Lady in Red Pt. 02 Ch. 22

"The real solution is for more quality people of all backgrounds to participate in the film industry. That includes producing, directing, casting, acting and funding films. To be honest, I don't even know who selects the finalists in the various categories for the Oscars. Complaining about, and boycotting the awards is an option, but I question how effective it will be. We at Lady in Red Productions don't make films to garner accolades. We try to make the most entertaining movie we can and then let the public decide. I think that's the way it should be."

"Miss Anderson, there are reports that your future husband may try his hand at professional football. The Washington Redskins hold his rights. As a congresswoman, could you support him if he played on a team that many feel has an insulting logo and name?" quizzed another reporter.

"Wow! You guys are full of tough questions today. I can tell you that I'll support Steve if he plays professional football, regardless of which team it may be with," assured Gwen.

"What about supporting legislation to get the team owner to change the name?" followed up the reporter.

"I will not support any legislation that limits or restricts freedoms," asserted Gwen. "This is really quite simple. The man owns the team. That allows him to name it anything he wants, as long as the league is okay with it. Why would congress get involved in the personal choices of anyone that is not breaking any law? Freedom is a two edged sword. Sometimes people do things we do not like, such as burning or disrespecting our flag. The irony of it is, our flag stands for the freedom to do dumb-ass things like that. The more they try to debase the flag, the stronger they make it, because they do it under the umbrella of freedom, and our flag stands for exactly that.

"If enough fans complain and stay away from games, the owner will probably change the team's name. However, that doesn't appear to be happening. I understand that the Washington team is the third most valuable franchise in the entire league. It sure doesn't sound like there's too much trouble there. Perhaps you reporters should spend your time looking into matters of importance to your readers and viewers. The name a football team carries is hardly a big issue in my book. Those that don't like it can object, boycott, protest, or pursue any number of legal avenues. They have that right, as does the owner to determine the name of his team."

Gwen and Steve found themselves all over the news again that evening. Impromptu polls indicated that the majority of Americans agreed with Gwen and Steve.

The next day, the couple stood just to the left of Vincent Rosen as he was sworn in as President. Everyone watching from home was easily able to identify them on their screens. Once President Rosen completed his inaugural speech, the couple was shown congratulating President and Mrs. Rosen.

At the first ball of the evening, Steve and Gwen sang 'Moon River' as the Rosens danced for the first time as President and First Lady. As scheduled, Steve and Gwen took the floor for the second dance as Steve sang 'Lady in Red' while he guided Gwen around the dance floor. Once the dance was over, they resumed their places on the small stage as they continued to perform with the excellent orchestra.

Steve had the great pleasure of performing several Sinatra songs, while Gwen also sang numerous standards. The audience responded enthusiastically and enjoyed the affair long after the Rosens had departed to attend other balls held in their honor. At the first intermission, Steve and Gwen stepped off the stage to mingle with the guests. Once again, Gwen experienced men bowing and elegantly dressed ladies curtsying when she approached. Gwen managed to maintain her brilliant smile as she worked to conceal her surprise.

These guests were movers and shakers in government and industry, yet they quite willingly demonstrated unprecedented respect for Gwen. Steve was extremely proud of the regal way Gwen handled the situation. She spoke to everyone, shook hands, exchanged hugs, and generated a great deal of good will.

Steve's grandparents, Janice, and Jen, as well as Gwen's parents, sisters, with Jason and Chip, shared a table near the center of the room. "Ted, Paula, your daughter is absolutely unbelievable. She not only conducts herself like a queen, but everyone is beginning to treat her like one. I've never seen anything in my life that could possibly compare to this. I don't dare say it too loudly, but I think more people came tonight to see Gwen and Steve than to see the new President."

"I can't get over how comfortable they are entertaining this exclusive group of high rollers," admitted Jason. "I thought Steve showed confidence the first time we went to Russia, but he oozes it now."

"I have to wonder what the future holds for them," mused Kate. "Even when they're in a room with the most influential people in the world, they dominate it. Their new movie is setting box office records; they've been nominated for every award possible and now Gwen is treated like royalty."

"Somehow, I don't think this will be the last inauguration they attend," predicted Lisa. "I wouldn't rule anything out. There aren't any limits for them that I can see."

Steve and Gwen spent the weekend together in Washington. They attended various parties and functions, but steadfastly refused to attend anything sponsored or connected with one of the political parties. They constantly reiterated that while they supported Vince Rosen for president, they were not joining his political party. Gwen would remain registered as an Independent and vote on each piece of legislation based on its merits, not because of any political affiliation.

Sunday evening, Gwen returned to med school in California. She was scheduled to meet Jordan, Charlie, and Steve in LA later in February to host the Academy Awards. Jordan begged off any risqué opening numbers because she was still working her way back into her pre-pregnancy shape. The two couples agreed to an opening number that focused on their singing talents and required very little dancing.

Steve and Gwen were already scheduled to perform their big dance from 'Billie Jean' and felt getting that right on live TV would require enough effort from them for the night.

Academy award time saw the four friends walk the red carpet together. Jordan wore a black gown that accentuated her milk laden breasts and her fans voiced their approval. Gwen's red gown once again had a slit that allowed her long legs to be on display. The back of her dress was cut almost to her lovely ass and the front was held together with a silver clasp. The sides on her ample breasts showed whenever she moved her arms away from her body. Steve and Charlie were dressed smartly in tuxedoes, although they didn't think that anyone even noticed.

Will had a huge smile as he escorted Diane down the red carpet. Diane looked gorgeous with a plunging neckline on a pale green gown. She smiled and waved as fans whistled and called her name as she made her way to the theater with her beaming husband.

The four friends had an easy camaraderie that was quite apparent to the audience in the theater and at home. They delivered their lines perfectly and it was obvious to all that they were having a great time. Half way through the program, Steve and Gwen performed their routine from 'Billie Jean' and it was a huge success. The movie had broken box office records since its release and their energetic dance was a major factor in the success it enjoyed.

Becky and Pete received a warm reception when they were introduced to announce the best supporting actress award. Pete tore the envelop open and handed the card to Becky to read. She smiled broadly as she called Diane's name!

As Diane made her way across the stage, she detoured to grab Gwen and Steve and pull them with her to the microphone. She released their hands to accept the Oscar and beamed proudly at the applause.

"I don't have to read a list of people to thank. They know who they are. My husband, Will, supported me when he could have just told me I'm too old to be doing love scenes with this incredible man to my left. My daughter, Stephanie, who was good enough in her role to have won this award, was an inspiration. Finally, these two people standing next to me tonight were with me throughout the entire process. Make no mistake, they're everything they seem to be, and more! I love them both and thank them from the bottom of my heart."

With that, Diane threw her arms around Steve's neck and kissed him hard. Then she wrapped her arms around Gwen and embraced her tightly as she cried and smiled at the same time. When it came time for best actress award, Steve and Charlie were tasked with presenting the award. Steve opened the envelope and handed it to Charlie.

"The winner is... my wife!" exclaimed Charlie as he made no attempt to hide his pleasure. "Jordan Quick Burns wins best actress!"

Jordan and Gwen had already discussed the possibility of one of them winning the award and how they should not feel badly for their friend. As Jordan hurried toward the dais, she grabbed Gwen's hand and pulled her along. She was handed the Oscar just before she reached Charlie. She held it in one hand as she kissed him soundly on the lips. Then she moved to Steve and kissed him. She hugged Gwen and pulled her up to stand near her as she accepted the award.

"These three people here with me are the reason that I'm standing here tonight. They have given me nothing but encouragement and love since we've met. I thank the Academy for this award. Next to giving birth to my darling daughter, this is the best thing I've managed in the past year.

"I know I wasn't better than Gwen, or the other nominees. I don't know how I won, but I'll do my very best to help others attain what has been made possible for me. Thank you all, and especially Charlie, Gwen, and Steve!"

A short while after Jordan's win, she and Gwen found themselves in front of the cameras to announce the best actor award. With both Charlie and Steve in the running, they had to struggle to keep their excitement in check.

"And the winner is.." announced Jordan as Gwen looked over her shoulder, "William Blaine!"

Both ladies smiled and congratulated the winner when he reached the podium. "Don't expect me to apologize for winning an Oscar," joked the actor after receiving hugs from both women.

As the show was winding down, the best film was announced and 'Billie Jean' claimed the honor! Gwen, Kate, Diane, Jordan, Charlie, Paula and Steve all crowded on the stage with the director, who accepted the Oscar and gave the thank-you speech while the others exchanged hugs and handshakes.

It was a happy group that attended their Oscar party at their hotel. As had been done the previous year, Lady in Red Productions posted signs stating no drugs would be tolerated and those caught with them would be turned over to authorities. A security team from L.A. was hired to enforce the edict as well as keep a close eye out for any possible problems. The ladies from Mallory Burke's firm were invited to the party, and were told they were not on duty.

'Billie Jean' enjoyed renewed interest after winning the Oscar for best picture. The movie would go on to make over a billion dollars internationally. Jordan's Oscar gave new life to 'Jurisprudence' which went on to make four hundred million. Once 'Singlehandedly' was added to the mix, Lady in Red Productions raked in over a billion and a half dollars on the three movies. Even after expenses, the company's net value increased to about three billion dollars.

Plans were made to create movie projects that included Jordan, Charlie, Lisa, Jason, Kate, Naomi, Becky, Diane, Paula, Cindy Quick, and Stephanie. Gwen was simply far too busy with her studies and her work in Congress to be involved. Steve had a project planned with his friends. He wanted to make an action film with all of the guys and their ladies. He hoped it would help convince Jared and Chip that making movies wasn't all that hard or embarrassing. He was in contact with North Korea to determine if it would be possible to film at least part of the movie there. He felt it important that he maintain the rapport he had enjoyed with Jong. One never knew when knowing a leader of a country might come in handy.

Steve and Jared had somewhat reluctantly left the service on March 1st. They had originally thought that they would have to remain with Uncle Sam until July, but discovered that wasn't the case. They decided to leave early so they could begin training for football. Steve felt that he had a lot of work to do to get into playing shape. Jared simply needed to work on conditioning. There was little fanfare over their return to civilian life.

It was a busy winter. Gwen managed to fly to Washington for several key votes while maintaining her course to graduate med school in the spring. Steve and Jared had both submitted the required paperwork to leave the service. Sports pages were filled with theories on how well the two friends would do in professional football. Jared was interviewed on a morning sports show in mid-March.

"Redskin linebacker, Chad Dawson, was quoted as saying that playing in the NFL was going to take a lot more determination and skill than Steve Hammer would be able to come up with. He said that making movies and giving concerts had made him soft. He'd lost his competitive edge. Dawson added that since Steve Hammer was so wealthy, he'd never submit to the hours of training needed to be successful at that level. How would you respond to his assessment of your friend's chances?"

"With a smile," responded Jared. "I understand that Dawson is a pretty decent linebacker. Obviously, he isn't the person responsible for determining the talent in training camp. Steve has seen and done things that would make Dawson wet his pants. He's a Navy SEAL, along with being a wealthy actor, and musician. It would be a huge mistake on Dawson's part to dismiss Steve as lacking in determination, skill, discipline, or desire."

"There are reports that the two of you are negotiating as a package deal. Aren't you worried that you might get less than you would if you went alone?" asked the interviewer. "It's obvious that you're in great shape and could probably start at defensive end for most of the teams in the league. Is it wise to team up with Steve Hammer in this way?"

"That's another easy question," laughed Jared. "There are certain unchanging elements in the universe, like gravity. Another certainty is that you are always better off with Steve Hammer than without him. It's that simple. He's negotiated with world leaders on some pretty serious matters. Getting a good contract for us will be a walk in the park for him."

"You two go pretty far back," observed his interviewer. "How has his friendship been important to you over the years?"

"It's all pretty much public record. When Steve decides that you're his friend, you suddenly have a responsibility to be the best person you can possibly be. You worry a lot about letting him down. As time goes on, you realize that you've become the person he always thought you were. He's never failed me in any way and he's helped in all kinds of ways."

"How about those famous photos of his girlfriend standing naked with you? Was there any trouble between you two over that?" pressed the reporter.

"If you recall, my girlfriend was on his lap, so we were both cool with it. Steve is devoted to Gwen and she feels the same about him. We can share private moments as friends, but believe me when I tell you that neither Steve nor I would ever be dishonest or unfaithful. It's a code we have. Every other guy's lady is like a sister. We're protective and supportive, but we're also monogamous. That may sound dull, but it's the code we live by, and it works."

It was mid-April when Steve received a phone call from an upset Nadiya. He was weekending in Sparta while Gwen was in Stanford.

"We are having a problem at the hospital! Dimitri Hasko has decided that the hospital must give him ten million American dollars for insurance. He expects it by the end of the month."

"We already have insurance, don't we?" asked a puzzled Steve. "His premiums are way too high to be considered. Just tell him we're happy with the insurance we have. It doesn't seem like you'd call me for something so simple."

"It isn't simple! He wants Lady in Red Productions to pay him ten million dollars or bad things will start happening. There could be fires, beatings, rapes, and murders!" responded the agitated Nadiya.

"Has he threatened you?" demanded a suddenly furious Steve.

"He said that if he didn't get his money by May, he couldn't guarantee my safety. I told him that my father was a deputy prime minister and he just laughed. He again stated that he needed the money by May or bad things would happen," repeated an obviously worried Nadiya.

"Nadiya, I'll be flying over tomorrow. Don't fret. I won't let anything happen to you. I'll call or email you with my itinerary when I have it settled."

Once Steve hung up with Nadiya, he called Jason and explained the situation. The two men conferred for a few minutes and decided on a course of action. Steve, Jason, Chip, Charlie, Pete, and Jared would be taking the Red Lady to Kiev and meet with the man threatening Nadiya to see if they could dissuade him from following through with his threats. If that failed, they would look into more difficult remedies.

Steve received a call from Gwen a short time later. "I just got out of class and had a message from Lisa. She said that you're going to Kiev tomorrow. Nadiya is having trouble with some gangster. He's threatening all sorts of things unless we pay him ten million dollars?"

"That's the short version," agreed Steve. "We're flying over to see if we can settle this and prevent any innocent people from getting hurt."

"Why does it sound like some not-so-innocent people may be getting hurt?" asked Gwen. "Couldn't the local authorities handle this?Do you and the other guys have to get involved?"

"Yes, we do. I've dug into this guy's background. He pretty much runs the underground in Kiev. Police are afraid of him and he has some friends in government. He runs drugs, prostitution, gambling... you name it. He's a ruthless sociopath. We're committed to the people of Kiev and we can't let this monster win."

"What about paying him? We have the money," responded Gwen.

"Seriously?" asked Steve.

"No, I know better than that. It would never end and he'd just use the money to build his empire. We'd be making things worse. I just worry about you guys. This sounds pretty serious."

"We'll be careful. I promise you that," replied Steve. We can't leave Nadiya, her family, and the hospital in the lurch with this situation. We need to handle it now. We'll call from there and let you know how things go," promised Steve.

Steve's phone rang again a few minutes later. "Steve, I understand you're going to Kiev tomorrow to handle some unpleasant business," began Ted. "I'll be packed and ready, so don't try to leave without me."

"Sir, this may get a little ugly, if you know what I mean. It might be better if you stayed home," replied Steve.

"You mean with the women?" demanded Ted. "My daughters' men are headed for possible trouble and I should stay home?"

Steve smiled grimly to himself as he considered Ted's words. He may not have been trained by the military like the rest of the guys, but Ted was a proud man and needed to be treated with respect, even if it might include serious danger.

"We'll be expecting you, Sir," replied Steve. "The helicopter will be here at six AM and we'll be leaving shortly after that. See you then."