Part 1 of 3: The Gift Exchange
After the security detail conducted a thorough search of the place, her motorcade entered the premises of the resort.
The property took up several acres alongside the Florida coastline. It was exclusive too. Membership was reserved for only the wealthy and well-connected. The beachside resort was world renowned as an epitome of luxury. Even the spa treatments were legendary.
But that wasn't why President Christine Wallace paid the place a visit. Especially not when the election was less than three months away.
She was here for business. The owner of the resort, a staunch businessman named Bolton, was a major party donor. A private fundraiser was being held there that day, and there was cash to be acquired. These sorts of things were often time consuming, and asking for money was always humiliating, but it was necessary to fund her political ambitions.
At best, she preferred these sorts of private affairs with the elite. There was virtually no chance that she'd be heckled or pampered with excessive compliments. Everything was to the point. She'd get her money, and they'd get to take a picture with her.
At worst, she'd have to give these people favors. Especially the ones who funded her Super PACs with millions of dollars. Well worth the exchange, she thought.
President Wallace stepped out of her car, flanked by two agents. A gentle breeze pushed up her office skirt and put waves on her pink blouse. She put on her public face that consisted of a rehearsed smile, which suggested that she was always in a great mood. She certainly looked the part. Frankly, she was a gorgeous woman. A trait that arguably catapulted her to celebrity status and helped her win the oval office.
She had always been careful about that, though. She never wanted her beauty or fashion to eclipse her brains. She always made a point of putting her intelligence and personality first, but when needed, she'd look gorgeous for the right events.
When she approached the entrance of the resort, she greeted Bolton with a friendly embrace, which suggested that they had a close personal relationship, when in reality, their relationship was mostly business.
"Madam President," he said, bending down to kiss her hand. "It's a pleasure to have your company."
She politely smiled, "It's a pleasure to be here. My goodness, what a beautiful resort. It's like a short little vacation."
Her eyes surveyed the gorgeous environment. She had always loved the ocean and Florida weather. The day was a little hot for her taste, but she didn't let that distract her.
Bolton gestured to the entrance. "Right this way. I'd like to offer you some refreshments and we can go over a few points for the fundraiser."
In politics, that meant backroom dealings. She gave him a courteous smile and entered the building. This was all part of the job. When it came to high profile donors, she was always curious as to what tricks they'd have up their sleeves, and what kinds of favors they'd want.
***
They were alone in the private office. There was a large window which overlooked the exclusive beach. Small talk was made while they drank fresh fruit juice. Nothing unusual. When Bolton put his drink on the table, it was time for the real meeting. They sat across from each other on different sofas.
"All together, we're looking at around $10 million dollars," he estimated. "That includes funds for your campaigns, the party, and various Super PACs which will destroy your opponent. Of course, there will be other advantages, as well."
She gave a subtle grin, which she didn't bother to hide. "Not bad for a day's work. Well done, Bolton."
"As it turns out, you're a better choice than the other guy."
"I'm a better choice than everyone," she reminded him.
"Apparently so. These donors seem to think so. I haven't seen them throw this kind of cash around in politics before."
Christine took a final sip of her juice. "First time for everything."
"Of course, they'd like a few things," he said casually. "Little things that are manageable. Contracts, people to consider for appointments, things like that."
"Talk to my Chief-of-Staff about that. I've got enough on my mind, believe me. The first debate is coming up and I'm under a lot of stress."
He gave a wry smile. "Well, maybe there's something we can do about that."
"What do you mean?"
"Look around. You're spending the day here. We have the finest facilities in the world. Our staff, clients, and donors, all sworn to secrecy. You can do whatever you'd like."
She lifted an eyebrow. "I'll have to take you up on that. I could use a good back rub."
"We provide more than that."
President Wallace caught the drift. "Look, what you're suggesting is for people with lots of money and free time on their hands. I'm the most powerful person in the world. That sort of thing isn't for me anymore. Thanks, but no thanks."
"When is the upcoming debate?"
"The end of next month."
Bolton gave a half shrug. "Maybe a return to your secret old habits would do wonders for you. Since you became President, it looks like there's been a stick up your ass. Everyone knows this."
"Careful," she said, shooting a death stare to accompany her word of caution.
"All I'm saying is that getting laid might do you some good. You won't be as rigid."
She leaned back on her seat and relaxed. "Your advice is always welcome, but you're pushing it on this."
"This is what the donors would like."
She sharpened her gaze. "What do you mean?"
"Well, for their investment, they'd like to know that you're still part of the team," he explained calmly. "They want to know that you haven't lost your roots."