Sam had never been so embarrassed in her life. She could feel her skin turning a shade of deep crimson as McKay continued to stare at her; she didn't know what to say or where to look.

Thankfully it was Cameron who bravely tackled the very awkward silence.

"Listen McKay…"

Holding his hand up, Rodney stopped him from saying anything more. Cameron didn't like the way this situation was playing out and he, especially, didn't like the way he continued to look at Sam the way he was.

The two of them watched as Rodney literally ran out of the room without saying a word.

XXXXX

Rodney continued walking briskly until he found himself back in his lab. Fumbling for a chair he managed to sit down as his memory played the torturous image of the two of them.

It wasn't just the immeasurable shock of seeing them making out in his bed that had caused Rodney's legs to turn to jelly. It was his own reaction to seeing Sam in that way that had shaken his system to the core.

Something had snapped in him when he'd recognised them and all he could feel was an insane jealousy of the likes he had never experienced before and a deep sense of betrayal on her part.

It took five minutes of deep breathing before his heart returned to its normal rhythm and he could begin to think clearly. Throwing his head back in resignation, it was obvious he thought with his eyes closed, he was in love with her – nothing else could explain his response.

He sat there in a state of bewilderment for a long time, trying to make sense of it all. But it wasn't like his formulas, there was no solution and his high IQ couldn't help him. It was a problem of the heart and, unfortunately for Rodney, he had no idea how to solve it.

So Rodney would do the only thing he could he would pretend like nothing had happened, he would simply throw himself into his work and as he switched the computers on he thought it was best if he stayed in his lab, he wasn't hiding – Rodney assured himself with confidence, he was a very busy man and it was about time he gave the backlog of work his full attention. With a nod McKay looked at the stack of paperwork that was balancing precariously off the edge of one of the tables and sighed heavily, maybe it could wait till the morning.

XXXXX

Sam had wondered through practically the entire city and there was still no sign of Rodney. There was one more place she needed to look and in hindsight it was probably the first place she should have looked. Sam paused outside the door, for a moment, and then cautiously entered the lab. At first she didn't see him but the snoring directed her towards what she guessed was a couch.

"Rodney?"

Rodney mumbled incoherently and Sam suddenly felt guilty for him having spent the night on a couch that clearly looked uncomfortable. Maybe it hadn't been a good idea for her to suggest that they use his room but Cameron had been hurting and the guilt went as quickly as it came.

"McKay wake up!" Sam reached for his arm and shook him.

"What?" Startled awake Rodney fell off the couch.

Stifling a laugh Sam helped him to his feet. Mortified he brushed her off, grabbed a couple of random sheets of paper off his desk and pretended to read them.

Walking round so that she stood in front of him, Sam said patiently, "Rodney we need to discuss what you saw last night."

Rodney continued to ignore her; he couldn't concentrate with her inches away from him. Her perfume drifted into his nostrils in soft waves and her presence erased all sense of logic as his emotions took control.

Sam took a step back as she saw the look in his eyes, "Oh God Rodney…" She should have seen this coming; she knew he had feelings for her but she would never have guessed they ran this deep.

"What do you want Carter?"

The use of her surname didn't go unnoticed, "Rodney what you saw last night…"

"I don't know what you're talking about," he looked at her nonchalant, "if you don't mind I've a lot of work to do."

Sam remained standing; she wasn't going to move until this was sorted so she tried a different tact.

"Rodney do you remember our conversation on the balcony?" Not receiving a response Sam continued, "You said that you hoped that what ever it was I was going through would work out ok."

Everything else temporarily forgotten, he nodded in response.

"It worked out better than I could have ever dreamed… Do you know why I came here, to Atlantis?"

"No."

Sam pulled out a chair and sat down opposite him and looked him in the eyes, "I came to Atlantis because I was running away."

Surprised he asked why.

"I fell in love. I was so far gone I thought I would go crazy if I couldn't have him. I was so scared to death of rejection to the point that I couldn't even be in the same room as him, so I ran… When I got here I realised I'd made a huge mistake. No distance would ever change the way I felt about him because when it came down to it not only is he my best friend, he's my soul mate too."

"Mitchell." Rodney spoke the name, accepting it.

"I love him and nothing is going to change or get in the way of that."

"I know." The words were spoken so softly Sam almost didn't hear them.

"I'm sorry you had to walk in on us like that," Sam smiled embarrassed, "Cam was just resting from the walk, I didn't think you would have minded and one thing led to another…well you know the rest."

"Yeah…"

Sam got up to leave, "Rodney I'm sorry for last night but… I will not apologise to you or anyone for putting him first…I hope we can remain friends…"

"No Sam," Rodney said interrupting her looking somewhat sad, "You don't have to apologise, you deserve to be happy and if Mitchell is the one then…" His voice broke as he tried to deal with his own heartache, "Your secret's safe with me."

Sam gave him a comforting friendly hug.

"I'll get over it." His voice was uncertain as he pulled away.

"Thanks Rodney."

XXXXX

"How'd it go?" Cameron asked as Sam joined him for lunch.

"It went good," When Cameron motioned with his fork for her to continue, she took him through the conversation.

"Wow." Was all Cam could say when she was finished.

"I know," Leaning forward she whispered, "I had no idea he felt that way."

"Is that going to be a problem for us?"

When Sam looked at him with a huge grin on her face he couldn't help but return the smile, "What?"

"'Us', I love the sound of that and no it's not going to be a problem."

"Good. Change of subject…How do you fancy a trip to the mainland?"

"Sounds like fun."

"There's a jumper leaving in an hour."

XXXXX

Sam had rummaged through all her clothes and still she couldn't find anything appropriate to wear. She wanted to wear something casual yet sexy but she hadn't brought anything like that with her.

"Damn!"

A knock on the door interrupted her, "Come in!"

Kate Heightmeyer looked at the clothes strewn all over the room, "Lost something?"

Exasperated Sam slumped into a chair, "I haven't got a single decent thing to wear."

"Got something planned?" Kate asked as she picked up some of the clothes off the bed and began to fold them as she sat down.

"Cam and I are flying over to the mainland."

"Ah…I understand… a romantic getaway."

Since their conversation that night in the mess the two of them had become firm friends. Kate had been a tower of support during Cameron's recovery.

"Follow me I've got just the thing."

Sam followed Kate to her quarters and looked on as she searched through her closet. One by one she began to discount a lot of things – too casual, not sexy enough…

"Found it!"

From the back of her closet Kate pulled out a short black dress. Sam looked at her in shock.

"You're kidding right?"

"No I'm completely serious. This is perfect."

Sam looked at her in disbelief. When she made no movement to take the dress, Kate dragged her into the bathroom, threw the dress in with her, closed the door and told her she wasn't coming out until she was wearing it.

Because she didn't have much time before the jumper was due to leave, Sam quickly tried on the black dress. Standing back she looked at her reflection in the full-length mirror. The dress was a halter neck that just skimmed her knees, the neckline was open showing off her cleavage and her back was completely bare. The material hugged her in all the right places. It wasn't something she would normally wear but she looked good and because she felt incredibly sexy and knew it would knock Cameron's socks off she waltzed out of the bathroom.

"So what do you think?"

"You look fantastic. He's not gonna know what hit him when he sees you. Grab the red cardigan hanging in the closet while I find you some shoes."

Between the two of them Sam was ready with minutes to spare. They had decided on a pair of black strappy sandals that looked fab and were, at the same time, comfortable, the red cardigan had finished off the look. With the cardigan the dress-looked casual yet dressy and without it was just good all fashioned sexy.

"Go get him." Was Kate's parting comment as Sam thanked her with a quick hug before she left for the jumper bay.

XXXXX

Cameron looked over the controls of the jumper as he sat waiting for Sam. The pilot in him itched to fly this advanced piece of machinery but he hadn't had the gene therapy so he couldn't.

"You ok Sir?"

"Yeah, just admiring." Cam said wistfully.

"I know what you mean sir." The Lieutenant replied as he sat in the pilots' chair. "Have you been to the mainland before Sir?"

"No, first time."

"Then you're in for a treat Sir. It's beautiful this time of year."

"Sorry I'm late." Sam said breathlessly as she joined them.

Cameron couldn't take his eyes off of her. She looked absolutely incredible.

"Ma'am if you don't mind me saying so, you look great." Lieutenant Cummings complimented her as he took in her appearance.

"Thank you, now let's get going."

The journey to the mainland was uneventful. Cummings continued a dialogue of all the different things they would and should see. He was content to do all of the talking and they didn't mind one bit.

"Thanks Cummings, we'll see you tomorrow."

"Have a good time Sir's."

They waited until the jumper was out of sight before they made the short trek to one of the settlements.

Friendly faces greeted them; people invited them to join them for the evening meal. They thanked them for their generosity but declined, as they wanted to do a little exploring first, since it was their first time there.

They managed to get away a half hour later but not before they had a list of recommended places to see and they weren't allowed to leave until they had promised to join them for at least one meal.

XXXXX

The second they were out of the sights of the villagers; Cam dropped the bags, grabbed Sam, pulled her into his arms and kissed her long and hard.

"I've been waiting to do that since you walked onto that jumper. God Sam you're breathtaking!"

"You look pretty good yourself!" Sam said approving of his look.

He was wearing faded blue jeans with a white shirt opened at the neck and the sleeves rolled up.

Sam could make out the fading scars on his face and arms in the sunlight.

"You okay with the walking?" Laying a hand on his arm she asked concerned.

"Yeah don't worry about me, lets just enjoy ourselves."

Linking her fingers with his she said, "Can't argue with that." Hand in hand they walked admiring the stunning unspoilt scenery around them.

They continued for another couple of hours taking frequent breaks in between before finding the perfect little place to stop for the night.

"This is the life Sam, just the two of us."

Sam murmured in agreement.

"Sam?"

"Hmmm?"

"I love you."

"I love you too Cam, more than anything."

Content with the silence and each other's company they watched the sky and as dusk approached Cam started to collect some kindling for a fire while Sam spread the blankets on the ground and put their evening meal together. Their picnic comprised of an assortment of sandwiches, fruit for dessert, juice and water.

With the fire lit Cameron joined Sam on the blankets.

"What you got there?"

Sam peered at the wrapped sandwiches, "This one looks like salmon and cucumber, there's cheese and pickle and your favourite peanut butter and jelly."

"Dessert?"

"Apple, banana or strawberries?" She asked holding them up for him to choose.

XXXXX

With his arm draped over her shoulders Cam pulled Sam closer. The stars were out in abundance and the moon lit the sky with light.

"What are you thinking?" Sam asked resting her head on his shoulder.

"Everything and nothing." Cam replied kissing her on the temple.

Content, neither said a word as they fell asleep.

XXXXX

Sam woke up alone. It was still dark and the fire had almost burned itself out. Sitting up she looked around worried. There was no sign of him. She was about to go into full panic mode when she spotted his silhouette emerging from the trees. Instead of joining her he gestured for her to get up. Her military training began to kick in as Cameron put a finger on her lips, indicating for her to remain silent.

Taking her hand he led her in the same direction he had come from. They kept walking until Cam stopped in front of a small clearing. Peering past him Sam could see light emanating from not too far ahead.

"Cameron, what's going on?"

"Nothing, it's a surprise. Close your eyes Sam."

"Everything's ok?" Sam asked him warily.

"Couldn't be more perfect, come on Sam…close your eyes." Cam demanded as he stood in front of her.

"Okay, okay!"

The moment she closed her eyes, she found her self being led down a path, to where she had no idea but she couldn't wait to find out what the surprise was.

She couldn't see anything but the scents she smelled, as she walked, were nothing short of heavenly. Anticipation and excitement bubbled up inside her and she had to bite down on her lip to stop herself from becoming giddy.

Letting go of her, he whispered, "Walk six more steps and then stop but keep your eyes closed."

Nodding Sam counted the steps in her head and then stopped on the sixth one.

"Open your eyes."

Sam opened her eyes and what she saw had her stunned. There were candles everywhere, hundreds of them, flickering in the gentle breeze their reflection illuminating the small stream that wove through the trees. Petals of every colour imaginable surrounded her, their subtle perfume intoxicating. Then she saw him kneeling down amongst the candles and flowers looking up at her with so much love.

Sam's heart nearly exploded out of her chest as she realised what he was going to do, "Oh my god…" was the only response she could manage as she knelt down and joined him.

Holding her hands tightly in his own Cam fixed his eyes on her, "We've been friends for so many years, been through so much together and along every twist and turn I've had one constant – you. You've always had a very special place in my heart, how special I didn't know until you kissed me that day," Sam giggled through her tears of absolute happiness as she nodded, remembering, " That kiss changed my life. From that moment on I knew you were the one for me, the one that I wanted to grow old with, the one that I wanted to make a home with. You have no idea how happy you make me; I never thought I would be lucky enough to find my soul mate in my best friend and here we are…" Choking on his emotions Cameron's voice broke, "I want to be your lover and your best friend for as long as I live. I promise to love and cherish you and to honour you every moment of my life…will you marry me Sam?"

Sam could feel his heart beating in a wild rhythm with her own as he held out a huge diamond ring and slipped it onto her finger, his eyes were vibrant with promises and dreams.

They had been friends for a long time, lovers for only weeks but she had never been as sure of anything as she was of him and their love. She wanted to be his wife, she wanted his children and she wanted to spend the rest of her days loving and adoring this incredible man.

"Yes, I'll marry you." Sam's reply came out short of a squeak as Cameron engulfed her in a fierce hug.

"How about now?"

Sam pulled away. Anticipating her question Cam pointed to the man stood in the shadows. When he came forward Sam recognised him as the Athosian priest Cameron had been talking to when they had first arrived on the mainland.

"Shall we begin your journey?" The Priest asked.

"Yes." Sam smiled at Cameron, rising they stood in front of him.

Taking Sam's hand he put it in Cameron's and placed both their hands in his own.

"On this beautiful night I have the privilege of helping the two of you take the first steps in your life as one. Today you are making a solemn promise to begin a new journey together," releasing their hands he reached into his robe and pulled out two gold bands.

Taking the smaller of the two bands Cameron held her hand, his gaze intense and bright with joy.

"I love thee, I love but thee

With a love that shall not die

Till the sun grows cold

And the stars grow old."

Sam's heart skipped a thousand beats as she recognised Shakespeare's quote, such simple words had never held as much meaning, they left his lips and engraved themselves on her heart. Her hands shook slightly as Cameron slipped the thin gold band on to her finger.

Taking Cameron's hand she brought it to her lips and as she put the larger band on to his finger she echoed his words,

"I love thee, I love but thee

With a love that shall not die

Till the sun grows cold

And the stars grow old."

"I love you."

"I love you too."

Taking over, the Priest continued the ceremony, "I pray that each of your days is filled with a lifetime of joy and laughter. Hold on to each other, remain faithful and above all else honour and respect one another," Smiling at them he said, "With the blessings of the Ancestors you are now man and wife."

They had done it. They were now husband and wife.

Neither noticed the Priest take his leave as they became absorbed in their own moment.

"May I kiss my bride?" Cameron asked caressing her cheek.

Sam didn't bother answering as she yanked him to her and they fell to the ground, where her attack on his body began. Her lips worked their torturous magic on his face and neck as she pressed herself into him. Catching her lips he kissed that soft, hot and wet mouth until they had to pull apart for much needed air. Trembling with need they reached for each other again, delirious with the addiction to touch and be touched.

Sam licked the hollow of his neck where his pulse hammered with desire, his moans of pleasure only encouraging her.

They tore at each other's clothes, grappling to get free of them, desperate for the feel of flesh on flesh.

Releasing the catch on her dress, Cameron dragged the material down until it gathered around her waist. Her full ripe and ready breasts spilled into his hands and he began teasing them, moulding those soft pink peaks until they were hard and begged for his mouth to claim them.

Sam cried out, threw her head back in ecstasy, as he took each firm nipple between his teeth and tugged them. Savouring her taste with each flick of his tongue, Cameron drove her crazy, her body melting underneath his mouth.

She'd never known how it felt to be this desperately wanted to be hungered for and still not get enough.

Ravenous hands explored his body wanting to memorise every inch of him. His scent filled her nostrils sending her in to a drunken spiral of want. Each teasing dance of her fingers and nails became more and more intense sending him that much closer to the edge.

Sam kissed every sensitive part of his body, giving special care and attention to his recent injuries. With every touch Cameron's belly tightened with a sweet erotic pain as her hands travelled from his shoulders to his waist to his back.

They pleasured, stimulated and tormented each other until their skins were slick with passion and when the need became too much instinct took over.

Their mouths met again in another soul shattering kiss as Cameron rolled on top of her.

"Sam look at me!" Cameron demanded breathlessly.

Sam opened her eyes; his face was flushed with arousal, his lips swollen from her kisses and his body marked by her teeth. Was it possible to fall even more in love?

Wrapping her legs around his hips, Sam arched her back as he clamped his hands on hers and forced her arms above her head and then he drove deep inside her. Their bodies liquefied into a waterfall obsessed with reaching that sheer drop of sexual satisfaction.

With their eyes locked on to each other they made sweet glorious love through the night.

XXXXX

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