Lovely little ladybug

by LAIsobel

SG-1 on a mission, things look good in the beginning but we know how lucky they are. Of course things will go wrong! So will they make it through? Will they survive? And will they live? Intense story full of love, angst, friendship, hope and a lot more.

20. Chapter 20

A/N: And what was supposed to be the second half of chapter 19…. :o) And I got a bit carried away…. Whoooops. Oh and maybe a bit too sweet and sappy but I needed to write something like that – so let's feel romantic with me! :o)) And hopefully you will forgive me if you find the characters a bit OOC here... I'm trying but you know how it is... anyway, about six more chapters and that's it... pfeeeew.

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LOVELY LITTLE LADYBUG – CHAPTER 20

Sam was really enjoying her afternoon. It was Friday and she had taken the day off. Janet had done the same. And yes, there was a reason for that. Tonight there would be a ball at the City Hall. It was organized as a charity event. There would be some auction of things donated by the Mayor and some other people from the City Hall as well as by many others. It was organized for the personnel of the Cheyenne Mountain Complex. However Hammond had suggested that it would be nice to have other people there so it would be classical ball.

Ladies were supposed to wear gowns and men were expected to have tuxedos. One luxury evening among many average ones, no dress blues, no ranks, just names and friends, lovers and husbands and wives.

After bit of persuading some politicians would be there as well. And people from the press. The idea behind this project had been simple – to allow the soldiers and marines and basically the whole personnel to have some nice time. However it all had somehow shifted. So this event would be the first one to take place among many others. They would be held in about 65 other cities all over the States, all organized for the military personnel with friends and all of them with the purpose of having fun, having nice time and gaining some money for the charity.

They had decided that they would give the money to one of the national organizations that takes care of families of fallen soldiers. The people there would know what to do with the money. The plan was really good. Everybody was hoping that the first ball would be something at least awesome to gain some attention of other people and politicians.

So in the end half of the base personnel would be going. And almost every woman from that part had taken the Friday off, or at least the afternoon. Some would be coming alone, some with friends, some with husbands… Sam and Janet wouldn't be coming alone, not by a long shot. They both had been invited for the ball as for some sort of a fancy date.

They were in the SPA together, letting other people pamper them, do their hair and nails. They used to dislike things like this at first but after about a year of working together, it had grew on them. After everything they had to face on the base and off-world, this was something amazing. It had always given them a bit of their femininity back. And the one and only purpose of their time here today was to get ready to impress the guys in the evenings. Both women had plans… this was the evening that should change their lives.

Sam and Jack had been on friendly terms, seeing each other, talking, laughing, spending time together, their relationship was nice and enjoyable. They were in love and trying not to screw up. It was difficult for them but they both have been trying to do their best. There still were things Sam wanted to know and Jack didn't know how to tell her, things about their past they still didn't feel ready to share. But those fears and needs were mutual and they were both determined to work them out. However Sam knew that Jack had been nervous about something big. He was hiding something from her. She knew it. And she was about to find out what, tonight. But it was probably on his agenda to tell her anyway.

"So you will come with me?"

"There is nobody I would rather come with."

"I hope so."

He was standing behind her in her lab, nuzzling her neck, kissing her softly. She was smiling and enjoying this little moment of love and tender gestures. Jack really could be cute. She was moaning softly and purring like a satisfied cat at his little ministrations. He had learned all about her weak and soft spots. Sometimes they've been acting like a couple of love-sick teenagers. But it felt so damn nice! She knew it was ridiculous but she wouldn't want it any other way.

"So I will pick you up at six, okay?"

"Okay. Sounds good."

"But I won't return you back till Saturday."

"Hey… you're planning something?"

"Let me surprise you, all right?"

"Should I be worried?"

"No."

And he kissed her neck again. He had just taken his way up to her ear when they got disturbed by a loud knock on the door. It had to be loud otherwise it wouldn't have been heard. Sam growled in disappointment.

"Yes?"

"Is it safe to come in?"

It was Janet. During the last few years people had learned to ask about the safety before entering. It was because she had managed to create a small explosion few times… and because sometimes she had needed the door closed for a reason and for the safety. This time, however, she wasn't sure if Janet had meant the safety like all the times before or … the other one. She was a bit blushing suddenly.

"Yes, come in."

Janet stepped in and noticed O'Neill behind her friend, his hands moving from her stomach to her hips, slowly. And Sam was smiling with that 'this-is-heaven' look on her face.

"Oh, Sir."

"Just leaving, doc… just leaving."

He released Sam from his arms, kissed her softly on the lips and whispered I love you before leaving. Janet would swear the man was glowing. Sam smiled at Janet. She seemed to be glowing as well!

"So it looks like you two are really serious, aren't you?"

"Oh… yes, I think so."

"Sorry to disturb you."

"It's okay. Maybe it's better this way…"

"Still having problems with getting carried away?"

"Hey! That's evil…"

"Come on… your lab, his office, MY infirmary, the commissary, the briefing room, the gate room, the control room and my favorite is the elevator… "

Sam knew that her face had turned bright red. She had felt really embarrassed.

"I know you are right but … it's really not that bad, is it?"

"I don't know… Siler had bumped his head about three times because of trying not see you two together… and Walter had dialed wrong address because of you two sharing goodbye kiss behind him in the control room."

"OH…."

Janet knew she should stop… But she wasn't about to. She was having fun while teasing her friend. She was happy for her, they both knew that. But still she could tease her a bit, right? Besides those two really could be cute but they could also make some people around them turn bright red and suddenly find the pattern on the floor very, veeeery interesting.

"But you made the general happy."

"Really?"

"Yes. He had won the bet about the elevator…"

"What?"

"But yeah, after that incident you two had changed a bit… now it's just your lab on the base… people can live with that... the welcome and goodbye kisses are okay as well… that's actually cute… And don't take it the wrong way, we are all happy for you… but you really can act like teenagers sometimes… and then just… wow, just WOW."

"Janet…."

"You know I'm just teasing, right? I am really happy for you."

"Okay but keep on mind that payback is a bitch... but sorry, what did you need?"

Janet knew she was in troubles. She could understand Sam's remark. She will probably find herself in many similar situations pretty soon. And Sam would enjoy teasing her… her smiled was a pretty good indication that she indeed would.

"Daniel just asked me to come with him to the ball next Friday."

"Really?"

"Yes…"

"Jack asked me as well."

"I'm not surprised."

"He asked me not to make any plans…"

"Wow, he's planning on some surprise, huh?"

"Looks like so…"

"Are you nervous?"

"I don't know… you?"

"No, I don't think so. I'm really happy that he had asked me. I think it's time to… you know…"

"Change your status from good friends that share a kiss every now and then into something more?"

Janet started to laugh then. Sam really had a point in there. So they agreed on taking the Friday off, spending time together and finding the perfect dress till then, on doing everything in their powers to take the guys' breaths away.

And Janet knew that if things would go along her plans, Sam would be getting her chance to tease her back about some inappropriate behavior on the base pretty soon. But now they were just enjoying the time together, women, friends, getting ready to have the best night of their lives.

She was afraid that Daniel would never find the courage to ask her about the ball. He had had troubles about asking her out for a simple date and this was supposed to be big and with lots of people.

But he had called her and asked her to stop by his lab on her way somewhere. She wasn't planning on going anywhere but well… he had asked her.

So she went there and found him deep in thought over some book, some artifact on his table, surrounded by photos and papers. She didn't want to disturb him though. He looked so at peace and content. However he had looked up and saw her there. He smiled at her then.

"Hey, thanks for stopping by."

"No problem. What's going on…"

"Well… I was thinking… do you have any plans for Friday night?"

"Which Friday?"

"Next Friday."

"Hmmm… let me think… Why?"

She was smiling at him, eyes sparkling. And he noticed. It took him about a minute till he figured it out. He looked a bit disappointed at first but then he reached for her hand and brought her closer to him.

"You knew, didn't you."

"I knew about the event but I was only hoping to be invited."

"Oh…"

"Oh? That's all you have to say?"

"What?"

"Well I was hoping for something like Janet, will you do me the honor and accompany me to the ball next Friday?"

He looked so nervous! But he was so cute… she had to smile at him. It would never cease to amaze her that somebody would be looking so cute while being unsure.

"Janet, will you do me the honor and accompany me to the ball next Friday?"

"I will…"

"Thank you."

And he was about to kiss her then. But he had stopped.

"Can I?"

"Only if you promise me this is the last time you're asking about this."

"Okay, I can do that."

"Yes?"

"I promise not to ask again…"

"Well then… you can."

And with one last smile he kissed her, tenderly, sweetly, lovingly. They both sighed, relieved and happy, all smiling, their hearts beating a bit too fast. He enveloped her in his arms, too thrilled to let go at once. He needed a minute. And she wasn't protesting sooo… However their hug got interrupted then by a phone call. Daniel had to go. So Janet went to see Sam and talk to her.

Because Cassie wanted to help with preparations, Sam was getting ready over at Janet's place. Jack would pick her up there.

Cassie had helped with picking up the dresses. She had insisted that both ladies would either buy or rent something new, shiny and breathtaking. So they went shopping together, they had fun! After few hours of walking through the stores and trying to find the perfect dress, they got lucky. Both Sam and Janet had found their perfect dresses. Cassie had approved.

She was supposed to meet her friends so she had left both ladies in the shopping center. They both took the opportunity and visited few more shops. They needed shoes for example, Sam insisted also on elbow-high gloves for herself. She wanted to cover all the scars from the caves and other … rather unpleasant experiences. And Janet had insisted on buying new underwear. Sam was struggling a bit with that idea but in the end she gave in.

They drove over to one little shop with underwear and accessories. The shop assistant there was a cute lady that could always tell what you needed, what you were searching for. Ladies showed her the dresses. She ushered them into changing rooms. She didn't have to take any measures; both Sam and Janet were considered loyal customers here. From time to time it could make them really happy to buy some nice and very comfortable underwear for themselves. It was no Victoria's secret but it was sometimes even better.

In the end both ladies were having late lunch, both with several shopping bags in their hands. With new dresses, shoes, underwear… they couldn't have felt better. It was not usual for them to spend such money on one event but this event was important. Besides guys would be wearing tuxedos, so … it would be amazing.

It was Friday evening suddenly, they had their nails and hair done, even the make-up. Cassie had helped them with some final touches and also with the dresses. She was sure that guys would be speechless. She knew that Jack would ask Sam about one really important thing tonight. He had told her and asked about her opinion. And she was hoping that either her mom or Daniel would finally find the courage to take some major step and finally get together! She was slowly going nuts from their silent tiptoeing around each other.

"So what do you think?"

"You're gonna drive him crazy, mom!"

"Cassie!"

"She's right, Jan. You know that Daniel had troubles with breathing after seeing you in summer dress. This would kill him on the spot."

"I surely hope that it will not!"

Their laughing got interrupted by the doorbell. They couldn't have known which guy it would be. Cassie went to open the door and found them both there.

"WOW!"

"Nice to see you too, kiddo."

"Oh… it's nice to see you, Jack. But wow… guys you both… wow!"

"I guess that means we are not looking exactly bad, huh?"

"You kidding, Daniel? You look awesome! Just let me…"

And she fixed his tie a bit with a smile. She let them both enter. She wanted to take a picture of them. But she had talked to the General and he promised her that there would be photographers there so she would get some pictures of the couples and everyone.

"They're here!"

Cassie shouted into the house. She then kissed Jack on his cheek.

"Do it, okay? Ask her."

"I will."

He winked at her and she giggled. Yes, this evening would be awesome. And before Daniel managed to ask what was that about, she stepped to him and kissed him as well.

"She looks like a princess but you don't have to bring her back till midnight."

"Cass!"

"What? It's about time you two … do something! And don't you dare to say anything, let me remind you again that I am not a kid anymore…"

Daniel's face was suddenly bright red. She giggled again that evening and wished him luck. Then she noticed Jack's eyes going wide and his mouth forming big 'O'. She turned around and saw Sam walking towards them.

Bingo! She was stunning! And Jack was about to faint… She looked like a goddess in Jack's eyes.

She had dark blue dress with light blue top part. It was one piece, no corset. The top was decorated with blue and silver beads. All her curves were hugged perfectly. She had the top clasped around her neck. She had no necklace but she had silver earrings. Her French-manicured nails contrasting with the dark blue color of her dress were making her look like fantastic.

Before Jack managed to say a thing she put on her long gloves. They were in the same color as the top of the dress, the same dazzling blue as her eyes had. He understood the reason of the gloves. She was okay with her scars and marks but sometimes she simply felt better without other people staring at her. Like now.

But well he was sure that everybody would be staring at her anyway – she was looking angelic, perfect. Simply perfect. No, better. Wow.

He felt the huge boost his ego just got because of the fact that she would be there with him. Not with some young handsome officer but with him… She would be there whole evening with him, by his side, in his arms, dancing with him, talking to him, smiling at him… He was one lucky bastard.

Her eyes were sparkling, focused only on Jack in front of her. He smiled at her and reached for her. She took his hand in hers and let him spin her around. That was when he noticed her bare back. The poor man suddenly lost the ability to talk and to think. He could hear his own heart beating, fast and hard, suddenly feeling a bit too hot.

"Hi…"

"Hi…"

"I… I…. ehum…"

"Jack?"

"I wish I knew what to say but I don't. I'm… I'm … ehm…"

She giggled then and kissed him softly. His hands automatically went to her waist and pulled her closer. He rested his forehead against hers and took a deep breath. Were his knees made of jell-o or not? He wasn't sure. Was he trembling? What the hell was going on with him? He had seen her wearing dress before, as well as trousers, jeans, jumpsuit, BDU, dress blues, he had seen her naked... okay, that line of thoughts was not helping! He tried to focus but he couldn't. He simply couldn't. She was ... she was Sam. And that was more than enough. His amazing Sam. He knew that he would remember this moment till the end of his life.

"So you like it?"

Finally she had some something. It helped with breaking the silence.

"I love it. And there are no words on this planet that would express how beautiful you are. They're just not enough."

"That is probably the nicest thing I've ever heard."

"I love you."

"I know… oh and by the way, you don't look that bad yourself."

"So you like me in the tux, huh?"

"Yes…. Very. Much."

She kissed him again. Cassie handed her her purse then. She felt like being in the middle of a romantic movie. They were so cute! It seemed to be almost unreal.

"Have fun you two."

"Thank you, sweetheart."

Cassie smiled. Jack nodded at Daniel and walked away with Sam. Daniel was getting nervous. Sam had really looked stunning. He could easily picture himself in Jack's place. He would be there any minute, looking at the woman he loved with his whole heart looking absolutely gorgeous, not knowing what to say… how did Jack managed to stand straight and not get a stroke or something?

But … Janet still hadn't arrived.

"Cass? Where is she?"

"I don't know… I'll go and take a look."

Cassie walked away and found Janet in the bedroom, sitting on her bed, looking at the ground. She tried to call her few times but Janet hadn't responded. So she walked back to the living room and told Daniel to go and talk to her. Something had to be wrong.

So Daniel walked there, knocked on the door and walked into Janet's bedroom. She looked adorable. Her hair up, small pink earring in her ears. She was wearing dark pink dress, the colour was the one of raspberries, dark and creating strange sensations in him. She had simple top and nice rich skirt, it looked light and like being in layers. She looked like a princess to him. Small beads sparkling on the skirt, it looked divine. She was… perfect. Flawless in his eyes, beautiful and glowing.

For a moment he had to think about Sha're. And he apologized for not being able to save her and thanking her for saving his soul. He thanked the heavens for Janet Fraiser and the love she presented. He had found his peace, his love and his place in life. It was anywhere, everywhere where Janet would be.

He walked to her, lump in his throat, his hands sweating.

"Jan?"

She looked up at him and he noticed the tears threatening to fall down her cheeks. He got worried. He sat down next to her.

"Hey, what's wrong?"

"I… Daniel…"

"Shh…"

He reached for her hand there, not knowing what to do. He just needed some contact.

"I know you can't but…. Please promise me that this ball won't end like the last one. Daniel…"

She sounded like a small broken girl then. And he understood. He felt like the biggest idiot for not thinking about this earlier. Of course she had to be worried.

He moved his other hand and lifted her chin so she would be looking at him.

"I can promise you that. And I PROMISE, Janet, I promise. I won't end like the last time. I'm not going anywhere without you and I won't let you go either."

"Daniel…"

"I wanted to do this later but I guess it's okay to do it now."

"What?"

"I want to take the step, Janet, I want to be the one you think about every minute of the day, the one to share your happiness and pain and everything that life brings, I want to be the one to take care of you and your daughter. I want to wake up with you every morning and I want you to be with me every night when I'm falling asleep. You know I care about you, Janet. And being your friend, although with… benefits, it's not enough, not anymore. You're the light of my days, I need you and I want you and I love you, I love you so much."

It took her a moment before analyzing this. He was speaking so fast! She had to swallow few times to get rid of the lump in her throat. She was shivering but she surely wasn't cold. Her heart was about to jump out of her chest.

"I love you too, you know…"

"Thank God."

"Daniel…"

"Yes?"

"Next time you say something like this, please, say it slowly so I can enjoy it… and then add one little question, okay? Please. It was... you were... I... Oh Daniel..."

He looked at her, shocked and understanding. She wanted them to take the step, to be together, to be more than friends. And she was giving him the opportunity to realize that if he would ever decide to ask her to marry him, she would probably do it.

Before he managed to say anything else, she threw herself into his arms, locked them around his neck and after a moment she had kissed him. They had fallen on the bed together, kissing and practically melting into each other's arms. And this kiss was like never before.

They needed a lot of self-control to end it and get up from the bed. He fixed his tie again and Janet added few final touches to her dress.

"Okay, let's go."

"Wait…"

He took her hand and pulled her to him. He kissed her again, passionately, leaving no doubts about his feelings and intentions.

"You look stunning. Absolutely gorgeous. Breathtaking…"

"Thank you…"

"I know Jack won't agree but you're gonna be the most beautiful woman out there tonight. Well, you are the most beautiful woman everywhere where you go, you know? Always…"

"Have you been drinking?"

"No…"

"He's just in love…crazily head-over-heels in love with you, mom…"

They noticed Cassie standing in the doorway, grinning at them. They had no idea since when she's been there.

"You should go…you're gonna be late."

Janet was blushing suddenly but surely no more than Daniel. They both kissed Cassie's forehead and then walked away into the night to enjoy the ball and each other.

The ball was fantastic. The City Hall had a garden. They had put lights there, it looked beautiful. There was also a terrace around the main hall so people could be either inside or outside, still hearing the music, dancing, talking. Up in the first floor was the silent auction.

Daniel, Janet, Jack, Sam, Hammond, Ferretti and Natalia were sitting together at one table. Talking, laughing, guys stealing glances at their dates. Hammond felt a bit old there but happy. His people were there, looking content, handsome men and beautiful women, chatting and laughing and then, finally also dancing.

He took the liberty and asked Sam for a dance. She smiled at Jack and walked to the dance floor with Hammond.

"You look amazing tonight, Sam."

"Thank you."

"We got a message from your father."

"Really? He … called?"

"He didn't have much time, it was really brief. He will visit us soon, probably in two weeks if things go well. I had a chance to tell him about the change in your and Jack's relationship but I thought that it would be better if you two would do it."

"So he doesn't know?"

"He doesn't know. So maybe you could take a day off and take him out to see Earth once again and talk to him, hm?"

"Thank you, Sir, thank you."

She smiled at him and his heart skipped a beat. She was one of the most important people in his life, she was his friend's daughter, and she was happy. Could he ask for more?

He noticed Doctor Jackson dancing with Doctor Fraiser.

"So they're on friendly terms now?"

"Oh, yes, they are. Looks like they managed to take a step or two tonight, doesn't it?"

"So … finally."

"I'm sorry, Sir, about all the troubles. None of us meant to cause you the stress and problems and everything."

"I know Sam, don't worry, I know. I'm proud of you all."

And so standing there on the dance floor, she hugged him. He was surprised but surely not complaining.

Back at the table Jack was looking at them, smiling. Sam had always had a soft spot for Hammond, he was like an uncle to her. She loved him in her own way. He also noticed Daniel with Fraiser, being practically glued to each other while dancing. Ha. So they finally solved it. Good for them.

Ferretti walked for drinks so Jack was sitting there alone just with Natalia.

"You really love her, don't you, Jack?"

He ducked his head for a moment like a shy boy before looking at her and smiling broadly. That was the moment they both had known for sure.

"Yes, I do."

"It's cute."

"Hey look who said that! How's the reconstruction coming?"

"Oh we're nearly done. We are moving the last things in the next two weeks."

"So there's gonna be a welcoming party?"

"Maybe…"

"There better should be!"

She had to laugh. He was incredible. There had to be a reason why Lou had always liked him as a CO and as a very good friend. She knew...

"Oh and I have to thank you."

"Thank me?"

She was enjoying his genuinely confused features. Ha.

"Yes… you know, few days ago, we've been installing this large mirror over the sink in the bathroom and full length one."

"Oh… well… and?"

"Don't look so innocent!"

"What?"

"He was so proud of the work, he kissed me there and saw glimpse of us in the mirror… you know very well the effects of those particular views, don't you?"

"Ehm…"

"As I said, thank you. He trusted you, insisted on the mirrors and on the ridiculously big bathtub but I think I see the point in that… and something's telling me that it was not a wild guess but an advice based upon very intimate experience."

Jack's ears were suddenly lobster red. He was grinning though. Natalia was a smart one, he had always known that. She smiled at him and walked away then. She had her lover somewhere out there and she felt really strong urge to go and find him and kiss him and dance with him... for a start.

Jack got up and walked to Sam. She was dancing with Daniel then. He hadn't noticed the change in dance partners. But he couldn't care less. He was man on a mission.

"Hey… may I?"

"Sure."

"Thank you."

He took Sam in his arms then and started to sway with her gently. The music was soft and sensual, beautiful. Their heads resting against each other, hands holding, softly caressing each other's skin, bodies touching, they were in perfect sync, perfect harmony.

"So…"

"So?"

"Come on Jack, I know you've been hiding something. Will you tell me finally?"

She heard him chuckle then.

"So you knew?"

"Well… Cassie managed to slip a bit with the 'don't worry and agree' line but… well…"

He moved a bit so he was able to look into her eyes. She could see all his walls being down, she could see his soul mirroring there in the chocolate depths.

"I love you, Sam, you know that, right?"

"Yes."

"And I know we agreed on baby steps and that we would take things slow and with no rush and so… but I was thinking… and I wanted to ask you…. "

"Ask me what?"

She was nervous, looking way too nervous. But he was in no better shape. Still holding hands, breathing a bit too fast, trying not to do or say anything stupid.

"Jack?"

"Will you move in with me?"

"What?"

Her eyes got wide, she couldn't breathe… so she ran away. She left him there, standing on the dance floor and ran out into the garden, her dress swirling around her, making her look like a fairy on a run. Jack felt his heart crush and explode, all the color lost from his face, his hands still partially in the air, trying to hold onto her. But she was gone. She was gone... the room seemed to be empty suddenly, all the air gone from his lungs.

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A/N: muhehe… :o) Curious? Nervous? Ideas? Thoughts? Pleas? You know what to do don't you…? :o)

As for the dresses – Sam was wearing my prom-gown – take a look – http : / / malcata(dot)cz / Adela _ ball/ Adelas_ball_ 1 (dot)JPG (yeah, get rid of the spaces….) I think it would look good on her, especially the color and so. I know, blue dress is nothing original but well, my story, my ideas, so my heroine is wearing my dress :oD I didn't have the gloves but I think they would look amazing.

And Janet had these but in dark pink –www(dot)beautybutik(dot)cz/files/_640x480/plesove-saty-zlute-36(dot)jpg – I was trying to find the perfect one coming along with her skin and her and eyes and I didn't want to dress her in red or black and dark raspberry pink seemed to be just perfect :o)