Lady in Red Book 1 The Rise of the Queen Chapter 31
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Ted was sitting at the kitchen table having a cup of coffee when Gwen came through the door. "Sweetheart! I'm so sorry you had to experience such tragedy yesterday. But, I'm extremely proud of the way you handled the situation. I would've come to the hospital with Paula and Lisa, but Kate was here with some of her friends. They were all pretty shook up and your mom and I felt it was important that one of us be here for them. She was very worried about you and Steve and feels terrible about the others. How's Steve doing?"
"He's healing, Dad. He's so brave. He killed the one terrorist with his bare hands, then took the guy's guns and shot the other four. He saved all of us. He knew they'd shoot him when he entered the gym, but he came anyway. I just can't imagine knowingly entering a place where people will try to kill you. He's a real hero."
"He's all of that," agreed Ted. "He could have simply left the area and been safe, but he took the much more difficult path. He put the lives of others before his own. That's pretty much the definition of hero. To think that I actually tried hitting him in the chin. What was I thinking?"
"As I recall, you were thinking that he had hurt your daughter, or dishonored her, and you acted as a good father would. Steve actually admires you for that. He told me he did. He always tells me what a good father I have. I guess he must miss his dad a lot and wants to be sure that I appreciate you and mom. I can't imagine what it must be like for him to have no mother or father."
"You look exhausted. You need to try to stop thinking about what's wrong in the world. Go to bed and get some sleep. Everything will look better in the morning, or in this case, the afternoon," laughed Ted.
Gwen managed a few fitful hours of sleep. She had frequent dreams of shootings and bloody wounds. She climbed out of bed before noon feeling more tired than when she laid down.
Lisa, Kate, and Paula were having sandwiches when Gwen made her appearance in the kitchen. "Want something to eat before we go visit Steve at the hospital? I knew I wouldn't be able to see him yesterday and I had some friends over. We were talking about the kids we knew that were shot yesterday. Stephanie stopped in for a while and told us how Steve just suddenly hit that guy and caught him before he fell to the ground. Then he twisted his neck really hard and Stephanie heard the bones snap! I'm so glad Steve killed that guy. If he hadn't we'd all have been blown up. He's amazing and I want to tell him exactly that.
"Lisa said that he told you and Mom that he loves us. I guess it's no secret that I love him, too. You've got the best boyfriend in the world. I bet no one else could've done what he did. I don't think I'll ever be able to find a guy anywhere near as good as him. He set the bar really high. Thanks for sharing your boyfriend, Gwen. I feel safer when he's around."
"So do I, Kate. I don't think he'd ever let anything bad happen to us if he could prevent it. If Lisa and Jason get close, you'll have two tough big brothers looking out for you. Not too many guys will risk pissing off a SEAL and an Army Ranger. You'll find the right guy someday and we'll all love him. You have lots of time. Remember that I didn't even have a date until my senior year. Good guys are worth waiting for," assured Gwen.
The hospital was still a busy place, but lacked the sense of urgency that had existed the previous day. The four Anderson women were allowed to visit Steve together. Kate broke into tears when she saw Steve wrapped in bandages with an IV in his arm.
"Oh, Steve! Look what they've done to you!" she sobbed as she leaned in and kissed him all over his face. "We were scared to death yesterday when we heard the gunshots and then the fire alarm went off. Then we heard that you had a shootout with terrorists and you killed them all. I wasn't surprised. Then I heard that you might be dead and my heart broke. Lisa told me that you said you love me. I love you, too! Thanks for being you and taking care of those terrorists like you did. You saved my life!"
"Kate, it's nice seeing you again. You don't have to get all emotional. I'm okay now, but maybe I was delusional when I told your mom and sisters that I loved all of you. I had a lot of drugs pumping through my system," laughed Steve.
"Hah! You can't fool me. I know you love me, maybe not as much as Gwen, but still you love me a lot. I'm good with that. I don't think two people could love each other more than you and Gwen. I'm just glad she's my sister and you're her boyfriend!"
"Kate, don't be putting words in Steve's mouth. You're going to make him feel like he has to tell me that he loves me," complained Gwen with a blush.
"Then you should tell him how we're going to have him stay with us to recuperate. He can tell you all about how he loves you while you nurse him back to health," reasoned Kate. "The four of us will take turns changing his bandages."
"Sorry, Florence Nightingale!" interrupted Paula. "You will not be changing Steve's bandages, at least not the ones below his waist. Let me make that very clear."
Lisa and Gwen began to giggle as Kate suddenly turned pouty. It was obvious that Paula was not going to yield on this point. Her statement also indicated that Gwen and Lisa would have the opportunity to care for Steve.
"Kate let the cat out of the bag," revealed Paula. "Gwen already spoke to Uncle Joe and he's fine with it. When you're well enough to be discharged from the hospital, we want you to stay at our house until you're healed. It would be our honor."
"Thanks, Paula, but it isn't necessary. Uncle Joe said that he'd find a nurse to help take care of me. You've done more than enough for me already."
"So you don't think I should have the opportunity to try to repay you for saving my daughters' lives? You don't like my cooking? These two nurses are maybe too homely for you? You don't want me to have the pleasure of helping the Spartan Nation's poster boy get over his wounds?"
"It's not that! I love your cooking. Heck, I love your daughters. I just don't want to put you out. You've done so much for me already. I feel like I'm taking advantage of you."
"Steve, this is not open for debate. As your girlfriend's mother, and as the mother of two other girls that adore you, I'm insisting that you stay with us. You'll be helping us get past this horrible event. We'll be able to fuss over you rather than stew over the mayhem those terrorists created. There will be no more discussion on this matter. It's settled.
"We promised the nurse that we'd only stay a few minutes. Girls, say your goodbyes. We're leaving now. Steve needs his rest and we need to shop for enough food to feed him for a week or two. Let's go."
Kate hurried back over to Steve and kissed him several more times. Then Lisa planted a slow, lingering kiss on Steve's lips. When she stood up, she smiled at Gwen. That was all Gwen needed as she leaned down and gave Steve a long hard kiss with some tongue. Kate and Lisa were laughing by the time Gwen allowed Steve the opportunity to breathe.
"I guess staying at your place won't be so bad after all," grinned Steve. "Maybe you can ask Stephanie to come over and help now and then?"
"It seems like you're healing pretty fast, Buster!" laughed Paula. "I'll let Diane know that you're asking about Stephanie. She was pretty upset about the things that she saw and heard yesterday, but she was unwavering in her support of your actions."
Gwen had everyone wait for her while she managed a few minutes with Jared. He had been transferred from intensive care and was allowed visitors.
"You were wonderful yesterday, Jared. I told everyone how you saved my life. I can't believe how brave you were. I owe you my life. Steve wanted me to tell you that what's his, is yours, and that from now on, you're his brother. He doesn't make statements like that lightly."
"I'm just glad you're okay and I'm really glad that Steve showed up in time to cap those bastards and save all of us. It's funny, but since I've been hanging with Steve, I feel more like helping people and being a better man. I guess I'm trying to be more like him. I respect him and that's one of the best things you can say about another man. Tell Steve that I'm proud to be his brother."
Gwen returned home and managed a restful nap. When she came down for dinner, the news was on television and her family was watching it closely.
"The head of the FBI in the state is giving a news conference. He's going to tell what law enforcement has found out about the attack yesterday," responded Ted to a question from Gwen. "He's coming on now."
"The terrorist attack on a local high school yesterday was a terrible event. History will reflect that fact. What it will also reflect is the amazing string of coincidences that prevented this heinous act from being anywhere near as devastating as was planned by the terrorist.
"How could the terrorist speaking on his cell phone in the Farsi language, apparently to his leader, guess that an American high school student walking toward the gym at that moment was fluent in Farsi? What are the odds that the student, Steve Hammer, would turn out to be trained in hand-to hand combat and have the ability to immediately kill the terrorist? Then try calculating the odds that the same student had learned the workings of IED's and suicide bombs from his father, a Navy SEAL Commander.
"This same student searched the dead man while sending a female student to pull the fire alarm, knowing that these evil men planned on destroying the building and everyone in it with explosives. Evacuation was absolutely the right decision under these circumstances.
"Then the student arms himself with two handguns taken from the dead terrorist, and knowing there were more armed men in the gym, tells his friend to open the gym door on his signal. He enters the building and immediately double taps a terrorist, leaving three still shooting at him. As he places two bullets in the brain of the next terrorist, he is hit high in the leg, knocking him to his knees, where he is then struck in the shoulder by a bullet, rendering his right arm useless with two armed men still shooting at him.
"What are the odds that this young man is not only rated expert with a handgun, but expert with either hand? Unable to lift his right arm, he raised his left hand and shot both remaining terrorists in the head! Why was it so important that he shoot them in the head? They were wearing explosives. A bullet to the body could have detonated them. A non-lethal shot could have allowed them the opportunity to manually detonate the bombs.
"What are the chances that this young man, now unable to reach the dead men carrying explosives capable of being detonated remotely, can find a young lady, Gwen Anderson, with enough faith in his knowledge to follow his instructions without question? That she quickly severs the green wire on each body's bomb, rendering the remote detonation device inoperable? We now know that a signal to detonate the bombs was sent less than twenty seconds after the young lady finished cutting the wires!
"What are the odds that over a dozen students remain in the building with dead terrorists packed with explosives to render aid to the injured? That the same young woman that cut the detonation wires, has a doctor on her speed dial? She makes just one call that morning, and that was to an ER doctor. She is quickly given phone numbers for her fellow students to call for medical advice for treating the wounded. All the students listened to the medical staff and administered immediate first aid.
"Three students were killed instantly by the cowardly acts of the terrorists, but these brave kids somehow saved all the wounded! The attending doctors have assured me that without that immediate aid, several more students would have probably died. This event will become the framework for future contingencies in tragedies like this. These students did the Spartan Nation proud, very proud."
"It sure doesn't sound like the FBI is very pissed at you, Gwen. I guess you must have straightened out that agent that questioned your actions. Plus they got to see the entire attack on video. Apparently, they've come to the conclusion that you and Steve did everything right, as if that's any surprise," added Lisa.
Just as they finished dinner, the home phone rang. Paula answered it and summoned Gwen. "Hello, Gwen. I don't know if you remember me. I'm John Dixon, but I go by Johnnie Dee. I worked the Tim Archer benefit and you were 'the Lady in Red'. I've been asked to emcee a memorial tribute Saturday evening at the Church of Saints. It's that really big church over on Third Street.
"I've been given carte blanche for this affair. The governor has agreed to speak. So has your school principal. The Chief of Police will have his moment in the sun, but mostly, I'm looking for students to speak, or perform. I want this to be a time of healing. The kids need that, as you well know. Would you be interested in speaking, or performing in some way? I know that dancing wouldn't be appropriate, but poetry, recollections, recitals. Hymns or nice songs would be fine."
"A year ago, I would've been too nervous to do something like that, but I can tell you that I welcome the opportunity now. I'll have something appropriate for Saturday and I appreciate that you thought of me at this time. It's an honor."
"Thanks, Gwen. You've become a leader in the Spartan Nation and people will want to see and hear you. I just finished speaking with your boyfriend and he's agreed to the same proposal. You two could do something together if you like. The crowd would love it. We're going start advertising this and we're using your name and Steve's to draw a crowd. People would rather hear you than the governor or police chief."
"I don't know if Steve will be able to attend," worried Gwen. "He's still in the hospital. He has two bullet wounds. He said he'd be there? If he said it, then you can take it to the bank. He's definitely a man of his word!"
As soon as she finished speaking with Johnnie Dee, Gwen phoned Charlotte. "Johnnie Dee asked me to do something at the memorial Saturday night. I was thinking that I'd sing and was hoping that you'd accompany me on the piano."
"You're finally going to sing in public?" asked Charlotte in disbelief. "Everyone's been trying to get you to do that for years. Why are you suddenly willing to perform in public?"
"It's hard to explain, but I've lost my shyness over the past few months. I think it's at least partly because of the confidence I've gained being with Steve. He makes everything seem easy and he puts things in perspective. After the attack, most things don't seem all that scary. The worst that'll happen is that I get laughed off the stage. Hopefully, no one will die from my singing."
"What will Steve do? Will he talk about the attack and what he was thinking as he took out those killers?"
"I don't know. He doesn't really like talking about himself, or things that he's done. He's definitely not a bragger. I think he'll have trouble just getting up on stage. He's supposed to be discharged pretty soon. He's in pretty good condition, now that they pumped a bunch of blood back into him. I bet he'll be surprised to hear me sing. I never told him about that. Let's try to keep it from him until I get on stage, okay?"
Lisa and Gwen went to visit Steve the next day. When they got to his room, they were surprised to find his bed empty. Knowing he couldn't have gone far, they found him hobbling out of Jared's room.
"Steve! Are you supposed to be on your feet?" demanded Gwen. 'Do you have permission from Laura or the other doctors?"
"I was bored. Besides, I wanted to tell Jared a few things. He's still in pretty rough shape and I wanted him to know how I felt about what he did for you and what that means to me. When he saved your life, he saved mine, Gwen. I don't know if I'd want to live if you'd been killed," admitted Steve.
"With friends like Jared and a boyfriend as capable as you, I'm going to be around a long time, so don't worry about that. But I know what you mean. I felt the same way when you were bleeding out and looked so close to death. I was really scared."
"If you're able to get around, can you come home with us today?" asked Lisa. "We're very anxious to nurse you back to health, aren't we, Gwen?"
"Maybe a little too anxious in your case," laughed Gwen. "We're looking forward to bringing you home and taking care of you for a week or two, Steve. We should be able to be alone now and then, if Lisa can get Mom and Kate to go shopping with her."
"I'm willing, Sis, but it won't be that easy to fool Mom. She wasn't born yesterday. She knows more than she lets on."
"Tell me about it! When I finally got her to take Dad shopping for Christmas, she texted both me and Kate that they were coming home early. Then when she got home she gave Steve and me a little talk about being responsible."
"Don't tell me that you two were doing it!" gasped Lisa. "What about birth control? Right in the house? What if Kate came home?"
"No! We weren't 'doing it', as you so nicely put it. We were doing some petting and Mom must have suspected it because when I didn't answer her text, she made sure that Kate came home to warn me that Mom and Dad were almost home."
"Wow! Mom's pretty cool. Dad's great, but fathers are not going to go for that sort of thing no matter how much they like the guy. You're just lucky that Kate didn't get an eye full when she got home. Why are you blushing?" demanded Lisa. "Don't tell me that Kate did get an eye full! I guess I'd better talk to her!"
"You two do know that I'm standing right here?" asked Steve. "You should wait until my back's turned before you discuss this stuff. I never had any sisters and if I did, I'm sure they wouldn't be so willing to share details like you sisters do."
"I wish you had a brother," laughed Lisa. "We have enough girls to go around, but we need more Steves."
"Getting back to your original question, Laura said I should be discharged tomorrow. She says that it's quite soon considering I have two bullet wounds, but I'm healing already and she thinks my spirits will pick up when I'm around your mom and Kate, and maybe Stephanie."
"Really? Mom, Kate, and Stephanie? Gwen and I can raise a lot more than your spirits, Stud. We'll take good care of you, won't we, Sis?"
"What's this 'we' stuff?" demanded Gwen with a big grin. "I'll handle everything that comes up just fine. You'll be out shopping with Mom and Kate."
"Well, be sure to check for text messages if you're alone with this guy. Where can we put your phone so we'll be sure that you check it? I have an idea. We'll tape it next to his bullet wound!"
Lisa, Kate, and Gwen all showed up at the hospital Saturday morning to take Steve home. Many of the nurses and several doctors stopped Steve as Gwen wheeled him down the hall. The females hugged Steve and the men shook his hand.
"It looks like it's a good thing that you're getting him out of here, Gwen. Those nurses must have gotten an eye full while taking care of our hero's wounds. They're all doe-eyed. I know that look, I see it in your eyes, and Kate's, every time you two are around Steve," joked Lisa.
Steve had come to accept that the Anderson sisters were going to tease him mercilessly every opportunity that they had. He appreciated the humor and the love the girls shared and he had long ago decided he would take everything they would dish out. He'd never let them get his goat.
Steve insisted on visiting Jared and Billy before leaving. The girls listened to Steve state his unwavering loyalty and high regard to 'his brothers'. It was obvious that Steve was deeply moved my Jared's selfless act on Gwen's behalf. He couldn't have been more sincere if Jared had saved him rather than Gwen. Steve made it very plain to everyone in the room that Gwen's safety meant far more to him than his own and he would always feel in debt to Jared.
You're not thinking about going to Paris without Charlie and me, are you?" asked Jordan as soon as Gwen had announced her intentions. "Oh, Jordan! I hate to ask anyone to go to funerals. This isn't going to be a fun, romantic trip," pointed out Gwen. "If you'd like to come with us, we'd be extremely glad to have you! I should've known that you'd want to help those poor kids. You're a true friend." "And don't forget it!" kidded Jordan before turning to Charlie. "We need to...
Gwen and Steve arrived at the Governor's mansion in plenty of time for the rehearsal. Steve had tried to beg off, and remain at the hotel, but Gwen wouldn't hear of it. "I know you aren't in the wedding party, but Amber and her parents will want you there. Remember how they treated you last time we saw them? Besides, we'll be going to dinner afterward and I'll need you to protect me from all of those handsome Army Rangers." Lisa and Jason met Gwen and Steve as soon as they were...
The long flight from Australia gave the travelers an opportunity to discuss issues, as well as catch some much needed rest. At the first meeting, Lisa presented Gwen with a laundry list of issues facing her in Washington. “The conflict of interest situation is really gaining traction in both Houses of Congress,” began Lisa. “While as President, you are not subject to the pertinent or perhaps impertinent statute, there is an obscure law that’s causing problems. Kate, could you explain it to...
Half an hour later, Steve and Gwen pulled into the Anderson driveway. At least they pulled into the bottom of the drive, as it was full of cars. Gwen looked the cars over and turned to Steve. "I'm so sorry, Steve. It looks like every relative and friend my family knows has decided to meet at our place. I think it may be to inspect you and maybe grill you as boyfriend material. I'm not saying you're my boyfriend or anything, but I know everyone inside will say it. I have to invite you in...
The Lady in Red group was approaching Blakely early the following afternoon when Gwen tapped Steve on the shoulder and indicated that she wanted him to pull over. She was addressing her friends as soon as they turned their bikes off. "This may be a little tense up ahead, so we need to be cautious," stated Gwen. "I don't have to tell any on you that our men are capable of handling almost anything if we stay out of their way. However, we need to be smart, not tough, when possible. We have...
"I was planning to change the oil in my car. Then I thought that I'd rearrange my sock drawer," replied Steve with a frown. "I guess I could put that off, and make the dinner, but not without a little tweaking. If Lisa's invited, then the President should be happy to invite Jason Hunter. "What do you think, Gwen? Will the White House mind if I add to the guest list of a state dinner? One other thing; Jordan Quick is practically a member of this family, so we can't leave her home...
Gwen watched Steve dive into the icy waters without any apparent hesitation. Then, as her dress pooled at her feet, she kicked off her heels and headed for the river. Ashley was calling to her, but Gwen's attention was on the scene in the river. A man in a suit had climbed out of the helicopter and was trying to swim to shore. Although it was only about a hundred yards, Gwen could tell the man would never make it. He was using only his left arm, and quite awkwardly. Gwen was surprised when...
As the TV station went to commercial, Jordan turned to Gwen to commiserate. That's when she saw how pale Gwen had become as she clutched the back of a folding chair with trembling hands. "Gwen!" cried Jordan as she rushed to her friend and gently held her in her arms. "Sit down. Charlie, get some water. Relax, Gwen. We both know how smart and tough Steve is. Don't give up hope. Never give up on him!" "I've been trying to stay positive. I really have, but they've got Steve pinned...
"Excuse me, Madam Chairman," repeated Virginia Senator Russell several times before the din abated and he could finally be clearly heard. "May I suggest a recess so that the committee can discuss this situation? We could reconvene after lunch." Once again, an aide stepped forward and spoke into the still livid chairman's ear as she slowly nodded. "Very well, Senator Russell. We'll adjourn until one o'clock this afternoon. Ms. Anderson, Lieutenant Hammer, we'll expect you in your...
At six PM, Gwen and Steve briefly met with their friends and families at Valhalla to establish the order they would arrive at the movie premier. Becky and Pete had been unable to accompany Gwen and her entourage on the world tour because they had been filming their action/adventure television series on location. They were obviously happy to be back in Asgard for the premier of The Queen’s Ransom. “We just had to be here for this,” insisted Becky. “I was in the trilogy, and that really got my...
The two men immediately froze when Steve pointed the handgun at them. Steve risked a few quick glances around to determine if the two had any companions somewhere close. He saw no one else. By this time the girls were awake. Roxie was struggling to pull her shirt on while Sam clung to her. Steve carefully stood as he studied the two men. They didn't look like cartel men. They were very poorly dressed and one was much older than the other. Both men were heavily armed, however, and Steve was...
"I remember how upset you were when you entered the hotel that day in New York," recalled Lisa. "Luckily, just about an hour before you arrived, Steve had explained to all of us exactly where the bear crapped in the woods." "It was everything I could do just to get Gwen to leave the cab," added Charlotte. "I had never seen her so depressed and upset. I was pretty worried about her mental state." "I was a mess when Charlotte finally convinced me that I had responsibilities to the...
Steve and Chip had been somewhat surprised at the delays that cropped up on their trip to Iraq. They had to switch aircraft three times and the trip wound up taking several hours more than they would have expected. "Doesn't it seem strange that they were in such a hurry for you to get to the airport, but sent you on such a round-about way to get to Iraq?" asked Chip as the two men prepared to land in Baghdad. "This whole thing seems odd. Why are they bringing you in, even if the...
Gwen knew real fear as she looked at Mort's face and heard his intentions. She threw her door open and ran into the woods. She heard Mort curse and then the engine started. Headlights lit up the forest, forcing Gwen to flee farther into the night. She remained quiet until she was certain that she heard Mort drive away. She had the presence of mind to listen carefully so that she could determine the direction of the nearest highway. Gwen had her phone, but until she could establish her...
After the broadcast, Paula asked everyone to head to Marsh's for a celebration. "It's taken seven years for Steve to pop the question and we're going to make sure he knows how pleased we all are!" Ted took the floor of the private room once family and friends were all gathered. "Steve asked me a few days back for permission to ask Gwen to marry him. I told him at the time that Paula and I couldn't be happier. I'm not fooling myself about who the head of this family is. I appreciate...
As Steve and Chip rode with Captain Neary to the airport, they discussed the current situation. They understood its gravity and dispensed with any banter. "Kate wanted to try to talk you out of going," revealed Chip. "I told her that it wouldn't change your mind, but it would make leaving more difficult. She understood. She's amazing." "Gwen wasn't happy, but she knows I've got it to do. It helped when I told her that you were going with me. You've made a very positive impression...
Because of the short flight south from Pyongyang, across the DMZ to Seoul, Gwen had little time to discuss the situation with Steve and her other advisors. It seemed as if they had barely gotten airborne when they began their descent. The decision on how to proceed was formulated as Air Force One touched down. As expected, a government official unknown to Steve and Gwen and accompanied by a very small entourage, was present to greet them on the tarmac. The man was extremely polite as he...
Steve and Gwen woke up early the next morning, but lost track of time while they showered together. Steve finally managed to dry himself while Gwen remained in the shower, singing as she washed her hair. Just as Steve pulled his shirt on, a light knock sounded on his door. Steve swung the bathroom door closed and went to see who was knocking. He immediately recognized Charlie Burns. He was the band member that had approached him about jamming with his group the night Gwen sang with Jack...
Never one to drink very much, Steve totally abstained from alcohol when the wedding party reached the old castle for the brief wedding party reception. He escorted Gwen to the various food stations while he observed his surroundings. He thought it odd that the wait staff wore heavy work shoes that were badly in need of polish. He had imagined that the wedding of the son of the Russian President would have more rigorous standards. As Gwen, with a plate in her hand, stepped up to the man...
The weekend was spent rehearsing for the Christmas show that had already been contracted for CBC. Gwen, Jordan, and Steve were up at four. They were in the van, and riding to the studio by five AM. "If people think making movies is an easy job, they should follow us around for a few days. Charlie, Ashley and Charlotte wanted to sleep in. They decided last night that if they arrived at the studio by seven, they'd be in plenty of time for everything and still get some sleep," stated Jordan...
"Look! It's the Eiffel Tower!" exclaimed Stephanie as she pointed out the window of the shuttle van. "Everybody get lots of pictures and we'll share them all when we get home. I have to thank you again, Gwen, for making me part of this great adventure. I'm lucky to be your cousin." "You're lucky to be so pretty and shapely. You're lucky to have such understanding parents. You're lucky that Steve, for whatever reason, decided to take a chance on me that day at the mall. We're all...
School was scheduled to reopen Wednesday morning, one week after the attack. Steve had managed to cut off his bandages by himself that morning and limped to the shower to prepare for the day. He was doing his best to soap up his upper body when he felt hands stroking his back! He swung around in surprise to find a naked Gwen standing behind him. Trying to remain cool, he slowly ran his gaze over Gwen's body. His eyes lingered on the Y created where her long legs came together. Then he moved...
Gwen had an uneasy feeling after finishing her conversation with Steve. She knew he wasn’t the type to overreact, and he seemed genuinely concerned about the ship sailing near the coast of Somalia. With that in mind, she made her way to the bridge. The captain greeted the beautiful young doctor warmly. “Captain, I was just speaking with my fiancé and he’s concerned about pirates along the coast of Somalia. He suggested that we sail farther out, rather than hug the coast.” “Ms. Anderson, I...
Steve stepped back and watched as the second assailant slowly dropped to the sidewalk. He landed not far from the man Steve had previously dispatched. As he wiped away drops of blood that had seeped into his eyes, Steve detected movement to his right. He turned to see a man emerge from in front of the SUV and point a hand gun at Ashley. Becky attempted to shield Ashley's body with her own! It felt to Steve as if his heart had suddenly turned to ice. He was too far from the man to prevent...
For all of her strong words, Senator Chatham was extremely worried. Her daughter, along with twenty-two other girls, including the granddaughter of Vice President Pearson and the daughter of Representative Daniels, were missing. Their bus had simply disappeared. There was no plausible, acceptable explanation. All of the girls had cell phones, as would the bus driver, the security people, and the four chaperones. The fact that not one of them had placed a call since shortly after they left...
When the man's face came into stronger light, Steve spoke in a challenging manner. "You'd better holster that gun, or use it." "I don't need a gun to take you down, Hammer," replied the man as he tucked the handgun into his waistband. "How's Kate? Is she okay? I'm ashamed to admit that I was a little slow back there. Is she hurt?" By this time Gwen was next to Kate, looking at the blood on her face and asking her questions, and listening to Kate's response. "Three men grabbed...
Gwen and Steve were up early the next morning. Gwen was going to attend school while Steve planned to take the rest of the week off to recuperate. He expected to return the following Monday. He hoped that his face would be back to normal by then. As she gently washed his back, Steve heard Gwen begin to sob. He turned and asked, "What's wrong, Gwen? Why the tears?" "Seeing these awful bruises makes me realize how bad your ordeal must have been. Look at these marks, and these stitches in...
Gwen's surprise at her friends' practical joke was total. As she stood looking at her family with her mouth open, Steve hugged her shoulders to him and whispered in her ear. "This was Lisa's idea. She had the patches waiting for her on the helicopters and passed them out when you weren't looking. Are you going to be able to laugh this off?" "Are you kidding? They got me good! I love them even more for making the effort to set me up like this. We need friends and relatives that treat...
((note: story inspired by NilioJ (Harry potter spell book of desire‘s)) (Note 3. For the purposes of this story, all students start hogwarts at the age of 18, as Hogwarts is a High School/ College. ALL students are 18+. Salazar Slytherin was a pure-blood wizard, noted for his cunning and determination. He was regarded as one of the greatest wizards of the age, respectively as a Parselmouth and as a skilled Legilimens. Slytherin was one of the four founders of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft...
FantasyAmber Stahl had covered a lot of speeches in Washington over the years, but had never seen or heard anything even remotely like the lambasting Gwen had just delivered to Congress. She struggled to find the appropriate words to do justice to the situation as the cameras switched from the Capitol Building back to the studio. The red light suddenly lit up and Amber was on air. “Ladies and Gentlemen, we have just watched the most thorough berating of Congress by a sitting president in my memory,...
As she hurried between classes, Gwen was stopped by a local reporter the day after Hardy's diatribe was aired. The reporter asked about her response to Bill Hardy's accusations. Her answer was brief and to the point. "I'm pursuing an MD. That means that I have some seriously difficult courses. I'm a freshman congresswoman. I'm an owner in a rather large company. I make movies, recordings, and give concerts. I have to make a commercial for the Super Bowl this coming weekend, and I'm...
Steve had been sitting still, eyes closed and relaxing as much as possible as Laura and Gwen worked on removing his bandages. He never realized that Amber O'Leary was in the room until he heard her speak to Gwen. His eyes popped open and he began to rise until Laura placed her hand on his chest and gently pushed him back. He saw Gwen step in front of Amber in an obvious attempt to keep her away from him. What a time and place for Gwen and Amber to meet! "You're an amazing woman, Gwen,"...
"Did the President of The United States just call you?" asked Naomi in disbelief. "That was the most frightening, amazing minute of my life! Dad said you could shoot, but I can't believe what I just saw! I have to call Dad!" The stage was filling up with concerned, and very relieved friends and relatives of the graduates. Naomi had used her long legs to vault onto the stage as soon as the handcuffs were removed from Steve. Jared strode across the now crowded stage and embraced...
Laura had Steve lie on a gurney in the ER as she pulled the curtain closed around it. She took a pair of scissors and deftly cut his pants from his body. "Gwen, please get his shoes and socks off. We need to examine him closely, as well as x-ray him. Steve, can you tell me of any pain or injuries that I can't see?" "My shoulder hurts and my leg aches, but you can see that," responded Steve. "Other than that, I just have some scratches and bruises. Can I ask how Jason's...
"Let's respond to your questions one at a time," suggested Gwen as she studied the photos. "First of all, I'm not running for office, so I certainly won't be withdrawing. I never entered the race. These photos are real, and the quality is excellent. They were taken on our July 4th Ride for American Pride five years ago. "Jared is a dear friend and yes, we were naked as we climbed into the hot tub with several others. No one had sex in the tub. I've never been intimate with any man...
On the drive home from the airport, Gwen received a call from Amber Stahl. They spoke for quite a while before Gwen placed her phone back in her purse. "Amber wants to interview us about our trip to DC. She was upset last week when we told her about our trip and her station wouldn't send her to cover it. They felt that the heavy hitters, like Bill Hardy would have the thing covered. Channel 5 is an affiliate of the CBC network. Their world and national news is anchored by Hardy. Amber...
Gwen's parents had never mentioned anything about Jordan Quick, or anyone else, staying with them. If Clyde's assertion was correct, it must have been a very recent decision. They hardly had time to reach home after visiting the promotion at Macy's earlier in the day. Gwen knew that if her parents had agreed to Jordan staying with them, that she had better be as hospitable as possible. "I see that wasn't exactly the news you were looking for," smirked Jordan. "I'm supposed to be in a...
It didn't take very long on Monday morning for Steve and Gwen to realize their lives had changed dramatically. Classmates Gwen had known since first grade asked for her autograph. Girls flirted shamelessly with Steve. Jordan had been a celebrity when she first attended Sparta, but her stock had risen even higher. Ms. Walker summoned Gwen, Jordan, and Steve to her desk when they entered the homeroom. "Correct me if I'm wrong. The fact that CBC aired your benefit concert last night meant...
Lady Tether and the 3 Little Discardsby A. P. Damien28 paused to pour another cup of coffee. "I really don't think age is important. Looks are. But I think my skin is getting dry. One year, maybe two. Then she'll discard me." The brunette did look a little more mature than the other two. Her only clothes were bright red vinyl boots, gloves, and a bikini bottom. "And your life will be, too. Doesn't that matter to you?" 272 was a brand new slave and seemed fascinated by 28's upcoming death. "Yes,...
"Kate!" exclaimed a shocked Gwen as she tried to take a step toward her sister. Steve suddenly grabbed Gwen's elbows and pulled her to his chest. Then he kissed her for a very long time. "I'm still going to..." insisted Gwen before Steve once again pressed his lips to hers. "Okay, I get the hint," whispered Gwen. "I won't say anything to Kate now. At least not if you keep kissing me like that. I'm still pretty pissed at her. I'll give her a piece of my mind when we get...
Dave did a quick change from his casual garb into shorts and a casual top in his house, and was behind the bar in less than five minutes. He shifted his thinking from working with Marie Thereaux’s students, to helping out at the bar. His co-workers that evening were Nikky and Savannah working the tables, and Chelsea, Tony, and Barry behind the bar or scooting around the patio to nearby high-top tables. Before he could take an order, Kellie and Barbara waved frantically at him, indicating...
The travelers were exhausted by the time they piled into the SUV Sunday evening at the airport and headed for Sparta. As Paula drove, Steve spoke on the phone with Clyde Davis for quite some time. When he finished the call, he related his conversation to the group. "True to his word, Clyde has the completed screenplay in his possession. Now he's concerned about our schedules. I have to be in Annapolis in late June for Induction Day. Then football practice will take up any possible spare...
Paula had to smile as she hugged Steve. Lisa wasn't the only female in the family that enjoyed teasing. To his credit, Steve remained very still as her breast pressed against his hand. "Gwen, you can't begrudge everyone the opportunity to hug this fine young man. Who knew that he could play the piano and sing like he did? He's a very handy man to have around, don't you think?" "Mom! I know what you're doing and the joke you're making. Now let him go, so we can get home," insisted...
"No one seems very worried about where I'm sleeping," pointed out Stephanie to the group. "From what I hear, Gwen's discovered that sleeping on top of Steve is very refreshing. Kate can have the spot next to him. I'll be relaxing on all of those muscles of his, which are said to be surprisingly comfortable." "I really hate to rain on your parade, Kate and Stephanie, but I spoke to Clyde and he's already booked a room for Steve and Gwen for the weekend. It won't be the Honeymoon...
When school resumed after New Year's, Ashley Summers asked Steve to follow her into the empty hallway at the beginning of her class. "My friend that goes to the gym where I met Larry called me yesterday. She told me that she heard that he had an accident. He fell down the stairs on New Year's Eve and broke his left arm, a couple ribs, and his nose!" "Gee, that's too bad," replied Steve in a noncommittal tone. "Maybe he had too much to drink." "Steve! You know damn well that jerk...
It was after eleven when the Andersons pulled into their driveway. Laura had been dropped off at her car in the hospital parking lot, and Steve had agreed to spend another night in Gwen's bed, without the pleasure of Gwen's presence. Steve had just nicely crawled into bed when he felt someone sit on the mattress near his head. "Gwen? Is something wrong? Your dad wouldn't like you being in here. What is it?" asked Steve with concern. "You're my boyfriend and I don't know anything...
Jared's scheme to rid trophy-wife Tabitha of her step-daughter's blackmailing influence is reaching its raunchy naked climax...At least Sorrel did not have to bend too far to access the head of the towering phallus, Tabitha thought. She stared in bizarre fascination as her step-daughter gobbled Jared into her mouth and guzzled busily on him, hamstrings stretched tautly and bum thrusting behind. Tabitha had never considered herself a malicious person, but a unique sense of triumph welled up...
CheatingKatherine stepped into her elegant living room and took a book from the shelf. She sat in a plush lounge chair, specifically selecting a chair in the back corner of the room next to an old dumbwaiter that was once used to ferry delicious meals from the downstairs kitchen to the dining room table. She planned to read the book for a short while, but she already knew her attention would soon be diverted. Tonight the dumbwaiter would once again be placed into service, except this time it would be...
"Holy cow!" yelled Amber Stahl as she watched in awe. "Tell me you've got that on video, Stan! Keep recording. We're looking at high drama here. I'm going on air in thirty seconds. I want the camera on me until something happens in the river." "Hello, Keith," began Amber as she spoke to the station anchor sitting in the studio, as well as thousands of viewers. "What was supposed to be a celebration and send off for the Sparta football team has suddenly turned into a struggle for...
"Gwen, your sister has some valid points," stated Ted as Lisa fled the room. "This family has been so affected by Steve that I doubt we can have an objective opinion on him, but you've been talking about this Fallen guy nonstop. You deserve praise and accolades for your actions of the past few days and weeks. However, that doesn't mean that you can lord it over your family and friends. "Maybe you're bored with Steve, or you've outgrown him. That happens in relationships. When it...
“And don’t you guys forget to keep up on all your assignments. No slacking now. This is university we are talking about now, not just grade school.” Jared Reznik issued that one last exhortation just as the last of Vanessa Benson’s new friends were leaving the house. All five of them laughed and agreed to do this as they piled into Tracey’s car and drove off into the night leaving Vanessa, Gloria and Jared alone at last in their own home. “Well, I’m pooped” said Gloria as she started...
Hi friends, indru tamil kama kathaiyil en sontha thangaiyai epadi oothen endra kudumba tamil kama kathaiyai ungal idam pagirugiren. Vaarungal tamil kama kathaikul selalam, en peyar prathap vayathu 28 aagugirathu. Enaku oru thangi irukiraal aval peyar mala vayathu 26 aagugirathu, avaluku innum thirumanam seiya vilai Avaluku thirumanam seithu vaikum alavirku engal idam ipozhuthu panam ilai, loan apply seithu atharkaaga kathukondu irukirom. Naan oru kama veriyan eppozhuthu pen kidaikum avargalai...
Graell's Quest - The Rise of Mordred Blink and move. Something as simple as a blink and a move; how long had it been? Frank flexed a bicep. He chuckled, immensely pleased by the sudden renewed simplicity of moving. The laugh echoed, there was something eerily disquieting about the sound of that chuckle, a low and evil, vaguely maniacal undertone, completely missed by Frank, because chuckling was a regained capability too. He was quite pleased by the way it sounded. What else...
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Gwen Hammer was outwardly calm as her incredible husband knelt before her, even as all the others in the Great Kremlin Palace struggled to regain their composure. Though there were very few journalists in the hall for such an auspicious occasion and fewer cameras, such was the power of the internet for spreading news that the entire world had just born witness to Steve Hammer killing three men, all of them senior Russian military officers, on live television! So many unbelievable things had...
After leaving the room and making a quick call to her mother, Gwen returned to tell Steve, "Mom said to bring you home for some of her good home cooking. It feels like we've been in this hospital for days, but it's only five o'clock in the afternoon. I don't know about you, but swimming in icy water and making a spectacle of myself on live TV has given me quite an appetite." "You don't have to feed me. I can stop somewhere and get something quick. Besides, your dad may not be too...