Rating: T for occasional language

Summary: Set in early season 5 when Harm was out flying. This story gives Harm a different (better!) reason for changing his designator than the show provided. And may just open the way for him to find his happily ever after – with a little trouble along the way, of course.

Disclaimer: JAG was created by Donald P. Bellisario and is owned in whole or in part by Belisarius Productions and Paramount Network Television (CBS Studios). This is a work of fiction playing with the characters that I have loved for more than twenty years – I make no money from this and no copyright infringement or disrespect is intended.

Letters Home: Doin' It Their Way

By: visions2share (a.k.a. Vi)

Tuesday, June 8, 1999

U.S.S. Patrick Henry

Mediterranean Sea

Mac,

No, I'm not in favor of making an announcement either. I never know how to react when people do that. I don't think I'm a prude or anything but I do prefer to keep private things private. I wouldn't bring it up with anybody, except maybe Gran – but she's already assuming were involved based on how often I talk about you. But, as I continue to get to know Skates and Tuna if they ask if I have a girlfriend, I'll say that I do. Is that okay? Also is the term girlfriend okay – is there another you'd prefer?

Would you like to try to schedule a time over the weekend for us to IM? We could "chat" in real time. If you would, then, if Bugme asks you again about making plans, you can honestly say you already have plans and could even drop the word boyfriend or partner so maybe he'd get the hint that you aren't interested without you needing to be explicit or rude. If he keeps pushing, try to catch Chegwidden after hours for an unofficial chat – he'll do everything possible (outside of official complaints) to keep him out of your hair. That's what I finally resorted to doing about Krennick when she was making such a nuisance of herself. I was hesitant to go to my commanding officer about the situation but the two of us were having a drink after I'd wrapped an investigation (long story) and he took the opportunity to unofficially warn me that getting involved with a superior wasn't a great career move. This was after she had arranged to borrow his cabin for a weekend and ordered me to join her. I flat out informed him that I had no wish to be involved with her but was having a hard time getting her to believe me. We chatted about it a bit because we both knew that if I lodged a formal complaint it would definitely get press and blow up into a whole big thing. After that night, he did his best to see us on assignments with minimal to no overlap. I know you are a self-sufficient Marine but it's okay to ask for help. Just making sure he's aware of the situation might mean Brumby is suddenly very busy for awhile.

I'm so pleased you filed the 729 form about the sgt's behavior. I think it was the right choice.

I've been rambling for a while as I try to decide how to phrase this – and still haven't thought of a good way. So, I'm just going to say it and ask that you take it the way I mean. Here goes: I think it would be better, when discussing having a new boyfriend or partner, if you didn't mention any names or details. If our places were reversed I wouldn't want to deal with all the well-meaning (hopefully) gossip and prying. Also, I have a hunch that if Bugme knew it was me you're involved with he might come on even stronger in an effort to best me. I know that sounds stupid but men can be stupid. Often are, in fact, and he strikes me as that kind of man. If you feel differently, you should certainly do what you feel is best. I cannot adequately express how happy you've made me by agreeing to give us a go – happier than I've ever been in my adult life. So, thank you – I hope you're happy too!

I'm attaching my flight schedule for the next few days – keep in mind I'm likely unavailable for about an hour or so on either end of each flight op. Is there a time or times you'd like to schedule to have a virtual date and IM? I wish video calls were possible without the whole huge set-up. Oh well – chatting will be great too!

Hugs,

Harm

P.S. I'm having something delivered to you at the office soon – I told them not to put my name on the card but please know I mean every word!

P.P.S. Now I really hope they got my message right!

Tuesday, June 8, 1999

Defense Justice Head Quarters

Falls Church, Virginia

Harm,

Harriet brought the baby in to visit – he is so stinking adorable! Bud took a picture or two of me getting godmother cuddles – maybe Harriet will e-mail you copies. If she doesn't, let me know, because Bud promised to send me copies. If Harriet doesn't supply them, I will.

Would 1400 zulu Saturday be a good time to IM? Or would you prefer 1900? I'm going to spend a couple of hours Saturday afternoon at Bud and Harriet's playing with the baby so, if you'd like to IM with them too, I can take my laptop along and 1900 would be about the right time. But, I realize that you may be right in the middle of your night. Sleep is more important – you've got to be well rested to stay safe while you fly.

Harm! These roses are beautiful! How did you manage to send me flowers from thousands of miles away? The card reads, "from our very beginning to our forever. I love you." Did they get the message right? They are the most beautiful white and yellow roses – there are a dozen of each color (I definitely counted) but the florist has mixed them together in a beautiful arrangement and presented them in a stunning glass vase. Harm, this is seriously the most beautiful bouquet I've ever seen!

Tiner says the admiral wants to see me, so more later.

Miss you,

Mac

Author's Note: Happy Halloween! I hope you each have a day of treats and no tricks. Thanks for reading! ~Vi