What Now

by CLK

My version of what should have been season 10. Originally posted summer 2004. Written summer post season 9 pre season 10

2. Chapters 11 thru 20

Chapter 11

Mac's apartment

Same time

"Still, I should have been more careful. I'm sorry, Mac." Harm couldn't find enough words to express how mortified he was.

Grabbing his hand to help her sit up, Mac took a deep cleansing breath. "I guess we've been so preoccupied with postings we've probably neglected talking about a few other basics."

Harm shifted in his seat, instantly uncomfortable. "Maybe."

"According to the pamphlets the doctor gave us, from what I can tell, I'll probably be ovulating sometime in the middle of next week. I should be fine by then." Suddenly bashful, Mac glanced down at her knees. "Physically, I mean."

Developing a similar interest in her knees, Harm's eyes dropped as well. "You sure?"

"About the timing, or being ready?" Mac found the courage to look at him.

"I don't want to hurt you Mac. You scared the hell out of me just now. I'd rather break my own arm than have you wincing underneath me again." He reached out and took hold of both her hands in his. He had dreamed of being able to make love to Mac. The last thing he wanted was for her to painfully submit to him just to conceive a child. Definitely, the last thing.

The sides of her mouth slowly curling up, a slight blush rose to her cheeks. "It felt pretty good there for a while."

Harm couldn't hide the smile that erupted at her confession. He'd thought so too.

"Promise me, if you feel any discomfort at all by the time next week rolls around, you'll tell me before we try anything." He squeezed her hand, "Please."

"Promise." She nodded, leaning over to kiss him softly. " I promise."

Snuggling up close to each other, they resumed their original intention for the evening, searching out something to watch on TV.

Drexel Club

Washington DC

Next Day

1300 hours

"Right this way, sir." The Maitre D said to Harm the moment he approached the doorway. "Mr. Polo has been waiting for you."

Following him across the large paneled room, Harm spotted Ed at a quiet table in the back corner.

"You made it," Ed said extending his hand to Harm and slapping him on the back with the other.

"The Navy did teach me a thing or two." Harm smiled broadly, not holding back any of the Rabb charm.

"I've ordered us a couple of drinks, you do still drink bourbon?"

"I'm impressed, time hasn't affected your memory any," Harm replied, raising his glass.

The two men made small talk while they looked over the menus and placed their orders. Having finished their appetizers and salads, the conversation turned to the main event.

"I've kept up with a lot of your exploits. You've handled some of the most high profile cases the Navy has. Military tribunal," whistling quietly, "that was quite a feather in your cap, a once in a lifetime opportunity."

Harm hadn't really given it much thought. That probably will look good on his resume.

"You've also got a reputation for sticking your neck on the line for children. Years ago, Luke Pendry's boy, you had a hand in that. There was also that little girl whose sister was murdered. You took the killer down yourself if I remember correctly. I understand now, you've got a teenage ward whose mom died and whose dad's an alcoholic." Ed took a breath and a bite of his lunch.

"I'm pretty familiar with my life history, what are you getting at." Harm set his fork down and took a sip of water.

"You're the superman we're looking for." Ed took a sip of his water getting ready for his next speech as though he were preparing for a closing argument in court.

"Ed, I'd make a lousy legal babysitter for wealthy CEO's and cranky rich widows." Harm was beginning to wonder if the grilled salmon was going to be worth the forthcoming dispute.

"I'm not asking you to hold hands with our clients. We've got a new deal. Do you remember Maggie Stevens?"

"From Echo Oil?"

"One and the same. She passed away about three weeks ago."

"I remember reading about it. What does that have to do with me." Harm might not be interested but he was definitely curious.

"Her only son died a couple of years ago in a car accident. Her granddaughter was with him. He was high on cocaine, and Lord knows what else when he tore out of their house. Two years earlier the girl's mother had tried to sue for custody claiming that sonny boy was an abusive husband and an unfit father. Well, whether or not she was right, there was no way she was going to win against mama's money. Much to Maggie's chagrin, daughter in law was right and it cost her the life of her only granddaughter."

"It's a tragedy, but get to the point," Harm urged.

"The old lady was one of our clients. She left her entire estate, all 600 million of it to a new foundation. Stevens' Legal Choice Fund." He paused to see if he still had Harm's interest.

"The entire fund is to be used to provide legal services to the underdog, whether it's a simple deadbeat dad who won't pay child support, or a non custodial parent who has just absconded to Abu Dabi with their child. Anything that could be considered pro family. There will be an entire staff of investigators as well as the attorneys. There's a one million dollar budget for start up alone." He could tell Rabb still wasn't getting the point.

"Harm with your skills in the courtroom as well as investigation. You're the perfect man to head the entire operation."

Harm's eyes flickered momentarily as he tried to hide his surprise from his onetime coworker.

"I don't have any background in family law. I'm a naval lawyer for heaven's sake," Harm responded rather tersely.

"Harm, the job pays in the high six figures. It's one of the requirements. The old lady wanted only the best and she didn't want some sharp dedicated lawyer leaving because he couldn't afford to send his kids to college. The job description was written for you. You'd be in charge of everything. Hell, Harm, you're a Navy Commander, you know how to handle people under you, you know how to train up a good lawyer. You can spot shoddy work from your attorneys or your investigators in a heartbeat, and more importantly, you care."

Harm was dumfounded. He'd occasionally considered if he went into the private sector it would be in some similar capacity, but the pay was rarely rewarding when you worked for a cause. Of course, he was used to military pay, better than some, but not in the league they were talking about now.

"I told you to give me a chance. Harm, I'm telling you, this has you written all over it. With your navy credentials, and the Stevens' money, the integrity of the foundation would never be in doubt." Hesitating briefly. "There is one little thing. There are a few distant relatives contesting the will, it's still in probate but it's rock solid. We knew there'd be a fight and we made sure there were no holes in the will. Still, it's going to take some time until everything can run its course and the funds can be dispersed. The old Echo Oil building in Falls Church has started renovation. The legal offices will use one floor and the remaining floors of office space will be leased to fund operations. Eventually, we expect to grow large enough to fill the entire building."

"The offices will be in Falls Church?" Harm wasn't seriously considering this until he heard that. He and Mac could still be close enough to share lunch or even car pool.

"Not far from your headquarters," Ed answered, breathing easier seeing his first sign that Harm was possibly interested. The minute he heard Rabb was looking, he knew he was a Godsend.

"When do you need an answer by?"

"Officially, it will be at least 90 days before we can start the ball rolling and announce the search for personnel. It will probably be two or three years before the fund is totally free and clear. You can take the full 90 days, but I'd like to know if you're in sooner. If time or money is an issue, I'm authorized to offer a $100,000 bonus any time you say yes."

"I'll need some time to think about it." Skipping dessert, Harm set his napkin on the table and pushed his chair back. "It's late and I need to get back to the office. I'll call you." Offering his hand to Ed, "It was nice seeing you again, we'll have to do it again some time with Ellen." Harm smiled at Ed who agreed whole heartedly, then walked away.

If Ed had any doubts that Harmon Rabb was the lawyer for the job, they were gone now. Any man who could calmly walk away from a $100,000 signing bonus had the conviction to his principles that this job would require.

Chapter 12

JAG Headquarters

Harm's office

1455 hours

Harm barely had time to drop his cover in his office when Coates was standing at his door.

"The Admiral wants to see you ASAP, sir." she announced, her back rigid. That was never a good sign.

"Tell the Admiral I'll be right there." Grabbing his phone, Harm dialed Mac's cell only to get her voice mail. Wondering how her lunch was progressing, Harm took a deep breath and headed to the admiral's office.

"Commander Rabb reporting as ordered, ma'am." Harm stood at attention.

Putting her pen down, Admiral Chaidez stood up and walked around to stand in front of Harm. She was a petite woman, no more than 5'5" in her heels. Harm towered over her, yet her presence was still formidable.

"At ease," she ordered, raising her chin and boring a hole through him with her gaze. "I understand you are not happy with us." She'd been in command only two weeks and already she was having trouble with the prize bull.

"No, ma'am."

"Have a seat, Commander." The Admiral waved her arm at the chair and leaned back against her desk.

"I've heard rumors that you've put out feelers in the private sector for a position. I've also been informed that one of the most prestigious firms in DC has just taken you to lunch. Care to explain." She may be half the size of Admiral Chegwidden, but this woman could intimidate a Mongolian warrior.

"Ed Polo and I served together here at headquarters, ma'am. I haven't seen him since he left the service eight years ago. He called yesterday." Harm hadn't been prepared for her to find out so soon.

"Glad you found time to get reacquainted. Now tell me, why do you want to leave JAG?" She wasn't about to beat around the bush.

"It's personal ma'am. And not conclusive yet."

"Yet? You just got back in, Commander! You walk away now, there will be no turning back." If he stayed around, she would definitely have gray hair long before she was of retirement age.

"Understood, ma'am." Harm felt as though he'd been caught sneaking in after curfew by his mother.

"This wouldn't have anything to do with the Colonel's inquiries into the new post with Homeland Security?" She was beginning to think there was no way to avoid the gray.

Harm was flabbergasted twice in one day. Now what was he supposed to say?

"Yes, ma'am." Maybe he could get away with only yes and no answers.

"Commander, am I going to have to drag this out of you?"

"No, ma'am, but I'm not in a position to speak for the Colonel, ma'am." He was stalling.

"Fine, then speak for yourself." She was praying this had nothing to do with her taking over command.

Accepting there was no other way out, "I've asked the Colonel to marry me, ma'am. We'd like to get married sooner than later but obviously, only one of us can stay at JAG. We're… investigating our options."

"Did it ever occur to you that perhaps you should inform your CO?" Her blood was beginning to boil. There was a reason for a chain of command and something such as this should have been brought to her attention immediately.

"How long have the two of you been involved?" she asked sternly.

"Excuse me, ma'am?" How was he supposed to answer that one?

"AJ, said nothing about the two of you being together, how long have you been involved? The question is very clear Commander."

"We've been partners and friends for nine years ma'am. We, haven't exactly been… involved."

"Excuse me!" It was her turn to be at a loss for words.

"We haven't ever actually dated, ma'am. The Colonel and I have never been involved in anything other than a platonic relationship. Personal circumstances have recently forced us to reevaluate our friendship, and we both felt marriage was best for us." Harm hoped Mac wasn't going to kill him.

This whole thing shouldn't have been such a surprise to her. AJ warned her that they had strong feelings for each other and they were bound to either blow up or figure it out. She just wished they'd waited a little longer to figure it out.

"I see." She said letting out a loud sigh and pausing, for what to Harm seemed like an eternity, before she spoke again.

"Let me see what 'options' I can come up with. The Colonel is returning to work Monday morning, correct?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Okay, both of you report to me first thing Monday morning. Dismissed." She stood up and walked around to her desk without giving Harm a second glance.

"Aye aye, ma'am." Harm turned on his heals and headed to his office as fast as he could, praying Mac would answer her phone.

Mac's apartment

Georgetown

1530

Mac had just put the key in the door when she heard the phone ringing. Quickly turning the key and shoving the door open, Mac ran to answer the phone.

"MacKenzie," Mac panted, out of breath.

"Is this going to be one of 'those' phone calls, Colonel?" Harm inquired with a gleam in his eye and want in his voice.

"I was at the door when I heard the phone ring. How'd it go?" She responded like a parent exasperated with their two-year old. Flattered, but exasperated none the less.

"Better than I thought. I've got a lot to think about and too much to tell you over the phone." Harm looked at his watch wondering if he could secure early after an almost two hour lunch. "I also had a talk with the Admiral. She knows about us." Harm held his breath waiting for Mac's reaction.

"How'd she find out?"

"She heard about my luncheon with Ed and your inquiries with Homeland, I had no choice but to fill in the blanks. Well, some of them anyway." Harm looked at his watch again.

"I see." She wasn't sure what to think, or how much Harm might tell the Admiral.

"You sound like the Admiral now. Look Mac, I want to find out how things went with Tracy and I want to tell you all about Ed and the Admiral. Let me get some of these files off my desk and I'll secure early. Shall I pick up some pizza or something?"

"No, I stopped at the store and picked up a few things. I thought I'd make spinach lasagna."

"Mac, you shouldn't be straining yourself." Harm couldn't help frowning.

"I wouldn't call baking a lasagna strenuous Harm. I'm not made of glass. I won't break. Promise."

"Just don't over do it. I'll see you in a little over an hour." The thought of seeing her brought the brightest smile to his face. Mac could hear it over the phone.

Hanging up the receiver. She wasn't sure if she should be angry at Harm for being so overprotective or if she should get down and kiss his feet for caring. Mac walked over and closed her front door.

Her lunch with Tracy had been more fun then she expected. Tracy was a very friendly and charming woman. It was a shame they hadn't had more opportunity to work together during Tracy's time at headquarters. The new job on the other hand seemed pretty routine. Most likely it was a straight Monday through Friday, nine to five. That was a big plus, especially with a child and daycare. In reality the job and the people would most likely be interesting enough, the problem was she didn't know if she could give up litigating. She loved being in the courtroom, and her only shot at going to court in this new position would be if some bozo decided to sue the government because their nail clippers were confiscated at the airport. Even if terrorist threats were apprehended through the new measures implemented by homeland security, as liaison, she wouldn't be the one prosecuting.

She definitely had plenty of food for thought. Now all she needed was to get the lasagna cooking and she'd be all set.

Chapter 13

Mac's apartment

Georgetown

Later that night

Mac had just lowered the temperature on the oven to keep dinner warm when she heard Harm knock. Anxiously, she dropped the oven mitts on the counter and practically sprinted to the door. Had she not been in such a hurry to hear what Harm had to report she might have taken the time to marvel at how much better she felt with each passing day.

"Hi, beautiful," Harm purred as he leaned in to kiss her hello, handing her a small bouquet of flowers he'd picked up from a street peddler. Normally, he never encouraged such things, but they were so colorful and he enjoyed the idea of surprising Mac.

"Thank you." She smiled demurely.

Dropping all his gear on a chair, Harm closed his eyes, sniffing the room. "Smells wonderful," he sighed.

"Good, grab a seat, I'll get it out of the oven and you can start filling me in on what happened today. Start with the Admiral." She pointed for him to sit at the table and immediately turned towards the kitchen to start serving dinner.

"Need some help?" Harm asked knowing full well that she was going to say no.

"No. Start talking." She really wanted to know what happened.

Serving himself some of the lasagna, Harm began recounting the events in the admiral's office. Every so often, Mac's eyes would fly open, or her jaw would drop, but she managed to refrain from interrupting.

"What do you think the Admiral is going to do now that she knows?" Mac asked, playing with the food on her plate.

"I honestly don't know. She seemed really angry at first, I'm not sure what made her power down, but she wasn't nearly as annoyed by the time I left her office." Harm took a bite of dinner, wondering what was going through the Admiral's mind. "We'd better be prepared for the worst, just in case." He forced a smile.

"Worst? What are you thinking?" she inquired, nervously.

"Well, technically, she can't charge us with anything, but she can split us up. I suppose worse case would be one or both of us find ourselves stationed somewhere in Alaska, but honestly, it sounded more like she wanted to keep us at the office, not ship us out." Harm began to chuckle slightly. "Actually, I suspect she's given up on our not giving her gray hair." Amused by the idea of a bald and gray Admiral Chaivez, Harm began to laugh more heartily.

By the time they'd gotten to dessert it was Mac's turn to tell Harm about her lunch with Tracy. Letting out a deep sigh after Mac was finished, Harm broached the subject carefully. "Doesn't sound like a very good fit to me, what do you think?"

"I'm not sure. I know what you mean. I've given up the courtroom before and don't know if I'd want to do it again. I need to think about it." Mac picked up some dishes and carried them to the sink.

"Vanilla or chocolate?" she asked, scooping ice cream into a bowl.

"Vanilla," he whispered in her ear. She was so intent on her battle with the frozen dairy product that she hadn't heard Harm walk up beside her and place his dish on the counter. The feel of his hot breath so close to her neck almost made her lose her grip on the spoon. That wasn't the only thing she could lose a grip on.

"You're moving really well today. You just sprang up out of the chair." Harm's eyes were practically dancing with delight.

"Yeah, it's amazing how much difference every day makes in how I feel." She couldn't hold back a grin, she hated feeling under par.

Carrying the two plates back to the table, "So, what's the scoop with your luncheon?" she asked casually.

Mac sat quietly eating her ice cream, careful not to show any reaction to his story. She watched Harm's expressions intently as he ran through the details of the meeting. Every once in a while a different emotion would flash across his face. She recognized everything from, enthusiasm, curiosity, despair, and pain to a few flickers of light she couldn't quite put her finger on. Somehow, even though it had never occurred to her that Harm would be happy in private practice, she could tell he was seriously considering the offer.

Having finished her ice cream long before Harm finished talking, Mac had sat patiently processing all the information. When Harm finally stopped and scooped out his last spoonful of ice cream, Mac found her voice.

"You're thinking about it, aren't you?"

"Yeah, I don't know, there's something about it that…feels right." Harm picked up his and Mac's bowls and put them in the kitchen.

"Do you really think you could be happy outside of the Navy?" Mac walked up behind him placing her arms on either side of him, her hands falling on his hips.

"I've learned a lot this last year. Mattie had a big hand in that." He took a moment to sort all the thoughts running through his mind. "There's more to life than the Navy, or flying tomcats. I've got to think about what will work best for us ten years down the road when we're raising a family. I don't want to wind up like the Admiral, The Judge Advocate General waiting until he's retired to get to know his only daughter."

Noticing for the first time exactly where Mac's hands were resting, the rest of his words choked in his throat. Swallowing hard, he turned around in place and pulled her into a safer embrace and forced his thoughts to return to the job offer.

"I've got plenty of time to think it over. Maybe once we hear what the Admiral has to say on Monday, the choice will be easier. Besides, think of all the stuff I could do to the vette with a hundred grand," Harm teased, ready for a less serious discussion.

Shaking her head, Mac lightly smacked his arm before pulling back and walking off into the living room.

"I suppose now that the Admiral knows, there's no reason not to tell everyone else." Harm began, following her into the other room and sitting down beside her.

"I mean, if the cat's out of the bag professionally, there's no reason not to let our friends in on the scoop." Harm was delighted at the prospect of going public. Secretly, he was a little concerned Mac might change her mind and back out of marrying him.

"Honestly," Mac tried to stop herself from blushing. "I wasn't looking forward to having to take the ring off anyway."

Harm placed his hand on Mac's thigh and began slowly drawing circles with his fingertips, encouraged by her bashful confession.

"How about we invite a few people over for dinner? We could do it at my place Sunday that way we could tell them all at once. It's been a long time since I've had a dinner party," Harm suggested.

"Remember how much fun we all had that time Admiral Chegwidden stopped by when Annie and Josh were staying with you?" Mac stopped suddenly hoping she hadn't made a mistake bringing up Annie.

"We did have fun. Remember how everyone froze when we realized the Admiral had been married?" Harm let out a low chuckle.

"Yeah, then it sounds like a plan, we can do some shopping tomorrow and pick up a few things. If we make some calls now, they'll have a little bit of notice too." Mac was happy Harm hadn't reacted in the least to her bringing up Annie's name. She wanted to lean over and kiss him silly but reached for the phone instead. "How about if I call Harriet and Bud, and you call Sturgis. Do you think the Admiral, is still here?" She was referring to AJ.

"No, he and Francesca left for Los Angeles a couple of days after the dining out," Harm replied, a note of sadness in his voice.

"Is there anyone else you want to call?"

"Eventually, I'm going to want to let Keeter know, and probably Skates, and Terri Coulter, but for tomorrow, I think Bud, Harriet, Sturgis, Jen and Mattie will be plenty," Harm shrugged.

Nodding her head, Mac walked over to the phone and began placing calls.

A short time later she joined Harm on the sofa. "Well, it's all set, everyone will be there Sunday around 1600. Of course, we should probably tell Jen and Mattie first." Mac snuggled into Harm's shoulder.

"Yeah, first opportunity." Harm closed his eyes, just enjoying the moment.

Chapter 14

Harm's apartment

Saturday morning

1000

Mattie let herself into Harm's apartment and headed straight for the refrigerator. Opening the door, she pulled out a couple of bottles of water and tossed them into her backpack.

"You almost ready Harm?" she called from the kitchen.

Coming out of the bathroom, "Sorry, I didn't hear you come in. Yeah, all set. Where's Jen?" he said, coming down the steps into the living room.

"She wanted to go straighten out some files or something at the office, you know, still trying to impress the new boss. Makes me wish baldy were back." Mattie shrugged, shifting her backpack on her shoulder.

"None of that now," Harm admonished. "Let's get moving before Mac thinks we stood her up." Harm put his hand on her shoulder urging her towards the front door.

"Pushy aren't we," she laughed. "Or are you just in a hurry to be with Mac?" she teased.

Harm and Mac had remembered there was a small summer fair over at Rock Creek Park this weekend. Mac had always loved fairs as a kid and thought if Mattie and Jen didn't have anything else to do, it would be a fun way for them to spend the day and tell them the news before dinner Sunday.

Much to their surprise, Mattie was free for the afternoon and thought it was a great idea. When they got to Mac's apartment building, Harm ran upstairs to get Mac while Mattie waited in the car.

Mac had been anxiously waiting for Harm. The second he knocked, she opened the door with such enthusiasm you could actually hear it whoosh.

"What took you so long?" Mac grinned playfully.

"Teenagers." He stepped aside as Mac came out and locked the door behind her. When she had turned back to face him, Harm extended his hand for her to take hold.

Mattie watched from the car as her guardian and his partner exited the building, a spring in their step, hand in hand like a couple of kids with their first steady date. Very interesting, she thought, very.

As was his usual habit, Harm held the car door for Mac before going around to the driver's side.

"Hi Mattie," Mac greeted cheerfully as she got into the car.

"Hey Mac, glad you're feeling up to this."

"Wouldn't miss it. I always loved these things as a kid. Guess I still do." Mac grinned clicking her seat belt.

"Me too, especially all the great food!" Mattie licked her lips, and rolled her eyes.

"I'm partial to the Belgian waffles." Mac smiled, with just a hint of a moan.

"Yeah, but I can't get enough of the cotton candy and turkey drumsticks." Mattie was practically salivating.

"There's more to these things then just food you know," Harm interrupted, raising his eyebrows, and turning the corner.

"Not much." Mac and Mattie broke out laughing at their unified response.

"If you two ladies are done discussing the culinary arts. I've got something I'd like to talk to you about Mattie." He looked up at her through the rear view mirror. Mac undid her seatbelt to shift sideways to face her.

"Whatever it is, I didn't do it," Mattie said, this did not look good, she thought.

Chuckling to himself, "Relax, no one did anything. It's more of an announcement than a talk. You know Mac recently had surgery. Being laid up for a few days gave us lots of time to work a few things out." He paused to look up at the mirror and gage Mattie's expression. By the grin on her face, he pretty much figured they'd been busted. Their eyes locked in the mirror and he smiled back at her, "Yes, we're getting married."

"See, Harm. You should learn to listen to teenagers! We know a lot more than we get credit for." She smiled knowingly, "SO – I want to see the ring." She unsnapped her belt and scooted forward to see Mac's hand waving into the backseat.

"WOW- Harm when you let go, you really let go! All right!" Her eyes were practically falling out of her head. It was definitely an impressive stone.

Mac blushed politely, allowing just a hint of a proud smile to show.

"Gee kid, you sure you like it?" Harm shook his head.

"Congratulations, this is great. Really." Mattie sat back in her seat, smiling contentedly.

The rest of the day was indeed spent with the two ladies eating their way through every food stand at the fair.

"Where do you two put it all?" Harm asked. He was in excellent shape and worked out regularly, but he no longer had the metabolism of a young man. He had filled out some with age, where Mac appeared thinner than she had been when they first met, but still ate like a proverbial horse.

As much as Mattie was enjoying all the good food, she was especially enjoying how happy Harm and Mac looked together. They had pretty much walked the entire time hand in hand. A few times Mattie noticed Mac getting tired because she would lean more heavily against Harm. He usually responded by wrapping his arm around her and making her rest at the first bench they came upon.

Mattie wondered if Harm was aware of how many times he would just lean over and kiss the top of Mac's head. She couldn't help but think what he would have done if her head hadn't been conveniently just the right height for his lips. She wasn't sure what to make of Mac though. It was obvious his affection was welcome, especially whenever he'd stop to look at a craft or something using both his hands, Mac would immediately stick her hand out for him to hold again when he was through, but Mattie hadn't once seen her kiss him.

Still, they made a great looking couple and she wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth.

Harm's apartment

Sunday afternoon

Jen and Mattie had come over early. Harm had put them to work chopping and slicing in the kitchen. Mattie had of course told Jen yesterday about the engagement the second she flew through the front door. This at least spared them explaining twice today.

Hearing the first knock at the door, Mac unconsciously flipped her ring around so the stone wouldn't be too obvious.

"Hey, Bud, Harriet." Harm gave the standard pats and hugs hello as the couple walked into the door. Before he could completely close the door he heard footsteps.

"Did you guys all ride together?" He asked as Sturgis and Varese came in the door.

"No, but your elevator is broken again. Next time I say we do this someplace with a reliable elevator or on the ground floor," Sturgis teased, before greeting everyone hello.

"Hey, it's good for your cardiovascular system, old man," Harm teased back.

"OLD! I'll have you know …" Sturgis began when Varese interrupted.

"Never mind." She raised her brow at Harm. "You two play nice." Varese walked over to hug Mac, still giggling.

Everyone finished their hellos, settling into comfortable conversation while Harm and Mac prepared the drinks.

"I'm so glad all of you were free to join us for dinner tonight," Harm started, carrying a tray of drinks over to the living room. He hadn't noticed Harriet reach over and grab Bud's hand.

"I've got something I wanted to share with you guys." He continued, putting the tray down.

Mac helped him hand out the drinks, Mattie and Jen were cleaning up in the kitchen trying desperately not to give it away by letting anyone see the big grins on their faces.

Wondering how much detail he wanted to get into, Harm decided to skip the preliminaries and hope for the best. "Mac and I are getting married," he blurted out.

Instantly, all their guests were on their feet. Bursts of, "Oh, how wonderful, isn't that great, congratulations, and other appropriate felicitations were repeated over and over for the next few minutes as Harm and Mac were hugged and kissed several times over.

"Harm what took you so long?" Sturgis exclaimed slapping his old friend on the back.

"Better late than never," Harm teased, keeping an eye on Mac with Harriet and Varese.

"Oh ma'am, it's such a beautiful ring." Harriet was beaming.

"Harriet, call me Mac. PLEASE."

"I have to agree with her, the ring is lovely and you are definitely glowing," Varese added.

"I'm just glad he finally came to his senses," Harriet huffed, "Everyone knows they're meant for each other." Harriet and Varese had begun talking to each other, almost forgetting Mac was right there.

"I thought for sure, you two were going to work things out three years ago," Sturgis was saying. "The tension between you was so thick you could cut it with a knife."

"No disrespect, sir, but Commander Turner is right, you two were destined to be together from that first handshake," Bud commented, shaking his head.

"Man, Harm if I'd had a smart looker like Mac in love with me, I would not have waited years to propose."

Harm wanted to argue Mac wasn't in love with him, that's why he waited years to propose, but that would open a whole other can of worms that neither he nor Mac were prepared to get into, even with their closest friends. Harm had to admit he was a little stunned that no one seemed to question such a sudden engagement. Why didn't it strike anyone unusual that two people who had never dated just announced they were getting married?

Seeing Mac across the room, politely smiling while Varese and Harriet carried on about something, he caught her eyes for just a minute. He swore he could feel the heat clear across the room. Smiling to himself, maybe that had something to do with why no one seemed surprise.

Chapter 15

Harm's apartment

2210

Mac walked over and plopped on the couch as Harm closed the door behind Sturgis and Varese.

"That went better than I thought it would," Harm commented, walking over to sit by Mac.

"Why, what did you expect?" Mac wrinkled one eyebrow.

"I guess more of an inquisition. I thought people would wonder why two people who had never dated were getting married. Not what took me so long to ask." Harm let his hand rest on Mac's lap.

Twisting herself, Mac put her legs over Harm's lap and laid back against the arm of the sofa.

"Hey, you must be exhausted." Harm began gently rubbing his hand along Mac's calves.

"No more than you," she smiled.

"Yeah, well, I didn't have surgery last week."

"It's no big deal Harm, I'm fine now," she said sternly.

"Still, tomorrow is your first day back to work and you should be resting."

"Yes, mom," Mac teased, stifling a yawn. "That feels nice," she smiled wearily, letting her eyes fall shut.

Harm watched her lying there peacefully, gently caressing her legs. She had to be the most beautiful woman he'd ever met. A vision of Mac surrounded by bubbles in a bathtub in Paraguay settled in his thoughts. Even asleep, she was beautiful.

Wondering if he should let her sleep here, wake her up and take her home, or just move her into his bed, Harm ran all the pros and cons quickly through his mind. She was still a little sore from surgery, though she wouldn't admit it to him, so a night on his sofa probably wasn't the best idea. He didn't want her driving home alone if she was this tired, and if he took her, she wouldn't have a car to get to work in the morning. Since he knew she kept a sea bag in her car with an extra uniform, Harm decided she should just sleep in his room.

Slipping out from under her, Harm went over to his room and turned down the covers to the bed. Returning to Mac on the sofa, he took off her shoes, then bent over and carefully eased his arms under her, scooping her up against him.

Winding her arms around him, "Where we going?" Mac asked groggily.

"To bed," he whispered, hoping she'd fall right back to sleep.

"That's nice," she purred, snuggling into his shoulder.

Harm took a deep breath. His body was starting to react to her soft low voice. If she could have this affect on him when she was half asleep and not trying, what would it be like when she was awake and …oh, not a good place to go. He sighed again, gently laying her down and tucking her in.

Kicking off his socks and shoes, Harm decided to only strip out of his shirt. Still wearing his jeans, he crawled into bed next to Sarah, praying he wasn't plagued by dreams tonight.

Harm's apartment

0530

Slowly the hint of morning light was forcing Sarah MacKenzie out of her sleep induced haze. Her body clock was still not working precisely but she was pretty sure it was somewhere around five o'clock in the morning. Shifting a little, her arm reached out to the nightstand in search of the thermometer. Groping blindly with her eyes closed, she bumped against something and heard it crash to the floor. Opening one eye, she realized immediately, this wasn't her room.

Rubbing the sleep out of his own eyes. "Whaaaawassssssthyyoook?"

Both eyes open wide. Mac turned around, fully awake and aware of whose bed she was in. "What!"

"I asked," Harm squinted his eyes a few times trying to get them to stay open. "What was that and are you okay?" His eyes finally open and cooperating, Harm rolled over by Mac to see the clock on her side of the bed.

"Morning, I guess 'that' was my clock. What time is it?" Harm asked rolling back to his side of the bed and propping himself up against the wall

"Around 0530," Mac replied coldly.

"What happened?" Harm asked.

"I was reaching for my thermometer and ran a collision course with your clock before I realized I wasn't home," Mac explained casually.

"Sorry. Want me to get you a thermometer?" Harm asked, still groggy.

"Yes, please." Mac hadn't made up her mind yet if she was annoyed or not that Harm hadn't woken her to go home.

It only took Harm a minute to get back to Mac with a thermometer.

"Here you go." Yawning loudly, he handed it to her.

"You slept in your jeans?" Mac scrunched one entire side of her face.

Looking down at his pants, Harm blushed slightly. "Uh, yeah."

"Why?" Her features had smoothed out, but her eyebrows were both furrowed in confusion.

"I uh, well, I…didn't want you to wake up and get the wrong idea. I mean, I know you know me better than that and all, but still, it just seemed right." Harm shrugged, giving her a trace of his flyboy smile.

Okay, now she was sure she wasn't annoyed. Holding back a laugh, Mac unceremoniously stuck the thermometer in her mouth.

Staring at her for a few minutes, Harm finally decided there wasn't much to be gained other than make her uncomfortable. "I'll go start the coffee."

Mac waited patiently, 98.6. She shook the thermometer out and laid it on the night table. Getting out of bed without any remnants of discomfort from surgery, Mac joined Harm in the kitchen.

"It's still pretty early, shall I make us some eggs too?" Harm asked, curious about her temperature.

"That would be really nice." Mac smiled, taking a seat on the nearest stool.

"So, what's the verdict?" Harm smiled a little more confidently than he felt.

"Normal." She nodded, waiting for the coffee to finish brewing.

"Why don't you go ahead and get out the cups while I start the eggs," Harm suggested as he cracked two eggs into a bowl.

"Sure."

"Mac?"

"Hmn?"

"What if your temperature had been higher?" Harm tried to sound casual.

"Then we'd have to…" Freezing a minute, coffee cups still in mid air, Mac turned quickly towards Harm. "To start trying." She stood there, holding the cups, her mouth hanging open in surprise. She'd known that's WHAT came next, but she honestly hadn't really thought about what they'd have to DO next.

"I thought so." A low sizzle could be heard as Harm poured the eggs into the heated pan.

"We're supposed to make every effort to increase the odds of success as soon as your temperature changes, right?"

"Uh huh." Mac filled the two cups with coffee.

"What if you were home, I was here, and we don't see each other for another 10 hours after work?"

"We'd lose the most optimum hours." Mac finished fixing the coffee and set Harm's cup next to him. "I see what you mean?"

Harm scooped the eggs onto her plate and walked over to the table waiting for Mac to say something.

Sitting down, Mac picked up her fork. "I suppose, we should probably be together the mornings when I'm close to ovulating." She wondered if she could possibly sound any less sure. "I mean, we really should be together as much as possible." Why did she feel so tawdry pointing that out?

"Makes sense. Would it be a problem for you to stay here? I mean with Mattie and all, I hate to ask Jen to take on more responsibility." Harm knew he could easily come home, feed Mattie, help with any homework problems and then go over to Mac's, but somehow that seemed so- cold. He didn't want this to turn into a mechanical exercise in conception.

"That will work. I'll stop at my place tonight and pack a bag for a few days."

Harm couldn't stop the small smile that escaped.

It was infectious, the corners of Mac's mouth twitched up as well. "Why are you smiling?"

Shrugging one shoulder, "I was just thinking it'll be really nice having you here." He couldn't help it, there was no way he could stop smiling. Mac was moving in, even if it was for only a few days.

Chapter 16

Harm's apartment

Later that morning

Mac and Harm had been so preoccupied with what was going to happen next that they completely forgot about Mattie. Harm knew he wanted to be home for her as he normally was, but he hadn't given a second thought to explaining why Mac was there at 0715.

"Morning Harm." Mattie breezed into the apartment heading straight for the fridge.

Mac was just finishing up in the bathroom. Harm was standing by his bed. Their eyes met instantly in horror. Mac walked into the bedroom like a zombie, all color gone from her face as she mouthed, 'Mattie.'

Putting on his jetjock calm the way you would slip on a comfortable pair of shoes, Harm walked out of the bedroom.

"Hey, kiddo. You're running late this morning." He walked up to her and gave her a quick hug good morning.

"Yeah, didn't want to get out of bed." She opened the drawer in search of a spoon for her yogurt.

"Are you almost ready?" she asked, just as Mac emerged from the bedroom.

"Hey, Mac." Mattie smiled brightly, sitting down to eat her yogurt as if it was an every day occurrence for Mac to come out of Harm's bedroom.

Harm and Mac turned their heads to look at each other, looked back at Mattie happily engrossed in her version of breakfast, then looked back to each other. Before either could decide what to say next, Mattie spoke up.

"You two better get a move on it or I'm going to be late. Do you have your car or is he driving all of us?" She looked straight at Mac, swallowing another spoonful of yogurt.

"I've got my own car," Mac answered slowly.

"Great, than you can take your time." Turning towards Harm, "YOU on the other hand, Mr. Soon-to-be-married, pick up the pace." Tossing the empty container in the trash, Mattie threw her backpack on her shoulder and headed for the door.

"Will I see you tonight?" she asked Mac quickly.

"Probably," Mac responded.

"Cool! See you then." And she was out the door.

Harm looked at Mac with a 'what just happened?' expression. Mac on the other hand, laughed quietly, throwing her arms up in the air with a shrug.

JAG Headquarters

0800

Mac had arrived in the office a few minutes ahead of Harm. She wasn't completely out the elevator door when people began congratulating her. Bless Harriet, she was the personification of the old cliché - 'telegraph, telephone, and tell a woman.'

At exactly 0815 Mac and Harm were standing at attention in front of the Admiral's desk.

"Take a seat," she ordered. "I've taken the liberty of informing my predecessor of your newest situation."

Harm and Mac looked at each other out of the corner of their eyes.

"Once he stopped laughing, he was quite helpful." She pushed her chair slightly away from the desk.

"He sends his congratulations," she offered, looking at Mac.

Turning to Harm, "And you, he said for a smart boy, it took you long enough to figure out how to keep her."

"Yes, ma'am," he smiled.

"Now, if I understand correctly, the only reason either of you are seeking alternate positions is because of your impending nuptials?"

"Yes, ma'am," they chorused.

"Very well. It has been brought to my attention that Captain Sebring's wife is very ill. Apparently she isn't expected to be with us much longer. Because of the Captain's often unexpected need to be away from the office, the judiciary frequently needs some assistance."

Looking straight at Mac. "As of 0800 tomorrow morning, Colonel, you are TAD to the judiciary. Since you will only be needed when Captain Sebring is unavailable, you will spend the rest of your time here with us. Is that acceptable?"

"Yes, ma'am," Mac nodded.

"Commander, since I can not count on Colonel MacKenzie being fully available the next few months, beginning immediately, you are my new chief of staff."

"Yes, ma'am. Thank you."

"Colonel, you do understand this is only a temporary fix depending on Mrs. Sebring's health?"

"Yes, ma'am. Understood." This was too easy. Things weren't supposed to happen like this for her. She preferred litigating, but she did enjoy sitting on the bench. She couldn't help but wonder if poor Mrs. Sebring was going to pass on, only because it would be Sarah MacKenzie's bad luck.

"Any questions?"

"No ma'am," they both replied.

"Very well, dismissed." The Admiral leaned back in her chair, first catastrophe avoided. A wave of relief rushed over her. Thank God she and AJ were on friendly terms. She would never have come up with that idea on her own and it would have been awful to lose one, if not both, of her best attorneys before she had time to even get her feet wet.

Patio outside JAG

1230

"I'm so happy we get to keep both you and the Commander a while longer." Harriet smiled gleefully. "I mean, look at me ma'am, I've been TAD to JAG for almost six years. Maybe Mrs. Sebring will surprise everyone and live a long life." Harriet took a bite of her sandwich.

"I don't know about that Harriet, but it does mean we can start planning the wedding," Mac said taking a sip of her drink.

"Then I suppose I'm here in the nick of time," Harm said, pulling out a chair next to Mac.

"I wasn't sure you'd be able to join us." Mac looked up, obviously pleased to see him.

"I didn't think Sturgis was ever going to finish his cross on that last witness." Harm took the lid off his salad.

"As much as I would like to stay and hangout with you two lovebirds, I've got work to do." Gathering up her things, Harriet smiled sweetly.

"Where do you think you're going? I need the voice of experience, Harriet. Surely, the Admiral won't notice if you take a few more minutes to finish your lunch. Please?" Mac puckered her lower lip.

"Well, if you insist." Harriet eagerly sat back down.

"So my opinions don't count?" Harm put his hand on his chest feigning a pained expression.

"I thought you didn't care?" Mac laughed.

"I only care about how long it's going to take." His expression suddenly serious. "We could get a license tomorrow and be married by the weekend."

"And your mother would shoot you before we could give her grand children." Mac shook her head, smiling.

"When did my mother get involved in this?"

"The day you were born," Mac deadpanned, still shaking her head.

"Commander, you may not care much now, but as the years go by, it's nice to have the photos and memories to look back on. Besides, it makes it easier answering all of your kids questions, and believe me they come up with a lot of them about what it was like when you and daddy, or mommy got married. I mean after all, you wouldn't want them to think it was a shot gun wedding," Harriet chuckled loudly.

Taking another sip of her drink, Harriet's eyes flew open wide as she took in a large gasp before spitting and coughing.

Harm was out of his seat and at Harriet's side in a flash. "Are you okay, can you breathe?" Harriet's eyes looked panicked, bugging out of her head as they were, Harm was preparing to do the Heimlich maneuver on her when she waved her hand at him.

"I'm okay, sir," Harriet managed to whisper.

"You sure?" He asked before leaving her side to take his seat.

"I'm sorry, I just had a….startling thought and was concerned I might have said something…inappropriate." Harriet took a deep breath, before nibbling slowly on her lower lip.

"Inappropriate? Harriet if we didn't want your advice, we wouldn't have asked you to join us," Harm answered, a little confused at her comment.

Mac's expression had changed from horror, to utter bewilderment, to absolute hilarity in only seconds before laughing out loud.

Harm turned his head to see if his Marine had maybe lost her mind. He found nothing about Harriet almost choking amusing.

"No, Harriet," Mac smiled, trying to control her laughter. "I'm NOT pregnant." 'Yet' she thought.

"I'm sorry ma'am," Harriet blushed. "I didn't mean to imply anything. It's just that this is a little unexpected and when it dawned on me you had said something about, before giving Mrs. Burnett grandchildren. Well, I was a little concerned I might have, well, you know. I'm really sorry." Harriet smiled again, her normal color returning slowly.

Still snickering a little, Mac patted Harriet's arm reassuringly. "Really, Harriet. It's okay. Forget it."

Chapter 17

The three friends managed to work out a few basics to start with. Both the bride and groom definitely wanted a church wedding. Mac's first marriage had been before a justice of the peace and she wasn't interested in reliving that experience. She also didn't want the big circus event that she and Mic had planned. She wanted her wedding to Harm to be unique in itself with nothing to remind her of past mistakes.

There was also no debating they wanted Chaplain Turner to officiate. Besides Harm's having known Chaplain Turner since his days at Annapolis, the man had a sage, peaceful influence on people, and had developed a special place in both his and Mac's hearts.

Since neither Harm nor Mac attended church regularly, where to have the wedding was more of a challenge. Annapolis was suggested, but it was doubtful it would be available on such short notice. The church where everyone attended Christmas services was also suggested, but Harriet had a gleam in her eye and told Mac and Harm she'd find a church.

Harriet was delighted when Mac asked her to be the Matron of Honor. Since she was already in charge of finding a church, Harriet said she would coordinate finding a date when Chaplain Turner and a church would both be available for a wedding. Harm and Mac both wanting the wedding sooner than later, Harriet would try for the first available weekend in July.

Before they'd gotten much further, Mac pointed out they'd all well over extended their lunch hours and Harm moved to reconvene at a later time. Harriet had walked away from the conversation rolling her eyes, 'you could take the lawyers out of the courtroom but you just couldn't take the courtroom out of the lawyers, reconvene.'

Harm's apartment

Later that evening

"You sure you don't need any help with your homework tonight?" Harm asked for the tenth time since they'd sat down for dinner.

"Harm, the year is almost over. What little work we get is a breeze. I just have to study for finals," Mattie said helping clear the table. "Besides, you two have a wedding to finish planning," she grinned broadly.

"Alright, you did the cooking, so we ladies will do the dishes." Mac kissed Harm on the cheek and then gave him a hard shove out of the kitchen.

"I'll start loading the dishwasher," Mattie announced, delighted Mac didn't give her an argument over who was scrubbing the pots.

"I still can't get over Harm finally told you he loves you," Mattie blurted out, filing dishes into the machine.

"I mean, whenever I would ask him about you all I ever got was, 'it's complicated.' He nearly floored me when I asked him if he loved you and he actually answered." Mattie rolled in the bottom tier and pulled out the upper level.

"What did he say?" Mac asked quietly, not looking at her.

Stopping to look over at Mac with incredulity, "What do you mean what did he say- he said yes." She went back to loading the glasses. "After all, you don't ask someone to marry you if you're answer was no." She was really starting to think maybe it was a miracle these two finally got together at all.

"You came out and asked, 'do you love her?', and he just answered, 'yes.' Mac had stopped scrubbing the pot and was staring straight ahead.

"Yeah, that about covers it," Mattie answered, a little exasperated. Closing the door to the dishwasher, she moved to the other side of Mac and grabbed a dry dishtowel.

"You'd better quit daydreaming and get back to washing," Mattie teased.

"Sorry, I was just wondering how long he's felt this way and hadn't told me." Mac let the sides of her mouth curl up in a small smile hiding the surge of excitement she felt at the possibility Harm had really loved her all along, despite the nagging doubt that Mattie's conversation was just one major misunderstanding.

"Ask him."

"Maybe," Mac smiled. "You're really happy for him aren't you?"

"Yeah, you're good for him. He needs someone besides me." Mattie turned to put one of the pots away.

"You don't mind my being here?" Mac asked softly.

"You mean over night, like yesterday?"

Mac nodded.

"I'm not a little kid, Mac. I mean, you guys are like totally in love. Not to mention you're getting married in what - a month?"

Mac nodded again. "That's what we hope."

"Then why the heck would I care where you sleep?" Mattie put the rag down and leaned against the counter. "It's not like I'm going to run off and start sleeping around anymore than I would if you were already married."

Mac raised one eyebrow at the last half of the statement. "I hope that didn't mean this is something you've had reason to…consider?"

"You and Harm sleeping together?" Mattie's brow was completely twisted.

"No," Mac smiled, "you."

"Don't be silly. Not all sixteen year olds think it's cool to be having sex." Mattie picked up the rag and went back to drying the pots. "Besides, sixteen is no where near old enough to be thinking about marriage. If I'm going to be a fighter pilot, I've got other things more important to deal with."

"You know, if for any reason you need someone to talk to, I'd be glad to listen." Mac turned off the water and took an extra rag to dry her hands.

"Thanks, but everything's copasetic." Detecting a twinge of doubt in Mac's eyes, "honestly." Mattie raised her right hand, the rag hanging like a flag.

The two women looked at the dishrag and couldn't help laughing. Mac pulled it out of Mattie's hand and tossed it on the counter by the one she'd just used to dry her hands. Stepping closer, she pulled Mattie into a tight hug.

"I wish I had a head on my shoulders like you when I was your age," Mac sighed.

"Am I missing out on something here? What are you two talking about?" Harm walked into the kitchen, smiling at the two women he loved.

"Sex," Mattie chirped mischievously.

Harm's eyes practically fell out of his head almost as quickly as his jaw dropped to the floor.

Her shoulders shaking from withheld laughter Mattie didn't have the heart to let him suffer too long.

"Cool your jets, Dad, I was only kidding," Mattie grinned.

"We were just agreeing what a good head she has on her shoulders." Smiling, Mac winked at Mattie.

"I think I forgot something in my room," he mumbled. Whatever made him think he was prepared for teenagers. Whatever they were really talking about, he decided he was better off not knowing. This was definitely one of those times to live by the credo ignorance is bliss. Harm turned towards his room when Mattie interrupted.

"Nah, don't bother, I've got studying to do. Night." Mattie leaned over and kissed Mac on the cheek, then stepped forward and kissed a still stunned Harmon Rabb good night.

Before Harm could react, Mattie was out the door and Mac was by his side rubbing her hand along his shoulder.

"Don't worry, maybe we'll have a boy." Mac kissed him on the cheek and walked into the living room.

Finally finding his voice and rational thought. "You weren't really talking about sex were you?" He still wasn't sure if he really wanted to know the answer.

"Not really. I asked if she minded my being here."

"Does she?" Harm's tone had softened as he sat down next to Mac.

"No, that's when the subject of sex and sixteen year olds came up. She seems to have a pretty good head on her shoulders. She might have been snowing me, but I don't think so," Mac smiled.

"That's a relief. I'm sorry if you were uncomfortable this morning." Harm took hold of Mac's hand.

"No big deal. I just wasn't sure how you wanted to handle it." Mac smiled, rubbing her thumb along the strong hand holding hers.

"Neither was I, but I guess that's taken care of now. So, what else needs to be decided for the wedding?" Harm really wished they could skip all the hoopla and just get married, but Harriet was right. If you're only going to do this once, you might as well get your money's worth.

A couple of hours later they'd worked out more of the basics.

"Okay, church, guests, honor guard, reception, we can invite the entire navy and Marine corps, and of course, my mother." That flyboy smile was in full force tonight.

"Could we maybe fall somewhere in between. The entire navy and Marine corps is probably more than even Harriet could organize." Mac rolled her eyes, forcing aside any fears she might be having. "I think we've covered just about as much as I care to in one night," Mac yawned. "I'm heading to bed. Night, flyboy."

Mac leaned over for a little kiss and froze at the look in Harm's eyes. She didn't understand how they went from charming to charcoal so quickly, but the intensity of his glare was enough to turn her to rubber.

Realizing she must have sensed something, Harm blinked his eyes a moment and swallowed hard hoping to subdue all the raging desire that had surfaced at the uttering of four little words.

"Night, Mac." Harm leaned up and kissed her on her forehead. "I'll be in soon, sweet dreams."

Chapter 18

Harm's apartment

Near Union Station

0520

Mac rolled over for the umpteenth time in the last hour. She was trying to go back to sleep but it was no use. Her mind wouldn't let go of what could happen this morning, and now it was almost time.

Banging the pillow with greater force than would ever be necessary, Mac blew out an exasperated breath and tried once again to rest. Closing her eyes her mind wandered back to last night.

When she turned towards the bedroom after saying good night, Harm had immediately jumped off the sofa.

"I forgot to show you something." He waved for her to follow him as he made his way up the steps.

"I cleared out some space for you. I hope you don't mind. I thought you might be more comfortable." Harm opened the drawers on the right side of his dresser before turning and opening one side of an empty closet.

"Wow, how much stuff did you think I'd bring?" Mac asked, her eyebrows high in surprise.

"Well, the doctor did say it might take a few tries." Harm hoped he wasn't blushing.

"Yeah, she did," Mac acknowledged staring into the empty drawers. She still had to determine the pattern for her likely time of ovulation so they could start trying a few days before her egg was released, once her temperature rose that would indicate the near end of her fertility window. He was right, she could easily be here several days every month.

"This was really thoughtful of you, thanks." A nervous smile twitched.

"Also," Harm turned into the bathroom, "I know you prefer baths, but I thought this might make it a little more pleasant." Reaching around the glass wall, Harm pulled out a basket of scented body gels and lotions with assorted sizes of loofa sponges.

Mac scanned the basket he was holding, noticing some of her favorite fragrances were included. He must have recognized the question in her eyes.

"I remembered seeing some of these scents in your bathroom. I hope they're right." His eyes locked on hers again. His grip tightening unnoticeably on the basket.

"I've put out fresh towels for you, over there." Raising one arm he pointed to his left.

Mac walked over to the towels and touched them with a gentle awe as though they'd been spun of gold. Turning to her right, she reached for the medicine cabinet and swung the door open.

"You cleared space for me here too." The words almost choked over the knot in her throat.

"I also raised the thermostat a little. but if it's not warm enough, there's an extra blanket at the foot of the bed." Harm was still holding the basket, his heart melting at the soft doe-like glimmer in her eyes. She seemed really pleased. He'd hoped she would be.

"When did you find time for all this?" She closed the cabinet and reached for the basket.

"I secured a little early today." He gave her a low watt smile. "If you need anything else, just let me know."

Harm slowly turned as though he might change his mind any second, then walked back into the living room.

Mac had packed a comfortable cotton nightgown for her stay with Harm. Although she was tempted to pack some of her best lingerie, at the last minute she chickened out thinking it was too, too. This wasn't a bad looking nightgown. At least it was a step up from the t-shirt and shorts she had briefly considered. She may not want to look like a vamp, but she certainly didn't want to look like one of the boys either.

Looking at herself in the mirror she wondered if she had made the right choice. It was a pale pink, floor length, sleeveless nightgown with a square neckline and a ribbon laced through the edging. Just a hint of cleavage showed, with her bust size that was unavoidable in anything short of a turtleneck. Shaking her head, she turned off the light and started for bed.

When she reached the bed, she noticed for the first time a small bud vase with a single white rose on the nightstand. She was positive that hadn't been there yesterday.

She wasn't sure how long she had been standing there smelling the rose when she heard Harm clearing his throat.

"It reminded me of you," he said softly, kicking off his shoes.

"Thank you," she answered, putting the vase back on the table.

"I left the thermometer there as well." Harm pointed before taking off his shirt.

"I noticed, thanks again." Mac's heart was swelling at all his attentive gestures. "Well, good night." She reached down and pulled back the covers.

"Night, Mac." He finished stripping down and climbed into bed next to her.

It hadn't taken her long to fall asleep, but by four o'clock she was tossing and turning. Her anxiousness had crept into her dreams, and that blasted internal clock was ticking like a time bomb.

Shifting one more time, she squeezed her eyes and decided she was putting off the inevitable. It was now 5:35 and she might as well get it over with. Carefully reaching over, she picked the thermometer up off the table and put it in her mouth, admiring the beautiful rose while she waited to read her fate.

Removing the thermometer, she stared at it blankly, 99.2. She'd hoped to have a few more days, but for what? No matter how many roses Harm bought her, this was still going to be awkward as hell. How was she supposed to tell him? 'Wake up big boy', or maybe she should just shout, 'Attention!', and hope all of him stood up.

Looking at him sleeping so peacefully, Mac had to admit, he was gorgeous. All she'd ever wanted to do was get lost in his beautiful eyes, tasting and touching every sexy crevice and corner. Tilting her head slightly, staring at his invitingly luscious lips, 'why not' she thought.

Rolling onto her hands and knees, Mac crawled closer to where Harm was sleeping. Softly, she placed a slow, barely there, kiss on his shoulder. Noticing no reaction, she moved closer and kissed his collarbone a little more boldly. Still not getting any response, Mac spread her right hand over his chest and kissed the crook of his neck.

Letting out a slow moan, Harm moved one leg and lifted his chin slightly to allow her better access.

Aha, progress, she thought. Glancing down for just a second, Mac could see the most important part of Harm was starting to wake up. Twirling her finger around the edge of his nipple, Mac began a trail of kisses up his neck, across his chin and settled at the corner of his mouth. Carefully, she picked up her right leg and slid it across, nudging Harm until her thigh settled between his legs.

Still raised up on her knees, Mac heard a low growl just as she felt one of Harm's hands begin to caress her left leg. Encouraged by the strength of his arousal growing against her right thigh, Mac began to lay feather light kisses on Harm's lips, alternating between kissing and nipping his lower, than upper, than lower lip again.

Unexpectedly, Harm's arms wrapped around Mac and he spun her onto her back. His lips never leaving hers, he responded with the full force of a hungry sailor his first day in port.

Feeling the blood pulsing through her veins at his sudden response, Mac's arms pressed tightly around Harm, her hand drawing aimlessly at the nape of his neck, her other hand toying with the waistband of his boxers.

Harm's lungs stopped working when her fingers scooped past the edge of his boxers teasing the delicate skin along his lower back. This was by far the best dream Harm had ever had. Everything he'd ever dreamed of Sarah MacKenzie paled in comparison to the intoxicating touch of this encounter.

More, he wanted more of this. His hands skimmed over her shoulder, tugging at the strap of her nightgown. Like a snake on its path, harm's fingertips swirled a path to her breasts. At the first feel of the soft, supple flesh Harm was almost overcome by the shooting desire that was surging through every pore.

Mac was on fire, she couldn't get close enough. She could feel Harm pressing against her, unknowingly taunting her to the core. When his fingers took hold of her breast, a short moan escaped her lips.

Something about the sound of her voice, the tone of her gasp, that caught Harm off guard. For just a second he hesitated, his hands frozen in place. Then he heard it again.

"Oh, Harm." Her voice came out weakly at the loss of his touch.

This wasn't a dream. He was making love to Sarah MacKenzie and he wasn't asleep. For an instant panic rushed through him. Then he realized she wasn't exactly fighting him off, when he felt her lips nipping and nibbling at the base of his jaw.

"Mac," he had to say something. His lips, unable to resist lightly kissing the soft flesh before them as he waited for her to respond.

"Mmm," she uttered in almost a moan.

"I'm not dreaming, am I?" His fingers once again began drawing delicate circles on her soft skin.

"Uh uh." Her fingers had brushed around his waist and began twirling circles on his stomach.

Fighting for air, recognizing he was long past the point of no return, "Is this okay?"

"Ooh yeah, it's time." She managed to get out. Her body was starting to move of its own volition at the soaring pleasures his slow caresses were inspiring.

"You're sure?" He was trying desperately to refrain from exploring her anatomy further.

Opening her eyes and turning his face to look at hers, "It's time Harm, love me."

Chapter 19

Harm's apartment

6:00

He'd been waiting all his life to hear this woman say those words. Somewhere in the back of his mind he was aware that this was time to be making a baby, but all he heard was time to love her. All he could think was to show her how much he loved her.

The initial passion of a desperate sailor's dream had been washed over by the agonizing desire to love her forever, to share their very souls.

When Mac coiled tightly around him screaming his name, Harm emptied himself into Sarah, her name on his lips, and seared in his heart. Unable, or unwilling to move, he tightened his hold on Mac as she rested her head on the crook of his shoulder.

"Are you okay?" Harm asked, truly concerned about whether or not she had held back any post surgical discomfort.

"I'm more than okay," Mac answered, a smile buried in Harm's shoulder.

Immediately, a Cheshire grin spread across Harm's face. "Do you suppose anyone would notice if we didn't show up for work today?"

"You mean other than our clients, the judge, the Admiral, the OPs' staff, and the rest of the building?"

"Okay, smartie pants, I get the message." Harm began soothingly moving his hands up and down Mac's back.

"Harm?"

"Hmn?"

"It's 06:45, what time does Mattie usually come by?" Mac spoke into his shoulder. Her entire body felt as though it was made of rubbery lead. Suddenly, she found herself practically flung to the other side of the bed.

"OH God, Mac! She'll be here any minute if she's running on time." Harm practically sprinted into the bathroom. Popping his head back out of the bathroom, his voice came out a little calmer.

"Maybe you'd better join me?" A flyboy grin slowly replacing his look of panic. "I mean, you don't want her to find you in bed like that, do you?"

"Oh no, it's much better she find the two of us in the shower." Mac nodded sarcastically, happily walking into the shower to join him.

Making every effort to actually take a shower, the two officers were clean and dressed by the time Mattie came prancing through the door. Unknown to them, Harm's walls weren't as thick as he thought and Jen being an early riser had distracted Mattie until she thought the coast was clear.

JAG Headquarters

1245

Mac's office

"Excuse me, Colonel." Harm stood in Mac's doorway, a bright grin on his face. "You had lunch yet?"

"No, I was just about to grab a bite, Commander," Mac replied, tapping a few last keys before moving away from her computer.

Stepping into the room, Harm leaned over the desk. "Don't suppose there's time to go home for lunch?" His voice was low and gravelly, and Mac was tingling from head to toe at the sound of it.

"Have to be in court in 42 minutes," she shrugged.

"Any chance you can secure early?" He looked down at her hand, fighting the urge to reach out and hold it.

Following his eyes, Mac felt his longing to hold her hand, and maybe a little more. Looking up again, their gaze locked intently on each other.

"I'll do my best," she whispered.

Three hours later

Outside the courtroom

The large wooden doors flew open as though blown by gale force winds. Lt. Colonel Sarah MacKenzie stormed out rattling at Bud, her second chair.

"Where the hell did he come from? I want everything you can get me on Dr. Costabile, and I want to know why I didn't know about this evidence sooner. Damn new lawyers, always trying to show off their first case at HQ." She was moving at such a pace she hadn't noticed the effort it was taking for Bud to keep up with her.

"Yes, ma'am. I assume you want a history of the lab as well, ma'am." Bud was glad to have finally reached her office, though inside, he was proud of himself for keeping up.

"I want to look under every rock," she huffed, slamming her briefcase down on her desk.

"I gather things didn't go well?" Harm stood behind Bud in the doorway.

"These blasted neophytes always want to make a big splash their first time up and all I wind up with is a major headache and overtime." She was banging things on her desk so loudly that every other file caused a different head in ops to look up towards her office. It wasn't just the extra work that had her upset, it was the extra work TODAY that had her so upset. When was life going to cut her even a small break?

"I guess securing early is out of the question?" Harm tried not to sound too disappointed.

Freezing in place, Mac looked up at him, her eyes filled with a sense of loss. "Don't hold your breath."

"Ma'am, if you and the Commander have plans, I can get started on this right away and let you know if I come across anything that will make a difference." Bud wasn't exactly sure what was going on, but it looked important.

"No, Bud, thanks. This is going to take hours. You get started and I'm heading over to see Corporal Lebeaux again. If he's lied to us, so help me, he won't have to worry about the brig, I'll break his scrawny little neck myself." Picking up her cover, she marched passed Harm and Bud without another word.

"Big plans tonight, Commander?" Bud knew she was upset over more than just a surprise witness in court.

"Sort of Bud, sort of." Slapping Bud on the back, Harm turned back towards his office, a slight slump in his shoulders obvious to anyone who knew the Commander well.

One hour and 34 minutes later Mac came walking up to Bud's office.

"He swears he's told us everything. You come across anything?" she asked, her frustration clearly evident.

"Maybe, there seems to be a few discrepancies with some of the dates available through public records and what we've been given, but I can't quite put my finger on why it would make any difference." Bud answered staring at his computer screen.

Sitting down in the nearest chair, Mac raised her chin to peer over his desk. "Show me what you've got so far."

"Ma'am. I know you and the Commander had something planned for tonight. Harriet's mom is visiting, she doesn't need my help, and I'd just as soon have something to keep me busy. You go ahead with your plans and if I come across anything that needs your attention, I'll call you, promise," Bud suggested, pressing his lips together.

"I can't, Bud..."

"Ma'am, I insist. I know you outrank me, but with all due respect, go."

Twitching one side of her mouth in a faint smile. "Thanks, Bud. You promise you'll call me on my cell if you find anything we can use?"

"Promise, ma'am."

"Okay, you win. I'm out of here." With a slight spring in her step, Mac headed to her office ready to go home to Harm.

Chapter 20

Harm's apartment

1815

Not knowing how late Mac would be, Harm ordered a couple of pizzas and had gone next door to join Mattie and Jen for dinner. Well, he hadn't actually eaten anything but he stayed to visit anyway.

Mac came through the front door exhausted from the emotional afternoon, yet excited about the evening's possibilities. No sooner had she set her things down than the beautifully set table caught her eye. Looking around the apartment she was fairly sure Harm wasn't home. Walking into the bedroom, the first thing she saw was a fresh rose by her bedside. This one was pink. She smiled to herself at how hard Harm was trying. Placing her bag she had brought the night before on the bed, she began putting things away in the space Harm had cleared for her. With such a small bag, it hadn't taken her much time. Grabbing a pair of slacks and comfortable shirt to change into, Mac suddenly noticed a muffled sound. Turning her head, she walked closer to the bed trying to place it.

Stepping up to the bed, her eyes widened, and her mouth opened fully as her empty hand slowly made its way up to her face. Laughing, she could hear laughing. She couldn't hear any of the conversation, the TV was barely a steady hum, but whenever one person in particular let out a piercing cackle, Mac could hear it.

Quickly changing out of her uniform, Mac scurried down the stairs and out the door. Standing in front of Mattie and Jen's door, Mac took a deep breath and knocked.

"Hey, Colonel. The Commander said you would probably be home late. Want some pizza?" Jen offered.

"No thanks, Jen. I think we have dinner at the apartment." Mac looked at Harm waiting for him to confirm or deny.

He nodded his head yes and smiled.

"It sounds like you guys are having fun," Mac commented, her eyes carefully scanning the wall behind her hosts.

"Yeah, have a seat," Mattie suggested.

"No, thanks. I've got some paperwork to go over. I just wanted to let Harm know I was home." Mac smiled sheepishly. "I'm going to head back." Waving bye to the girls, she turned towards the door.

"I'll come with you, Mac," Harm called out, standing up. "Are you going to need any help with homework tonight?" He asked Mattie, before catching up to Mac.

"Don't think so. Jen and I are just going to watch a movie, then probably hit the sack early."

"Then I'll see you tomorrow?" he asked, making sure he didn't have to worry about any interruptions.

"Yeah, don't work too hard." Mattie tried not to grin.

"Good night." Echoed in different voices through the room as Harm and Mac closed the door behind them.

"I didn't expect you home so early." Harm smiled broadly.

"Bud insisted." Mac smiled back.

"I'll have to remember to thank him," Harm nodded. "I've been thinking. I may have to put an extra lock on this door," Harm commented as he opened the door and let Mac walk in.

"Mattie?" Mac asked, stepping in.

"Yeah, she pretty much just comes and goes at will. It could get…embarrassing."

"There's something else that could get embarrassing." Mac walked over by the stairs.

"Did you know you can hear what's happening on the other side of that wall?" She frowned, pointing to the back bedroom wall.

"No you can't, Mac. That's a solid brick wall." Harm walked up next to her.

"Well, you may think it's solid. And I'll admit, it's mostly sound proof, but I could hear someone laughing while I was putting my things away." Mac raised an eyebrow and placed her hands on her hips

"Are you sure?" Harm moved over into the room.

"No, Harm. I thought I'd make it up just for the hell of it. Of course, I'm sure. Do you think anyone heard…us?" Mac's frown turned to one of blushing concern.

"Well, even if some sound does travel. That's the living room wall. They only hang out there after school or work," Harm shrugged. Seeing Mac wasn't convinced, he walked back by her side and gathered her in his arms.

"Or getting ready in the morning?" She pointed out, one eyebrow straight up.

Thinking about it a moment. Harm ran the memory of this morning through his mind. They were definitely vocal, more so sometimes than others, but they weren't that loud.

"Mac, I don't think they could have heard anything. So long as neither of us lets out a blood curdling scream, I think we'll be fine." He smiled and tightened his hold on her.

"I hope you're right, sailor." Mac breathed into his shoulder. Something about his embrace always made her feel so safe, able to forget whatever was worrying her.

Harm leaned his head down and kissed the top of her head. "Hungry, Marine?"

Taking a deep breath, boy was she hungry, but she suspected that wasn't what he meant. Her mind and heart battled over what to say next. She was hungry all right, but for more of what they'd shared this morning. Her mind argued it was important to take frequent and full advantage of her fertility window, even Harm acknowledged it, especially since he suggested sneaking home for lunch. Still, knowing how much she just wanted him, she felt weird walking in the door and dragging him straight to the bedroom. Maybe she should have something to eat and suggest going to bed a little early.

Harm could tell Mac was weighing something in her mind. She was staying too still in his arms for too long. He wasn't sure when he began stroking the back of her head.

"Mac, is something wrong?" he asked quietly, placing another kiss on the top of her head. He really wanted to do so much more, but he wasn't going to rush her. "Is it the case?"

Pulling back a bit, she looked up at Harm. The look of total concern in his eyes floored her.

"I was just thinking."

"Care to share?"

"I was debating whether we should have dinner or…do what I really feel like doing."

Harm just stared at Mac. His breath seized in his throat when he realized that her beautiful dark brown eyes were filled with a passionate longing that mirrored his own. Without giving her a chance to say another word, he leaned down and pressed his lips against hers, unable to contain the quiet moan that escaped at the first taste of her. To his delight, Mac responded immediately, wrapping her arms around his neck and silently urging him towards the bedroom. Guiding the woman in his arms up the stairs, Harm only paused to flip out the light, bathing them in the moonlit darkness.

It only took a few minutes for the two new lovers to disrobe each other. Harm scooted back higher on the bed, pulling Mac across him and capturing her lips in his. He would never get enough of Sarah Mackenzie.

Hours passed before they made their way back to the kitchen for dinner, even though dinnertime was technically long since over. Together they ate quietly, their eyes smoldering with a growing desire that demanded to be quenched yet again. Food would never be enough to satisfy their mutual hunger. Leaving the dishes on the table to be dealt with later, they once again fell into each other's arms.

Mac's earlier uneasiness at dragging Harm straight to bed seemed to vanish. Over the next morning, evening, and night, they focused intimately on each other, forgetting everyone and everything around them, with the one exception of early the next evening when she insisted on bringing a blanket and pillow into the living room in case she was right about the thin walls.

JAG Headquarters

Mac's office

Two days later

"Excuse me ma'am." Harriet knocked on the front door. "Do you have a minute?"

"Sure, Harriet. Let me just send this off and I'm all yours." Mac finished typing the last bit of information and hit the send button.

"Okay, Harriet. What've you got there?"

Harriet sat down with a bundle of files in her arms. "Oh, I'm on my way to return these to Commander Turner." Harriet waved off the files in her arms practically bouncing in her seat. "I just wanted to let you know I finally arranged for a church and date."

"Well, what is it?" Mac smiled amused.

"Even though Chaplain Turner and the church were both available on July third, I made an executive decision and opted for the weekend of the tenth. I thought the fourth of July is such a high traffic holiday it made sense to avoid anything other than watching fireworks for that particular weekend."

"I'm sure that won't be a problem, Harriet. Besides, it will give us more time to get the invitations out."

"Have you picked out what you want to send ma'am?"

"Not really, I thought I'd wait until we had all the information that way I could get it all over in one visit. So, where am I getting married?"

"The National Cathedral, at 1600 on July 10th." Harriet leaned back, smiling proudly.

Mac sat stunned. Her voice was completely gone. She was pretty sure all the air had leaked from her lungs because she seemed unable to take a breath. Swallowing hard, "Did you just say the National Cathedral?"

"Yes, ma'am." Harriet's grin grew wider. "It took a few days, and I had to call in a few favors, but compared to organizing the USO, this was a breeze."

"Harriet, don't you think there's something in the word 'cathedral' that fundamentally is at odds with the word 'simple'?" Mac seriously thought she might have a heart attack. How was she going to explain to Harm, who was practically marrying her as a last resort, that they were getting married at the National Cathedral?

"Colonel, Mac. Just because you want a simple wedding doesn't mean it can't be beautiful or somewhere beautiful," Harriet announced firmly.

Sitting back in her chair, "I don't know, Harriet, I think this may be a bit much."

"Trust me, ma'am. It will be wonderful."