Title: Life's Consequences

Author: Anaika Skywalker

Author's Email:

Rating: PG -13

Disclaimer: I don't own JAG or NCIS; I just like to spread my wings occasionally.

Author's Note: Thank you to those who took the time to read and review, for those who have only read; I hope you continue to enjoy the story.

Winjan: Thanks for the nice words. AJ knows about Harm and Sera from her father. I hope you enjoy the bad cop, good cop scene.

RinkRat: Thanks; I hope you enjoy the rest.

Queenofdiamonds1: Thank you, I hope you enjoy this chapter.

Laura carr: Hi, I'm glad you're enjoying it.

Chapter Three: Facing Ones Demons

NCIS Headquarters: Washington DC

Special Agent Gibbs strolled into the interview room and sat down facing former Gunnery Sergeant Johns. "Well Gunny, you're in deep shit."

Samuel Johns gave a smug smile. "Why is that Agent Gibbs?"

"Well I've just come from the hospital, Lt. Commander Mitchell is conscious," he saw the shock on Johns' face. "You didn't think she'd make it, did you?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Really, so you just escaped Leavenworth to use the services of a Hooker?"

"She was a damn fine Hooker." Johns smirked with a large grin.

Gibbs sat back in his chair, crossing his arms against his chest. "Is that so?" He asked and the Gunny nodded. "So you wouldn't be worried to know the Lt. Commander's fiancé is standing just outside the door."

Johns' bravo started dropping. "Why should that worry me, and where's my lawyer?"

"Well that's the problem you see," Gibbs sat forward, uncrossing his arms. "You see your lawyer, Commander Rabb, is the Lt. Commander's fiancé." He stood and walked over to the door, opening it. "Commander," he nodded to Harm as he walked in. "Try not to kill him."

Johns heard the comment jumped out of his seat and back against the wall. "You're not leaving me alone with him, are you?"

"Why Gunny, he's your lawyer," the NICA agent said casually, though he did shut the door.

Harm put his briefcase and cover on the table, staking towards the Gunny. "I just thought I'd let you know Johns, because of a conflict in interests, I won't be your lawyer any longer. JAG will assign another to you." He had grabbed the Gunny and held him up against the wall. "I'm here because my fiancée is in the hospital and all evidence leads to you."

"I didn't do it," the Gunny stamped quickly. "I have an alibi."

"Yes I know she's a nice girl. Underage, did you know that? So you can add statutory rape to your list."

Johns paled. "I didn't know that."

"You don't seem to know much, Gunny."

Gibbs sat back down. "How did you do it, Gunny, get on the Patrick Henry and then off again?" There was silence. "You can either talk to me or talk to Rabb here. Either way we'll get the information we need."

Johns hesitated. The Commander hadn't released him. He swallowed hard. "I didn't have to, her plane Captain did it for me, he wanted her dead as much as I did."

"Why?" Harm demanded angrily.

"She prosecuted his brother. Sent him to jail, he killed himself."

"So you paid him to do your dirty work for you."

"I didn't have to pay him, he did it for nothing," Johns smirked.

Gibbs got up and came over to them. "Stand down Commander."

Harm released the Gunny. "So who killed him?"

"How would I know, I've been here in Washington. Maybe he did himself in."

Harm shook his head. "You're pathetic Johns."

"He said you'd say that."

"Who?"

"Palmer."

"Really?"

"Yeah, he organized the whole thing," Johns revealed, singing like a canary. "He got me out, organized for me to be picked up everything."

"Is that so." Harm smiled, a little covertly. "Get what you need, Gibbs?"

"More then enough, thank you Commander."

Johns stared at them shocked. "This was a set up?"

"It's called getting information, Gunny and you just gave us enough to send you back to Leavenworth with an extended sentence." Gibbs announced. "Not to mention implicate Palmer." He and Harm then walked out of the room, leaving the shaken former Gunny alone. The NCIA agent was impressed. "You'd make a hell'va good agent, Commander. Ever thought of changing careers?"

"Not lately," Harm said with a warm smile. "But I'll keep it in mine. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to get to work."

"Thanks again Rabb."

"No problem," Harm said. "Keep me informed."

"I will,"

With a nod, Harm left NCIS and drove to Falls Church and JAG HQ. Parking his SUV he went inside leaving his briefcase and cover in his office or his cubbyhole as he'd nicked named it, with his coat. He went to find Matt and Mac, who were both in her office. He knocked and went in.

"How did it go?" She asked.

"Got a few minutes?"

She nodded, noting he looked tired. "Sit down."

He did and told them what happened with Johns from start to finish. "On the way here I've been going over the whole interview in my mind and I still get the feeling we're missing something."

"I've had the same feeling," Matt admitted.

Mac sat back in her chair. "Do you think Palmer could be making a final stand?"

"It's possible or he could be playing one of his games," Harm said, just knowing that chewed at his gut. "Where's Corey?"

"In the conference room," she answered and saw him start to get to his feet. "Harm relax he has a Gunnery Sergeant with him." She reassured and he sunk back into his chair. "You look tired."

"I am," he said wearily. "I suppose the past couple of weeks are catching up with me."

"Well you're not as young as you use to be," she teased and saw him chuckle. "Why don't you take the day off, go home and get some rest."

"No, I'll make it," he rose, this time more slowly from his seat. "I'll see you later."

"Harm," Matt pulled a nine-millimeter from his jacket, handing it to him. "Just in case."

Harm didn't hesitate in taking it; tucking it into the back of his uniform pants, he made sure his jacket covered it. "Thanks Matt."

"No problem."

Seeing the look in Mac's eyes made Harm hesitate for a moment, he gave her a reassuring smile, and then walked out. He went to the conference room, surprised at who was guarding the door. "Gunny."

"Commander," Victor Galendez gave him a warm smile. "Nice to see you again sir."

"You too Gunny, finished with the CIA?"

He nodded, not concealing his relief. "For good, this time," he announced. "You've got a good kid in there sir."

Harm smiled warmly. "I'm starting to see that, Gunny," he patted his shoulder and went into the conference room. "Hey squirt."

"Hey dad." Corey gave him a flyboy grin.

Sitting down, Harm sighed, his son reminded him of himself way too much. "So did you meet the Gunny?"

"Yeah, he's cool."

There was a knock on the door and it was opened by the Gunny. "Sir you have visitors."

"Send them in Gunny."

He opened the door fully letting the two people in, shutting it when they were. Harm and Corey were instantly on their feet.

"Mom, Frank," Harm went over and hugged them both.

"How are you, darling?" Trish asked him.

"I'm fine Mum, I was going to call you. Sera is awake."

"That's great, Harm." She released him, going over to the Corey. "Do I get a hug young man?"

He grinned and did so. "Hi Grandma."

Frank smiled. "He's a lot like you, Harm."

Harm agreed. "More and more everyday," he turned to his stepfather. "Frank, I want to apologize."

"For what?"

"For being such a pain in the six over the years."

Frank laughed softly. "You're forgiven."

"Thanks Frank."

Trish ruffled her grandson's hair. "Have you been good for your dad young man?"

"Yes Ma'am," he said with a grin, and then asked. "Can I tell them, dad?"

Harm nodded. "Go a head."

"Dad and Mom are going to get married."

Trish and Frank laughed at his excitement. "Well it's about time," she smirked.

"Thanks Mom," Harm grumbled good heartedly.

She chuckled. "You're welcome son." They all laughed at the comment. Trish put her hand on her son's arm; she was worried about him though she was his mother, which meant she always worried. "You look tired honey."

"I am Mom, it's been a long two weeks, even on half days."

"Well we're here to help now, so how about we take Corey back to your apartment and let you get some work done."

"Thanks Mom."

"No problem, honey. Will Gunnery Sergeant Galendez be joining us?" She asked sweetly.

Harm hesitated; he didn't even know the Gunny's orders. "I don't know Mom," going over to the door he opened it. "Gunny."

Galendez came into the room. "Sir?"

"What are your orders, Gunny?"

"To remain with your son sir, both here and at your apartment."

"Very well Gunny, my parents will be accompanying Corey home."

"I'll have the staff car brought around sir," he informed. "What time will the Commander be home?"

"Thirteen thirty, Gunny, unless traffic is bad."

"I'll notify your shadow then sir."

That surprised Harm. "My what?"

"Your shadow sir," he reopened the door. "Corporal."

A woman in her late twenties stepped into the room. "Sir."

"Corporal Steel was assigned to you sir by Admiral Carmichael on recommendation by NCIS." Galendez explained.

"Welcome aboard, Corporal," Harm greeted.

"Thank you sir."

Corey had gathered his books together, slinging his backpack over his shoulder. "So cool."

Frank laughed. "All right young man lets go."

Harm gave his Mom the door key to his apartment. "I'll be heading straight home."

"All right son," she kissed his cheek. It bothered her to think her son and grandson were in danger along with her soon to be daughter in law.

"Everything will be fine, Mom," he said gently. "I promise."

"I know son."

He smiled reassuringly and pointed a finger at his son. "Behave young man."

"Yes sir."

Chuckling he messed his hair. "Get going." He followed them out, saying goodbye at the elevator. Then he and his shadow headed for his office.

P.O. Coates intercepted them. "Sir, the Admiral would like to see you."

"Thank you Petty Officer," he changed his direction.

Coates walked beside him. "New friend sir?" She asked quietly.

He smiled. "So ordered by the Admiral and recommended by NCIS and I'd hazard to guess, trained by the Gunny."

Jen's smile changed to one of interest. "Galendez is cute."

Harm chuckled. "Down girl."

"Yes dad," she teased and they laughed quietly together.

Corporal Steel remained near the door to the Admiral's door as Harm went in. He moved causally to stand before the desk. "You wanted to see me sir?"

"Yes Commander, sit down," Carmichael ordered, continuing when he had. "Your name is on the promotions list, congratulations Captain."

"Captain," he was shocked. "Thank you sir."

"Admiral Chegwidden recommended you for promotion before he retired," Carmichael announced. He handed Rabb his orders. "You're expected in Pensacola in two weeks to take over from Captain Beckett at NSLO there. Your promotion ceremony will be held here before you leave along with Lt. Commander Mitchell's, her promotion to Commander came through. Captain Church suggested the joint ceremony."

"I don't know what to say, sir."

"Well that's a first, Commander. Your promotion is effective in seven days, as is your fiancé's. Harm you're a damn fine officer and a hell'va lawyer, but it's time to move on."

"Yes sir," he managed to say, still a little stunned by the news.

Carmichael could see that. "Why don't you go home, Harm? Spend some time with your family, see Sera and for god sakes get some sleep."

"Yes sir," he agreed smiling. "Thank you sir."

"You did all the work son. Dismissed."

Harm got to his feet. "Aye sir." He said and then walked out, crossing the bullpen with his shadow following, he saw Mac was in her office and detoured over to her. Knocking. "Do you have a minute?"

"Sure, come in."

He did, shutting the door, his shadow taking up position outside. He sat down, the folder with his orders in it still in his hands. He looked at Mac, his best friend. "I just promoted."

A smiled eased onto her lips. "Harm that's great, congratulations." She saw his stunned look. "Isn't it?"

"Yeah," he chuckled. "I just didn't expect it, you know after everything that's happened."

"You're a good officer Harm."

"I'm also taking command of NLSO Pensacola in two weeks." He added.

That didn't surprise her; AJ had said Harm would be in line for Beckett's job. "Congratulations."

"Mac…"

She got up and went round her deck to him, perching on it. "Harm, it's okay," she took his hand. "I understand and I'm happy for you. I really am."

He managed a small smile. "I promised I help you though all this."

"And you have, now it's time to help Sera and Corey. Be a good father to your son."

Harm stood and drew her into his arms. "I'm going to miss you, Marine."

"I'm going to miss you sailor," she admitted. "But no matter where you are, you'll still be my best friend."

"You bet," he agreed. "And if you need me, I'm just a phone call away."

"I'll remember that."

Harm released her. "I'm heading home, I'll see you tomorrow."

"All right," Mac said, feeling tears in her eyes, but she wasn't going to cry in front of him. "Take it easy driving home."

"I will," he lent forward and kissed her forehead. "Thanks Mac." He said, and then hurried out.

She sat back down on the desk, feeling her legs would give out if she didn't. Her tears fell freely and she hurried to find a tissue when Sturgis knocked and came into her office. Wiping her eyes.

He sighed as he went in. "Harm told you about his promotion?"

She nodded forcing a smile. "I'm happy for him, I'm losing my best friend, but I'm happy."

"You're not losing him, Mac. He'll always be your friend."

Mac glanced down at her shoes. "You weren't here when he went back to flying, we lost touch. If it hadn't have been for a case we'd probably wouldn't have talked face to face."

"That's not true and you know it."

Looking up she supposed it wasn't. "Other then his time flying and the CIA, he's always been here. In the worse of times and the best."

"We all have to move on Mac, even you," Sturgis said gently, he put his hand on her shoulder. "Let him go. He'll always be your best friend but you've both moved on concerning the way you feel about each other."

"I told Harm I didn't know if I loved him any more, I suppose I always will, but only as a friend," she said with newfound clarity. "I suppose deep down I've always known there was someone else in his life. Someone he loved with all his heart, now I know there is. He loves Sera very much and his son."

"And she loves him, Mac. She always has, you could say they're as stubborn as each other."

Mac chuckled over that. "From what I've been told about Sera, I can believe that."

Sturgis smiled. "She knows how to handle Harm though." He gave her shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Why don't you go see Sera, you too have more in common then just Harm."

"Oh?"

"Sera can't have children either, she had to have a hysterectomy after Corey was born."

"Harm never told me that, he said she was taken into surgery, but not what for."

"Go see her, Mac." Sturgis urged, he released her arm and walked out of her office.

Bethesda Naval Hospital: Maryland, Virginia (Two days later)

Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie hesitated outside of the private room that Lt. Commander Sera Mitchell had been moved to after being released from ICU. Putting her hand on the door handle, she opened the door, nodding to the Gunny that was still on guard there. She saw the young woman in a comfortable chair by the window, her foot resting on a pillow on a plastic chair. She seemed to be lost in thought, staring out the window. The cast on her foot was now a walking one, the one on her wrist was new too, and the bandage was gone from her head.

Sera looked back. "Colonel?"

She made a moved to get up and Mac waved her down. "Stay seated Lt. Commander, you're in no condition to jump to your feet every time an higher ranking officer walks into the room."

"Yes Ma'am, force of habit I guess."

Mac crossed over to her, bring one of those uncomfortable plastic chairs with her, she sat down. "I don't know if you remember me or not. I'm Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie, from JAG."

"Matt introduced us. Harm talks a lot about you, Colonel."

"I wish I could say he's talked a lot about you, Lt. Commander, but he hasn't."

Sera smiled thinly. "That's as much my fault as his Ma'am, we kept our relationship to ourselves for so long it became second nature."

"But no more?"

"No. It's time to come clean, to stop holding back. I love Harm, Colonel. I'm not ashamed to admit that and I never was, I just knew he wasn't ready."

"Harm loves you too, it's very clear in his eyes."

"So I guess we have something in common then, we both love Harm." Sera said bluntly, reading the Colonel correctly.

"We do, but I love Harm as a friend. I always will."

"Then you're very luckily Colonel Mackenzie."

"Yes I am and I think you'd better call me Mac."

"Yes Ma'am, if you'll call me Sera."

"I will," she glanced out the window, then back to the young woman. "You looked a miles away when I came in."

"I suppose was or a few thousand feet up," Sera admitted sheepishly. "I don't like being cooped up, unless it's in a cockpit."

Mac chuckled lightly. "Harm's the same way at times."

"I know, I guess we're a lot a like," the aviator admitted. "Corey's the same, but he's his father's son."

"From the time I've spent with Corey, I'd have to agree, he's a lot like his father," Mac stated. "He's going to be a heartbreaker in a few years."

Sera rubbed the fingers of her cast. "No offence Mac, but why are you here?"

"I thought we should get to know each other, I'd like to know the woman who's marrying my best friend."

"Before I take him away."

"Your not taking him away, the promotion is something Harm deserves, as is his own command." Mac defended strongly. "And I know you'll make him happy."

"That's all I've every wanted to do," Sera confessed. "Harm is a easy person to love, but breaking down his barriers takes time and patients but once you do, he loves you back with his entire being."

Mac smiled warmly. "Yes he does, but I hear from your brother you're the same."

"Mattie has a big mouth at times, but he has a good heart."

"The best."

Sera moved her foot off the pillow. "Mac would you mind giving me a hand up?"

"Sure," she stood and helped her to her feet. "Are you all right?"

"Yeah, I just need to use the head," Sera revealed. "I won't be long."

"Will you be all right?"

Sera nodded, grinning. "I'm getting rather good at it."

Mac chuckled. "Well yell if you need help."

"I'll do that," the younger woman said with a grin, then walked slowly towards the bathroom.

Sitting down, Mac noticed the novel now lying in the chair, leaning over she picked up the hardback and sat back. The books title court her eye, 'Angel's End', the fourth in the Angel Series. She thought it wasn't due out for another few weeks; she opened it and read the summery on the dust jacket. This was going to be a good one, she decided and flicked to the first page.

She was still reading when Sera hobbled out, she smiled and returned to her seat. "So what do you think?"

Mac looked up, startled. "I'm sorry, I just couldn't resist."

"It's okay, take it home and read it."

"You've read it?" She asked shocked.

"No," Sera chuckled. "I wrote it, Mac. I'm Elizabeth St. John."

"You're kidding?"

"No," she rested her foot on the pillow. "I started writing the first novel when I was at the Academy, I gave it Harm to read after we meet, he read it, helped me with the rewrite I did and then said I should get it published. I didn't think it was good enough, but I sent it to a publisher anyway and the rest is history. I write under a pen name and my publisher agreed not to tell anyone I'm a Naval Officer. That mystery alone had made the novels best sellers."

Mac closed the book and sat forward. "I've always thought the main character was a lot like Harm."

"He is, when I rewrote the first book, I changed the character so it was, I guess I didn't it unconsciously. After the first novel became a best seller, I kept going. Harm reads all the manuscripts, he's my muse, and souse of information at times," she said blushing a little. "This is the last in the Angel series, I thought it was time to concluded it. Angel – Commander Drew Ryans faces his demons and gets closer at last."

"So he finds his father."

Sera smiled. "You'll have to read the novel, Mac."

She frowned. "Not fair," she handed it over. "I wouldn't get it finished anyway before you left."

"Then sent it to Harm and I, I don't mind. It's Harm's copy anyway. The dedication was written for him."

Mac reopened the book and read the dedication. " 'To Hammer, keep the wind at your back. Angel.' Isn't that a bit obvious?"

Sera shrugged. "It'll have everyone thinking," she stated, she could see there was something else on Mac's mind. "So what else did you want to talk to me about?"

"I um…" Mac hesitated. "I found out I can't have children."

She didn't say Harm had already told her. "I'm sorry, though I suppose that's not what you want to hear either."

"How do you handle it? Sturgis told me you couldn't have any more children."

"It wasn't easy, but I came to realize I have so much, my son, Harm. And if I want more children I could always adopt. So can you. Mac," Sera sat forward. "I also happen to know, there's a little girl out there who thinks the world of you and she hasn't known you for that long. Just think how she'll feel about you in a years time or two."

Mac felt tears fill her eyes. "Emily is such a great kid."

"Yes she is and an afternoon with her brings something special into your life," the aviator declared. "Give yourself time Mac, as time goes on you lean to accept and move on. Especially when there are those around you who love and care for you."

She sniffed and wiped her eyes. "You something special yourself, Sera."

"Thanks Mac."

The door to her room suddenly flew open and Harm rushed in with Agent Gibbs. "We've got to move," Harm said quickly, he took the nine-millimeter from beneath the pillow of the bed and thrust it into Mac's hands as she stood, leaving the book behind.

"Samuel Johns escaped this morning, we believe he's headed here." Gibbs announced.

Harm gathered Sera up into his arms, turning. "Lets go Gibbs."

Mac followed them out. "Where are we going?"

"I'll tell you in the car," Harm answered, he addressed the Gunny. "Clear the room of the Commanders personals, bring them to the location we discussed."

"Yes sir."

Corporal Steel was waiting with Dr. Marshall. "We're ready to go sir."

"Lets move," Gibbs ordered them. He lead the way, they took the elevator to the ground floor, slipping out the emergency entrance.

A blue sedan pulled up driving by Agent Tony Dinozzo; Mac helped Harm with Sera, the three of them climbed into the back. Gibbs forcing Tony out of the drivers seat over into the passenger seat, he then addressed the Corporal and doctor as a second car pulled up driven by Agent Todd. "We'll meet at the arranged location."

"Yes sir," the Corporal acknowledged and ushered the doctor to the other car.

Tony turned and gave Sera a dazzling smile as they dove away. "Hey Angel."

"Hey Tony, keeping out of trouble?"

"You know me."

"That's why she asked it, Dinozzo." Gibbs taunted.

Mac glanced at Sera. "You've worked with NCIS before?"

"Once or twice, I gave Tony a ride in a Tomcat."

"Which was so cool."

Mac chuckled. "Made a friend for life huh, Angel."

"I did. Even if he did throw up in the cockpit."

"Well it was hot and you were rolling us over and over."

Harm grinned. "She turned the heat up in your cockpit, Tony. It's a common trick played on Cherries."

Tony frowned. "Thanks so much, Angel."

"Any time Tony."

"So where are we going?" Mac asked.

"McLean."

"McLean?"

"We ran into a retired Admiral on our way out of JAG HQ," Harm explained. "He offered, and I took him up on it. Galendez is getting Mom, Frank and Corey on a transport to Pensacola, they'll be safe on the base with him."

"Do my Mom and Dad know what's going on?" Sera asked.

"They will by now, Matt was going to ring them, I told him not to tell them where we're headed though. He'll meet up with us later."

"Don't worry Lt. Commander, we have everything covered." Gibbs said confidently.

Sitting back she tried to get more comfortable, which wasn't easy. Mac could see that. "Sit up on Harm's lap and I'll put your legs up, you can rest your ankle on my lap."

"I couldn't do that."

"Sure you can, that's an order, Lt. Commander."

Sera looked to Harm, who merely tugged her into his lap as Mac swung her legs up at the same time, resting her ankles on her lap. Sighing she snuggled into his embrace, feeling safe in his arms.

"Better?" Mac inquired.

"Yes Ma'am."

The Marine rolled her eyes, seeing the aviator grin, a flyboy grin, which made Harm laugh quietly. "Lt. Commander, I'm sure you're use to that smile of your getting you what you want, but it won't work with me." Mac commented dryly.

Harm chuckled. "She said the same thing to me."

"It's genetically built into pilots, Harm. You know that." Sera remarked.

"True."

Mac groaned. "Flyboys," she muttered and both laughed quietly.

By the time they'd arrived at the Chegwidden house Sera was asleep, Harm was just about there himself. AJ came out of the house as the second car pulled up, he went to the first, opening the back door as the others climbed out. "Let me give you a hand, Harm."

"Thanks."

With a little maneuvering AJ managed to lift Sera off Harm's lap and out of the car, she moaned but didn't wake. He stepped back and let Harm out of the car. "Son you look ready to collapse, when did you last sleep?"

"I had a few hours last night."

"Not good enough," AJ declared in his no nonsense voice as he carried Sera inside, the others running to keep up.

Harm followed him into the spare room. "Thanks for letting us stay AJ."

"No problem," he laid the young woman on the bed and then straightened. "Stay with her son, get some rest yourself."

"Yes sir," he said automatically and saw AJ frown. "Force of habit."

Smiling the retired Admiral patted his shoulder and walked out shutting the door. In the living room the others were making themselves at home. "So what in the hell is going on?" He demanded.

"Samuel Johns escaped this morning, he was sighted heading for the hospital," Gibbs reported. "Our first concern was the Lt. Commanders safety."

"Admiral, I hate to interrupt but I'd like to check the Lt. Commander over." Dr. Marshall spoke up.

"Very well doctor, Colonel would you?"

"Yes sir."

"Doctor while you're at it, check Commander Rabb over too."

"Aye sir."

 Mac showed him the way, Corporal Steel followed, remaining outside the spare room as the doctor went in. Mac returned to the living room.

"Rabb said this would be the safest place for her," Gibbs was saying. "I trust his judgment."

"Then go and find this SOB, because if he comes here, I'll be shooting first and asking questions later," the retired Admiral warned.

Gibbs had no doubts about that. "Gunnery Sergeant Taylor will be here soon with the Commanders belongings, the Colonel knows him, he'll be remaining."

"More the merrier," AJ remarked sarcastically. "Now go and find Johns."

Not wanting to push their luck the NCIS agents left quickly.

Mac sighed and sat down, rubbing her temples. "I'm going to miss the excitement after he leaves."

"Life is never boring when Harm is around," AJ agreed. "Still having his own command will do him good."

She nodded. "I didn't see it happening, I never saw he was having any type of relationship with Sera. I never even knew about her. I'd heard about Angel, he talked about the pilot but not the woman."

"It wasn't done intentionally, Mac, they'd just done it for so long they became good at it."

"I know, Sera said the same thing when I went to visit her," she put the hand gun on the coffee table and sat back, resting her head against the sofa.

AJ got up and sat next to her. "How are you holding Mac?"

She chuckled dryly. "I wasn't expecting to do this when I got up this morning."

"None of us were."

Dr. Marshall came back in; he sat on AJ's assistance. "Lt. Commander Mitchell is fine, she woke briefly, but I gave her something to get back to sleep. As I did Commander Rabb, he said he'd been having difficulties sleeping. They'll most likely sleep the rest of the afternoon and most of the night."

"Thank you doctor." Mac bided.

There was a knock on the door, AJ grabbed the pistol off the table and glanced through the spy hole, seeing it was the Gunny. He opened the door. "Gunnery Sergeant Taylor?"

"Yes sir."

He glanced back to Mac and got confirmation; tucking the pistol into the back of his jeans he opened the door fully. "Come in."

The Gunny did, he carried an over night bag.

AJ shut the door. "It that Lt. Commander Mitchell's?" He asked referring to the bag.

"Yes sir."

"Leaving it out of the way for now."

"Yes sir," the Gunny put it down then handed the doctor a set of keys. "The nurse on the desk said you'd need your car, sir. They're waiting for you back at the hospital, so I drove it over."

"Thank you Gunny."

"No problem sir, it was a nice ride."

"Well then," he stood. "Thank you all for an interesting afternoon, if you need me just call."

"We'll do that doctor." AJ announced, he walked the man out and saw him off. As he watched the doctor drive away he crossed his arms against his chest. When he'd retired he thought life was going to slow down. Damn he was glad it hadn't. He wouldn't have missed helping out Rabb it was like old times. Turning he walked back into his house, locking the door once more. Mac was giving the Gunny a run down of the house, including all entrances, as they went over security.

"Is Admiral Carmichael expecting you back, Mac?" AJ asked.

"Yes sir, I'll get a lift back with Matt, he's on his way out here."

"All right. Well make yourselves at home," he said causally.

Mac went around to Mitchell's bag and removed the novel from it, re-zipping it up she sat down and made herself comfortable as the Gunnery Sergeant went to look around the outside of the house.

AJ sat down himself. "That's the new one isn't it?"

"Yes sir, I didn't know you read the series?"

He shrugged. "Francesca brought them for me. She said the grumpy old Admiral always reminded her of me."

Mac chuckled. "I always thought Drew was Harm, and McKinley reminded me of myself."

"And Lt. Hansen is so much like Harriet," he exclaimed and they both laughed. "I guess Harm talked a lot about everyone at JAG when he use to go visit Sera."

"You knew then sir?"

"That Sera is Elizabeth St. John?" He nodded. "I had the job of approving some of the material that went into those novels. That and her father told me once over a few beers."

"She's good though sir. Mother, pilot, lawyer, author, is there anything she can't do?"

"Play the piano."

Mac laughed. "Well at least we know there's one thing."

He nodded. "She's damn good at everything she does, Mac but that's just Sera."

"I'm starting to realized that, AJ."

"And she keeps Harm on his toes. More then the others did, none could hold to Sera, not even Renee, though she came close."

"But not close enough." Mac noted.

"No, not close enough." AJ agreed.

Chegwidden Residence: McLean, Virginia. (The next morning)

Harm slowly came awake, becoming aware of the warm body spooned against his. He smiled as he opened his eyes, which widened in shock when he saw the time – oh six, thirty. Whatever the doctor had given them both had knocked them out all afternoon and right through the night.

Sera moaned and turned over, opening her eyes. "Hi."

"Morning sweetheart."

"It is?"

"It is."

She rubbed her eyes, glancing around. "Where are we?"

"AJ Chegwidden's."

"I remember know," she recalled. "I need to get up, can you give me a hand?"

"Bathroom?"

"Yeah."

"Okay," he hoped out of bed and noticed two overnight bags at the foot of the bed. Opening on he found it contained his clothes, pulling out a pair of sweats he pulled on the bottoms. He'd stripped down to his boxers and tee shirt to sleep in. Going around to Sera he pulled the blankets back and scooped her up into his arms. "Okay darlin, lets go."

She nuzzled against him. "Carry on, Commander."

"Yes Ma'am," he smirked and carried her out, going down to the bathroom. He put her down. "Don't be long."

"I want," she promised and hobbled in.

Harm leant against the wall rubbing his hands over his face and through his hair. Thinking things through, he hurried back to the spare room and got toothbrushes, the bags to cover the casts and clean clothes. Getting back as the door opened. "Feel like a shower?"

Sera grinned. "As long as you volunteering to help?"

"Of course," he agreed giving his best flyboy grin.

Which she returned. "Then what are you doing out there."

Chuckling Harm went in, shutting the door.

AJ heard voices and giggling a few minutes later, luckily for him he had the luxury of an ensuite. The two Marines who'd spent the night taking turns in keeping a look out didn't. "Use the ensuite, those two could be a while."

"Thank you sir," both said relieved.

Chuckling he headed for the kitchen to make fresh coffee, at least he help them start their day right with a decent cup of coffee and they were Marines, they could handle his coffee. By the time Harm and Sera came into the kitchen, the two Marines were seated at the kitchen table with a cup of coffee each.

"Morning you two." AJ said happily.

"Morning," both greeted.

"Coffee?"

"Yes please."

Harm helped Sera over to a chair; he sat and rested her foot on his lap. "Comfortable?"

"Yes thank you," she smirked.

AJ put their coffee in front of them. "The Colonel will be back this morning to pick you up Commander," he informed. "Admiral Carmichael would have given you the day off but you have court later this morning."

Harm nodded. "Two Petty Officers on the Eisenhower were found combating with officers swords, on the flight deck of all places."

Sera sipped her coffee, putting the cup down. "So what were they on?"

"Speed," he smiled. "You picked that one up right away."

She shrugged. "In a layover in Germany, a couple of years ago, two Lieutenant's high on speed thought they were Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, and were re-enacting the final duel between Luke and Vader with swords."

"So who one, Ma'am?" Gunny Taylor inquired with a grin.

"I believe Luke did," she smirked back. "The two Lieutenants were sent to court-martial for possession of an illegal substance."

"So how did you get them off?" AJ asked her seriously, recalling the case.

"I proved they were the innocent party in a piratical joke that went horrible wrong."

"Nice counselor," Harm praised.

"Thank you counselor," she said with a grin and they all laughed.

The laughter however stopped quickly when the back door was kicked opened and Samuel Johns barged in shooting, taking out the two Marines. Harm dived for Sera, knocking her off her chair onto the floor. AJ dived in the opposite direction, crawling towards the two Marines, finding they were still alive.

"No body move!" Johns yelled.

The all froze, AJ however all ready had the Corporal's side arm, and he tucked it into his jeans.

"Now very slowly get to your feet," the disgruntled Marine ordered.

Harm rose first, and then helped Sera to hers; he kept her behind him though. AJ got to his, his shirt covering the pistol.

"You won't get away with this, Johns, NCIS is coming back here this morning along with a Marine Colonel." Harm told him.

"Let them," he growled.

"Lets us help them," AJ insisted gesturing towards the Marines.

"No. Leave them. Sit down." He waved the pistol he was holding at them. "Sit down!"

They did, Harm maneuvering his chair so he sat in front of Sera, shielding her.

Johns just laughed. "Commander I have no qualms in shooting though you to get to her."

"I don't doubt that Johns," Harm said calmly, but he didn't move. He was not going to let Samuel Johns kill the woman he loved. That he promised; he would die first before letting her be harmed.

While keeping the pistol on them, Johns rifled around in the kitchen until he found some cord. He threw it at Sera. "Tie them up."

She barely caught it with her good hand. "How smart ass?"

"You'll find a way or I'll put a hole in your fiancé's head," he threatened.

Sera got to her feet; no one was going to hurt Harm, especially no low life creep. She hobbled around to stand in front of him. With her back to Johns, he couldn't see what she was doing. When she'd been pushed off the chair, she'd fallen near the Gunny, who'd slipped his side arm to her. She'd tucked it into her sweat pants, her shirt covering it.

Impatient, Johns pocked her with the pistol. "Hurry up!"

Harm saw her eyes darken with anger, she moved closer and faked falling, he grabbed her, feeling the pistol. "Easy," he said, slipped it clear.

"Hurry up!" Johns screamed again.

Sera dived to her left and both Harm and AJ drew their pistols and fired at the same time, hitting their mark. Johns fell dead to the floor. The back door flew opened and NCIS came running in.

"Better late then never, Gibbs." Harm smirked as he helped his fiancée to her feet.

"Funny Rabb."

"Check on Taylor and Steel," Sera insisted. "Please Harm."

Harm sat her down, leaving the pistol on the table he went round and knelt beside the shot Marine. "How are you doing Gunny?"

"Fine sir, it'll take more then a bullet to the shoulder to put me down," the Marine remarked.

"Steel?"

She pulled herself up, blood dribbled down the side of her face. "Just a craze sir."

Dinozzo called an ambulance for the two of them anyway. Gibbs took the two side arms, securing them. "Take the Lt. Commander into the living room, Rabb, the ambulance is on the way." He told Harm.

Harm had grabbed a tee towel and was holding it against Steels head. "Hold it there Corporal."

"Yes sir."

He stood and scooped Sera out of her chair and carried her into the living room, sitting her down. He sat with her. "Are you sure you're all right?"

"I'm fine," she caressed his cheek. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"For being here."

Smiling he drew her into his arms. "I love you Sera," he whispered.

"I love you too, Harm."

They heard the sirens the same time as the front door opened a few minutes later.

Mac came in. "Harm, Sera, is everything all right?"

"We're all fine, Mac, come sit down," he insisted. "Samuel Johns is dead."

She closed the door and took a seat. "What happened?"

"Johns surprised us, the Gunny and Corporal Steel were shot, the ambulance is for them." Harm explained. "AJ's still in the kitchen with NCIS."

"Are you both all right?"

"I'm fine, for someone who's had Harm body slam her to the ground." Sera teased, seeing him frown.

"I know how that feels," Mac told her causally, and then added. "It was always a good way of coping a feel though, he has great buns."

Sera laughed. "Doesn't he ever." She smirked, seeing the shocked expression on Harm's face and she and Mac laughed harder.

To be continued…