Sam balanced a bag of takeaway and her briefcase as she approached her front door. The anticipation of a quiet evening at home dissipated as her phone rang persistently. With practiced ease, she swung the door open, shuffled inside, and fished her phone out of her back pocket before answering the call from an unfamiliar number.
"Carter," she greeted, her brow furrowing at the unfamiliar voice on the other end.
"Is this Lieutenant Colonel Samantha Carter speaking?" the voice queried, sending a ripple of apprehension through her.
Setting her briefcase down, Sam steadied herself against the kitchen counter.
"Yes, speaking," she confirmed, her voice betraying a hint of concern.
"Ma'am, my name is Colonel Trevor Adams, from Head of Homeworld Security and one of Major General Jack O'Neill's assistants," the voice explained, prompting Sam's heart to quicken. She hadn't heard from Jack in what felt like an eternity, their paths diverging after he moved to Washington, D.C.
"Is everything alright, Sir?" she inquired, her mind racing with worry.
There was a brief pause before Colonel Adams replied, his tone grave.
"Actually, no, Ma'am. General O'Neill collapsed in his office two days ago and has been hospitalized. You're listed as his emergency contact," he revealed, causing Sam to catch her breath.
"What happened? How serious is it?" she pressed, her thoughts scattering in a whirlwind of concern.
"He's under medical surveillance. Can you travel to D.C., Ma'am? You have clearance to use the Asgard beam technology," Adams informed her, the urgency in his voice not lost on Sam.
"Yes, of course, Sir," she responded without hesitation, her mind racing through logistics.
Adams continued, confirming the severity of the situation.
"I'll give you ten minutes to collect some personal belongings. We have a ship nearby, and then we'll beam you to the Pentagon and head straight to the hospital," he instructed.
"Understood, Sir," Sam replied, her resolve firm despite the whirlwind of emotions threatening to overwhelm her.
With a heavy heart, she ended the call and hurried to her room, the gravity of the situation sinking in. She packed a bag with essentials in a flurry of movement, tears welling in her eyes as she contemplated the unknown ahead.
Minutes later, she stood ready, her phone ringing again to signal the impending transport. With a deep breath, she answered, steeling herself for what lay ahead.
"I'm ready, Sir," she affirmed, her voice steady despite the turmoil.
"Very well, Colonel. We'll beam you up now," Adams confirmed, and with a blinding flash of light, Samantha Carter vanished from her bedroom, her journey to Jack's side beginning in earnest.
Upon arrival aboard the Odyssey, Sam was greeted briefly by its commanding officer, Colonel Ian Davidson, before being transported to the Pentagon. There, she found herself in a secure room designated for personnel arriving via beaming technology, where Colonel Trevor Adams awaited her. After completing the necessary paperwork, Sam followed Adams, a six-foot and three-inch tall figure with razor-cut blond hair, through the Pentagon's corridors.
"Do you know what happened to the General, Sir?" Sam inquired as they walked through the maze of hallways, eventually emerging into the daylight near a waiting SUV. The sudden appearance of the vehicle caught Sam off guard, mainly because it had a police escort.
"No, Ma'am," Adams replied, concern evident in his voice. "His secretary found him unconscious in his office. It all happened very quickly."
Sam's heart pounded with worry.
"But was he sick, Sir? I haven't spoken with him in a long time," she admitted, her breath catching.
Adams opened the back door of the SUV, and when he saw Sam looking at the police escort waiting, he just said, "Presidential orders, Ma'am."
Sam climbed in, her mind racing with unanswered questions. As they navigated through the chaotic D.C. traffic, sirens blaring to clear the way, Sam's anxiety grew. What could prompt such heightened security measures? What had happened to Jack?
Arriving at the hospital in record time, Sam observed the increased security presence with growing unease. Something significant was unfolding, something beyond her comprehension.
Moving through the hospital corridors alongside Colonel Adams, Sam ignored the curious glances of onlookers. Her singular focus was on reaching Jack's side, her heart aching with fear and anticipation.
"We've arrived. He's here, Ma'am," Adams announced as they approached a guarded door flanked by two armed airmen. The tranquil atmosphere on the floor only heightened Sam's apprehension.
"You can go in, and I'll call the doctor. He'll explain everything to you," Adams murmured, his voice low as he motioned for Sam to enter.
Sam pushed open the door with trembling hands and stepped into the room. What she found inside left her stunned, her emotions swirling in a tumult of shock and concern.
As Sam stepped into the hospital room, her heart sank at the sight before her. Jack lay on the bed, surrounded by an array of monitors and medical equipment, his once vibrant demeanor now replaced by a frail figure adorned with oxygen tubes. The lines etched on his face spoke volumes of the battles he had fought, both on and off the battlefield, rendering him older and more fragile than she had ever seen him. And she had seen him lots of times in the SGC infirmary, fighting death with all his strength.
The rhythmic beeping of the monitors filled the room, a stark reminder of Jack's precarious condition. His chest rose and fell with the aid of the oxygen, each breath a testament to his struggle. Despite the sterile hospital surroundings, a sense of warmth and familiarity enveloped Jack, a testament to the indomitable spirit that had endeared him to many.
Once filled with mischief and determination, his eyes were closed, like he was resting for the ongoing battle in his body.
With a heavy heart, Sam approached Jack's bedside, her hand reaching out to grasp his frail fingers. His grip was absent, and Sam missed the comfort in the connection, the silent reassurance that they were in this together, whatever may come.
As she stood by his side, Sam couldn't help but reflect on the countless missions they had undertaken together, the triumphs and the losses that had forged their bond. And now, as Jack lay before her, fighting for every breath, she vowed to stand by him, to offer whatever support and strength she could muster in his time of need.
For Samantha Carter, Jack O'Neill had always been more than just a commanding officer; he was the love of her life, even if things hadn't worked out for them. And as she gazed upon him now, her resolve to stand by his side grew stronger, a beacon of hope in the darkness that threatened to consume them both.
While she waited for the doctor, Sam noticed that his hospital room exuded an air of quiet sophistication, a clear step above the average medical facility accommodation. It was meticulously clean, and the walls were painted a soft gray, creating a serene and calming environment. The adjustable hospital bed where Jack was lying had high-tech features for comfort and comprehensive medical care.
Several advanced monitoring systems were in place around the room. Their display screens continuously showed vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and more, ensuring that Jack's condition could be monitored closely.
Beside the bed were a couple of side tables with drawers, likely for storing personal items, essential medical supplies, and a water carafe. A telephone on one of the tables suggested direct lines to the nursing station and possibly a secure line for military communications, reflecting the importance of Jack's position and the need for constant connectivity.
Sam's hand brushed against the linens on the bed, noting their high-quality fabric—soft yet durable- indicative of the room's attention to comfort and detail. There was also a private bathroom, providing Jack with dignity and convenience.
As the Head of Homeworld Security and a two-star General, Jack's rank and the gravity of his role were testaments to the room's decor and amenities. The space blended advanced medical technology with the comfort and respect someone of his stature deserved.
Soft, ambient lighting bathed the space in a gentle glow, creating a soothing ambiance that eased the tension lingering in the air. Sam's heartbeat told an entirely different story.
Doctor Susan Torremolinos entered the room with a composed demeanor, her white coat swaying gently as she moved with purpose toward Sam, who was anxiously awaiting news about Jack. Sam's eyes searched the doctor's face for any hint of progress.
"Colonel Carter?" the doctor inquired, her gaze resting on Sam.
"Yes, you can call me Sam." She attempted to conceal her apprehension.
The doctor, a woman of similar height to Sam with dark blond, short, curly hair and red-framed glasses, offered a small smile.
"Very well."
"So, Doctor Torremolinos, any updates on General O'Neill's condition?" Sam asked, her voice tinged with concern.
The doctor nodded solemnly, her expression reflecting the gravity of the situation.
"Sam, we're still investigating, but I need to discuss the delicate nature of the general's medical state with you."
Sam leaned forward, bracing herself for whatever news was to come.
"Please, go on."
Taking a deep breath, Doctor Torremolinos began to explain, her words measured and careful.
"General O'Neill's fainting episode indicates an underlying issue that we struggle to identify. His symptoms are concerning, and we've been running a battery of tests to pinpoint the cause, but so far, we've come up empty-handed."
Sam's brow furrowed in frustration.
"But surely you must have found out what caused it by now. Colonel Adams told me he passed out two days ago."
"I understand your concern, Sam," the doctor replied empathetically. "We're exploring every possible avenue, but it's like trying to find a needle in a haystack without more information. We've done every possible test, and the results show nothing abnormal. He should be fine."
Sam sighed, feeling a mixture of worry and helplessness wash over her.
"Is there anything I can do to help?"
"We appreciate your support," Doctor Torremolinos said, her tone conveying gratitude. "Right now, the best thing you can do is stay by General O'Neill's side. Your presence may provide him with some comfort during this difficult time while we continue to search."
Nodding in understanding, Sam resolved to do whatever she could to support the love of her life. "Thank you, Doctor. Please keep me updated on any developments."
As Doctor Torremolinos left the room, Sam returned to Jack, her mind racing about how to help him through this ordeal. She knew that together, they would find a way to uncover the truth behind his mysterious condition and get him the treatment he needed.
After the doctor left, Colonel Adams entered the room, prompting Sam to let go of Jack's hand discreetly.
"The doctor has explained the situation?" Adams inquired.
Sam nodded. "Yes, Sir, they haven't found the cause yet."
Adams cleared his throat.
"I won't lie to you, Colonel. The President is extremely concerned about this. We aren't ruling out an attack on the General's life," Adams said slowly.
Sam had already suspected as much.
"But if he had been poisoned or such, that would show in the tests."
Adams nodded.
"Yes, although nowadays there are increasingly undetectable sources of poisoning or causing someone to be unresponsive, like the General is right now. Maybe that is just what they want from him, to be out of the picture for some time," Adams revealed.
Sam bit her lip.
"Why are you telling me all this, Colonel? Aren't those intel supposedly classified, Sir?" A nasty sensation in her stomach was starting to form.
Adams cleared his throat again.
"Ma'am, like I said, the President is involved in this situation and monitoring it personally. I believe you'll be called to the White House and have a meeting with him shortly. I was authorized to pass this information to you upfront."
Sam felt her hands go numb.
"I see," was all she managed to say. "What about my status in the SGC, Sir? I didn't inform my CO that I was leaving..."
Adams smiled for the first time.
"Don't worry, Colonel. General Landry has already been informed that you have been temporarily assigned directly to the Homeworld Security," he explained.
Sam's eyebrows rose simultaneously.
"Excuse me? Assigned to Homeworld Security?" she repeated.
Trevor Adams nodded.
"I believe your meeting at the White House will clarify all that, Ma'am."
Sam swallowed. "O…Okay."
Adams gave her some brief instructions regarding the airmen at Jack's door and told her she had a room next to the General if she wanted to stay in the hospital. Then he handed her a security card that granted her access to his room. Sam took it and put it in her pocket. After Adams bid farewell and said he would call her when he had more news, Sam sat on the edge of Jack's bed, sighing heavily.
With nothing else to occupy her mind, Sam decided to take matters into her own hands and conduct some research. Doctor Torremolinos' words had struck her as peculiar, prompting her to reach for her computer. Casting a glance at Jack, who lay unconscious in the hospital bed, she switched it on and delved into the hospital's interface.
After a few minutes, Sam managed to access Jack's medical files. Later, she would have to talk with Colonel Adam about the hospital's security protocols. It had been too easy to break in. True to the doctor's assertion, all tests had been conducted, yet nothing abnormal had been detected. Jack was in perfect health on paper, but his condition told a different story. He remained unconscious, hooked up to oxygen, his well-being a baffling mystery.
Sam couldn't help but lament the absence of the Asgard, whose advanced technology might have provided answers. However, they were no longer an option. Instead, her mind drifted to a potential solution in her safe back at the SGC—the healing device. Would it be effective in this situation, or could it exacerbate the problem? Sam mulled over the possibilities, her thoughts racing.
Yet, logistical challenges loomed large. The device was in Colorado Springs while she was in Washington, D.C. She couldn't simply ask Colonel Adams to teleport her to the SGC to retrieve it without arousing suspicion. But what if it could help Jack regain consciousness? As she closed her laptop and gazed at him, Sam pondered the twists and turns that had led them to this moment.
How had things soured between them? She recalled her request for a transfer to Nevada, hoping to distance herself from his chain of command, only for Jack to remain silent. He had relocated to D.C., severing contact with her, Daniel, and Teal'c. Despite their attempts, he always claimed to be too busy for a reunion. Eventually, they stopped trying, a little hurt by his distant treatment. Sam had never called.
Sam's heart ached when she realized that she had never stopped loving him despite the passage of time and the emergence of new challenges. She vowed never to allow another Pete into her life or settle for second best. She would rather be alone, steadfast in her devotion to Jack, even as their paths diverged.
Seated on the sofa, Sam was deep in thought when Colonel Adams returned with news that the President wanted to see her. Requesting a moment to change into her dress blues, Adams nodded and left the room. Sam retrieved her uniform from the garment bag, casting one last glance at Jack, who remained with his eyes closed.
"We'll find out what's happening, Jack. I promise," she whispered, kissing his cold forehead gently. With a soft closing of the door, she left the room, determined to face whatever awaited her with resolve.
The ride to the White House was swift, facilitated by a police escort, and they arrived in mere minutes. Colonel Adams escorted Sam to the President's office, and after a brief nod from the secretary, they were granted entry. Both officers saluted their commander-in-chief as they entered.
"Please, sit," President Henry Hayes said, and they complied without hesitation. "Colonel Carter, thank you for coming," Hayes began, and Sam nodded in acknowledgment.
The President handed Sam a paper.
"I just received this five minutes ago; you'll be the first to know after me," he said.
Blushing, Sam reached for the paper. Given his higher rank, Colonel Adams should have received it first, according to protocol. However, the President was handing it to her instead.
She began to read, and her complexion grew paler by the second as she absorbed the contents. "A toxin, Sir?" she asked, glancing up at the President.
Hayes nodded solemnly.
"Yes. Undetected unless you know exactly what you are looking for. We didn't until we received clear instructions on what to look for. Doctor Torremolinos is already being contacted to run the tests," he explained.
As Sam continued reading the paper detailing Jack's infection and the antidote necessary for his recovery, she couldn't help but ask, "I beg your pardon, Sir, but who sent this?"
Passing the paper to a concerned Colonel Adams, Hayes sighed heavily.
"Ah, that is the one million dollar question, Colonel Carter," he said, folding his hands on the massive desk.
"Anonymous?" Sam asked, bewildered.
"The FBI, the CIA, the NSA, the DIA, and Homeworld Security will all be over this as soon as you leave this office. I'm sure we'll find who is behind this attack on Jack. But that isn't what is worrying me," Hayes said slowly.
Sam swallowed hard, and Adams cleared his throat, a silent agreement resonating between them. If someone could hinder the Head of Homeworld Security undetected, they posed a significant threat to national security.
"We have a leak," Sam blurted out before she even realized it.
Hayes nodded gravely.
"I believe so, and so does my staff," he confirmed.
"How can I help, Mister President?" Sam asked immediately, her determination shining through.
Hayes exchanged a look with Colonel Adams before returning to Sam, a woman he deeply respected and admired for her unwavering dedication. Hayes knew Sam had repeatedly risked her life and sacrificed her happiness to save them and protect Earth.
"Colonel Adams has already informed you that you will be assigned to Homeworld Security for now. I need someone I can trust while Jack recovers because he will recover. We all know how stubborn that son of a bitch can be," he said with a smile.
Sam blushed at the compliment, and Adams stifled a chuckle.
"But I also want someone he trusts, hell, whom we both trust near him while he recovers. So that's you, Colonel Carter," Hayes declared.
Sam's blush deepened.
"Yes, Sir. It will be an honor," she replied earnestly.
Hayes then turned to Colonel Adams.
"I know this is out of your protocol since you are a..." he glanced at Sam for assistance.
"Lieutenant Colonel, Sir," Sam provided.
"That," Hayes acknowledged. "But she will be granted access to all files and whatever she needs in Homeworld Security. Is that clear, Colonel?" he asked, addressing Adams.
Adams nodded respectfully.
"Yes, Sir. Understood. Total clearance," he confirmed.
"Exactly," Hayes affirmed, turning his attention back to Sam. "If you have any problems, you can call me. My secretary will give you my private number. From now on, you will report to me and me alone, understood, Lieutenant Colonel Carter?" he instructed.
Sam nodded, still blushing.
"Yes, Sir."
Hayes pressed a button, summoning his secretary, who promptly handed Sam a card adorned with the Presidential seal and a handwritten phone number.
"Any time, Colonel. But try not to wake me unless necessary," he added with a wink.
Sam tucked the card away and nodded.
"Well, that's it. Wanda will show you out. Keep me informed," Hayes concluded.
Both officers rose simultaneously, saluted, and left the office.