Title: Stargate SG-1 – New Beginnings
Summary: Can career driven Samantha Carter finally lay to rest the ghosts of her past and find true happiness? A/U
Pairing: Colonel Samantha Carter & Original Female Character.
Rating: MA for realist sexual content and language.
Disclaimer: The following story is purely a work of fiction created by borrowing characters from a television series for the purpose of entertainment. Characters other than originals remain the property of creators Brad Wright & Jonathan Glassner. No profit is gained nor is any copyright infringement intended towards Sony Pictures Television, Gekko Film Corp & MGM Worldwide Television.
A/N: Please review and keep the creative writings flowing!
Chapter 26
Dana exited Sam's house at zero four twenty hours and walked home. Dropping off her laundry and sports bag, she went into the garage and grabbed her bike helmet.
She arrived in the hospital scrub room ten minutes before the tubal ligation operation was scheduled to commence. While she sterilised her hands and lower arms, she recalled the note she left Sam.
My beautiful Sam,
Sorry about my cranky pants, but I did warn you I would have them on during this residency period.
It's no excuse my Sam and I'll make it up to you soon.
I won't be finished duty until after 2300 hrs & starting again at 0500.
Of course, that means staying on base.
I'll miss you and hold you in my heart.
I love you.
Your cranky arsed Warrior.
Dana xxxx oooo
Dana was trying to think of a makeup plan when Shelly entered the room.
"Good morning Dana."
"Hello," replied Dana forlornly.
"Well, that's not sounding happy. Is something wrong?"
"Yeah, I am a goof." Dana explained the situation while she finished scrubbing.
"Oh Dana, Sam will understand. Just be thankful she didn't scream out an ex's name while in the throes of passion."
"Crikey, that would be worse."
"Trust me, it is. Alice had to do some serious and creative butt kissing for a whole week after that one."
Dana laughed, "Oh my."
"I forgave her after she bought me a diamond necklace."
"Well, I'm all for the arse kissing."
"It was funny in the end. We'd only been dating for a couple of weeks and it was a simple slip of the tongue."
"I apologised last night, but still feel the need to make it up to her."
"Dana, you didn't do anything wrong."
"I know, so why do I feel so bad?"
"You need to stop trying to compete against the memory of Janet."
"I know and you are right."
"I know I am. Now get your shit together woman and call Sam after we do some artistic surgery," taunted Shelly.
Dana laughed at her friend's suggestion, "I will and thanks for the advice."
-o-
Sam read Dana's message and smiled. As far as she was concerned Dana had nothing to be sorry for and intended on proving that point to her later that night. She dressed in a set of desert camouflage trousers, brown tee shirt and combat boots before going downstairs and saying goodbye to Cassie and Reese.
-o-
After changing out of scrubs, Dana went to the doctor's lounge and rang the Stargate Command. She provided her authorisation code and was put through to the Gate Control Room.
Sam was taking some energy readings from the Gate when Chief Sergeant Harriman announced over the intercom there was an outside phone call for her from Brigadier Ridley. Handing the energy meter to Siler, she excused herself.
Running up the stairs two at a time, she entered the room and picked up the receiver. "Hello my love is everything okay?"
Walter and Josh tried to find something to do and look busy rather than listen in on the conversation.
"Everything is fine. I just needed to know you were all right and apologise again for my poor behaviour last night."
"Darling, please stop beating yourself up over nothing. I'm the one who was in the wrong and if there is to be any making up to be done, it's for me to do."
"All right Sam, so how is your day going?"
"Good, Sly hasn't hurt himself yet, so that's a bonus."
Dana giggled at the news, "Well, I'll let you get back to it and I gather everyone in SGC will know about our relationship once you get off the phone?"
"Give it about five minutes my love, although after our public display on the weekend, I'm surprised the rumours aren't flying about already."
"Sam, it is okay to call me honey and I'm surprised too."
"That's duly noted Brigadier and on the other matter, time will tell."
"Bye Sam. I love you and will talk to you soon."
"I love you too, bye." Sam hung up the phone and turned to the Control Room staff, "Just so there is no misunderstandings, that was Brigadier Ridley I was talking to and have some respect for my rank and hers and give us at least until the time it takes me to get back to the Gate before you start making phone calls and discussing our private lives."
Walter couldn't help but chuckle nervously, "Yes ma'am."
-o-
To Sam's astonishment no one approached her in the Mess to ask her questions nor did anyone give her strange looks. When she returned to the Control Room, she found Walter on his own.
"Colonel Carter."
"Chief, I must say I was taken aback to find I wasn't the topic of conversation in the Mess during lunch."
"That's because Lieutenant Ryan and I agreed to say nothing about your phone call. It's your private business and I for one; respect you too much to gossip."
"Well Walter, I thank you for your honesty and support."
"Besides we already knew."
"Oh and how is that?" asked an intrigued Sam. "Did Josh tell you about Ridley and my closeness over the weekend?"
"No we knew weeks ago. Josh and I both saw Colonel Ridley's reaction the day you came back off mission with the naquadah reaction and your return from Taloon when the Brigadier had been shot gave you away."
"That's very perceptive of you."
"Well, we see a lot from up here ma'am."
"That you do and thank you. Once Siler and Daniel get back, we'll go through the test on chevron one."
"Okay ma'am."
Sam went down into the Embarkation Room and ran some logistics on chevron two while she waited.
-o-
Dana secured her bike in the car park and took off her helmet. Running her fingers through her hair, she made her way inside the Mountain Complex. After pressing her hand onto the print scanner, she was surprised to see Walter Harriman heading towards her.
"Hello Walter, isn't it a bit late for you to be leaving?"
"Hi Dana, we struck a problem and just finished fixing it a few minutes ago."
"That's a bummer, I'll see you later." Dana was hoping Sam was still on base and would have the opportunity to see her.
"See ya. Oh, Colonel Carter is still here."
Dana gave him a wry smile, "Thanks Walter, bye." She ran down to the Control Room and found only two Techs on duty.
"Good evening Brigadier."
"Evening Sergeant Wilks. Do you know the whereabouts of Colonel Carter?"
"Yes ma'am, the Colonel left some twenty minutes ago for her quarters. I believe she is staying on base overnight."
"Thank you Sergeant and have a good shift."
"Thank you ma'am and goodnight."
Dana jogged to Sam's room and knocked on the door. After waiting several moments for an answer, she assumed Sam was asleep. She decided to go to her own quarters for a shower, return and let herself in. She keyed in her door code seconds later and opened the door.
Flicking on the light, she froze and gawked open mouthed.
Sam was standing in front of the dining table dressed in a dark blue sheer silk negligee and holding two glasses of champagne. Her incredible smile was spread across her face and her eyes were sparkling brightly.
Dana put down her helmet on the couch and walked over to her. Taking Sam's face between her hands, she looked into the gleaming blue eyes, "You are so wonderfully magnificent my Sam and this is a beautiful welcome home after a long day. I love you so much baby."
Sam's eyes glistened with tears, "I'm so glad you approve and I want to welcome you home every day that I can."
"Oh Sam," Dana kissed her passionately, drowning in the emotion coursing through her body and soul.
Sam groaned deeply and pulled back, "How about you have a drink then a shower while I will prepare dinner for us."
Dana took the flute from Sam's left hand, "So, I gather this is your way of making it up to me?"
Sam smirked, "You could say that darling."
Dana drank half the contents of her glass, "I won't be long sweetheart."
"Okay and you are very sexy in your uniform trousers."
"Thank you." Dana emptied her glass and set it on the table. She grabbed a pair of boxers and tank top from the top drawer. Slipping off her boots, she unbuttoned her jacket and hung it up in the closet. Her trousers soon followed and after taking off the epaulettes and badges from her shirt, she tossed it into the clothes hamper along with her socks and underwear. Finally, she took off her dog tags and placed them on the bedside table.
Stepping into the shower, she washed away the muscle tiredness then turned off the water. Sam had the meal ready as she exited the bathroom. "It smells great Sam."
"I raided the mess kitchen."
"Good one baby," Dana said as she took a seat.
Sam refilled Dana's glass, "I've even got dessert."
"That's very thoughtful of you and how come you worked so late?" Dana started to eat as she listened to Sam.
"Two conduits blew in the secondary and emergency engineering and power grid on Level twenty three during testing on the Gate. It was essential we had it all back online."
"See, another opportunity to have some geek fun and I miss it," mocked Dana.
"It won't be long before you can get your hands dirty honey."
They discussed the conduits for several minutes in between mouthfuls of food.
"So where did you get the champagne from?" inquired Dana.
"I took some personnel time this afternoon and went into town."
"I must say, you have really out done yourself."
Sam's eyes shone, "I'm so glad you are enjoying yourself."
"You spoil me rotten when I stay on base."
"Get used to it, because it's not going to change."
"I will sweetheart, so what's for dessert?"
Sam stood and collected their plates and went into the kitchenette. She returned with two parfaits of chocolate mousse.
"Yumbo," cheered Dana as Sam placed one in front of her on the table.
Sam sat down and took a spoonful of the fluffy dessert.
Without meaning to, Dana yawned before starting on hers.
"Tired honey?" asked Sam between mouthfuls.
"Yes baby, but I believe I won't be going to sleep for some time yet," she replied with a glint in her eyes.
"When you finish eating, we can go straight to bed and you can go to sleep."
"Sweetheart, with you looking so incredibly beautiful, sleep is overrated." Dana chuckled as she dug her spoon into the dessert, "Bugger, there is something in this."
Sam calmly enquired, "What?"
"Hang on I'll just scoop it out." Dana withdrew a lump of chocolate mousse on the end of her spoon.
Sam looked at her and suggested, "You better wash it off under some water and see what it is. Something must have fallen into it in the Mess."
Dana got up from the table and went to the sink.
Sam followed and wrapped her arms around her from behind and watched, "Lucky you didn't swallow it."
Dana placed the small object under the stream of water, "It's hard, whatever it is." She gasped with surprise when the object was revealed. She turned around and faced Sam.
The blonde immediately dropped down onto her left knee.
"Oh Sam," Dana whispered, he voice tight with emotion. She looked at the white gold ring encrusted with a semi-circle of small round cut diamonds in her hand.
Sam was grinning madly as she took hold of Dana's right hand, "Dana Logan Ridley, will you do me the honour of becoming my wife?"
Dana reached for Sam's shoulders and pulled her up off the floor, "It would be with absolute pleasure that I accept your proposal Sam."
Taking the ring off Dana, Sam placed it on the ring finger of her left hand, "You've made me very happy honey. I love you and want to be with you for all time."
"I am so in love with you and the ring is spectacular. This is such a surprise."
"Well, I thought I'd ask before you did and I like the ring too. It looks very good on you."
Dana placed her hands on Sam's hips, "I was going to propose next week."
Sam smiled, "In that case, I still expect a ring."
"You got it my darling Sam. I have a 1500 hour finish on Wednesday, if you can get off early, we can go look for your ring."
Sam ran her fingers lovingly through the back of Dana's hair, "Honey, I set my own hours when I am not off-world and I know the ring I want."
Dana kissed Sam on the chin, "You do?"
"Yes, I would like matching rings," she pulled Dana's head closer.
"Then that is what you shall have."
"There is one other thing I want my love."
"And what is that sweetheart?" asked Dana huskily.
"You," answered Sam before she pressed her eager mouth to inviting lips.
-o-
The alarm sounded at four fifteen, rousing Dana and Sam from their slumber.
"Good lord, I'm so bloody tired," Dana complained as she turned off the buzzing.
"I'm sorry honey."
"So you should be," teased Dana. "Fancy pouring all that champagne over me and licking it off for hours."
Sam laughed merrily, "I was so terrible to you."
"You were and I expect the same tonight when I get off duty."
"I will endeavour to ensure that happens."
"Baby, go back to sleep and I'll reset the alarm for you. What time do you want to get up?"
"Eight fifteen please Dana; I'm not starting until nine."
Dana untangled her legs from Sam's and slid out of bed.
Twelve minutes later, she was dressed in blue BDUs and putting on her dog tags. She picked up her helmet as Sam spoke.
"I love you and have a good shift my beautiful fiancée."
Dana's heart melted and she went to Sam. Leaning over, she kissed her lover on the lips.
Sam pulled away, screwed up her face and said, "Honey, morning breath."
"I don't give a flying rat's arse baby. I want to give my fiancée a decent kiss goodbye."
"Oh honey, you are so feisty this morning."
Dana giggled, "Lack of sleep more like it. I'll give you a call sometime during the day. Will you still be working on the Gate?"
"Yes darling."
"All right then," Dana cupped Sam's face and kissed her fervently.
When they broke apart, Sam said, "Holy Hannah, I love your kisses."
Dana smiled radiantly down at Sam, "As I love yours sweetheart."
"I'm glad to see you are wearing your ring."
Dana straightened up and looked at her left hand, "Speaking of rings, can I tell people we are engaged?"
"Of course you can. I'll be calling Cassie and Reese tonight with the wonderful news."
"Cool, I'll see you tonight Sam and say hello to the girls for me. Now, go back to sleep beautiful."
"I can't."
"Why not?" inquired Dana, fully knowing the answer.
"Because you look breathtakingly sexy and your kisses were so sweet, so now I'll have to take care of business myself."
Dana looked at Sam then her watch, "Like hell you will." She crawled on top of Sam and added, "I'll give breakfast a miss."
Sam replied seductively, "You can eat me instead."
Dana growled deeply as their lips met.
-o-
Dana walked into the scrub room at 0455 hours and Warren Townsend arrived two minutes later to find her singing "Viva Las Vegas".
"Good morning to you Brigadier."
"Morning Major, lovely day for it."
"I'm glad to see you in such fine spirits and I must say you have an outstanding voice."
"Thanks." Dana turned off the faucets, "I'll meet you inside and sing you a request."
For the next two hours, operating room number two was filled with the sounds of Dana, Warren and the nurses singing. The group gave repeat performances during the next three procedures.
Dana had a break at 1300 hours and after having lunch with Warren, she retired to the doctor's lounge. She put a call through to SGC and waited for someone to pick up the phone in the Control Room. She was glad it was Sam who answered.
"Hello Colonel Carter speaking."
"Hello my darling. How's life in the concrete jungle?"
"Very slow and with the rate we are going, it will be Friday before all the maintenance is completed."
"Well at least it is keeping you busy."
"That's true, but I have your cranky pants on today."
"In that case, I won't keep you baby. I just wanted to say hello and let you know I should be back on base around eight."
"Do you have any requests for dinner?"
"Yes, cherry pie and whipped cream," replied Dana brazenly.
"Holy Hannah Dana, lucky I'm the only one in the Control Room, because I am a bright shade of red."
"Oh sweetheart, you are too cute. Now get back to work. I love you and I'll see you tonight."
"Love you too honey, bye."
Sam returned to the Gate while Dana got ready for a Gastrointestinal Artesia's repair.
-o-
Shelly came on duty at 1700 hours and relieved Warren. Dana was in the lounge catching a few minutes of sleep when she walked in. She opened her eyes when she heard the door open, "Hey Shelly."
"Hello Dana."
"I was having a little nap before the next surgery."
"Sorry I disturbed you," apologised Selly sincerely.
"Don't be, so how is the family doing?"
Shelly's face lit up, "Perfect as always. Max is still talking about all his new friends from the weekend."
Dana chuckled before popping a piece of gum into her mouth, "That son of yours is beyond brilliant."
"Yeah, he can be. When we got home Alice had to explain about your accent. He didn't want to ask you himself. My wife ended up on the net showing him pictures of Australia. Needless to say, he wants to go there now."
"Well you never know; he may get the opportunity to visit one day."
"It would be an excellent honeymoon destination when Alice and I renew our vows."
"If you do decide to go, let me know and I can hook you up with cheap accommodation at some terrific resorts."
"I'll keep that in mind." Shelly looked at the wall clock, "Well, time to get ready for the congenital diaphragmatic hernia procedure. By the way, I'm led to believe there has been some fine singing going on in the theatre."
"It's true. Warren and I brought the house down several times."
Shelly laughed, "Well don't look at me to join in, Alice says I am tone deaf."
"We shall see Doctor Drake," joked Dana as she stood up from the sofa.
-o-
Sam went into town when she finished duty and bought fresh salad ingredients and two porterhouse steaks. She dropped by her and Dana's houses to collect mail and to check for phone messages.
Once she was back on base, she went to Dana's quarters and put the food in the refrigerator. She undressed and lay down on the bed to get a few hours of sleep.
She was sound asleep when Dana crept into her quarters some time later. Dana and Shelly had managed to clear their surgical list early and Dana had arrived back on base just after six thirty. When she had opened the door to her quarters, she spotted Sam in bed and decided to reset the alarm for 0600 hours.
After taking off her clothes and turning off the lights, she crawled into bed, too tired to even think about dinner.
Sam stirred briefly as their naked bodies touched and within minutes, Dana had drifted off to sleep.
-o-
Sam's eyes fluttered open and looking at the clock, she saw it was 0436 hours. Dana was snuggled into her back and breathing against her neck. She figured Dana had returned early during the night and reset the alarm. She inched slowly towards to edge of the bed and Dana immediately reached across the mattress for her.
"Baby," she whispered.
"Honey go back to sleep, it's still early."
"Then why are you getting up?"
"Because I have slept for nearly ten hours and am refreshed and wide awake."
"That's fair enough. So what are your plans?"
"I was planning on having a shower."
"Would you like me to join you?"
Sam giggled, "Of course I would."
Dana rolled over and turned on the bedside lamp, "I'll meet you there Sam. I need to grab a drink of water first."
Slipping in behind Sam moments later, Dana wrapped an arm around her and nestled into the left side of her neck.
"So what time did you get in last night?" asked Sam as she reached for the shampoo.
"It was a little after six thirty, Shelly and I finished ahead of schedule."
"I had planned on cooking you dinner."
"I know darling, but I was so tired and you looked so serene, I wanted you to get a decent night's sleep too." She took the bottle off Sam and squeezed a small amount into her palm.
Sam moved to the side to allow Dana to immerse her head under the jets of water then rinsed off her own hair when Dana stepped back. "Did you tell Shelly about our engagement?"
"No. I'd like to wait until after today when you have a ring too."
"That's a wonderful idea." She passed the bottle of conditioner to Dana.
"Did you call Cassie?"
"No. I was intending to do it last night too and I wanted you to be present for the announcement."
"We can do it tonight instead sweetheart," suggested Dana.
"All right," Sam again rinsed her hair and Dana followed suit.
Dana reached in front of Sam and picked up the shower gel and sponge. After soaping up the sponge, she placed the gel back in the caddy and commenced to wash Sam's shoulders. She started to sing "How Do I Live" softlyas her hands inched downwards.
Sam sighed and lost herself in Dana's soothing tone. She felt the flames of need build while Dana's hands moved slowly. She turned around and offered herself to her musical lover.
Dana took up the invitation and washed Sam's chest, lazily running the sponge over perfect breasts. She continued to sing and her lover enjoyed the private show. When Dana had finished cleansing between Sam's legs, she stopped singing and concentrated of washing herself.
Without a word, Sam rinsed off the suds and stepped out of the shower. She dried off her body and exited the room.
Dana quickly finished up, knowing Sam would be in bed waiting for her.
-o-
After breakfasting in the Commissary, Dana walked Sam to her lab and said, "I'll see you for lunch Sam."
"That you will my beautiful woman."
"I love you and have a good one baby."
"I'm just picking up a couple of things then heading to the Gate Room."
"Okay, bye Sam."
"I love you honey."
-o-
Dana entered the Infirmary and checked in with Warner for the morning brief. There were four surgical procedures scheduled for the day and she was expecting no problem with finishing by 1500 hours. During breakfast, she and Sam had discussed the purchase of Sam's ring. They were going straight to the jewellers where Sam had bought Dana's ring to look for a duplicate.
Sam whistled gaily throughout the morning and Sergeant Siler and the other technicians looked at her several times, wondering what was making the Colonel so happy.
Walter and Josh watched from the Control Room and smiled at her, knowing the reason behind her merriment.
Unfortunately, Sam was too busy to spend the lunch break with Dana, so she lunched with Warner instead.
By 1450 hours, Dana and Warner were done for the day and Dana went to her quarters to shower and dress in a light grey pants suit with a black shirt. She looked into the mirror and brushed her hair and after exiting the room, she went to the bedside table and withdrew the ring box. Smiling brightly, she placed the ring on her finger.
Sam opened the door as Dana was closing the drawer. "Oh my god Dana, you look stunning," she said excitedly.
Dana smiled, "Thank you sweetie. Now no time to dally, I'm in a rush to buy you a ring."
Sam sauntered over to Dana, "Not so fast my love, I just dropped in to tell you I have a problem in the Gate Room that needs to be resolved as soon as possible."
"Oh bugger."
"Sorry, looks like you will have to go without me honey." Sam placed her hands on Dana's waist.
"It's all right."
"Look, I have to get back before Siler falls off a ladder or something. This is going to take several hours, I'm afraid."
"You get going and I will see you later."
"You will," Sam leaned in and kissed Dana tenderly. "I love you."
"Love you too."
Sam gave Dana directions to the jewellers before leaving. Dana decided on a change of wardrobe before leaving base.
-o-
Once she was topside, Dana called for a taxi and twenty minutes later, walked into the jewellers. When the sales assistant enquired if she could help her, Dana took off her ring and showed it to the woman. Explaining that she required the same ring in the exact same size, the woman handed the band back to Dana.
"I remember the woman who purchased this ring the other day, do you wish to have the ring engraved also."
Dana looked on the inside of her ring for the first time, she hadn't realised Sam had added an inscription: Forever my love, Sam. 07.28.08
With eyes misting over, Dana replied, "Oh yes please."
"Excellent, just write down the inscription you'd like on the notepad."
Dana did and while she waited for the ring to be engraved, she looked around the other display counters. She spotted the perfect gift for Sam and asked the sales assistant for a closer look at the diamond and sapphire drop necklace.
Trying it on, Dana was happy when the centre cluster of the diamond encased sapphires fell between her breasts. Imagining how striking it would look between Sam's magnificent bosoms, she took it off and handed it to the woman. "I'll take this as well thanks."
The sales assistant's eyes lit up, "Ma'am this is one of our more expensive pieces, are you sure?" She looked closely at Dana's outfit with a questioning glance.
The look didn't go unnoticed, "Don't be fooled by my appearance and I am sure about the necklace. I'll be putting everything on my credit card."
"Certainly ma'am."
Five minutes later, the saleswoman returned with the ring and handed it to Dana for inspection.
"Excellent," said Dana gleefully.
"Would you like both your purchases gift wrapped?"
"Yes please." Dana withdrew her wallet from her trousers and pulled out her platinum Visa card, handing it over in exchange for the two brightly wrapped packages.
"Thank you, your purchases come to a total of one hundred and fifty three thousand dollars."
Dana signed for the items and left extremely happy with herself. She strolled around the shopping mall for a while and ended up buying a new outfit and shoes for Saturday's barbeque.
-o-
After entering her quarters, Dana secreted the necklace in her duffle bag. She planned on presenting it to Sam on the eighth for their anniversary. Checking the time, she picked up the ring box and left her room.
Sam was in the Control Room doing a final diagnostic on the Gate with Walter and Josh when Dana walked in behind them.
"Hello Lieutenant Ryan, Chief Harriman and Colonel Carter nice to see you hard at it."
"Ma'am," chorused Josh and Walter.
Sam's mouth was open, but no words were coming out.
Dana wanted to giggle but remained in professional mode, "Gentlemen, can I steal the Colonel away for five minutes?"
"Yes ma'am," replied the two in unison.
Sam slowly followed Dana to the back of the room, her eyes never leaving her girlfriend's legs as she moved along in her service uniform skirt, hose, pumps and jacket.
Dana turned around at the bottom of the steps and faced Sam, "Colonel Carter, you seem a little flushed."
Sam moved in closer, "My god Dana, you look sensational."
"Well, you have to make a decision about preference by Saturday, so I thought I would give you a reminder of your options."
Sam actually licked her lips before biting on the bottom one, "Holy Hannah, I could take you right here, right now honey."
Dana smirked, "Oh Colonel Carter you are such a tease."
"Oh I think you are the tease Brigadier Ridley. Can you give me a minute to finish this test and then I am all yours?"
"Before you go, I have something for you." She held out her left hand and presented Sam with the gift box.
Sam noticed Dana was wearing her engagement band, "Your ring looks very good on you in uniform honey."
Smiling brightly, Dana replied, "Thank you baby."
Sam opened the gift and smiled when she saw the ring. She took it out of the box and Dana reached for it.
Dana looked around to make sure they were alone before going down on bended knee and taking hold of Sam's left hand.
"I know you have already proposed to me, but I don't intend on every marrying anyone but you, so this is my one and only opportunity to propose. Samantha Elizabeth Carter, will you consent to being my wife?"
Sam gave Dana her best smile, "Yes I will my love."
Dana slipped the ring onto Sam's finger and stood.
"I'd kiss you right now, but that would be pushing our luck. At least we are out of camera view for this part," noted Sam.
"That's why I chose this spot. By the way, thank you for the wonderful inscription Sam."
"Welcome, just let me go finish up honey."
"I'll meet you right here."
"All right," Sam turned heel and took off her ring as she turned the corner and looked inside. She caught her breath when she read the engraved words: Your Warrior forever, love Dana. 07.28.08.
She replaced the ring on her finger and said to Walter, "Okay let's do this final check."
Testing on chevron six proved accurate and Sam made a hasty retreat.
Dana was still standing behind the stairs, "Hey sweetheart."
"Hey honey, I was thinking we should drop by and see George."
"Good idea baby."
The two officers climbed the stairs, passed through the Briefing Room and Sam knocked on the General's door.
"Come in," instructed George.
Sam and Dana stepped inside and Sam said, "Sir, do you have a moment?"
"I do, what's up Colonel?" He stood up from behind his desk and approached them.
"Permission to speak freely Sir?"
"Go ahead Sam."
"We'd like you to be the first to know that Dana and I are engaged."
George's face exploded into a big grin, "Oh lord Sam and Dana that is wonderful news. Congratulations to the both of you." He hugged Sam, then Dana. "I'm just so pleased for you."
Sam rubbed the back of Dana's left arm, "We are too George."
George looked at his watch, "Well this calls for a toast." He went to the bottom drawer of his desk and withdrew a bottle of scotch and three glasses. Pouring a shot in each, he handed one each to Dana and Sam. Picking up the third glass, he toasted, "Here's to love and happiness for you both and a long life of marital bliss."
"Cheers."
The happy couple showed George their rings and chatted for a few minutes before returning to Dana's room.
-o-
Once Dana secured the door of the dimly lit room, Sam grabbed her and gently pushed her up against the wall.
"You make me so unbelievably happy Dana," she said while unbuttoning Dana's jacket.
"As you do me sweetheart," replied Dana while pulling off Sam's tee shirt.
Sam flung the jacket over a nearby chair, "Honey hold that thought, I really need a shower first, but I want to undress you too."
"Sweetheart, undress me first then have a shower."
"Oh honey, I can't think straight right now."
Dana looked into her lover's eyes, "Don't think baby, just do."
With that said Sam pressed into Dana and devoured her lips. Dana groaned into Sam's open mouth, which excited the blonde further. She reached for Dana's tie and removed it, tossing it to the floor.
Dana reached along the wall and found the light panel. She flicked the switch and illuminated the room with a soft glow. She broke from Sam's hungry lips, "I want to see you. God Sam you are perfectly beautiful."
Sam whimpered in reply and sought out Dana's lips again. She feverishly kissed her lover, unable to calm her desire to fully possess the wonderful woman in her arms. She gripped both sides of Dana's dress shirt and ripped it open. The buttons flew across the room with some landing at their feet.
Dana was further aroused by Sam's behaviour and reached for Sam's bra and unclasped the clip in the back. She moaned as she released the bountiful swells from their constraints.
In turn, Sam pulled Dana's shirt off her shoulders and allowed it to fall to the floor. She released Dana's lips and slowly kissed her way down the strong neck.
"Oh god Sam," whispered Dana.
"Mine?" questioned Sam eagerly.
"Forever Sam," murmured Dana. She was heady and craved release.
Sam cupped Dana's breasts and gently caressed the flesh. Mindful of the fact that Dana's body still bore the bruises from being struck by a staff weapon, Sam slowed down her caresses and removed her lover's bra.
"Mine?" she demanded to know of her lover.
"Oh god … yes Sam." Dana was close to orgasm. She always cherished the times when Sam was possessive in their love making.
Sam lowered her hot mouth over the hard left nipple and flicked her tongue back and forth over the delightful nub.
Dana felt the wetness accumulate in the crease of her vulva and uttered, "Close my Sam, so close baby."
Sam sucked down on the nipple, bringing a cry of joy from Dana. Removing her hands, she reached behind and unbuttoned the skirt. Quickly, she unzipped the last piece of uniform and slid it down and over Dana's slim hips.
Dana stepped out of her shoes and skirt.
Sam grazed her teeth over the rock solid nipple in her mouth before moving over to the other breast. She suckled the neglected nubbin and Dana's legs started to shake.
Reaching across, Sam pinched the left nipple and Dana climaxed instantly. Holding on, Sam held Dana up against the wall as the tremors continued to flood her body.
"Good lord woman," remarked Dana after regaining her breath.
Sam tittered, "I love it when you come that way."
"Too much talk," urged Dana. "More loving my soldier."
Sam took the hint and kissed her way down Dana's rippled abdominal muscles. As she teased the skin with her lips and tongue, she reached up and pulled down the panty hose along with Dana's briefs.
Dana stepped out of them and caught her breath when Sam suddenly took her wet stiff clitoris into an eager mouth. Sam was impatient to taste her lover's musky, sweet essence.
Dana grabbed Sam's head, "Don't make me wait baby."
"Mine?" Sam asked again, taking the time to move away from Dana's small parcel of sensitive nerves.
"Yes darling … only yours … forever," answered Dana loudly.
Sam lowered her mouth over Dana's clitoris again and sucked. Dana came quickly and Sam took great delight in licking up all the syrupy nectar, making Dana climax for a third time.
By the time the couple made it to the shower, Sam had brought Dana to orgasm six times, stopping off and using different parts of the furnishing for support along the way.
Dana repaid Sam twice in the shower and once they were in bed, Sam's tally promptly caught up to Dana's.
-o-
Sam was lying with her chest across Dana's when she asked, "You hungry honey?"
"Yes baby, I am."
"Me too, want to give me a hand to cook some dinner?"
"You know how I love to give you a hand."
Dana turned out to be more of a hindrance than a help in the kitchen and Sam was sure the steaks were going to burn with all the interruptions.
Once dinner was over, Dana volunteered to do the dishes while Sam put a call through to Cassie.
"Hey mom, how's it going?"
"It goes brilliantly, how are you and Reese?"
"We're great. Reese is downstairs buying souvenirs for her family. So why the phone call from base, is everything okay?"
"Everything is excellent, couldn't be better. I'm calling to let you know I asked Dana to marry me."
Cassie was astonished that her mother beat Dana to the punch, "Get out of here! You didn't?"
"I did and she accepted."
Cassie started to cry, "Oh mom, I couldn't be happier for you and I know how much Dana loves you. Congratulations."
"She makes me very happy Cass and I love her with all my heart."
"Oh mom this is just perfect. Is Dana there with you?"
"Yes she is; I'll put her on." Sam held out the phone to Dana.
She took the receiver and placed it to her ear, "Hello Cass."
"Congratulations Dana. I see mom beat you to it."
Dana laughed for a second, "Yes, the sneaky bugger."
"I'm really excited for the both of you."
"Me too," she reached out and pulled Sam in close to her chest. "How's your break going?"
"It's been excellent and we are having such a great time."
"Good to hear, I'll hand your back to your mother. Take care and love to you and Reese."
"Love you too Dana."
Dana gave the phone to Sam and made for the bathroom. She had a quick shower while Sam chatted with Cassie. Climbing into bed several minutes later, she reached for the light control panel and turned off all the overhead lights, then turned on the bedside lamp. Looking across the bed, she watched Sam intently.
"Okay Cass, I'll see you soon. Love to you and Reese."
"Night mom, love you."
Sam hung up and went to the shower while Dana settled onto her back and waited.
-o-
Three minutes passed before Sam snuggled onto Dana's chest and Dana caressed the small of her back.
"When would you like to have the wedding honey?" asked Sam.
"I'll let you in on a secret," answered Dana.
"Do tell," urged Sam.
"I originally planned on proposing to you on your birthday, but couldn't wait that long."
Sam giggled, "Let me guess, you changed your mind after meeting Max?"
"Kind of; I saw how happy a family Shelly, Alice and Max are and realised I love you beyond anything I have ever experienced before and decided not to wait."
"That's what prompted me to propose. I saw how fantastic you were with Max and wanted to share that with you. Dana, I don't want you thinking you are second best. I love you equally as much as I did Janet. In fact I love you more as each day passes." Sam stopped speaking when she felt the tremor in Dana's chest. She sat up and looked at her lover and saw tears were streaming down her face. She reached down and swiped them away from the sides of her eyes.
Dana drew in her breath, "You don't know how much that means to hear you say that Sam."
Sam smiled, "I think I have a fairly good idea my darling."
Dana stopped weeping, "Thank you."
Sam lay back down and cuddled into Dana's side so she could look at her face.
Dana turned her head to the side and grinned.
"So, when do you want to make an honest woman of me?" probed Sam.
"How do you feel about your birthday?"
"That sounds perfect to me honey."
Dana reached out and caressed Sam's face, "I'd like a military wedding baby, what about you?"
"I'd like that too." She turned her head and kissed the inside of Dana's wrist. "I guess I better get in contact with my father and let him know."
"I'll call my family tomorrow."
"And I'll phone my brother Mark tomorrow too."
"Once I finish my residency, you and I can get things organised. We'll have more time to concentrate on all the little details."
"It's a plan my love."
"Sam, I just thought of something."
"What is it darling?"
"Instead of going to Australia for leave before we get married, how about we go there for our honeymoon instead?"
Sam moved up onto her elbow, "That makes a whole lot of sense honey."
"I don't know why I didn't think of it sooner."
"You've had a lot on your mind lately Dana."
"So true, I have been too busy thinking about you and your wonderful body and your mind boggling kisses," teased Dana good-heartily.
"You goof."
Dana gave Sam a sly smile, "Make love to me again baby."
Sam captured Dana's lips in a slow kiss and complied with the request.
-o-
Sam spent Thursday and Friday working on the Gate and the Cold Dialling Program while Dana was on duty at the hospital performing several cholecystectomies and prostatectomies.
Both were exhausted by the time they crawled into Sam's bed on Friday night.
"Baby, I love you. Sweet dreams," muttered Dana.
"Love you too honey," replied Sam before she snuggled into Dana's back and drifted off.
-o-