Title: If things had been different

Author: Anaika Skywalker

Author's Email:

Rating: PG -13

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

Author's Note: After watching the second part of 'A Tangle Webb', I just want to ask, did the writers all have a frontal lobotomy and a brain transplant? Mac with Webb, and Harm acting like a jealous boyfriend, I was expecting a fistfight there for a moment between them. After watching 'Shifting Sands', I really can't wait for more of season nine. Now thank you to those of you who reviewed: clingon87 (thank you so much, I'm glad you enjoy readying my stories), Winjan (surprises are the spice of life), Jbird7986 (In that section I meant her gold wings are a metaphor for the fact she is a licensed pilot, I hope that clears that up for you), Abigaile (Oh please don't bit your nails down, all will end well, I promise), smithknk (Yes I did, he's a great bad guy and I just love to kill him off time and time again), chawkchic (thank you so much. For you great words and the fact you loved my stories), marineJAG (Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it enough to keep coming back)

If things had been different

Chapter Seven: Count Down: Part Two

USS Patrick Henry, Atlantic Ocean –Off the coast of Virginia (14 days before the Wedding)

Mac was off the helo as soon as it hit the deck, her father and the Admiral on her heals. An Ensign ran to keep up, yelling over the noise of the flight deck that he was to take them to sickbay. Off the flight deck they stopped long enough to rid themselves of vests and helmets. Then they were off again, the young Ensign managing to stay one-step head of the determined Colonel.

In sickbay, Commander Donavan, the flight surgeon met them. "Sirs, Ma'am. Commander Donavan," he introduced himself. "We've removed the bullet from Commander Rabb's shoulder and repaired the damage done. He's resting at the moment."

"And Harmony?" AJ asked.

"Miss Rabb is resting also," he said smiling warmly. "She experienced delayed shock, she was acting on instinct and adrenalin, once it wore off and she realized what she'd done, she came down hard, but she's going to be fine. She's young, doing what she did would have shocked anyone her age."

"Can we see them, doctor?" Joe asked.

"Yes, this way," he showed them to a room, and then left then enter on their own.

Harm was in one bed and Harmony was curled up on the other, still in her flight suit. Her g-suit and helmet was on a chair near the wall. Admiral Boone was seated between the two beds.

Mac hurried around to him, hugging him as he got to his feet. "They're both fine, Mac," he assured.

She pulled back. "Thank you."

"I didn't do anything, Harms did it all."

Mac didn't argue with him, she went to her fiancé's side, taking his hand. His shoulder was heavily bandaged, there was an IV in his arm and he was on oxygen, other then that he just looked like he was sleeping. "Harm?"

His eyes flickered open. "About time you got here, ninjagirl."

She laughed despite the tears. "I had to stop and fix my hair, flyboy."

He smiled groggily. "The wind swept look suits you."

"Flatter."

He forced a smile. "Where's Harms?"

"Asleep in the next bed, she's fine," she assured and moved a little so he could see.

"That daughter of yours flew you here and trapped like a veteran." Tom told him, moving to stand beside Mac.

"Until I woke up in recovery, I thought I'd dreamed that."

"Nope, she was determined to get you help and the Henry was the closest," his godfather announced. "She's as stubborn and pigheaded as you are."

"I know."

AJ stood on the other side of the bed. "You're suppose to be taking things easy, son."

"Sorry dad."

"You're forgiven."

Harm looked to the General. "Excuse me, sir, if I don't stand and salute."

Joe chuckled. "Plenty of time for that when you can stand, Harm."

"Dad," Mac snapped and they all laughed.

"Mom," a just woken voice sounded behind them.

Mac turned quickly, seeing her stepdaughter awake. "Harms," she crossed the distance between them, taking her in her arms as the teenager sat up. "Thank god you're all right."

"I'm fine," she assured, smiling. "As Uncle Tom says, I'm a Rabb, flying is built in."

"Damn good thing it is too," Mac stated chuckling. She released her and Harmony went over to her dad.

Harm took his daughter's hand. "My hero."

She blushed. "Next time maybe you can be awake," she teased, smiling through her tears of relief.

"Any time sweetheart."

The door opened and Captain Ingles came in. He saluted the Admiral, acknowledging the General, who wasn't in uniform. "Sir's," he said, then addressed Mac. "Colonel, nice to see you again."

"I wish it was on better circumstances, Captain."

"So do I," he agreed and came to the point. "Palmer and his goons were found, their singing like canaries now their boss is dead."

"Who shot Palmer?" AJ asked.

"He shot himself," Harmony answered. "We fought for the gun, I turned it towards him and in the confusion the gun went off."

Harm was shocked. "Are you all right?"

"I'm fine, dad. I promise."

The doctor came in before Harm could say any more. "I'm sorry, but you're going to have to leave. I'd like the Commander to get some rest before we transfer him to Bethesda."

"When are you going to do that, doctor?" The General inquired.

"This afternoon, if the Commander co-operates and rests."

"Then we'll get out of here and let him do so."

Harmony went to grab her gear, but the doctor had other ideas. "Not you Miss Rabb, back on the bed."

"But I'm fine."

"It isn't a suggestion, it's an order. Hop to it."

Sighing she returned to the bed and sat down, pulling off her boots this time before laying down.

Mac held back from laughing, she lent over and placed a gentle kiss on her fiancé's head. "See you later flyboy."

"You bet ninjagirl."

She turned to her stepdaughter. "Behave young lady."

"Yes, Ma'am."

Chuckling Mac left with her father, the Captain, doctor and Tom. AJ hung back, going around he perched on his granddaughter's bed. "I'm proud of you darlin."

Sitting up she hugged him. "I couldn't let him die, grandpa," she whispered.

"I know," he kissed her forehead. "Look after your dad."

"I will."

He got up as she laid back, going over to Harm. "I'll give your mom a ring and let her know what happened and that you're both safe. I'll also ring Grace and let her know."

"Thanks dad."

"Get some rest son," he said, and then left the room.

Mac was waiting for him; her father and Tom had gone with Captain Ingles to the officer's mess. "Are you all right, sir?"

"I am now Mac."

She didn't hesitate in hugging him. "I thought for a moment I'd lost them both."

"So did I, Sarah," he admitted, rubbing her back, comforting her. "But then I remembered they both have a guardian angle looking after them."

"Then I'll make sure I visit the wall and say a big thank you," Mac promised.

"We'll go together," he guaranteed. "Now let's go get a cup of coffee, then we have a few phone calls to make."

"Yes sir."

In the officer's mess, Captain Ingles was slowing moving his finger around the edge of his cup. "When is Harmony due to graduate form high school?"

Tom put his cup down. "Beginning of two thousand and two, if she doesn't graduate earlier."

"Could she?" Joe inquired, realizing he didn't know much about the teenager who was going to be a part of his family.

"Harms is a smart kid, General," Tom stated bluntly.

"I just hope she doesn't crash and burn before then," Ingles said straightforward. "She went down today."

Tom shook his head. "She's only fourteen, Captain. She saw her mother die and for a brief moment she thought she was going to lose her father, not to mention her own life. That would be enough to rattle any one."

"Even a Rabb," Joe added, but he agreed with the Admiral.

Ingles stopped playing with his cup. "True, but I have a feeling she'll make it, which is why I'm sponsoring her, General. Let me know when she's putting her application for the Naval Academy in, Admiral."

"I will, Captain."

Standing Ingles nodded to them both. "Excuse me gentlemen, I still have a ship to run."

"Carry on, Captain," Tom said causally.

He nodded and left.

Joe chuckled. "You like throwing your weight around while on board."

"No, I just like reminding them I'm more then a jet jock." Tom smirked.

Lt. Elizabeth Hawks had heard about what happened, she been involved with the quals that were being done. She waited until she was done before going to see her former driver. Opening the door to the room, she slipped in.

Harm was awake, he smiled, happy to see her. "About time you got here, Skates."

"Missed me, Hammer?"

Harmony was instantly on her feet and over to her. "I'm glad you're here," she said hugging the Lieutenant.

Beth held her, she was just glad the teenager had been able to land the Phantom. "I hear you're a hero."

"I had to save my dad."

"You did that, kiddo, the whole ship is buzzing about what you did."

Harmony stepped back blushing. "Not that it's going to pull to much weight at home."

Beth understood what she meant. "Still not allow to go to the bachelor party, huh?"

"Still."

"Stop ganging up on me," Harm ordered playfully. "Besides it's not my call."

"It's still not fair," his daughter retorted.

"Sorry honey."

Beth smiled. "Don't worry kiddo, it won't be that interesting."

Harm wasn't so sure with Keeter coming, but then again his Marine had made her point of view very clear. "You could go to the bachelorett party, Harms."

"Oh dad," she groaned and sat on the edge of his bed. "I'd rather stay at home."

"At least you'll have Jason with you."

"Yeah."

Beth patted her shoulder. "Don't worry I'll tell you all about it."

"All of it?" The younger asked with a sheepish grin.

"Well maybe all of it," the RIO grinned.

Commander Donavan came in. "Miss Rabb, you're free to go, grab your stuff."

"Yes sir," she hurried to pull her boots back on and grab her g-suit and helmet. "What about dad?"

"We'll be transferring your father to Bethesda in a few minutes," the doctor announced. "Colonel Mackenzie is accompanying the Commander, you're welcome to go with them or wait with Admiral Chegwidden and General Mackenzie."

"What about Admiral Boone?" Harm asked.

"I believe the Admiral is piloting one of the Phantom's back, then is returning by helo for the second."

"My bird."

"Harms," her father said sternly.

"Sir," she turned. "Dad, please, let me finish what I've started, I can do it."

"It's not up to me, Harms," he announced, he had no doubts she could do it and that's what frightened him the most.

She looked to the doctor. "Sir, where is Admiral Boone?"

"The ready room, I believe," he informed, and then excused himself, leaving the room.

"Harms," her father tried to reason with her.

She looked back. "If I were a part of this crew and my RIO had been hurt, would I be grounded?" She asked bluntly, already knowing the answer.

"No, but you're not a member of this crew. You're a fourteen year old girl, who got lucky."

Beth knew Harm had hurt Harmony with his words, but she also knew it was more then luck that got them down. "Harm let her finish this. You've taught Harmony never to back down, to always follow through. Don't stop her now."

He saw the hurt in his daughter's eyes, but he had to say it. He had to make her realize she was just a teenager, no matter how much it hurt. But he also knew what this meant to her. "All right, if Admiral Boone says yes."

"Thank you sir," Harmony said relieved, releasing the breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding.

"Harms," he painfully reached out for her hand and she took it. "I'm sorry."

"I know, but you can't protect me forever, dad."

"I can try," he said, smiling warmly.

Harmony dumped her gear on the end of the bed and gently hugged her father, forgiving him. "I love you daddy."

"I love you too, sweetheart," he whispered. "Now go find Uncle Tom before I change my mind."

"Yes sir," she straightened and grabbed her gear, stepping back she saluted and then hurried out.

Beth chuckled. "Hell'va daughter you have there, Hammer."

"Don't I know it," he grumbled, but she laughed even harder.

Soon he was transported out to the waiting helo, Mac with him; she carried his flight gear in a flight bag. What started him the most was who he saw walking casually towards them? His daughter and godfather, both were ready to leave too. He'd seen his daughter in full flight gear before, but this time it sent shivers up his spine.

Mac seemed to sense it too. She squeezed his hand. "No matter what, I'll always love that part of her two."

"You mean the part that could get her killed?" He asked.

"Yes. Just as I accept it with you," she stated.

Tom and Harmony stood near the entrance to the helo, so they could talk to both of them. "I'll take Harms home so she can change and tell Grace I'll see them at the hospital," the Admiral announced.

"Thank you, sir."

"You're welcome, son."

"Be careful," Mac said to her stepdaughter.

"I will mom, look after dad."

"I will."

They moved back as the last crewmen got onboard with the corpsmen who were accompanying them, and the helo took off.

"Come on Storm, lets light the fires and kick the tires." Tom said patting her on the back.

"Yes sir," she said and followed him over to their Phantoms.

Lt. Hawks was waiting for them. "Sir, Cadet."

"Lieutenant, ready to fly?" Tom asked her.

"Yes sir."

"Good, I always like the best in with my girl."

"Always sir," she mused. "And you'll owe me, sir."

"Of course I will, Skates," he smirked, confident Beth would be able to help Harmony if she needed it. "Lets go."

"Aye sir," both said and headed for their bird.

Tom smiled and went over to his, standing waiting was Admiral Chegwidden, also in flight gear. "Ready to fly, Admiral?"

"As I'll ever be," he admitted.

"You could always fly with Harms, or wait with the General."

"No, we need to talk, and Joe doesn't mind waiting. I've already discussed what I'm going to talk to you about with him."

"Then lets go." They climbed aboard the Phantom and were secured, the canopy being closed as the engines were ignited. Tom was curious to why AJ had agreed to this. He taxied the aircraft onto the catapult, once ready, he called it in and they were catapulted off the carrier.

Behind them, the second Phantom was catapulted off without problems, forming up on his wing. "Mustang two, this is Mustang one, ready to head home."

"Rodger Mustang one; lets go. On my six," he ordered.

"Aye sir."

"All right AJ, talk," Tom urged.

JAG Headquarters – Falls Church, Virginia, Washington DC (12 days before the Wedding)

Admiral Jacob Carter had flown from Pensacola to see the two Admirals at JAG headquarters. He watched the video of a F-4 Phantom trapping, which was why he had been asked to come.

When it was finished Tom Boone turned both the tape off and the television using the remotes. "What did you think Admiral?"

Jacob sighed and rubbed his chin. "It's been a while since I've seen an F-4 trap on a carrier," he announced. "It wasn't entirely a perfect landing, there were mistakes. Who was the pilot?"

AJ Chegwidden smiled. "Lieutenant JG Rabb," he informed and saw the Admiral a little surprised, adding. "Cadet Lieutenant JG Rabb. Harmony Rabb – NJROTC."

Now that was interesting. "What in the hell was a cadet from NJROTC doing in an F-4 Phantom, let alone trapping on a carrier?"

"Saving her father's life," Tom answered him and relayed the story from start to finish.

"So how old is Commander Rabb's daughter?" Jacob asked, sensing they were stalling him. "And who taught her to trap?"

"I taught her, Harms has been able to fly since she was capable of understanding the controls. She's trapped a number of times in a simulator and we marked out the flight deck on the tarmac so she could land like she was trapping," Tom announced. "She's a natural when it comes to flying and trapping, but then again she's a Rabb."

"You're avoiding my first question?"

Tom sighed, he had been. "Harmony is fourteen, she'll be fifteen in September."

Jacob's eyebrow's rose. "Fourteen. You let a fourteen-year-old land a F-4 Phantom on the deck of an aircraft carrier?"

"A fourteen-year-old who is an accomplished pilot and has hours up in the simulator and a number of hours in the Phantom." Tom defended.

"Harmony is a strong willed, smart young woman and once she's shown something she can do it. She's sat back seat for her father in a Tomcat once when he was assigned to the Patrick Henry," AJ said proudly. "She can fly her father's stearman as well as he can and was trained to fly the F-4 by Admiral Boone. Her great grandfather was an aviator in World War Two; her grandfather was an aviator during the Vietnam War. Her father followed in their footsteps and she will too."
Sitting back Jacob studied the two Admirals, this teenager was obviously important to both of them. "How is her father doing?"

"He's being released from hospital at the end of the week, however his bachelor party is going to be a more low key affair now."

That made Jacob chuckle. "Sorry to hear that," he said grinning. "So tell me why I was invited to see a fourteen-year-old trap?"

"Because we want to have her presented with her wings, she's earned them." Tom answered.

Sighing Admiral Carter thought about it. "When?"

"Saturday at NAS Oceana, her NJROTC unit will be there, as will as the officers of the Patrick Henry, as well as family and friends," AJ told him. "Captain Ingles is presenting her with a Bravery award. Her NJROTC instructor is presenting her with the 'Distinguished Cadet' award and the 'Exemplary Conduct' award."

"Impressive."

"She's an impressive young woman."

Jacob sat forward. "One question before I say yes or no," he said and saw them nod. "Who is she to both of you that you're fighting so hard to convince me?"

AJ didn't hesitate. "My granddaughter."

Neither did Tom. "Her father is my Godson."

Nodding Jacob sat back. "All right, I want to see her NJROTC records."

AJ plucked the folder from his desk and handed it over. "We though you would. Also included are letters of commendation from Captain Ingles, General Mackenzie, myself and Admiral Boone."

"Do you all realize what would happen if this was ever revealed to the media?" He asked them both. "They'd have a field day with a fourteen-year-old landing a F-4 on an aircraft carrier."

"We realize that, Admiral."

"Good," he looked though the file, being impressed by what he was reading. "She's studying law?"

"She was chosen for an Advance Scholarship Program at her High School. She's studying law and engineering."

"Interesting. She's a straight A student."

"Her mother was too and her father."

He read over the awards she already had and her accomplishments before closing the file. "Are Captain Ingles, the General and yourselves sponsoring her for the Naval Academy?"

"Yes."

"All right, I'm agreeing to this on one condition?"

"Which is?" Tom asked him.

"I want to meet Miss Rabb before Saturday."

"I can arrange that," AJ agreed.

"Excellent, have yourselves and Miss Rabb at Oceana Officer's Club at sixteen thirty this afternoon. If that is all right with her father."

"I'm sure her father will agree."

"Good," he stood, handing the folder to AJ. "I'll see you this afternoon then."

He and Tom also stood, shaking his hand before he left.

"That was a little easier then I expected," Tom decided. "I'll see you this afternoon, I have a few things to sort out before I leave this afternoon. Moving into a new office always brings new problems, especially when you're an officer down."

AJ chuckled. "You'll survive. I'll talk to Mac, though I'm sure we'll have no problems getting Harms to come with us."

"Spoken like a true grandfather."

"Very funny, get out and go get your own office in order."

"Yes sir," he smirked and hurried out.

AJ shook his head and left his office. "Tiner, have the limousine ready for Admiral Boone and myself ready by fifteen thirty this afternoon, and make sure the driver knows Commander Rabb's address and the address of Georgetown law school."

"Aye sir," Petty Officer Tiner agreed.

The Admiral wandered into the break room and got a cup of coffee, he was about to leave when Mac came in. "Colonel are you going to see Harm this afternoon?"

"Yes sir. Grace is picking up Jason from practice this afternoon and Harms later from law school, so I have the afternoon free with Harm."

He nodded. "Would you mind if I take Harms to Oceana with me this afternoon, I have business on the base. Admiral Boone will be accompanying us."

"I don't mind sir."

"Good, we'll get dinner at the OC before we head home, my treat."

She smiled. "Then I'd better have Grace bring a set of clothes for Harms, she's not exactly dressed for the Officer's Club."

"Oh?"

"She wore a mini skirt to school."

He just about chocked on his coffee. "My granddaughter wore a mini skirt to school?"

Mac tried not to laugh. "Yes sir. It's respectable, just not short enough for the OC."

"Then something more respectable would be appropriate."

"Yes sir. I'll give Grace a ring and have her organize something."

"Tell her I'll pick Harms up from law school and we'll stop at the house so she can change before heading going to Oceana." AJ suggested.

"Yes sir."

"Carry on Colonel, and tell my son, he and I are going to have a chat about the length of my granddaughters skirts when he's released from the hospital."

"I'll do that sir," she said amused by it all. Waiting until the Admiral had left to laugh.

That afternoon, when the limousine pulled up at Georgetown law school, Harmony was waiting patiently along with a few young men from her school. Admiral Chegwidden got out of the limousine. "Miss Rabb!"

At the sight of the dominating Navy Seal, each and every young man made a hasty retreat. Coursing Harmony to chuckle, she hurried over to him. "Admiral."

"In the car young lady that skirt isn't respectable to be seen in public in."

"Aye sir," she got in and sat next to Admiral Boone. "Hello Uncle Tom."

"Afternoon Harms."

AJ got back in and shut the door. "Driver, Miss Rabb's house."

"Aye sir."

He then turned to his granddaughter. "We have a meeting with Admiral Jacob Carter at NAS Oceana this afternoon, we'll take you home and you'll dress in something more respectable. We'll also be dinning at the Officers Club this evening before I take you home. General Mackenzie is also joining us."

Harmony was a little surprise. "Yes sir," she said happily. "Why am I meeting Admiral Carter, sir?"

"The Admiral is from Pensacola Flight School," Tom announced. "He wants to talk to you about your carrier landing."

"Oh?"

"Don't worry, you'll be fine."

The limousine pulled up a few minutes later at the Rabb's residence in Falls Church, the door was opened and the two Admirals' and the teenager hoped out. Harmony smiling at the Petty Officer, much to her grandfather's annoyance, she smiled even more and headed inside as the poor young man was frowned at.

Grace was waiting for them. "Hurry up and change, Harms."

"Yes Ma'am," she agreed and took off up stairs.

AJ and Tom came in. "Grace," both greeted.

She smiled. "AJ, Tom, would you like a drink before you leave?"

"No thank you, Grace." AJ assured.

Jason came into the lounge. "Hi Grandpa, Uncle Tom," he gave them both a hug. "Where are you taking Harms?"

"NAS Oceana."

The teenager frowned. "More jets and jet jocks?"

"An Admiral actually, though he's from jet jock central." Tom smirked. "Pensacola."

Jason shook his head. "I just don't get want she sees in going mach one, pulling nine G's."

"It's an acquired taste, besides with your sister, it's in her blood."

"Yak," he commented and wandered back into the den.

The two Admirals and Grace laughed and were still chuckling when Harmony came back down; she wore jeans and a while blouse, sandshoes on her feet.

"Better Grandpa, Uncle Tom?"

"Much," AJ agreed.

"Very nice, Harms." Tom said warmly. "Lets go young lady." He ushered the teenager out.

Grace smiled and showed AJ to the door, but didn't open it. "Why are you taking Harms to Oceana? Really?"

"To meet Admiral Carter," he insisted. "He's going to present her wings to her on Saturday, but first he wants to meet her."

"Does Mac and Harm know?"

"No," he said quietly and lent closer to her. Their growing attraction had started when Harm had been at sea. "She thinks Harms is just going with me for the visit and dinner. The General knows, he's meeting us there."

"Oh I see," she smiled. "Are we still on for Saturday night?"

"We are," he promised and kissed her, pinning her against the door.

She sighed and kissed him back. "Ring me later."

"I'm planning on it, darlin. Now I have to go."

She put her finger on his lips, a spark of excitement in her hazel eyes. "I can't wait for Saturday."

"Neither can I," he agreed and kissed her quickly again before pulling away.

Straightening out her clothes, Grace opened the door she let him out. "Goodbye AJ."

"Goodbye Grace."

At NAS Oceana the limousine drove directly to the Officer's Club where General Mackenzie was waiting. He greeted his soon to be granddaughter. "Hello Harmony."

"Sir," she greeted with a cheeky grin, making him frown. She giggled and hugged the Marine. "Hi Pop."

"That's better young lady," he said as she stepped back. Greeting the two Admirals. "AJ, Tom."

"Joe," both greeted.

"Has Admiral Carter arrived?" AJ inquired.

"Inside waiting."

"Then we'd better go in."

Harmony didn't move. "Grandpa why am I meeting with Admiral Carter?"

"As I said, he wants to talk to you about what happened on the Patrick Henry," her grandfather answered calmly, adding. "He just wants to talk."

She nodded a little hesitant. "All right," she decided and went with him.

Tom walked with Joe. "She getting more like her father everyday," he commented. "Harm would be asking why too."

"I believe your right. Then again Sarah would too. We really should have told them about this."

"We will, just not right now."

Joe chuckled. "Coward."

"Then you tell them."

"Not on your life," he remarked. "I know my daughter well enough to know she wouldn't like this. Harm however would be proud of Harmony, but not to pleased at how we're doing this."

"Very true."

Catching up to Harmony and AJ, they went over to the Admiral's table. Admiral Carter stood, addressing the teenager. "You must be Miss Rabb."

"Yes sir," she said and held out her hand. "It's nice to meet you Admiral Carter."

Taken back a little, Jacob shook the teenagers hand. "It's nice to meet you, Miss Rabb. May I call you Harmony?"

"I'd like that sir."

"Good, sit down young lady," he gestured to a seat and then nodded to the two Admirals and the General. "Gentlemen go buy yourselves a drink at the bar and put it on my tab."

"Yes sir," all acknowledged and headed for the bar.

Harmony chuckled softly, seeing the look the Admiral was giving her. "Sorry sir, it's not often I get to see someone order my grandfather, Uncle Tom or Pop around."

"Well I happen to have more stars then them," he remarked smiling. He liked this girl and he'd only just met her. He came straight to the point. "I saw the video of your landing. You did a remarkable job for someone who's never trapped on a carrier before."

"I recalled what I did while in the simulator and at the air field, then prayed a little," she admitted. "I was more concerned about saving my dad then about my own safety. If anything had happen I would have had no hesitations in ejecting us out over the deck, his life was more important at that moment." Harmony announced maturely.

Jacob was surprised; he hadn't expected that response from someone her age. "You would of given your life to save your fathers?"

"Yes sir."

"No hesitations?"

"None at all, Admiral."

Sitting back, Jacob studied the young woman. "When do you graduate from high school, Harmony?"

"Two thousand and two, sir."

"And you intent to attend the Naval Academy?"

"I do, sir. I want to be a Naval Aviator like my father, grandfather and great grandfather before me."

"Then young lady I look forward to having you at Flight School."

"I look forward to attending sir," she said with a smile. Feeling she'd made a friend.

Naval Air Station Oceana – Virginia Beach, VA (7 days before the wedding)

The Naval Junior ROTC unit of Falls Church High School stood on the parade grounds beside the officers of the USS Patrick Henry, and officers of the JAG Corps and AWICS. The Senior Officers their were parading before were make up of Captains, Admiral's, a Marine General and the two NJROTC Instructors – Commander's Reilly and Nelson.

Also present were the families of the Cadets and the Officers who had been invited to witness this event. A number of Cadets had receiving awards and promotions, being on the Air Station for this ceremony was making it extra special.

Captain Ingles came to the microphone. "Cadet Lieutenant JG Harmony Rabb front and center," he ordered. And waited until the cadet stood before him. "In the finest tradition of Naval Officers before her; Cadet Lieutenant JG Rabb, without hesitation or thought of her own safety, defended her father, Commander Harmon Rabb against a known criminal after he was seriously injured," the Captain announced. "Her bravery and courage saved not only her father's life, but her own and that of Admiral Thomas Boone. Today we honor Cadet Lieutenant JG Harmony Rabb." He stood away from the podium and before the Cadet, taking the Bravery award from Admiral Boone, he pined it onto Harmony's uniform, stepped back and saluted her.

She returned the salute, remaining where she was.

Commander Reilly came to the podium, Nelson stood before the teenager. Reilly addressed those present. "Cadet Lieutenant JG Harmony Rabb has proven herself to be an extraordinary Cadet, Officer and student. I hereby award Cadet Lieutenant JG Harmony Rabb with the Distinguished Cadet and Exemplary Conduct award."

Commander Nelson pined both awards onto Harmony's uniform and then saluted her; she saluted him in return, expecting then to be dismissed. However she wasn't. Commander Nelson and Reilly returned to stand with Captain Ingles.

Admiral Chegwidden and Admiral Carter came to the podium, the Judge Advocate General addressed those present. "Cadet Lieutenant JG Harmony Rabb, as many know is an accomplished pilot and it is well known her intentions are to attend the Naval Academy and Flight School, becoming a Naval Aviator, like her father, grandfather and great grandfather before her," he paused. "With the aide of Admiral Thomas Boone, Cadet Lieutenant JG Rabb, qualified to fly the aircraft her grandfather had flown during the Vietnam War – the F-4 Phantom."

Admiral Carter then took over. "It was during a flight undertaken by Cadet Lieutenant JG Rabb, that she, her father and Admiral Boone were forced to land. Her father injured, and the criminals dealt with, the Cadet was faced with the fact that without medial help, her father would die. Knowing it would take too long for help to reach them, Cadet Lieutenant JG Rabb, insisted her father be helped into the F-4 Phantom she had been flying. Her intension, to get her father help from the closest medical facility, that being the sickbay of the USS Patrick Henry. With Admiral Boone on her wing, and providing support, Cadet Lieutenant JG Rabb landed the F-4 Phantom with her father in the rear seat, onto the deck of the aircraft carrier. Successfully doing, what is known as trapping," he paused, seeing many shocked faces and proud ones. "This accomplishment credits the training Cadet Lieutenant JG Rabb has received though NJROTC, hours allotted in the simulator at the Flight School at Pensacola and training given by Admiral Boone and her father, Commander Rabb. I have myself seen the recorded landing made by Cadet Lieutenant JG Rabb and have spoken to her at length and it is my pleasure to announce her appointment to the Naval Academy at Annapolis in two thousand and two has been pre-approved." He paused once again seeing the Cadet's surprised look, she hadn't been expecting that, or what he was about to do. "It is also my pleasure to present Cadet Lieutenant JG Harmony Rabb with the Gold Wings of a Naval Aviator." He moved from the podium and took the wings from the case Tom held, pinning them onto Harmony's uniform. "I expect young lady to pin these wings onto your Uniform after you have completed Flight School," he said quietly, so only she could here.

"I look forward to it sir," she said proudly.

Stepping back he saluted her and she returned the action. Ordered to return to her unit and the parade were quickly dismissed and Harmony found herself being congratulated by cadets, officers and family.

Lt. Vicky Hawks and her sister congratulated Harmony. "Well done, kiddo," Vicky praised, hugging the teenager.

"Thank Blades."

Beth hugged her next. "I'm very proud of you, Harms."

"Thanks, Skates."

"You're welcome."

Vicky smiled. "So big sister, any single guys in this squadron of yours?"

"Still looking huh?"

"Still."

Harmony grinned. "I know someone," she grabbed Vicky's hand and guided her through the crowd, finding who she wanted. "Lt. Medwick," she saw him look. "Tuna, have you met Skates' sister Lt. Vicky Hawks, Blades?"

Terry grinned. "I haven't had the pleasure," he held out his hand. "Lt. Terry Medwick. It's nice to meet you, Vicky."

Vicky blushed and shook his hand. "It certainly is, Lieutenant," she agreed.

Harmony rolled her eyes and wondered off, stopping when she heard her name being called, turning.

"Thanks Storm." Terry called out.

She grinned. "You're welcome, Tuna," she saidand hurried over to her family, being congratulated by them all.

"I've got some good new for you, Harms," her dad told her as they left the parade grounds, seeing he had her full attention. "Your grandfather has agreed, since I'm not able to have a more traditional bachelor party, that one will be held at his place and you and Jason are welcome to attend."

"So cool," she exclaimed and hugged him gently. "Thank you daddy."

"You're welcome, sweetheart."

Mac smiled also. "At least I know now they want do anything stupid to you, Harm."

"Nothing at all with my hero around," he mused and his daughter blushed.

"And me," Jason added.

Harm chuckled and drew him into his embrace. "So I'll have two protectors."

"You better believe it dad."

That night when the Rabb house was finial quiet, Harm sat outside, Maverick was sprawled at his feet. The dog lifted his head when the door opened, then settled back when he saw whom it was. Harm didn't need to look to know. "Come on out mom."

Trish Burnett smiled, she and Frank had flown in early to attend the ceremony and remain for the wedding. She sat next to her son. "How are you holding up son?"

"I'm fine mom," he assured.

She put her hand over his. "When AJ rang and told us what had happened…God I was so frightened Harm, the thought of Harmony landing on the aircraft carrier, of you being shot."

He squeezed her hand. "I never doubted her mom, I knew she would get me down safe," he smiled and glanced up at the stars. "I knew we'd be fine because he's looking out for us."

She followed his gaze. "He always will darling," she said and looked back to him. "And he'll be with her when she makes her first qualifying trap and when she becomes a Naval Aviator, just as he was for you."

Harm drew her into his arms, hugging her. "Thanks mom."

"No matter what, Harm, your dad will protect her. Just as he protects you," she whispered. "And I dare say he'll be adding Mac and Jason to his list too."

"I know he will mom," he released her and asked a question that had been on his mind for years. "Do you think he minds me calling AJ, dad?"

"No, I don't," Trish caressed his check. "I think your father and AJ would have been good friends if they'd been given a chance to meet."

"So do I mom," he agreed and hesitated. "I don't want to lose what dad and I have, I know Emily is gone, I've accepted that. I won't of fallen in love with Sarah and asked her to marry me if I hadn't. I just don't want to lose him."

"You won't honey, I know AJ became the father figure you wanted, so did Frank," she stopped him from interrupting. "It's okay, Frank accepted it long ago. So will Joe Mackenzie. He knows he'll never have the same relationship with you as AJ does, but Joe knows you love his daughter and grandson and that's all that matters to him."

Harm knew that too. "I never though I would love anyone again after Emily, but Sarah is so easy to love and I right from the moment we meant, I knew. Deep down I knew we were meant to be together."

"Soul mates always find each other Harm," she leant over and kissed his check. "Don't stay up too long, darling."

"No mom," he teased grinning.

She chuckled and got up, going inside.

After a few minutes, Harm stood and yawned. "Come on Maverick, let's go to bed."

The dog got to his feet and followed him inside, after all a nice comfortable bed was better then hard floor any day.

To be continued…

(I'd just like to say, wasn't real sure about having Harmony receive a Bravery award. But I wanted her recognized for saving her father. So I decided to add it. The idea about her getting her wings this way came to me after I started writing the last chapter, I hope you like this winging. More to come, the count down isn't finished yet.)