Title: The Fourth Percent
Author: Hollyjp
Summary: In “One Percent” Mac opened up and admitted to Harm that she had been pushing him away after she not only survived but suffered only minor bruises from her accident on Christmas Eve - an accident she shouldn’t have survived. In the “Second Percent” Harm and Mac moved their relationship forward and allowed their passion and desire for each other to surface. They vowed to start the new Year with hope and optimism and welcomed it in each other’s arms. In “The Third Percent” they admitted they loved each other and they decided to get second opinions about the chances of having a baby naturally. In “The Fourth Percent” will they find the solutions they need that will make them both happy and able to realize their dreams?
Rating: PG
Spoilers: Everything through “Four Percent Solution” in Season 10.
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 Note: Please suspend reality while reading any medical information in this story. I am not a medical person nor do I know or use medical terminology in general. However, an acquaintance of mine did undergo a procedure that did result in her being able to have two successful pregnancies. She explained what she understood them to do and how it was different from typically used procedures. I do not claim it to be accurate but the concept worked into my story so I used it with creative license.
THE FOURTH PERCENT
January 24, 2005
1645 Local
Dr. Elliott’s Office
George Washington University Hospital
“How you doing, Mac?” Harm asked as he joined her in the doctor’s office after she had dressed following a serious of tests and the examination that the doctor had put her through.
“I’m a little uncomfortable but I’m okay,” she told him as she took his hand and held it just as Dr. Elliott joined them.
“Sorry we sent you out, Mr. Rabb, but I have found that husband’s and significant others don’t usually deal well with the actual exams and its easier on everyone to talk about the results after.”
“Understood. Do you have results already?” Harm asked as he squeezed Mac’s hand lightly.
“Yes. As you know, Sarah, your endometriosis is in an advanced stage.” Mac nodded her understanding, “however, I think we might be able to help you at least increase your chances of a normal pregnancy.”
“You do?” Mac asked, holding Harm’s hand tighter.
“Yes...”
“But Dr. Chen said that I had less then a five percent chance of getting pregnant...”
“And she is right, if nothing more is done. However, we’ve been using some experimental techniques here at University Hospital that you are a prime candidate for and if they work, I would say we can increase the chances of a natural pregnancy to at least twenty and maybe even thirty percent. If not, and you decide to go with invitro fertilization then at least your chances of carrying to term should be almost as good as any other women without endometriosis.”
“What does it entail, Doctor?” Harm asked nervous and excited at the same time.
“Surgery and medication primarily. Are you the potential father?” Dr. Elliott asked Harm.”
“Yes.” Mac and Harm answered simultaneously as they exchanged a smile.
“Then we’ll want to make sure you are able to do your part before we move forward.”
“I’ve already had tests done,” Harm announced.
“When?” Mac and the doctor asked Harm at the same time.
“I wanted to surprise you Mac...I had them done Monday when I had to go to Bethesda for the case I was working on.”
“Did you get the results?” Dr. Elliott asked.
“Yes. They called an said every thing was normal.”
“Would you sign some papers so I can have the actual test results forwarded to me here?”
“Of course...Mac, I would have told you immediately if the news wasn’t good.”
“I know Harm...thank you. So Dr. Elliott, what do we do now?”
When you leave, I want you to ask my nurse to get you scheduled for surgery as soon as possible. Do you know when you expect to ovulate again?”
“I think it would be in about a week.”
“Then I’d like to do the procedure before that if possible.”
“Alright. How much leave should I request?”
“If we are able to get you scheduled for morning surgery, you would probably be able to return to work the next day if you were just doing desk work. I would probably take the next day off if you are going to be active.”
“Can you explain what you are going to do?”
“Sure...With endometriosis, the tissue from the uterine wall breaks away and floats around until it attaches itself to the walls of whatever it touches. In the past, they tried removing it like they would scar tissue and the walls of the fallopian tubes were too delicate to withstand the procedure. We’ve been experimenting with procedures used to open a blocked artery. When an artery is blocked, we go in and sort of drill it open enough to increase blood flow but not completely clearing the passage. We found that this is working most of the time with endometriosis when it is in the advanced stage such as yours, Sarah.
“And if it doesn’t work?” Mac asked.
“Then you don’t have any chance of all of natural conception, but would probably have at least the same percentage for Invitro as you have now.”
“I see.”
“How dangerous is it for Sarah?”
“I won’t lie to you. There is always some risk as with any surgery. I’ve done a couple hundred of these procedures and I only lost one patient and it was from a reaction to the anesthesia. Forty of the two hundred women have conceived naturally and those that chose to go with invitro most carried to full term. And twelve of the women have been pregnant more then once since the procedure.”
“Harm?”
“It’s up to you. I’ll support what ever you decide.”
“Then I want the surgery. I want to increase our chances.”
January 28, 2005
0715 Local
Out-patient Clinic
University Hospital
“Just thought I’d stop by before they wheel you up to surgery. Any last minute questions?” asked Dr. Elliott.
“Yes - can you turn the heat up? It’s cold in here,” Mac complained.
“Sorry, that’s the anesthesia and the nerves doing that.”
“And the lack of clothing...” muttered Mac.
“We’ll see you in surgery. Should take about two hours and then you’ll go to recovery. She should be back here between ten and eleven and if all goes well she can go home this evening.”
“Thanks doctor.” Harm stood at her side holding her hand. Want to back out, Marine?”
“No way, Sailor! I want to carry your baby and if I have to do this in order to have your child, I’ll do it. Walk with me until they wheel me in?”
“Right with you.”
The nurses helped put Mac’s hair in a net and insisted on the surgical stockings. Harm helped as much as he could. Mostly he held Mac’s hand - or let her hold his.
“Why don’t you go into JAG for now and then come see me on your lunch break?”
“Mac...I want to be here for you.”
“I’d rather have you here when I’m awake instead of while I’m in surgery.”
“What if...?”
“Don’t go there Harm...we need to stay positive. I’ve never had a problem with anesthesia so I don’t expect I will now. I’ll need you with me later.”
“Okay...I’ll stay with you as long as I can.”
“Fair enough.”
Harm held her hand as they rolled her down to the elevator and then into the surgical ward. They had to let go as they moved her through the double doors. Harm stopped them long enough to kiss her lips one more time and to murmur the words he knew were important to her.
“I love you Sarah. I’ll see you later.”
“I know...and I love you too.”
January 28, 2005
1112 Local
Mac’s Hospital Room
University Hospital
Harm sat by Mac’s bed waiting for her to wake up. They said that she had come around in the recovery room and identified herself and knew the time and day and where she was. She had asked for Harm and when she had been told he was waiting for her in her room, she had closed her eyes and gone back to sleep. They had brought her in and transferred her to her bed without her stirring. Harm had picked up her hand and held it while she slept, needing to feel the connection with her. That had been twenty minutes ago, and he was noticing that her eyes were flickering and she was beginning to stir.
“Harm?”
“I’m right here beside you.”
“What did the doctor say? Did it work?”
“I haven’t seen the doctor yet, Mac...he’ll probably come in when you are awake.”
“I’m awake now.”
“Barely,” Harm smiled as she struggled to open her eyes. “Let me wash your face with some cool water and see if that helps,” Harm suggested. He retrieved the damp washcloth the nurse had prepared and left in the bathroom earlier, telling him that it might help her to wake up when she stirred.
“Feels good...” Slowly Mac opened her eyes and got them to focus on his face. “Hi.”
“Hi yourself. How do you feel?”
“Better then I had anticipated. Better then when they did the other procedure. Did I sleep long?”
“Not really. They brought you in about twenty minutes ago.”
“How’s the patient doing?” Dr. Elliott asked as he came through the door.
“I just woke up, but I feel pretty good actually. How did it go?”
“Very routine, which is a good thing. You were a little closer to ovulation then I had hoped, but I don’t think we disturbed things too much. I would refrain from intercourse for two to three weeks. You need to give yourself time to heal and we don’t want to risk any infections. After that, then let nature take it’s course. If you aren’t successful in four to six months, then set up another appointment so we can talk about some medical interventions that can increase your chances a little more.”
“Fertility pills?”Harm questioned the doctor.
“Yes.”
“Doesn’t that increase the likelihood of multiple births?” Mac asked.
“It can, yes. I’ve also seen single births when its used in low dosages and multiple births when its not used at all.”
“When can I go home?” Mac asked.
“Eat some lunch, drink some fluids, walk to the restroom and make sure everything is awake from the anesthesia and then we’ll send you home.”
“Thank you Dr. Elliott.”
“Keep me posted. Call if you have any questions or concerns.”
February 14, 2005
1947 Local
Mac’s Apartment
Georgetown
Harm waited outside the door checking his pockets and straightening his tie. He wore a gray suit with a dark red shirt and matching tie in honor of Valentine’s Day. He carried a single red rose having sent eleven roses to her earlier in the day. He reached out to knock on the door.
Inside, Mac was putting the finishing touched to her make-up and perfume when she heard his knock.
“You’re early, Sailor...Wow! You look very handsome.”
“Thank you...This is for you,” he handed her the rose and continued, “But its beauty pales next to you.”
“Whoa, Harm...I’m not use to this romantic side of you.”
“I hope you enjoy the evening I have planned.”
“Are you going to tell me about it?” Mac asked stepping closer to him and brushing against him.
“In due time...are you ready?”
“Yes.”
Harm helped her into her coat and held her hand as he escorted her to the Corvette.
2010 Local
Willard Hotel
Washington DC
The hostess seated them at the same alcove table they had for New Year’s Eve. Once seated Harm reached for Mac’s hand.
“I decided to come back here because things went so well New Year’s Eve...I thought maybe it would bring me luck tonight.”
“It depends what you mean by luck, Commander...” Mac grinned.
“No titles tonight, Sarah - please.”
“Okay, Harm...” Mac answered just as the waitress came back to the table to take their order.
“What would you like for dinner?”
“I’d like the Filet Mignons tonight with a twice baked potato and salad.”
“Very well...Sir?”
“I’ll have the Scallops with the potato and salad.”
“Anything to drink?”
“Could we have the non-alcohol sparkling cider?”
“Of course.”
Harm and Mac held hands and talked while they waited for their meal.
“We’ve come along way in six weeks, haven’t we Sarah?”
“Yes.”
“Are you okay with everything?”
“Yes...you’ve been wonderful Harm. And I think it was a great idea for the two of us to visit Dr. McCool together. I think she was surprised by the turn around.”
“Why’s that?”
“I was a mess the last time I went to see her and when we went in together I was calm, composed and feeling pretty confident about where we were. It was just a social visit and yet it helped me with a few loose ends.”
“She seemed pleased that we had been talking about the past and how it might effect our future.” Harm commented.
“Yes, I think she was glad to know that you understood that talking about things that could trip us up keeps me from ignoring them. She seemed to feel that we had a good chance to make it work Harm.”
“Do you think we have a good chance to make us work now?”
“Yes...yes I do.”
“Enough to take a chance on me and make a life time commitment?”
“Isn’t that what we’re doing planning on having a child together?” Mac asked him as she caress his hand with her thumb.
“Yes, but even if the dream of a child doesn’t become a reality, I want you in my life, Sarah. I want to make a commitment to you for now and forever...in front of family and friends.”
“Harm, are you...what are you saying?”
“Asking, Sarah...I’m asking you...I mean...” he paused and took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He held both her hands and her eyes were locked on to his as well. “Sarah, will you marry me?”
“Oh Harm...”
“If you need time to think about it...”
“No!”
“No?”
“I mean no, I don’t need time to think about it...Yes! Yes I’ll marry you.”
“And will you wear this?” Harm asked as he reached into his suit pocket and pulled out a diamond solitaire and slid it on to her left ring finger.
“Harm, it’s so beautiful...thank you...” There lips met over the table until the waitress returned with their meal.
“I guess my timing wasn’t so great,” Harm mumbled as they began eating their dinner.
“I think it was pretty spectacular, Harm.”
They enjoyed their dinner and Mac kept looking at the ring sparkling on her left hand. After their candle lit dinner, Harm and Mac danced in the lounge as they had on New Year’s Eve. Only this time they talked about their wedding as they danced.
“Where do you want to get married Sarah?”
“I’m not sure...maybe the chapel where we go for our Christmas services.”
“That would be perfect. Should we see if Chaplain Turner would do the honors?”
“Could we?”
“Yes.”
“When do you want to get married?”
“Soon...” Mac’s eyebrow went up at Harm’s response prompting him to add, “...Well, I thought it would be good if we were married before you got pregnant...or at lest before we announced it.”
“You’re right. It’s going to mean one of us will probably have to leave JAG, though.”
“I know...I’ve given that some thought too.”
“And what did you come up with?”
“Secretary Sheffield is looking for a replacement for Commander Lindsey still. I talked to him a few weeks ago and he said he would be happy with either of us. I also happen to know the Marine Commandant is looking for an addition to his legal team. With the SecNav, we would still work together part of the time at JAG. It could be a career booster.”
“Or ender...”
“It’s up to you Mac. We don’t have to decide right now, but we know one of us will have to make a change.”
“Harm, if I get pregnant, I’m not going to want to do a lot of traveling and I’ll need to take some leave time. I think it makes more sense for you to work for the SecNav and then you can cover at JAG when I’m out of leave. I can take limited duty at JAG but not in the SecNav’s office.”
“You’re right. I’ll start the ball rolling tomorrow.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes.” Harm pulled her closer in his arms and lowered his head to whisper in her ear, “I can’t wait to see you pregnant with our baby.”
“Oh Harm...” He wiped the tears that sprung to her eyes and began to roll down her cheeks with the pad of his thumb.
“Don’t cry, Sarah.”
“These are called ‘happy tears’ Harm...I love you so much.”
“Shall we go?”
“Yes, please.”
Harm took Mac back to her apartment and they made love as they had for the first time on New Year’s Eve.
February 18, 2005
2210 Local
Mac’s Apartment
Georgetown
Mac sat in the shelter of Harm’s arms on the couch resting her body against his. They seemed to have made cuddling into a fine art during her recovery period and indulged in it most every evening. Sometimes it led to more and others times it was what it was - a special time for them to be close and to enjoy being together.
Tonight they were relaxing after a day of planning and preparing for their wedding. They had found a date the chapel in Falls Church and Chaplain Turner were available - March 25. It would be an evening wedding followed by dinner at a local Italian restaurant they both enjoyed. After dinner they would leave for a brief honeymoon in the Bahamas. They would both need to report back to work on March 30 - Harm in the SecNav’s office and Mac at JAG.
Although it was too early in the year for Harm to wear his dress whites as Mac had always pictured, she was pleased that he would be wearing his mess dress. After all, that’s what he was wearing when he first announced to Mac that he wanted to be part of her life forever and that he wanted to have a baby with her. Mac had found a beautiful white dress that she felt was perfect for their wedding. She debated about wearing white, but as it was Harm’s first wedding and she had never worn a white dress to be married, she felt it would be acceptable.
“What you thinking about Sarah?” Harm whispered in her ear.
“That we still have to decide where we are going to live. Neither of our apartments are big enough to raise a family.”
“Do you want to start looking for a house?”
“I think we should.”
“Okay. I’ll call the relator in the morning and we can start looking.”
“Thank you.”
“Have you decided who you want to stand up for you at our wedding?” Harm spoke softly against her ear.
“Harriet...Do you mind?” Mac had thought that maybe because she had asked Harriet to be her Matron of Honor at her aborted wedding to Mic, he wouldn’t be comfortable with her choosing her again.
“No, of course not. I was Bud’s best man and thought I would ask him as well.”
“Really? I thought you might ask Keeter or Sturgis. I think Bud is a good choice.”
“If Bud can’t or doesn’t want to, I thought I’d ask the Admiral...unless you’re going to have him give you away.”
“No...not this time. I’m going of my own free will and I’ve decided not to have anyone give me away. I’m giving myself to you all on my own.” Mac smiled as she leaned back to kiss his chin which was handy.
“Thank you. I haven’t called my mother or grandmother yet...shall we do that together now?” Harm asked.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes...I’ve got my cell phone right here.” Harm dialed his mother’s number and waited while it rang. He couldn’t keep the smile off his face.
“Burnett Residence.”
“Hi Mom.”
“Harm! I was just talking about you.” Trish Burnett’s delight was unmistakable.
“Do I want to know who you were talking to?” Harm asked.
“Your grandmother, Dear.”
“How’s Grandma doing?”
“Well, she’s resigned to the fact that she had to move into the assisted living facility but not willing to give up the Rabb Homestead yet. She’s still hoping you’ll settle down and move their to raise your children.”
“Well, I’m taking steps to fulfill part of her dream anyway,” Harm smiled as he spoke brushing his lips against Mac’s hair prompting her to look back over her shoulder at him again.
“Harm...are you adopting Mattie?”
“No Mom...Mattie and her Dad have reconciled. Mattie and I will also be friends and she can always count on me if she needs me, but things are going well for them. I’m getting married.”
“To Mac?”
“Yes Mom.”
“I always knew she was the girl for you.”
“Oh you did? You’ve never met her.”
“But I could tell the way you talked about her. What on earth took you two so long to decide to do this?”
“It’s complicated Mom...but we’ve finally gotten to a place where we both want the same thing and are willing to make the commitment and take the steps necessary to make it happen.”
“You’re planning to start a family?”
“As soon as we can after the wedding.”
“Have you set a date?”
“Yes. March 25.”
“At Annapolis?”
“No Mom, we decided it will be a small wedding and we want to get married at the Chapel we attend with our JAG family at Christmas.”
“That should be beautiful. Can I speak with her soon?”
“Right now okay?”
“She’s there with you now?”
“Actually she’s in my arms as we sit on her couch. Here....Mom would like to speak to you Mac.”
“Hello Mrs. Burnett...”
“Mac...I feel like I’ve already met you after hearing my son talk about you so much over the years...please call me Trish or Mom.”
“Thank you Trish. You’ve raised a real gentleman. You should be very proud of him.”
“I am Dear...and I’d like to know what I can do to help you get ready for the wedding.”
“There’s nothing that needs to be done. Please just say you’ll be there.”
“Nothing could keep me away. Have you decided on a honeymoon and where you’ll live afterward?”
“Harm wants to take me to the Bahamas for our honeymoon and we’re going to start looking at houses tomorrow.”
“Sounds like you’ve got everything covered.”
“I hope so.”
“Well, welcome to the family Mac and call if there is anything we can do for you.”
“Thank you.”
“Let me talk to my son again and we me posted on the house hunting.”
“Mom?”
“Yes Harm.”
“I’ll call and tell Grandma about the wedding, but do you think she’ll be able to make the trip?”
“She wouldn’t miss it. Frank and I will make sure she gets there. Don’t worry about it. Now how are you set for putting a down payment on a house?”
“I’ve been saving up for a house for awhile now and so I’ve got a reasonable down payment set aside.”
“What about furniture?”
“Mom, Mac and I both have our own furniture...”
“And you should plan on furnishing most of the house together.”
“We’ll talk it over, Mom.”
“If you need something, you will tell me won’t you?”
“Yes Mom. Thank you.”
“I’m very happy for you. Call Grandma and make her day.”
“I will.” Harm disconnected the call and kissed Mac’s cheek. “I knew she’d be pleased. She and Frank are going to make sure Grandma can come. We should take a ride up one of these weekends.”
“I was so jealous when you told me you loved her...of course I thought she was some other woman that you had named your plane after.”
“I know. I’ve always wondered why you were so upset by it...now I know.”
“How’s she doing?”
“Well Mom said she’s living in an assisted living facility now but she won’t sell the farm. I thought when we go up maybe she could spend the weekend with us there. Would you mind?”
“Not at all. Call her now Harm...” So Harm dialed the number and waited for her to answer.
“Hello?”
“Grandma?”
“Harmon! It’s so nice to hear your voice. I was just talking to your mother.”
“I know...she told me. How are you Gram?”
“Besides getting old? I’m fine. How are you?”
“Excellent...Gram, I’m getting married.”
“Tell me about her.”
“Her name is Sarah Mackenzie. She’s a Marine and a lawyer and I’ve loved her a long time. She’s finally decided I’ve grown-up enough to take a risk on me.”
“Is this your partner Mac?”
“Yes Gram, it is.”
“Thank you Lord...I’ve been praying you two would work it out.”
“Mom said she and Frank would get you down here for the wedding - March 25.”
“When can I meet her?”
“Would you like to talk to her now?”
“Of course!”
“Mac...Grandma Rabb - my other Sarah.”
“Mrs. Rabb?”
“Sarah...you have a lovely voice. Harm showed me a picture of you once. I had a feeling that you were someone pretty special.”
“He’s certainly pretty special in my book,” Mac told Harm’s grandmother.
“Yes. There were times I worried about him, but he had good genes and he was always interested in truth and justice so I figured it would balance out the wild adventurous wild side of him that took forever to grow up.”
“I hope he never loses all of it...it’s what makes him who he is.”
“You do understand him. That’s all I needed to know. Welcome to our family.”
“Thank you Mrs. Rabb.”
“Please call me Gram, like he does.”
“Okay Gram...if that’s what you want.”
“That will do for a start. Are you planning to have a family?”
“Yes...we want one, but we’ll have to wait and see if it will become a reality.”
“Is there a problem?”
“Yes...but we’ve taken steps to give us every chance possible to have a family. It’s not a dream either of us will give up easily.”
“I’ll keep you in my prayers.”
“Thank you.”
“Have Harm bring you up to see me soon, okay?”
“We’ll see what we can do.”
“Thank you. Goodnight, Sarah.”
“Night Gram.” Mac heard the dial tone and shut off Harm’s cell phone.
“Have you told Chloe?”
“Yes. She’s not sure she’ll be able to come down but she’s going to talk to her Dad.”
“I’m sorry Mac. I hope she can work it out. Is it the air fare? I can help with that?”
“No...its time away from school. They can only miss so many days and Chloe has almost hit her limit. If she goes over the days allowed, then she has to make it up during summer school.”
“Maybe we can pull some strings...”
“No Harm...she has to learn to make better decisions.”
February 20, 2005
2012 Local
Mac’s Apartment
Georgetown
“Hello?” Mac answered the phone not expecting any calls this evening.
“Mac? I can come!”
“Chloe?”
“Yes...my father made some phone calls and there is a flight that leaves Burlington at four fifteen Friday and gets into Dulles at five fifty. It’s a direct shuttle or something and Dad has me booked on the plane. Will that get me there in time?”
“Yes Chloe. The wedding won’t start until seven thirty so you should be fine. I’ll talk to Jennifer and see if she can meet you for us and bring you to the church.”
“I wish I could come down at least the day before...”
“I know...but you can’t afford to miss the time at school. Think you’ll make better choices about cutting classes from here on out?”
“Yes. Can I come back during my vacation and spend a few days with you guys?”
“Of course. We’d love to have you stay with us. We should be in our new house and maybe Mattie can come that weekend too.”
“And Jen?”
“We’ll see.”
“Are you buying a house? Where?”
“We are looking at houses but haven’t decided yet. We’ll look at a couple of more this week. The ones we looked at this weekend, were not what we wanted...no character to them.”
“Are you look for an old house that you’re going to fix up?”
“Not really, but if there is some work to do we don’t mind”
“Keep me posted, Mac, okay?”
“I will. Night Chloe.”
“Night Mac. Love you.”
“Love you too.” Mac jumped as Harm placed a kiss on her neck and growled in her ear.
“That had better be Chloe...”
“Jealous?”
“Yes.”
“Wow...and you admit it...and yes it was Chloe. Her father found a shuttle flight our of Burlington on March 25 that leaves after she gets out of school and puts her in Dulles at before eighteen hundred. It will be close, but I think Coates can meet her and get her here without too much trouble.”
“Short visit.”
“This time. She’ll probably come for a few days during her April vacation...do you mind?”
“Of course not...maybe Mattie can come too.”
“That’s what I thought.”
“See...we’re thinking alike...”
“And what do you think I’m thinking now?”
“I know what you’re thinking,” Harm said through squinted eyes as he lowered his head and showed her again what an accomplished kisser he was. That of course led to other things.
March 1, 2005
1740 Local
Relator’s Office
Falls Church, Virginia
“Harm. Mac. Have seat. I have two places for you to view on the computer tonight and I think we can see one of them if you are interested.”
“Let’s see what you’ve got,” Harm agreed as he took Mac’s hand in his.
“Both of these just came on the market this week. This first one is in mint condition and ready to be moved into. The owners moved into their new home this past weekend. It’s a colonial style and had been renovated inside to reflect modern tastes...clean lines...gourmet kitchen...it is near the top of your price range.” Harm and Mac looked at the pictures of the house and the floor map that was provided. They both agreed it was nice as they had most of the other homes they had looked at. Yet nothing called to them in this home or in any of the other ones.
“What else do you have?” Harm asked, obviously disappointed that this wasn’t the answer to what they were looking for.
“This is the other home I thought might be of interest...its brand new and in a development on a cul-de-sac. It needs to have some decisions made before they can finish it, but I think it has everything you wanted.”
The pictures on the screen didn’t match the description that he gave. The house they were looking at was an older home but had recently had some work done on it. Mac and Harm both leaned forward in their seats.
“How charming!” Mac exclaimed.
The relator looked around at the screen.
“Oh I’m sorry! That’s the wrong one. I must have clicked on the wrong picture.” He started to close out that screen but Harm and Mac stopped him at the same time.
“No! Wait! That’s one we want to see.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes!” they responded together.
“But you said you wanted something with clean lines and character and weren’t interested in early American quaint.”
“I don’t care what we said...that house is more like what we want.” Harm insisted. Reluctantly the relator showed them the pictures and floor plan.
“Can you set up a time for us to see it?” Mac asked,
The relator picked up the phone and after a brief call informed Mac and Harm that the owners were willing for them to see it right away.
“The owners insist on showing it themselves. It’s in Hillwood, Virginia so its location is what you were looking for. It’s also in your price range. Beyond that I don’t know any more about the property then you. Here’s the address. Don and Belle Smith are the owners.”
“Thank you.”
“Call if you want to make an offer. I’ll be here until nine tonight.”
“Thank you...we’ll let you know.” Once in the car, Harm and Mac didn’t speak. They found the address and parked in the driveway of a brick house with a separate two car garage. They walked up to the front door and rang the bell. A distinguished looking gentleman in about sixty years of age answered the door.
“Mr. Smith, I’m Harmon Rabb and this is my fiancée Sarah Mackenzie. The relator called to set up a visit for us.”
“Come in...when’s the wedding?” Harm and Mac stepped into a welcoming hallway that opened into a large room on their right that looked like a combination living room, dining room and an open kitchen.
“March 25.” Harm answered as he surveyed the room in front of him.
There were hardwood floors everywhere they looked and the walls were all painted in a soft creamy color - not quite white but not yellow either. The furniture was minimal consisting of a brown couch and chair in the living room with a muted oriental rug on the floor under a cast iron and glass topped coffee table. Their was an armoire that housed the television and some books. There was a fireplace on one wall and a bay window looking out to the front of the house.
“Belle, the couple are here to see the house.”
“Hello...” a petite women with gray hair and snapping blue eyes greeted them with a warm smile and a firm handshake. “Let me show you around. We’ve been working on packing and getting ready to move. It looks a little bare to me at the moment, but they say it helps to sell a house when there’s not a lot of clutter.” Belle led them from room to room talking as she went and Don brought up the rear.
“I think that’s so we can picture our own things in the space more easily,” Mac responded as she held Harm’s hand and followed the petite women.
“We decided to sell and move closer to our family. We only had two children and they married siblings and moved to Kentucky to be near their families. We went to visit last year and loved the area. We’ve decided to move closer so we can enjoy our grandchildren.”
“How many grandchildren do you have?” Mac asked.
“None yet...but they are both expecting soon.”
“Congratulations.”
“Now this kitchen was redone three years ago. We added the french doors between the kitchen and dining area which open onto the deck which wraps around out back. It makes it handy for having a grill almost all year round with the awning up on this side and the roof over the back portion.”
“Its nice. The black and stainless steel appliances make quite a contrast to the cream colored walls.” Mac commented as she took in the simple pine cabinets and the black flecked granite counters, wall oven, dishwasher, and double stainless steel sink. It was exactly the blend of modern and ‘county’ that she thought felt warm and comfortable.
There were two doors in the back of the kitchen. One led to the basement which Harm and Mr. Smithy checked out. Another door led out of the kitchen to the back porch. A nice fenced in yard greeted them.
“It’s hard to see now, but there are clusters of rose bushes, lilacs, cherry trees and even an orange tree out there. We also put in raised garden beds about five years ago. One bed is full of ever-bearing strawberry plants. You’ll get your first crop in Jun and your last in September.” Belle Smith informed Mac.
Back inside they retraced their steps back to the entry way and waited for the men to rejoin them. The stairs leading to the second floor were in natural oak. Before going up stairs, they were shown the full bathroom and bedroom downstairs and the room that Mr. Smith had used as a home office. The hardwood floors continued throughout the downstairs as did the same cream color.
Upstairs, they found three bedrooms and two bathrooms. These rooms were painted in a rainbow of colors and needed to be modernized as well. The bathroom between the two bedrooms also housed the washer and dryer and a drop down ironing board.
The master bedroom and bathroom were painted in a mint green along with the large walk in closet. The other bathroom was yellow while one bedroom was pink and the other sky blue. The entire upstairs was covered in wall to wall beige carpet.
Back out in the car, Harm and Mac quietly drove back toward the relators office. Harm stopped in front of the building and turned to Mac.
“That’s the one isn’t it?”
“Yes. For me at least.”
“For me too. The downstairs is perfect as it is and the upstairs is tolerable until we’re ready to redecorate.”
“Shall we take the downstairs bedroom to start with?”
“My thoughts exactly. Shall we go make an offer?”
“Yes.”
1840 Local
March 2, 2005
Mac’s Apartment
Georgetown
“Harm, I’ll get the food ready if you want to change before we eat.”
“Okay...hey Mac...the light on the answering machine is blinking. Want me to push play?”
“Thanks!” Mac called from the kitchen.
“Harm? Sarah? This is Belle Smith...Don and I gladly accept your offer for the house. You remind us of when we first started out. This was our first house and we hope you’ll be as happy here as we were. Call us and we’ll set up the closing so you can get settled in and we can move to be closer to our children and grandchildren.”
“Mac? Did you hear that? We got the house!” Harm excitedly picked Mac up and spun her around laughing and kissing her in his delight.
“I heard...oh Harm this is perfect. Thank you.”
“Thank you...” and with that dinner was forgotten for a while as their kisses led to other things to celebrate their new home.
March 25, 2005
1850 Local
Bride’s Room
The Chapel
Falls Church, Virginia
The week leading up to the wedding had been hectic. They had moved all their things into the new house with the last load being moved Thursday before the rehearsal dinner. They had all stayed in a local motel for the night where Sarah Mackenzie and Sarah Rabb shared a room.
Chaplain Turner had insisted on Harm staying at his house which turned out to be none other then his bachelor party. Unlike Bud’s bachelor party, this one was quite tame. They did have a few drinks, tell some jokes and play some cards, but mostly it was a time for the married men to give Harm advice and the single men to question his sanity.
While Frank had joined the men, Trish and Grandma Rabb took Mac to Harriet and Bud’s house for a wedding shower. Slinky nightgowns and lingerie seemed to be the main theme of the gifts. There were also scented candles and massage oils and a new bikini for the bride and a Speedo for the groom.
Jennifer had recorded Mac’s comments as she had opened the gifts and Harriet read them off putting her own twist to make sure the maximum mileage was gotten out of each one. Everyone was red faced and laughing by the time she was finished. It had been midnight before they met up with Frank back at the hotel.
Now Sarah Mackenzie was dressed in her classically simple white wedding dress finishing her make-up and waiting for Jennifer to arrive with Chloe. Harriet, Trish and Gram had been with her all day and Trish and Gram had only left a few moments ago leaving Harriet and Mac alone.
“This is the right one, isn’t it Mac?”
“Yes. It took is so long to get here and sometimes I kick myself for making us wait when maybe I didn’t need to, but...I think it’s more important that we’re ready now. We know with no doubts that we love each other and we know that we can overcome anything life throws at us - like you and Bud.”
“It’s not always easy.”
“We know that...we’ve watch you and Bud work things through...and you always seem stronger for it.”
“We are...” A knock at the door interrupted Harriet. She went to see who it was.
“Chloe! Jen...come on in.” Harriet invited at Mac’s nod.
“Mac you look so beautiful!” She refuse to give Mac a hug although they rubbed noses and giggled.
“Jennifer, thanks for doing this for us. It means so much to have Chloe and Mattie here with us this evening.”
“No problem. We’re planning a girls only slumber party after we shop our feet off tomorrow. I’ll get them on planes and buses on Sunday as planned.”
“Thanks Jen...you better go get seated. They’re starting to play the music.”
In another part of the church, Harm stood waiting with Bud and Chaplain Turner.
“Any doubts sir?” Bud asked.
“Not a one.”
As the music started they stepped out to take their places at the alter.
“Bud, you have the rings?”
“Yes. Right here.”
Harm took a deep breath and turned as Harriet walked down the aisle in the deep blue gown carrying a bouquet of red and white roses. Harm and Bud, dressed in their mess dress, waited with smiling faces and listened to the change in the music. The congregation stood as the wedding march began and Mac appeared in her classic wedding dress and veil and floated down the red carpet carrying her cascading red and white roses. Her smile lit the room and never wavered once as she stepped up to Harm and placed her hand in his as she handed her bouquet to Harriet.
“Good evening.” Began Chaplain Turner. And with that the mostly traditional exchange of wedding vows began. Harm and Mac gazed into each others eyes and smiled at each other, repeating their vows in clear voices with so much emotion that all the guests were caught up in the moment with them.
When Harm was told to kiss his bride, he did so with a flourish and when Mac’s knees buckled and he caught her to him, everyone laughed. Only Harm and Mac knew that it hadn’t been staged, that his kisses tended to do that to her.
Finally, Chaplain Turner had them turn and Harriet returned the cascading bouquet to Mac, as they were introduced as Harmon and Sarah Rabb. The music began to play and they proceeded to the back of the chapel where they stopped and formed a receiving line as their guests filed out of the chapel.
Once the guests had filed by wishing them their best, the photographer gathered Chaplain Turner, Trish, Frank, Gram, Bud, Harriet, Harm and Mac for the wedding photos. Half and hour later they were in a limo on the way to the restaurant.
Once seated at the head table the toasts began along with the tinkling glasses which required them to kiss in order for the ruckus to stop each time. Bud had given the first toast followed by Frank. AJ Chegwidden and Tom Boone followed close behind. Eventually they made it through the meal. Harriet had arranged to have Varese’s trio play and for space to be cleared for dancing.
Harm and Mac had the first dance and then Mac danced with Frank and AJ while Harm danced with his mother and grandmother. Bud and Harriet took their turn with the bride and groom respectively before the dancing opened up to the others.
“Harriet, how did you pull this off...” Mac asked her Matron of Honor.
“Well, Mrs. Burnett called and asked if you were having the full reception and when I said that I didn’t think so she told me to fill in the gaps and send her the bill. She said she wanted you to have the full gala because she knows you’ll never marry again and she wanted you to have it all.”
“She’s accepted me as a daughter not just a daughter-in-law.”
“You make her son happy.” Harriet told her.
“Her son makes me happy,” Mac corrected.
“Sarah?”
Mac turned to see Dr. McCool in civilian attire.
“Thank you for being here....if it wasn’t for you...”
“You would have worked it out...it might have taken longer, but you would have gotten there.”
“Still, thank you for listening. It took me awhile to put all the pieces together we talked about but you’ve helped me so much.”
“Anytime...Congratulations to you.”
“Thank you...And even if I only get a three percent return on my investment, it will be worth it.”
“Have you given up on the fourth percent?”
“No. We’ve taken steps to give ourselves as much of a chance as possible and if it happens, then it was meant to be. If not, then I’ll create a home for children that need to be loved.”
“Adoption?”
“Or foster care...we’ll see if it comes to that.”
2200 Local
Restaurant
Falls Church, Virginia
“Harm?”
“Yes Frank?”
“The limo is waiting to take you to the airport. The company jet is waiting to fly you to the Bahamas. Your suitcases are already on board.”
“Thank you Frank...for everything.”
“Go on...go collect your bride.”
Harm found Mac laughing with Chloe and Mattie on the dance floor. He slid up behind her and captured her around the waist, bury his lips into her neck.
“You ready?”
“Let me throw the bouquet Harm...”
“Okay...Everyone...if the single ladies would collect over here, Mac’s going to toss her bouquet.”
After turning her back to them, Mac tossed the small bouquet that Harriet had carried and turned to see Jennifer Coates proudly holding them in her arms.
Harm then grabbed Mac’s hand and to a chorus of well wishes they climbed into the limo and into each other’s arms on the way to their honeymoon.
“ I love you Mrs. Rabb.”
“I love you too, Mr. Rabb. Thank you for such a perfect wedding.”
“I think my mother and grandmother played a hand in things.”
“Along with Harriet.”
“Frank made some changes to our honeymoon plans.”
“Did he...”
“Yes, we’re flying in the company jet and it has a private bedroom.”
“And are we joining the mile high club?” Mac asked as she caressed his face.
“I certainly hope so.” And Harm bent his head to capture her lips to make sure she was ready to join the mile high club by the time they reached altitude.
EPILOGUE
April 22, 2005
2016 Local
Rabb Residence
Hillwood, Virginia
Mac had taken the later part of the week off to spend with Chloe and Mattie. Both girls had arrived on Tuesday evening and would be staying until Sunday. Harm had been away on business with the Sec Nav’s office and had called to say he would be home this evening. Mac was going crazy waiting for him to arrive. The distraction of the girls energy waning as his expected arrival grew closer, Mac was secretly relieved when Jennifer Coates had offered to take Mattie and Chloe out for dinner and to a movie.
Finally she heard the car pull up and let Harm out. She waited anxiously for him at the front door. He dropped his bags and caught her around the waist as she launched herself at him. There was no doubt they had missed each other while he had been gone and they kissed in the special way they had of telling the other how important they were to one another.
Harm finally let Mac slide down until her feet touched the floor. He studied her face and saw the sparkle in her eye that told him she was up to something.
“Where are Chloe and Mattie?”
“Out with Jen for pizza and a movie. They should be home a little after eleven.”
“What aren’t you telling me?”
“What makes you say that?”
“I see the gleam in your eyes...it tells me you are up to something.”
“Okay...come with me...” Mac led Harm by the hand to their downstairs bedroom.
“Mac? The girls...”
“Sshhh....take your coat off and sit down...I want to show you something.”
Harm did as he was told as Mac disappeared into the bathroom. He had just taken a seat on the bed when she came out, with her hands behind her back.
“What are you up to?”
“Close your eyes.”
“Mac...”
“Yes?”
“Okay...they’re closed.”
“Okay open them.”
Harm opened his eyes and looked down at the white stick that Mac was holding out to him. There was a plus sign in the little window. He stared at it thinking he should understand what this meant, and not sure it was what he thought it was...with only a four percent chance...or a twenty percent chance...
“Sarah?”
“Yes, Daddy...”
“You’re pregnant?”
“Yes.”
“You’re sure?”
“Yes!”
“Oh Darling!” Harm caught her close to him and the emotions slammed into him in a way he never thought possible. Together they laughed and cried and hugged each other close.
“How long have you known?” Harm asked her.
“Well, I suspected something Tuesday when the girls arrived and they wanted pizza and the thought of it made me queasy. That’s not like me. Then I thought maybe it was because I was due to start my period, only I didn’t. By Wednesday night I bought two home pregnancy tests and when they both tested positive - one Wednesday evening and the other Thursday morning, I called the doctor and they took me in this afternoon. They confirmed the news and gave me my first prenatal appointment.”
“Does anyone else know?”
“I’ve only told you...but I think Harriet might suspect. I turned my nose up at several luncheon choices I would normally go for when we met for lunch yesterday.”
“We’ll tell the girls together when they get back. We can tell Gram when we go see her next weekend and then call my mother.”
December 15, 2005
0204 Local
Pennington Medical Center
Hillwood, Virginia
“Come on Sarah...one more push...you can do it...”
“Harm!”
“I’m right here, Honey. You’re doing great...Dr. Elliott wants you to do this in one more push and I’m going to help you...lean against me and rest until it’s time...then I’ll hold you up so you can put all your energy into the pushing...”
“Okay...okay...I’m ready.”
“Now Sarah...”
Sarah Mackenzie Rabb hollered as she pushed her first born child into the world and then laughed and cried at once along with her husband as the nurse placed the baby on her stomach and Harm cut the cord.
“It’s a boy!” the doctor had informed them. A boy with olive skin, brown eyes and almost black hair. It was too soon to tell if he had Harm’s brains, but he certainly had his mother’s looks.
“You did it Darling...we have our miracle. Thank you.” Harm whispered as he kissed his wife and watched them take his son to check him over.
“Thank you. Without you...your patience...your love...your hope...it wouldn’t have been possible.”
“What did you decide on the name?” Harm asked. They had narrowed it down to three names they both liked for boys and two for girls. They then agreed that Mac got the final say on a boy and Harm got the final say for a girl.
“I want him to be Harmon Chance Rabb”
“You’re sure?”
“Yes. We can call him Chance as a nickname like you wanted, but I want the name Harmon Rabb to continue...you have such a legacy to leave our son...and we both took a chance that we would be able to have our miracle.”
One and a half years later, a green eyed, brown haired, pink baby girl arrived in the world and she was named Mackenzie Rose Rabb. Little Rosie also used her middle name and adored her big brother.
Sarah Mackenzie Rabb may have only had a four percent chance at happiness and a four percent chance of having the relationship she wanted with Harm. She may have only been given a four percent chance at having a baby. Her decision to look at things in a more positive way certainly paid dividends and the pay off surpassed even her wildest dreams. She had found the four percent solution after all.