smiled proudly.

When Gwen was announced as the winner of the Best Actress award, the audience broke into a huge ovation. The raucous reception continued as Gwen made her way to the podium to receive her Oscar. She smiled, waved and nodded to the crowd while she waited for the noise to subside. Once it became quiet enough for Gwen to speak, she wiped her eyes and uttered but one sentence.

"The Warrior has made me your Queen, and I pledge my love to him for as long as we both shall live!" proclaimed Gwen before starting back to her seat to another huge round of applause.

It was almost anticlimactic when Steve's name was called for Best Actor. He grabbed Gwen's hand and pulled her to her feet to accompany him to the stage. Once they were in front of the cameras, Steve looked into Gwen's face, declared "My Queen," and knelt in front of her with his head bowed.

Gwen beamed as the auditorium erupted into cheers and whistles. Once she was certain she would be heard, she spoke only two words. "Rise, Warrior."

Steve stood and swept Gwen into his arms for a passionate kiss, to the delight of the audience watching at home, as well as those in the theater. This couple had captivated the world like none other in history.

The main cast of characters took to the stage when The Queen's Ransom was announced as the year's Best Picture. Kate and Lisa went to the microphone and Kate spoke first.

"We're fortunate to have been blessed with the amazing talent assembled before you. It all begins with Jordan, Gwen, Charlie and Steve. Your support of Lady in Red's various enterprises in general, and this wonderful movie in particular, allows us to help more people in need."

Kate took a step back, and Lisa moved to the microphone. "Along with our thanks to those who supported this film, we're pledging to you that Lady in Red will spend every cent of profit from this wonderful movie on humanitarian efforts around the world! Details will be posted on our company website. Thanks so much! Good night!"

Steve and Jared were back at practice the next morning. Steve took some good-his natured ribbing about taking time off to win a few Oscars. It was obvious that Steve's teammates admired him and were proud to be associated with him. Preparations for the Super Bowl continued.

The evening before the big game, Colt Chance was awarded the league's MVP trophy. Although his team was defeated in two out of three meetings with the Spartans, Colt's play had remained at a very high level. He led the league in passing yardage, touchdowns and passer rating.

Gwen and Steve were two of his loudest supporters as they cheered their approval. Gwen had reached over to squeeze Heather's hand when Colt left her side to accept his award.

Gwen had found some time to chat privately with Heather before the festivities. It was quite apparent she was extremely fond of Colt Chance.

"Colt and his two kids visited Sparta to meet my parents!" revealed Heather when she and Gwen were alone. "Mom is a huge Cowboys fan, and she just loves Colt. She fell in love with his children as soon as she met them. I owe you big time for introducing us."

"It was truly my pleasure," replied Gwen. "Now you have a great guy of your own, so you won't be making moon eyes at mine. There was a method to my madness."

"I hope you don't think I'll stop loving Steve," retorted Heather. "He's your guy and the world knows it. He's amazing and I'll always love him. Now that I think about it, I'll always love you too, Gwen. You've been very kind me even when I went out of my way to get Steve to notice me. But now that I have a great guy of my own, you're right, I'll be less emotional around Steve," promised Heather before thinking of another matter she had decided to share.

"Keep an eye on that Kathy Perrine though. She's in love with Steve, and she's very beautiful and talented."

"She said almost exactly the same thing about you," responded Gwen with a laugh. "Remember when I asked you to do your dance at out last concert? Kathy flat out told me you were in love with Steve, and I needed to keep my eye on you."

"She said that?" marveled Heather. "She's the one you'd need to worry about, if you had any reason to worry, that is. She's an incredibly beautiful woman who writes love songs about your husband!"

"I told her I have complete faith in Steve, and I'm telling you the same. If I didn't, you and Kathy would never be my friends," acknowledged Gwen. "You're both stunning women with tons of talent."

Gwen was surprised at the emotion Heather displayed as she moved close and hugged Gwen hard. "You and Steve practically made my career, and now you've given me Colt to love. I'll always be your friend, if you'll let me."

Colt was magnanimous in his acceptance speech. "I want to thank Steve Hammer for missing the first three games this year, thus affording me an opportunity to win this great honor. It's always been a team effort in Dallas. This award reflects the hard work of the entire organization. Thanks so much!"

Gwen and Jordan proudly performed the National Anthem prior to the Super Bowl kick-off the next evening. They were then joined by family and friends in their skybox to watch the game. Saint was extremely intense as he closely watched every play. His pride in his father's success was obvious. When Steve did well, Saint was jubilant. When his father missed a receiver, or took a hit, Saint winced in sympathy.

New England got off to a fast start and held a 17-10 lead at halftime. It would have been worse, except Jared had forced a fumble on the Spartan 12-yard line that was recovered by the Spartans.

Jared was fired up in the locker room. He called out players he felt weren't performing up to their skill level and demanded more passion and desire from all his teammates. Steve felt it was a toss-up whether Jared inspired the players with fear or pride. Regardless, a determined team left the locker room for the second half.

Steve was surprised to find Kathy Perrine waiting for him on the 50-yard line when he reached the field. She had been the headliner for the halftime show, but she should have returned to her dressing room long before the teams made it back onto the field.

She stepped right in front of Steve, making him stop in his tracks. The beautiful woman broke into a huge smile and embraced Steve tightly before stretching up and kissing him on the cheek.

"Gwen said she was fine with me personally offering you encouragement after the halftime show. Good luck, Steve. You're the best guy I've ever met. I'll always be your biggest fan... after Gwen, of course."

Steve gave Kathy a quick hug before joining his team on the field. He was immediately the target of harassing comments from his teammates.

The second half was a one-sided affair, and the principal reason for that was Jared White. On the second play of the second half, Jared strip-sacked the New England quarterback on the 15-yard line. Jared then managed to gather in the loose football and rumble across the goal line for a touchdown.

New England was unable to mount any real drives in the second half, as Jared and his fired-up defense shut New England down. The Spartans offense consistently enjoyed excellent field position when they received the ball back, and they managed three field goals and two touchdowns. Steve knew the job of the offense was to eliminate mistakes, and to take advantage of the gifts presented them by the defense.

The Spartans won the game 33-23 and Jared was awarded the Super Bowl MVP award for his outstanding play. As an owner, Jordan accepted the Super Bowl trophy from the league commissioner. It was televised nationally, and her smile lit up the screen.

The celebration in the locker room was also broadcast. Gwen, Lisa and Kate were shown congratulating the players and coaches. Gwen and Steve were engaged in conversation with the head coach, when a team representative approached Steve with a wireless phone in his hand.

"It's President Rosen," was all the man said as he handed Steve the phone.

"Hello, Sir" greeted Steve with a big smile. "Thanks for calling."

"Congratulations on the win, Steve, but that's not the main reason I called," admitted Vince Rosen. "This isn't a secure line, so I won't go into detail. Just after the second half began, a series of explosions rocked Moscow. Suffice it to say your presence is requested in Moscow, along with Gwen, as soon as possible. I can't stress the gravity of the situation enough."

"Mr. President, we'll prepare to leave immediately," assured Steve as he considered the possible scenarios in Moscow. "We'll contact you for clarification once we have a secure connection."

Gwen's attention was focused entirely on Steve as she listened to his side of the conversation. Cameras had zoomed in on Steve as the reporters expected him to accept a simple congratulatory call from President Rosen. The actual reason for the call was obviously quite different than anyone expected.

At that moment, a different team employee appeared with yet another phone. He shrugged his shoulders as he wordlessly handed it to Steve.

"Hello? With whom am I speaking?" asked Steve as he looked to Gwen.

Steve immediately switched to Russian as he responded to the caller. Gwen's attention was still on Steve as he engaged in a brief conversation in Russian. She was easily able to follow Steve's end, and her frown grew as Steve continued speaking. He disconnected the call and spoke quietly to Gwen and his other close companions.

"Gwen, we have to hurry to the airport. Tyler, would you ask our pilots to file a flight plan for Moscow and to be prepared to take off as soon as we board? Gwen and I are leaving immediately."​