TITLE: Second Chances

AUTHOR: Suzanne

CLASSIFICATION: Mac/Webb

RATING: PG unless noted at the top of the chapter.

CREDITS: A special thanks to my beta readers, Clairisant and Qupeydoll

Chapter 1

Thursday, November 18, 2004

1845 EST

Sarah Mackenzie's apartment

San Diego, California

Sarah was so tired! She had not slept well the night before, and was now literally dragging herself into her apartment. Her life had changed in so many ways, since that fateful day six months ago, when she had told the Admiral of her pregnancy. Like an over protective father, he had demanded to know who the father was, and she had refused to tell him. He had become incensed and had said some horrible things to her, things she did not even want to think about, much less remember.

She had walked out of his office, and out of JAG, that day, and had not looked back. She had resigned her commission, moved out of DC, and was in the process of beginning a new life for herself and the baby. Sarah gently rubbed her hand across her middle.

'Little One' had kept her up last night, and she hoped tonight would not hold a repeat performance. It had taken every ounce of her strength to stay awake today at work, and she knew her co-workers had known it as well. They had left her alone as much as possible, for which Sarah was grateful.

Turning the key in the lock of her apartment door and breathing a sigh of relief, she was glad to be home safe and sound. She would have the weekend to recuperate. Sarah set her briefcase on the floor, by the door, and made sure the door locked securely behind her. She lived in a nice area, but one could never be too careful. Rubbing her sore back, Sarah headed for her bedroom. She had only gotten two steps, when she smelled familiar cologne, and realized that she was not alone.

"Hello, Sarah," her unexpected visitor said, as he rose from the couch, knowing she had noticed his presence.

"What the hell are you doing here? And how did you get in?" Sarah was now in full pissed off ex-Marine, mother-to-be mode, and was a sight to behold.

"Now come on, Sarah. When has a locked door ever stopped me?" Her visitor was careful to keep his voice neutral even though the site of the obviously pregnant woman sent his mind reeling. AJ had never said a word about a baby.

"Webb, there are laws against breaking and entering."

"I didn't break-in. I let myself in."

"Ha, ha, Webb. I don't find you funny right now."

"You mean you found me funny at one time?"

"Get out, Webb! Now!"

"I'm not going anywhere. I came to see how you're doing. You left a lot of people concerned about you back in DC, Sarah. You might as well calm down; it can't be good for the baby. "

In her anger at being found, Sarah had forgotten all about the baby. She moved her hand to cover her abdomen, in a protective gesture. This did not go unnoticed by Clay, "Yeah right, Webb. I've been gone for six months and not once has anyone tried to contact me…until now."

Realizing this situation was quickly escalating out of control, Clay decided to change tactics. "You were headed somewhere when you came in, Sarah. Why don't you go ahead and make yourself comfortable, and I'll order us some dinner?" Clay had only been in town since this morning, but had already scoped out the best places to eat.

"You make it sound like I am visiting you, Clay. This is my home and you're not welcome here!"

"I often go where I'm not welcome, why should this be any different?" asked Clay.

"I left DC to get away from everyone."

"You mean me, Sarah."

"Hell, yes, I mean you!" exclaimed Mac as she slapped his face.

Silently Clay turned his face and offered his other cheek only to be slapped again.

"Do you feel better now?"

Fuming because her actions didn't elicit the actions she wanted, which were to anger Clay enough to make him leave; she huffed, "Whatever," and stormed out of the room.

To be continued…