A/N: I was inspired to write this while listening to Fireflies by Faith Hill, which just sounded so much like a Cassie song. Hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it. :)
He was on his way from the bed of his pickup truck to Janet's backyard when she ambushed him. "What'cha making?" The young Hankan girl questioned, doggedly tagging along behind him.
Jack glanced back, not too surprised to see her back already. Daniel was supposed to be keeping her occupied while he and Carter put the finishing touches on Cassandra's birthday surprise, but the archeologist had no doubt gotten distracted, allowing the girl a chance to slip away. "It's a surprise," He answered simply, changing his course and heading towards the front door.
Before he had gotten further than a couple steps, he found his path blocked four foot five inches of eager little girl. "Please, Uncle Jack! Let me see it!"
Jack sighed. He knew better to look her in the eyes when he had to say no, especially when she really wanted something. Carter's going to kill me. He thought, shaking his head resignedly. "Come on," He held his hand out to her and she grabbed it eagerly, practically bouncing with excitement. "You have to promise me, though...keep your eyes closed 'till I tell you to look, okay?"
"Promise!" Cassie said, grinning.
With Cassandra in tow, Jack headed down the path to Janet's backyard. When Carter, currently halfway up a tree, spotted him her eyes widened. "Colonel! She's not supposed to see it yet!"
"Sorry, Carter," He said, lifting his shoulders in a sheepish shrug. Sam glanced at Cassandra—still gripping Jack's hand with both eyes squeezed tightly shut—and a knowing smile spread across her face. Still smiling, she shook her head and dropped out of the tree. Jack smiled back and glanced down at Cassie. "Now you can open your eyes, Princess."
Cassie didn't hesitate in doing as she was told and her eyes popped open, eagerly darting around the backyard to see what had changed. She gasped. Nestled halfway up the largest tree was a platform, framed by four walls, painted white with stenciled flowers that scrolled across and under the two windows facing the house. "A tree house!" She squealed with delight.
Sam glanced to Jack, eyes twinkling with delight at the success of their project. "It's the perfect place for catching fireflies."