Title: If things had been different
Author: Anaika Skywalker
Disclaimer: I don't own JAG; I just like to spread my wings occasionally.
Rating: PG –13
Author's Note: Hieveryone and thank you for the wonderful reviews. I'm sorry to say this is the second last chapter, only one more to go. So thank you to everyone who'd come along on this journey.
Winjan: Want to guess who the visiting character is for this one. Sorry can't resist. And yes Harmony is her father's daughter in every way.
Jbird7986: I went back and made the corrections as soon as I got your review. Though I had to leave in the trip to the cockpit. Thank you for you input. I hope you still liked it though and enjoy the rest.
DD2: Thank you. I love long chapters too. For me I usually have so much, I can't fit it all in one chapter.
Dreamer20715: Thank you – I really wanted Harm to realize just how much his daughter is like him. I think I did that. chawkchick: Thank you so much. I'm really glad you're enjoying my stories; I have to admit I enjoy wring about Harm and his daughter.
Abigaile: I'm updating as fast as I can, have patients. Good things come to those who wait. Ha, ha. The meaning behind the vision will become out, I promise and then you'll know why Harmony is sad.
If things had been different
Chapter thirteen: Moments in time
Rabb Residence - Falls Church, Virginia, Washington, DC (July 1st 2006)
Commander Elizabeth Hawk hesitated before pressing the doorbell, waiting. When the door opened she jumped, startled. "Captain."
Harm smiled warmly. "Beth, come on in."
"Thank you sir."
"Beth we're both out of uniform, it's Harm."
She nodded and followed him into the living room after he'd shut the door. She'd transferred to the AWCIS after his promotion; she'd needed the change and the support after her fiancé dumped her. Life at AWCIS was what she needed and she enjoyed it.
"Sit down Beth," Mac insisted happily.
She did. "Where are Anthony and Larissa?"
"With their grandparents. You said you had something important to discuss, so we thought you might like to do it without distractions."
"Oh," she nodded a little nervous.
Harm could see that, he sat forward in his seat. "What's wrong Beth?"
She chewed on her bottom lip; this wasn't as easy as she thought it would be. "I was over at Vicky and Terry's to see the baby and as I held him in my arms, I started to cry, I couldn't help myself."
"Why?" Mac asked her, feeling there was more to this.
"I was pregnant when Peter dumped me, I had a miscarriage."
"Beth." Harm reached out for her.
"It's okay Harm," she took his hand. "You were there for me, I can't thank you enough for that, but Mac needs to know."
He nodded. "All right."
She released his hand. "I arrived at Pete's place, to tell him the news, that Harm had offered me a position at AWCIS and that I was pregnant. He wasn't alone, he was with someone else, he told me it was over, that he couldn't marry me," she explained. "I was stunned. I handed back his ring and walked away, somehow I managed to drive back to AWCIS. Harm was securing for the night, I hadn't been feeling well all day and by the time I arrived I felt like I was going to pass out." Tears welled in her eyes and slid down her checks. "I got out of the car and the next thing I remember is waking up in the hospital seeing Harm, he told me I'd lost the baby."
"Oh Beth I'm so sorry." Mac said tenderly.
"I begged him not to tell any body, even you," she admitted. "The doctors told me I could still have children and for a while it was the last thing on my mind. Up until Chris was born and I held my nephew for the first time, I just knew then. I want a baby; I don't mind doing it without a husband, because I know my friends and family are behind me. The thing is, I don't want my baby's father to just be anyone. I want him to be a friend, someone I care deeply for. So I talked to my doctor and she suggested insemination, all I need is a friend to donate the sperm." She became nervous again. "There's only one person who I'd like to be the father of my baby, but I don't know if he'll do it."
"Then ask him, Beth," Mac suggested. "Is he married?"
She nodded and looked at Harm. "I'll understand if you won't do it."
"Me?" He was surprised.
"You. Harm, you're my best friend. You saved my life, we flew together and you helped me when I felt like I couldn't fly. You've been there when I've been at my best and my worse. I love you like a brother." Beth said calmly. She felt like she was possibly fighting a losing battle. "I know you probable want to discuss this with Mac. So I'll go."
"No Beth stay, just give Mac and I a moment," Harm stated and stood.
Mac did too; she went into the kitchen with him. "I don't know what to say."
"I didn't know she was going to ask me this, Sarah, I really didn't," Harm said still shocked, he sat down on one of the stools. "I know Pete hurt her, he didn't even come to the hospital when she had the miscarriage. I just never thought she'd want to have a child this way."
She went into his arms. "I know Beth is special to you, but what she's asking."
"Is probable the most amazing gift we could give her." He said calmly.
Mac knew he was right. "It's your chose, Harm. I know you want to do this for Beth, that's why I can't tell you not to."
He put his hand on her cheek. "I don't want you to, I just want you to say you understand why I want to do it."
"I do Harm," she put her hand over his. "I just, I don't know. It's the thought of another woman carrying your child."
"Her child Sarah," he corrected. "My children are here with us, well two of them are."
"You can't tell me you won't want to be a part of her child's life," she declared.
"I think she'd like us to both be a part of her child's life, every child needs an Uncle and Aunt."
"But can you just be her child's Uncle?" She asked him.
"Yes. One day he or she may ask about who their father is, but unit that day comes, I'll be happy to be Uncle Harm. As long as you're happy being Aunty Sarah."
"Promise me you will?" She asked him. "At least until her child wants to know who you are?"
"I promise, Sarah," Harm kissed her forehead. "I love you."
"I love you too," she stepped back. "We'd better tell Beth our decision."
He nodded and stood. "Are you sure you're all right with this, Sarah?"
Mac gave him a small smile. "Yes."
"Thank you."
Taking his hand they went back into the living room. Beth was standing by the mantel looking at the photos, which made her smiled. There was the photo of Harm and his dad, when Harm had been a child and was seated in an F-4 Phantom. Beside it was an almost identical photo, except this one was of Harmony and Harm, his daughter was seated in a F-14 Tomcat. Further along was a squadron photo, from when Harm had been assigned to the Patrick Henry and the Raptors. Then there was a recent one; this one was of the whole family, taken when Harmony had been 'winged' again at NAS Meridian.
Beth thought back to when she'd first met Harmony Rabb, now all these years later that little girl was no longer little and was now assigned to the 221st fighter squadron aboard the new commissioned USS Ticonderoga. Her squadron photo was on the end, showing the smiling faces of the Tyco Tigers and a newly promoted Lt. (JG) Harmony Rabb.
"Beth?"
She turned. "I was just remembering back to when I first met Harms."
Harm smiled. "She drilled you for information," he said with a chuckle.
"I didn't mind," she smiled herself. "Now she's a young woman and an aviator, just like her dad."
"Stubborn like him too," Mac mused.
"Beth," Harm released his wife's hand and went over to his friend. "We've made a decision."
"You have?"
He nodded. "I'm going to do it."
"Oh Harm," she exclaimed and hugged him. "Thank you."
He held her close. "It's the least I can do. Beside, Sarah and I plan to be the best Aunt and Uncle your child can have."
She chuckled. "Thank you so much."
"So what now?" Mac asked as the two friends parted.
"Well, I'll talk to Dr. Belen and make a time to do the insemination, once I have that, it's up to Harm to supple a donation." Beth answered.
"Well I can help him with that," the Marine bragged.
Harm went wide-eyed at his wife. "Maccc."
She looked innocently at him. "I'm just trying to be helpful."
Beth couldn't help but laugh. "I'm sure you'll be in good hands, Harm."
He groaned. "I'm going to make lunch," he grumbled and left the room as the two women laughed. He was half way through making lunch when the phone rang; he grabbed the cordless off the counter and answered it. "Rabb… Hi dad…. No we don't have it on…." He walked into the living room where the two women were talking and switched on the TV with the remote. "What channel dad…" he changed it. "Thanks…" he hung up and looked seeing the news report.
On the TV was reporter Stuart Dustin, he stood on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier: "I'm on the flight deck of the USS Ticonderoga in the Persian Gulf," he paused as one of the new F-14 Supercats landed behind him. "Where moments ago the crew and squadrons of this new carrier were on high alert. Squadron leader from the 221st fighter squadron – Commander Katherine O'Reilly and her wingman, Lieutenant (JG) Harmony Rabb were alerted to the launch of a missile carrying a nuclear warhead." He paused again as another Supercat landed.
Harm glanced worried at his wife, who was staring at the screen; his stomach was twisted in notes at the mention of his daughter. He forced his gaze back to the screen.
Stuart Dustin continued. "Lieutenant Rabb flew her Supercat into the path of the missile, locked on to her Supercat it followed her, turning away from the carrier. With her squadron leader with her, Lt. Rabb led the missile out to sea, where on burning up it's fuel dropped harmlessly into the ocean, our forces are now retrieving it," he was given an off camera signal, turning. "I've just been informed the Supercat landing now is Lieutenant Rabb's." The camera swung from Dustin to the Supercat, a high tech, updated version of the never released Super Tomcat. The camera went back to Dustin. "We've also been informed, the Supercats you see behind us, were co-designed by Lt. Rabb, who holds a degree in Aeronautical Engineering." On given another off camera signal, Dustin and the cameraman were rushing over to the now stopped Supercat. It showed the canopy being raised and crewmen rushing up the ladders to the driver and RIO. "As you can see, Lt. Rabb and her RIO, Lt MacGyver are being helped out of their Supercat, these two hero's have been strapped into this fighter now for a little over six hours, having refueled only hours before encountering the missile." The cameraman swung the camera towards the young aviator, who was now on the deck, being held up by the crewmen. Dustin was by her side. "Lt. Rabb, Stuart Dustin ZNN. How are you feeling?"
Harmony regained her composure and stood on her own. "How do you think I'd feel after having a nuclear warhead up my six, Dustin?"
"Did you take on the missile because seven years ago your father did something similar?" He pushed on.
Paul MacGyver was at this driver's side. "Back off Dustin, what Rabbit did, she did on her own merits." He snapped and along with his fellow aviators ushered his diver away.
Dustin just smiled. "This is Stuart Dustin, for ZNN."
Harm turned off the TV and sat down, putting the remote and cordless on the coffee table. His little girl had just led a missile with a nuclear warhead away from her carrier. The ringing of the phone brought him back, he answered it. "Rabb… Yes Mr. Secretary I saw it…. Of course they would be, sir. Yes sir, I'll go myself… Yes sir… Goodbye." He hung up and looked to Beth. "Get onto Oceana and have our Supercats readied, then get onto Kat and Sam, we're going out to the Tyco."
Mac got to her feet. "Harm."
He stood, taking her in his arms as Beth made the calls. "I'll be fine, Sarah. Harms is fine, you saw that. Ring Jason; make sure he's all right. Have him come and stay with you if you need to."
She nodded. "Just be careful, please Harm."
"I will, I promise," he said and kissed her.
Beth put the cordless down. "We're ready to go, sir."
Harm pulled away from his wife. "All right, lets go." He quickly kissed his wife once more and then went with Beth.
Mac sat down, her legs unable to hold her up any longer. The young woman she considered her daughter, had taken on a nuclear warhead. She damn well knew Harm would do something like that, now she was going to have to put up with her stepdaughter doing the same crazy stunts.
She heard voices and then Grace Chegwidden came into the room, she knelt down and took Mac into her arms as the Marine fell to pieces and started to cry.
AJ quickly ushered Darien into the living room, little Larissa in the retired Admiral's arms. Anthony had already rushed a head of them, going to his mother.
Mac took her son in her arms. "It's okay Anthony, everything is okay," she assured and she prayed everything would be. "Dad, could you ring Jason, please. I don't know whether he's seen the news or not."
"Sure darlin," he passed a sleeping Larissa to her grandmother and grabbed the phone, moving away to make the call.
Grace had settled on the sofa beside Mac, Darien sat with them too. The ten year old had a concerned look on his face. "Is Harms all right, Mac?"
"Yes sweetheart. She's fine." Mac said and smiled a little.
"Sure mommy?" Anthony asked her.
"I'm sure," she said and kissed his forehead. "Your sister is a very brave and very good pilot."
"Like daddy?"
"Yes. Just like daddy."
AJ returned. "Jason's been ordered to the Persian Gulf. As soon as Creswell heard what happened, he ordered Jason and Bud out there."
"We'll stay as long as you need us, Sarah," Grace insisted. "No if or buts, I know you're a Marine, but you're a wife and mother first."
"Thanks Grace."
USS Ticonderoga – Persian Gulf
Captain Harmon Rabb and his officers walked onto the bridge, the Ticonderoga's Captain was an old friend, Jack Keeter. He shook Harm's hand. "About time you got here, Hammer."
Harm smiled. "Need someone to hold your hand, Keeter," he smirked goodheartedly.
"Funny, Rabb," he patted the man on the man. "I just got word through from the CNO, who has nominated your daughter in for a Silver Star."
"You're kidding?"
"No, I'm not, it'll go nicely with the DFC I've nominated her for and her appointment to train at TOPGUN."
"You nominated her for a DFC?" Harm asked him shocked.
"I did, Harm she'd a damn good pilot, she deserves it." Jack told him.
Commander Katherine O'Reilly, the Tyco Tiger's squadron leader came onto the bridge. "Skipper, Rabbit and Wolverine are on their way back."
"Thank you Commander," he gestured to Harm. "Captain Harmon Rabb, Commander Katherine O'Reilly, better know as Phantom."
Harm shook her hand. "Harms has told me so much about you, Commander."
"Like wise, sir," she said with a smile. "Both Rabbit and Wolverine have."
"Whatever they've told you, Ma'am, believe them," Beth spoke up, as she stood with Lt. Commander's McGregor and Stevens.
Katherine smiled. "Commander Hawks, correct. Skates?"
"Yes Ma'am."
"Harms told me you'd taken over flying back seat for her dad."
"My sister was his RIO up until she became pregnant. Now I have the honor."
"She's also the only one who puts up with him," Caitlin smirked and Samantha chuckled.
"Very funny ladies," Harm remarked.
Jack couldn't help but laugh. "I'd give up now, Hammer, you're already beat."
"Don't I know it," he grumbled.
Katherine looked away from them, seeing the Supercat land, then the second. "Here they are."
"We're going to need to talk to all who were involved with the incident, Commander," Harm told her.
"Are you waiting for the two JAG officers, Captain?" She asked.
Harm glanced at the Skipper. "When are they due?"
Jack glanced at his watch. "Two hours."
"We'll wait then."
"Very well sir, as soon as JAG is aboard, I'll organize for everyone to meet in the conference room."
"Thank you Commander."
She nodded and smiled; before she left through she turned back. "Captain," she waited until he looked. "Your daughter is a hell'va good aviator."
"Thank you Commander."
She nodded again and left the bridge, going straight to the ready room, her pilots arrived not long before she did. "Get out of those G suites, then take a seat," she ordered.
"Yes Ma'am," both responded.
"What did you do this time?" Chris asked Harmony with a cheeky grin.
"Don't you mean, what did you do," she smirked.
They got out of their G suites, then along with their RIO's went and sat down.
Katherine quickly debriefed them on their mission, then informed. "AWCIS is on board," she stated. "And this is big, because not only were they sent out, but the head of AWCIS came himself."
Harmony was surprised. "They sent Captain Rabb, Ma'am."
"Yes, Harm, they sent your dad," she remarked with a chuckle. "So behave."
She grinned that 'flyboy' grin of hers. "Yes Ma'am."
"There's more, JAG is also on it's way, they'll be here in under two hours, once they've arrived, Rabbit, you and Mac will meet Kelso and I in the conference room, where will recount the incident with the missile to both JAG and AWCIS."
"Do we know who the JAG officers are, Commander?" Chris asked, knowing his friend was curious too.
"No, not as yet. Why?" Katherine asked, and then realized what the Lieutenant was thinking. "Three Rabb's on the one carrier; know that's a dangerous combination."
"Could be worse, Commander," Harmony remarked. "Russkie could have been assigned to us to instead of the Raptors."
That made the squadron leader chuckled, knowing Sergei Rabb, who also flew Supercats, was assigned to the Patrick Henry. "Harms, one Rabb is enough for me to handle."
"I'll agree with that," Paul MacGyver remarked straight-faced. "But I fly with Rabbit."
Harmony frowned as the others laughed. "Thanks Mac."
"You're welcome Rabbit."
Captain Rabb came into the ready room, the five officers got quickly to their feet. "At ease," he ordered, smiling.
With a nod from O'Reilly, Harmony went over to her father. "Captain."
"Lieutenant," he said, grinning, then drew her into his arms. "Hi kiddo."
"Hi dad," she hugged him back.
Katherine ushered the others out of the ready room, giving them some privacy.
Harm stepped back a little. "Are you all right?"
"I'm fine, dad."
He drew her back into his arms. "You scared the hell out of your mom and I."
"I'm sorry."
"I'm just glad you're all right," he told her. "I'm proud of you kiddo, so is your mom. Not to mention the Skipper and Phantom. In fact the Captain told me you've been nominated for a Silver Star and a DFC, not to mention an appointment to TOPGUN."
Harmony's eyes widened. "I didn't know."
"Well, Jack gave me permission to tell you," he said grinning.
She was surprised. "Wow."
Harm laughed. "That's my girl."
Getting over her shock, Harmony asked her father. "Do you know who the JAG are that are coming aboard?"
"No, we left before they did." He answered. "But I know who I'd send and I have a feeling I know who Creswell sent."
"Jace?"
He nodded. "And Lt. Commander Roberts," he told her. "So behave."
"Yes sir."
"Harms, I want to talk to you about something personnel." Her dad finally announced.
"Sure, lets go to my stateroom, my roommate is in the air, so we'll have some privacy," she suggested.
He agreed and they left, going straight to her stateroom. Inside she shut the hatch and gestured for him to sit down, before sitting on her bunk.
"So what's up dad?"
"Beth was with us when we saw the news, she asked something of me Harms, something personnel."
"What?"
"She wants to have a child, and she wants me to be the donator."
That surprised her. "She wants to have your child?"
"She wants to have a child of her own, I'll merely be the person who makes the donation," he answered. "Your mom and I will be the child's Aunt and Uncle."
"What if he or she wants to met you?" She asked, a little surprised by it.
"Then we'll deal with that when it happens."
"And mom is agreeable to this?"
"Yes. I promised her I won't be anything but an Uncle to this child." Harm informed. "What I'm doing is giving Beth the greatest gift I can give a friend."
Harmony knew about her father's relationship with Hawks. "Then I think it's a great idea," she assured. "Are you going to tell Jace too?"
"Yes. Though Beth doesn't want it known who the father of her baby is and I agreed. This is something between family, no one else needs to know."
"No one will here it from me," she promised.
"Thank you, honey," he said, then sat forward a little. "So how are things between you and Jason?"
She smiled shyly. "There're fine, he's trying to accepted this is what I want to do."
"Its still cares the hell out of him though, doesn't it?"
She nodded. "The thing is dad, if he loves me as much as I love him. Then he has to accept me being an aviator."
"He does Harms, he just worried about you the same way as your mom worries about me," her dad said gentle. "It that part of you and me, the part that could get us killed, that scares them and makes them love us too, because it is a part of us."
"Does it frighten you too, dad?" She asked him softly.
"More then you could ever imagine darlin," he stood and drew her up in to his arms. "I look at you and I remember the little baby that was placed in my arms for the first time. The little girl who broke her arm falling out of a tree because she wanted to fly like her daddy. The little girl who held my hand at her mother's funeral. The little girl who helped me recover after my ramp strike," he felt her squeeze him but didn't mind. "I see the little girl who helped me study and leant about the law along side me. Who becme a strong independent teenager and saved my life. And I see my little girl, who grew up into a beautiful young woman, whom I'm very proud off. I love you Harms."
"I love you too, dad," she said, her eye filled with tears.
He drew back a little and kissed her forehead. "Jason loves you too and he'll never stop worrying about you because he does, but he will come to accept and love the aviator side of you too."
"Thank you daddy."
"You're welcome sweetheart," he smiled that 'flyboy' smile of his. "Come on Rabbit, lets get a cup of coffee and I'll fill you in on what your brother and sister have been up too."
"Anthony hasn't tried to wash Maverick by himself any more?" She asked, recalling the story of her little brother trying to bath the dog in the shower.
"No," Harm stated as they left the stateroom. "Thankfully he's given up on that."
Harmony chuckled. "I bet," she mused. "So have you run into Dustin yet, he's still on board?"
"As we were leaving the bridge. I told him to take a hike, politely of course," he remarked. "Is he still hassling you?"
"No, Mac told him if he came near me once more, he and Wolverine would chuck him off the fantail." Harmony told him, chuckling. "Since then he's left me alone."
"Remind me to thank your RIO and Chris."
"I will sir."
"Good, because I like Mac."
"He's the best and he's dad is sexy too."
"Harms!"
She laughed. "Oh come on dad, my roommate thinks you're drop dead sexy. So I can't see why I can't think Paul's dad is too."
He groaned. "I don't want to hear this," he remarked and she just continued laughing.
In the wardroom they got coffee and sat with Paul MacGyver and Chris Buxton. Paul's dad was an Air Force Colonel, who took every chance to tease his son about being a squid. And like his father, Paul had a great sense of humor.
It was also evident to Harm, this young man carried for Harmony a great deal. There was something in those gray eyes that told Harm his daughter would always be safe around Paul.
"So Paul," Harm began as he sat back. "How does your dad feel about you sitting backseat for Harms?"
Paul chuckled. "Sir, to be honest, the first time I introduced Harms to dad. He drew me to one side, put his arm around my shoulders and said: 'If you ever hurt that little girl, I'll help her father kill you. You look after her like you would your own sister,' then he sighed and said. 'Why didn't we have female pilots that sexy when I was flying full time.'."
Harm laughed. "I think I like your dad, Mac."
"Well sir, when we get home, we should all get together. I'm sure you and dad would get along just fine too."
"Yeah they can sit around and see who can tell the biggest tall tale." Harmony remarked, grinning.
"Who did the stupidest stunt between the two of them," Chris added. "Not to mention who has the sexiest wife. Which your dad Harms, will win hands down," he saw the expression on Paul's face. "Sorry roomy, but the Captain here is married to a Marine Colonel, who is as deadly as she is beautiful. Correct Captain?"
"Very," Harm agreed. "And I'll be passing that onto Sarah, Chris."
"No problem sir."
Paul chuckled. "My mom, might not be a Marine, but she is a Doctor, and handling dad can be a challenge that would send most running for cover. Marines included."
"Especially when she threatens him with needles," Harmony smirked. "I'd never seen your dad move so quick."
"Air Force Colonel or not, dad does not like hospitals or needles."
"Well we have something in common then," Harm informed. "I don't like them either."
"Which is obviously where Harms gets her phobia from," Chris smirked. "She won't go near sickbay unless absolutely necessary."
"Hey, if you're not sick, no need to visit." Harmony declared and the three men laughed.
They talked for a little longer, and then went their separate ways, meeting at the conference room when it was time to met with the JAG officers.
General Creswell had indeed sent Lt. Commander Roberts and 1st Lieutenant Rabb as Harm guessed, after reporting to the Captain, they were escorted to the conference room.
Jason had been expecting to see both Harmony and his stepfather, but actually walking in and seeing them standing together was something else. All present were in khaki duty uniform, though seeing father and daughter side by side, sent chills up his spine. He wasn't sure he'd ever get use to the fact the woman he loved was at the front lines of a war that had gone on too long.
Both snapped to attention as Harm approached with Commander O'Reilly.
"Welcome aboard the Tyco, Lt. Commander, Lieutenant," Katherine greeted.
"Ma'am, sir," Bud said, as did Jason.
Harm couldn't help but smile at the fact his stepson's gaze was not on them but Harmony. "Let's get to work shell we, the Commander and her wingman are due in the air in an hour."
Agreeing they all took their seats, of the AWCIS officers, only Harm and Caitlin were present for the interview. They sat next to the two JAG officers, the four aviators sat across from them.
Lt. Commander Roberts began. "Commander O'Reilly can you tell us what happened from the moment you received the warning of the missile?" He asked, the after mission report was open before him.
"Lt. Rabb and I were returning to the carrier when we were informed. Rabbit, Lt. Rabb saw the missile first and we intercepted. The missile locked onto Rabbit's Supercat and she headed out to sea away from the carrier with in on her six. Once the missile ran our of fuel it dropped into the ocean."
Bud glanced quickly at the after mission report before asking. "Lieutenant, why did the missile lock onto your Supercat?"
"Were you hot dogging?" Jason counter asked.
Harmony smiled calmly. "Firstly, Lieutenant. I don't hog dog. Secondly, it locked onto my Supercat because I initiated a nine and a half G turn, thus putting my bird in the missile's flight path. Phantom was too close to initiate the turn; if she had we'd be attending her memorial service instead of this interview."
Harm held back from chuckling, his daughter may not be active in the courtroom, but she still knew all the tricks. "Lieutenant, watch your line of questioning. The President himself has spoken to Lt. Rabb and thanked her for her courage and duty to her country. She is not a nugget who has never seen combat."
Jason bit his lip at the comment. "Aye sir."
"And Lieutenant," Katherine defended. "My officers don't hot dog unless ordered."
Next to Harm, Caitlin McGregor also refrained from chuckling. "Commander, do you have any doubt in your mind the Ticonderoga was in danger?"
"No doubt at all, Commander."
"Lieutenant?"
"No doubt, Ma'am," Harmony answered. "It's common knowledge US Aircraft carriers are high grade targets."
That coursed a reaction from both Rabb men, not so visibly from Harm, but Jason was shocked by the announcement.
"We know what we're up against, Commander," Lt. Commander Evan, O'Reilly's RIO continued.
"We've also heard the reports on what they're doing to American prisoners," Paul announced. "So there's no way we're going to give them the pleasure of getting one of our guys or the Tyco."
Jason saw Harmony put a hand on her RIO's arm and the silent message that passed between them. It made him swallow hard.
"Let's move on," Harm suggested and they did.
Commander O'Reilly called an end to the questioning twenty minutes later through. "Sorry gentlemen, Commander, but we've a hop to fly."
"Understood, Commander, dismissed." Harm ordered and the four aviators stood, came to attention, then left.
Jason followed Harmony with his eyes, wishing he had five minutes to say hello properly before she left. He missed her so much and being so near and not being able to touch her was killing him.
After changing back into flight suites, O'Reilly, Evan, Rabb and MacGyver headed for the ready room where the rest of the Tyco Tigers were pulling on their G suites. They did so as well.
Paul took his helmet. "You looked like you wanted to drag him across the table and have your wicked way with him," he smirked softly, teasing his driver.
"I did not," she grabbed her own helmet and shut the locker.
"You did," her squadron leader announced behind her. "I bet your dad gets that look in his eyes when he's across the conference room table from your step mom."
"My dad gets that look in his eyes when he's across the breakfast table from mom," Harmony remarked turning around. "We had to hold up opening presents one Christmas so she could 'warm' him up after we played in the snow."
Katherine laughed. "Your mom has spunk, Rabbit."
"Yes Ma'am she does."
Patting her on the shoulder, Katherine ushered them out. They took their seats with the rest of the squadron and she briefed them on their mission, handing out assignments. "All right people, lets fly."
They got to their feet and hurried for the flight deck, they were almost there when Harmony heard her name being called. She stopped and saw Jason coming towards them.
Paul had stopped too, he grinned. "Make it a quickie, Rabbit," he mussed then continued on.
Harmony chuckled. "What can I do for you Lieutenant?"
Jason grabbed her hand and pulled her to one side. "Be careful, please."
She gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "I always am, I have you to come back to," glancing around she saw they were virtually alone and moved closer, her lips brushing over his. "I love you."
He grabbed her and pulled her into his arms, kissing her passionately. "I love you too," he whispered when they parted.
Breathing a little faster, Harmony kissed him again quickly, then hurried away, pulling her helmet on before opening the hatch and going out onto the flight deck.
Jason hurried to Vultures Row, finding his stepfather already there.
"Feel better now?" Harm asked him.
He nodded. "A little."
"She'll be fine, Jace, you've got to have faith."
Jason gripped the rail. "I do, I guess I'm scared of losing her."
"So am I Jace, but I love that part of her too."
"You mean the part that could get her killed?" He asked.
"Yes. Being an aviator is who she is, Jace. You've got to accept that, because if you don't, you'll lose her," he stepfather advised.
"I know," he sighed. "I'm trying, I really am."
Harm patted him on the back. "It doesn't get any easier, Jace, but you do lean to live with it. Your mom has."
He nodded. "I guess deep down I though she might find being a lawyer more appealing."
"Deep down she's been a pilot from the moment she was conceived," Harm told him. "Nothing will change that."
"I don't want to try," the younger man admitted.
They watched as the Supercats took off one by one, Jason noticed his father was also gripping the rail and remembered back to a conversation he'd had with his mom. He guessed his stepfather was finally coming to terms with the fact he couldn't protect his little girl forever. It seemed his mom was right. Peter Pen had finally grown up.
Lt. Commander Roberts found them out there. "Captain, Lieutenant."
"Bud," Harm greeted as he turned. "What's up?"
"General Creswell has ordered Lt. Rabb and I to Baghdad to see what we can find out about the incident there."
"Be careful," the Captain warned.
"We will sir, where ever we go, we'll have a Marine escort."
"When do we leave?" Jason asked.
"Our helo will arrive in four hours, so go and get some rest Lieutenant."
"Yes sir," he nodded to his stepfather. "Captain."
"Lieutenant."
With that he left.
Harm sighed. "I was hoping they might have gotten some time together."
"Sorry sir."
"It's not your fault, Bud," he dismissed. "So how are Harriet and the kids?"
"They're fine sir, you should come by and see them after we get back." Bud insisted.
"I think we will. Jimmy seems to have grown ever time we see him and the twins. Those girls are imagers of their mother, Bud. You're going to have your hands full when they get older."
"Yes sir, I believe so," he mused. "Little AJ is hoping you'll take him flying."
"I can do that."
"Thank you sir."
"No problem, Bud."
By the time the Tyco Tigers got back and Harmony got a chance to see Jason, she found him in his assigned stateroom, getting ready to leave. He'd changed into BDU's. "Are you going somewhere?" She asked.
He nodded. "Close the hatch," when she had he continued. "Lt. Commander Roberts and I are going to Baghdad."
"Now?"
"We have to be on the flight deck in thirty-two minutes," he informed; he drew her into his arms. "I'm sorry, Harms."
She managed to smile. "I understand."
"God I wish I did," he grumbled.
"We still have, thirty-two minutes," she noted.
"Thirty?" He corrected.
"Shut up Lieutenant, we're wasting time," she remarked and kissed him.
Jason didn't need to be told twice, clothing came off in a hurry and they made love on the cramped bunk with a smoldering passion, that left them both wanting more, but their just wasn't any time.
"I love you so much, Harm," he whispered.
"I know, I love you just as much."
He got up and began pulling his clothes back on, Harmony did the same. When they were fully dressed, he tugged her back into his arms, determination written across his face. "Marry me Harms?"
"What?" She asked him surprised, not sure she'd heard him properly.
"Marry me?" He asked her again.
"Your serious?"
"I'm very serious."
She was surprised, delighted and scared witless all at once. "Yes," she answered him.
"Yes?"
"Yes," she repeated and giggled as he spun her around.
He stopped and kissed her. "I love you."
"I love you too," she said grinning. "You'd better go or you'll be late."
"Not likely. I have perfect timing remember."
"Always," she promised.
He grinned and grabbed his seabag and they left together. She walked with him as far as the hatch to the flight deck, where Lt. Commander Roberts was waiting with the Marine Major. Who handed Jason a flack jacket and helmet, he put both on, and then retook his seabag.
"Be careful, Lieutenant," Harmony told him, and then addressed Bud. "Sir."
"We'll see you when we get back, Lieutenant Rabb," Bud assured her.
"Yes sir."
Reluctantly Jason followed Bud and the Marine Major out onto the flight deck. Harmony rushed to get to Vultures Row, finding Paul and Chris was there. "We thought you might need some support," the later revealed.
"Thanks guys."
Together they watched the helo lift off and head for the coast.
Paul slipped his arm around his driver. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah," she smiled a little. "I'll be fine."
One week later: USS Ticonderoga
Harmony hurried to the ready room as she was ordered; deep down in her gut she knew something was wrong. She just prayed it wasn't her dad; he and the other AWCIS officers had left four days ago. She also prayed everything was all right with Jason, she knew he was still in Baghdad.
The dread she felt became stronger as she walked in, the Captain was there, as was Commander O'Reilly, Lt. MacGyver and Chaplain Riggs. She forced herself to stay in control. "Lt. Rabb, reporting as ordered sir," she said to the Captain, a waver to her voice.
"Lieutenant," Jack began, then paused and started again. "Harmony, we just received word from Baghdad, the Embassy was attacked last night. Lt. Commander Roberts was injured but will recover…"
Chaplin Riggs put a hand on her arm, seeing her face pale. "Harmony, your stepbrother was captured by the terrorist who attacked the embassy, the Marines raided the terrorist known strong hold but they didn't find him. Only these," he put dogtags into her hand. "They've declared Jason MIA."
Her world fell to pieces then and her legs gave out. Paul grabbed her and held her in his arms, letting her cry. He rubbed her back. "It'll be okay, Harms, they find him. They won't give up, they'll find him." He reassured.
"Come on Harms," Katherine said gently and helped Paul get her out of there.
The Chaplain turned to the Captain. "Has her family been informed?"
"It's being done now?" Jack informed. "This is going to be hard on his mother."
"God will protect him, Captain. You must have faith."
"I do, Padre, it's just. Jason's stepfather, Captain Rabb, his father went down during the Vietnam War and was declared MIA. He died in Russia, never able to get back to his family. For Harm, having a son, even a stepson MIA, is going to bring back feelings he's buried deep down for a long time."
"I'm so sorry Captain, I didn't realize."
"That's all right, Padre. I just hope God protects Jason and brings him home to them." Jack said, and then left the ready room. He also hoped Harmony would get through this, he didn't want to have to tell Harm and Mac they'd lost her too.
To be continued….