The string of black limousines wound past the mansion, stopping when the middle car was even with the steps. The other cars disgorged their occupants at once. Men in dark suits spread out over the immediate area. One agent opened the back door of the limousine in front of the mansion.
A man not much older than fifty got out and walked up the steps. Dark-suited men on either side kept pace with him. The man was short, slightly overweight and balding. His clothing matched that of the men beside him—black suit, white shirt and black shoes. Reaching the top step, the man smiled at the President and extended his hand.
The President shook the man’s hand. “Mr. Premier, welcome to our home. I’m glad you could make it. I trust you had a good flight.”
The Premier nodded his head. “Yes, it was without incident, but it was long, nonetheless.” He smiled. “Long flights, I’m afraid, do not agree with a man of my…advanced years.” Everyone chuckled, while he stepped forward and greeted Caroline.
The President put his hand his wife’s back. “This is my wife, Caroline,” he extended his hand further, “and our daughter, Abigail.”
“I'm pleased to meet you.” The Premier kissed the backs of their hands.
Caroline gushed. It had been awhile since a man had greeted her so formally. “I must say, Mr. Premier, your English is exceptional.”
“Thank you. It is the result of a lifetime of good education.” He paused before leaning back and gesturing toward the mansion. “You have graciously invited me into your home. I would be honored if you would call me, Yuri.”
Pleased to be on a first-name basis with the leader of another country, Caroline smiled. “Thank you, Yuri.” She craned her neck and made a show of glancing behind the Premier. “I’m sorry, but I was under the impression your wife would be accompanying you.”
“She took another car and stopped to do some shopping. She will be joining us later this evening.” The Premier closed his eyes and lowered his head, shaking it slowly. “Forgive me, Caroline, if what I am about to say offends you, but I do not understand women and shopping.”
The first lady leaned forward and touched the Premier’s arm. “You’re not alone, Yuri, and I’m not offended. In fact, I would love to take your wife shopping—perhaps Friday when you’re meeting with my husband.”
A look of recognition came over the Premier’s face. “Ah, yes, Black Friday. I have heard the stories.” His mind recalled the news stories of people being knocked down and run over by other shoppers.
“If ever there was a day to have armed escorts,” Caroline glanced at her husband, “that would be the day.”
The Premier threw his head back and laughed. “I will make sure an extra security team goes with the two of you. I’m sure she would very much welcome the opportunity. Thank you for the offer.” He glimpsed Hardy and Special Agent Cruz standing behind the President. “Please, excuse me, Caroline.” He tipped his head. “I must speak with that young man over there.”
“Of course, Yuri, I understand.” She smiled. “It was a pleasure meeting you and I look forward to getting to know you and your wife over the next couple of days.”
The Premier returned her smile before acknowledging Abigail and sidestepping the President. The Russian leader stood in front of Hardy. “You must be Mr. Hardy.” He clasped Hardy’s right hand and elbow with both hands. “It is so very good to finally meet the man who saved my life.” He shot a quick look at Cruz. “I must apologize for not getting the chance—” he paused, “No, I apologize for not taking the time to thank you, properly. You have my deepest gratitude, young man.”
Hardy shook his head. “I understand, sir. Besides, it was better that everything stay under the radar.”
“If you ever need anything,” the Premier reached into his jacket pocket and handed a small card to Hardy, “please call me. That’s the number to my direct line. Just tell my secretary your name and she will put you through to me. If I’m not in the office, she will have instructions to find me wherever I am.”
Hardy accepted the card. “Thank you, sir. And, thank you for the medal, too. I appreciated the gesture.” The Premier had bestowed on Hardy the honorary title of Hero of the Russian Federation, the highest award that can be given to a foreign national.
“You’re welcome. The real symbol of a man’s gratitude, however, is his willingness to return the favor.” He pointed at the card. “Don’t be afraid to use that.”
Hardy nodded. “Thank you, sir.”
The Premier gave Cruz his full attention. “Now, who is this fair maiden?” He extended his hand toward her.
For the next few minutes, the three of them made cordial small talk, the Premier becoming better acquainted with Hardy and Cruz. When he found out they had been dating, he was especially pleased.
“Young love is beautiful.” The Premier stepped forward and kissed Cruz once on each cheek. With one hand on each of her upper arms, he leaned in, while eyeing Hardy. “You have a good man in him, young lady.”
She smiled and matched the Premier’s gaze. “I couldn’t agree more.”
He studied her. “And, I can tell he has found a gem as well.”
Her cheeks flushed. “Thank you.”
The Premier glanced at them. “I am eager to talk with both of you at great length; however, I must take my leave. The flight has made me a little tired and I’d like to get some rest.”
Hardy put a hand on Cruz’s lower back. “We understand, sir, and we look forward to speaking with you as well.”
Cruz smiled and nodded her assent.
The President stepped forward and motioned toward the front door. “Please follow me and I’ll show you to your room. I have arranged for a little social event tonight, in your honor—light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. Everything will be ready by seven, but if you need more rest, please take all the time you need.” The world leaders walked toward the mansion, Caroline and Abigail in tow.
Halfway down the steps, a female voice: “You’re not getting away that easy, Hardy.”