Title: Coming Together III: Relationships Built, Part 3
Author: DayDreamer
E-mail: elizden@knology.net
Rating: PG
Category: Story
Classification: Romance [Harm/Mac, AJ/Other, Webb/Other]
Spoilers: Webb of Lies; Retreat, Hell; We the People; A Separate Peace 1 & 2; Boomerang 2.
Added: 09-22-02
Summary: (Part 1) Three months have passed since 'Introductions' and the JAG crew has learned just what kind of lawyer Elizabeth is. Clay gets the flu and Mac takes care of him. (Part 2) Clay invites the JAG crew to a party. Mac and Harm argue, but it's the catalyst for a much-needed talk between them. AJ learns something new about Meredith. (Part 3) Clay's birthday dinner. AJ and Meredith have dinner at his home and he receives an unexpected visitor. Harm and Mac have a private dinner at Harm's place. Clay doesn't wait the full four months.
1815 hours
Porter Webb's Estate
Great Falls, Virginia
Many of the guests had arrived and Clay and his mother were busy greeting them. Clay looked up and saw that Lt. Roberts and his wife had arrived. He had mailed their invitation to them since they had not been in the office with the others last Saturday. Bud looked very nice and Harriet was dressed in a lovely black evening gown. He spent time introducing them to other guests, but keeping an eye on the entrance to the great room. He was a little nervous, and took conscious steps to relax.
A few minutes later Adm. Chegwidden arrived and Mac and Harm followed soon after. Harm recalled his first visit to the Webb estate, the time they thought that Webb had been killed. Webb had gotten them into some pretty tough situations many times, but he'd also saved the day on a number of occasions. He was a good man, and a good friend, though they gave him a hard time about being CIA. He was truly one of the good guys.
Clay noticed the new arrivals and went to greet them. The Admiral and Harm both looked distinguished dressed in dark suits. Mac had on a deep purple, sleeveless evening gown with a high collar. She was gorgeous, Clay thought. But Mac always looked beautiful.
"AJ, Mac, Harm, glad you could make it," Clay said by way of a greeting.
"Wouldn't have missed it, Clay," replied AJ with a smile. He was looking forward to watching Clay and Elizabeth.
"Now why does that sound like an omen, AJ?" Clay asked.
"You're paranoid, man. I just didn't want to miss your birthday." AJ smiled. He was called away by Secretary of State Morgan, so he left them with an innocent smile at Clay. Clay looked after him with a questioning look on his face, sure AJ was up to something.
Turning back to Mac and Harm, Clay said "Mac, you look gorgeous as ever. That's a beautiful dress."
"Thanks, Clay," Mac said, smiling at him.
"Between you and the butler, Clay, I think she's going to have trouble carrying her head around this evening," Harm teased her.
Clay laughed and said, "Hey, don't blame me." Seeing the butler approach he said, "Now, Robert, she has him wrapped around her finger."
Leaning forward into the group, Robert said in a stage whisper, "Secrets, Mr. Webb, remember?" Then he winked at Mac.
"That's right, 'James'," said Mac, referring to James Bond 007. Clay laughed and just shook his head.
Harm, watching the exchange, looked at the 'young' butler and said, "Harm…Rabb," while offering his hand. The butler shook hands with Harm very politely. He knew Harm was marking his territory and guessed he was the man that Mac 'had feelings for'.
Clay stayed with them and took them around the room, introducing them to some very high-level people at the Pentagon, State Department, and the CIA. Clay's boss was there, as well as the director of the CIA. He didn't just introduce them, though; he took the time to open conversations where Mac and Harm could share a little about themselves. Everyone seemed genuinely pleased to meet them, and most already knew who they were thanks to Clay and Adm. Chegwidden. Mac and Harm had no idea that the two spoke of them so highly to so many people.
Sturgis arrived soon after that, with Congresswoman Bobbi Latham. They were still dating, though neither of them was moving to make it more serious. They had received individual invitations to the dinner. Bobbi and Clay had become friends after Harm had sent her to 'negotiate' on his behalf during Adm. Boone's trial. They had even gone out a couple of times, and spent the night together. It hadn't been serious, though, and had ended a long time ago. They had remained friends, but most people weren't aware of their friendship.
Bobbi was familiar with most of those in attendance so she and Clay managed to introduce Sturgis to just about everyone that he didn't know. Eventually, all of the JAG team met up and were quietly remarking on the guests in attendance. They were all impressed that Clay had so many important friends. And friends they were; it wasn't a politically correct gathering, but a coming together of friends to celebrate Porter's and Clay's birthday. Porter Webb was obviously still well connected at the agency, but there were other friends of hers in attendance as well.
At 1840 Elizabeth arrived. Clay had been watching for her but when Robert showed her in, he was totally caught off guard. He and AJ were talking quietly, apart from the others, when she entered the room. Clay stopped mid-sentence, and stared. AJ looked at him, then turned to look toward the entrance knowing what he would see. He, too, stopped and stared.
Elizabeth wore a pale pink, sleeveless evening gown with a silk shawl draped over her arms. Matching slippers and diamond drop earrings completed her ensemble. She wore her hair down in a style reminiscent of 'I Dream of Jeanie'. It was glossy black and styled perfectly. She was simply beautiful. Clay had to remember to breathe.
AJ recovered first, and noticed that he and Clay weren't the only ones staring at her. She had captured quite a few people's attention. Secretary Morgan walked forward with his wife and introduced her.
"Elizabeth, you look very beautiful."
"Thank you, Mr. Secretary."
"I hoped you would be here. I want you to meet my wife, Helen. Helen, Elizabeth Halliton."
"Hello, Mrs. Morgan. It's a pleasure to meet you. The Secretary has told me a lot about you."
Mrs. Morgan laughed and said, "Probably not half as much as he's told me about you. It's nice to meet you at last."
"Thank you, but I'm sure he's told me more about you. The man talks about you non-stop. I have to remind him that I'm there on busy," Elizabeth said, teasing Cameron Morgan. They laughed, both pleased with him.
"Alright, you two. So I talk about you both. Elizabeth let me introduce you to some folks. You probably know most everyone here, already."
He led her and his wife away, talking to others around the room. Elizabeth finally saw Clay and she stopped, staring at him; she didn't hear a word Senator Leland had said. He looked very handsome, and totally at ease. She couldn't stop looking at him, but the Senator commanded her attention so she literally turned her back on Clay in order to concentrate.
AJ had noted Elizabeth's reaction, but he didn't think anyone else had. He smiled, now totally sure that the two were attracted to each other. It was going to be an interesting night, he thought.
Porter Webb had noticed her son's reaction to Elizabeth's arrival because she had been watching for her as well. She was a pretty woman, though not what most would call beautiful. But there was something different about her that made her stand out in a crowd. Porter watched carefully, unobserved by anyone. She quickly came to the conclusion that Elizabeth Halliton did indeed have a beauty, a special aura that was easily visible to anyone who looked close enough. And Porter loved the gown that she wore. She got high marks for style and grace, Porter thought. She also seemed at ease talking with the many people from different areas of government. When Elizabeth had first noticed Clay, Porter had observed that reaction also. So, she thought, she is in love with my son. Porter decided that she should greet Elizabeth since it was almost time to sit down to dinner. She and Clay moved forward to greet her at the same time, so they walked up together.
"Elizabeth, I'm glad you made it. Would you like something to drink?" Clay asked, unable to take his eyes off of her.
"No, thank you, Clay," she said a little nervous.
"You look very beautiful. I've never seen you with your hair down."
"Thank you. I love the suit. The color is great with your eyes."
"Thanks. I'd like for you to meet my mother, Porter Webb. Mother, Elizabeth Halliton."
"Hello, Ms. Halliton," Porter replied, offering Elizabeth her hand. "Yes, I'm Clay's Mommy," she continued, holding back a smile.
Elizabeth looked at her, lost for words. Then she realized Porter was trying not to laugh, but she finally laughed herself and shook Mrs. Webb's hand. Clay had obviously told her about Elizabeth teasing him about his mommy throwing him a party.
"Mrs. Webb, I'm pleased to meet you," she smiled, looking embarrassed. She gave Clay a you're-going-to-get-it look, but he simply smiled unapologetically.
Porter laughed and talked to Elizabeth at length. They began to circle the room, speaking to others as they went. Clay left them alone, knowing that his mother liked Elizabeth. She would have been polite, but left Elizabeth to him if she hadn't cared for her.
Harm, Mac, the Roberts, as well as Sturgis and Bobbi watched as Elizabeth made the rounds with Porter Webb. Harm thought that Elizabeth looked really beautiful tonight. Elizabeth was a pretty woman and although she usually dressed sharp, she dressed with understated elegance. Tonight, she had come out in full bloom, elegant as ever but very softly and femininely done. Mac had similar thoughts and she wasn't at all jealous. Elizabeth had the spotlight on her, and somehow it seemed right. Bobbi wondered about Elizabeth, noting Clay's seeming attraction to her, though he hid it well.
"She's very pretty," said Harriet without smiling.
Harm and Mac gave Harriet a quick look, then met each other's eyes. AJ heard the comment, also, and gave a sigh. Harriet had made it plain many times that she wasn't impressed with Elizabeth. She was still smarting over the subtle dressing down that Elizabeth had given Bud at Soups 'n Salads weeks ago. Bud had gotten over it, but Harriet still resented Elizabeth's comments. They knew it probably had something to do with the Admiral's obvious admiration, also. Harriet thought Elizabeth was taking Bud's place in the Admiral's book since he had been giving her some pretty important cases lately. And Bud had yet to win a case against Elizabeth. She was forgetting that Harm, Mac, and Sturgis had each only won one case in many against her.
Harm had talked to Harriet to no avail, so he decided to let them work things out themselves. Mac had remained neutral because although she and Elizabeth hadn't been friends, she admitted Elizabeth was a good attorney and had not done anything wrong.
"I didn't know she knew so many people," Harm said to AJ.
"Yes. She met most of them the first few weeks," AJ said, feeling a sense of pride for her.
Elizabeth and Porter eventually made their way to where the JAG people stood.
Elizabeth stopped in front of AJ and said, "Admiral." AJ tried to keep from laughing, but he didn't pull it off. Elizabeth gave him a hard look, but couldn't keep from laughing herself. AJ had forgotten to tell her that he had been joking about Porter Webb. It was obvious that Elizabeth and Porter were getting along fine.
Porter went to join Clay as he spoke with Congresswoman Elliot.
"You look very nice tonight," Harm said.
"Thank you, Harm. You look pretty dashing, yourself." said Elizabeth, playing with him.
"Great dress," said Bud.
"Thanks, Bud. Harriet, you look very nice."
"Thanks." said Harriet.
"Mac, you look gorgeous!"
"Thanks, Elizabeth, so do you."
"Elizabeth, have you met Congresswoman Latham?" asked Sturgis.
"No, we haven't met. It's nice to meet you, Congresswoman." she said to Bobbi.
"Hello, call me Bobbi. So, how are things going?"
"Pretty well. I can't complain."
"Clay, when are we going to eat," the Admiral said as Clay walked up. "You invite a man here and then you try to starve him."
"We're going in now, AJ," Clay told him with a laugh. "Elizabeth, did you meet Bobbi?"
"Yes, we just met. Bye the way, your mother is a very charming woman."
"She's a special lady," Clay said, with a half smile.
"Remind me to pay you back for telling her what I said," Elizabeth added, smiling at him.
Elizabeth and he laughed, then they all proceeded to the dining room. Dinner was a lively event with good conversation all around. Elizabeth was seated between Admiral Chegwidden and Secretary Morgan. Mac sat on the other side of the Admiral, followed by Harm, Harriet, Bud, Bobbi, and Sturgis. By the end of the dinner, everyone knew everyone, and jokes flowed readily. Afterwards, they retired to the great room and sometimes out on the balcony, talking in small groups. The groups were constantly changing, though.
Clay and Elizabeth had a few minutes alone toward the end of the evening. They stood near the fireplace, not really talking but just enjoying being close. They never seemed to need to talk; they just knew what the other was thinking and feeling.
Clay finally said "Enjoying yourself?"
"Yes, you?"
"Yes." They stood looking at each other, with their backs slightly turned from the room facing the fireplace that burned with a gas log."
"You're very beautiful." Clay said, holding her gaze.
"No, I'm not, but thank you for saying so," Elizabeth said, still looking in his eyes.
"You're wrong. Has it been four months yet?"
"No. Is that what we said?"
They kept their voices low and their expressions gave nothing away. At that moment AJ, Harm and Mac walked over and complimented Clay on the party. They were all preparing to leave.
"Clay, I don't think I've seen so many people from different branches of the government in one place, not without arguing, that is." said AJ in a low voice.
"I was thinking the same thing, Admiral," added Harm, also speaking in low tones. "Clay, just how many of your CIA buddies are here?"
AJ and Clay both froze for a moment, holding their breath. Harm, noticing their expressions said, "What's wrong?"
Elizabeth looked from one to the other, wondering what was wrong, too. When she looked at Clay, she started to ask, but then it hit her.
"You're CIA?" she asked, totally surprised.
"You didn't know that?" asked Harm, looking from her to Clay to the Admiral.
"No, I didn't," Elizabeth said, looking at Clay, questions racing through her head. Now it all made sense, why she rarely saw him at the State Department. It also explained why he was chosen to escort her home. "I guess it never came up."
"No, it never came up," Clay agreed, not letting Elizabeth break eye contact with him. He didn't want her to mistrust him, and he knew he would have to explain not telling her.
"So, what is your official title, Clay?" she asked.
"Deputy Director of Counter-intelligence," Clay said, not letting her look away.
"You're a spy. Well, that must be a pretty interesting job. And a thankless one, no doubt," Elizabeth told him.
She was a little upset with him for not telling her, but she didn't let on that it bothered her. She didn't know why he hadn't told her; it didn't matter to her that he was CIA.
"It feels that way at times, but I love what I do," Clay said quietly, hoping she understood.
"I can understand that," Elizabeth said. "Well, it's getting late. I think I will say my goodbyes and call it a night. Were you all leaving now?"
"Yes, we were. Clay, I had a good time. Thanks for the invitation. And happy birthday, old man." AJ said.
"Happy birthday, Clay," Mac said and kissed him on the cheek.
"Thanks, Mac, AJ."
Harm and the others around gave him birthday wishes also and he responded to them but he didn't remember what he said. His thoughts were on Elizabeth who had gone to say goodnight to his mother. She was upset, he could tell. He didn't' want her to leave like that but he had to attend to his other guests who were also preparing to leave.
As it turned out, he didn't get a chance to speak with her again before she was gone.
Harm, Mac, and AJ said goodnight outside before going to their respective cars. Mac and Harm had not ridden together as they originally planned. They thought it best not to do so. They talked for a few minutes by Mac's car.
"Are you ready to call it a night," asked Harm making sure no else could hear.
"That depends. What did you have in mind?" Mac asked, keeping her expression neutral since the Roberts were walking their way. "Whatever it is, you'd better tell me quickly. We have company."
"I'll call you on your cell phone."
They said goodnight to the Roberts and Sturgis, then got in their cars to leave. Once they were on the highway, Harm phoned Mac.
"The night's still young, feel like company?" he asked.
"That sounds good. Your place or mine?"
"Yours. I don't want you driving late at night by yourself."
"Okay."
"I'm going to stop by my place first and change. Then I'll be right over."
"Alright. See you then." She hung up, smiling into her rearview mirror.
2330 hours
Georgetown
Mac's apartment
"Hi," Mac said, opening the door to Harm. He had changed into jeans and a white shirt with sneakers.
"Hi, yourself." Mac took his jacket and put it in the closet. Harm pulled her into his arms and gave her a long kiss.
"I've been wanting to do that all night. You looked very beautiful," Harm said, still holding her.
"Thanks," Mac said, taking his hand and going to the sofa. They settled down together, and began kissing again.
The rest of the night was spent doing the same thing, with them talking in between kisses. Harm was smiling at her and Mac asked what he was smiling about.
"Oh, just remembering the first time I met you."
"The first time you met me, you were thinking of someone else, Harm." Mac said, pinching him.
"Ouch. I know. It's just that now, I can't imagine mistaking you for anyone."
"You'd better not, Flyboy."
He laughed and said, "I love you, Sarah."
Mac leaned forward and kissed him, "I love you."
Settling into his arms, Mac asked "Harm, how are we going to manage this? We're going to have to tell Adm. Chegwidden. I know we said that we would take it slow, but tonight, I didn't like not being able to hold your hand, or trying to hide my feelings. At work, it's easier. But away from the job, it's not so easy."
"I know. I had to remember to not look at you as much as I wanted. I know the Admiral caught me once or twice. He didn't say anything, though. I don't like feeling like we're sneaking around."
"Maybe we can run a what-if scenario by him. You think he'll hear us out?"
"Maybe. But I don't want to put the Admiral in a bad position. We have to have an idea of what we want, what we're going to do about our relationship, not just leave it up to him."
"You're right. And I still want to take it slow. But I want to enjoy taking it slow, not sneak around."
"I know, Mac," he said, giving her a hug in his embrace. "I feel the same way."
Harm left a couple of hours later. They had almost fallen asleep on the sofa, but Mac made Harm a cup of coffee to revive him. Mac stayed awake until Harm called to let her know he had arrived home safely, then promptly fell asleep.
1700 hours, Monday
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church, Virginia
Elizabeth sat at her desk staring into space. She finally made up her mind and went to see the Admiral.
"Enter," said AJ at her knock.
"Getting ready to leave, Admiral?"
"In a few minutes. Have a seat." AJ leaned back in his chair and regarded her. She had been quiet all day and he had hoped she would continue her usual habit and come see him before leaving for the day.
"What's on your mind, Elizabeth."
"Nothing… Admiral, I want you to do me a favor, two actually."
"What do you need?"
"I need you to agree first, before I tell you," she said, not giving anything away.
AJ studied her for a moment, then said "Let's trade. I do what you want, you do what I want. Deal?"
"Ok, but remember, you're doing two things for me. Right?"
"Alright. Shoot."
"I want you to go to bible study with me Wednesday night. And I want you to go to Sunday School and church with me Sunday morning."
AJ looked at her unblinking. He had not expected that. But he thought about it and decided he could.
"Ok. Where and what time?" he responded.
"Wednesday, 1900; Sunday 0800, God's Word Bible Church. Here's the address," she said, giving him a card.
"Now, what do you want me to do?" she asked, expectantly.
AJ leaned forward and said "I want you to not hold it against Clay for not telling you he's CIA."
Elizabeth looked at AJ, surprised.
"Ok, I can do that. But I feel a little guilty for agreeing since I'm not holding that against Clay."
"Are you sure?"
"Uh-huh."
"Then why have you been so quiet today? And I know it bothered you at the dinner when you first found out."
"I admit that. But I'm not upset with Clay. Knowing what he does has aswered questions and posed some as well."
"What do you mean."
"The State Department sent a CIA agent to escort me home. The threat against me must not have been personal as I thought, but it may have been politically motivated. I've been here four months and King Hussain, Raje, and Ramir haven''t contacted me. That means the threat still exists. I've been wondering why I haven't heard from them…" Elizabeth said holding back tears.
AJ came around and sat in the chair next to her, and held her hand. She brushed away a tear and said, "I'm sorry. I just miss them so much. I didn't expect it to be this long. I guess I half thought that my life would go back to the way it was. I know that's crazy, and really, I'm not wanting to go back. I just feel like I'm still up in the air, unsettled."
"That's understandable. The way you left, you didn't have closure," AJ said. "I think you should talk to Clay. I know he wouldn't want you to worry like this."
"No, I'm not worried, Admiral. The only thing that has me upset is that I can't talk to any of them." Elizabeth gave him an ironic smile, shaking her head. "You know how Muslim men are. They don't believe in women handling things the way men do, so they don't want to tell women. We had an open, two way relationship. But the minute I was in danger, they only thought to protect me. And that included keeping me from worrying. That's why they didn't share the information about the threat. I understand that and I trust them to do what they can, including Clay. If the King had not trusted Clay, he would never have let me leave with him."
"Talk to Clay. If anyone can find out what's going on it's him."
"I think Clay already knows. Our government would investigate a threat against me to determine if it involves any known terrorist groups. As you know, certain Arab nations would love to see conflict between the U.S. and Jordan, just to consolidate their anti-American stance. That's probably why a CIA agent was sent to retrieve me. The threat against me could possibly be a matter of national security, depending on who's involved."
AJ said that could be true. What he didn't tell her was that it was indeed true. He had called Secretary Morgan after Elizabeth had told him how she had left Jordan. He, Morgan, and Webb had lunched together that first week and they had filled him in. He also knew that Elizabeth was under round-the-clock protection, even at JAG. AJ hadn't been told right away, because it hadn't been necessary at first to have the protection. But the CIA now had reason to believe the King's political opponents still saw Elizabeth as a good target for catalyzing a U.S. conflict. There was a marine sergeant and a 'custodian' who stayed close to Elizabeth at JAG, and his new 'Gunny' was actually a lieutenant attached to the CIA. She had similar protection in her building, and also mobile protection.
"Admiral, don't let me keep you. I'm fine, I've just been thinking about this all day and missing my friends."
"You're not keeping me."
Elizabeth said. "You have a dinner date, sir. I'm okay, really. I'm going to work a little longer and then head out."
"Ok, but if you need to talk, don't hesitate to call me. You can talk to me anytime. Alright?"
"Thanks, Admiral."
Elizabeth went back to her office and noticed that most everyone had left. The rest were preparing to leave also. At 1930 Elizabeth finally packed up to go home. When she reached the security desk on the first floor, there was a woman there asking if Adm. Chegwidden had left for the day. Elizabeth noted that the woman was very pretty and about her age, maybe older. She seemed disappointed that the Admiral had already left for the day, so Elizabeth turned to her and introduced herself.
Smiling, Elizabeth said "Hi, I'm Elizabeth Halliton. I couldn't help but hear you inquire about Adm. Chegwidden. I work for the Admiral. I could give him a message if you like."
"Maria Galindez, Mia for short," she said, returning the smile. "Thank you, but that's okay. I can call him tomorrow morning. I didn't expect him to be here so late, but I thought I'd take a chance."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes. He isn't expecting me. I'm in town for a judges convention and I just wanted to stop in and say hello."
Elizabeth thought that she must have really wanted to see the Admiral to come by so late. She gave her a thoughtful look and then said, "You could always call him at home. I'm sure he would love to know you're in town."
"I don't have his home number. Do you know it by chance?"
"No, I don't know his number right off, but I can give you directions to his home. It's very easy to get to," smiled Elizabeth. She didn't mention that she had the Admiral's number on speed dial.
Maria grinned and gave Elizabeth a short laugh. "Do you think he would mind?"
"No, I don't think he would mind at all," said Elizabeth with a grin.
They laughed at each other. Mia knew Elizabeth Halliton realized that she really wanted to see AJ. Who wouldn't have caught that since she had come to his office so late in the evening. She probably looked like she just stepped out of a meeting, changed and rushed right over, since that was exactly what she had done.
Elizabeth gave Mia directions and then they both left. Elizabeth thought to herself, 'I wonder who Mia Galindez is'. She left the office planning to go work out at the dojo, but changed her mind and decided to go shopping instead. She had an hour and a half before stores closed. Her apartment was still unfurnished and her boxes unpacked. After talking to the Admiral, she realized that she had been putting her pain on hold, trying not to grieve the loss of her friends. She needed to accept that her life had permanently changed, not just go through the motions. She would visit them in the future, but she knew she was back in the States to stay. And she was okay with that. She loved working at JAG and she looked forward to more assignments for State. Yes, shopping it was.
An hour later Elizabeth had purchased a sofa, with an agreement to have it delivered in two days. She laughed at herself as she left the store. Well, a sofa was a start.
2000 hours
Adm. Chegwidden's residence
Mia followed Elizabeth's directions to AJ's home and arrived there twenty minutes later. On the drive over, she kept trying to talk herself out of it, but she had to go. She had spent the last four years thinking about this man, so she had to find out if…What? She asked herself. What on earth was she doing?
Once there, she took a deep breath and got out of her car. She could always use the excuse that she was delivering a gift from her brother and wanted to get it to him in case she got tied up in meetings, or was too tired after sitting through lectures all day. She rang the doorbell and waited.
AJ and Meredith were sitting in the living room talking when the doorbell rang. He wasn't expecting anyone. He went to answer the door, wondering who it could be. It might be Elizabeth, he thought, she was pretty upset when he left though she tried to hide it.
AJ opened the door and stood staring, shocked to see Maria Galindez.
"AJ, hello. I hope I'm not disturbing you?" said Mia.
"Maria! No, no you're not disturbing me. Come in. How are you?" AJ asked, happy to see her.
"I'm fine, AJ. How about you?"
"I'm doing good." He couldn't stop staring at her. Couldn't believe she was there. He had been thinking about her a lot lately and he just couldn't believe she was actually in his home. "Please, let me take your coat. What on earth are you doing in Washington?"
"Well, I'm here for the judges convention in my uncle's stead. He couldn't attend so I offered to go."
"That's great. How long will you be here?" AJ asked, walking with her into the living room.
Meredith stood as they entered.
"Oh, AJ, I'm so sorry. I didn't realize you had company." She was fast thinking, 'My goodness, I hope she isn't his wife'.
"That's okay. Meredith Cavanaugh, Maria Galindez."
"Hello, Ms. Cavanaugh. Nice to meet you."
"Hello, Ms. Galindez."
"Call me Mia."
"Mia is my former Gunnery Seargent's sister. And also the best fishing guide I ever had," AJ said, smiling at Mia.
"You flatter me, AJ. You didn't exactly catch much fish. And your trip was cut short."
"True, but I still enjoyed myself," said AJ. "I can always blame Gunny for my trip ending unexpectedly."
"Yes, you can," she laughed.
"You're attending the judges convention in your uncle's stead, does that mean you're a lawyer now?"
"Yes. My uncle threatened to fire me as his clerk, said that I should be in law school. So I enrolled and graduated a year ago. I still work for him though, he just pays me more money now."
"That's wonderful. Congratulations."
"Thank you, AJ. I'm not going to stay. I didn't mean to interrupt your evening. Victor sent you a gift and I promised to deliver it. I stopped by your offices but you were already gone."
"How did you know where I lived?" asked AJ.
"I ran into Elizabeth Halliton," said Maria, smiling. "She was leaving when I arrived and we met at the security desk. She didn't know your number so she gave me directions to your home. I hope that's okay."
"Of course it's okay, I'll have to thank her tomorrow," was AJ's sincere reply. "How long are you in town?"
"All week. I fly out Saturday morning."
"That's good. We have to have lunch or something," AJ said, he and Mia looking into each other's eyes.
"Well, I'd better go," said Mia softly, standing. "I'm sorry I interrupted your evening, Ms. Cavanaugh."
"That's okay. It was nice meeting you," said Meredith, a tight smile on her face. She noticed how AJ seemed to be entralled with the young woman. He was definitely happy to see her. She wondered if they had been involved.
"Here, let me see you out, Mia."
"Okay, and I have Victor's gift with me, in the car."
They walked out to the car together and Mia popped the trunk.
Inside was a two feet long, dye cast metal replica of the retired battle cruiser, USS Madison. The cruiser was one of the first ships that the Admiral had sailed on as a young ensign. AJ was speechless. He lifted the gift from the trunk and ooh and aahed over it like a six year-old with a new toy. He loved it.
"I can't believe Gunny sent me this. It's great! This was the first ship that I sailed on as an ensign. Gunny actually remembered me telling him that."
"Yes. He saw it when he was on leave and said he had to get it for you."
"Tell him I said thank you. I'll try to reach him, but that's near impossible where he is unless it's an emergency. Man! This is great!"
"Victor will be glad you like it. Well, I should get going."
"When do you want to have lunch?"
"I'm not sure when I'll be free for lunch. Some meetings are held through the lunch hour."
"Then we'll have dinner. What day, Mia?" asked AJ, looking into her eyes. They were standing close and AJ wasn't ready for her to go.
"Any day, AJ," said Mia. She didn't want to leave, but AJ was on a date.
"I'm free any evening but Wednesday."
"Thursday, then?"
"Or sooner," AJ said, thinking why not tomorrow.
"Surprise me," Mia countered, letting him know she was available whenever he was.
"Where are you staying?"
"The Westover on Madison."
They stood looking at each other for several seconds, neither wanting to move away. Mia caught a movement at the living room window and snapped out of her daze. "I'd better go. Enjoy the rest of your date," she said, getting into the car.
AJ turned to look at the house, then looked back at her. "I'm sorry you couldn't stay. Drive safely. Call me when you get there – 801-555-1212." Mia said that she would and turned the car around and drove off. AJ looked after her, then turned with gift in hand and went back into the house.
Meredith had watched them from the window, but didn't hear what was said. She did see how close they had stood to each other, however. And AJ was excited to see Mia. Elizabeth Halliton had sent Mia Galindez here and she'd be willing to bet that Ms. Halliton had known of AJ's date with her.
AJ walked inside and immediately began telling Meredith about the battle cruiser. He was still excited, but Meredith suspected it was more over Mia Galindez' visit than the gift. When she asked AJ about her, he told her about his fishing trip and how Maria was his fishing guide. Then he launched into the story of Pvt. Rivera's transport and Gunny getting shot. When he began telling her the story of how Pvt. Rivera became a hero at Chosin Reservoir, she knew that he was talking to avoid any more questions about Ms. Galindez. Meredith left 40 minutes after Mia.
0800 hours
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church, Virginia
Elizabeth kept peeping out her office door, waiting for the Admiral to get in. At 0830, Mac had arrived and noticed Elizabeth watching for the Admiral.
"Waiting for the Admiral?" Mac said, coming up behind Elizabeth as she peeked into AJ's office.
Elizabeth jumped and said, "Oh, Mac. I didn't hear you."
"So I see. What are you doing?"
"Nothing. Just wondered if the Admiral was in. I think I'll grab a cup of coffee."
Mac looked after her, then followed, saying "You don't drink coffee."
"Right, I meant orange juice. I keep a carton in the fridge."
"But you said coffee," Mac said suspiciously.
In the break room, Elizabeth pulled out her juice and poured a cup. Thinking fast, she turned to Mac and said, "So, what did you think of Clay's party?"
"Very nice. Now, what do you want with the Admiral?" Mac said.
Elizabeth paused in the middle of taking a drink, then put the glass down. "I just wanted to ask him how his evening went."
"That's right, he had a date with Meredith."
"Right," said Elizabeth, shaking her head.
Mac looked at her suspiciously again, "Wait a minute, why do you care about his date? You don't like her."
"Mac, that's not fair. I'm going to my office," said Elizabeth, pretending to be upset. "'Morning, Harm."
"Good morning," said Harm, going for the coffee pot.
Elizabeth noticed the Admiral entering his office and hurried back in his direction. She waited outside until she thought he had put his coat away and sat down. She didn't want him to think she had been waiting for him.
"Knock, knock," Elizabeth said.
AJ looked up and said, "Come on in."
Elizabeth casually strolled in, hands behind back. "Good morning, Admiral."
"Good morning," he said, a smile playing about his lips. "What's up?"
"Oh, nothing," she said, taking a seat as he sat down.
AJ just looked at her and smiled.
"How was your evening, Admiral?"
"My evening was good. Yours?"
"Oh, it was okay. I bought a sofa."
"That's good. What's it like?" he asked, not giving her anything. She was on a fishing expedition and he wasn't going to fall for the bait.
Elizabeth thought, two can play this game, "Oh, a Spanish look, Mexican I believe, black curly ruffles, long, a lawyer style."
AJ laughed at her, but said "It sounds like a lovely sofa. We should get to work now, don't you agree?"
Elizabeth gave him an exasperated look, but stood and said, "Alright, Admiral." She slowly walked toward the door, then stopped and turned back to him. "Oh yea, you received a call earlier, from a woman. I'll find that message and get it to you." She turned quickly to make a fast exit.
"Hold it right there."
"Yes, sir?"
"My message? What was it?" AJ said, knowing she was playing with him.
"Sir, my memory… I'll find the note and let you know as soon as I do."
"Elizabeth…," the Admiral warned her.
"Sir?"
AJ looked at her and then laughed. "Ok, you win."
Elizabeth grinned and walked back, taking a seat, "So, how was your evening?" She asked, as if she'd just arrived in his office.
"The message first," AJ replied, laughing at her.
Elizabeth took a folded note from her pocket and gave it to him. He gave her a disbelieving look; he couldn't believe she'd dared hold his message back. He read it silently, trying to appear calm, but he couldn't keep the soft look from his eyes.
Elizabeth watched, smiling herself because she knew the Admiral was happy to see Mia last night. The call had been from her, letting him know that she had the lunch hour free today if he could make it.
He put the note in his pocket and was just about to tell her about the night when Harm walked in, looking for her.
"Admiral, good morning."
"Good morning, Commander."
"Sir, sorry to interrupt, but Elizabeth there's someone here to see you."
"Now?" she asked, looking back at AJ.
"Yes, " said Harm, looking quizzically at her. "Did I interrupt something?"
"Yes," from Elizabeth.
"No," from AJ.
"Well, what do they want?" asked Elizabeth, not wanting to leave.
"I don't know. You could just go out there and find out." Harm said.
"Now?" she said again, like it was the worst possible time.
AJ interrupted and said, "Ms. Halliton, we must take care of the business at hand. Don't' keep your client waiting." He looked at her smugly and said "Dismissed."
Elizabeth walked out with Harm, giving him a look that said he had the worst timing. Once outside AJ's office, Harm leaned down and asked "What was that all about? What did I do?"
"Nothing. Now where is this all-important client?"
Harm gave her a speculative look, then looked over his shoulder in the direction of AJ's office.
There was a tall, very pretty African-American woman talking with Mac and Bud near the sign-in counter. Elizabeth saw her and quickly walked over to greet her, a smile on her face.
"Jordan! You're here already?"
"Hi, Elizabeth." They hugged and Jordan said, "I decided to drop off your research now since I was in the area."
"Thanks. Let me introduce you to everyone. You met Mac and Bud?"
"Not formally introduced; we were waiting for you."
"Ok. Jordan Wells, this is Col. Sarah Mackenzie, Lt. Bud Roberts, and Cmdr. Harmon Rabb."
They shook hands and said hello. AJ walked up at that moment.
"Jordan is the head research librarian at the Library of Congress. Oh, Admiral, there's someone I want you to meet. Jordan Wells, Adm. AJ Chegwidden, my boss."
"Hello, Admiral, it's nice to meet you."
"Ms. Wells. You're head research librarian at the Library of Congress?"
"One of them, sir. I specialize in …"
"Jordan! don't reveal my secret!" Elizabeth interrupted.
Jordan looked at her askance and said, "What secret?"
"You!" Elizabeth said, taking Jordan's arm to lead her into her office.
But Harm was quicker, and maneuvered Jordan in the opposite direction toward his and Mac's office. "Ms. Wells, why don't you come with me and let me get you a cup of coffee."
"Yes, do you like cream and sugar?" asked Mac, stepping between Elizabeth and their retreating figures.
"Jelly donut? Orange juice?" asked Bud, following Mac and Harm.
"Hey!" Elizabeth said. "Jordan, tell them nothing, nothing at all," she yelled over Adm. Chegwidden's shoulder; he had stepped between them also, helping the others escape with Jordan.
They all gathered in Harms office and he shut the door. Looking through the blinds with a grin on his face, he closed them.
Elizabeth looked up at AJ and said, "Admiral, how could you?"
"What? What did I do?" asked AJ innocently.
Elizabeth rolled her eyes at him, then the lightbulb went off. "You know what this means, don't you?" Elizabeth said almost whispering.
"What, Ms. Halliton?" asked AJ with a wary look at her.
"You and I get to continue our conversation," she smugly replied.
AJ looked heavenward and rolled his eyes.
"Admiral, my office."
So, while Harm, Mac, and Bud where quizzing Jordan, AJ and Elizabeth went into her office.
Lt. Singer heard the exchange between them and watched Adm. Chegwidden and Elizabeth go into Elizabeth's office and close the door. She resented Elizabeth because she hadn't won a case against her to date. Not only that, she was now stuck with all of the 'petty' cases again, getting only a few good ones here and there. Singer blamed Elizabeth for setting her back.
Singer thought to herself 'She's probably sleeping with him. She's always in his office and he thinks the sun rises and shines on her'. She decided that she would keep an eye on them from now on. If the Admiral was carrying on with a civilian under his command and not promoting her, Singer, because he's getting laid, she would have his bars.
AJ closed the door behind them and sat down in a chair in front of Elizabeth's desk. Elizabeth sat forward, expectantly. But instead of talking about his evening AJ decided to talk about something else.
"I never got a chance to ask you. How did you enjoy the dinner Saturday night?"
Elizabeth knew he was stalling, so smiling at him she said, "It was great. Mia Galindez seemed liked a really nice woman. Did you enjoy her visit?"
"Very much. It was good of Clay to invite us, almost like he had a special reason for doing so."
That got her for a second. But she quickly recovered and said, "We're his friends. It's natural that he would invite us to celebrate his birthday. How do you know Mia?"
"She's my former Gunny's sister. I met her on a fishing trip in New Mexico four years ago. She was my fishing guide. I think Clay was very happy you could make it to the party. And Mrs. Webb, also."
"I'm glad I made him happy on his birthday and his mother is a lovely woman. Four years. And she thought to come by and see you. I hope you didn't mind me giving her directions to your home."
"Not at all. Thank you for that. May I borrow your cell phone?" Elizabeth gave him her phone. Pushing a couple of buttons, he read the display after each button. Then he gave her back the phone.
Elizabeth saw his home number on the display.
"You must not have had your cell phone last night. Mia said you didn't know my number. Have you done much dating since you've been back?" AJ asked, knowing he'd caught her.
"I don't know your number. I just have it stored. I've done no dating since I've been back."
"A technical ommission? Do you want to date?"
"A deliberate ommission. Do you want to date?"
"I'm already dating. You didn't answer my question?"
"Are you dating the right woman? No, I don't want to date."
That got AJ for a moment, on both counts. He was enjoying their quick banter, but he was suddenly serious.
He leaned forward and asked her, "Are you sure you don't want to date?"
"Yes."
AJ leaned back, concern written on his face. He knew he wasn't wrong, Clay was in love with Elizabeth. He thought that she was in love with him, too, so he didn't understand her response.
He studied her for a minute, then finally said, "He's a special man. Not at all what most people see him as." AJ looked down for a moment, then looked at her and said, "Make sure he knows you don't want to date." He didn't want to see Clay get hurt.
Elizabeth didn't respond right away. Looking at him she said, "She doesn't strike me as young and foolish. She came all the way across the country to see you after four years. She didn't make that decision lightly. I know he's special."
She was as serious as AJ. They sat studying each other for a minute, realizing that they were both trying to protect someone that could get hurt by either of them.
Elizabeth wanted to confide in AJ, but she couldn't, not yet. She and Clay had to come together and talk first. Date? She never gave a thought to dating Clay. What she wanted from him was much more serious, permanent. She didn't even let herself think about him, or she would become impatient. They needed this time, and she couldn't rush it. She couldn't tell AJ that.
AJ wanted to tell Elizabeth how he felt about Mia coming to see him, but he didn't know where it was going. He felt foolish for thinking about it at all, but he couldn't help himself. Mia was 33, he was 48. Elizabeth herself was only 32. Yes, he felt foolish thinking about a woman 15 years his junior. And he couldn't talk about that right now.
"Elizabeth, you don't have anything to worry about."
"Neither do you, AJ. But I think it's going to take you a while to truly get that."
Harm, Mac, and Bud returned to Elizabeth's office with Jordan. Knocking, Harm opened the door when Elizabeth said 'come in', and they all crowded into her office.
"Jordan, you didn't talk to them, did you?
Jordan said with a guilty smile, "I'm sorry. They forced it out of me. They plied me with coffee, donuts, massaged my feet. Who can stand up against such torture? Admiral, your attorneys are ruthless!"
Everyone laughed, and Harm turned to Elizabeth. He shook his finger at her and said, "Now we know how you do it."
"I haven't the faintest idea what you're talking about."
"Yea, right," said Mac.
Harm continued, "Admiral, did you know that Jordan here, as a research librarian at the Library of Congress, specializes in legal research, every aspect of the judicial system, military and civilian?"
AJ smiled and said, "No, I didn't."
Harm looked at Elizabeth with an accussing expression, "You could have shared."
"No way, she's my secret weapon. Get your own."
"Well, Jordan is our friend, now. Right Jordan?" Bud added, the others shaking their heads in agreement with him.
Jordan laughed. "You know, Elizabeth always knows exactly what she wants me to find for her. She gives me a list of references, I don't go at it blindly."
Harm turned back to Elizabeth and said in an exasperated voice, "How do you know so much?"
Elizabeth sat back in her chair and gave him a stubborn smile, "Now that really would be revealing my secrets."
Harm nodded his head slowly and said, "That's alright, Elizabeth. You've raised the bar, I'll admit that. But we're going to close the gap, lady. You just wait."
Elizabeth didn't know what to say to his compliment. She gave him a shy, embarrassed smile. AJ looked on and was happy to see them getting along.
"Elizabeth, I'm going to go. Call me, okay," said Jordan, smiling at them. "It was nice to meet you all."
"Thanks, Jordan. Let me walk you out," Elizabeth said.
"No, that's okay. I can find my way. I'll see you later."
"Ok, bye girl."
"Bye, Jordan," they all said.
Harm, Mac, and Bud walked out of Elizabeth's office giving her smug looks for having discovered Jordan. Elizabeth just laughed at them, then turned back to the Admiral.
He was watching her and said, "You had her come by here so they could meet her, didn't you?"
"Why Admiral, whatever are you talking about?"
They smiled at each other, then the Admiral left and went back to his office. Elizabeth had raised the bar, no doubt; and in a big way. He already noticed the change in his senior officers. They were rising to the challenge. She wasn't making it easy for them, though. He knew she was still way ahead, but they were learning from her every day, and she from them. He paired them together even though each of them could handle any case alone. Elizabeth was an outstanding attorney and had a unique way of working. He had wondered briefly if her skills were all academic, but she laid that question to rest her first week on the job. He could finally see a clear way to implement a vision that he had for JAG. He would one day have officers that could handle the responsibilities of that vision, help it come to pass.
1145 hours
Bullpen
JAG Headquarters
Adm. Chegwidden, Sturgis and Elizabeth were discussing a case when Clayton Webb walked up.
"Hey, Clay."
"Hey, AJ. Elizabeth, Sturgis."
"Clay, I enjoyed the dinner. Thanks for the invitation," Sturgis said.
"You're welcome."
"Yes, it was very nice," added Elizabeth.
"Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed yourself."
Turning to AJ, Clay asked, "Do you have a minute, Admiral?"
"Yes."
To Elizabeth, "Are you free for lunch?"
A surprised Elizabeth said, "Yes, Sure."
"Okay, I'll just be a minute."
Elizabeth walked to her office, and Clay's phone rang. He spoke to the caller for a second, then turned to AJ. "One second, Admiral, I'll be right back."
AJ and Sturgis left for their offices as Clay went to Elizabeth. He caught up with her just as she reached her office door.
"Elizabeth," he said walking up to her. "I'm afraid I have to cancel lunch. Something's come up."
"Okay, no problem," she said, walking behind her desk.
"How about dinner instead?"
She looked up at him, saying nothing, her mind had gone blank.
"Are you regretting what happened?" asked Clay softly.
"No."
"Feeling guilty and trying to forget?
She looked in his eyes and said "Forgetting is the last thing on my mind. And I don't have anything to feel guilty about."
"Good, because I would hate to have to marry you to make you remember."
She laughed then, and relaxed. "Why don't we just go to dinner?"
Clay smiled his smile and said, "I'll pick you up at 6:30."
"Ok."
He went and spoke with AJ for a few minutes and then left. AJ sat back in his chair and thought 'He's going to tell her how he feels tonight'. AJ recognized it in his eyes and the energy that surrounded him. He recognized it because he had that same tightly bond energy when it came to Mia. He shook his head. He was going crazy. There was no way he should feel so much. He hadn't seen her in four years and then only for 15 minutes last night. But the little voice inside his head said, 'Yes, but you've never forgotten her. You just made yourself believe it was silly to be attracted to her and tried to ignore the feelings'.
Outside JAG Headquarters
Harm and Mac were walking to the deli to lunch, talking quietly.
"I'm cooking dinner for you tonight. We'll have a nice quiet evening, no work," Harm said, speaking where only Mac would hear him.
"Sounds great, but only if you let me help you."
"Hey, I'm cooking for you, remember."
"I know, but I like doing things with you. How often do we get to do things together?"
"Alright. I like having you in the kitchen with me anyway."
1200 hours
Westover Hotel
Washington, D.C.
AJ waited in the lobby of the hotel. The convention was being held at the Westover, so he figured Mia would return to her room to check her messages before going to lunch. He spotted her across the lobby before she saw him and watched her for a second.
One of the ladies with her saw him and said to Mia, "Do you know that good-looking man in uniform across the lobby? I think he's looking at you."
Mia looked up in the direction of her nod. She didn't move for a second, just held his gaze. Then she said in a soft voice, "Yes, I know him."
Mia and AJ walked forward and met in the middle of the lobby.
"AJ. I didn't know if you got my message."
"I got it. I wanted to surprise you," AJ said, still holding her gaze.
Mia smiled, knowing he was referring to what she'd told him last night. "I was just going to my room to change shoes. Do you mind going up?"
"No."
They rode up to Mia's floor and she let them into her room.
"I don't know why I even packed these shoes. They look great, but they're not at all comfortable. I didn't think I would do much walking today, so I wore them," Mia said, taking the shoes off and sitting on the bed to massage her feet. AJ could tell she was nervous; so was he.
"Here, let me."
"Oh, no, you don't have to do that."
"I don't mind," AJ said, pulling up a chair and massaging her left foot, then the right. They didn't speak while he worked, just sat quietly. Mia watched him, met his gaze for a moment, and then looked down. She took a deep breath, then closed her eyes. She didn't want him to see what she was feeling. She thought 'I'm in trouble here. I shouldn't have come'. She was realizing that she cared a lot more for AJ than she had allowed herself to admit, always telling herself that she was being silly.
AJ kept massaging Mia's feet, looking down, trying to get his emotions under control. He hadn't stopped thinking about her since he saw her standing on his doorstep. He kept telling himself that it was just lunch, and to get a grip. He had been attracted to Mia in New Mexico, but being the sensible man that he was he never let himself think about it. Now, that's all he could do. Four years of suppressed emotion were threating to get the better of him. Back then he told himself he didn't want to be some middle-aged Neanderthal trying to rediscover himself in a younger woman. He didn't want Mia to think that about him, now.
He finally stopped and they sat looking at each other. AJ said, "I didn't ask you where you wanted to dine. Would you like to dine in the hotel restaurant?"
"Yes, that's okay with me."
They stood and Mia started to move away. But she stopped and looked up at AJ and said in a quiet voice, "Or we could dine here."
They were standing close, Mia in front of AJ. AJ looked into her eyes and said, "Yes, we could." Then he leaned forward and kissed her. Mia melted into his arms and AJ gathered her close. They kissed and didn't stop. AJ couldn't stop kissing her once he started and Mia didn't want him to stop. Somehow, they managed to catch up on four years of not admitting they had feeling for each other in those kisses.
They finally stopped the kiss, but didn't pull apart. They were both looking at the other in surprised wonderment. Mia knew that AJ felt the same way she did. AJ couldn't believe Mia felt what he felt. Slowly, smiles began to spread across their faces and they kissed some more. AJ pulled back and said, "You know, if we don't stop this, you're not going to get fed."
"I'm not hungry." But just then her stomach growled and they both heard it and laughed. "Well, maybe I'm a little hungry."
But neither of them moved. AJ was still holding her and they simply stared into each others eyes. Mia watched the emotions play across AJ's face and he watched her. She seemed so sure and calm; he should have been the more confident one here, but he was anything but calm.
"AJ," Mia said to get his full attention, "I know what I'm doing."
"I hope so, Mia, because I…" AJ closed his eyes then, not wanting to go on. Then he opened them and looked into hers.
"AJ, can we get the big things out of the way right now?" she asked softly.
AJ nodded, not trusting himself to speak yet.
Holding his gaze, she began speaking in a quiet, sure voice. "I'm 33, you're 48, I don't care; I'm not looking for a father figure, I already have a father whom I love and respect with all my heart; I'm not young and dumb, I know what I'm doing and I know whom I want; I came here because I can't stop thinking about you, haven't been able to for four years. I had to find out if you felt anything for me; I don't want to have an affair with you. I've never been with a man, that's been my choice. But I am going to make love with you. I'll let you decide if you're going to marry me first, or at all. I'm in love with you."
AJ stood staring at her, loving her. Every doubt that was running around in his head she had laid to rest. Everything he needed to hear from her, she had told him.
"You're 33, I'm 48. I do think about that, but I can't change it any more than I can change how I feel about you; I'm not having a mid-life crisis, trying to regain my youth with a younger woman; I told myself four years ago that I was silly to even think about being with you, and I've been telling myself that ever since; but the truth is, I can't think of anything I've ever wanted more; I spent the last two hours waiting in the lobby of this hotel, scared to death you didn't feel the way I do; I can't, won't, have an affair with you because I would lose myself if you walked away; I love you."
1730 hours
Outside Adm. Chegwidden's office
Tiner stopped Elizabeth as she left AJ's office. "Ma'am, you have a phone call from Hanson Galleries, line two. Something about a delivery tonight."
"Tonight? They aren't supposed to deliver it until 4pm tomorrow."
Taking the phone, Elizabeth spoke to the caller for a minute, then hung up.
"Problems, Ma'am?"
"Yes, they mixed up the delivery date, but they say if they don't deliver my sofa tonight, I'll have to wait until next week. Tiner, you wouldn't happen to have Clayton Webb's number would you?"
"Yes, Ma'am. I'll dial it for you."
Upon hearing Clayton on the line, "Please hold, Mr. Webb. Ms. Halliton needs to speak with you."
"Mr. Webb, I'm afraid I can't make dinner. I have an unexpected delivery tonight and I need to be home…Oh… okay… sure that's fine with me. I'll see you then."
"Thanks, Tiner."
"You're welcome, Ma'am."
Elizabeth went back to her office and gathered her things. Clay was coming over to cook dinner for her.
1800 hours
North of Union Station
Rabb's apartment
Harm checked their meal one last time just as the doorbell rang. 'Mac' he said to himself with a smile. He looked around before opening the door. He had sneaked out of the office an hour early to prepare for the date and managed to get everything done right on time.
"Hi, come on in."
Mac reached up and kissed him when he closed the door.
"Something smells great!?" She swung around to face him. "Hey, we were supposed to cook dinner together."
"I know, but I got going and I couldn't stop."
Mac walked on into the apartment and then stopped. The place was beautiful. Harm had a very nice table set, flowers laying next to her seat, and a gift laying beside the flowers. Candles were lit everywhere, giving the entire apartment a warm glow. He had closed all of the blinds so that they could have privacy and light music played on the stereo. This evening, they didn't have to worry about anyone watching and reporting.
"Harm, it's beautiful. When did you have time to do all of this?"
"I left a little early."
"So did I, so I could change."
"You look great." Mac wore a nice pair of jeans with black, square-toed ankle boots. Her top was a soft black sweater with black embroidered lace along the V-cut bodice. It had long sleeves that covered the upper portion of her hand, trimmed in the same black lace.
Harm took her hand and led her to the dining table, placing the flowers in her arms.
"They're beautiful, Harm," she said, smelling the long stem roses. They were pale yellow with soft pink tips.
"I wanted to get red, but I want you to take them home. I didn't want to raise questions if anyone saw them at your apartment."
"You don't have to explain, Harm. I know you love me. I would have chosen these, also." She kissed him again and he smiled down at her.
"Dinner is ready, Marine. Have a seat," he said, pulling her chair out for her.
Harm had prepared a salad and grilled vegetables, pasta in a light Italian sauce, with grilled chicken breast (for Mac). The meal was perfect and they ate slowly, not talking a lot, but just enjoying each other. Afterwards, they cleaned the kitchen, Harm washing while Mac dryed.
When they retired to the living room, Harm said, "Dance with me, Sarah."
They danced in place, gazing into each other's eyes. Mac lay her head on his shoulder and they slow-danced for a long time, sometimes barely moving. When they stopped Harm kissed her, and Mac kissed him, not holding anything back. They retired to the sofa and sat together, facing each other and talking quietly.
Harm smiled at Mac and said, "You know my mom is going to have a fit if I don't tell her about us. She thinks you're 'quite a gal'."
"I like your mom, too. You sure she won't expect to see you with Renee?"
"No, she won't. You're the only one I've ever taken to meet her. She met Renee when she came for an unexpected visit."
"I didn't know that.
"I wish I had someone to share the news with. I'm so happy and I can't tell anyone."
"You can tell me," he said, leaning forward and kissing her. "Anytime."
They spent the rest of the evening alternately talking, kissing, laughing. Later on, they were getting particularyly serious with each other when Mac pulled back.
"Harm, we have to stop."
"I know," he said. He was laying back on the sofa, with Mac halfway laying on top of him. He didn't let her go, just reached up and brushed a strand of hair from her eyes.
"Harm," Mac said, looking into his eyes, "you're going to think I'm being silly." She looked down, breaking eye contact with him.
He touched her chin and tilted her head back so that she was looking into his eyes again. "Tell me."
She paused before telling him, holding her breath. "I want to wait," she said. "With you, I want to wait. Making love complicates things, and I don't want to mess this up. I want the freedom to grow in our relationship without the emotional pressure that making love adds. I want to wait."
Harm looked deep into her eyes before he answered. "There's nothing I want to do more right now than make love to you, Sarah. But I agree, it does complicate things. I don't mind waiting because I want you to know that this is real, every step of the way, without any doubts. We can wait."
"I love you, Harm," she said, laying her head on his chest.
"And I love you, Sarah Mackenzie."
She kissed him, turning around with her back to him and settling into his arms again.
"Do you remember that night in Sydney Harbor, when you asked me how long we were going to wait?"
"Yes."
"We talked about me letting go, but that wasn't it. I already knew by then, Mac, that what was between us was different, special. I didn't want to risk losing that."
"I'm glad you didn't."
They lay there for a while, not talking. Then Harm said, "Do you think the Admiral is attracted to Elizabeth?"
"Mmm, I don't know. I have wondered. They do spend a lot of time talking, and sometimes it's like they have some secret communication going on. Why do you ask," she said, looking up over her shoulder at him.
"I think I interrupted something when I walked into his office today. Something was going on."
Mac thought about it, then said, "No, we're wrong."
"Why?"
"Because AJ having something going on with Elizabeth would be like him having something going on with me. I just don't think the Admiral would cross that line, not with someone that works for him."
"Yes, I thought that too. He favors her, though."
"I know, but so do you."
Harm grinned at Mac. He loved her for not being jealous of his relationship with Elizabeth.
"Hey, I treat her the same as anyone else. The Admiral spoils her. Remember the dressing-down he gave us at Soups 'n Salads? He never defended you or me like that before."
Mac laughed, remembering. "Harm, you know we deserved that. And you're just saying he spoils her because you think you're not the JAG poster-boy anymore. But you're still my poster-boy, sweetheart," she said, kissing him on the chin.
"Watch it, Marine. I was never the JAG poster boy."
Mac halfway turned and lookd at him. They both burst out laughing at what he'd said. There were still posters of Harm, the fighter-pilot-turned-lawyer, plastered on the walls of every Navy recruiting station across the country.
"Hey, that was a Navy poster, not a JAG poster!" he said in his defense.
1827 hours
The Watertown
Elizabeth's apartment
Elizabeth went to the door to let Clay in. He had a grocery bag filled with vegetables in his arm.
"Hi," Elizabeth said, standing in the doorway.
"Hi," Clay said, looking back at her. "May I come in?"
Elizabeth stepped aside so that he could enter. Clay walked in and looked around. He didn't comment on Elizabeth's empty apartment, or the boxes and crates still left unpacked.
Turning to her, he said, "Lead the way to the kitchen."
They went into the kitchen and Elizabeth took Clay's coat to the closet. When she came back he was placing the items in the grocery bag on the counter.
"May I help?" she asked.
"No," he said looking at her. "You can sit back and relax. I can handle this."
Elizabeth looked to her left, then to her right. No chairs or a barstool.
Clay noticed, also. He picked her up and sat her on the counter next to the vegetables, then continued emptying the bag. Elizabeth watched him work, both of them silent. Clay looked at her often but didn't say anything. He checked her empty cabinets, finding the wok-style skillet. He pulled out her few utensils, a couple of glasses, two plates, and began washing and cutting up the vegetables.
The doorbell rang. Elizabeth barely noticed until Clay said, "I think your delivery is here."
"Okay," she said. But she didn't move, still watching him.
He lifted her down from the counter and they stood that way for a few seconds, looking into each other's eyes. The bell rang again, so Clay stepped back and she went to get the door.
"Elizabeth Halliton? I'm Steve from Hanson Galleries. I have a delivery for you, Ma'am. Is it okay to bring it up?"
"Yes, Steve. Thank you."
"Where would you like for us to put it, Ma'am?"
Elizabeth showed him where to place the sofa and then waited by the door for him and his partner to come back. Clay had watched from the doorway of the kitchen, but stepped back unobserved when Elizabeth showed the delivery man in. He was checking to make sure it was his man delivering the sofa.
After they had carried the sofa in and left, Clay stepped into the living room where Elizabeth was looking at her new furniture. It was a burgundy and green pattern with tan highlights.
"It's a start," Elizabeth said aloud, not knowing Clay was there.
"I'll help you unpack whenever you're ready," he said behind her.
She turned and looked at him, and he saw the tears in her eyes. He didn't move to her, knowing that she was taking a big step in letting go.
She finally said, "I probably should buy furniture before unpacking, make it easy for the delivery people to maneuver."
Clay didn't say anything, just looked back. He held out his hand to her and she went forward and placed her hand in his. He led her back to the kitchen and sat her on the counter again while he finished cooking their meal.
While the meal simmered, Clay washed his hands and turned back to her. He helped her down from the counter, and they stood together, close and gazing into each other's eyes. Clay's love was there for her to see, and she didn't try to hide her love from him. He pulled her closer and kissed her. Elizabeth kissed him back and he gathered her into his arms, holding her tight. The kiss was endless, neither of them holding back showing how they felt. The months of staying apart melted away and they were back onboard that train, the outside world a distant shadow. They had fallen in love with each other on site, so they had given themselves time to be sure that what they felt was real. Now they didn't have any doubts. Clay finally broke the kiss, placing his forehead against hers.
He said in a voice thick with emotion, "If you're not going to marry me, we can't kiss like that."
"Then I must marry you," Elizabeth said, loving him.
Clay held his breath, looking into her eyes.
"How about Friday?" he asked.
"Friday's good for me," Elizabeth replied.
"I love you," he said softly.
"I love you, too."
They kissed again and then Clay prepared their plates and they went to the living room to eat the meal. They sat on the floor in front of the sofa, looking at each other as they ate.
"You know we didn't wait the full four months. We had another week left," Elizabeth said.
"Well, you have a couple of star-crossed lovers aiming for the top of the Empire State Building to thank for that," Clay said smiling at her.
"'An Affair to Remember'! You know that movie?" Elizabeth asked him in surprise.
"I became familiar with it when I had the flu. Do you like it?"
"It's one of my favorites."
Clay laughed. "Is that a universal sentiment among women?"
"All those who've seen it," she laughed.
"I kicked myself for agreeing to wait four months the minute I walked out that door."
"Yet, you made us both suffer by keeping your distance!"
He laughed at her indignation. "Only because it was the right thing to do. You needed time."
"Yes," she said, but looking down.
"You've been lonely, haven't you?"
She shook her head, knowing he understood.
"I couldn't be here, Elizabeth. But I never left you."
"I know." She looked at Clay and then said, "You're working with King Hussain to flush out the members of his government that are behind the threat against me, aren't you?"
Clay looked at her in surprise. "What do you know?"
"Nothing that anyone has told me. Will you tell me what's happening?"
"I can't, Elizabeth. I promised King Hussain, the Prince, and Secretary Ramir that I wouldn't involve you or worry you about any of this."
"I thought as much. You don't have to tell me. You can't betray their trust."
"Thank you."
"Clay, I love them dearly, but I'm not fragile or unable to handle what's going on. Let me tell you my understanding of the situation.
"I initially thought the threat against me was of a personal nature, but since learning you're CIA, I know it must have a political origin. Several people in the Jordan government resent King Hussain's unwillingness to cater to their agendas. In an attempt to thwart him, they've tried to convince others in the government that the King operates with much American influence. They even implied that I was an American spy living in the King's home all these years. They were ignored for the most part because there was nothing to back their claims. However, when the President insisted that I become an employee of the State Department, they saw their chance to create conflict. Even then they could not get a common backing because the two governments have enjoyed a good relationship for many years. And the people trust and respect the King, as well as his son.
"The great majority of the King's cabinet supports his policies toward the U.S. and King Hussain has made it clear that he will not support terrorist activities against America. But with the events of 9/11, these people saw an opportunity and have taken on a different approach. They have probably joined forces with Iraqi or Iranian factions that share a common anti-American sentiment. They hoped by killing me, the U.S. would see Jordan as an enemy. This would force the King to view their agendas in a different light. The King and the others wanted me to leave right away because someone or persons in his household is in on the threat.
"King Hussain, the Prince, and Ramir do not want me to contact them, but wait for them to contact me. They have not, so that tells me the threat still exists. Not to mention you have someone watching me at all times. Your delivery man, for instance. I'm guessing you're all waiting, watching these people to identify all of the key players and get a handle on the activities of this anti-American group. We need to know if these people are in any way linked to the events of 9/11."
Clay sat staring at her, stunned. She had described everything.
"How do you know all this?"
"I'm a lawyer, Clay," she said, smiling at him.
"I'm used to observing, investigating, and running scenarios through my mind. But more importantly, I know the Jordan government. I had years to observe and study their government as well as their way of life. And when you live that close to the government, you learn their politics. I also traveled extensively throughout the country while I lived there and visited among many people, not all of them Jordanians. I visited with Iranians, Iraqi, Saudis, Africans, even Russians. That's how I learned to speak Farsi well. Being a member of the King's household, and an American, I was given more freedom than Muslim women. More so because of the King than because I was an American. But I learned the hard way not to take that for granted. Those who hated America still spoke to me, not ashamed of expressing their opinion. They were careful to treat me with respect though, because I always had an escort from the King's home. We traveled in civilian attire, but after a few years, most people recognized me. But, I knew that I would leave Jordan one day, even before 9/11 happened. I was just unprepared to leave the way that I did."
Clay gave her a crooked smile, "We've underestimated you, haven't we?"
"No, you've just tried to protect me," she said, leaning forward and kissing him. "I just thought you should know that I don't need protection from the facts."
"I can't believe the King, all of them, don't know how observant you are."
"Honey, they do know," Elizabeth assured him with a grin. "They know me very well. The same discussions I can have with you I've had with them many times over. We talked about anything from politics to religion, and everything in between. There were no boundaries, nothing we couldn't talk about."
"I knew that you all were close, but I don't think I fully appreciated just how close. If they know you can handle what's going on, why did they make me promise not to discuss it with you?" Clay asked, pulling her over to him to settle her in his arms.
"Because as a woman, they don't believe I should have to deal with it. That's their culture."
"Yes, but I also think it's because they love you, and knew that it would be enough for you just to get through leaving your home and friends."
"I'm blessed to have people who love me."
"You mentioned that I have people watching you. How do you know that?" asked Clay, shaking his head at her.
Elizabeth laughed and said, "Observant, remember."
Clay laughed and pulled her close to kiss her. That was all of the discussion they had for a long while.
The end – Part V