Lady in Red Ch. 32

"So they want us to ask? I don't even know how we'd go about asking something like that. Do I just call up Novokov and ask? Do you have his number? It wouldn't surprise me if you did."

"The Senator never told me how we should approach this issue. Let's talk to Jordan, Charlie, the band, and Clyde to see if it's even something they want to do. At the next break, I'll call Clyde while you fill in everyone else."

Steve was only on the phone with Clyde a couple minutes when he returned to Gwen's side. "Jordan and the guys are cool with us playing in Russia, if someone is picking up all of the expenses, like hotels and air fare," revealed Gwen as Steve approached. "What did Clyde say?"

"I'm glad you asked. He told me that since we've created 'The Lady in Red Productions', these decisions will be made by the company's executive director. We need to discuss it with that person."

"We have an executive director running the company? Why didn't we know that? I'm almost afraid to ask who's been appointed. Will he be hard to get along with?" asked Gwen.

"Leave it to me. I'm on very good terms with the director. I'll broach the subject shortly. Let's get ready for our next set. Leave me out of the first number so I can speak with our new director," added Steve.

"You mean that he's here tonight? Now I'm really curious. You're not going to tell me who it is, are you?" complained Gwen.

"You'll figure it out soon enough. You guys start playing while I go work my charm," grinned Steve as he stepped off the small stage and headed toward the tables.

"Could I ask for the pleasure of the next dance, Madam, if your husband has no objections?" began Steve as he stopped at a familiar table.

"You know it's okay with me. Just have her back before too long," laughed Ted.

Paula smiled as she allowed Steve to take her hand and head to the dance floor. Steve quickly took her into his arms as the music began.

"It seems that you've been keeping secrets from us," began Steve. "Clyde just told me that you're the new executive director of 'The Lady in Red Productions'. You neglected to mention that little fact to the rest of us."

"Are you upset with me? I didn't make up my mind until last night. That's when I called Clyde and told him that I'd accept the position. Do you think I'm capable of handling it? I'm pretty worried about the responsibility. I wanted to make the decision without leaning on you and Gwen for support. Ted and I discussed it for a week before he convinced me to accept it. I guess you would've preferred that I strip down and jump into a hot tub with you, and then ask your opinion?"

Steve looked into Paula's eyes to judge her mood before he responded. "You don't need a reason to jump naked into a hot tub with me, but it's true that I can't think of a better way to find out. You know that I'd never toss you out for eating crackers in the tub. Do I dare ask where that statement came from?"

"I know Diane did that in Florida. I was just being a little petulant, or maybe a wee bit jealous. You really like Diane a lot and her breasts are even bigger now that she's pregnant. Did you mean it when you said I could jump into a hot tub with you any time? I don't want you thinking I'm like Cindy Quick, but I also don't want you thinking about my little sister more than you think about me. Do I sound shallow, and almost as bad as Cindy was? Have I lost your respect?" worried Paula.

"It's way too late to worry about how I feel about you, Paula. Nothing you could do now would lessen the love I have for you. I love Gwen so much it hurts, but you aren't far behind. It's probably a bad idea for me to even admit my feelings for you," confided Steve. "I respect Ted and Gwen too much to ever act on my emotions, but you must know that you're tops in my book."

"No wonder Gwen loves you so much! You're a smooth one, and you make this older woman feel great. I envy Gwen, but my joy for her is even greater."

"All so-called 'older women' should have your figure and beauty," replied Steve. "Getting back on topic, Gwen, Jordan, and I have been told that it would be really great if we asked the Russians to allow us to perform at the opening of the new Fisht Olympic Stadium in Sochi. I asked Clyde and he deferred to you. It seems that I have to obey you now. What is your desire?" grinned Steve as he gazed down into Paula's eyes.

"You're probably able to see my desire, the way you're looking at me and holding me so close," responded Paula emotionally. "It's a good thing you have so much self discipline because you could be cutting a wide swath and hurting Gwen tremendously. I think you enjoy the affect you have on women, regardless of their age. To think I was worried about my daughters falling for you.

"I have to admit that I've been kept in the loop by Senator Chatham, who said she very much enjoyed your dances together. Of course you kids can play that stadium in Sochi, if you can wrangle an invitation from the Russian government. Isn't it amazing that we're even having this discussion? We're actually involved in foreign policy, however slightly."

The music stopped and Steve escorted Paula back toward her table. Before they reached it, Gwen intercepted them. "Mom, you're the executive director of 'The Lady in Red Productions? That's so cool. You'll do a great job, but how come Steve and I didn't know. Did Steve talk you into letting us play that stadium?

"It looked like he was talking you into his bed, the way you two looked at each other. I'm really glad that you approve of my boyfriend so much, but be a little less moon-eyed in public from now on. You're an executive director now and you can't be drooling over your clients," preached Gwen to her mother.

"Did I look that bad? If I did, it was because your boyfriend was laying on the charm really thick. I'm only human," complained Paula. "If he uses that charm on the Russians and French, your trip will be a great success. Do you think Ted will be upset with me?"

"He was dancing with that Heather. She's the bridesmaid with the huge boobs, so he never saw anything except a mile of cleavage. He's probably worried about you being upset with him, especially after she rubbed up against him the entire time they were dancing," responded Gwen before she grabbed Steve's hand and led him back to the band.

"Okay, everybody. We've been given the green light to play in Sochi, but we have to figure out a way to get an invitation," revealed Steve once he was back with the band.

"I've given that some thought and came up with a pretty simple solution. We need to get playing since we aren't on a break. Leave me out of a song or two while I start the ball rolling," suggested Gwen. "We should have an invitation by Monday evening if my hunch on how this all works is right."

Jordan sang the next song and joined with Steve on the one after that while Gwen sat in a quiet corner chatting with Amber Stahl. "You want me to tell viewers that you would all love to have the chance to play the new stadium in Sochi? That's on the Friday before the state dinner in Moscow? Where did this come from? What's up?"

"Amber, I'll trust you to not report the reasons if I tell you, okay? This international intrigue is new to us," answered Gwen before explaining the situation to Amber.

"Wow! You guys are getting into some exciting stuff! I'm so glad I got off on a good note with you and Steve. I'll be sure to send in a report right away. There's a good chance it'll be picked up by the network. I can't wait to see Russia! Last week my station manager told me that they were sending me to Moscow to cover you guys. Let's hope we get to see that new stadium up close!"

Before they left for their honeymoon, Amber and Brad stopped to thank Gwen, Steve, Jordan, and the band. "You guys have given us the best wedding ever! All my friends are so jealous. If we can ever do you a favor, just ask," promised Amber.

"Saving this guy's life pretty well put me in your debt forever," replied Gwen as she clung to Steve's arm. "We hope you have a long and satisfying marriage. Congratulations to you both!"

It was almost midnight before the group called it a night. Steve thanked everyone as he explained that the band was finished for the evening. They had played for almost four hours with short breaks thrown in.

"We gave them everything we had, and the crowd really enjoyed the music," observed Charlie. "Now we have to get ready for Russia. I've no doubt that Gwen will get us invited to play in Sochi, so we'd better brush up on our Russian. Does anyone here know any Russian songs?"

It was a tired but happy group that gathered in the Steve and Gwen's hotel suite later that evening. Gwen had the TV tuned to a cable news channel as the group discussed the day's events.

"It sure was a surprise to learn that Mom's the executive director of 'LiRP'. I still don't know why you didn't tell us about it," puzzled Gwen.

"I just felt that we've been relying far too much on you kids to make the right decisions for the family. I wanted to have some time to talk it over with Ted. It's going to be quite a job. Clyde is convinced your movie is going to be a big hit. Since it cost a relatively small amount to make, there'll be a lot of money to disperse. You kids have so much on your plates that I didn't want to add to your concerns," finished Paula.

"Senator Chatham didn't have any compunction about asking us to figure out some sort of way for Russia and France to get over the spy impasse before the Olympics. She wants us to pay attention to everything we hear from members of the two governments and families that could be useful. I don't even have any idea what we could hear that would help, or what to do if we do find out something. I guess we report it to the Senator or the state department," concluded Steve.

"Do you hear yourself?" demanded Kate with no attempt to conceal her pride. "The band, Jordan, Charlie, Gwen, and you are trying to single handedly prevent one of the most powerful nations in the world from an embarrassing situation. How many people are there on this planet that could fill that stadium with fans? How many were asked? I have to believe that they're sitting in this room right now. I can't wait to do that essay about how I spent my summer. I'll just write that I was watching my sister and her friends work to improve international relations and keep the cold war cold. How cool is that!"

Just as Kate finished speaking, the talking head on the news stations made a reference to Gwen stating that she, Steve, and Jordan would like to perform at the opening of the new stadium in Sochi. The news man chuckled a little as he finished his story, stating that the Russians were not likely to allow some Americans the chance to steal their thunder.

"Well, at least it's out there," observed Jordan. "If we're not wanted, or invited, we can just be tourists and have a great time. I sure hope that there aren't any terrorist activities while we're in Russia. They've been having a lot of trouble lately."

The next morning saw Gwen, Steve, Jordan, and Charlie meet Charlotte and Ashley at the airport to return to Florida to conclude the filming of the movie. By early evening they were checked into the same hotel they had used the first time they were in Florida. After dinner, the group met with the director of the film.

"We have to film two more love scenes and fill in around some of the other work we've already done. I expect to finish up well before the weekend, ahead of schedule and way ahead of budget. You guys have been great to work with and the crew and I appreciate it. We've worked with some real drama queens in the past.

"Tuesday night's the full moon. We're doing Gwen's love scene with Steve on the beach, after the sun goes down. Knowing you two, it'll be great. Jordan, if the weather holds, we'll shoot yours tomorrow afternoon on a boat we've hired. It'll be your dad's boat in the movie and you two will be taking it for a ride. Once you're away from land, you and Steve get amorous and we get your second love scene."

"I'll call Mom and tell her that we'll be able to head to Russia sooner than we expected. How's everyone feel about getting there a few days early so we can conquer jet-lag and maybe practice our songs, assuming we get the invitation to play? I wonder how long they'll want us to play, if we even get invited," wondered Gwen.

"We should be finding out pretty soon," reasoned Charlie. "They'll want to advertise the fact that they're pulling the top act in the music business to open their arena. And the fact that we have you three singing for us will help a little."

"You're such a funny guy," replied Jordan while attempting to keep a straight face, before finally breaking into a big smile. "No wonder I fell in love with you!"

"Just remember that while Steve's got you in his arms tomorrow and he's making you hotter than a two dollar pistol. I want to be the beneficiary of all that foreplay," grinned Charlie as he pulled Jordan onto his lap.

"You'd better be ready to put out the fire that Steve starts!" insisted Jordan. "Last time I was so worked up I didn't think I'd be able to wait until we got to my dressing room. This time we'll be on a boat and have to sail back to land. Maybe I'll be all cooled off by then."

The next afternoon found Steve and Jordan floating on a twenty four foot boat about a mile off the coast. A larger boat with the film crew was anchored very close by. Steve and Jordan listened to the director give the final instructions before they began. He asked them to take their time and that he'd put a few minutes together for the film from however long they appeared to be making love. Then he stepped back onto the larger boat and nodded for them to begin.

Steve turned to Jordan and smiled as he ran his hand over her cheek. Jordan trembled slightly at his touch. Twenty minutes later both Steve and Jordan were perspiring heavily as the director called a halt to the scene. Jordan seemed dazed and it took a few seconds for her to accept her bikini top from Steve. She blushed and quickly put it back on and then hugged Steve as Charlie and Gwen joined them on the smaller boat, along with the man charged with piloting the boat back to the marina.

As Charlie approached, Jordan released Steve and threw herself into Charlie's arms. "Was that okay? Are you angry at me? It was just acting."

"Yes, I'm okay, but it sure wasn't acting. It was pretty obvious to all of us watching that you and Steve have something pretty special," pointed out Charlie as he hugged Jordan. "I knew that when we met and I accept it. I don't blame you. He's a hell of a guy and a great friend. I'm just glad he and Gwen are so committed. If he was a different kind of man, he could ruin a lot of friendships and marriages. You love him. Hell, I love him. He's carried me and the band to places we never thought we'd ever reach. He introduced me to you. I know you love me and I can live with your feelings for Steve as long as you both stay within the limits we've pretty much established."

"Steve! Jordan! That was so hot! If it comes out half as sensual on film as it was to watch, the movie will make a fortune. I can't wait to get you back to our room. Poor Jordan must be desperate by now. That was some great acting," smirked Gwen as Jordan gave her a sheepish smile. "It's a good thing that you're my two favorite people in the world that aren't related to me."

After they reached land and returned to their room, Gwen asked Steve," Do you think if we make love now that you'll be able to do a good job in our love scene tomorrow night? If you don't, maybe you should just take a cold shower."

Steve grabbed Gwen and tossed her on the bed and climbed next to her, helping her remove her clothes while he kissed the exposed parts of her body.

"Okay, as long as you're sure about this," groaned Gwen as she came long before Steve had her completely undressed.

The next day was spent filming short spots the director wanted in order to flesh out some scenes that had been filmed previously. The crew finished early and then assembled on a deserted section of the beach shortly before sundown.

The director went over the scene as he envisioned it. Steve and Gwen were to ride down the beach on the big motorcycle they had used earlier in the movie. They would appear to stop at a random spot, which would be exactly where the director wanted them, and proceed from there. Once it became fully dark and the moon illuminated the ocean, the director had everyone take their places. Steve and Gwen rode the bike back up the beach a quarter mile and turned around and came cruising back. Steve brought the bike to a stop exactly where he had been instructed.

He stepped off the machine and took Gwen's hand as she easily swung her leg over the bike. She was wearing her work shirt and shorts from the Tiki Bar while Steve wore a tight tee shirt and jeans. He took Gwen in his arms and kissed her gently. Then he wrapped an arm around her waist and led her toward the water. When they were near the water, he took a towel from under his arm and spread it out.

Steve then reached down and pulled his shirt over his head and Gwen quickly followed suit. They dropped to the towel and unhurriedly began their lovemaking. Soon they were both naked and entwined in each other's arms. What followed was over twelve minutes of love making by the couple.

Finally, Gwen rose from riding Steve and pulled his hand to get him to his feet. Then she led him into the water. When they were out far enough for the waves to reach their stomachs, Gwen turned to Steve and embraced him as the waves washed against their torsos. The water around them glistened from the reflected light of the bright moon overhead.

Those watching could easily make out Gwen's breasts as she stood close to Steve. He slowly lifted her. She wrapped her legs around his body and he ever so slowly lowered her as she kissed his face lovingly. Ten minutes later the couple disengaged from each other and made their way back to shore and the towel waiting for them. As they again lay down on the towel, the director called for the end of the scene.

Wardrobe people quickly brought robes to Gwen and Steve as Ashley, Charlotte, and Jordan hurried up to them.

"That was so hot! I think I saw steam coming out of the water," gushed Charlotte. "It was the total opposite of the last one you two did. This time you acted like lovers that were very comfortable and familiar with each other, and really into each other."

"You always have to show me up, don't you, Gwen?" laughed Jordan. "That water looked like it had diamonds floating on it, the way it reflected the moon light. Then there were the two perfect bodies all tangled together and moving in a rhythm no one can mistake for anything but love making. People will pay the price of admission just to watch your love scenes!"

"Are you two in a hurry to get back to your room, or can we go out and get a late night snack? There's only a few scenes left to film tomorrow and we'll wrap up this movie. It's been one of the best experiences of my life," enthused Ashley.

""I feel quite relaxed. Let's get something to eat," responded Gwen with a grin.

"You're not all consumed with sexual desires?" quizzed Charlotte immediately. "That would indicate that you managed to relieve those urges recently, since no woman could endure everything Steve did to you without getting super horny. You really did it, didn't you? No wonder that water scene looked so damn real!"

"I'm admitting nothing and I wouldn't appreciate any rumors getting started. Let's just let it die and go get something to eat," replied Gwen as she hugged Steve's arm to her bosom. "Just give us a couple minutes to get some clothes on."