Chapter 76

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

1100 EST

Naval Clinic

Pensacola, Florida

Today was the day that they were going home to McLean. Sarah was excited and couldn't wait to get released from the clinic. "AJ, you have to go back to the hotel and get me something decent to wear," she smiled. "If I know Harriett, she'll have something planned. Oh, and get Angela something pink with lots of ruffles and a bonnet. Also don't forget to buy a car seat, we will need it once we get home, anyway."

"Yes, sweetheart, anything else you can think of before I leave?" he grinned at her excitement.

"AJ, how are we going to make it home today, I wrecked the Escalade," frowned Sarah.

"No, Darlin', you wrecked a rental and we had insurance on it. Webb has been kind enough to offer his private jet, so we will be home this afternoon," explained AJ.

"Oh, then don't forget anything I told you. The clinic is giving us enough bottles for Angela to get
home so we'll have to pick up some formula when we get there," smiled Sarah looking at the sleeping baby.

"I'll be back before you know it, all packed and with a dress for daddy's Angel," grinned AJ giving both his girls a kiss before leaving. At the hotel as he was packing all the expensive clothes, he wondered how he'd slip them out before Sarah saw them. A knock at the door pulled his attention from the
thoughts of the clothes. Opening the door he was surprised to see Webb. The mission was over what was he still doing here?

"Webb, if you've come about the baby forget it," said AJ, starting to close the door on the man.

Putting his foot in the door, Webb said, "No, AJ, actually I came to discuss the clothes with you."

Opening the door and motioning for him to come in, "Good, we need to talk about how I can slip them back to you without Sarah knowing. Of course, I'll pay for the one she wears home today and her wedding ring set."

Raising his hands and shaking his head to stop AJ from going any farther, he said, "The Director and SECNAV have gotten together and decided the clothes are yours. You will of course have to pay for all the jewelry or return it as agreed upon," replied Webb. "As for the car, well, it's been written off as a hazard of the mission."

Going over to where Sarah had kept the jewelry, AJ handed it to Webb. As he did, he thought he would he rather buy Sarah's jewelry himself. Not only that, but he felt that diamonds would always remind her of the time she and Webb spent in Paraguay. He knew, although she had never said anything to him, which would also remind her of Sadik Fahad and because of that they meant only death to her now. He knew his Sarah, his love, he thought as he let the necklace slide through his fingers into Webb's hand. AJ hoped she didn't remember any of it. Writing Webb a check for the wedding ring, AJ finished packing and went to the nearest mall where looking for a baby store. Shopping for his new daughter was a joy! He looked around until he found the perfect dress for Angel. He bought it and a matching bonnet and panties. Then, worried about her little feet, he got her some pink socks with white bows. He also got a pink receiving blanket, so his Angel wouldn't get cold on the trip home.

Going back to the clinic with a large bag of things for Sarah and Angela, he was ready to check them out. The taxi was waiting outside to take them to the airport. Mother and daughter were wheeled out to the taxi after Mac signed more forms then the SECNAV required on a bad day. Then they were on their way to the airport and home.

To be continued….