Lady in Red Pt. 02 Ch. 05

The trip back to Kiev was relaxed. The Ukrainians felt they had an agreement that they could live with. They chuckled when they recalled Rosen's anger, his indignant tirade against Steve and Gwen, and his look when Steve got in his face. To a man, they approved of Steve's response to Rosen's crude comments directed at Gwen. If Steve had not reacted as he did, they would have thought less of him.

When Gwen and Steve returned to the hotel, there was a message from Paula for them at the desk. Gwen read it over before speaking to Steve. "No surprise here. Mom wants us to stop in her suite before we go to our room. She's received a few testy phone calls from the state department and wants to know what's going on."

"Maybe you two can explain exactly what happened in Russia today that has the state department so irritated," began Paula as Gwen and Steve entered her suite. "I've received several calls asking if you were available, and insisting that you call them immediately."

"It wasn't such a big deal, Mom. The Secretary of State made the mistake of insulting me in front of Steve. Steve explained to him how unhealthy that sort of behavior was, so he got all huffy and left the meeting. Once he left, things went much smoother. He did threaten to get Steve booted from the Academy."

"Oh, dear! I'm so sorry, Steve. You really need to learn to control your temper. Everyone knows that Rosen is a proud, pompous man. He'll ruin your career if he can. What did you say to him?" asked a concerned Paula.

"It was just between to two of us. I won't repeat it, especially to a lady," stated Steve. "I will not stand idly by when anyone shows disrespect for Gwen. I love being at the Academy, but it won't be the end of the world if they determine that they no longer want me."

"You kids had a busy day but you're supposed to call the state department when you get in. They said your cell phones are turned off. I imagine that wasn't an oversight on your part. What are you going to do now?" questioned Paula.

"Since you ask, I'm going to take this handsome man back to our room and have my way with him. Then, once he's rested and ready again..."

"That's enough information!" interrupted Paula. "It's great to be young and in love. The Secretary of State is pissed at you two, and all you're thinking about is making love. That's probably the best way to handle this situation. These things have a way of sorting themselves out. There'd be a lot of angry Navy football fans if Steve doesn't quarterback for them the next couple years. You kids go relax, or whatever, and we'll see how it shakes out in the morning," concluded Paula as Gwen and Steve headed for the door.

Once Steve and Gwen finished making love, they lay cuddling. As Steve caressed her breasts, Gwen asked, "Are you worried about Rosen ruining your career? You didn't have to defend me so strongly when he made those snide remarks."

Steve leaned over and kissed Gwen gently before responding. "No one can speak to you, or about you, like that in front of me. You're the best person I've ever met. All the things you are, and all you do, are great, but Gwen Anderson, the human being, is amazing. All the rest is icing on the cake, which I would love to slowly lick off!"

"You sure have a way with words. That silver tongue of yours should be registered as a friendly weapon, along with this not-so-little guy. He seems to be waking up again. I can't even express how much I love you," moaned Gwen as Steve increased his attention on her nether regions.

The next morning, the Americans were enjoying a casual breakfast when a man in a suit strode up to their table. "Mr. Hammer. Ms. Anderson, you are to come with me. They want you at the American embassy immediately."

Steve stood up, placed his hand on the man's shoulders and steered him away from the table. They went out the door together as Paula and Gwen exchanged nods. Steve returned to the table a short time later.

"Excuse me for leaving the table. I explained to that gentleman that we were enjoying our breakfast and that he should be more considerate of others. If we have the time, we'll stop in at the embassy later today, or maybe tomorrow," grinned Steve as he dug into his steak and eggs.

"I don't believe the state department will cause you any problems while we're here," declared Jordan. "Have you seen how busy the city is getting? When we take the stage Saturday, there'll be at least fifty thousand people in the square. We're invited guests of the new Ukrainian government. Rosen having his nose bent out of shape won't be enough to make them screw up such a good thing."

"I agree. If he managed to get me tossed out of the Academy, the government would lose its ability to use me when they wanted. I'd be able to refuse, although I probably wouldn't if they felt I could help. They just need to learn some common etiquette and consideration. We'll stop in at the embassy tomorrow, if they still want us. I may circumvent that issue later today," added Steve.

"What do you have in mind now?" asked Paula sarcastically. "Pissing off the vice president?"

"Actually, Mother, Steve will be speaking to President Hanson later today. He doesn't waste time with the vice president. We expect Hanson to rein in Rosen. He knows that Steve is better at diplomacy than Rosen ever was. He should fire Rosen and give Steve the job, except of course, Steve is way too busy," boasted Gwen as she gently rubbed Steve's back.

Later that day, Steve, with Gwen listening, had a brief phone conversation with President Hanson. "Rosen tells me you really screwed the pooch, Steve. He wants a court marital, a hanging, and maybe a public flogging. What the hell happened?"

"He resented Gwen and me attending the discussions between Russia and The Ukraine. He didn't get that we were there at the behest of the new prime minister and not as his loyal subjects. He suggested that Gwen should spend her time being photographed naked rather than at a diplomatic gathering. I took offense and explained to him just what would happen if he made that mistake again. He got all huffy and left."

"I thought it might be something like that, although his version differed from yours in key areas," confirmed Hanson. "You've made a serious foe. Don't underestimate Rosen. He expects to have my job in a few years. I'd advise you to retire from the service before he takes office if he gets elected.

"How did the talks go? I've been given the laundered version from both ambassadors, but what did you think?" asked Hanson.

"I'd say that they went as well as you could hope. Russia has far too much to lose to allow the area to get too far from its grip. I suspect Crimea will join Russia and The Ukraine is going to have a long road in front of it. They need to walk the line. They have to make every effort to remain neutral and not align with the U.S. too much. Russia can't allow it, and they won't. Rosen seemed to think he could convince everyone that the U.S. would have a dominant position and everyone should accept it. It's not going to happen. It's like us allowing Russia control of Mexico. We simply couldn't accept that threat."

"So you think we need to be supportive, but not expect to be able to exert too much influence? Try to keep the area neutral and avoid stirring things up?"

"Pretty much, Sir. Rome wasn't built in a day. This has to be very gradual, so it isn't even noticed. The Ukraine will work its way to toward the west, but in small steps. We should be helpful and generous but not ask for anything they cannot, or dare not give us," summed up Steve.

The Americans spent the rest of the day touring the city and shopping with more children. Jordan, Gwen, Kate, and Ashley had a great time helping the kids pick out clothes and toys. Charlie, Ted, and Steve were coaxed into helping some of the older boys find a few suitable outfits and some sport equipment.

"It's a good thing we're going home this weekend," laughed Kate that night at dinner. "Lady in Red Productions is spending a few thousand every day, not to mention a few hundred million on a hospital. In another ten years, you'd all be broke. Have you told anyone about the hospital, yet?"

"Our people just made a deal on the property. We didn't want word to get out and have everyone jack up the prices for the property to build the hospital. We managed to enter into a contract to buy the two block stretch of old warehouses just three blocks from the square. Now we can let the cat out of the bag," concluded Paula.

"Tomorrow is the big day. The new government will be sworn in and we'll be on the stage as special guests," pointed out Gwen. "Maybe we could make the announcement then and help make it a joyous occasion. Any suggestions?"

"I know I'm just the help, but I would suggest that Rosen and the state department encouraged this decision and were party to it. You guys stung him pretty good and he's a very powerful man. If you say some nice things about him in public, he'll be less likely to have your head on a platter," suggested Ashley.

"Hired help? You're far more than that to us, Ashley! That's an excellent suggestion," praised Gwen. "Navy needs their quarterback, we'll schmooze Rosen tomorrow."

"I think this announcement should be made by Gwen," insisted Jordan. "It's her idea and she's pretty much known for her desire to help children. I bet the city will love it."

Friday afternoon found the American delegation with Gwen, Jordan, Steve, and Charlie seated not far from the Ukrainian prime minister. Secretary Rosen was leading the delegation and he studious ignored Steve and Gwen when they were ushered to their seats. As is common in Eastern Europe, speeches seemed to last forever as members of the government were introduced and allowed to speak.

Gwen had asked Nadiya to allow her a few minutes to address the crowd before the prime minister spoke. Nadiya assured her that she would be given an opportunity.

They had been on the stage for a couple of hours when Gwen heard saw Nadiya approach the microphone and speak in Ukrainian. "As you know, Gwen Anderson, Jordan Quick, and Steve Hammer, along with their band, will be performing right here tomorrow evening. They want to help Kiev celebrate by sharing their talent right here in Freedom Square."

Nadiya waited for the cheering to abate before she continued. "She has asked for the opportunity to address us this afternoon. I give to you my very good friend, Gwen Anderson!"

Gwen went to Nadiya and hugged her before stepping to the microphone. "Ladies and gentlemen, I won't take much of your time. My friends and I are having a great time in your beautiful city. We especially love the children and how open and friendly they are.

"The United States has been great to us and given us some amazing opportunities. We appreciate that. Our success has come because we are a free society. Secretary Rosen has been actively encouraging corporations to come to Kiev and invest, to open businesses and to hire locals. My friends and I believe that Secretary Rosen is absolutely right. This is a great city and international companies should invest in its future.

"To that end, and to help this wonderful city grow and its children receive the health care they deserve, Lady in Red Productions pledges to built a state-of-the-art children's hospital here in Kiev. We are dedicating two hundred million dollars for constructing and equipping this hospital. We will then fund the hospital to ensure that it remains a viable source of health care for this great city for decades to come. No child will be turned away, regardless of financial status!"

The crowd was estimated around fifty thousand and every single person roared his or her approval of Gwen's announcement. Nadiya rushed to Gwen in tears and hugged her dearly as the crowd made its approval known. It took several minutes for the excited crowd to quiet enough for the next speaker to continue. When Rosen was given the stage, he praised Lady in Red Productions and prevailed upon other international companies to join in building the economy of the Ukraine. He seemed to claim some of the credit for Lady in Red Productions being so generous. Gwen squeezed Steve's hand and smiled as Rosen spoke.

After a very long and somewhat anticlimactic speech by the new prime minister, an inaugural ball was held in very hotel where the Americans were staying. Steve wore his Navy dress uniform, while Gwen looked stunning in a red gown. Paula stood with Ted and watched as Gwen and Steve entered the room.

"Ted, your daughter and her boyfriend have become world figures. They have more influence than many heads of state. I'm having trouble believing what my mind is telling me. Look at them. They're holding court here tonight and they pretty much do that whenever they're together. There's no telling where they'll be in ten years.

"He's so masculine and decisive, while Gwen is so beautiful and compassionate. They don't even realize how much impact they have on those around them. I'm so proud of them; I can't even find the words to describe it."

Steve and Gwen chatted with other guests between dances, but remained together for the first few dances. Reluctantly, they separated to dance with other guests.

When Steve took Nadiya into his arms for a slow dance, her affection for Steve was obvious as she clung to him and stayed close with every step. "You are the finest man I have ever met, and Gwen is the luckiest woman in the world. To have the devotion and love of a man like you is a great gift, and Gwen knows it."

As the dance ended, Nadiya pulled Steve down for a kiss before turning and walking away. Kate was in his arms before he had time to look around. "She's beautiful and she loves you. But then, so do Ashley, Naomi, Becky, and several others, including me.

"Did you see how the crowd reacted when Gwen told them about the hospital? You guys are making a difference and it's so great to be along for the ride. I hope we're always close like this. You make my life better, and when I'm going to college at Georgetown, I'll be able to visit you now and then. You can come to visit me and make all the other girls jealous, okay?"

The respect and interest shown to Steve and Gwen did not go unnoticed by the Secretary of State and his wife. "You'd better make an effort to apologize to that woman," advised Rosen's wife as she danced with her husband. "I know you were upset, but complaining to the president didn't get you very far. You need to choose your battles. I'm beginning to wonder if a person can get elected president if they're not on good terms with those two. You're Secretary of State of the United States, but that couple is like royalty. Look how people flock to them. Make it work for you, and not against you."

Gwen was not totally surprised when Rosen requested a dance with her. She graciously accepted and glided across the floor in his arms. "I owe you an apology, Ms. Anderson. What I said was totally inappropriate. Your boyfriend had every right to speak to me as he did. His words to me were between men, not between a superior and an underling. He handled it as a man should. Please allow me a second chance."

"Secretary Rosen, you're a very successful, intelligent man. You never would've made it this far if you weren't. We want this country to succeed, to be a beacon of light in the world. We'll help any way we can to make that happen. But, as you've found out, Steve's weakness is me. He'll risk anything and everything for me. Never doubt it, and please, never force him to demonstrate it again. Be honest and open in your dealings with him, gain his trust and respect, and he'll be your friend for life. If you're his friend, you'll be mine. He takes the lead when it comes to judging men. He's very good at it, and I have complete confidence in that ability."

Meanwhile, Rosen's wife was dancing with Steve. "My husband told me what you said to him at that meeting. He was stunned that you'd dare speak to him that way. He actually wanted to run you out of the Academy, he was so angry. He misjudged you, as well as your young lady.

"That was a bad mistake and one he needs to correct. He has a good chance of becoming president in five years, but I realize that he could have trouble if you came out against him. Please consider all of the good things he's accomplished for our country and allow him the opportunity to right the wrong he did to you and Ms. Anderson at that meeting. We'd love to be able to have you both as regular guests, if we should be fortunate enough to make it to the White House."

"I have no intention of becoming involved in politics, so there's no need for you to worry about that. As far as your husband's conduct toward Gwen, it's a concern. A man in such a high position should not become angry, petulant, or insulting over a difference in opinion. If I had demeaned you, I would expect him to show anger, but not over a difference on some issue. I strongly suggest that you have him work on his presidential demeanor, and his temper, between now and the campaign," concluded Steve as the song ended.

Steve sought out Gwen and escorted her around the room, chatting with various dignitaries from around the world. Without exception, everyone they spoke with was flattered that the two famous Americans took the time to speak to them. The Ukrainian officials were extremely pleased that their new government managed to attract what many felt was the most famous couple in the world.

The next day began warm with plenty of sunshine. People began filling Independence Square by noon in anticipation of the concert that was still eight hours away. By six o'clock, the crowd was estimated to be over a hundred and fifty thousand people.

Lady in Red productions had placed several giant screens on various buildings around the square, and the sound system covered well beyond them. When the band began playing at eight o'clock sharp, officials estimated over a quarter million people were jammed into the square and surrounding streets.

If they were nervous about the size of the audience, it never showed. Gwen went right into their opening number with gusto as the band fed off the energy of the huge crowd. They had a lot of material to draw on from their hit records and movie soundtracks. Halfway through the evening, Jordan sang her 'Stand By Me' song that had become a huge hit the previous fall. A short time later the crowd roared its approval when Steve and Charlie led with guitars as Gwen pranced around the stage singing her latest hit. It was a remake of the Joan Jett song 'I Hate Myself for Loving You' that was such a success at the July 4th bike ride for American pride.

The kids sang all of their hits, as well as the songs they had relied on before doing so well with their own material. The crowd remained until the last number was finished and Steve, Jordan, and Gwen all thanked the fans repeatedly. The people of Kiev would long remember the night that the famous Americans helped them celebrate their new position in world trade and politics. It was an extremely proud evening for the citizens of the Ukraine.

The following Monday afternoon, Gwen walked into her current events class and took her seat. As soon as the bell rang, Professor Yurchenko asked her to come forward. "You were quite busy making history last week, Ms. Anderson. The reports you sent back were enlightening, but there is a lot more to tell and we all have questions. Your concert was absolutely incredible!"

Gwen answered questions the rest of that class and the following two. News clips of shopping with the children, the trip to Sochi, the inauguration, the ball and the concert were shown and Gwen gave her observations about what she was feeling and thinking as they happened. The students enjoyed it and her professor was delighted.