Takes place during Language of Love, right after the end of Ch. 14 and during Ch. 15.
Jack shakes his head as he watches Daniel hurry off in Becky's direction.
For a genius with the best of intentions the Spacemonkey can make the most boneheaded blunders sometimes. If he knows what's good for him he'll catch up with her before she unravels further and beg forgiveness. There's been a growing attraction between them since meeting for the second time under the Mountain, and sending Danny to fix the mess he created has gotta be the right thing to do.
Or so Jack hopes.
For his own part he's finding what just happened pretty hard to swallow. He and Mac had figured something was squirrelly with Becky even before Danny spilled the beans, thanks to her nightmares. But they had no idea it was anything like this.
His own sweet, empathetic niece of all people, bearing Witness to the total destruction of Old Earth while they'd been unconscious aboard the Sleipnir. And then to have it suppressed in her memory like that- well, no wonder it was doing a number on her sanity.
Next time Thor comes around he'll punch the diminutive Asgard in the non-existent gray nose for putting her through hell, just see if he doesn't.
Mac comes over, frowning in their direction. "Maybe I should follow them. Just to make sure Becky's okay."
"Don't bother. Danny's got this, he'll look after her. Better give 'em space for a while besides. She'll be back to her old self in no time, you'll see."
"I hope you're right." He tilts his head up to the gathering clouds. "Looks like the storm Meteorology predicted for today's coming in faster than they expected."
"Yeah. Let's head back home before it breaks. I scored the last two bottles of Guinness in the known universe from White, seems fitting to finish them off today."
"I guess. Only-" He bites his lip and looks over at Janet, his expression torn.
Like Jack hasn't seen this coming from a mile off either. Her assertive nature might be just the thing to overcome his brother's reluctance concerning romance, and about time too. Tonight should be the perfect catalyst for taking their relationship to the next level.
He wonders if the same could happen to him and Sam, once they're brave enough to cross the line despite pesky regulations. Since they made it to the other side of the apocalypse anything's possible.
Not likely with Jacob here today, though. They're probably off having some father-daughter bonding time, which is only fair.
Jack places a hand on Mac's shoulder. "Hey, I get it. No one should be alone on a day like this, Janet and Cassie will be glad for your company. You can even spend the night if you want. I'll be fine."
His skeptical raised eyebrow rivals any Teal'c can produce. "You sure?"
"You betcha."
For a moment he looks like he wants to argue, then sighs instead. "Fine, whatever. But heed your own advice, Jack? You shouldn't be alone either. Not tonight."
"You worry too much. Get goin' already," giving him a brotherly shove in Janet's direction.
He trudges home alone from the Memorial Grove, shoulders hunched against the wind, water dripping off the brim of his cap. A tempestuous start to the autumn storm season, the streets practically deserted at this hour, folks tucked in safe at home with friends and family to reflect on the day.
Despite what he told Mac Jack's looking forward to some couch potato time by himself. Peace and quiet, perfect for savoring the promised Guinness, watching a Simpsons DVD on the laptop, perusing one of the classic Western paperbacks Mac borrowed from the settlement's new library. Maybe even taking a nap if he wants, because nothing short of an invasion or unscheduled offworld activation's gonna get him off that couch.
The Quonset hut serving as his quarters is toasty warm, a perk in rank he shares with Hammond to have an airman looking after the wood-burning stove and restocking the woodpile. A true blessing in weather like this.
Thunder rumbles overhead as he heads for the bedroom, loosening his tie, undressing, carelessly tossing his Class A's over a chair to dry. Hardly proper protocol for their care but what the hell, he'll deal with them later.
He enjoys a long hot shower thanks to the tankless water heaters installed in every home (more foresight from Alvarez, the planning committee and the salvage teams) and scoops up a towel from the hamper to swipe at his hair before changing into his most comfortable clothes.
There's a pounding on the front door just as he's heading for the kitchen. He groans and flings it open. "Alright, whaddya want? I swear if it's to sign paperwork you'll be on waste-reclamation duty so fast it'll make your head spin-"
Sam's standing on the stoop, civvies and hair both soaked from the downpour, bottle of whiskey dangling listlessly from her hand, shivering a little. Probably been standing there a while too, working up the courage just to get his attention. She looks so forlorn he mentally kicks himself for snapping at her.
"Carter?"
She blinks at him like she's already forgotten why she's there, absently shoving dripping bangs away from her eyes. "Sir?"
"For crying out loud, Carter. Get in here before you drown." He shuts the door behind her, leading her into the living area. She stands in front of the stove while he fetches a towel and a faded set of Air Force sweats from his bedroom. "Here, dry off and put these on."
"Thank you, sir," meekly accepting both. "Sorry for interrupting. But I didn't know where else to go."
"You've come to the right place." He takes the bottle from her and heads for the kitchen, giving her privacy as he fetches glasses from the cupboard and pours a healthy amount in each.
When he returns she's standing with her back to him, warming her hands. He has to admit his sweats look good on her, if a bit big in places.
Now he's glad she came over, 'cause the idea of being alone's less and less appealing with every passing second.
He hands her a glass. "Bottoms up. Not to be nosy or anything but why aren't you with your dad?"
"He returned to the Tok'ra homeworld, reporting to their council. Both he and Selmak were pretty shaken by the news."
"I don't blame them. Still trying to wrap my head around it myself."
She says nothing in reply, only clutches her drink, shifting side to side.
He sighs. "At ease, Carter. No point going anywhere in this weather so make yourself comfortable."
She obediently perches on the couch while he takes the armchair. He lifts his tumbler in an unspoken toast for everything they've lost.
She repeats the gesture, taking a thoughtful swallow. "Colonel, can I ask you something off the record?"
"Sure. And call me Jack, okay? Today of all days there's no need to stand on formalities."
"Of course, sir- ah, Jack."
He raises the glass to his lips, hiding a smile. Old habits die hard. "So what's on your mind?"
"Do you think Becky told the truth earlier? About Old Earth?"
"Sure. If she says that's what happened, then that's what happened. You think it doesn't track?"
"Well, I'm no geophysicist but given what I know about planets it makes sense. It's just that she made it sound so, so..." She shrugs, clearly at a loss to find the right word for once. "So final."
"It pretty much was. Those last fifteen minutes under the Mountain were no picnic, what with everything falling on top of us."
"Good thing Thor got you out when he did."
"Yeah." He slouches a bit, hooking a leg over one side of the armchair. Silence stretches between them, punctuated only by the crackling and hissing of the fire and the rain drumming on the roof.
He's lucky she's here, because despite his earlier plans he most likely would've just been sitting in the dark, getting drunk with only memories to keep him company. Sara once complained he brooded too much and in retrospect she's right.
Sam's providing a welcome distraction from the worst of his inner darkness, her profile alternately highlighted and shadowed by firelight as she stares thoughtfully into the flames, no doubt a million thoughts whirling around in her head. Similar to watching her across the campfire during an overnight mission offworld.
Though tonight he's feeling something stronger than mere camaraderie. Feeling...feelings for her.
Samantha Carter, scientist and soldier both, each day boldly asserting- and earning- her place on his team even when she ceased needing to a long time ago. Challenging his perspectives just like Daniel in her own fashion. Giving him a much-needed kick in the pants to resume his fight for the greater good, to start truly living again.
She's been on his mind a lot, after kissing her in the infirmary. To be honest he's been in love with her since that fateful meeting in the briefing room but it's only in retrospect that he realizes it, hindsight being 20/20 as the cliché goes. He suspects the same is true for her.
Despite their little flirtations and the close bond earned through overcoming life-or-death situations they've kept their mutual attraction firmly in check, placing duties to the Air Force and respect for regulations above their feelings and desires. Everything locked so tight in the proverbial room it was getting kinda stifling.
Their relationship probably wouldn't have gained any momentum in a personal sense if not for the last New Year's Eve under the Mountain. Jack had been seething with rage from the attempted sexual assault on Becky by Norris, ready to kill the lieutenant with his bare hands. But Sam managed to calm him down by steering him to her lab, distracting him with soothing technobabble about ongoing projects until he could regain his composure. Looking out for him as always, in or out of the field.
That isn't the only thing he finds attractive about her, either. She's gorgeous, brave and brilliant, saving the day several times over with her quick mind, bright spirit and generous heart. She's one of New Earth's greatest resources, and him merely an aging colonel with bad knees and talent for facetious quips. What she sees in a flawed broken shrub like himself is a complete and utter mystery.
After losing Charlie and divorcing Sara he'd been certain he didn't deserve to find love again, since he'd already ruined two lives due to his boneheaded carelessness. And Hanson had damaged Sam's self-esteem so badly before the Program she's had a hard time accepting her worthiness to receive love, much less giving it back in return. Scant consolation the jerk's arrogance proved his undoing in the end.
So here they sit, two people burned by the past. Boldly facing every challenge in the universe and yet afraid to risk their hearts.
God. Enough beating around the bush already. If he's learned anything from today it's that life is so fleeting, they'd be fools to let this opportunity pass them by.
Besides, he can always blame the whiskey if it doesn't work out.
Sam swallows the last of her drink, looking unhappy. "Maybe this wasn't such a good idea. I should go, do some work in the lab-"
He holds up a finger. "Don't even think about it, Carter. Hammond's ordered everyone to take the next couple days off. Tomorrow there's only gonna be a skeleton crew to keep an eye on the Gate. So relax, stay a while."
"Yes, sir." He gives her a look. "Right, Jack. Sorry."
"No problem."
Most of his adult life he's perfected a carefully-crafted facade of nonchalance and feigned ignorance, allowing very few a look underneath for their own safety. Yet tonight he feels weightless, boneless, whiskey and firelight relaxing him, shaking loose his inhibitions.
Maybe it's Sam's earnest, open and responsive nature which invites the sharing of confidences, part of her drive to understand everything in the universe. Or the loneliness invoked by the Memorial, an instinctual need to seek connection with others in the face of such a devastating loss. Either way he feels free to unburden himself for the first time in years, let his guard down just enough knowing he can trust her with everything, including his heart.
He drains the glass and sets it down before moving to the couch, sitting beside her. "I got stuff to get off my chest, if that's okay with you."
She looks a little worried but nods anyway. "Sure."
He takes a deep breath and begins. He doesn't bare his soul completely thanks to black ops training, keeping the really awful stuff tightly under wraps which not even Mac and Becky know for all they're family. No point in inflicting painful memories on anyone else.
Still, he tells her a lot. His childhood with Mac and Allison, his years in the Air Force. Meeting Sara on leave and their marriage until the accident that took Charlie. His misguided desire for contrition so that a suicide mission to another world made perfect sense. His redemption thanks to Daniel, Skaara, and the liberation of Abdyos from Ra. The pain when Sha're and Skarra were abducted by Apophis, almost like losing a child all over again.
Sam takes it all in without comment, only nodding occasionally. By withholding judgement she offers him the only safe haven he's known in a long time, accepting him for who he is, warts and all. As a fellow officer treating his flaws with love, understanding and respect for sacrifices made, in service to their country and planet.
By the time he's finished night has fallen, the windows black outside, the corners furry with gathering darkness. "So," he says lightly, "now that I've talked your ear off whaddya think of me?"
"Permission to speak freely?" When in doubt, fall back on military protocol.
"Do your worst. I can take it."
"I think you're very brave to tell me all this. You keep so much to yourself, it can't be easy to confide in anyone."
"Hey, I'm an open book compared to Mac. Only Becky's been able to get behind his shields, though I'm sure Janet's been making some inroads of her own."
"I'm glad. I like him. Becky, too." She pauses. "I'm sorry for what happened to your son. I can't imagine what losing a child feels like. Did you hate him, for being so curious about your gun?"
"No. I hated myself more, that I hadn't been a good enough dad to see it coming. Sara never openly blamed me but it was entirely my fault for not teaching Charlie about gun safety earlier."
"And that's why you accepted General West's offer?"
"Yeah. After the funeral I was in such a downward spiral a suicide mission seemed perfectly reasonable under the circumstances."
"To be honest I never trusted his motives once he'd had me barred from seeing Project Giza through to its completion. It would've been such a thrill to watch the wormhole activating for the first time. But I can't believe you never considered how Mac or Becky would've taken the news, much less your wife."
He shrugs. "Downward spiral, remember? Duty was all that got me out of it. I was there in case Catherine and Daniel succeeded in opening the Gate, I couldn't stop to ponder the emotional consequences of a suicide mission on my family. Besides, West had assured me the Air Force would provide a closed-casket funeral with all honors and Sara a widow's benefit, so that she, Mac and Becky could have closure and move forward without me. Nothing else mattered."
His lips twitch in a faint self-mocking smile. "Ironically enough it was thanks to Skarra and a sandstorm that I started to heal. Watching them suffering under ignorance and fear of the Goa'uld was hard to take, though naturally we had no clue of the greater galactic scene at the time. When they risked their own lives by rescuing us despite Ra's retaliation Daniel and I knew we had to make it right by destroying their god.
"When it was all over Daniel stayed behind with Sha're and I returned through the Gate with Ferretti and Kawalsky, ready to give one whopper of a tale at debriefing. Because the mission was classified West urged me to retire without penalty, instead of explaining enslaved descendants of Ancient Egyptians, flying pyramids, an alien sun god and his Jaffa warriors to a Senate subcommittee.
"Afterwards Mac and Becky could tell something about me had changed for the better but they chalked it up to retirement. As for me and Sara, well..." He shrugs. "I don't think she ever expected me to return. Things had gotten so strained between us that serving me with divorce papers when I did came as no real surprise. Then the Gate fired up again, and-" making a vague flourish with his hand.
"And here we are, starting all over again on New Earth," she finishes for him. "I know it sounds crazy since we're still getting used to things but I have a feeling we might just make it. All of us."
He smiles. "That's what I like about you the most, you're optimistic. You never stop believing in the best-case scenario. I admire your intelligence, your tenacity, your unshaken belief in what we're doing. You give it your all and never leave anyone behind. You've always got my six when I need it and even when I don't, shouldering the weight of the galaxy right along with me. I'm not one for handing out compliments but honestly you're the best 2IC I've ever had, or ever could."
"Not sure about that. Just doing my duty." In the firelight it's hard to tell if she's blushing at his words.
"But it's more than duty for you. It's part of what makes you so great, what makes you special. I appreciate everything you do, as a scientist, an officer and a teammate. And most of all a friend. That's the truth."
"Oh, um. Thanks, I guess."
The fire pops and hisses, logs burning down to embers. Rain patters above them in a softer tone, the tempest finally spent.
His arm comes around her, as naturally as breathing. She smiles and leans into him.
"Jack?"
"Sam?" Whole volumes spoken in those two names, all the adventures they've shared and the promise of more to come.
"I'm really glad we're friends too. We're not that different, are we?"
"Well, I am taller."
She chuckles. "You know what I mean."
"Yeah. Wouldn't have it any other way."
"Me neither."
She suddenly turns and stares at him, her expression speculative as if weighing options. He holds his breath, unsure what to do next.
He's not one of those lowlife shrubs who'd prey on a woman, take advantage when she's most vulnerable. Ellen O'Neill-MacGyver had raised her children better than that, and anyway he's feeling much the same. Better to let her take the lead this time.
Finally she gives a short, decisive nod and stands, taking his hands and pulling him up to join her. Their eyes meet and he's lost in the deepest blue he's ever seen, all the emotions swirling within- surprise, empathy, gratitude, desire...?
Yeah, definitely desire. For him.
Imagine that.
They hold each other close, basking in each other's unspoken love and acceptance. The warmth of her body against his sends a thrill along every nerve to center in his loins.
To hell with regulations. They've made it through the literal end of one world, arriving at this one for a new beginning. Time to take a chance and do something for themselves.
He'll do everything in his power to give her the utmost pleasure tonight. She's so beautiful, deserving all the love in the universe.
And so does he, at long last.
She pulls away again but only to tug his head down to hers for a kiss. He kisses back, more insistently. "Stay the night," he whispers in her ear. "Please, Sam."
Her smile rivals the light of a billion suns. "Sure, Jack."
Jack opens his eyes, filled with a rare contentment, turning towards the woman curled facing him in bed, naked save for a sheet covering from the waist down. Sunlight sneaks through the window curtains, making her short blonde hair glow, her skin radiating vitality, a warm smile gracing her lips.
They've made it to the morning after and she's still here, which is an immense relief.
Hypnotically he watches the deep, regular rise and fall of her breathing, his hand reaching to lightly caress down her exquisite body, dropping to her waist until catching the edge of the sheet, tugging it up to drape over her shoulder.
With a happy sigh Jack settles back against the pillows. It's nice to just lie here together in the limbo between sleep and wakefulness, secure in the knowledge she hadn't bolted away in the middle of the night out of shame and misgiving.
He has to admit it's been lonely at times, coming home to an empty house. Instead of seeking companionship elsewhere he'd chosen to wall up his feelings, preferring to focus on saving Earth and eventually the rest of the galaxy than expose himself to further pain and heartbreak.
As if doing so could ever really atone for losing both his son and marriage with one fatal shot.
Yet somehow his self-imposed barriers tumbled down after all, thanks to the woman now sharing his bed. He hadn't planned on falling in love again, much less to an incredible woman like Sam. So warm and understanding and caring, with a wicked sense of humor matching his own. And very, very good at everything she does.
She begins to stir, sleep loosening its claim on her. Blue eyes open, blink at him in brief confusion.
He holds his breath, half expecting disappointment once she realizes they've crossed the line between superior officer and subordinate into friends and lovers, bringing their feelings for each other out of the metaphorical room and into the open at last.
She smiles. "Hey."
"Hey yourself. Sleep well?"
"Uh-huh," snuggling against him. "You?"
"Not much. Got a lot on my mind."
"Like what?"
"Mostly you," leaning in to kiss her nose, then abruptly pulling away for a yawn. "Sorry."
She giggles. "Wow, Jack. Did I tire you out or something?"
"No. I'm just not sure you want me so excited this early in the morning."
"Then you should go back to sleep. I know how grumpy you get when you haven't had your beauty rest."
He glares at her in mock-indignation. "Are you saying I'm old, Carter?"
"Never, sir. Well, certainly not after last night," with an impish smile.
"Damn straight." He captures her lips, slow and sweet. "You don't know how many times you got injured during a mission and I wanted to hold you close and never let go."
"You don't know how much I wanted you to do just that. So exactly how long have you had a crush on me, Colonel?"
"Since the day we met in the briefing room, Major."
"Huh. You hid it awfully well, then. And here I thought you didn't like scientists."
"I like some," he admits. "Mac, Becky, Danny. And you. Only the truly extraordinary ones who pass my exacting standards," he says archly, then grins. "Your offering to arm wrestle kinda clinched the deal. So what did it for you?"
She purses her lips, considering. "I think it was when you convinced Teal'c to help us escape from Apophis."
"Seriously?"
"Yeah. You showed so much determination it pulled at something within me, soul-deep. After that I knew I'd follow you to the end of the galaxy if necessary. That's the only way I can describe it."
"Never thought I had that kinda impact on people. Mostly I was just trying to get home in time to watch my favorite hockey team."
She smiles. "Don't sell yourself short, Jack. You'll make a great leader when Hammond retires as General-Governor."
"Hopefully that's still a long way off. Would you mind if I showed some determination now in getting you to stay in bed with me all day today?" pulling her closer.
"Oh, I think I can oblige." He loves seeing her playful side come out, the way her eyes twinkle when they're teasing each other.
"Peachy." Their lips meet, hers as soft and pliant as he remembers, their heat sending a thrill down his spine. Her arms wind around his neck, holding him close as her tongue slips over his. Her hands deftly caress down his body as they continue tasting each other, his skin becoming even warmer as she investigates his abdomen and points south.
Then no more need for words, only actions given and reciprocated, leading to a mutually satisfying objective.
Afterwards Jack holds her close, one hand resting on her waist, the other caressing her back. Silently marveling at the joy he feels just being in her presence.
Perfection, no doubt about it.
Another storm hits the settlement mid-morning, lingering through the day and long past sunset. Perfect excuse to stay in bed and make love, only getting out for food and use the bathroom when necessary.
Jack expects Sam to launch into the inevitable state-of-the-relationship talk at some point. But she never does, only returning the trust he offered the night before, relaxing into this safe space they've carved out for each other.
He listens just as intently as she recounts the devastating loss of her mother Amelia, the rebellious teenage years before joining the Air Force. Her struggle for recognition in the service apart from her father's reputation, how her setbacks had only strengthened her resolve, single-handedly making a name for herself as scientist, pilot and officer instead of merely a general's daughter.
Without question she's one of the bravest and most dedicated people he's ever worked with. Not to mention beautiful, brilliant and damn sexy.
The universe surely must've conspired to bring them together, for her to have chosen him of all people. Her optimism's contagious, banishing all uncertainty and fear, replacing them from the moment they first kissed with something he hasn't felt in a long time.
He's home. New Earth has finally become home.
"The best part of being in love," his mom said once, "is learning to see yourself anew through the eyes of your beloved."
With Sam's help Jack's rediscovering he's a pretty okay guy, not just some flawed broken shrub who failed his wife and son. That he's truly capable of giving love, and receiving it in return.
Having her in his arms is more rewarding than a lifetime of serving in the Air Force. He wishes he could hold onto this forever, savor every precious moment. Or at least as long as possible, given the current state of things.
Whatever happens his heart can take care of itself. It has to, otherwise life wouldn't be worth living.
Because now he has everything to live for.
The breakfast table's set for seven, the sky scrubbed bright and clear after the storms, the barest hint of chill in the air. Early fall, perfect for a fresh, new start.
He mixes pancake batter in a bowl while the pan preheats on the stove and near-bacon slowly hisses and crackles in another. The aroma of real coffee wafts through the air, sharpening the appetite.
Monday morning, back to the old grind. Jack couldn't be happier.
Sam comes in, already dressed for the day's work in blue BDUs. Must've sneaked back to her place and grabbed clean clothes while he was showering. "Morning."
"Morning to you, too. Thought you were already busy working up an appetite- ya know, blowing up suns, building bombs, saving entire planets."
She chuckles, wrapping her arms around him, resting her cheek against his back. "Maybe after breakfast. Bacon sure smells good. And is that real coffee you're brewing?"
"Yep. Special treat for a special morning," pouring batter into circles on the sizzling pan. "Have a seat, you're just in time for the first batch."
"I'd rather sample some of this first," slipping a hand under his black t-shirt. He suppresses a shiver as she gives his waist a playful tweak, accompanied by a nip to his earlobe.
Who knew she'd be so insatiable a lover? He hopes he can keep up with her.
"I've created a monster."
"You better believe it, buster," stealing a kiss. "I could get used to you making me breakfast every morning. You're pretty good at this."
"Just one of my many, many," flipping a pancake, "many talents. Hope you're hungry 'cause I'm making a lot. We've got a big day ahead of us."
"Back to work. Though honestly I wouldn't mind if we had more days like yesterday. I haven't been that lazy in a long time."
He beams at her. "I'm rubbing off on ya, Carter. Someday I'll teach you the fine art of fishing."
"Mac says according to your Grandpa Harry it's not always about catching fish."
"That's why I'm so good at it," he quips, casting a playful look over his shoulder.
She laughs, then sobers. "Jack, tell me the truth. Is this really what you want?" The uncertainty is back in her voice.
"No, I don't."
"I...see." She stiffens, releasing him and backing away.
There's a sudden cold distance between them now. And it hurts.
He sighs, rubbing at his forehead. Damn, is he a shrub or what? Feeling feelings are really awkward sometimes, articulating them even more so.
So bite the bullet, O'Neill. May be the most wacko thing you've ever done but it's time to face the truth, and damn the consequences.
He flips one pancake, gathering his courage before turning off the burner to face her. "Look, what I mean is- I just don't want to be wondering if you'll have regrets now we've crossed the line for good. The last thing I'd ever want is for you to feel like you've made a huge mistake."
"I have no regrets, Jack. None."
"Me neither. But if the General ever finds out about us I'm not sure how he'll react. All I know is I can't bear to lose you now."
"I feel the same way. Only I'm still not exactly sure what you want of me. Of us."
He comes over to her, taking one of her hands in his, lacing his fingers through hers. So long and graceful, capable of doing everything from writing out complex equations to repairing Ancient tech to firing a P90. And they feel heavenly on his skin.
This isn't a mistake, he reminds himself. It feels perfectly natural.
No more lines to cross, no more rooms. Old Earth and all its attendant issues are gone forever. There's only here, only now. And only them.
He needs this. He needs her.
"Sam, what I really want- it's you, everything about you. Your heart, your soul, your highs and lows. We've already shared so much, I need to share all the rest with you, too."
She cocks her head, considering. Then smiles. "I guess we want the same thing then, because I need to share everything you are just as much."
"You got it," bringing their foreheads together, just breathing her in.
"You realize we'll have to keep this secret on base for a while longer, or at least until the General decides whether or not to relax the fraternizing regulations. For the good of the outfit."
"I know. I can live with that for now. You?"
She doesn't look happy about it. "No choice, is there?"
"None. But I'm sure you can find ways to sneak around that for us. You're the genius, after all," with an exaggerated wink.
This time she laughs. "You're no slouch yourself, Jack. But sure, whatever you say."
"Atta girl. I love you."
"Love you too." They share a sweet kiss.
The aroma and sizzle of near-bacon reminds them of more pressing obligations.
"Hope the others aren't gonna be late," he remarks, turning back to the stove. "The batter shouldn't sit out too long or it'll spoil."
"I made some calls earlier. Everyone promised to be here soon."
"They better be. Breakfast's the most important meal of the day, ya know."
There's a knock on the front door. Talk about timing.
Teal'c steps inside, tall and imposing and serene as ever. "Good morning, Major Carter. O'Neill."
"Good morning, Teal'c," Sam replies. "How are you?"
"I am well. The Memorial and restday were surprisingly restorative. I trust you enjoyed yourselves in turn?"
"We did, thanks," sharing a knowing smile with Jack
Another knock on the door. Mac and Janet come in. "Hey guys," Jack greets them. "Have a good weekend?"
"Cassie stayed at a friend's house," Janet says with a grin as they sit. "So we took the opportunity to do some important research."
Teal'c quirks an eyebrow. "By your expression I surmise the results were most satisfactory, Doctor Fraiser."
"Oh yeah, you could say it was a thorough exploration of each other's physiological responses to certain stimuli. I know I certainly enjoyed it," throwing a saucy wink in Mac's direction.
A flush tints Mac's cheeks. "Aw c'mon, Jan. Do you really have to tell them everything?"
"Yes."
Sam bursts out laughing. "I'd love to hear the details sometime."
"Next ladies-only poker night, I promise."
Mac groans, holding his head in his hands. "Aw, man."
Sam and Janet chuckle. Jack concentrates on flipping pancakes, suppressing a smile at his brother's discomfiture.
The front door opens a third time. "Morning, kids," Jack says cheerfully as Becky and Daniel appear at last. "Just in time for my world-famous pancakes."
They take their places at the table as he sets a platter full of pancakes and near-bacon in the center. No syrup but there's butter produced from local bovine milk tinted a faint lavender. He recently took up pottery again and made all the stoneware himself, from the plates to the butter crock to the pitcher holding a light green juice with the refreshing taste of pink grapefruit.
"Okay campers, food's getting cold so dive right in, there's plenty for everyone."
And they do, same as any breakfast yet completely different like so much else on New Earth. Everything tastes fantastic, even the coffee- the last of his stash from Old Earth- is the best he's had in a long time.
Being in love sure sharpens the appetite.
Becky and Daniel keep trading meaningful glances with each other. If it's what Jack thinks then so much the better, though it wouldn't hurt to corner Danny for a little chat one of these days just to keep the Spacemonkey on his toes.
"So, you kids got something to share with the class?" he asks casually.
Becky almost chokes on a bite of pancake. She sets her fork down, giving Daniel an uncertain look. He smiles and nods in encouragement.
"Right." She takes a deep breath. "First, I want to apologize for how I acted the other day. I feel awful for running away and making you all worry."
Jack waves his fork in an absolving gesture. "No problem, kiddo. We knew Danny would look after you."
Her lips twitch. Daniel looks smug behind his coffee cup. The others trade knowing glances of their own.
"Then I guess we should tell you all that- well, we've become-"
"Don't tell us you're engaged already," Mac blurts out.
Her eyes widen. "What? No! I mean- we've become lovers, that's all. It's way too soon for marriage or anything like that."
"But maybe someday," Daniel adds, his expression tender. He kisses her hand and her cheeks redden though she meets his gaze happily enough.
Sam beams at them. "That's wonderful. Congratulations."
"Excellent news indeed," says Teal'c. "I have been anticipating this development in your relationship for some time."
"So have I," Janet chimes in. "We were honestly beginning to wonder about you two."
Daniel blinks in confusion. "You mean no one's surprised?"
"It was kinda expected, the way you two have been acting since under the Mountain," Mac dryly notes. "But we really are glad you came to your senses," reaching over to pat Becky's hand.
"Thanks, Unc. I'm glad you and Janet found one another too."
Daniel turns to face Jack across the table with a lift of his eyebrows. So you approve?
Jack counters with a smirk, raising his coffee mug in a toast. What do you think?
Daniel blinks, then smiles. Thank you.
Becky raises an eyebrow of her own. Anything I should know about?
He shakes his head, caressing her cheek. Nothing, it's okay. I love you.
She covers his hand with one of hers. I love you too.
Jack hides a smile at their developing nonverbal communication. They balance each other nicely- she curbs some of his more reckless tendencies while he bolsters her self-confidence when she needs it. Already comfortable in each other's presence, no doubt they'll marry when the time is right.
As for himself and Sam?
Better keep it secret, as she had wisely noted earlier. No one needs to know yet they've become lovers themselves, though the gang's sure to figure it out sooner or later. But they're smart enough to keep silent until Hammond decides whether or not to relax the fraternization regulations.
He's not worried either way. They'll cross that bridge when they come to it.
Now is the time to enjoy the present, the people he loves and trusts more than anyone else in the universe around his table, eating and chatting and laughing.
He'll always have a special place in his heart for Charlie and Sara. But now he has more of a reason to live in hope than ever.
The alarm klaxon from the base begins to wail just as the kitchen's tidied up. Jack's radio on the counter chirps for attention. "Colonel O'Neill, this is General Hammond. You and your team report immediately to the SGC, we have an unscheduled offworld activation."
"Copy that, sir. On our way." Everyone's looking at him, ready and waiting. "Okay campers, you heard the General. Let's get to work!"
They dash out the door and through the settlement to the base, their connection growing stronger with every second.
Jack's reminded of a lyric from an old song on Radio Gateway: A new world in the morning, that's today.
New day, new world, new beginning for them all. With his expanded family by his side he can do anything.
And damn, but it feels great.
Notes:
References to, naturally, Stargate the movie and S1 E2, "Children of the Gods Part 2."
If interested you can find the lyrics to "New World In the Morning" by Roger Whittaker through your preferred search engine.
Wow, 20 works in this series already! (Some only on AO3, though.) And possibly more to come. Thank you to everyone who's read so far, I hope you continue to enjoy. Feedback is always welcome.