Lady in Red Pt. 02 Ch. 21

"I'm still getting used to hearing her name," grinned a tired looking Jordan. "Charlie's mother was so happy when we named her after her mother. Of course my mom was quite pleased, as you know. You saw her cry when we told her what we were going to name the baby."

Gwen turned to Steve and carefully handed the baby to him. Steve wasted no time making faces and strange noises to the little girl.

"We were thinking of teaching her English first," laughed Jordan. "Then Uncle Steve can give her lessons in all of those other languages he speaks."

"Uncle Steve? I like that a lot. I'm Ruth's uncle!" exclaimed Steve softly. "She's going to be as beautiful as her mother and we're going to spoil her rotten."

Gwen and Charlotte returned to Stanford that evening while Steve, Naomi, Ashley, and Kate traveled back to Washington, along with numerous security people. It was a relatively quiet time as everyone prepared for the looming holidays. Lady in Red had leased several large homes on the beach on Grand Cayman Island for December, several days before Christmas. The Duke and Duchess and their children were scheduled to be on the island at the same time.

On the ninth of December, Time Magazine announced that Steve and Gwen were selected 'Person of the Year'. Their faces were featured on the cover with the caption 'Heroism'. The magazine explained how the decision was reached and recounted all of the achievements the couple had managed over the course of the year. Steve and Gwen were actually surprised when they read the list of accomplishments.

'This makes us sound like heroes," worried Gwen. "I don't know why they included me. You're the real hero."

It appears that the editors felt that a woman that would jump into the icy Potomac to rescue a jerk, fight a smear campaign in congress, defeat a Chechen terrorist in hand to hand combat and then operate on the son of the Russian president with a steak knife and a straw, build an entire hospital for the poor of Kiev, perform on air craft..."

"Okay! I read the article! I still think that you're the real hero and I just follow your lead. Saving those girls on that bus was enough without all of the other things you managed in Russia, Washington, North Korea, and all over the world. Time Magazine got it right when they picked you. I'm sure of that much."

The next day, Gwen, Naomi, and Steve took a limo south to National Harbor, Maryland. They had agreed to meet their dates at a local hotel, where they had taken rooms for the night.

"I'm going to be waiting for you to come in tonight," promised Steve as he dressed for the affair. "You'd better not be late."

"First you set me up with a date, and now you're warning me to get in early? That doesn't sound very romantic," stated Gwen. "Can you offer me any incentive to be back early?"

Steve pulled Gwen into his arms and kissed her passionately. "I hope that gives you an idea of the so-called incentive I will have for you tonight."

"In that case, I'll be back before the dancing begins," laughed Gwen.

Steve accompanied both Naomi and Gwen to the hotel lobby. They were both absolutely stunning. Naomi was in dress uniform while Gwen wore a long red gown that showed a hint of her ample cleavage, but was modest compared to styles she often wore. She knew that the ladies were expected to show class and decorum at a military ball.

Kyle was standing and waiting for Gwen to appear. He seemed nervous when Steve led Gwen up to him for the introductions. Once the introductions were finished and Gwen took the Marine's arm, Steve looked the young man in the eye.

"I don't trust Gwen with just any man. I know you'll look after her and keep her from any harm. I also know that you expect me to treat your sister the same way. This should be a fun night, but just remember that Gwen means the world to me and I'll be very upset if she has any problems."

"Can you imagine how he'll be when some young man stops in to take our daughter out in twenty years?" laughed Gwen. "He's worse than my father.

"Don't worry about us, Lieutenant Hammer," continued Gwen. "We won't be too far away from you this evening. Besides, I can tell that Kyle is a perfect gentleman."

Steve smiled and then escorted Naomi to a tall Marine with a huge smile. Naomi introduced the two men and Steve gave a similar talk to that Marine. "Dad and Jared would be proud of you," chuckled Naomi. "Luke will be a perfect gentleman, I'm sure. He's a Marine and that's how they are, especially after you give them that speech."

The introductions as they entered the ballroom were revealing. When Congresswoman Gwen Anderson and Private Kyle Williams were introduced, everyone in attendance applauded loudly. Steve felt a swell of pride as he watched how regally Gwen walked into the room and how much she was loved and respected by those in attendance.

He was somewhat surprised when he and Denise received a very warm welcome when they were introduced. He enjoyed the reception they received and Denise positively beamed. Naomi and her date did not go unnoticed either. Naomi's smile was a mile wide as she entered on the arm of her escort.

There was a reality show star at the affair and Steve actually felt sorry for her. She had a dress so low in front that over half of each substantial breast was exposed. Her dress was backless and it only came to mid thigh. Steve knew that many of the men enjoyed looking at her, but she apparently had no idea how improper her attire was.

Steve was not overly surprised when the actress wound up sitting at his table, along with Gwen and Naomi and their escorts. He struggled to not show his irritation when the woman somehow wound up sitting next to him. She frequently leaned toward Steve to speak to him and when she did, he had a complete view of her large breasts.

Steve saw smirks on both Naomi and Gwen's faces as he studiously ignored any further glimpses of the woman's ample bosom. He turned to Denise and chatted with her and the other occupants of the table. When the music started, the big boobed actress wanted Steve to dance with her, but Steve politely explained that he was escorting Denise to the affair and would certainly dance with her first.

"Thanks for coming with me and for giving me the first dance," began Denise. "I know she's beautiful and her breasts are huge so it must have been difficult to turn her down."

"Honestly, I would much rather have you in my arms than some silicone wannabe," replied Steve. "You're a lovely woman and you're real. You're serving your country as a Marine. I find you much more interesting."

Steve danced the first several dances with Denise. She had a continuous smile plastered on her face. Her brother was just as bad as Gwen remained with Denise's brother for the same dances.

There were some stifled chuckles when a big, burly Marine Captain asked Gwen for the next dance. "I'd like the next dance, I'm Captain Sloan. You really should be escorted by an officer."

"My date needs to give his approval before I'll dance with someone else," responded Gwen with a forced smile. Reluctantly, the officer turned to Kyle. Rather than make a simple request, the Captain demonstrated his complete lack of class.

"I'll have the next dance with your sexy date. You don't mind, do you, Private?" demanded the man as he stared down at the young Marine.

"Don't bother responding, Kyle." insisted Gwen quite suddenly. "I really don't care to dance with you, Captain."

"What? You'll dance with this black kid, but not with me?" asked the stunned and thoroughly embarrassed man. "You're nothing but a big titted..."

Steve had watched the interaction from quite close since he and Denise had been waiting for the music to begin for the next dance. Steve hurried over to Gwen and as he offered his arm, he 'accidently' bumped Captain Sloan. The accidental bump was so forceful that it staggered the partially inebriated Sloan.

"Kyle, would you mind if I..." was all Steve could manage to say before the very irate Captain Sloan came charging back at Steve with a fist pulled back.

"Captain!" barked an authoritative voice from behind Steve. "You will turn around and return to your seat immediately."

Sloan hesitated briefly, but his instinct for survival won out over his embarrassment and anger. His face flushed red as he gave a quick "Yes, Sir!" and turned on his heel to return to his seat.

"Congresswoman Anderson, Lieutenant Hammer, I apologize for that unfortunate turn of events," spoke a tall, ramrod straight Marine. "I'm Colonel Hood. Believe me when I tell you that boorish behavior like Captain Sloan just demonstrated is not tolerated in the Marine Corps. Rest assured that he will receive a reprimand and a possible demotion."

"Will Kyle get into any trouble over this?" asked a concerned Gwen. "He's a private, and an officer with an agenda can make things very difficult for him."

"Again, I assure you that Private Williams will not suffer from any recriminations. Unless you'd consider the envy of every other Marine at this affair a form of suffering," continued Colonel Hood smoothly.

"Private Williams, may I have the next dance with your date," asked a smiling Colonel Hood.

"Yes sir!" responded Kyle immediately. "And thank you, Sir!"

"Congresswoman Anderson, would you grant me the honor of the next dance?"

"Why Colonel Hood, I thought you'd never ask! I'd be delighted," smiled Gwen before turning to Steve. "Lieutenant Hammer, thank you for your defense of my honor. I promise to save a dance for you."

The festivities were nearing the end when Colonel Hood approached Steve and Gwen at their table. "I have been tasked to make the request that you dance to 'Lady in Red' before we end the evening. This request comes from General Maxwell's wife, as if that might influence your response."

Gwen glanced at Steve and then nodded to the Colonel. "We are here as guests and certainly appreciate your hospitality and tradition. We'd be honored to perform that dance."

"There's one other thing," added Colonel Hood carefully. "Mrs. Maxwell would really like to hear Lieutenant Hammer sing it as he dances with you. She saw it on that damn YouTube once and has been hoping to witness it in person ever since."

Gwen simply laughed and nodded again as she led Steve to the excellent band that had been supplying the music for the event. Soon Steve was fitted with a microphone. He spoke with the musicians for a short while before leading Gwen onto the floor.

Colonel Hood stepped to the stage and introduced Steve and Gwen and told those attending that they had agreed to perform 'Lady in Red' for those in attendance. The music began and Steve swept Gwen into his arms and began singing. No one else was dancing as Steve guided Gwen gracefully across the floor.

There was a long and loud ovation at the finish. Gwen and Steve bowed several times before Steve led Gwen to General Maxwell's table. Gwen smiled and hugged Mrs. Maxwell and thanked her for making the request. Steve could easily see that the general's wife was very pleased with the performance and the opportunity to speak with Gwen. Steve knew that would please General Maxwell, and a happy general is much easier on the enlisted men.

Gwen, Steve, and Naomi returned to their hotel within a few minutes of each other. They sat in Naomi's room for half an hour discussing the evening's events before Gwen and Steve retired to their room.

Christmas time was fast approaching. Everyone but Gwen and Charlotte were already in Sparta a full week before the holiday. The two med students were due in the next day. Most of those present would meet them at the airport, board the Red Lady, and head for Grand Cayman Island and a vacation with the Duke and Duchess. Christmas was on a Saturday and Gwen, Jordan, Charlie, and Steve were once again doing a TV special on Christmas Eve from Sparta. They would return to Sparta Wednesday evening and spend Thursday and Friday preparing for the live telecast Christmas Eve. It was indicative of how relaxed and confident they had become to allow so little time for rehearsals.

Paula and Lisa had arranged to have a large dinner party with friends and family before the trip to Grand Cayman Island. Once again, it was a large and boisterous group. The conversation was lively and the laughter frequent. Once the dessert was served, and everyone was seated, Steve turned to Gwen's father.

"Sir?" began Steve in a very serious voice. Conversation suddenly stopped and the room became extremely quiet.

Surprised at the silence, Steve flushed slightly but continued as Ted waited for him to speak. "Sir," repeated Steve. "I'd like to have your permission to ask Gwen to marry me."

Paula raised her hand to her mouth as tears began trickling down her cheeks. Ted remained quiet as he nodded his head slowly in understanding. Everyone else was spell bound as they awaited Ted's response.

"Son, Gwen's mother and I have discussed this possibility quite a few times over the years. It's my great pleasure to tell you that nothing would please us more. We already feel that you're part of our family. This will simply cement that fact. Welcome to our family, although Gwen will make that final determination," added Ted with a huge smile as he held his hand out to Steve.

The room erupted in applause and whistles as everyone tried to speak at once. Paula stood and hurried over to Steve who rose from his chair to meet her. She threw her arms around him and hugged him tightly as she cried into his chest.

"Like Gwen will refuse that request!" stated Kate loud enough for everyone to hear. "It looks like we'll be planning another wedding. How do two superstars get married anyway?"

Steve still held a crying Paula in his arms as he spoke to the group. "I'm asking that no one tell Gwen about this. I'm going to ask the director of our TV special to give me a minute at the beginning of the show to ask Gwen to marry me. Please let it be a surprise."

"I've got to hand it to you, you've got balls!" laughed Billy. "Are they going to have a close-up of you crying like a little baby if Gwen turns you down?"

"That'll never happen!" insisted Jordan. "I think it's one of the most romantic things I've ever heard. Gwen will be over the moon. Charlie showed the way when he asked me in the middle of a concert in front of our hometown. Of course, he was pretty certain of the outcome, too."

"Paula, you've got to let go of your new son-in-law so the rest of us can congratulate him," complained Diane. "I saw this coming that day at the pool. Our family has been blessed ever since."

Everyone kept their promise of silence to Steve. They met Gwen and Charlotte at the airport and flew to Grand Cayman. They were joined by the Duke and Duchess later that day. President-elect Vince Rosen and Cynthia Rosen arrived that evening. Photographers were allowed an hour of photographs if they agreed to leave the vacationers alone the rest of the time.

Gwen and Steve were somewhat surprised at how much was made of the vacation by the press and people on the internet. There were even conspiracy theories floated about what was actually discussed and planned by the group. For Steve and Gwen, it was simply a relaxing few days with some of the people they enjoyed the most in the world. Politics were never discussed.

Gwen, Jordan, Lisa, Kate, Cynthia Rosen and the Duchess did manage to discuss children's health issues and they agreed to make an effort to work to improve conditions for children around the world. Steve, Charlie, Vince, and the Prince discussed sports, fishing, women, and the merits of various brews that they sampled.

Refreshed and invigorated, everyone returned to their homes to prepare for the holidays. Jordan was still nursing her baby regularly but was able to appear on the show for Christmas Eve. This year, the show was from Valhalla. It was the first glimpse of the impressive structure for the public. There was a huge tree in the huge center hall with wrapped gifts piled high. Off to the sides and in other rooms were rows and rows of winter clothing, boots, gloves, and other cold weather gear.

The show was to begin with Steve and Gwen doing a small sketch they had rehearsed. As Gwen waited for Steve to deliver his opening line, he suddenly dropped to one knee! Gwen gasped and brought her hands to her wide opened mouth as Steve gazed up at her.

"Gwen, I love you more than I ever thought possible. Would you give me the great honor of becoming my wife?" asked Steve as he held up a small ring. "My grandfather gave this ring to my grandmother, and Dad gave it to Mom. Will you wear it as a sign of our love?"

The entire set went quiet. Even the small children sensed something was afoot. They went silent and watched the famous couple in front of the cameras.

"Steve, I've dreamed of this day since the moment we met at the mall years ago. I have never loved before I met you, and I don't think it's possible to love a person any more than I love you. I'll be proud to wear this wonderful ring, be your wife, and share your life. The honor is mine!"

As she finished speaking, Gwen grabbed Steve's hand and tugged him to his feet. He slid the ring onto her finger before she slowly wrapped her arms around his neck as he lowered his lips to hers. Cheers, whistles, and applause continued as the two remained in that position.

The stage was quickly flooded with family and friends. The women pried the couple apart and embraced Gwen. The guys shook a grinning Steve's hand. This lasted for a minute before the station went to commercial so the director could regain control and get everyone back on script.

The rest of the program was performed perfectly. Viewers at home could not help but notice that Gwen frequently held her hand out and gazed at her ring as tears would trickle down her cheeks. The usual festive feelings were increased by the joy everyone felt for Gwen and Steve. They both beamed as they passed out gifts to children when they weren't performing.

Jordan and Charlie were scheduled to perform the closing number. Jordan took part of that time to offer their feelings about Gwen and Steve.

"We've witnessed something very special tonight," began Jordan. "Two of the people that Charlie and I love most in the world are going to be united in marriage. Valhalla will now have its king and queen, and we couldn't be happier. All that we are, all that we've accomplished, and all that we may ever accomplish has been made possible by these two incredible people. Charlie and I wish them well, and we promise to strive to live up to their standards and expectations. God bless them!"