"So, you're leaving?"
Sam looked at him, with those beautiful eyes that could make him do anything. He never told her that, of course, what with Commanding Officer credibility and such, but they damned near killed him sometimes.
"Yeah, I got another gig..."
His voice trailed off and he looked with exaggerated interest at his polished desk surface.
"But, sir,"
He cut her off, not wanting or being able to handle emotional goodbyes. He took a deep breath, gathering all his strength and command presence.
"Carter, it's done. I'm leaving the SGC."
He hadn't intended it to sound so harsh. Damn.
"Yeah, I know."
Her decisive tone lured his eyes off his desk, he watched her in surprise. She stood with her shoulders squared, and made eye contact with him unapologetically.
"It's just, sir, you've completely worn me out," she smiled a little, "and I just don't know if I have the damned energy to break in a new CO."
God, he loved this woman.