Disclaimer:There have been no changes in the copyrights to the characters or in the disclaimer previously stated. Unfortunately, I still do not own Stargate franchise.
A/N 2: Thank you very much, Loverustal, for your review; it's really constructive. My intention is nothing else but to tell a story of overcoming with all its good and bad parts. Regarding Daniel, you're absolutely right; I was so focused on writing about S/J that I forgot him.
A/N 2: As this chapter turned out to be very long, I've divided it into two parts. I feel that this two chapters don't do justice to my story and that they might not be to everyone's liking. Please don't kill me ,my inspiration sometimes it does these things.
English is not my first language,there may be errors or inaccuracies in the text.
Feedback is welcome :)
CH7
While Sam continued to adjust to her new role at the SGC, an important matter had taken Jack to Washington D.C. for a few days. Although they had both decided to stay in touch while they were apart, Sam could feel the absence of Jack's comforting presence by her side during these moments of transition.
One day, after an intense workday at the SGC, Sam sat relaxed on the couch with her laptop in front of her. She picked up her cell phone and dialed Jack's number, feeling anticipation as she waited for the call to connect. The call connected quickly, and soon she heard Jack's voice on the other side of the phone line.
"Hello?" Jack said, and in his voice, Sam could detect a hint of weariness.
"Hi, Jack!" Sam responded enthusiastically, trying to hide her own melancholy. "How's everything going in D.C.?"
There was a pause before Jack replied, "Well, you know, meetings upon meetings, have I mentioned meetings yet? But seriously, I miss being home with you."
The sincerity in his voice resonated in Sam's ears, and she also confessed her own feelings. "I miss you too, Jack. I wish you didn't have to go. There have been some tough days."
"I know," Jack said with a sigh. "I wish I could be there with you. I know you're going through a lot, and it pains me not to be able to support you in person as you deserve."
Sam smiled softly, feeling Jack's love and support across the distance. "Jack, I'm okay, really. I have to face this on my own too. But your support means a lot to me, even if you're far away."
There was a brief moment of silence before Jack spoke again. "Sam, I want you to know that I'm very proud of you. I know you can handle this on your own, and I also know you're doing an incredible job at the SGC."
Jack's words filled Sam's heart with warmth and determination. "Thank you, Jack. You know how much it means to me to hear you say that."
After a few minutes, Sam felt that there was more on Jack's mind and decided to dig deeper. "Jack, you sound a bit tired. Are you sure you're okay?"
"I will be..." Jack said with a subdued voice.
There was a pause before Jack responded again, and Sam could sense he was considering whether to open up or not. "It's just that... being here without you, amidst all this paperwork and bureaucracy, makes me realize how much I value our time together. I miss your presence, your smile, your unwavering support. Everything…"
The vulnerability in Jack's voice touched Sam's heart. "I miss you too, Jack. But remember, this is temporary. We're doing what we have to do right now."
Jack sighed, and Sam could imagine him leaning against a wall, as if he needed that physical support. "I know you're right, Sam. But I can't help feeling like I should be there by your side as you go through all of this. I care about you."
Sam felt her own heart fill with love for this man who was willing to give his all for her. "Jack, your support reaches me even across the distance, believe me. And every time we talk, I feel like you're right here with me. That means a lot to me."
There was a long sigh from Jack, as if he was releasing some of the tension he had been carrying. "Thank you. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Sam smiled sweetly, feeling a warm bond between them. "I feel the same way, Jack."
Finally, after a long conversation that made them feel closer than ever, Sam and Jack said their goodbyes. The call had reminded them of the importance of supporting each other, no matter the distance between them.
With the phone in her hand and her heart full of love, Sam returned her focus to her laptop with a smile on her face.
The week continued, and although Jack's absence remained a constant presence in her mind and heart, Sam stayed busy with her work, adjusting to her new role as the head of the science department at the SGC.
By the end of the week, Sam felt truly exhausted, both physically and emotionally. The constant pace of work at the SGC had been truly challenging and demanding.
One evening after an endless workday, Sam returned home feeling as if every part of her being weighed twice as much. As soon as she walked through the door, she slumped onto the couch with a sigh and closed her eyes for a moment, trying to regain some energy.
While lying on the couch, the phone rang. Sam picked it up and saw that it was a call from Jack. With a smile, she answered the call, and in an instant, Jack's voice sounded on the other end of the line.
"Hello, honey," Jack said with a smile. "How was your day?"
Jack's voice was like a balm to Sam's ears, its sweet and gentle tone making her feel serene and comforted.
"Hi, Jack. It's been a long and exhausting day, but we're making progress at work," Sam replied with evident tiredness in her voice. "How about you?"
Jack sighed on the other end of the line, and his voice hinted at some weariness. "It's exhausting, to be honest. Meetings seem never-ending, and all this paperwork is going to drive me crazy."
Sam empathetically nodded, though he couldn't see her. "I completely understand, it seems like both of us have had quite an overwhelming day."
A brief moment of silence unfolded between them, as if they could feel a physical connection across the thousands of miles that separated them. Finally, Jack broke the silence. "Samantha, I want you to know that all this effort and hard work will be worth it. I'm incredibly proud of you."
Suddenly, a wave of emotions overwhelmed her, and before she could respond, she began to cry softly.
"Sam, what's wrong?" Jack asked, his tone full of concern.
Sam wiped away the tears streaming down her face and took a deep breath before responding. "Jack, sometimes I feel so helpless. The situation overwhelms me at times. I know people are really patient and kind with me here at the SGC, but sometimes I struggle to keep up with them."
Tears continued to flow as Sam expressed her feelings. "I know I'm doing my best, but there are days when I feel it's not enough. Not being able to do things as easily as before frustrates me. I feel limited, and it makes me feel so vulnerable."
Jack's voice sounded understanding on the other end of the line. "Sam, it's okay to feel that way. What you're facing is tough, and it's completely normal to have moments of vulnerability."
Sam continued to speak, her voice trembling slightly over the phone. "You know, lunchtime is when I sometimes feel most vulnerable. I have to ask for help to carry the food tray to the table. I can't hold it and use the crutches at the same time, and it frustrates me incredibly."
Jack's voice responded with reassuring understanding. "Sam, that doesn't make you vulnerable at all. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it's an act of courage in acknowledging your needs. I'm sure everyone around you understands and is more than happy to lend a hand."
Jack's voice softened even more as he heard that she was still crying. "Samantha, if I could be there by your side right now, I would be in a heartbeat, believe me. You are incredibly strong and brave, Sam. You've always faced every challenge that has come your way with determination, and this is no different."
Sam let out a smile through her tears. "Thank you, Jack. You always find the right words to comfort me, even on the toughest days."
Jack's response was a warm smile in his tone. "I'm here for you, Sam. Always, for anything you need."
The conversation continued, with Sam sharing more details about her day, and Jack listening attentively. As they talked, Sam's exhaustion and frustration seemed to lessen, replaced by a comforting feeling of love and affection.
Finally, it was time to say goodbye. "Rest and recharge, Sam," Jack said with a perceptible smile in his tone. "Tomorrow will be new day, and I know you'll face it with the same determination as always."
Sam nodded, feeling grateful for all the love Jack had for her. "Thanks, Jack. See you when you get back. I love you."
With one last smile, Jack said his goodbyes, and the sound of the call faded away. Sam put the phone aside and settled back on the couch, finally succumbing to exhaustion and falling asleep.
After having the phone call with Sam the night before, his thoughts remained focused on her and how he could help her feel more comfortable and secure at the SGC, especially during lunchtime.
Jack was determined to do something to assist her, and the idea of gifting her a walker kept swirling in his mind. He thought it could be a practical and meaningful gesture to show his support, but he was also aware that Sam was a fairly proud person, and he didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable or more vulnerable than she already did.
A walker could provide her with the stability and balance she needed to move with more confidence, without relying entirely on crutches. He thought that this small gesture of support could make a difference.
He envisioned Sam using a customized walker, seeing her walk with confidence while carrying her tray of food easily and without worries.
He decided he would search for the perfect walker for Sam. He wanted it to be functional but also aesthetically pleasing and personalized to reflect Sam's personality. He didn't know much about this type of equipment, but he was willing to learn and ensure it was a useful and beneficial solution for her, so he researched more about how to obtain a high-quality walker that would meet Sam's needs. He knew it wouldn't be a magical solution, but at least it could be a step in the right direction.
Despite his doubts, Jack decided to proceed with his plan, researched walker options, and finally chose one that promised quality and comfort. The chosen walker was one of those that incorporated a small basket-shaped compartment at the front and a flat surface on top. Jack thought it was the perfect walker because Sam could use the basket to transport items more easily, and the top surface would serve as support for her food tray when heading to the table.
With a satisfied smile on his face, he decided to place the order. He couldn't wait to see Sam's face when he gave it to her.
When he finally returned to Springs, he eagerly awaited Sam's return home from her shift at the SGC. With a smile, Jack handed the walker to Sam. "Sam, I've been thinking about how I could make you feel more comfortable and secure during lunchtime, and... well, I bought this for you."
Jack's expression turned more serious as he realized his gesture might not have had the effect he hoped for.
"What the hell were you thinking, Jack?" Sam exclaimed with incredulity in her voice. She couldn't believe he had made such a personal and delicate decision for her without even consulting her.
Jack looked at Sam with sadness in his eyes, realizing the extent of his mistake. "Sam, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to…"
"I don't want your apologies, Jack," Sam interrupted, her eyes flashing with indignation.
Jack looked at her with surprise and regret in his eyes, but Sam was too angry to notice. "Sam, I just... thought it might help you feel more secure."
"Don't give me excuses," Sam interrupted. "You have no right to make decisions for me, especially about something as personal as this."
Sam sighed in frustration and roughly set the walker aside. "Jack, don't you get it? Do you think I'm so weak that I can't deal with my own limitations? Do you think I'm unaware of the situation I'm in? I can't believe you did this without even asking me. How could you think for a moment that giving me a walker was a good idea? Do you really think I'm completely incapable of taking care of myself?"
Sam's words came out with a mix of anger and disappointment. Her eyes were filled with frustration as she looked at Jack. She had hoped that of all people in the world, he would understand her better than anyone else.
Jack lowered his gaze, feeling embarrassed and regretful for his choice. "Sam, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to belittle you or make you feel weak or vulnerable. I just wanted to help in some way. You're right, Sam. I messed up by not consulting you. It was a mistake."
Sam stood up from the couch with an angry expression. "Well, you've accomplished the opposite. I don't need your help, Jack. I hoped you knew me better than that." Sam's breathing was agitated from the intensity of her anger. "It was more than a mistake!" Sam exclaimed, her voice rising.
Jack stood up and approached Sam, taking her hands in an attempt to seek connection. "Sam, I truly am sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you like this. I wanted to support you, but I see I did it wrong. Sam, I understand you're upset, but…"
"No, you don't understand," Sam interrupted with a bitter laugh. "If you truly understood, you would have never done something like this."
Sam's words were sharp as knives, and Jack received them like direct blows to his heart. He knew he had made a serious mistake, and now he was facing the consequences of his actions.
Silence hung between them, charged with tension and conflicting emotions. Sam looked at Jack with hard eyes before turning around and walking toward the door. "I don't want to see you here, Jack."
The atmosphere in the room became even tenser, as if anger and frustration were palpable in the air. "Sam, you need to calm down a bit and listen to me."
There was a tense silence between them, filled with unspoken words and warring emotions. Jack finally lowered his gaze, his voice softer now. "I don't want this to ruin what we have, Sam."
"This is my home, Jack. My space, my sanctuary, my safe place. And right now, I need you to leave. I need space to think, to process all of this. I can't think clearly with you here."
"Sam, I..." he began to say, but she interrupted him with a gesture of her hand.
"No, Jack. Don't say anything else," Sam said with a tense but determined voice. "I just need you to leave. Please."
Jack nodded with sadness, his expression reflecting a mix of regret and remorse. He looked at Sam one last time before heading toward the door. Every step felt like a weight on his chest, a tangible sign of the distance that had been created between them.
When he reached the door, Jack stopped and turned his head toward Sam. "Sam, I want you to know that I'm sorry. It wasn't my intention to hurt you like this."
Sam nodded, her eyes filled with tears as she struggled to contain her emotions. "I know, Jack."
With those words, Jack nodded once more and left the house. The door closed behind him, leaving Sam alone in the silence that followed the emotional storm.
After the intense argument with Sam, Jack felt completely defeated and lost. He knew he had made a serious mistake and was now facing the consequences of his actions. Sam's words echoed in his mind, and as time passed, the feeling of having lost Sam overwhelmed him. With a heavy heart, he realized that his presence, as much as he wanted to be with her, would only make things worse.
Jack decided that it was best to give Sam the space she needed to calm down and process what had happened. He opted to rent a room at a nearby motel. It wasn't a perfect solution, but at least it would be functional now that everything seemed to be falling apart.
The motel wasn't luxurious or particularly comfortable, but it served its purpose. Jack entered the room with a sense of defeat. He slumped onto the bed, running a hand through his hair as he sighed deeply. Guilt and regret intertwined inside him, forming a painful knot in his chest.
Given the tense atmosphere and Sam's anger, Jack began to consider the idea of drowning his own frustrations and feelings of guilt in alcohol. The tempting idea of getting lost in the haze of drunkenness began to take shape in his mind. He thought that maybe, temporarily, he could escape the sadness and shame he felt.
Jack got up from the bed and walked to the minibar. He stared at the bottles for a while, internally struggling between the need to escape his own feelings and the awareness that it wasn't the right solution. He knew that getting drunk would only be a temporary form of evasion and wouldn't solve the problem. Finally, with a resigned sigh, Jack closed the minibar and slumped back onto the bed.
As the night went on, the idea of truly losing Sam began to haunt him. He pictured a future where she would no longer be close to him, where their relationship had irreparably broken. The mere thought of her being out of his life caused him profound pain, and a sense of emptiness consumed him.
In a desperate impulse, Jack got up from the bed and headed back to the minibar. His hands trembled as he grabbed a bottle of whiskey. The idea of getting drunk suddenly took on a new meaning. Without a second thought, Jack opened the bottle and took a long swig. He kept drinking, one sip after another, seeking to drown out his thoughts and feelings.
As the alcohol flowed through his system, his mind began to blur. Memories and worries gradually faded away, replaced by a kind of emotional numbness. Each sip seemed to take him further and further away from reality.
In his struggle to escape reality, Jack didn't realize that his cell phone had been ringing persistently.