A Lifeline for Eternity

Author: Hollyjp

Background: Story picks up early in season eight...and then rewrites JAG history...I guess it would be called Alternate Universe.

Author’s Note: The question was brought up at the Harmyboard, “what would happen if someone got a picture of Harm and Mac during their kiss on AJ’s porch during Lifeline and released it to the press”...and I got to thinking about it...and then someone hinted that the fanfic writer’s should go at this...and then there was the March HBX fanfic challenge and I caved....this is the results. Hope you like it.

Disclaimer: JAG is the property of Bellisario Productions, CBS, and Paramount. I have borrowed their characters for entertainment purposes only. No monetary gain will result from their appearance in my story.

Author’s Notes:

A Lifeline for Eternity

PART 1

Commander Harmon Rabb and Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie listened to Admiral Chegwidden as he informed them they were headed out to the Seahawk each assigned to their own investigation. Harm needed to investigate the mishap on board that had severely injured several men, while Mac was to investigate the original investigator, Lt. Loren Singer, in order to try to determine if her current health problem was related to anyone on board ship. No one noticed Harm’s interest in the situation as anything more then idle curiosity.

AJ watched his two officers depart as he leaned back in his chair and sighed. Those two had given him more gray in what little hair he had, and caused him to pull out a few he didn’t really want to lose over the past seven years. He’s known Harm for a year longer and he had watched him mature from a over confident cocky pilot-investigator and lawyer to the confident officer he now was. AJ knew that flying was in his blood and he was good at it. It had about killed him to let Harm go back to flying for that six month period. He had been equally as thrilled when Harm had asked to return. AJ has willingly brought him back, yet there had been moments he had question that wisdom of that decision.

AJ shook his head to stop the memories of Australia, Bud’s broken jaw, Mac’s almost marriage to Mic, Harm being lost at sea, the tension between the two when Mac had returned from her TAD before the JAG-a-thon, and the way they had both refused to leave Bud’s side when he lost his leg. These two officers had helped him make this place a family, like his SEAL units had been - like he tried to make anyplace under his command. He had never been as successful at that until he had been fortunate enough to have Mac, Harm and Bud assigned to his staff, and then later Harriet. Together, they had made this place special. AJ also knew that before long, he would need to think about moving on. He thought maybe Meredith was the one he could move on with, and yet something held him back from making a total commitment to her...and he couldn’t put his finger on it. For now, it was time to get back to the pile of work on his desk. He reached to open the mail.

Airborn Over the Atlantic

“Were you as surprised as I was that the Admiral shipped us both of together on this assignment?” Mac asked Harm.

“I guess not. I mean, you are the likely one to investigate Singer. We don’t have a junior female investigator on staff right now.”

“True. You make sense so far...but why not have me do both?”

“As for the mishap, I do know carriers and I just cleared the last of my current cases yesterday. It was this or case reviews and cold case investigations if this hadn’t come up.”

“Yeah...my cases were cleared also. I was going to take some leave, but maybe things will still be slow when we get back.”

“Planning on doing anything special on your leave, Mac?”

“Not sure. A part of me wants to go to the desert to look for ichnytes, another part of me wants to hit a beach somewhere and soak up some sand and sun...what would you do on leave?”

“Depends on who I was going to be with.”

“And who would you take your leave with?”

“Not sure...haven’t had any interesting offers,” Harm teased flashing Mac his high wattage smile.

Mac smiled back, closed her eyes and shook her head. “We have a long flight...think I’ll nap awhile.”

“Okay...but if you come up with any interesting ideas that you want to share on your leave, let me know.”

Oh boy! Harm was turning on the charm and it was so hard to resist when he was like this. Fun, playful, happy, sexy....well he always seems sexy, Mac thought. This was more like the Harm she had first come to know. She hadn’t trusted easily back then and although she had tried to be a confident and gung-ho as any other Marine, Mac had needed to fight for her confidence and composure all the time back then. This man, however, had stormed into her life and from the first, had either disarmed her with his charm and high wattage smile or challenged her with his heroism and devotion to the truth.

She felt her body relax and although she doubted she would sleep, it felt good to let her mind wander and know that Harm was just inches from her. As her arm draped over the arm-rest, she knew that it wouldn’t take much for her hand to slip and for her hand to rest on the hard, warm, khaki covered thigh in the seat next to her. She had to fight a grin thinking how Harm would react if she let herself do just that. One part of her wanted to find out.

Their relationship, what ever it was between them, had become something warm and wonderful in the last year since the first JAG-A-thon. Renee had moved out of his life; Mac had survived the humiliation of Mic leaving her and realized she was relieved that he hadn’t been willing to reschedule the wedding. He had realized what it had taken her a while longer to acknowledge - she was in love with Harm. She knew she had loved his as a friend and a partner...a platonic love. She knew at one point she wanted to explore the potential for more, but he hadn’t been ready so she had turned to Mic and had honestly thought she could love him...she did as a friend and a co-worker...but not the way she should have the man she was to marry.

She felt Harm shift in his seat and his leg bump hers - his hard, warm, long leg. Mac felt her temperature rise recalling the feel of that leg wrapped around her in the middle of a desert night to keep her warm. The only reason she had resisted cuddling close to him that night was fear of not keeping her hands to herself. They had been growing closer over the previous months and earlier that day she had come so close to losing him forever in that minefield. She knew that if she made a move and Harm wasn’t ready for it, he would shut down or push her away. He had done it before. Not wanting to risk it, she had not slept much that night, but she had enjoyed being held close to him.

Mac could still recall almost every second in his arms that night. She had told him that she would keep watch first, because she knew she had been too wound to sleep. He had closed his eyes and slept. She had heard his breathing change and felt him relax even though he had held her close with his arms and legs. It had been like being wrapped tight in a rock hard cocoon. Mac had felt her breasts pressed against his chest and arm and knew that her nipples had stood at attention. She had felt something else rise to its full mast, pressed against her before morning as well. Somehow the knowledge that Harm wanted her on some level at least made her feel hopeful that even Harm would have to admit they needed to talk about what they should do with these feelings...and what those feelings were.

Harm had turned in his seat to watch his partner sleep. She was so beautiful, which everyone could see on the outside. He knew just how beautiful the woman was on the inside too. It was the part of her that she hid from most people, because it showed her vulnerability and that she couldn’t trust most people to see. Bud, Harriet, Chloe, and he had seen that part of her. It made him want her all the more, but he couldn’t act on that desire or his feelings. In order for them to be together, they couldn’t work together. The thought of some other guy working on cases with her, spending the long hours in close quarters with his Mac, he just couldn’t stomach...so he said nothing so that they could at least have these stolen moments together.

Harm knew that in uniform they would be careful to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner. It was always harder to control things when they were in civilian clothes. He had almost caved in that night on the ferry, but he hadn’t and he had almost lost her. The fates had smiled on them once again and they were getting another chance to get things right. He remembered the night on the Admiral’s porch when they had admitted they loved one another and then he had lost control and kissed her. She had put him on the spot asking her what he saw when she looked at him. He had wanted to say, “My future...my bride...the mother of my children...my best friend...my rocking chair companion...my lifeline,” but he hadn’t. He had simply told her he saw a desirable woman. He hadn’t lied...he just hadn’t told her the whole truth.

He watched her face and knew she wasn’t asleep yet. She was at least thinking about something pleasant judging from the smile on her face. He wondered what it was and if she thought about him, the way he thought about her. One reason he didn’t want to sleep on the plane sitting next to her was he knew he couldn’t hide the evidence of his thoughts of her when he slept. His mind drifted back to one of his most embarrassing moments...at least in the past year.

They had been forced to sleep in the desert one night and the temperatures dropped. He didn’t want to risk hypothermia for either of them, and so he had suggested they wrap up in each other for body heat. He never gave it a thought that his body would betray him the way it had. She had offered to stay alert during the first part of the night while he slept. Mac had assured him that she wasn’t tired, and he had been exhausted. He slept intending to wake up in a few hours so she could sleep. When he did wake up, he had been hard as a rock and the evidence of his dreams of her was pressed between them. He knew she had to have been aware of his condition, but she never said a word, even when he had hurriedly stood up and turned his back to her, claiming to have an urgent nature call. He had stepped behind some brush and relieved himself by hand, biting his lip to keep quiet. Once composed he had returned to her and readied themselves for the continued hike to return to base camp.

It had been a close call, in Harm’s mind. He didn’t think she would appreciate her best friend lusting after her so he decided to make light of it. He couldn’t stand the idea of not having her with him on cases, like they were on this one. Close by his side where he could talk to her, touch her casually, see her smile, hear her laugh, and share a certain degree of intimacy all partners have. No, Harm couldn’t risk it when they were in Afghanistan, and he wouldn’t risk it now. If he had to keep a wall around himself, close part of himself off to her to do it, he would. They had been growing closer emotionally and physically and it was getting more and more difficult to hide his desires from her. But to keep her at his side he had to do it.

JAG Office

USS Seahawk

Mediterranean Sea

“Lt. Singer?” asked Petty Office Coates. “Are you alright Ma’am?”

“Fine...why wouldn’t I be?”

“No reason...you just looked a little green Ma’am, like you needed to hurl.”

“Don’t...say...that..word!” Lt. Singer reprimanded her, grinding each word out through clenched teeth as she fought to keep her stomach contents in place.

“Hurl, Ma’am?” PO Coates asked with a grin, watching Lt. Loren Singer move her enlarged figure to the head in the office before emptying her stomach there. Coates knew it had been a mean thing to do, but she just couldn’t resist the urge to pay Lt. Roberts’ replacement back for the mean things she had done and said to so many of the people at JAG, say nothing about the treatment she had received from her the previous time they had met.

“Coates, please...leave me alone awhile...I need to get this paperwork in order for the JAG they are sending to review my claims and I am not up to your cheery attitude today.”

“Yes, Ma’am...actually I came here to tell you that two JAGs are on board the COD on its way from the mainland.”

“Two?”

“Yes Ma’am.”

“Want to take bets on which two it is?” Singer grumbled under her breath.

“Ma’am?” Coates asked puzzled as to what the Lieutenant might mean.

“I’m sure Rabb and Mackenzie have convinced the Admiral to send them. I’m surprised he felt the need to send two JAGs on this case though, but they are good at wrapping him around their fingers.”

“I’ll leave you alone and go meet them Ma’am.”

“Very well Coates. Dismissed.”

Deck of the USS Seahawk

Mediterranean Sea

“Welcome aboard Commander Rabb...Colonel Mackenzie,” greeted PO Coates as Harm and Mac stepped off the COD.

“Good to see you again Petty Officer Coates,” greeted Mac.

Harm grinned at his young protege. “How’s carrier life these days, Coates?”

“Unusual sir, but I like it.”

“Good for you. Staying out of trouble?”

“As much as I can working for Lt. Witch, Sir.”

“Excuse me?” Mac asked. “Care to explain your statement, Petty Officer,” asked Colonel Mackenzie going into full investigative mode.

“Sorry Ma’am...last year when Lt. Singer accused me of stealing her bracelet and I ran, I referred to her as a witch. The Commander corrected me and told me I was to call her Lt. Witch.”

“Commander Rabb?” Mac drilled him with a glare, but Harm saw through it and flashed his grin.

“Hey, I was trying to get her to be more respectful.”

“I see...well, we better get up to the bridge and report in. We’ll catch you later Coates.”

“Yes Ma’am. See you later sir.”

Once inside, Coates returned to the JAG office, while Harm and Mac reported in to the Captain.

Three Hours Later

Outside the JAG Office on the carrier

“Hey Mac... You okay?” Harm had greeted Mac and then noticed the tension in her face.

“I’m fine. Where are they letting us work?”

“JAG office.”

“Great!”

“What’s going on Mac?”

“I just interviewed Lt. Singer...have you seen her yet?”

“No.”

“She is obviously pregnant, Harm...and she refuses to name the father. She swears he is not on board ship. I wonder if she even knows who the father is.”

“Mac...” Harm was going to caution her to relax a little, but when Mac interrupted him again, he thought better of it.

“I will get to the bottom of this. I’m going to the Com to place a secure call. You get the job of evicting her from the office so we can work.”

“Gee thanks. Coates in here?”

“No, I sent her off to secure our quarters. She’s suppose to meet us here in one hour.”

“Great...you will pay for this Mac,” he grinned.

Harm opened the door to the JAG office after watching her wave as she walked away. He stepped into the office as Loren turned sideways and Harm gasped at her obvious pregnancy. She had to be five or six months pregnant. He hadn’t expected this. He had a vision of his brother driving away with her before he had returned to Russia.

“Need a camera, Commander?” Loren Singer’s voice dripped with sarcasm.

“No...sorry...I just wasn’t expecting to see you...How far along are you Lieutenant?”

“None of your business, sir.”

“Is this my brother’s baby?”

“Your brother? Nice kid Commander, but too innocent for me.”

“Listen, Lt. Singer, I have been instructed to tell you that you are ordered to vacate the JAG office as your quarters and your office until further notice. Petty Officer Coates is securing alternative quarters for you and you are relieved of duty until further notice.”

“What is this? First that nosy Lt. Colonel and now you? You have no right asking me personal questions, Commander, and if you do I will find a way to embarrass both of you and put you in the position of being asked thousands of personal questions that are no ones business but your own.”

“Watch it, Lieutenant. That’s pretty close to a threat,” Harm cautioned the upset young officer.

“That’s not a threat, Commander, it’s a promise!” Singer stuffed her belongings into a bag and stormed from the office.

Harm flinched as the door slammed. “That went well.”

Outside the JAG Office

Petty Officer Coates was just reaching for the JAG office door, when it had flown open before slamming shut behind a furious pregnant JAG officer making a hurried exit.

“Lt. Singer, I have alternate quarters for you.”

“Just tell me where and then get out of my way.”

“Yes Ma’am,” Coates agreed. She proceeded to tell the Lieutenant her new quarters and Singer waddled down the corridor with her head high, muttering to herself all the way. “They have no right to be so self righteous! Just because they are both beautiful, talented, intelligent people and too damn lucky to describe, they think they can get away with anything....well, I can make them pay.” She reached into her pocket for the cell phone she kept there. It’s all she needed to make this work.

Once in her new quarters, she punched in the number she knew would connect her to the first step of her revenge on the two beautiful and arrogant JAGS that stood between her and her chance to become the first woman JAG. And to think she thought she could convince that arrogant jetjock to even look at her twice!

She heard the voice come on the line and she smiled. “Hi...It’s Loren...I have a scoop for you.”

The voice obviously knew her. “Really...and can you back up your claims this time?”

“Yes.”

“Alright...what have you got for me?”

“How about two senior JAG officers that have been having an affair for years?”

“Keep talking.”

“I have pictures that prove these two are romantically involved, and according to the UCMJ, their relationship makes it a conflict of interest for them to work in the same command or on any of the same cases.”

“What’s in it for you?”

“Revenge. I want them to have their names smeared...be embarrassed in public...that would do it for me. The pictures say it all. Can you get them to the Navy Times?”

“I’ll give it my best shot. When can I expect them?”

“In a few hours.”

Lorn Singer was good on her word. She took out a folder with a CD in it and accessed the computer in her temporary quarters. She booted it up, put in the CD and located the pictures in her file...the ones that would toast those two trouble making senior officers. It took a few minutes to pull up the pictures she wanted. The first one she had stumbled on to. It had made her aware of some things she had missed and kept her on alert for months.

The first picture on the screen wasn’t the best quality, but it was enough. She had attended the engagement party for Colonel Mackenzie and Commander Brumby out of curiosity. She had slipped her digital camera into her purse that night on a whim. There hadn’t been room in her too tight dress for pockets, but the slender digital camera had fit in her purse.

When Commander Rabb had broken off their conversation that night to follow the Colonel outside, she had worked her way slowly around the room, removed the camera from her purse and quietly slipped out onto the porch behind them. She had heard their voices and then nothing but a moan. She had turned the corner, just in time to see the Commander reach for the Colonel and haul her up against him. He had kissed her with a hunger that left Loren aching for someone to desire her like that. Her fantasies of the Commander had faded years before when he had come to close to catching her in the act of setting up her biggest rival - then Major Sarah Mackenzie.

The following Christmas, after Mic and Mac’s wedding had been called off, the Hrm and Mac had tied for second behind Commander Turner at the JAG-A-thon, and then the Petty Officer had shown up with Rabb at the Christmas party. They had all headed for their cars to go to the service. At the last second, she had turned back toward the apartment to use the bathroom one more time. She had watched the Commander and Colonel stare into each others eyes and then lean toward each other. She had caught their kiss under the mistletoe and his raised eyebrows that had looked like he was making a silent promise for more later when they were alone. She had turned then and slid into the car before they had stepped outside to catch her spying on them.

She had snapped a few other pictures that night as well. It seemed they were never far away from each other and usually looking into each others eyes.

It wasn’t long after that she had met Rabb’s half brother, Sergei. He was cute, and well built, but smaller then his brother. Sergei’s interest in her got her thinking. She might be able to strike up a friendship with him and then get pertinent information about his brother and his relationship to Colonel Mackenzie.

Singer thought about the day she had gone to Rabb’s apartment and snooped around. She had been looking for things to use against him by them, but hadn’t found much, other then a few pictures, which she had used her camera to get her own pictures of.

There was the one of them holding a baby which she eventually figured out was a christening of their godson...but the picture would cast doubts and aspersions on their characters so she included it in the file she was preparing. When she was done, she had a collection of six photos that should do the trick. Revenge was sweet.

PART 2

Next Day

JAG Headquarters

Washington, D.C.

“Admiral?” called PO Jason Tiner, as he hung up the phone just as Admiral Chegwidden sailed by his desk.

“What is it Tiner?”

“Sir, I have Captain Greason on line two for you sir.”

“Greason...isn’t he with the Navy Times?”

“Yes sir.”

“What’s he want?”

“He said that he needs to talk to you to verify some information he received.”

“Alright Tiner, I’ll take the call.” AJ shut his door, and moved to his desk as he set down his briefcase and cover. “What can I do for you Captain Greason?”

“Admiral Chegwidden, do you have a Commander Harmon Rabb and a Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie in your command?”

“Yes. Why do you ask?”

“Can you tell me exactly what their relationship is?”

“They were partners as junior officers and now that they are both senior officers they are friends, colleagues, and valuable members of this staff.”

“When you say friends...do you mean your friends, or friends with each other?” queried Greason.

“Why do you ask?”

“Why are you avoiding my question?”

“Look Captain, Rabb and Mackenzie are two of my best. They have worked together and as opposing counsel many times over the years, and I know with them on a case, we will get to the truth. So, if you won’t explain to me why you are asking these questions,” AJ paused for effect as his nostrils flared, “I’ll bid you good day.”

“I don’t think you want to do that sir.”

“Why?”

“I have received a collection of pictures that shows them in both civilian attire and in uniform in compromising positions.”

“Sounds like they were clothed, so it can’t be too compromising,” AJ muttered.

“Sir, I don’t think this is a joke. I’ve faxed them to you with a confidential cover. Look at them and then call me back with a statement. I can sit on these pictures for about two hours. After that, I’m going public with them.”

“Captain, I don’t like threats.” Disconnecting the call, AJ bellowed, “Tiner! Get me the confidential fax being sent as we speak.”

“Aye, aye sir.”

The admiral watched Tiner scurry to collect the fax, while he covered his head with his hands and muttered, “What have you two gone and done now?”

USS Seahawk

Mediterranean Sea

“Harm, I see no other course of action. You take Singer back with you and report to Chegwidden, and I’ll stay here on board as the JAG for the next two weeks until we dock at Norfolk.”

“When did they decide to return to base?” Harm demanded.

“They got the call about an hour ago.”

“Did you talk to Chegwidden?”

“No, but the Captain suggested one of return with Singer - he really wants her off this ship - and the other stay on board for the two weeks until we get to Norfolk.”

“I hate to leave you stranded out here Mac.”

“Harm, I think escorting Singer back to headquarters could be the tougher assignment. You finished the incident report and cleared everyone. The Captain’s happy, or will be with Singer gone. It will be fine.”

“I’m not sure I agree.”

“What, you want to stay on board for two weeks - and not be able to fly?”

“It’s not that Mac.”

“Then what is it? Tell me Harm.”

“I don’t like being away from you for two weeks...Hell, I don’t like being away from you for two days anymore.”

“You don’t?”

“No.”

“Harm, why now?”

“Why not now?”

“Ahhrrrggggg....you drive me nuts when you answer a question with a question!”

“I know...so we’re even.”

“Do I want to know how you figure that one.?”

Harm shrugged. “You drive me nuts, too” Flashing his grin he added, “I’ll collect Singer and catch the next COD. I’ll see you in two weeks at Norfolk.”

“I’m counting on it.”

Little did they know when they parted on the USS Seahawk that day, that their lives were about to change and in a very public way. This was not something that either of them had counted on.

Dulles International Airport

Washington D.C.

Loren Singer and Harm deplaned after a silent flight. Ever since their conversation on the COD, when Harm had tried to find out if his brother was the father of her baby, Loren had refused to speak to him. They were crossing the terminal to claim their bags when Harm took out his cell phone to turn it on. It rang immediately.

“Rabb.”

“I want you both to report to my office immediately.”

“Aye, aye sir. We should be there in thirty minutes if the traffic cooperates.”

“Make sure it does.” The line went dead when the Admiral hung up.

Harm glanced at his phone then flipped it shut. “We got to move. Admiral wants to see us both.”

“What for?” Loren nearly snarled.

“He didn’t say, but something has him barking orders.”

“Really?” Loren began to smile realizing that he must have received the pictures she had forwarded to her contact. “Well, we wouldn’t want to keep him waiting.”

They retrieved their bags and found Tiner waiting for them when they exited the terminal.

“What’s up Tiner?”

“Couldn’t say sir.”

“Couldn’t or wouldn’t?” Harm asked with raised brows. “Never mind Tiner, I’ll found out soon. Does the Admiral know you’re picking us up?”

“No sir. I had to bring some dignitaries to catch their flight, so I thought I’d wait seeing as you were due in within minutes anyway.”

“Thanks. Let’s go then.” Harm waited for Loren to get in the car and then slid in next to Tiner after shutting her door. “How’s Lt. Roberts doing?”

“Making progress he says sir.”

Tiner and Rabb chatted on the way to JAG while Loren sat in the backseat thinking about what was about to go down. She hoped she was there to see Rabb’s reaction when he saw those pictures. In her mind she tried on different levels of shock and outrage to see which one would set the right tone and keep her part in the situation hidden. By the time they arrived at Chegwidden’s door, she knew just how she wanted to play this scene.

“ENTER!”

“Lt. Singer and Commander Rabb reporting as ordered sir,” Harm announced as they came to attention in front of his desk.

“What to ....? Where’s Mackenzie? Singer, why are you here?” Admiral Chegwidden asked clearly puzzled.

“Sir, you said you wanted to see us both.”

“Yeah, you and Mackenzie.”

“Sorry sir, I thought you knew. The captain demanded that Singer return with me so Colonel Mackenzie stayed on board. They’ll be docking in Norfolk in two weeks sir.”

“Fine. Lt. Singer, I want a current medical report on my desk before you return to duty. In the meantime, you can see what other duty stations are looking for someone of your rank. Dismissed.”

“Sir?”

“What part of dismissed are you not understanding Lieutenant?”

“Aye, aye sir.” Loren, clearly disappointed at being asked to leave, stomped out of the admiral’s office and almost slammed the door behind her.

“At ease. I’d prefer to have both you and Mac here for this, but it can’t wait.”

“What is it sir?”

“I received a fax with six photos that I’d like your reaction to.” The admiral pushed a manilla folder toward Harm across the top of his desk.

Harm picked it up, glanced at the Admiral, opened the folder and looked down at the first picture. His knees nearly buckled as he looked at the grayscale photo in front of him. He couldn’t tear his eyes away, while his mind tried to process what he was seeing.

“That is you and the Colonel on my porch isn’t it?” AJ asked, his voice surprisingly soft, his anger no longer evident after seeing the look on his officers face.

“Yes.”

“Want to tell me what was going on?”

“Not really sir.”

“Talk to me, son, and maybe I can keep a lid on this...or at least will be able to launch some damage control.”

“I’m not sure what to say.”

“Look at the other pictures first...maybe that will help you,” suggested the admiral.

Harm turned to the next page and he couldn’t stop his grin. That was almost a year ago at Bud and Harriet’s Christmas party before they went to the service at the chapel together. Things had been going so well between them, that when they found themselves under the mistletoe they had stolen a kiss. They didn’t know anyone was around taking pictures, but someone apparently had been - more then once.

Harm looked at the other pictures, all of him and Mac. In every picture they were kissing or looking deep into each others eyes. Even Harm knew that the feelings between him and Mac were pretty obvious looking at those pictures.

“Have you talked about your feelings with each other?” AJ quietly asked.

“No. How much trouble are we in here sir?” Harm asked thinking of all the cases that they had worked as opposing counsel. He hoped they wouldn’t all need to be reviewed to determine if the trials and outcomes had been fair. For a man that believed in the truth to the extent he did, he wanted not halo of doubts surrounding their work.

“With me...none...right now. I would like to hear what you have to say about it all.”

“Sir, I know I had a chance to tell Mac how I felt before she got involved with Brumby, but I wasn’t ready to make a commitment to her...at least not completely. I did try to let her know I saw her in my future.”

“And because you hadn’t declared yourself you didn’t see fit to let me know how you were feeling?” the admiral guessed.

“Yes sir. I figured if it was one sided then it didn’t matter...but we had worked so hard to rebuild our friendship, I just didn’t want to risk it again.”

The Admiral reached for one of the pictures of Harm gazing into Mac’s eyes. “When you look at her that way...what do you see?”

“I see...a desirable woman.”

“And I see ...a man who’s so afraid to lose control.”

“In my world, you lose control, you die,” Harm reminded the Admiral.

“Maybe when you were flying, Commander, but not as a JAG officer. You’ve got to let go of that lifeline before it becomes a noose.”

“No sir...I have to hold on to that lifeline...if I don’t I’ll lose her for good...and my career.”

“You think if you deny your feelings for her - for each other - you’re going to get anywhere? Come on Rabb. Where will this thing take you if you don’t open up...tell her what you feel...accept that she feels the same for you too?”

“I don’t know she feels the same sir.”

“I do. I saw her when you were lost at sea. I saw the way she fought to be strong for you. I also saw her struggle to face her feelings and then accept them. You may be surprised Commander. Let go of that lifeline of yours and face this thing head on. You might find things turn out better then you had hoped.”

“Who sent these pictures sir?” Harm asked needing space from where the conversation had swept them.

“Captain Greason with the Navy Times called me. He wanted me to have a chance to find out what was going on before he was forced to publish them as part of an expose’ on corruption in the JAG ranks.”

“We haven’t done anything illegal sir.”

“I know that...but even the hint of impropriety can be enough to cause scuttlebutt that can sink the Navy and the Marine Corps. We need to come up with an explanation and a plausible enough statement to take the steam out of this thing up front. Got any ideas?”

“Not at the moment.”

“I say we call Mac and tell her about the pictures. Perhaps then we can put our heads together and come up with a plan of action.”

“Aye, aye sir.”

“Get Mac on the speaker phone. I’ll have Tiner fax these to her.” The Admiral took the folder to give to Tiner to fax to Colonel Mackenzie on board the USS Seahawk.

Meanwhile, Harm was placing the call to the ship. Mac was not in the JAG office, so he had to leave a message for her to collect the file being faxed and then to call him in Admiral Chegwidden’s office ASAP.

Atlantic Ocean

USS Seahawk

“Colonel Mackenzie!” called Petty Officer Coates as she tracked down the temporary JAG.

“Yes Coates?”

“Sorry Ma’am. You have an urgent message to review this file and call Commander Rabb immediately. They are waiting in Admiral Chegwidden’s office for your call, Ma’am.”

“Thank you Jennifer. Any idea what’s going on?”

“No Ma’am...but the Commander sounded odd, Ma’am.”

“Odd?”

“Yes...like he was upset but trying not to be.”

“Thank you Coates.” Mac hurried back to the JAG office which also served as her quarters. She opened the file as she hurried along and almost tripped. Pictures of her wrapped in Harm’s arms; pictures of their lips lingering; gazing into one another’s eyes; holding baby AJ looking as if it was their own child they were holding...what was going on? Rushing the final distance to the office, she called the familiar number at home and asked for Admiral Chegwidden’s office.

[Admiral Chegwidden]

“Sir, its Colonel Mackenzie...I got the file and the message. Commander Rabb?”

[I’m right here Mac.]

“Where did these come from?”

[I received a call from Captain Greason with the Navy Times. They have been working on a piece that had to do with corruption and he wants me to give him a statement explaining how this isn’t an indication that there is wide spread corruption among our JAG officers in the field. He’s going to use these pictures to embarrass both of you, JAG Headquarters and the Navy and Marine Corps in general.]

“But sir,” Mac started not sure what to say as she looked at the pictures again. “We have never crossed the line.”

[I believe you Mac, but as I said to Harm, even the hint of impropriety...]

“I know sir...who took these pictures...I mean the one of us with the baby looks like a picture of a picture...I mean we each have a copy of the picture taken at little AJ’s christening...but how did they get a picture of it?”

[Where’s your picture Mac?]

“At home in my bedroom on the dresser.”

[Mines on the book case at home...just inside the door.]

[It could be someone was in your apartment and took a picture of the picture. Mac, I asked Harm to tell me about these pictures. I’d like to hear what you have to say too.]

“Do I get to hear what Harm said?” Mac asked in an attempt to hedge on the request.

[I hope so, but probably not until you get to Norfolk...and we need to come up with something now. I know its going to put you both on the spot, and I see what I see in those pictures, but I’ve got to ask - exactly what is your relationship to each other?]

[“Friends.”] they answered simultaneously.

[I have eyes and I can see those pictures. If I’m going to help you, you need to level with me...now. You both claim the truth is everything...well I’m about to put you both to the test. Harm, are your feelings for Mac more involved then friendship?] AJ asked his gaze locked on Harms.

Oh God...he’s going to know! Mac thought to herself as she listened to what AJ was asking Harm and waiting for his answer.

[Yes sir.]

[Mac, are your feelings for Harm more involved then friendship?]

Mac sighed. She could do this. “Yes sir.”

[Is there any kind of commitment between the two of you?] AJ was greeted with a silent pause. [Harm...Mac...is there a commitment between the two of you?] He almost didn’t hear the faint yes each of them whispered. [Okay...let’s hear it.]

[When little AJ was born, Mac was feeling down...everything was changing...Chloe was leaving...I was heading back to the carrier...she was still trying to put her life together after her husband showed up, the murder trial and the stalker...anyway, I promised her that if neither of us was in a relationship in five years, we’d go halves on a kid...have a baby together...we shook on it.]

“Harm doesn’t go back on his promises sir,” Mac whispered, from her seat at the desk where she landed when her knees buckled when Harm admitted to their deal to the Admiral.

[There’s another year and a half to go on our deal sir.]

[Have you ever acted on your feelings for each other?]

“Sir?”

[I’m not sure I understand your question, Admiral.]

[Why doesn’t that surprise me? Alright Rabb...have you two had sex? Is that plain and simple enough for you?]

[Yes sir...no sir...I mean...]

Mac could picture Harm blushing as the Admiral grilled him and was glad neither of them could see her blush or smile.

[At ease Rabb...are you engaged?]

[No]

[Married?]

[No sir.]

[Why not?]

[Sir?]

“Sir?”

[Look, I’m trying to find a solution here...and I may be on to something. Would it be fair to say that the fact you work together has stopped you from opening up about your feelings for each other and made either of you hesitate to make a commitment to the other?]

“Yes sir...that would be very accurate from my standpoint,” Mac admitted feeling more at ease now. Maybe this was what they needed to get everything out of the table.

[I agree sir.]

[Very well. I’m going to put a plan together. We’ll contact you later to fill you in, Mac.]

“I’ll be waiting for your call sir.”

[Dismissed.]

Once the call disconnected, the Admiral turned to Harm. “I want you to see if you can get a handle on who might want to blackmail either or both of you and who would have done this that was at those gatherings. Bring Bud in on this. It will keep his mind occupied...talk it over with him at his house. I’ll call you later.”

“Yes sir.”

PART 3

Admiral Chegwidden looked at the pictures again. He grabbed the phone and placed another call to Colonel Mackenzie aboard the USS Seahawk.

[Colonel Mackenzie.]

“Sorry, Mac...but I need to ask you some more questions...without Harm listening in.”

[Thank you sir...what do you want to know.]

“Did you know how deep your feelings for Rabb were when you were planning to marry Mic?”

[No sir...I mean I thought of him as my best friend still...and at my engagement party, I thought we had more or less agreed that we were good friends and would always love each other as friends...I mean he never indicated he wanted anything more from me before. We even talked about the deal and I told him it was null and void. I seriously thought that we had put any lingering doubts behind us that there was any romantic interest between us. I leaned into him to kiss him goodbye and as I stepped back, he reached for me...and somehow someone got a picture of us... I know it looks bad, Admiral.]

“Maybe not that bad, Mac. Harm’s trying to figure out who would take the pictures and who might want to blackmail one or both of you. We’ll keep you posted on that. Now, a couple of more questions....”

[Alright sir.]

“Did the two of you ever sleep together on any cases you were assigned?”

[Define, ‘sleep together’ sir.]

“Mmaacccc...I mean had sex...you’re as bad as Rabb,” he muttered under his breath making Mac smile.

[No sir. There were times we had to sleep in close proximity to one another...like in the desert in Afghanistan and years ago when the poachers shot me...but no sir, no carnal knowledge of one another.]

“Good. Now the tough one Mac....do you love him?”

[Yes sir....as more then a friend.]

“Would it be fair to say that if your careers were not an issue and he asked you to marry him, you’d agree?”

[That would be a fair assumption sir.]

“How do you like being on a carrier Mac?” a crazy idea entered his head before he forgot it just a s quickly.

[Short term its not bad...but I miss my own bed.]

“I hear you Colonel...look, I’ll fill Rabb in and then have him get in touch with you as to what our statement should be.”

[Aye, aye, sir.]

Once again AJ sat back against his seat and thought. There was a simple solution. If he transferred one or both of them out of his command, then they would be free to get on with their lives. If they were to announce their engagement after a seven year courtship, the scuttlebutt would die...they’d look like heroes sacrificing their personal relationships, hopes and dreams, for their country. The solution seemed simple...getting Rabb and Mackenzie to agree to it...well, who knew anymore how these two would react.

Chegwidden fired up his computer to see what openings appropriate to 05 officers would be available in the area. The answer was so easy that Chegwidden almost missed it. The Joint Chiefs were looking for a JAG advisor and preferred Navy or Marine Corps to fill the opening. AJ picked up the phone and called Admiral Kly.

“I understand you’re looking for a cutting edge advisor for the Joint Chiefs.”

[We are...want to give me Rabb?]

“Maybe.”

[What did he do to get on your bad side, AJ?]

“Nothing...I don’t want to lose him, but I need to reassign either Rabb or Mackenzie to another command before they come unhinged.”

[Too many arguments?]

“No...too much UST.”

[UST? You lost me, AJ.]

“Yes, well let’s just say if they decide to get married, I need to move one out of my command.”

[Married huh?]

“Yeah...I’d like to keep them close though...if I don’t I can’t see either one giving up their career at this point...maybe in a few years.”

[I suppose you want to borrow Rabb to try cases when we don’t need him.]

“That would be perfect,” AJ agreed.

[You know we all want Rabb...so yes...I’ll take him if you are serious...and I’ll let him work cases when you need him...and we don’t.]

“Thank you Admiral Kly.”

[My pleasure Admiral Chegwidden.]

Roberts Residence

Falls Church

“Commander Rabb...it’s good to see you. Come on in.”

“Thanks Bud. Harriet out?”

“She took AJ to return some movies and pick up a few more.”

“Look Bud, I’ve got a sensitive issue I’m working on, and the Admiral suggested you might be perfect to help with this.”

“I’d like to help if I can sir.”

“Bud, someone appears to be trying to blackmail Mac and me...they’ve followed us and taken pictures of us...private pictures when we thought we were alone.” Harm couldn’t hide his smile when he saw Bud blush as he handed him the folder with the duplicate pictures Harm had made for the file. “It’s nothing like that, Bud.”

“Mac and Mic’s engagement party?”

“Yeah.”

“Isn’t this one...and these...in front of our old apartment?”

“I think so.”

“It had to be someone that’s been here before....that is from our JAG office.”

“But who? Who really isn’t happy with us, Bud?”

“It’s obvious sir...Lt. Singer.”

“I should have thought of that myself. Thanks Bud. I’m glad God didn’t let anything happen to that mind of yours.”

“Glad I could help, sir. What’s going to happen to you and the Colonel because of all this?” Bud asked, concern for his commanding officer and friends apparent on his face.

“That depends on the Admiral Bud. He’s asked us a lot of personal and pointed questions. I think he’s got some ideas as to how to counteract the potential fall out so that the Navy doesn’t get burned, but I don’t know if there will be fall out on Mac and myself yet.”

“With all due respect sir, you and the Colonel have...denied anything other then a professional and friendly relationship for years, but to the rest of us...”

“Go ahead Bud...we’re friends and I’m in your home. Say it.”

“Well it just seems that you and the Colonel have a connection sir that’s closer even then the one between Harriet and myself. In some ways, you’ve been like a married couple since you first met. I mean, I remember the tension between you when you first met, and I never thought it was because she and Lt. Schonke looked alike.”

“You didn’t?”

“No sir...I mean I know her appearance shocked you when you first saw her, the same way it did me and Keeter, but they were nothing alike personalities wise.”

“You’re right Bud...I felt different toward Mac immediately. I did think part of it was her appearance, but I knew right away that Mac had an impact on me that Diane never did. I loved Diane as a friend, and if she hadn’t been killed, I might have convinced myself I loved her as something the more then that.”

“The way the Colonel did with Mic.”

“You’re right Bud. I hadn’t thought of it that way before...but you’re right.”

“What are you going to do now sir?”

“Well Bud, I’m going to go see Admiral Chegwidden and tell him what we came up with. I’m going to listen to his plan. And when Mac gets home, I think I’ll find a way to convince her to sit down and hear me out.”

“If you need help sir...” Bud trailed off as he and Harm exchanged smiles.

“I’ll let you know if I do. Thanks agin Bud. You’re a good friend. Anything you need before I go?”

“I’m good sir.”

“Stay there Bud...I’ll see myself out.”

JAG Office

USS Seahawk

“Ma’am?”

“Yes Jennifer.”

“You seem preoccupied. Is something wrong?”

“Have a seat. I’m waiting for the Admiral or Commander Rabb to call me back. Do you have any idea who might have taken some photos of the Commander and me together on Christmas Eve?”

“I saw a few people with cameras Ma’am. It’s not surprising that someone would take pictures of you two together.”

“Why’s that Jennifer?”

“Because you two look so good together.”

“Oh...Anyway, when we left the Roberts’ to go to the chapel, did you see anyone come out just before Harm and me?”

“Not that I recall...wait a minute...I had been...watching...Lt. Singer and she did go back inside but she wasn’t gone long. She came out seconds before you and the Commander. I thought she had forgotten something but discovered the door was already locked when she went back in. She had a camera that night.”

“That would fit...thanks Jen.” Mac reached for the phone. “You may have given me the missing piece of the puzzle...Admiral Chegwidden please. This is Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie.”

Admiral Chegwidden’s Office

JAG Headquarters

Washington D.C.

“Yes Tiner?”

“Commander Rabb to see you, sir, and Colonel Mackenzie is on line three.”

“Send in Rabb and I’ll take the call...”Mac, hold on....at ease Rabb...Mac I put you on speaker phone...Harm’s here too.”

[“It’s Singer.”] Mac’s voice on the phone and Rabb’s voice in the room spoke at the same time once again.

“I guess that’s unanimous then...what do you have for evidence to back it up?”

“Go ahead Mac.”

“Thanks Harm...Coates remembered seeing Singer go back into Bud and Harriet’s building while she was waiting for us outside, but Singer wasn’t gone long and she came out of the building seconds before we did. Coates remembers seeing her snapping a few pictures that evening.”

“Bud and I came up with Singer too. She was at the engagement party and the Christmas party. She has been after Mac since the beginning. She didn’t like it when I told her I was onto her and watching her. I told her I would take her down if I ever had proof of some of the stuff I think she was behind.”

“Not only that sir, she’s not happy that I was here to investigate her medical condition and that she was shipped home early,” Mac added.

“I may have made it worse because I think I know who the father of her baby is.”

[“You do?”] This time is was Mac and the Admiral speaking in unison.

“Yeah...my brother, Sergei. They were pretty tight at the end...she took him to the airport and he had been out with her a couple of nights before that.”

[The timing would be about right...]

“I asked security to pick Singer up and bring her in for questioning,” Harm added.

“You will not conduct this investigation any further, Rabb.” Admiral Chegwidden punched the buttons on the phone, “Tiner, I want to see Major Barnes in my office ASAP...check with NCIS if he’s not still in the courthouse. If security arrives with Singer, have them wait with her in the conference room.”

“What do we do now sir?”

“You Rabb, need to clear your cases. Starting tomorrow you will be working with Admiral Kly and the Joint Chiefs as their advisor. Admiral Kly will lend you out to me when you are not needed or not in session. Colonel Mackenzie, you’ll catch the next COD back to DC and report in to me tomorrow morning. I’ll need you in Washington, Mac. Coates can handle anything that comes up and get it to us here until they dock.”

[Yes sir.]

“Harm, you pick up Mac and then go talk about what got us here in the first place. I’m calling Captain Greason and giving him this statement.” Admiral Chegwidden adjusted his glasses before he read the statement he had prepared. “This is a situation where two excellent officers felt duty bound to put their oath to their country before their feelings for each other. Once I became aware of the conflict they were dealing with, I arranged to transfer one of them to another command. This has freed them from any military restrictions that would prevent two senior officers from pursuing a more personal relationship if they so chose. It would appear that these photos were simply candid moments and someone has chosen to use them to try and humiliate and embarrass these two officers and the Navy. They will be found and prosecuted.”

[Thank you Admiral.]

“Yes...thank you. Mac, let me know where to pick you up and the time. We’re going to have that talk.”

[I agree Harm. It’s time to name the tune we’ve been dancing too all these years.]

“Alright...alright...enough touchy feely stuff. Clear out of my office. Talk to you tomorrow Colonel.”

[Aye, aye sir.]

Conference Room

JAG Headquarters

“What do you mean I’m being interrogated? By who? Under whose authority?” Lt. Loren Singer was showing signs of coming unraveled as she waited for the questioning to begin. The guards just stood still and silent ignoring her outbursts.

Loren had just arrived at her apartment when security had picked her up and hauled her back to JAG. She hadn’t had time to change out of her uniform, and the tightness around her waist was getting painful.

“I can’t believe the Navy is going to go to these extremes to uncover the father of this baby,” she mumbled under her breath. She looked up hearing the door open.

“Lt. Loren Singer?”

“Yes. Who wants to know?”

“Major Michael Barnes. I’m a Marine lawyer currently TAD to NCIS getting more experience in investigations.”

“So why am I being investigated?”

Major Barnes sat back and watched the female Lieutenant through squinted eyes. She was definitely playing it cool and not giving away a thing. Admiral Chegwidden had briefed him upstairs. Now it was his job to get her to open up to him. “Lt. Singer, did you attend an engagement party for Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie and Commander Michael Brumby at the home of Admiral AJ Chegwidden?”

“Yes. Most of JAG was there.”

“Were you also at a Christmas Eve party last year at the home of Harriet and Bud Roberts?”

“Yes. What is this all about?”

“I’m asking the questions Lt. Singer. Do you own a camera?”

“Doesn’t every one?”

“What kind is it?”

“I don’t know...its digital.”

“How do you save your pictures?”

“I save them onto CDs unless I want to print them out.”

“Have you ever taken any pictures of Commander Harmon Rabb Junior and Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie?”

“I don’t know...I guess they were in some group shots I took.”

“Where do you keep your CDs?”

“At home in my desk.”

“Would you give permission to search your home or would you be willing to hand over those CDs for us to study?”

“What? No!”

“Why not Lieutenant? What are you trying to hide?”

“Nothing.”

“I don’t think so. I think you have the pictures on a CD that match the ones sent to Admiral Chegwidden. Are you going to hand over the CDs or force us to get a search warrant?”

“Better try to get your warrant...I can have it blocked.”

“How would you do that?”

“Make a few calls.”

“Oh, so you have other pictures on other people in the legal or judicial field that you plan to threaten the judges with to get your way?”

“I never said that!” shouted Singer, her composure slipping at the quiet unassuming approach of Major Barnes.

“Calm down, Lt. Singer...its not good for your baby for you to get so upset.”

“Screw the kid! I planned to get rid of it...tomorrow...but I need to see when I can get a flight to San Diego. I have nine days left to get an abortion. Don’t stand in my way!”

“Lt. Singer, you are not doing yourself any favors here. I have been charged with conducting this investigation to determine if there is enough evidence to prosecute you for blackmail and conduct unbecoming. Your lack of cooperation is raising questions.”

“I know my rights and you are suppose to provide me with counsel.”

“That’s true - after you’ve been charged. You haven’t been charged - yet.”

PART 4

Harm leaned against the front of the corvette, his ankles crossed. He had gone home and changed into civilian clothes before making the drive to Pax River to pick up Mac from the COD.

As Mac exited the plane, she saw Harm parked just outside the gate. She had to smile. The man looked good enough to eat in those well worn jeans that were so soft to the touch, his beige body hugging sweater and his leather jacket. Even his well worn athletic shoes looked good on him. He pushed off the Corvette and started walking toward her.

Their eyes met and held as they walked closer and closer together. Mac bit her lip as she realized that one of her favorite daydreams just might come true. When she had been with Brumby he had often met her after a return flight. While she was usually glad to see him, her heart didn’t accelerate as it had just now seeing Harm waiting for her. The closer he got the more intense his gaze. In her daydreams he had always taken her into his arms and kissed her.

They were almost toe to toe and Mac felt her breath catch in her lungs as he bent forward and his mouth moved closer to her. Her eyes closed as she felt the silky soft brush of his lips against her own. She was powerless to keep hers from responding, even if they were in the broad daylight.

“I’ve wanted to do that so many times,” Harm whispered as he stood up again, his smile almost blinding.

“Really?”

“Yes.”

“I’ve always wished you would greet me like that when I got home.”

“Shall we go to my place or yours to talk?”

“Can we go to my place so I can shower and put on civies?”

“Of course. While you shower and change I’ll get some food ready for us.”

“Probably not much in my cupboards,” Mac warned.

“I’ll run to the store, then. You go relax.”

“Thanks,” Mac smiled and Harm reminded himself to breathe when he saw her appearance change from cool, efficient, Marine to soft and gentle woman. It was one of the many things about her that fascinated him.

Harm had dropped Mac off before heading for the store. She had leaned toward him, her face raised for a quick kiss, before slipping out of the Corvette. Harm watched her cross the street before starting up the stairs to her place. He couldn’t believe that they were finally in a position to act on their feelings and find out exactly how deep and real they were. As he headed for the store he thought about all the reasons he hadn’t been ready to explore what they had between them.

When he had left JAG to return to a flight squadron, part of him had done it to get space from the two women in his life - Mac and Jordan. He had been trying to figure out why he couldn’t commit to Jordan and what his growing fascination with Mac and finding ways to tie her to him - to his life. It had led to the baby deal they had made. He knew then, when Mac had agreed to it, that she wanted to be tied to him too.

When Jordan had walked out and broken things off, because he hadn’t talked it over with him, he had realized that it had been a huge mistake, but one that he knew he’s repeat again. Mac had been upset too, but he had chalked it up to the timing and the fact that she had a lot of losses hitting at the same time. Even being hurt Mac had not walked away. In some ways she had wanted to be closer to him. She had started popping up in his office when he least expected it. The day he had left JAG, she had waited for him in his office. He had closed the door to give them a more private good-bye. He was still sorting out his feelings when she had asked him if he was in love...well not quite that way.

They had been talking about how he had wished her well when she had left JAG and he reminded her that she had been in love. She had looked at him with tears shimmering in her big brown eyes and asked, “And you’re not?”

Her words had hit him hard. He felt the tears come to his eyes making them shiny too and deflected her by asking, “What’s love got to do with it?”

But he had known then that the feelings he had for Mac were love. He didn’t know if it was the love of a friend or something more but he knew he had to find out and he had hoped being away would help him sort things out. It hadn’t of course at least about Mac.

He learned that he still loved to fly but he missed being a lawyer. And when he returned he learned that he was jealous as hell that she had appeared to move on with Mic Brumby. He had never gotten past that situation when Brumby had tried to hang Mac out to dry during the murder trial. Even Bud had noticed it, especially when they were in Australia.

Sydney, Australia kicked up its own set of memories, as Harm cashed out at the grocery store. Mac had wanted to start an affair with him while they were there. He had told her he wasn’t ready to do that. She had taken him by surprise. Some part of him knew that once Mac was his, he wouldn’t be able to let go, and if she wasn’t as ready as he was to make a long-term commitment they were setting themselves up for heartache. So he had put her off...and she had turned to Brumby.

By now the thoughts cascaded one over the other as he tried to figure out what he would say to her and how, but the memories wouldn’t stop either. They say you learn from history, so Harm let the memories in hoping he would learn from their history.

Mackenzie Residence

Georgetown

Mac stepped from the shower and wrapped herself in a fluffy yellow towel. She used another smaller towel on her head toweling her slightly longer hair dry before running a comb through it. She smoothed lotion on her arms, leg, and body before using a moisturizer on her face. Her toe nails and fingernails weren’t painted, and she longed to paint her toenails, but there was no time before Harm would return.

After drying off, she pulled on a pair of barely there panties and a matching bra that would give her light support - enough to be decent to entertain company but light enough to still be comfortable. She reached for a pair of sweat pants that were soft and comfortable but hesitated. She opted for the mini-dress instead. Having her long legs bare felt so good. She had worn pants on the ship every day. She felt like a woman...and sexy...in civilian clothes after being TAD. Mac loved the feeling. Besides, she had a hunch that Harm would like having access to her long bare legs. At least she hoped he would.

Harm bounded up the stairs to Mac’s apartment carrying the groceries. Between the grocery store and her apartment he had made an astounding realization. He knew the dance they had been doing the last year, since the Jag-a-thon...it was called dating. It had almost stopped him dead in his tracks when he realized that despite their best efforts to avoid a relationship and not get involved, they had actually been dating but calling it building a friendship. No wonder the idea of marriage and starting a family didn’t scare him silly anymore. All those questions he had harbored years ago when he had looked at Mac as a friend and partner while he had dated Annie, Jordan and even Renee had now been answered.

The baby deal had been a way to keep them connected, but they didn’t need that anymore as far as he was concerned. He loved Mac. They had been dating and he knew that he would never tire of her company. He loved her sassy comments and sarcasm to cover her doubts and insecurities. He loved how soft and touchable she looked at times when she allowed herself to be a woman while the Marine rested. He wanted to love her body too if she would let him. The quick kisses earlier had given him hope. At her door he hesitated deciding between letting himself in and knocking. Before he could decide, the door opened.

Mac went to opened the door for Harm when she heard him bounding up the stairs. He was just getting ready to knock when she opened it.

“Hey Sailor...what’s for dinner?” Mac asked.

Harm stood in front of her with a dazed expression on his face as his eyes dropped to follow her legs down to her barefeet and then back up until his eyes once again met hers. “Nice legs.”

“Chicken?”

“What?” Harm asked as Mac reached to pull him into the room.

“I asked what’s for dinner...you said nice legs...I asked, chicken?” Mac repeated.

“No yours.”

“We’re having my legs for dinner?” Mac asked teasing him further.

“I could go for that,” Harm whispered leaning closer to Mac.

With one hand braced against his chest to keep some distance and ultimately some perspective, Mac tried again. “Harm...what’s for dinner?”

“Oh...aahhhh...Spinach Salad, baby carrots, boiled potatoes and grilled chicken.”

“Sounds good. Let me help you get things ready.” Mac led him to the kitchen where they worked side by side comfortably preparing their meal.

Anyone that didn’t know them would have seen two people sharing a small space working together as if every move had been choreographed, a sign that they were in tune with one another as if they had worked side by side for years, hours at a time. You got the sense that they both knew exactly where the others was at all times without looking. They talked about little things as they worked, like Bud’s progress, the Admiral’s relationship with Meredith, the latest call from Chloe to Mac in which she still acted mad at Harm, despite Mac’s best efforts to get her to once again accept Harm and not see him as the reason that Mac and Mic’s wedding never happened.

When they had finished their meal and cleaned up, Harm’s patience was about gone. He wanted nothing more then to move their relationship forward, and get on with the next phase of their life now that careers wouldn’t be in their way. He sat on the couch and caught Mac’s hand. She stopped and looked down into his face.

“What?” Mac asked.

“Sit down...please?”

“I was going to,” Mac assured Harm.

“I mean right here...beside me.”

“Okay...” Mac sat beside him with barely an inch between their legs. “I’m sitting...beside you.”

“Mac, I’ve been thinking. Our careers aren’t in the way anymore...let’s get married and start our family now,” Harm said quickly, their eyes locked, his hand holding hers.

“Did you just move our deal to have a baby forward?” Mac asked stunned.

“No...I figured we could cancel that...we’d get married now instead.”

“Now? As in this year? This month? This week?”

“This week is fine with me.”

“Harm wait...no...”

“Are you telling me you don’t want to marry me?”

“Yes...No...just slow down will you?”

“Why?”

“Harm, we’ve been dancing around each other for years trying to figure out what this was between us. I only admitted a short time ago that what I felt for you was the real thing...and I fought to keep it under wraps. I need time to get use to this thing...and to name the tune we’re dancing to...I’m not sure we’re dancing t the same song.”

“Why?” Harm asked, a little hurt and a lot confused judging by the expression on his face.

“Most people date and talk about what they want in life...in their future. Then they when they are ready they admit they love the other person...then if things still feel right and they want the same things and share a time line, they agree to get married. Once they decide to marry, they discuss when they want to start their family. We’re missing a lot of steps, Harmon.”

“I disagree, Mac. The steps aren’t missing...and we’re discussing the tune and other things now.”

“Harm...”

“Wait, Mac...hear me out.”

She nodded her agreement that she would listen while he explained.

“You said we were missing steps and I disagree...we talked a lot about what we wanted...you want a great career, a good man, and lots and lots of comfortable shoes...and a family. You want a man that can understand and accept you for who you are, whether you’re in Marine mode, or civilian woman mode. You want someone that can accept your quirks and moods without question, hold you when you’re lonely and kick your butt when they put their mind to it...especially when they challenge you to excel. Am I close so far?”

“Yes, but...”

“No buts yet, Mac...I’m not done. I figure we’ve gotten to know each other very well over the years. We know we will always love each other...we’ve discussed it. As for dating, that’s what we’ve been doing since you got back from your TAD to Indonesia and the Philippines. That’s what this whole year has been about. Going out, getting to know each other outside of work and without friends always around. The name of the tune this past year has been dating. I know what I want Mac, and I think we’d be good together...will you marry me?”

“Harm....”

“You need more time to decide...fine, but do you think its going to take ten months to decide?” Harm asked in desperation as his hoped sank.

“Harm please...once again we’re not on the same time line...”

“Are you holding me to the baby deal time line...You just want to wait until another year is up?”

“Oooooohhhhhh! Harm Stop it and listen to me!” Mac practically shouted, grabbing his face with her palms and turning his face toward her, so she could get eye contact and hopefully control of this disaster waiting to happen.

“I’m listening...”

“Fine. Now you’ve made some good points...” Mac slid her thumbs over his lips to keep him from talking. “When you put it that way, we have dated this past year. And we do know each other...sometimes too well. I know that in Australia you were not ready to move on. I know that when you make a promise, you don’t back out on it. I know you have a soft spot for kids, and I know we care about each other. I found out today that I no longer have to keep my feelings hidden from you because of our careers. You’ve thought this all through and are ready to go full speed ahead.”

“And you’re not?” Harm asked through her thumbs.

“Harm, in Sydney, you weren’t ready yet. Tonight, I’m not ready. I need some time to adjust to this whole concept...what if I hate it?”

“You won’t...I’ll make sure of it.”

“Harm...don’t rush me.”

“Okay...how long do you need? Ten seconds....ten hours....ten weeks...ten months....ten years?”

“Stop it Harm. You’re being childish.”

“Tell me this...when you think about your future, who’s you’re husband?”

“You are,” Mac admitted.

“Do you feel you have a great career?”

“You know I do.”

“Yes, but do you think you do?”

“Yes.”

“Do you feel I meet the standards of a ‘good man’?

“Most of the time, yes.”

“Do you have lots of comfortable shoes?”

“Yes, but I could use more,” Mac teased, realizing what he was trying to do.

“Fine, I’ll buy you a pair for an engagement gift if you’ll marry me.”

“Harm...”

“You were saying yes before, why change it now?”

“Because you are incorrigible,” Mac returned as she found herself leaning closer to him and felt one of his arms, slide behind her back.

“So?”

“Harm!”

“Yes Mac?”

“I don’t want to make the same old mistakes with you that I’ve made with other men in my life. I want to marry you. I want to have children with you...”

“Good! Then we agree. All we have to do is set a date, right?”

“Harm, its not that easy. We’ve never done more then exchange a few kisses...what if we’re not compatible that way.”

“Oh we’re compatible...maybe combustible,” Harm grinned.

“I’m serious.”

“So am I Mac....would you like a demonstration?” Harm offered.

Mac’s hands dropped to his shoulders of their own volition as her tongue darted out to lick her lips in anticipation.

Harm’s raised eyebrows reminder her of the look he had given her after their kiss under the mistletoe last Christmas. It was all she registered before her eyes closed and his lips met hers. Her arms tightened around his neck and his arms wrapped around her, lifting her toward his lap. Once he had her settled across his thighs, one of his hands began to roam up and down her leg. Each stroke inched higher under her skirt and up her thigh. He was lost in the kiss and the sensation of lips on lips while her body pressed against his in places.

Mac felt the electricity pass from his lips through her body as it arced again every where they touched. Never had she been as instantly turned on as she was right now. She could feel his large, gentle hand, rubbing her skin lightly from knee to hip, his thumb grazing her most intimate place as he settled his hand high on her leg as he caressed her thigh. Her body quivered wanting more but needing release soon as he teased her with barely there touches while his mouth devoured hers with a hunger she had never experienced.

Harm somehow kept his wits about him as he kissed and caressed Mac as he had dreamed of doing over the years. He could feel her mouth on his as hungry for him as he was for her. She certainly wasn’t thinking about slowly things down at the moment. He had waited for so long for this moment, he didn’t want to miss a second of the experience, so he exerted his iron clad pilots control as he quietly drove Mac wild with desire. He felt her body quivering in his arms as his thumb came close to her core. He could feel the dampness there already and hadn’t even come close to touching there leaving his thumb to barely touch her.

He knew she wanted him at this moment. He also knew she wanted it to be different between them, and this interlude was about showing her how good it could be between them. He had never had any doubts on that score, and he hoped Mac wouldn’t now either. But his control was the only thing that stood between them at the moment, and the last chance Mac would have to experience something different with a man, at least he hoped it was the last. He gambled that he was about to do the right thing. With his erection throbbing, rock hard between them, he eased back and ended the kiss, sliding his hand back closer to her knee.

He heard Mac whimper with need as he ended the kiss and rested his forehead against hers. In a voice husky with desire he whispered, “I think we both know now that we’re compatible...and combustible.”

Mac’s voice was weak, shaky with the desire still humming through her body as she tried to voice her objections. “Why did you stop?”

“I’m honoring your wish to take things slow. That was suppose to be a demonstration and I lost control for a minute and let it go a little further then I had planned.” Harm answered as he lifted his head and set her on the couch. Standing up he leaned over her, tilting her chin up to study her lips now swollen from his kisses. “I’d better go. We’ll talk tomorrow.”

He dropped a quick kiss on her lips and left a dazed Mac sitting alone as he made his way to the door. “Get some sleep Mac.”

As the door shut, Mac regained enough of her equilibrium back to react. “Get some sleep?” she shouted at the now closed door. “Are you crazy?” she added to herself knowing that he was long gone down the hall and wouldn’t hear him anyway. Mac let that kiss drift back through her mind, remembering the feel of his erection between them, reminding herself that he had been as turned on as she was. Then she got angry.

“That damn control of his!” Mac fumed. “I ought to go over there and finish what he started. How dare he play with me like that and then just walk away like it was nothing. Ha! I will pay him back for this...” Mac was on her feet and pacing around her living room by now. Her mind jumped from the passionate demonstration of his lovemaking skills to the information he had shared about his suspicions regarding the father of Singer’s baby. “And what right did he have questioning Singer when I was assigned the investigation? He could have clued me in and then let me see where it went. I told him that control of his would become a noose...and I’m the one that’s going to hang him with it!”

The telephone ringing interrupted Mac’s thoughts and she tried to break her emotions as she picked up the receiver. “Lt. Colonel Mackenzie.”

PART 5

Mackenzie Residence

Georgetown

[Hi Ma’am. We thought we’d call and welcome you home.]

“Oh hi Harriet...” Mac answered realizing that she had hoped it was Harm calling to so she could blast him.

[Are you alright? You sound funny.]

Shaking it off to talk to her friend, she responded more normally. “Sorry about that...I’m fine. I’m just ready to strangle Harm.”

[What did he do now?] Harriet asked with a chuckle.

“It’s what he didn’t do,” muttered Mac. Without thinking about it, she started to engaged in girl talk with Harriet. “Bud ever get you all hot and bothered and walk off cool as a cucumber for no good reason?”

[Oh yeah! Sometimes I swear that man had attention deficit disorder,] Harriet chuckled. [He’s stopped doing it after I figured out just how to turn the tables on him.]

“Anything you can share?” asked Mac.

Before Harriet could answer, she realized that Mac had said she was ready to strangle Harm. The direction this conversation was taking could only mean one thing and Harriet squealed with delight. [Are you telling me that you and the Commander are finally doing it?]

“I wish,” Mac mumbled under her breath again as she once again gained control of her wayward thoughts. “Harriet! It’s just this case. He’s withholding information from me again.”

[Sure he is...what else is he withholding?] Harriet teased.

“You’re not going to let this go are you?” Mac caved in with a grin, knowing she had put herself in this position and if the truth were told, she wanted to talk about this with someone. Mac knew she could trust Harriet. They had talked openly about a lot of things over the years.

[Mac, if you need to talk I’m here. If you don’t want to talk...I understand.]

“Thanks Harriet...I think I do need to talk. I’m not sure where to begin.”

[Just jump right in...I’ll ask questions if I can’t follow you.]

“Okay...Harm’s being transferred to another command starting tomorrow. That has opened the door for us to explore what, if anything, is between us. Harm being Harm dives right in and asks me to marry him...”

[You’re getting married?] Harriet squealed again in delight.

“Yes...NO...not yet...maybe,” Mac finally got out.

[Okay...that’s clear,] joked Harriet.

“I told Harm that I do see us getting married and having a family some day, but I wanted to be sure I didn’t repeat past mistakes. Harm had told me once that I was to eager to jump into a relationship with a man. He said that when they show interest I’m ready. I told him that I thought we should take it slow and reminded hi that we didn’t even know if we would be compatible together.”

[What did he say?]

“He told me he thought we’d not only be compatible but combustible and offered a demonstration.”

[And did you take him up on it?]

“Yes.”

[And?] Harriet’s smile was evident in her voice.

“That man can kiss!” was all Mac said at first.

[So what’s the problem?]

“He stopped! Him and that damn control of his...here I am all hot and bothered and wanting more and he stops, sets me to one side and calmly says, I’ll see you tomorrow...you’re right, we should take it slow...and out the door he goes.”

[Go after him.]

“See that’s the thing of it Harriet...he’s right. I was right and he listened to me...again! I said I didn’t want to make the same mistakes I’ve made before, but the first time he really shows interest, I’m ready to through caution to the wind and go with it. I’d have finished what he started and then kicked myself and him for it knowing that I just fell into the same pattern with him I have all the others.”

[So you’re glad he stopped?] Harriet was now sounding a little confused.

“Yeah...I guess I am...I mean, how can I fault him for listening to me and abiding by my wishes. If it wasn’t for his control...I’d have made the same mistake again. No wonder he stopped us. I guess I should be glad he had that lifeline...you know I told him once he should let go of his lifeline before it became a noose...but I guess its good he held onto that lifeline a little longer.”

[But you love him?]

“Yes.”

[And he loves you?]

“He hasn’t said it in those words yet, but yes, I think he does.”

[Then Mac, I think you have to treasure the way he holds you in such high regard. I think you’ve domesticated that one, and he’s ready to get on with life...when you’re ready.]

“That’s just it Harriet...I’m ready for some parts of this relationship and not other parts.”

[So call him up and thank him for putting the brakes on, and tell him that while some things you’re ready for, other things you’re not. Talk to each other. You know, sometimes I think Bud and I spent more time on the phone after a date then we did at any other time.]

“Thanks Harriet...maybe I will.”

[So he’s good, huh?]

“Oh yeah...and all he did was touch my leg and kiss me,” Mac admitted with a grin.

[Ooohhh...I’ll never look at him the same,] Harriet giggled, [But don’t tell him I said that.]

“You didn’t let the dress whites and gold wings drive you wild Harriet?”

[Hey, I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t noticed how good looking and sexy Harmon Rabb Junior was, but Bud is a good man, I love him and he’s all mine.]

“Yes he is...and I think a good man is what we all want...anything else is icing on the cake.”

[Exactly.]

“Thanks again, Harriet...I’m going to call him...talk to you soon.”

Mac sat the phone back down and headed for her bathroom. Stripping out of her clothes, she slipped the white cotton nightie on over her head and slipped into bed. She reached for the phone and dialed Harm’s number.

Rabb Residence

North of Union Station

Harm had returned home still aching for Mac. After taking a cold shower and then resorting to manual methods, he had been able to relax. It had been one of the most difficult things he had ever done, walking away from Mac tonight. As much as he loved her and was ready to move forward, she had been right to ask for time. He had accused her of running to men when they showed interest, and yet he had expected her to do just that when he had finally let his guard down with her.

He knew what he wanted and he didn’t hesitate to go after it. Mac needed to show him that he wasn’t like all the others. He knew that if she didn’t, he was likely to throw that in her face someday which could destroy everything they had if he said even one more hurtful thing to her. He still couldn’t believe how cruel he had been he had claimed that every man involved with her was dead or wishes he was.

Not long ago, when he had been taking care of what he had started with Mac and not allowed them to finish together, he had thought about hurling that accusation at her through space again. Thanking his lucky stars she couldn’t read his mind or hear his muttering from afar, he had allowed himself the pleasure of knowing how good it would be for them, when they were ready to finish together.

He imagined that she had been pretty angry with him as soon as the daze had worn off, but he hoped that she would realize that it was his love and respect for her that had given him the ability to control himself so that they could move together more slowly. Harm began thinking about how he would move them along.

He would send her flowers tomorrow...just because she’s like them. He would invite her out to dinner tomorrow night on the invitation. They could talk about their work over the meal like a real couple. Maybe they would go somewhere so they could dance a little after dinner. He smiled, liking the idea of holding her close as they danced. He certainly never thought she was like a sister when he held her in his arms. Her body was amazing and his hands itched to learn more about it still.

The phone rang as he slid into bed that evening. “Rabb.”

[It’s me...thank you.]

“For what?” he smiled softly into the phone.

[Listening to me...stopping...the demonstration...]

“My pleasure.”

[Some pain too I’d guess.]

“Maybe a little,” Harm smiled at the carefully worded conversation they were having.

[Harm?]

“Yeah?”

[Hold onto that lifeline a little longer, okay?]

“Okay.”

[Will I see you tomorrow?]

“I hope so. You’ll hear from me...goodnight, Mac.”

[Good night Harm.]

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

It had been a crazy day already. Mac had reported to Admiral Chegwidden as ordered and been debriefed on her investigation into Singer on the Seahawk and the subsequent blackmail attempt. She had also asked him about bringing Petty Officer Jennifer Coates on board as her aide now that Harriet’s hours were limited with Bud’s rehab.

“Good idea. Tiner,” AJ spoke into the intercom on his desk. “Cut orders for Petty Officer Jennifer Coates to be assigned to at JAG under Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie’s command as administrative assistant to chief of staff.”

“Aye, aye, sir.”

“Thank you, Admiral.”

“You’ll be buried in cases with Rabb gone most of the time and we don’t know how long we’ll be without Bud. With the shortage of lawyers, I think this is a reasonable alternative. You and Rabb talk?”

“Yes sir.”

“Things okay between you?”

“We’re working things out, sir...reassigning the Commander does remove some of the obstacles. What happened with the pictures sir?”

“Captain Greason is not publishing them. Instead his expose will be on relationships in the military and the added complication when couples find themselves in the same command. You and the Commander will be mentioned, but no pictures.”

“Thank you sir.”

“Captain Greason also offered to provide a full statement as to how he received the information which clearly implicates Lt. Loren Singer.”

After her talk with the admiral, she had been interviewed by Major Barnes. She was impressed with the young man’s quick mind and later suggested to Admiral Chegwidden that he would be a worthy replacement for Commander Rabb’s cases. The Admiral had agreed.

Mac planned to tackle the new cases and the one lingering old case on her desk after lunch. Before she could head for the kitchen to warm her lunch, Harriet entered carrying a vase of flowers.

“For you Ma’am.”

“Flowers?” Mac grinned, reaching for the vase and inhaling their fragrance. The collection included pink and white carnations, some small pink lilies, and one perfect red rose surrounded by baby’s breath and greenery. Mac picked up the card and read it, knowing it had to be from Harm.

       I’ll pick you up for dinner at 1900 tonight. Harm

“Well?” asked Harriet.

“From Harm...he’s picking me up at 1900 tonight for dinner.” Mac felt like a silly teenager with a crush on the star quarterback...and she loved it.

“What are you going to wear?”

“Well, I don’t know where he’s taking me...so I need something that will work for lots of places...I guess my black cocktail dress.”

“The new one you got that’s got the halter top?” Harriet asked.

“Oh, I forgot I bought that one...maybe it would work. I was going to go with the more classic cut one I have.”

“How about this...I’ll call Harm and find out where he’s taking you so I can advise you without ruining the mystery.”

“Good idea...call him now.”

Harriet dialed his cell phone.

[Rabb.]

“Commander, its Harriet.”

“Yes Harriet, every thing okay?”

“Fine sir...I’m with the Colonel and she’s not sure what to wear tonight. Could you let me know where you are planning to go so I can help her decide and without ruining the surprise.”

“Don’t tell her...okay?”

“Yes sir...I promise.” Harriet listened as Harm named a top line restaurant in the city within walking distance of Mac’s apartment. “Wow...you’re serious aren’t you?”

[Yes...Think I’ve got a chance of getting her attention with this date?]

“Sir, I think you already have her attention.”

[Good.] Harm chuckled. [She right there?]

“Yes sir.”

[Will she talk to me?]

“Ma’am...Commander Rabb for you.”

“Thanks Harriet.”

“I’ll talk to you later Ma’am...I need to get back to my desk.”

“Harm, thank you. The flowers are gorgeous.”

[Did I embarrass you sending them to JAG?]

“No. It was nice.”

[How’s your day been?]

“Busy. How are things going for you?”

[Admiral Kly is giving me an hour to review some reports and set my office up, and then he’s taking me with him to meet some of the others over lunch. I get to pick my assistant after lunch. I was thinking about asking for Coates.]

“Really?”

[Yeah, you don’t think she would be good?]

“I think she’d be great...which is why I asked for her to be assigned as my aide. Admiral Chegwidden cut the orders this morning.”

[Oh. Well, I guess I’ll have to rethink things then.]

“Sorry Harm.”

[It’s okay. Hey have a good afternoon and I’ll see you tonight.]

“Bye.” Mac needed to find Harriet to find out what she should wear this evening. She wanted to wear something that would shake one Commander Rabb’s iron clad control. She thought the mini-skirt had worked, but at dinner, her legs wouldn’t be visible to him. It had to be something that he could see through out dinner.

Mac grinned as she thought about her options. Paying back Harmon Rabb for leaving her wanting more was going to be fun.

“Uh-oh...want are you up to Ma’am?” Harriet asked as she returned to Mac’s office.

“Shut the door Harriet...we’ve got plans to make and I need your opinion. You know where he’s taking me, right?”

“Yes.”

“Can I get away with something quite revealing?”

“Perhaps...what did you have in mind?”

“I have a low cut red dress that I was thinking about, that is slit up to there...and I know he likes my legs, but those won’t be visible at dinner, will they?”

“No.”

“That means he’s picked a classy place with table cloths, right?”

“Yes. Are you talking about the red dress you bought when we went shopping up in Baltimore?”

“That’s the one.”

“It would be perfect!”

“Not too much?”

“No...but leave your shawl on until you get there or you’ll never make it out the door,” Harriet told her. “You sizzle in that dress.”

“Thank you Harriet. With the new foundation garments I bought a few weeks ago, that dress should be drool worthy. Do you think I’m being too cruel?”

“Do you intend to follow through or cut him off?” Harriet asked trying to keep a straight face.

“I haven’t decided. If he behaves, he could get rewarded.”

Harriet hid her face behind her hand for a second before adding, “ or grovels enough.”

“Exactly!”

1852 Local

Mackenzie Residence

Georgetown

It had been a wild afternoon with interviews, staff scheduling and last minute phone calls. She had signed off on two plea agreements and refused a third. She hadn’t secured until 1815 which left her scrambling to get home, shower, apply make-up and dress before her date arrived.

She was applying the last touches of her make-up, dressed in the new foundation garments the same shade of red as her dress. She wore her sheerest silk stockings with a black garter belt. The slit in her dress would just conceal the tops on her nylons. Giving herself one more look in the mirror, she was satisfied with her efforts. She had decided to go for a highlighted natural look feeling it’s the look that would appeal to Ham most. Her eyes were high-lighted. Her cheeks and lips had just enough color to make her look flushed and ready to be kissed. She had planned to leave her hair flowing softly around her face but at the last minute pulled it back and up to leave her neck exposed.

Deciding that’s all she had time for she slipped into the dress and zipped it up just as the doorbell rang. Grabbing her purse, pulling the shawl around her and stepping into her high heel shoes she called out, “Be right there!”

She took a deep breath and opened the door. Harm stood on the other side dressed in a modern cut suit in charcoal gray with a pewter shirt in a shiny material and matching tie. He looked stunning. He held out a single red rose to her.

“You’re beautiful.”

“Thank you. Shall we go?”

“Do you feel like walking or driving?”

“Walking is good.”

“Shall we?” Harm offered his elbow and then locked and shut her door for her. “It’s not far.”

“I bet I know where you’re talking me...”

“Harriet slip up?”

“No, but there really is only one place close enough to walk to dressed like this.” Mac named a place and Harm confirmed she was right.

“How did you pull strings to get us in there?”

“Great timing,” Harm grinned.

“Could have fooled me...I thought your timing last night was off.”

“Just granting your wish to take things slow.”

“I know.”

“What? No threat of pay back? No sarcasm?”

“No reason. You were right...you were doing what I had asked.”

“There really is hope for us, isn’t there Marine?”

“Maybe...” Mac tried to hide her smile, knowing he would flip when he saw her dress without the shawl.

Once at the restaurant, Mac moved ahead of Harm making sure she turned so he would get a glimpse of her leg in the slit as she made her way through the tables behind the host. Harm followed, his eyes riveted on anything the slit would reveal. He could swear he had caught a peek at the top of her nylons and a black garter. His fingers were already itching to unhook it and roll those stockings down the long legs they covered. His body reacted immediately to his thoughts and he had to control a groan.

When they were seated, Mac, dropped the shawl around her shoulder to reveal the top of her dress. She waited while Harm accepted the menu and talked to the waiter before turning back to Mac. His mouth fell open when his eyes took her in. The neckline of the dress appeared to plunge to her navel, but with the flesh tone lace insert which was lined, she was fully covered. However, her bra was designed to make her breasts appear ready to fall out if she was to turn quickly or lean forward.

“Maaaccc...you’d better put your shawl back on. It’s kind of cool in here.”

“Really? I thought it was warm. You look warm. In fact, I could swear those are beads of perspiration on your lip and forehead.” Mac took a deep breath and the movement of her chest brought her breasts dangerously close to the edge of her bodice. He really was adorable when he was flustered.

Mac nonchalantly picked up the menu and started talking about what she was in the mood to order. “I think I’d like the Oysters on a half shell for an appetizer...do you mind?”

“Of course not...what ever you’d like.” Harm tried to tear his gaze off his date and look at the menu. He has hungry but what he wanted wasn’t on the menu.

PART 6

Some how Harm managed to make it through dinner. Sarah Mackenzie had pulled out all the stops and everything she did or said seemed to increase his state of arousal. He couldn’t tear his eyes off of her in that dress. One minute he wanted her covered so that no one else could see what he wanted access too, and the next minute he hoped she would lean forward just a little more, or turn side ways a little faster.

Watching her eat the oysters had been bad enough, sliding each one into her mouth, she had chewed and swallowed. Her neck muscles had mesmerized him in the candlelight and as she reached for the next one, his eyes were drawn back to her barely concealed breasts. He had other girlfriends in the past wear low cut dresses and none of them had effected him the way that Mac was in this dress.

Harm had relaxed while they ate their salads, but his piece of mind shattered when he watched her eat her lobster. It had been served cracked and ready to eat with butter and lemon in a miniature crock on its own little heating unit. The buttery morsels that she dipped and sucked into her mouth were bad enough, but the buttery glaze on her lips, as she ran her tongue over them and then delicately licked the tips of her fingers, sent his temperature up and his blood south. He couldn’t remember having been this hard over watching someone eat before.

“Harm, are you okay?” Mac asked as she finished her lobster.

“Yeah...why?”

“You’ve hardly eaten and you seem flushed.”

“I’m fine. Enjoying yourself?”

Mac controlled her delight and limited her smile to one of sincere pleasure. “I am...thank you.”

“Good.”

“What about you? Are you enjoying yourself?” Mac asked innocently.

“Yeah...I am...I always do when I get to spend time with you.”

“I would think it would be hard enjoying yourself when you’ve hardly eaten or said anything...unless it’s the view.”

“The meal and company are wonderful,” Harm managed to sound normal when he replied, despite the throbbing below his belt. Having Mac use enjoy, hard and view in the same sentence was arousing too.

“I see.” Mac knew he was trying to keep in control and be the gentleman with her. She however, had decided that they had danced long enough and instead of doing a tango, she wanted them to tangle - in the sheets preferably. Deciding that he needed a little more enticement before that control of his would shatter, she decided to order dessert. “I saw a chocolate mousse go by and I’d love one...you?”

“No...but go ahead.” Harm signaled the waiter and ordered her dessert. It was set in front of her with a flourish. Harm glared when the young man serving the dessert seemed to be glancing down the front of her dress. The young man scurried away and Mac couldn’t keep back a chuckle at Harm’s possessiveness of her.

Mac made each spoonful count. She would let him see her tongue as she circled the spoon to draw it into her mouth. With each swallow she would delicately moan. Each time she would say something like, “Oh that’s so good,” or “ It’s so silky smooth,” or Mmmm I love how it feels on my tongue...in my mouth.”

Harm swallowed, trying to remember to breathe. Mac was going to have to walk in front of him or everyone in the restaurant would know he had an erection that tented his dress pants beyond belief. There would be no hiding it unless he got himself under control and fast. The best he could hope for was to hide behind Mac.

He had called for their check and was counting down the minutes before he would be out of the restaurant, back to Mac’s and have her in his arms. But it wasn’t to be.

“Oh, Harm, can we dance.”

He was a dead man. There was no way she wouldn’t know. He had originally planned to dance with her, but in his condition it wasn’t a good idea. When she looked at him with those big brown eyes, smiled and held out her hand, he was gone. She looked so happy and he didn’t want to make her unhappy ever again. Somehow he got them onto the dance floor without anyone noticing. He was hoping that he had regained enough control so that they could both enjoy the dancing.

He held her as if they were at a formal military ball which wasn’t romantic but easily explained if necessary. They moved around the dance floor to the slow song and as it drew to a close the haunting melody of the song “The Dance,” made famous by Garth Brooks, but now performed by the stringed instruments and piano filled the room. Without the need to speak, both Harm and Mac moved closer together and kept dancing.

This was what it was all about...the dance...finding each other. There had been bumps along the road; heartache; pain; and joy. If you gave up one, you had to give up the other and what Harm and Mac were finally learning was between them, wasn’t something either was willing to give up. By the time the song ended, they were both speechless, lost in thought and need. Harm silently helped Mac put on her wrap and together they left the restaurant to begin the walk back to her apartment.

Harm’s arm was around her shoulders and back and rested on her hip. Her shoulder was tucked under his arm, and her arm circled his waist. Mac slipped her fingers into the waist band of his pants as they walked. She could feel his heat radiating from his body.

At her door, Harm unlocked it and let Mac enter first. He hesitated. As much as he wanted her he would take it slow if that’s what she needed. His control was back in place for now, although he knew it wouldn’t take much to fan the flames and send his state of arousal over the top once again.

“Thank you for going with me tonight.”

“Thank you for taking me.”

Harm leaned closer, planning to kiss her and then head home to cold showers and his palm once again. He would take it slow and bide his time if it killed him, if that’s what she needed.

Mac felt his lips brush hers as her eyes shut. She opened her mouth to welcome him and slipped her tongue inside to play with his as he traced her lips with his tongue until she enticed him deeper into her mouth. He pulled her body toward him then, his hands seeking, trying to touch her skin wherever he could.

Mac tilted her hips toward his, trapping the evidence of his arousal between their bodies. She heard him groan, and let her hands slip down his back to his six, pulling him closer to her still.

He was breathing hard she knew he wanted her. Her hands slid from his six to his belt. He felt her hands working between them as she freed his belt, button and lowered his zipper to reach him. Her hand grazed his hardness through the silky boxer that still covered him. She smiled and murmured her pleasure at the silky material covering him. She reached inside and ran her thumb around the head of his erection, feeling the dampness there. Letting her thumbnail delicately trace a line along the nerve filled cord on the underside of his penis was more then he could take.

Pulling his mouth away from hers, his knees buckling, he called, “Mac....”

“I want you Harm...are you going to try pretending you don’t want me too?” she asked as she cupped his full package still hidden from sight by his pants and boxers.

“I can’t,” Harm admitted.

“Why?”

“I think you know why, Mac.”

“I need the words Harm.”

“I know...I’ll never feel for anyone else the way I feel for you.”

“And how do you feel?”

“I...love...you...” Harm got out between long, deep, wet kisses.”

“And I love you...I need you...I want you...now Harm...please take me now,” Mac begged as she shoved the door closed after managing to get them both inside.

“I don’t think I can last long,” Harm admitted somewhat embarrassed by his lack of control.

“Give me what you’ve got...and don’t worry about anything else,” Mac told him.

Somehow he managed to control himself until they were in the bedroom and on the bed. Most of his clothes were gone. He had gotten Mac’s dress and shoes off. He was eyeing those stockings as she lay back on the bed and reached for him. He tackled her stockings, releasing each garter with a quick flip.

Each roll of the stocking down Mac’s long leg was repeated while he kissed himself back up each leg to her core. The scent of her arousal was evident as was the wet heat he found there when he eased those dark red satin panties down her legs followed by the garter belt. Her one remaining article of clothing was her bra. His boxers were still in place as he moved up her body to explore that last scrap of satin.

“God you are so beautiful...so alive...” he lowered his head to kiss her lips again before tasting her neck and the creamy skin between her breasts. He trailed his tongue along the edge of her bra, covering first one nipple with his mouth through her bra, before giving the other one similar treatment. He reached behind her to unhook it before lifting it away and exposing her breasts. They spilled out, nipples hard and erect, begging to be suckled. With a groan, he tasted them again without the barrier of cloth.

Mac’s hands had freed him while he had been removing her bra, and now, his erection protruded through the red satin gap standing proudly at attention, begging to be caressed and more.

“My turn to explore and taste,” Mac announced as she pushed him back on the bed, and rolled up onto his chest as she buried her face against the silky hair on his chest. Her teeth scraped his flat male nipples, and she felt them harden in her mouth as he moaned and she moved on lower. Her tongue danced through his navel and then flicked along the line of hair that disappeared under the boxer.

“These need to come off...lift up,” Mac ordered. He lifted his hips and Mac quickly removed them. Harm had always removed his own clothing and his erection jumped and hardened more when Mac undressed him. It was an erotic experience that was new to him.

Once he was free of barriers, Mac lowered her head to taste him, licking the drop of moisture beaded at his tip. Harm watched her and groaned.

“You taste so good Harm...I could lick you like this for hours,” and she proceeded to demonstrate as her tongue flicked out and rapidly circled the rounded silky head of his erection.

“Mmmm...”

“Mac...I...won’t...last...long...with you...doing that.” Harm struggled to speak his eyes practically rolled back into his head.

“So?”

“It takes me longer to get ready again...I’m no kid anymore....ooohhh...mmmm...nice.” Harm stammered as Mac moved lower to the heavy sac below. Her tongue darted out as she bathed him with her mouth. Her hands caressed and supported the throbbing fullness.

Harm had reached his limit and rolled Mac onto her back and returned his attention to her breasts. His fingers found her heated core and used moisture from her own body to moisten the bud of nerves hidden in her folds. He rubbed her with his thumb as he slipped two fingers inside her body and imitated the thrusting that his hips wanted to do. He could feel her tighten around him and he almost lost it when he watched her sail into space and then smile up at him as he lowered his head to kiss her and caress her breasts with his hand.

When his kisses wandered lower, Mac told him she wanted him inside her this time. Harm reached for his pants to find a condom in his wallet, but Mac stopped him.

“Harm did you mean what you said...earlier and last night?”

“Yes. I love you and want to marry you.”

“Then I want only you inside me. You’re clean and healthy...”

“I am.”

“Then why are you waiting?”

Harm moved between her legs, kneeling before her, using her own juice to lubricate them both as he positioned himself at her opening, he lifted one of her legs over his shoulder to give him a good position as he slowly entered her, filling her with his hardness. He knew when her body adjusted to the change of having him inside her. He leaned forward to capture her lips once more as he began to thrust and pull back in long even strokes. Her other leg, was wrapped over his hip and locked on his back near his waist. He watched her thrash her head and reach for him as her orgasm built within her.

When he touched the bud hidden in the folds between their hips, she cried out and vibrated with her passion and release. Harm followed, unable to hold back any longer as his seed poured from his body into hers with spasm after spasm. He rolled to his back, pulling her onto him as he collapsed exhausted.

Mac snuggled against him, equally as spent. She was glad it was Friday night and neither of them had to report for duty in the morning. Before long they slept.

Mac had woken a few hours later, to find a fully aroused Harm sleeping beside her. She had begun to touch him and explore him once again. He opened his eyes and watched her as she proceeded to give him the best oral sex he had ever experienced. It was even better then he had hoped and dreamed about as a horny teenager or cocky pilot.

After repeating the favor for Mac, they had slept again until morning. Once again Harm had found himself hard when he awoke. He watched Mac sleep, one leg over his, bent at the knee and placed close to a sensitive part of his anatomy. Her face on his shoulder, her hand in his held over his heart. He could feel her wetness on his thigh. He needed this woman again with a power he had never needed any one else. It scared, thrilled, excited and challenged him at the same time. He realized then at that moment, that Mac created the same feelings inside him as flying did.

For years his control had been his lifeline. Mac had told him to let it go before it became a noose. Harm knew, however, that he had a new lifeline and she was laying beside him in this bed. He also knew he wanted her.

Their eyes met once more. Instead of the awkwardness of the morning after, they were filled with love and desire so strong that they came together hard and fast with a passion that neither had ever let run wild before.

1002 Local

Mackenzie Residence

The ringing phone woke them and they reached for the phone at the same time. “I got it Harm,” Mac told him as she lifted the receiver.

[Guess I don’t need to ask if the plan worked.] Harriet’s smile carried in her voice over the telephone wires.

“Hi Harriet. We had a wonderful evening. He took me to dinner and then we danced and walked home.”

[And? He’s still there right?]

“Yes.”

[Was it everything you had expected?]

“More,” Mac grinned hearing Harriet’s gasp in her ear.

“Tell her you’re mine now and I’m not sharing this morning,” Harm told her trying to get the phone away from her.

“Harriet, the Grinch wants to get back to sleep...I’ll talk to you later.”

[I have a feeling its not sleep he wants to get back to. Have fun. Talk to you Monday.]

“Thanks Harriet.” Mac hung up the phone and rolled on to her back waiting for Harm’s next move.

“I suggest we take a shower, get dressed, eat something, and then make some plans.”

“What kind of plans Harm?”

“Things like where we’re going to live; when we’re getting married; how we’re going to announce that you are off the market...”

“And so are you Mr. Rabb.”

“You’re damn right I am...have been for a long, long time.”

“Oh yeah?”

“Yeah.”

“Good, then there shouldn’t be anyone I have to fight with to get you free and clear.”

“Do I have to fight anyone to claim you?”

“Just me sometimes...I think somewhere inside I don’t feel like I deserve to have someone like you so I put up roadblocks to my own happiness. Promise me you’ll help me remember that I don’t have to do that with you...please?”

“I’ll do my best Mac.”

“I know you will. We should call your mother and the Admiral...and I’ll need to call Harriet and Bud later.”

“Hold on...I think we should just go see everyone.”

“You do?”

“Yes. By doing that everyone is going to see first hand what our relationship is.”

“So lets shower, dress and eat while we figure out a wedding day.”

PART 7

One week later

Burnett Residence

La Jolla, California

“Mac stop fidgeting. Mom and Frank will adore you and probably embarrass me...so relax.”

“I’m trying to Harm.”

“Harm?” called Trish Burnett as she rounded the patio to greet her son. “This is Mac isn’t it?” she asked before Harm could introduce them.

“Yes. Mom, Sarah Mackenzie. Mac, my mother Trish Burnett. Where’s Frank?”

“He’ll be along soon. May I call you Mac?”

“Please do.”

“Thank you. I’m sure I’d never remember Sarah because Harm has talked about Mac all these years.”

“Its fine, Mrs. Burnett.”

“You must call me Trish. Tell me Mac, do you enjoy art?”

“I do...I don’t understand a lot of it, but I know what I like.”

“Very good. Are you staying the week?” Trish asked over her shoulder to Harm.

“No...we have to fly home Sunday.”

“Such a short visit, but I guess I should just be glad he final came out. It’s been awhile,” Trish acquiesced. “So what brings you out now?”

“Well, I’ll tell you when Frank gets here.”

Trish gave Mac a tour of the house and grounds while Harm waited on the patio for Frank.

He arrived just as the women were coming downstairs. Harm again performed introductions.

“Harm has something to tell us apparently, Frank. I asked him what brought them out here, and he informed me he would tell us once after you got home.”

“Is everything alright, Son?”

“Everything is good Frank...great even.” Harm stepped closer to Mac as his parents sat on the chairs in the living room. “I’ve asked Mac to marry me and she said yes.”

“Oh, Harm...Mac...I’m so happy for you!” gushed Trish.

“Congratulations Harm....Welcome to the family Mac.”

“Thank you Frank.”

“When’s the wedding?” asked Trish as Harm had figured she would.

“New Year’s Eve,” Mac announced.

“It’s only a couple of months away! There’s so much to do.”

“We’re all set, Trish, really. Our friend Harriet is a master at organizing and she’s agreed to help me. The Chapel of the Seas is available and reserved. Harriet has offered her home for the reception. Chloe can be here as a bridesmaid. Harm and I can both take leave for a honeymoon. It will be a small gathering and just what I really want.”

“Harm?” Trish Burnett asked shifting her eyes to him. She didn’t want to hurt Mac, but she needed to know that he was okay with the plans.

“Mom, its perfect, just like Mac said.”

“You can count on us to be there.”

“Good. It wouldn’t be the same without you there.” Harm told them.

They enjoyed the weekend with Harm’s parents. All four played golf, went our to dinner and dancing, visited the art gallery and caught up on the news. Sunday afternoon they caught the flight that got them in to Washington D.C. around midnight.

The identity of Singer’s child’s father was announced in the court martial. The commodities broker that had given her the braclet along with several other women, had returned to her life claiming he was only interested in her. They had started an affair the week before she deployed. Although she had spent time with Sergei, the one time they had sex, it had been protected. The broker, upon hearing of her pregnancy had arranged to meet her in Scotland where he was attending a world conference about the time she would be returning to the states. However, when he got wind of her troubles, he had informed her that he would take the baby but he would be reluctant to give her a chance to redeem herself again in his eyes.

Harm had been pacified because Sergei was ruled out, and someone had stepped up and taken their responsibility.

Thanksgiving came and went with everyone gathered at the Roberts home. Bud was recovering nicely and had been allowed to return to JAG for a few hours each day. He was restricted to desk duty, but Mac always had plenty for him to do, and it was never busy work. Bud knew the difference.

Harm was enjoying his job with Admiral Kly and the Joint Chiefs. He often traveled with one or more of them to hot spots, but was rarely gone more then a day or two. He was working one case for Admiral Chegwidden, but only because there was a connection to the things the Joint Chiefs were keeping tabs on anyway and it had the potential for becoming a hot case. They had all agreed that he should be assigned to the prosecution.

Jennifer Coates had been scheduled to arrive before Thanksgiving, but was delayed when she was accepted into a special training program being offered in San Diego. Mac felt that Jennifer should go and so her start date had been pushed back to the week before Christmas.

Harm and Mac had been looking at new places to live. They both liked his loft, accept for not having a guest room. They both liked Mac’s place, but again, she didn’t have a guest room. They looked at both rentals and houses to buy before stumbling on a town house in Arlington that was perfect for their needs. They would be able to move in on the first of January.

Harm made arrangements with the movers to pack up their apartments on the last day of December, and deliver it to the townhouse on the second of January. Sturgis would be there to let them in. Mac had arranged with Harriet to come in an unpack the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom linens as well as a few necessities, so they could function when they got home.

Retired Admiral Thomas Boone was called in by the Joint Chiefs to work with Harm on a project just before Christmas. Harm had worked late into the night to get his things packed before he left on a short trip with Tom Boone the week before Christmas. Mac’s apartment was basically packed as well, and they had made reservations to move into a hotel until they moved into the new house. Harm had found a buyer for the loft and Mac was giving up her lease on the apartment. So many things were changing for them, but they were the happiest they had been in a long, long time.

Two days before Christmas, Tom Boone and Harm were standing on the crow’s nest of the Patrick Henry watching flight ops. “You miss it Harm?” Tom asked.

“Not like I thought I would.”

“Really. Are the rumors true?”

“What rumors?”

“That you and Mac are getting married and your relationship gives you more thrills then flying?”

“Shit Tom...did we forget to invite you?” Harm looked at his father’s wingman and best friend; a man that had tried to be a surrogate father figure for Harm in hid early years, but made a much better friend in the long run.

“No, I got the invitation boy...I’m just yanking your chain.”

“Then, yeah...Mac is the most important thing in my life. I need her like I thought I use to need flying to live. Now I’m a lawyer and a legal advisor that enjoys flying once in awhile.”

“You do got it bad for her,” Tom chuckled. “Your worse then your old man, you know.”

“Really?”

“I’ve never said much about this to you before...didn’t want to tarnish his image in your mind or heart I guess...but your old man...he married to young. It wasn’t that he didn’t love your mother, because he did. But he always wondered what it would be like with another woman, or if there was someone out there they would be a better match then your mother. They had their differences and she often blamed me for their problems...the truth was, neither of them would give an inch for the other. When they were together though...man they made each other light up.”

“I know, Tom...I’ve got a picture of them when they were waiting for me to be born.”

“I know the picture...I took it.”

“I had forgotten that,” Harm admitted.

“Your mother and father loved each other Harm. Don’t ever doubt that. But they married in a hurry when they were still young. He was deployed more then he was home. They hadn’t had time to sow wild oats or build a trust between one another. You were smart, son. You waited and made sure that you had the trust between you to go with the love.”

“She’s my lifeline now Tom.”

“I believe that. Come on...looks like they’ve wrapped up for tonight and my old bones are getting cold and achy.”

Christmas Eve

Roberts House

Mac closed the cell phone as she waited and watched for Harm. Meredith had just shocked them all by playing the piano beautifully so they could sing Christmas carols. Little AJ was helping her pick out songs. Bud and Harriet were telling everyone the story of how they discovered she was pregnant again earlier in the day. Big Bud and some Chief Warrant Officer from BUPERS were chatting in one corner, while Mike was trying to help Harriet to get things ready for the dinner. And Sarah Mackenzie was waiting for her fiancé to show up.

“You okay Mac?” asked the Admiral at her shoulder.

“I’m fine...just a little concerned that Harm’s not back. He was sure he would be here before noon today.”

“Did you call his cell phone?”

“Yes and left several voice mails. I called and left a message on his home voice mail too. If you remember that last time he flew home to be somewhere for me, we almost lost him.”

“Mac, don’t beat yourself up about this. He’s probably just running late.”

“I hope so. I don’t think I could handle it if anything happened to him now.”

AJ studied her for a minute. “Is everything all right, Mac?”

“You already asked me that once.”

“So...level with me.”

“I can’t...I need to talk to Harm before I start telling everyone else.”

“But I bet I can guess. Harriet isn’t the only one that just found out she is pregnant is she?” AJ guessed.

Mac’s quick look at her commanding officer told him all he needed to know. “It’s okay Mac... I won’t say anything. He’ll be thrilled. You know that, right?”

“Yes. Thank you...”

Harriet called them all to the table then putting Harm and Mac across from one another at the far end of the table, but closest to the door. Bud was just giving his thanks, when a commotion at the door was heard, and Harm came in flashing his giant smile looking for Mac.

They exchanged a heated glance and a toast, as Mac blew out the breath she had been holding while she waited for him. His wings were missing and she asked about them. He promised to fill her in later. Sounded like they had a lot of talking to do tonight.

The dinner was good, but the company was great. Harm and Mac excused themselves shortly after dinner. Harm had missed the Christmas service which Mac had attended with the others. Harm had gone to the wall with Tom Boone. As they drove back to Mac’s apartment, Harm told her about their strange day, leading the Marine Corps plane with Toys for Tots in as he was Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer serving as a guide; meeting the Commander that flew the plane Harm had ejected from when he was trying to get back for Mac’s wedding; the kid at the wall that had earned his wings but was missing the ceremony, so Harm used his wings and Admiral Boone pinned them on.

“That was nice of you, Harm...and Tom Boone.”

“It felt like the right thing to do.”

Mac reached for his hand and held it on his thigh as they rode through the night.

“You’re quiet tonight Mac. Having second thoughts?”

“No. I think some of it is just the season. The service tonight was touching...about families.”

Mac felt Harm lightly squeeze her hand on his thigh. She really wanted to wait until they got home to tell him...but it was getting harder and harder to wait. Finally they arrived at the apartment and made their way upstairs. Harm grabbed his sea bag and tossed it over his shoulder as they walked upstairs.

Once in the apartment, he dropped his bag in the bedroom and changed from his uniform into a pair of well worn sweat pants and a long sleeve soft jersey. Mac was making them a cup of tea and they were each going to open one gift tonight. Harm could hear the Christmas CD start up as he joined Mac in the living room.

Harm handed Mac a small gift first. She tore off the textured red foil paper and gold ribbon. The size of the box hinted that it was a piece of jewelry of some kind. She was right. It was a heart shaped pendant with a diamond embedded on one side and an engraved inscription on the other.

         You are my Lifeline for Eternity

“Oh Harm...that’s so beautiful...its perfect. Thank you.” Mac wrapped her arms around his neck kissing him deeply. “Actually I have two gifts for you.”

“Mac, we agreed on one.”

“Well, the second one is kind of for both of us.”

“Who’s it from?”

“You’ll see...for now, open this one.”

Mac watched as Harm opened his gift from her. She had debated on what to give him, and had ended up getting him something for his desk. She watched as Harm lifted out the heavy polish stone like object. On each side was a gold frame attached that would hold a wallet sized photo. Along the top were two small hooks and under it was carved his name, Harmon Rabb Jr. In the box were tiles with title engraved on them that could be hung from the hooks. Harm located the one that said Commander and slipped it in place. Captain and Admiral were also in the box.

“Mac this is beautiful. Where on earth did you find it?”

“In Sedona last summer.”

“You’ve had this that long?” Harm asked in surprise.

“Yeah...you aren’t the easiest person to buy for you know.”

“I know...and I love it... Thank you.” Harm kissed his fiancé again.

“One more...” Mac said handing Harm the second gift.

Puzzled Harm opened up the box that looked like the kind a bracelet would come in. He removed the wrapping and lifted the lid. His brows were raised as he studied the little white stick trying to remember what it was and where he had seen one before this. He picked it up and looked it over deep in thought.

Something in his memory bank made him think of Harriet and Bud. He tried thinking deeper to figure it out. Like a slide show images of their friends flashed through his mind until it got to the night Harriet and Bud and joyful announced that they were expecting their second child...Harriet had handed one of these to Bud.

Slowly he raised his head and searched Mac’s face. Their eyes locked and she smiled and nodded at his silent question. Without a word he gathered her into his arms and held on tight, tears slowly sliding down his face as they were on Mac’s.

“We’re going to have a baby?” he finally asked just to be sure.

“Yes. Are you okay with that?”

“Yes...you feel okay?”

“So far.”

“When?”

“August, I think.”

“We have so much to do to get ready...”

Mac laughed then. “Harm, lets get through the wedding first, okay. It’s early yet and I think we should enjoy each step as we get to it. I also think we should wait a couple of months to make this announcement...unless the doctor says I have to go inactive or something.”

“Does anyone else know?”

“No...well AJ guessed. I wanted to tell you before anyone else.”

“Why didn’t you say you suspected you were pregnant?”

“I didn’t until the day you left. I did a home pregnancy test and then called the doctor. It was confirmed late this afternoon. Merry Christmas!”

“And Happy New Year,” answered Harm pulling her to him to kiss her and show her how much he loved her.

December 31

Chapel of the Seas

Falls Church, Virginia

“Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Rabb.” announced the Chaplain. Harm and Mac stood side by side facing the congregation. The church was overflowing as they looked upon the faces of friends and colleagues gathered to witness this event.

Mac wore a beautiful cream silk dress with shots of golden thread through it giving it a shimmer of gold. It was sleeveless and backless with small detailing sewn on in crystal and pearl beads and sequins. She wore her heart pendant from Harm. A crown of flowers in her hair. Harm had chosen to wear his mess dress with the black jacket. Bud Roberts served as Best Man while Jack Keeter and Sturgis Turner served as Ushers. Harriet Sims-Roberts served as Matron of Honor while Chloe Madison and Carolyn Imes served as bridesmaids. AJ Chegwidden had walked the bride down the aisle.

Trish and Frank Burnett had arranged for the reception in a hotel a short distance down the road from the Chapel. Many guests had reserved rooms for the double celebration - Rabb nuptials and New Year’s Eve.

After dinner and dancing and cutting the cake, Harm and Mac finally were able to make their escape for their honeymoon in the Bahamas. A week of fun in the sand and sun sounded heavenly after an early cold snap that kept the temperatures barely above zero degrees for several days.

EPILOGUE

0205 Local

August 17

Rabb Residence

“Harm...wake up. Harm, it’s time to go.” Mac poked her husband trying to get him to wake up enough to get her to the hospital. “Harm! Ow...ow...ow...Harm!”

“Mac...are you okay?” a groggy Harmon Rabb grappled with pushing away sleep and finding consciousness.

“Yes...No! I’m in labor.”

“Are you sure this time?”

“Oh yeah...my water broke.”

“OH! I already have your bag in the car...do you need help getting something dry on?”

“Thanks, but I’ve already done that...just...get...me...to...the...doctor...now.” She gasped out as another contraction hit. Harm was out of bed and pulling on his clothes, stepping into shoes, and wrapping a blanket around Mac to keep the chilly August night from chilly her in her nightgown.

Together they breathed through each contraction as he helped her down the stairs and into the Lexus. Belting her safely into the car, he headed for Bethesda. He had been at her side through every step of the pregnancy. He had been to appointments, watched the ultrasounds done, attended natural child birth classes to help her breathe through the pain.

They were pretty sure that she was carrying a boy although the ultrasound had not been conclusive. They had opted to decorate the nursery in a neutral tone that would work for either sex and for not go out of style. They had settled on a pale yellow for the walls with a teddy bear border and matching curtains. The furniture was a white washed oak. The floor was laminate with thick non-skid area rugs in front of the crib and changing table.

“Ooohhh Harm help me focus...this one is bad...” Mac gripped his hand as the contraction tore through her body. He made good time getting Mac to the hospital with the low traffic in the middle of the night.

He pulled up at the emergency room entrance and the staff were there to collect Mac and take her inside while Harm parked their car in the lot. Racing to find her, he got there as they were settling her onto an examination table. The nurse checked to see how far she was dilated.

“It will be awhile by the looks. You are only at three centimeters. You’ll need to be ten to deliver.”

“I feel like I’m at twenty already.”

“Are you in pain Mac?”

“No...but its uncomfortable...you know?”

“It’s like a pressure from your inside out,” the nurse added. “Sir, have you ever been constipated?”

“Why?”

“If you have, you’ll have an idea of the kind of pressure she’s got at this stage. It will get worse, until she knows she has to push...at around ten centimeters.”

“And then?”

“The pain starts...but it doesn’t last. The doctor is on her way. I’ll be back when she gets here. In the meantime, feel free to walk around or lay as comfortable as possible. Some woman like to lay on their sides and have their husbands rub their backs.”

“Not this one...not yet anyway...I want to walk.”

Together, Harm walked with Mac up and down the corridors, over to the nursery and back several times before the doctor arrived.

The doctor examined her and announced she was progressing nicely. Night became morning and still they walked and waited. By ten o’clock that morning it had appeared as if her labor had stopped. She was at six centimeters but the contractions had stopped an hour before. The fetal monitor showed that the baby was not stressed at that point and so they decided to wait it out.

Mac was admitted to a regular room but declined lunch. Together Harm and Mac waited the baby out by playing cards, discussing their name choices one again and trying to imagine how their lives would change when they brought this newest Rabb home.

“I still like the name Sadie,” Mac insisted.

“Sadie, Sadie, the shady lady?” Harm asked horrified that she would want to name his daughter such a name.

They had discussed a few names for a girl, but deep down, they were certain that it was a boy so hadn’t spent a lot of time worrying about it. If they did have a girl they had narrowed it down to Robin or Sierra with the other name as a middle name. For a boy, they had discussed pros and cons of staying with Harmon Rabb. Mac thought adding ‘the third’ sounded pretentious, so had suggested they could add a middle name instead.

Harm had countered that if they weren’t going to call him Harmon or Harm...why stick him with it at all. Why not go with another name they liked, and use Harmon for a middle name? The two had discussed this for weeks. They had tried using cryptology to come up with a name that meant Harmon. They had tried on several courageous Naval names. They had even listed names of people they knew to see if one jumped out. Harm had gotten silly one night and made some suggestions - Batman and Robin; Butch and Sundance; Lois and Clark; Tarzan and Jane; and so on, until Mac had laughed so hard she had almost wet her pants. Robin had ended up being one of Mac’s favorites for a girl. All their silliness hadn’t produced a viable suggestion for a boy’s name.

Mac had asked Harriet for suggestions as the ones they had given to Harriet and Bud weren’t working for them.

“Did you try both great Marines and Naval officers?” asked Harriet.

“We did.”

“What about great pilots...or astronauts?” Harriet had asked then.

It had led them to names such as Scott, Glenn, and Charles as options. Scott Harmon Rabb was leading the pack as they waited for his arrival.

1548 Local

Bethesda Naval Medical Center

“Ow! Harm...its back,” Mac called with a big smile. The doctor on her last visit said that if she didn’t start labor again by sixteen hundred, they were going to induce labor. They started walking again and got to see the new babies in the nursery that had arrived since they had been admitted.

Harm rubbed her back as they walked, supporting her as much as he could. At eighteen hundred, the doctor was pleased that they had finally gotten to eight and a half centimeters. Mac was disappointed and Harm was running out of energy as a coach. The doctor suggested that they take a rest an offered to give Mac something for the discomfort. Mac refused the medication, but had Harm help her onto the bed and tried to take a rest between the contractions. Her labor was erratic. Sometimes the contractions would be seven to eight minutes a part and then she would have three that would be in quick succession followed by as much as twenty minutes with nothing. They had monitored both Mac and the baby closely pleased to see neither showing signs of distress.

It was almost midnight before they moved Mac back to the delivery room and had Harm scrub and suit up. Harm sat on the bed behind Mac, supporting her back and helping her pull against her own legs on the doctor’s go ahead. Other then catnaps neither of them had slept for almost twenty-four hours and then they had only had about three hours sleep before Mac’s water broke. Harm was afraid that exhaustion was getting close and gave a silent prayer for the rest of this experience to be quick and easy.

0108 Local

August 18

“It’s a boy!” Harm called out when the doctor held up their son, for Dad to make the call. “Scott Harmon Rabb, welcome to our world,” Harm murmured as he kissed Mac’s brow where she rested against his chest his arms around her.

“Where are they taking him, Harm?” Mac’s distressed question spun him around as he looked to see the nurse leaving the room with their son.

“It’s okay,” the other nurse assured her. “They are going to weigh him, measure him, get his foot prints, clean him up a little and I believe you asked for him to be circumcised, so they’ll do that before returning him to you. When they do, he’ll be all yours. Are you planning to nurse or bottle feed?”

“Nurse.”

“And he’ll be ready to eat when he comes back. You’ll find your milk will start to come in shortly...now that you’ve expelled the placenta.”

“I have?”

“Yes, that’s why your contraction continued.”

“I knew that, but I didn’t feel it happen.”

“The doctor had already sent it to the lab to be checked.”

“What do they check it for?” Harm asked intrigued.

“Make sure there are no signs of problems that slipped past and to see if there are any warning signs for cancer and other diseases.”

Harm left to make a few calls to announce Scott’s birth after a nurse came in to announce he weighed eight pounds ten ounces and was twenty one and half inches long...dark hair and eyes.

Mac was cleaned up and returned to her room for a nap.

Harm called his mother and Frank. They talked for awhile before he called Admiral Chegwidden to give him the news. The Admiral had instructed them to call immediately any time- night or day. The rest could wait until morning.

Mac was asleep when he returned and settled into the chair at her bedside. He smiled as he watched his Lifeline sleeping. They had a son now and from the sounds he looked like his mother. Harm wondered if he had his father’s brains. He couldn’t stop smiling, although he too was exhausted. Scotty was going to be his pride and joy - his first born. Nothing would ever top it they all told him. He was waiting to hold his son his arms; watch him nurse; count his fingers and toes and see if all his appendages were well formed.

Harm had given up cigars years ago, but at that moment he could taste a cigar and it made him think about giving them out to announce his son to the world. A son alerted him that someone else was here. It was their son. Harm stood up to look at the baby in his little blue cap wiggling in his bed.

“He’s a little fussy at the moment sir. I think he probably is ready for some food. Do you want to wake Mom up and she can try to nurse, or I can bring a bottle back for you?”

“I’ll wake her up. Mac...Honey...our son is here. Can you try feeding him?”

“Harm, help me sit up. Let me have him.”

The nurse placed the baby in his mother’s arms and then made sure she was able to get him to take a nipple. Scott had no problems suckling. A bottle wouldn’t be necessary. Before the nurse left she cautioned them, “Most new parents can’t wait to undress the baby and check them out head to toe. Your son had already had his little operation and the doctor doesn’t want his diaper removed for a few hours. It increases his risk of infection. Tomorrow, you can check him out there too.”

Harm and Mac nodded and waited for the nurse to leave.

“How do you feel Mac?”

“Like I’m the luckiest woman in the world. How do you always manage to make things right so many times?”

“Luck, I guess.”

“Harm, he’s got dark hair like both of us, but dark eyes like mine. His skin color is darker too.”

“I’m sorry if he does turn out to have my brains Mac...”

“Why? That was the deal....remember?”

“I know...but I’ve done some stupid things...I kind of hoped he’d be smart like you.”

“Harm I’ve done stupid things too. The smartest thing I did however, was marry you. I love you.”

“I love you too...and I love our son.”

“Harm?”

“Yes?”

“Just remember when our son is growing up and he does something stupid...”

“I know, he comes by it naturally.”

“Yeah...but I was going to say, don’t forget your lifeline...”

“I won’t...for eternity.”

THE END