A/N: Okay, I know I said this would be the final chapter. But, as usual, the muse took me in a slightly different direction. Or rather, she decided I needed to add a specific scene, and the song title I had picked didn't fit. Maybe this isn't too sappy

Thanks to Radiorox for suggesting this song. And I promise the final chapter is coming soon.

Tonight I Celebrate My Love

JAG Headquarters
April 22, 2005
1500 Local

Harm, Mac, and the other staff members were ready to leave the room when General Cresswell called everyone's attention.

"I have one more order of business. With the CNO and commandant's blessing, SECNAV is standing up a prototype Joint Legal Service Center: Navy and Marine lawyers in the field under one command. Colonel Mackenzie, you've been selected for command of that unit. Your orders."

"Sir, I… I don't know what to say."

"It's Joint Legal Services Center, Southwest. You'll be stationed in San Diego."

"San Diego? But, sir—"

Cresswell ignored her. Turned to Harm. "Commander, I hope you like Yorkshire pudding."

Harm opened the folder Cresswell handed to him. "Force Judge Advocate, Naval Forces Europe?"

"You'll be stationed in London. By the way, it's a captain's billet. The 0-6 board just reported out. Frocking's been approved. Congratulations, Captain Rabb. That'll be all." He rose, then left the room leaving two shocked officers.

While the others offered their congratulations, Harm and Mac sat in silence. After everyone left, Mac finally spoke.

"What just happened?"

"I don't know, Mac, but I don't like it."

"Harm, you just received a promotion. Not only that, but your new position is a stepping stone to becoming JAG."

"The general is separating us, Mac. After he told us he wouldn't. I don't give a damn about my career if you aren't a part of my life. Remember what I told you a couple of months ago? I'll resign. Go with you to San Diego."

"I won't let you do that, Harm. I'm the one who should resign."

"Let's not rush into any hasty decisions, Mac. We need to talk about this, but it would be better to wait until we're home."

"Yeah, I guess you're right. I'm numb. Under other circumstances, I'd be honored to have been offered this position, but—

A tap on the door interrupted her words. Coates stuck her head in the door. "Colonel, Command, uh Captain, the general wants to see you both immediately."

Cresswell's Office
1530 Local

Harm and Mac sat in the familiar chairs waiting for their CO to speak. How many times over the years had the two of them been in this office while the admiral gave their assignments. Even had a few dressing downs.

"I'm sure you're both wondering about the new assignments. Why I'm putting six-thousand miles between you."

"To be honest, sir, yes we are." Mac glanced at Harm as she spoke.

"I'm a family man. I understand what it's like to be separated from them. But I chose a military career knowing what it entailed. Likewise, when Dora and I married, she understood there would be many times we would be apart. Sometimes we have to make sacrifices."

"My mother understood that all too well," Harm said.

"Such is the life of a career military officer. I picked the two of you because you are the best choices for those positions. Having said that, it's something you need to discuss. Take the weekend to think things through. I expect answers on Monday."

"We'll do that, sir."

"Thank you, sir."

Harm and Mac's Apartment
1900 Local

Harm waited until Mac was in the shower before going to the bedside table to pull out a small box. He'd had it hidden away for a few weeks now.

He imagined they would have a romantic candlelight dinner at a fancy restaurant. Dancing. A long weekend at a bed and breakfast. He'd wanted something special. It was only a matter of waiting for the right time.

The Memorial Day weekend was a little more than a month away. It would have been perfect. Now, thanks to the general, he couldn't wait.

He took the box into the kitchen, then placed it in a drawer before checking on dinner. Mac had wanted to order take out, but he'd insisted on cooking, reasoning that after today's surprising news, they needed a special meal. She agreed once she learned he was grilling a steak. Salmon for him, of course.

Harm placed candles on the table and in strategic places around the apartment. Made sure they were lit before tossing the salad. He'd already chilled a bottle of non-alcoholic champagne.

Mac stepped into the room dressed in a floor-length caftan that left him wondering what she wore beneath it.

"Wow. You really went all out, Flyboy."

He grinned. "Told you we needed a special meal tonight."

After they finished dinner, Harm told Mac to relax in the living room. "I'll clean up the kitchen. Why don't you put on some music? I'll be out in a few minutes."

He hoped she wouldn't change the CD. He'd selected one with several soft, romantic tunes. She didn't. Taking a deep breath, he took the little box, removed what was inside, and tucked it into his pocket.

This is it, Hammer.

He strolled into the room as "Tonight I Celebrate My Love" began to play.

Perfect.

Harm reached for her hand, pulled her into his arms, and began a slow dance. He held her close, their bodies practically melded together. There was no need to maintain military protocol.

When the song ended, Harm stepped back, still holding her hand, then dropped to one knee.

"Sarah, when we first met in the Rose Garden, I knew there was something special about you. We've had our ups and downs, gone through good times and bad. You've been with me through thick and thin. Literally saved my life.

"I know I haven't always been the easiest person to be around. I've allowed my mouth to get ahead of my brain more times than I can count. Other times I didn't speak up when I should have.

"But one thing I know. You're the only woman I love. The one I want to spend the rest of my life with. Sarah, will you marry me?"

Tears rolled down Mac's face. "Yes, Harm. Yes, I'll marry you."

Harm stood, removed the ring from his pocket, and placed it on her finger. Then, he took her into his arms and carried her into the bedroom where they celebrated their love.

A/N: Tonight I Celebrate My Love by Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack