Confessions
AU-Season 7 after "Grace"
"Maybe it's not me that's the problem here. Let's face it, I'm not that complex."-Jack O'Neill
Colonel Jack O'Neill walked into the briefing room, whistling on Monday morning after a week's leave. "Good morning, campers." He greeted Daniel and Teal'c.
They just nodded their greetings, but said nothing.
"What?" He asked. "Where's Carter?"
"She's gone, Colonel. Effective immediately." General Hammond responded, walking out of his office.
Jack just stared at him. "What?"
"Have a seat, son."
Jack hollowly followed his direction and sat in his usual spot to the right of the general.
"Major Carter will return in two months to be the civilian head of scientific research here on the base." He began.
"Whoa! Hold on, General. You mean to tell me that she was dismissed from active duty?"
"On the contrary, Colonel. She handed in her resignation, but we managed to keep her here." He replied calmly.
"See, that's where I'm confused." Jack continued, leaning forward in his seat, his hands clasped in front of him. "Why would she do that without telling any of us?"
"I'm sorry, Colonel. Her personal reasons for this are none of my concern. However, I do need you to find a replacement for SG-1. I'll have some files on your desk within the week. Dismissed." He stood and so did the three remaining members of SG-1.
"Colonel, may I have a word with you?" He said, turning as he reached the door.
Jack shrugged and followed him.
"Close the door and have a seat."
Jack did so and cleared his throat. "Sir, I don't need any files. I want Carter: civilian or not."
"I understand, Son. But we already gave her that option, and she refused." He said, sympathetically.
"We, sir?"
"Myself and the President."
Jack took a deep breath. "Ah...I see."
"I asked you in here because Major Carter gave me something to give to you."
He produced an envelope with his name written neatly on the front.
"Sir?" Jack asked as he took the envelope.
"She hasn't been the same since she got back from the Prometheus, Jack.. Maybe she's reaching out to you."
Jack nodded, stiffly. "Am I dismissed?"
"Yes."
"Thank you, sir."
Hope you enjoy the fic that popped into my head one day...
