His mission de-briefing over, Jack was pleased that he was about to be able to leave. Being the second in command of the base had its perks and Jack had managed to arrange for Sam and Felger's mission de-brief to be before his, ensuring that Sam would have to cook dinner. Although he was aware that she was likely to simply order take out. Standing up, Jack's grin fell when the general requested he wait a moment. The delight on Hammond's face when he realised Jack had acquired an Al-kesh had been priceless, but now Jack was concerned with what the general had to say.
"General?"
"You did well today, colonel."
"Thank you, sir."
"I know I've been sending you on more diplomatic missions recently, despite how this mission turned out, but I've noticed how much happier you seem to be with less field work."
"It's true, sir. I like being home on time."
"Seems like Major Carter's having a positive influence on you."
"That or my daughter is, sir."
"How do you feel about more hands on with the scientists here? Perhaps working with Area 51 a bit more?"
"This an order, sir?"
"Not yet."
"Then, not on your life. Diplomacy with aliens, I can handle. Civilian scientists worse than Daniel, no way. Sir," he added.
Shaking his head, Hammond smiled and said, "Dismissed, Colonel."