Title: What About Now?

Author: Catch

Disclaimer: Insert standard issue disclaimer here

Spoilers: Nothing specific, but it's all fair game

AN: I shamelessly stole the title from a Lonestar song, but the fic isn't really based on the song.  There are similarities, but I swear, the idea came from title alone.  This is my first attempt to write a fic from Harm's POV, so keep that in mind when reviewing.

What About Now?

There once was a time when the words, "No excuses, sir!" were programmed into my head.  I would spit it out when some detailer was yelling in my face about how my rack wasn't properly squared away.  I wish that detailer was here screaming at me now.  Maybe that's what I need to get my act together. It worked then; why not now?  Because I'm not some 18 year-old plebe anymore.  The issue at hand is a little more serious than not having perfect hospital corners.  More serious, yes, but it should be just as easy to solve, right?

Should be.  Those are the key words.  I keep finding excuses though.  There were the somewhat legitimate ones (I say somewhat because there is still that little part of me that believes in, "No excuses, sir!").  You know, the Bugmes and Video Princesses.  Then there were the ones that were excuses and nothing more.  Things like, "It's too late to go over there," or, "I'm on a carrier conducting an investigation."  They were obstacles, sure, but not valid reasons as to why I wasn't telling her how I really felt.  See, I know I've had my head in my six for quite some time.  I'm not as oblivious to my feelings as people seem to think I am.  Every time I started thinking about her (which is quite often), I always seem to find one reason as to why I can't tell her now (which has led to a plethora of excuses).  Midshipman Second Class Riddell, where were you when I needed you?

Every time but now it seems.  She's here, in my apartment, nose buried in the case file in front her.  She's cute when she's frustrated, but she'd kick my six if she knew I thought that.  Or would she?  What would she do if she knew how I felt about her?  This is where the excuse comes in, Hammer.  You don't have one this time though do you?  There's no reason why I can't tell her.  No significant others to deal with.  The logistics and timing are not a problem.  Face it, there's not an excuse in the world that would fly if you didn't say something now.  It's time I started believing in "no excuses" for once instead of just regurgitating the words.  You're not going to find a better time, Rabb.  What about now?

Short and sweet, it's how I like 'em.  You know the drill.  R&R please!