Chapter 34 – The Greatest Gift of All
Jack leaned back in his chair and casually glanced at the man sitting next to him. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he took a closer look at his friend. Feeling the stare, Daniel turned to meet his gaze. With a puzzled look, he stated simply, "What?"
Jack's smile widened. "No matter how many times I look at you, I just can't get over the gray hair." He waved absently at his friend's head as his gaze roved over the head in question. "It just… looks really strange on you, ya know?"
Daniel grimaced as he ran a hand through his salt and pepper hair. "Yeah, well, we can't all be graced with your good looks now, can we?" Daniel shot a studying look at Jack. "Besides, you haven't had nearly as much time as I have to get used to your best friend having gray hair."
Rather than act offended, Jack laughed out loud. "You're getting much better at the comebacks in your old age, Danny."
Daniel finally cracked a smile. "Lots of practice, Jack. Lots of practice." The two men fell quiet once more, each taking a simple pleasure in the other's company and relaxing as the warm June sunshine fell on their faces through the stain-glassed windows. As they had for so many years, neither one felt the need to break the silence between them. The hustle and bustle that was occurring around them didn't seem to faze either one in the slightest. That is, until a small red-headed bundle of energy in a blue dress surged toward them.
"Ganpa! Ganpa! I's here!" The small three-year old hurled herself at the younger of the two men, who captured her and settled on his knee with a wide smile.
"Melody! How's my favorite granddaughter!" Daniel planted a kiss on the red curls and waited for a reply.
The little girl beamed up at him. "I's fine, Ganpa. We is all here for the wedding, just like you and Ganma! And I has my new dress. I's going to be the flower girl," she stated importantly. "Does you like my dress?" She lifted up the hem of her dress in order for her Grandpa Daniel to see it more closely, which in turn showed Jack the ruffled panties underneath.
Jack cleared his throat, "Uh, Daniel," and he nodded at the raised dress.
Quickly, Daniel put his hand on her dress and pressed it gently but firmly back down before replying to her query. "Your dress is beautiful pumpkin, just like you."
Melody Ann Lambert, youngest child of Cassie and Brian Lambert, turned her wide blue eyes to Jack. She smiled at him. "Hi Unca Jack. Does you like my dress?" As she went to raise it again, Daniel put a quick restraining hand on her movements.
Jack's smile widened at both the little girl's question and Daniel's actions. "Yes, Melody. I like your dress very much. You look all grown up today."
Melody beamed at him. "That's what daddy sayed," she stated importantly.
Daniel cleared his throat. "Speaking of which, where are your parents, sweetheart?" He looked up and glanced around the small alcove with concern. He and Jack had found themselves waiting here; relishing the quiet they knew would escape them later in the evening.
"Mommy is helping Grace and Maddie and Daddy haded to help Tristian." She wrinkled her nose in thought of her older brother. "He gotted gum all over his new clothes! That was naughty," she stated empathetically.
Daniel made some commiserate comment, trying not to smile, while Jack chuckled under his breath. This little spitfire reminded him so much of Maddie when she was little, if not by looks, then at least by her fiery disposition.
A harried looking Brian walked into the small alcove a moment later, a look of relief passing over his features when he spotted his youngest on her Grandfather's lap. "Melody, didn't I tell you not to go running off? You could have gotten lost!" He came over and stood frowning down at the little girl who looked up at him in confusion.
"I wasn't losted, daddy. I was here with Ganpa and Unca Jack. They likes my dress!" she said with a smile.
Brian blew out a breath and sent Daniel an apologetic glance, which the older man waved off. "She's been just fine, Brian. Jack and I have been enjoying her company, haven't we?" He turned to Jack and raised an eyebrow expectantly.
"Immensely," he smiled back, truly meaning the words.
Heaving a sigh, Brian leaned forward and plucked the little girl off of her grandfather's lap. "Well, I think your Grandma wants to see your dress as well, then you have to get ready, pumpkin. You're the first one to walk down the aisle you know!" Melody nodded importantly, then turned back to wave at Daniel and Jack.
"Bye Ganpa, bye Unca Jack! Watch me walk down the middle, kay?""
Daniel smiled. "You bet we will. See you in a bit, princess."
Brian threw a quick glance over his shoulder toward the larger room before leaning in a bit toward Jack. "Sam was looking for you a minute ago. I think they'll be ready to start soon."
Jack nodded in understanding. "If you see her, tell her I'll be there in a minute." Brian nodded, then turned and left the small alcove, talking quietly with the little girl in his arms.
Both men smiled at the scene. "He's a nice kid," Jack remarked with certainty.
Daniel gave him a cock-eyed look. "He's hardly a kid, Jack. Brian's almost forty now."
Jack bent his head and looked over the top of his glasses; glasses that he had been forced to accept as necessary several years ago. "When you get to be my age, Danny, anyone under 65 is a kid. Which I suppose, includes you, doesn't it?" he added as an after thought.
Shaking his head, but with a smile on his face, Daniel resumed his task of watching Brian and Melody leave the room. They settled once more into a comfortable silence, which was broken only moments later when Daniel again felt Jack's gaze on him. "What?"
Jack grinned. "Nothing. Ganpa," he stressed with a laugh. He found it amazing that Daniel was already a grandfather. Of course, the fact that Cassie was already a young adult when he and Janet had married had greatly increased the probability that this would happen. Still, Jack found it amusing and took every opportunity at his disposal to tease his friend about it. That he was about to marry off the first of his own brood and possibly join that elite group wasn't lost on him. It caused the older man to return to a contemplative silence once more.
Daniel rolled his eyes at the familiar teasing. Though, truth be told, he was about as proud of his grandchildren as he was of his own children, and both he and Janet had settled quite comfortably into the role of grandparents. Turning back to Jack, he was surprised to see the light hearted teasing gone from his friend's eyes, only to be replaced by a look of quiet introspection.
"Jack?" he asked quietly, not wishing to disturb his friend, but wanting him to know that he was here for him if needed.
Blinking, Jack turned and frowned in puzzlement. "You know, it feels as if he just walked down the aisle at your wedding, his teddy bear perched on that pillow. And now my son is getting married." Jack turned and stared absently into space. "My son – married." He heaved a deep sigh as he thought of the other son who had never been given the chance to grow up, fall in love, and get married. Though he didn't grieve Charlie's loss as acutely as he had in years past, the pain and sorrow of losing a child would always be a part of him. Especially in moments like this. "God Daniel, it seems like yesterday I was green behind the ears. Then in the blink of an eye, I got married…for the second time…and started a family. For crying out loud, it feels like I was just teaching the kid to catch a ball and ride a bike. What the hell happened?" He turned a confused gaze on his friend.
Daniel smiled in sympathy, knowing somehow that Jack was thinking about Charlie as well as JJ. Quietly, he replied, "Life, Jack. That's all. Life happened. To all of us." Daniel clapped Jack on the shoulder and squeezed lightly, giving him an encouraging smile. After a quiet moment, he said, "Come on, we should get going before Sam sends Teal'c out here. When she asked him to be the usher, I think he assumed that meant he's to usher us wherever we need to be." Daniel grimaced slightly. "And you know that man has not lost any strength, no matter how old he is."
The comment brought a faint smile to Jack's face, for no matter how well Teal'c knew them, he would take his duties as usher with the utmost seriousness.
Daniel slowly got to his feet. His knees creaked and he winced, understanding implicitly what Jack had been feeling for many years. He really hated getting old. Jack shot him a knowing look. "Getting old sucks, doesn't it?" he said as he too got to his feet, although this time, the cracking noise was much louder.
Raising one eyebrow and lowering his voice, Daniel replied, "Indeed."
Jack smiled and clapped his hand on Daniel's back. "Come on space monkey. Let's go find our wives. Get this little shindig going." He glanced at his watch. "Crap. I'm going to miss my nap if we have to wait much longer." Daniel laughed, and the two men slowly made their way into the main hall of the church.
They were met by a harried looking Sam, who bustled over to them quickly. "Where have you been?" she directed her question to Jack. "We're almost ready to start."
Jack smiled slowly down at her. Even at the ripe age of 62, she was still the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. The wrinkles around her eyes and mouth did nothing to detract from her beauty. Sam had maintained a slim, well-toned figure well into her middle years, as well as a drive and energy that far surpassed Jack's own. She had only just retired from the Air Force four years ago, with full honors, but that hadn't slowed her down in the least. She had taken on a consulting position with the Intergalactic Space Program and rejoined Daniel, who had worked on the board for several years now. Although some within the program had argued that perhaps her skills and knowledge might have become obsolete over the years, most knew differently. Sam had kept abreast of all current research in the area of wormhole physics. In addition, her texts on the subject had become the most widely referenced in the field. She was highly sought after; something that put a crimp into Jack's plans a time or two. Even though she worked on as-needed basis, Sam was always good about taking time away to spend with Jack or their children. They spent equal amounts of time in DC, where the program was based, and here in Colorado Springs. But for the past few weeks, Sam had thrown herself into helping with JJ's wedding in whatever capacity was called for.
As Jack looked down at her, he cupped her cheek gently in his hand. The frazzled look in her eyes quickly dissipated as she looked back at him and she let a smile of her own blossom forth. Her blue eyes sparkled, set off by the dark blue of the dress she was wearing. Sighing gently, she leaned into his touch. "Are you ready for this?"
Jack pulled her close and pressed a kiss to her now white hair. "As I'll ever be." He pulled back. "How are the girls doing?"
Sam smiled, "Grace and Maddie were arguing about something the last time I checked."
"Same as always, then huh?" he grinned.
"Meri seems a bit nervous, but that's to be expected. I think she's eager for this to be over with; she doesn't exactly like all that attention on her."
Jack grinned at her. "Reminds me of a bride I used to know." She gave him a soft punch on the arm, which he held with feigned pain. Then Jack held out one arm and bowed gallantly. "Mrs. O'Neill. May I have the pleasure of escorting you to our son's wedding?"
She grinned back. "Why certainly, Mr. O'Neill," she replied with a twinkle in her eyes. "I'd be delighted."
Daniel groaned and rolled his eyes. "Oh, please," he said with exaggeration but his face held an amused smile.
Sam turned and hooked one arm through Jack's, the other through Daniel's. "All right, gentlemen. Let's get this done."
Jack and Daniel escorted Sam to the back of the church, where they found Teal'c waiting for them and watching with a frown. When they stopped in front of him, he bowed slightly to Sam. "Is it not my duty to escort you and O'Neill down to your seats, Samantha?"
She smiled up at him. "Yes, Teal'c. I was just fetching these two miscreants. We're all set to go."
Teal'c looked at Daniel and Jack with a frown. "I would have been most pleased to obtain O'Neill and Daniel Jackson for you. After all, I believe that to be part of my duties here this day."
Daniel cleared his throat, more than a bit worried at the look of determination in Teal'c's eyes. After many years together, Daniel was aware that his Jaffa friend was almost as protective of Sam as Jack was and didn't like to see her worried. "Well, I'll just, ah…" he pointed down the aisle. "Uhm, mosey on in and find my seat." He looked in the direction he had pointed. "And my wife," he added with a frown, which disappeared as soon as he spotted her in the second row sitting next to Brian, Katie, Tristan and Jacob Carter. "Ah, and there she is."
Daniel turned back and gave Sam a hug, then shook Jack's hand. "You're both very lucky you know. JJ's a great kid and Meri…well Meri is perfect for him. I'm sure they'll be very happy together."
Sam smiled and hugged him once more. "Thanks Daniel," she whispered in his ear before drawing back. Nodding to them once more, he turned and made his way down the center aisle. He gave a nod and smile to JJ, who was standing tensely in the front, waiting for the proceedings to begin.
The twenty six year old tall, brown haired man smiled nervously as his best man, Billy Martin, nudged him in the shoulder. "Won't be long now, JJ, and you'll be a married man. No more freedom for you!" he teased gently.
JJ tugged at the bow tie around his neck, trying to loosen it a notch. "Yeah," he whispered back, his eyes remaining at the back of the church where his parents were now standing with Teal'c and Daniel. A wave of relief spread through him. Even as an adult, whenever he saw all four of them together, he always felt that things would turn out just fine. Turning back to Billy, he added with more lightness, "And I couldn't be happier. Meri is…absolutely perfect. I can't wait until she's officially mine."
Billy rolled his eyes. "Let her hear you talk like that and she'll likely kick your ass."
JJ grinned back, his blue eyes sparkling with laughter. "Yeah, I know! But I can still think it!" He turned his gaze back toward the rear of the church, anxious to catch his first glimpse of his bride. Although they had been dating almost steadily for the past ten years, JJ felt as if his life with Meri was just about to begin for real. While he had gone to MIT, she had gone to Boston College to study international languages. Their proximity had allowed them to continue the relationship they had started in high school. And while there had been a few ups and downs, and times when they had each dated others (something JJ didn't like to think about too much), they had reconnected in Meri's final year of school. After graduating, Meri had begun working as a translator for the government while JJ went on to complete his PHD in physics, specifically the study of nanotechnology, which was still considered fairly new. He and his mother could talk for hours about his studies, much to his father's annoyance. Though truthfully, JJ knew his father was just as proud of his accomplishments as his mother. He often remarked how he never thought he'd hear the words 'Doctor' and 'O'Neill' come right after each other..
JJ had recently graduated, with high honors, and was now considering several job offers, one of which was for a fairly new off-shoot of the Stargate program based in outstate New York. He was seriously considering their offer, for it would allow both he and Meri to remain on the East Coast, a place they had fallen in love with when they first arrived to pursue their academic studies.
Yes, JJ thought to himself as he rubbed his slightly sweaty palms down his pant leg, he couldn't imagine anything better than marrying Meredith Wilson and settling down somewhere in Boston or possibly New York. His parents kept a condo in the DC area, so he knew they'd be able to visit often and, he thought with a grin, there was always the cabin! Like his father, the small cabin on a quiet lake in Northern Minnesota was one of his favorite places to go to relax and reconnect with family. Not only was it a beautiful place, it held so many wonderful memories for JJ; memories that he wanted to share with his new wife.
Thinking of his family, JJ let his gaze roam over the gathering of people. He smiled at Daniel and Janet, who were quietly whispering to Brian and Tristan. The eight year old boy looked slightly bored by the whole proceeding, but JJ knew he would liven up during the reception. Melody had been taken into the bride's room, where she would soon be leading the procession as the flower girl.
Twenty two year old Katie sat on the other side of her mother. She had grown more poised and beautiful with each passing year. She had just graduated with a degree in English with an emphasis in creative writing, which hadn't surprised her extended family at all. Ever since she had been young, Katie had not only enjoyed writing, but excelled at it. Unbeknownst to any of them, she had begun writing a biography detailing some of her father's early adventures through the Stargate. JJ noted with a wry grin how several of his old school friends in attendance were eyeing the red haired young lady with interest. Like his sisters, he didn't think she would be unattached for very long.
JJ cast a quick glance to his left, where Nick Jackson (he had dropped the diminutive form of his name in middle school), stood frowning. He too had noticed all the stares his sister was getting and, even though he was three years younger, it didn't stop him from playing the part of protective brother. Nick had just completed his first year of college at the University of Colorado. He was unsure of his major at this point, but was leaning toward studying ancient cultures…just like his father before him. JJ caught Nick's eye and gave him a smile, then made a motion like he was pushing up his glasses. Nick gave him a sheepish grin and pushed up the glasses that still always seemed to fall down his face. The blue eyes sparkled back toward his older cousin, to whom he still looked up with great admiration and respect.
JJ's gaze returned to the front pews, where his grandfather, Jacob Carter, sat turned in his seat, talking quietly with Ish'ta, Ry'ac, Cor'een, and their twins, Bra'tel and Gray'son. It always amazed JJ how his grandfather never seemed to age. Sure, he knew that his grandfather carried a Tok'ra symbiote, something that still made his mind spin when he thought about it. But still, it didn't seem right when your grandfather almost looked younger than your father!
Shaking his head, JJ turned his attention back toward the aisle as, very softly, the introductory music started to play. All eyes in the quaint church were directed toward the back. Sam took Teal'c's proffered arm and smiled at her son, who stood upfront with just a hint of returned nervousness. Jack frowned over at Sam and Teal'c. "What exactly am I supposed to do here? Dance along behind you?"
Teal'c frowned down at him. The large man had lost neither his stature nor his ability to intimidate, even in his advanced years. His close cropped hair was now a carpet of while, but it only served to add an air of distinction to the man. "You are to take Samantha's other arm, O'Neill. I will escort you both to you places."
"Ah," Jack replied with a sheepish look. "Gotcha big guy." He took his place next to Sam and looked over at Teal'c. "Glad you could make it by the way, T. I know you've been pretty busy lately, what with the new alliance the Jaffa are trying to form with those Druakians." While for the most part, Teal'c and Ish'ta were enjoying a quiet life on Chul'ak, Teal'c was stilled sometimes called upon to offer his assistance in matters of Jaffa interests.
"It has been most trying, O'Neill, but we shall come to an agreement soon, of that I am certain. I would not allow negotiations to interfere with the nuptials of my Godson." Teal'c turned and gave Jack a slight frown. "Now cease your talking. It is time to begin the ceremony." And with that, he began to lead Jack and Sam down the aisle toward the front; Sam trying hard to bite back the look of amusement on her face, Jack frowning at being ordered about at his own son's wedding.
A second usher led Meri's mother to her seat and then the music changed. Everyone stood and watched expectantly. The first to make her entrance was Melody, a huge smile on her face and a basket of flowers on her arm. Her other arm was placed in the crook of the elbow of the ring bearer, a seven year old cousin of Meri's. While the little boy didn't look quite as pleased as Melody to be walking down the aisle all dressed up, he went forward with determination to do his part. Once she had reached the front, Melody turned toward the congregation and waved at her family. "Hi Ganpa!" she called cheerily, causing many chuckles to echo in the church. Cassie, who had come down the side aisle and settled in next to her son, whispered gently, "Shh," to her daughter before turning back to watch the rest of the procession.
Next came Maddie, wearing the same colored light blue dress as Melody, but with obvious grown-up overtures. Her tall willowy frame showed off the sleeveless dress to perfection, and caused more than one young man to stare longer at her than they might have otherwise. Her shoulder length hair was piled loosely on top of her head, allowing loose golden ringlets to fall around her face. Her blue eyes sparkled with delight as she took in the sight of her big brother on the steps. Though six years her junior and attending school half a continent away, they had remained close. JJ had offered his advice and support whenever she asked for it. Like his parents, however, he had been unable to curtail her adventurous spirit but really, he wouldn't want to…that was Maddie after all.
While he had been flabbergasted at her desire to attend the Air Force Academy in Colorado, JJ had not been in the least surprised. Like his father, he knew it was probably the best place for the headstrong young lady. And like all of his family, he was proud, but not surprised, to learn that she was at the top of her class; both academically as well as its top pilot candidate. There was no doubt in anyone's mind that she would graduation with an officer's rank and quite possibly, be asked to join the Stargate program. Little did they know how important Madelyn Carter-O'Neill would one day become to the Stargate program.
Once Maddie reached the front, she gave JJ a smile then turned to stand next to Melody. She looked to her parents and smiled at her father's proud grin and at her mother, who had tears in her eyes but a smile on her face. Sam was thinking how beautiful her baby looked, and Jack was thinking once again, how much this beautiful girl looked like her mother.
Jennifer, Meri's best friend from college, came next. She swept down the aisle gracefully and took her place next to Maddie. Then came Grace. JJ smiled as he heard Billy suck in a breath at her appearance. Although they had gone their separate ways once high school had ended, they still kept in touch and JJ knew that Billy still held his sister in deep regard…and possibly something more. The tall brunette looked serene and composed as she walked toward the front of the church. At twenty four, she was in her last years of residency at John Hopkins Medical Facilities in Maryland. That she was near JJ and Meri had made it easy for all of them to strengthen their already close relationships and let JJ keep somewhat of an eye on her, not that she needed it of course! But he knew that his father felt better knowing that JJ was close by should Grace need anything. That and the fact that he and Sam had a condo in DC had eased his mind greatly when he saw his eldest daughter off to med school.
Long brown hair piled on top of her head like her younger sister's, Grace smiled at JJ as she approached. Her brown eyes sparkled with laughter and love for her brother. When her eyes caught Billy's she blinked, then flushed slightly at the intense look he was giving her. Her eyes returned to JJ and she hesitated in front of him. Leaning forward, she pressed a kiss against his cheek. "I'm so happy for you, JJ. You and Meri deserve the best," she whispered in his ear.
He smiled back. "Thanks Gracie," he whispered back, using the name he used to call her long ago. Grace smiled, then moved to stand next to Jennifer.
Jack gazed up at his two beautiful daughters, a lump in his throat. That he could have had anything to do with producing such stunning young women was beyond him. When he felt Sam looking at him, he cleared his throat and put on a mock frown. "Aren't those dresses…well, you know," he whispered, waving up at his girls.
She smiled back, not fooled for a minute. "Yes, Jack. They're absolutely stunning." Then she took his hand in hers and squeezed it gently.
Finally, the music changed and JJ straightened up. And then there she was – Meri. JJ sucked in a deep breath. She looked beautiful, absolutely beautiful. Her long white dress flowed around her like silk and her eyes sparkled with love for the man who stood waiting for her. Holding lightly to her father's arm, Meri began the slow walk down the aisle toward her soon-to-be husband, their eyes never losing contact. When she finally stood before him, JJ took her hands in his and whispered, "You are so beautiful, Meri. You are going to make me the happiest man on Earth."
Eyes sparkling with humor, she whispered back, "Only on Earth?"
JJ chuckled. "OK, the entire galaxy." Then he turned her toward the minister and the service began. It went off without a hitch. Everyone knew what they were supposed to do and Teal'c stood silent guard off to the side, watching should anyone or anything threaten the proceedings. The only miscue was when the minister stated, "You may now kiss the bride," and little Melody turned and kissed the ring bearer, causing a flood of laughter from everyone and great embarrassment to Cassie.
Jack turned around and grinned at his niece. "What goes around, comes around."
Her reply was drowned out by the applause that followed as JJ kissed his new bride.
----
Three hours later, most of the guests were either sitting in small groups visiting or on the dance floor. The reception was being held in the largest conference room in the SGC. While neither one of them worked there any longer, they still had quite a bit of pull and had been able to reserve this space for JJ and Meri's wedding. In addition to being large enough to accommodate their needs, it also allowed some of their "alien friends" to attend the festivities. Since the Stargate was no longer classified, they didn't have to worry about the discovery or fear regular civilians might have at learning about life on other planets. In fact, several members of the Tok'ra, Jaffa and Nox races sat in quite regularly on matters of international and interstellar concern, and they were now present at JJ's reception.
Jack and Sam sat at a table with Jacob, Daniel, Teal'c, Janet and Ish'ta. The young people were all out on the dance floor, several young men jockeying for position to take the next dance with Grace, Maddie or Katie. Sam grinned as she spotted Grace dancing with Si'mon, who had come through the gate just to attend the wedding. Billy stood off to the side, arms crossed and an angry frown on his face as he too watched the couple dance together.
"I do not believe it will be much longer before you will host another nuptial gathering, Samantha," Ish'ta noted with a smile. She too had been watching Grace with interest. "However, it will be a surprise as to which young man Grace chooses to align herself."
Jack blinked at hearing the words and turned to look at Ish'ta. "What? Grace isn't ready to get married. Not for a long time." He looked out at his daughters and scowled. "And neither is Maddie." He looked at his wife. "She is not dancing with Lieutenant Severs, is she? He's the CO of her unit, for crying out loud!" he said with incredulity.
Sam raised her eyebrows at him but refrained from reply to that particular comment. Then she looked over at the couple in question. Maddie was looking up into the dark eyes of a tall, handsome man in dress blues. He was quite a few years older than Maddie – probably at least ten, Sam thought with a frown. As she looked closer, the frown disappeared and a teasing glint entered her eyes. "Oh. Actually dear, that's not Lieutenant Severs." Jack mumbled a quiet "Thank God." She looked over at her husband. "That's actually Captain Burkhardt." At his blank expression, she grinned. "Captain Robert Burkhardt," she hinted. No response. "Blaze?"
Jack's eyes widened and his head swung to look at his youngest daughter. "That's the kid who found JJ when he was five? The basketball playing smart mouth? Holy Crap – he must be at least ten years older than her!" His head swung back to his wife. "What the hell is he doing in an AF uniform?"
Daniel cleared his throat. "Even I remember that, Jack. He asked you to help him get into the academy, remember?"
Jack blinked, then looked back. "Yeah, but I never thought he'd make it. Didn't seem to have the discipline." He frowned. "He should know better than to be dancing with Maddie. She's still a cadet for God's sake."
Putting a hand on his arm, Sam redirected his attention. "He is also a friend of JJ's…and ours. They're just dancing at a wedding, Jack. Don't overreact." Jack frowned, but didn't saw anymore, although he did keep a careful eye on both his daughters. He didn't care that he was in his mid seventies, he could still kick ass if he had to.
Next to him, Jacob chuckled to himself, though not very quietly. Jack turned to look at him. "Got something to share there Jacob?"
Eyes sparkling with humor, Jacob replied. "I just thought of an apropos expression." When Jack just raised his eyebrows in question, Jacob elaborated. "Payback's a bitch." He laughed loudly. "Now you know how I felt those seven years you and Sam danced around each other." He put that last part in quotation marks with his fingers, then looked back at his granddaughters, who were now dancing with new partners. Laughing again he said, "Somehow, I think it's going to be a lot worse for you, son."
Everyone at the table laughed, except for Jack. "Thanks a lot, Dad," he said sarcastically. There was a moment's pause before he looked Jacob up and down. "How is it that you look younger than me now? That's just not right," he said with a frown, the recent conversation getting to him.
Jacob clapped him on the back. "Nothing like a two hundred year old symbiote to keep you in the picture of health, Jack. You know," he looked at him in contemplation, "I could probably get you on the waiting list for one. It might take some string pulling, but I could move you near the top."
Jack's face filled with disbelief. "There's a waiting list for those things? You've got to be kidding!"
"Nope," Jacob shook his head. "A long waiting list," he emphasized.
"Once it became common knowledge that a Tok'ra symbiote could cure cancer, among many other diseases, people were calling by the hundreds to volunteer to become Tok'ra hosts," Janet added to the conversation. "There's now a waiting list and the Tok'ra are finally able to strengthen and increase their numbers."
Jack shuddered. "Thanks, but no thanks. When my time comes, I'll go." He looked at Sam and suddenly grinned. "Probably kicking and screaming, but I'll go."
She grasped his hand. "Well, you're not going anywhere anytime soon, Jack O'Neill. And that's an order," she smiled back.
Melody chose that moment to run up to the table. Grabbing Daniel's hand, she said, "Come on, Ganpa! Come dance with me?"
Daniel chuckled as he rose to his feet. "Well, now how could I resist that invitation?" He took the little girl's hand and led her to the dance floor. The adults at the table smiled as Melody stood on her grandfather's feet and let him lead her around the dance floor in wide circles, her giggle carrying all the way to their table.
"Your husband is quite a smooth dancer," Ish'ta commented to Janet. She smiled back.
"Yes. Daniel has always enjoyed dancing. Especially with a pretty red-head," she added with a grin.
For the next half hour, the adults were content to watch the dancing from the sidelines, although one or other of them was often pulled onto the dance floor by their children. They especially enjoyed watching Maddie and Nick dance with wild abandon to the louder music. The two had remained fast friends and often were found in each other's company. Teal'c didn't miss out either – each of his nieces claimed his hand at least once. After a short break by the band, JJ and Meri went up onto the makeshift stage and called for attention.
"Excuse me folks, can we have your attention?" JJ spoke into the microphone. When it was quiet, he smiled out at the gathering. "Meri and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for coming here tonight and celebrating with us. Our family and friends have been a constant source of love and support for us and we know we wouldn't be where we are today without all of you." He let his gaze rove over the gathering, then his eyes fell on his parents. "But most of all, we'd like to thank our parents. Please join us and raise your glasses. We'd like to offer up a toast to the four people who have had the most influence on our lives, been there all the way, in everything we've done, and given us the greatest gift we could ever ask for; their unwavering, unconditional love."
Meri waved for her parents and Jack and Sam to come forward. Glasses were raised and JJ concluded by saying, "To the four people who have shown us what real love is all about. May Meri and I have marriages as strong and loving as yours." JJ looked directly at his parents, his eyes showing a hint of moisture, "And may we always remember to face each day's challenges with grace, humor, and love…just as you have done your entire lives. Thank you mom and dad."
There were cries of "Hear, hear," echoing around the room as glasses clinked together. Sam had tears streaming down her face as JJ jumped off the podium and came to hug both of them. "Thank you, JJ," she whispered in his ear. "That was beautiful."
"I meant every word of it mom. And then some," JJ replied quietly as he bent to hug his mother once more.
Jack too, had tears in his eyes as his son turned to hug him. When Jack pulled back, he kept his hands on JJ's shoulders and looked him in the eyes. "You've made the last 26 years of our lives a joy, son. We're so proud of the man you've become and the man you are going to be." He clasped him close once more before letting him go. Then he grinned, "Now don't keep us waiting too long for a grandchild. Got to catch up to Daniel ya know!"
JJ laughed. "We'll see what we can do, dad." Then he turned and took the microphone back. He grinned at his parents, and said, "And now, we'd like our parents to lead the next dance. Something nice and slow, huh dad?" he said with a twinkle in his eye.
Jack grinned. "Yeah sure, you betcha!" Jack took Sam's hand and led her onto the dance floor. Oblivious of all eyes on him, he took Sam in his arms and began to sway with her in time to a soft, slow melody. Everyone else seemed to fade from view as they danced together, eyes only on each other. "Well, Mrs. O'Neill. What do you think? Was it all worth it?" Jack asked quietly as he looked deep into her blue eyes.
Sam's smile was breathtaking as she looked back up at him. "Definitely worth it, Mr. O'Neill. Every single minute of every single day. And it's not nearly over with. We have so much to look forward to: Grace and Maddie graduating and moving into their careers, possibly getting married, grandchildren," she said this last with a crooked grin and a shake of her head. "Who would have thought thirty odd years ago, that you and I would be talking about our future grandchildren!"
Jack chuckled. "Thirty years ago, I was just thinking how I could get one hot, blond scientist in my bed. Nothing whatsoever about grandchildren."
"Jack!" she swatted him lightly on the arm but her eyes danced with happiness.
A few moments later, Jack's look turned serious. "Do you ever regret any of it, Sam? I mean, we both made sacrifices along the way; maybe didn't get the chance to do some things that we could have." At her slight frown, he added quickly, "I for one don't regret a single moment. In fact, the best command decision I ever made was to step back from SG-1 and marry you." He tightened his grip as he looked down at his wife. "But sometimes I wonder how you feel," he waited, looking at her expectantly.
Sam's hand came up to caress his cheek. "The only thing I regret, Jack O'Neill, is that it took so long for us to admit how we felt for each other." She smiled impishly at him. "But I think we've more than made up for that time, don't you?"
Jack grinned down and pulled her close. Growling in her ear, he said, "And then some!" Sam giggled as they continued to spin slowly across the floor, secure in the knowledge that the lives they had carved out for themselves and their family had been well worth any sacrifices they might have made. And although she wasn't a particularly religious person, Sam couldn't help but reflect on how well and truly blessed her life had been.
While they had been dancing, Meri had gone off to talk to her grandmother, so JJ stood leaning against the stage and watching his parents dance, a smile lighting his face. Grace and Maddie came to stand on either side of him. They exchanged smiles and then the three of them stood silently watching their parents on the dance floor. They didn't notice as the photographer took a quick picture of them and then moved away silently.
At one point, Grace sighed and said, "It's amazing. When you stop and think about everything they've been through in their lives, it's a wonder they ever got together, let alone had us. And their love for each other has remained so strong through everything."
Maddie nodded in agreement. "They really are incredible. We couldn't have asked for better parents." She sighed a bit louder than Grace had. "God. Someday, I hope I find what they've got."
JJ looked down at his youngest sister and smiled. He put one around her, the other around Grace. "You will, Mads. You both will," he assured them. Then with a brotherly frown, he added, "Just don't be in too much of a hurry. You've got lots of time."
Grace laughed, "Thank you, oh wise brother, for your sage advice." She socked him in the arm gently. "Geez, three hours and already you sound like an old married man!"
JJ waggled his eyebrows at her. "And loving every minute of it!" As Meri came walking up to him, he released his sisters. "See if you two can find some poor lonely souls to dance with, would you?" He grinned back at them then, taking Meri by the hand, he led her onto the dance floor and pulled her into his arms. He swayed with her gently then, looking deeply into her eyes, he whispered, "I love you Meri Wilson O'Neill. Always and forever."
"I love you too JJ O'Neill," she whispered back. Then, tucking her head under his cheek, she let herself drift off with the music.
JJ met his father's eyes over the top of her head and they shared a smile. A smile that conveyed more than words ever could of the love between father and son; husband and wife. The younger man let his gaze drift to his sisters, who not surprisingly, were each in the arms of a handsome man. Smiling, he looked back to Jack, who rolled his eyes and shook his head. JJ laughed out loud; although many changes were taking place within his life, he knew without a doubt that some things would never change.
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Aside from the fire crackling in the fireplace, the house in Colorado Springs was silent. Light flickered off the walls as flames danced across the logs. A man and a woman sat close together on the soft leather sofa, their gray heads bent together and their chests breathing deeply in synchronous snores. On the table in front of them lay a stack of photo albums, each one carefully marked at the beginning indicating the years gone by. On the top of the stack was an album only half finished; an album filled with pictures of women in beautiful dresses, men in suits, and an abundance of smiling faces.
The book was opened to a page that showed a family; mother and father surrounded by three grown children. The oldest, a boy, was wearing a tuxedo and had a smile and a light in his eyes that bespoke of an important event in his life. Underneath, another picture had been placed, this one much older than its neighbor. It showed the same mother and father, albeit at a much younger age. Sitting on their laps were three young children, smiles bright and eyes shining as they faced the camera. A dog sat next to the youngest girl, its long tongue lolling out of the side of its mouth. Upon closer inspection, it was obvious that the children in the picture were the younger versions of the adults in the picture above.
Two ordinary pictures really, showing the changes that occur within any ordinary family. But for the two slumbering individuals who remained in gentle repose on the couch, those pictures were anything but ordinary. They were the reflections and symbols of everything that mattered in life; everything that made each day extraordinary. Plain and simple, those two snapshots were a reflection of the greatest gift a person could give or receive: The gift of love.
The End
Thank you so much for sticking with this story for so long. It has been quite a ride, to say the least! Your reviews have meant so much to me and I'm only sorry that I couldn't take every idea into account andsomehow weavethem into the story. Alas, it would have been over 70 chapters if I had done that and gone on for another year! I hope I have done the ending justice. I tried to at least touch on every character and at least give you an idea of what the future held for them, especially the children.
Thank you also for the nominations for the Stargate FanFic Awards. A Father's Determination and Snapshots were both nominated, and now I can go back to the site and check off the complete box for this story!
I truly hope you have enjoyed this series as much as I have enjoyed writing it. Please feel free to leave feedback about the final chapter, the whole story, or a specific character. I'd love to hear from you!
