Chapter 3: by natters

A/N: Forgot to mention this is set in late season 4

Janet's POV

Okay, that was a cheap shot Sam. I can't help but look away from the General when I answer. "She's very sorry for what she did General."

"It's alright Doctor. She was excited and just got caught up in the mood. I've a feeling Tessa and Kayla might have put her up to it. Needless to say, they have both been given a warning against doing such a thing again. And it certainly made it memorable. Even if certain members of the crowd still managed to sleep right through." He says with a slight glare in Colonel O'Neill's direction.

I counted to two before Sam jumped in with an excuse for him.

"Colonel O'Neill was up late last night at the Bachelor party sir. He did manage to make sure things didn't get too far out of control. And we were late getting back from our visit to P5X-941 yesterday sir, so I doubt the Colonel's gone to bed yet."

/Yes Sam, and I'm sure you'd love to help tuck him in./ I think uncharitably.

"Perhaps you're right Major. If you'll excuse me ladies. I think it's time I had a Father of the Bride chat with my new son-in-law." The General walks away, leaving us alone. Sam sighs sadly, keeping half an eye on the Colonel and the other making sure that the General isn't going to interrupt her CO.

"Sam?" I ask softly.

"I'm alright Janet. Just thinking."

"About?" I can see her brain ticking over quickly for a subject to cover up her real feelings.

"Protective fathers."

"How long has it been since you've seen your Dad?"

"A few months. Now that we… it's like I've gotten him back only to lose him to work again. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad he's helping… our Allies, but I miss him. And after what happened a few months ago… at the Summit… with Martouf… I've been worried about him."

"I'm sure he's fine. Old Sel will take care of him." I wink at her.

Sam laughs. "Yes, she will. I'm going to join the guys, are you coming?"

"Sure." We walk over to where Daniel is explaining something to Teal'c, and Colonel O'Neill is drinking a beer. I swear I can see Jack come alive as he watches Sam walk towards him in her new blue dress. Daniel and I look at each other and roll our eyes with a fond smile as Sam sits down beside Jack.

"Hey Carter. Enjoying yourself?"

"Yes sir." She's soaking up his attention like a sponge.

"Space-monkey here was just explaining why the groom has to carry the bride across the threshold of their new house. It's fascinating." He says deadpan.

Sam giggles.

"No giggling Major."

"Yes sir."

"MajorCarter. I have been informed that it is tradition to participate in a dance with a beautiful female at a reception such as this. Would you join me?" asks Teal'c.

"I'd love to Teal'c. Thank you." She stands up again and follows our tall Jaffa friend out to the dance floor. I watch with a smile as Teal'c attempts to copy the other men and dance. Sam laughs softly and helps him.

"Looks like fun. Doctor Fraser, may I have the honour of this dance." Asks Daniel.

I can't help but blush as he looks at me with those blue eyes of his. "I'd love to Doctor Jackson." He takes my hand and draws me out to dance near Teal'c and Sam.