AN: Here is the last part of this story. I hope to begin writing the last part soon. Thanks everyone for the reviews. It's been a great journey. Enjou


"DAMN!"

Admiral McIntyre slammed down the phone and looked at it with disgust. That was a conversation he didn't want to have. It seems that Commander Rabb has found a way to weasel himself out of flying by getting injured and saving a C-130 crew. He was being sent back to JAG effective immediately. He had to decide what to do now. He didn't want Harm back so soon. He was hoping he would be gone for at least another month. Then, he was certain his office would be running smoothly. Maybe he could send him of California to help Mac with her case. She sure was taking her sweet time, not that he minded, and that way Harm would be out of the way. Picking up the phone, he called the skipper and arranged to have Harm go to California to join Mac.

Coates had heard the Admiral's reaction to Harm's return. She knew he wouldn't be happy about the Commander's return. Since it was lunch time, she decided to go see if Bud needed a break from reviewing files. She reached his office and knocked.

"Enter."

"Excuse me, sir. I was wondering if you might want to take a lunch break. You've been cooped up in you office all morning."

"I don't think I can, Coates. I have so much work to do."

"Sir, I really think you need a break. Besides, I have some news for you concerning a certain aviator we know."

"I guess a little break for lunch wouldn't hurt. Lead the way."

Bud and Coates went to the cafeteria and grabbed some food. Bud filled her in on the emails he received from Harm. Coates wasn't surprised by it. Harm would always be there for them. Coates then told Bud about the admiral's conversation with the skipper this morning. Bud figured the admiral wouldn't be pleased about Harm's return, and he knew he would find a way to delay Harm's return. Bud and Coates continued to discuss the events occurring around the office while they finished their lunch.

Harm reported to the skipper's office and sat down when instructed to do so.

"I just spoke to your CO, Commander."

"What did he have to say, sir."

"It seems he wants you to go help Colonel Mackenzie in California. You are to report there instead of JAG HQ."

Smiling, Harm replied: "Understood, sir."

"I would tone down the watts on that smile if I were you, Commander."

"Yes, sir."

"You also will be leaving today. There is a cod leaving in 15 minutes. I expect you to be on it."

"Yes, sir."

"That will be all, Commander."

"Aye, aye , sir."

Harm got up, saluted, and was making his way to the door when the skipper called out to him.

"Hey, Rabb."

"Yes, sir."

"Give that marine of yours my regards."

"Yes, sir. I will, sir."

Harm exited the skipper's quarters and couldn't wipe the smile off his face. He was going to see Mac. Harm said his goodbyes to his shipmates and made his way back to his quarters. Once there, he decided that he would surprise Mac instead of emailing her. He gathered his sea bag and quickly made his way to the cod.

Mac finally pulled up to Gabrielle's house. She couldn't believe it took so long to get here. Damn 10 car pile up. People really need to learn how to drive. Now it's 1700, and she still needed to talk to Corporal Elliot. She took a moment to examine the house. It was a quaint little house. The one you always see in the magazines. White washed siding with a white picked fence. All that was need was 2.5 kids and a dog. Mac walked up to the door and knocked. A girl approximately in her mid 20's answered the door.

"Can I help you?"

"My name is Lieutenant Colonel Mackenzie, and I am with the Judge Advocate General Corps. I was wondering if I could ask you a few questions."

"What's this in regards to?"

"It's in regards to Corporal Bell's murder. I was told you were his girlfriend at the time."

"Come in."

"Thank you."

Mac walked and sat on the couch while Gabrielle went to get some tea. Offering Mac a cup, Gabrielle sat on the chair opposite Mac."

"So, Colonel Mackenzie, how can I help you."

"I was wondering if you were aware of the animosity between Corporal Bell and Corporal Elliot?"

"How could I not. David, I mean Corporal Elliot, didn't particularly like the idea that I left him for Clarance."

"Do you mind telling me why you left him?"

"David was always secretive. It was like he was always trying to hide something. He started giving me the creeps."

"How did he take it when he found out you were seeing Corporal Bell?"

"Not well. He called me all sorts of names and stormed out of here."

"Were you aware that they were roommates?"

"Yeah. That's how I met Clarance. He wasn't like David. He was so sweet and kind. When we were together, all he wanted to do was show me off. I felt so special with him."

"Have you ever seen them argue or fight."

"They fought constantly after I started dating Clarance. I walked in one day and found them fighting. David had Clarance up against a wall. He was threatening to kill him is he told anyone."

"Told anyone what?"

"I'm not sure. Clarance wouldn't tell me, but I think he found out David's secret."

"Do you think David is capable of murdering Clarance?"

"Honestly. I would have to say yes. The look in David's eyes that day said it all."

"Is there anything else you can tell me."

"I'm sorry. That's all I know."

"Thank you for your time, Gabrielle. You have been a big help."

Mac got up and left. Once she was in her car, she called AJ and told him what Gabrielle told her.

"Sounds like Corporal Bell found out that Corporal Elliot was in the witness protection program."

"It seems so, AJ."

"What are your plans now?"

"I'm going to confront Corporal Elliot with the information I have."

"You're going alone?"

"Yes, sir. I don't see a reason not to. Don't worry, I'll make sure it's in a populated area."

"Call me once you think you located him."

"I will."

Mac made her way back to the base. Once she reached Corporal Elliot's quarter, she knocked on the door. There was no answer. She stood there a few minutes till someone approached her.

"Good afternoon, ma'am."

"Corporal Jackson."

"He's not here, ma'am."

"Do you know where he is?"

"No ma'am. He usually goes to the gym once he's off duty."

"I guess I'll go check there then. Thank you, Corporal."

"I hope you find him, ma'am."

Mac turned and made her way out of the building. What she didn't notice was the lone figure hiding behind the corner. He heard the conversation between Corporal Jackson and Mac, and he didn't like it. Something wasn't right. Panic rose from the pit of his stomach. He figured she discovered his secret. Well she wouldn't live long enough to tell anybody. He wasn't going to let some bitch lawyer take away his life. With a plan firmly in place, he was off.

AJ picked up the phone on the third ring.

"Chegwidden."

"AJ, it's Mac."

"Did you find him?"

"No, sir. He wasn't in his room. I was told he maybe at the gym. He goes there when he's off duty. That's where I'm headed right now."

"Be careful, Mac. Call me if you need anything. Francesca and I are going to a game, but you can leave me a message on my cell phone."

"I will. I'll call once I finished questioning him."

Mac was too busy on the phone to notice the man coming up behind her. Once she was off the phone, he quickly grabbed her and put a rag to her mouth. The chloroform worked rapidly on her, and soon she was out cold. Making sure no one was around, Elliot scooped her up and brought her to the back of the gym. He found a back way to the basement one day while walking to the gym. It seemed no one had used it, or maybe even knew about it since it had a thick overgrowth covering it. He brought Mac downstairs, bounded her arms and legs, and sat down to think about the next coarse of action. He knew he couldn't kill her yet. He first had to find out what she knew and if she told anyone. Since she was here alone, he highly doubted anyone would notice she was missing for at least a day.

Harm arrived in Germany, completely oblivious to Mac's danger. He was met at the gate by the base Commanding Officer.

"Commander Rabb."

"Yes, sir."

"I have a proposition for you."

"Yes, sir."

"I have a Tomcat that needs to get to PAX River. I was wondering if you would do me the honor of flying it for me."

"I would love to, sir, but I injured my shoulder yesterday and received several stitches."

"I am aware of your injuries, Commander. I was also told by the ship's doctor that you should be able to fly as long as it wasn't in combat."

"Well in that case, I accept."

"Good. If you're ready, go suit up."

"Aye, aye, sir."

10 minutes later, Harm was in the air once again. He was thankful he had a chance to sleep on the cod. He knew this would be a long journey, but he didn't mind it one bit. It meant he would get to Mac a lot quicker that flying commercial.

"Damn it. Why won't she answer her phone?"

This was the fifth time AJ tried Mac's cell phone and the fifth time it went to voicemail. Something was wrong and AJ could feel it. He had gotten in late last night from the game and had collapsed on his bed. He cursed himself when he woke up this morning. Well it was more like afternoon. 1400 to be precise. He could remember a time he slept passed 0600. His age must really be getting to him. He had checked his voicemail when he got up and was surprised to not hear any messages from Mac. It's been over 12 hours since he last spoke to her. Seeing that Mac wasn't answering her phone, AJ called the front desk and explained the situation. A manager arrived at Mac's door and opened it for him. Once inside, he discovered that Mac's bed was made, and it looked like she hadn't been there all night. Grabbing the phone, AJ contacted base security and alerted them that Mac was missing and to begin to search for her and Corporal Elliot. AJ then placed a call to the Henry.

"Afternoon, AJ. How's retired life?"

"Gets better every minute. Look skipper, I need to speak to Rabb."

"I'm afraid you can't, AJ. Rabb left yesterday morning at about 0900. He should be on his way to the states as we speak."

"But I heard he wasn't leaving till today."

"Slight change of plans considering the Commander's injuries."

"Injuries! What happened?"

"Harm and his wingman were escorting a C-130 when they encountered some resistance on the way back to the ship. Harm sustained any injury to his right shoulder and above his right eye."

"Is he ok to travel?"

"I hope so. I arranged for him to fly a Tomcat to PAX River. From there he's heading to meet Colonel Mackenzie in California."

"He's coming to California? Good. I can pick him up at the airport. So he's been gone for what 28-29 hours. He should be on a plane here as we speak."

"He is. I received word that he should be landing at LAX at 1530 your time."

"Well I better get a move on it. Thanks for you help skipper."

"Anytime."

AJ hung up and hurried out the door. He didn't have much time to get to the airport and he also needed to think of a way to keep Harm from going ballistic when he finds out Mac is missing. AJ arrived just in time to see Harm's plan arrive. He stood back and watched the people exit the plane. As usual, Harm was the last one off the plane. Harm spotted AJ and made his way over to him.

"AJ."

"Harm."

"If you don't mind me asking, what are you doing here?"

"I'm here to pick you up."

"Why? Is something wrong? Is Mac ok?"

"Slow down, Harm. Let's get your luggage and I'll explain in the car. How are you feeling? I heard about your adventure."

"No worse for wear, AJ. Just sore from the flight."

"Well then let's go get your luggage."

Harm reluctantly agreed. He knew something was up, and he guessed it had to do with Mac. Once they were in the car, Harm turned to AJ.

"Ok. What's going on?"

"Mac's missing."

"WHAT?! WHEN?! WHERE?!"

"Sometime yesterday evening. She was on her way to question Corporal Elliot."

"And no one has heard from her since?"

"No. She was supposed to call me after she was finished questioning him, but she never did."

"No offense, AJ, but what took you so long to start looking for her?"

"None taken, I went to a game with Francesca last night and didn't get home till early this morning. I was exhausted and fell asleep till 1400. Old age is catching up on me."

"Well why don't you fill me in on what's been going on with her case."

AJ filled Harm in as they made their way to the base. Meanwhile, Mac was undergoing her own interrogation.

Hitting her again, Elliot screamed:

"You will tell me what I want to know, Colonel!"

Mac was laying on the ground. Her lip was busted and her right eye was swollen shut. She had lost track of how long she had been here. Her internal clock was fried thanks to the chloroform. All she could do was pray someone would find her. Elliot reached up to hit her again when she spoke.

"How much longer are we going to do this, Corporal? It's obvious I'm not going to tell you what you know."

"Well, then you leave me no other choice than to kill you."

"You mind telling me why?"

"Don't play dumb with me, Colonel. You know why. You figured out my little secret. Now I have to take care of you just like I took care of Bell."

"But why kill Bell?"

"You see. Corporal Bell and I didn't exactly get along after he started dating Gabrielle. We would fight all the time. What I didn't know was the Bell had some very good connections, and he found out I was in the witness protection program. He threatened to contact my former boss and tell him where I was if I didn't leave him and Gabrielle alone. Well I couldn't have him do that now, could I? So, he had to go."

"Why couldn't you just leave him and Gabrielle alone?"

"Because I saw her first, damn it! She was mine! He didn't deserve her!"

"That doesn't give you a reason to kill him."

"Shut up, bitch." Elliot hit her, causing her to hit her head against the wall, knocking her out.

Harm and AJ arrived on the base and sought out the head security officer.

"What do you have, Gunny?"

"We've searched everywhere, sir. We can't find her."

"Well then search again, Gunny. I want that marine found!"

"Yes, sir."

"Handled that like a pro, AJ."

"I haven't been out of the uniform that long, Harm."

"Any suggestions."

"Mac said she was heading over to the gym to find Corporal Elliot. Let's start there."

"When was the last time you tried to call her, sir?"

"It's been a while. I'll try again."

Harm and AJ made their way over to the gym as AJ called Mac's cell phone. AJ was about to hang up when he heard something.

"Wait, sir. You hear that."

"No. Damn. Got her voicemail again."

"Call it back."

AJ hit the redial button and listened. Suddenly, he heard it.

"That sounds like..."

"Anchor's Away, AJ. That's Mac's ring."

"Figures."

"It's coming from behind the gym."

They made their way over to the back of the gym. Harm reached down and grabbed Mac's phone.

"She has to be around her somewhere. She was on the phone with me earlier."

"Maybe she was taken right after she hung up with you."

"Well, he would have had to take her somewhere close. I don't think he would have gotten far with Mac."

"You don't think he killed her, sir?"

"No, and I don't want you to think that way either. That's an order."

"Yes, sir. I'll go get the Gunny while you look around."

"Sounds like a plan."

Harm left to find the gunny while AJ looked around. Moving some of the overgrowth, AJ found a hidden door. AJ grabbed to gun he got from the Gunny and opened the door. He walked in to find Mac tied up and unconscious. He carefully made his way over to her and checked her pulse. She was still alive. Suddenly someone grabbed him from behind and put a knife to his throat.

"Put the gun down."

That was the only words he was able to get out. Mac had woke up and kicked Elliot in his knee, taking it out. Elliot collapsed and AJ turned around and punched him. Once he was secured Elliot, he made his way over to Mac.

"Are you ok, Mac?"

"Fine, sir. Just a little dizzy."

"Well you have quite a bump on your head. Let me help you up. I have a little surprise for you."

AJ untied Mac and helped her get to her feet. He then helped her out the door, just as Harm was making his way over."

"Mac!"

"Harm!"

Harm ran over and took her from AJ.

"Are you ok?"

"I'm fine Harm. Just dizzy and a little nauseous."

"Here. Let me help you to the infirmary, and don't give me 'I'm a marine' speech either."

"Aye, aye, sir."

Mac wasn't going to fight Harm as he swooped her up into his arms. He felt so good, and she missed his so much. Once they got to the infirmary, Harm helped her put a gown on and onto a hospital bed. AJ decided to catch up with them later since he had to give the MPs his statement. This was the first time they were alone. Harm leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on her lips. He was careful not to kiss her too hard because of her busted lip.

"Hey, marine."

"Hey, squid."

"I missed you."

"I missed you, too. By the way, what are you doing here, and what the hell happened to you?"

"I got up close and personal with and antiaircraft gun. I'll tell you all about it later. As to why I'm here, the admiral sent me here to help with the case."

"He really doesn't want us there, does he?"

"I really don't care about him, Mac. All I care about is right here in this bed."

"I love you, Harm."

"I love you, Sarah."

Harm was about to kiss her when they heard someone clear his throat.

"Hello, Colonel Mackenzie. I'm Commander Yearwood. I hear you've had a very interesting night."

"You have no idea."

"Well, I would like to examine you. Maybe run some tests and see if we can get you out of here as quickly as possible."

"Sounds good to me."

"Commander, if you will excuse us."

"Certainly, sir."

Harm gave Mac's hand a gentle squeeze and told her he would be right outside if she needed him. Harm made his way to get some coffee, when he saw AJ walk up.

"How's she doing, Harm."

"The doctor is with her now. You know, I never thanked you for saving her."

"No thanks needed. Besides she helped. If she wouldn't have taken his knee out, we maybe having a different conversation now."

"Your right, but thanks anyway. I don't know what I would have done if I lost her."

"You love her, don't you."

"More than life itself."

"So when are you going to make a honest woman out of her?"

"I actually planned on proposing to her very soon. I actually have a ring."

Harm reached into his pocket and grabbed the ring. He showed it to AJ.

"It's beautiful, Harm. I'm sure she's going to love it."

"I'm sure she will, sir. I just hope she says yes."

"I have no doubt in my mind that she will, Harm."

Harm was about to say something when the doctor walked out.

"Commander, Colonel Mackenzie would like you to be with her when I give her the test results."

"Certainly, sir."

"Send her my regards, Harm."

"Yes, sir."

Harm made his way to Mac's room and walked to her side. Mac moved over and allowed him to side on the bed with her.

"Ok, Commander. What's the verdict?"

"Well all your tests seem to indicate that you have a mild concussion, but don't worry. You and the baby are just fine."

Harm and Mac's voices could be heard throughout the entire infirmary.

"BABY!"


Well there it is. Finally. I finished this. I could blame it all on RL and writer's block mostly. I plan to start then last story soon. Now all you have to do is hit the lilac button and review. You know you want to. (evil grin)