JAG Headquarters'
One Week Later
Sarah MacKenzie's
office
"Here are those reports you requested." Harriet smiled cheerfully as she placed a stack of files on Mac's desk.
"You're looking pretty chipper this morning, ma'am." Harriet was a little too perky for her own good sometimes.
"Well, for the last few nights, David has stopped waking up for his three am bottle. We've actually gotten an entire six hours of uninterrupted sleep for three nights in a row. I feel like I've been given a week's vacation." Mac leaned back in her chair grinning.
"I imagine it must be tough to get custody of a baby without any of the preparation. Most of the nine months you're pregnant, you wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. By the time the baby comes, you're so used to interrupted sleep that you can pretty much handle anything and keep going." Harriet took a step back towards the door before stopping.
"Maybe you and the Commander should take a night off and go do something. It's Friday night, if Jennifer or Mattie can't watch David for you, we'd be happy to have him. As a matter of fact, why don't you do just that. Drop David off at our house and don't pick him up until after breakfast tomorrow." Harriet stepped in closer to Mac again.
"I couldn't ask you to do that Harriet." Mac shook her head slightly.
"Nonsense, Bud and I are old pros at this, one night and one little baby will be fun for us. Even if the Commander doesn't want to go out, we'll still take David and give you a night off." Harriet headed for the door, determined not to take no for an answer.
"You win, Harriet. Thank you," Mac smiled broadly.
"Drop him off anytime after work." Harriet swiftly retreated to her own desk.
Picking up the phone, Mac immediately dialed Harm's office.
"Hey there, flyboy." Mac was in a good mood now.
"How would you feel about a night on the town to celebrate three nights in a row of sleep?"
"Well, sounds good to me except Mattie is spending the night at Valerie's to celebrate winning the playoffs, and I thought I heard Jen mention that she had a date. I can't think of anyplace off hand that serves infants," Harm laughed.
"Well, you're probably right there," Mac chuckled quietly, " but Harriet has offered to take David for the night."
"Now, that sounds like a plan." Harm could hear a knock on Mac's door. "I'll let you go, we'll work out the details later."
"Later." She hung up the phone, a Cheshire grin plastered across her face.
Tony's Restaurant
Georgetown
1945
"It's been ages since I've been here, I'm so glad you thought of it." Mac shifted her chair closer to the table.
Tony's was a small family owned, Italian- American restaurant. It wasn't very big, the décor was simple, but the food was out of this world. If Mama Rosa wasn't cooking, they were at least using her recipes, but most of the time she insisted on cooking herself.
"Do you think Mama Rosa is cooking tonight? She's got to be 100 by now," Mac giggled.
"It wouldn't surprise me. That woman will probably outlive us all." Harm smiled before taking a sip of his water.
Mac looked over her menu a few minutes before laying it down on the table.
"Know what you want already?" Harm asked, still looking at his menu.
"No, I know this sounds silly, but I feel guilty," Mac practically whispered, leaning across the table.
"What for?" Harm wrinkled his brow.
"Being out. I feel like I should be home with the baby. I told you it was silly." Mac picked the menu back up. She couldn't see Harm grinning from ear to ear behind his menu. She was a great mother.
"Don't tell me you're worried about leaving him with Harriet?" Harm tried not to let the amusement show in his voice.
"Of course not." She looked over the same dish for the third time. Still with no clue what she'd just read.
"I wasn't so sure there for a minute. I think Harriet deserves a medal for not smacking you and throwing you out after explaining to her about the formula temperature for the third time."
Looking up at him, "I didn't really, did I?"
"Yes, you really did, right after you explained the importance of him sleeping on his side so he wouldn't choke." Harm was trying really hard not to laugh.
Dropping her menu, her eyes wide open, her mouth attempted to move. "I did, didn't I?" She looked absolutely horrified.
"You did, but I think Harriet understood, she's a trooper." Harm bit back a smile.
Noticing Mac's expression hadn't softened. "It's okay, really." Harm reached out for her hand. All amusement vanished, recognizing she was really upset about Harriet. "I don't think she took it personally, she's a mother, she understood. It's okay."
"You think?" The last thing she wanted to do was unintentionally insult one of her best friends.
"I'm positive." Harm smiled, not letting go of her hand until their meal was served.
Mama Rosa had indeed cooked dinner tonight. As it turns out, she was only 87.
One of the many charms of Tony's, besides the food, was the old-fashioned jukebox in the corner. It played only the best Italian crooners: Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin,Tony Bennet, Perry Como, there might have been a token Bing Crosby tune.
Between dinner and dessert they got up to dance to a couple of tunes, and again after coffee. They were having a wonderful time.
"They don't write songs like these anymore," Mac sighed.
"Maybe because there's too much pollution in San Francisco for anyone to want to leave their heart," Harm teased.
Smacking him lightly across the shoulder.
"That's not what I meant and you know it. There aren't many men vocalists who can pull off tunes like this," she continued.
"What about Michael Bolton?" Harm inquired.
"Yeah he probably could. I suppose, Harry Connick Jr.," she added.
"Maybe life has just gotten too busy to take time for the slow and romantic. It's just not popular." She leaned in a little heavier on Harm's shoulder.
Harm tightened the grip around her waist. He didn't care much about what was popular, but right now he was thankful for Old Blue Eyes, and Mac in his arms. Her breath on his neck sent shivers down his spine. He memorized every curve of her body as they swayed to the music.
Several of the staff stood by the kitchen door with broad smiles, watching the young couple dance. Had the music not stopped, they would have gladly danced all night.
"I guess we'd better let these people get home," Harm suggested, despite not wanting to release his hold on her.
"It's pretty late." She reluctantly backed away.
Harm paid the check and placed his arm around her waist as they walked to the car.
It seemed perfectly natural for her to lean into him as they walked. Mac couldn't remember a time when she and Harm felt more comfortable with each other.
When they reached the car the air was thick with the electrical current surging between them. It was subtle, yet over powering. Harm unlocked the door and stepped sideways to swing it open brushing up against where Mac was standing.
He paused for a split second to look in her eyes. He was completely lost. The desire that had been slowly building all evening burst to the surface. Without any thought to consequences, Harm leaned down and captured Mac's lips under his.
His arms wrapped around her, pulling her closer. She fell into his embrace, her arms snaking up around his neck. They pulled each other closer with equal force. They couldn't get close enough. Their lips caressed each other with gentle ease. Their taste was intoxicating.
Harm felt all air rush from his lungs when the tip of Mac's tongue teased the seam along his lips. Their tongues began a dance much like the one they had just shared. Mac's fingers slowly brushed along the back of his hair, teasing the base of his ear, setting his very soul on fire with need for her.
Mac couldn't stop herself from touching him. Her hands had a will of their own. Their mouths continued to search and explore the taste of every corner. Harm's strong muscular body pressed tightly against hers was fanning a flame that was almost burning out of control. He slid one hand down her back letting it fall to rest on her six. She couldn't help the soft moan that escaped her lips, momentarily breaking the kiss.
Harm winced, almost in pain, at the lost sensation of her lips against his. What had he started? God help him, he didn't want to stop, but they were standing on a public street. If this went much further, they'd be putting a lot more on the line than either of them bargained for.
Wrapping his arms around her, he held her close in a strong embrace trying to regain control.
Mac willingly rested her head on his shoulder.
"We'd better go home," was all Harm could think to say. He didn't dare think what would happen when they got there.
CHAPTER 18
On the road
They rode in perfect silence like a couple of scared teenagers. Both had been caught off guard by the powerful emotions emanating from a single kiss.
Several different scenarios of what he or she should, or would, do when they got home, were running through each of their minds. The possibilities ran the gamut from packing a bag and high tailing it out of there, to stripping on the spot and making passionate love still standing against the front door.
The miscellaneous options for what little was left of the night was interrupted by the ringing of Harm's cell phone.
"Rabb." He wondered who could be phoning at 11:30pm.
"Yes… Really… Of course… No problem... It'll take about 20 minutes… All right, bye." He flipped his phone shut.
Mac had been watching him carefully but it was impossible to decipher any information from the splintered conversation.
"That was Andy. It looks like Catherine is waking up. He wants us there, I hope you don't mind." Harm glanced at her briefly as he weaved around a few cars. He was in a hurry, driving the vette as though he were maneuvering a tomcat.
"Of course not." Mac smiled and placed her hand lightly over his, her hand following his as he shifted from gear to gear. The gesture was not lost on him. She was with him, no matter what, no matter when.
George Washington
Hospital
Critical Care Unit
The elevator doors opened to the fourth floor. Harm stepped out slowly, Mac following in step behind him. Taking a short step to his right, Harm turned slightly for Mac to catch up and walk by his side. He reached over taking her hand in his. She gave him a reassuring squeeze and a bright smile.
They would be okay.
Harm's pace seemed to slow as they got closer to Catherine's room. By the time they reached her door, Mac was practically dragging him behind her.
Andy heard them standing at the door. "She's dozed back off again," he said as he stood and walked over to them.
"Did she say anything?" Harm asked.
"Not much, she asked about the baby. I told her he was fine, that you and Mac were taking very good care of him," Andy replied.
"Did you tell her about Clayton?" Harm asked.
"No, she didn't ask, I didn't see the need to volunteer any information yet," Andy frowned.
"What have the doctors said?" Mac asked.
"They haven't seen her. Only the nurses have been in, but everyone is very pleased." Andy's eyes started to fill up with tears.
"Did she say how she feels?" Harm asked.
"Is she in much pain?" Mac asked at the same time.
"SHE, is right here." Came a weak voice from across the room.
The three of them flew across to her bedside. Harm instantly taking hold of her hand with his free hand, still tightly holding his grip on Mac with the other.
Catherine waved her good hand near her throat. Mac pulled away from Harm's grip to get her some ice chips.
"Don't try and talk too much yet. You were on a respirator for some time. Your throat is probably pretty raw." Mac explained as she placed chips delicately at Catherine's lips.
"I knew I could count on you," she smiled at Mac before falling back asleep.
"She'll probably be doing that off and on all night. I told her David was okay but I think she didn't believe me. She seemed to be getting agitated, that's why I asked you to come right over. Now that she's seen you, I'm willing to bet she'll sleep. Why don't you two go on home." Andy sat down by her bed.
Mac spoke first as Harm pulled the car out of the hospital parking lot.
"What happens now?"
"From what the doctors have said so far, she stays where she is while she continues to heal. This could take weeks. From here she goes down to the rehab ward. No one has given us any idea of how long she could be there, but I have a feeling it's going to be a while. Despite Mrs. Webb's therapy guru, Catherine has her work cut out for her regaining her strength."
"What happens after rehab?" Mac had shifted slightly so she was almost facing Harm.
"I don't know. Some patients have to go to an assisted living sort of place before they're ready to go home alone. I can't imagine she'd need to do that. I suppose she might go stay with Andy. She might be strong enough to go home alone. I honestly don't know."
It was obvious to Mac that Harm hadn't really given much thought to transitioning care of David back to Catherine.
"What do you think of having Catherine stay with us when she's released?"
The thought had never occurred to Harm. Hearing it from Mac made it all the more startling.
"Don't look at me like that. It's a very good idea." Mac watched Harm searching for words. "She probably won't be up do dealing with a bigger, more active David as soon as she gets out. This will give her some time to adapt to any changes in his life and it will give him time to get used to his mother again." The more she thought about it, the more sense the idea made, even to her.
"I don't know if she'd go for it, but you wouldn't mind?" Harm was constantly in awe of this woman.
"Why would I mind? Harm, David is HER son." As much as Mac had grown to love David, she had reminded herself often, every day, this is just temporary.
"I just thought having to take care of David and Catherine, in your home, might be asking too much of anyone." Harm kept his eyes on the road. He truly hoped Mac was going to think of his house as her home.
"Then it's settled. I don't need an office. We'll do up the downstairs bedroom as a guest room instead for Catherine." Mac shifted back to face forward. A few moments later she slipped her hand across to rest on Harm's.
All the activity surrounding Catherine's waking up had snapped Harm and Mac back to reality with the efficiency of a cold shower. By the time they reached the apartment, both were tired and drained, the moment for romance had long slipped away. Harm had stayed in the living room quietly unwinding with a cold beer. Mac had opted for a hot shower before climbing into bed alone.
Harm's apartment
Next day
Mac was the first one to wake up. Harm was slowly waking up to the smell of pancakes and eggs cooking.
"Good Morning," He greeted Mac, tightening the belt on his robe.
"I thought about taking a run but decided to just enjoy the free time instead." She flipped the eggs over in the pan.
Walking up behind Mac he wrapped his arms around her waist, and sniffed over her shoulder. "This smells wonderful."
Mac smiled politely but Harm could feel her tense up at his touch.
Backing up, he walked over to the fridge. "Want some juice?" Maybe he'd gone too far in last night's kiss. Don't jump to any conclusions he warned himself.
"That'll be nice, thanks." Mac busied herself setting the table. Harm poured the juice.
Breakfast was finished over small talk. Each of them was thoroughly enjoying not needing to do anything else. The weather was so pleasant they agreed as soon as Harm was showered and dressed, they'd pick David up from Harriet's and spend the rest of the morning at the park.
Harriet reported that David had been an absolute angel and had indeed slept through the night for her as well.
The park near Mac's apartment was wonderful for families. There were plenty of baby swings and rides that parents and toddlers could enjoy. In reality, David was totally indifferent to all the activities, but Harm and Mac were having a wonderful time.
After rocking David to sleep, Mac had sat down on the blanket they'd brought while Harm had gone over to the vendor across the park to buy a couple of soft pretzels. He couldn't resist smiling when he got back to the blanket and saw Mac laid out, her head on the diaper bag, her eyes closed, and David asleep at her side with her hand protectively warming his tummy.
Harm approached the two as quietly as possible trying not to disturb them. He settled down on the blanket next to Mac. Making himself comfortable, he shifted his weight to one side so he could run his fingers through her hair. She had such soft silky hair with a wonderful scent of almonds and vanilla.
Gently brushing her hair with his fingers, Harm was instantly aware the moment Mac woke up. Without opening her eyes, he could see her entire body stiffen much like she had when he hugged her this morning.
Easing himself up into a sitting position, Harm offered Mac the pretzel. Food was always a safe way to appease his marine. Especially when he wasn't sure what he had done.
Mac hadn't realized she'd fallen asleep until she felt Harms fingers roaming through her hair. The simple gesture sent chills down her spine. Everything was moving too fast for her, she was scared. If she crossed that last line, let down her last wall of defense, Harmon Rabb would have all of her heart forever, and she was scared to death that he'd break into little pieces when all this was over.
"Still want some pretzel?" Harm smiled and said a prayer.
"Mmn, looks delicious." She grinned back not wanting to show her unease.
Harm watched her eat the pretzel, keeping a watchful eye on David. Maybe he was overreacting. That's all, everything would be fine he told himself.
CHAPTER 19
Harm's apartment
Later that night
The rest of the afternoon flew by. Once David woke up from his nap, Harm and Mac stopped at the hospital with the baby to visit Catherine, but found her sleeping. Instead of spending the afternoon waiting for her to wake up, they did all the standard fun Saturday events: groceries, laundry, and light housework.
After dinner Harm offered to give David his bath. Mac gladly grabbed a book she hadn't been able to read since moving in with Harm and made herself comfortable on the sofa. From where she sat, she had a birds eye view of Harm at the kitchen sink. He really had come a long way in a few short weeks. Had anyone told her watching a grown man bathe a three month old baby would be this entertaining she'd have never believed them.
Mac followed Harm with her eyes as he took David into his room. Through the wall dividers she could see Harm's silhouette changing the baby. His skills at handling an infant had most definitely improved. He no longer moved with the obvious fear of breaking David. Harm whistled as he and David returned to the kitchen to prepare his bottle.
Pretending to be engrossed in her book, Mac saw Harm and David approaching her from the corner of her eye.
"Do you want me to feed him?" Harm asked standing over her.
Smiling brightly, "No, I'd like to feed him, thank you."
Mac sat up. Leaning over to hand her the baby and the bottle, Harm kissed David softly on the forehead, then looked up and briefly captured Mac's lips in a sweet kiss before returning to clean up the mess in the kitchen.
Harm didn't watch long enough to see Mac fumble the bottle. He had no idea how nervous she was becoming around him. She dreaded going to bed tonight. She was pretty sure what Harm was thinking, and she knew what she wanted, but she knew she had to protect her heart at any cost or she'd never get through the next few months taking care of them.
Cleaning the kitchen, Harm let his mind wander off thinking about the kiss last night. He always knew being with Mac would be like no other, but even he hadn't imagined the magnitude of a single kiss. Last night she had been so responsive, and today she seemed so tense when he touched her. Harm didn't know what to make of it. Had she just gotten lost in the physical attraction and now in the light of day realized she didn't want that with Harm, or was there something else he was missing?
By the time Harm had finished the kitchen, Mac had put David to sleep and was back in the living room with her book.
"Do you mind if I turn the stereo on?" Harm asked moving across the room.
"No, not at all." Mac never looked up from the book.
Harm popped in a Diana Krall CD and went to sit by Mac on the couch.
"When is Mattie coming home?" Mac asked setting her book down on her lap.
"She's spending the night again," he smiled. "I never led such a busy social life at fifteen." Harm inched a little closer.
"It's good she has such nice friends." Her eyes caught Harm staring at her.
"You've seemed a little tense around me today. Did I do something wrong?" No sense in second-guessing himself.
"No, you haven't." She looked down at the closed book in her lap.
Lifting her chin, "May I kiss you?" He was afraid maybe that's what had been upsetting her today.
Mac was lost in his eyes and her own turmoil. After last night's kiss she wasn't sure she could keep this light, but she was afraid of losing everything they already had.
Her silence spoke volumes to Harm. Letting go of her chin, he leaned back a bit. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to impose myself like that." His voice was soft and contrite. A fear bordering on panic was beginning to rise through him.
Quickly, Mac grabbed his hand.
"Wait. You haven't imposed yourself." Mac looked down at the hand she had just grabbed.
"I don't understand. Just now, you didn't say anything. I thought you didn't want me to…"
"I don't want to lose all we've accomplished these last weeks." She couldn't look up at him.
"I don't think I understand, why would we lose everything over a kiss?" Harm really didn't understand.
Mac didn't know what to say. This was so important, they'd made so many plans.
Trying to read the answers in her eyes, Harm clearly saw fear. The same fear he'd seen earlier in the day. But fear of what, why would she think they'd lose what they already had?
Suddenly the proverbial light bulb went off in his head. Harm's jaw dropped open when he understood, she thought he expected this to lead to sex. So that was the white elephant they'd been walking around all day.
"Mac, if I promise, all I want is a kiss, may I kiss you?"
Finding no words, fighting the fear, Mac nodded her head yes.
Very carefully, Harm placed one hand under her chin, one hand on the small of her back, and leaned in for a short, sweet, kiss in which he hoped she could feel all the love in his heart despite the longing in his loins.
Pulling away. Her eyes were still closed when Harm spoke.
"I hope you know I would never expect anything of you, nor would I ask for more than you're willing to give." Harm let go of her chin and took hold of her hand. "I don't ever want you to be afraid of me, Mac. I would never intentionally do anything to hurt you, please believe me."
"It's not the intentionally I'm worried about." Mac tried to smile.
Harm pulled Mac into his arms and softly caressed her back with his hand. Speaking into the top of her head, "I'm sorry for all the stupid things I've done through the years and all the times I've hurt you. If I promise we can take this VERY slowly, will you forgive me and let me try again?" Harm wanted to see the look in her eyes but didn't dare let go of her.
Mac nodded yes into his shoulder as a small tear fell from each eye.
"It's been a long day, why don't we get some sleep." Harm was still holding her tightly.
Lifting her head away from his shoulder, "I think that's a good idea." She quickly swiped the tears away with her hand, hoping Harm hadn't noticed.
Harm helped her off the sofa and together they walked into their room. Quietly, they got ready for bed, Mac snuggling up to the edge of her side of the bed and Harm secure on his side.
Sunday came and went with little happening. Catherine was spending most of the day sleeping so Andy had told Harm not to bother coming. Mattie was home from her friend's house but had only come over for dinner. Mac and Harm functioned with the same rapport they'd developed over the weeks. Yesterday's incidents hadn't appeared to leave any damage. The two friends retired for bed the same way they had every other night for the last three weeks.
Mac had never been one to sleep well. Except for having to get up to feed the baby, since she'd been staying with Harm she had been sleeping soundly through the night. Tonight was the first time she'd woken up for something other than the baby. Only a few hours after having gone to bed, Mac found herself unable to sleep.
It started with a strong sense of warmth. Slowly as she became more conscious of her surroundings, she realized she had moved towards the middle of the bed and the warmth she'd been enjoying was originating from one Harmon Rabb.
Harm was sleeping face down, nuzzled up next her. His left hand was resting heavily on her shoulder, his arm barely brushing against her breast. She could tell by his steady breathing, he was soundly asleep.
Mac tried to ignore him and go back to sleep. Not much time had passed when Harm shifted, moving his arm down and wrapping it around her stomach and waist, he pulled her more tightly against him. Having turned his face towards her, she could feel his slow steady breath hot on her shoulder. She willed her body not to react. It wasn't cooperating. Her breathing was becoming more rapid as her mind raced through images of her and Harm on a dock in Norfolk, on a porch in Maclean, under the mistletoe, and most definitely standing by a corvette. Only one more week she thought to herself. You can do this.
As if some inner alarm that sounds whenever Mac is in distress had gone off, Harm was slowly being dragged into consciousness. Now fully awake, he realized he was not only draped around Mac, but she was awake.
It only took his body an instant to react to her warm flesh under his. He made a failed attempt to inconspicuously remove his hand and put himself at a safer distance.
"I didn't mean to wake you," Mac whispered.
"No, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to invade your space." Harm was mortified after yesterday's promises.
"Neither of us can help what we do in our sleep." Mac tried to shrug.
She rolled onto her side facing him. "I'm sorry if I've made you uncomfortable."
He stretched his hand out to brush a strand of hair away from her face. Her eyes closed tight at the feel of his touch against her face. She was so beautiful, but he had to keep his distance. He would never break a promise to Mac.
"Good night." Harm said as he rolled over, turning his back to her.
"Good night." Mac echoed just before spooning up behind him.
Chapter 20Warning bells started ringing in Harm's head. Sleep, he needed to sleep. The last thing he needed to do was focus on her warm body wrapped around his, her soft breasts pressed against his back, her hot breath on his neck, her long fingers gripping his abdomen only inches above…. Don't go there! He thought to himself. How was he ever going to get any sleep?
"Mac?" Harm's hormones were taking over, he had no idea if Mac was still awake but he knew he needed to move away from her.
"Hmm," she hummed.
The sound of her sleepy voice only succeeded in edging him on.
"I need to move."
"Okay."
"No, I mean you need to let go of me."
"Don't want to."
She wasn't making this easy for him.
"Please Mac, I can't stand lying here trying to ignore you." He was getting desperate.
"Then don't."
Harm flipped around to see her face. Was she saying what he thought she was?
Before he knew it, her face was up against his and their lips came crashing together. Oh she was so soft. Sleeping in only a t-shirt, he could feel every curve of her figure against his bare chest. Her hand slid down his chest drawing small circles. Every nerve ending was on fire. Every tease of her tongue sent another ripple of desire through his already aroused body.
Their tongues taunted and teased, picking up the dance that had so abruptly ended the other night. Close, he needed to be closer. Wrapping his arms around her more tightly he dropped one hand to her six pulling her tighter against him.
The sudden friction of his arousal against her had them both gasping for air. Unbelievably their pace quickened. Their hands moved more freely. Harm slid his hand up the inside of Mac's shirt pressing it against the bare skin of her back at the same moment his lips nibbled a path to her neck.
Mac knew this was what she had always wanted, to be in the arms of Harmon Rabb. Heart be damned, this was worth the risk. She'd never been handled so gingerly in her life. Whether he meant it or not, she'd never felt more loved by a man, and so far he hadn't even made it to second base.
Nibbling up her neck, close to her ear, Harm whispered. "I don't want to do anything you don't want me to."
Mac moaned something that resembled 'uh huh'.
"Mac, if we don't stop now, we won't stop at all." He suppressed the urge to nibble on her ear while waiting for her to respond.
"I don't want you to stop." Her voice was strong and clear. "I want you. Now. Very much."
With that, all barriers were down. Their hearts and souls were ready for exchange as their hungry hands quickly rid them of cumbersome garments. Each kiss, every caress, fanned the flames that had been burning for eight long years.
Harm wanted Sarah to feel how much he loved her. She had to know this wasn't just about sex. No matter how hard he tried to take it slow, their passion was overpowering. They needed each other, they needed to be one, slow would come later. This was hungry desperate, and engulfing them in an ecstasy neither had ever experienced. When their bodies finally joined for the first time, their hearts and souls were seared as one.
Cocooned together, arms and legs entwined, the exhausted couple reveled in the warmth of each other.
"That was definitely worth waiting for," Harm smiled.
"Definitely," Mac agreed.
"Don't suppose you want to do it again?" Harm grinned
"Just say the word, sailor." Mac patted his chest playfully.
JAG Headquarters
Mac's office
0830
"Good Morning Ma'am." Harriet beamed as Mac came through the bullpen after dropping David off at the sitter's.
"Morning, Harriet." Mac thought she looked unusually chipper, even for Harriet.
She dropped her briefcase and cover on the desk before walking around to her seat. From the corner of her eye Mac caught a flash of red. On her chair was a single red rose. By the time Mac had picked the flower up, Harriet was standing in the doorway, bud vase filled with water in hand.
"Thank you, Harriet. You wouldn't happen to know how this got here would you?" Mac asked, her eyebrows raised.
"Didn't see a thing ma'am." Feigning ignorance, Harriet handed Mac the vase and made a hasty exit.
Mac, Harm and Harriet walked around the office all day like Cheshire cats. Nothing could dissuade their good moods. Their grins were infectious. By mid afternoon half the staff was sporting large grins with absolutely no idea why.
Buried in paperwork for the better part of the afternoon, Mac decided she deserved a treat and went in search of some edible reward. Twenty minutes later she returned to her office with a Pepsi in one hand and a double fudge brownie in the other.
Once again she caught a glimmer of color out of the corner of her eye. This time, sitting dead center on her desk, atop an enormous pile of papers, sat one six inch teddy bear in marine greens holding a small card that read: I love Marines.
From her desk across the bullpen, Harriet could see the exact moment Mac spotted the bear. Her entire posture had changed from rugged Marine colonel to feminine woman.
Delicately caressing the bear, Mac wondered how Harm kept sneaking things past her. No matter, she loved the gesture.
It was almost time to go home when Harm appeared in Mac's doorway.
"How's it going?" Harm flashed his famous grin that made women weak in the knees.
"Oh, you know..." Mac bit back a smile.
"I thought I'd pick David up and take him by the hospital a minute to see Catherine. Porter will be there." He was still smiling. Nothing could get that grin off his face, not today, not even Porter Webb.
"Sure, Catherine's probably anxious to see him since we missed her yesterday." At the word yesterday, she broke out in a thousand-watt smile.
"Okay, I'll make it quick. Want me to pick something up for dinner?" Harm started to back away from her desk.
"No, I left some stew in the crock pot this morning." Mac watched Harm retreating, her eyes quickly scanning every part of his anatomy.
Nodding his head, Harm kissed her with his eyes and left.
Clearing up a few last minute details, Mac secured her office and headed home.
Making her way through the parking lot, Mac was lost in the memories of the last few weeks. She didn't know if last night was a mistake in the long term, but today, she didn't care. She understood for the first time in her life what it meant to be on cloud nine. Making love with Harm, and for her she was making love, was more than she could have hoped for.
If possible her grin got even wider when she realized AJ's birthday was right around the corner. Their deal seemed almost a certainty if she and Harm were in a relationship together.
Only a short distance from her car, she noticed a piece of paper on her windshield. Quickly scanning the neighboring cars for similar advertising, Mac's mind shifted to why would she be the only target.
Setting her briefcase down on the ground, she briskly pulled at the paper in question. Her heart swelled and her knees just about melted.
A rose was printed on one corner of the paper. Underneath, in writing she recognized as Harm's, she read: The sun has never risen on a more perfect day, nor shall it ever set on a more wonderful woman. I miss you already, can't wait till we're home.
There was no signature. One stray tear slipped down her cheek. Maybe last night wasn't a mistake. Maybe, just maybe, it meant as much to him as it did to her.
CHAPTER 21
Harm's apartmentNear Union Station
Mac turned the key in the front door and stepped inside. Closing the door behind her, she turned to set her cover and briefcase down when she spotted the red blur. On the island countertop was a huge beautiful bouquet of red roses.
"Nice aren't they?" Mac hadn't noticed Mattie sitting at the table doing her homework.
Mattie had promised Harm she'd be home to receive the delivery. He hadn't told her what it was. She had been dying to peek at the card. That blasted code of honor must be more contagious than she thought because she managed to resist the urge and settled for seeing Mac's face when she saw the flowers.
Mac stood frozen staring at the beautiful blooms.
"Well, aren't you going to at least read the card?" They were killing her! It was a planned conspiracy to kill her off young, Mattie's mind grumbled.
"Oh, yeah." Moving slowly towards the roses, Mac picked up the small envelope, removed the card, and began to read. 'In case I haven't made myself clear all day, I love you. Harm.'
That was it, tears slowly made their way down her face. Mattie jumped up in horror, she was at Mac's side in a flash.
"I thought you'd be happy. What happened?" Placing one arm around Mac's shoulder, Mattie was totally confused, and a little scared. She really wanted her guardian and Mac to get together. She knew they were perfect for each other, and besides, she wouldn't be around forever to take care of Harm.
To Mattie's relief, Mac smiled broadly.
"No, I'm happy. I just hadn't expected this. That's all." Mac was still frozen in place.
"Well, I'm glad. For a minute there, I thought you were upset because you didn't love him." Mattie plopped back down at the table in front of all her books.
Shaking herself inwardly, Mac walked over to Mattie.
"Did you read the card?" Mac had on her interrogating Marine persona.
"Didn't have to. I've told you all along, you two have the hots for each other. Any idiot knows he loves you. Probably has for years. For just a minute there, you had me thinking I was wrong about you." She looked back down at the paper she'd been writing on.
Smiling again, "So we're that obvious, huh?" Mac wondered if it was all teenagers who were this astute or just Mattie.
"To anyone who's looking, yeah." Mattie hadn't looked up from her work.
"And you're okay with it. I mean Harm and I being a …couple, maybe?" She was still getting used to the idea herself, saying it out loud was a challenge.
Tossing her pencil on the table.
"Okay, let me say this one last time. You and Harm are great people. I really love both of you. But together, you're like WOW. You're meant for each other, and for the record, I think it's about time."
Mac blushed at the thought of just how WOW together really was.
"I'd better get working on dinner." Mac moved towards the sink and Mattie went back to her homework.
An hour or so later Harm and David came through the front door.
"Ah, see David, this is every man's dream, to come home and be greeted by two beautiful ladies." Harm kissed the baby on the forehead then turned to smile at Mac and Mattie.
Mattie went over to kiss Harm hello.
"Let me take him. I didn't get to spend much time with him this weekend."
"Or any of us," Harm teased.
Harm came up behind Mac giving her a strong hug and kissing the side of her neck. Mac sighed softly and leaned back into him while she worked on the salad.
"Did you like the flowers?" He whispered in her ear. Happy she was no longer tensing at his show of affection.
"Oh, for heaven's sake. Is that the only hello he gets after sending all those flowers? Don't you two know anything? This is the moment for the big kiss!" Having placed David in his carrier, Mattie stood there with her hands on her hips.
"No wonder it's taken you two so long to get together. Gees!" Mattie walked back to the table rolling her eyes in total exasperation at her conservative guardians.
Harm and Mac couldn't hold back the laughter. Before refocusing on fixing dinner, Mac turned to whisper into Harm's ear, "by the way, me too."
The rest of the evening progressed the way every evening progressed. After dinner Harm helped Mattie with whatever parts of her homework she was struggling with, usually physics and Geometry. Mac bathed and fed David. Harm cleaned up the kitchen while Mac put David to sleep. The only break in their usual routine was bedtime. Normally the two sat on the sofa talking and relaxing after David went to sleep. Tonight, the two new lovers climbed into bed immediately after putting David down for the night.
The desperate hunger of the night before had given way to another passionate, yet slower paced, night of exploration and pleasure. Finally they were free to indulge in the lovemaking they had for so long only dreamed of.
Snuggled up close, her head resting on Harm's shoulder, Mac could feel the light rumbling of withheld laughter in his chest.
"What's so funny?"
"Nothing really. I'm just a little surprised at how much stamina you inspire, even at my age. I started thinking about what it would have been like if we'd gotten together eight years ago when I was young enough to really do something about it."
Her eyes went as wide as her smile, "What? This isn't something? Even in my younger days, if you had any more stamina, I'd be dead from exhaustion," Mac giggled, patting his chest playfully.
His expression a little more solemn, "Mac?"
"Hmm." She had rested her head on his shoulder again.
"When we move into the new house..." He shifted trying to see her face.
Sensing a change in his mood, and the tone of his voice, Mac sat up a bit to better see him.
"Are you still going to want your own room?" He sounded like a little boy asking for an extra cookie before dinner.
Choosing her words carefully.
"Unless you want me to, I'd rather never sleep without you again." Very softly Mac pressed her lips against Harm's, then returned to her previous position never seeing the huge grin on his face.
New House
Falls Church
Several days later
The huge moving van was parked in front of the new Rabb residence. One by one, each of the movers began rolling dollies of boxes into the house.
Mattie and Jen were assigned traffic control on the second floor. Their job was to ensure the boxes and furniture were left in the appropriate rooms, preferably in the designated location. Both ladies had been given quickly sketched schematics of which walls the larger pieces of furniture should go against.
Bud and Harriet were directing traffic on the ground floor, also armed with room layouts. All of the children had been left with Mrs. Taylor for the day. Since she normally didn't do daycare on Saturdays she was delighted to help out with the Roberts' children. There were definite perks to living next door to your babysitter.
Harm began unpacking the boxes in the kitchen while Mac worked on the bathrooms. They had decided other than sheets for the bed; the bathrooms and kitchen would be the rooms they'd need use of right away. As soon as a mover deposited a box, Harm and Mac began immediately allocating the belongings to their proper places.
By the time the movers were finished unloading. All the main pieces of furniture were exactly where they were supposed to be, Mac had all the bathrooms ready for use, down to the last decorative detail including the hangings on the wall, and Harm had the kitchen in fairly decent order.
All their friends were amazed at how quickly and smoothly the move had gone. They all gathered in the still disarrayed living room to eat the pizzas Harm had ordered.
"This is a great house, Commander." Bud mentioned reaching for another slice.
"Has Commander Turner seen it yet?" Harriet asked, helping her husband.
"Yes, he came over with me after the closing to make a list of supplies to begin repairs," Harm replied, taking a bite of pizza.
"Oh, good, he's going to help?" Bud inquired.
"Yeah, he did okay with the vette, I figured I could trust him with the house," Harm chuckled.
"It's great how well all the furniture fits. Colonel, your living room furniture suits this room so well, as does your table in the dining room," Harriet commented looking around the room.
"It does, and your furniture is much more suited to the den sir," Bud added, looking at Harm.
"Speaking of which, I appreciate your letting me keep all the furniture from our apartment," Jen nodded at Harm.
"No problem, Jen. Maybe this will make up for all those nights you couldn't bring home a date," Harm joked.
Blushing, "You find me the date sir, I'll invite him over."
"Come on Jen, there must be a line of men wanting to break down your door." Harm always assumed Jen didn't date much because of Mattie.
"Seriously, sir. Good men aren't easy to find. If you know what I mean," Jen blushed again.
Harm hadn't known Jen to be bashful about anything. Maybe this was a subject better discussed in a less crowded room.
Everyone finished their meal and said their good-byes. Jen's roommate wouldn't be arriving for another week. Mattie didn't want Jen spending her first night in the apartment alone, so it had already been arranged for Mattie to stay at Jen's.
Closing the door behind their helpers, Harm turned to Mac. He placed a tame kiss on her forehead as she wrapped her arms around him.
"It's been a long, busy day. Why don't you head upstairs and take a nice hot bath. I'm sure you've really missed that with me only having a shower at the apartment." Harm rested his chin on her head. He'd forgotten how much shorter than him Mac was when she wore flats.
"Sounds like a plan." Mac pulled away and placed an equally chaste kiss on his lips, happily making her way upstairs.
When she opened the door to the bathroom, she was stunned. 'When did he find time for this?' she wondered.
Harm had already drawn the hot bath using her favorite lavender bath oils. There was a single red rose in a vase and several vanilla candles lit through out the room. Living with this man was more than she had bargained for, and what a pleasure it was going to be.
CHAPTER 22
Rabb House
Falls Church VA.
Everything so far had gone according to plan. Mrs. Taylor had agreed to keep David for the night. Having already retrieved what Harriet had hid for him in the basement where she was sure Mac wouldn't see them. Harm waited impatiently for Mac to come out of the bathroom.
Mac lingered for an eternity in the warm bath. Harm had offered her a whirlpool tub but she was thinking she might like to keep this old claw foot tub. She couldn't remember the last time she had felt so relaxed in a bath.
Somewhere lost in thought, Mac noticed Harm must have turned on the stereo. She thought it was Frank Sinatra, but didn't remember Harm owning any Sinatra music. Eventually, her curiosity got the better of her. That and a little guilt since she knew by now Harm must have gone and gotten David back from the sitter's.
Drying off, she put on her favorite pink silk robe, and fussy slippers. As soon as she opened the door she was embraced by the sounds of Old Blue Eyes himself.
Slowly her eyes scanned the room. Arrangements of roses were scattered all over the room, on the nightstand, on the dressers, on boxes, some were even on the floor, and several loose roses were strewn across the bed. The room resembled a garden, a rose garden filled with pink, yellow, white, peach, and any other color rose imaginable. The flicker of what looked like a hundred candles filled the room with a warm glow. The wonderful aroma of roses and vanilla was heightening her senses.
Awed at the sight before her, Mac took in the room over and over. Her eyes finally fell upon the one thing she was truly searching for, Harm. He had been standing in the doorway watching her the entire time.
Once their eyes met, Harm quickly strode across the room to Mac. Her mouth had been dragging on the floor since she opened the bathroom door. Putting his hand under her chin to close her mouth, he smiled at her, "May I have this dance?"
They began a slow rhythm across the room, Frank appropriately began crooning, I Get No Kick from Champagne. Swaying and gliding as one, Harm sang into her hair, 'But I get a kick out of you'.
When the song came to an end, Harm twirled Mac towards the bed. In one swift movement, he dipped her and captured the single red rose that rested on the bed.
Easing her back so she'd sit on the edge of the bed, Harm knelt down in front of her. "Sarah MacKenzie, I don't want you to think for even one night in our new home that I would be satisfied to just live with you. I could have found anyone to share only my bed. I would be honored if you would share my life, my children, and my heart. Will you marry me?" Tied to the rose was a diamond solitaire ring. Harm held the rose out to her holding his breath.
Shakily, Mac reached out to take hold of the proffered flower. Slowly she untied the string, the ring falling onto her lap. Harm picked it up and held it in front of her. "May I?"
Words would not come to her. All she could do was nod her head yes as she fought back tears of joy.
Harm gently slid the ring on and breathed freely again. Mac leaned forward to hug him with such force that the two fell back on the floor in laughter. "I love you," she whispered. No other words were spoken.
George Washington
Hospital
Next Day
Harm and Mac walked hand in hand to Catherine's room with David in his carrier. Catherine had been making amazing progress since she'd woken up from the coma.
"My you're looking contented today," Harm greeted, taking his usual seat by her bedside.
"I've had good news." Catherine glowed reaching to hold David's hand.
"I'm being granted parole," she laughed. "Well, that is if you consider being moved to rehab, parole. I will be glad to stare at a different set of four walls." She played mindlessly with David's hand as she glanced up at Harm, then Mac, and then did a double take.
"Great Caesar's ghost! Is that what I think it is?" Her eyes were bulging wide with excitement.
Mac looked at Harm. "You mean this?" She waved her left hand in the air grinning.
"Yeah, Mr. Take eight years to ask me for a date, only needed a week to propose," Mac teased.
"So when's the wedding?" Catherine asked eagerly.
"Well, we haven't set a date yet but we don't really want to wait too long, we've already wasted eight years," Harm answered.
"Just don't wait until I can dance at your wedding," Catherine joked. "You might be waiting another eight years." Catherine laughed till she literally couldn't breathe anymore.
Harm and Mac had felt an unspoken obligation to share the news with Catherine first. Harm hadn't even told Harriet, obviously she knew Harm had something up his sleeve when the delivery she waited for all Friday afternoon turned out to be fifteen dozen roses and six dozen vanilla tea candles. She just didn't know exactly what it was, and Harm had said nothing to anyone else to help her figure it out.
Their next stop after the hospital was Mac's old apartment to pick up Mattie.
Mac stood in front of her old door holding David in her arms. Harm knocked loudly at the door keeping one arm firmly around Mac's waist.
Mattie jumped up from a game of checkers at the coffee table to get the door.
"Hey, you guys have already fixed the place up nicely." Mac smiled as she looked around.
"Well, I still need to get a few things. This place is a bit bigger than our old place," Jen smiled proudly. "I'm going to wait to see what Carol brings with her. I really appreciate your letting me lease it. It's a great apartment," she blushed.
"OH MY GOD!" Mattie screeched as she reached for Mac's hand oblivious to David's obstructive presence. Quickly, Harm reached over to rescue David before the avalanche of attention befell Mac's left hand.
Searching to see what all the fuss was about, Jen gasped when she saw the ring.
Laughing to himself, Harm backed away unobserved as Mattie and Jen swarmed around Mac lobbing repeated questions at her not really giving her an opportunity to reply.
Harm helped himself to something to drink while Mac tried to answer as many of the girls' questions as decency would allow. When David started to get cranky, Harm decided it was time to put an end to the free-for-all.
Mattie didn't stop talking the entire ride home. She repeated just about every question she and Jen had asked in the apartment, still not giving Mac or Harm the chance to answer. She seemed to be losing steam when she finally came out with, "So how did baldy, I mean the admiral, take the news?"
Harm and Mac looked at each other. "We haven't told him yet. We wanted to share the news with you first," Harm answered.
"Oh, I'd pay big bucks to be a fly on that wall," she grinned, finally leaning back in silence for the balance of the ride home.
Rabb Residence
Later that evening
"Okay, then we both agree. We call him now, at home, and ask for an appointment first thing before most of the staff arrive," Mac confirmed.
"Who's going to do the calling?" she continued.
Neither one of them was too thrilled about telling the admiral. He'd been different this past year. He'd gone from growling constantly like a bear rudely awakened during hibernation to often babbling senselessly like a retired ball player. They weren't sure which admiral was going to respond to the news.
"Okay, call it, heads or tails?" Harm watched Mac toss a quarter, as he dialed the admiral's number.
Chapter 23JAG Headquarters
Monday Morning
0700
"So far this is working out well, the bullpen is practically empty," Mac commented as she and Harm walked to the admiral's office.
Taking a deep breath, Harm knocked on the admiral's door.
"Enter."
"Let's not make this formal." He waved at them to sit down before they had time to stand at attention.
Looking the couple over carefully, "Are congratulations in order this time, Colonel?"
"Yes, sir, it's the correct hand," she smiled.
"Then this must be what couldn't wait?" Acknowledging their assenting nods, he continued. "Can I also assume you've discussed the implications this will have on your careers?"
"No, sir. We haven't had much opportunity to discuss that as yet," Harm replied.
"I see." Looking directly at Harm. "Still being led by your emotions?" Before Harm could respond. "Well, at least this time you finally have something to show for it." The admiral let a broad smile escape.
"When is the big day?" he asked still smiling.
"We haven't set a date yet. We'd like a short engagement but we also want to wait until Catherine is better," Harm responded.
"We'd like her to be well enough to take care of David before we get married," Mac added.
Studying his senior officers carefully.
"I guess this would be a good time to share a little news of my own. I plan on retiring. You two have successfully chased me out of here. I'm getting too old for this job," he chuckled quietly.
"Depending on what you decide, I don't know if I'll be of any help, and I don't know how much leeway you can expect from a new commanding officer," AJ continued, noting their loss for words.
"The most obvious option if you'd like to remain in the same building is for one of you to transfer to the judiciary. If I'm not mistaken, the colonel here took more of a shine to that post. I'm afraid any admiral's privilege I may try to invoke would most likely be disavowed by my replacement." AJ sat back heavily in his chair. These two just wouldn't give a guy a break.
"Would one of you be interested in a permanent position on the hill? I'm certain with Senator Latham's connections and my recommendation, either of you would be in high demand."
Mac and Harm had one of their many silent conversations. That was one thing AJ always marveled at. Hell, that was probably why they were such a good team. It would be a shame to break them up. Of course, if that was the cost of getting together as a team on a personal level, it was well worth the loss.
"Frankly, sir. We haven't discussed anything. This has come about rather quickly. Catherine and the baby have been foremost in our concerns, we simply haven't had time to hash out the options," Harm answered a little disconcerted they weren't better prepared.
"Sir, when will you be leaving us?" Mac tried to see how much time they had to play with.
"The SecNav already knows. My formal papers will be submitted at the end of the month. My retirement will be effective 90 days after that." The corners of the admiral's mouth crept up slightly. He was really ready to retire.
"Congratulations, sir. Any plans?" Harm said belatedly.
"None yet. I'd like to do something with baseball. Probably coach a bunch of loud, ungrateful kids," he laughed. "Obviously, you need more time to discuss your options. Give it some thought, and get back to me ASAP. But don't take too long," the admiral warned.
"If that's all?" He waited for a response. "Dismissed."
By the time they'd left the admiral's office, the bullpen was buzzing with activity.
Mac tried to make it back to her office without catching Harriet's eye. Of course, Mac had no idea that Harriet was on the prowl for information about the fifteen dozen roses. Sure enough, Harriet cornered her halfway between the admiral's office and her desk.
"Excuse me, ma'am, but I wanted to take a moment to discuss the plans for the house…OH! I knew it! Why else would any man order fifteen dozen roses?" Harriet's voice was loud enough to carry sound all the way to Nebraska. Not an ear in the bullpen missed her unofficial announcement.
Within minutes Mac was surrounded by well wishers, and of course, questions. Unsuccessful in her efforts to escape, Mac was finally saved by the bellowing voice of their superior officer.
"Okay, people, Colonel MacKenzie isn't the first person to ever get engaged. Back to work." Before he could turn completely around and return to his office, Mac flashed him a grateful smile.
Harriet of course enthusiastically followed Mac into her office.
"Oh, ma'am. This is just wonderful news. Maybe we could combine the housewarming party with an engagement party." At this point Harriet was thinking out loud more than she was actually talking to Mac.
"Harriet, this isn't going to be a big brew ha. We're keeping the wedding simple. An engagement party won't be necessary." Mac sat down trying not to let the memories of her engagement to Mic spoil the reverie of this moment.
"Well, we could at least announce the engagement at the housewarming. I mean after all you don't want me announcing it at AJ's birthday next week – that wouldn't be any fun at all." Once again Harriet was rambling on more to herself than Mac.
Meanwhile, Mac was astounded that she'd forgotten AJ's birthday was next week. She'd practically marked the calendar for the last five years, and now that the date had finally arrived, it had completely slipped her mind.
"Am I interrupting anything important?" Harm asked from the doorway.
Without skipping a beat, Harriet went from her own out loud musings to reiterating it all for Harm.
"Well, I was suggesting an engagement party, or perhaps combining the housewarming with an engagement party, but the Colonel doesn't want an engagement party. I've suggested at least announcing it formally at the housewarming, but she doesn't seem too thrilled with that option either. I suspect the only place she's going to let me announce it is to a bunch of five year olds she doesn't know at AJ's party next week." Finally Harriet paused to take a breath.
At the words, five year old, Harm and Mac's gaze locked on each other. Everything and anything Harriet said after that was lost.
Noticing she'd completely lost her friends' attention. Thinking she'd make more progress if she could talk to them individually, Harriet excused herself. Quietly, she closed the door behind her.
Their trance broken by the sound of the closing latch, Harm turned to the door, then turned back to Mac.
"We had a deal," he smiled mischievously.
"Yes we did," Mac smiled back.
"I honestly thought all I'd have to do was keep the losers away from you. I never thought we'd actually get together first." Harm had inched closer to the desk.
"I beg your pardon?" Mac responded in mock indignation.
"What do you say, you and I go halves on another kid?" Harm's eyes were twinkling.
"Another kid?"
"Well, we already share a teenager, two godsons, and one borrowed baby. I was thinking it might be nice to share one we get to make." Harm could barely suppress a grin.
"Making is definitely fun." Mac's eyes twinkled knowingly. "I know I'm not getting any younger," she paused, the smile fading slightly, "but, would you be too disappointed if I suggested we wait." Mac bit her lower lip nervously.
"You want to wait till after the wedding?" Harm hoped she didn't want to wait too long. Neither one of them was getting any younger could be considered a bit of an understatement.
"That, and I'd like for David to be back with Catherine before we focus on one of our own." She raised her brow requesting understanding.
Taking the final few steps to breech the gap between them. "I'll wait as long as you want, but please, don't make it too long." Checking quickly and noticing the blinds open, Harm settled for lightly caressing her hand.
"Deal," Mac smiled lovingly.