Covenant - THE CONTROLLER 01

by Jerry Bruce

  “That I promise.”

  “Adam, what have you got to say?”

  “My head is spinning. The scope of this is monumental. Do you really think we will be able to finish this in our lifetime?”

  “Definitely within our lifetime, but not necessarily within our term of office.” Richard wasn’t joking, even though he appeared to be giving some levity to the situation.

  Adam continued, “I suppose that if we get the rest of the world involved, the project could continue progressing regardless of who was running this country, or any other, for that matter.”

  “My reasoning exactly. This is the kind of endeavor that once started, no one wants to leave unfinished.

  “Christine, I wanted to get you in on this from the beginning to hopefully avoid having an overly pessimistic media raising red flags. I don’t see us giving them anything concrete just yet. After we have a team assembled, and a few countries in support, then maybe we can give them something. In the meantime, I would like you to keep your ear to the ground in order to ward off any premature speculation. I will instruct the team to give you ongoing updates as to status of the project so that you remain informed.

  “Adam, in case you were thinking about getting off scot-free, I would like you to do the same thing you did for the other project and come up with some team members. I realize that this will place a burden on you, what with everything else you’ve got on your plate, but this is something I don’t want to delegate to anyone else.

  “Everyone remember, we can’t take a chance of this leaking out,” Richard said sternly.

  The meeting continued. The kitchen staff brought in carts and set up a buffet line of sorts so the principals could continue their discussion over dinner. By the time everyone had finished his dessert and had his fill of coffee, all the details they could think of had been discussed with possible solutions agreed upon or tabled for future discussion.

  As the others got up to leave, Richard asked Stephen to stay behind for a few minutes.

  “I didn’t want to say anything with the others around, although I’m sure they’ve picked up on the significance of the kind of time frame we are talking about on this project. You and I have already discussed a world government. While that may or may not pan out, it is a certainty that I can have only two terms as President of the United States, assuming of course that we are reelected to a second term. What happens then? I see the possibility of you taking over the Oval Office. The party would be crazy not to run you; however, you can ensure they do by being the ramrod on this project. There is no doubt in my mind that you can make it a success. It’s just a matter of how good you look doing it!”

  “Thank you for your vote of confidence, sir. I have to admit the thought of being president has crossed my mind. But I don’t want that to be the reason I take on this endeavor. This is the opportunity we both prayed for, the chance to make a difference.”

  “Sounds to me as if you already have made up your mind to accept this.”

  “I don’t see how any caring person could do otherwise.”

  “Wonderful. I know you’ll not disappoint the country or me. Thank you, Stephen.”

  “Thank you, Mr. President. Now I guess I need to start scheduling my time. I have a hunch this is going to be a back breaker.”

  “It may break your back, but just don’t let it break your spirit.”

  “Richard, you haven’t mentioned a timeframe for completion of this project. How do you see it progressing?”

  “Since we are going to be campaigning, off and on, for the next ten to twelve months, I don’t see us making as much headway as I would like. However, we can’t make any progress unless we’re reelected. Take your best shot at tasks you feel we can complete during this last year in office. Be realistic, Stephen.”

  “More than likely, we are going to meet some resistance. I would be surprised if Russia, China, and some of the South American countries don’t play hard to get. It’s conceivable, no make that more than likely, that we’ll be hard-pressed to get them onboard within a year.”

  “Unfortunately, Stephen, I feel the same way. Do the best you can to get them to meet with us to discuss the issues. If we can bring them to the table within the next year, we’ll have a solid platform to present to the voters. Our history, and our future plans could gain us a second term.”

  “I don’t think we have anything to worry about, Mr. President. Our not being reelected would one of the biggest upsets in history.”

  “I want a reelection by landslide. I want to send a message to the rest of the world that America is confident and supportive of our program for the future. That’ll do more to break down resistance than anything.”

  * * *

  Two days before the election Richard placed a call to the Controller. He had considered phoning several weeks prior, to discuss several issues, but got caught up in last minute campaign chores.

  “Good evening, Richard. I am surprised you haven’t called sooner. I was expecting the frustration of dealing with the Russians to get to you long before this. Of course, I may be assuming too much and your call may have another purpose.”

  “No. You’re correct. The vice president has been getting stonewalled. Russian Premier Vashenko has been taking a hard line. I’ve been giving the vice president free rein on the matter but I’m afraid he isn’t getting anywhere.”

  “You have been busy campaigning and winning American support for our project. Don’t be concerned about the Russian. I will see to the situation.”

  “If you are capable of influencing the Russian, now, why haven’t you done anything sooner?”

  “I didn’t feel it necessary. Your concentration needed to be focused on reelection. Now that we are but days away from a second term, we can devote all our efforts to the project. I presume Stephen Hamilton will continue his role?”

  “Yes. He’s been effective, even with the campaign distraction. He’s managed to win the support of the Chinese and expects Columbia to fall in line.”

  “I’m fully aware of his efforts, Richard. I concur that he is the right man for the job. I don’t want him to overshadow you, however. I expect you to be in the spotlight. Give credit to Hamilton when appropriate, but don’t take a back seat. I want you in the limelight. My future plans require it. Hamilton will have my support for a run at the presidency when the time is right.”

  “You make it sound like I’ve already been reelected.”

  “For all intents and purposes, you have. The election is a mere formality.”

  “Don’t tell me. You used your considerable influence to make sure.”

  “Of course, Richard. I’ve told you, I don’t like surprises. I will accept nothing but success; therefore, I have to do whatever it takes to make sure failure is not an option.”

  “I see.”

  “I’ll talk to Vashenko after the election, Richard. In the meantime, you can proceed with making plans for a concentrated attack on those issues that are slowing us down. We have to start making large strides if we are going to complete this project within my time frame.

  “I didn’t realize you had a scheduled completion date.”

  “I felt it better to not put pressure on you considering the challenges of the last year. Now, however, we have no excuses.”

  “So what is your target date?”

  “That will remain my secret, Richard. I’ve found over the years that my people perform much better when their target date is an unknown.”

  CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

  “Congratulations on your reelection, Mr. President,” Veronica draped her arm over Richard’s chest and kissed him passionately.

  “Thank you, Mrs. First Lady. It’s a tad late to be asking, but are you okay with a second term?”

  “Why are you asking now? I told you before I was behind you. Don’t tell me you’re having second thoughts.”

  “No, not at all. I was reflecting on the previous term, that’s all.”

  “And what
has your reflecting revealed?”

  “That I think we’re going to have to work even harder this term to maintain some sanity in our lives.”

  “I didn’t realize we were on the verge of insanity!” Veronica put a little humor in her voice.

  “You know what I mean. The last four years were new to us—a new adventure around every corner.”

  “I think I understand. I’ve been concerned that we might grow apart as the pressure mounted. But, Richard, we’ve managed to keep it together till now; we can do it for another term.”

  “I’ve tried to not let it get to me to the point where it would affect our relationship or closeness with the children. I’ve seen how it has affected all of us, and I’m worried that it may get worse.”

  “What makes you think that?”

  “Oh, I don’t know, Ronnie. I guess I’m being paranoid.”

  “Well, it’s okay with me. The more paranoid you are, the harder you’ll try to stay the attentive husband and father. That sounds like a winner to me. Remember, Randall is going to be leaving for Harvard in the fall. You don’t have much time to spend with him before he leaves.”

  “I realize that. I’m hoping we can spend more time at Camp David. During the last year we’ve had some great conversations while fishing. I want us to spend more time like that before he leaves.”

  * * *

  “Mr. President, can you believe that a whole year has passed since we started on this project?”

  “Yeah Stephen, I believe it; it’s been one hectic year. Congratulations are in order. You have managed to bring the major players onboard.”

  “Well let’s not get ahead of ourselves. They have verbally committed, but a lot of them—most in fact—haven’t signed the agreement as yet. I don’t think there will be any problems with their doing so; it’s just that I don’t like the loss of valuable time.”

  “Don’t worry, they’ll come around soon enough, in fact I predict that they will sign in a matter of days.” Richard felt comfortable making this prediction since he had talked to the Controller the week before about the players who were dragging their feet. The Controller assured Richard that he shouldn’t worry; it was as good as done.

  “I hope you’re right.”

  “I have to be right; it was based mostly on that prospect that we got reelected, remember? The people are counting on us to get this project past the point of no return before we leave office.”

  “If everyone signs right away, then there’s no doubt in my mind that we’ll have things well underway by the end of this term. And don’t forget that I have every intention of being your successor!” Stephen had already been planting the seeds and cultivating the support he needed to be Richard’s replacement. He realized he was going to be riding on Richard’s coattails, but he also knew he was qualified and that he was the right man for the job. He might not possess Richard’s charisma, but he did have the qualifications and more experience than any candidate that the Democrats could run.

  “And a great successor at that!”

  “I’m glad you feel that way, Mr. President, because I can see us working together for a long time to come.”

  “Are you still on that world president kick? I thought you gave up on that, Stephen.”

  “Just because I’ve been busy doesn’t mean I haven’t been planning ahead. There already is some talk going around about this very thing.”

  “And who’s doing the talking besides you? Anyone the world might take seriously? Just kidding, don’t hit me.” Richard was in a good mood and was enjoying the relaxed banter.

  “Why, I’ll have you know that all the rumors I have been hearing have come from very high sources in such insignificant quarters such as Parliament and the United Nations.” Stephen threw in a little sarcasm of his own.

  “You’re such a name dropper, Stephen! Does anybody besides you believe these rumors?”

  “You just might be surprised, Mr. President.”

  “Oh? Okay, who?”

  “Oh no, sir. You’re not going to get any more out of me. That’s what you get for being a hard ass and picking on me! My lips are sealed. Go ahead and laugh, Mr. President, but when all is said and done, I will be the one who’s right.”

  “Well, all the wishful thinking, rumors and innuendo won’t amount to much if I don’t pursue the position.” Richard stressed the “I.”

  “Are you saying that you’re not interested in serving as a world president? Surely you’re not serious, Richard.”

  “All I’m saying is that we have another four years ahead of us and who knows what might arise. I don’t want to plan that far ahead. That’s all I’m saying.”

  “Very well, Mr. President.” Stephen was puzzled by Richard’s reaction.

  “Oh, and by the way, I intend to put a lot of pressure on you these next few years.”

  “What do you mean, Mr. President?”

  “I want as much progress made on your project as is possible. Push, Stephen. Ideally, I would like it completed before this term is up, but I realize that would be a pipe dream. So, if I can’t have that, I want it to be as close as humanly possible. Besides, it will be good training for your turn at president.” Richard gave Stephen a smile.

  * * *

  Richard was concentrating so deeply while reviewing budget proposals that when the cell phone range, it startled him. It was fairly late and he didn’t understand why the Controller would call at such a late hour.

  “Hello, Controller. Isn’t it past your bedtime?”

  “Yes, quite so; but in other parts of the world it is daytime. As you know, one must sometimes work unusual hours when conducting business on an international scale.”

  “So what brings you to call me?” Richard wasn’t sure he wanted to hear the answer. In the past when the Controller called him this late it meant that there was an “opportunity” requiring immediate attention.

  “Unfortunately, there has been a setback with one of the countries we were relying upon for our project.”

  “I haven’t been informed of anything out of the ordinary.”

  “The word hasn’t gotten out yet, Richard. It seems that there has been a medical emergency at No. 10 Downing Street. Apparently Prime Minister Rolt has suffered either a stroke or a heart attack; it isn’t clear which at this time. Their government is trying to put a lid on it for the time being.”

  “How do you know this before everyone else? Do you have a crystal ball you haven’t told me about?”

  “The explanation is quite simple, actually; I was talking to him at the time he fell ill.”

  “You were talking to him?” Richard was hoping against all odds that his initial thoughts were off track.

  “Yes, I called him. On a special cellular phone, not unlike yours. Of course his doesn’t ring out “Hail to the Chief”; “Rule Britannia” is more appropriate, don’t you think?”

  The Controller’s voice was icy cold, a tone Richard had not heard for many months. It sent a chill down his spine. He was unsure how to react. He was positive the Controller was waiting to hear his reaction. A lot rode on how Richard was perceived by the Controller, and sending the wrong signal now could cost Richard dearly.

  “Are you still there, Richard?”

  “Yes, I’m here. I have to admit that I was a little startled at your news. It’s clear to me now why Rolt changed his stance on the project and decided to commit Britain to partnering in the endeavor.”

  “Let’s just say that he was on the fence and needed a little push in the right direction. Of course, his health problem may now force him to step down, in which case the persons most likely to be considered for the position have not been supportive of the project thus far. We will have to take a wait and see attitude until such time as a new prime minister is in place.” The Controller didn’t seem overly concerned.

  “A great deal hinges on the British support. Without that others may falter and withdraw their support. We could be looking at the need for a virtual
restart of the project.”

  “Don’t worry, Richard, at most this will cost us a few weeks. And of course, a lot depends on the severity of Rolt’s illness. If he is capable of continuing in the position, then we don’t have anything to be concerned about. A worst case scenario would be having to persuade someone new to our way of thinking.”

  Richard was tempted to respond to that last comment, but thought the better of it. No need to risk invoking the Controller’s rage.

  “I’ll be in further contact with you Richard as we learn more about the situation. Good night.”

  “Good night.”

  Richard had to admit that what the Controller said was true. Life would go on no matter who was Britain’s prime minister. Richard thought he was just being overly sensitive to the situation, as he had always felt a particular closeness to the prime minister, not unlike that which other presidents have had in the past. Richard thought for a minute about the irony of the relationship that the United States has had with Great Britain. From the aftermath of a war for independence, two enemies became close friends and allies. If other nations could have put aside their past conflicts and become friends, there would have been no need for Richard to threaten the use of nuclear weapons.

  He pondered who might replace Rolt. It would be a short list, consisting only of those with a proven track record of supporting the current Parliament’s direction. While very friendly to the United States and its policies, Parliament needed to cope with downturns in the British economy and was reluctant to back the president’s plan for significant involvement from Great Britain. There was nothing he could do except wait to see what happened to Rolt.

  * * *

  The next morning Richard briefed Stephen on the Rolt situation.

  “I can’t believe this is happening now, at such a critical point in the project.” Stephen was visibly upset at the news. “I don’t mean to sound callous. I’m very fond of the prime minister and deeply concerned for him, but I do have to consider how this will impact our plans.”