Title: Passing the Torch
Author: Hollyjp
Premise: Harm is looking for ways to draw Mac closer and to prove to her that he is ready to make good on his promise - if she isn’t in a relationship with someone else.
Spoilers: Any episode through Season 9 is fair game but I also used creative license and did not stick tightly to each and every episode. Starts around the episode called, “Hard Time.”
0750 Local
JAG HQ
Falls Church, Virginia
Commander Harmon Rabb Junior made his way into the bullpen that Tuesday morning with a smile for everyone he met. His six foot four frame and his muscular physique created an impressive image but add to that the navy blue uniform with the gold trim and the sparkling green eyes along with his handsome face and it was a vision that turned heads.
“Good morning Commander.”
“Good morning Harriet. How are the boys doing?”
“Jimmy is growing constantly and has managed to sleep through the night for two weeks now. Little AJ has been begging me to let him return to pre-school, so Bud and I talked it over and decided that with the opening at the day care for Jimmy it was a good time to go back to work three days a week.”
“Well we’re glad to have you back Harriet.”
“Thank you Commander. It will be nice to be back around my JAG friends and family and not have to rely on Bud for the news of everyone.”
“I’m sorry I haven’t been around as much Harriet...”
“That’s alright, sir. With Mattie to keep track of I’m sure that you don’t have the time you use to...but you can bring her with you, you know.”
“I know. However, between her meetings, school, volleyball and now track it seems her schedule is full too.”
“And you love every second of it don’t you, sir?”
“I do Harriet. As a matter of fact I love it so much I’m thinking it would be great to start from scratch - like you and Bud have done.”
“A baby, sir?”
“Yes.”
“You should be working on getting a wife then sir.”
“I’m trying, Harriet...but I’m pretty particular you know.”
“How’s that sir?”
“Not only does she need to be intelligent, have a sense of humor, and an inner strength she needs to love me as much as I love her.”
“That makes sense. Have a candidate in mind, sir?”
“I do Harriet...but I’m not sure she meets all the qualifications yet or not.”
“Keep me posted, sir,” Harriet laughed as Harm moved past her toward Mac’s office before moving down the hall to his own office.
Once in his office Harm opened his brief case and settled in for the day. He had some reports to write this morning and later he and Sturgis were scheduled to interview some potential witnesses in a case with Sturgis prosecuting and Harm defending. They had agreed to interview several of the witnesses together due to the sensitive nature of the case.
Harm booted up his computer and allowed himself a few minutes to day dream while he waited and before he went to work. Ever since they had gone to lunch to celebrate Coates’ promotion and he had been caught up thinking about the ‘road not taken’ - yet.
Over the last couple of months, he had become more and more aware of what he wanted and he had slowly and carefully been making plans to make it happen. He hadn’t told anyone so far what he wanted - but he almost told Harriet this morning. He hinted at his goal - marriage and a baby.
Harriet didn’t know about the promise he had made Mac the day little AJ had been born. Harm had known back then that when he was ready to settle down and get married that he wanted it to be with Sarah Mackenzie. She was beautiful, brilliant, and the only woman that he became tongue tied around. He had never been one to talk about people he worked with when he visited with his mother, but he found himself telling both his grandmother and mother about Mac from the very first time he talked with them after he had started working with Mac.
What he hadn’t realized is that his mother and grandmother were both so surprised by the change that they started talking to each other and comparing notes. It didn’t take long before they were convinced that Mac was the girl for him and they began hinting and teasing him a little. They were careful not to go to far yet never letting him forget that grandchildren, or great grandchildren as the case may be, would be welcomed. Harm would never admit it, but by the time they had returned from Russia the first time, Harm had started picturing Mac as the mother of his children. He also knew that he wasn’t ready to settle down at that point.
The following year had culminated in his eye treatment and subsequent return to flight status. He knew that he had to bring closure to that dream on his terms if he was ever going to have a chance to fulfill the dreams of his future - a wife and child. Little AJ’s birth had given him the opportunity to let Mac in a little on his dream. He knew that she wanted children as much as he did and when she looked so sad that day watching the Roberts family pull away in the ambulance, it wasn’t about them having what she didn’t, it was about not having hope that she would have what they did. So Harm had let her know in his own way - he thought - that although he wasn’t ready to settle down to have a family yet, that he figured he would be in five years and when that time came, he hoped she would be available and willing to have him and start that family they both wanted. At the same time he didn’t want to assume anything so he presented his dream to her as a deal that gave her an out.
“In five years, if neither of us are involved in a relationship we’ll go halves on a kid. With your looks and my brains he’ll be perfect.”
She had countered with, “What if she has your looks and my brains?”
“That could work too. What do you say?”
“Don’t make a promise you can’t keep.”
“I haven’t yet.”
They had shook on it and for two years neither of them mentioned it again. It finally came up on the Admiral’s porch one evening when they were gathered to celebrate Mac and Mic’s engagement. While Mac had suggested it was null and void, Harm had been eager to point out that it had three years left to run and that a lot could happen in that time. Mac of course had taken that as a slam against her ability to sustain a relationship while Harm had only meant that a lot could happen in three years.
After that the deal was not mentioned until last winter. Every where Harm turned, women were pregnant and babies were being born. Harm had thought he saw a wistfulness about Mac and wondered if she wanted to join the ‘baby-boom’. They were getting along and growing closer. He was thinking about settling down soon, so he had found the courage to ask her point blank if she wanted to move up the time-table on their deal. She had brushed it off and told him that she wasn’t feeling the need to push the date up.
Harm had taken her at her word and let it go. He had decided however to increase his attention to her and try to increase the intensity with which he pursued her. That was when the bottom had fallen out of their lives. First with his arrest for the murder of Lauren Singer and then her assignment to Paraguay. That experience had almost ended his dream completely. Had he shown up even seconds later the outcome would have been so much worse and her dreams of being a parent may have not even been possible.
Harm had been shut out of JAG and ended up with the CIA before being shut out there as well. The one good thing that came about as a result of the previous spring was finding Mattie Grace. He loved being needed and he loved the fact that he was helping Mattie enjoy her childhood - or what was left of it- before she officially became an adult. The bonus had been that as he learned to be a parent - something he wanted to be and do well - he began to get more insight into Mac.
Although he had shut her out of his life when he left JAG, he knew it was a knee jerk reaction to her statement that they would ‘never’ work. He missed her more and more every day and had resigned himself to the role of friend. He didn’t think that Clayton Webb was good for Mac, but if that was who she chose to date he couldn’t do much about it. When he first returned to JAG he had offered to include her in his life again. He had asked her to dinner the way they had often done in years past. Each time she had a previous commitment with Webb.
Through out the fall and early winter, Harm still found himself lashing out at Mac verbally but he also tried to apologize too. He wasn’t proud of himself and so he slowly started to find ways to filter the things he said. The biggest blow had come when he went to Mac to ask for her help in getting custody of Mattie and she had been angry that he had not told her about his plans sooner. His irrational out of character behavior combined with his desire to help Mattie and fear of not being approved resulted in him walking away from Mac in anger.
Mac had apparently taken his words to heart and realized the depth of his commitment to Mattie because she had shown up in court and spoken on his behalf. When the court had decided against him due to Mr. Johnson’s intervention she had interceded with both Tom Johnson and the judge, giving him Mattie for a Christmas present. Although she had a prior obligation with Webb and wouldn’t join them, Harm began to deal with their relationship differently from that night on.
In front of the judge, Mattie, Tom Johnson and the other people in court, Mac had all but admitted that she wanted a future with Harm and that she wanted him to be the father of her children. He knew that she had risked her pride saying what she did about him within his hearing. He vowed to himself that no matter what happened in court, he would do what ever he could to give Mac her dream and in so doing, he would have his dream. He also knew that it would require careful planning.
Since Mattie had come in to his life he had learned to think things through like he did when preparing for a trial. He learned to weigh the evidence and draw his conclusions in his personal life with the same care as he used as a lawyer. He had possessed the skills but hadn’t thought about applying them in day to day life until now. Now he had a reason. He thought that this may have been what the Admiral was getting at when they had their little heart to heart talk.
Thinking back to how he had bristled at the Admiral’s words and how he had slipped into that arrogant, self-assured attitude he tended to adopt to get him through tough situations, Harm wondered how the Admiral had walked away without decking him.
A flurry of activity outside his office got his attention and he realized that he had been lost in thought for almost two hours. He had worked on the report which was mostly a standard template where he had to fill in the blanks. Yet, Harm realized that he would need to proof his work carefully later. Curious as to the commotion, he left his office and went in search of the disruption. Spotting Harriet across the bullpen he called to her.
“Lt. Sims, what’s going on?”
“Getting ice packs for the Colonel, Sir,” she called as she rushed toward the courtroom.
“Colonel Mackenzie?”
“Yes sir!”
Harm rushed to the courtroom and pushed his way through the crowd gathered there. His height gave him an advantage as he peered over the others just as Harriet knelt beside Mac and placed an ice pack on her face. Harm pushed through the rest of the crowd and knelt on the other side of Mac just as she began to stir.
“Take it easy, Mac. What happened here?” Harm demanded.
“The defendant punched her and she went down sir.”
“Where is he now?”
“They have her in custody and on the way back to the brig, Commander.”
“It’s okay Mac...take it easy...” Harm tried to sooth her as he helped her to sit up while Harriet held the ice pack to her face.
“Do you remember what happened?”
“Yeah...after the findings were announced, the defendant wasn’t happy with me and came at me. I wasn’t expecting her to come after me like that and she caught me by surprise. How long was I out?”
“About ten minutes Ma’am,” Lt. Roberts answered.
“Throw your clock off Mac?”
“Yeah a little...oh...”
“What is it?” Harm searched her face and let his fingers slide through her hair and across her head looking for further signs of injury.
“”My jaw hurts when I talk...and no smart comments.”
Harm smiled at her. “Think you can stand up?”
“Yeah.”
“Okay, let’s move slow and easy.” Harm stood up and practically lifted her to her feet. He held on to her and she leaned against him as she got her feet under her.
“Thanks.”
“Mac, I think you should have a doctor look you over. You have a bump on your head too.”
“Harm I’m fine...A little bruised maybe, but other then that I’m fine.”
“Hold that ice on your jaw a little longer, Mac, and maybe you’ll get a way with less bruising. Want another pack for your head?”
“I’m fine Harm...”
“Humor me okay?” Mac nodded and Harm escorted Mac toward her office. “Back to work people.”
Mac looked at Harm and tried to smile behind the ice pack. “You’re getting better at taking charge Commander.”
“Parenting helps you master just the right tone of voice, I guess,” Harm acknowledged. They both thought back to the time when Mac had to intercede with Petty Officer Coates to get her to comply with Harm’s orders. Of course they were all exhausted and distraught worrying about Bud Roberts at the time.
Harm stayed by Mac’s side with one hand at her back as they moved through the bull pen and into her office. Once she was seated at her desk, Harm sat across from the desk and studied her.
“What?”
“Thank you for not decking me when I helped you up and brought you up here. I’m sure you would have been fine, Mac, but thanks for putting up with me.”
“Harm...if you tell anyone I said this I swear I’ll make you pay - but thank you. It felt good to be taken care of.”
“Your welcome...and I’ll keep your secret, I promise.” Harm smiled and Mac tried to give it back to him.
“Ow...”
“Jaw hurt?”
“Yeah, a little when I smile.”
“You may need to settle for soup and soft foods for a few days as well.”
“Harm, it’s not broken.”
“You sure?”
“Yes...”
“Might not hurt to have it checked.”
“But it might hurt a lot when I kick your six for driving me crazy!” Mac smiled as she threatened him with bodily harm.
“Okay...I’ll back off but it will cost you.”
“What?” Mac looked at Harm with a puzzled expression on her face.
“I said you’ll owe me for letting you off the hook about getting that jaw checked out and the bump on your head.”
“So how much?”
“Oh no...not that easy, Mac. Let’s see, this should be good for at least two dates, don’t you think?”
“Dates?”
“Well, scheduled times together...I think they usually call them dates.”
“Two?”
“Maybe three...”
“I’ll agree to two scheduled get togethers.”
Harm just smiled at her and lightly touched her nose and lips with his index finger. “Is your calendar clear this evening, Mac?”
“Yes...”
“Good, then I’ll pick you up at 1930 for dinner and movie. How’s that?”
“Harm...”
“No backing out.”
“I wasn’t going to...I’ll be ready.”
“Good. You going to be alright?”
“Yes...and thanks for everything, Harm.”
****
1925 Local
Mac’s Apartment
Georgetown
Mac gave herself one final look in the mirror and decided that there was little she could do to hide the bruise on her jaw. She was glad that neither the blow to her chin or the bump on her head when she hit the floor had done any more damage then it had. A little make-up and a few days would take care of the bruise on her chin. The bump on her head had given her a bit of a headache but the Advil seemed to be keeping that under control. She was looking forward to her ‘scheduled get together’ with Harm.
Leave it to that man to come up with an understated way of asking her out. When she thought about it he had always done that. Over the years he had often created times for them to get together for one reason or another. It wasn’t until today that she realized that all that time he had in his own way been trying to date her. She shook her head in amusement. With this new aspect of looking at things she was eagerly anticipating spending the time with him this evening. She wondered now if there were other things she had missed - clues that may have given her a different perspective on them - their relationship.
Mac had put on a simple black skirt that was shorter then her uniforms and paired it with a tangerine colored short sleeved sweater with a sweetheart neckline that was low enough to hint at what was there, but modest enough to cover her. She slipped her feet into the black wedge heeled shoes with the open toes that gave her the height she liked. Clay had never minded her being taller then him, but she had always enjoyed that feminine feeling she had when Harm towered over her and seemed to surround her with his size. Harm’s size had never over-powered her although sometimes his personality made her feel like it would. She turned toward the door as Harm knocked, on time for a change.
“Harm...” Mac seemed to forget what she was going to say when she saw him standing at her door in black slacks and a charcoal gray shirt with a matching tie topped with a black leather jacket.
“You look great Mac...” Harm touched her face looking carefully where he expected a bruise to be. “I can just barely see it.”
“Make-up helped...”
“It will fade soon, Mac.”
“I know...let me grab my jacket and then we can go.”
“Here - let me help you...”Harm stepped up and helped Mac slip into the short black leather jacket. As he settled it on her shoulders he let his hands linger there for just a moment longer then necessary. He wanted to enjoy every second with her and savor those little touches that he had taken for granted before.
“Thanks...ready?”
“Yeah...you hungry tonight?”
“Harm when am I not hungry?”
“I’ve seen you once or twice not care about food...but I’m glad you are hungry tonight.”
“Where are we going?”
“Nothing fancy - just a little restaurant that I found that has a nice variety, good portions and a great atmosphere.”
“What kind of atmosphere?”
“You’ll see...” Harm smiled. Together they walked down to his Lexus. Harm held the door open for Mac to slide in and then after closing the door went around to slide into the car beside her. They rode in companionable silence for a few minutes before Mac finally broke the silence asking after Mattie.
“What’s Mattie up to this evening?”
“She went out of town with the track team. They won’t be back for a couple of days.”
“Where was the meet?”
“Actually it isn’t a meet, she went with the team on a retreat.”
“So does she run with you now?”
“Yeah, it took her awhile to realize that every time I run doesn’t have to be a marathon. I started going with her to the track and having her set the pace. She was looking at doing shot and disc, long jump, and some sprints, but now that we’ve graduated from the track to the trails, she’s thinking of trying for longer distances and then maybe doing cross country this fall.”
“That’s great.”
“You should join us sometime Mac. Mattie would love it I’m sure.”
“Maybe I will. I use to enjoy running with you, you know.”
“Me too...I’ve missed that Mac. Clay ever run with you?”
“Harm...” Mac’s tone warned with that she didn’t want to discuss Webb.
“Mac, I was going to suggest that he join us if you wanted him too.”
“Why?”
“Because as much as I want to spend time with you like we use to, I know there is only so much time in a day and with Webb’s schedule it may interfere with your time together.”
“Thanks - I think...but Clay wouldn’t join us on a trail. He prefers the gym.”
“So do I when the weather is bad,” Harm admitted with a smile.
Mac smiled.
Harm pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant. It was a chain restaurant that offered good food, decent prices and a fun atmosphere that Harm had enjoyed with Mattie and thought Mac would enjoy it as well.
“Ever been to one of these restaurants?”
“No, but I’ve heard the food is good.”
“Let’s go check it out, okay?”
At Mac’s nod, Harm got out and went around to guide Mac from the car and then lock it. He slipped one arm around her back and rested his hand near her hip. As they walked in they were greeted with the large grizzly bear standing tall and as they walked by a roar followed by a welcome could be heard. Mac jumped a little and stopped to look at the ‘talking bear’ and then looked at Harm.
“You are kidding me right?”
“It only gets better Mac...” Harm grinned as they made there way through the entrance to the hostess who showed them to a booth in a secluded area of the restaurant. Above the table was a large rainbow trout on display. Behind Harm was a bobcat and across from them a beaver near it’s den.
“The taxidermist was kept busy decorating this place by the looks.” Mac rolled her eyes at Harm as she looked around.
On the far wall on one side of the room they could see a large moose head while on the other side was a bison.
As the waitress approached with water and to offer them menus, the moose head began to speak. Mac jumped and burst out laughing. Harm laughed too. The waitress saw Mac’s surprise.
“First time eating with us?”
“Yes.”
“You too sir?”
“No, my ward and I have been here and we really enjoyed it, so I thought it was time to share the experience.”
“I’ll be back in a few minutes to take your orders.”
Mac looked at Harm. “This wasn’t quite the atmosphere I had anticipated.”
“Do you mind? I thought it was fun and I thought we both deserved to have some fun and relax. This isn’t the kind of place you go if you want quiet or sophistication, but it is fun.”
“I don’t mind at all...if the food is as good as you say.”
“Trust me.”
“You know I do.”
“I hope so...sometimes lately I haven’t been sure if you still did.”
“Still trust you? Of course. There is no reason not to trust you Harm.”
“I think an argument could be made for not trusting me, Mac.”
“Harm, we’ve both made some mistakes in the past and this past year has been rough on both of us for many reasons. I’m glad that we’ve been able to get back to this point, aren’t you?”
“Of course...but...I had hoped...” Harm stopped as the bison head at the end of the restaurant started to talk. Mac covered her mouth with her hand as she burst out laughing. Eyes shining she listened to the bison tell about the delicious offerings the restaurant had to offer. Turning to look back at Harm, she cringed thinking about the serious conversation he had started before the bison had interrupted them.
“Sorry Harm.”
“I’m not, Mac. I like seeing you laugh. Remember in Paraguay you said that I sucked the joy out of living.”
“Harm...I’m sorry...I never should have said that.”
“No...You were right...I had forgotten how to enjoy life...I think it was after Bud’s accident...”
“Harm that took a lot out of all of us. But Bud and Harriet are doing great. The admiral is going to put in for Bud to be promoted you know.”
“I didn’t know...but that’s great. He’s worked hard and deserves it. He’s been able to bounce back from this better then any of us had hoped. But Mac...somehow this past year, despite everything, I’ve found what makes me happy and how to take time to be happy. It was thinking about your words that made me realize that I had lost the fun in life and it was you helping me to get Mattie in my life that helped me find it again.”
“She’s been good for you Harm.”
“We’ve been good for each other.”
“Are you ready to place your orders?” the waitress asked as she appeared at the table.
“Mac?”
“I will have the filet mignons with baked potato and salad.”
“Sir?”
“I’ll have the grilled swordfish and salad.”
“Baked potato, fries, or rice?”
“No thanks...I love the rolls too much so I’ll pass on the other carbs.”
“What would you like to drink?”
“I think I’ll just stick with water.”
“Me too.”
As the waitress walked away Harm looked back at Mac. He didn’t want to say too much too soon and scare her away, but he also knew that it was important he be up front with her.
“Mac, I’ve missed spending time with you and I want to find ways to include you in my life again. Do you have any objections to that?”
“Not at the moment. I’d like to spend more time with you as well.” They shared a smile and then spent the evening chatting over their meal. Finally Harm noted the time and suggested they go if they were going to catch a movie.
They selected a current action suspense film that had been getting great reviews. They settled into their seats with their diet sodas and a small bucket of popcorn to share. Harm ate very little, but did take a few bites. The movie started with a bang and Mac dropped the popcorn when she jumped. Harm put one arm around her shoulders to hug her when it happened and then just left his arm loosely over the back of her seat.
When the lights came up they stood up and Harm helped her put her jacket back on and then kept his arm around her as they returned to his car. They talked about the movie and the fact that the action hadn’t let up from beginning to end. That led to a conversation about the coming attractions they had seen and a discussion of which of those that they wanted to see. There was one that was definitely a ‘chick flick’ and another one that was a gruesome murder mystery. Another was an action movie that they both thought might be good. By the time they were at Mac’s they had decided that they should try and catch that one.
Harm got out and opened the door for Mac, determined to be the attentive gentleman for the entire evening. With his hand at her back he saw her to her door. She unlocked the door and opened it to step through.
“Harm, would you like some coffee before you go? It should be ready?”
“Timer?”
“Yes,”
“Then I’d love a cup.”
Harm sat at the table as Mac instructed while she went to the kitchen to pour their coffee. Returning she set it on the table and sat at a right angle from Harm. They each sipped their coffee.
“Mac, I’d like to get together again like this. How’s your schedule looking?”
“Harm you know that things can change quickly around JAG...but I’d like to get together again too. It’s been too long.”
“So do you have anything going on Thursday evening?”
“No.”
“How about getting together again then? You can even pick the restaurant and the movie. Deal?”
“Sounds great.”
“I best be going. It’s getting late.”
“Work tomorrow...”
Together they walked to the door. Harm turned to open it and then stepped back toward Mac and dropped a quick kiss on her lips before he turned and left shutting the door behind him.
Mac didn’t hear Harm whistling as he went down the hall and out to the car. He didn’t hear Mac’s “Wow” or see her touch her lips where he had kissed her.
****
Wednesday
1100 Local
JAG HQ
Falls Church, Virginia
Harm was crossing the bull pen to the fax machine whistling as he waited. Harriet Sims-Roberts watched him with a smile on her face.
“One would think you are getting closer to finding Ms. Right Commander.”
“Why’s that Harriet?”
“You’re whistling again. It’s been a long time since you’ve whistled your way through a day. Hot date last night Commander?”
“Now Harriet, I don’t kiss and tell...you should know that by now.”
“But you kissed someone, didn’t you sir?”
“Maybe...but I did have a nice evening out.”
“Are you seeing her again?”
“Yes...tomorrow night.”
“When are you going to introduce us?”
“I’m not sure I will.”
“Oh you will eventually sir. Have a good day.”
“I intend to Lt. Sims.”
Harm picked up his fax and then returned to his office. He nodded to Mac as he passed her office. Once inside his own he called Mac.
“Lt. Colonel Mackenzie,” she answered.
“Commander Rabb - I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed getting together last night.”
“Me too.”
“Have you said anything to anyone?”
“No, have you?”
“No, but Harriet is trying to figure it out.”
“Then I’ll be sure to be careful that I don’t give anything away.”
“This almost feels like we are sneaking around, doesn’t it?”
“Yeah...but its fun too. How long can we do this without someone asking if we are seeing each other?”
“Shall we try it and see?”
“Do you really want to Harm?”
“If you won’t be in trouble with Clay, yeah.”
“Then let’s do it.”
They laughed over their plans like a couple of kids before hanging up.
Thursday 1053 Local
JAG HQ
Falls Church, Virginia
Mac was going over her notes from the junior attorney’s she and the Admiral had interviewed yesterday. She had a meeting in eight minutes to tell the Admiral who she thought the best two candidates were to bring into JAG. There were three that she felt were stand-outs but the Admiral said they needed to select two for now. They had met with six candidates yesterday and needed to make a final decision today. Lieutenant Jordan Stone, USN; Lieutenant Sandra Weston, USN; and Lieutenant Travis Williams, USMC were all equal in her eyes. Stone and Weston had served as legal aides on ships, and Williams had been stationed in San Diego under Allison Krennick but had requested a transfer to the east coast due to family concerns. Mac had thought that Williams and Weston would work well together at JAG in DC and then Stone could replace Williams in Krennick’s office. That was going to be her suggestion to the Admiral.
Mac presented herself at the appropriate time.
“At ease Mac. Have a seat. What do you think about the candidates?”
“I think we have three outstanding candidates, sir. Lieutenants Stone, Weston and Williams all have similar training and fit-reps. I think they are all worthy of consideration, but as I have to limit myself to two people in this office, then I would suggest Williams and Weston.”
“Any particular reason?”
“Yes...Williams requested east coast and Stone prefers West coast. If we take Williams it would leave a billet open on the west coast which Stone would fill very well.”
“So you get to pick three candidates after all, Colonel?”
“Yes sir, it would seem that way sir.”
“Good plan, Mac. Do you think that it warrants another interview or are you comfortable enough that we can bring them in and assign them to senior attorneys here right away.”
“I’d like to bring them in right away and assign one to Commander Rabb and work with the other myself.”
“And who will be assigned to keep up with Rabb?”
“I think Sandra Weston would be able to handle working with Harm.”
“This isn’t going to turn into Navy vs Marines is it Colonel?”
“No...I was actually thinking of preventing a male versus female scenario sir. I can see how it could deteriorate into Navy versus Marines although Harm and I never went that route.”
“Really?”
“We joke with each other about it sir, but I don’t think it would have mattered what uniform we wore; our battles would have existed.”
“You may be right. Alright Colonel, give the files to Coates to prepare the orders for my signature. I’ll leave it up to you to fill in Rabb. Colonel, did you consider assigning one of them to Turner?”
“No sir...I may eventually turn Williams over to Sturgis but I want to see what he’s made of first. Sturgis tends to be very rigid and I would like to think that with the right introduction to JAG, that we may find another Lt. Roberts.”
“I agree Colonel that the initial training should be you and Rabb. Once they’ve learned the ropes perhaps one could be assigned to partner Turner and the other Roberts. I hope that the members will consider making Roberts a Lt. Commander despite the injury. I feel he has shown he can handle the job and can get around on a carrier if necessary.”
“He deserves it Admiral.”
“Agreed. Anything else?”
“Actually Admiral there is one other thing that I’ve thought about...”
“Go ahead.”
“Well sir, when Commander Rabb returned he was put in a very small office that would normally be given to a junior attorney. When Carolyn Imes was here she was given the other office next to Bud’s...”
“And you think Rabb has gotten the point and deserves to have a senior office again?”
“Yes sir, I do.”
“I agree Colonel. Rabb took everything I dished out to him with class and has never once whined about the office or the smell. Have him move into the other office and put the two new attorneys in the two small offices down the hall - Rabb’s and the one next to it.”
“Thank you sir.”
“Dismissed.”
“Aye, Aye sir!”
Mac returned to her office and buzzed Commander Rabb.
“Commander Rabb.”
“Hey, Harm, you got a minute?”
“Hi Mac. Sure, what’s up?”
“I’ll be by in a few minutes to fill you in.”
“Okay. I’ll be here.” Harm hung up the phone and straightened out his desk closing the file he had been reading. Mac rarely came to his office anymore now that he was out of the main traffic pattern. He looked around at his little office and thought about the advantages of this office over the big office next to Mac’s. He wasn’t as distracted when she wasn’t around or when someone came into her office that he didn’t know. However, sometimes he felt left out.
{Knock, knock}
“Come on in Mac.”
“Ever get tired of being in this little office, Harm?”
“Yes and no...I was just thinking that it has its advantages - like fewer distractions, but it also tends to make one feel left out.”
“You up for moving up front again?”
“Yeah, I guess so.”
“The office next to Bud’s isn’t as big or as nice as your old one, but it’s better then this.”
“Why the sudden change?”
“I asked the admiral if he had any objections to moving you back into senior attorney space and he agreed that you had payed your dues and should be moved. Besides, we need space for two junior attorneys and this office and the one next door would be perfect.”
“Two new juniors, huh?”
“Yes...and you will be training one of them and I’ll have the other.”
“Are we going to compete over this?”
“No...I don’t think so. I think that Lt. Weston will be able to keep up with you and I think you will find her a quick study.”
“Navy or Marine?”
“Navy.”
“And who will you be training?”
“Lt. Williams, USMC.”
“Aahhh...”
“I’ve promised the Admiral we won’t turn this into Navy versus Marines, so don’t you start.”
“I won’t Mac...at least not officially.”
“Harm...” Mac warned him with her tone.
“I promise I’ll behave.”
“You’d better, Squid.”
“Hey! I’ll start calling you Jarhead...”
“Okay, okay...truce.”
“Truce. So what’s the plan with the new juniors?”
“As I said we’ll do the initial orientation and keep them with us for a few cases and then eventually we will turn them over to Bud and Sturgis.”
“Do either of them have Bud’s potential?”
“Both of them. Not a Singer in the mix.”
“That’s good. Hey, Mac?”
“We still on for tonight?”
“Yeah...I made reservations at 1930 for us at that restaurant we went to last year with Skates and her fiancé. That okay?”
“Sounds good. Pick out a movie?”
“We don’t have to do a movie too Harm...”
“We don’t have to, but I’d like to unless you don’t want to.”
“I’d like to but I’m not sure what we should go see.”
“What about that adventure movie we saw the previews for the other night. Isn’t that suppose to start today?”
“Yeah, I guess it is. Okay, I’ll see you by 1900, right?”
“I’ll be there. Hey Mac?”
“Yes?”
“When do you want me to move my office?”
“When you secure for the day I’ll leave orders for your files to be moved into the new office. You can settle in there tomorrow.”
“Okay. Thank you.”
Mac smiled and felt the unspoken communications between them. It felt good to have that back.
****
2150 Local
Movie Theater
Georgetown
Following a relaxing dinner where they found plenty to talk about that was not work related, they had gone to the movie theater. They had chosen the movie with the preview that interested them from before. They had decided to skip the popcorn and soda after the meal and instead were planning on coffee and cake back at Mac’s after the movie. Harm had settled his arm around her shoulders again and Mac had looked around the theater and notices that most men were sitting with one arm behind their date. Mac decided it was probably more comfortable for Harm with his wide shoulders and long arms.
The movie was an action movie as advertised but the leading action hero turned out to be quite the ladies man. Just as Mac started thinking that the movie hero was a lot like Harm (tall, dark and handsome, with a desire to find truth and an eye for blondes) a steamy love scene had unfolded with the dark haired, olive complexioned heroine. Mac found the room growing warm while at the same time she realized that Harm’s hand was running up and down her arm and with his fingers grazing her breasts.
Harm swallowed as he watched the intense loving making scene on the big screen in front of him. He realized that he was caressing Mac’s arm and that his fingers were coming dangerously close to forbidden territory. He closed his eyes and concentrated on the feel of her skin beneath his fingers. With his eyes shut he was sure he could hear her breathing and his own heart racing. We willed his body not to respond the way it wanted to. He prayed that the scene would end soon and not be repeated.
Mac was thinking the same thing, but it was not to be. The last part of the movie was sex with a little bit of action adventure. The focus of the movie went from one of action and adventure to one of hot sex and adventure. The hero and heroine defeated the bad guys but spent more time defeating their demons and rescuing their relationship. It hit a little too close to home and left both of them feeling a little uncomfortable.
As the credits rolled, Harm and Mac stood up and quickly slipped into their jackets and headed for the car. They were careful not to touch or look at each other. They quietly got into Harm’s SUV, buckled their seat belts and headed toward Mac’s. Neither spoke for several minutes.
Harm drove in silence willing his body to behave and thinking about how uncomfortable he and Mac both were at the sex scenes. He had been to movies with Renee and she had used them for inspiration and had teased him by letting her hands roam up and down his thighs and into his lap until he had held her hands tightly to stop her mischievous fingers and avoid embarrassment. He started to grin at how embarrassed he and Mac had become when the love scenes started. To be honest, he knew he would like nothing more then to reenact some of those scenes with Mac.
Mac sat thinking about other movies she had been to with dates. There had been steamy love scenes in those movies, too, and they hadn’t acted like embarrassed teenagers on their first date. The humor of the situation finally surfaced for Mac and she started to grin and then giggle.
“Mac? What is it?”
“Oh Harm...we really are something, you know that?”
“What do you mean?”
“We are two mature adults and we’ve both been around some and yet we reacted to that movie like two virgin teenagers...”
“Why do you think that is, Mac?”
“Because we’ve never crossed that line with each other but have both thought about it at times, I guess.”
“Have you thought about it...I mean you and me...?”
“Yes. Have you?”
“Oh yeah...”
“But you’ve never acted like you were really interested.”
“I guess I hid it better then I realized.” Harm parked the car by Mac’s apartment building and they got out and started for her place. Harm reached out and threaded his fingers through hers. Maybe Webb was still in the picture and maybe they weren’t officially together, but Mac didn’t object to his attention so far and Webb wasn’t around.
Harm decided he may as well start his campaign to win Mac over and this was a perfect opportunity to begin.
Once in the apartment, they removed their jackets and headed to the kitchen together. Mac had set the timer on the coffee pot again and it was ready for them. Harm poured while Mac cut them each a slice of carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. As she slid the second slice on to the plate, her finger went into the frosting. She raised her hand to lick the frosting off, but Harm had other ideas. He caught her hand before it got to her mouth and he brought it to his mouth and let his tongue and lips remove the frosting. He heard Mac gasp in surprise, but he was pleased that she didn’t pull away.
As quickly as he had taken her hand he released it and grabbed the coffee cups.
“I’ve got the coffee, you bring the cake. Where do you want to sit?”
“Table?”
“Sure.” Harm set the cups down and took a seat. Mac put the cake down and sat too.
“Harm, why did you do that?”
“I wanted to. Did it bother you?”
“Yes...No...you are full of surprises tonight, Flyboy.”
“Might even have more in store - you never know,” Harm teased as he flashed her a smile that melted her knees.
“Harm, at the risk of starting trouble, I’ve got to ask you something?”
“Go ahead.”
“Normally when you show interest in me its when I’m involved with someone else or heading off to some assignment, but that’s not the case now. Why this sudden interest?”
“Are you telling me that Webb is no longer in the picture?”
“Answer my question first?”
“Okay...Mac...I’ve never lost interest in you. I made the mistake of taking you for granted maybe and I certainly never was as obvious in my interest in you as I guess you needed me to be, but I’ve never lost interest. You told me never and I tried to honor you and your opinion, but I found that I’m still interested in you and I’m not going to give up until I’ve tried to show you how I feel. That said, you need to know that you will need to convince me that you aren’t interested in us having a future. I’m not going to go away, but I will try to know where to draw the line so I don’t become a problem - I’m not a stalker and I won’t put you in danger. All I ask is that you be honest with me...because I’m going to risk a lot here trying to lay my cards on the table with you.”
“Harm...I haven’t seen Webb since February and when I do I am planning to tell him that although I want to be friends and I appreciate what he did for me, I can’t have a romantic relationship with him. It’s not healthy for either of us.”
“So I can go ahead and schedule some more times for us to get together outside of work?”
Mac burst out laughing, “Yes...I’d like to schedule more time with you...and with Mattie too.”
“Really?”
“Yeah...”
Harm picked up her hand and studied it. It felt small in his hand, but he knew her hands were strong. They sipped their coffee and enjoyed the cake. It was after midnight before Harm made a move to leave.
“I’d better go. We have work tomorrow. Walk me to the door?”
Mac got up and walked with Harm and watched him slip his jacket on. He stood there looking back at her and reached for her hands. Mac took a step closer toward Harm, and he leaned closer to her. Slowly he lowered his head and pulled her hands behind his back at his waist until she was standing very close to him.
“Have supper with Mattie and me tomorrow night?”
“Yes...”
Harm’s lips touched hers and she closed her eyes to savor the taste and feel of his lips. This time Harm let his kiss linger, although he didn’t deepen it. He stood up and watched her eyes flutter open.
“See you tomorrow.”
Mac just nodded as Harm stepped out of the door and shut it. His smile was of the thousand watt variety as he left the building and drove home.
Friday 1820 Local
Harm’s Apartment
North of Union Station
Harm entered his apartment carrying two bags of groceries. Mattie had come home today and Mac was joining them for supper, so he wanted to stock up and make sure there was plenty of supplies on hand. Jen had offered to pick up Mattie for him and he had taken her up on the offer so that he could get the first of her welcome home surprises ready for her. As much as she loved pizza she also loved shrimp and strawberries. Harm had decided to have shrimp cocktail waiting for her as an appetizer when she arrived home along with ice cold Mt. Dew. He had just gotten the shrimp ready when he heard the door open.
“Harm? I’m home!”
“Hey Mattie!” Harm met her and swept her up in a big hug. She wrapped her arms around his neck and held him tight.
“I really missed you.”
“Me too...missed you that is. Hey is Jen joining us?”
“No, she said she was going out and I know one of the reasons she offered to pick me up is she stopped at the boutique near my school that she liked. She found a really cool dress there that she’s planning to wear tonight.”
“Anyone we know?”
“I don’t know. Geez, Harm. She’s well over twenty-one and in the Navy and you’re still trying to screen her dates...what are you going to do when I start dating?”
“You’re not...at least until you’re thirty!” He grinned as he sat her back on her feet.
“Harm you had better be kidding me...”
“Maybe.”
“Just because you don’t date doesn’t mean the rest of us can’t.”
“Who says I don’t date?”
“I’ve never seen you have a date and I’ve been here four months. Even before I came here I asked you once if you had a hot date and you just laughed it off.”
“I’ll have you know that I went on two dates while you were gone.”
“Anyone I know?”
“Maybe...”
“Harm? Is this a potential Mrs. Harm?”
“Mattie most people don’t discuss or even think of marriage after two dates.”
“So? You aren’t most people.”
“I’ve fixed you a special appetizer while I fix dinner.”
“No fair changing the subject, Harm.”
The phone rang then and Harm picked it up. His sixth sense warned him it was Mac.
“Hello.”
{Harm it’s me, Mac.}
“You cancelling on me?”
{Not really - but I’ll be later then I had planned.}
“Is everything okay?”
{Yeah, I just don’t want to put this off any longer.}
“Clay show up?”
{How did you know?}
“Just a guess. Look if you don’t want to come over I’ll understand.”
{ I want to come over Harm. I’ve been looking forward to this evening. It’s just I need to tell him we’re done.}
“Okay...we’ll wait for you to start dinner.”
{No...Don’t make Mattie wait for me. I’ll be there and maybe we can just warm my food up?}
“Alright. See you later.”
“We expecting company?”
“Yes, but she’ll be later then planned.”
“Is this the mystery woman?”
“Look if I tell you who I am seeing, you’ve got to promise me not to say much to Jen about it.”
“Why?”
“Because we want to see how long we can go before everyone at the office catches on.”
“Are you seeing Mac?”
“Why do you think it would be Mac?”
“Because you two have a history...”
“Maybe that book is closed.”
“Then you must be working on a new volume.”
“Why don’t you set the table and enjoy your shrimp while I check dinner.” Harm had already put potatoes into bake and had rolls ready to warm up. He started on the salad while Mattie tackled the shrimp.
“Harm?”
“Yes Mattie.”
“Why haven’t you been out on dates until I was gone?”
“Well I wanted to spend my time with you and I had to wait until Mac was ready to spend time with me - not related to work.”
“I knew it!”
Harm realized that he hadn’t confirmed it before when Mattie asked, and he was pleased that Mattie was excited about him seeing Mac out of work.
“How did you get her to go out with you?”
“Well, I guess I blackmailed her into it.”
“How? Why?”
“I don’t know. She was hurting and I helped her get back to her office. I wanted her to go to the doctor and she didn’t want to. When I backed down I told her she owed me and when she asked how much I told her two or three scheduled get togethers.”
“Scheduled get togethers? Why didn’t you just say dates?”
“I figured it sounded less like blackmail the other way, I guess.”
“Harm you are just to funny. So where did you go?”
“The first night I took her to that funny place we’ve been to that has the good food and the talking stuffed heads. Then we went to a movie.”
“You didn’t!”
“Yeah - she loved it. It was fun.”
“Not very romantic.”
“Too soon to do the romantic thing. It was a night out for fun. And it was. We laughed and relaxed and really enjoyed ourselves.”
“What movie did you see?” Harm told her about the action movie they had gone to and the previews they had watched.
“Which one did you end up going back to?”
Harm told her the title and when Mattie blushed he asked, “How much do you know about the movie?”
“Don’t panic. I haven’t seen it. I only know what I read in the reviews. The actress that is in it usually has very hot steamy scenes and they said this was no exception. I figure I’ll rent it on DVD when I turn 18 to see what its all about.” Mattie laughed at Harm’s expression.
“Twenty-one maybe!” Harm turned back to put the rolls in the oven and check the potatoes one more time. He turned to the counter top grill and put steak in for Mattie and Mac and some jumbo shrimp for himself. He put extra on because he knew both of them would have to ‘steal’ a shrimp from him.
****
Same Time
Mac’s Apartment
Georgetown
Mac had changed into jeans and a striped jersey top and slipped into her soft clogs just before the knock came at the door. She took a deep breath and opened the door to Clayton Webb.
“Hello Beautiful...miss me?”
“Hello Clay.” Mac turned her head so that Clay’s kiss landed on her check instead of her lips.
“What’s the matter Sarah? You angry with me again.”
“No.”
“Something’s wrong...”
“No...something is finally going to be right.”
“This has Rabb written all over it.”
Mac smiled. “You know he always tells me that things have ‘Webb written all over them.’ You two need to stop writing on things and take a look at real life for a change.”
“Oh I have Sarah...and I can’t say I like what I see.”
“What do you see?”
“My girlfriend going out behind my back with her partner or adversary depending on who and when you bring it up.”
“What are you talking about?”
“You were seen twice this week dining out and going to movies with Harmon Rabb. Do you deny it?”
“No. Are you spying on me or having me followed or something?”
“Or something...so is it serious?”
“Not yet. We’ve had fun. We’ve laughed and talked a little but mostly kept it light and relaxed. We’ve always enjoyed spending time together before and somehow we lost that part of our lives and its been nice getting it back again.”
“So what does that mean for us, Sarah?”
“It means that I want us to be friends, but I don’t feel the romantic spark with you like I had hoped.”
“So I guess I shouldn’t consider you my girlfriend any more, right?”
“Right. Do you think we can still be friends, Clay?”
“Eventually, probably...I’m not sure I could handle dinner with you and Rabb holding hands and playing kissy face yet.”
Mac laughed, “No problem. We might hold hands sometimes but we’re not to the kissy face stage yet. We may never be.” Mac smiled to herself thinking about the kisses Harm had given her this week alone. In one week he almost matched the total number of kisses he had given her in over eight years. She touched her lips lightly thinking of the feathery kisses he had placed on her lips and the one longer kiss they had shared last night.
“I guess I should go, huh?”
“Please. I had made other plans for the evening and I’ve delayed them so I could talk to you.”
“With Rabb?”
“Clay...” Mac’s voice clearly was issuing him a warning.
“Alright, I’m sorry. I won’t ask. Just don’t let him take you for granted this time Sarah.”
“I think we are going into this with a different attitude this time Clay. I don’t think either of us will take our relationship for granted this time.”
“Let me walk you to your car?”
“Thanks, I’d like that.”
Mac grabbed her purse, and jacket and locked her door. Clay saw her safely into her car and watched her drive away. He had held out hope that they would have a future, but he hadn’t counted on Rabb getting his act together this quickly. Clayton knew that he needed to graciously let Sarah go. If Rabb screwed it up this time, he would get one more chance at his own dream only if he was a gentleman about losing her now.
1940 Local
Harm’s Apartment
North of Union Station
Harm served Mattie her steak and put his shrimp on his own plate. The baked potatoes were in a basket on the table and the rolls in another. The salad was in its bowl with Harm’s own dressing ready to be added (equal parts balsamic vinegar, honey, and extra light olive oil).
“This looks so good Harm. Does Mac know what she’s missing?”
“Not exactly...but she’ll be here. She called to say she was running late.”
Harm had taken his seat and broken open his baked potato when he heard the knock at the door. Quickly he stood up and opened the door to a smiling Mac.
“Hey there...that didn’t take long. Everything okay?”
“Yeah...it went very well. Something smells great.” Mac slipped her jacket off as she smiled at Harm.
“Let me take that. Go have a seat and start on the salad, rolls and baked potato and I’ll get your dinner.”
“Do I smell steak?”
“Hi Mac!”
“Hey Mattie. Did he really cook us the ‘dreaded dead cow’?”
“He did. And it is wonderful.”
Mac took her seat on Harm’s right across from Mattie. She reached for a potato and broke it open to add butter and seasoning. Harm brought her steak over and the rest of his shrimp.
“Harm sit and eat before your dinner gets cold.”
“It’s fine. Anything else you need?”
“I’m fine. Thank you.”
Harm, Mattie and Mac chatted their way through dinner. When Harm was looking at Mattie, Mac stole a shrimp from his plate and when he turned to Mac, Mattie stole her shrimp. Harm pretended not to notice at first and then challenge them both.
“Are you two going to leave me any dinner?”
“What?”
“Who us?”
“Yes you...I saw you taking my shrimp. I thought I’d be safe serving you two your ‘dead cow.’ Guess I shouldn’t bother next time.”
“No Harm...it’s really good.”
“Mattie’s right, Harm. It’s wonderful. Want a bite? It will make up for the shrimp I took...” Mac held up her fork with a bite of steak on it for him. Harm reached up and took her wrist and guided her hand to his mouth. He took the meat into his mouth and chewed it savoring the taste. Mac was so caught up in watching his mouth work that she didn’t realize at first she was holding her breath.
Mattie watched them and tried to hide a smile. No matter what her guardian said, he would not convince her that there wasn’t something special and everlasting between these two people.
As Harm swallowed the bite and licked his lips, Mac gasped for air. When Harm smiled, she smiled in return. Mattie let a giggle slip which broke the spell weaving itself around Harm and Mac.
“Hey Mattie, Harm tells me you’re doing track. Want a running partner tomorrow?” Mac asked the teenager and was rewarded with a warm smile.
“That would be great, Mac. You won’t mind if I’m a little slow?”
“Not a problem. I may be able to give you some pointers that ‘Daddy-longlegs’ wouldn’t have a clue about.”
“Daddy-longlegs! Where did that come from?” Harm dropped his fork and turned to Mac with a look of surprise on his face. Mattie covered her mouth and tried to stop her laughter. “And you young lady, show some respect to your elders.”
Mac and Mattie both laughed out loud at Harm’s reaction. He then broke into a grin himself and said to Mattie, “You know Mac’s right. She’s a good runner and the fastest woman at JAG. She’s learned to cover more ground to keep up with runner’s with longer strides and she has good form.”
“Thanks Harm...”
“Hey, Mac?”
“Yes Mattie.”
“What happened to your chin...it looks bruised.”
“It is. I was prosecuting and the defendant didn’t like the outcome and she decked me.”
“Really?”
“I went out like a light.”
“Wow! Has that ever happened before?”
“Not to me. I’ve had clients and defendants get angry and make threatening moves, but this girl just snapped, with almost no warning. Of course having inexperienced guards didn’t help.”
“Does she face more charges now?”
“Yes...but she’s plead guilty to the new charges. Didn’t have much choice. I filed a complaint with her commanding officer as he sent guards with her that couldn’t control her.”
“Is that a wise thing to do Mac?” asked Harm, the concern obvious in his voice.
“The original rebel of the Navy taking a conservative stance?”
“I’ve grown up Mac...I’m learning to look at things from all sides and weigh the consequences of my actions.”
“Good for you, Harm.” Mac smiled at Harm and touched his hand as it rested on the table between them.
“So what time do you want to run with me tomorrow Mac?”
“How about first thing in the morning?”
“How first thing?”
“Eight?”
“That I can do.” Mattie smiled at Harm and Mac. “I suppose you’re going to come too?”
“I won’t if you don’t want me to,” answered Harm trying to hide a feeling of dejection.
“No...I want you too, but I also want you to let Mac coach me.”
“I will.”
“And no interruptions?”
“None...as a matter of fact, why don’t you call Andre’ and see if he wants to join us. I can work with him while Mac works with you?”
“Really?”
“Sure.”
“Cool! Can I be excused to go call Andre’?”
“Yes, but call from here in case his mother wants to clear it with me.”
Mattie jumped up from the table, dropped a kiss on Harm’s forehead and headed for the phone.
“That was a great idea, Harm.”
“Andre’ a good kid and he wants to fly jets.”
“Oh...molding him in your image?”
“Not really...just helping him along the way. He’s a good kid with a level head. Made Mattie feel welcomed and special when she arrived at school that first day.”
“You know, you really are a pretty special guy,” Mac smiled and spoke softly as she looked into Harm’s eyes. He in return leaned back a little and smiled in return. Sometimes words just were not needed. They both knew that they were enjoying their time together and this time they were moving forward. The moment was interrupted when Mattie joined them at the table.
“Andre’ says thanks. He’s looking forward to getting some tips from his hero.” Mattie teased.
“Mattie...” Harm’s tone warned Mattie not to start on him about his heroic resume’.
“What Harm?” she smiled trying to be innocent of one of her favorite lines of teasing.
“Why don’t we get dinner cleaned up and then we can settle in to watch a movie. What did you pick for tonight?” Harm asked.
“Well...it’s a really good movie...”
“Mattie, what movie?”
“A Walk in the Clouds.”
Harm groaned and Mac brightened, “Isn’t that the one with Keanu Reeves?”
“Yeah...have you seen it?” Mattie asked.
“I saw about fifteen minutes of it and got a call to leave on an investigation. I’ve never watched the rest of it and I always wanted to see it.”
“Alright, you two win...just don’t complain if I read or fall asleep.” Harm warned them.
Mac and Mattie pitched in to wash the dishes and put the left overs away. Harm pretended to be put out a little about the movie, but the fact that both of them were eager to see it made it easier to deal with.
By the time the movie had ended, Harm had to admit that it was a decent movie. He was given praise for staying awake for the whole movie without escaping even once to a book. Harm didn’t bother to let them know he had let his mind wander during some of the scenes. He thought about what he would do if Mac had ever found herself if a position where she was pregnant and the father didn’t want her and the baby or was unavailable for some reason. He could see himself stepping in and happily filling the roll.
Harm reasoned that it wasn’t much different then taking on a foster child. Harm knew that he had come to love Mattie as much as if she was his own daughter. He also knew it would hurt as much when they day came that she no longer needed him and went back to her own father. Besides people adopted children all the time and loved them like their own.
“Harm...Harm? Where did you go?” Mac asked him as they sat together on the couch.
“Sorry, what were you saying?”
“Mattie was saying she’d see you in the morning.”
“Oh, sorry Mattie.” Harm stood up and gave her a hug, kissing the top of her head. “G’night. Coming over for breakfast before we run or do you want to have brunch after?”
“Brunch after. Night Mac.”
“Night Mattie,” Mac turned to Harm after the door closed. “I should be going too.”
“Cup of coffee first?” Harm asked wanting to prolong her stay.
“Okay.” Harm went to the kitchen to start the coffee and then turned to Mac. “ I actually made dessert and forgot to serve it. Want some now?”
“What is it?”
“Strawberry shortcake.”
“Sounds good but I think I’ll pass tonight...could I have some after we run tomorrow?”
“Sure...I could make crepes for breakfast if you want instead.”
“No...strawberry shortcake makes a great breakfast.”
“If you say so Mac...”
“Thanks for dinner again tonight. That steak was so good. You surprised me when you ate that bite I offered you.”
“I eat beef once in a while. I choose to stay away from it because it tends to be fattier then fish and chicken. It just seemed like a healthier choice for me.”
“Wow...over eight years and I’m still learning things about you.”
“And I’m still l