After sharing an intimate moment on their couch, they found themselves standing together, lazily wrapped in each other's arms, engaging in casual conversation. The topics deliberately trayed from Project Perseus and their children, instead centering on mundane aspects of their lives—like Jack's recent search for new screws at the department store. Sam mentioned how she missed working on her bike, having long ago sold her Indian for a more modern Harley, which unfortunately gathered dust due to her hectic schedule.
"Why not buy a new bike and start restoring it?" Jack suggested, his fingers gently tracing circles on her back.
Sam raised an eyebrow, asking, "Like I did with my Indian?"
Jack continued his comforting caresses.
"Exactly. I remember how your face lit up when discussing the pieces you needed. You and Siler," he said, a smile playing on his lips.
Sam mirrored the smile.
"Yeah, there were times it helped," she admitted, her tone shifting.
"Oh? When?" Jack inquired, curiosity evident.
Sam cleared her throat.
"Mainly when you were hurt and in the infirmary. And I couldn't do a damn thing," she confessed.
Jack kissed her head, understanding the sentiment.
"Yeah, I know that feeling," he said, recalling the countless hours spent in the SGC's infirmary, helpless as he watched her in bed. "I'm grateful I can do much more now than just look at you," he added, initiating a series of kisses, his hands exploring her body.
Sam reciprocated, and soon, they found themselves lost in another passionate embrace on the couch. The tension of their earlier conversation melted away, replaced by the warmth of their connection. Jack's hands moved gently along Sam's back, pulling her closer as their lips met in a fervent kiss.
Their bodies pressed together, the intensity of their emotions fueling their desire. Sam ran her fingers through Jack's hair, savoring his familiar texture and comforting scent. Moments like these reminded her of the depth of their bond, the love that had weathered so many storms.
As their kisses deepened, the world outside seemed to fade away. The only thing that mattered was the here and now, the undeniable chemistry between them. Jack's hands explored Sam's body with a mix of tenderness and urgency, eliciting soft gasps of pleasure from her.
They shifted positions, lying back on the couch, with Sam straddling him. The soft fabric of the sofa was a stark contrast to the heat between them. Jack's lips traveled down Sam's neck, planting a trail of kisses that made her shiver with anticipation. She responded by caressing his chest, wanting to feel the warmth of his skin against hers.
In the dim light of the living room, their movements became more frantic, driven by the need to reaffirm their connection. Sam's insecurities from earlier seemed distant now, overshadowed by their shared passion. Jack whispered her name, his voice husky with desire, sending a thrill through her.
"Jack," she murmured, her breath hitching as he found a sensitive spot on her collarbone. "I need you."
"I'm here, Sam," he replied, his voice filled with emotion. "Always."
Already undressed, the cool air against their skin heightened their senses, making every touch and every kiss more electrifying. Jack's right hand traveled towards her core, finding her still wet.
"Oh honey, I don't think we need any lube," he said, grinning.
Sam blushed, feeling his arousal against her thigh. She pulled him closer, her need for him growing stronger with each passing second. The treatment was indeed starting to produce viable results as she felt her body more her own again. And they did have sex a lot. Jack's eyes never left hers as she positioned herself above him, his hands caressing her body as if he were rediscovering every inch.
Slowly, Sam took his whole length inside her, gentle but firm, making her gasp for air. Her back arched, and she put her hands on his chest, pushing him deeper. They moved together with a practiced rhythm, knowing each other's bodies intimately.
Jack's lips found her neck, kissing and nibbling softly, eliciting moans from Sam that spurred him on. He moved with precision and passion, and every thrust sent waves of pleasure through her body. Sam's fingers dug into his chest, urging him closer, more profound.
Their breathing became more ragged, their movements more urgent. Jack's hand found its way to Sam's breast, his thumb brushing over her nipple, adding to the intensity of her sensations. She cried out his name, her voice filled with both need and love.
"Jack..."
He responded with a deep, passionate kiss, his rhythm increasing as they both edged closer to their climax. The world around them faded, leaving only the two connected in a dance as old as time.
Sam's climax hit her first, a wave of intense pleasure that left her trembling and breathless, her head on his chest. Jack followed soon after, his release powerful and all-consuming. He collapsed on the couch, both breathing heavily, their bodies slick with sweat.
Afterward, they lay entwined on the couch, their breathing gradually returning to normal. Jack held Sam close, his fingers tracing patterns on her back. She rested her head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart.
"You are everything to me, Sam," he whispered, his voice tender.
She smiled, her heart swelling with love. "And you are everything to me, Jack."
They stayed like that for a while, basking in the afterglow of their intimacy. The earlier tension had dissipated, replaced by a renewed sense of closeness and understanding. Sam felt a sense of peace settle over her; the insecurities that had plagued her now seemed insignificant in the face of their enduring love.
Eventually, they got up and dressed, the reality of their responsibilities calling them back. But the memory of their passionate embrace lingered, a reminder of the strength of their bond. They had challenges but would face them together, fortified by the love that had already carried them through so much.
As they prepared for bed, Sam caught Jack's eye and smiled. "Thank you," she said softly.
"For what?" he asked, returning her smile.
"For reminding me that we can get through anything," she replied.
Jack took her hand and kissed it. "We always will, Sam. Together."
With that, they climbed into bed, holding each other close, ready to face whatever the future held.
Upon arriving at her office, Sam received the news that General McFee had scheduled an appointment for the afternoon. Letting out a sigh, she nodded and instructed Anne not to book anything else for the day. The morning was consumed by her work with the SGC and the development of Earth's version of the Ancient Long-Range Communications Device. Despite the extensive nature of the task, Sam reveled in the scientific challenges. Jack told her many times that after knowing her all these years, she was a scientist first and an Air Force officer second. She tended to agree with him more and more.
She skipped lunch, a habit she had been developing again since taking command of Homeworld, and immersed herself in her work until Anne informed her that General McFee had arrived for his appointment. Taking a deep breath, Sam instructed Anne to let him in.
The General entered Sam's office with an air of victory, his steps confident and his posture straight. His uniform, adorned with medals and emblems, reflected the soft light of the overhead fixtures, giving him an almost regal presence. The crispness of his movements and the slight smirk on his face signaled that he had all the world's confidence in his pockets.
"Good afternoon, General Carter," he greeted with a smile.
Sam looked up from her desk and responded curtly, "General."
McFee raised an eyebrow and settled into the chair before her desk, noting Sam hadn't budged from her seat. Despite his triumph in the Perseus matter, she remained the Head of Homeworld Command and had the same stars on her shoulders.
"No need for pleasantries," McFee began.
Sam nodded, put down her pen, and leaned back in her chair, bracing herself for whatever he was about to share.
"You've been informed that Perseus was shut down. Not the best start to your term as Head of Homeworld," he said with a sly smile.
Sam maintained her composed demeanor, a skill honed from years of navigating her troubled relationship with her father. Growing up, she had learned to mask her emotions, presenting a facade of strength and control despite the turmoil beneath the surface. This ability served her well in her career, where showing vulnerability could be seen as a weakness.
"Your point?" she inquired, inclining her head slightly.
McFee scanned her office, comparing it to Jack's and Landry's time. While Jack and Landry favored a simple military style, Sam added a personal touch with diplomas, certificates, an abstract painting, and furniture. Women, he thought dismissively.
"Homeworld is essentially a political assignment. You obviously don't seem very suited to that. Everyone knows you prefer science and even military assignments. Maybe we can reach an understanding," McFee suggested slowly.
Sam almost chuckled.
"So, you're after my position?" she asked, amused—the man's nerve apparently knew no bounds.
"I am," McFee admitted without any problem.
Sam shook her head.
"At least you don't beat around the bush," she remarked.
"However, I have a proposition for you," McFee continued.
Sam sighed, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "I can hardly wait, General."
McFee crossed his arms, leaning back in his chair.
"Science Advisor to the President," he proposed.
Sam met his gaze without a hint of movement. After a moment of silence, McFee began to grow concerned. This wasn't the reaction he anticipated. He had expected outrage, perhaps a heated argument, but Sam's unflinching stillness unnerved him.
Clearing his throat, McFee tried to break the silence.
"General Carter, I understand this might surprise you, but the decision has been made. Project Perseus is not feasible, so we must move on. That is what I'm talking about—moving on—putting the right people in the right places."
Sam remained silent, her piercing blue eyes locked onto his with an intensity that made him shift uncomfortably. She was weighing her words, considering her next move carefully, and McFee could feel the power dynamic in the room shifting. He had come here to assert control, but now he felt scrutinized.
"The right people in the right places?" Sam finally said, her voice even and measured. "You mean putting you in charge of Homeworld and sending me to the President's office?" she asked.
McFee bristled, but he attempted to maintain his composure.
"I'm putting things as they should be. It's about practicalities and the best use of our resources. You've tried Homeworld, but it clearly isn't for you. Now, I'm offering you a place that is cut out for you. Dealing with science issues at the highest level of this nation. So, aren't you interested?" he inquired.
Seated at her desk, Sam responded coldly, her gaze never wavering, "I know the current Science Advisor. He's a personal friend. So, no, I'm not interested."
McFee blushed, realizing his miscalculation.
"I won't make the offer twice, General. I think you should reconsider. Talk with Jack," he advised, rising from his chair.
McFee left the office, his steps less confident than when he had entered. Sam watched him go in silence, her heart pounding. She exhaled deeply and closed her eyes, trying to steady her racing thoughts. The weight of the ongoing political maneuvers was beginning to wear on her, a constant battle that drained her energy and tested her patience.
As the door clicked shut behind McFee, the room seemed to exhale with her. The air felt heavy with the remnants of their confrontation, and Sam allowed herself a moment of vulnerability. She leaned back in her chair, rubbing her temples as she fought off the encroaching fatigue. These clashes with McFee were becoming frequent, each chipping away at her resolve.
She opened her eyes and glanced at the framed photo on her desk—a picture of Jack, still at SG-1, on a planet entirely of sand, which he hated so much, but somehow Daniel had managed to take his photo when he wasn't paying attention. Sam had bribed Daniel with old editions that had cost her a fortune to get that photo. The memory brought a faint smile to her lips and a renewed sense of purpose.
Sam stood up and walked over to the window, looking at the sprawling city below. The view, once inspiring, now seemed a distant and indifferent backdrop to the challenges she faced. She couldn't help but wonder how many more battles she would have to fight, how many more times she would have to prove herself. She had spent her whole life doing that, and she was tired. She was tired of having to prove herself.
After glancing at the photo on her desk, Sam took a deep breath and returned to work. Maybe it was time to shift her priorities.
Upon entering their home, Jack immediately sensed that something was amiss with Sam. Despite her attempts to conceal it, her face betrayed the turmoil within. Over the years, their ability to read each other seemed to have intensified.
From the start, when he began working with her as a Captain at SG-1, Jack sensed she hid much more than she revealed. She was too controlled in her emotions for such a young woman working in such unusual circumstances. Their missions were fraught with danger and uncertainty, requiring a level head and clear thinking. So, he made a mission to find out if she was really concealing her emotions or was just a theoretical "ice queen," as they called her at SGC.
He had an uncanny knack for reading people and situations, always knowing when to push and when to hold back. She was good but not that good, and after some time, Jack could tell that she had somehow learned to conceal her true feelings. Then he knew about her father, General Jacob Carter, and their relationship, and the pieces started to fit.
Jack, a master of emotional restraint, finally admitted to himself his true feelings for her and, intentionally or not, taught her the importance of maintaining composure under pressure. Under his mentorship, Sam had become adept at managing her emotions, channeling them into her work rather than letting them overwhelm her. She wasn't as good as him, though, and despite her composed exterior, Sam was deeply affected by their experiences. He could tell that each mission, each loss, and each victory left its mark on her. But she had learned to process these emotions privately, finding solace in quiet moments alone or in the rare, candid conversations she shared with him as Colonel O'Neill.
As they got married, Jack explained to her that concealing emotions didn't mean ignoring them. Instead, it meant acknowledging them, understanding their impact, and setting them aside to deal with professional tasks. However, between them, he wanted a different approach. He didn't want her to hide her emotions any longer. He wanted everything on display, the good and the bad. He promised to do the same, believing this openness was essential for their relationship.
Navigating their first times as newlyweds and transitioning from commanding officer and second-in-command to husband and wife hadn't been easy. They had spent years learning to mask their true feelings in the field, but now, they had to unlearn that habit, first in a long-distance relationship and then at home when she became pregnant. There were frustration and misunderstandings as they adjusted to this new level of intimacy and vulnerability.
Jack was patient, encouraging Sam to share her fears, joys, and doubts. In return, he shared his own, revealing sides of himself that few had ever seen. This mutual openness helped them build a stronger foundation based on honesty and trust.
Even today, they still struggle. Old habits die hard, and sometimes, the instinct to retreat behind emotional walls was strong, as Sam had done with her health situation. But they had promised each other to face these challenges head-on. They communicated openly, worked through their issues together, and supported each other through the highs and lows. Sometimes, it just took a little longer.
Their relationship was far from perfect, but it was real. It was built on a commitment to know and understand each other, flaws and all. This honesty and vulnerability strengthened their bond, allowing them to grow as a couple and an individual. And in the end, that made all the difference.
"What happened?" Jack inquired as soon as he spotted her in the hallway.
Sam dropped her briefcase to the floor, the dull thud echoing through the hallway. She let out a heavy sigh as she massaged her temples. The day had been an unrelenting series of meetings, each more draining than the last. Her confrontation with McFee had been the final straw, leaving her emotionally and physically exhausted.
"Your 'friend' McFee is after my job," she revealed.
Jack clenched his teeth.
"He's not my friend, and I'll fucking kill him," he declared, reaching for his cell.
Sam placed a hand on him, urging restraint.
"Don't, Jack. It's not worth it," she said wearily.
He looked at her with surprise.
"He offered me Stanley's position," she added with a hint of a smile. "The man is a real weasel," she remarked, beginning to remove her jacket.
"Stanley? Who's Stanley?" Jack asked, confusion evident.
Sam gave him a quick kiss.
"Amos Stanley, the Science Advisor to the President. He's a friend from my Ph.D. days," she explained.
Jack's confusion persisted.
"Wait? He offered you a position in the White House Staff?" he questioned.
Sam nodded and headed for the stairs.
"I'm going to shower," she announced, with Jack following close.
"And you said no?" Jack pressed, attempting to understand her decision.
Sam nodded again.
"Yes, Jack. I politely tell him to fuck off," she affirmed.
Jack watched as Sam began to undress, slowly removing her dress blues with a deliberate grace. The formal uniform, symbolizing her authority and dedication, sharply contrasted the vulnerability she revealed as each piece was carefully set aside. He could see the fatigue etched into her movements, the weariness from her responsibilities' weight.
She unbuttoned her jacket and slipped it off, hanging it neatly on the back of a chair. Jack admired her meticulousness, even in moments of exhaustion. She started unfastening her shirt, her tired fingers dealing with the buttons.
"Why?" he inquired, crossing his arms.
Sam paused, looking at him with just her bra and skirt on as she hung up the shirt.
"Why? Are you seriously asking me that?" she responded slowly.
Jack nodded. "Yes, why?" he insisted.
Sam swallowed before explaining, "I told you downstairs. The Science Advisor is my friend. I'm not in the habit of taking jobs from friends."
Jack continued leaning against the bedroom doorframe.
"But are you better than him? Would the President benefit more from your advice than his?" he probed.
Slowly, Sam raised an eyebrow.
"What? Didn't you hear me? He's my friend, Jack!" she emphasized.
Jack shrugged.
"But are you better suited for the job? Would you bring more value than he does?" he clarified.
Sam sat on the bed. Something was evading her comprehension.
"That isn't the point here, Jack. I'm not playing McFee's game of exchanging favors to secure a job at the White House. I don't care about working there, especially when a friend is already doing that job," she asserted, her tone heating up.
Jack sighed, a deep, weary sound that filled the quiet room. Sam's lack of political instincts in Washington, D.C., became more apparent daily. It wasn't that she lacked intelligence or capability—far from it. Sam was brilliant, driven, and deeply passionate about her work. But the labyrinthine world of political maneuvering and power plays was something she had never desired to master.
Jack himself hadn't possessed those instincts initially. When he first stepped into the political arena, he had been as naïve as Sam. But he had quickly realized that the need for strategic thinking and cunning in Washington often overshadowed ideals and straightforwardness. He had learned to navigate the treacherous waters of D.C. politics, acquiring a skill in handling the complex interplay of alliances, favors, and negotiations.
On the other hand, Sam had always focused on the science, mission, and bigger picture. Her purity of purpose, while admirable, often left her vulnerable to the more ruthless players in the political sphere. She was straightforward and honest, qualities that made her an exceptional leader and scientist and easy prey for those who thrived on manipulation and deceit.
Jack watched her now, almost naked in their bedroom, passionately defending a friend from her PhD days who held a highly coveted position in the White House. Her enthusiasm was palpable, her loyalty unwavering. While not one to backstab friends, Jack also understood the harsh realities of Washington, D.C.
Sometimes, survival meant making tough, pragmatic decisions. But Sam seemed to have no desire to play the political game that way.
"Sam, honey," he began, trying to find the right words, "I admire your loyalty, I really do. But we have to be realistic if we want to navigate this city."
She looked at him, her eyes blazing with frustration and determination.
"Jack, this isn't just about politics. It's about integrity and standing by the people who've stood by us. Stanley is my friend."
He sighed, running a hand through his hair.
"I get that. But D.C. is a different beast. Sometimes, you have to make sacrifices to ensure we can keep moving forward."
Her expression softened slightly, but her resolve remained. "I can't just betray a friend because it's convenient. That's not who I am."
Jack moved closer, placing his hands on her shoulders.
"And that's one of the things I love about you. Your integrity is part of what makes you incredible. But we need to find a balance. We can't ignore the reality of your situation. That fucker McFee has practically a knife against your throat, and he won't hesitate, Sam. He has no morals."
Sam looked down for a moment, her shoulders sagging under the weight of the conversation.
"I know, Jack. It's just... it's hard."
Still with his hands on her tense shoulders, Jack decided to take the plunge.
"Then, I think we should discuss your retirement more thoroughly," he suggested cautiously.
Sam blushed immediately.
"Oh, now you want to talk about my retirement?" she retorted, getting up and removing her skirt.
Jack took a deep breath.
"Sam, honey, you've expressed frustration with Homeworld after Perseus was shut down. McFee made you an offer. He's a weasel, but that job could allow you to do something you love. You don't want it, and I respect that. But it leaves you fighting him for the Homeworld position. Do you want that? Are you ready for that?" he asked.
Now in her underwear and looking furious, Sam glared at her husband, her eyes blazing with frustration and disbelief. The bedroom, usually a sanctuary of peace and intimacy, had become a battlefield of clashing ideals and unspoken fears.
"Well, Jack, putting things like that, I don't fucking know! And you aren't exactly helping me," she snapped, storming off to the shower.
Jack sighed and sat on the bed, realizing that this conversation needed more time and careful consideration.
Alone in the shower, Sam allowed the hot water to cascade over her, attempting to gather her thoughts amid the steam. Jack's words echoed in her mind, creating conflicting emotions. She grappled with the decision ahead, feeling the weight of each potential choice pressing down on her.
Homeworld wasn't bringing her happiness and would hardly bring especially after Perseus was shut down. The political machinations and constant battles had drained her, leaving her feeling disconnected from the passion that had once driven her. The thought of continuing down this path felt like a slow, inevitable descent into disillusionment.
Yet, she wasn't inclined to accept Stanley's job offer either. With its challenges and compromises, the idea of stepping into another high-pressure role and betraying a friend in the process seemed equally unappealing. It felt like trading one set of problems for another without addressing the core of her dissatisfaction.
Was retirement indeed the best path, as she had contemplated before? The idea had crossed her mind several times in recent months. Stepping away from the relentless demands of her career, taking time to rediscover herself as she entered a new phase in her life and what truly made her happy—there was a certain allure to it. But it also felt like giving up, like admitting defeat, and Sam didn't back down easily.
Closing her eyes, Sam stood beneath the running water, letting it wash away the turmoil in her mind. The steady rhythm of the droplets against her skin was soothing, starkly contrasting the chaos swirling in her thoughts. Jack's concerns, the political maneuvers at Homeworld, and the unexpected job offer all jostled for attention, making it difficult to find a clear path forward.
She needed to slow down, stop overthinking, and find clarity. Taking a deep breath, Sam focused on the sensations around her—the warmth of the water, the steam rising around her, the sound of the droplets hitting the tiles. She let herself be present in the moment, letting her mind quiet.
Sam started to gain some perspective as the tension in her body began to ease. She realized that her happiness and well-being had to be her priority. No position, no matter how prestigious, was worth sacrificing her peace of mind. She needed to find a way to balance her career ambitions with her fulfillment and stay true to herself without getting lost in the demands of her job.
Stepping out of the shower, Sam wrapped herself in a plush towel and stood before the mirror. The steam had fogged up the glass, blurring her reflection. She wiped a hand across the surface, revealing her face. She looked into her eyes, searching for the determination that had carried her through so many challenges.
"One step at a time," she whispered to herself. "I'll figure this out."
She dried off and slipped into a comfortable robe, her mind more transparent than it had been in days. Walking back into the bedroom, she found Jack waiting for her, a look of concern on his face.
"Hey," he said softly, taking her hand. "How are you feeling?"
Sam gave him a small, reassuring smile.
"Better. I've been thinking... we need to talk about our future, about what we both want and need."
Jack nodded, his expression softening with relief. "I'm here for you, whatever you decide. We'll figure it out together."
"Okay, so let's talk about my retirement," she declared, her voice steady but tinged with a hint of uncertainty.
Jack nodded, understanding the gravity of the moment. Together, they calmly sat down to discuss the pros and cons, unraveling the complexities of the decision.
Having devoted most of her adult life to the Air Force and the Stargate Program, Sam reflected on the significant milestones she had experienced within the confines of that uniform. It was where she had found purpose and honed her skills as a scientist and a leader. But it was also where she had found love—where she had met Jack, the man who became the father of her three children. She had dedicated herself to service through the highs and lows, driven by a sense of duty and a desire to make a difference.
Contemplating her options, Sam considered whether it was time to release that familiar embrace and explore other facets of life. The idea of retirement, stepping away from the structure and routine of military life, was both exhilarating and daunting. But perhaps, like Jack, she could now embrace a chapter solely about them—a chapter that allowed them to prioritize their relationship and family above all else.
Maybe it was finally time to transition into a phase of life that extended beyond the demands of duty and allowed them to savor the simpler joys. The thought of spending more time with Jack and their kids, who were turning into young adults, pursuing their shared interests and passions, filled her with a sense of longing she hadn't felt in years.
Was she ready to let go of the Air Force and the Stargate Program and fully embrace this new chapter of her life? After walking into that briefing room as young Captain Samantha Carter, she had wanted two things above all else: to be Jack's wife and to have his child. She had three instead. Now, decades later, those desires still burned bright within her.
As she looked into Jack's eyes, seeing the love and support reflected there, Sam felt a sense of clarity over her. Retirement wasn't just about leaving behind a career but embracing a future filled with possibility and promise. It was about finally allowing herself to prioritize her happiness and fulfillment and savor the moments with the ones she loved most.
With a smile, Sam reached out and took Jack's hand, her decision made.
"Let's do it," she said, her voice filled with determination. "Let's start this next chapter together."
And as they sat there, hand in hand, surrounded by the warmth of their shared love, Sam knew that whatever the future held, they would face it together, ready to embrace the adventures ahead.