Lady in Red Book 1 The Rise of the Queen Chapter 31
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"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 alone. God only knows what sort of trouble she'd get into!"
"So you want to add two more guests to a state dinner for the French President? That sounds reasonable to me," agreed Gwen with a chuckle. "Just don't be upset if they tell us to forget the whole thing. I don't know much about political protocol, but I doubt that high school kids dictate the invitation list for a dinner for heads of state, but I could be wrong. I'll call the White House right now and tell them we want to add a couple people."
Ashley Summers sat in stunned silence as she watched two of her students discuss attending a state dinner at the White House for the French President, and then asking to alter the invitation list! She listened as Gwen made the call and spent several minutes in conversation.
"That woman drove a hard bargain. She agreed to adding two invitations, but in exchange, Jordan, Steve, and I have to perform at least one song each. And, we have to dance our 'Lady in Red' signature dance for the guests. Do you think I need to work on my negotiating skills? At least I didn't have to promise the President a dance, although I'd be honored."
"I'll have to call Lisa and let her know about this. She can meet us at the airport. She'll be pleased when she hears that Steve thought to invite Jason. At least we all know where to get our gowns for the evening," sighed Paula. "My life was never this exciting before Gwen met Steve. I can't wait to call and tell Ted that he's going to a state dinner at the White House. That'll cause some talk around the old water cooler at his office! Are we going Saturday morning or Friday night?"
"This makes my news about Steve catching up on his courses seem pretty banal," admitted Ms. Summers. "If I hadn't been here, I never would have believed that things like this can happen. We've got four students going to a state dinner at the White House! How cool is that?"
"Will I get to French kiss anybody?" wondered Kate as everyone stood up to leave. "Will we have French Fries? French toast? Anyone have anything to add?"
True to his word, Steve stayed three hours after school Thursday and Friday. Then he spent the weekend working with Ms. Summers. Late Saturday afternoon Steve took her to dinner at Marsh's Landing. Billy, Charlotte and Gwen met him there.
"Thanks so much for suggesting this, Steve! I haven't been out to dinner in quite some time. You kids are very kind to hang out with an old teacher. I never thought we'd be so far through the material by this time. If we work tomorrow and after school next week, I think you'll be all caught up."
"Ms. Summers, you're the hottest teacher in the whole school!!" blurted Billy. "You look young enough to be a student. We sure don't feel like we're hanging with old folks. You're a real fox!"
Charlotte turned to Billy in surprise. "Where did that come from? You're the guy that's too shy to talk to girls and now you're making all kinds of inappropriate remarks to my English teacher? What's gotten into you?"
"It's funny what getting shot and almost dying can do to a guy. I don't feel afraid like I used to feel. I spent a lot of time thinking about my life and what I would do differently, if I lived to do it. I decided to be more honest and outgoing, but I apologize to you, Ms. Summers, if I was inappropriate. I was just telling you my opinion."
"I can see where Charlotte might worry about your enthusiastic compliment to a teacher, but I'm also a female. And girls like to hear compliments. I thank you, Billy, for voicing such a high opinion of my charms. Now if I can get some slightly older, single guy to notice me, I'll be all set."
"I don't think that'll be a hard sell," laughed Steve. "Billy was pretty blunt, but he was spot on in his opinion. I can't think of any reason you aren't out on a date every night. You're very easy on the eye; you're smart, have a good job and stay in great shape. We're going to have to keep our eyes open for some lucky guy that we can introduce to you."
"I agree about keeping an eye open for a suitable date for Ms. Summers, but you'd better dial back your obvious appreciation of her charms a little, or the school board will have a whole new issue with you," suggested Gwen. "We all admit our English teacher is hot, but we can't be discussing it in public like this. We've all heard the news reports about predatory teachers and the trouble they get into. Do her a favor. Do not treat her like a regular girl, at least not until we graduate."
"Thank you for that. I do have to maintain a professional relationship with my students, especially the ones that think I'm hot," chuckled Ms. Summers. "I've worked too hard to get my position to lose it over a misunderstanding, or a bad decision. All that being said, I consider you kids to be friends and I appreciate your desire to help my love life, but I think I'd rather handle that myself. Matchmaking is not easy, nor often successful."
"Well, Steve did get Coach to date Laura and they seem to be getting along very well," admitted Gwen. "Of course Laura stated flat out that she was interested in him, so it was a no brainer."
"Which made me qualified for the job," laughed Steve. "Ms. Summers, we're your friends and we'll not cause you any embarrassment. We'll keep our eyes open though."
The next week went quickly for Steve. By Thursday evening, Ashley Summers declared him totally caught up in all of his assignments and tests. Friday evening, the entourage from Sparta headed for Washington D.C. They met Lisa at their gate at the local airport.
"I received a call from the agency a little while ago. They said that I have the job! They asked when I'd be able to start. I told them I was attending a state dinner for the French President this weekend, but my schedule would be open after that. I only have a couple months left of school for the semester. I could hear the woman's surprise over the phone. Their new model is dining with the President of the United States!
"I know it's all because of Steve and Gwen and all the amazing stuff they've been doing, but it still feels pretty good. I'm just glad Steve saw Gwen with her nose in a book that day at the mall. Look what it started!"
"I knew Gwen was smart the way she played hard to get with Steve," asserted Kate. "She made him work to be her boyfriend. I thought she was nuts for turning him down at the time. I really thought that she should've jumped into bed with him at the mattress place at the mall that day. She'd never been on a date, this amazingly gorgeous hunk asks her out to a dance, and she declines! The results prove that she's way smarter than me."
"I wasn't smart, or playing hard to get. I was petrified. Why would a guy like Steve ask a girl like me to a dance? I thought it might be a bet, or a joke. I still can't believe that he focused in on me like he did and put up with so much to stay with me. I can't really explain it, but I'm sure not going to argue with it. He's my guy now!" declared Gwen as she clutched Steve's arm to her chest.
"I was too dumb to realize that Gwen was way out of my league. I was new to the area and thought I'd take a chance. I was just starting to get over my father dying and only having Uncle Joe. When I saw Gwen I knew I had to try. She had me from that first moment I saw her."
Jordan had been listening closely to the banter. "You saw her sitting at the mall reading a book? You asked her out and she refused? She'd never even been on a date before and she refused to go to a dance with you? Every girl in the country will be wondering why the hell they weren't the one sitting at that table, reading some dumb book!"
"Tell me about it!" exclaimed Kate. "I can't stop thinking about that day. I was at the mall, shopping with Mom when we come around the corner and see this amazing guy chatting Gwen up. Then we find out later that she turned down a date with him! I felt like smacking her. But, as I said, she's way smarter than I am. Look how it worked out. The guy's spending his spare time in her bed now. To think I was that close to having Steve for my boyfriend. I'd be the one screaming so loud the neighbors could hear me!"
"Not before you're eighteen, and any boy will have to have the same qualities as Steve," pointed out Paula with a smile. "And the screaming has subsided lately and I want it to remain that way."
"The same qualities as Steve? I'll be a virgin forever!" moaned Kate. "All I have to do is find a super athletic, great dancing hero that sings, and happens to save lives in his spare time? Just where do you suggest I start looking for this amazing guy, Mom?"
"Maybe you should start reading books at the mall?" suggested Jordan with a grin.
Jason was waiting at the hotel when the Anderson party arrived. He was beaming as he shook hands with Steve. "I'll never live this down! All the other cadets were stunned when they heard I was invited to a state dinner. Then I showed them a picture of Lisa and they really hated me! I'll help save your life anytime if this is how you repay me! It's got to help my career, unless I do something really stupid," offered Jason.
Steve had his own room in the luxury hotel not far from the White House. Ted made it abundantly clear that there would be no visiting men's rooms by any of his daughters, or Jordan since she was living under his roof. No one argued the point.
Jordan, Steve, and Gwen had to rehearse in the afternoon with the orchestra that would be playing at the dinner. Steve had never heard such good musicians. He felt a little intimidated, but thought about Billy's statement. Being shot does change a man's perspective. He'd do his best and let the chips fall where they may.
The entire entourage was driven to the White House well before the actual dinner. Guests would attend a cocktail hour before dinner. Ted had strongly warned his entire group that there would be no drinking of alcohol. He demanded that everyone be alert and polite. This was the White House, after all!
Steve was quickly separated from Gwen and the others. He mentally compared the male guests to vultures as they circled Jordan, Lisa, Kate, and Gwen. Jason hung pretty close to Lisa. The women were absolutely beautiful in gowns of Amber's design. Paula surprised Steve with how young and attractive she appeared. It was obvious from whom the Anderson sisters inherited their good looks.
Steve found himself being introduced to ladies of all ages. They all seemed to be eager to speak to him. Many used their phones to get pictures of Steve standing with them. He quickly realized that he would never remember the names of the many women to whom he had been introduced, so he decided to focus on the important ones, and they would be French.
Then there was silence and President Hanson and his wife were announced, along with the President D'Anjou, his wife and daughter. The President personally introduced President D'Anjou to his guests, who were mostly politicians, with a few A-list celebrities tossed into the mix. Steve found his way back to be with Gwen and her family when the President reached them.
Steve was impressed that the President remembered all the names in his group. Then he noticed a tall man with a thing in his ear standing behind the president. He would whisper to the president quite often. President Hanson even hugged Gwen and congratulated her on Steve's return and recovery. Then he shook Steve's hand and introduced him to President D'Anjou, his wife Colette, and daughter Michelle.
Steve stunned Gwen when he spoke fluent French to President D'Anjou and his family. It was obvious that the D'Anjou's daughter and wife were very pleased that Steve was able to speak French. Once their group was away from the President, Paula, Gwen, Jordan, and Kate were all over Steve.
"You never told me you spoke French!" stated Gwen with some annoyance. "Why do you keep trying to surprise, or embarrass me? How hard would it have been to tell me that you spoke Farsi and French? Are there any other languages you know that you're not telling me? Look at your face! There are, aren't there?"
"I do have a pretty good command of Russian, and I know some Spanish," admitted Steve reluctantly. "I was just trying to surprise you. I thought you'd be proud of me for being able to speak to them in French. I didn't realize that I'd upset you. I apologize."
"Russian? When was I going to find that out? When we got to Moscow? You keep hiding things from me and it's embarrassing. You never said that you could sing, play the piano, or the guitar. Tell me now; are there any more instruments that you play?" demanded Gwen.
"I do alright on the drums, but I haven't played them in over a year. I don't like to sound like I'm a pompous ass by telling you the things I can do. I thought I was being modest."
"I'm pissed at you, Steve! I won't let it ruin the evening, but your habit of keeping things from me is going to be a very real problem if you don't stop doing it right now. Either you trust me or you don't. Secrets are not good for a relationship," stated Gwen with emotion before she turned and walked away.
"Gwen's right, you know," scolded Jordan after Gwen left. "You don't play tricks like that on family and loved ones. I'm pissed, too, and I'm not your girlfriend. You knew we were going to meet French people and you neglected to mention that you speak French. That sucks."
"I thought it was kind of cool, but I guess from the look that Mom's giving me, I was the only one," added Kate. "Gwen will get over it pretty fast, but she sure doesn't like not knowing things about you, and then being surprised in public situations. I can understand that."
Eventually it was announced that the heads of state were heading downstairs and a formal receiving line would begin. Steve was worried about how to proceed. Should he tag along with Gwen's family when she was so upset with him, or just go down alone? Then he felt an arm slide against his hand.
"Just because I'm a little pissed at you it doesn't mean that I don't love you. It certainly doesn't mean that I'm going to leave you alone with all of these stars and politician's daughters looking at you like lions look at raw meat," explained Gwen as she joined Steve to head down the stairs.
Steve and Gwen were shown their table, where Gwen's family had already found their places. Steve was going to sit between Gwen and Jordan. When the president and his guests took their seats, everyone else sat down. If distance from the head table indicated importance, the Anderson table was the bottom of the totem pole, as they were farther from the head table than any other group.
"It doesn't look like we rate too high in the pecking order, but we're here, and that's still way cool!" declared Kate. "I shook the President's hand. Not many kids can say that!"
There were a couple short speeches after the five course meal was finished. Both presidents were gracious in their praise for the other. Steve, Gwen, and Jordan were led out of the room. They quickly prepared for their performances. Jordan went first and sang her biggest hit. Gwen and Steve became more nervous when they heard how incredible Jordan sounded.
"My God! She can sing! We should have had her go last. That's going to be a very hard act to follow. I hope I don't screw this up. I'm glad you're going next," admitted Gwen.
Steve was a little nervous when he stepped on the stage with the orchestra. He glanced their way and then sat at the piano. President D'Anjou's daughter, Michelle, had requested that he sing the Elvis song he had performed to Gwen the first time he was on live TV. Once he started playing, Steve looked at his audience and then focused on Michelle D'Anjou. By the time he made it past 'Wise men say only fools rush in' she gave him a huge smile and then started wiping tears of joy from her eyes. Steve finished to a round of loud applause, bowed, and left the stage.
"Thanks a lot! That's even harder to follow!" complained Gwen as she passed Steve to take her place on the stage. Steve turned to watch her from the wings. The orchestra began and Gwen stood radiantly waiting for her place to begin. Everyone knew the song 'My Heart Will Go On' from the movie 'Titanic', but never heard it the way Gwen sang it that evening.
Steve was spellbound as he watched and listened to Gwen perform. He felt himself becoming very emotional. How did he find such a talented, incredible woman? He felt humbled and extremely grateful.
Gwen poured everything she had into her song after hearing Jordan and Steve. She was determined to not be outdone by the other great performances. Paula and Kate sat in awe as Gwen delivered an amazing effort. They had heard her sing many times, but never heard her deliver a song with the emotion and range she demonstrated that evening in Washington.
When Gwen finished, the audience was silent for a few seconds and then broke into a standing ovation. Gwen smiled and bowed a couple times in appreciation. Still the applause continued. Blushing, Gwen bowed once again and then left the stage.
Jordan had joined Steve as he listened to Gwen from backstage. Tears were streaming down Jordan's cheeks by the time Gwen reached them. Gwen hugged Steve and then hugged Jordan. Then the girls each took one of Steve's hands and headed back to their table. The applause had died down, but began again when the trio came back into the state dining room. Steve and Jordan stepped away from Gwen and applauded her along with the rest of the audience. Gwen blushed again and then went over to hug Lisa, Kate, Paula and Ted. Finally it was quiet enough for the orchestra to start playing.
Steve found himself dancing the first dance with Michelle D'Anjou. She was a very pretty dark haired girl of seventeen. She danced gracefully and Steve enjoyed the dance tremendously. They spoke in French as they danced around the room, oblivious to cameras and reporters. It was the first of several dances Steve would enjoy with the young French beauty.
"My daughter is very fond of you," smiled Colette D'Anjou as he led her to the dance floor. "She's been following your exploits, Steve. You were all she could talk about for the past week. After she danced with you, she told me that she could die happy. She told me that she thinks you're a very strong, handsome American. I have to agree.
"Thank you for coming tonight, and for singing. You've made her a very happy girl, which makes me a very happy mother. Your girlfriend was surprised when you spoke French to us at the reception. I could tell. Were you able to placate her ire? It isn't wise to surprise your lover with unknown skills in public situations. I trust that she made that clear to you?"
"Madam, you must be a mind reader. She was annoyed. She set me straight and then forgave me. She's pretty special."
"You seem to have surrounded yourself with beautiful women. Mother, daughters, and even the troubled Jordan Quick, all have that look when you're near them. Now my daughter has the same look, and I will as well, if this dance doesn't end soon."
Steve was kept busy dancing all evening. He thought it amusing that some guy with an earpiece would constantly suggest who Steve should ask next. It was apparent that someone was paying close attention to the guests and their enjoyment of the night. He escorted politicians' daughters and wives out to the floor, as well as a few of the daughters of some large donors to the president's campaign.
Gwen was in even greater demand. Men of all ages waited for their opportunity to dance with her. Steve finally found himself with Jordan and he whisked her onto the floor.
"This has been the best night of my life! I'm so glad that Clyde knew you and Gwen and talked me into going with you guys. I'm getting some good press and my career is back on track. Better than that is the fact that my head is finally on straight and I have a couple of amazing friends that I love. I never realized it until tonight, but you and Gwen are the first people I've ever loved, beside my mother and she ruined that. It's okay that I love you, isn't it?"
"Jordan, it's my honor to love and be loved by such a talented, beautiful, accomplished woman. We'll never let anything happen to our friendship, okay? I'll do about anything for a friend."
"Anything, but the one thing I would like the most from you, but that's okay. I love Gwen and respect her way too much to ever try to anything that would hurt her. I feel like we're sisters now, right down to being crazy about her boyfriend. Thanks for everything," whispered Jordan as she reached up to briefly kiss Steve's lips as the song ended.
Finally, Gwen and Steve managed to find each other and the orchestra quickly began playing 'Lady in Red'. Steve was unable to take his eyes off Gwen's as he led her around the dance floor. For the second dance in a row, Steve received a gentle kiss as the song ended.
Gwen was smiling as she and Steve received some applause. Soon President Hanson and President D'Anjou were at their side, congratulating them. Steve responded in French and President Hanson noticed.
"Steve is fluent in English, Farsi, French, Russian and even speaks some Spanish," smiled Gwen as she arched an eyebrow at Steve. "He's sometimes hesitant to talk about his amazing accomplishments, but he's going to be working for you next year, so you may as well know what a rare treasure you'll have on your payroll. The Naval Academy is getting its money's worth with Steve."
The music began and Gwen was escorted to the dance floor by President Hanson. Steve was politely directed toward the first lady, so he quickly asked her to dance. She gave him a big smile and joined him on the floor.
"Young man, my husband has mentioned you a few times, always favorably. I've seen most of the videos of you and your adventures. I understand that you're branching out into music and television. Your performance this evening was fantastic, by the way.
"You'll be attending the Naval Academy, so my husband will be able to call on you if we have need for a talented singer or very good dancer at one of these affairs. President D'Anjou isn't the only world leader with a teenage daughter. May I assume that you would be willing to help out your country by escorting a young lady at one of these events? I'll speak to your girlfriend about it, if you're willing. It would make my job so much easier if I know you're close by and willing to serve your country in such a difficult manner."
Steve managed to dance with Kate shortly after his dance with the first lady. "Did you see me dance with that senator? Then some rich guy's son got a little too close and I had to tell him to back off. I was surprised that you missed it since it seems like you're always around when some jerk tries to take liberties with me. I saw you ready to back up Dad and Uncle Will that night those guys grabbed Stephanie and me. You're a great big brother!" finished Kate as she reached up and kissed Steve lightly on the lips.
Steve left Kate with Ted and then escorted her mother out to the dance floor. "Paula, you are absolutely stunning! Ted has to be extremely proud of his family tonight. His has the best looking ladies here. I can see why he fell in love with you."
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...
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...
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...
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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Hi friends, indru tamil kama kathaiyil en kanavanuku theriyamal ilamaiyaana kaal kathalanai eppadi love seithen endra kathaiyai ungal idam pagirugiren. Vaarungal tamil kama kathaikul selalam, enathu peyar jaya vayathu 36 agugirathu. Enaku thirumanam aagi oru paiyan irukiraan pinbu en kanavanuku vayathu 42 agugirathu. Naan santhoshamaaga thaan vaazhnthu vanthukondu irunthen, naan oru teacheraaga velai paarthu varugiren. Naan velai seiyum classku arugil oru veedu irukirathu, antha veetil oru...
Hi friends, indru sex kathaiyil auntyai usar seithu eppadi matter adithen enbathai ungalidam pagirugiren. En peyar Seenu. Vayathu 21 aagugirathu. Naan ithu naal varai entha penaiyum sex seithathu kidaiyaathu. Naan engineering padithu varugiren, enathu nanbargal oru naal theaterku ennai azhaithaargal. Naangal neraga bar seithu saraku adithom, appozhuthu bagubali padam oodi kondu irunthathu. Naangal oru gramathil irukum theaterku sendru irunthom. Angu pothuvaga pengal athigam vara matargal,...
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...