Here is the next installment! Enjoy!

2004

Joe had proposed. Sam had told him she had to think about it, but she had made up her mind already. She was going to say yes. There was nothing stopping her. She wasn't ready to set a date or anything, but she was ready for her happy ending.

She told Joe her answer three days later. He was ecstatic. She told him she had some projects with the Aschen to finish before they got married, but he didn't care. All that mattered was that they would be married eventually.

Daniel was back in the states. He stopped by Sam's house on his way to Washington. He felt that he had spent enough time on planes in Egypt so he was driving.

He sat down on the couch and Sam handed him a cup of coffee.

"How was Egypt?" "It was great," Daniel replied. "There are still so many things to discover there. It's amazing."

"I'm glad you had a good time."

"Yep. I'm sure Jack can't wait to hear all about it."

"I'm sure." Sam tried to smile, but it came out as a lopsided frown.

"Sam, what's wrong?"

"Nothing. Everything is right." She held out her left hand so he could see her ring.

"You and Joe? You're engaged?"

"Yep," Sam said and she twirled her ring around her finger.

"That's great! Have you set the date yet?"

"No, we haven't. I have some projects to finish before I can start wedding plans."

"I'm so happy for you. Am I invited?"

"Of course, Daniel."

"Well, then, I'm satisfied. How's Jack?"

Sam swallowed hard. "Um, I don't know. We have talked in... a long time."

"What happened?" he asked softly.

"Jack s Joe. He doesn't think I should be with him."

"All Jack wants is for you to be happy, Sam. You know that."

"It didn't seem like it last time."

"Maybe he just doesn't think you can be happy with Joe. He cares about you, Sam."

"I know. But it's my choice, right?"

"Of course it is. Jack is just... overprotective of you. And you know why."

Sam was silent. Daniel put his hand on her arm. "Promise me something. Promise me you won't let Joe get in the way of your friendship with Jack. Do whatever it takes to keep in touch with him. You'll regret it if you don't."

"I'll try, Daniel, but he has to make an effort too."

"Just take it one day at a time. You two will be fine."

"I hope you're right."

"I hope so too." Sam kissed Daniel on the cheek.

"Goodbye," he told her.

"Bye."

So? Thoughts? Please review and let me know what you thought! Thanks for reading and check back soon for 2005!