Guarding Tess 1994

As a dedicated Secret Service agent, Doug Chesnic prides himself on his professionalism. Stationed in Ohio for the last three years, he is charged with the protection of Tess Carlisle, the revered widow of a former U.S. president. Known for her diplomatic and charitable contributions, Tess perceives Doug more as a domestic employee than a bodyguard, much like her chauffeur, Earl, and her nurse, Frederick.

With his assignment nearing its end, Doug is eager for a more stimulating posting. However, Tess has other plans and opts to extend his duty, which frustrates him immensely. He feels it’s beneath him to carry out mundane tasks, like delivering her morning coffee or locating her golf balls during play. His frustrations grow, especially after a snub from Tess when she takes the liberty of leaving him behind during a drive, prompting a humiliating call to the local authorities to search for her.

Despite Doug’s attempt to assert his authority by firing Earl for his part in Tess’s antics, Tess swiftly undoes this decision, leading to constant bickering between the two. Doug’s frustrations mount as he longs for a sense of freedom in his role.

Things take a twist when Tess learns her son Barry is visiting. Initially thrilled, her joy turns to dismay as she realizes he has come solely to solicit her help in promoting his questionable real estate business, which she vehemently disapproves of, fearing it would tarnish her family’s reputation.

In a moment of vulnerability, Tess finds herself emotionally stirred while watching footage of her late husband’s funeral. Recognizing Doug from the crowd in that poignant moment, she decides to reconcile their strained relationship. They share a drink and open up about their respective struggles, revealing the challenges Tess has faced as a mother within a politically scrutinized environment.

While the mood brightens briefly with the announcement of a Presidential visit to her late husband’s library, it quickly dims with its cancellation. As night falls, Tess and Earl whisk away for yet another adventure, leaving Doug to worry when they fail to return. This prompts him to swiftly alert his security detail and the FBI, triggering an investigation that uncovers a shocking secret: Tess has been hiding the fact that she suffers from an inoperable brain tumor.

As the situation unravels with the discovery of Earl’s abandoned vehicle and injuries, Doug’s suspicions are heightened. In a gripping exchange at Earl’s bedside, Doug, along with an FBI agent, puts pressure on Earl to reveal Tess’s location, threatening him with fierce torment until he breaks down. Eventually, Earl admits that Tess has been abducted by his own sister and her husband.

The authorities spring into action, raiding the kidnappers’ home, leading to a dramatic rescue where Doug and his team find Tess buried alive in a barn. As details unfold, Tess insists on bringing her Secret Service detail with her to the hospital, causing tension among officials, but she stands firm in her decision.

Once she begins her recovery, Tess faces another obstacle when hospital regulations dictate that patients be discharged in wheelchairs. Doug steps in with authority, urging her to comply. After a brief moment of hesitation, Tess agrees, touching Doug’s hand gently and assuring him, “Very good, Douglas. You’re going to be all right.” The bond between them strengthens as they navigate through the chaos, highlighting a renewed sense of purpose and connection amid their trials.