Disclaimer: Did I mention I don't own them? Probably couldn't afford them either?
AN: She's baaaack. And in a happy mood too. So here's an update for you to enjoy and review...hint ;-)
Chapter IV: Harm's POV
The first thing Joanne, the bartender at McMurphy's noticed when I strode in is the grin on my face. I didn't realize it was so clear. But I can't help myself when I think of how it got there in the first place. It's so amazing that it still takes my breath away. This huge smile was put there a few hours ago by a certain beautiful Marine, who's finally mine. Even if I don't have a ring to give her yet, we're not backing out this time. Took us long enough to get here. Let me rephrase that: it took one JAG General, a promotion and not to mention the ultimate threat to place each of us half a world away from the other to get here. But let's not rehash, let's just be glad we're here. I know I am.
We invited our coworkers over here for a few drinks. With the exception of Bud and Harriet (the latter seemingly more excited than we are), the others think this is just a farewell party before we all go our separate ways. In some ways it is and I know I'll miss them, maybe with the exception of Jen, who'll be coming with us, in case we end up in San Diego. Little do they know Mac might not. Little do they know about what we're about to tell them: that we're in love and about to get hitched. O, who am I kidding here; they knew we were meant to be before we did. But they'll be thrilled anyway.
I look down at my class A uniform, realizing with shock that this might be the last time I get to wear it. If tonight, fate decides in Mac's favor. We need Bud to do the honors. We figured he'd be excellent for this particular task as he's close to the both of us. So he should be unbiased.
It might come off as strange to anybody who doesn't know us, but it's truly the only way. Mac won't allow me to be a gentleman and give up everything to be by her side. Not again anyway. I've been there before, I've done it before and just when she's ready to appreciate it, she won't let me. Go figure. So hero Harm to the rescue won't cut it this time.
On the other hand, I'll be damned before I let her become just another devoted housewife whose life revolves around the steady rise in rank of her husband. As much as I need her by my side whenever, wherever and whatever, I don't need her just for decoration. If that was ever my goal, I should have married Renée years ago.
As for Mac; I can see the quality she has as an officer and a lawyer and it would be a mortal sin to have her throw it all away. So if she won't defend case, than I will. Hell, I love the Marine in Sarah. It gives her an extra dimension other women seriously lack.
We truly need that coin to decide…
As I look up from my beer she strides in. Sarah, sweetheart what were you thinking? Do you really want me to manhandle you in the middle of this very public place, where our mutual friends can come join us any time? That'll be some serious conduct unbecoming an officer (or two for the time being), but that's what can be expected when your soon to be wife is wearing a dress like that.
I swallow and manage with all my willpower to just satisfy myself with one glance and a sweet kiss (I can kiss Sarah MacKenzie in public!), before ordering her a drink. And only the thought that we'll be alone in a hotel room in a few hours can prevent me from taking it further.
Quickly after that, our friends join us. As we fill them in on the latest news, they all seem elated. Though I can clearly see the knowing glances, the words 'I told you so' hanging in the air. It's highly amusing and not to mention, very right. We kept them and ourselves in suspense way too long! In fact, wouldn't be at all surprised if they've set up a 'will they or won't they' office pool considering us. I'm curious who won, but my guess is Harriet.
So now the time has come. I have Mac secured in my arms, the thought that I'll have her there for the rest of my life sustaining me while Bud takes out the coin the Admiral gave him when he retired. I smile down at Mac and hug her to me. She puts her head against my chest and I can feel a welcome warmth envelope me.
I hope she realizes that I'm okay with whatever happens next. No matter which way the coin might drop, I'm ready.
Still, as I can hear her say 'tails', I hold my breath…
Hahaha, and so will you until I update... (evil grin). You know what to do if you want to speed things up...
