We all know that Presidents get attached to their aids (courtesy The West Wing and 24) but the 'bond' between Bush and his 'lady in command' Ms Condoleezza Rice is a bit hard to swallow.

Four years as Bush's national security adviser -- through Sept. 11 and two wars -- had taken a toll. "I think you may need a new national security team," she said.

"I do the hiring here," the president countered.

As Rice considered the offer, one question loomed large: Would she and Bush retain their unique closeness if they no longer worked daily together in the White House?

"We've been very close, down the hall," Rice reminded Bush. "I see you eight times a day, and I don't want to lose that connection."

Rice and Bush discussed the job for two hours over the next three days, and by Monday she agreed to become the nation's top diplomat.

Ah, true love between Ebony and White in the Oval Office and some extra perks thrown in on the side. Now why didn't Monica Lewinsky play her cards right?