Lady in Red Pt. 02 Ch. 17

By early afternoon, outraged citizens and a few of Simpson's fellow House members were demanding his resignation. Simpson doggedly refused to give in. At first he claimed it was all a lie manufactured by Gwen Anderson and her company to weaken her strongest critic. By the next day, he was claiming he was misunderstood, and was a victim. By Friday morning, he reluctantly admitted he needed professional help and resigned from the House in ignominy.

The speed of his political demise stunned Washington. On Wednesday morning, Bill Simpson had been one of the most powerful men on the Hill. By noon Friday, he had resigned in shame with his legacy in tatters and his reputation destroyed.

Steve's interview was replayed constantly, especially on the cable news channels. Was he right to reveal Simpson's years of debauchery and the deviant behavior that he had forced on numerous women for over twenty years? Would Steve and Gwen have revealed what a monster Simpson really was if he hadn't made the tactical mistake of accusing Gwen of moral turpitude?

The politicians that wanted to investigate Gwen became noticeably more civil in their discussions about Gwen's activity, but refused to abandon their goals. By Thursday, the House Ethics committee had released their schedule relating to their investigation. Paula and Stephanie were to answer questions about Lady in Red Productions' finances on a Wednesday, April 22nd, less than two weeks into the future! The next day, they would return if there were more questions for them, and then Ashley would appear to respond to any inquiries about Gwen's actions while in office. Friday was reserved for Gwen to appear before the committee.

Polls were taken repeatedly. Without exception, Gwen was supported by at least ninety percent of those questioned. Most people felt the charges were politically motivated and lacked any credibility. Bill hardy continued to insist that Gwen and Steve were communist sympathizers dedicated to the destruction of the United States.

Amber Stahl requested an interview with Steve and Gwen, which they quickly granted. Steve and Amber flew to California to tape it. Gwen was desperately trying to get ahead on her studies since she would miss the following Friday's classes to appear in Washington and then travel for more than a week. Her finals were scheduled for mid May.

Stanford provided a very modern set in their media building for the interview. The three friends chatted amicably while they waited for the camera and sound people to declare everything was ready. Amber took a seat across from Gwen and Steve and the live interview began.

"Thanks for agreeing to be interviewed this evening. I know that you're both very busy, especially you, Gwen. Third year med students don't have a lot of spare time, so let's get started.

"Gwen, do you feel there is any basis for the investigation into your ethics by the House committee?"

"Thanks for having us tonight, Amber. I feel that there are reasons for the investigation, and none of them are related to any wrong doing on my part," responded Gwen. "I've been extremely fortunate in the friends I have made, the success of our movies and music, and having the love and support of hard working men and women in the U.S. and around the world.

"That success appears to have created more than a little resentment in Washington. These pathetic tactics are the response of desperate politicians. They either can't, or won't do better themselves, so they're trying to diminish my reputation and the good will Steve and I have worked so hard to achieve over the years."

"Steve," continued Amber as she turned her attention to him. "You gave an interview the evening the ethics investigation was announced. You pretty much threatened to destroy anyone that attempted to harm Gwen in any way. The very next day Congressman Simpson stated on network television that Gwen 'lacked moral fiber and was a modern day harlot'. As soon as you heard that quote, you instructed Gwen's assistant to release a packet of damning information that essentially forced Mr. Simpson to resign his office within the week.

"How do you feel about being responsible for a man losing the office he held for over thirty years? Does it bother you in any way? Any second thoughts?"

"I wasn't responsible for him resigning his position," declared Steve firmly. "That was entirely his doing. His abuse of power and lack of common decency were his downfall. We would have eventually given the information to the press, regardless of his stand on Gwen's investigation. Once we discovered what a horrible person he was, and what terrible things he had done to innocent women, there was no option. I would expect that civil and criminal suits will be filed against him before long."

"It's a widely held belief that nothing ever happens fast in Washington. Yet, Mr. Simpson's entire career suffered a complete and total meltdown within a few days of his less than complimentary remarks regarding Gwen. Many in Washington were stunned by the speed of his departure from Congress. You are seen as Gwen's protector and the enforcer when strong measures are needed. Are you comfortable with that role?" questioned Amber.

"I'm comfortable doing anything and everything in my power to assist and protect Gwen. Labels mean nothing to me. Gwen's future and her reputation mean everything," admitted Steve. "I'll never stand idly by when Gwen's attacked."

"Let me point out that Steve didn't do any of this out of malice," added Gwen. "Once we determined the sort of person we were dealing with, we all agreed that he needed to be exposed. Please don't think that Steve is some monster that crushes anyone that disagrees with us. He demands respect, and he's earned it. Those that engage in reasonable dialogue have nothing to fear. Insulting and demeaning me will always draw a strong reaction from Steve. That should be obvious to everyone by now."

"These hearings are being held awfully soon. Usually there are months between accusations and the actual hearings. How is it that your appearance before the ethics committee has been scheduled so quickly?"

"I think that surprised the committee," responded Gwen. "We received a request to appear, and were given a three month window. We simply chose the earliest possible date. We need no time to prepare. My friends, my family, my staff, and I are eager to defend and to move past this unnecessary political maneuver. Steve and I have a wedding to attend and two concerts in Europe scheduled for the very near future, as well as a hospital ground breaking in Moscow and a hospital dedication in Kiev. In the grand scheme of things, this is simply a minor irritation. I'm not a politician. I serve at the will of my constituents. I was not elected to please and appease the Washington political powers."

"That brings up another subject," segued Amber. "Some very important and powerful people, including President Hanson and former Secretary Rosen have pretty much staked their political fortunes on you coming out on top in this battle. Senator Chatham has stated that she feels you will not only survive this investigation, but it will actually increase your influence.

"More than a few political pundits feel that you and Steve are now the most powerful couple in the world. Do you see yourselves as world leaders, king makers, the powers behind the throne, or anything similar?"

"Honestly, I have trouble believing my eyes and ears when I watch Steve interact with the most powerful people in the world" admitted Gwen with obvious pride. "He stands eye-to-eye and toe-to-toe with them, and they respect him for it. I have no real influence in international politics, but Steve sure seems to. I guess the jury is still out about Steve being a king maker."

"President Hanson, Senator Chatham, Secretary Rosen, as well as several other high ranking politicians have announced their total support for you in this matter. Does that support help ease your mind?"

"It truly does, Amber. I appreciate all of the politicians that have announced their support for me during this unpleasant time. I have to be honest about this, however. The phone calls, emails, texts, and words of encouragement I constantly receive from the hard working people of this country serve as an even better cure for the pain this situation has caused Steve and me, as well as my family and friends. I was elected by the people to serve in Washington. I've done my very best. They're the ones I answer to, and from whom I seek approval."

"As I mentioned earlier, Senator Chatham stated an interesting theory in her speech in the senate this past week when she very strongly endorsed your moral fiber and personal and business ethics. She predicted that this obvious attempt to impede, or even reverse the growth in your popularity would only serve to increase it," quoted Amber. "Do you agree, Gwen?"

"I really have no idea about that. I guess it's a possibility. It's also possible that things could turn out much worse for me. Senator Chatham's scenario is certainly preferable, at least to me," smiled Gwen.

"You two have been asked to be the best man and maid of honor at the wedding of Vlad Novokov and Anna Chekov. Many observers feel that you were both asked because of your prominence in politics and entertainment. You've only been with the Russian couple a few times. Critics say that they must have better, closer friends. How do you respond to that?"

"We've been asked by very good friends to stand up for them at their wedding. It's an honor to be asked, and we're quite happy to help them celebrate their marriage in this manner. It would be extremely rude of us to question why we've been asked," reasoned Gwen. "We're very pleased that we were, and we expect to have a great time!"

"There are those that suggest that you and Steve are too close to the Russians and that you may be Communist sympathizers. How do you respond to that?"

"That's such a stupid thing to suggest that we won't even give it the dignity of a response," stated Steve calmly as he dismissed Hardy's accusations. "Only an idiot would come up with something that foolish."

"Your company responded to a tornado in Tennessee with amazing speed and obvious planning. Many victims, as well as rescue personnel involved in that tragedy credit your company with saving lives and restoring hope with your immediate response. Can we expect more of this type of effort on behalf of disaster victims?"

"My sister and her husband, Lisa and Jason Hunter, head up our response efforts and they did an outstanding job," beamed Gwen. "Our company is dedicated to helping less fortunate people, so the short answer is that we will continue to do what we can to assist those in need. We feel very strongly about that."

"One last question," continued Amber. "Several veterans' groups have requested that they be allowed to use the National Mall for a rally next Friday, the same day that you are scheduled to appear before the ethics committee. That rally is being planned to show Washington how strongly they support you in this investigation. Will you be addressing your supporters Friday, Gwen?"

"I haven't been asked, but I always try to make time for our citizens, especially veterans. If I'm asked, and if I get out of the hearing in time, I'd be proud to speak to my friends and supporters," assured Gwen with another dazzling smile.

"Thank you both for appearing with me tonight. We'll continue to cover this story as well as report next week's testimony to our viewers. I have no doubt that I'll be seeking more interviews from you both in the future," predicted Amber. "From Stanford University, this is Amber Stahl wishing the viewers a good night."

After the interview, Steve and Gwen had dinner at a local restaurant. They were given a semi-private table, but quite a few patrons found their way over to offer their support for Gwen and to wish her well. Steve and Gwen always smiled and treated well wishers with good humor and respect.

When they returned to the house Gwen shared with Charlotte, they found the downstairs crowded with people. "I kind of promised some friends and staff that they could stop in and meet you," admitted Gwen. "You don't know what it's like to date the sexiest man alive. Women constantly ask me about you; sometimes they ask very personal questions."

"You seem to forget that I'm dating the sexiest woman alive," chuckled Steve. "Are Gwen's boobs natural? Does she shave down there? Does she do oral? What's her favorite position?"

"Men ask you about those things?" asked a stunned Gwen. "What do you tell them?"

"Yes to all, and doggy style," responded Steve with a straight face.

"You tell people that?" demanded Gwen hotly. "That's personal and... oh, you're kidding, aren't you?"

Steve had a huge grin across his face as he pulled Gwen close and kissed her. "I've been asked all of those questions over the years, mostly by old men and pimply faced kids. I find it best to simply ignore them. I sure can't be thumping every guy that wonders about your breasts or little kitty. I think they're always included in every American male's favorite fantasies."

"So you don't think I appeal to men from other countries," pouted Gwen just before Steve slapped her lightly on her ass.

As soon as they entered the house, conversation stopped. Charlotte walked up to Steve and kissed him hard and then declared, "Thanks for keeping an eye on the guy for me, Gwen. I'll take care of him the rest of the night."

As soon as the laughter died down, Gwen introduced Steve to a very attractive woman. "Dr. Palmer, may I introduce you to Steve Hammer. Steve, this is the surgeon I work under most of the time. I told you about her and what an excellent surgeon she is, remember?"

"Of course," acknowledged Steve. "You made Gwen cut some ribs off an injured man the first time she was in your operating room! I heard all about you."

"She really did quite well for her first time in OR," laughed Dr. Palmer. "I was testing her a little. I knew how famous and wealthy she was, so I thought I'd find out how dedicated and determined she was to becoming a surgeon. The patient survived and is doing very well.

"Please call me Bonnie, by the way. When I told my daughter that I'd be meeting you tonight, she insisted that I get some pictures with you. Would you mind being in a couple photos with me?" asked the doctor.

"Sure!" replied Steve. "Is your daughter in high school?"

"She's a physician," laughed the woman. "She graduated from med school several years ago."

"You're telling me that you gave birth when you were about ten and then managed to study hard enough to become a doctor?" teased Steve.

"Gwen, you'll be getting all good reviews from me from here on out," proclaimed Dr. Bonnie Palmer as she beamed at Steve. "I see how you're able to influence world leaders. You're a smooth one!"

A short time later, Gwen interrupted Steve's conversation with Dr. Palmer to introduce him to several students. "These are some of the kids that received full scholarships from our company so they could attend Stanford. They wanted to thank you in person, because they're polite, and not because you're so handsome."

Steve spent time speaking with the grateful students before Gwen led him around to make certain that he met everyone. Gwen noticed that Steve began to yawn and rub his eyes around ten PM.

"Steve's operating on Eastern Time and it's after one AM on the east coast. He's beginning to tire, so we're going to bed now. Thanks, everyone for your support and for stopping in tonight."

"But Gwen, you're not on Eastern Time, so why are you going to bed so early?" asked a smirking Dr. Palmer.

"As a doctor, and more importantly, as a woman, I think you can answer that question without my help," retorted Gwen as she tugged Steve up the stairs. "Goodnight, everyone!"

Wednesday morning found Paula and Stephanie appearing before the House Ethics Committee. They were escorted into the hearing by Ted and Steve. Paula identified herself as the COO of Lady in Red Productions when asked her position as the questioning began.

The questioning was fairly benign for the first half hour. It all changed when a Representative Daniels from Idaho gained the floor. "Mrs. Anderson, you should know that your company's power and wealth does not frighten me in any way. Mr. Hammer's threats cause me no concern. I'm here to seek the truth. It's that simple.

"What exactly is the net worth of Lady in Red Productions?" demanded Congressman Daniels.

"At this time, we calculate our company to have a net worth of $1.958 billion," replied Paula in a matter of fact tone.

"You're telling me that this company, formed less than eight years ago, is valued at just under two billion dollars? That's a mind boggling number, Mrs. Anderson. How much of your company's money is in off-shore accounts? How much is hidden to avoid taxes in the United States?"

"We have no monies of any kind in foreign accounts," replied Paula. "We've made copies of all of the company's tax payments since it was formed. You'll see that any deductions we take are valid and we pay taxes at the highest rate under the current tax structure."

"Do you expect us to believe that?" countered the congressman. "Everyone knows that wealthy companies like yours hire teams of tax lawyers and accountants to find loopholes and other means of avoiding taxes."

Paula remained silent as the congressman ranted a bit longer. Eventually, he quieted down and glared at Paula. "Please answer my question!"

"No," responded Paula carefully.

"You're refusing to answer a question?" thundered the almost apoplectic representative.

"I'm not refusing anything. The answer to the question you posed was 'no'. I'm here to respond to all questions, regardless of how poorly they're phrased, or rude the questioner may be," assured Paula.

"What was the question that you answered in the negative?" asked the confused congressman.

"I'm afraid I've already forgotten it," quipped Paula as laughter broke out across the chamber.

"How much money does each of the owners get paid?" asked the red-faced representative.

"None of them are actually paid. They have no salary and no budget. The company pays for anything they want or need."

"Okay," grinned Daniels. "Could you give us some examples?"

"Lady in Red Productions has been covering Gwen's medical school expenses. That amount is about $172,000 so far. The hospital in Kiev was Gwen's idea. $287 million has been spent on that project. Operating expenses are estimated to be around $40 million per year once it is up and running, which will be covered by our company. Kate has had her first year law school bills covered by the company to the tune of $37,000, so far. Charlie and Jordan's wedding cost $72,000.

"Lisa has not asked for anything major yet, although the company paid for her wedding before she was an owner. Steve hadn't spent any money either, at least not until he committed us to pay for a state of the art hospital in Moscow. We've set aside $300 million for that project."

"What about all of the clothes, the travel expenses, the cars, motorcycles and lavish parties and hotel accommodations?" demanded Daniels.

"Lady in Red Productions picks up all of those expenses," responded Paula.

By the time the hearing stopped for lunch, it was evident to most of the questioners that Paula was not going to be rattled or trapped into saying something harmful to Gwen's cause.

After lunch, Stephanie was grilled about her knowledge of the business and just how much it profited from Gwen being in Congress. Representative Clark from New Mexico began the questioning.

"Can you tell us how much your company's income as increased year to year since Ms. Anderson assumed office?"