Upon his immediate return to his office at Homeworld, straight from the airfield, Jack was swiftly informed by his secretary that the White House had called and the President awaited his arrival. In frustration, Jack muttered under his breath, hastily gathering papers from his desk and stuffing them into his briefcase. He instructed Martina to inform his driver they were bound for the White House. It seemed the battle was commencing sooner than he had anticipated.
As Jack strode through the corridors toward the Oval Office, his heart pounded heavily, though his expression remained impassive. Upon entering, he found the President and the Joint Chiefs of Staff assembled. It was decision time.
"Good morning, Mister President," Jack greeted, saluting his commander-in-chief.
Kevin Young, elected with a vast majority and highly popular among the majority of the population, had a reputation for candidness uncommon among politicians. A former Navy SEAL with numerous decorations who had been drawn to politics after leaving the service, he understood the military. When revealed to him, he was deeply interested in the Stargate Program and keen on maximizing its potential for the USA. However, his administration was notably reticent about sharing military technological advantages, leading to diplomatic tensions with China, Russia, the UK, and France. Since Young had taken office, Jack had been acting as a buffer, a job he hardly liked.
"Welcome back, Jack. How are the plants?" Young asked with a teasing smile.
Jack nodded to the seated generals, returning the smile. "General Landry has everything under control, Sir. SGC is back to business," he assured.
Young's smile persisted. "So the plants saw you arriving and got scared? Like most people at the Pentagon?" he quipped.
Jack maintained his poker face. "I'm a kitten, Sir," he replied, eliciting laughter from the room, including the President.
"With very deadly claws," Young added once the laughter subsided.
Jack remained silent as the Chairman of the JCS, General Thomas Walker, cleared his throat. "As you can imagine, we've been assessing the entire situation regarding Colonel Samantha or Emily Carter after the whole fiasco of the suicide attempt. By the way, how is she?" he asked.
Jack took Carolyn Lam's report from his briefcase and handed it to him.
"That's the latest assessment from SGC's CMO," he said.
The General carefully read it and then passed it to the President, who merely glanced at it.
"So she's on treatment. Now, what is your assessment? Is she a risk to us?" General Walker asked.
Jack shook his head. "No," he said without further explanation.
General Michael Hall, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, leaned forward.
"Can't you be a little more explicit, Jack? She is still a Colonel of the Air Force, and she deceived us completely," he said harshly.
Jack looked at him. "Yes, she did. I recently found out she had reasons to do it—private and painful reasons that happened in her reality. I'll prepare a report if you insist," he said.
He knew he had little choice if Sam was to have any life in this reality with the degree of freedom he wanted her to have. Her secret would have to be known to the men in this room.
"Prepare the report," the President ordered.
"Yes, Sir," Jack said, his stomach churning.
General Walker looked around the room and then fixed his gaze on Jack. "Regardless of your report, we have concluded Carter's situation. She can no longer remain in the Air Force. Her conduct wasn't in line with the expectations of an officer. However, her genius is something we can't neglect, and we intend to take full advantage of that. But we still want your opinion on that," he stated.
Jack swallowed hard. It wasn't unexpected, but hearing it stated so coldly made it no less difficult to bear. "So you'll kick her out of the Air Force but expect her to cooperate with us?" he clarified, his tone cutting through the tension in the room.
General Hall shrugged. "Well, she's in our reality. She came here of her own accord, so she has to make concessions," he reasoned.
Jack nodded slowly. "Yes, but I know firsthand that a Carter, especially Carter women, when cornered, isn't cooperative," he said, his voice measured.
The President raised an eyebrow. "Do I detect a hint of a threat there, Jack?" he asked, his tone cautious.
Jack turned to the President.
"No, Sir. This is not a threat but a warning from someone who worked with and was married to a Samantha Carter. I'm the only one in this room with personal knowledge about their character, and I can tell you, they are very stubborn," he explained, his gaze shifting to the Chief of Staff of the Army, General Martin Collins. "You knew General Jacob Carter. So you have an idea how stubborn the Carters can be," he added.
The almost retired General sighed heavily. "He's right. Those Carters are stubborn as hell. Jacob drove me up the wall for years and always got what he wanted. They don't give up," he admitted, a note of resignation in his voice.
The room fell silent once more as the weight of their decision settled upon them.
"What's your proposal, then?" the President asked.
Jack swallowed twice before responding. "She continues as Doctor Emily Carter and is a consultant for us. If you feel more comfortable, decrease her level of security, but then don't expect her to solve your problems when she doesn't have access to things. But first, she needs to recover her health," he suggested.
Murmurs spread through the room as the generals discussed among themselves. Jack noticed the President remained silent.
General Walker finally raised a hand, signaling for silence.
"Mister President, we should let things stay as they are. She is out of the Air Force and continues to receive medical care. Her security level will decrease for now, and she remains forbidden to access anything regarding the Stargate Program. We'll reevaluate after General O'Neill informs us about the special circumstances he mentioned," he concluded.
The President nodded.
"Very well, gentlemen. I agree. Thank you for this meeting. That's all," he said as the generals began to leave the room. Just as Jack reached the door, the President stopped him.
"Jack, one moment, please," the President requested, causing General Walker to shoot Jack a warning look before leaving and closing the door behind him.
"Yes, Sir?" Jack responded.
"Besides that report, there's something else you aren't telling me. What is it?" the President inquired.
Jack swallowed, hoping to avoid the topic but realizing he had no choice but to address it now. "I'm submitting my retirement papers, Sir," Jack said solemnly.
The President raised both eyebrows in surprise.
"Retirement? Now? Why?" he asked, clearly confused.
Jack looked at the President, the weight of his decision heavy on his shoulders.
"I'm tired, Sir. I've given many years of my life to this country and this planet at a very high cost. I lost one child and my wife. I have a young daughter who needs me. It's time," he explained.
Kevin Young studied him carefully.
"All you said is true, and we are indeed in great debt to you. But why now, Jack? If you had told me that when Samantha died and I took office, I would understand perfectly, but you stayed..." he trailed off, questioning Jack's timing.
Jack absentmindedly caressed his ring finger, where his wedding ring no longer sat.
"When my wife died, I needed the work to keep me sane, or I would have drowned in grief, Sir. I've done my grieving, and I'm ready to move on," he said, not wanting to delve into too much detail and certainly not revealing his relationship with this Sam. He wanted his retirement.
"I see," Young said, taking in Jack's words.
"General Hank Landry is an excellent candidate to replace me, Sir," Jack suggested.
The President merely nodded. "I'll take that under advisement. Thank you, General," he said.
Jack saluted him and left the office, feeling as though a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.
As Jack's car rolled away from the White House, the familiar sights of Washington, D.C., passed by in a blur. The city's bustling streets seemed to fade into the background as Jack's mind churned with thoughts of the discussion that had just taken place.
In the backseat of the car, Jack sat silently, staring out the window with a contemplative expression. The events of the meeting replayed in his mind like a broken record, each word spoken by the President and the Joint Chiefs of Staff echoing in his thoughts.
He couldn't shake the weight of the decision regarding Sam's future. Despite his efforts to advocate for her and protect her interests, he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease about the outcome. The thought of Sam being forced out of the Air Force, her career abruptly halted, weighed heavily on his conscience. Even as she had told him, she didn't 'give a fuck anymore.'
As the car continued its journey back to the Pentagon, Jack's thoughts turned to Sam herself. He wondered how she was coping with everything, how she felt about the prospect of leaving the military behind. He knew she was strong and resilient, but even she must feel the strain of the uncertainty ahead.
Lost in his thoughts, Jack barely noticed the passing scenery outside the window. The car weaved through traffic, the road rhythm lulling him into introspection. Despite the gravity of the situation, a flicker of determination sparked within him. He would do whatever it took to ensure Sam's well-being and happiness, even if it meant making difficult decisions and facing uncertain futures.
As the car finally pulled up to the Pentagon, Jack emerged from his reverie, his mind still buzzing with thoughts and emotions. Stepping out onto the pavement, he squared his shoulders, put on his sunglasses, and prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that he would always fight for what he believed was right, especially when it came to those he cared about most.
Alone in her room at the SGC, Sam sat in contemplative silence after Vala's departure, another attempt at lifting her spirits that had fallen short. Guilt weighed heavily on her conscience now. Unlike in the clinic, where she was a stranger, here she was among familiar faces, people who had shown her kindness and care despite her not belonging. They didn't owe her anything, yet they repeatedly contacted her. It made her question her worthiness.
Teal'c's words from a recent conversation echoed in her mind, his deep voice resonating with wisdom. "It is my understanding that you are experiencing a difficult period of your life, Colonel Carter, but from what I knew of Samantha Carter in this reality and the little you have shared with us, I believe you are entitled to rest. You are not responsible for fixing everything that is broken. You do not have to try to make everyone happy. For now, take time for yourself. It's time to replenish," he had said with solemnity.
Sam had listened then, nodding in acknowledgment, but now his words reverberated within her, striking a chord she couldn't ignore. She had spent a lifetime striving to please others—her father, Pete, and Jack—at the expense of her own needs and desires. Was it finally time to prioritize herself and seek fulfillment for Samantha Carter?
Lost in introspection, Sam's gaze drifted to the blank wall before her, swallowing hard against the lump in her throat. At nearly 49 years old, she grappled with the stark realization that she had no idea how to please herself or pursue her happiness. It felt pathetic but also a poignant awakening to a truth she had long ignored.
With a heavy sigh, Sam resolved to embark on a journey of self-discovery, to learn how to prioritize her well-being and happiness. It wouldn't be easy, but perhaps, for the first time in her life, Samantha Carter would find the courage to put herself first.
Carolyn Lam was taken aback when Sam walked into her office, her surprise nearly causing her to lose her balance in her chair. However, she composed herself quickly, maintaining her professional demeanor.
"Colonel Carter, what a surprise," she greeted, her tone deceiving calm and collected.
Sam quietly took a seat in front of Carolyn's desk.
"You suggested therapy several times before. If I were to say 'yes,' who would be the person? MacKenzie?" Sam inquired slowly.
Carolyn swallowed nervously before responding, "No. Doctor James MacKenzie is no longer at SGC. We have a different psychiatrist now. Her name is Doctor Dana Reed," she informed.
Sam nodded, her hands fidgeting with the pockets of her BDUs. "I see," she murmured, processing the information.
Aware of the delicate nature of the situation, Carolyn trod carefully. "You are most welcome to speak with her. Just a talk to see if you get along," she suggested lightly, hoping to ease Sam's apprehension.
Sam nodded again, indicating her understanding and acceptance of the suggestion.
"Before I do that, I need to talk with General O'Neill," Sam stated as she rose.
Carolyn looked at her, a little surprised. "Oh...okay," she responded.
"I'll tell you my decision later," Sam added before heading to the door.
Carolyn nodded silently, hoping that whatever conversation Sam had with General O'Neill would lead to her starting therapy—a crucial step in her recovery.
Back in her room, Sam closed the door behind her. They had taken her laptop away but provided her with an essential phone, allowing her to call and receive texts. Glancing at the time, she decided to take the risk and dialed Jack's number. Surprisingly, he answered almost immediately.
"Hey," he greeted.
"Hi. Am I interrupting?" Sam asked.
Jack gestured for the Colonel seated before him to leave immediately, and once the door closed, he replied, "No. I was just reading some boring papers," he lied.
"Ah, okay. I wanted to ask you a question, but if you can't answer, I'll understand," Sam said quickly.
Jack blinked, sensing the urgency in her voice. "Please ask," he encouraged.
"Has... um... has the Air Force reached any decision about me?" she inquired, her voice trembling slightly.
Jack swallowed, knowing he wasn't supposed to reveal this information yet. But in that moment, his concern for her outweighed any protocol.
"They have," he confirmed. "You will receive the official papers in a few days but are out of the Air Force, Sam. I'm sorry," he added softly. "You'll continue as Doctor Emily Carter."
The line went silent, and Jack grew concerned. "Sam, are you there?" he asked.
"Yes," she replied quietly.
"I would rather tell you this personally, but I'm not allowed to leave," he explained.
"I understand. Thanks for being honest with me," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
"I tried, Sam, but the decision was already made when I arrived," he explained, feeling a pang of guilt.
"Yeah, I figured that much," she sighed.
"How can I help more?" he asked gently.
Sam wiped away the tears that had started to fall. "I'm going to start therapy here," she confessed, her voice barely audible.
Jack's eyes widened in surprise. "That's... that's excellent. How do you feel about that?" he inquired.
There was another pause before Sam replied, her voice choked with emotion. "It's complicated."
"Look, Sam, I know it's tough, but it's a first step. It's hard to open up to someone who doesn't know us, but at the same time, it's easier. There's no judgment. Open up, let go," he advised.
"Yeah," Sam murmured, her gaze fixed on the ceiling.
"And I'm here. Call me anytime you want. If I don't answer, leave a message, and I'll call you back as soon as possible," he promised.
"You're busy, Jack," she said, clearing her throat.
"For you, I'm never busy," he asserted.
Sam swallowed hard. "I need to..." she trailed off, unsure how to end the call.
"You are not alone, Sam. Remember that. And I love you. Grace loves you. We'll be here," he said softly.
Sam wiped away her tears once more. "Okay. Bye," she said, afraid she might start crying again.
Jack hung up with a heavy heart. He wanted to be there with her, but he couldn't. This was something she had to do alone. He could only support her and be available whenever she needed.
Two days after her phone conversation with Jack, Sam began therapy sessions with Doctor Dana Reed, a Colonel like herself for the time being. Unlike her previous experience with Doctor MacKenzie, Sam was pleasantly surprised by Doctor Reed's playful demeanor. They bonded over their experiences in the Gulf War, exchanging stories that helped Sam feel more at ease. Slowly, she started to open up about her life and her reality.
She revisited the trauma of her mother's death and the problematic relationship with her father until he met the Tok'ra and Selmak, but mainly focused on her relationship with her CO, Jack O'Neill. When Sam disclosed the painful truth about her rape, Doctor Reed's initial shock was masked by her professionalism. Sam, consumed by emotion, began to cry, the tears flowing freely for several minutes.
Once Sam composed herself, Doctor Reed gently inquired, "Tell me, Sam, how do you feel now? After sharing what happened?"
Still wiping her tears and blowing her nose, Sam looked at the doctor and uttered the first word that came to her: "Drained."
Doctor Reed, dressed in her dress blues with a white coat like Carolyn, crossed her legs as she listened attentively. "Surviving rape can elicit a range of emotions," she began, her voice calm and reassuring. "During the healing process, many survivors of sexual violence undergo a dramatic shift in their perception of life and themselves. Feelings of anger, fear, shock, denial, and confusion are all normal reactions. Often, the pain doesn't simply dissipate; it needs a safe outlet."
She continued, empathetic, "I believe that breaking the silence is the first step toward recovery. It is my mission to provide a safe and supportive environment for each survivor of rape and abuse to speak out, ask for help, and receive help in return. I'm here for you, Sam," she concluded, offering her unwavering support.
Sam passed a hand through her hair.
"Those are very nice words for someone who has hit rock bottom, Doctor. I had given up and just wanted to end the pain when I was denied to cross to another reality. Even if I crossed eventually, I believe the result would be the same. Because I never truly confronted what happened. I just buried it in one part of my brain. For the first time since my attack, I feel a small glimmer of hope that I can get through this. I never felt hope before," Sam admitted, her voice trembling with vulnerability.
Dana Reed smiled warmly, her eyes filled with empathy.
"Well, that is good to hear. Hope inspires us to keep moving forward, persevere through adversity, and envision a brighter future. That is all we want for you," she said gently, offering reassurance.
Sam sniffled, wiping away her tears. "Yeah. Wishful thinking," she said with a tentative smile, still grappling with her newfound optimism.
The doctor shook her head, her expression firm yet compassionate.
"Not wishful, Sam. That is what we are working for here. So you can face uncertainty with courage and optimism, knowing that despite the obstacles, there's always a chance for positive change. That is the goal. There are better days ahead. Not all of them will be good, but they are in our future," she affirmed, instilling confidence in Sam's journey toward healing.
Sam's therapy sessions continued, providing her with a steady source of support and guidance as she navigated through her healing journey. Alongside her sessions, her phone calls with Jack remained a constant source of comfort and connection. They never discussed her sessions or them but talked about Grace and her life at SGC, but mainly Grace.
And one day, it became official. Sam was no longer a member of the Air Force. Her dismissal had arrived, and thanks to Jack's previous warning to Hank, it had been a relatively quiet affair. Sam had been called to Landry's office, where she was given the official paperwork. There, he informed her about her new status.
"According to the new rules, Doctor Carter, your presence in this reality is highly appreciated, and as such, the Administration would like to offer you a consultant contract to work with the Stargate Program. You can see the financial conditions are most satisfactory. Your security access will remain the same, except you won't be allowed any off-world travel. Here is the NDA to sign," Landry explained, handing her a file with several pages.
Silently, Sam took the file and signed it without hesitation. There was no point in reading it; she had come to accept her fate in this reality. Whether they paid better or not, it wasn't essential to her.
With the paperwork signed, Sam left Landry's office feeling mixed emotions. While she mourned the loss of her military career, she also felt relieved knowing she still had a role to play in the Stargate Program, even if it was in a different capacity. She had much to talk about with Dr. Reed in her next session.