EPILOGUE
Sam gazed out the expansive window in her newly built white pearl kitchen, taking in the serene landscape blanketed in a fresh layer of snow from the previous night's heavy fall. Their two-story, five-bedroom, five-bathroom home was nestled on 6.5 acres of private, wooded land with a picturesque pond view. The covered front porch, now adorned with a pristine snow mantle, offered a delightful spot to enjoy the winter scenery.
Their residence boasted a four-car garage attached to the main house where Sam's Mercedes Pagoda and her new black F-150 stood alongside her Harley. There was an additional shed with a cement floor that served as storage for Jack's toys, like the fishing equipment and the snowmobiles, Sam's workshop, and storage for her weapons, dully secured with equipment Jack had never seen but only opened with his voice and hand scan. He had told her it was very sci-fi Asgard-type tech. She told him not to bother her with his little 'grey friends' at home.
Sam and Jack's primary bedroom on the main floor exuded warmth and sophistication with its well-thought-out design and cozy elements. The room was generously spaced and adorned with a color palette dominated by soothing beige tones, creating a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.
The bedroom's centerpiece was a charming fireplace strategically positioned to add aesthetic appeal and functionality. Its presence enhanced the room's visual charm and provided a warm, intimate ambiance, perfect for relaxing evenings—and hot, intimate nights.
Adjacent to the fireplace, the room boasted an ensuite bathroom that offered convenience and privacy. The ensuite was equipped with modern fixtures, featuring a spa-like bathtub for Sam, a spacious shower for two, and tasteful finishes that complement the overall design.
The walk-in closet was meticulously crafted for functionality and elegance, offering generous storage for clothing and accessories, namely her several types of boots and sneakers, emphasizing effortless organization. Complete with built-in shelves, drawers, and a well-lit vanity area, it exuded sophistication. Despite its practical design, she seldom frequented the space unless prompted by his insistence on a night out, coupled with the presentation of a new dress. Since they had moved, Sam had entered the unknown, mysterious world of dresses, which still caused her mixed feelings. She wasn't fond of wearing dresses but enjoyed how he removed them from her figure.
Throughout the room, beige tones prevail, creating a cohesive and calming environment. The neutral color scheme was complemented by the artwork from her father's house and throw pillows that added visual interest without overpowering the soothing atmosphere.
The main floor included their spacious kitchen, a home focal point, offering ample room for Jack's culinary endeavors. It had an open layout, allowing for easy flow and interaction with the adjacent living spaces. It was equipped with modern, high-end appliances, sleek countertops, and custom cabinetry, providing plenty of storage space. The design incorporated a central island, creating a practical workspace and a casual dining area for quick meals or socializing while cooking. That had been all Jack's choosing. Like she used to say, she just went there to eat.
Adjacent to the kitchen was a convenient half bath, offering practicality for residents and eventual guests on the main floor. This addition ensured that essential facilities were easily accessible without the need to venture far from the main living areas.
The living room, featuring a striking two-story brick fireplace, was a captivating focal point of their home. The fireplace added warmth to the space and was visually stunning. Custom-made bookshelves surround the fireplace, showcasing Sam's collection of books, essays, and some of Jack's books. The shelves were thoughtfully designed to complement the overall aesthetic of the living room, providing a stylish backdrop for literary treasures.
The two-story height of the fireplace created a sense of grandeur in the living room, making it a cozy and inviting space. Large windows flanked the fireplace, allowing natural light to flood the room and providing picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. It was one of Sam's favorite places in the house.
An oversized, plush grey couch took center stage, positioned strategically to face the fireplace and serve as the perfect spot for relaxation. The couch invited occupants to sink into its soft cushions and enjoy the warmth of the fireplace. Accent dark blue pillows and a cozy throw blanket added comfort and a touch of style, creating an inviting nook for reading.
Flanking the main couch, Sam had put a couple of well-appointed light blue chairs that provided additional seating options. These chairs were placed near the fireplace and offered an ideal vantage point for enjoying the flickering flames and the curated collection of books on the nearby shelves.
Sam's office, affectionately known as the "Control Room" by Jack, was a space that seamlessly blended functionality with cutting-edge technology. The room was meticulously organized, featuring a modern, sleek design reflecting Sam's penchant for efficiency and innovation.
The office's focal point was Sam's desk, where a distinctive plaque proudly declared the space as "Sam's Control Room." The plaque played a playful touch and emphasized the room's significance as a central hub for Sam's work and projects.
The desk was a contemporary and spacious workstation with state-of-the-art technology to facilitate Sam's tasks. Multiple monitors, advanced computer systems, and ergonomic accessories created an environment tailored to productivity and efficiency. The desk also featured compartments and organizers to keep cables and peripherals neatly tucked away. Playfully, Jack teased her about competing with SGC, but she shrugged and walked away.
The office walls had smart boards, providing ample space for brainstorming, jotting ideas, or outlining plans. A combination of task and ambient lighting ensured a well-lit workspace conducive to focus and concentration, which was essential for her.
Custom-made shelves lined the walls, showcasing reference materials, awards from her Academy years, and personal touches she brought from her father's house, namely all his awards, medals, and commendations.
The upper level housed three more bedrooms, each with its full bathroom, completing the layout of their dream home. Their decoration was simple but cozy as she had incorporated many things from her father's house and was open to future changes.
As Sam sipped her coffee, she couldn't help but sigh. The house was constructed according to her meticulous specifications and Jack's preferences, featuring stunning authentic hardwood flooring.
The walkout basement, nearly finished, was destined to become their entertainment room and gym. Despite its grandeur, the house exuded a surprising coziness that Sam cherished, making her feel truly at home, even in Jack's absence. He had called the previous night, alerting her to his delayed return from SGC. He had missed his flight but aimed to catch the next one, weather permitting. Sam hoped for a safe journey; she missed him.
After much discussion on Colorado Springs, they had reached a mutual understanding: Jack would continue as the SG-1 team leader until a replacement was found, while Sam, working as an independent consultant from Minnesota, would provide necessary support to SGC and the Stargate. The plan was for Jack to retire eventually, relocating permanently to Minnesota to work for SGC under the same arrangement as Sam. After persuasion from General Hammond and the unexpected aid from Major Paul Davis, the Pentagon endorsed and signed this agreement.
Immediately upon moving to Minnesota, she began searching for the perfect piece of land to buy and build their dream house. She came across a property with an old, unused house and swiftly purchased and demolished it. Construction work commenced as soon as they obtained the necessary permits.
During the construction phase, she primarily stayed in his cabin, going to hers when she needed to send something to SGC. He didn't have the tech in his cabin, and she saw no point in relocating her equipment. She just had to walk a bit or drive her truck. For sentimental reasons, they resolved not to sell her cabin or the one he owned.
But that had been the crazy months of permits and zoning regulations, architectural and engineering plans, utilities and infrastructure, construction materials, and techniques, hiring contractors and builders, considering the energy efficiency and building codes, and passing the various inspections during the different stages of construction. When the house was finally ready, Sam felt she could write a book about how to do it.
Yet, for now, in her new home, she endured nights alone while Jack continued his missions against System Lords to safeguard Earth. Sam was lost in thought when a voice interrupted her musings.
"You look very deep in thought," Jack's voice echoed through the kitchen entrance.
Sam almost dropped her mug, turning to see a snow-covered Jack in a polar parka, a smile on his face.
Barefoot and dressed only in a T-shirt and very pink sweatpants, Sam rushed toward him, throwing herself into his arms.
"Jack!" she exclaimed, wrapping her arms around his neck and nearly toppling him.
"Easy tiger," he teased as she put her long legs around his waist, kissing him and removing his wet hood.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, slowly caressing his frozen face.
He carried her to the living room, where the burning fireplace provided a much warmer environment.
"I managed to catch the last flight before they grounded them," he said with a grin.
Sam kissed him again, and they collapsed onto the couch.
"Good," she said between kisses.
"Very good," he corrected, beginning to shed his wet clothes.
When she paused the kissing, her eyes constantly scrutinized him for any signs of injury. She did this every time he came back home.
"It's okay, Sam. I'm not hurt," he reassured, his hands lifting his sweater for her inspection.
"Swear?" she inquired, gripping his face.
Jack smiled. "I swear," he said, gently kissing her lips.
She rested her head on his shoulder.
"Good, good," she muttered more to herself than anything.
Their reunions were always a bit chaotic. He observed numerous candles strategically placed throughout the room, offering not just a gentle illumination but also a pleasant aroma of vanilla.
"I noticed you had some snow. Are you okay?" he asked.
"Yes, the generators held up through the blizzard, and the adjustments I've made are working perfectly," she replied.
Jack began to kiss her neck.
"So, the candles are just to create a romantic environment?
Sam giggled against him.
"I also like the smell," she admitted.
Jack persisted with his kisses, trailing down to her jaw and collarbone.
"I'm enjoying this too, but I have a crucial question to ask you," he said, his lips returning to hers.
Sam was busy playing with his hair.
"What?" she asked dreamingly.
"Mrs. O'Neill, ready to retire to bed and begin our journey into the art of O'Neill baby-making?" he playfully suggested.
She gave him a pointed look.
"Baby Carter," she corrected immediately.
Jack kissed her deeply.
"Baby Carter-O'Neill, oh stubborn wife," he chuckled, lifting and carrying her towards their bedroom.
Sam ran her fingers through the hairs on his neck.
"I believe that is an excellent idea, husband. Let's see what I can teach you this time," she said with a big smile.
Jack laughed, closing the door. He hadn't revealed yet that General Hammond had finally found his replacement in SG-1, and his retirement was in progress. He was definitively moving to Minnesota to be with her. But that could wait. For now, they were focused on expanding their family, a serious business indeed, and that required his full attention and concentration. They were about to make a baby genius, after all.