NORAD Tracks Santa
By Teri

Another Possible Ending:

Daniel walked into the mess hall and looked around, his eyes settling on Jack.

"Jack, you and I need to have a talk!" He began.

"Sure Danny, what's up?" Jack responded not really paying attention.

"Well, I...er. That is to say," Daniel couldn't figure out what to say now that he found him.

"Daniel," Jack said in a warning tone. He didn't feel like dealing with anything right now. He was tired and he a big couple of days coming up.

"Right, Jack do you believe in Santa Claus?" Daniel asked.

Jack's mouth dropped open for a moment as he looked at his friend. He tried to figure out why he would be asking that of him, now at this time of year.

"Jack?" Daniel asked again.

Jack looked at his friend. He thought about being sarcastic, he thought about out right lying outright, he even considered simply ignoring him, but he couldn't do that to Daniel. Daniel was his friend and if there was a soul out there that could use some Christmas magic it was one Dr. Daniel Jackson.

"Yes, Daniel I do. Santa is real."

Daniel looked up in surprise at Jack's admission gaping at the man. He found it hard to believe that this man could believe in Santa after everything he had seen, heck after everything they had all seen. It just didn't seem possible. Daniel looked at Jack again and shook his head in disbelief.

"Ask a silly question and get a silly answer," Daniel chuckled softly. "I must be having coffee withdraw to have even considered the myth for even a minute. I shouldn't have asked." Daniel stood and began to walk away as he threw over his shoulder. "Merry Christmas, Jack. I'll met you over Janet and Cassie's for Christmas brunch."

Jack for his part sat there in surprise. He had told the truth and Daniel didn't believe him? He could hardly believe it.

"I told you he wouldn't believe you."

Jack turned as he heard Janet Fraiser behind him. "How did you know?"

"Oh, I had it on the highest authority."

"Santa?" Jack asked eyes wide.

"Higher," Janet smiled.

Jack understood. General Hammond had told her.

Janet discreetly winked at him as she handed him a candy cane before leaving.

Just a quick little Christmas Tale to wish you all

MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY HOLIDAYS SAFE NEW YEAR

Teri 12/23/04 (Updated 12/23/06)