Chapter 31
Harm's office
One month later
Everything was humming along. They'd just about finished with the last details of the decorating. Harm had won almost every major battle. He never thought he'd see the day when it would matter to him if someone installed marble or hardwood floors, but it seemed important this time, he and the hardwood won in the end.
Harm had personally interviewed all the potential legal candidates, and chose one bright young attorney to assist him, as well as one legal secretary for them to share. He surprised everyone at Ed's firm by choosing an older former schoolteacher for the receptionist. Harm just shook his head at Ed and reminded him, there's no substitute for experience. I don't want green troops on the front lines. He figured any woman who could teach in the public school system for over thirty years was prepared for what ever baggage a family law practice would attract.
Harm was taking a last minute walk around checking everything was in place for opening day on Monday when he heard footsteps behind him.
"Well, I'll be! What are you doing here?" Harm said excitedly, extending his hand.
"Well, sir. It was my time to come home," Gunny smiled.
"First of all, I'm not in the service anymore Gunny, it's Harm, not sir," Harm started.
"Yes, sir. You're wife told me. That's how I found you, and for the record sir, I'm not in the service anymore either." Gunny gave a rueful smile.
"Injury?" Harm asked glancing casually to see if perhaps some injury such as Bud's might have derailed his career.
"No, sir. It was just time." He tried to hold the smile.
"Decided not to up again, huh?" Harm started walking back towards his office and waved at Gunny to follow.
"Voluntary separation, sir."
"You wanted out early, why?" Harm was a little confused. Gunny had wanted very badly to fight in this war and he never hesitated to get in the thick of things wherever he was needed most.
"Well, sir. Let's just say, this is a younger man's game now."
Harm could tell something was seriously troubling Gunny but he wasn't sure it was his place to press him.
"Have you got plans for dinner, Gunny?" Harm decided a broad smile and change of subject was in order.
"No, sir. Can't say as I have," Gunny replied, his familiar grin spreading across his face.
"Then you're invited to dinner. Let's go home and surprise my Marine." Harm walked into his office and grabbed his briefcase.
"Wow, sir. Nice place," Gunny nodded, looking around. "But are you sure you shouldn't call the Colonel, it's not usually smart to surprise a Marine." His grin spread a little further across his face.
"You may be right, Gunny. You just may be right," Harm chuckled, pulling out his cell phone to give Mac a heads up.Rabb apartment
1910
"You have no idea how happy I was when Harriet tracked me down and said you two were getting married," Gunny grinned. "I really wished I could have been here for that."
"You were missed Gunny, you were most definitely missed," Harm said getting up from the table. " Up for some dessert? We've got strawberry ice cream and Cherry Garcia."
"I'll take the Cherry Garcia, sir."
"Would you like some coffee to go with that?" Mac asked.
"No, thank you. Just the ice cream will be fine. This has to have been the best meal I've had in a very long time, ma'am."
"Gunny, you're going to have to drop the sir and ma'am routine." Harm came up next to him and set the bowl of ice cream on the table in front of him.
"I'll work on it si…. Harm."
"So what are you going to do now?" Harm asked
"Thinking of going home to New Mexico?" Mac added.
"Haven't made up my mind yet." A serious expression instantly clouded his previously pleasant disposition.
"What happened, Gunny?" Mac asked.
Gunny glanced at Mac and considered shrugging it off. Seeing the look of concern in her eyes and remembering what she'd gone through in Paraguay, Gunny knew instantly, if anyone would understand, this Marine would.
"Well, ma'am, we'd been looking for this one terrorist who was supposedly responsible for organizing some of the ambushes that had taken out several good men. My team had been tracking him for weeks when we got some intel saying where he was hiding. It was supposed to be current, so we made our way to the village. All our recon showed the intel was right. Not only was the bastard we were after held up in the house, so were his two top henchmen. It was a sweet deal." Gunny paused, fidgeting with the spoon in his hand; Harm and Mac were unable to read his emotions.
"I don't know what went wrong ma'am. The family who owned the house were good people, they were pro USA and the new Iraq. None of our surveillance showed they were anywhere near the house. We just assumed the terrorists had taken over and the family had fled." Gunny paused again, shaking his head slightly, staring off into the distance.
"When the bullets started flying, we could hear the children's cries. We took cover as best we could, but no one wanted to shoot the kids. We couldn't tell where the cries were coming from. I couldn't see. My team was counting on me for instructions and I had none. Two of my best men went down. It was bedlam. When all was said and done, I lost two good men, two children, and three of my men had to be medivaced out of there. If that wasn't bad enough, we got the henchmen, but that bastard is still out there."
There was a long silence, Harm and Mac weren't sure if Gunny wanted to say anything else. Neither one of them was sure if maybe they should say something when Gunny spoke up again.
"Ma'am, we all know the risks when we put on the uniform. When I go into an op like that, I'm fully prepared to not come out, but ma'am, innocent children aren't part of the plan. I saw the look on the five-year old's face when the stray bullet hit. I'll never forget it ma'am. Never." Gunny's fist was clenched tightly, banging slowly on the table with every mention of children. His eyes still staring at some unknown point beyond where Harm and Mac were sitting, forcing the pain to remain locked away.
"Gunny, none of that was your fault," Mac encouraged, placing her hand gently on his forearm.
"I know ma'am. But I'm no good to my men if I can't think on my feet, and I can't think on my feet if I'm haunted by children." He wasn't making any excuses, he was just stating the facts. "I know we'll never see the day again when citizens chant 'baby killer' to the troops coming home, but it won't change the way I feel. It's time to move on."
Suddenly focusing on his two friends again, Gunny forced a small smile. "So HARM, tell me what you've gotten yourself into?"
Harm told Gunny the whole story, from the first phone call to the argument between leather or chintz for the sofas. At least he didn't have to spend his workday looking at pink flowers.
"If you're interested Gunny, we could use a good investigator / office manager. There won't be much of either to do at first, but you'll be paid well for it." Harm shrugged with a slight chuckle.
"I don't know about that. You've already handled your first case before the carpet was down in your office." Mac pointed out.
That was another battle, someone had the bright idea he needed to have off white carpet in his office. If he worked in Japan where everyone took off their shoes, maybe, but in DC where you have winter, sleet, snow and pollution, a darker color to hide the dirt was in order.
"You've already had a client?" Gunny reiterated.
"Yeah, he sort of wandered in and I didn't have the heart to turn him away."
"What happened?"
"He got to keep the kids, the biological father doesn't have to pay child support, and everyone is happy," Harm oversimplified. Once Harm had spoken to the good doctor's attorney, he was pretty sure from the history that agreeing to rescind the order for child support would be the ticket to a speedy resolution. It was. Mr. Reidy was perfectly capable of supporting the two children without their mother or father's help. It was affording an attorney with enough clout to battle the doctor's hot shot lawyer that was the problem.
"So what do you say Gunny, want a job?" Harm smiled his mega watt smile.
Chapter 32
Two weeks later
Everything was falling into place, well, except for one thing. Since that horrendous outburst Harm and Mac seemed to have added a new dimension to their relationship, unwavering trust. They'd always trusted each other with their lives. That was never in doubt. Their hearts were always the problem, one they tried to forcibly overcome by getting married, but trust can't be forced even contractually.
Since that night's outburst, they finally felt secure in each other's love. All they needed now was to resolve the baby deal. Having waited almost six months, Harm and Mac agreed, for sanity's sake, Mac would go back to the doctor to start on medication.
Despite some mild protesting from Mac, Harm insisted if fertility treatment didn't help shortly then they should just adopt and put the entire controversy behind them. He knew how much he could love a child that wasn't his biologically, and Mac finally knew he loved her more than life itself, so she agreed and made the appointment.
Bethesda Naval HospitalGynecology offices
Mac sat quietly waiting in the exam room for the doctor. The nurse had already come in and taken her temperature and blood pressure, and now Mac was just flipping through a magazine, waiting for her turn.
"Good morning, Colonel," the doctor said, smiling brightly.
"Morning," Mac responded politely.
"I understand you feel it's time to give nature a little help?"
"We think so, yes," Mac replied softly.
"Well, considering all the factors, including your age, I won't disagree. I would have preferred to give it a little while longer but I will concede that six months was a good effort." The doctor flipped through some papers before listening to Mac's heartbeat.
"You're feeling fine otherwise?"
"Mmn hmm."
"No abdominal pains, unusual cramping?"
"No. It's nice not to have the back pain anymore."
Just then the nurse came into the office and handed the doctor a piece of paper before stepping back, allowing the doctor to continue her exam.
"Well, Colonel, it seems we have a slight change of plan."
The hair on the back of Mac's neck stood up. Things were going really well, this was no time for an added complication.
"Nothing serious, I hope?" she asked timidly.
"Not unless you consider being pregnant serious," she smiled. "Your urine test just came back positive." She paused to give Mac a few minutes to absorb the news.
"But, this week is the middle of my cycle. How can I already be pregnant?"
"Well, there's no law that says ovaries can only release an egg on a prescribed schedule. There's always the possibility you ovulate more than once a month. Whatever the reason, you're going to have a baby."
Slowly, a face splitting grin inched its way across Mac's surprised face. Her eyes twinkling brightly as she considered the look on Harm's face when she told him.
On her way back to the office, Mac stopped by the specialty chocolate shop at the mall. She wasn't sure she'd be able to contain the good news until she saw Harm that night.
Legal Choice OfficesFalls Church
1215 hours
"Hello, Mrs. Rabb. Does he know you're coming?" Mrs. Kearney smiled as Mac came through the large double doors, her instincts telling her something was up. Harm always informed her when he had plans to be out of the office with his wife. This had surprise written all over it.
"No, just thought I'd stop by and see if I could catch him. Is he very busy?" Mac was having a horrible time containing her excitement. She'd barely made it out of the mall before she knew she couldn't possibly wait until tonight to tell Harm.
"You know he always has time for you, Mrs. Rabb." Mrs. Kearney loved working for Harm. It was so nice to see a hard working man so devoted to his job and somehow even more devoted to his wife.
"Excuse me, Mr. Rabb," Mrs. Kearney said into the phone. "Your wife is here."
"Send her right in." His enthusiasm could be heard clear through the phone line, bringing a smile to both Mac and Mrs. Kearney's face.
Mac had barely made it through the office door when Harm had come up and swept her into his arms.
"How did you know I needed you?" Harm asked, holding her tightly.
"Rough day?" Mac asked, still wrapped in his embrace.
"A beaut." he said, regretfully letting go of her.
"Want to tell me about it?" Mac took a seat on the small sofa, patting it so Harm would sit next to her.
"It's Lara Jones."
"The woman whose husband was abusing their daughter?"
"Yeah. She took off yesterday with Allison and hasn't been heard from. We're pretty sure she's gone underground. " Rubbing his forehead in frustration, "First I have to find her, then I have to try and undo the damage." Sighing, "I guess I can't blame her for being scared they'd give that animal custody. I'll never understand how a man could hurt any child, never mind his own flesh and blood."
"Is Gunny on it?" Mac knew he would be.
"Yeah."
"Well, then maybe this is a good time to take a break. You up to going for lunch?" Mac suggested.
"I can't." He reached for her hand. "I lost too much time this morning on Lara, I've got to get working on Mrs. Jenson's problems." He shook his head. Mac had been right, the doors were barely open when cases started piling in. There was no shortage of people needing low cost legal help. They'd already hired an additional attorney, secretary, and two paralegals.
"Well, then. I guess I'll have to give you this now." Mac reached into her bag and pulled out a nicely wrapped rectangular box with a plain blue ribbon.
"What's this for?" Harm asked, accepting the proffered gift.
"Open it and see." She bit her lip trying to hold back her excitement.
Harm began slowly unwrapping the box. Discarding the paper, his brow wrinkled curiously at the sight of a cigar box.
"I thought you hated it when I smoked cigars." Harm commented, lifting the lid on the box. Taking out one of the cigars, he grinned when he saw they were made of chocolate, but he was still obviously confused.
"Read the card." Mac urged.
Harm took the card from the box, pulling it out of the pale yellow envelope. 'Every kid thinks their dad is the best.' He glanced at Mac before reading the inside. 'I KNOW mine is! Thanks for being you.'
Harm looked up at Mac. "I guess the doctor's prognosis was good?" Harm was still not catching on.
"Keep reading." Mac was really getting impatient.
Looking to the opposite side of the card, Harm noticed Mac's neatly handwritten note. 'To be handed out sometime around August 10th to announce the arrival of the first addition to the Rabb Family.'
Harm was speechless. His eyes frozen on the words, reading them again and again.
"Well, aren't you going to say something?" Mac asked, the grin on her face as wide as the Potomac.
"You're pregnant?" His voice trembled.
Mac almost violently nodded her head yes.
"Really?" A hint of excitement was creeping into his voice, and a gleam was beginning to form in his eyes.
Again, Mac nodded.
"You're sure?" The corners of his mouth began to twist upward.
"Doctor says no doubt." Her already large grin grew just a little brighter.
Harm swiftly pulled her into a bone-crushing hug. Then suddenly, pulled back.
"Oh, are you okay? I didn't hurt you?" Cautiously he placed his hand on her stomach.
"No, we're not breakable," Mac laughed loudly. We, what a nice thought that was.
"Mrs. Jensen will have to wait," Harm beamed. "I'm taking my family out to lunch." Walking over to his desk chair, Harm grabbed his jacket before reaching for Mac's hand and practically dragging her out to the reception desk.
"Mrs. Kearney, I'm happy to announce you are the first person to know Mrs. Rabb and I are expecting." He tightened his grip on his wife's waist, pulling her a little closer to his side.
"Congratulations! That's wonderful news." She was honestly delighted for them. They were such a nice couple. She had wondered privately why they didn't have children.
"If we hurry, we can probably catch Bud and Harriet at lunch and tell them," Mac suggested.
Disregarding the few people scattered about the waiting area Harm kissed his wife soundly.
"Anywhere you want to go Princess. Anywhere you want to go," Harm repeated before wrapping his arm around his wife and heading out the door.
Chapter 33
Rabb apartment
0630 hours
The next few weeks went smoothly for all concerned. Everyone at the office was so excited for them. Harriet had of course led the mission to inform all of JAG about her condition. Even the Admiral sported an unusually broad grin when Mac told her the news.
Harm was having a difficult time not bringing his work home with him, but he knew for Mac's sake, he had to do it. His instincts had been right, he was loving his job, he just had to pace himself. Some of the cases were pretty straight forward, any decent lawyer could handle it. Then there were those cases, as in Lara Jones, that could easily consume him if he allowed it to. Much like Annie and Darlyn Lewis had many years ago.
Harm was stepping into the bedroom when he heard Mac in the bathroom. Overcome by an enormous sense of frustration at being unable to relieve the discomforts of morning sickness, Harm did the same thing he'd done for her every morning since the nausea had started.
Already armed with a plate of peanut butter and crackers, and small glass of ginger ale, Harm set them down on the nightstand before going to Mac in the bathroom. Standing behind her, he squatted down to rub her back in delicate swirling motions.
"Any better yet?" he asked quietly.
"Yeah," she sighed. "I'm just thankful this doesn't happen often during the day.
"I'm sorry." He kissed her temple gently. "Think it's safe to go sit yet?" Harm began wiping her forehead with the cool wash cloth he'd grabbed on his way into the bathroom.
The cool towel was so refreshing after everything. Harm's warm touch was such a comforting contrast to the cold tile floor. The baby was reason enough to go through this little inconvenience, but Harm's tender care was icing on the cake.
Helping her up from the floor, Harm walked her back to bed, handing her the crackers and drink.
"I don't think these are doing any good," Mac mumbled through a mouthful of crackers.
"Maybe not, but so far it seems to be the only thing you can eat for breakfast that doesn't come back up. Harriet swears by the protein in the peanut butter." Harm continued wiping her forehead with the small towel. His eyes cloudy with concern. "I love you."
"I love you too," Mac added with a small smile.
Finishing a few more crackers and her glass of ginger ale, Mac considered carefully what she'd been wanting to talk to Harm about.
"I know how much you love this apartment, but, I think we need to seriously discuss moving someplace a little bigger. This place can barely hold the two of us and it's going to be time soon to start stockpiling things for the baby. Unless you plan on letting it sleep in a drawer, we need a bigger place."
"Tell me something I don't know," Harm sighed, patting his wife's hand. "You're right. I do love this place, but I can love another place just as easily. I actually have been thinking about it."
"Really?" Mac was delighted that she wasn't going to have to convince him.
"I'd have to be pretty dense not to notice there's no room for a baby." Harm hoped Mac didn't think he was that thick.
"So what conclusions have you come to?"
"Other than the obvious, we need to move? I considered buying Mattie and Jen's place and combining the two into one large place."
"That could work," Mac interjected.
"It could, but then when the kids are older I'd want them to have a yard to play in. If I'm going to have to put a lot of time and work into remodeling, I don't want to have to move again." Harm picked up the empty plate from Mac's bedside before continuing.
"Moving into a house from the start makes the most sense to me," Harm said, standing up to take the dishes to the kitchen. "Would you like some more?"
"No, thank you, and I agree a house would be nice too," Mac smiled, shifting to get up.
"You sure you're alright? You're still looking a little green around the gills," Harm smiled.
"Yeah, I think it's passed. Let's get a real breakfast going before Mattie gets here." Mac followed Harm into the kitchen carrying her glass of ginger ale.
"So. When and where do we start looking?" Mac took a seat at the table.
"That's what I've been working on. I haven't had much time, but I've done a little research on school districts and things. Believe it or not, where Bud and Harriet live is an ideal neighborhood if you don't ever want to move again." The banging about of pots and pans practically drowned out what he said.
"It is a nice neighborhood," Mac nodded, her eyes bright with interest.
"A year ago I wouldn't even have considered it, but now it wouldn't be a push at all." Harm stopped stirring the food to look at Mac.
"You're not expecting me to argue are you?" Mac chuckled. "Cause, I won't. I think Bud and Harriet's neighborhood is great."
"Then it's settled. I'll have Mrs. Kearney help me find a good realtor who specializes in that neighborhood." Covering the eggs to wait for Mattie, Harm went to join his wife at the table.
"I'll let Harriet know to keep an eye out for us too." Mac took the last sip of her drink when she heard Mattie knock on the door. The only time Mattie didn't call was on school day mornings, but she would always knock and wait for someone to open the door for her.
JAG HeadquartersBreak Room
Later that day
"I think a house is a great idea. You remember how crowded Bud and I were in our apartment when little AJ was born. People with children were meant to live in houses." Harriet poured a cup of chamomile tea for herself and Mac. "Do you know what you're looking for?"
"We didn't discuss it, but I think something with at least three bedrooms would be good. Maybe four so we can have a guestroom for when Harm's mom comes to visit. We'd probably need an office for us to work out of too. What I want most though is a big yard."
"Where are you looking?" Harriet opened the refrigerator and took out a chocolate covered donut.
"I thought you gave up sweets this pregnancy?" Mac asked, amazed at how quickly Harriet was shoveling down the donut.
"I did, but the babies have other ideas," she replied sheepishly, wiping some chocolate off the side of her mouth. "So where are you looking?"
"Well, that's the other thing I needed to tell you. Harm thinks your neighborhood would be perfect." Mac was unprepared for the emotional outburst as Harriet flew towards her pulling her into a hard hug despite the obvious obstacle created by the twins.
"Oh ma'am, this is so exciting." Harriet stepped back against the counter again. "Large yards are pretty standard in our neighborhood, and I don't think any of the houses have less than four bedrooms. The Commander, I mean, Harm, is right. We've been very happy there, and the elementary school is wonderful. We had considered putting AJ in private, especially after all his attitude issues last year, but the local school has been great for him. You're going to love it too, I just know it."
"I think so, from what little I've seen visiting you, I've always thought it was an ideal family neighborhood." Mac decided to peek and see what other donuts were hiding in the fridge.
"And the nice thing ma'am, is the houses are close enough together that you can get friendly with your neighbors, but not so close that you can pass a cup of sugar through the windows. There are also a lot of teenagers too, you can never have too many babysitters available." Harriet shifted her weight to the other foot.
"I'll tell all my neighbors. Sometimes they know who's putting a house on the market long before I found out." Harriet poured herself another cup of tea. " I mean, once I'm home full-time, I'll be able to keep better in touch with what's going on in the neighborhood."
"By the way, shouldn't you be home resting by now?" Watching Harriet shift her weight back and forth, Mac couldn't help wondering. Harriet was due any day now and she looked ready to pop. Mac had always assumed twins were guaranteed to come early and that it would be necessary to be extra careful. Apparently, Harriet was working right up to the end as she had with AJ, and the twins had no intentions of making an early arrival.
"No, ma'am. I'm going to take advantage of every possible day here I can." Harriet affirmed with a determined nod. Taking her cup and walking towards the door, "But I do plan on doing as much of it as possible sitting down. Excuse me," Harriet smiled and headed for her desk.
Chapter 34
Washington Mall
Dec 24th 2200
Winter had been kind to Washington DC this year. Although the children may not have appreciated a snowless Christmas, the commuters were delighted with the unusually warm temperatures and frequently sunny days.
Despite the late hour, it was a balmy 48 degrees. The bitter wind that usually blew past the Black Granite wall was next to nonexistent. Harm stood still staring at the letters etched in the dark stone. He had made this visit every year since he was transferred to DC. Every year his heart ached for the lost years with a man he barely remembered. He had always longed for a father son relationship, now he was finally destined to have one. Although, from a different perspective. He was now to be the father to a son or daughter.
He wasn't sure how long he'd been running his fingers over the name Harmon Rabb when he heard his own voice. "Dad, I have some news this time. Big news. You've already met my Sarah. Must be something about great women named Sarah and the Rabb men." He smiled to himself. Harm and Mac had stopped by the wall to properly introduce Mac to his dad on their way to the wedding reception. In a small way it helped make up for his dad not being there to share the day in person.
"I've got someone else in my life now too. We don't know yet if you're going to have a granddaughter or grandson, but either way, it's about time I made you a grandfather." Stepping back slightly, he reached behind him for Mac's hand. She'd been patiently waiting for Harm to have his time with his dad. In all the years they'd known each other, this was the first time Harm had wanted her to come to the wall with him on Christmas Eve. It had always held such a special meaning for Harm and family. It was here that Clay had brought Harm's brother back from Chechnya, and here that Mac had brought Mattie after the disappointing court appearance. It only seemed fitting that from now on they would come to see Harm Sr. as a family.
Rabb apartmentNear Union Station
2310
Mac loved doing up Christmas. Even though she lived alone, she had always decorated her apartment to the hilt. This year was no exception. After visiting the wall, she and Harm returned home to brightly colored lights, red ribbons, Christmas carols, and like Harriet's - lots of mistletoe.
Mac barely had enough time to get her coat off when Harm came up behind her, closing his arms around her, he began gently kissing her neck.
"This is the best Christmas I've ever had. I love you," he whispered between kisses.
Enjoying his attentions, but a little tired, "Could we maybe move this somewhere I can sit down?" Mac urged.
"You tired?" He pulled back, suddenly remembering how easily Mac tired now that she was pregnant, and how long he'd kept her standing at the wall. He could kick himself for being so thoughtless.
"A little," she hummed, moving him towards the sofa.
"You sit down and rest, and I'll go make us some hot chocolate, it'll help you warm up." He stepped back towards the kitchen when Mac's arm shot out grabbing his hand.
"You were warming me up just fine, sailor." Mac tugged on his arm so he'd follow her to the couch.
Harm swung her around into his arms, practically lifting her off the floor, as his lips fell tightly against hers. The tenderness and passion not only took her breath away, she completely forgot all about wanting to sit. Pulling back with a smile on his face, Harm nudged Mac to go take a seat.
"You need your rest, mama. I'll fix us that hot chocolate and then we need to tuck you in bed or Santa won't come."
Harm smiled, watching Mac relent and make her way over to the sofa. He was constantly amazed at how much better everything was with Mac. Now that they were on an even keel, and all the confusions and misunderstandings were gone, life was as close to perfect as humanly possible.
"Here you go." Harm handed Mac a warm cup of cocoa loaded with whipped cream and miniature marshmallows.
"Oooh, I rank both whipped cream and marshmallows. Not bad." Mac blew into the steaming mug.
Snuggling up close to her, Harm placed a light kiss on her cheek.
"You rank a lot higher than that in my book." He kissed her once more before turning his attentions to his own drink.
Just then Eartha Kitt's unique voice filtered through the room in her own rendition of Santa Baby. Humming at first, Mac shifted slightly, her pointer finger drawing swirls freely over Harm, she began singing along.
"Santa Baby, just slip a sailor under the tree for me. Been an awfully good girl, Santa Baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight."
Harm burst out laughing when she altered the words from sable to sailor. He loved her so much. This was all so perfect. Before she could sing the next verse, he gathered her into his arms, his lips stilling hers with a tender caress. Engulfed in the warmth of their love, the music faded, and the hot cocoa was forgotten.
They'd gone straight to bed from the sofa, never turning off the lights or the stereo. Harm was the first one to wake up to the sounds of Ella Fitzgerald singing Santa Clause Got Stuck in My Chimney. He couldn't help but smile at the recollection of Mac singing Santa Baby. Although Mac was normally the early riser, now that she was pregnant, it was unusual for her to wake up before him.
Slipping out from under the covers, he quietly took a small box wrapped in bright red paper from his dresser drawer and placed it under the brightly lit tree. By the time he'd cleaned up the mugs from last night and made his way back to the bedroom, Mac was stirring.
"Morning sleepy head." Harm set a tray of crackers and ginger ale by the bedside. "Thought maybe it might help to eat before you get out of bed."
Pulling herself up to a seated position, Mac reached over for the glass. "Thanks."
"Do you want to try and have a real breakfast, or do you want to see what Santa brought first?" Harm tried to hold back his excitement. He couldn't wait to see what Mac thought of Santa's gift.
"I think the crackers will be fine. No sense breaking with tradition," she smiled, rolling her eyes. "Besides, I want to see if Santa left me a platinum mine or a '54 convertible."
Shaking his head, Harm helped Mac out of bed. The two of them giggled their way down to the tree like a couple of kids.
"Too bad Mattie couldn't be here this morning," Mac lamented, squeezing Harm's hand offering silent support.
"I know, but it was the right thing for her to be with her dad today." Harm knew he was right, but it didn't make it any easier. "You go first." Harm handed her a pile of boxes.
"It looks like Santa got a little gift happy this year," Mac nodded, handing Harm his own stack of gifts.
"Well, next year all the attention will probably be on the baby, this year is for us," Harm shrugged.
They eagerly opened a variety of gifts, some new perfume, the latest best seller. Mac tried not to blush when Harm opened the box with a sheer red negligee in it. At the time she thought it was a cute idea, she hoped she hadn't been wrong. If the shit eating grin on his face was any indication, she'd done good.
Finally, Mac reached behind the tree and pulled out a large rectangular box wrapped in Gold paper with a large Green bow.
"It looks like Santa left one more." Biting her lower lip, she laid the package in front of Harm.
Carefully, Harm peeled back the miscellaneous pieces of tape, and slid the box out from it's covering. Setting the box down on his lap, Harm eased the lid up and pulled back the tissue paper.
"Oh, Mac. Wow." Picking up the framed parchment, Harm scanned the names neatly scripted throughout the paper. "How did you do this?" Harm turned to look at his wife.
"Grams helped a lot. I stumbled across this company that specialized in family trees. When I told Gram about it, she told me your granddad had started one and so she had a good deal of the information. They told me if we take it back once the baby is born, they'll add his or her name." Mac smiled brightly. She had hoped Harm would like the gift but she hadn't expected him to react so strongly.
Rubbing his fingers across his dad's and granddad's name, Harm swallowed back the lump in his throat. This was one of the nicest gifts he'd ever received. Taking a deep breath, he set the frame down and reached under the tree.
"Here, you've got one more too," Harm smiled, holding out the small red box.
Admiring the lovely box, Mac slipped the ribbon off the gift. Ripping the paper, Mac gasped softly at the sight of a black velvet jewelry case. Flipping the top open, she stared in awe at the beautiful cameo.
"It's been in the family for generations. My great grandfather David was the first Rabb to give it to his wife when she was pregnant with my grandfather Peter. From there the tradition has continued on to Grams with Dad, and Mom with me." Harm watched Mac delicately fingering the small broach.
"It can also be worn as a pendant," Harm added, waiting impatiently for Mac to look up.
Mac finally set the box down and flung herself at Harm. Tears slowly streaming down her cheeks.
"Harmon Rabb Jr. that is the nicest gift I've ever gotten. Thank you!" she whispered in his ear, hugging him with everything she had.
Gently patting her back. "You're very welcome."
Turning his face to kiss her cheek, he whispered in her ear, "I love you."
Chapter 35Rabb apartment
Same time
Still wrapped in the warm embrace, Harm and Mac were forced to separate when the phone rang.
"Rabb." Harm tried not to sound too annoyed at the interruption.
"Hi, Harriet, Merry Christmas. Yes, just a minute." Harm put his hand over the mouthpiece waiting for Mac to come to the phone. "It's Harriet. You'd think with newborn twins, she'd be too busy to be making phone calls on Christmas day," Harm whispered at Mac.
"Be nice," she hushed back at him, smacking his cute six as she reached for the phone.
"Morning, Harriet. Really? Wow. Yeah. Of course." Mac's eyes moved back and forth with each response.
Harm was beginning to feel guilty for picking on Harriet, unsure if maybe something was wrong.
"Just give us about an hour and we'll be on our way." Mac hung up, gazing at the phone a moment longer before turning to Harm.
"You won't believe this." Mac shook her head.
"Nothing's wrong with the babies?" Harm asked, a sense of panic starting to take hold.
"No, nothing like that. Harriet makes banana bread every year for her neighbors at Christmas. She isn't very friendly with her backyard neighbor, but they take the old woman bread every year anyway. This year Bud and the boys made the rounds without Harriet. It turns out the old woman is moving in with her son and is going to put the house on the market. She told Harriet if we were interested, to come on over and look."
"I thought you said Bud went without Harriet?"
"They did, but when Bud told her about the house she went over right away to talk to her," Mac explained further.
"So we're going house hunting on Christmas day?" Harm sighed.
"We were going to do Christmas dinner over there anyway so Harriet wouldn't have to cook. We're just going over a couple of hours early that's all. Do you not like the idea of being neighbors with Bud and Harriet?" Mac asked, suddenly concerned.
"No, not at all. It's just not what I had planned for us to do this morning." Harm pulled Mac into his arms for a soft kiss. "I'll adapt," he grinned, kissing her once more.
Roberts Home1000 hours
"Wow, you guys made it over faster than I expected," Harriet proclaimed, opening the front door to let her friends in.
"Anticipation is a great motivator," Mac replied, following the sounds of a fussy baby. "Where are you hiding the girls?"
"Bud's got them in the nursery." Harriet led the way to the kitchen. "I thought I'd try and get a head start on a few things."
"Harriet, we agreed. Harm and I do the cooking, you do the relaxing," Mac scolded.
"I know, but the kids were all pretty settled and I couldn't resist." She tilted her head sheepishly.
Harm followed the two ladies into the kitchen just in time to catch AJ as he barreled around the corner.
"Did you bring me a present?" AJ asked eagerly.
"Present?" Harm teased. Instantly pained by the crushed look on AJ's face, Harm did a speedy about face. "You only want one?" Harm was immediately rewarded with a bright grin and tight hug.
"First you have to help your dad and me bring some things in from the car."
"Okay. But then do I get to open my presents?" AJ asked, practically bouncing off the walls.
Smiling, Harm nodded at the young boy as he hurried him out the front door.
"Tell us about this neighbor," Mac spoke, maneuvering her way around Harriet's kitchen while Harm and Bud brought the dinner fixings in from the car.
"Well, she's lived there for about thirty years. When her husband died several years ago she began slowly remodeling the house. She replaced all the old windows with Pella windows about three years ago. She added central air conditioning, and a new roof. She redid the kitchen with hardwood floors and granite countertops. She painted it inside and out, and updated the wallpapers about two years ago."
"If the house is in such great shape, why is she selling?" Harm interrupted.
"She's diabetic. About two years ago her son was transferred to Colorado. The last year or so, she's been having trouble with blackouts and her memory. When the police brought her home a few months ago after passing out at the supermarket, one of the neighbors called her son and told him how bad she's been. She looks perfectly healthy if you don't know, but she just shouldn't be living alone anymore. I guess he finally convinced her to move in with him," Harriet shrugged.
"I thought you didn't get along with her. How did you get all this information?" Mac was curious.
"Oh, she's very nice. She and I get along fine, she just doesn't like kids, and usually we come as a package deal. I do my best to keep them away from her and her yard, which means I stay away too."
Carrying a fussy infant on his shoulder, Bud walked up to his wife. "I think the feeding frenzy is about to begin."
"Is Kay still sleeping?" she asked.
"Mm hm"
Rebecca and Mackenzie Roberts, or Becky and Kay, had finally made their appearance bright and early on December 10th, one week later than expected. Harriet easily fell into the rhythm of caring for twins. She actually made it look easy.
"Good, I'll get them both fed and happy then you can watch them while I take Harm and Mac over to Camille's," Harriet announced walking out to the living room with Becky rooting at her mother's breast.
Camille's House1045 hours
Although it was an easy stroll between yards, it was actually a rather large block to walk around, so the three friends chose to drive over to the house for the sake of expediency.
The large circular drive and neatly trimmed landscaping, immediately impressed Harm and Mac.
"Harriet, this place looks huge. How big is it?" Harm asked, his head turning from side to side as he scanned the property.
"I think she said something around 4,000 square feet." Harriet rang the doorbell oblivious to the shocked expression on Harm's face.
Camille was indeed a gracious woman who appeared the picture of good health. She gave them a detailed tour of the home, pointing out all the recent updates. In addition to the list Harriet had given them, Camille had also remodeled the master bath, installed a laundry shoot, and replaced the old tiled entry with patterned hardwood. Her choice of colors had been tasteful. Harm and Mac were pleased with every turn.
"Now, my mother in law passed away over twenty years ago so we only use this space for storage now," Camille mentioned as they followed her through the garage. Opening what they thought was a closet door Harm and Mac were surprised to follow Camille up a flight of stairs.
"Because of zoning there's no stove, but I still use the fridge for extra storage." Camille pointed as she walked across the large room towards what was once a kitchen.
"The bathroom is on the left and the bedroom to the right." Camille waved her arm in the direction of a narrow hallway. "A lot of these older homes came with quarters over the garage. Just a bedroom and bath. We decided to build out and make it into an apartment for my mother in law. It's funny how things work out. I guess that's why my son doesn't think it's strange to have his mother move in with him after all these years." She chuckled to herself.
Harm and Mac turned to look at each other, both thinking the same thing. With a little touch up, this space would be perfect for Jen.
"Do you think you might be interested?" Camille had taken a liking to the couple, they reminded her of her husband and herself a long time ago.
Harriet and Camille watched with amusement as Harm and Mac held a silent conversation.
"Do they do this a lot?" Camille asked Harriet out of the side of her mouth.
Blowing a spurt of air, as if trying to remove a nonexistent strand of hair from her face, Harriet mumbled back. "You ain't seen nothing yet."
Tightening their hold on each other's hands, Harm and Mac nodded in agreement.
"We'd like very much to make an offer," Harm smiled, releasing his grip on his wife's hand and easing his arm around her waist.
Mac and Harriet made their way back to the Roberts' house while Harm and Camille talked price. Since she hadn't hired a realtor yet they were already saving six percent of whatever Camille was asking. There hadn't been much need for negotiating. After thirty years, Camille could afford to sell the house for next to nothing and still make a tidy profit. She liked Harm and Mac. It made her feel good to know her home would be well taken care of. By the time the deal was done, Harm pretty much knew if he wanted to, he could have turned around and sold the house for a 100,000 dollar profit easily. Of course, neither of them wanted that.
Taking a shortcut through the backyard, Harm found Mac waiting for him by the back door.
"Well?"
"We'll probably want to cut back some of those shrubs, make going back and forth easier," he smiled.
"Really?" She tried to hide her excitement.
"Really."
Mac practically fell into his arms. Their lips drawn together in a sweet kiss, oblivious to their audience.
Watching her friends through the window, Harriet turned to her husband. "Don't hold me to this, but I think we have new neighbors."
Chapter 36Rabb House
Moving Day
The month between making the deal and closing day had flown by. Harm and Mac had traveled to La Jolla to spend the New Year with Trish and Frank. Trish had thrown a lavish New Year's Eve party at their beachfront home to introduce Mac to all her friends. Actually, she just wanted to show off her handsome son and her new daughter in law but everyone played along with her. Trish insisted as soon as they were moved into the new house, she would come visit and take Mac on a house warming shopping spree. It took a bit of convincing, but Mac finally agreed.
"All the rooms have labels on the doors," Mac announced loudly so all their friends could hear. "Every box should be marked with which room it belongs to."
Moving day had turned into quite a production. Everyone had turned up to help; Sturgis and Varese, Bud, Jennifer, Mattie of course, Gunny and his sister Maria who had come to spend Christmas with him, Mr. and Mrs. Kearney, Paul and Pete - two lawyers from Harm's office, even Mattie's father Tom was there. He'd come a long way since last year. Even though the courts would have probably given him custody of Mattie six months ago, like Harm, he wanted what was best for her and felt staying with Harm and Mac was better than staying with him.
Everyone was marching in and out of the house like an army of ants. Mac was under strict orders from Harm to not touch a thing. "If I catch you so much as lifting a paper clip, you'll answer to me." Harm had warned her. She was barely around three months pregnant and Harm was already in overprotective mode.
Standing in the master bedroom, Mac leaned over to push a small box out of the way before someone tripped over it.
"And what exactly do you think you're going to do?" Harm boomed, scooping the box away from her before she could lift it.
"Please, Mac." Harm set the box on a dresser and moved up close to her. Brushing her hair behind one ear, Harm pressed his lips against her forehead. "Please be more careful."
Holding her in his arms, Harm was a mere inches from kissing his wife when Varese came to a dead stop in the doorway.
"Excuse me. I don't mean to interrupt, but this is heavy," she smiled, a little embarrassed.
Immediately Harm stepped forward to relieve her of the box. He set it down to one side before following Varese out of the room. From the doorway he pointed one finger at Mac. "Remember what I said."
Seeing no point to staying if she couldn't move any of the boxes, Mac followed Harm downstairs to check on how things were going. He had stopped at the bottom of the stairs while Gunny and Sturgis approached carrying Mac's dresser.
Sidling up beside him, "I'm really sorry. I keep forgetting that feeling fine doesn't mean I don't need to watch myself." Mac slid her arm around Harm.
"I don't mean to nag." Harm kissed her nose. "We just worked so hard to get this far, I don't want anything to happen." He slid his arm around Mac's back, pulling her forward against him. "I love you both so much." Gently his lips came down on hers. Before either of them could get lost in the kiss, a baritone of clearing throats could be heard.
"I don't want to be the bad guy," Gunny grunted.
"But this is heavy and you're make-out session is blocking the path to the stairs," Sturgis added, only slightly amused.
Not much time had passed when Mac and Jen were trying to organize a few things in the office. Jen was moving the boxes and Mac was emptying them trying to make room for the rest of what still had to fit. Jen struggled with a rather heavy box when Mac absentmindedly ran to assist her. In just that split second of time Harm walked passed the doorway.
"MAC. Don't even think about it," He warned, hurrying into the room to shift the boxes for Jen. "Both you ladies. Mac I don't want you lifting anything." Turning to Jen. "Just because you're not pregnant doesn't mean I want you getting a hernia." He waved his finger at Jen. "If either of you need help, call me. That's an order."
Mac stood in his wake, her hands on her hips, wondering if somehow pending fatherhood had gifted him with built-in radar. He seemed to know when she was going to lift something before she did. Watching the two of them, Jen shook her head and went back to work.
By three o'clock in the afternoon they'd made amazing progress. Everything from the apartment had been at least placed in the correct room, and only a few things remained in storage still. Harm estimated one more trip and they'd be done. Roaming through the house, he was on a mission to find his Marine and order some pizza. He found her unpacking the kitchen.
"You're not lifting anything heavy are you?" He came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her. Nibbling on the back of her neck was now one of his favorite pastimes.
"Not unless you consider a fork heavy," she giggled, holding up the aforementioned silverware.
"We're almost done, what do you say we order some pizza to feed this mob?" Harm nibbled some more under her ear.
"Mmn, sounds good." She leaned back heavily against him dropping the forks on the counter. Twisting in his arms, Mac spun around and pulled his face down by hers. In a hungry gesture, she pressed her lips against his. Her fingers threading through his hair, her other hand slipping under his shirt to caress his bare back.
Harm practically growled at her assertion. All thoughts of food and friends were quickly forgotten. Pulling her tightly against him, Harm was vaguely contemplating the quickest path to the bedroom when a chorus of cat calls and whistles brought him back to reality.
"Harm. Get a room!" Mattie called out, not at all amused. Why did old people insist on behaving like teenagers?
"Do you two ever stop?" Sturgis shook his head, thoroughly amused.
"You too?" Varese asked Sturgis. "I caught them in the bedroom."
"The laundry room," Jennifer piped in.
"The basement," Bud added.
"The…" Gunny began when Harm cut them off.
"Thank you very much for the map of the house. Now if you guys don't mind. I think it's time we get the last load while Mac orders us some pizza." Harm waved his arms shooing his guests out of the doorway so he could get back to the business of moving now and back to his wife later.
Having successfully emptied out the storage facility and deposited all their treasured belongings in the appropriate rooms, the group gathered in the kitchen for some much anticipated beer and pizza.
"Bud, did you call Harriet and tell her it's safe to come over?" Mac asked before noticing Harriet and the kids making their way across the backyard. " Never mind, there she is."
"Good grief, what's this?" Gunny asked opening a pizza box.
Peering over Gunny's shoulder, "Oh, that's Mac's, pineapple and jalapeno. Open another box." Harm gestured to the stack of pizza boxes.
"Is it edible?" Gunny grimaced, pushing the box aside.
"Only if you're pregnant," Harm chuckled.
"Does she eat stuff like that often?" Gunny was still overcome by the revolting pizza combination.
"That's nothing, you should hear some of the things Harriet craves when she's pregnant." Bud shuddered at the mere memory of chocolate covered artichokes.
"I think that's about enough," Mrs. Kearney chimed in. "Pick your favorite and leave poor Mrs. Rabb's dietary preferences in peace," she directed in her school teacher tone.
"Thank you Mrs. Kearney," Mac nodded gratefully. It was bad enough when Harm picked on her cravings, it wasn't any easier with a kitchen full of people.
Harm pulled out a slice of Mac's pizza and walked over to where she was pouring drinks by the counter. Placing the dish in front of her, he lifted her chin with his finger. "Anything for my Princess," he smiled. "I love you." Remembering this time there was a room full of people, Harm kissed her softly on the forehead, resisting the urge to graze slowly across every inch of her beautiful face.
"I love you too," she smiled before handing him the tray of drinks.
Chapter 37 A few months laterConsidering how long it took them to get to this point, time was suddenly moving at the speed of light. It felt like only yesterday that Mac was diagnosed with an ovarian tumor, and now, they were only two months away from the birth of their baby.
Trish had indeed descended on the couple within days of moving in. She passed through like a whirlwind. When all was said and done, the house looked great. Initially, Mac was very embarrassed at the idea of Trish lavishing them with so many things for the house. After a few days, Mac finally recognized how much pleasure all of this was bringing to her mother in law and gave up trying to slow her down. Every room had new drapes or curtains. Mac's furniture was placed in the guest bedroom with new spreads and curtains, and Harm's furniture was placed in a second room with a few extras to tie it all together. They bypassed decorating the nursery until they knew if it was a girl or a boy, but Trish insisted on at least picking the furniture. Since Trish had moved all their bedroom furniture into the two spare rooms, Harm and Mac had a new Victorian bedroom suite courtesy of Gramma Trish. They'd found a lovely old dining room set at an antique mall that sat eight people, and Mac's old dining set was immediately relegated to the kitchen and Harm's old set was on its way to Goodwill.
Even Mattie's room got a major makeover. She and Trish had spent an entire two days out shopping for everything. By the time Trish and Mattie were finished, the room would have been able to make the cover of Good Housekeeping. Mac was amazed that two people could have so much fun furniture shopping. Maybe it had something to do with being a Marine, but to her shopping was just a necessity in life.
Harm and Mac's first official Valentine's day together had come and gone. Having fallen on a Monday there was little extra they could do, but none the less they succeeded in making the day feel very special. Mattie and Jen had moved all the extra furniture in the dining room out so Harm and Mac could have their own private dance floor. Wanting to leave them alone for the night, Mattie spent the night in Jen's apartment over the garage. Harm had ordered supper catered from Chez Gerard, and Mac had set a candlelight table for two. Even though Mattie had stayed with Jen often, Trish had only just left for California, making it their first night alone in the big house since moving in, and they took full advantage of the privacy, often.
Harm had tagged along to as many of Mac's doctor's appointments as he could. Nothing could replace the moment they both heard the heartbeat for the first time. Harm walked around all day with a silly grin on his face and went so far as to tack the photo of the sonogram on the bulletin board in the lounge. That was the one advantage of being the boss, if anyone thought you were crazy, they sure as hell weren't going to tell you.
Roberts' houseJune 10th 2005
1900
"I've never been to a couples baby shower before," Sturgis commented, taking another sip of beer.
"Harriet and I went to a shower like this for one of the women in Jimmy's playgroup. Harriet insisted it was a lot more fun than the standard ladies only shower." Bud wasn't really sure what Harriet meant, but as long as everyone was having a good time, he wasn't going to worry about it.
"Well, I for one think it's a great reason to throw a party." Sturgis raised his glass.
"I wish more people would do this," Varese chimed in. "I've been to traditional showers and this is a lot more fun," she chuckled.
"I can't get over all the loot you two got." Sturgis pointed his glass at Harm.
"You! I can't get over all the STUFF one little baby needs." Harm shook his head smiling.
Nodding his head in agreement. "You should see all the stuff you need when there's two," Bud added rolling his eyes.
"Have you been able to work on the nursery?" Varese asked, reaching for another chip.
"Yeah, my mom flew in for a few days and helped Mac put it all together," Harm answered, somewhat distracted. "If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go check on my wife." Harm had noticed Mac step out onto the porch alone.
Finding her sitting on the glider, Harm sat down beside her. "Everything okay?"
"Yeah, just a little tired." Mac rubbed the right side of her tummy.
"Is she giving you a hard time?" Harm moved Mac's hand to one side and began rubbing the spot that seemed to be bothering her.
"No more than usual."
Just then Harm felt the hard poke against his palm. He couldn't hold back the grin. He knew it had to be terribly uncomfortable for Mac, but he so loved feeling the baby move around.
"How long has she been at this today?"
"Since I got out of bed," Mac sighed before the baby kicked again on the other side.
Harm placed his other hand over the newest protrusion, gently massaging the agitated baby with both hands. Resting his lips close to Mac's tummy, Harm whispered softly, "Now, listen to me, Victoria Hope, you need to give your mommy a break. She loves you very much, but you're wearing her out." Harm kissed the tummy lightly before leaning up intending to kiss Mac on the lips.
Watching this now familiar interaction between the man and child she loved, Mac couldn't hold back the tear of joy that trickled down her cheek.
"Hey, what's this all about?" Harm raised his arms around her. Pulling her close to him, he debated if this was another bout of maternal hormones at work, or if maybe something was really wrong.
"I just love you, that's all," she sniffed.
"Then they're happy tears?"
"Very happy tears." She raised her hand to rest on his other shoulder. "You really don't mind she's not a boy do you?" Mac asked softly.
"Not at all. All I ever wanted was a healthy, happy baby." Harm slowly ran his fingers through Mac's hair in a calming gesture.
"I was a little worried when the amnio results came back that you might be disappointed," Mac admitted. "I was almost afraid to tell you."
"Why would you be afraid to tell me anything?" Harm's eyes wrinkled with concern. "Have I ever done anything to give you reason not to tell me something?"
"Power down, Daddy. I said almost. I told you didn't I?" Mac was trying not to grin at his little temper tantrum.
"Yeah, you did. But don't EVER be afraid to tell me anything, good, bad, or indifferent. And in this case, a little girl with your looks and my brains was very good news." Harm relaxed and tightened his hold on his wife.
Hearing footsteps on the porch steps, Harm was surprised to see the tall figure quietly approaching them.
"Please don't get up." AJ Chegwidden raised his hand at Harm to stay put.
"Sir, how nice to see you!" Harm shifted Mac's weight and stood up immediately, enthusiastically extending his hand to his previous CO.
"We didn't expect you to make it, sir." Mac smiled back, very happy to see him.
"Italy is a lovely place to visit, but it was time to come home." Gesturing for Harm to return to his seat, AJ moved closer to Mac, and leaned against the railing.
"Motherhood looks good on you, Colonel," AJ nodded with a broad smile.
"Thank you, sir," Mac blushed
"I think it's time to put aside the sir, Mac."
"Yes, AJ."
"So, tell me, when is this little bundle due to make his or her appearance?"
"She's got about eight weeks to go," Harm answered.
"Does she have a name?" AJ asked, the smile still wide on his face. He knew first hand what a blessing little girls were, and from the little he'd witnessed on his walk from the car to the house, this little girl was going to have daddy wrapped around her finger in no time.
"Victoria Hope," Mac grinned.
"That's a lovely name, how did it come about?" AJ had thought for sure they would go with family names, like Patricia or Sarah.
"Well, sir, I mean AJ, it took us so long to get to this point we felt like she was a major victory and decided if it was a boy it would be Victor and if it was a girl she'd be Victoria. We also considered my mom's name, or Grams name for a middle name but somehow, in light of everything we've been through and what we hope will come, Hope seemed the perfect middle name," Harm explained squeezing Mac's hand.
"There you are!" Harriet announced, stepping onto the porch before noticing AJ. "Admiral, you made it!"
Harriet immediately made her way over to where AJ was perched for a huge hug hello.
"Okay, everyone back inside. Admiral you're going to have to tell me all about how things went with Marcella," Harriet grinned gleefully as she shoved him into the house leaving a bewildered Harm and Mac behind.
"Marcella?" they both uttered quietly.
Chapter 38
JAG HeadquartersJuly 19
1100 hours
"Colonel," Jennifer Coates' voice called from Mac's doorway.
"Yes," Mac answered without looking up from the computer screen.
"The Admiral wants you in her office ASAP. She said to bring all the remaining files for reassignment."
"Thank you, Jen." Noticing Jen hadn't moved from the doorway. "Anything else?"
"Well, I thought you might like some help with the files," Jen smiled.
"How many times today has Harm called you?" Mac leaned back in her chair, her arms crossed on top of her large tummy.
"Only three, ma'am." Jen bit her lower lip holding back a laugh.
"They're not heavy, I can manage. Dismissed."
"Aye, aye." Jen turned on her heels back to her desk.
Mac wasn't sure if Harm was going to survive the remaining three weeks of her pregnancy. She was sure, however, if they still had to work in the same office she wouldn't get a thing accomplished with him hovering over her.
Admiral Chaidez's office
15 minutes later
"Colonel MacKenzie reporting as ordered, ma'am." Mac had worked with Admiral Chaidez for just over a year and still felt the need to stand on formality. It had never occurred to her to simply walk into the room and say 'you wanted to see me, ma'am,' the way she might have with Admiral Chegwidden.
"Colonel, please sit down. The last thing I need is for that baby to make its appearance in my office!"
"No, ma'am," Mac smiled.
"I know this is your last week with us, but I also know this office has a history of substituting for a maternity ward and I am NOT Admiral Chegwidden. I do not have a minor in midwifery," she barely smiled.
"Understood." Mac tried not to laugh. Admiral Chegwidden really was a good midwife.
"Now, let's get a look at the last of those files. Do you see any reason we can't assign Major Hatfield the Bonner case?"
"No, I think it's well suited to his style. He should have no problem getting a conviction." Mac shifted uncomfortably in her chair, a small twinge pulling at her back. "I suggest we let Commander Roberts defend. He'll give the major a run for his money."
"Very well, who's next?" The Admiral looked up at Mac without raising her head, her eyes frowning instantly at the sight of Mac mindlessly rubbing her back. "Are you okay, Colonel?"
"Yes, ma'am. Slight back ache."
"How long have you had this slight back ache?"
"Off and on all morning." Mac let go of her back to open another file.
"Very well, who's next?"
"I have the …." Mac let out a low groan. " MacMichaels DOD."
"Colonel, how far apart are those back aches of yours?" Admiral Chaidez asked very succinctly, one eyebrow raised rather high.
"This one was seven minutes and 32 seconds, ma'am." Mac's hand returned to rubbing her back.
Admiral Chaidez carefully watched her chief of staff shifting uncomfortably in the chair for the next few minutes before jumping to any conclusions.
"Colonel, I suggest you make arrangements to get to Bethesda. You're in labor. I'll have Commander Turner finish this." She dropped her pen on the desk and turned to the intercom. "COATES!" Her calm demeanor momentarily gone.
"Do you have someone to take you?" she asked Mac.
"I would need to…" She paused to breathe. "Call my husband."
"How much time was that?"
"Six minutes and 15 seconds."
Looking up at Jennifer standing in the open doorway.
"Get an ambulance ASAP. Then Call Mr. Rabb and tell him to meet the Colonel at Bethesda, and then get AJ on the phone and find out if he's anywhere near here just in case." Pouring a glass of water, she got up from her desk and walked around to Mac.
"Here, have a sip of this and try to relax until the ambulance gets here." The Admiral took a deep breath and prayed the ambulance or AJ got here soon.
Two minutes later Jen popped her head back in the door. "The ETA on the ambulance is 10 minutes ma'am. Admiral Chegwidden is having lunch at Le Feat's, he'll be here as soon as he can." Jen bit her lower lip watching Mac rub her back and grimace.
"Carry on, Petty Officer." The Admiral waved at her, she didn't need this to turn into a circus.
Family Choice Legal Office
1215 hours
"Pete, do you know where Mr. Rabb is?" Mrs. Kearney asked, standing in his doorway looking a little worse for ware. "I've been paging him for fifteen minutes."
"He and the Gunny are over at the Murdock building. One of their clients is threatening to dive off the roof without a parachute." Pete dropped his pen on his desk and rubbed his temples in standard circular motion for relief of a migraine. This had been the week from hell. They'd gotten every nut case there was.
"Well, his wife's in labor. That cute Petty Officer has called twice." She was starting to spit in her school teacher tone of voice.
"Crap! Excuse me, blast." Jumping up from his desk, he rummaged through his jacket pockets and pulled out his wallet and keys. "I'm on my way. If the petty officer calls back, get her phone number," he winked. Teasing Mrs. K. was so much fun.
She had a great way with the staff, they knew what she expected and they towed the line. Cussing of any kind was strictly forbidden. No one knew what Mrs. K., as they affectionately called her, would do if they deliberately cussed a blue streak, but no one wanted to find out. Harm was right in hiring her, she was the mother hen.
JAG Headquarters
Admiral Chaidez's office
Same time
AJ Chegwidden came flying through his old office door.
"Bet you didn't think you'd be back for this, huh AJ?" Rita smiled.
"Hell, this is one of the reasons I left. Never a dull day around this place," he grinned back at her. Turning towards Mac.
"How's it going?"
"Not too bad. I'm having back labor which is why I didn't realize I was in labor at all." Mac squirmed, rubbing her back.
"Wouldn't you rather be laying down?" AJ asked, confused as to why she was still sitting in the chair.
"I tried that- she refuses to move." Rita Chaidez rolled her eyes. "Was she always this difficult?" she smiled.
"When it suits her," he replied, looking at Mac. "How far apart are the pains?"
"Last one was 5 minutes and 48 seconds."
"How does she do that?" Rita raised one palm and scrunched her face into an obvious question mark.
"Her / My mother's Swiss," AJ and Mac replied in unison.
"Has your water broken yet?" AJ asked returning his attention to Mac.
"No." Mac continued rubbing her back.
Admiral Chaidez stood amazed at the trust this woman had with her former CO. It was obvious they had an enviable rapport. And where the hell did this man learn so much about delivering babies! Her husband had been a Navy SEAL and he had passed out in the delivery room with both their daughters.
"Sir, ma'am. The ambulance is here, they're on their way up," Jen announced hurriedly.
"Any word on Harm?" Mac asked between deep breaths.
"Not yet, ma'am, he still hasn't answered his page." Jen raised her eyes at Admiral Chegwidden before returning to her desk. The unspoken concerns understood.
The silent communication had not escaped the notice of Admrial Chaidez. How had this man done it? Granted, he had worked with the Colonel for eight years, plenty of time to develop an unusual bond. What was the excuse with Petty Officer Coates? She had only been his yeoman for a year before he retired. How did he become such a respected CO? What was his secret?
Finally arriving, the EMT's went about their business getting Mac on a gurney as quickly as possible. "Will you be coming with us?" they asked AJ.
Mac shot her hand out from under the blanket to grab hold of AJ's.
"Yes," he said, just as Jen came running back into the room.
"They've found Commander Rabb. He's at the Murdock building with Gunny, ma'am."
"What the hell is he doing there?" Mac groaned.
"They're trying to talk down a jumper. Pete, that is Mr. Lawson, is on his way to get him, ma'am."
Looking over at Admiral Chaidez, "I need someone to see to it that my car follows us to Bethesda," AJ requested, holding out his car keys.
"Done," she nodded to Petty Officer Coates, who took the proffered car keys.
"Okay people, let's get this lady out of here before we turn this place into a maternity ward. Again," AJ bellowed.
Chapter 39Murdock Building
Short while later
Harmon Rabb was precariously balancing himself on the edge of the 9th floor window. His cell phone and pager had been deliberately left on the passenger seat of his car to avoid being interrupted in the midst of this life and death crisis.
Gunny was perched near the window diligently keeping an eye on his boss, while wearing out the keypad on his cell phone.
Both men were focused intently on their goal of getting one Henry J. Willis to come in from out on the ledge.
"Hank, the judicial system takes time," Harm repeated for the umpteenth time in the last two hours.
"You have to give Gunny here a chance to do a little digging. You can't let your mother in law psyche you out." Harm popped his head inside a moment. "Any luck getting a hold of his daughter?"
"No, sir, if the mother in law knows where they are, she isn't talking," Gunny replied, dialing still another number on his cell phone.
"Keep trying the schools, the friends, the public library for all I care, we've got to get someone here who he cares about," Harm barked.
"What are you doing?" Willis asked, his voice on edge with panic.
"I'm talking to Gunny, Hank. We need more time to get this together. I never said I could fix this over night. Possession of narcotics with intent to distribute is not an easy thing to just make go away."
"I told you, it wasn't mine! I didn't know the stuff was in my car! I would never have something like that around my kids," Willis yelled, pulling slightly away from the wall.
"Watch it there, Hank." Harm stuck his arm out toward the shaky man. "Keep back. I believe you. I wouldn't have taken the case if I didn't believe you."
"Keep away from me!" Willis screeched, pulling away from Harm's reach.
"Sorry, sorry." Harm raised his arms at his side. "I just don't want you to fall."
Leaning in the window again, "Try calling Bud, he's done this before, maybe he'll have better luck," Harm suggested.
"If he won't let any of the cops up here, who know what they're doing, what makes you think he'll let Bud up here?" Gunny asked, already dialing JAG ops.
Before Harm could answer, he heard Pete's voice over the megaphone from below.
"Hey Boss. They won't let me up there. I need to talk to you. It's important," Pete called.
"Who the hell is that!" Willis yelled. "It's a trick. He's a cop!"
"No, it's not a trick, he works for me. His name is Pete Lawson." Harm wondered what the hell could have brought Pete out here in the middle of this.
"I don't want him up here! DO YOU HEAR ME!" Hank shouted when Harm didn't answer right away.
"Yes." Harm snapped back to the moment. He waved his arms NO to the crowd below.
"Then I'll have to tell you over this damn contraption," Pete called back.
Harm signaled a thumbs up.
"You're wife is in labor. They've taken her to Bethesda." Pete paused a minute, watching for his bosses reaction.
Gunny hearing the commotion stepped closer to Harm. "I've got Bud on the line, sir."
"Is it true?" Willis yelled.
"I don't know yet," Harm hesitated. "She's not due for three weeks." Turning to Gunny.
"Bud confirms it, sir. The Admiral, Chegwidden that is, took her in an ambulance about 10 minutes ago."
"Is she alright?" Harm asked, his heart racing much faster than it had been a moment earlier. Hanging without a safety net from a nine story window was nothing, the thought of something happening to Mac or Victoria scared the hell out of him.
"She was when they left, sir."
"Is she okay?" Willis asked, the tone in his voice softening for the first time.
"I don't know. They took her in an ambulance." Harm looked up at Willis. "Were any of your kids born early?"
Willis looked at the man who five minutes ago showed no fear of any kind. "This isn't a trick is it?"
"I don't think so. They wouldn't do that to me. Everyone knows how much Mac means to me." Harm looked back at Gunny. "See if you can get someone from Bethesda on the line."
"Mac? What kind of a name is that?" Willis questioned.
"Her name is Sarah, she's a Marine," Harm smiled. "Mackenzie was her maiden name, so she goes by Mac. Helps her be one of the guys when she's hanging out with a bunch of boys playing soldier."
"You should go to her." Willis paused, an almost serene wave of calm spread over his features as a hint of a smile curled at the edge of his lips. "All of ours were late. Sally used to walk around the block for hours, day after day, hoping it would bring labor along. None of my kids have been on time for anything since," he chuckled quietly.
"I can't leave." Harm swallowed hard.
"Do you think maybe I can come up now? So you can go to the hospital," the megaphone bellowed from below.
Harm immediately waved him off.
"You need to be with your wife," Willis repeated.
"You need me too," Harm answered turning back into the window. "Any word, Gunny?"
"Not yet," Gunny called back.
"Damn!" Harm swore under his breath.
"You love her a lot don't you?" Willis asked.
"More than life itself," Harm answered without hesitation.
"I felt that way about my Sally. It just about killed me when she died." Willis leaned back heavily against the wall.
"How'd she die?" Harm asked softly. Somehow, despite all the information he'd gathered about the case, how Willis' wife passed away had never come up.
"Bad doctor, she got an infection from the episiotomy. Died three days later." A tear rolled down his cheek. "If I come inside and stay with Gunny, will you go to her?"
"Yes," Harm choked out. Gripping the windowsill more tightly. Of all the ways Hank's wife had to die, why was it of complications from childbirth.
Without any further discussion, Willis leaned forward, extending his hand to Harm. Within minutes, they were both safely inside.
Harm opened his mouth to speak.
"Just GO!" Willis shouted, shoving Harm towards the door. "Go!"
Bethesda Hospital
Maternity ward
1300 hours
Jennifer Coates stood patiently at the nurses' station waiting for someone to direct her to Colonel MacKenzie's room. Seeing a slim brunette making her way down the hall, Jen took off at a slow gallop.
"Excuse me, would you know where I could find Colonel MacKenzie?"
"Sure honey, follow me," the nurse answered rather glibly for a military hospital.
"No Mackenzie," she said, looking up from the computer.
"Try Rabb." Even though the Colonel was still using her maiden name for military business, Jen realized it made sense that she'd be Mrs. Rabb in a maternity ward.
"Yes, she's in room 507. Down the hall on your left."
Reading the numbers over the doors as she shuffled rapidly down the hallway, she stopped short when she reached 507. Knocking lightly, she walked in without waiting for a response.
"Colonel?" she called softly.
"Come in, Jen. Any word on Harm?"
"Yes, ma'am. He's on his way."
"What about the jumper?" AJ asked.
"He's fine. Apparently when he heard the Colonel was in labor, he came in willingly so the Commander could be with her," Jen explained.
"What about .." AJ started.
"She's in the waiting room, sir," Jen smiled.
"Thank you, Jennifer. Things got a little busy there. With Mac's permission, if you'll step in for the Commander a moment, I have some business to attend to in the waiting room." AJ looked at Mac.
"Permission"…groan… "granted. Damn! This is tiring!" Mac huffed, squeezing Jen's hand. "Is he really okay?"
"Yes, ma'am. He should be here any minute."
Fifteen minutes later Harm sprinted out the elevator doors and down the hall. Before he could find his bearings and search out the nurses' station, he came to a halt at the two people standing just ahead of him.
"Good afternoon, Commander. I understand congratulations are in order." The well-dressed woman smiled, extending her hand to Harm.
"What a pleasant surprise Mrs. Paretti." More like what a shock, Harm thought.
"Mac's in room 507, Jennifer is with her," AJ interrupted.
"Right." Harm started, then paused, his body frozen in mid motion. "Any word?"
"Everything is fine, but it looks like you might be here in the nick of time," AJ grinned, waving him towards the room.
Heaving a deep sigh, "Thanks, AJ." Harm called already halfway to Mac's door.