Lady in Red Pt. 02 Ch. 17

Gwen took a hand of each and led them to the front of the stage. Cynthia Rosen quickly grabbed Steve's hand and tugged him along.

"The Rosens supported us when no other presidential candidates would. We appreciate their courage, their support, and their friendship," announced Gwen to the cheering crowd. "I've invited them take seats next to my parents tonight.

"You folks came to Washington to help us, Steve and me, in a difficult time. We all know there were no pay-offs, no promises, nor any requests from us to come here today. We do have a request now, however. Would you care to be our guests for an impromptu concert; right here and right now?"

Once again, Gwen had to wait several minutes for the din to abate. "Then it's settled. We have trucks with food and beverages parked on several side streets. Food and drink are on us! My very good friends, who happen to be two of the finest people I have ever known, have agreed to join us tonight. Please welcome Jordan and Charlie Burns, and our band, as we set up for the festivities!"

As the band began setting up, Cynthia Rosen spoke to Paula. "I really enjoyed your appearance before the committee. You were very well prepared and handled it perfectly. You looked like you've been doing it all of your life. These young ladies next to you were really sharp. By the time they were done, most of the members of the committee were afraid to ask any probing questions for fear that they'd be exposed as hypocrites."

Thank you," replied Paula as she leaned close to the other woman be heard above the noise of the huge gathering. "I thought I was nervous then, but look at all of the people out there. It looks like the crowd is getting larger by the minute. I've never been on stage when the kids performed and I'm extremely nervous, excited, and proud!"

Gwen and Steve quickly climbed into a nearby van to change clothes. At five fifteen, Gwen and Jordan stepped to the front of the stage. "Please everyone, stand and remove your hats," requested Jordan. "We're going to start the party with our National Anthem. This is the greatest country in the world and you veterans the best of the best. We're super proud of you, of Gwen, and of being Americans!"

Gwen and Jordan allowed the crowd to prepare and then joined in singing The Star Spangled Banner a cappella. The Jumbotrons had split screens showing various flags flying over the Capitol and the two beautiful women singing in perfect harmony. The applause was long and loud as Jordan and Gwen hurried to their positions.

The driving drum beat signaled the beginning of the concert as Gwen strutted front and center for 'We Will Rock You'. When she reached the lyrics 'You got mud on yo' face, you big disgrace, kickin' your can all over the place', her emotion poured through her singing. The audience had little doubt she was thinking of Representative Simpson, who had resigned in disgrace after attacking Gwen in the media.

The band moved right into 'We Are the Champions' as they usually did. Gwen once again made the lyrics personal. 'I've paid my dues, time after time, I've done my sentence, but committed no crime' had new meaning to Gwen and the crowd picked up on it immediately.

Charlie gave Steve and Jordan a look that asked if they heard what he was hearing. They both nodded in understanding. Gwen was letting out her repressed emotions now that the hearing had ended. She was singing louder, stronger, and with more feeling that her friends had ever heard from her.

'I've taken my bows

And my curtain calls

You brought me fame and fortune

And everything that goes with it

I thank you all

But it's been no bed of roses

No pleasure cruise

I consider it a challenge before

The whole human race

And I ain't gonna lose!'

The audience had quickly sensed Gwen's intensity and responded with loud cheers. They joined in singing the 'We Are the Champions' part of the refrain as Gwen pranced around the stage waving her arms as she sang, urging the crowd to join her. It was clear that she included all of them as the champions of the day.

When the song ended, the crowd erupted into the longest, loudest cheering and yelling that Charlie, Jordan, and Steve had ever experienced. They refrained from going to the next number until they felt the crowd was satisfied and finally began to settle down. Gwen bowed several times as she flashed her megawatt smile.

As they prepared to play their next selection, Charlie spoke to Jordan and Steve. "We've got to pick up our game here or Gwen will bury us. She's on fire today!"

The band broke into 'Rock This Town', since it had been so popular on the Oscars. Jordan was somewhat prepared for Gwen's enthusiasm and stayed right with her as they sang the first half of the song while Charlie and Steve played instruments. Steve did get to sing the part about 'look at me again and there's a-gonna be a fight'. Before the audience had stopped cheering, Charlie and Steve moved to the front and started in playing 'Well Dressed Man' as Gwen and Jordan sang it much as they had on the Oscars, but fully clothed, of course.

Always anxious to try different songs, Gwen sang "Magic Man" by Heart. The song included some great guitar work. Steve and Charlie played brilliantly as Jordan backed Gwen perfectly. The crowd loved it when Gwen grabbed her mother's hand and pulled her to the front of the stage as she sang 'Try, try, try to understand, he's a magic man, mama, he's a magic man!' as Paula smiled and nodded her head in understanding.

Gwen backed Jordan up on her songs, as Jordan did for Gwen. They had come to understand each other and to harmonize perfectly. Near the end of the show, they joined to sing 'The Look of Love'. The girls nailed it and the crowd gave an extended round of applause and cheering. It seemed that anything that Gwen and Jordan sang together was always enjoyed by their fans and this was one of the best efforts they had ever collaborated on.

The tone was set for the rest of the show. It was after ten by the time the final encore was finished. The Park Service estimated that there was over a million people spread around the mall and anywhere within hearing of the concert.

Gwen, Jordan, Steve, and Charlie were soaked with sweat by the time they finished. They were exhausted as they gathered their instruments and belongings to send to the hotel.

Vincent Rosen spoke to Ted and Paula as the friends were picking up. "I've never seen a concert with that much energy and great music! It was incredible. Thanks to all of you for inviting us, and for allowing us to remain on stage. I don't think this city will ever be the same. Gwen owns this town now. Her enemies underestimated the power and influence she and Steve carry. By trying to bring her down, they've given her the perfect platform to increase her sphere. I'm just glad she isn't 35 yet, so she can't be elected president!"

"We really appreciate the praise, Secretary Rosen," replied Ted with a proud smile. "Paula and I have never been on stage for one of the kids' performances before and I can tell you that we're both amazed. They were hundreds of thousands of people watching and listening and it never even fazed them. They were fantastic, in my humble, unbiased opinion."

"We're going to have a small reception for friends at our hotel in half an hour," announced Steve as he approached the Rosens as they chatted with Ted and Paula. "We'd be honored if you could find the time to stop in."

Cynthia Rosen was elated to receive an invitation to an affair for the inner circle of Steve and Gwen's friends. "Vincent and I would be delighted to attend! We'll freshen up back home, and then stop in within the hour."

A short while later, the group was gathered in a private dining room in their hotel. Steve immediately noticed that Ashley was escorted by Richard Drake. He had gained weight and looked considerably better than when Steve first met him. Steve made a point of intercepting the couple as they walked toward the buffet.

"Mr. Drake? I see that you're escorting Ashley this evening. I think it's important that you understand what is expected of a man that dates Ashley."

Ashley's face broke into a huge smile as she realized what Steve was about to do. Gwen and Paula had overheard Steve and turned their attention to Ashley and her friend as Steve spoke to them.

"You will not use alcohol to excess. You will not use any illegal drugs, or tobacco. You'll treat her with the respect that she deserves. You will do everything you can to keep her safe. If this seems too demanding, the door is over there and I suggest that you head for it immediately. If you accept these stipulations, you're welcome to stay."

"Mr. Hammer, I have the highest regard and respect for Ashley. I absolutely agree to your conditions without hesitation. I thank you for thinking enough of me to have this 'talk'. I know what an honor it has become," responded Richard Drake as he extended his hand to Steve.

Before he could take the man's hand, Ashley flung herself into Steve's arms and hugged him tightly. "Oh, Steve! Thanks for caring so much about me. You're the best guy I've ever met."

Richard Drake looked on calmly as Ashley kissed Steve with some passion before releasing him and explaining. "I told Rich that he might be getting the 'talk' and what it meant. He knows how much I love you and understands how special it is, and he's fine with it!"

"Just call me Steve. If you're with Ashley, you're a friend. But understand that I wasn't joking about treating her right. She's loved very much by Gwen and me and we'd be quite upset if anything happened to her. You don't want to upset Gwen if you can help it."

"I understand completely," assured Richard Drake. "Please call me Rich. I know it's unwise to upset Ms. Anderson, but for some reason, I'm more concerned about finding myself on your bad side."

"Are you kidding?" asked Gwen as she joined the conversation. "Steve's just a big teddy bear. He's gentle and considerate all the time."

"I don't think former Congressman Simpson would agree with that," retorted Ashley. "He had no idea what he was walking into when he attacked Gwen. Steve's extremely protective of his friends, family, and almost anyone needing help. It took Steve about a second to pull the plug on Simpson's career. It's not looking too promising right now for that dumb-ass, Clark, either."

Although, Gwen and Steve had invited very few people, more than a few Washington insiders appeared at the entrance to the room, looking to speak to Steve and Gwen. It became quite apparent to Steve that they wanted to curry Gwen's favor. He contained his mirth as he watched some of the more powerful people in Washington congratulate Gwen and insist that they had supported her all along.

For her part, Gwen was polite and smiled a lot. She thanked everyone for supporting her, but declined to discuss any pending legislation or issues.

"I've had quite enough of politics this week," stated Gwen firmly. "Steve and I are trying to relax a little before we leave for Russia Monday morning. We have a very busy couple of weeks scheduled and when I return, I'll have finals. I'll look into these issues as they are voted on."

As Steve watched and listened to Gwen over the course of the evening, he realized that she had subtlety changed since the ethics scandal had begun. She was firmer, less conciliatory, and even blunt at times. She was maturing and evolving and it was exciting for him to see.

They spent a fair amount of time with Vincent and Cynthia Rosen. They were photographed together and even questioned by the few reporters allowed to attend.

"Does this mean that you're supporting Vincent Rosen for president?" asked a lady reporter to Gwen.

"It means that I very much appreciate their public support of me during this difficult time. Steve and I have not endorsed any candidate. We do consider Vincent and Cynthia to be friends. We're quite content leaving things at that, at least for now," responded Gwen.

Steve was surprised to see Cheryl Baxter at the event. She was wearing a very smart looking dress and carrying an expensive camera.

"It's your company's camera, and dress, for that matter," revealed Cheryl with a big smile. "You look surprised to see me. Gwen's asked me to come to Washington and then travel to Europe with your group. She loaned me this camera to use because my teachers insisted that I bring back lots of video of the exciting things you do all of the time. I'm making a video diary and it started this morning with Gwen's testimony.

"I've got to tell you that everyone back home was pissed that they'd try to accuse Gwen of wrong doing. They were also proud as heck at how you came out in her support that night at the airport and how that scum Simpson had to resign. Gwen's appearance at the hearing and her performance at the concert were amazing. She's really smart. I heard on the news that the two of you wield more power and influence than President Hanson and his wife, and I believe it. What's really hard for me to believe is that I'm here talking to you!"

"Don't believe everything you hear. We're just like you and everyone else. We've been lucky now and then, but we understand how quickly it can all disappear," replied Steve. "Thanks for coming with us. I'm sure that Ashley, Stephanie, or Gwen has told you that we'd like to look at any video you take before you let anyone else see it. We don't want anything too embarrassing showing up on YouTube."

"Yes, they all explained that to me and I'm fine with it. It's just an honor to be able to go to Russia and Ukraine with your group. I'll never do anything to hurt you or Gwen," promised Cheryl.

The next morning found Steve and Gwen joining family and friends for breakfast. Ashley was blushing as she sat next to Richard Drake. Steve stared at Ashley until she stood up blushing, and started to leave the room.

Steve easily caught her elbow and turned her around. "I'm happy for you, Ashley. He's a good man and you sure deserve one. I was just trying to tease you a little. You know I'd never hurt you on purpose."

"That's Steve's macho idea of humor," explained Gwen as she hugged her friend. "I'm so happy for you! You know you'll have to tell me everything. Where's that adorable little Ingrid?"

"Becky's taking care of her for us this weekend," responded a relieved Ashley. "I was pretty nervous about the hearings and Rich volunteered to stay with me. He really does help me to relax."

"I'm sure he does," chuckled Steve. "Are he and Ingrid going to be able to go to Europe with us this week?"

"You're inviting them?" asked a surprised Ashley. "I'll make sure they're able to go! Thanks so much for being so understanding!"

"If anyone's interested, today's Post filled its front page with articles about Gwen, although Steve was mentioned a few times. They seem to feel that it's huge that you two were so friendly to Vincent Rosen. There's an article devoted to that. There's another story on how Steve, with the help of Paula, Ashley, and me, shook Congress to its core with our knowledge of the committee members' financial and political dealings. They're calling it brilliant tactics and believe that Steve's the mastermind of planning the counter-attack.

"His military training is credited with helping him develop the strategy that worked so effectively. The bottom line in every story is that Gwen and Steve have proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with in Washington. There's speculation that Clark won't even run for a second term, which would show more intelligence than he demonstrated at the hearing," concluded Stephanie sarcastically.

Sunday morning found Gwen and Steve appearing of Amber Stahl's 'Washington Insider' broadcast. They were gracious and humble with their responses to questions about their victory, their friendship with the Rosens, and their increasingly powerful position in a town that respects power above everything else.

Monday morning saw the Red Lady filled with family and friends of Steve and Gwen as they prepared to fly to Moscow. Their entire inner circle had made arrangements to travel to Russia and attend the nuptials. It was to be a very large wedding and Vlad had assured them that they were welcome to bring as many friends as they wanted. He told them that he was delighted that they had agreed to be in his wedding party, and the numbers could easily be worked out.

They were transported from the airport to their hotel by several long limousines. There was a large crowd gathered in front of the hotel when they pulled up to the curb. Much to the consternation of security people, Steve and Gwen stepped out and began shaking hands with people.

That's when Gwen surprised Steve by speaking Russian to those she greeted! "I thought it was time I learned Russian. We're going to be visiting here more often to see our hospital and Vlad and Anna. I took Russian for two years in undergraduate studies and I've worked my ass off with one of those 'learn to speak Russian in two weeks' courses for six months. It's finally paying off!"

Security finally managed to lead Steve and Gwen inside the hotel when Steve spotted Varvara Suchkov in the lobby. She smiled when she saw his look of recognition and rushed to embrace him.

"So you remembered me? I wondered if the famous Steve Hammer would recognize me. I have been following your exploits in the papers and internet. You and your lady are very famous and important in America now," grinned Varvara as she pulled Steve down for a kiss. "That should help you remember me!"

"Naomi and I had dinner with you and your parents a few weeks ago," laughed Steve. "No man could forget you in, especially in that short period of time. You're as beautiful as ever!"

"Gwen, your man is flirting with me," joked Varvara as she hugged Gwen tightly. "He brought that beautiful woman to dinner at my parents' hotel and he never even noticed me. I see she is here again. Watch that one!"

"Hey, I heard that!" complained Naomi. "Steve never took his eyes of you all night. He forgot I was even there."

"Don't worry," laughed Gwen as she spoke to the Russian. "I keep an eye on her every minute, but I'm afraid that Steve does as well. This is her boyfriend, Jared White. Jared, meet Varvara Suchkov. You can see why Steve doesn't stray with Naomi. This big guy would break Steve in half."

"He is very big and strong, but I think breaking Steve in half may be a difficult task. I have seen the movies and read the stories about Steve Hammer. He is hard as steel, or so the reports claim. He may bend, but he does not break."

"See that, Gwen? She knows how hard Steve is. I think she's the one you need to watch around Steve," joked Naomi as Varvara suddenly caught Naomi's inference and blushed.

"I need to return to the reason I am here," observed the lovely Russian. "Your entire group is invited to the Kremlin tomorrow evening to have dinner with Vlad and Anna. President Novokov will be in St. Petersburg, but will return in time to attend your concert. We will have a bus pick you up at five, Moscow time? Will this work for you?"

"Of course it will!" replied Steve. "Please thank Vlad and Anna for us, and tell them that we look forward to seeing them again."

Cheryl was especially wide-eyed the next evening when they dined at the Kremlin. She recorded almost the entire meal. After everyone finished eating, she walked around the section opened to her, taking video of everything she could. Gwen had explained to everyone, including their hosts, that Cheryl was required to record as much of her trip as she could and report back to her high school when the journey was over.

Gwen, Jordan, Charlie, and Steve spent part of each day rehearsing for the concert scheduled for Thursday evening in Red Square. A stage had been erected and Lady in Red Productions had crews placing the Jumbotrons in strategic areas around Red Square. Part of the agreement was that they agreed to allow them to be used the next day by the Russians when their military proudly paraded through Moscow.