Title: A Fine Line
Author: Hollyjp
Summary: What if Harm took the road he hasn’t taken - yet? What would happen - not only for him and Harm, but for Mattie?
Spoilers: Anything from Season 1 through season 9 including spoilers could be referenced.
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: Just need an excuse to think about Harm while I suffered through March Madness and no JAG for two whole weeks (replaying videos doesn’t count!)
1330 Local
Lucky Dream Palace
Falls Church, Virginia
The Admiral looked around at his staff gathered at the table to celebrate his yeoman’s promotion to Petty Officer First Class. As much as Jennifer Coates drove them all nuts when she interrupted, they all liked her. She was usually on target and she tried to make sure that they knew she understood what they were thinking and what needed to happen. His ‘family’ had been through some tough times in the past couple of years, but here they were still together with a few new members in the group celebrating together for one member of the family.
“Are we ready people?” asked the Admiral.
“I’m ready,” Mac announced before turning to her partner, “Are you?”
Mac stood up and looked back at Harmon Rabb Junior sitting their with a strange look on his face, his eyes unfocused as he seemed to be looking into his mind. Jennifer, Bud, Harriet, and Sturgis had already walked out. The Admiral motioned to her to go ahead and spoke again to the Commander.
“Commander Rabb? We’re leaving. You alright?”
“Uh...oh...Sorry sir, I guess I was daydreaming...”
Mac called from the entry, “I forgot my coat.”
“I’ll get it!” called back Harm. He reached down and picked up her coat and then spotted the little white paper on her plate where she had crumpled and tossed it. Harm picked it up and read the words surprised to find they did not match what she had ‘read’ to the group.
Satisfied that Commander Rabb had rejoined them, the Admiral left. Mac met Harm as he handed her the coat. Her fortune had been the same as the rest of them ...but she had lied about it. He was puzzled as to the meaning behind her cryptic words she had pretended were her fortune.
“Harm are you alright?”
“Yeah...”
“What were you thinking about?”
“The road not taken - yet.”
“And what road is that?” Mac asked him as they joined the others in the parking lot.
Harm smiled and said, “Well I guess as you didn’t get the same fortune as the rest of us, you don’t have to worry about it.”
“What if I did?”
“Then I would have to ask why you lied?”
“And I would have to ask why you didn’t read yours aloud?”
“Ah, yes...answer a question with a question...I’ll tell you what Mac. Join me for dinner and I’ll tell you not only why I didn’t want to read mine aloud, but I will tell you what I’ve been thinking about.”
“Get in the car people,” the Admiral urged them. They had all fit in the Admiral’s SUV so they had ridden together. Mac slid in next to Harriet in the middle seat, and Harm climbed into the front with the Admiral.
“Commander, you have been very quiet and introspective since we started reading fortunes. Anything you want to share?”
“Sorry Admiral...I’m not sure I have the personal insight enough to share with the group. I will let you know sir if I find any new revelations as a result.” Harm chuckled and the Admiral laughed along with him.
“Some how Harm, I suspect that you’ve learned a lot about yourself and what you want in life in the past few months and you are just learning how to go about getting what you want.”
“It could be sir.”
1640 Local
JAG HQ
Falls Church, Virginia
<buzz>
“Colonel Mackenzie.”
“Hey Mac...you never answered me if you would join me for dinner and discourse.”
“Discourse, huh? Are you talking about tonight?”
“I was, but if you are busy...”
“Tonight’s fine.”
“My place?”
“Sure. What time?”
“1830?”
“Will Mattie be there?”
“As far as I know. She usually does her homework while I fix dinner and then we eat. Afterwards, we clean up and I check over her homework. Tonight her favorite television show is on and so she’ll be heading back to watch it with Jennifer. We’ll have plenty of time to talk.”
“I’ll be there...what can I bring?” Mac asked.
“Just you and maybe a little patience while an aging man tries to tell his story...” Harm was feeling a little nervous about what he would say to her when the time came, but he knew he was ready for it to be said.
“I’ll see you later then Harm.”
1830 Local
Harm’s Apartment
North of Union Station
Harm was just taking the casserole out of the oven when Mac knocked on the door.
“Hey Mattie, want to get that please?”
“I’m on it, Harm. Hey Mac!”
“Hi Mattie. How are you?”
“Great...already finished tonight’s homework. Harm’s already checked it and given his approval and I even had time to help fix the dinner.”
“Good for you. Here, you might want to put this in the freezer for now.” Mac handed Mattie a brown freezer bag.
“Ice Cream?”
“Yeah...Ben and Jerry’s chocolate with peanutbutter and one of their coffee ice cream.”
“So we’re set...what will Harm have?”
“I heard that Mathilda Grace!”
Mac and Mattie exchanged a giggle.
“I suppose we could share,” Mac suggested.
“If he behaves,” Mattie added.
“Alright you two...don’t make me regret this...” Harm laughed as he pointed his finger back and forth at the two of them.
Mattie put the ice cream in the freezer and turned to get the water pitcher filled with ice and water. Harm had set the hot mat on the table and put the casserole dish on it.
“Mmm, smells good, Harm.”
“Thanks Mac.”
“What is it?”
“It’s a casserole that’s done in layers...In this case there is a layer of glazed carrots, a layer of stove top stuffing, a layer of chicken, a layer of mushrooms, onions and green peppers, another layer of chicken, a layer of asparagus, another layer of stuffing. Top it with cream of mushroom soup and then you bake it.”
“It’s pretty good,” Mattie commented.
“Sounds great,” Mac smiled as she thought about how domestic Harm really was. He had always been the one to cook for their working dinners - when they didn’t order out. Sometimes Mac forgot about the little things like that.
Mac had hung her coat up on the hook next to the door and then headed for the table. She took her usual seat on Harm’s right, which was across from Mattie. They passed the salad around while Harm served them from the hot casserole dish.
Mac tasted the casserole and then looked up to Harm with a smile of approval. He smiled back while Mattie hid her smile at how cute these two adults were being with each other.
Over dinner, Harm and Mac told Mattie about the fortune cookies at Jennifer’s lunch that day.
“Your true desire is the road not taken...and Bud, Harriet, Jen, and the Admiral all got the same one?”
“Yes.”
“What did yours say?” Mattie asked looking first from one and then to the other.
“I can’t remember,” answered Mac.
“Wasn’t it, ‘Where ever you go, there you are’?” asked Harm innocently.
“Yeah, I think so,” confirmed Mac. “Harm, what were you thinking about at lunch? He was in his own world, Mattie...really out there by the way he looked.”
“I was just thinking how different Bud and Harriet’s lives would have been if they hadn’t gotten married. I pictured Bud being a plumber and king of Spa World.”
“And Harriet?” asked Mac.
“An heiress...living in a mansion...calling the Spa King to do her plumbing...”
They all laughed at Harm’s description of what he had envisioned.
“What about the Admiral?” asked Mattie.
“Well I thought about what would have happened if he had retired last year and married Meredith...if he had been able to take the time off to go with her to Italy at Christmas...even if hadn’t been for the full trip...” Harm’s voice trailed off.
“How did you envision Jennifer?” Mac asked.
“Walking a thin line...but staying on the right side of the law. The few cases that she’s had a chance to work on she used her con artist skills to do some pretty impressive under cover work.”
“That’s cool, Harm. So what do you think your road is that you haven’t taken?” asked Mattie.
Harm had just taken a bite of food and he held up a finger to indicate he’d answer when he finished chewing.
Mac looked at Mattie and grinned, “Think he’s trying to get out of answering that question?”
“Won’t let him off the hook that easy!” Mattie hooted as she grinned at Mac after glancing at Harm. Mac noticed that he was remaining amazingly calm.
“I’m not trying to get off the hook. Actually, you asked what my fortune said and it was the same.”
“Really?”
“Really. I’ve been thinking about it quite a bit, actually.”
“So what road haven’t you taken that you want to take?” asked Mattie not realizing what kind of ‘pandora’s box’ she might be opening.
“Marriage,” was Harm’s simple answer.
“Marriage?” both Mac and Mattie almost choked not expecting that answer from Harm.
“Yeah, marriage. When I was younger I wanted to wait until I found the right person and then when I found the one I thought might be right, she was taken from me and we never had the chance to explore where we might have gone. A few months later, I was given a gift...a chance to meet someone special that I would have a chance to get to know better then I know myself in some ways...but by the time I realized that marriage would be the right thing for us, things were complicated by other people, my big mouth and then circumstances beyond our control.
“At first I was too angry and bitter to start down that road to marriage, but then I began to see that I needed to make some changes if marriage was to work. I’m willing to do whatever I can to make marriage work. A year ago I wasn’t ready to commit at that level, so I held back. Now I know it is what I want and I will do what ever I can to make it work. You know how I obsess over things; well I am ready to be obsessive about making marriage work.”
“Wow, Harm...I thought I was just being hopeful when I asked you if you were looking for a Mrs. Harm...”
“Actually Mattie, I can’t say I’m looking for her...I know who I hope will be ‘Mrs. Harm’ as you put it, but I think there are several things that have to happen first, before that can be come a reality.”
Mattie realized that while Harm was talking to her, he hadn’t taken his eyes off of Mac. Finishing the last bite on her plate she picked up her plate and excused herself from the table.
“My show is coming on early tonight, so if you don’t mind I’m going to eat and run.”
“Go ahead, Mattie.”
“Thanks Harm,” Mattie kissed his cheek. “Good to see you again Mac...”
“Good to see you too, Mattie...” Mac wasn’t sure where to look. Harm was watching her intently, Mac wasn’t sure where he was going and while part of her wanted to know, part of her wanted to hide.
As the door closed behind Mattie, Harm reached his hand out to touch Mac’s hand on the table between them.
“Mac, I know what you’re fortune really was...”
“How do you know?”
“Because when I picked up your coat, I picked it up and looked at the paper on your plate.”
“Oh.”
“Mac, why did you lie?” Harm asked. Mac shrugged. Harm continued, “I think its because you wanted to keep your distance from the rest of us...”
“Then why wouldn’t you read yours?” Mac asked sharply.
“Because I didn’t want to embarrass you in front of them, and if they had pushed, I might have said something that would have come out wrong, embarrassing both of us...you asked me what the road was that I hadn’t yet taken.”
“Yes.”
“Mac there is only one road that we haven’t taken...and that’s one I want to take with you.”
“Harm, I think you need to explain what you mean...”
“Mac, we’ve been strangers, acquaintances, best friends, adversaries, partners, but we have not let ourselves explore a more personal relationship...one that would lead to marriage and our family. I know our original timeline is messed up, but I don’t care. I know you said it would never work between us, but since then I think even you have had second thoughts about whether we should try or not. You did say I didn’t fight for you, didn’t you?”
“Yes,” Mac whispered her response.
“Well, I’ve decided that one change I need to make is to tell you what I want...we tried it your way and it didn’t work...we were both miserable and we managed to rebuild a friendship of sorts. I have come to realize that its because the feelings that we have for each other run deep that we are able to keep patching things up. They say there is a fine line between love and hate...I think we’ve spent too much time learning about the hate side of the line and its time to explore the other side of the line.”
“But you can’t say the word...”
“Love?”
“Yeah...”
“Yes, I can Mac...” Harm got up from the table and started clearing things away. Mac just sat and thought as he worked around her. He had put the kettle on to boil as he cleared away the food and put dishes in the dish washer.
He fixed two cups of tea and set them on the coffee table and then came back to get Mac. Reaching for her hand he pulled her up from her seat at the table and led her to the couch.
He sat down and pulled her down to sit next to him.
“Mac, I’ve never said, ‘I love you to a woman’ that I’ve dated. Some have said it to me and some have tried to trick me into saying it to them..I think some people say the words without really meaning them.”
“Like me?”
“No Mac...I don’t think its easy for you to say the words either. I think you know how hard it is to say the words when you aren’t sure if the feeling is going to be returned. It’s a lot easier to say the words if someone else says them first...there are also different kinds of love. I love my mother and Frank and my grandmother... I can tell them I love them...but that’s not the same thing.
“I’ve loved you as a friend and partner for years, Mac...but that’s not the same thing either. When I said you had someone that would always love you I meant it. I will always love you as a friend and someone that has been a very important part of my life for many years through some important moments. I think the foundation is there for us to build the kind of love that we could build a future on...but we need to explore that part of our relationship. I want that Mac...I want to take the road we haven’t taken.”
Mac had turned so she could look at Harm as he spoke, his arm around her shoulders.
“Then why is it so hard for us to take that step, Harm?”
“Probably because we have been friends and have kept a distance between us because of our careers, we haven’t allowed ourselves the time or opportunity to explore a more intimate relationship.”
“Some people would say we’ve been intimate in some ways...we have slept together.”
“I’m talking physical intimacy Mac...the emotional intimacy isn’t an issue...we’ve always been able to talk about most anything...except us.”
“You know, I’ve never been sure you even noticed me as a woman...I mean we’ve exchanged a few kisses, but until you saw me in the bathtub in Paraguay and told me you had forgotten how beautiful I was, I wasn’t sure...”
“You’re kidding right?”
“No, Harm I’m not.”
“Wow...I was afraid if you knew how attractive I found you I’d be on the losing end of a kick-boxing demonstration.”
“You thought I’d do you bodily harm, if you said I looked nice?”
“No...I thought you’d kick my six from here to hell and back if you knew how much I wanted to hold you or kiss you or touch you...” Harm’s voice trailed off in a husky whisper.
Mac leaned into Harm as he leaned closer to her and lowered his head. He kissed her then. His lips claimed hers gently as he rubbed his lips over hers and then nibbled first the lower and then the upper lip before slipping his tongue between her lips to coax hers to part for him. Her lips then explored Harm’s. The kiss started out slow much like the kiss on the Admiral’s porch, but it lengthened, and deepened and become even more passionate in its exploration and demands then the kiss on the porch that night had been.
Slowly they parted as they gasped for air. Harm’s arms were around her and Mac’s arms rested against his chest with her hands locked behind his neck. They rested their foreheads against each other as they tried to get their breathing under control.
“Well, are you going to kick my six for that?” Harm asked in a soft voice that Mac found so sexy.
“Only if you don’t do it again...”
“I think I can manage that...” Harm grinned as he kissed Mac again. When he pulled back after the second kiss he chuckled. “I think our tea is cold. Shall I warm it up?”
“I think I’ll pass...it’s warm enough in here right now...” Mac grinned.
“Mac?”
“Yeah?”
“I’ve got to ask you something and I don’t want to upset you, but I’ve got to know...”
“What is it Harm?”
“Are you involved with Webb - or anyone?”
“I have gone out with Clay and I guess you would say we have been involved...but things with Clay have been pretty shaky...it took us eight months to become anything more then friends and then as soon as I had crossed that line I wished I hadn’t.”
“Mac...”
“Please, Harm...I need to tell you this if we are going to have a chance.”
“Alright. I’m listening...” his voice was velvet soft when he spoke.
“Harm, Clay kept making comments about how I was hiding behind the fact you weren’t available; and that you were too oblivious to notice what was in front of you; and that the only stable relationship I’ve had in my life is the one I’ve had with you.”
“How did it make you feel?”
“Like he was doing anything he could to drive a wedge between us...and yet I realized that he was right...and after the way you kissed me tonight I realize it even more.”
“What do you mean Mac?”
“You kept your distance from me out of respect, not disinterest, didn’t you?”
“Yes...remember the time I hit my head and called you “sweet thing”?” Harm couldn’t suppress a grin as he asked.
“Yes...what were you thinking?”
“That I wanted to make love to you...”
“You did?”
“Yes...that was the first time I let myself think about you as a beautiful sexy woman...I realized how much I wanted to make love to you.”
“Oh Harm...”
“We’ve wasted so much time...”
“Maybe not Mac...I don’t think we were ready before, but maybe we are now.”
“So how are we going to handle this new relationship?”
“I hope with tender loving care...”
“I mean with our friends...Mattie...the Admiral?”
“For now, at JAG, I think we just need to go back to being good friends and let the animosity go...but out of uniform, I want us to be natural around each other...hold hands...steal a kiss once in awhile...date and dance and when we are both ready to go further it will just happen and we’ll know it’s right.”
Mac stretched up and placed a light kiss on Harm’s lips. “I think you’re right.”
“Thank you...you inspire me, you know?” Harm whispered against her lips.
“I didn’t know...” Mac stopped and looked up as Mattie opened the door.
“Oh...uh...sorry, I should have knocked...” Mattie was blushing as she apologized for walking in as they were kissing.
“Mattie, it’s alright...Come sit down with us a minute.” Harm invited her. She came over and sat in the chair next to the couch. “Look Mattie...Mac and I have known each other a long time - you know that.”
“Yeah...”
“Well we care about each other and after all these years we want to try to make our relationship work. Are you okay with that?”
“I think it’s great Harm...Does this mean, we’ll get to see more of you Mac?”
“Probably.”
“Look, I don’t want to interfere...I was just going to get some ice cream...”
“Great idea,” Harm enthused. “Come on ladies, let’s have dessert.” Harm and Mac stood up and Harm reached for Mattie’s hand, leading them all into the kitchen.
The discomfort and embarrassment faded quickly as Harm and Mac included Mattie while the three of them tossed the cold tea, fixed hot chocolate and bowls of ice cream for four and returned to Jennifer and Mattie’s apartment for a late dessert.
2320 Local
Phone Call
“Rabb.”
“It’s me.”
“Every thing okay, Mac?”
“Yeah...thank you for a great evening.”
“Thank you.”
“Mattie really okay with us?”
“Yeah...she really likes you Mac.”
“I really like her.”
“I really like you Mac...”
“I really like you too, Harm.”
“See you in the morning?”
“I’ll bring the coffee.”
“I’ll bring the muffins...”
“Harm?”
“Yeah?”
“Good night.”
“Sweet Dreams, Tiger.”
One Week Later
JAG HQ
Falls Church, Virginia
“Captain Sebring, What brings you to Jag Ops today?” asked Admiral Chegwidden.
“Two of your senior attorneys, actually.”
“Rabb and Mackenzie?”
“The very same.”
“What have they done now?” asked Chegwidden with a sense of dread in his voice.
“As you know the case they’ve been assigned has been a tough one. Despite being opposing counsel, they handled some very difficult situations with diplomacy and tact. I hadn’t seen this from them before. I know Admiral Morris said that Mackenzie has been on the bench for him before as has Rabb to a lesser extent.”
“Yes, that’s true. Mac seems to enjoy the judicial while Harm prefers to do more investigation and litigation. What are you getting at?”
“As you know, my wife has been ill.”
“Yes, I know. Any improvement?”
“Unfortunately not. In fact, she’s getting worse. They only give her a few weeks to live.”
“I’m sorry.”
“I’ve asked for leave so that I can spend time with her while she’s here. Are things so that you could spare Rabb and Mackenzie to cover the bench for me. I know you’ve been operating short handed and I don’t want to be a burden on your staff...”
“It’s okay. I’m sure that Mac would enjoy another stint on the bench...and I will try my best to keep Harm off any cases she might be hearing.”
“What is with those two any way?”
“Love...”
“They are in love?”
“I think so...but they are both trying so hard to ignore it and pretend they don’t that they suck everyone into their drama with them...well until recently. I think they’ve finally given in.”
“If that’s the case, they maybe Mac will want to make the move permanent to judicial...”
“I doubt she’ll want to do that if it means more traveling.”
“Admiral Morris has arranged things to allow me to take most of the cases that are local so that I don’t have to be gone more then two or three days a month at most. I’m sure that he would be willing to do something similar for her if she was to have a family for example.”
“I’ll keep that in mind and will mention it to her if the topic comes up. Have Admiral Morris send me the schedule of cases he needs Harm or Mac to work and I’ll let them know tomorrow morning at staff meeting.”
“Thank you Admiral.”
Friday Morning Staff Meeting
JAG HQ Conference Room
Falls Church, Virginia
“Roberts, how’s your case load?” asked Admiral Chegwidden to start them off on updates.
“Commander Turner and I have just reached a settlement on the Landry case; I have one of Imes’ cases left to be heard and that’s scheduled for next Thursday. I’m ready to take on some new cases sir.”
“Very good. They’ll be coming your way shortly. Commander Turner, are you light as well right now?”
“No sir. Besides the Landry case that Lt. Roberts and I just settled on, I have two of Imes cases to be heard. One is scheduled for Monday the other for Thursday against Lt. Roberts. In addition I have a case on the docket starting Wednesday along with Colonel Mackenzie and two open investigations.”
“Commander Rabb - status please.”
“Aye, aye, sir. Colonel Mackenzie and I have settled both the Marshall case and Navy v West Tech Inc.; we have the Marchand case that we were assigned together which begins on Tuesday and I have two Article 32 hearings on the docket, one for Monday here and one on Wednesday at Norfolk. In addition I have three open investigations. We are waiting NCIS forensics on all three.”
“I see. Looks like you are rather booked yourself. Colonel?”
“I have the case with Commander Rabb beginning on Tuesday; the one opposing Commander Turner on the docket for Wednesday and I was working with Commander Rabb on some of the pending investigations.”
“Very well, Colonel. As of now you are relived of duty as my Chief of Staff and you are off the cases with Rabb.”
“Sir?” Mac looked at Admiral Chegwidden with alarm at his astounding statement.
“You Colonel Mackenzie are being sent TAD upstairs to judicial for the next 3 months. Please feel free to take your personal affects with you from your office. Captain Sebring will show you where you will be working and go over your new scheduled with you in eighteen minutes. Commander Rabb will be using your office while you are away and taking over Chief of Staff duties. Please arrange a time later today to bring him up to speed on any pertinent issues and work in progress he needs to know about. That will be all. Good luck Colonel. Dismissed.”
“Aye, aye, sir.” They watched Mac leave the conference room in stunned silence.
“Commander Rabb, as you heard you will be moving back into the Ops area and will be using Mac’s office. I have two new lawyers coming on board beginning Monday. Lt. Tyler Moore, USMC and Lt. Commander Carla Dawson, USN. Lt. Moore has never tried a case but has a good record working investigations. Major Dawson has a solid reputation in both investigations and litigations. Moore has been working in San Diego while Dawson has been in the Middle East theater rotating between front lines and advisory at our base in Italy. You will be reassigning Colonel Mackenzie’s cases as well as turning some of your cases over to them and to Lt. Roberts. Any questions?”
“No sir.”
“Enjoy your weekend people. Dismissed.” The Admiral picked up his papers and quickly left the conference room, while Harm, Sturgis and Bud stared at each other as they processed all that had just happened.
“Give me a few minutes to collect my thoughts and get organized in Mac’s office and then I’ll meet with each of you to go over the reassignments,” Harm instructed Bud and Sturgis. He was aware of them leaving and he took a deep breath and tried to run what had just happened through his mind again. He shook his head, squared his shoulders and stepped out of the conference room to face this latest shake up.
He dropped his things in Mac’s office on the filing cabinet, before picking up the current files on his desk in his own office, his brief case, laptop and cover. He returned to Mac’s office just as she returned from a brief meeting with Captain Sebring.
“Hey Mac, what’s going on?”
“Captain Sebring’s wife is getting worse and so he’s taking a leave of absence to spend time with her before its over. He had arranged to have his schedule keep him mostly local due to her health and Admiral Morris had no trouble with that. For now, I’ll have that schedule. Apparently Admiral Morris likes to travel and so does Judge Helfman. I’ll be covering some cases in Norfolk but most of my cases will be here.”
“What do you think of it Mac?”
“It will look good in my file, but I never thought I’d have a chance at the bench again after the thing with Sadik.”
“Mac you did a great job on the bench before. You might have made me mad, but it was only cause I was frustrated that you knew me so well. You know your stuff and you did a great job. You’ll be great.”
“What if you have to try a case before me again Harm?”
“I will try to keep my frustrations out of our relationship...you know, maybe we should let Admiral Morris and Admiral Chegwidden know that we have a different aspect to our relationship now.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yeah...You let Morris know and I’ll fill in Chegwidden. Now about the Chief of Staff Duties...” Together they worked on reassigning cases and the pending arrival of the new staff. Mac had met them and told Harm a little about each one. She felt they were good people and they would both fit in to JAG.
“Mac, if you aren’t busy tonight, you want to join us for the Friday shopping frenzy and movie madness?”
“The what?”
“Mattie convinced me to take her and Jen shopping on Friday when I get home. They drag me around the mall showing me things they want or need. Then we hit the grocery store and finally pick out a movie before we go home to take out and the movies. Everyone usually falls asleep on the floor and I cover them with blankets and shut things off before I go back to my place about 0100 and get some sleep myself.”
“Sounds almost as good as a girls night.”
“I don’t think I want to know...”
“We do our nails and give each other manicures and pedicures and even a facial.” Mac grinned at the look of horror on Harm’s face. “I promised Mattie would we have a girls night the next time Chloe comes to visit.”
“Just let me know so I can make plans to be gone - far, far, away!”
“Chicken.”
“No...just want to maintain my sanity,” Harm grinned.
“Lost that long ago my friend.”
“Think so?”
“So do you want me to go to ride herd on the girls or to provide adult companionship?”
“Would you...go along to keep me company?”
“Sure...as long as I’m free to express my own opinions on things they pick-out.”
“Deal. Thanks Mac. I’ll pick you up at your place, so bring an overnight bag. Want to go running with me in the morning?”
“Sure...this could be fun.”
Friday 1745 Local
Harm’s Corvette
Between Georgetown and North of Union Station
“Smart move, Mac.”
“What?”
“Changing into comfortable clothes and walking shoes.”
“A necessity for going to the mall. Don’t you change?”
“Usually I don’t take the time, but I’m a little earlier tonight then usual, so I guess I will. Besides, I need to switch cars.”
“Good thing you decided to keep the Lexus.”
“Yeah...Hey Mac?”
“Yes?”
“Are you alright about being sent to Judicial and having Chief of Staff duties taken away?”
“Yes...why wouldn’t I be?”
“Well, we had a big case we were going to be trying together and some investigations that we were working on together...”
“Harm, why would you think I would be upset about that? The Admiral reassigns cases or pulls one of us off a case now and then for all kinds of reasons.”
“Alright...if you are sure.”
“I am. I like sitting on the bench...much more then you did...even though you weren’t that bad.”
“Really? You think I did okay?”
“Harm, you are who you are. You are going to get to the truth and you are not going to let it go until you know the truth has been found...that’s why you are a good investigator and litigator...and why being passive on the bench doesn’t work for you. You knew exactly what buttons to push to get me to find the truth and because I was prosecuting you knew I’d have to disclose what I found. Was I happy about it? No. Was it the right thing to do? Yes. That’s what makes it so hard to stay mad at you sometimes.”
“Do you want to be mad at me Mac?”
“Sometimes.”
“Why?”
“Because sometimes that’s all I have as a defense.”
“Do you feel you need to defend yourself with me, Mac?”
“I guess that’s not coming out right, huh?”
“You tell me.”
“Sometimes I feel like I’ll get caught up in your charming larger then life personality and forget what’s real and what’s not.”
“And what’s not real?”
“I don’t know anymore,” whispered Mac. “But I wish I did.”
Harm reached one hand over to where Mac sat beside him and picked up her hand. “I think our connection is real, for one thing...and I’d like a chance to explore with you what else is real.”
“Me too.” Mac squeezed Harm’s hand back as he held it while he drove. They finished the trip to Harm’s apartment in companionable silence.
Dressed in black corduroy jeans and a gray sweater Harm and Mac collected Mattie and Jen and headed for the mall. They decided to stop and eat first instead of doing take-out later. Jen and Mattie took off to check out some sale items while Harm and Mac walked hand in hand looking at things in store windows until they got to the sale the girls had found. They found Mattie and Jen modeling skirts and tops that were on sale.
“Aren’t those kind of summery for the weather we’re having?” Harm asked.
“The idea is to get seasonal clothes on sale before you need them, Harm!” Mattie laughed at her guardian’s confused look.
“But you won’t be able to wear those outfits for at least a month or more.”
“Tell him Mac,” pleaded Jen and Mattie together.
“They are right Harm. It’s a great sale. People that wait will end up paying about twenty to thirty percent more if they wait a month to buy. The sale is for two days only.”
Harm gave Mac a skeptical look.
“It looks nice on you Mattie. That color is just right. Harm, if you think it’s something you can approve of Mattie wearing, then it would save you money to get it now.” Mac explained calmly while making sure she left the decision up to Harm.
“Alright, you can get it...”
“Thanks Harm!” Mattie flew into Harm’s body wrapping her arms around him and kissing his cheek.
“You’re welcome.”
After the girls went to change out of the outfits Mac looked at Harm and said, “If Mattie has you wrapped around her finger this much already, I can’t imagine what a pushover you’d be with your own daughter.”
“Think I’ll ever have my own daughter Mac?”
“I hope so...you’re doing pretty good as a ‘dad’...but I knew you would.”
Mattie and Jen rejoined them. They went to the check out and proceeded to the book store. Harm and Mac each made purchases there. They walked from one end of the mall to the other and back on the upper floor, before calling it a night and heading to the grocery store with the video section.
Mac expected Harm to be critical of every non-healthy item the girls looked at, but he surprised her when the grocery shopping trip turned out to be fun. It turned out that both Jen and Mattie loved several of the dishes Harm made for them and so Harm had given up on trying to cook tofu for them and they had given up on the high sugar items like breakfast cereals. Instead they went for fruits and vegetables and fancy salads. Harm stuck to ‘real’ food like chicken, fish and even pork. Mac almost fainted when Harm picked out a pot roast on his own.
“Harm, what are you doing?”
“The pot roast?”
“Yes.”
“About once a month I promised Mattie I would cook her favorite meal and it turns out she loves pot roast. I got my grandmother’s recipe and it met with her approval.”
“And when you make a promise, you’ll move heaven and earth to keep it won’t you?”
“I try Mac...I try.”
Groceries shopping complete, Mattie and Jen picked out the movies. Harm and Mac wandered over to see what they were going to be expected to endure. Mac grinned when she saw Mattie and Jen agreeing on “Bruce Almighty” figuring a good comedy would keep them all happy. Mattie then picked up the animated movie, “Finding Nemo.”
“Mattie...” Harm complained when he saw what she was holding.
“What? It’s suppose to be good.”
“It is Mattie. I watched it with Little AJ about two weeks ago. It’s his favorite. Why don’t you plan to watch it with him sometime...then Harm won’t have to whine all night,” Mac laughed.
“Mac!”
“What about this one?” Jen asked. She held out a popular action movie that was a sequel to “Matrix.”
They all agreed and once the Lexus was loaded with groceries and people they headed back to Harm’s place.
They quickly got the groceries put away. Mac and Jen fixed cocoa and popcorn and they all made themselves comfortable in front of the TV in the girls’ apartment.
Before the second movie was over, Mattie and Jen were asleep in their beanbag chairs and Mac was almost asleep leaning against Harm on the love seat. Harm stood up and pulled Mac with him. He covered Jen and Mattie with quilts, dropped a kiss on Mattie’s hair, turned off the TV and lights and let Mac and himself out. Harm held Mac’s hand and led her into his apartment.
“Want me to sleep on the couch or do you feel safe enough with me to share a comfortable bed?” Harm asked Mac as they entered his apartment.
“We can share. I’m too tired tonight for anything else.”
“Go ahead and get ready while I secure for the night.”
Mac grabbed her bag and headed into the bathroom. She brushed her teeth and changed into her flannel nightgown. She was just crawling into bed when Harm stepped into the bedroom.
“I just assumed you’d want the right side...”
“Because of Paraguay?”
“Yes.”
“I can sleep on either side of the bed, Mac...so if you want the right side take it.”
“Actually I usually sleep on the left side when I’m not sprawled across the whole bed.”
“Me too...sprawled that is...Get in. I’ll be right back.”
Harm slipped out of his clothes, keeping his boxers and t-shirt on, brushed his teeth and joined Mac in bed. Harm leaned over Mac and smiled down on her. Slowly he lowered his head and lightly brushed his lips against hers.
“Night Mac...Sweet dreams.”
“You too, Harm.”
With that they settled down, found comfortable positions and slept.
Following Thursday
JAG HQ
Falls Church, Virginia
“Look Lt. Moore, we went in there with a game plan and you deviated from that plan and unless we can find something substantial to counter with, Marchand walks. So what do you suggest we do?”
“Me sir?”
“That’s right, you. You were the one that decided to follow that line of questioning after we had already discussed that we weren’t going there. What did you think you were going to get for information?”
“I don’t know Commander. It just seemed like he was hiding something and I wanted to know what it was.”
“Lt. Moore, the first thing you should have learned, is don’t ask a question when you don’t know the answer...not in the courtroom. During an investigation, deviating from a planned line is standard and solid technique. In the courtroom it can be devastating. Now, the witness said that he remembers seeing Marchand leaving the area carrying nothing and walking toward a woman and a child.
“This could raise doubt in the minds of the members by providing him with an alibi. We know from the forensics that he was at the scene of the crime and in fact was found in possession of some of the items taken from that warehouse. How are you going to refute that witness? You’ve got thirty-five minutes to come up with a plan. Dismissed.” Harm watched the young Lieutenant snap to attention, spin on his heel and leave.
Harm knew he was coming down on Tyler Moore heavy, but he wanted the young man to learn to think under pressure and to solve his own error. Harm knew exactly what approach he would take if Moore was unable to pull it out on his own. Slowly he lowered himself into Mac’s office chair and began scanning the messages on the desk.
“Hey Sailor...”
“Mac! How are you? I can’t believe I haven’t seen you all week.”
“I’m fine...you look a little frustrated.”
“Yeah, Lt. Moore is needing a little more guidance in the courtroom then I anticipated and almost blew the Marchand case for us this morning.”
“What happened?”
“Asked a question he didn’t have the answer to; got shook when the answer hurt our case; and froze on what else to ask. He has thirty-five minutes - make that thirty-one minutes left to find a solution and report back to me before we return to court.”
“You already know what to do though right?”
“Yes...” Harm grinned as Mac read him well. “But if he doesn’t have to think it through he’s not going to learn.”
“Good job Harm.”
“Thanks Mac. Hey how’s your week going?”
“Good. I heard pre-trial motions most of the day Monday; had an Article 32 hearing in Norfolk Tuesday; listened to domestic cases on Wednesday and have the Imes retrial with Turner and Dawson today.”
“How’s Dawson doing?”
“She’s solid Harm. Turner has his hands full and she’s as calm as can be.”
“This isn’t a woman’s solidarity thing is it?” Harm winked as he asked.
“No, you know better.”
“I do...I had to tease though.”
“So who’s got your case?”
“Helfman, again...Mac, what are you doing later?”
“How much later?”
“Say around 1800?”
“Nothing special. Why?”
“I haven’t seen you since Sunday and I thought it would be nice to spend some time together. Why don’t you join Mattie and I for dinner?”
“I’d like that. What can I bring?”
“You. It won’t be anything fancy - as a matter of fact it’s a take-out night.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, Mattie has a meeting tonight and has practice this afternoon so she can’t get the casserole in the oven or anything. Do you mind?”
“Of course not. You want me to pick it up and meet you there...I know what time my day ends, Sailor.”
“Rub it in...”
“Really Harm, I don’t mind and then if court runs late like Helfman sometimes does, you won’t be so rushed and Mattie can get a meal before she goes.”
“Thanks Mac. Mattie’s ride picks her up about twenty of seven so things tend to be tight if I run late.”
“Got you covered, Harm.”
Harm reached into his wallet and took out some money and handed it to Mac. “I really appreciate this.”
“No problem. What does Mattie like?”
“Actually her tastes are pretty much like yours.”
“See you later, Harm.” Mac smiled and left her old office, glancing back for one more look at the man she loved.
1825 Local
Harm’s Apartment
North of Union Station
“I can’t believe Harm is this late, Mac. He always calls when he’s going to be late.”
“Mattie he knew I was coming and bringing dinner, and Helfman could still have him in court.”
“Really...I thought court had to end by five or something.”
“No...Judge Helfman often does pre-trial agreements in the morning before a trial, and then has sessions from ten to one and from three to six giving people two hours for a lunch break. Each judge is different on how they set their day and schedule and how full their docket is.”
“Wow...”
“Now eat so you’ll be ready to go. Harm will either call or get here soon, I’m sure.”
“Eat with me?”
“Sure Mattie.”
Mac and Mattie enjoyed their meal and were just finishing up when Harm came through the door.
“Hey...glad you didn’t wait.”
“How come you didn’t call?” Mattie asked.
“I decided to call from the cell phone so I could get on the road and the battery was dead.” He took out the phone and set it in the charger on his desk. “The car charger was in the Corvette and I had the Lexus. I’m glad you went ahead without me.”
“I’ll get your dinner for you Harm,” Mattie offered as she stood up from the table. “We kept it warm.”
“Thanks, Mattie. Let me go wash up...” Harm stepped up into the bedroom as he shrugged off his uniform jacket and put his cover on the shelf.
Mac picked up the dirty dishes she and Mattie had used and put them in the dishwasher, put on the kettle to boil, and watched Mattie set Harm’s dinner on the table. Mac knew Mattie liked the opportunity to fuss over Harm and that she didn’t get the chance very often. At the same time, Mac was aware that Mattie needed to get ready to go.
“Mattie, your rides going to be here.”
“Thanks Mac. Harm, I’ve got to go.”
Harm came down the stairs from the bedroom wearing his uniform shirt open at the neck and his uniform pants. His feet were bare. He hugged Mattie and dropped a kiss on her hair. “Check in when you get back?”
“I will. Night Mac...thanks for dinner and company.”
“See you later Mattie...and your welcomed.”
Mattie shut the door and Mac turned to see Harm sitting down at the table. “Want some tea?”
“Later I guess. Mac, thanks again for bailing me out.”
“You look like you’ve had a rough week.”
“It’s had it challenges.”
“Did Moore come through on his own?”
“No. I had to take over.”
“And?”
“I have closing arguments tomorrow and then we’ll see.” Harm took only a few bites before he put down the fork and reached for Mac’s hand. “I’ve missed you this week.”
“I’ve missed you too...Harm, you need to eat. You’re losing weight.”
“I’m okay. Besides I can afford to drop a few pounds.”
“You sleeping okay?”
“Yes. Are you?”
“Not bad. I slept great last weekend.” Mac’s voice was soft as she remembered how nice it had been sharing Harm’s bed both Friday and Saturday night. They hadn’t done anything besides hold each other and sleep but somehow they felt closer and more in tune because of it. Mac felt Harm lightly squeeze her hand in his.
Harm let go of her hand, stood up and took care of his plate and then moved to the sofa with his own tea. He sat on the edge and rotated his neck a few times trying to get the knots out. Mac saw him and stepped up behind him and sat on the back of the couch.
“Sit back Harm.” He sat up and felt Mac’s hands squeeze the muscles along the top of his shoulders and up into his neck. “Let’s see if we can get some of these knots out. Okay?”
“Mmm...” Harm closed his eyes and tried to relax under Mac’s ministration. “Feels good Mac.”
“Just relax...”
Harm had no idea how long Mac worked on the muscles in his neck and shoulders. He kept his eyes closed and let himself go to her touch. Eventually he became aware that his head was against her chest and her fingers were playing with his hair and tracing his ears. He also became aware of his body’s response to her touch. He wondered if she had noticed as well.
“Mac?”
“Yes.”
“I think I’d better sit up so you aren’t trapped back there.”
“I’m fine. Did the message help?”
“The massage did a lot for me Mac...thank you.” Harm grinned as she stepped from behind him and slid down to sit next to him. He looked down at her and realized that she must have had a similar reaction to touching him judging by what her sweater revealed...and he knew it wasn’t cold in his apartment tonight.
Harm shifted a little and lowered his head toward Mac while he softly said, “Thank you. It felt wonderful...you’re wonderful...” and then he kissed her. Their lips touched in feather soft caresses at first and then he leaned closer to intensify the kiss. While one hand caressed her face as he kissed her and then slid behind her head, the other began to stroke her leg, from knee to hip.
Mac lost herself in his kisses and touch. His size and weight didn’t intimidate or control her, but made her feel more feminine. She knew that she could get away at anytime, but she also had no desire to get away from him. In fact, she was finally where she had always wanted to be - in Harmon Rabb’s arms.
Harm placed one more kiss on Mac’s lips and then pulled himself up to sit beside her, and pulled her up to sit next to him. “You okay, Mac?”
“Yes...why wouldn’t I be?”
“I got a little carried away there I think.”
“I was enjoying being carried away, Harm.”
“Were you?”
“You couldn’t tell?”
“I was afraid I was reading your response wrong, I guess.”
“Harm...did you stop because you think I don’t want you or because you think I’m not ready or because you aren’t ready?”
“I’m not sure...maybe because I lost all track of time and didn’t want Mattie walking in on us...”
“Oh.”
“Mac, its pretty obvious I want you and I think you want me too.”
“Yes.”
“I just don’t want you to misunderstand why I want you. If we take that step, I want you to know that its not to try to fill the deal we made five years ago...”
“It’s not?”
“No...it’s because...”
“Hey Harm, I’m home!”
“Hey Mattie...”
“Hi Mac.”
“Hi Mattie.”
“Uh-oh...did I interrupt something again?” Mattie asked grinning.
“No...we were just talking. Come tell us how your meeting went.” Harm invited. He squeezed Mac’s hand. They both knew that the conversation had ended for now but they would resume it soon.
Mattie said that it had been a pretty good night as two of the girls had visited with their fathers and had reported back progress. Mattie had decided to invite her father to come watch her play volleyball, like one of the other girls had done. It had then given her something to talk about with her father that was safe.
“Harm, will you be able to make my game tomorrow?”
“I think so.”
“Mac, will you come too?”
“What time is it?”
“Starts at six.”
“I’ll be there.”
“Great...I think I’ll go call my father and invite him to the game.” Mattie hugged both Harm and Mac, said goodnight and left.
“I should go too,” Mac said as the door closed.
“I guess...stay tomorrow night?”
“Friday night shopping again?”
“No...not with the game. She goes out to eat with friends afterward and then to a movie. Gets home before midnight. We could go out to dinner at a grown-up restaurant if you’d like.”
“Sounds great...let’s see what kind of day we have.”
“Good idea.” Harm held her close and kissed her again. “Call me when you get home?”
“I will. Good-night Harm.”
1750 Local
En route
Washington DC Area
<ring>
“Colonel Mackenzie.”
“Mac? Can I pick you up to go to the Mattie’s game?”
“Where are you?”
“About three minutes away. I’ve been calling every few minutes since I left JAG.”
“I’ll be downstairs waiting for you.”
“Bye...”
Harm had no more then disconnected the call and set the phone down then he was turning up Mac’s street. He pulled up in the Lexus and she came down the front stairs of her building.
Mac opened the door and tossed her bag in the back and slid in. As she turned toward Harm to fasten her seat belt after having pulled the door shut, she found his faces inched from hers. She smiled as she leaned closer for his welcoming kiss.
Once they were on the road Mac commented, “That surprised me.”
“What?”
“The kiss.”
“I’ve missed you.”
“I know. I’ve missed you too, but I never expected that.”
“Well, my dear, you may be in for a few surprises.”
“Right. ‘‘My dear?’ When did you start with endearments?”
“I don’t know...it just seems right sometimes to use words like that...I won’t if you don’t like it.”
“No...I mean, don’t stop...I’m just not use to it...but I kind of like it.”
“That mean I can call you Tiger too?”
“Harm you are incorrigible!”
“Hey you call me Sailor and Flyboy...I thought Ninja Girl and Tiger would only be fair.”
“What about the ‘my dear’?”
“You get one of those for me too.”
“Really? How about ‘Pookey?”
“Pookey! At least ‘my dear’ is dignified. Try again...”
“Beefcakes?”
“Makes me feel like a boy-toy...”
“Handsome?”
“I suppose...”
“My love...”
“Am I?”
“I hope so.”
“I like it.”
“Okay, ‘my love’, where are you taking me to eat after Mattie’s game?”
“Well, ‘my dear’, I thought we could go to that little restaurant on the corner that we tried a few years ago. It’s under new management and is always busy. I’ve got reservations.”
“How did you manage that?”
“The owner’s daughter plays volleyball with Mattie and so his staff will accommodate us if the game goes longer then usual.”
Harm pulled into the parking lot at Mattie’s school. They got out and went into the gymnasium. Mattie’s father was sitting in the bleachers half way up and Mac and Harm joined him.
“Hey Tom. Glad you could make it.”
“Thanks Harm. Colonel Mackenzie.”
“Please, call me Mac. How’s it going Tom?”
“Rehab is going well. I was shocked when Mattie called me about coming to the game.”
“It was her idea Tom. Alateen seems to be helping her.”
“Thank you for getting her to go Harm.”
“Just planted the idea. She convinced herself to go.”
“She was afraid Harm wouldn’t forgive her for her attitude if she didn’t go, Tom,” Mac added with a smile.
2230 Local
Harm’s Apartment
North of Union Station
Harm took Mac’s bag from her as well as his briefcase and cover, before reaching for Mac’s hand. He led the way to his apartment and let them in. After setting down his things, he pulled Mac into his arms and kissed her. She returned his kiss. When they broke apart, Harm began his assault on Mac’s senses by kissing and nibbling on her neck and ear, across her cheek and her eyes, down her nose and back to her lips.
Mac, tipped her head back to give him access, while she splayed her hands across his chest and then began working on the buttons of his uniform shirt.
“Harm...” her voice was little more then a whisper. “Why don’t you go change while I make some tea for us?”
“Don’t want tea...I rather sip on you.”
“Harm...I think we should talk before we continue this...”
“Mac...talking gets us into trouble.”
“Not talking this time could get us into trouble...please, Harm?”
“Okay, Tiger...tea and talk.”
Harm let go of her and went to his bathroom to change into sweat pants and a sweatshirt. When he returned, she had tea ready for them. They sat on the couch together and sipped tea in silence for a few minutes. Finally Mac started the conversation she felt they must have.
“Harm...I think I know where we are heading tonight and I just want you to know that I um - this is hard to say.”
“You’ve been with someone since you were tested?”
“Yes and no...I’ve been tested but the results aren’t back. I’m sure its okay but I don’t want to take a chance, so I think we should use protection for two reasons.”
“Two reasons...disease and pregnancy?”
“Yes...Harm, as much as I would like to have your child, I want us to be sure and be in a committed relationship before we start a family. We need to think about setting an example for Mattie too.”
“You’re right. Will you be mad if I tell you that I got some so that in case we decided to take this step we would be prepared?”
“Why would I be mad that you were looking out for me and taking responsibility? I think its sweet.”
“Thanks Mac. So do we need to talk about more tonight?”
“No. I’m all yours Harm...”
Harm swept her up in his long arms, carried her to the bedroom and proceeded to make love to her. They were cuddling in bed when Mattie came to the door and knocked to let Harm know she was home before curfew. He slipped on his robe and opened the door for her. After chatting to Mattie for a few seconds, she wished him good-night and went onto bed.
“Won’t she think it strange that you didn’t really let her in?”
“No...when she’s gotten back late like that I’ve been in bed and asleep before so I just go say good-night and go back to bed.” He wiggled his eyebrows at her and smiled, “but it’s much nicer coming back to you.”
Saturday 1000 Local
Harm’s Apartment
North of Union Station
Harm and Mac had just returned from their morning run. While Mac showered, Harm looked through the mail he had picked up. There was an envelope from Children’s Services. He tore it opened and took out the letter inside.
This is to inform you that the custody hearing for Mathilda Grace Johnson has been set for April 1, 2004 at 2:00 PM at the Virginia State Courthouse. The following will be reviewed regarding your care of the minor, Mathilda Grace Johnson:
Education
Housing
Discipline
Health
Safety
Emotional Well-being
You may bring no more then three witnesses to testify on your behalf in regards to these issues.
If you do not appear, then custody will be revoked and the minor child will be placed in a home deemed appropriate by the court.
Harm just sat there and stared at the letter. The judge had said six months and it had only been three. The social worker that had been to visit them twice in that time had only been here two weeks ago and had not said anything in this regard. In fact, he had been worried because of the housing situation and the fact that he had not found them a house as yet. He wasn’t ready to let Mattie go. He knew someday it would happen, but he wasn’t prepared yet. It was too soon. How was he going to tell Mattie?
“Harm? What is it?” Mac had returned from her shower dressed in jeans and a gold top to find Harm sitting at his desk with a letter in his hands and tears on his face. “Harm?”
“I’m losing Mattie...”
“What?” Mac couldn’t believe her ears and took the letter that Harm held out to her. She read the letter and then relaxed.
“Harm, this doesn’t mean you are going to loose Mattie.”
“I think it does. It was suppose to be six months and its only been three. I haven’t found a house for us yet. Tom Johnson is doing well at Rehab and Mattie is even starting to accept him again.”
“Harm, you’ve been good for Mattie. You have given her a safe home and a family of sorts. You are looking for a home and you have made offers but someone made a better offer each time. She’s going to school and her grades are good. Even her teacher has backed off because she can’t argue Mattie’s work ethic or intelligence. Mattie is playing sports and attending Alateen. You have fostered her relationship with her father even though it has upset Mattie. She has not gotten in trouble; she follows the curfew you set for her; you’ve got her eating healthy foods; and I know she feels safe and secure. Stop worrying.”
“I hate to tell her about this.”
“Be honest with her Harm...”
“I know. It’s just I hate to upset her.”
“You want me to tell her with you?”
“I can’t ask you to do that Mac.”
“You’re not asking - I’m offering.”
“Then I’ll take you up on it. I guess I’d better shower and change first.”
“I left you some hot water Squid.”
“Hey - that’s not on the approved list of endearments!”
“Okay - you can add ‘Jarhead’ because I’m not giving up Squid when I need it.”
Harm planted a kiss on her lips before disappearing into the bedroom and bathroom.
Mac started making pancake batter and dicing fruit while Harm showered. Mattie knocked on the door and Mac let her in.
“Hey Mac.”
“Morning Mattie. Have fun last night?”
“Yeah. Did you?”
“It was great watching you play volleyball. That was quite the spike move you have. I’m surprised Harm hasn’t tagged you with that nickname.”
“Oh he tried and I scowled at him so he stopped.”
“Why? It’s cute.”
“I don’t do cute well, Mac.”
“I know what you mean. But I have some names I like to call him so I negotiated them.”
“What do you mean?”
“He gets to call me Marine so I can call him Sailor. He gets Tiger and I get Flyboy. And just this morning I got Squid and he got Jarhead.”
“Like when I call him Harmon after he calls me Mathilda?”
“Yeah.”
“So, if I let him call me Spike I get to call him something.”
“Yeah...any nicknames you want to give him?”
“Yeah, but I don’t think I could get a way with any of them.”
“Like what?”
“Jerk, Bully, Spoilsport, Idiot...”
“Makes you mad sometimes does he?”
“Yeah...”
“Join the crowd. Does he always make you mad?”
“No! Sometimes I just wish he was really my dad.”
“Mattie...”
“I know...but I just don’t trust my father...I trust Harm.
“Even though you don’t have fun sometimes doing what he expects or because he makes you mad?”
“Yeah.”
“Why do you think that is Mattie?”
“I can trust him.”
“What if he says he’s going to be somewhere and he has to back out because he’s taken a case that requires he travels?”
“He doesn’t just disappear...he calls and says that plans have to change.”
“And your dad didn’t do that?”
“No.”
“Did you trust Harm right away or did you have to learn to trust him?”