Title: The Grand Plan

Author: Hollyjp

Summary: Harm and Mac deal with the challenges of a new JAG with very clear ideas and plans to execute the way JAG operates while learning to relate to each other in new ways.

Rating: Mostly PG although it builds to NC-17 in places. While I won’t post it at most sites, if you are reading the story and it starts to get too hot for your taste, skip to the end of that section and pick up at the next heading. You won’t miss much of the story or romance and can avoid the steam.

Spoilers: Bits and pieces of any episode of JAG maybe referred to but don’t rely on the time line matching up because it may or may not depending on how I use the bit or piece. They call it creative license.

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

Author’s Notes: I have no idea exactly how JAG Headquarters is laid out. I’ve tried studying it when I watch the show but if Harm’s in any scene I can’t see anything else! Camera angles make it hard to be sure so I’ve again used creative license to create the floor plan I want to have for my story. If you’ve actually been there and have trouble suspending your reality, pretend that it has been renovated since you were there.

Special Thank you to Kate for agreeing to beta my work and pointing out a few things that I think made my final piece much better.

THE GRAND PLAN

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September 13, 2004

JAG Headquarters

Fall Church, Virginia

Lights bulbs flashed and microphones were extended as the swarm of reporters tried to catch the attention of the new JAG. Each reporter tried calling out the question that would get the attention of the crusty Marine that had been promoted to a two star general in order to take the post as Commanding Officer at JAG Headquarters located in Falls Church, Virginia.

From her office window Lieutenant Colonel Sarah “Mac” Mackenzie watched with nervous trepidation as the man she had heard so many unpleasant comments about made his way through the determined reporters on his way into JAG for the first time this morning. Today life at JAG would either get better or worse and the one that would make it so was on his way into the building while the current Chief of Staff looked on.

Standing in her office doorway, watching her watch the new JAG approach was Commander Harmon Rabb, Junior. From her profile he could see that his long time partner, adversary, friend and lifeline was chewing her bottom lip and rubbing her arms - both signs of agitation. He watched and waited not wanting to say the wrong thing as he had a habit of doing over the years, but in an effort to be there if she needed him.

Last night they had gone out for dinner and she had opened up to him that she was worried about the pending changes the new JAG would bring. They had discussed the military position that you didn’t get too settled because serving your country meant you needed to be ready to go anywhere at any time. Chegwidden had told them often enough not to get too comfortable with each other as he knew that one or both of them could be reassigned. Somehow the fates had settled into an alignment and stayed that way for nine years. Something which is rare for anyone making a career in the military.

For nine years Harm and Mac had fought their attractions for each other trying to remain friends so that when the time came and one of them was reassigned, it wouldn’t hurt as much. Harm had left JAG to return to flying once only to discover that as much as he loved to fly, he loved being a lawyer even more. Mac had taken TAD assignments and tried falling in love with an assortment of men so that she could protect her heart from becoming to attached to the handsome naval aviator turned lawyer that she had been assigned to work with only to finally accept that he was the only man that hadn’t passed through her life.

Turning away from the window, Mac saw that man standing in her doorway.

“Hey, Harm. He’s on his way.”

“You okay?”

“We’ll know soon what the new JAG has in store for us. Until then I’ll try to keep it together and not let my imagination run away with me. Thanks for asking. How you doing?”

“I’m fine...accept for worrying about you. Nothing we’ve heard would indicate that I would necessarily be a target for the man, while we have heard some things that might not bode well for you...’The man has a plan - women belong with their families and men belong on the lines,’ one article said. He won’t get away with that approach with you, Mac.”

“Harm I don’t want you to get in trouble over me. I worry about that as much as I worry about his attitude toward me.”

“I know. I won’t take action unless warranted and I’ll try to be smart about it.”

“You know, Harm, Admiral Morris had indicated they he could use some more judges. Maybe I should go that route.”

“Mac you love being in the courtroom and making your case as much as I do. Don’t give it up unless you are sure that it is what you want to do. I love the investigative part of my job as much-maybe more- then I do arguing the case before a judge. But the two things combined are unbeatable. The day will come when one of us is going to have to make some tough choices. Let’s not rush it. Okay?”

Mac smiled, “When have we ever rushed anything that has to do with the two of us?”

“Well, one could say we’ve rushed to conclusions and assumptions about each other at times.”

“Yes...and its brought us nothing but trouble, Harm.”

“I know. Hey Mac...he’s coming in. As senior officers we’d better be there to greet him.”

“Let’s do it.”

Mac and Harm made there way to the bull pen and snapped to attention as General Creswell entered the JAG ops area.

“At ease. Good morning. I am General Creswell and make no mistake about it, I am in command of JAG ops from this moment on. I will meet with the senior attorneys in fifteen minutes in the conference room. The rest of you can expect to hear from your superiors as to your status later today. Dismissed.”

Everyone watched Creswell disappear into his office before they took a normal breath. Then the buzz started and accelerated as various ones debated whether this would be their last day at JAG or if they would be reassigned and Creswell’s people brought in. Harm and Mac exchanged looks before Harm raised his voice enough to make an announcement that would stop the uproar.

“Back to work people. You still have jobs to do.”

“Harm, is Sturgis in court or on assignment?”

“He and Bud are in court with Captain Sebring I believe.”

“Should we send a message that the new JAG has arrived and wants to meet with the senior attorneys?”

“You’re right. We could send a message with the court clerk.”

“I’ll do it as Chief of Staff...may be one of my last acts in that position.”

“Mac...”

“It’s okay Harm. A lighter work load may be a nice change.” She smiled trying to look at the bright side.

Harm shook his head and returned to his own office where he picked up his active files and a folder of notes. He looked around and tided his desk just a little more. This small out of the way office that had smelled so bad when he first arrived back at JAG had been functional and served to remind him that he needed to stay focused. While he missed his spacious office next to Mac’s it was more because of it’s proximity to her then the actual office.

When Harm had first returned it was a blessing he was stuck in here because seeing her every day and watching Webb come get her for lunch would have killed him. Somewhere in the back of his mind he knew without being told that Chegwidden had done him a favor in the disguise of a punishment. Harm chuckled to himself vowing to thank the man next time he emailed him.

Harm met Mac in the bull pen and without missing a stride they moved toward the conference room. They were the first to arrive and they took their usual positions at the table. They had just pulled in their chairs when Sturgis and Bud hurried into the conference room and rushed to take a seat.

“He’s here I take it.” Sturgis stated.

“That’s why we sent the message to Sebring. Was he upset?” Harm asked.

“Didn’t seem to be. He called for a recess and announced to us that we were needed in the conference room ASAP.”

Harm looked across the table at Bud. “You okay Commander Roberts?”

“Fine sir...just wondering.”

“We all are Bud. Let’s just wait and see.” Harm assured him.

The conference room doors opened and the four officers jumped to attention. Marine General “Biff” Creswell strode into the room, his eyes taking in the four senior officers while his face seemed to darken.

“Where are the rest of my attorneys?”

“This is it sir,” replied Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie.

“At ease. Have a seat and lets see if what I’ve got is anything to work with.”

The fours JAG lawyers looked at each other and without saying a word seemed to have a conversation that said, ‘We are in trouble here folks if this is going to be his attitude.’

“Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie, USMC; Chief of Staff...”

“Yes sir.”

“I see you’ve done some work with the CIA.”

“Yes sir.”

“Was this by choice or were you ordered to do so?”

“I was asked to do a job but given the option. Once asked I accepted the responsibility as an order.”

“I see. You have a rather interesting file Colonel and I question whether you are the right person to be Chief of Staff. It looks to me that you have the ability to do field work and nothing that would prevent you from taking assignments that have you out of the country for extended periods of time. I prefer a Chief of Staff that is here in the office on a regular basis. I will be replacing you as Chief of Staff. You do have an outstanding record as a trial lawyer in both defense and prosecution. I see you have also spent time on the bench as a judge.”

“Yes sir.”

“I think your talents would be better served as our head lawyer. You will be responsible for supervising and training the junior lawyers we bring on staff. Any questions?”

“Yes sir. That was part of my job as Chief of Staff. Are you saying that the Chief of Staff will no longer be responsible for training new lawyers?”

“That’s right Colonel. The Chief of staff had way to many duties to do any of them well without burning themselves out. I’d rather see the duties and responsibilities shared among more senior attorneys so that if we loose one, we aren’t rendered helpless.”

“Commander Harmon Rabb, Junior?” Creswell asked as he looked at the four attorneys.

“Here sir.”

“Commander Rabb, I had heard about you long before I ever got here. Your file reads like a work of fiction but the ribbons on your uniform tell me that you are for real. What is it about JAG that draws you more strongly then flying?”

“Finding the truth sir.”

“Interesting answer. I spoke to the SecNav before I took this assignment about my idea to split the Chief of Staff responsibilities up. I also discussed the idea of having a Chief Investigator. I feel you would be the right person to fill that role. In addition to taking lead on investigations you would also be training young JAG lawyers to be better investigators. Do you have any problems fulfilling the role as Chief Investigator?”

“No sir.”

“Even with having a teenage ward?”

“My ward was returned to her father three weeks ago sir. There is nothing that would prevent me from accepting the responsibilities of this position.”

“Very well. This change is effective immediately.”

“Lt. Commander Bud Roberts.”

“Yes sir.”

Commander, I an honored to have you on my staff. There are few individuals that have the mettle to overcome what you have and earn a promotion. You have a good record as both an investigator and a lawyer. There are enough blemishes so that I know you are human while they are slight enough not to alarm me. You have a young and growing family, correct?”

“Yes sir.”

“Very good. I feel that you are exactly what I am looking for to serve as Chief of Staff. You will be here on a regular basis which is what I prefer and I am sure your family would prefer not having you gone for extended period of times. Now that doesn’t mean you won’t be going away at times but they will most likely not be for extended periods of time. You have shown to have good computer skills and can do a lot of research from here and should be able to handle the new software for keeping track of staff schedules, leave and assignments.”

“Yes sir.” Bud couldn’t keep the smile off his face or out of his voice. The pride was evident in the way he sat and held his head and in his eyes when he made eye contact with Mac and Harm, his two mentors. They silent communicated to him and to each other their pride and pleasure at his new assignment.

“Commander Sturgis Turner.”

“Yes sir.”

“Commander, your file doesn’t show me very much. You appear to stay under the radar most of the time...must be the submariner in you.” Creswell seemed to be trying to make a joke and everyone cautiously smiled. “You have some honors to your credit but Admiral Chegwidden’s final comment interests me. It says, ‘Commander Turner has recently been faced with his humanity and has struggled to find out that he is not as perfect as he has strived to be throughout life. I hope that this will make him a better person, a better officer and a better lawyer but it remains to be seen.’ Have you anything to add to this Commander?”

“Sir, I think all of us had a difficult year last year, and while I do not agree with all that the Admiral wrote, I do agree that as each of us has struggled to find our footing again we have become stronger as a result. The Admiral left in May and it is now September. In the three months he has been gone I served as the acting JAG and while I am willing to relinquish the reins to you, I learned a lot from the experience. While I don’t know if I am a better person or lawyer as yet, I do feel that I have become a better officer.”

“Very well. Do you have a problem stepping back into the roll as just another JAG lawyer?”

“No sir.”

“Then we shall see how things go and if we find something to which you are better suited we will make it so. Until then, I expect you to work as part of the senior JAG team and fill in and assist the other three as needed.”

“Yes sir.”

“Now we are going to rearrange the way JAG ops is set up. We have two large offices off the bull pen. I believe they belong to Colonel Mackenzie and Commander Turner.”

“Yes sir,” they answered in unison.

I would like those two offices converted into small conference rooms. On the other side of the Bull Pen there are three smaller offices and I would like Mackenzie, Rabb and Roberts to use those. I believe there are four more offices in the hall way to the right. Turner you take the one closet to ops and we’ll fill the other three if we can with some new lawyers we’ll bring on staff. The hallway to the left I believe has four small rooms. Two have windows and the other two do not. Use the two with windows for a couple of designated investigators that may not be lawyers. The other two can be used as closets for all files and supplies. Questions?”

“Yes sir,” Harm was taking in all that Creswell was outlining to them. When he had talked about designating a couple of investigators he thought of two people immediately. “General, we have one person working in the office that I feel would make an excellent part of our investigative team and I know of another person that I would like to try and get back here.”

“Who are you thinking of Commander?”

“Petty Officer First Class Jennifer Coates. She served as Admiral Chegwidden’s yeoman after returning from the Sea Hawk where she worked as Robert’s legalman. Her background gives her good insight in things to look for in an investigation.”

“I would concur, General,” added Sturgis. “Petty Officer Coates worked undercover for us on a couple of cases and did very well.”

“Colonel Mackenzie?”

“I think Coates would make a valuable contribution to an investigative team.”

“Then make it so. Who else did you have in mind, Commander Rabb?”

“We had a Gunny working here for awhile before he requested a transfer to active duty in Afghanistan. I know he ended up working with CIA for awhile but I think he might be interested in returning to JAG to do investigations with us.”

“His name?”

“Gunnery Sargent Victor Galindez, sir.”

Everyone looked expectantly at the General.

“Gunny Galindez worked here?”

“Yes sir.”

“I don’t care what you have to do, get him back here. He was with me years ago and he was one of the best. I thought he had left the Corps. If he’s active I want him.”

“Aye, aye Sir.” Harm struggled to suppress his glee. So far this meeting was turning out way better then he had expected. He glanced at Mac and saw that she seemed more relaxed. Her little smile and silent communication to him indicated that she was intrigued by the new JAG’s ideas and plans. He knew they would talk later. 

“Commander Roberts,” instructed General Creswell, “before you secure for the day I want a list of candidates that we can consider to expand our legal staff. I would think that a new crop should have graduated in the spring and by now should have passed the bar. See who you can find. Also see if there is anyone assigned to ships or other locations that would fit out needs here. I am aware that there has been a shortage, but it seems like we could find some new blood that deserves a chance to show their stuff here with us.”

“Yes sir,” Bud responded as he wrote furiously making sure he didn’t miss any orders.

“Also, as Chief of Staff I would like you to direct maintenance to provide the muscles to move the offices as I instructed. Commander Turner, would you see if you could secure the appropriate furniture from the warehouse to make those two large offices into small conference rooms?”

“Yes sir.”

“Colonel Mackenzie, seeing as Commander Rabb has seen fit to claim my yeoman as one of our investigators, perhaps you could suggest some suitable candidates to fill in until I can make a final decisions.”

“Yes sir.”

“Very well. Roberts and Turner you are dismissed. Mackenzie and Rabb, I would like you to remain for a moment.”

Mac and Harm looked at one another as they wondered what General Creswell was going to hit them with next. When the door closed behind Sturgis, the General dove in.

“The SecNav told me that the two of you had a close relationship of an undetermined nature. He also said that when an investigation was conducted on the JAG offices last year he was told by a reliable source that although you were close you both put duty before that relationship and that when alone with the opposite sex you both conducted yourself with honor and dignity. I believe what he said. I also am aware that you were willing to go after the Colonel when a CIA op went bad and I commend you for not being willing to give up on your partner. I am also glad that you were able to return to JAG and they found away to make your time away as a temporary assignment. Were you aware of that Commander Rabb?”

Harm realized that his astonished expression must have tipped the General off to the fact that he was not aware that his record show him TAD to another agency. “No sir, I was not aware that was in my record. I assumed it showed a break in service.”

“Well Commander, that is neither here or there at the moment. I am curious however if the rumors regarding the relationship the two of you have is something I should be concerned about.”

“Well sir, if you are asking if Colonel Mackenzie and I see each other outside of work, yes, we do.”

“So you are dating?”

“Yes,” they answered together.

“Commander, I know I am putting you on the spot here, but I’d like to know if you have honorable intentions toward the Colonel.”

“I’m sorry sir, I’m not exactly sure what you are asking.” Harm was a little nervous about how Mac would react if he stated for the General what his intentions were if that was what he wanted to know.

“Let me put it another way Commander Rabb. At this point how do you see your relationship with Colonel Mackenzie in the next three or four years developing?”

Harm glanced at Mac and saw her eyes nervously darting between the General and himself. “I hope that she will be in my future forever sir. If we are able to find a way to bridge the gap from what we have to what we want, then someday we’ll get married and have children...I hope.”

“I see. Colonel Mackenzie, were you aware of this grand plan the Commander has or will this make it difficult for you to work together?”

“We’ve been dancing around the grand plan for years General Creswell. I don’t think hearing him state the plan will have any negative impact on our ability to work together.”

“Then if you keep that aspect of your life out of this office it will not be a problem for me. I have had other married couples work together without problem and I am willing to ask for a similar dispensation to allow that to happen should it ever reach that point. However, if I find that your personal relationship has a negative impact on this office or on your ability to perform your duties, I will not hesitate to transfer one or both of you out of JAG. Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes sir!” Both Harm and Mac made it clear that they read his message clearly. The squabbling and bickering they had fallen into so easily in the past would not be tolerate by General Creswell the way Chegwidden had accepted it usually with humor and tolerance.

“Very well. I think we have a lot of changes to initiate and I am sure you both have cases you are also currently working on. Tomorrow morning I will meet with you all again to review the cases. Please pass the word. Dismissed.” With that, General Creswell stood up from the table and snapping a sharp turn on his heal he left the room.

“Wow...Hurricane Creswell strikes with no warning...news at eleven...Do you believe that Harm?” Mac collapsed against the back of her chair her head spinning.

“He is something. How do you feel about all the changes?”

“At first I thought he was saying I was incapable of doing the job until I realized that he thought that the job was impossible. I think sharing the load the way he has it broken out with you and Bud is great. I feel bad for Sturgis, though.”

“Yes but Mac, Sturgis has hated having to take center stage and serving as the interim JAG was a stroke of genius on Chegwidden and the SecNav’s part. He’s had to learn to look at two sides of every issue. He’s had to experience the political pressure and not shut himself off from the reality. I think it has made him a better officer and I think it will make him a better person. He is a good lawyer and a good investigator and he was a good student but he’s never had something he was outstanding at or passionate about. I think he’ll like serving sort of like an assistant to each of us...whoever needs him most at the time.”

“Creswell certainly nailed our strengths right away. I think Bud is a bit overwhelmed at the moment though, don’t you?” Mac smiled thinking of the young bumbling Lieutenant (jg) she first met when she came to JAG. He sure had grown up.

“I’m proud of him Mac. He’ll handle it.”

“I know. Hey we better get back to work.”

“Yes, but you know you and I have a lot to talk about tonight too.”

“I know.”

“Pick you up at nineteen hundred?”

“How about we eat at home tonight?”

“Want me to pick something up?”

“I’ve got some chicken stew in the freezer I can heat up and I’ll make some dumplings for it?” Mac suggested as an alternative plan.

“What time do you want me to be there?”

“Have your seabag in your car?”

“Yes.”

“Then follow me home and change into something from your sea bag if you want?”

“Okay...it’s a date.”

“I like it when you say things like that, Commander,” smiled Mac as she returned to her office to pack up and move to a new space.

2013 Local

Mac’s Apartment

Georgetown

 Harm and Mac sat side by side on the couch, with their heads back and their feet up on the coffee table. Their hands touched between them. Turning their heads so they could look at each other without moving much they both started to grin.

“I am so tired. I thought when Creswell started outlining his plan that it would take us the better part of the week to execute all the changes...especially to the office space,” commented Mac.

“But just think Mac, its done. Tomorrow will be business as usual - sort of.”

“True. I’m glad that Bud didn’t have to move his office.”

“He was able to focus on getting us the list of candidates that we have to review tomorrow and he was able to track down Gunny and get the paperwork started that will bring him back into the mix.” Harm paused before he delved into the topic that always made him a little nervous. “Mac, we need to talk about what was said today.”

“I know, Harm...but we’re both tired and I’m not sure I have the energy that I need to deal with ‘us’, you know?”

“Yes...but Mac, hear me out.”

“Okay, go ahead.”

“I wasn’t assuming anything today. I know we have a lot to work out to make the jump from friends to whatever...but I meant what I said. I hope that we can work it out because if we can then I want you to be my wife and I want us to raise a family.” He held up one hand knowing what she was going to say. “If it turns out that we can’t have our own children, we can adopt. We both know we have the capacity to love kids...you with Chloe and me with Mattie...so we’ll look for some little girls and little boys that need us and make them ours if we can’t have our own. Right?”

“I know you’re right Harm...I am more concerned about keeping our relationship out of the office. Chegwidden put up with our squabbles, where Creswell won’t.”

“I think he will if they are the work related ones...just not the ones that are based on us as a couple. I think we’ll be okay, Mac. I also think it takes pressure off of us thinking that if we move our relationship forward, as we are hoping to do, one of us is not going to have to give up JAG, by the sound of it.”

“You really meant it when you said you’d always be there for me, didn’t you?”

“Yes. You still aren’t sure?”

“I guess not. I mean I know there will be times where I’ll want you to be with me and duty will call you away, but what about those times that you are involved in something interesting and I’m feeling needy?”

“Mac, if I know you need me I’ll find away...whether its by phone or instant messaging or putting my arms around you and holding on tight. But you have to tell me when you need me because I might not know. You tend to hide your pain...we both do. You withdraw and I get testy. That’s part of what dating does. It gives us a chance to learn about the other one.”

“How did you get so smart?” Mac asked as she slid over so she could rest her head against his shoulder.

“I guess some of the reading I did to figure out how to parent Mattie also made me realize how things are suppose to work for us too.”

“I’m glad. Do we need to talk anymore tonight?”

“No. You want me to leave so you can go to bed early?”

“No...I was hoping that maybe you’d hold me a little...”

“I can do that,” Harm turned to slip his arm around her as she came up onto to her knees on the couch beside him. Wrapping both arms around his neck and laying her head in the crook on his shoulder he turned her to settle her across his thighs. He let one hand lightly caress her back while the other rested on her outer thigh.

Mac looked up into Harm’s eyes with a smile on her face. Hoping he wasn’t miss reading the signals he lower his head and let his lips touch hers lightly. They had started kissing goodnight after they had gone on dates, but this was the first time he had initiated kissing her just for the enjoyment of kissing her. Harm felt Mac’s hand slide through his hair and apply pressure to the back of his head deepening the kiss a little more. He kissed her lips and placed feather light kisses all over her face and neck, trying not to go to far or to fast.

Mac delighted in the kisses Harm was giving her and didn’t hesitate to kiss him back. She became fascinated with his right ear and smiled when she heard Harm groan her name as she let her tongue and fingers explore that crooked shell on the side of his head.

“Mac....Mac....Sarah, please...I need to stop...you need to stop.” Harm slowly and regretfully pulled back and separated himself from their growing passion. “Mac, don’t be upset. I’m not rejecting you. I liked this too much and we’re not ready for the next step yet. Please don’t be mad at me Sarah...”

“I’m not mad Harm...you’re right...we were getting carried away...but it was nice, wasn’t it?”

“Mmmmm, very nice.”

“So we can do this again sometime?” Mac asked.

“I hope so.”

“Good.”

“Let me up so I can go home.”

“You don’t have to leave yet do you?”

“I don’t have to...but I think I’d better.”

“Stay for coffee if I promise to behave?”

“Okay,” Harm smiled. He didn’t want to leave and she apparently didn’t want him to go. He hoped he wouldn’t embarrass either of them before he got his body under control again.

In the kitchen, Mac made the coffee and while it brewed she wiped herself down with a cold cloth. Harm’s kisses were wonderful, but feeling his body react while she played with his ear had really made her temperature rise. She knew he was right to stop their forward progress tonight, but at least he wasn’t running from her like he had in the past.

0855 Local

JAG HQ

Falls Church, Virginia

General Creswell entered the bull pen area from his office. “If I could have your attention for a moment...as you know we made some major changes here at JAG yesterday. For some of you the changes will be minimal while others may find life at JAG very different and maybe intolerable. If that’s the case, I suggest that you adapt or request a change in your duty assignment. This morning I will be meeting with my senior attorneys to review cases and potential candidates to fill the empty slots here at JAG.”

“Once we finish that up, some of you will be meeting with your department heads. The investigative staff will meet with Commander Rabb and Lt. Commander Roberts in the corner conference room while the legal aide staff will meet with Colonel Mackenzie and Commander Turner in this one immediately behind me. Petty Officer Coates will be posting a list of staff that will meet with me about operations in this office and the opening as my aide. We will meet in the large conference room. Dismissed.” General Creswell proceeded to the conference room like the hurricane he was becoming associated with. By sheer luck, the four senior lawyers had reached the conference room ahead of him and were standing at attention when he entered.

“At ease. Have a seat. Let me start by first saying I am impressed at how efficiently you all worked yesterday in making the changes I outlined. Now I would like to start a case by case review. I want to know the status of each and every open case we have. Colonel Mackenzie, we’ll begin with you.”

For the next hour they went over each case. Creswell noted who was working defense and prosecution on each case and who had conducted the interviews. He also noted at what stage of the proceedings they were and which judge if any had been assigned. It took them slightly over an hour to review all the cases. Each one stayed alert as they never knew when a question was coming their way.

“Lt. Commander Roberts?”

“Yes General?”

“I realize that assigning cases will be a new responsibility for you. I am sure the Colonel will be willing to assist you until you feel more comfortable. In the event that you have any questions and she is not here, please do not hesitate to check with me.”

“Yes sir.”

“Very good. Now I understand that you were able to identify nine lawyers that could be available to fill slots here at JAG. Give me a brief synopsis on each one please. I think we will start by bringing in three new junior lawyers.”

“Ensign Jason Tiner graduated law school last year before going to Officer Candidate School and Naval Criminal Justice School. He is currently working with the base JAG at Oceania. So far his duties have been mostly preparing documents and doing legal aide work, however he worked here at JAG as an aide and was the Admiral’s yeoman prior to going to OCS. We all know Ensign Tiner and feel that he would be a good choice to bring here where we can work with him.” Colonel Mackenzie waited for General Creswell to comment.

“Go on Colonel.”

“Yes sir. Lt. Mark Haskell is a marine JAG at Pendelton. He’s requested a transfer to the east coast so he can be closer to his family. His father was killed last year in Iraq and his mother is alone trying to raise and provide for the three younger children in his family. One in college and two in high school. He was offered an early out but wants to make the military his career and asked instead to be transferred closer to home.”

“Where’s home?”

“Baltimore Maryland.”

“Keep going.”

Commander Turner took over. “Marine Lt. Cassie Nystrom just graduated from law school last spring and passed the bar in June. She is on leave currently and waiting new orders. She was earmarked for Pearl, but east coast is her first choice.”

“Next.”

“Lt.(jg) Toby Brady is a Naval academy graduate and due for promotion to full Lieutenant. He was graduate from Georgetown law school and passed his bar last January. He’s been serving at Norfolk as their legal advisor to the men in port. No investigative or trial experience but it is what he wants.”

Bud presented the next one. “Lt.(jg) Sylvia Warner is currently in Japan working with the JAG office there which also doubles as the diplomatic corps at this time. She has requested a transfer and is looking for more trial experience.” Bud paused and General Creswell motioned him to continue.

“Captain Brian Ingles, USMC, is working downstairs with legal aide and prior to that was stationed in San Diego. He has defended three clients and won two of the three cases. All three clients were charged with unauthorized absence.”

“Why is he here and not still trying cases?” asked the General.

“He had an issue with the senior attorney in San Diego and chose to take a step back and wait for a chance to get in somewhere else.” Bud explained the request as best he could to the General.

“What do you know about the senior attorney in San Diego?” Creswell asked them.

“I’ve had a few run-ins with him sir. I think it would be worth talking to Ingles face to face seeing as he is right here.” Harm remembered the trial of Mike Roberts and knew that the JAG lawyers in San Diego would not be the kind he could work with. He hoped that the General would give him the benefit of the doubt and at least talk to him.

“You may be right. Let’s finish these up.”

“Lt. Marsha Cantrell, USMC, is also at San Diego. She has plenty of experience defending but does not have a great record. She has been there for four years and in order to get a promotion needs to move up or move out. She feels her chances are better if she transfers.”

The General just nodded.

Harm took over presenting the last two. “Captain Marcy Rivers, UCMC is currently stationed in Naples Italy. She has experience as a trial lawyer and has requested a transfer stateside. East Coast is her second choice.”

“Yes, I am familiar with Captain Rivers. She would make a good addition if she wanted to be here. Continue.”

“Lt.(jg) Adam James also in Naples, Italy. He’s been sitting second chair to Captain Rivers. After being in Italy for two years, he is requesting a transfer home. He’s from Alexandria, Virginia. His wife is pregnant and they were hoping to return and settle in before she delivers in January.”

“Anyone with a questionable record?”

“Not that we are aware of at this point sir. We were planning to do a more in-depth investigation when we narrowed the field a little,” Harm told him.

“Very well. Commander Rabb, have your investigative team do the background checks and have them on my desk by sixteen hundred hours today on Ingles, James, Haskell, Tiner, and Cantrell. Colonel Mackenzie, set up phone interviews for tomorrow for the ones that can’t be here in person. I’ve blocked off four hours beginning at thirteen hundred hours tomorrow.”

“Yes sir.”

“Dismissed.”

Harm, Mac, Bud and Sturgis rose, acknowledged his dismissal and left the conference room together. From the large conference room they split into two groups and headed for the smaller conference rooms.

“Well, Bud, what do you think so far?” Harm asked his friend and colleague.

“I think this man makes a plan and stops at nothing to carry it out. I told Harriet last night that it’s a good thing he wasn’t here when she had little AJ. He’d have ordered her to stop the labor until she arrived at the hospital and made sure that one of us was there to make sure it was done as he directed.”

“I don’t know Bud. He seems to have a soft spot for families. He made sure that your talents were being utilized while trying to keep you home as much as possible. He told Mac and I that as long as we keep it out of the office he doesn’t care that we have stated dating. He even went so far as to say he would be willing to try to get special dispensation so we could both stay here at JAG if we were to get married. I think he’s a task master Bud, but I think that he feels people belong in relationships and having families and those that don’t are fair game for long assignments, travel, and unusual and unpredictable schedules and hours.”

“You could be right, sir.” They both looked up when Jennifer Coates knocked on the door.

“Come on in, Petty Officer Coates. Welcome to the JAG investigative department. You along with Gunnery Sargent Victor Galindez who should be arriving at any moment will be working closely with our legal department to do any number of investigative work. Today we have five candidates that we need to prepare a through background check on. The reports need to be on General Creswell’s desk by sixteen hundred hours today. Commander Roberts, please work with Petty Officer Coates and help her get started. I’m going to see if I can locate our missing Gunny.”

Harm left Jen and Bud to start the investigations while he went back out to the bull pen area. He looked around not really sure who to ask if anyone had heard from Gunny. He noticed a note on his office door and crossed to check on it.

‘Commander Rabb, Gunnery Sargent Victor Galindez called. His vehicle has been disabled and he is awaiting transport to HQ. Will arrive ASAP. PO Powers’

Harm turned back toward the corner conference room and at the door he heard the elevator open. Turning he saw the wide grin of Gunny Galindez.

“Gunny! You made it...”

“Reporting as ordered sir.”

“Come on in and join the team. We’ll fill you in as we go.” Harm opened the door and announced to Bud and Jen that the fourth member of the team had arrived.

Gunny was greeted warmly. When things settled down again, they filled him in on the changes.

“General Creswell is the new JAG. He has made Bud here the new Chief of Staff.”

“What about the Colonel?”

“She’s now head of the litigators...a new separate department within JAG,” Harm explained.

“There have been some major changes,” commented the gunny.

“I think they want to show NCIS that we can conduct viable investigations as well, so they made us into our own department. Lt. Commander Bud Roberts will assist with research while we work with the litigators to do the investigations. Jen has been moved into an office near me, and you will have the one next to her. Even have your own windows, Gunny.” Harm nodded his head as Gunny shook his in amazement.

“Okay, today we focus on the background checks. When you finish, come see me and I’ll give you some other things to look into. I still have a couple of cases to finish and so does Bud. We’ll need to split our time between helping you if you need it and wrapping up those cases. Shall we adjourn?” Harm asked looking around. At the nods of agreement they left and Harm showed Gunny his office. Jen offered to get him set up with passwords for the computer and locate anything he needed as she was still finishing some of her office duties. He thanked her before stepping into the office with Commander Rabb.

“How are things with you and the Colonel, sir?” asked Gunny.

“Looking up, Gunny. The last time I saw you was seconds before she pulled the rug out from under me and told me there could never be ‘us’. I took it pretty hard but thought I still had a chance until Chegwidden shut me out too. Things were pretty bad for a few months but we started patching up our friendship first...neither of us could let that go. Then I realized that I didn’t believe she wanted Webb, but she probably thought she didn’t have a choice. I went to work trying to give her choices. Of course, we’ll never know now what would have happened because Webb was killed...” Harm trailed off leaving the thought unfinished.

“My money would have been on you either way sir. So have you convinced her to rethink her position?” Gunny asked with a knowing smile.

“No, Gunny, she came to the conclusion on her own that despite everything, I’ve always been here. I may go away but I always come back. She asked me if I would always be there for her and I assured her I would. We’ve been dating.”

“That’s a great start. I look forward to seeing her. It will be great to work together again sir.”

“That it will, Gunny...that it will.”

Friday September 17, 2004

1845 Local

Harm’s apartment

North of Union Station

By the time they had secured for the day everyone of them was exhausted. Harm had planned to have Mac and Gunny over for dinner. They all needed to tie up loose ends from Paraguay - the last time they had been together. At the last minute Gunny and Jen were sent to do an undercover investigation on a case Strugis was working. Now Harm was just as glad that it was only going to be Mac coming over. As if on cue she knocked lightly before trying the door. It had taken him all summer to get her to just come in and to use the key he had given her. Tonight she knocked but entered without him coming to open the door.

“Harm?”

“Hi Mac...be right with you.”

“Long week, huh Sailor?”

“You got that right.” Harm said as he pulled his T-shirt down and crossed the floor to where Mac stood by the island. Leaning over he kissed her lightly. “Mmmm I needed that.”

“Yeah?”

“Oh yeah. And what do you need after the week from hell?” Harm asked her as he held her arms lightly at the elbows and looked down at her.

“A good meal...comfortable clothes...and maybe a good looking sailor to make me feel all tingly and special...” Mac loved the look he got in his eyes when she flirted with him.

Dating Harm was turning out much better then she had thought it would. So far he had kept her informed when his plans changed, something she could appreciate and understand. He was attentive and never took their relationship for granted while always making the transition steps seem easy.

“Well, why don’t you change into something more comfortable and get out of those shoes. I’ll put dinner in the oven and then I’ll see what I can come up with to make you tingle. How’s that?”

“Good plan, Commander.” Mac reached up to plant a kiss on his cheek and then moved past him to his bedroom snagging her tote bag on the way. She had brought both jeans and shorts. It was warm enough tonight that the shorts and halter top won out over the more modest jeans and t-shirt. Hanging up her uniform next to Harm’s she slipped into the soft knit shorts and matching halter top which just met the waistband of her shorts. She put her shoes, nylons and bra into her tote bag and returned to the island where Harm was pouring them each a glass of ice water.

“It’s been an unusually warm week for September, hasn’t it?” Mac asked as she accepted the frosty glass of water.

“Yeah...it usually cools down at night at least...” Harm’s voice trailed off. He couldn’t take his eyes off of Mac. She always looked beautiful to him, but seeing her bare shoulders and back told him that she was braless. It made him tingle. He wasn’t sure if he was going to be able to make her tingle without getting himself in trouble tonight.

Mac walked up close to Harm as she set her glass back on the island. She slid her arms around his waist and rested her head against his chest.

“Mac? Are you okay?” Harm asked trying to see her face.

“Yes. I just wanted to feel special and to have you make me tingle. The best way I know to do that is be in your arms...and have you in mine.” Mac’s voice was barely above a whisper.

Wrapping his long arms around her he rested his face against her hair. He let his finger tips explore the exposed skin of her arms and back. Mac’s hands at his waist seemed to be exploring to and he gasped a little in surprise when he felt her hands on his bare back.

“You get to feel skin so I do too, mister.” Mac warned him.

“That’s fair enough.” He whispered in response lowering his head to try and capture her lips with his. He found her forehead and then her nose and eventually worked his way to her lips. She was waiting for him and her lips eagerly met his. They stood next to the island and lost themselves in that kiss. When they finally pulled back and looked into each others eyes, Harm was sure that she was aware of what their kisses were doing to him...just as he was aware that her breasts had reacted to his kisses and his touch on her back.

“Are you tingling yet?” Harm asked her.

“Mmmmm. Harm?” Just then the timer went off.

“Dinner’s ready...what were you going to ask?” Harm asked Mac as he slid from her arms to go get their dinner.

“Oh nothing that can’t wait.”

“You sure?”

“Yes Harm. It smells good. What is it?”

“I used some leftover chicken and mixed it with broccoli and carrots and baked it with a cream sauce with biscuits baked on top.”

“Sounds good.”

Together they sat in silence and ate. They seldom had awkward moments anymore and up to this point they were able to work through them fairly quickly. Tonight it seemed as if they both knew that a big step was in front of them. They both wanted it and thought the other one did as well. They both struggled with the question, was it too soon?

By the time they had finished dinner and washed the dishes, Harm had decided to find out. “Mac, I know we are teetering on the brink of something major here and I want to be sure you are ready to go there before I do something you can’t forgive me for.”

“I know. I’m unsure too, but I think its time we try at least.”

“Good,” and with that he reached for her and lower his head to kiss her again. Mac accepted his kiss and returned one of her own. This time neither one tried to control the passion between them, but let it grow and burn on its own. Somehow, Harm had moved them to the living room and sat on the couch with her in his arms. His lips wandered along her bare shoulders and to the base of her neck.

Her fingers tangled in his hair as she guided his head and lips lower to the cleavage exposed by her halter top. His fingers found the buttons at the back of her neck and he lifted his head unable to find his voice to ask, but wanting to make sure she was okay with things before he went on. Mac could only smile and nod.

Harm managed to work the buttons free and as Mac leaned back over his arm, he eased the top away from her exposing her beautiful breasts to his eyes. Raising his eyes after a moment to look into Mac’s eyes, he found his voice to whisper.

“You are so beautiful, Sarah. I want you so much.”

“Touch me Harm...make me tingle.”

He took her up on her invitation and lowered his mouth to taste her skin as he kissed and tasted her breasts, finally closing in on the erect nipple of one while his fingers teased the other.

Mac’s fingers were in his hair as she held his head to her while glorying in the shivers of passion that chased through her body at his touch. Slowly Harm returned to kissing her lips and Mac used the opportunity to work her hands under his t-shirt again, this time lifting it up, exposing his chest to her view and to her touch.

Mac pulled away from his kiss so that she could look at him. Slowly he realized that she wanted him to remove his shirt. He obliged. He felt her nails lightly scraping his chest and nipples while she kissed and tasted him like he had her. It was almost more then he could endure.

“Maacc...Sarah...please...”

“What do you want Harm?” she whispered as she looked him in the eye, praying he wasn’t going to stop them yet.

“To hold you...I want to feel you against me...”

Mac slid her arms around his neck and straddled his lap as she slowly rubbed her bare breasts against his naked chest. The friction send tingles through both of them. Harm held her against him more tightly so she couldn’t tease him with her rubbing. Once again he kissed her lips. He felt her lips part and invite him to explore her mouth. He slipped his tongue inside her mouth, letting his tongue tangle with hers.

Sarah Mackenzie had kissed men in her life and she had been kissed by some very experienced and passionate men. She had never experienced with anyone of them what she experienced that evening with Harm. He felt the tremors building in her body as they kissed and caressed. He felt them in his body too but he kept them controlled and gave everything he had to her in his kisses. When she cried out and collapsed against him he wasn’t sure at first what had happened. He looked at her as she lay in his arms and saw the tears rolling down her face.

“Mac? Sarah are you okay? What happened?”

“I’m okay...Harm...I think...wow...that’s never happened to me before...like that.”

“Did you just...um...have an orgasm?”

“Yeah...from kissing you...that’s never happened like that to me before.”

“Me either...I mean...never mind now is not the time for me to be saying something wrong. Are you okay?”

“I’m more then okay. When you say you’re willing to make me tingle you really mean it, huh?”

Harm shrugged. “I’m not sure what I should do here.”

“Hold me...”

“Aahh...you like to cuddle afterwards huh?”

“And you don’t?”

“I do actually, it’s just um...” Harm wasn’t quite sure he should point out to her that while she was in a lethargic state, his body was still humming with need. As Mac settled herself back into his arms she must have felt his predicament.

“Oh...Harm I’m sorry...I wasn’t thinking.”

“It’s okay. Just sit still.” Mac snuggled into his arms.

“You know Mac, we need to talk about something.”

“What’s that Harm?”

“Well, I know that the doctor said it is probably a long-shot that you’ll get pregnant, but what about protection as well as birth control?”

“Harm the doctor had to take me off birth control pills because I fell into that small group of women with endometriosis that it doesn’t help. In fact it almost made things worse. I’ve been tested and I’m clean, so if you are we don’t need to worry about disease, but...”

“I’m clean...but?”

“Do we want to risk a pregnancy? Mac asked Harm.”

“Mac, I told you I’m ready to close the deal but only if you are ready and want it too.”

“Then maybe taking chances with pregnancy would be okay...”

“Let’s think about it and next time we can decide if it feels right or not.”

At some point Mac’s halter top had been pulled back in place, but Harm’s t-shirt was missing. She was still snuggled into his arms as they talked. Harm held her and before long he felt her body relax and knew she had fallen asleep. Carefully, he moved her onto the couch so that he could get up. After standing, he eased her onto the couch and covered her with the afghan that his Grandmother had sent him for Christmas last year. He watched to make sure she was still asleep and made his way to his bathroom where he took a cold shower.

He knew that one of the issues that they were working through was her trust in him. If tonight being about her and her needs helped her to see he would always put her needs first and that she could trust him to be there for her, then the cold shower was certainly worth it. Once he was dry and dressed in clean silk boxers he returned to the living room to check on Mac. She was still sleeping. He carefully lifted her into his arms and other then wrapping her arms around his neck, she slept. Just as carefully he put her into his bed and then went to turn out the lights. Finally he slid into bed beside her and in the dim light from the window he turned on his side to watch her sleep. Relaxed, contented and exhausted from the demands of the new JAG during his first week on the job, sleep claimed Harm within minutes.

September 20

JAG HQ

Falls Church, Virginia

Harm had been alone when he woke up Saturday morning. Mac had left a note that just said, ‘Thanks for last night.’ He had tried to call but had only gotten her voice mail. He had left messages for her but had not heard anything back until this morning. She had called while he was out running.

“Harm...It’s Mac. Must be you are out running. Sorry I didn’t get back to you this weekend. Talk to you at JAG.”

Frustrated that he had missed her call but relieved that she didn’t sound upset with him he looked forward to seeing her this morning.

He saw her the minute he entered the bull pen area. She smiled but returned to the conversation she was having with the General’s new aide. Harm entered his office and picked up his file for staff call. This morning the three new lawyers were coming on board. When he looked up he saw Mac coming toward his office with a smile firmly in place.

“Morning Sailor.”

“Good morning. Everything okay?”

“Yes. Did you get my message this morning?”

“I did. I was worried.”

“I know. I needed a little time to adjust to things I guess.”

“And?”

“I’m okay with everything...or will be after I...umm...well let’s just say that the next time is your turn.” Mac smiled that beautiful smile of hers.

Harm gulped a little knowing he needed to reign in his libido before it got him into trouble. Shaking his finger at Mac he smiled and scolded, “You behave.”

“I will. There’s too much going on to day or I’d be tempted to torment you all day.”

Harm laughed. If Mac was flirting with him she was feeling good about things and confident in herself. The tension gone, they grabbed their files and headed for the morning meeting.

Harm, Mac, Bud and Sturgis were seated at the table when the General joined them. They reviewed the cases so far and the General was apprized as to which cases the new lawyers would be pulling for the first assignments. He agreed with their decisions and commended them for working effectively as a team.

“I couldn’t have asked for a smoother transition from my stand point. Thank you.”

“Your welcome, sir,” responded Mac for all of them.

The door opened to admit three new staff members.

“Ensign Tiner, Lt.(jg) James and Lt. Cantrell reporting as ordered.”

“At ease. Grab a seat and we’ll do introductions.” As they scrambled into the open seats, the General began the introductions. “As you know I am General Creswell. I’ve only been here a week myself but I have this to be a team oriented crew to work with and am sure you will settle in to the routine in no time.”

“Commander Harmon Rabb; Head of investigations. I will be working with you on your investigations and we have two non-coms that can assist with undercover work and tracking down information, people or objects that you need for your case. You will meet them later.”

“Lieutenant Colonel Sarah Mackenzie; I will be overseeing your courtroom performance and will be available to give you helpful tips along the way. Welcome.”

“Lt. Commander Bud Roberts; Chief of Staff. I will assign you cases as they come in as well as your duty days and schedule your leaves if they are granted. I can also assist with you with research and investigations as part of the Investigative team.”

“Commander Sturgis Turner; I assist Roberts, Mackenzie and Rabb in their duties and will probably be prosecuting many of the cases in which you must defend. Remember that what happens in the courtroom is not personal and you should work to separate the things that are said in done in court from what happens when we are working as a team at JAG.”

“Ensign Jason Tiner. It’s good to be back at JAG. I’ll do my best to live up to your expectations.”

“Very well, Tiner. I can assure you that if you don’t live up to my expectations you will be replaced. Next.” General Creswell did not hesitate to let Tiner know that past experiences at JAG meant little or nothing to him and that Tiner would have to prove himself as a lawyer to stay here.

“Lt. (Jg) Adam James. It’s an honor to be given a chance here at JAG Headquarters.”

“Yes, it is.” Everyone cringed at the tone in the General’s voice. It was clear he wouldn’t suffer fools lightly.

“Lt. Marsha Cantrell.”

“Very well. Roberts will show you around and to your offices after you have been given your first assignments. We work as a team here folks...not a family. Family’s are for outside of the work place and work hours. Those of you with families will be given more local assignments while those with out ties should be prepared for the longer travel assignments. It’s all your’s Colonel, Commanders...” and with that ominous welcome the JAG left the conference room to allow the others to get on with business.

After a more personal and less formal welcome by the senior officers, Tiner, James and Cantrell all seemed more visibly relaxed. Rabb and Mackenzie were going to share the mentoring of Tiner. Turner was to take Lt. James under his wing, while Roberts would work with the slightly more experienced Cantrell.

The remainder of the day was spent settling in the new attorneys and trying to wrap up two cases in court. One was a plea bargain with Harm prosecuting and Mac defending and the other was the sentencing hearing on a case that Harm had defended while Roberts had prosecuted.

When he was secured for the day he left his office at the same time Mac stepped from her office.

“Hey, Marine. How’s it going?”

“Very well,” she looked at Harm to see if he caught her humor. He had.

“Let’s get out of here before you get us in trouble,” Harm whispered as he escorted her to the elevator. On the ride down, they were alone. Mac reached up and placed a quick kiss on Harm’s chin.

“I’ve been wanting to do that all day.”

“You have?”

“Yup...and a few other things.”

“Mac....”

“Your place or mine Sailor?” she whispered as the elevator stopped and the door slid open.

“My place...Take out...”

“Eat in?”

“Mac, behave...” he warned again seeing the twinkle in her eye telling him she was feeling playful. “What would you like me to pick up for our dinner?”

“I’ll get it this time. You go home and get comfortable.” She winked at him as she left him by his car and went on to hers. If he wasn’t mistaken, her hips swayed a little more and she stood a little straighter as she turned, making sure her profile was clearly visible.

He laughed and shook his head in defeat. It looked like it was going to be a fun evening if he would relax and just let it happen. Mac had and it was his turn. This wasn’t about who got to feel good first or most. It was about trust. She showed him that she trusted him enough to let herself go. It was his turn to show her he trusted her to the same degree.

When he got home he quickly changed out of his uniform, and took a quick shower. He slipped into some soft cotton knit fitted boxers and pulled on his favorite worn jeans. He chose a short-sleeved button shirt also in a soft cotton knit. It moved with him but was easy to take off later if...

“Harm? Foods here!”

“Good timing Mac.”

“I’ve told you before I have great timing. I’ll prove it later...”

Harm reached for her then and pulled her into his arms to kiss her. She returned his kiss although neither of them were ready to let it burn out of control yet. She backed away setting the food down on the dining room table.

“I’ve waited for that all day.”

“Really? I’ve been waiting for that since Saturday morning.”

“Dinner first...just like Friday night.” Mac set about getting plates and silverware and Harm poured them some ice cold water.

Harm enjoyed the food and Mac’s playful attitude. She touched him every chance she got and brushed against him with her breasts as well. The anticipation of what she would do after dinner was building rapidly and Harm was counting the seconds until Mac would declare she was full. Deciding to help things along he decided to try a few tactics with her. First he began staring at her breasts and making it obvious where his eyes were focusing. For good measure he licked his lips a little letting his tongue play with his lip as if he was tasting her like he had on Friday. It worked like a charm.

Mac announced she was going to change while he put the food away. He watched her retreating back before turning with a grin to take care of the leftovers. He refilled their water glasses and took them to the living room. He sat on the couch leaning against the arm with one leg on the couch bent slightly at the knee. He knew she would be able to see what the anticipation of being with her was doing to him.

When Mac returned she was wearing shorts again but this time with a tank top. She glided over to him and leaned down to kiss him. She knew the minute she felt his touch she would not back down. She also knew that he was looking forward to this as much as she was. Friday things had happened naturally and she wanted tonight to be natural as well so she sat down and leaned against him, kissing him and encouraging him to kiss her.

She felt herself beginning to lose control again and that’s when she took control urging Harm to let her explore him and give himself up to her touch and her kisses. She unbuttoned his shirt and kissed and tasted his chest as she exposed it to her view inch by inch. She scooted back a little so she could move down his body as she kissed and tasted her way along the fine hair line that went down his stomach and under the waist band of his jeans. Mac lingered at his naval with her tongue, while she smoothed her hands up and down the soft denim of his jeans from knee to thigh.

“Mac...please...I need you to touch me.” Harm struggled to talk.

Mac followed his plea and let her hand close over the ridge in his jeans. She let her finger nail trace the length of the ridge slightly overwhelmed at what she was dealing with. Curious to see if it was illusion or not, she reached for the button on his jeans and eased it open. The zipper slowly part as she placed kisses on his bare skin until she reached the waste band of his underwear. Hesitating only briefly she reached into the fly opening and freed him. It was no illusion.

Rethinking her plan of attack just slightly, Mac let her fingers trail over his erection very lightly until she felt him shiver. She replaced her finger then with her tongue, letting it taste and touch him along his length. Once she worked her way to the head, she used her tongue to follow the ridge around the head until her mouth was over the tip. Slowly she drew the very tip into her mouth and flicked it with her tongue. She heard Harm moaning and felt him beginning to lift his hips toward her. Slowly she lowered her mouth further over him until encasing him in the damp warmth of his mouth. She wrapped her hands around the lower portion of him to support him and hold him in a position where she could give him the most pleasure.

Harm’s hands were tightly grasping the leather of his sofa. His head was tossing back and forth and he struggled to keep control. He didn’t want to hurt her but he wanted what she was giving him. Mac sensed his dilemma and knew he needed a signal from her that she was ready and prepared for him to let go. Without a word, she began to apply more pressure with her mouth as she wrapped her lips around the tip and then she began to slide her tongue around him faster and with more pressure as stroked him with her hands.

“Yes...oh yeah...so good.” Harm murmured as his excitement increased. Mac picked up the tempo a little more as she felt Harm’s hips begin to buck. She knew he was fighting to keep some control - not because he didn’t trust her - but because he didn’t want to hurt her. She continued stroking him with her hands while she rested her neck.

“You’re not going to hurt me Harm, so let it go. I’m ready for you.” And with that she plunged her mouth back over him, while she continued to hold him in one hand and stroke the rest of the package still hidden from her sight inside the knitted boxers with the other.

Harm felt like he was ready to explode and he couldn’t hold back. He felt himself bucking into her mouth while her hand gently squeezed and held him. He heard a rumble coming from somewhere deep inside him and felt the sound tear through his throat as he emptied himself into her mouth and into the cooler air when she release him from her mouth. Her hands stayed with him, easing him through until his body stopped pulsing.

Harm felt himself force his eyes open, somewhat afraid of what he would see. Eventually he was able to focus and he saw Sarah Mackenzie smiling at him her eyes soft with concern.

“You okay?” he asked.

“Yes. Are you?”

“Yes...a little embarrassed maybe.”

“That’s okay...but you don’t have to be...I mean you still have some secrets from me.”

“I do?”

“Yeah...I may have touched but I haven’t seen it all with my eyes yet,” Mac smiled remembering Kate Pike telling her that Harm couldn’t handle working with someone that knew the color of his underwear. Mac knew that he could handle that. It was having someone see him loose control that he struggled with...or seeing him fully exposed without his underwear maybe. She grinned at the idea.

“What are you smiling about?”

“Don’t get paranoid...it’s nothing about you. I’m smiling because I got you to let go. You really trust me completely don’t you Harm?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you. You know, we should really get you cleaned up...”Mac noticed that the sticky substance was on her top as well as on Harm’s boxers and stomach. She grabbed his shirt that was behind him and used the soft knit to wipe his stomach up a little. “Looks like you’re going to need another shower Harm.”

“Join me?”

Mac nodded. Together they stripped off their clothes and cleaned up in the shower. They took turns drying each other until they were both fully aroused and with no more body parts hidden from loving eyes they climbed onto Harm’s bed and made love again, fully this time. They both discovered that they were well matched in their rhythm and preferences. They fell asleep in each others arms only two hours before sunrise. It would turn out to be a long day.

0805 Local

Tuesday

JAG HQ

Falls Church, Virginia

“Commander Rabb. Colonel Mackenzie. I need to see you in my office at once,” barked General Creswell as they stepped off the elevator that morning, both craving caffeine to keep them awake.

“Aye, aye sir,” Harm acknowledged his Commanding Officer as he and Mac exchanged a look and followed him into his office.

The inner office hadn’t changed much when AJ Chegwidden left as far as looks go, but the room felt very different. Before Harm and Mac could come to attention and report in, General Creswell put them at ease and told them to have a seat.

“We have a situation in the Middle East and we need you there. You will begin with the investigation and then if necessary you will both need to be prepared to enter the courtroom.”

“What’s happened sir?” asked Mac.

“We have another case of prisoner abuse...only this time it is against our own people.”

“Sir,” Harm tried to clarify what the General was telling them. “Are you saying that American military are accused of abusing other Americans that are being detained while stationed in Iraq?”

“That’s exactly what I’m saying! The last time it was bad enough when the army was nailed for abusing Iraqi prisoners, but what on earth is this world coming too when we can’t even treat each other with respect and dignity!” Creswell bellowed his rage at the indignities and Harm and Mac reached another level of respect for the man. He was harsh and abrupt at times and yet his values were much like theirs and like their former CO.

“I want you on your way ASAP. Arrangements have been made for travel and lodging. I expect you to check in every other day. Dismissed.”

Harm and Mac went into emergency mode immediately. Harm picked up their travel information while Mac informed Tiner that they were being called away and that Turner and Roberts were picking up the cases that couldn’t wait. Jason was to follow their orders and assist Gunny and Petty Officer Coates on the investigations while they were gone.

Mac also let Bud and Sturgis know what was happening before packing her lap top, cell phone and charger and meeting Harm as he locked his door.

“Seabag packed Mac?”

“Always and in the car. You?”

“BDU’s and khakis and I’m ready to roll. We need to be at Andrews ASAP. They are holding transport for us.”

“Shall we take one car?” Mac asked him.

“You want to drop yours at your place?”

“Good idea. See you there.”

Once in Harm’s car Mac leaned over and kissed him. He looked at her a little strangely.

“Sorry Harm, I know we’re in uniform but I doubt we get to do that again for while and I can’t wait that long. I’m going to steal a kiss or two if I get a chance. You’ve been warned, Sailor.”

“Okay, but if we get caught I’m blaming you,” he smiled so she knew he was joking as he leaned in and kissed her once more lingering a little longer then they should have.

“We need to go.”

“Let’s do it.”

Other then a little cat nap on the plane across the Atlantic, they didn’t sleep again for seventy-two hours. Time was critical with this investigation because bruises healed and people moved on. They interviewed marines in the brig together and then alone trying to piece together what had happened. They interviewed guards as well as the prisoners. Most of them had been put in jail for short term offenses such as drunk and disorderly or contempt. There were three that had been abused that had been jailed for assault on a senior officer. They were clear in describing similar situations and describing the guard that had done the abuse. He had been dressed as a Marine Private with a dark complextion, dark hair, and dark eyes,that sounded like he had a Texas accent they reported.

No one fitting his description was on file. In speaking to Gunny on one of his check in calls, Harm had asked Gunny if he had any suggestions as they were running out of time and energy to figure this one out. Gunny had suggested seeing if anyone if the village knew of any Iraqi’s or locals that could speak like Americans. Dark complexion, dark hair and dark eyes could describe someone of many ethnic backgrounds.

In following up Gunny’s idea, they discovered that there was a local that was of mixed heritage who had in fact lived in Texas for several years as a child.

Within twelve hours the imposter had been located and turned over to local Iraqi police. Harm and Mac were finally free to go home. They hadn’t even had time to steal a kiss while they were gone. Once they landed at Andrews, tired, dirty and hungry, they made their way to Harm’s SUV and stole a moment together.

Harm dropped Mac at her place so she could soak in the tub while he went home to let his shower beat the kinks out of his body. They agreed to settle for a goodnight phone call later and they would make plans to spend some alone time the next day. They had been told they need not report back to JAG until Monday morning. It was Friday night and so they planned to spend time with each other for the weekend. Of course, it is seldom that things go as planned.

1010 Local

Saturday Morning

Harm’s Apartment

North of Union Station

The phone rang as Harm finished his first cup of coffee. He had been going through his mail after breakfast and enjoying being clean and rested.

“Rabb.”

“I wish you wouldn’t sound so grouchy when you answer your phone Harm.”

“ Hi Mom. What’s up? Everything okay?”

“Everything is fine. We’re going to be flying into Washington, D.C. today for a gala at the Kennedy Center tonight and we were hoping to get together with you later. Could you join us?”

“I’m not sure, Mom. I’m sure we can get together though...I just don’t know about this gala.”

“We have two extra tickets , Harm.”

“Can I decide later, Mom?”

“Are you seeing anyone, Son?”

“Yes.”

“Good. Ask her if she’d like to come too. Are you serious?”

“I’ll ask her Mom. Are we serious?...maybe.”

“I can’t wait to meet her.”

“Are you flying commercial or private?”

“Commercial this time but we have a limo at our disposal while we are there.”

“What time and where should I meet you?” Harm asked his mother giving in to the inevitable.

“We have a suite at the Grand. Why don’t you and you friend bring a change of clothes and join us at the suite around four this afternoon. We can talk and have a light meal before we change and get ready for the gala.”

“I’ll ask her Mom. I’ll see you later.”

“Love you, Harm.”

“I love you too Mom.”

Harm shook his head. So much for time alone with Mac. He smiled thinking about how the two of them would react after finally meeting. It was time to call Mac and see how she felt about the change of plans.

{Colonel Mackenzie.}

“It’s me. How would you feel about a change of plans for us?”

{Depends what it is I guess.}

“Do you like fancy art parties?”

{I don’t know, but it sounds interesting. Why?}

“Mom and Frank have invited us to join them at their hotel suite this afternoon and after a light meal we’ll get ready and go with them to the gala at the Kennedy Art Center this evening. Interested?”

{Wow! How did your Mom react when you said we were dating?}

“Actually I didn’t tell her who I was dating but she wanted to know if we were serious.”

{What did you say?}

“I think I avoided the question.”

{Why?}

“I guess because I didn’t want to assume anything. I thought it was better she see us together first and decide with her own eyes.”

{Okay.}

“Is that an ‘okay’ meaning I gave her the right answer or an ‘okay’ that you’d like to join them for the gala?”

{Both!} Mac laughed and the sound warmed Harm and gave him the reassurance he was needing at that point.

“Okay, Tiger, I’ll pick you up about fifteen forty and we’ll head over. Don’t forget to bring your dress up clothes.”

{If I’m a tiger, then you’d better be careful if you don’t want me getting rough and inflicting damage with my claws when I get you alone...}

“Promises, promises...” Harm laughed as he hung up the phone.

1612 Local

Hyatt-Grand Hotel

Washington D.C.

Harm slid one arm around Mac as they waited for his knock on the door to be answered. He felt her vibrating and looked down at her to see her rubbing her bottom lip with her teeth. They each had a bag slung over their shoulder and Mac carried the two garment bags over one arm.

“Relax Mac...just be yourself.”

“I’m not sure that’s good enough Harm,” Mac whispered afraid the door would open and she would be heard.

“It’s perfect for me,” Harm whispered back as he dropped a quick kiss on her hair hoping to reassure her.

“Harm! Come on in...”

“Hello Frank. This is Sarah Mackenzie; Mac, this is my step-father, Frank Burnett.”

“It’s nice to finally meet you Sarah. Trish will be right with us. The gallery called and left messages for her to call immediately and she’s been on the phone now over an hour...Here, let me take your bags.”

“Thanks Frank, but if you just show me where I can hang them...”

“Right in here.” Frank held the door on the right open on the far wall. Mac and Harm dropped their bags on the bed and Harm hung the garment bags in the closet.

“Have a seat,” Frank gestured to the sitting area to his right. “Can I get you something to drink?”

Harm looked at Mac, “Juice? Water? Soda?”

“Water would be good, thank you.”

“Two waters I guess Frank...thank you.”

Frank moved to the bar and removed to bottles of water from the refrigerator and grabbed two glasses. He opened them and poured some into each glass before passing them to Harm and Mac. Harm and Mac each took a sip and were just setting the glasses down when Trish Burnett made her entrance.

“You made it!”

“Hi Mom,” he bent to kiss her cheek and give her a quick hug. He turned to hold his hand out to Mac then and draw her forward. “Mom, I want you to meet Sarah Mackenzie. Mac, this is my mother, Trish Burnett.”

“Hello Mrs. Burnett.”

“Trish, please, dear. So you are the infamous Mac?”

Harm smiled and nodded, catching the ‘about time’ look in his mother’s eye.

“I don’t know about infamous, but yes, I’m Mac.”

“I am so glad to finally meet you. I’ve heard about you from my son...now I want to hear about my son from you.”

“Mom...”

“Don’t worry Harm,” Mac grinned suddenly feeling comfortable with Harm’s parents, “I won’t tell them anything classified.”

“Classified by who?” Harm grumbled feeling a little uneasy as his saw his mother and Mac connect at some level he didn’t quite understand.

“By me of course,” Mac laughed enjoying the power over him this experience was giving her. She looked back at Harm’s mother and caught the twinkle in her eye. Frank stepped forward then with a suggestion.

“Look, I need to go downstairs and make some arrangements. Why don’t you come with me so we can catch up on the news while Mac and Trish get to know one another?”

Harm looked from Mac to his mother and back to Frank, “Do you think its safe to leave them together?”

Frank threw back his head and laughed. “It will probably be better for you too, son.”

While Harm and Frank left the room to make some last minutes arrangements they also decided to stop by the bar for a drink and to give the women time to talk.

“Trust me Harm, it’s better to let your mother conduct the twenty question inquisition without having to hear it all. You trust Mac?”

“Yes.”

“Then let her handle your mother’s questions in her own way without having to worry about how you will react to everything she says.”

Harm nodded, released a sigh and took a sip of his drink.

Back in the hotel, Trish sat next to Mac on the sofa, turned so she could watch the younger woman’s face.

“My son is not an easy man to understand. Is he giving you a lot of trouble?”

“Harm and I have known each other a long time. I think we’ve each dished out a fair amount of trouble over the years.”

“But you still care about him and he you?”

“Yes. I don’t think that will ever go away completely - no matter what our future holds.”

“And what does the present hold?”

“We had a rough year and have spent the last couple of months rebuilding our friendship and exploring if there might be something more.”

“He said he was dating someone, but he wouldn’t tell me who. You are dating aren’t you?”

“Yes.”

“And is he treating you well?”

“Of course...he is a gentleman.”

“Aahhh yes...the Academy made him into an officer and a gentleman. Unfortunately they didn’t make him a romantic,” Trish rolled her eyes.

“He does okay, Ma’am.”

“Does he? His father was dashing and loving but was not a romantic. He loved his planes, his son and me...in that order. I loved him, but he drove me crazy at times. Harm is just like him.”

“You lost Mr. Rabb when you were both still young. I’m sure that with time he would have learned to be more romantic. Harm has learned to do little things that he knows make me happy...and I do the same for him. I guess because we’ve known each other for almost nine years and been through many things together we’ve kind of grown closer and learned more about each other then most couples when they begin dating. It changes the way we approach our relationship I guess.”

“Nine years...you realize that Harm’s father and I only had eight years together from the time we met until he disappeared. And of the years we were together he was deployed almost half of that time...”her voice trailed off as she realized that this woman and her son had been together longer then her first marriage had lasted.

“I’m sorry...” Mac touched her hand to comfort her.

“No, Dear, I’m sorry. I had never really thought about it. No wonder my son is such a stranger to me at times. I use to always compare him to his father as a young man. Now I am comparing him to a man I never had a chance to know.”

“He’s a good man, Ma’am. He is one of those people that is larger then life yet as humble as they come...unless he’s in an airplane!” Mac had to laugh at his mother’s expression.

“That’s his father, for sure.”

“Harm is kind and gentle and has such a soft spot for kids of all ages. Did you ever meet Mattie Grace?”

“His ward?” Mac nodded. “No I didn’t but I know he cared for her. His voice takes on this tone when he talks about someone he has strong feelings for. You know he’s had that tone in his voice when he’s talked about you from the very beginning.”

“Really?”

“Yes. Sometimes I think if I had not commented on it he would have accepted it sooner and maybe you two would be married and presenting me with grandchildren by now.”

Mac thought for a minute before she carefully responded to that comment.

“I have cared for your son for a long time and I think he has cared for me too. We are trying to work through some things right now. If we can do that, then someday maybe you will have your grandchildren. You see, while neither of us can walk away from the other, neither of us have been real good at opening up to the other. We are working on it.”

They heard the door rattle as Frank put his key in the lock.

“Mac, thanks for helping me get to know my adult son, and giving me hope that I could still enjoy some grandchildren.”

Harm looked at his mother and Mac and saw they were both relaxed and smiling, so he dropped a quick kiss on Mac’s lips as he sat beside her.

“Miss me?”

“Didn’t have time to. I had to fill your mother in on some things and we got to talking and the next thing I knew you were back.”

“Is that so?” Mac nodded. “So is my mother still claiming me as her son or is she ready to disown me?”

“Harm, be nice. Mac told me some things that make me very proud of the way you have matured into the man you are.”

They moved on to less personal topics then and Trish told them about the recent problems at her gallery with the young artist that seemed to have so much potential until she discovered that he had stolen and altered the art work from someone else. She had charged the man with fraud and then extended the contract to the actual artist. While things had turned out all right, the gallery had suffered from the negative publicity for a few months. Things had improved after the court case and the article that had told how Trish has made things right for the real artist. He had two pieces on display at a special show at the Kennedy Art Center, which they would see tonight at the gala.

After a light dinner served in their suite, the two couples retired to their rooms to get ready for the gala.

“Mac, do you want to shower first so you have time to do the hair and make-up thing?”

“That would be nice. Thank you.”

“Hey...come here...” Harm lowered his voice as he drew her into his arms. He bent his head and placed little kisses over her eyes and nose and across her cheeks until he finally reached her lips. He felt Mac’s lips part for him as he deepened the kiss. When they broke for air Mac pulled away reluctantly.

“Harm, we need to get ready...let’s continue this later, okay?”

“I guess we have to.” He dropped one more kiss on her nose before he released her.

While she was in the shower, Harm took out the small box he had slipped into his bag. He opened it and looked at the simple but elegant diamond ring that sparkled on the midnight blue velvet. He smiled. He had bought the ring before Paraguay but it had stayed in his night stand until this morning. He knew that he would never find with anyone else what he had found with Mac. He had told the General about his Grand Plan and when his mother had said they would be staying at the Hyatt Grand it just made since that this was the place and the time to make sure Sarah Mackenzie had no doubts about his plans, his intentions or his love.

He chuckled trying to decide if this was a romantic enough gesture for Sarah, the woman. He was sure that Mac, the Marine would approve so he hoped that it carried over to Sarah as well.

Harm showered and dressed in the bathroom while Mac got ready in the bedroom after her shower. When Harm was finished, he joined her in the bedroom, slipping the ring into his pocket. Harm was speechless when he saw her.

Mac was dressed in a shimmery silver and black fitted dress that fell to her ankles with a slit up to her thigh. It was cut low in the back, leaving her shoulders and spine mostly bare in contrast to the high halter style neck in front. Her feet were encased in shoes done in the same material as the dress.

“Wow! Sarah you are so beautiful. That dress is stunning.”

“Thank you,” Mac’s voice was breathy as she looked at the dashing figure Harm made in his black formal civilian clothes. “Can you fasten this for me?”

Harm took the necklace Mac held out to him and reached around her neck to settle it in place and fasten it. It was the three diamond necklace he had given her for her birthday in July. He had told her that the diamonds represented their past, present and future. Mac had been touched by the gift.

Harm turned her to face him and stepped back to study her. Holding out his hand he led her to the balcony off their room when she placed her hand in his.

“Mac...Sarah...” Harm sighed and took a deep breath. Mac waited patiently for Harm to collect his thoughts.

Harm tried again. “Sarah, we’ve been dancing around trying to decide if you and I could survive as ‘us’ for a long time now. We took a huge step when we started dating and another huge step when we crossed the line from friends to lovers. I hope that you know now I am committed to you and to us. What I’m trying to say is I want to take another step on this road we are on. Sarah Mackenzie...I love you... Will you marry me?” Harm held out the ring letting it hover at the tip of the ring finger on her left hand while he held her eyes with his own.

Sarah Mackenzie gasped for air and froze. Her eyes searched Harm’s face looking for any sign of doubt. She listened to her own heart race and felt the heat radiate from his hand to hers. Harm saw the tears fill her eyes and begin to slide down her face as he became aware of her nodding her head yes. He heard the air rush from her lungs as she answered him.

“Yes...I love you too, Harm...” Harm slid the ring all the way onto her finger and gathered her in his arms in one motion. They kissed each other deeply at first and then they both began to talk and laugh at the same time. Each one trying to reassure the other one that they were sure.

A knock on the door broke them apart. A voice on the other side of the door had them tying to compose themselves.

“Harm? Mac? Everything okay? Are you almost ready?” Frank called.

“Everything’s fine, Frank. We’ll be right there.” Harm called. “Do you mind that my parents will be the first to know?”

“Of course not. Maybe now you’re mother will see that her son does just fine as a romantic,” she kidded him.

After repairing her make-up, Mac took Harm’s arm and let her escort her to join Frank and Trish. Her left hand was proudly displayed on Harm’s arm while they waited for someone to notice. It took Trish three seconds flat to spot the ring.

“Harm?”

“Yes Mom?”

“Do you have an announcement to make?”

“Why do you ask that?”

“Harmon Rabb Junior that ring was not on Sarah Mackenzie’s hand two hours ago. Did you ask her to marry you?”

“Yes I did.”

“Oh Harm! I’m so happy for both of you.”

“Congratulations, son. Sarah, I think you have yourself a good man here.”

“Thank you Frank...Trish.”

“Were you surprised, Mac?”

“Yes...I mean I we had talked about it as someday and I was sure he loved me, but this took me by surprise...here and today...It’s perfect, because now we can share it with the two of you.” Mac felt like she was babbling, but she didn’t really care.

“Harm, why don’t you and Mac stay here tonight after the gala and then we can talk more over breakfast in the morning?”

“What do you think Mac?” Harm asked. She watched him trying to read his expression and see how he felt about it. Finally seeing him nod his head just a little she agreed.

“Good,” Trish stated. “Now I can get to know you better and spend more time with my son.”

The rest of the night was like a fairy tale. They danced and mingled and even ran into General Creswell and his wife who congratulated them and told them Monday he would apply for the special dispensation to keep them both at JAG.

That night Harm made slow, gentle love to Sarah showing her with his body how much he loved her. It was intense and took them both to a place they had never been where they felt like one being. They both cried at the beauty and intensity of what they shared.

1128 Local

Sunday Morning Brunch

Hyatt Grand Hotel

“I know you only got engaged last night, but have you given any thought to when and where you might get married?” asked Trish as they sipped coffee after their meal.

Mac looked at Harm and he nodded to go ahead.

“I thought a winter wedding would be nice, but I don’t know just when.”

“Do you want a large wedding?”

“Not really, Trish. I prefer something small and intimate for family and close friends.”

“Military wedding?” asked Trish.

“Maybe...”

“Trish give them a chance to talk this over and make some decisions by themselves before you try to get the answers to all your questions.” Frank cautioned his wife sensing that Harm and Mac still had not had a chance to savor the experience of being newly engaged.

“Let us know when and where and what we can do to help.” Frank changed the subject then and they enjoyed the rest of their meal. When they were finished they got their things and left the hotel. Frank and Trish hugged them both before stepping into the limo and their return flight from Dulles. Harm and Mac put their things in his SUV and returned to her apartment first.

After getting things she would need for the morning, they returned to Harm’s apartment and spent the rest of the day making plans and discussing how everyone at JAG would react to the news.

“The General seemed to take the news rather well this evening, didn’t he?” Mac asked Harm as they sat together on his couch.

“Yes. I think we’ve reassured him that we are normal now that we’re engaged. He seems to make family needs a priority.”

“Given all I had heard about him I thought he was unfair to women, but now I think he has worked hard to try and given military women the chance to have it all. It does seem at odds with his gruff demeanor.”

“Maybe there’s hope for me yet, Mac,” Harm teased knowing that he tended to speak before he thought and get caught up with what ever had his attention at the moment.

“What do you mean?”

“Come on Mac...you know how I get caught up in things...become obsessed with them and forget everything else.”

“True...You do have a way of doing that at times. I think I have a solution though.”

“Yeah? Tell me about it.”

“Well, I figure that if I need you when you are obsessing over something, then I just have to do or say something to redirect your attention and then replace one obsession with another more powerful one.”

“And what do you think would be a powerful obsession - enough to redirect me that is?” Harm asked curious what she would come up with.

“Well, I tend to become that obsession,” Mac turned so she could look up into Harm’s face and gauge his reaction.

He smiled and slowly lowered his head capturing her lips with his. When he released them he whispered, “You all ready are, Sarah...you already are.”

The phone rang breaking the silence in the apartment and disrupting the two lovers. Harm tried to ignore the ringing phone, but Mac pulled back and motioned him to get the phone.

“Rabb.”

{Hello Harm, It’s Harriet. Bud and I were just talking about how long its been since you’ve been over. Any chance you might join us for Sunday dinner?}

“Gee Harriet, I’m not sure...”

{I’ve tried reaching Mac to invite her as well. You haven’t seen her by any chance have you?}

“Actually I have. She’s here with me now.”

{Great! Why don’t you both join us?}

“Let me see what she thinks, Harriet. Just a minute.” Harm covered the mouth piece and whispered to Mac, “It’s Harriet. She wants us to join them for Sunday dinner. What do you want me to say?”

“Say ‘yes.’ It will be better to tell them both about us in their own home then to tell Bud at work and then have him call Harriet at home so she turns around and calls us both at work checking to see if she has all the facts and details right.”

“Okay...Harriet?”

{Will you join us?}

“We’d love to. What time?”

{Why don’t you come over anytime? Dinner will be ready in about an hour. We can always chat first.}

“Finding it lonely at home Harriet?”

{Only for adult conversation, Harm.}

“Very well. We’ll be there.” Harm hung up the phone and then looked at Mac leaning against him, his arms loosely around her as her back rested against his chest.

“Can we pick this up later?”

“Of course...I told you, you are already my obsession...Let’s go.”

1543 Local

Robert’s Residence

Roslyn, Virginia

“Come on in you guys! It’s so good to see you.” Harriet was bubbling with excitement at having adult company. With two young boys running around and being pregnant with twins, she was enjoying being an at home Mom fixing dinners and preparing for the birth of twins.

“It’s good to see you too Harriet. I miss having another woman to help me gang up on Harm,” Mac told her, laughing at Harm’s expense.

“Play nice, Jarhead,” Harm warned her sweetly.

Harriet looked back and forth at her two friends. She knew they had started dating and she had been convinced years ago that they were in love with each other, but had given up on that dream when Mac had been engaged to Mic and Harm had taken up with Renee. She noticed that they both looked happy for the first time in a long time. She led them into the den where Bud was playing on the floor with his sons in a wacky version of race cars.

“Oh hello Sir...Ma’am.”

“Bud...we’re in your house and not in uniform...calls us by name please,” instructed Mac.

“Sorry Mac. Harriet and I have actually practiced using your names by talking about you at home. Guess its helped her more then me.” His grin told him that regardless of what he called them, he respected the two people that had been there for Harriet and himself for so long.

“So Bud...thought up any good names for Harriet to screen?” Harm chuckled as he asked the loaded question.

“I’ve made a few suggestions but nothing has been approved just yet. Have a seat,” Bud said as he motioned toward the sofa.

As they settled side by side together on the couch, Harm reached for Mac’s hand. The movement drew Bud and Harriet’s eyes to the ring and to the gesture.

“Mac, is that what it looks like?” Harriet asked as she stared at the diamond ring sparkling on Mac’s hand.

“If it looks like an engagement ring, then yes.” Mac smiled at her friend.

“You two...are getting married?” Harriet asked.

“Eventually Harriet, yes. Think we can put all our baggage behind us and make it work?”

“Certainly! If any two people deserve to be together, it’s the two of you.”

“You really think so Harriet,” asked Harm.

“Yes, I do. Congratulations! We haven’t had any thing to look forward to in a while. I’d be glad to help anyway I can,” Harriet offered, her eyes sparkling with ideas for social events.

“Thanks, Harriet, but I think we are leaning toward a quiet little wedding with a few friends and family...nothing lavish.” Mac explained what she thought she and Harm had agreed to so far.

“Are you sure, Mac?” Harriet asked a little disappointed that the wedding wouldn’t be the social event of the year.

“You know I always pictured the perfect wedding as very private with maybe a dinner afterwards...not a rowdy party,” Mac shared her thoughts with the others.

“What about you, Harm?” asked Harriet. “How have you pictured the perfect wedding?”

“I don’t think guys do that Harriet. We are more apt to think about the honeymoon...” Harm grinned and got the response he had counted on - Harriet blushed and Mac raised her eyebrows.

“Seriously though, when I think about the wedding, I picture Mac’s eyes looking into mine, smiling and happy and eager to face the rest of our lives together.”

“Wow,” whispered Harriet as Mac slipped her hand into Harm’s and smiled at him. Harriet could picture the wedding now as they were looking at each other and letting the love shine in their eyes. “So what does the General think about this?”

“He seems to be okay with it. Tomorrow he is going to ask permission to keep us both under his command.”

“Really? That’s great. Do you think the SecNav will approve it?”

“We hope so.”

November 13, 2004

2024 Local

Mackenzie/Rabb House

Falls Church, Virginia

The last piece of furniture and box was unloaded and placed in the appropriate room. There was still the unpacking to do, but that could be tackled a little at a time as needed.

Sturgis and Jack Keeter had shown up with a truck this morning to help with the moving. They had moved the contents of Harm’s apartment first and unloaded it at the new house, getting their first look at where their domesticated friend and his fiancé would now live.

Jack gave his approval when he saw the extra bedrooms announcing that they would see more of him now he would have a place to stay. Harm suggested that he might want to check out Sturgis’ digs as well, telling him that he may find the other place much more comfortable.

Once the truck had been unloaded, they headed over to Mac’s to pack up her things.

She met them at the door with a smile and good naturedly put up with Jack scooping her up into his arms lifting her off the floor in a giant hug as he told her to dump the lawyer and hook up with a real pilot.

“Sorry Jack...Harm’s a lawyer and a pilot, which trumps your ‘real pilot’ theory,” Mac told him.

“Damn....sorry you feel that way Mac...I could really fall for you.”

“Alright....that’s enough Keeter. I finally got her and I’m not stepping aside.” Although they all laughed there was just enough seriousness in his voice, that Jack Keeter let it go.

“So we ready to load you up?”

“Actually I just got a call from the furniture store. Their delivery man fell down a flight of stairs and is not going to be able to bring our things today as planned. They were going to reschedule us for next week, but I said we could come get them. Do you mind?”

“Let’s go! Come on Harm, lead the way.” Over his disappointment of not having Mac for himself, Jack led the troops to get her new furniture. Once they had that unloaded and in place, they returned to load up Mac’s apartment.

Now Harm and Mac were sitting in their living room having waved to Sturgis and Keeter as they left after a long day of lifting and moving all of Harm and Mac’s possessions.

“That was nice of Jack and Sturgis to help us, Harm.”

“Yes, but I was about to send Keeter packing, truck and muscles or not.”

“Why Harm?”

“Because of the way he was with you,” Harm admitted a little sheepishly.

“You were jealous of Keeter after how far we’ve come?”

“A little...I know he doesn’t mean anything by it and I know you love me, but for years when we were at the Academy and after, Jack made getting the girls look so easy. I think we were in our early thirties before I got a girl away from him. Of course he claimed I stole the only women he could love. I felt so guilty that I vowed I would never interfere in another relationship again.”

“That explains a lot, Harm,” Mac whispered wrapping her arms around his neck and planting little kisses on his cheek and neck.

“You’re missing your target, Marine,” he mumbled as Mac zeroed in on his lips. “Much better,” he whispered as she pulled back resting her head on his shoulder.

“I suppose I should get back to work,” Mac said as she stood up and reached for Harm’s hand. “Let’s go work on the bedroom...make up the new bed...unpack some clothes until we have what we need for showers and in the morning...then I think we should try out the shower and maybe christen the new bed.”

“I like the way you think. Lead the way.”

0600 Local

Mackenzie-Rabb Residence

Falls Church, Virginia

“Harm?”

“Mmm?”

“Harm, wake up.”

“Wanna sleep.”

“Harm, come on...I’ve just had a brilliant idea.”

“Thass nice...”

“Harm...don’t you want to hear my idea?”

“In the mornin’, Mac.”

“It is morning, Harm. Time to get up.”

“Again?”

“Harm!”

“Later, sweetheart, ‘kay?”

It was a toss up at that point who was more exasperated with the other. They had worked hard moving the day before and then spent hours making love ‘christening’ their new bed. While Mac seemed energized by their passionate night and her idea, Harm was still in recovery mode although he was looking forward to christening other rooms in the house with his fiancé.

Mac decided that her idea was worth pulling a stunt worthy of any Marine with her future husband.

“Atten-hut! On your feet Sailor!” Mac barked in her best command voice. It worked...Harm stood at attention beside the bed, his eyes wide open, despite the fact he was naked. The picture he made was beautiful but Mac couldn’t help dissolving into laughter about the same time he woke up enough to realize that he’s been had.

“Mac, what did you do that for? ” Harm asked feeling slightly embarrassed and still somewhat disoriented. “It’s not that funny,” he complained as he sat back down on the edge of the bed.

“I’m sorry Harm,” Mac apologized although she was still grinning. She sat next to him on the bed and took his hand. “It’s just I came up with an idea for the wedding and I really want to see what you think about it so we can get things started if you like the idea.”

“Go ahead...I’m awake now...but don’t do that too often. I don’t think I’d survive.”

“Alright. Here’s my idea...so far we agreed to a winter wedding that was just for a few friends and family, right?”

“Yes...and we wanted to have Chaplain Turner perform the ceremony right?”

“Yes...Mac, this is all stuff we have already decided.”

“I know...now here’s my idea...we could get married at the chapel where we go for Christmas service and then have a nice dinner at the Washington-Grand where you asked me to marry you! Your family can stay right there -and maybe we can too as part of our honeymoon...what do you think?”

“It’s a good idea. What are you thinking for a date?”

“Something around Christmas or New Year’s would be great, but let’s see what’s available and go from there.”

“Okay...sounds good, Mac.”

She leaned over and kissed him. “I told you it was worth waking up for.”

“You’re worth waking up for, “ Harm growled as he laid her back on the bed and started kissing her neck and caressing her from hip to breast. Mac ran her hands through is hair and felt him slip her robe off her shoulders giving him complete access to her skin. His slightly rough hands brought her body to life and his kisses took her places she had never been before.

It wasn’t long before they were both fully aroused.

“God, Mac... I can’t seem to get enough of you.”

“I told you I planned to be your obsession...”

“You are...sometimes I catch myself daydreaming about how wonderful it feels when I enter your body...the way you take me in and close around me all at the same time...it never fails to effect me...”

“I know...sometimes when I’m having a bad day, I’ll close my eyes and imagine your hands caressing me or I’ll look into your eyes and its like we are on the same wave length and we are both feeling the same sensations even though we aren’t touching.”

“I need you, Sarah...you give me focus and meaning in life.”

“Thank you...for not giving up on me...on us...make love to me Harm...make me yours.”

Harm did and at the same time, Mac made sure he knew he was hers. Their voices mingled as they called out each others name before they once again fell asleep in each other’s arms.

1013 Local

Mackenzie-Rabb Residence

Falls Church, Virginia

When they awoke later that morning, Mac started making phone calls and lists. Harm was unpacking kitchen items and stopped around 1300 with a sandwich, chips and a soda for each of them.

“How’s it going?”

“It looks like we are getting married on Christmas Day. Are you okay with that?”

“That’s great. Shouldn’t forget our anniversary anyway,” he grinned.

“Chaplain Turner suggested a late afternoon wedding. The Grand can accommodate us and the church is available if we have the ceremony at seventeen hundred. The Grand can seat us at eighteen hundred. What do you think?”

“I think we’re getting married Christmas evening. What about the guest list?” Harm smiled at her knowing she had the answers ready.

“Tell me if I am forgetting anyone...Admiral Chegwidden and guest, Frank and Trish, Grandma Rabb, Bud and Harriet, Gunny and guest, Jen and guest, Mattie and Tom, Chloe and her dad, Sturgis and Varese, Chaplain Turner, Jack and guest, Skates and her husband, you and me.”

“I think you got everyone,” Harm assured her.

“Are you sure? I would hate to leave someone out.”

“Mac, you just named the people that have been and continue to be important to us. Yes, there are many other people that we know but we wanted to keep things small. If you start adding this one and that one, then before we know it we’ve gone from twenty-five people to two-hundred and five people...and then we’d probably think of someone else we met that we liked and think maybe we should include them too...” he smiled a kind and understanding smile as he nodded his head.

“You’re right...but you said twenty-five and that’s only twenty-four...”

“Mac...Mac...I was only using round numbers...it’s okay,” Harm assured her at the same time as Mac thought of one other person that should be invited.

“I did forget someone!”

“Who Mac?”

“Admiral Boone!”

Harm had to smile. “Okay, add Admiral Boone to the list and that makes twenty-five. Happy?”

“I am now...”

“Uh-oh...what’s next?”

“Bridal party and groom’s men.”

“That’s easy...Bud, Sturgis and Keeter. That work for you?”

“Yes. I’ll have Harriet as my matron of honor and Chloe and Mattie as bride’s maids...do you think the Admiral would agree to walk me down the aisle?”

“Yes.”

“Harm I feel like I’m having everything my way...don’t you have any requests?”

“Yes...I already asked and got mine request.”

“What was that?”

“You for my bride...nothing else really matters. I want this to be what you want. I want the day to be special for you...Now the honeymoon I definitely have some ideas about.”

“Oh yeah? Care to share?”

“Sure...I think I want to take you somewhere alone and make love to you over and over again.”

“Harm...we can stay home and do that!”

“I know...I do have some ideas of places we can go and things we can do and see. How about I surprise you?”

“Harm...I need to know what to pack.”

“Okay, but I’m going to get everything worked out before I tell you. We’ll make it an early Christmas present. Would that work?”

“How early?”

“Christmas eve?”

“I suppose...”

“I’ll make sure you have everything you need when you are ready to pack...” Harm was looking for ways to assure her that it wouldn’t create a hardship for her packing plans.

“Fine...now...are you going to wear civies or a uniform?”

“On our honeymoon?”

“No, for the wedding! Harm, please tell me you are just giving me a hard time.”

“I am Mac...sorry. I think I’d like to wear the mess dress uniform...can’t really wear dress whites for a winter wedding.”

“That’s okay...I like that uniform on you anyway...and it’s the uniform you were wearing when we got things back on track at the Admiral’s dining out.” Mac suddenly got a sad look in her eyes as she thought back to that time in their lives. Harm seeing her sadness thought she was remembering Webb. He allowed her the moment of grief before commented.

“Are you remembering Webb? Is that why you look so sad?”

“No...thinking about the Dining Out made me remember that the doctor told me that having children, while not impossible could be difficult. I mean, I don’t think about it all the time, and I hope we are able to have our own children, but sometimes when I remember that I might not be able to give you children, I feel inadequate.”

“Mac, I told you that night and I’ll tell you now...as much as I would love to have children with you, it is more important to me that I have you. We can build a family other ways if nature goes against us.” Harm took Mac in his arms and held her.

“Thank you...for reminding me of that and for loving me so much.”

“Okay now?”

“Yes...do you have any problem with any colors for the wedding party?”

“I don’t think so. What are you thinking?”

“Well you and the men will be wearing the gold cummerbund, so I was thinking I could have the girl’s wear gold dresses.”

“Won’t they be awfully bright?”

“Not if they aren’t a perfect match to the cummerbund. I saw a soft beige-gold velvet that would be perfect.”

“Then go with it, Mac.”

“Okay, I will. Thanks.”

“Your welcome.”

December 25, 2004

1640 Local

Chapel

Falls Church, Virginia

Harriet, Chloe and Mattie, all dressed in their tea length beige-gold velvet dresses, fussed over Mac after they disturbed her hair slightly helping her slip the wedding gown over her head. While Harriet repaired the damage to Mac’s hair, Chloe and Mattie made sure the dress was zipped up. Mac had selected a white velvet tea length gown with satin trim at the neck, wrists, and hem. Her shoes were white satin with a small heel. She had been determined to wear comfortable shoes for her wedding. She was glad she had found an attractive shoe that was comfortable too.

Once her hair was repaired, Harriet placed the veil on head. The headband with the satin edged tulle attached, fit comfortably and securely on her head. The diamond necklace Harm had given her for her birthday was in place at her throat and her engagement ring sparkled on her right hand, waiting for the wedding band to be placed on the left.

There was a calm also serene aura surrounding Sarah Mackenzie as she prepared to marry Harmon Rabb, Jr. She knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that this was right. She had Harm had made it through difficult times and made the transition from friends to lovers. She knew that what ever life as husband and wife would through them, they could handle it.

On the other side of the chapel, Harm stood with Chaplain Turner watching as Sturgis, Bud and Keeter, escorted in the guests. Neither Jen or Gunny had opted to bring a guest, so Harm and Mac had added General Creswell and his wife to the guest list. They had not questioned the late invitation and were pleased to be included in the festivities, especially when they realized how small the guest list was.

“Well, son, how are you doing?”

“I’m find, sir.”

“Not nervous?”

“No sir...excited and thrilled maybe...not nervous. Are most grooms nervous?”

“They said they were.”

“I just know this is right for us. It took us a long time to get to this and we don’t have any doubts about it now,” Harm explained.

“Do you think Sarah is as confident?” asked Chaplain Turner.

Harm thought about it for a few seconds and smiled, “Yes I do.”

“What makes you so certain?”

“Because she told me on the phone this morning that she finally had it all...a good career, a good man and comfortable shoes.”

“And you didn’t spend Christmas morning together?”

“No. After the service last night we opened our gifts at the house with Mattie, Tom, Chloe and my folks. Then I went to the wall before staying at the hotel with my folks. Of course we talked to each other three times today, but we haven’t seen each other.”

“It’s good to respect some traditions. It’s what makes special times special, after all. It’s almost time Harm. Shall we take our positions?”

“Let’s go.”

Harm and Chaplain Turner stood at the altar as the last guest was seated. Bud, Jack and Sturgis took their positions next to Harm.

With one last check Mattie, Chloe and Harriet lined up carrying their candle for the altar which had been decorated with evergreens. As they opened the door, retired Admiral AJ Chegwidden held his arm out for the bride. With her bouquet of roses and baby breath in a green leafy bed, Sarah Mackenzie was the epitome of the Christmas bride.

The music played as the attendants strolled one at a time to their position opposite the men at the altar. Each one placed the candle she carried in the glass holder as they had practiced before taking her spot.

“Ready?”

“Yes, sir.” Sarah gave the Admiral a confident smile as the music changed and they began the walk down the chapel aisle. The guests rose and turned to watch Sarah Mackenzie glowing with love for the man waiting for her, as she strolled down the aisle to him.

Once there, AJ placed her hand in Harms and held them together for a brief moment, nodding to them. They knew he was giving his blessing for their wedding even before he responded to the Chaplain’s question about who gives this woman to this man.

The ceremony was the simple, classic, traditional wedding vows. Both Harm and Mac spoke clearly and with confidence committing themselves to one another in marriage before their family and friends.

“You may kiss the bride,” Chaplain Turner instructed Harm. Harm smiled as he lifted the veil and looked into Sarah Mackenzie Rabb’s smiling brown eyes. Slowly he lowered his head and let his lips touch hers, lingering there for a little longer then usual when they were in public. Slowly they pulled apart knowing what the look meant in the other’s eyes. They turned to face their guests as they were introduced for the first time as husband and wife. Hand in hand they led the way from the chapel to the waiting limo which would take them to the Hyatt-Grand Hotel for the dinner reception.

Harm and Mac were joined by Bud, Harriet, Keeter, Sturgis, Chloe and Mattie in the first limo while the others took their own vehicles in an attempt to get there before the wedding party. Keeter had jumped in front with the driver and instructed him to take the scenic route. Bud, Harriet and Sturgis sat facing the back while, Chloe and Mattie sat on the seat with Harm and Mac. Once the limo was moving, Harm leaned down and ignoring the other occupants in the car kissed his wife again, this time letting her know he had missed her and would be making up for the long night without her when they were alone later.

Chloe and Mattie, in typical teenage fashioned giggled and squealed in delight watching their mentors engage in what to them amounted to ‘necking in public.’ Chloe turned to Mattie, with her wisdom of having known Harm and Mac longer, in order to enlighten her.

“They have been in love so long and denied it, its no wonder they can’t keep their hands off each other now.”

“Really? They didn’t act like they cared too much about each other when I first met them,” Mattie told Chloe, “although Mac did say she’d want Harm to be the father of her children.”

“She did?” Chloe almost shrieked drawing Harm and Mac back to the present.

“Later,” Mac whispered to her husband as she touched his cheek. Her hand moving caught his attention and he grabbed her fingers, squeezing them lightly as he smiled his biggest smile.

“Promise?”

“Yes...”Mac’s voice was breathless as she answered before turning her attention to the two teenagers that were giggling and exchanging their observations on the saga of Harm and Mac.

“So, Harm,” asked Mattie, “Was this what you were planning all along when you told me that you and Mac were working on things?”

“I hoped this was where we would end up but I certainly wasn’t sure if she felt the same at that point.” Harm admitted.

“Chloe, you wouldn’t have believed what I had to do to get him to admit he even cared about Mac.”

“Mattie, Chloe...let’s not rehash this today. Let’s just celebrate that they’ve finally figured it out,” Sturgis suggested not letting on that he planned to get in a few reminders of their struggle to get together during dinner. Bud and Harriet exchanged a look that Sturgis saw. It looked like all of them had a few choice memories to share with the bride and groom.

“Thanks, Sturgis...” Harm acknowledged his long time friend.

Mac looked at Chloe and Mattie, “Don’t make us regret we let you two meet.”

In the way of typical teenage girls, nothing repressed them for long, and soon they were sharing stories of school.

Once Keeter felt that everyone had been given time to arrive at the Hotel, he instructed the driver to take them. As they pulled up, he jumped out of the front to open the door for the rest of the wedding party. Bud and Harriet emerged first, followed by Sturgis, Chloe and Mattie. Once they were assembled, Harm and Mac joined them before they all proceeded into the elegant hotel where they would be served dinner.

Although Harm and Mac had not planned on a receiving line, their guests had other ideas. Everyone had formed a line which Harm and Mac passed by on their way to be seated at the table. Harm shook hands with the men and hugged and kissed checks of the women while Mac was hugged and kissed by everyone. Even General Creswell, a last minute addition to the guest list was relaxed and jovial with his wife by his side.

They were all seated around a large rectangular arrangement of tables: the wedding party along one side with Harm and Mac in the middle; the Chaplain, the Burnett’s, Grandma Rabb, the Admiral and his daughter, Francesca, and the Creswell’s opposite them, with Jennifer Coates, Victor Galindez, Admiral Boone, and Chloe’s father on one side, with Skates and her husband, Varese, and Tom on the other side. Keeter had not brought anyone and neither had Admiral Boone. Once they were settled and the wait staff had poured champagne and sparkling cider in their glasses, Bud stood up as best man to propose the first toast.

“I know that you were going for a nice dinner and not a traditional reception, but we decided you were not going to get out of some of the traditions that easy.” Everyone chuckled as Bud paused. “As most of you know, Harm and Mac have kept everyone on edge for years trying to figure out exactly what their relationship was. We’ve all talked about some of the moments when one or the other of us were sure you two would get together - or were convinced you never would. We thought that we’d share some of those memories with you here this evening. Just remember when we do, it’s not meant to stir up trouble...we want you to realize that this dance you’ve been on has pulled us along as well, so when we say that we truly feel you belong together, you’ll know why. I’ll save my story for later. I believe Jack Keeter is up first.”

“Thanks, Bud. You know, I was going to tell tales on Harm and his years at the Academy, but when you told me about this idea I knew I had one story that had to be told. A few years ago Harm, Mac and I were in the middle of an Iranian desert. I had a broken arm and Harm was going to have to fly an aircraft out of there that he had no experience with. Well, when Rabb goes into pilot mode he gets cocky and arrogant...but when he had to leave Mac behind in that desert with a Bedouin tribe as collateral and me to protect her, he lost that cocky attitude mighty quick. I almost thought he was going to back out so he didn’t have to leave Mac behind. Of course she wouldn’t have allowed that either.

“So the two of them stood there and gazed into each other’s eyes forgetting anyone else was around and all Mac did was lift her arms and step toward Harm. He held her tight for a last hug and somehow managed to walk away from her. I knew watching that scene that Harm had fallen hard even if he didn’t admit it. I also knew that Mac had fallen just as hard...otherwise she would have paid a lot more attention to me!”

Everyone laughed while Harm and Mac looked at each other sharing the memory.

“A toast to Harm and Mac...May the light in your eyes keep shining for each other and bring you joy.” Keeter announced and as everyone set their glasses down that tinkling of silverware on crystal began. Their hands linked between them, Harm leaned over and lightly kissed Mac’s lips to quiet the growing clamor. Sturgis stood next.

“When I first met Mac I had already known Harm for many years. They had already been at JAG and while Harm seemed pleased to see me, he got very defensive every time Mac’s name came up. He was nervous and on edge and in his usual manner he opened his mouth without thinking on several occasions and said things that certainly didn’t come out the way he intended them...you know, for a lawyer known to have a way with words in the courtroom, this guy doesn’t do too well with words around women.” Every one laughed again - some in disbelieve others as they remembered examples of Harm’s foot in mouth problems.

“I asked Harm one time shortly after I got to JAG if he had a girlfriend. He gave me a rather cryptic reply. He said, ‘No...she’s got me.’ I thought about it and couldn’t quite figure out what he was telling me. A few weeks later I was working a case with Mac while Harm was out on the Sea Hawk. The topic of their relationship came up again and Mac informed me that they didn’t have one, so I asked her why she didn’t just get over it and get on with it.” Sturgis paused and looked at Mac’s face before going on.

“She blurted out that she was in love with him and then couldn’t decide whether to deny saying it or swear me to secrecy. I was sworn to secrecy and this is the first I’ve told anyone of that conversation. I realized then that these two people were in fact in love with one another, but so afraid to admit to it that they kept sabotaging any chance they had of finding happiness together. I am so glad that they have finally found a way to be together. Maybe we can all have some peace at last!” Again laughter filled the room.

“Harm and Mac...trust each other...trust your love for each other...and take time to tell each other every day - more then once a day if you can. To Harm and Mac!”

Again everyone sipped from their glasses and before the clanging could begin, Harm and Mac shared a kiss that lasted a little longer then the last one. Harriet stood up next.

“Ma’am...Sir...I mean Mac and Harm...” Laughter rippled around the table at Harriet’s formal address and correction. “You did so much to help Bud and me find our way to each other that I couldn’t understand why you would have trouble getting together. I was convinced making you shared godparents would do the trick but that didn’t work. I sort of gave up there for awhile but true love finds away and here we are on your wedding day. Just remember all you had to work through to get here and remember that when things get tough - and they will at times - your love has already survived for years. Together you are strong enough to face all the ups and downs life offers and you can grow from it. Best Wishes to you both!”

Harriet raised her glass while everyone followed. Again Harm and Mac exchanged kisses.

Victor Galindez stood up next. At first he stood there looking from one to the other with a hint of a smile on his face. Finally he spoke.

“You know I was with Colonel Mackenzie on the LA Chase when Commander Rabb showed up to try a case one time. I was in the hall with the Colonel when Commander Rabb tracked her down. The tension around them was almost visible. I wasn’t sure if I needed to protect the Colonel or not, but I was ready to if necessary. It wasn’t until several months later that I realized the cause of that tension.”

“At that time I realized that the Colonel loved the Commander, but it seemed that we weren’t sure if the Commander loved the Colonel. A year after that, I realized that in fact Commander Rabb did love the Colonel...enough to give up his life and career to save her. She didn’t ask him to do that nor would she ever ask that of anyone she loved. But it looked to me that she had been through so much that he was going to have to prove to her that what she was seeing was more then what he would do for a friend. Guess that’s the curse of being ready and willing to help people in need sir...your actions don’t speak loud enough without the words. Both of you are good officers, good friends, and I wish you a life of good wishes.”

While the toast and kissing went on, Skates stood up preparing to get everyone’s mind off of the sadness that had crept in with Gunny’s words.

“A few years ago I got to fly with Harm on a regular basis as his RIO. We got to know each other pretty well like all pilots and RIO’s do. After he returned to JAG, I flew with several other pilots. I almost gave it up because flying just didn’t seem to be as exciting after awhile. Then Harm shows up to do his quals and I got to fly with him again. Let me tell you, he’s one of the best I’ve flown with even if he did dump me in the ocean trying to get back for Mac.” Everyone stirred, not quite laughing as they thought about the time they almost lost Harm and a time Mac was tied to another man.

“That experience made me realize a few things. One, I knew I didn’t want to give up flying anymore like I thought I did. Two, I loved the man I was engaged to more then anything in the world; and three, Harm was in love with Mac as much as I loved my guy...even if he wasn’t ready to admit it. If I had any doubts I knew for sure when we went to the Superbowl...”

“You!” Mac stood up then hands on her hips pointing at Elizabeth Hawks, also known as Skates. “Harm took you to the Superbowl?”

Harm stood up slowly never losing the grin on his face. Everyone looked around a little nervous not sure if Mac was really upset or if they were about to witness the first fight in Harm and Mac’s marriage.

“Skates...I never owed up to them about that...”

“I think you better, Harm...” Skates grinned.

“I was asked to patrol the sky over the Dome that night. We listened to the game on the radio while we flew above it. I actually took a picture to prove it, but then it just never came up again so I never did...” Harm explained.

“Just remember, Darling, that pay back can be a bitch!” Mac leaned over and kissed Harm before sitting back down. The guests laughed in earnest when Harm smiled, sat down at Mac’s side again and responded simply, “Yes Dear...”

The wait staff began to enter with the first course and to refill their glasses. Skates sat down and Admiral Boone stood up.

“Harm, Mac...thank you for asking me here today to share this with you. I remember one time when Hammer and I were stationed on the Tico when Harm was still a baby we were talking about how fast time goes by. He said he found himself wondering at times if he would be around to see his son grow up, graduate from the Academy, and get married. He wondered what kind of man you would become and if you would follow in his footsteps and marry young and start a family or wait until your restless years were behind you. I think he would have been proud of you and the man and officer you have become. I also think he would have admired and respected your choice in brides.

“You see in some ways Mac, you remind me of Harm’s mother. You are strong, independent and intelligent women. You chose well Harm and I wish you and Sarah a life of happiness.” Once again the glasses were raised. Mac spotted the glassy look in Harm’s eyes and knew that Tom Boone’s mention of his father had moved him deeply. Slipping her hand under the table she rested it on his thigh in a gesture of comfort. Harm patted her hand and then lifted it to kiss her fingers.

Chloe and Mattie stood up together next. Harm and Mac smiled as they waited to hear what torment the two teenagers would direct at them.

“We were told early today not to rehash things, but you guys are, so we decided to add our two cents too.” Mattie began. “When I first met Mac it was during a court hearing to see if Harm would become my legal guardian. She stood up and told the judge he was the kind of man she would want to be the father of her children. At first I didn’t think much of it. But as I got to know Harm, I knew he was one of a kind and so I knew that she really was saying that she wanted to have kids with Harm. But at first every time I tried to ask him about their relationship he would change the subject. Finally I came right out and asked him if he loved Mac and he said ‘Yes,’ so I knew he meant it. He doesn’t lie. He also said that things were complicated and that they were working on things.” At that point Chloe chimed in...

“I on the other hand have know for years that they loved each other but were too pig-headed to admit it!” Laughter filled the room at Chloe’s pronouncement. “But now that you finally got it right thanks for including me in this.”

Jennifer Coates stood up at that point. “I met Chloe at Mac’s place three years ago and she convinced me that there was a special bond between the Colonel and the Commander when all I could see was two perfect people without a care in the world. She enlightened me. Over the years as I got to know both Mac and Harm, my respect for them has grown. Despite the fact that they were in love, they would not act on that love until they had resolved even the most complicated of issues. They say that love built on a strong foundation will last an eternity. I think that’s what the two of you have built. To an eternity of happiness.” Coates toasted them with her glass held high. Immediately the glasses began to chime as Chloe and Mattie started the din.

Harm took Mac in his arms this time and kissed her until she was breathless. AJ Chegwidden stood up and cleared his throat.

“Alright people, let’s not get carried away...during my time at JAG I realized that I created a replacement for my own family. My daughter, Francesca, was mostly in Italy with her mother or away at school and with her own growing company. I missed her a great deal, and Sarah and Harriet became replacements for her. Harm and Bud became the sons I never had. I remember telling Gunny one time that I wished I could be a fly on the wall in Australia to watch the drama play out between the two men that wanted Sarah. Although they were both good men I think the fates had already written this ending for the story. Love each other and cherish every moment you have together.

“Take time to remember the important things in life and to talk about the changing world and all it offers. Don’t take one another for granted...and Harm, if you are lucky enough to have her take a frying pan to your head, don’t hold it against her...just hold her. You see, that’s when I found out that my wife was carrying Francesca and I learned about hormones and things like that.” The others snickered at the image of a petite woman going after the Admiral with a frying pan. Francesca looked at her father with the love shining in her eyes.

Harm and Mac held hands and silently shared the hope that they would have the privilege of having their own children. No one else knew that the doctors had told them that it was unlikely Mac could have a child because of the scaring from the endometriosis she was diagnosed with last spring.

Frank Burnett stood then. “It looks like they’ll be serving our dinner soon and I know Bud wanted to wrap things up here before we ate, so I’ll try to be brief. Harm, as I’ve said before, you are the only son I have, and although you are not my biological son, the joy and pride you brought your mother and me far out weighed any heartache. We are so glad that you and Mac have each other now...and whether you get to experience parenthood with your own child, or by sharing your love with another child, we know that you will be good parents. The work you have done as mentors to Mattie and Chloe can attest to that...and besides we are looking forward to being grandparents!”

Harm started to stand up then to say a few words, but Bud stopped him. “Sorry Commander...one more story and then you can have the floor...” Harm sat down and nodded to his best man.

“It was about nine years ago that I was reassigned to JAG as the legal assistant to then Lt. Commander Harmon Rabb under the command of Admiral Chegwidden. We were at the White House in the Rose Garden to watch the awarding of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Harm by the President. As we left the Rose Garden that day, we were met by a Marine Major and told that this would be Harm’s new partner. I watched the connection form between Sarah Mackenzie and Harmon Rabb immediately, although I’m not sure they realized it. Admiral Chegwidden even reminded them not to get too close as they would have to work together. It’s the one thing that they never bucked the Admiral about although the tension in the office at times was rough...doors slamming...silent treatments...” The shared humor as they remembered different experiences they each had dealing with the Harm and Mac relationship over the years came to them.

“But I also remember the times when one of them just knew what the other would do or say or where they were and if they needed help. That bond that began in the Rose Garden nine years ago became stronger for all the tension it endured. May your love continue to endure and flourish. We all wish you the best. To Harm and Sarah!”

After the final toast and before they could clink their glasses, Harm stood up and looked around.

“Thank you all for joining us and giving up Christmas Day for our wedding. There are many people that we know and that we could have invited to join us today, but it was important to both of us that we keep this group small. You are the people that mean so much to us and have made it possible through your friendship, love, support and encouragement for us to be able to be together. I know...we know...that many of you have been through a lot because of us. It seems that when something happens to one of us, the other made life rough on the rest until things were resolved. It also seems that many of you saw what it took us a long time to admit to ourselves and each other. Sarah and I love each other and we do hope to have a family some day...but each of you already belong to our extended family and that will never change. Again, thank you for being here today to share this time with us. While we didn’t plan a traditional reception, we do appreciate some of the traditions your brought to this gathering. Please enjoy your meal and each others company.”

“Was that alright?” Harm asked Mac as he resumed his seat.

“It was great...I think after dinner we should go around the room to speak to everyone before we leave.”

“I agree...Think we should start now?”

“Harm...”

“After dinner it is...”

2028 Local

December 25, 2004

Hyatt-Grand Hotel

Washington, DC

After dinner, Harm and Mac circulated the room chatting with each of their guests and thanking them for coming. Once they had spoken to everyone, they had quietly slipped from the room and made their way to their hotel suite. At the door, Harm opened it and they stopped Mac before she could pass through. She looked up at him and then smiled as she realized what he was doing. Harm scooped her up in his arms and carried her over the threshold.

”Not that its our house, but I’ve always wanted to do that.” Harm said before he bent his head to kiss her.

Mac felt her feet hit the floor and then leaned back and answered him, “You wanted to throw your back out on our wedding night?”

“Mac...”

“I know...you know you are becoming quite the romantic and I do appreciate your efforts.”

“Yeah...making the honeymoon a surprise was a nice touch too.”

“Do you like it?” Harm asked now she had a little more then twenty-four hours to think it over.

“Yes, of course. Did you think I wouldn’t?”

“No...I was afraid I didn’t know well you as well as I thought I did.”

“You know me better then I know myself at times Harm. I think it will be wonderful. It’s secluded and private enough so that we can relax and just enjoy ourselves, yet its got things we can do if we want to. Tell me the itinerary again.”

“Well,” Harm began as he ran his hands up and down Mac’s arms, “After we make love here most of the night, we’ll fly out of Dulles tomorrow morning on a 0830 commercial flight to the Bahamas. We’ll be staying in a secluded cabin with a private beach and we’ll have access to a boat. We get room service and maid service from the main lodge, but they will only come when we call them. You know Mac, I really wanted to take you camping in Dinosaur National Park, but the weather this time of year eliminated that, so we’ll have to take a vacation next spring or fall so that we can enjoy that trip.”

“You really are too good for me, Harm.”

“No...I only want to do things you’ll enjoy...and I want to share the things you enjoy with you.”

“Then let’s consummate this marriage for a start, Flyboy,” Mac whispered in Harm’s ear as she wrapped her arms around his neck and in turn licked his ear and whispered in it.

Mac felt a shiver go through Harm before he gathered her in his arms again and began kissing and tasting her lips, her eyes, her ears...all the little things he knew drove her crazy. Slowly they removed each others clothes as they kissed and tasted the exposed skin. They revisited their favorites spots on each other’s body so that they could kindle the flames even higher.

Once to the bed, Harm lowered Mac onto the covers and then positioned himself above her, bracing his weight on his arms.

“I’ve never done this before, Mac...make love to my wife that is...”

Mac laughed in delight. She reached for Harm and pulled him to her so that she could feel his weight against her. “Love me now, Harm.” And Harm obliged.

Wednesday, May 25, 2005

Rabb Residence

Falls Church, Virginia

Mac stood by the phone listening to the voice on the other end. Harm watched her as she went quiet and still. He watched her arm drop still holding the phone. Carefully he eased it out of her fingers and listened. He only heard a dial tone so he replaced the receiver on the hook.

“Mac, what is it? Talk to me.” Harm carefully turned her so that she was facing him. When he looked back at her their were tears in her eyes. He tilted her chin up to him and asked, “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing...” Mac started to smile. “It’s just...”

“What Mac? What is it?”

“We’re pregnant!”

“We’re pregnant? Are you sure?”

“Harm you know how I wasn’t feeling great for the last few weeks?”

“Yeah...”

“Well I wasn’t sure what was happening but I had missed two periods...not just one this time. So I called to see the doctor. She wanted me to have some lab work done before I saw her. That was her calling to tell me the good news. She didn’t want us to wait. She’ll see me in two weeks but she called in a prescription for pre-natal vitamins for me.”

“Wow....”

“Yeah, wow! We’re going to be parents, Harm.”

“When?”

“I don’t know exactly yet, but I think it would be in December.”

“A Christmas baby?”

“Maybe...Oh Harm, are you okay with this?”

“You know I am Mac.”

“Tell me anyway?”

“Sarah Mackenzie Rabb, I love you and I am so honored that you are having my baby. This is what we had dreamed about...now it is happening...Thank you.”

“Let’s call your Mom.”

“Don’t you think we should wait until we have a specific due date?”

“Nope...she knows that those are just estimates anyway. Babies come when they are ready.”

“If this baby takes after you then it will come exactly on time. If it takes after me...then it will get here when it gets here, right?”

“ ‘Fraid so, Daddy.”

“Sounds nice, doesn’t it Mommy.”

“Yes. Now let’s call Grandma and Grandpa Burnett, Great Grandma Rabb, and Honorary Grandpa Boone and Honorary Grandpa Chegwidden. We can tell Bud and Harriet when we go see them this weekend..”

“Good plan. Start dialing.”

And so they shared the news with their family and friends.

December 24, 2005

Georgetown University Hospital

Washington DC

“How we doing in here?” asked the nurse as she came in for the third time in the last hour to check Mac’s progress.

“This is more difficult then I thought.” Mac grumbled.

“Do you want a pain killer?”

“No. I just want something to happen. This waiting is difficult”

“Mac, relax...the doctor suggested before that you were so keyed up that your body was playing tricks on you.” Harm reminded his very pregnant wife.

“I know Harm, but it hurts to walk; its uncomfortable laying here; sitting is out of the question...”

“I know...” A noise grabbed Harm’s and Mac attention as the doctor came in with a machine. “What’s that?”

“This is a portable ultrasound machine. I want to see if we can get a look at what’s happening in there. Sarah, if you would lean back and lift your gown up so I can see your tummy...Very good. I’ve tried to warm this so it will be a little more tolerable.” The doctor looked at the screen as it came into view and then smiled.

“You aren’t going t believe this...”

“What?”

“Well, it seems you have had a secret passenger for the past nine months.”

“What?” asked Harm and Mac simultaneously.

“You are carrying twins.”

“TWINS!” again their voices echoed as one.

Harm looked at the doctor and then at the screen. “How can that be? Why are we just finding this out now? I thought the early pictures would have revealed multiple births.”

“They usually do. But these two babies are in such perfect harmony with each other and with their mother that we didn’t pick up the extra heartbeat. One baby appears much larger then the other and so the little one was able to hide until baby one moved into the birth position and exposed baby two.”

“Wow! You okay Mac?”

“Yes...twins huh? Identical?”

“Doesn’t look it. Get ready...looks like another contraction is building and this one might start producing.” Clicking off the machine, the doctor covered Mac and then took her position at the foot of the bed. “You are fully dilated and this contraction should produce. Now when you feel like pushing, don’t until I tell you to push. Here we go.”

The doctor was right. When the contraction subsided, the doctor announced that she could see the babies head and instructed Mac she could push when the next one started. Harm remained behind her holding her and supporting her back. As the contraction peaked, Mac pushed with everything she had in her.

“That’s it...Good job...The heads out...lots of dark hair...lets get the shoulders through...”

Mac pushed again with the next contraction and before she knew it, the doctor was laying a baby boy on her stomach while Harm cut the cord.

“Meet your son!” Harm and Mac were laughing and crying at the same time but were not given time to really hold their son before he was taken away to be cleaned and tested. They were consoled by the news that they had another child on the way and that by the time they had delivered baby two, baby one would be ready for them.

Again Mac started to push at the next contraction, but the doctor told her to wait for her instruction again. The first placenta was expelled and then the after several more contractions, during which time the doctor listened and felt Mac’s stomach before announcing that baby two seemed to be in position. The doctor resumed her position between Mac’s knees and soon told her to push. Again Harm supported her back and held her hands while she pushed. Laying her back down between contractions he leaned over her and kissed her forehead.

“I’d take over for you if I could.”

“I know Harm...it’s not that bad...here we go...”

This time the doctor laid a tiny baby girl on Mac’s stomach while Harm cut the cord. “It’s a girl!”

Harm and Mac held each other as the baby girl was removed, all the while exercising her lungs.

“Now what do we do about names, Harm?”

“Well we had picked out one of each...we could use both?”

“Christopher and Christina? They’ll probably both be called Chris...”

“Any other ideas?”

“Christopher and Noelle?”

“Maybe...how about Nicholas and Christina?”

“Christopher Nicholas and Holly Christina?”

“We could use something other then the Christmas theme...” Harm suggested. “Like Christopher Mackenzie Rabb and Mackenzie Patricia Rabb...”

“Or Christopher and Harmony?”

“Or Carol and Christopher?”

“Back to the Christmas theme?”

“Yeah...I really don’t want any version of the name Harmon...”

“And I don’t want to keep Mackenzie...so Christopher Nicholas and Carol Christina?”

“Works for me, Mom.”

“Me too Dad.”

“Well if Dad would like to come with me, we will get Mom ready to receive visitors.”

“I love you Sarah Rabb. I’ll go let everyone know in the waiting room and then I’ll be back.”

The nurse escorted Harm out of the room and instructed him to go inform the folks in the waiting room that his son weighed seven pounds two ounces and was twenty-three inches long, while his daughter had weighed in at a dainty six pounds even at twenty inches long. When he was finished he was to return to the nursery where the nurse would help him take the babies to their mother. Only the grandparents would be allowed in to visit this evening. The others would have to return during visiting hours tomorrow.

Harm stepped into the waiting room and was greeted by Frank, Trish, the Admiral, Harriet and Bud. He couldn’t hide his beaming smile. He wasn’t sure how to tell them the real surprise, so he just made the announcement with his hand up asking for quiet.

“Mac is getting cleaned up. Our son, Christopher Nicholas, weighed seven pounds two ounces and is twenty-three inches long. Our daughter, Carol Christina, weighed six pounds and is only twenty-inches long.”

“Twins!”

Harm just grinned and nodded his head while accepting a hug from his mother. “What do you think Grandma? Got enough love for two grandchildren at once?”

“You know I do Harm...you know we all do.”

Harm explained and apologized about the rules for visitors that night. AJ, Bud and Harriet graciously turned to leave saying they would see them tomorrow and wishing them a Merry Christmas. Harm called to AJ before he could leave.

“AJ...Mac and I would like you to serve as honorary grandfather. You served as her father for the wedding and we both agree that we would be honored if you would agree to serve as their other grandfather. Come meet the babies...please?”

“Thank you Harm.”

“The nurse will let you know when and will show you the way. I’ll see you soon.”

Harm entered the nursery and was met by the nurse.

“Mrs. Rabb has been taken to her room and is waiting for us. You push your son’s cart and I’ll bring the little girl. Follow me.”

Mac was sitting up in bed waiting when they little parade came in. The nurse placed Carol in her arms and then scooped up Christopher and handed him to Harm.

“I’ll be back in about twenty minutes to return them to the nursery so you can get some rest. I’ll get the grandparents first.”

“You did good Mac.” Harm praised his wife while he inspected the tiny hands and feet of his son in his arms.

“Let me see him. Switch with me...”

Harm settled their son in her other arm, before lifting the tiny little girl from her mother.

“Hey there Carol, he soothed as the tiny girl fussed a little. Daddy has you.” He inspected her little hands and feet as he had with his son. Slowly he became conscious of someone in the room with them. He turned and saw the grandparents standing in the doorway.

As soon as she was acknowledged, Trish came forward and eagerly reached for her granddaughter. While Frank stood beside her looking over her shoulder at the tiny infant, AJ approached the side of the bed.

“Thank you Mac...I’m honored that you wanted me to serve as grandfather...”

“Thank you. Would you like to hold him?” Mac offered.

While Harm settled on the edge of the bed and slid his arm around his wife he kissed her forehead. “ I love you.”

“I love you too, Harm.” Together they watched the grandparents enjoy their first moments with the babies, while Harm and Mac spent a minute just enjoying the family time. Before long the nurse returned to send the parents home and to take the babies back to the nursery.

“Have a goodnight’s rest Mrs. Rabb and the doctor will probably let you go home tomorrow,” the nurse informed them.

Once the room was quiet, Harm slid down on the bed beside Mac. They held on to each other for awhile without talking, before Harm broke the silence.

“It wasn’t part of my grand plan to have twins, just to have a baby with you, but this is perfect. We had talked about having one of each, but I was just so thankful that the powers that be allowed you to have one baby that I was afraid to hope for more...I promised myself that it would be the best of both worlds if we could have one of our own and then adopted at least one other...this was the last thing I expected.”

“Me either...Harm, when the doctor talked to me after you left, she said that now I have had a successful pregnancy it would probably be even easier to conceive again...and that if we didn’t want another pregnancy we should be sure to use a good contraceptive...what do you think?”

“I love you and our babies, but I think we need to wait to make a decision about having more children. I think I would like to have more, but its your body that goes through all that. I think we are careful until we know for sure how we adapt to having two babies in the house at once.”

“I agree with you...Harm?”

“Yes?”

“I love you too...did you go to the wall?”

“Not yet.”

“Why don’t you go? I’m pretty tired and you should go get some rest. When you come back tomorrow - on our first anniversary - we’ll be taking our children home. Bring both car seats...so much for having one for each car!”

“We’ll take care of that later. Anything you want me to bring you?”

“Just yourself...”

“What about clothes?”

“My green Christmas dress that I was going to wear and the shoes for it would be nice...clean underwear...”

“Got it.” Harm kissed his wife goodnight, walked by the nursery one more time to gaze at the sleeping babies, and left for his annual visit to the wall.

His fingers found the name carved into the black granite. He smiled. The name would be carried on.

“Hi Dad...You’re a grandfather now. You have both a grandson, Christopher and a granddaughter, Carol. The Rabb name will go on, Dad, but Harmon will skip this generation at least. Mac did a great job. Tomorrow we’ll take our babies home on our first anniversary. Christmas won’t be a sad time for me anymore, Dad. I can’t let it. I finally have it all...my grand plan to marry Mac and have a son and a daughter. I’ll be leaving the Navy this May, Dad. I’ve put in my twenty years and I want to be around for my children to grow up. AJ Chegwidden and I are going to start our own investigative firm and also provide legal counsel. Harriet is going to run the office and run a little daycare for her four and the twins at the same time. When Mac and Bud retire in a few years, they’ll join the firm also.” Harm shivered and pulled his coat tighter around him. “We’ll start bringing the twins to meet you soon, when it warms up a little. Merry Christmas, Dad.”

Harm walked away humming a Christmas melody. Above the stars twinkled brightly in the clear cold night air as if they too had played a part in the grand plan.

THE END