Title: Journey to Homecoming Pt. 17/?
Author: Sheila
Category: Romance
Pairing: Clay/Sarah
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: As If
Spoilers: Up through 'Need to Know'
Summary: Clay and Sarah come together during an investigation
Archiving: Just Ask
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church Virginia
0820 Local
Clay's POV
AJ is a dead man. I've seen that look in Morgan's eyes before, but not for a very long time. To use an old expression, he's pricked her fancy, and her fancy was nothing to be played with. I didn't know who to warn, AJ because he was in for an unrelenting pursuit by my cousin, or Morgan because he was such a solitary man. It was useless on both counts. Morgan wouldn't pay attention to my warnings and AJ probably would ignore me. Sarah looked at me during the exchange between AJ and Morgan and I rolled my eyes to let her know I saw what was happening. Good or bad it was going to be quite a ride.
"Well, um, that's ah, good. Everyone ready to leave for the Pentagon?"
At our nods or words of ascent, we rose and left the room.
"Admiral Chegwidden, we have the family limo, there's room for all of us, would you like to drive over with us?" Lord, she was starting already.
I leaned close to Sarah and whispered, "Stay out of her way, it's no use interfering and you don't want to be in her firing line when she is in pursuit." She smiled serenely at me; I wanted to know what was going on inside of her head but we had no time discuss current events.
Somehow Morgan maneuvered the seating in the limo so she sat in the forward facing seat with she and Sarah on either end, and AJ in the center. Harm, Tracy, and I sat facing them. Military protocol stated that AJ be last in and first out, Morgan had conveniently forgotten this. She knew protocol, military or not, she was after all in the family business and worked for State. But she didn't give a fig about protocol when it stood between her and what she wanted.
The ride to the Pentagon was relatively quiet, everyone seemingly lost in his or her own thoughts. I was trying to silently communicate with Sarah, but she was ignoring me. I could tell she knew what I was thinking, but she continued to ignore me. It was obvious that the matchmaking bug had just bitten her and the bite turned on her plotting gene. AJ wouldn't reprimand Sarah; he would just kill me.
When we arrived at the Pentagon I got out first and helped out Sarah, and then Harm did the honors for Tracy. Morgan had forced the issue, AJ had to assist her out of the car. The minx thanked him kindly and, I couldn't believe it, fluttered her lashes at him. I broke protocol and took Sarah by the hand and led the way into the building, I didn't want to be a witness to Morgan's further antics. Sarah had the nerve to quietly giggle at my strategic retreat. I was hurt, truly hurt, but the smile on my face proved that I was lying to myself.
We were separated for the debriefings, and I had the honor of being interviewed personally by the Joint Chiefs. They and their staffs were unrelenting in their questioning. Explain everything, in detail, that happened from the beginning. When did I report my suspicions to my superiors at the Agency? Who did I tell, what was I told in return? Did I try to go over their heads? Why did I set out on my own? Did I do everything to prevent the bombing? Why was I late to the nightclub? I jumped up and left the room after the last question. If I hadn't I probably would have punched out a four star Admiral. After five minutes pacing the hallway I went back in. God I wanted to see Sarah, but she was being interrogated herself.
"Gentleman I have answered your questions to the best of my ability. As to your last question, I was not late to the nightclub. I knew something was going to happen, not where and not when. Going there was a gut instinct. I almost lost my life, and I blame my self for not figuring things out sooner and having the chance to save the lives that were lost. I was working without backup until you provided it, for which I will be forever grateful."
"Well, Mr. Webb, you and your 'team' did an excellent job of apprehending the suspects and breaking up a terrorist ring. A commendation will be sent to the new DCI." At my pleased look, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs smiled. "Yes, Mr. Webb, DCI Watts has resigned yesterday and the President is in the process of selecting a new DCI. And by the way, you are being restored to your former position in the CIA."
I was not surprised that Watts was gone, apparently without too much of a fight. The Angel Shark incident stuck in the craw of the Navy, and with the loss of the sailors in the bombing, they had plenty of ammunition to get rid of him. I hope the President appoints someone from within the intelligence community in his place. The events of the Angel Shark could have been released to the families without compromising National Security, but as usual he protected his ass, a typical trait for a political appointee.
It was now six p.m. I hadn't seen anyone from the group since we were separated for debriefing shortly after our arrival. Lunch had been coffee and that was hours ago. I was ready to go home and crawl into bed with Sarah and sleep for twenty-four hours. I had been pushing myself since the injury, was it only a week ago?
An aide came to me after we adjoined. "Mr. Webb, the rest of your party is waiting for you down the hall. They finished their debriefings a short time ago. If you come with me I'll show you the way."
I found the 'group' waiting for me without Morgan. I immediately went to Sarah and gave her a hug. I could ignore military protocol with the best of them, and I never wanted to by out done by my cousin.
"Are you all right?" Sarah whispered.
"I am now. I never want to go through that again. At one point I thought they were going to blame me for the bombing. Instead I'm reinstated and Watts is gone." Just then my cell rang.
"Webb. How much longer are you going to be? OK, we'll go on home. Give me a call and I'll come pick you up. You are hardheaded, OK, just don't wake us when you get home!"
"I take it that was Morgan? Sarah said.
"Yes, she is knee deep in translating some of the documents and doesn't know when she'll be finished. She have someone here drive her to our place." I explained.
"I like the sound of that, 'our place'." Sarah murmured, she then turned to the others and said, "Gentleman, Tracy, let's go home."
We trudged out to the limo and collapsed. I asked Frederick to drop Sarah and I off first, than drive the others where they wanted.
"I'm sorry guys, I'm wiped out. I talked with the Agency today. They are being usually understanding and are willing to wait until next week for their chance at me. I just want to go home and crash."
"No problem Clay, you shouldn't have been working as it is. We can be dropped at JAG. I'll have Tiner get my car from Andrews tomorrow." Harm offered.
"Sure Webb, get some rest. Mac, you can report in next Monday. Harm,Tracy I'll see you on Wednesday. I believe we have a few things to discuss. Meet me at 0730." It was hard to read AJ's face but I think Rabb and Manetti weren't in for an easy time. The blow-up with Meredith was going to color his decision for these two and I felt sorry for them.
Sarah and I stood on the sidewalk watching the limo drive off. How life could go to hell in a hand basket so quickly never ceased to amaze me. I took Sarah's hand and kissed it and we turned and walked into the house.
"I love you." She said while cupping my face, looking into my eyes to make sure I understood her. We had both gotten melancholy watching AJ in the car.
"Thank you, and I love you too." I returned with fervor. "Hungry?"
"Very, let's order in. I don't think either one of us are up to cooking."
"Delivery it is. Thai, Chinese, Pizza, Mexican, any of these suit you?"
"Mexican, I think. Beef fajitas and extra guacamole and salsa."
"OK, sounds good. Why don't you go relax and put on some music and I'll call it in." After a quick peck she walked into the den and I phoned in our order. I found her curled up on the sofa, listening to a CD that I don't recall owning. I handed her a glass of tea, and sat next to her.
"That guys got a great voice. Who is it?"
"Josh Grobin." I lifted my brow in question.
"I take it that it's not your CD. Morgan's?"
"Probably. Our taste in music is much the same, eclectic." I smiled thinking about my Parrothead status and the fact that Sarah knew about it.
"So do you go to Buffet concerts?" She tried to smirk and giggle at the same time and she ended up snorting her tea all over herself.
"Yes, Morgan and I have gone to quite a few of them and have the t-shirts to prove it. And a word of warning, no matter how ratty they get, you are not allowed to toss them. Is that clear?" I teased.
"OK, I won't throw out your rags." She teased back. "Here, lay your head down in my lap, I know you are exhausted."
I turned, put my head in her lap and she began massaging my temples. I sighed in relief; I hadn't realized how tense I was. "Thanks, that feels great, please don't stop." I begged.
"Only until dinner gets here."
"Am I always going to come in second to your stomach?"
"Yes, get used to it. But I'll always be available afterward." She leaned down and gave me an upside down kiss. As she began to pull away and I placed a hand on her neck and kept her there. It was an interesting position to be sharing kisses but I wanted more. I finally sat up and took her into my arms. Our kisses were soft and sensuous, and our touches were gentle, lingering where a moan or sigh voiced approval. I had just unbuttoned her uniform blouse when the doorbell rang. Our foreheads touched, and we both sighed.
"Foiled by the bell." I moaned. After one last kiss I rose to pay for the delivery. We practically inhaled dinner, and even though it was only eight p.m. went arm and arm upstairs to bed. I shaved at the sink, while she shaved and showered. We switched places, exchanging a couple of kisses when we passed.
When I got out of the shower she was standing at the sink towel wrapped, with tears running down her face. "What's wrong sweetheart?" I managed to get out.
"Um, sniff, no baby this month." I took her into my arms and just rocked her from side to side.
"I guess we're both pretty disappointed, huh?" She sniffled and nodded her head. "Do you need me to get you some tampons or whatever? Morgan must have something in her bathroom."
"No, I've got some things in my bag. Just hold me for a few more minutes." I couldn't believe how upset I truly was. Having a child had never been a possibility before Sarah, and now I wanted that child badly as much as she did. I stood with my chin on her bowed head and silently loved her.
She looked up. "Thank you, I needed that so much. My hopes were really up and it just hit me kind of hard."
"I know, honey, I know. Now go get what you need. Want some hot chocolate or anything else?"
"No, I just want to snuggle until we fall asleep, OK?" She looked so sad, if only a kiss would make it better. When she came out of the bathroom I lifted the covers and she crawled in a lay against me with her head on my chest.
"Princess, I love you." I whispered.
"I love you too. I so need to come up with a nickname for you." I could feel her smile against my skin.
"You do that." I smiled. We lay at peace with each other and slowly drifted to sleep.
Sarah's POV
1200 Hours
Webb Residence
Bright sunshine was filtering through the drapes when I awoke. I touched Clay's pillow and found it cold to the touch, he must have been up for quite some time. I remembered how we fell asleep last night, cuddling and comforting each other and smiled. He showed me his love in many ways, but I think I like the small demonstrations best. He accepted my period as naturally as my need to be comforted. I pulled his pillow to me and inhaled his scent from it. Wishing I was holding him.
"You're awake, and here I was about to tickle you awake." He said as he walked to the bedside.
I pulled him into bed with me. "Well my eyes are open, but why are you up. You're the one who has had the worst of it lately."
"Just shows you what fourteen hours of sleep will do for you."
"Fourteen, it can't be ten already!" My sense of time was totally disoriented.
"No it is noon. You've been sleeping for sixteen hours." He pulled me closer and laid his head on my shoulder.
"I've haven't slept like that is ages, matter of fact I rarely sleep more than five or six hours at any time. You're good for my insomnia!"
"Glad to be of service mademoiselle. Come on, brunch is ready and I'm not guaranteeing that Morgan is going to leave you any." He rose and pulled me out of bed.
"I've unpacked your bag and put your things in the right side drawers of the dresser. Up now, and get dressed, your food awaits." He kissed me on the nose and left the room.
After washing my face and brushing my teeth I found my unpacked clothing and got dressed. I located the back stairs and went down to the kitchen. I heard Clay and Morgan talking before I saw them. Morgan was asking about the Admiral and Clay was trying his best to sidestep the questions.
"Morgan he just ended a relationship in the most pubic manner I don't think he is ready to start something right now."
"Clay if anyone needs someone it is that man. I have never seen anyone quite so alone, well, except for you and now that problem is solved." Morgan persisted as I walked in.
"Morgan, I agree with Clay, the Admiral is a private man and the breakup with Meredith was anything but. You should wait a while before you pursue him." I implored.
"Good morning Sarah. Sleep well?" Morgan said teasingly, changing the subject and ignoring my request.
"Quite well. What's to eat?" I noticed a few covered pans on the counter and there was a lovely aroma wafting from them.
"Breakfast bake. It's one of my favorites. You throw a bunch of goodies together, bake it, and et voila, breakfast."
Clay stood, "Coffee and breakfast ladies?" At our assent he served us.
In addition to the 'bake' there were hash browns and sliced strawberries. Everything was delicious and we ate with gusto. When we were done Clay spoke.
"Since we are free the rest of the week I thought we would get started on the wedding plans that we are responsible for."
"I have to buy a dress but you are not helping with that, what else is on our list of to dos?"
"One, we have to arrange for the church and the Pre-Cana classes; Two, we need to buy a house; Three, wedding bands; Four, move you in here for the interim. And who knows what else."
"So what's on the program for today?" It had to be something short, it was already 1300 hours.
"While you were snoring I called the rectory and made an appointment with Father James for two o'clock."
"I'll ignore the snoring comment, for now. It looks like we have an appointment to make. Morgan if you will excuse us?"
"No problem. I've got to head back to the Pentagon and do some more translations. Enjoy." She gave us both a kiss, picked up her purse and left. We left shortly after.
The meeting with Father James went relatively smoothly. He asked us how we met, and how long we knew each other, and what made us decide to get married. We both took time answering questions and giving him honest answers without compromising national security. He looked at us with amusement when we told various censored events. He could tell we were not telling him everything but we must have told him enough.
"Clay I've known you for years and I can't tell you how happy I am that you have found someone that returns your love to such a degree. Sarah I understand about your past mistakes and I'm sure you have suffered from them. But I also see someone who has overcome those mistakes to become a strong person. I see no obstacles to your marriage so let's set a date for your marriage and classes."
We were both relieved at his blessing. We decided on an evening wedding, Friday, June 20th. We had to attend three Pre-Cana classes before getting married. Two of the classes would be group meeting with other couples and one would be between the two of us and a counselor. He gave us a list of classes and we could pick the dates. We informed him that in our line of work rescheduling at the last minute may occur.
"Just let me know and we'll work it out." He congratulated us again and we were on our way.
"Let's go out and celebrate. We can call everyone tomorrow and give them the date. Mother called this morning and she will be home on Thursday morning. She has already put plans in motion, I recommend that we stick to our guns or she and Harriet will run us over."
"That won't be a problem. She agreed to the size of the wedding and that's all I really care about. Next week we'll go to the dressmaker she uses and start with the dress. Now let's go feed me." He gave me a cheeky grin as we drove from the rectory.
We went to a steak place not far from his home in Alexandria and I had my fill of steak. Apparently he had a busy morning because we had an appointment at nine tomorrow to start looking at houses. The real estate agent had been given our list of requirements and assured Clay that there were several homes that might fit our needs.
Wednesday
June 11th
Georgetown, D.C.
The next three months were crazy. We found our house after two and a half months of frustrating searching. I think the agent was on Prozac by the time we signed the contract. And she didn't find it, the Admiral did. Over lunch one day I whined about our unsuccessful house hunting. He said there was a house about a mile from his that may meet our picky wants. It was perfect. It was relatively new home built with a Federal façade, five bedrooms, a large den and office, and a beautifully landscaped back yard. The winning feature was the master suite with a huge bath. The tub and shower were the stuff of our most erotic dreams. This lack of the dreamed for bath had been the downfall of most of the other houses we had seen. The owners had already moved out and the house would be ready for us to move into the week before the wedding.
The evening we signed the contract we invited the Admiral to thank him for his help. The Admiral had always been a private man, but since the exit of Meredith he was more so. I ached for him in his solitude, and like most happy people I wanted everyone to be as happy as I was.
Morgan joined us to help celebrate. She had gratefully heeded our advice and hadn't approached him; the fact that she had been called out of town had helped. Dinner was a very pleasant affair. Morgan and to some extent Clay entertained us. The both told stories of their shared childhood experiences which seems to have been filled with one outrageous adventure after another. They were quite the pair growing up, apparently trading turns getting the other into trouble and grounded. I learned more about the events that helped shape my fiancés personality than I had from him alone.
The Admiral opened up also. He told of his summers working on a ranch and about his time serving as Captain of a destroyer. I listened to the conversation swirling around me. I had no desire to share stories of my less than desired childhood. Both Clay and the Admiral knew why and Morgan sensed that I didn't want to talk about it. After coffee Morgan and the Admiral showed no signs of wanting to leave, so we excused ourselves and left them to their own devices.
When we approached the door of the restaurant Clay turned to look at the two we had just left and smiled and shook his head.
"I don't think he knows what is going to hit him. Can you tell me why bought a house so close to him? He'll only have to drive a mile to kill me!"
"Come on love of my life, I'll protect you from the mean old Admiral." I couldn't help teasing him. He actually respected AJ Chegwidden a great deal and counted him one of our friends.
"Promise?" He whined. "You know I think the two of them would be a good couple. Morgan is lighthearted enough to mellow him out without embarrassing the hell out of him, or take insane risks with her life."
"Hey, you gave me hell about playing matchmaker don't you start!" Oh, Lord. Clayton Webb playing cupid was too terrible to think about. I kissed him and instantly got his mind onto a more pleasant track. We got to the car and began the short drive home. I started playfully kissing and touching him here and there. He never knew where I would strike next.
"Keep that up and we won't make it home in one piece." He picked up my hand and brought it to his lips and kissed the palm.
"When we get to the house you can take up where you left off." Just then his cell phone began ringing. "Oh shit, what now?"
He answered. "Webb." There was a slight pause as he listened to whoever was calling. "You have got to be kidding me. I settled that situation last month. Can't Rawlings go? OK, I'll be ready in an hour. I'll meet you at Dulles."
I looked at him. I don't know who was more pissed him or me. I understood but the timing could not have been any worse. We were getting married in a week. We drove home in silence that continued as I watched him pack.
"I'm sorry, I don't want to go, but they need me. I promise I will be back for the wedding." He embraced me and we kissed deeply.
"I'll hold you to that. Come on let me drive you to the airport."
Little did we know that the 'situation' would last four long months.
Author: Sheila
Category: Romance
Pairing: Clay/Sarah
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: As If
Spoilers: Up through 'Need to Know'
Summary: Clay and Sarah come together during an investigation
Archiving: Just Ask
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church Virginia
0820 Local
Clay's POV
AJ is a dead man. I've seen that look in Morgan's eyes before, but not for a very long time. To use an old expression, he's pricked her fancy, and her fancy was nothing to be played with. I didn't know who to warn, AJ because he was in for an unrelenting pursuit by my cousin, or Morgan because he was such a solitary man. It was useless on both counts. Morgan wouldn't pay attention to my warnings and AJ probably would ignore me. Sarah looked at me during the exchange between AJ and Morgan and I rolled my eyes to let her know I saw what was happening. Good or bad it was going to be quite a ride.
"Well, um, that's ah, good. Everyone ready to leave for the Pentagon?"
At our nods or words of ascent, we rose and left the room.
"Admiral Chegwidden, we have the family limo, there's room for all of us, would you like to drive over with us?" Lord, she was starting already.
I leaned close to Sarah and whispered, "Stay out of her way, it's no use interfering and you don't want to be in her firing line when she is in pursuit." She smiled serenely at me; I wanted to know what was going on inside of her head but we had no time discuss current events.
Somehow Morgan maneuvered the seating in the limo so she sat in the forward facing seat with she and Sarah on either end, and AJ in the center. Harm, Tracy, and I sat facing them. Military protocol stated that AJ be last in and first out, Morgan had conveniently forgotten this. She knew protocol, military or not, she was after all in the family business and worked for State. But she didn't give a fig about protocol when it stood between her and what she wanted.
The ride to the Pentagon was relatively quiet, everyone seemingly lost in his or her own thoughts. I was trying to silently communicate with Sarah, but she was ignoring me. I could tell she knew what I was thinking, but she continued to ignore me. It was obvious that the matchmaking bug had just bitten her and the bite turned on her plotting gene. AJ wouldn't reprimand Sarah; he would just kill me.
When we arrived at the Pentagon I got out first and helped out Sarah, and then Harm did the honors for Tracy. Morgan had forced the issue, AJ had to assist her out of the car. The minx thanked him kindly and, I couldn't believe it, fluttered her lashes at him. I broke protocol and took Sarah by the hand and led the way into the building, I didn't want to be a witness to Morgan's further antics. Sarah had the nerve to quietly giggle at my strategic retreat. I was hurt, truly hurt, but the smile on my face proved that I was lying to myself.
We were separated for the debriefings, and I had the honor of being interviewed personally by the Joint Chiefs. They and their staffs were unrelenting in their questioning. Explain everything, in detail, that happened from the beginning. When did I report my suspicions to my superiors at the Agency? Who did I tell, what was I told in return? Did I try to go over their heads? Why did I set out on my own? Did I do everything to prevent the bombing? Why was I late to the nightclub? I jumped up and left the room after the last question. If I hadn't I probably would have punched out a four star Admiral. After five minutes pacing the hallway I went back in. God I wanted to see Sarah, but she was being interrogated herself.
"Gentleman I have answered your questions to the best of my ability. As to your last question, I was not late to the nightclub. I knew something was going to happen, not where and not when. Going there was a gut instinct. I almost lost my life, and I blame my self for not figuring things out sooner and having the chance to save the lives that were lost. I was working without backup until you provided it, for which I will be forever grateful."
"Well, Mr. Webb, you and your 'team' did an excellent job of apprehending the suspects and breaking up a terrorist ring. A commendation will be sent to the new DCI." At my pleased look, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs smiled. "Yes, Mr. Webb, DCI Watts has resigned yesterday and the President is in the process of selecting a new DCI. And by the way, you are being restored to your former position in the CIA."
I was not surprised that Watts was gone, apparently without too much of a fight. The Angel Shark incident stuck in the craw of the Navy, and with the loss of the sailors in the bombing, they had plenty of ammunition to get rid of him. I hope the President appoints someone from within the intelligence community in his place. The events of the Angel Shark could have been released to the families without compromising National Security, but as usual he protected his ass, a typical trait for a political appointee.
It was now six p.m. I hadn't seen anyone from the group since we were separated for debriefing shortly after our arrival. Lunch had been coffee and that was hours ago. I was ready to go home and crawl into bed with Sarah and sleep for twenty-four hours. I had been pushing myself since the injury, was it only a week ago?
An aide came to me after we adjoined. "Mr. Webb, the rest of your party is waiting for you down the hall. They finished their debriefings a short time ago. If you come with me I'll show you the way."
I found the 'group' waiting for me without Morgan. I immediately went to Sarah and gave her a hug. I could ignore military protocol with the best of them, and I never wanted to by out done by my cousin.
"Are you all right?" Sarah whispered.
"I am now. I never want to go through that again. At one point I thought they were going to blame me for the bombing. Instead I'm reinstated and Watts is gone." Just then my cell rang.
"Webb. How much longer are you going to be? OK, we'll go on home. Give me a call and I'll come pick you up. You are hardheaded, OK, just don't wake us when you get home!"
"I take it that was Morgan? Sarah said.
"Yes, she is knee deep in translating some of the documents and doesn't know when she'll be finished. She have someone here drive her to our place." I explained.
"I like the sound of that, 'our place'." Sarah murmured, she then turned to the others and said, "Gentleman, Tracy, let's go home."
We trudged out to the limo and collapsed. I asked Frederick to drop Sarah and I off first, than drive the others where they wanted.
"I'm sorry guys, I'm wiped out. I talked with the Agency today. They are being usually understanding and are willing to wait until next week for their chance at me. I just want to go home and crash."
"No problem Clay, you shouldn't have been working as it is. We can be dropped at JAG. I'll have Tiner get my car from Andrews tomorrow." Harm offered.
"Sure Webb, get some rest. Mac, you can report in next Monday. Harm,Tracy I'll see you on Wednesday. I believe we have a few things to discuss. Meet me at 0730." It was hard to read AJ's face but I think Rabb and Manetti weren't in for an easy time. The blow-up with Meredith was going to color his decision for these two and I felt sorry for them.
Sarah and I stood on the sidewalk watching the limo drive off. How life could go to hell in a hand basket so quickly never ceased to amaze me. I took Sarah's hand and kissed it and we turned and walked into the house.
"I love you." She said while cupping my face, looking into my eyes to make sure I understood her. We had both gotten melancholy watching AJ in the car.
"Thank you, and I love you too." I returned with fervor. "Hungry?"
"Very, let's order in. I don't think either one of us are up to cooking."
"Delivery it is. Thai, Chinese, Pizza, Mexican, any of these suit you?"
"Mexican, I think. Beef fajitas and extra guacamole and salsa."
"OK, sounds good. Why don't you go relax and put on some music and I'll call it in." After a quick peck she walked into the den and I phoned in our order. I found her curled up on the sofa, listening to a CD that I don't recall owning. I handed her a glass of tea, and sat next to her.
"That guys got a great voice. Who is it?"
"Josh Grobin." I lifted my brow in question.
"I take it that it's not your CD. Morgan's?"
"Probably. Our taste in music is much the same, eclectic." I smiled thinking about my Parrothead status and the fact that Sarah knew about it.
"So do you go to Buffet concerts?" She tried to smirk and giggle at the same time and she ended up snorting her tea all over herself.
"Yes, Morgan and I have gone to quite a few of them and have the t-shirts to prove it. And a word of warning, no matter how ratty they get, you are not allowed to toss them. Is that clear?" I teased.
"OK, I won't throw out your rags." She teased back. "Here, lay your head down in my lap, I know you are exhausted."
I turned, put my head in her lap and she began massaging my temples. I sighed in relief; I hadn't realized how tense I was. "Thanks, that feels great, please don't stop." I begged.
"Only until dinner gets here."
"Am I always going to come in second to your stomach?"
"Yes, get used to it. But I'll always be available afterward." She leaned down and gave me an upside down kiss. As she began to pull away and I placed a hand on her neck and kept her there. It was an interesting position to be sharing kisses but I wanted more. I finally sat up and took her into my arms. Our kisses were soft and sensuous, and our touches were gentle, lingering where a moan or sigh voiced approval. I had just unbuttoned her uniform blouse when the doorbell rang. Our foreheads touched, and we both sighed.
"Foiled by the bell." I moaned. After one last kiss I rose to pay for the delivery. We practically inhaled dinner, and even though it was only eight p.m. went arm and arm upstairs to bed. I shaved at the sink, while she shaved and showered. We switched places, exchanging a couple of kisses when we passed.
When I got out of the shower she was standing at the sink towel wrapped, with tears running down her face. "What's wrong sweetheart?" I managed to get out.
"Um, sniff, no baby this month." I took her into my arms and just rocked her from side to side.
"I guess we're both pretty disappointed, huh?" She sniffled and nodded her head. "Do you need me to get you some tampons or whatever? Morgan must have something in her bathroom."
"No, I've got some things in my bag. Just hold me for a few more minutes." I couldn't believe how upset I truly was. Having a child had never been a possibility before Sarah, and now I wanted that child badly as much as she did. I stood with my chin on her bowed head and silently loved her.
She looked up. "Thank you, I needed that so much. My hopes were really up and it just hit me kind of hard."
"I know, honey, I know. Now go get what you need. Want some hot chocolate or anything else?"
"No, I just want to snuggle until we fall asleep, OK?" She looked so sad, if only a kiss would make it better. When she came out of the bathroom I lifted the covers and she crawled in a lay against me with her head on my chest.
"Princess, I love you." I whispered.
"I love you too. I so need to come up with a nickname for you." I could feel her smile against my skin.
"You do that." I smiled. We lay at peace with each other and slowly drifted to sleep.
Sarah's POV
1200 Hours
Webb Residence
Bright sunshine was filtering through the drapes when I awoke. I touched Clay's pillow and found it cold to the touch, he must have been up for quite some time. I remembered how we fell asleep last night, cuddling and comforting each other and smiled. He showed me his love in many ways, but I think I like the small demonstrations best. He accepted my period as naturally as my need to be comforted. I pulled his pillow to me and inhaled his scent from it. Wishing I was holding him.
"You're awake, and here I was about to tickle you awake." He said as he walked to the bedside.
I pulled him into bed with me. "Well my eyes are open, but why are you up. You're the one who has had the worst of it lately."
"Just shows you what fourteen hours of sleep will do for you."
"Fourteen, it can't be ten already!" My sense of time was totally disoriented.
"No it is noon. You've been sleeping for sixteen hours." He pulled me closer and laid his head on my shoulder.
"I've haven't slept like that is ages, matter of fact I rarely sleep more than five or six hours at any time. You're good for my insomnia!"
"Glad to be of service mademoiselle. Come on, brunch is ready and I'm not guaranteeing that Morgan is going to leave you any." He rose and pulled me out of bed.
"I've unpacked your bag and put your things in the right side drawers of the dresser. Up now, and get dressed, your food awaits." He kissed me on the nose and left the room.
After washing my face and brushing my teeth I found my unpacked clothing and got dressed. I located the back stairs and went down to the kitchen. I heard Clay and Morgan talking before I saw them. Morgan was asking about the Admiral and Clay was trying his best to sidestep the questions.
"Morgan he just ended a relationship in the most pubic manner I don't think he is ready to start something right now."
"Clay if anyone needs someone it is that man. I have never seen anyone quite so alone, well, except for you and now that problem is solved." Morgan persisted as I walked in.
"Morgan, I agree with Clay, the Admiral is a private man and the breakup with Meredith was anything but. You should wait a while before you pursue him." I implored.
"Good morning Sarah. Sleep well?" Morgan said teasingly, changing the subject and ignoring my request.
"Quite well. What's to eat?" I noticed a few covered pans on the counter and there was a lovely aroma wafting from them.
"Breakfast bake. It's one of my favorites. You throw a bunch of goodies together, bake it, and et voila, breakfast."
Clay stood, "Coffee and breakfast ladies?" At our assent he served us.
In addition to the 'bake' there were hash browns and sliced strawberries. Everything was delicious and we ate with gusto. When we were done Clay spoke.
"Since we are free the rest of the week I thought we would get started on the wedding plans that we are responsible for."
"I have to buy a dress but you are not helping with that, what else is on our list of to dos?"
"One, we have to arrange for the church and the Pre-Cana classes; Two, we need to buy a house; Three, wedding bands; Four, move you in here for the interim. And who knows what else."
"So what's on the program for today?" It had to be something short, it was already 1300 hours.
"While you were snoring I called the rectory and made an appointment with Father James for two o'clock."
"I'll ignore the snoring comment, for now. It looks like we have an appointment to make. Morgan if you will excuse us?"
"No problem. I've got to head back to the Pentagon and do some more translations. Enjoy." She gave us both a kiss, picked up her purse and left. We left shortly after.
The meeting with Father James went relatively smoothly. He asked us how we met, and how long we knew each other, and what made us decide to get married. We both took time answering questions and giving him honest answers without compromising national security. He looked at us with amusement when we told various censored events. He could tell we were not telling him everything but we must have told him enough.
"Clay I've known you for years and I can't tell you how happy I am that you have found someone that returns your love to such a degree. Sarah I understand about your past mistakes and I'm sure you have suffered from them. But I also see someone who has overcome those mistakes to become a strong person. I see no obstacles to your marriage so let's set a date for your marriage and classes."
We were both relieved at his blessing. We decided on an evening wedding, Friday, June 20th. We had to attend three Pre-Cana classes before getting married. Two of the classes would be group meeting with other couples and one would be between the two of us and a counselor. He gave us a list of classes and we could pick the dates. We informed him that in our line of work rescheduling at the last minute may occur.
"Just let me know and we'll work it out." He congratulated us again and we were on our way.
"Let's go out and celebrate. We can call everyone tomorrow and give them the date. Mother called this morning and she will be home on Thursday morning. She has already put plans in motion, I recommend that we stick to our guns or she and Harriet will run us over."
"That won't be a problem. She agreed to the size of the wedding and that's all I really care about. Next week we'll go to the dressmaker she uses and start with the dress. Now let's go feed me." He gave me a cheeky grin as we drove from the rectory.
We went to a steak place not far from his home in Alexandria and I had my fill of steak. Apparently he had a busy morning because we had an appointment at nine tomorrow to start looking at houses. The real estate agent had been given our list of requirements and assured Clay that there were several homes that might fit our needs.
Wednesday
June 11th
Georgetown, D.C.
The next three months were crazy. We found our house after two and a half months of frustrating searching. I think the agent was on Prozac by the time we signed the contract. And she didn't find it, the Admiral did. Over lunch one day I whined about our unsuccessful house hunting. He said there was a house about a mile from his that may meet our picky wants. It was perfect. It was relatively new home built with a Federal façade, five bedrooms, a large den and office, and a beautifully landscaped back yard. The winning feature was the master suite with a huge bath. The tub and shower were the stuff of our most erotic dreams. This lack of the dreamed for bath had been the downfall of most of the other houses we had seen. The owners had already moved out and the house would be ready for us to move into the week before the wedding.
The evening we signed the contract we invited the Admiral to thank him for his help. The Admiral had always been a private man, but since the exit of Meredith he was more so. I ached for him in his solitude, and like most happy people I wanted everyone to be as happy as I was.
Morgan joined us to help celebrate. She had gratefully heeded our advice and hadn't approached him; the fact that she had been called out of town had helped. Dinner was a very pleasant affair. Morgan and to some extent Clay entertained us. The both told stories of their shared childhood experiences which seems to have been filled with one outrageous adventure after another. They were quite the pair growing up, apparently trading turns getting the other into trouble and grounded. I learned more about the events that helped shape my fiancés personality than I had from him alone.
The Admiral opened up also. He told of his summers working on a ranch and about his time serving as Captain of a destroyer. I listened to the conversation swirling around me. I had no desire to share stories of my less than desired childhood. Both Clay and the Admiral knew why and Morgan sensed that I didn't want to talk about it. After coffee Morgan and the Admiral showed no signs of wanting to leave, so we excused ourselves and left them to their own devices.
When we approached the door of the restaurant Clay turned to look at the two we had just left and smiled and shook his head.
"I don't think he knows what is going to hit him. Can you tell me why bought a house so close to him? He'll only have to drive a mile to kill me!"
"Come on love of my life, I'll protect you from the mean old Admiral." I couldn't help teasing him. He actually respected AJ Chegwidden a great deal and counted him one of our friends.
"Promise?" He whined. "You know I think the two of them would be a good couple. Morgan is lighthearted enough to mellow him out without embarrassing the hell out of him, or take insane risks with her life."
"Hey, you gave me hell about playing matchmaker don't you start!" Oh, Lord. Clayton Webb playing cupid was too terrible to think about. I kissed him and instantly got his mind onto a more pleasant track. We got to the car and began the short drive home. I started playfully kissing and touching him here and there. He never knew where I would strike next.
"Keep that up and we won't make it home in one piece." He picked up my hand and brought it to his lips and kissed the palm.
"When we get to the house you can take up where you left off." Just then his cell phone began ringing. "Oh shit, what now?"
He answered. "Webb." There was a slight pause as he listened to whoever was calling. "You have got to be kidding me. I settled that situation last month. Can't Rawlings go? OK, I'll be ready in an hour. I'll meet you at Dulles."
I looked at him. I don't know who was more pissed him or me. I understood but the timing could not have been any worse. We were getting married in a week. We drove home in silence that continued as I watched him pack.
"I'm sorry, I don't want to go, but they need me. I promise I will be back for the wedding." He embraced me and we kissed deeply.
"I'll hold you to that. Come on let me drive you to the airport."
Little did we know that the 'situation' would last four long months.