"The Burned Apple" By Don Miles

      Putin couldn't believe his ears when Trump said it, but he continued to listen. "Is interesting idea. Go on." "Well, New York has treated me very badly, it's like incredible. I'm sure you know the story of what they tried to do to me. Thank God I won the election, with your help, and nothing ever came of it. But it is time for my retribution to take place. Imagine if your military made a mistake and launched a nuclear weapon at New York and it was obliterated. It would be a real tragedy. However, for the sake of not starting WWIII, I think I would be inclined to forgive it. I would not retaliate if you know what I mean." There was a pause from Vlad. Then he answered. "You would not retaliate? What about your Congress? Would not they want to strike back?" "I would be able to declare Martial Law and that would give me the power to make the decision myself. Then I would be a King. And like I said, I sure wouldn't want to send the world into another world war. I would be very sad but also grateful as New York tried to destroy me." Vlad thought for a moment then asked," what of your tower? Would not that be a great loss?" "No not really, I have insurance. Of course, I would need to warn family and friends not to be there. If it happened during a United Nations meeting with diplomats from all over the world, well that would be a bonus. It would make our lives much easier to have many of these people gone. People like Macron for instance." "Yes, he has been thorn in side for some time. My situation in Ukraine would be much improved by this." Vlad sat back and contemplated their evil plan. "Alright, I agree. I have feeling one of my Generals may go rogue, relieving me of any responsibility. This could be done during the world leaders gathering at the United Nations next month. But would not your country's economy suffer from losing New York City?" "I'm sure if we worked together, both our countries would be able to benefit. New York is a cesspool of immigrants anyway. It would actually improve my country greatly," Trump smiled. "I think we have deal. I will make the arrangements, choose the General and then have him executed immediately afterword. You will have your military stand down and peace will carry on. Da, I think this is excellent plan. It has been a pleasure doing business with you comrade. As you say, like incredible."