by Alex Tryst

Disclaimers: The organizations in this book are real. Nothing was meant by including any of them other than that they fit into the plot. No infringement on any of these groups was intended. (In other words, don't sue if I said something negative about an organization.) More details regarding these groups can be found at the end of the book. Also, even though all the people in this book are fictional, I know it won't be too difficult to know who inspired some of them, so infringement wasn't intended there either. (Hey, I'm just trying to keep myself off the FBI's Most Wanted List here.)

Feedback: Drop me a line if you’d like at alextryst@hotmail.com.

Dedications: To my angels, my nephews. Through the good and bad days, the joys and sorrows, the unconditional love and adoration you both exude makes the meaning of life apparently clear.

Copyright © August, 2004 by Alex Tryst. All Rights Reserved.

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As the other team broke from their huddle, Dara and her teammates started to line up against the opposing squad. The brunette looked at her old pal across the line of scrimmage and shot her a cocky grin. "You're going down, Southerland," she teased.

"Yeah, right. Bring it on, Rosenthal," Lesley, her friend of many years, replied.

Pushing up the sleeves on her sweatshirt, Dara prepared for the snap. Both she and Lesley took off sprinting down the grass waiting for the imminent pass. Both women tried to catch it with Lesley being the winner. Laughing at Dara, she took off in a sprint toward the makeshift goal. However, the brunette would not be outdone. Pushing herself as fast as she could, she leapt for her friend, knocking her to the ground with such force that the ball escaped and flew over to a nearby bench.

Dara noticed its flight pattern immediately and screamed at the innocent bystander blonde sitting alone reading, "Heads up!" The football landed with a thunk against the bench, knocking over the woman's coffee. Running over Dara tried to apologize. "I'm terribly sorry. Are you all right?" she questioned as the blonde tried to wipe her beverage from her papers.

"You could be a little more careful," the stranger growled, raising her head.

Dara met the bluest eyes she had ever seen. "I'm really sorry. I hope that wasn't too important."

"Actually it was," she complained. "You just ruined my whole brief."

"Again, I'm sorry. Let me make it up to you. I'll buy you another cup of coffee," the brunette suggested.

"No thanks," the blonde grumbled, rolling her eyes.

Suddenly Dara realized she recognized the other woman. "Hey, wait a minute. I know you," she said.

The blonde looked at Dara's shirt and then mumbled, "I don't think so."

Looking down at her own clothes, the brunette realized the snide remark was in reference to her Rainbow Flag sweatshirt with the Human Rights Campaign logo on it. "It's no line. You're not even my type. I know you from somewhere. It'll come to me." Just then she asked, "Yale Law School?"

The blue eyes met hers again. Skeptically she answered, "Yeah. I went to Yale."

"So did I. I knew I recognized you. You were two years ahead of me. I'm Dara Rosenthal," she introduced, extending her hand.

The blonde shook her hand. "Junior counsel for the Human Rights Campaign and volunteer for the American Jewish Committee and NAACP. I know who you are," she declared.

Flashing a smile, the brunette stated, "Wow, you know so much about me and I so little about you. What's your name?"

"Elisabeth Gunter," she stated.

"You're Elisabeth Gunter?" the younger woman questioned. "Of course. I know your reputation as well. You're DOJ, civil rights division. The HRC keeps close tabs on you all over there."

"Yes, I know. I can hardy get any work done with your special interest groups knocking down my door," she quipped.

"Special interest groups? You call gays, Jews, and African-Americans special interest groups? What are you? Some kind of damn Republican?" she snipped.

"Yes, as a matter of fact," the blonde answered.

Dara shook her head. "Well, I guess you and your President are having a grand old time then with the way things are going. I suppose you hate gays as much as he does," she challenged.

"Certainly not. I just have a problem with people who feel the need to wear their sexuality on their clothes," Elisabeth quipped, standing and gathering her belongings.

"Hey, loud and proud is the only way to be, Elisabeth. It's people like me who facilitate change."

The older woman laughed lightly under her breath. Looking over toward the grass, she mentioned, "Your friends are waiting on you. I guess you better get back to them. Tell Agent Southerland I said hello, would you?"

"You know Lesley?" Dara asked in surprise.

"You could say that. Well, I'm going back to the office now. Have to do something terrible for you to refute tomorrow morning in the press," she jeered, although her small smile gave away her joke.

"And don't think for a minute I won't," Dara replied, returning the grin even though she had no idea how their conversation had gone from hostile to friendly in a matter of moments.

"It's nice meeting you, Dara. I'm glad to put a face to the reputation at last. I'm sure we'll be seeing more of each other during this election season."

"You better believe it." As the blonde moved to walk away, Dara went back to her friends with the ball. Looking over at Lesley, she stated, "Elisabeth Gunter says hello."

The FBI agent groaned. "Was that her? It's been a long time. She hardly looks like the same girl I knew back in college."

"You went to college together?"

"Yeah but that was almost a decade ago. I'm surprised she even remembers me. We used to get into big debates. She was the head of the Republican club, and I was the head of the Democratic club."

"Well, she's certainly a spitfire."

Lesley nodded. "But what a body," she mumbled. "She was so hot back then. I had the biggest crush on her, and she knew it."

"She is attractive," Dara conceded. "However, she's got a thing against dykes."

"I'm not so sure about that," Lesley mentioned.

"What do you mean?"

"It's nothing. There were just rumors at school. Enough about her, though. Let's get back to this game."

Dismissing the strange encounter, the attorney turned her attention back to the football game. After a few more hours, they all decided to call it a day and head off to one of their favorite bars for a few drinks. Sitting on her barstool nursing a beer, Dara turned to Lesley and said, "Tell me more about Elisabeth. What were these rumors?"

The redhead laughed. "Why do you even care? Are you interested? You didn't exactly make a stellar first impression."

"Come on. I'm just curious. She's got gorgeous eyes. Just indulge me, will you?"

"Fine. We went to school together at Washington and Lee. During that time there were rumors that Elisabeth wasn't just into guys. In fact, there was this persistent rumor that she had a girlfriend who went to Hollins College. Of course no one could ever really prove that, but it just didn't seem to go away regardless of how badly she spoke about liberals. It's amusing to think about now. There were times when I used to fantasize about that woman. She was the epitome of a goddess to me back then."

"She still could be to a lot of women. What she lacked in grace, she certainly made up for in those eyes. But you know what, my friend? Someone else you know went to Hollins," Dara said.

"Who?"

"Me, you big dork. I probably know the woman. What was her name?"

"Oh, I don't know, Dara. I never heard a name. It was something about her being a soccer player. They were friends in high school or something. Apparently Elisabeth used to go to all her games."

"That's too weird. I played soccer while I was there, too. Let's see. She's two years older then me, right?"

"Yeah," the redhead confirmed. "But the story goes that something happened between them, and she didn't go to those games senior year."

"All right. Then I would have been a freshman at the time. God, that's so far back. I wonder who it is. Are you sure there's nothing else you know?"

Lesley shook her head. "I swear, but if I remember I'll tell you. Okay?"

"Deal. All right. So, you knew each other in undergrad and then both went to Yale."

"Right. After undergrad I took a couple of years off before attending Yale where we met. Elisabeth pretended as if she didn't even know me, and I thought it was best to do the same. You have to watch that one, Dara. She's quite dangerous. Those looks pull you in, and she goes in for the kill," the special agent joked.

"I'm sure all her ex-boyfriends would agree with you. I felt those eyes of steel today when we ruined her brief. I'm glad though. Gives her less time to screw with people," the attorney joked, taking a sip of her beer.

Lesley shook her head. "Don't give her another thought, Dara. She talks big, but she's never done anything with her life. She wants to be a big fish so badly on the political scene, but she's never going to be taken seriously with the way she looks. No one can get past her legs."

"Those are the most dangerous kind of people, Lesley. They're desperate to be recognized."

"Well, we'll see if she can make anything of herself. I've got my money on you, though. You're the real mover around here."

"Thanks for the confidence, pal," the brunette replied, patting her friend on the shoulder.

Going home that afternoon, Dara was still thinking about her encounter with Elisabeth. She was so intrigued with the idea that they could have known each other previously that she set about finding her old yearbooks from her alma mater. She quickly found herself lost in reminisces of a decade gone by and the joys of youth. However, then she turned her attention to her soccer teammates. At least one of them had known Elisabeth.

Going to her team pictures, she started looking at the upperclassmen carefully as she tried to recall any details of her soccer seasons. The more she thought about it, the more she realized seeing a blonde on the sidelines at all her games freshman year, but she couldn't quite remember with whom she associated. There were two teammates that stood out in her mind, one of whom she still spoke to on a regular basis, so she decided to start her search there.

Digging out her directory, she dialed the familiar number and waited. As soon as the feminine voice answered, she said, "Sharon, hey. It's Dara."

"Dara, hi. It's been a long time. How are you?"

"I'm great. How are you doing? How are the kids? How's Nathan?"

"They're fine. What are you up to? Are you calling about the Annual Fund Raiser? We could really use your help this year."

"I know. Count me in, but that's not why I called actually. I met someone today that I think you knew at one point when we were in school. Her name is Elisabeth Gunter."

"Elisabeth? Oh yeah. I knew her. She was Suzanne Howard-Bell's best friend. They knew each other from high school. What a small world. Where did you meet her?"

"Oh, on The Mall actually. Some friends of mine were out playing a game of football, and it was one of those fluke things. Listen. I know this was a long time ago, but I wanted to ask you something about her. When we were in school, was there anything ever going on between the two of them? You know, in a romantic sense?"

Sharon laughed lightly. "Come on now, Dara. I know you had a crush on Suzanne. We all knew, but haven't you let that go yet?"

The brunette chuckled in response. "This is not about me, Sharon. Seriously. I have a friend that went to undergrad with her, and she said there were rumors about Elisabeth and Suzanne. You know me. Curiosity is just killing me. Did you know of anything? You and Suzanne were good friends. Surely if something was going on you would've known about it."

"Well, there were a few strange things about their friendship, I suppose."

"Such as?"

"Well, just the fact that Elisabeth was always hanging around. I mean she came to every soccer game for three years, but then our senior year she wasn't there once. It was like she and Suzanne just stopped being friends for no reason."

"Maybe like they broke up?" Dara suggested.

"I didn't say that," corrected Sharon. "But I did find it strange. Supposedly they were really close growing up, closer than I've ever been to a friend at least. When Suzanne and I were freshman, we lived together in the dorms. Elisabeth used to spend the night a lot."

"And did you ever think something was going on?"

After a brief pause, Sharon mentioned, "You know, Suzanne is married now with kids. I'm not sure it's best to be dragging this stuff out from under the rug."

"Come on, Sharon. I promise you. This has nothing to do with Suzanne. I want to know because of Elisabeth. When I met her today, she made it pretty clear she has a thing against gay people, and my friend Lesley who went to undergrad doesn't seem to remember it that way. I just want to know, so I can knock a little wind out of her sails the next time I see her. That's all. Help me out here."

"Well, let me put it to you this way. I don't remember her having a thing against gay people either. In fact, I used to wonder if she wasn't in love with Suzanne with the way she followed her around."

"Now we're getting somewhere. Why did you think that?"

"Well, everyone knew when Suzanne was a freshman and sophomore she experimented. I mean, it does happen. We did go to a women's college after all."

"Yeah, yeah. We all experimented. It just stuck to some of us more than others," joked Dara.

Laughing Sharon continued, "Well, I walked in on them one time accidentally."

"When was this?"

"Suzanne and I were sophomores. We lived in West on the third floor."

"Party Central," Dara mentioned.

"Yeah. Anyway, one weekend I had gone away to see my boyfriend at Hampden-Sydney, and I wasn't supposed to be back until late Sunday night. However, I arrived around noon that day, and the two of them were passed out asleep in bed together. They weren't exactly suitably dressed."

"What happened?"

"Nothing. They were asleep, so I turned around and left like I had never been there. I didn't want to embarrass Suzanne. I knew she was going through a confused phase, and I didn't want to seem unsupportive or anything. I've never told anyone, Dara, not even Suzanne."

"All right. I understand. So, if they were in this relationship for all that time, what happened? Why did they stop speaking senior year?"

"Well, fall of our junior year I introduced Suzanne to my friend Bryan Bell, and they hit it off immediately. They got to be great friends, but things began to change between them that spring. I think Suzanne finally told Elisabeth that she was in love with Bryan, and that was the end of it."

"And what makes you think that?"

"I remember Suzanne crying one day when I came in from class. She said she had gotten into a fight with Elisabeth, and she wasn't sure Elisabeth would ever speak to her again. I asked what about, but she wouldn't tell me. As far as I know, they never did talk again after that."

"Sounds to me as if they were having a relationship. Lesley was right."

"Dara, please don't do anything harmful with what I just told you. I'm not sure Suzanne ever told Bryan about it."

"No problem, Sharon. This won't get back to her. I promise."

"Good. Now on to better topics," her friend stated, changing their subject.

A few days later was the HRC's annual fund-raising dinner. Since it was an election year, the organization felt it was extremely important to focus their energies on supporting the Democratic candidate, so a large portion of the night's proceeds from their silent annual auction was going to go to his campaign.

As per usual, Dara invited Lesley to be her date to the formal event. Never being one to wear a dress though, the brunette chose a nice dark suit for the night before going to pick up her friend. Driving up to the FBI agent's house, the younger woman walked to the door and knocked strongly. Within a moment, the shorter redhead answered the door.

"Wow. You look stunning," Dara complimented.

Lesley blushed slightly and gave a twirl so her friend could see the entire outfit. The black dress was perfectly cut in all the right places to show off the older woman's assets. "You look nice too, Dara."

"Remind me again why I've never made a play for you," the attorney teased as she circled the agent.

"Because I can kick your ass," Lesley answered quickly.

"Oh yeah. How soon I forget when you're dressed like this. I can only imagine where you'd strap your gun."

"Don't even let your mind go there, Rosenthal. I'm off limits, remember? I've got a girlfriend who would be happy to remind you of that fact."

"How could I forget, Southerland? Come on. You've got some people to impress, and I'm to be envied with you on my arm," she said, extending it to her old friend.

Walking her down to the car, she opened her door before moving to the driver's side. Both of them were fairly quiet as they drove downtown to the Hilton in DuPont Circle where the event was always held. In her mind Dara was going over the speech she was going to give at the dinner and the awards to be given to various political people. Once at the hotel, Dara took Lesley by the hand and led them through the growing crowd waiting to get in. Smiling at one of the interns she knew, Dara greeted her politely before heading down to the VIP reception.

Inside the attorney turned to her friend, "Are you going to be all right here for awhile? I have to go see to some last minute things."

Nodding her head, Lesley smiled. "Dara, you ask me that every year, and every year I'm fine. Go on. I'll be here when you get back."

"All right. Be back in a bit. When I return I'll try to introduce you to some people."

"Fine. There are plenty of people here to entertain me in the meantime."

Leaving Lesley to her own devices, Dara went to check in with the director of the HRC to ensure all was prepared for the evening. Getting the confirmation that it was, Dara swept through the silent auction and then the ballroom before heading back downstairs. Quickly she headed to the bar for a much-needed drink before scanning the room for any major players in the Democratic Party. As her eyes drifted across the room, an incongruence stood out among the sea of tuxedos.

There was a blonde standing in a gold-sequined dress talking to some other people only a few feet away. Dara couldn't help but stare for a moment at the contour of the stranger's back, almost completely exposed and yet so alluring at the same time. The blonde hair was pinned up off an elegant neck, making the attorney momentarily forget her mission as she just watched. She wanted to meet the woman, but as she approached, she heard that unforgettable voice, and her heart dropped. Going right up behind the blonde, Dara inquired, "Elisabeth?"

When the blonde turned, she smiled demurely at Dara. "Well, if it isn't Dara Rosenthal. Hi."

"Hi. I never would have expected to see you here."

"Well, I couldn't miss an opportunity to see what one of the nation's special interest groups was up to on such a night. I heard that the HRC was giving Arthur King an award this evening. It's not often I get a chance to meet the President of the NAACP."

"That's true. I'm actually presenting it to him myself."

"I also heard the DNC Chairman would be here."

Dara nodded as her eyes found the topic of their conversation. "Yes, Chad Peterson is here. Want to keep your enemies close, do you?" the attorney lightly bantered.

"Something like that," Elisabeth replied as her eyes followed Dara's across the room. "Do you know him?"

"We've met on a few occasions. Why? Would you like an introduction?"

"Only if you're offering," the blonde replied.

"Oh, why not? Come on." Taking the lead between them, they crossed the room to where the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee was speaking with people. Making their way up to him, Dara smiled. "Mr. Peterson, I'm Dara Rosenthal, one member of counsel for the HRC," she introduced, extending her hand.

"Yes, I remember you, Dara. Hi. How are you?"

"Good. And you?"

"Glad to be here." Looking over at Elisabeth, he smiled at her. "Dara, may I boldly assume that this beautiful young lady is your date?"

"Well, um," the attorney began.

However, Elisabeth answered for them. "Don't be so modest, Dara. You can admit to it. Mr. Peterson, I'm Elisabeth Gunter," she said with a beaming smile.

"It's a pleasure, Ms. Gunter," he answered. Looking at Dara he added, "You've done well here, Dara."

"Yes, the evening is turning out well."

"That's not what he meant, sweetheart," the blonde stated, touching Dara on the shoulder. "He was referring to me." Both the blonde and the chairman laughed lightly as Dara flushed uncomfortably. "Would you just look at her? So shy suddenly. Actually, Mr. Peterson, Dara is just too ashamed to admit that she's dating a Republican."

"Oh, you're a Republican?" he inquired in interest. "So, you must find yourself in quite a quandary with the President's stance on gay marriage," he stated.

With that comment the brunette felt it best she move on to other guests, so she smiled. "Mr. Peterson, it was nice seeing you again, but I really must see to some other people."

"Getting out of the line of fire?" he joked.

She nodded. "Something like that. Just remember to sweep up Elisabeth's ashes when you're finished, will you?" she teased.

"I'll do that."

Turning to the blonde, Dara took an unexpected opportunity. Since Elisabeth had introduced herself to Chad Peterson as her date, the younger woman felt she should take advantage of the chance to pretend herself. Leaning in to Elisabeth's cheek, she kissed her lightly before whispering, "Good luck."

Both the blonde and the chairman watched her walk away before turning to each other. "You were saying, Chad?"

"Doesn't matter, Elisabeth. We can talk business some other time. How is your mom? I haven't seen her in awhile."

"She's fine."

"And you?"

"I'm doing all right."

"Head over heels for Counselor Rosenthal, I see. Tell me. How did you get interested in her?" he inquired.

"Actually, Chad, we're not dating," she admitted. "That was just a ploy to get over to see you without it looking suspicious to her."

"But that's not from your lack of interest," he added. "I haven't seen you look at someone else that way in the thirty years I've known your family. She seems to be interested as well."

"I wish. I haven't been able to stop thinking about her since we met a few days ago," confessed the blonde.

"And just how did you meet?"

"You know that brief I sent to you with the coffee stains all over it?"

"The one that I've already shredded? I know the one."

"Well, that stain was courtesy of Dara Rosenthal. I was proofreading it on The Mall one afternoon where she and some friends were playing football. A loose ball came my way and knock over my coffee. Of course I was upset, because I had taken all that effort to type that on a typewriter instead of a computer, so it couldn't be traced, and she had to go and ruin it."

"Nevertheless, she stuck with you?" he asked with a smile.

Elisabeth nodded. "She has, Chad. She's a spitfire, just the type I've always been attracted to." He nodded. "I am a little concerned, though."

"Why's that?"

"She's such a zealot, and do you see who she's talking to right now? That redhead?"

"Yes. Who is she?"

"Her name is Lesley Southerland, and she's with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. She, Dara, and I all went to Yale Law School, and even more Lesley and I went to undergrad together as well. She can probably tell Dara a few things I'd rather she not. Dara is a smart woman, Chad. With a little help, I'm afraid she can put two and two together."

"So, what are you going to do?"

Elisabeth shrugged. "Ignore her the best my heart will let me," she answered. "I can't afford to blow this. It would ruin my career."

He shook his head. "Elisabeth, how old are you?"

"Thirty-two."

"You're thirty-two years old. I've told you this many times, and I'll tell you a thousand more until you get it through your head. You don't have to do this. You don't have to put your career on the line or give up your love life to serve the interest of the people."

"This is just something I have to do, Chad. You and I both know that. Ever since Clinton was impeached, I knew I had to get involved for change. The Republican Party isn't what it was a decade ago. Back then I knew what it stood for, but now I'm not so sure. I know the game well by now. I stand alone, and I go down alone if it comes to that."

"Fine but I care about you like family. Don't throw it all away just to try to make a difference. You can make the same difference just being true to yourself."

Elisabeth nodded. "Thanks, Chad. I'll remember that."

He gave her a supportive smile. "And good luck with Dara. Don't let her get away."

Smiling back at her old family friend, the blonde responded, "I owe you a hug later for that."

"Go on now. Have some fun. We'll talk more later," he said, shooing her away.

A little later that evening when it was time for dinner, Dara took Lesley to their table that was filled with senators and congressmen from all over the country. Curiously the brunette wondered where Elisabeth was sitting but didn't have time to investigate the matter before being drawn into conversation with her fellow tablemates.

During a lull after the first course, Dara excused herself from the table to go to the bar at the back of the room. She ordered herself her second gin and tonic of the night and gazed over the sea of people in attendance. By the sheer volume it appeared as if over a thousand were there, all in support of her cause, which made her feel incredibly wonderful about the state of liberal politics. Upon receiving her beverage, she decided to sneak into the silent auction to see if people were being as generous with their funds as they had been in their attendance. She was immediately impressed at the large numbers she was seeing posted for various items. In inquisitiveness she took mental notes of who the larger bidders were for future reference. However, when she came to one coveted piece of art, she smiled at the blonde standing studying it.

"I see Chad didn't reduce you to ashes after all," she joked, taking a sip of her drink.

"No. He was surprisingly kind," Elisabeth replied, sipping from her own wine glass. "Which is more than I can say for you, Dara, leaving me there like that."

"You can't expect me to come to your defense, Elisabeth. After all you had the audacity to introduce yourself as my girlfriend. You don't even know if I'm single."

Elisabeth gave a charming smile, making her blue eyes sparkle even more. "Well, are you?"

"Yes, I am single at the moment. What about you?"

"Me too."

"And why may I ask did you choose to pose as my date in front of Chad? Some secret I don't know about you?"

In an effort to laugh off her unease, the older woman patted the taller woman on the arm and stated, "If you're ever curious about me, you can just ask, Dara."

Shooting the blue-eyed blonde a sexy grin, she mentioned, "There you go touching me again. I guess you like me regardless of how much you deny it," she teased.

Nodding, Elisabeth answered, "You caught me, Dara. Try as I might, I still like you. Somehow it doesn't seem to matter that you are my worst political nightmare. Your charm outweighs everything."

Finding it an interesting statement whether true or not, Dara decided to say something as equally provocative. "Well, politics aside I happen to like you too, Elisabeth. Even if you do work for the enemy, you're just too irresistibly beautiful. I can't help but notice you."

"Are you flirting with me, counselor?" Elisabeth asked, knowing full well Dara was, and furthermore, she was enjoying the brunette's attention.

"Yes, I am. Loud and proud is my motto, so you'll always know how I feel, Elisabeth. When I like someone I tell them. Nothing good ever comes from hiding the truth."

"I'll bear that in mind."

Checking her watch, Dara noted the time. "I'm sorry to cut this sparring season short, but I need to get back. Perhaps you'd like to listen to my wonderful speech about Arthur before I give him his award."

"That would be wonderful. I'd like to see what kind of stage presence you have to see how much of a threat you really are."

Dara chuckled loudly. "Well, in that case, I'll invite you to sit at my table right in front, so you have a good view. There is an extra space, and I'm sure you and Lesley can get along for that long."

"Will you introduce me to Arthur later?"

"Only if you still pretend to be my date, so I can kiss you again," the brunette bargained.

Elisabeth shook her head. "Don't forget I'm a Republican, Dara. Don't let my looks deceive you. You can't trust me."

"Don't I know it. Come on. I'll show you back to your table," the taller woman suggested, gesturing back toward the ballroom. Walking the blonde to the table where she was sitting, she pulled out her chair for her.

Smiling at the chivalry, the older attorney replied, "Thank you, Dara."

"You're most welcome. I'll come get you just before I have to go on stage for my speech if you'd like that front row seat," she commented.

"I look forward to it."

"Wonderful. Enjoy the rest of your dinner."

Going back to her own table, she was met by an anxious redhead. "Where have you been? I've been putting up with the senator's advances for long enough," she whispered, wrapping her arm around Dara's shoulders.

The brunette laughed lightly. "She likes you. It's hard not to when you're dressed this way," she teased. "Believe it or not, I ran into someone unexpected."

"And who is that?"

"Elisabeth Gunter."

"What? You're kidding me. Where?"

"She was in the silent auction looking around. She's sitting toward the back of the room. I don't know why she's here, but she looks fabulous. She introduced herself to Chad Peterson as my date, which I found intriguing."

"Seriously? That doesn't make any sense."

"No, it doesn't. Her presence doesn't make any sense at all. It makes me wonder what she's up to. There has to be something. Anyway, I invited her to sit up here with us during speeches. I'm hoping that might shed some light on the situation. She asked me to introduce her to Arthur as well. I don't get it. Why does she want to meet all these Democrats?"

"Maybe she's taking notes on us for the Republicans. She may be feeding them information by coming to this event. You know, they wouldn't know what was being said otherwise."

"True but she doesn't strike me as having that kind of power in the party. Of course I could always be wrong about that. Maybe her looks have gotten her farther than we think. Seems to me though that if she were in any position of influence she'd be working for the President's re-election campaign, not the DOJ."

"Good point. I suppose we'll never know though."

"Not unless we ask, which I intend to do as soon as I find out some more information on our beautiful enigma."

"I'd like to be there when you do."

Dara smiled at her friend. "Regardless of why she's really here, it felt strangely good to have her hanging on me in front of Chad. For just a moment I knew what it was like to have the arm of the second prettiest woman in the room, and it was fantastic."

"The second prettiest? Dare I ask who the first is?" Lesley inquired with curiosity.

"You of course."

"Well, thank you for the flattery, but I happen to believe Elisabeth is the most gorgeous woman in this room as well."

"She is that. Lesley, I could be in trouble here. When we aren't talking politics, it's easy to forget what she stands for. All I have to do is look in those blue eyes, and I could get lost. Good thing we won't be seeing a lot of each other. I would hate to fall in love with the enemy."

"Well, if it's any consolation, I think she's at as much of a risk of falling for you. After all, you are perfect in every way."

"God, who needs a girlfriend when I have you to stroke my ego?" Dara asked.

"Well, I can think of some services I can't provide, but how much do you want to bet Elisabeth would love to?"

"Yeah, right."

"No, I'm serious. I bet you that if you hung around her for a month or two she would be desperate for your intimate attention."

"Desperate being the operative word, Lesley. I wonder how long it's been since she's been with a woman," idly Dara pondered as their meal was served.

"Why don't we find out?" the redhead challenged.

"And just how do you propose we do that?"

"Ask her out, Dara."

"But she's supposedly straight, Lesley. That's not going to go over well. She'll turn me down flat."

"I'm not so sure about that. She might be equally intrigued with you. You won't know unless you try."

"You know what? Fine. I'll ask her out. That will prove where she stands once and for all."

"Great. I can't wait to see the look on her face," the special agent stated, as she took a bite of her dinner.

For the rest of the meal, Dara entertained the acclaimed guests at her table. However, just before the speeches began, she went to retrieve the blonde as promised. When she got to the back of the room where Elisabeth was seated, she was greeted by a dazzling smile. "Are you ready for your front row seat?" Dara questioned, extending her hand to the older woman.

The blonde attorney looked at it and the into the brunette's dark eyes before gamely taking her hand. As soon as they touched, the shorter woman felt the tingle all the way up into her arm. There was no denying the way the Democrat made her feel when they were close, but Elisabeth knew she had a far more important mission than to flirt with the attractive attorney. Nevertheless, she felt there wouldn't be any harm in indulging in her chance to be close to her, especially in such a public place.

Moving together up the aisle hand in hand, Dara could feel her heart start pounding. Not only was she touching her supposed enemy, she was enjoying the connection too much to let go. Elisabeth felt good near her, and the sheer magnitude of the blonde's physical presence made Dara proud to be in her own shoes at the moment. She knew many eyes were on her for being with the elegant woman.

Finally making it to the table with the congressmen, Dara held out a seat for Elisabeth. Thanking the brunette, the older woman sat and smiled at Lesley, greeting her politely as the taller woman took her chair as well. Dara then took it upon herself to introduce the blonde to other people seated near them quickly before speeches started for the evening.

As the first person got up to the podium, Dara shifted her attention from the blonde to the stage. She tried to focus on the speech, but she began to feel nerves in her stomach. The idea of standing in front of the entire audience hadn't bothered her once that night until she felt the blonde at her side. She knew she wanted to impress Elisabeth more than anyone else in the room but that speech would be filled with opinions with which she knew the older attorney would disagree. Knowing she had to put aside her mixed feelings about the woman next to her, she took a deep breath. This moment was more than just about her. It was about taking a stand against those beliefs she opposed, even if the woman she suddenly found interesting felt differently. She was honoring one the world's most liberal leaders and a champion for the call to action, and she would not allow herself to feel badly about anything her talk entailed, even if it did mean speaking ill of Elisabeth's President. With those thoughts fortifying her confidence, she knew she was ready to make the biggest speech of her career.

Minutes later the time came for her to take her place at the podium. As she stood, she met blue eyes and felt a hand in hers squeezing it gently in support. Unable to even question it in the moment though, Dara simply smiled at Elisabeth and Lesley before going to the stage.

The blonde attorney watched as the younger woman went to the podium. She could tell Dara was nervous about what she was going to do, but she hoped her presence was not making the situation worse for her. Even before the taller woman took her place on the stage, Elisabeth was impressed by the way Dara carried herself. She walked tall and confidently, smiling brightly as if she was not making a career-setting talk about Arthur King. By Dara's volunteerism with the NAACP, Elisabeth knew the Jewish attorney had great respect for the man upon which she was about to bestow distinguished honor.

Secretly the blonde had always admired him as well. He was a great leader for the social causes not only of African-Americans but all minority groups. By his strength, he was a clear example of what a diligent social leader should be, and as Elisabeth saw Dara take the podium, she sensed she was about to witness a new leader be brought into the light that very night, one who championed so many different causes, all for the greater good of the minority. With eyes riveted on the brunette, Elisabeth waited in anxious anticipation.

Dara looked out over the crowd for a second as she found her notes in the notebook that was sitting discreetly on the podium. The place seemed even larger from where she was standing, but she felt the energy of the room course through her and give her strength as she prepared to speak. She knew this was the first night of the rest of her life and the moment she had been anticipating for more than a decade. This was her moment to make her presence felt in her community and politics, and she was not going to give anything but her best effort.

Looking down at her notes, she took a deep breath and began. "Ladies and gentlemen, as one of the members of counsel for the Human Rights Campaign I find myself in the daily struggle of promoting the ideas for change in politics as well as in the law for people in our community. The needs of the lesbians, gays, transgendereds, and bisexuals have been brushed aside for far too long by the people with the power to facilitate change, but tonight I sense that momentum is shifting. As I stand before you, I see a great many of our country's leaders sitting here open and ready to grasp the reigns for the promotion of equality in all our lives. They are here with us tonight not only as members of Congress, mayors, governors, and executive directors of various social organizations, but as citizens of this great country who believe in the vision of parity for all people.

"Tonight I am honored to be presenting to you one man who has struggled with this very vision for over a decade. He is a man I greatly respect and admire for his tireless efforts to ensure that the rights of the African-American community are safeguarded from the forces of the narrow-minded. It is those same intolerant people who infringe upon the rights of the communities that the HRC protects and advocates, and so it is on a night such as this that all minorities stand together for one common goal, the ambition of equality for all American people. This night is not just about sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious differences, or even political affiliation but about the equal opportunity for all. The current administration in the White House would have you think that some groups are less worthy than others of their rights and are in the process of ensuring that our country's most-prized document, The Constitution, is shrouded with the message of inequality and hate. They want to amend the very fabric of our lives to direct what someone can and cannot do, who deserves protection under the law, and who has the right to marry. These horrific catastrophes cannot take place. We must fight them at every turn to ensure that we, the citizens, are always free. Our country was founded on that basic principle, and right now that fundamental law is in jeopardy.

"During this election year, we must stand as a united front for the betterment of all, so tonight it is with great regard I present this special award for service to my friend, Arthur King, for his foresight of advocating the rights of his community and standing with us unified in the goal of equality for every American. He is a humble servant to the greater good of all citizens of our fine country. I give you this year's special service recipient, Arthur King."

The audience roared as Dara gestured toward her friend. She had never felt such a way in her entire life as she stood there waiting for him to come accept his award from her. The exhilarating rush of being heard and having an overwhelming response made her proud to be who she was. As Arthur finally reached her, they embraced in a tight hug before she relinquished her spotlight to him and returned to her seat. Not even looking at anyone else, she focused solely on the person she so admired to hear his charismatic reception.

Elisabeth also sat watching the great leader speaking. He was gracious enough to thank Dara personally for such a fine introduction, but the blonde was distracted by the brunette's presence next to her. Her inclination was that Dara was an effective speaker but never had she imagined the impact such a short dedication could make on a crowd. She was as moved as everyone else by the passionate call Dara had placed upon her community, and even though she couldn't vocalize her feelings about what the brunette had said, she felt proud for the first time in her life that she found interest in someone who knew exactly for what they stood.

As the next two hours passed listening to speeches, the blonde realized that everyone in the room but her was able to embrace themselves regardless of who they were or for what they stood. It was a trait she had always admired in others, and one she for which she had strived. In private she was able to admit to herself the feelings within, but whenever faced with the possibility of that knowledge being public, she always conceded to her fear of rejection on both a professional and personal level. In fact, it was only her family and some of her closest friends that knew the truth. However, in the midst of her trepidations, she and Chad had found a way for her to be true to herself, and she felt more so than ever during the evening.

When the official speeches were completed for the night, Dara smiled at her company. "Lesley, Elisabeth, this would be an ideal time to meet and greet if you two would like. I happen to know where the guests of honor are."

"That would be wonderful," the blonde stated.

"Yeah. Lead on, Dara."

With a confident grin, Dara extended an arm to both women, which they gladly took and led the two most beautiful women of the night toward all the special guests. While they were chatting Dara decided to make her move on Elisabeth as she and Lesley had agreed. Pulling Elisabeth aside out of earshot for a moment, she inquired, "Are you having a good time? Are these Democratic giants all that you imagined?"

"Yes, they truly are, Dara. Thank you for being gracious enough to introduce me. Democrats or not, these are people of great political prowess, and there is always something to be admired and to learn. I must say I was surprised at the valor of one speaker in particular."

"And who might that be?" the attorney asked, her eyes casually scanning the room for any politicians she might have missed during the evening.

"You, Dara. I felt the people respond to you. I felt as if I was witnessing a new starlet on the political stage," she commented. "You have a charisma that not many Democrats have."

"Well, I guess I should be flattered by that comment."

"It was meant to be a compliment, Dara," Elisabeth confirmed.

"Well, in that case, thank you. One day I do hope to be one of these titans."

"And I think you will have your time if tonight was any indication."

"And what about you, Elisabeth? Do you dream of walking with the giants as well?"

"I used to, but I've come to realize that sometimes covert operations for change can be just as effective. I don't necessarily crave the spotlight any longer, but I still believe in the idea of a different and better nation. However, I wouldn't mind knowing those in the spotlight," she admitted.

"Well, how about knowing me? Is that something you can accept graciously?"

"I think it would be more of a pleasure than a bane be to known as an acquaintance of yours."

Smiling brightly Dara gathered her courage. Even though she was only asking the older woman out as a dare from her friend, there was a part of her that knew she wanted the blonde to accept her invitation. "What about as more than just acquaintance, Elisabeth? Do you think there could be more to us?"

"Possibly. Why do you ask?"

"Well, I would like to invite you to a function I'm going to two Saturdays from now."

"A political function?"

"Not exactly," vaguely Dara answered.

"Well, what type of occasion then?"

"More of a social thing. I'm going to the Cystic Fibrosis Annual Microbrewery Beer Tasting. All the money goes to CF research. Would you like to join me?"

Elisabeth took a moment to contemplate her answer. Her immediate reaction was to accept because of her desire to get to know the brunette, but she had her political situation to consider. Deciding to test the water with the younger attorney, she asked, "Are you asking me out on a date, Dara?"

The taller woman shrugged. "Well, I did say that I don't hide the truth, Elisabeth. I like you. Despite the fact that you do work for the enemy, I can't help myself. I would like a chance to get to know you better. I'll let you decide if it's a date or not. How about that?" she bargained. "Dinner ahead of time. We can't drink on an empty stomach after all, and I guarantee a sober ride home. What could be better than a free dinner, all the beer you can drink, and no responsibility of getting yourself home?"

The blonde nodded. "You know what, Dara? I'd love to come, but I have to check my calendar before I can commit for sure."

"Fair enough," she replied. Digging into her pocket she pulled out a business card and a pen. Quickly she jotted down some phone numbers and then extended it to the blonde. "Here are all my numbers. You can best reach me by cell, because I'm not always in the office. How might I reach you?"

Elisabeth gestured for the pen as she dug into her own purse. She wrote her own personal numbers down on her business card before mentioning, "I would appreciate it if you wouldn't call or email me at work. I can't have my Republican counterparts knowing I'm consorting with the opponent. Even if we are both Yale grads, they might not overlook it."

"I understand. We'll keep things low profile, Elisabeth. I'm not looking for trouble, just some company," Dara said.

"Well, I should be going. It's getting late."

"How are you getting home?"

"I drove myself."

"Well, I should at least walk you to your car. The city is no place for a beautiful woman like you alone at this hour."

"It's not necessary, Dara. I'll be fine."

"It would make me feel better, Elisabeth. I couldn't have the Republicans blaming us for allowing something to happen to its most stunning constituent," she stated with another smile.

Blushing at the compliment, Elisabeth replied, "Well, thank you. I appreciate it."

"My pleasure. Let me just tell Lesley that I'll be right back."

Once she had returned from her short errand, the brunette extended her arm to the older woman again. Elisabeth looked at it but quickly accepted the gesture, giving into her own desires to touch Dara. Quietly they made their way through the thinning crowd and out of the building. "I'm in the garage across the street," Elisabeth mentioned.

"It's freezing out tonight. You didn't wear a coat?" the younger attorney asked as they waited on the light to change before crossing the busy intersection.

"No. I didn't want to have to deal with it."

"But you're so cold now. Look at you. Here. Take my coat," she offered, slipping her suit jacket off her shoulders.

"It's okay, Dara. That's not necessary."

"Please. It would make me feel better. You've got goose bumps you're so cold," she pushed.

Conceding the blonde nodded and allowed Dara to help her into it. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," she answered. Finally the light changed for them, and they were able to proceed into the garage. Silently the blonde led the way to her car. When they reached the gray Honda Accord, Dara dutifully held the door open after the blonde had unlocked it.

Elisabeth stood looking at the brunette for a moment as a flurry of feelings took hold of her. She knew it would be a challenge to keep her professional life private from Dara, especially at such a critical juncture in the election year, but she knew in order for her clandestine mission to succeed, she would have to be successful in keeping the brunette at bay. That thought saddened her though, because she knew the only way to do that was to not see her. For a brief moment Chad's advice entered her mind, and she wondered if she could really juggle a secret relationship with the supposed foe while maintaining her Republican persona at work. Only time would tell. Smiling at the woman to whom she was quickly becoming attracted to, she slipped off Dara's coat. "Here. Thank you for the coat and the escort."

Dara returned the grin. "Keep it. That's the only way I'm guaranteed to see you again," she teased lightly. "Besides, you'll be cold in your car until the heater kicks on."

Elisabeth laughed and shook her head. "You're sneaky, Dara. Fine. Just to prove that I will see you again, I'll keep your jacket."

"Call me about your schedule on Monday," the younger woman said as Elisabeth took a seat in the car.

"I will. Thanks again for tonight."

"It was my pleasure. Talk to you soon." Closing the blonde's door, Dara started to walk away back toward the hotel. Just as she reached the street, she heard the friendly honk of a horn as the blonde's car passed her and pulled out into traffic.

As Elisabeth drove herself home, she took the time to take in the feeling of Dara's jacket around her shoulders. Even though the heat in her car was fine, she wanted to keep it on her body. She liked the way it felt against her skin. The wool material smelled exactly like the brunette like fresh linens and spice. The jacket was slightly too large for the blonde, but she still felt warm as she imagined Dara was there embracing her. Sighing deeply she knew she could be in trouble if she couldn't deny her feelings of attraction. Just then her cell phone disrupted her thoughts.

Pulling it out of her purse she flipped it open to see the number. Her heart dropped when she comprehended it, because she knew her night was about to become all business once again. Nevertheless, she answered, "Good evening, President Minion."

Later that night when Dara took Lesley home, she reported, "I invited Elisabeth to the CF Beer Tasting tonight."

"What did she say?"

"That she needed to check her calendar and would get back to me. I'm starting to think that those general feelings for other woman Elisabeth once had haven't been resolved. I see a certain desire there, but I don't know if it's directed at me or just a broad curiosity of the alternate life she left behind."

"I don't know. It could be both. Hopefully she'll come with us to the CF thing, and we'll find out more."

"By the way, Lesley, I didn't exactly tell her anyone else would be with us. Perhaps if she decides to come, we should just meet there. I kind of want some alone time with her."

"I understand. We'll work it out however you want. We have to get her to say yes first though."

"Well, she acted interested, so we'll see. This could be fun. It's been a long time since I've chased a woman. Elisabeth is a true challenge. I just hope I get her."

The redhead smiled at her friend. "Dara, you're sexy, smart, funny, and you have more charm than most women we know. If Elisabeth doesn't fall for you, she won't fall for any woman."

"Thanks for that biased opinion, but I don't want this to be a game of will she or won't she. After tonight I really do want to try to snag this girl. I think she's pretty amazing."

"But can you deal with the fact that she stands against all of what you believe?"

"If Maria Shriver and Arnold Schwarzenegger can do it, I think Elisabeth and I could manage. After all, the Kennedys are as liberal as they come and the Governator not so much."

Laughing Lesley inquired, "And just which one of you is the governor of California in that scenario?"

"I am of course. Elisabeth would just be a fine decoration," the brunette joked.

"Don't tell her that. She may have her own sights on a governorship."

"I don't think so, not after tonight. There's really only one politician between us, and that's me. As she put it, she's more about covert operations for change. I'll admit, I'm curious as to what she means by that."

Continued in Part 2

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