“You see, he wants to get you into bed with Carla Fontana,” Holly said.
“He wants nothing of the sort, and please remember that this was Lance’s idea and not mine.”
“Okay, I’ll clear out for the night. I can bunk at our embassy station. But you wait, I’ll bet La Carla is in on it, too.”
“Lance says I have to do this to put an end to the story.”
“Yeah, sure,” Holly said.
38
Stone was waiting for Carla Fontana to arrive when his cell rang. “Hello?”
“Hey!”
“Hey, Ann, how are you?”
“I am just fine,” she said. “Never better, in fact. You are all over the American media, and this time, it’s a good thing.”
“I read the story in the International New York Times.”
“It made the front page here, and just about every other front page, too. Kate is delighted, and a flash poll wipes out the earlier losses after Axelrod published the rumor. And you didn’t have to take a DNA test on national television!”
“I would have done so, if I’d had to.”
“I’ll tell Kate you said that. In fact, hold on.”
“Stone?”
“Kate? How are you?”
“Ever so much better, thanks. I don’t know how you did it, but the apology from Axelrod worked wonders.”
“I didn’t do it, Lance did.”
“Thank him for me.”
“Will do. He’s also arranged for an interview with Carla Fontana, from the Times, so that she can do a story. I’m giving her dinner tonight.”
“Excellent. She’s a credible reporter, and we have a cordial relationship. However, if you’re not careful, Carla will be carrying your baby. Take precautions.”
“I don’t think that will be a problem,” Stone said. “How’s Will?”
“Much, much better since the paternity issue was so neatly solved. He was getting very tired of the questions.”
“I can imagine.”
“When are you coming home?”
“In a few days. I have to get the grand opening of l’Arrington out of the way, then I’m free to return.”
“Oh, good, you’ll be here for election night. I’d like for you to join us at the White House that evening.”
“What a wonderful invitation. I’ll call the Hay-Adams and book a suite.”
“The town will be sold out that night—you’re staying with us. How’s the Lincoln Bedroom?”
“If you’re sure Abe won’t mind.”
“Believe me, he won’t. Is Holly there?”
“She’s at the Agency station at the embassy, if you want to reach her.”
“No, just tell her I send my love.”
“Will do.”
“I’ll let you go. Your interview must be soon.”