====
-- Chapter Three: You Have a Go!
====
"Hey, boys! I talked with Evan last night, and he sends his love."
"Thanks, Mrs. Valissi. We'd have you return the message, but we're planning on calling Evan and Robert this weekend," Jack stated enthusiastically.
"Oh, they'll love that. You two are always part of their conversation when they call."
Mrs. Valissi was Jack's and Daniel's long time neighbor. She had fallen for Daniel the very first time she had laid eyes on him, and from quite early on she had known about their relationship, though she hadn't ever let on. Her son, Evan, was himself involved in a steady same-sex relationship, and as a result, she had recognized all the loving signs of Jack's and Daniel's commitment to each other.
Finally, after a few years, she had confessed to Jack that she was aware of his relationship with Daniel, revealing the true relationship between her son and his life partner. Those two had joined Mrs. Valissi in Canada for the celebration that had been Jack's and Daniel's wedding in the fall of 2003.
On this early Saturday morning, the senior citizen was taking a stroll, something she did often at all times of the day and night. Jack and Daniel had been doing yard work when she stopped to chat. Daniel looked at Jack and nodded. Jack broke out into a huge grin!
Putting down his rake, Jack walked over to Mrs. Valissi and gave her a big kiss and a hug.
"Well, goodness, General, what was that for? Not that I'm complaining mind you, but for a woman my age, that was positively ... orgasmic!"
Jack roared, and Daniel blushed, which made Jack laugh even more.
"Isn't he cute?" Jack asked, his left arm around Mrs. Valissi's shoulders.
"Jack, don't start."
"But, Danny, look at you. Blushing and it had nothing to do with you."
"Jack! I'm warning you ..."
"He loves to do that," Jack spoke quietly, but loud enough for his lover to hear easily. "Threaten. You know, do this or don't do that, and what does he use as his bargaining chip ..."
"JACK JACKSON-O'NEILL ... STOP NOW!"
Jack bent over in laughter, his "Geez, I love him" barely understandable through the joyful noise.
"He's a good boy, General. You shouldn't tease him so much."
"See! See! See! See! See!" Daniel said repetitively, hopping up and down slightly. "You should listen to her!"
"Careful, Love, or the next thing you know you might be running around pretending to be an airplane or watching plants spring up out of nowhere."
Mrs. Valissi looked clueless, not understanding the comment at all. Daniel, meanwhile, was wide-eyed in disbelief at Jack's comment, but Jack gave him that, "No one in the world will know what that means, Danny, so chill" look.
Jack had recalled their time on PJ2-445 when, among other things, Daniel had tried to communicate with aliens, who didn't possess the power of speech, by running around their "homes" with his arms outstretched trying to be an airplane. While Jack hadn't witnessed it, he had read about it in one of Daniel's computer diaries that Daniel had shared with him.
Daniel shook his head and spoke emphatically, "Do you see what I have to live with? The man is incorrigible."
"And you love him, Dear."
Jack grinned, and Daniel shrugged, admitting his fate.
"I took pity on him. Someone had to."
"Mrs. V, we have some news," Jack said, moving away from her and back over to Daniel, who again had a shy smile on his face. "It's not totally official, but it will be in a few days."
"I'm all ears."
"Better yet," Jack said jovially, "be all eyes."
Jack turned, faced Daniel, and kissed him. Mrs. Valissi had seen them kiss lots of times, but rarely had they been so open in their front yard. She also noticed both had on their wedding rings. Again, it wasn't totally out of character, but there was something about their look, and they did have news, Jack had said.
"Boys? Are you ... out?"
"More out than the outdoors," Jack answered as he laughed, squeezing Daniel as he held him in his arms.
"I love you!"
Jack had waited so long to be able to hold and kiss Daniel without fear of repercussion. He had wanted to shout their love to the world for years, and now he could.
Mrs. Valissi radiated with joy, her voice full of excitement as she spoke, "I'm so happy for you both!" She walked quickly to them and all exchanged hugs. "Are you telling everyone? I mean, the neighbors?"
"Mrs. V, we're telling the world. I may take out a billboard!"
"Jack, be calm."
"No way, Danny. We've waited too long for this. I want the whole world to know."
"So do I," Daniel spoke truthfully, resting his head against Jack's shoulder.
"He's all mine, Mrs. V. Am I a lucky man or what?"
Daniel rolled his eyes.
"I think you're both lucky. Oh, look at the time. I have to run. Luncheon date with some of the girls. I can tell?"
"Tell anyone you want. I insist," Jack enthused.
Mrs. Valissi saw how embarrassed Daniel was, and yet she saw something else. The younger man was soaking it all in, having Jack make such a fuss over him. She knew it was something he hadn't been used to, being loved openly, or even loved at all. She bade them goodbye, and winked at Jack as she left.
He knew she knew ... Daniel was his love, and Jack was proud of that. If Jack had his way, the whole world would know how much Jack loved Daniel and how special Daniel was.
"No more hiding, Danny. No more."
Jack kissed his husband again.
"I don't know about that, Jack."
"What are you talking about?"
Daniel got very close to Jack and spoke in a low, seductive voice, "The grass is hiding and," Daniel moved his right hand to skim Jack's neckline, running down his chest, " if you don't hurry and get the leaves off it," Daniel nibbled just briefly on Jack's left ear, "we might not have time to," Daniel traced Jack's lips with his finger, slowly, gently going from one side to the other, "... you know ..." Daniel brushed Jack's lips, his tongue just flicking slightly between Jack's lips, teasing and promising of more to come, "before the game tonight."
Jack suddenly wasn't sure he could even wait another minute. He looked down, just to be sure he was "presentable" in public. With a gulp, he said, "Good point. Where's that rake?"
Daniel watched his lover return to his task and smiled, inside and out. It felt good to be loved so much and to have such an effect on his husband. He looked across the street and suddenly turned crimson red when he saw Jacob and Christa, both smiling broadly, about to get into their car to go out. He knew they had just witnessed Daniel's almost-seduction of Jack.
Oh, well. I'm in love. Sue me.
He smiled, gave a slight shrug of his shoulders, and saw the senior citizen couple start to laugh. Then he turned and went back to his own chores.
====
"Jack, where are we going to put all this stuff? We can barely walk through the garage now."
Daniel was referring to the boxes they'd brought home from the SGC the week before. Most of them contained Daniel's artifacts and relics, along with notes and research, but a number of them were full of Jack's things as well.
"No clue, Love, but we'll find a place for it all. Is there anything in there you want to put in the house?"
"A couple of things I got in Egypt. I'm not ready to give the rest up, but the other things don't need to be out." Daniel began doing a quick survey of the boxes, reminding himself what was where. He came to one of Jack's and smiled. "We should hang this by your other diplomas."
Jack winced. Daniel was holding up Jack's certificate of graduation from the Academy in Military Science and Engineering. It had hung in his office at the SGC for years. The other diplomas Daniel had referred to were Jack's post-graduate degrees, ones he had not mentioned to his husband until the day they packed up his office, and Daniel came across Jack's stash of ChiMe newsletters.
ChiMe was the newsletter for the Chicago chapter of Mensa. That had been the moment Daniel the geeky genius realized he was married to Jack the military genius. It had not been an easy night for the older man, but in the end, Daniel was proud of his husband's achievements, insisting on unearthing Jack's degrees and hanging them on the wall of the study next to his own diplomas.
"Daniel, I think there's enough on the wall as it is." Daniel chuckled, knowing Jack was a tad uncomfortable. "Danny, you aren't still mad at me, are you?"
"No. I told you. I'm proud of you. I still wish you had trusted me and told me the truth, but I understand. I'm not all that sure you were even wrong. I ... I don't know how I would have handled it earlier."
Jack moved nearer to his spouse and said firmly, "You would have it handled with the same compassion you always have."
"I'd like to think that, but ..."
"You would have. So, how about we not worry about this right now and go to Baskin-Robbins for a cone?"
"Sounds good ... my genius."
The lovers kissed and then headed out for an afternoon treat.
====
"There you are!"
Jack smiled, finding Daniel in his den reading.
"Been here for a while, Babe."
"Anything of interest?"
"Rocks ... and more rocks."
"Ah ... boring then!" Jack teased.
"Very funny!"
"Mrs. V dropped by a few minutes ago."
"And?"
"And she invited us to a dinner party to celebrate our ... outness."
"That's not a word, Jack," Daniel said as he shook his head. Then he smiled, "She's so sweet to have us to dinner. When?"
"Tomorrow night. Nothing fancy, she said ... just you, me, Mrs. V and her cats."
"I hope she makes her lasagna."
Daniel licked his lips in anticipation.
"Oh those lips." Jack ambled over to his husband's chair, leaned over, and kissed him. "Oh yeah. Love those lips."
"Jack, we need to talk about something."
"Sounds serious."
"Uh ... kinda."
Jack pulled Daniel up and they went to the big recliner and snuggled closely together. Daniel laughed as they settled.
"I can't believe we've figured out how to fit both of us into this chair so comfortably."
"We're motivated! So, what's the topic?"
"Our house."
"Love our house."
"Me, too, but ... well, it's not really the house."
Jack felt a bit of tenseness in his lover. He pressed his lips against Daniel's forehead and said softly, "Then what?"
"We need to remodel."
"I know that. We've talked about it quite a bit. You're hedging, Love."
"Kids."
"Danny, speak English, okay?"
"Jack, kids ... our kids ... in our house," Daniel said making eye contact, not really wanting to verbalize his thoughts.
"That's the plan."
"And our house ... we'll need to ... um, well, childproof it."
"That would be the thing to do to keep our children safe ... to ..."
That's when Jack understood what Daniel was gently trying to say. His eyes opened big and wide, almost in a panic, and his breathing hitched. Daniel knew that Jack had figured out his concern.
"We have to remove the guns. We ... have to take it all out ... all of it," Jack said softly.
"Jack ..." but Daniel didn't know what to say, so he simply lay his head snugly into Jack's shoulder, his left hand roaming Jack's neck, shoulder, and arm.
They sat quietly for a long time.
"Okay, so I'll include some downstairs stuff in the plans, get the gun cabinet taken out. I'll figure out what to do with the weapons. They'll be long gone before our children arrive. Let's go get something to eat. I'm starved."
Jack got up quickly and headed downstairs, not even looking back.
Daniel took a big breath. He looked over at the wedding gift Jack had given him, the Jackson-O'Neill Tree of Love. Under the space that read "Our Children" was a photo of Charlie. Since Jack and Sara had both agreed that Charlie was as much Daniel's and Mark's as theirs, Daniel had asked Jack what he had thought about putting another photo of Charlie in their Tree of Love. There was already a small one on one of the tree branches, the side of Jack's ancestry, but this one would be bigger and included in the section devoted to their children.
Jack had been truly touched, and the next day, they had called Sara and asked her if she had any photos they might have. The couple had gone over for lunch and together they had selected a new photo of Charlie to include in their Tree of Love.
Looking at it now, Daniel said reassuringly, "We won't let what happened to you happen to your brother or sister. I promise -- we'll keep them safe!"
====
"Breath-taking," Daniel put his arms around his husband. "You are so sexy, Jack. Love you, my Silver Fox," Daniel spoke leaning in for a kiss.
Jack was wearing a long-sleeved burgundy shirt with black pants. Daniel had on a similar shirt, but his was navy blue with white horizontal stripes every few inches. He also wore black pants.
"You're no mince meat yourself, Love."
"Jack, do you know what this is?"
"No, what?"
"It's our first real night out. I mean ... not hiding, not being covert. It doesn't matter who sees or where we go or what we do. It's just us, going to a dinner party."
"She's known for a long time."
"I know, but it's different. Don't you feel it?"
"Just another night," Jack teased, and then he broke into laughter, "Geez, Danny, it's the best night. I get to show the world you're mine, even if it is just Mrs. V, and she already knows it. We'd better go."
"Jack ... the girls?"
"It's a little cold out. Let's let them in the house."
"You're such a toughie, Jack."
"That's what you keep telling me."
The couple secured the house, making sure Bijou and Katie were comfortable on their beanbag and walked up the block to Mrs. Valissi's home. Her lights were on, but the blinds were closed. Jack rang the doorbell.
"Who is it?" a call shouted from inside.
"Just us, Mrs. V," Jack yelled in response.
"The door's unlocked. Come on in!"
"Jack, we need to talk to her about doing that. It's not safe for her to leave her door open like this."
"I agree," Jack said as he opened the door.
"SURPRISE!"
Jack and Daniel stood stunned, the door still open.
"Welcome to your party, Boys!" Mrs. Valissi announced as she approached the couple, wearing a smile as big as can be.
The house was full of friends and neighbors, and across the ceiling was a banner that said, "Welcome Home, Jack and Daniel!"
"Wel...welcome home?" Daniel asked, still not sure what was happening.
"Well, Dear," Mrs. Valissi said, "we weren't sure what to say, but in a sense, you are finally home, aren't you?"
Daniel smiled as he hugged their friend and neighbor.
"Wow, Mrs. V," Jack said. "You didn't have to do this."
"Yes, I did. It's about time we said thank you for bringing Daniel to us." Daniel blushed. "You're a sweetheart, Daniel," Mrs. Valissi raved, "and the day Jack O'Neill conned you into falling in love with him was the day we all became blessed."
"Conned?" Jack bellowed. "I'll have you know I'm a prize catch ... just ask Danny!"
Daniel headed for the crowd.
"Danny? ... Daniel! ... Just like an archaeologist. If you aren't an artifact, they just don't care."
"Come mingle, Dear."
Mrs. Valissi led Jack into the room, following Daniel's path. Many of their neighbors were there ... Christa and Jacob Svenson from across the street, John and Mitzi Miller who lived next to Mrs. Valissi, Ben and Joan Iverson, Carl Ramirez, Bob Stevens and Shelly McClain, and so many others.
"You knew?" Daniel said, astonished at what Shelly was saying.
"Oh sure, Daniel. You were always there."
"Yeah, I know. I guess we weren't as ... careful as we should have been."
"We all knew," Bob added, "but it wasn't our place to interfere. Jack had been a good neighbor for a couple of years already, and when you entered the picture, you were a good neighbor, too. That's what mattered."
Joan added, "Besides, Jack was in the Air Force so we knew why you weren't going public. I swear, sometimes I think we should abolish our government completely and start over ... see if we can do it right; let people love whoever they want without all these silly rules."
"I know what you mean."
In another part of the large living room, Jack was chatting with other neighbors.
"Believe me, it was a surprise to me, too, but after two minutes, I think even you'd fall for him, Christa."
"You know I would have snatched him up from you if I didn't have Jacob to argue with," Christa laughed.
Christa and Jacob had known about the newlyweds from the beginning and had been saddened to have missed their wedding.
"Jack, do you think the military will ever get their act together?" Mitzi asked taking a drink of her punch.
"I don't know, but I hope so. Loving Daniel is the easiest thing in the world to do; hiding that love has been one of the hardest. I don't ever want to have to do that again."
"I'm just glad I won't have to lie anymore."
"Lie, Mitzi?"
"Oh, maybe I shouldn't have said anything."
"No, please. What are you talking about?"
"I think we've all had to deal with questions, Jack. Military or ... I don't know who ... some passerby asking questions about you or Daniel. I'm sure they were checking up on you."
"I've always wondered who they were myself," Carl added. "They've been by my place two or three times over the years."
"I'm sorry about that. You should have told me."
"Why, Jack? Why worry you and Daniel, or make you two feel uncomfortable? You two have been our friends. Whenever anything goes wrong around here, you two are the first to offer help. So we lied a little -- small price to pay for protecting friends from ... who knows who," Ben said, his conviction strong.
Jack nonchalantly took a drink of punch.
"When's the last time anyone was around ... that you know of?"
The neighbors thought for a moment.
"Well, I think about six months ago, don't you think so, Honey?" Mitzi asked John.
"That's about right, Dear. Someone said they were interested in the house, wanting to know if we thought you'd sell, but they weren't house hunting. I remembered one of them from of couple years back."
"I'm ... sorry about that."
"Not your fault, Jack."
"Toast time!"
Jack turned and saw Mrs. Valissi and some other neighbors bringing out the champagne. They passed glasses of the bubbly to everyone present, and then in synch, as they had done with their opening cry of "Surprise," the guests held out their drinks and said, "To our wonderful neighbors, Jack and Daniel Jackson-O'Neill. Welcome home!"
Jack walked to Daniel and kissed him, feeling even freer now than he had before.
"I love you."
Daniel smiled in response, saying, "I love you, too," and then they kissed again.
When they looked at their neighbors, they saw friendly, accepting faces, not curiosity seekers or people in shock ... just friends and neighbors. It was what they had wanted for years, and now, they had it.
"And here's to you," Jack raised his glass, "all of you. You have no idea how much it means to us to have our friends and neighbors here like this. Thank you."
Daniel's arm wrapped around Jack. They'd never experienced this before ... the acceptance of their marriage ... with their neighbors. What so many in the world took for granted, Jack and Daniel held as a treasured gift.
====
"Five ... that's it ... six ... come on, no shortcuts ... seven ... two more ... that doesn't count. I said no shortcuts. Okay ... eight ... nine ... ten! Well done, Babe."
"Danny, I'm exhausted. Don't you think this is going overboard?"
"We have to stay in shape, Jack. Now that we aren't going on missions, we could get ... flabby."
"I am NOT flabby," Jack said as he wiped the sweat from his face.
For the last hour, he'd been doing the Daniel Jackson-O'Neill workout, only it wasn't the kind of workout Jack had been hoping for.
"And we're going to keep you ... not flabby by exercising ... every day."
"I have nothing against exercise, but couldn't we just have sex?"
"That's not exercise."
"It's not? I've lost a few pounds when we've ..."
"Jack, it's not the same thing. Now, if we're going to have a family, children, then we need to be able to keep up with them."
"She's not even pregnant yet."
Daniel glared at his lover, then he gave his next orders -- "Okay, no more pushups, but it's time for your sit-ups. Twenty of them. Go on. Ready? Okay ... go ... One ... that's it ... two ... good ... thr...thr...thr ... THOR?"
Daniel stood up and yelled at the top of his lungs.
"THAT'S MY HUSBAND YOU JUST SNATCHED UP ... AND HE'S RETIRED, THOR! YOU HEAR ME! THOR, BEAM ME ... up," Daniel said, realizing he was suddenly aboard Thor's ship, abtly named, 'The Daniel Jackson.'
"Hey, Babe. Nice of you to join us."
"Very funny, Jack."
"Hey, even I heard you yelling."
"Thor, what's going on? You know the rules. No ... snatching," Daniel said.
"I am sorry, Daniel. I did not mean to intrude, but I only just learned that you and O'Neill have retired from the SGC."
"Thor, you can't talk us into going back; not this time," Jack said firmly just as Daniel walked to his side.
"That is not my intent. I only wished to give you this," the Asgard said, handing Jack a communications device. "If you need to contact me, you may use this. It has long range capability."
"Thanks, buddy," Jack said with a grin.
"You are now free to exhibit your real relationship?"
"Yes," Daniel said, still smiling. "We only had to keep it a secret because Jack's military, but now that he's retired, we can ... do whatever want."
Thor had known about Jack's and Daniel's relationship for years. He had found out about it while beaming down to request Jack's help. The Asgard leader had thought it strange that the Tau'ri had such odd rules about whom they could love.
"The Asgard wish you well."
"Thank you, Thor," Jack said, adding, "and thanks for this. It's good to know we still have friends ... up there."
Thor nodded, and in a flash, Jack and Daniel found themselves back in their house.
"We need to find a safe place to keep that," Daniel said, looking at the device.
"For now, the safe."
"Jack?"
"Yes, Love?"
"Why didn't he beam me up with you?"
Jack grinned as he answered, "He was just pulling your chain. He knows you hate being left behind."
"Great. An Asgard being an ..."
"Daniel, he might be listening."
"The old snoop," Daniel said with a chuckle.
"Let's put this in the safe."
====
"Hey, Bijou, that's my cookie!"
Jack tore after the crafty mama beagle, chasing her around the living room. Daniel laughed, watching his family at play.
"That's what you get for putting your plate down on the floor, Jack."
"It was just a temporary thing. I was ... oh forget it. GRRRRRR," Jack growled at Bijou.
"Grrrrrrrr," Bijou growled back, her tail wagging wildly.
Holding Katie in his arms, Daniel continued to laugh as he watched Jack run after Bijou.
"Come on, Jack. You don't really want the cookie now, do you?"
Seeing Bijou's grip on the cookie shifting, Jack laughed.
"No, I guess not" and returned to the kitchen to get a new oatmeal treat.
"Keep your paws off of this one, Bij, or you'll regret it!"
Bijou's tail was still wagging, her face alight with a big smile.
"She's trembling, Jack ... just trembling with fear," Daniel teased as the doorbell rang. "I'll get it."
Daniel rose, carrying the youngest beagle with him.
"Hi, Daniel. Hey there, Miss Katie," Sylvia said happily, petting the beautiful dog.
"Hello, Sylvia, come on in," Daniel greeted the doctor and opened the door.
"Syl!" Jack exclaimed, about to get up until the doctor motioned for him to stay seated.
"I'm in a hurry. I have a meeting to get to, and I'm late but ... well, I just had to come by."
"Is everything okay? I mean, Kayla's exams and everything?" Daniel inquired with concern.
Sylvia had a warm, comforting smile on her face.
"Things couldn't be better. In fact ... well ... Kayla dropped by my office today."
Jack couldn't remain seated, worry beginning to consume him. He stood and walked over to Daniel, putting his arm around Daniel's waist securely, as if bracing him for some disaster.
"Fellas, why do you always assume the worst?"
"It's our line of business."
"Our ... old line of business," Daniel corrected, making Jack smile.
Sylvia shook her head, and continued, "Kayla is fine. Thrilled, in fact. She wanted to come over tonight, but she had a writer's workshop and didn't want to miss it -- some special guest lecturer or something. She specifically asked me if I could come and give you the news tonight because she didn't feel right keeping it from you any longer than necessary."
"Keep what from us?" both Jack and Daniel spoke at the same time.
"You're ..."
Just then there was a loud pounding on the front door, and a voice was heard shouting, "JACK! DANIEL! Hello!"
Sylvia laughed, recognizing Kayla's voice, as Jack and Daniel scurried to the door.
"Are you all right?" Daniel asked with worry, and at the same time Jack asked, "What's wrong?" as he looked all around for signs of danger.
Kayla smiled, catching her breath as she replied, "No ... I mean, I'm sorry. I'm fine." The young woman rushed to Sylvia. "Am I too late?"
"No, Dear, I haven't told them yet. I was just about to, though."
"Oh for crying out loud, tell us what?" Jack barked.
"Go ahead, Kayla."
"Thanks, Syl. I was headed for the lecture, and I just knew I had to come by here first. It wouldn't be right otherwise."
"Women. I swear. I'm going to shoot them all," Jack muttered, shaking his head wildly in frustration.
"Jack, calm down," Daniel said sternly.
Kayla beamed as she gave them the thrilling news -- "You're going to be a father, er, fathers!"
"Yes, we know that, but what's the news?" Jack said, totally missing the message.
"Jack," Daniel whispered and then suddenly stopped breathing, his eyes locked onto Kayla.
"Jack, she's pregnant," Sylvia said informatively, a grin highlighting her face.
"Oh, gawd," Daniel exclaimed, still not breathing.
"Daniel, dear, you're about to turn blue. Breathe! ... and here, give me Katie."
Sylvia took the beagle and put her gently on the floor. Katie looked up at Daniel, her head tilted. Unable to figure out what was wrong, but feeling her "parent" was safe, the youngest dog trotted over to her beanbag and curled up into a ball, deciding it was time for a nap.
"She's ... I mean ... You are ... For real?"
Sylvia smiled. Moments like these made her job a career.
"Congratulations! In a few months, you're going to have a baby to take care of."
Jack and Daniel stood motionless.
"Guys? Say something," Kayla urged.
"Ppppregnant," Jack stuttered uncharacteristically.
Sylvia placed a kiss on each of their cheeks.
"I have to go. Call me tomorrow when you both need a reminder that this wasn't your imagination. Jack, make sure he breathes," she pointed at the younger man, "and take a few breaths yourself while you're at it."
"I'm going to go, too, but I couldn't miss this moment. I'll talk to you later tonight or tomorrow," Kayla said, giving both men a hug.
"Daniel? Are you going to be okay?"
"Ba...ba...preg...nant?"
"Yes, Daniel," Kayla answered, placing her own kiss on his cheek, and then as she headed for the door. "Jack, I think you'd better follow Sylvia's advice, and make sure Daniel keeps breathing. Bye!"
Jack nodded, watching Kayla walk out. He turned to face Daniel who had missed a breath again.
"Danny?"
Daniel let out a half laugh and gasp, his voice a wispy sound as he said, "We're going to have a baby!"
"Yeah, how about that?" Then, suddenly, Jack shouted in joy, "WE'RE GOING TO HAVE A BABY!" He laughed, raising Daniel up in the air slightly, and spinning them both around. When he put Daniel down, their eyes locked. Both swallowed, their eyes misty. "We're pregnant, Love," Jack said softly.
"Pregnant," Daniel repeated, on the verge of finally snapping out of the shock in he had gone into. "All our dreams, Jack. Our little baby dream ... it's ... coming true."
"I love you, Angel," Jack proclaimed as he took his husband into his arms. Then he looked over at the beagles, both now in the beanbag. "Hey, girls. We're having a baby!"
For the rest of the night, Jack and Daniel cuddled together, their beagles at their sides or in their arms, all happy and blessed at their good fortune!
====
"Hmmm," Daniel sighed, his left hand reaching out and feeling nothing but cotton ... the cotton of the light blue sheets that adorned their king-size bed.
He got up and put on his navy blue robe and slippers and went in search of his husband, finding Jack on the roof deck. Jack was in their favorite spot, his back leaning against the house. His knees were drawn up just enough for his hands to rest on as he thought.
"Jack?"
Daniel moved to sit down next to Jack, grateful he had pajamas on under the robe. Jack himself had gotten dressed and was wearing his new pair of gray sweats to replace the old, tattered pair Daniel had loved for years.
"Danny, I can't ... there has to be something we can do. Crap, I feel so mixed up, like I'm being pulled in two different directions."
Daniel leaned forward to kiss Jack's cheek. He put his left hand on Jack's face and let it slip to his neck where he rubbed gently.
"Talk to me."
"Charlie. I can't let that happen again."
"It won't. We're taking care of that."
"And that's the problem, Love. We can't afford to ... use that solution."
"I don't understand."
Jack looked down. He leaned forward a little, putting his head in his hands. Daniel shifted and put his right hand behind his husband's head in support. His other hand was on Jack's left arm.
"Jack, Mrs. Valissi's party. You were awfully quiet when we came home that night. I ... I remember thinking there was something you weren't telling me, but I let it go. Something happened, didn't it?"
Jack nodded, finally leaning his head back against the wall and facing Daniel, who moved his hand down to caress his husband's shoulder.
"We've always known there have been people watching us. Geez, our lives have been invaded by the NID or Kinsey or the CIA or I don't know or even care anymore who friggin' else ... but I had hoped that when we got out, that they'd go away. It was a silly notion, Danny, that we could walk away and have them walk away, too."
"What happened?"
"The neighbors, just like we knew, they've been questioned over the years. That wasn't a surprise, except that the last time was just six months ago. Six months, Danny. We weren't doing anything then, and most anyone who knew us knew we were leaving the SGC."
Daniel took a breath of defeat. He spoke regretfully, "I guess we were being naive to think we could have a life free of all of that."
"Angel, the only thing we were naive about was having hope, and yet, we have to have hope. It keeps us going."
"Jack, are we wrong to bring a life into this world if we're still targets?"
"No, there are always going to be dangers in the world, and we're entitled to live life, Danny -- all of it. We've earned that right, and we're going to. It's just ... crap, Daniel, I have to be able to protect you ... and the girls ... and our children. How can I do that if we take away the guns? We're not accountants! Anyone ... anything ... could be after us at any time. Look, I'm not advocating people owning guns ... but ... we aren't normal, and we never will be. It's tearing me apart because I don't know how to protect the girls and our babies without risking what happened to our son."
"We'll find a way, Jack. We just need to think about it realistically. We know there's a solution. There has to be."
"I hope so, but I don't know what it is," Jack said weakly, his emotions threatening to overtake him.
Daniel pulled Jack to him, so that Jack's head was resting on his shoulder.
"We'll find a way, Love. I promise. You know what you always tell me, that together we're unbeatable, so ... we'll think of something because ... gawd, Jack ... that's what we always do ... we think of something." Daniel heard the release of a sniffle, and held Jack securely. "Shhh, Love. It's going to be okay. I love you. We'll think of something. Shhh. Everything will work out the way it's supposed to. Love you so much."
Daniel kissed the top of Jack's silver-gray hair and gently rocked his husband as they sat under the twinkling stars, both unsure of everything except for their nation of two.
====On to Chapter Four...
-- Chapter Three: You Have a Go!
====
"Hey, boys! I talked with Evan last night, and he sends his love."
"Thanks, Mrs. Valissi. We'd have you return the message, but we're planning on calling Evan and Robert this weekend," Jack stated enthusiastically.
"Oh, they'll love that. You two are always part of their conversation when they call."
Mrs. Valissi was Jack's and Daniel's long time neighbor. She had fallen for Daniel the very first time she had laid eyes on him, and from quite early on she had known about their relationship, though she hadn't ever let on. Her son, Evan, was himself involved in a steady same-sex relationship, and as a result, she had recognized all the loving signs of Jack's and Daniel's commitment to each other.
Finally, after a few years, she had confessed to Jack that she was aware of his relationship with Daniel, revealing the true relationship between her son and his life partner. Those two had joined Mrs. Valissi in Canada for the celebration that had been Jack's and Daniel's wedding in the fall of 2003.
On this early Saturday morning, the senior citizen was taking a stroll, something she did often at all times of the day and night. Jack and Daniel had been doing yard work when she stopped to chat. Daniel looked at Jack and nodded. Jack broke out into a huge grin!
Putting down his rake, Jack walked over to Mrs. Valissi and gave her a big kiss and a hug.
"Well, goodness, General, what was that for? Not that I'm complaining mind you, but for a woman my age, that was positively ... orgasmic!"
Jack roared, and Daniel blushed, which made Jack laugh even more.
"Isn't he cute?" Jack asked, his left arm around Mrs. Valissi's shoulders.
"Jack, don't start."
"But, Danny, look at you. Blushing and it had nothing to do with you."
"Jack! I'm warning you ..."
"He loves to do that," Jack spoke quietly, but loud enough for his lover to hear easily. "Threaten. You know, do this or don't do that, and what does he use as his bargaining chip ..."
"JACK JACKSON-O'NEILL ... STOP NOW!"
Jack bent over in laughter, his "Geez, I love him" barely understandable through the joyful noise.
"He's a good boy, General. You shouldn't tease him so much."
"See! See! See! See! See!" Daniel said repetitively, hopping up and down slightly. "You should listen to her!"
"Careful, Love, or the next thing you know you might be running around pretending to be an airplane or watching plants spring up out of nowhere."
Mrs. Valissi looked clueless, not understanding the comment at all. Daniel, meanwhile, was wide-eyed in disbelief at Jack's comment, but Jack gave him that, "No one in the world will know what that means, Danny, so chill" look.
Jack had recalled their time on PJ2-445 when, among other things, Daniel had tried to communicate with aliens, who didn't possess the power of speech, by running around their "homes" with his arms outstretched trying to be an airplane. While Jack hadn't witnessed it, he had read about it in one of Daniel's computer diaries that Daniel had shared with him.
Daniel shook his head and spoke emphatically, "Do you see what I have to live with? The man is incorrigible."
"And you love him, Dear."
Jack grinned, and Daniel shrugged, admitting his fate.
"I took pity on him. Someone had to."
"Mrs. V, we have some news," Jack said, moving away from her and back over to Daniel, who again had a shy smile on his face. "It's not totally official, but it will be in a few days."
"I'm all ears."
"Better yet," Jack said jovially, "be all eyes."
Jack turned, faced Daniel, and kissed him. Mrs. Valissi had seen them kiss lots of times, but rarely had they been so open in their front yard. She also noticed both had on their wedding rings. Again, it wasn't totally out of character, but there was something about their look, and they did have news, Jack had said.
"Boys? Are you ... out?"
"More out than the outdoors," Jack answered as he laughed, squeezing Daniel as he held him in his arms.
"I love you!"
Jack had waited so long to be able to hold and kiss Daniel without fear of repercussion. He had wanted to shout their love to the world for years, and now he could.
Mrs. Valissi radiated with joy, her voice full of excitement as she spoke, "I'm so happy for you both!" She walked quickly to them and all exchanged hugs. "Are you telling everyone? I mean, the neighbors?"
"Mrs. V, we're telling the world. I may take out a billboard!"
"Jack, be calm."
"No way, Danny. We've waited too long for this. I want the whole world to know."
"So do I," Daniel spoke truthfully, resting his head against Jack's shoulder.
"He's all mine, Mrs. V. Am I a lucky man or what?"
Daniel rolled his eyes.
"I think you're both lucky. Oh, look at the time. I have to run. Luncheon date with some of the girls. I can tell?"
"Tell anyone you want. I insist," Jack enthused.
Mrs. Valissi saw how embarrassed Daniel was, and yet she saw something else. The younger man was soaking it all in, having Jack make such a fuss over him. She knew it was something he hadn't been used to, being loved openly, or even loved at all. She bade them goodbye, and winked at Jack as she left.
He knew she knew ... Daniel was his love, and Jack was proud of that. If Jack had his way, the whole world would know how much Jack loved Daniel and how special Daniel was.
"No more hiding, Danny. No more."
Jack kissed his husband again.
"I don't know about that, Jack."
"What are you talking about?"
Daniel got very close to Jack and spoke in a low, seductive voice, "The grass is hiding and," Daniel moved his right hand to skim Jack's neckline, running down his chest, " if you don't hurry and get the leaves off it," Daniel nibbled just briefly on Jack's left ear, "we might not have time to," Daniel traced Jack's lips with his finger, slowly, gently going from one side to the other, "... you know ..." Daniel brushed Jack's lips, his tongue just flicking slightly between Jack's lips, teasing and promising of more to come, "before the game tonight."
Jack suddenly wasn't sure he could even wait another minute. He looked down, just to be sure he was "presentable" in public. With a gulp, he said, "Good point. Where's that rake?"
Daniel watched his lover return to his task and smiled, inside and out. It felt good to be loved so much and to have such an effect on his husband. He looked across the street and suddenly turned crimson red when he saw Jacob and Christa, both smiling broadly, about to get into their car to go out. He knew they had just witnessed Daniel's almost-seduction of Jack.
Oh, well. I'm in love. Sue me.
He smiled, gave a slight shrug of his shoulders, and saw the senior citizen couple start to laugh. Then he turned and went back to his own chores.
====
"Jack, where are we going to put all this stuff? We can barely walk through the garage now."
Daniel was referring to the boxes they'd brought home from the SGC the week before. Most of them contained Daniel's artifacts and relics, along with notes and research, but a number of them were full of Jack's things as well.
"No clue, Love, but we'll find a place for it all. Is there anything in there you want to put in the house?"
"A couple of things I got in Egypt. I'm not ready to give the rest up, but the other things don't need to be out." Daniel began doing a quick survey of the boxes, reminding himself what was where. He came to one of Jack's and smiled. "We should hang this by your other diplomas."
Jack winced. Daniel was holding up Jack's certificate of graduation from the Academy in Military Science and Engineering. It had hung in his office at the SGC for years. The other diplomas Daniel had referred to were Jack's post-graduate degrees, ones he had not mentioned to his husband until the day they packed up his office, and Daniel came across Jack's stash of ChiMe newsletters.
ChiMe was the newsletter for the Chicago chapter of Mensa. That had been the moment Daniel the geeky genius realized he was married to Jack the military genius. It had not been an easy night for the older man, but in the end, Daniel was proud of his husband's achievements, insisting on unearthing Jack's degrees and hanging them on the wall of the study next to his own diplomas.
"Daniel, I think there's enough on the wall as it is." Daniel chuckled, knowing Jack was a tad uncomfortable. "Danny, you aren't still mad at me, are you?"
"No. I told you. I'm proud of you. I still wish you had trusted me and told me the truth, but I understand. I'm not all that sure you were even wrong. I ... I don't know how I would have handled it earlier."
Jack moved nearer to his spouse and said firmly, "You would have it handled with the same compassion you always have."
"I'd like to think that, but ..."
"You would have. So, how about we not worry about this right now and go to Baskin-Robbins for a cone?"
"Sounds good ... my genius."
The lovers kissed and then headed out for an afternoon treat.
====
"There you are!"
Jack smiled, finding Daniel in his den reading.
"Been here for a while, Babe."
"Anything of interest?"
"Rocks ... and more rocks."
"Ah ... boring then!" Jack teased.
"Very funny!"
"Mrs. V dropped by a few minutes ago."
"And?"
"And she invited us to a dinner party to celebrate our ... outness."
"That's not a word, Jack," Daniel said as he shook his head. Then he smiled, "She's so sweet to have us to dinner. When?"
"Tomorrow night. Nothing fancy, she said ... just you, me, Mrs. V and her cats."
"I hope she makes her lasagna."
Daniel licked his lips in anticipation.
"Oh those lips." Jack ambled over to his husband's chair, leaned over, and kissed him. "Oh yeah. Love those lips."
"Jack, we need to talk about something."
"Sounds serious."
"Uh ... kinda."
Jack pulled Daniel up and they went to the big recliner and snuggled closely together. Daniel laughed as they settled.
"I can't believe we've figured out how to fit both of us into this chair so comfortably."
"We're motivated! So, what's the topic?"
"Our house."
"Love our house."
"Me, too, but ... well, it's not really the house."
Jack felt a bit of tenseness in his lover. He pressed his lips against Daniel's forehead and said softly, "Then what?"
"We need to remodel."
"I know that. We've talked about it quite a bit. You're hedging, Love."
"Kids."
"Danny, speak English, okay?"
"Jack, kids ... our kids ... in our house," Daniel said making eye contact, not really wanting to verbalize his thoughts.
"That's the plan."
"And our house ... we'll need to ... um, well, childproof it."
"That would be the thing to do to keep our children safe ... to ..."
That's when Jack understood what Daniel was gently trying to say. His eyes opened big and wide, almost in a panic, and his breathing hitched. Daniel knew that Jack had figured out his concern.
"We have to remove the guns. We ... have to take it all out ... all of it," Jack said softly.
"Jack ..." but Daniel didn't know what to say, so he simply lay his head snugly into Jack's shoulder, his left hand roaming Jack's neck, shoulder, and arm.
They sat quietly for a long time.
"Okay, so I'll include some downstairs stuff in the plans, get the gun cabinet taken out. I'll figure out what to do with the weapons. They'll be long gone before our children arrive. Let's go get something to eat. I'm starved."
Jack got up quickly and headed downstairs, not even looking back.
Daniel took a big breath. He looked over at the wedding gift Jack had given him, the Jackson-O'Neill Tree of Love. Under the space that read "Our Children" was a photo of Charlie. Since Jack and Sara had both agreed that Charlie was as much Daniel's and Mark's as theirs, Daniel had asked Jack what he had thought about putting another photo of Charlie in their Tree of Love. There was already a small one on one of the tree branches, the side of Jack's ancestry, but this one would be bigger and included in the section devoted to their children.
Jack had been truly touched, and the next day, they had called Sara and asked her if she had any photos they might have. The couple had gone over for lunch and together they had selected a new photo of Charlie to include in their Tree of Love.
Looking at it now, Daniel said reassuringly, "We won't let what happened to you happen to your brother or sister. I promise -- we'll keep them safe!"
====
"Breath-taking," Daniel put his arms around his husband. "You are so sexy, Jack. Love you, my Silver Fox," Daniel spoke leaning in for a kiss.
Jack was wearing a long-sleeved burgundy shirt with black pants. Daniel had on a similar shirt, but his was navy blue with white horizontal stripes every few inches. He also wore black pants.
"You're no mince meat yourself, Love."
"Jack, do you know what this is?"
"No, what?"
"It's our first real night out. I mean ... not hiding, not being covert. It doesn't matter who sees or where we go or what we do. It's just us, going to a dinner party."
"She's known for a long time."
"I know, but it's different. Don't you feel it?"
"Just another night," Jack teased, and then he broke into laughter, "Geez, Danny, it's the best night. I get to show the world you're mine, even if it is just Mrs. V, and she already knows it. We'd better go."
"Jack ... the girls?"
"It's a little cold out. Let's let them in the house."
"You're such a toughie, Jack."
"That's what you keep telling me."
The couple secured the house, making sure Bijou and Katie were comfortable on their beanbag and walked up the block to Mrs. Valissi's home. Her lights were on, but the blinds were closed. Jack rang the doorbell.
"Who is it?" a call shouted from inside.
"Just us, Mrs. V," Jack yelled in response.
"The door's unlocked. Come on in!"
"Jack, we need to talk to her about doing that. It's not safe for her to leave her door open like this."
"I agree," Jack said as he opened the door.
"SURPRISE!"
Jack and Daniel stood stunned, the door still open.
"Welcome to your party, Boys!" Mrs. Valissi announced as she approached the couple, wearing a smile as big as can be.
The house was full of friends and neighbors, and across the ceiling was a banner that said, "Welcome Home, Jack and Daniel!"
"Wel...welcome home?" Daniel asked, still not sure what was happening.
"Well, Dear," Mrs. Valissi said, "we weren't sure what to say, but in a sense, you are finally home, aren't you?"
Daniel smiled as he hugged their friend and neighbor.
"Wow, Mrs. V," Jack said. "You didn't have to do this."
"Yes, I did. It's about time we said thank you for bringing Daniel to us." Daniel blushed. "You're a sweetheart, Daniel," Mrs. Valissi raved, "and the day Jack O'Neill conned you into falling in love with him was the day we all became blessed."
"Conned?" Jack bellowed. "I'll have you know I'm a prize catch ... just ask Danny!"
Daniel headed for the crowd.
"Danny? ... Daniel! ... Just like an archaeologist. If you aren't an artifact, they just don't care."
"Come mingle, Dear."
Mrs. Valissi led Jack into the room, following Daniel's path. Many of their neighbors were there ... Christa and Jacob Svenson from across the street, John and Mitzi Miller who lived next to Mrs. Valissi, Ben and Joan Iverson, Carl Ramirez, Bob Stevens and Shelly McClain, and so many others.
"You knew?" Daniel said, astonished at what Shelly was saying.
"Oh sure, Daniel. You were always there."
"Yeah, I know. I guess we weren't as ... careful as we should have been."
"We all knew," Bob added, "but it wasn't our place to interfere. Jack had been a good neighbor for a couple of years already, and when you entered the picture, you were a good neighbor, too. That's what mattered."
Joan added, "Besides, Jack was in the Air Force so we knew why you weren't going public. I swear, sometimes I think we should abolish our government completely and start over ... see if we can do it right; let people love whoever they want without all these silly rules."
"I know what you mean."
In another part of the large living room, Jack was chatting with other neighbors.
"Believe me, it was a surprise to me, too, but after two minutes, I think even you'd fall for him, Christa."
"You know I would have snatched him up from you if I didn't have Jacob to argue with," Christa laughed.
Christa and Jacob had known about the newlyweds from the beginning and had been saddened to have missed their wedding.
"Jack, do you think the military will ever get their act together?" Mitzi asked taking a drink of her punch.
"I don't know, but I hope so. Loving Daniel is the easiest thing in the world to do; hiding that love has been one of the hardest. I don't ever want to have to do that again."
"I'm just glad I won't have to lie anymore."
"Lie, Mitzi?"
"Oh, maybe I shouldn't have said anything."
"No, please. What are you talking about?"
"I think we've all had to deal with questions, Jack. Military or ... I don't know who ... some passerby asking questions about you or Daniel. I'm sure they were checking up on you."
"I've always wondered who they were myself," Carl added. "They've been by my place two or three times over the years."
"I'm sorry about that. You should have told me."
"Why, Jack? Why worry you and Daniel, or make you two feel uncomfortable? You two have been our friends. Whenever anything goes wrong around here, you two are the first to offer help. So we lied a little -- small price to pay for protecting friends from ... who knows who," Ben said, his conviction strong.
Jack nonchalantly took a drink of punch.
"When's the last time anyone was around ... that you know of?"
The neighbors thought for a moment.
"Well, I think about six months ago, don't you think so, Honey?" Mitzi asked John.
"That's about right, Dear. Someone said they were interested in the house, wanting to know if we thought you'd sell, but they weren't house hunting. I remembered one of them from of couple years back."
"I'm ... sorry about that."
"Not your fault, Jack."
"Toast time!"
Jack turned and saw Mrs. Valissi and some other neighbors bringing out the champagne. They passed glasses of the bubbly to everyone present, and then in synch, as they had done with their opening cry of "Surprise," the guests held out their drinks and said, "To our wonderful neighbors, Jack and Daniel Jackson-O'Neill. Welcome home!"
Jack walked to Daniel and kissed him, feeling even freer now than he had before.
"I love you."
Daniel smiled in response, saying, "I love you, too," and then they kissed again.
When they looked at their neighbors, they saw friendly, accepting faces, not curiosity seekers or people in shock ... just friends and neighbors. It was what they had wanted for years, and now, they had it.
"And here's to you," Jack raised his glass, "all of you. You have no idea how much it means to us to have our friends and neighbors here like this. Thank you."
Daniel's arm wrapped around Jack. They'd never experienced this before ... the acceptance of their marriage ... with their neighbors. What so many in the world took for granted, Jack and Daniel held as a treasured gift.
====
"Five ... that's it ... six ... come on, no shortcuts ... seven ... two more ... that doesn't count. I said no shortcuts. Okay ... eight ... nine ... ten! Well done, Babe."
"Danny, I'm exhausted. Don't you think this is going overboard?"
"We have to stay in shape, Jack. Now that we aren't going on missions, we could get ... flabby."
"I am NOT flabby," Jack said as he wiped the sweat from his face.
For the last hour, he'd been doing the Daniel Jackson-O'Neill workout, only it wasn't the kind of workout Jack had been hoping for.
"And we're going to keep you ... not flabby by exercising ... every day."
"I have nothing against exercise, but couldn't we just have sex?"
"That's not exercise."
"It's not? I've lost a few pounds when we've ..."
"Jack, it's not the same thing. Now, if we're going to have a family, children, then we need to be able to keep up with them."
"She's not even pregnant yet."
Daniel glared at his lover, then he gave his next orders -- "Okay, no more pushups, but it's time for your sit-ups. Twenty of them. Go on. Ready? Okay ... go ... One ... that's it ... two ... good ... thr...thr...thr ... THOR?"
Daniel stood up and yelled at the top of his lungs.
"THAT'S MY HUSBAND YOU JUST SNATCHED UP ... AND HE'S RETIRED, THOR! YOU HEAR ME! THOR, BEAM ME ... up," Daniel said, realizing he was suddenly aboard Thor's ship, abtly named, 'The Daniel Jackson.'
"Hey, Babe. Nice of you to join us."
"Very funny, Jack."
"Hey, even I heard you yelling."
"Thor, what's going on? You know the rules. No ... snatching," Daniel said.
"I am sorry, Daniel. I did not mean to intrude, but I only just learned that you and O'Neill have retired from the SGC."
"Thor, you can't talk us into going back; not this time," Jack said firmly just as Daniel walked to his side.
"That is not my intent. I only wished to give you this," the Asgard said, handing Jack a communications device. "If you need to contact me, you may use this. It has long range capability."
"Thanks, buddy," Jack said with a grin.
"You are now free to exhibit your real relationship?"
"Yes," Daniel said, still smiling. "We only had to keep it a secret because Jack's military, but now that he's retired, we can ... do whatever want."
Thor had known about Jack's and Daniel's relationship for years. He had found out about it while beaming down to request Jack's help. The Asgard leader had thought it strange that the Tau'ri had such odd rules about whom they could love.
"The Asgard wish you well."
"Thank you, Thor," Jack said, adding, "and thanks for this. It's good to know we still have friends ... up there."
Thor nodded, and in a flash, Jack and Daniel found themselves back in their house.
"We need to find a safe place to keep that," Daniel said, looking at the device.
"For now, the safe."
"Jack?"
"Yes, Love?"
"Why didn't he beam me up with you?"
Jack grinned as he answered, "He was just pulling your chain. He knows you hate being left behind."
"Great. An Asgard being an ..."
"Daniel, he might be listening."
"The old snoop," Daniel said with a chuckle.
"Let's put this in the safe."
====
"Hey, Bijou, that's my cookie!"
Jack tore after the crafty mama beagle, chasing her around the living room. Daniel laughed, watching his family at play.
"That's what you get for putting your plate down on the floor, Jack."
"It was just a temporary thing. I was ... oh forget it. GRRRRRR," Jack growled at Bijou.
"Grrrrrrrr," Bijou growled back, her tail wagging wildly.
Holding Katie in his arms, Daniel continued to laugh as he watched Jack run after Bijou.
"Come on, Jack. You don't really want the cookie now, do you?"
Seeing Bijou's grip on the cookie shifting, Jack laughed.
"No, I guess not" and returned to the kitchen to get a new oatmeal treat.
"Keep your paws off of this one, Bij, or you'll regret it!"
Bijou's tail was still wagging, her face alight with a big smile.
"She's trembling, Jack ... just trembling with fear," Daniel teased as the doorbell rang. "I'll get it."
Daniel rose, carrying the youngest beagle with him.
"Hi, Daniel. Hey there, Miss Katie," Sylvia said happily, petting the beautiful dog.
"Hello, Sylvia, come on in," Daniel greeted the doctor and opened the door.
"Syl!" Jack exclaimed, about to get up until the doctor motioned for him to stay seated.
"I'm in a hurry. I have a meeting to get to, and I'm late but ... well, I just had to come by."
"Is everything okay? I mean, Kayla's exams and everything?" Daniel inquired with concern.
Sylvia had a warm, comforting smile on her face.
"Things couldn't be better. In fact ... well ... Kayla dropped by my office today."
Jack couldn't remain seated, worry beginning to consume him. He stood and walked over to Daniel, putting his arm around Daniel's waist securely, as if bracing him for some disaster.
"Fellas, why do you always assume the worst?"
"It's our line of business."
"Our ... old line of business," Daniel corrected, making Jack smile.
Sylvia shook her head, and continued, "Kayla is fine. Thrilled, in fact. She wanted to come over tonight, but she had a writer's workshop and didn't want to miss it -- some special guest lecturer or something. She specifically asked me if I could come and give you the news tonight because she didn't feel right keeping it from you any longer than necessary."
"Keep what from us?" both Jack and Daniel spoke at the same time.
"You're ..."
Just then there was a loud pounding on the front door, and a voice was heard shouting, "JACK! DANIEL! Hello!"
Sylvia laughed, recognizing Kayla's voice, as Jack and Daniel scurried to the door.
"Are you all right?" Daniel asked with worry, and at the same time Jack asked, "What's wrong?" as he looked all around for signs of danger.
Kayla smiled, catching her breath as she replied, "No ... I mean, I'm sorry. I'm fine." The young woman rushed to Sylvia. "Am I too late?"
"No, Dear, I haven't told them yet. I was just about to, though."
"Oh for crying out loud, tell us what?" Jack barked.
"Go ahead, Kayla."
"Thanks, Syl. I was headed for the lecture, and I just knew I had to come by here first. It wouldn't be right otherwise."
"Women. I swear. I'm going to shoot them all," Jack muttered, shaking his head wildly in frustration.
"Jack, calm down," Daniel said sternly.
Kayla beamed as she gave them the thrilling news -- "You're going to be a father, er, fathers!"
"Yes, we know that, but what's the news?" Jack said, totally missing the message.
"Jack," Daniel whispered and then suddenly stopped breathing, his eyes locked onto Kayla.
"Jack, she's pregnant," Sylvia said informatively, a grin highlighting her face.
"Oh, gawd," Daniel exclaimed, still not breathing.
"Daniel, dear, you're about to turn blue. Breathe! ... and here, give me Katie."
Sylvia took the beagle and put her gently on the floor. Katie looked up at Daniel, her head tilted. Unable to figure out what was wrong, but feeling her "parent" was safe, the youngest dog trotted over to her beanbag and curled up into a ball, deciding it was time for a nap.
"She's ... I mean ... You are ... For real?"
Sylvia smiled. Moments like these made her job a career.
"Congratulations! In a few months, you're going to have a baby to take care of."
Jack and Daniel stood motionless.
"Guys? Say something," Kayla urged.
"Ppppregnant," Jack stuttered uncharacteristically.
Sylvia placed a kiss on each of their cheeks.
"I have to go. Call me tomorrow when you both need a reminder that this wasn't your imagination. Jack, make sure he breathes," she pointed at the younger man, "and take a few breaths yourself while you're at it."
"I'm going to go, too, but I couldn't miss this moment. I'll talk to you later tonight or tomorrow," Kayla said, giving both men a hug.
"Daniel? Are you going to be okay?"
"Ba...ba...preg...nant?"
"Yes, Daniel," Kayla answered, placing her own kiss on his cheek, and then as she headed for the door. "Jack, I think you'd better follow Sylvia's advice, and make sure Daniel keeps breathing. Bye!"
Jack nodded, watching Kayla walk out. He turned to face Daniel who had missed a breath again.
"Danny?"
Daniel let out a half laugh and gasp, his voice a wispy sound as he said, "We're going to have a baby!"
"Yeah, how about that?" Then, suddenly, Jack shouted in joy, "WE'RE GOING TO HAVE A BABY!" He laughed, raising Daniel up in the air slightly, and spinning them both around. When he put Daniel down, their eyes locked. Both swallowed, their eyes misty. "We're pregnant, Love," Jack said softly.
"Pregnant," Daniel repeated, on the verge of finally snapping out of the shock in he had gone into. "All our dreams, Jack. Our little baby dream ... it's ... coming true."
"I love you, Angel," Jack proclaimed as he took his husband into his arms. Then he looked over at the beagles, both now in the beanbag. "Hey, girls. We're having a baby!"
For the rest of the night, Jack and Daniel cuddled together, their beagles at their sides or in their arms, all happy and blessed at their good fortune!
====
"Hmmm," Daniel sighed, his left hand reaching out and feeling nothing but cotton ... the cotton of the light blue sheets that adorned their king-size bed.
He got up and put on his navy blue robe and slippers and went in search of his husband, finding Jack on the roof deck. Jack was in their favorite spot, his back leaning against the house. His knees were drawn up just enough for his hands to rest on as he thought.
"Jack?"
Daniel moved to sit down next to Jack, grateful he had pajamas on under the robe. Jack himself had gotten dressed and was wearing his new pair of gray sweats to replace the old, tattered pair Daniel had loved for years.
"Danny, I can't ... there has to be something we can do. Crap, I feel so mixed up, like I'm being pulled in two different directions."
Daniel leaned forward to kiss Jack's cheek. He put his left hand on Jack's face and let it slip to his neck where he rubbed gently.
"Talk to me."
"Charlie. I can't let that happen again."
"It won't. We're taking care of that."
"And that's the problem, Love. We can't afford to ... use that solution."
"I don't understand."
Jack looked down. He leaned forward a little, putting his head in his hands. Daniel shifted and put his right hand behind his husband's head in support. His other hand was on Jack's left arm.
"Jack, Mrs. Valissi's party. You were awfully quiet when we came home that night. I ... I remember thinking there was something you weren't telling me, but I let it go. Something happened, didn't it?"
Jack nodded, finally leaning his head back against the wall and facing Daniel, who moved his hand down to caress his husband's shoulder.
"We've always known there have been people watching us. Geez, our lives have been invaded by the NID or Kinsey or the CIA or I don't know or even care anymore who friggin' else ... but I had hoped that when we got out, that they'd go away. It was a silly notion, Danny, that we could walk away and have them walk away, too."
"What happened?"
"The neighbors, just like we knew, they've been questioned over the years. That wasn't a surprise, except that the last time was just six months ago. Six months, Danny. We weren't doing anything then, and most anyone who knew us knew we were leaving the SGC."
Daniel took a breath of defeat. He spoke regretfully, "I guess we were being naive to think we could have a life free of all of that."
"Angel, the only thing we were naive about was having hope, and yet, we have to have hope. It keeps us going."
"Jack, are we wrong to bring a life into this world if we're still targets?"
"No, there are always going to be dangers in the world, and we're entitled to live life, Danny -- all of it. We've earned that right, and we're going to. It's just ... crap, Daniel, I have to be able to protect you ... and the girls ... and our children. How can I do that if we take away the guns? We're not accountants! Anyone ... anything ... could be after us at any time. Look, I'm not advocating people owning guns ... but ... we aren't normal, and we never will be. It's tearing me apart because I don't know how to protect the girls and our babies without risking what happened to our son."
"We'll find a way, Jack. We just need to think about it realistically. We know there's a solution. There has to be."
"I hope so, but I don't know what it is," Jack said weakly, his emotions threatening to overtake him.
Daniel pulled Jack to him, so that Jack's head was resting on his shoulder.
"We'll find a way, Love. I promise. You know what you always tell me, that together we're unbeatable, so ... we'll think of something because ... gawd, Jack ... that's what we always do ... we think of something." Daniel heard the release of a sniffle, and held Jack securely. "Shhh, Love. It's going to be okay. I love you. We'll think of something. Shhh. Everything will work out the way it's supposed to. Love you so much."
Daniel kissed the top of Jack's silver-gray hair and gently rocked his husband as they sat under the twinkling stars, both unsure of everything except for their nation of two.
====On to Chapter Four...