Chapter 461

Then Gwen whispered into Naomi’s ear. “He won’t be the leader of Cuba when we do decide to build here. We’re certain of that.”

The state dinner that evening was a complicated affair. Gwen and Steve walked a tightrope of being civil, but never cordial to Castro, while attempting to treat most nongovernmental guests warmly. For instance Cuban television, movie, and music artists were eager to meet the Americans. Steve and Gwen knew that change in a nation often begins in the arts and they felt it was important to establish a friendly rapport with them.

Partway through the evening, Steve was approached by an extremely beautiful young woman. She was young, brash, and determined to dance with Steve.

“Would you dance with me?” asked the beautiful young woman in excellent English. “I’ve seen all of your movies and would love to dance with you. You will find that I am very good.”

Steve hesitated as he considered any ramifications of dancing with the Cuban sexpot. He