Author's Note - I started this a long, long time ago and I picked it up again recently finishing it, as well as adding more to the middle of the story.
This is set in an alternate universe where the events of SG1 have been compressed to about four years, Jack is a General, while SG1 include the season nine and ten members.
Hope you enjoy.
"Here," the old woman pressed the small carved animal of some kind into her hand, "For your husband, child. If you kiss it each night, it will keep him safe."
Sha're sighed but nodded taking the carving, she'd given up trying to stop people giving her things for her husband. She thought after this time they'd forget about him but no, he was still the hero of Abydos and they all believed that he was out amongst the stars protecting them. Sha're had her own ideas about what he was doing but kept them to herself. Moving away from the stall she continued deeper into the market to gather the provisions for the week ahead. People greeted her, some with smiles others with expressions of sympathy – all assuming she missed her 'heroic' husband.
"Hah," she muttered while she kept the forced smile on her face.
Finally, Sha're's shopping trip was over, and she started back home. At least her home was close to her father, so she didn't have to run the length of Nagada each day. Kasuf gave her a smile as Sha're slipped into her home and dropped her shopping on the ground. Taking out the latest present for her husband, Sha're added it to the collection. She hated that they wouldn't let her forget him because she really wanted to. Then again, she did keep all the gifts she was given for him. For a moment she closed her eyes remembering how he'd whispered such wonderful things in the middle of the night after they had destroyed Ra as she lay wrapped in his arms, his warm skin pressed against hers, his lips brushing kisses to hers, but then in the light of day he'd broken her heart.
"Sha're," Kasuf called, pulling her out of her reverie.
"Yes, Father," she said, a little more snappishly than she meant.
Kasuf frowned slightly, "You were given another present for Dan'iel?"
Sha're shrugged, "He is a hero to them, Father and I am a tangible reminder of him. I understand that."
"I wish I could free you from..."
"Father," Sha're cut him off, "We both know the other Elders would never agree. I am their gift to the Godslayer, our protector." She shook her head sadly, "Besides I do not want to be married to any of the unwed men in the city."
Kasuf nodded, he understood that she did not feel any of the single men would suit her and considering how strong-willed his daughter was, he agreed.
"I shall make dinner soon, Father," Sha're told him, "I just have some things to do first."
Kasuf gently kissed her forehead, "I'm sorry you're unhappy, Sha're. I wish I could change things."
"I have you and Skaara," she reminded him, "I am content, Father. You don't have to worry about me. Dan'iel chose to leave, he didn't want to be with me and there is nothing any of us can do about it."
Kasuf kissed her forehead again, making her smile before he left her alone.
x
Kasuf hated seeing his daughter so sad and alone, but there was nothing he could do about it. She was right, Daniel was the Godslayer, a hero to the people of Abydos and Sha're was seen as their gift to him. Kasuf knew that his practical daughter had fallen deeply in love with the man, and he knew that Daniel was just as enamoured by her, in fact his feelings for her were the reason he left but Kasuf had promised never to let her know.
"If I stay something horrible will happen to her," Daniel told him, completely broken-hearted just after his visit to the cavern of truth – something that was supposed to show him the wonderful future that lay before him with his new wife, "I can't let that happen. She's safer if I leave."
Sha're had cried for what Kasuf thought would be forever after Daniel left, her heart broken and then one day, without warning, Sha're's practicality returned full force. She looked after her father and brother, ruling their house as before until the day Skaara married.
Sha're found her new sister-in-law extremely annoying, Kasuf agreed with her on that. Tia was so excited to be the sister-in-law of the hero of Abydos and asked question after question about the battle and about Daniel, which meant Sha're spent as little time around her as possible.
Kasuf shook his head again and turned his attention to getting ready for his council meeting tomorrow, since there was absolutely nothing he could do for his daughter.
xxx
Daniel chewed on the end of his pen as he studied the tablets the Tok'ra had passed over to them last week. He'd been obsessed with figuring out their message from the moment he'd seen them and had spent most of his time in his office since he'd been given them.
"Daniel," the call made him roll his eyes, "Daniel, are you aware that it's Saturday?"
He looked up and saw Jack leaning against the door, "Strangely, Jack I do know the days of the week."
"Then why are you here?"
"I'm almost finished," Daniel told him, "I just want to get these translated before the mission on Tuesday. Why are you here anyway? It's Saturday."
"Funny," Jack replied, snagging a chair, "I had to stop Vala and Sam from coming to drag you out of here by your hair, so at least come and join me for lunch."
"Sure," Daniel sighed, as he fixed his papers Jack spotted the picture hidden behind his computer.
It had been five years since Abydos and Daniel still wasn't over the beautiful young woman he'd met on the sandy planet, despite what he said. Jack had given up trying to persuade his friend to get out and date, figuring that Daniel would move on when he was actually ready. When she first arrived, Vala had tried to get him interested but Jack was pretty sure that she could have walked around naked, and Daniel still wouldn't notice. Thankfully she'd found the new leader of SG5 not only to her taste but very willing and she'd simply become Daniel's friend.
In fact, she was one of the biggest advocators for Daniel getting a life, even if he did ignore her.
"Let's go," Daniel pulled Jack's attention away from the photograph and they went for lunch.
x
Daniel walked into the briefing room, finding he was the last person to arrive. Sam, Teal'c Mitchell, Vala, and Jack were already sitting talking. Daniel gripped the folder in his hand a little tighter not sure if he wanted to let them know what he'd found but he had to.
"Daniel," Jack motioned him in, "What's going on?"
Taking a deep breath, Daniel handed them all a copy of the file he was carrying before taking his seat, "I finally finished work on the tablets the Tok'ra gave us."
"After almost living here for a week," Mitchell chuckled, ignoring the glare Daniel threw at him.
"Anyway," Daniel continued, "The tablets contained the instructions on an Ancient device. The tablets are vague on what it does, but it could be important. I think if we can find it then it might be an important find."
"O..." Jack trailed off as he read further down the file, "Kay? Daniel, when were you going to get to the part of where the next clue to where this device is?"
Daniel dropped his eyes, "It's not..." he sighed, "Jack, I'm the best person to go on this mission, I know what I'm looking for."
"Daniel," Jack started but he stopped as his friend stared at him and changed his mind motioning to Daniel, "A word in private."
Daniel and Jack walked into Jack's office while the other four watched on in confusion, Sam shrugged as Vala raised a questioning eyebrow at her and all they could do was watch, wondering what was being said.
x
"Daniel..."
"It's been five years," Daniel cut him off, "Abydos law states that after six months our marriage would have been annulled and she'll be married to someone else, probably with a dozen kids."
"Daniel, you've been mooning over this girl for five years," Jack reminded him, "And before you deny it, her picture sits in your office, and I know there's one in your house too."
Daniel dropped his head, "You know why I left."
"Yeah, I do," Jack said gently, that confession had happened about two years ago during a quarantine stay when Daniel was delirious, "And I know you did what you thought was best for her. Is returning the best thing for you?"
Daniel shrugged, "Maybe it'll get her out of my system if I see her happy without me. Maybe I'll finally be able to move on."
"If I agree to this mission you have to promise me that you won't do anything stupid while there," Jack told him.
"Jack, the last time I was there I died saving your life, helped start a rebellion against a 'God' and got married without knowing it," Daniel reminded him, "I think the stupid quotient is filled."
"You might want to warn the other four," Jack suggested.
Daniel groaned, "That's not gonna be fun."
Sha're hummed to herself as she ground the flour for the bread and cakes she was going to make for the festival. The Abydonians had always celebrated the beginning of their harvest, but it was only in the past few years it had been a true celebration where they didn't have to worry about whether or not their work over the year would please Ra. She had been asked to be the guest of honour in place of her heroic husband, as they asked every year and, as she did every year, she refused. It was bad enough listening to their version of the defeat of Ra especially as they talked of Daniel's love for her and how he had left to protect the people he had taken to his heart. Frankly it made her nauseous listening to the hero worship, and she was always astonished that she managed to hold her tongue.
"Sha're, Sha're!" Asketh, one of the boys who had fought with them against Ra came running over, "Come quick."
"What?" Sha're asked, a little annoyed.
"Sha're," Asketh gasped again, breathing hard from his sprint, "He's back."
"Who is back?" Sha're asked before realisation came crashing down on her, "Dan'iel?"
Asketh nodded, grinning widely as he bounced on the spot, "And he'll be here soon."
Sha're stood and brushed her skirt, "I should ready myself to greet him."
"I have to tell Kasuf," Asketh beamed at her before running away again.
Sha're took a shuddering breath as the one thing she never expected to happen was happening and Sha're wasn't sure how she felt.
x
Daniel walked across the sands of Abydos getting more and more anxious about seeing the woman he'd fallen in love with so many years ago. The rest of his team had listened to him explain why the people of Abydos might react strangely to him, then he explained about Sha're.
To his surprise they were actually pretty supportive, and he only had to put up with a few smart comments. Even Vala was being surprisingly tactful and as they walked there was very little chatter. Daniel knew they'd been spotted; a flash of dark hair had bounced up and started away as they reached the now abandoned Naquda mine.
Daniel felt his breath catch as they came closer to Nagada, he could do this, he could look at her with her family and not run back to the Gate. He was beginning to wish that Jack could have come with them, but he couldn't get out of the meetings scheduled. Daniel started to notice a crowd gathering as they came closer to the city. As they reached the open gates Daniel stopped, feeling the others move to stand just behind him, Kasuf appeared from the crowd and moved to Daniel.
"My Good Son," Kasuf greeted, resting his hands on Daniel's arms, "Welcome home."
Daniel nodded a little uneasy about the large crowd that was gathered, "It's good to see you again, Kasuf."
Kasuf smiled and stepped to one side as the crowd parted, Daniel felt his breath catch as Sha're stood before him. She was wearing her wedding dress and Daniel couldn't stop staring at her.
"Your wife is waiting for you," Kasuf noted, giving Daniel a push.
Daniel felt someone relieve him of the weapon he was carrying, and he walked slowly forward to the woman walking to him. She was as lovely as he remembered; in fact, five years had only made her more beautiful. When they reached one another Sha're moved and wrapped her arms around him, the people around him cheered but Daniel was only able to focus on the soft breath on his cheek.
"People expect this," Sha're whispered harshly in his ear, "You will act as though you are happy to be with me, you will kiss me and then you will come to the home my people have set aside for you. Understand?"
"Ye...yes," Daniel stammered, a little confused.
As they parted Daniel gently brushed his lips to hers, the cheer that surrounded them almost deafened him, but Daniel's focus was on the woman before him. Disappointed when she pulled back from him Daniel felt her take his hand and managed to bring his brain back in gear to turn to his team, motioning them to follow on.
x
Sha're let out a sigh of relief as they entered the home the people of Abydos had made for Daniel. She dropped his hand and moved across the room to get as far away from him as possible.
"Your friends should come in also," she said as she tossed the veil to one side.
"Ah sure," Daniel managed, sounding confused but Sha're didn't have the energy to worry about how he was feeling right now. He turned to call them but stopped and turned to her, "What's going on? I thought that six months after I left our marriage would be annulled and you'd be free to marry again. That's the law."
"Not for you," Sha're snapped, "You are the Godslayer. The hero of the people of Abydos and I am your prize. I live in the home set aside for the killer of Ra. Alone."
"I didn't know," Daniel whispered.
"Now you do," she sighed.
Daniel moved to her, resting his hands on her arms, "I'm sorry, Sha're. More than you can ever know."
Sha're pulled away from him, "Bring your friends here. I will show them where they can rest then later, we will have to go to a feast in your honour. You will pretend you are happy to be here and with me, they believe you care for them."
Daniel stared at her a little astonished as he tried to equate the harsh woman before him with the sweet girl that he'd met the last time he was here.
Sha're sighed again, "Dan'iel, will you just bring your friends so I can get them settled. The others will assume we wish to be alone, and I want to make sure none of your companions dispel the myth that we are happy to see one another."
Daniel opened his mouth but shut it just as quickly before he slipped out the tent. The moment he left Sha're covered her eyes with her hand trying to rebalance herself, she didn't think seeing him again would do this to her but being so close to him had shaken her more than she wanted to admit.
x
Daniel saw interest in his friends eyes the moment he stepped out from the tent Sha're had led him to. He could see the people of Nagada pretending to go about their daily lives as they glanced over to them, obviously wondering what was going on.
"Sha're wants to meet you," he said loudly so that the people nearby heard.
The other four followed him inside and Daniel took a breath to introduce them to Sha're, but he didn't get a chance to say a word.
"My people believe Dan'iel is a hero," Sha're stated, "They believe he has been out amongst the stars protecting us, and they believe that we are truly married. I do not care if he has another wife on your world, I do not care if it is one of you," she turned at this point to Sam and Vala, "None of you will discourage this idea. I will show you a place to rest then tonight will be a feast and, if anyone asks, you will tell stories of Dan'iel's great adventures out amongst the stars. Do you understand?" The five people in front of her simply stared a little dumbstruck by her declaration and Sha're let out an annoyed sigh and demanded again, "Do you understand?"
Finally, they nodded.
"Dan'iel," Sha're said, "You should introduce us, so I know who is who."
Daniel, still looking completely stunned, turned to his companions, "Lieutenant Colonel Cameron Mitchell, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Carter, Vala Mal Doran and Teal'c."
Sha're nodded memorising each name, "Where is O'Neill? Skaara will want to know."
"He's back on the Earth," Sam replied when she saw Daniel was a little bit overwhelmed, "He's in charge of the Stargate now so doesn't travel through it with us anymore."
Sha're gave Sam a slight smile, "Then you can use his home. Follow me."
SG1 followed the woman to a tent nearby, Sha're led them inside and motioned the room to them, "There are two more tents across from this one that were set aside for Ferretti and Kawalsky," Sha're explained, "You can use all these if you wish. Dan'iel, we must return to our home, or the others will become suspicious."
"Can you give me a minute to talk with the others?" Daniel asked.
"I will meet you there," Sha're told him before she turned and walked out.
"Jackson, are you in trouble," Mitchell chuckled as Daniel glared at him.
Sam moved to her friend's side, "Are you okay?"
Daniel nodded, "A little confused but I don't want to upset the Abydonians, so we go with Sha're's...plan."
"You mean orders," Mitchell reminded him.
Daniel couldn't stop the smile that touched his lips before telling them, "We'll go find the caves tomorrow but tonight we'll go along with the Abydonians."
The others nodded and Daniel headed out of the tent. He stopped for a few moments to get ready for coming face to face with Sha're again, hating that he had hurt her so much, knowing that it was for the right reason didn't help now he was with her once more.
Sha're returned to her home and changed into more comfortable clothing, the wedding dress was only for show, so the others felt she was truly welcoming her husband home. She'd been unprepared for how seeing him again would affect her, how that attraction she had for him would reappear as suddenly as it had the first time.
Sha're mused for a few seconds on this and knew that they would be leaving soon, that this was simply a visit and soon she'd be the hero's bride left alone as he went out amongst the stars once more.
At this thought an idea appeared in her mind and took hold of her.
"Sha're?" Daniel called softly, obviously not wanting to barge into her home.
"Come in," she called back, she watched him as he re-entered the tent studying him properly this time.
He'd changed a great deal in five years, his hair was now shorn short like O'Neill's had been, he looked harder, stronger, and so much sadder. Sha're wondered if perhaps the years hadn't been good to him.
"This is your home until you leave again," Sha're reminded him, "So please sit down."
Daniel winced before he placed his pack down, took off his jacket and sank onto the cushions there. He kept opening his mouth to ask her something but never quite managed to get the question out.
"How long are you here for?" Sha're broke the silence after a while.
Daniel dropped his eyes, "Just a couple of days. We're looking for an artefact that we think might be important."
"Important for what?" curiosity filled her eyes as she decided that her idea could wait for another night.
"Ra wasn't the only one impersonating a god," Daniel explained to her, "There were others, a lot of them and they kept people as slaves just like Ra did here. We've been trying to stop them for the last few years, and we did. But now there are remnants who are trying to gain power for themselves, and we believe there may be something here within the caves that can lead us to a device they want."
"And that is the only reason you returned?" Sha're asked before she could stop herself.
Daniel stared at her, "No."
"No?"
"I didn't have to come," Daniel told her, "There are plenty of other teams who could have come but I..."
"What?" Sha're pushed, not knowing why she cared.
Daniel shrugged, "I wanted to come back. It's been five years, and I was looking for some closure."
Sha're decided to end the conversation there as she wasn't sure where it would take her. Instead, she moved his jacket and pack to one corner of the room so that it was tidy, she knew she wouldn't be able to leave the tent until the feast tonight as that would dispel the myth that she was welcoming her husband home as his wife.
x
Sha're was relieved when it was time to make an appearance at the feast, they'd spent the afternoon in silence with Daniel sitting studying all the gifts she'd been given for him. It annoyed her how much she wanted to ask him about what he'd been doing since he left, to learn more about these creatures like Ra and how he helped defeat them, but her stubborn nature stopped her.
Sha're had changed for the evening's festivities and had her hair fixed back from her face, so people could see her 'happiness' at the return of her husband. Once she was ready, she let Daniel know he could turn back and felt slightly triumphant at the look on his face when he saw her.
"It is time," she told him, "Please remember not to do anything that will make them assume you are not my husband."
"I can remember that," Daniel replied, he gave her a quick smile; "You look beautiful."
Sha're felt her face flush before she slid her arm through his and they left the safety of the tent.
x
Daniel wasn't sure whether he was more uncomfortable or ecstatic about the way he was sitting but there was no other choice. Sha're was at his side, her leg touching his while he had his arm wrapped around her waist. Every so often she would feed him and smile lovingly which he knew was a complete lie, but she was a damn good actress. For the past five years he'd agonised over whether or not he'd made the right decision leaving her. But knowing the fate that would have befallen her if he'd stayed, Daniel now knew that he had done the right thing because she was safe and with the people she loved.
Even if she now hated him.
"Dan'iel," she scolded, bringing him out of his thoughts, "You are being rude."
"Sorry?" Daniel turned to the Elder sitting near them, "I was distracted."
"Perfectly understandable," the old man grinned as he looked at Sha're sitting beside Daniel, "I would be distracted with a beautiful woman like Sha're at my side."
Daniel looked at Sha're, "I'm distracted by her even when she isn't at my side."
The Elder laughed, "Then I will leave you."
Daniel heard Sha're let out a long sigh as they were left alone finally, she dropped her head back onto his shoulder and closed her eyes.
"Are you tired?" Daniel asked softly, making her jerk away.
"Yes," Sha're nodded, not looking at him.
Daniel stood up and offered her his hand, Sha're allowed him to pull her to her feet before she walked to her father to wish him goodnight giving Daniel the chance to talk to his team-mates.
"Having fun?" Vala smirked at him as he joined them.
Daniel ignored her, "I have to stay with Sha're tonight," he turned to Vala, "Not one word."
The woman gave him an innocent shrug before sharing a grin with Sam.
"I'll talk to her about showing us the caves tomorrow," he continued ignoring them, "I'll see you in the morning."
He turned knowing the amused looks he was getting behind his back and continued to where Sha're was waiting for him.
Sha're cuddled into the warm cocoon she was sleeping in, realising suddenly she wasn't alone. She could feel Daniel's chest pressed against her back, his breath warm on her cheek and his arm wrapped across her waist. She was about to wriggle away when his voice stopped her.
"You know I dream about this every night," Daniel said softly, his fingers gently drew along her arm, "Being beside you, watching you sleep. You're more beautiful than I remember." He sighed sadly, "I wish I hadn't left, but it was the only way to keep you safe."
Sha're frowned confused, wondering what he was trying to keep her safe from. She wanted to know more so continued to pretend she was asleep.
"I should have come back when I knew he was really dead and I knew you'd be safe from him," Daniel sighed, "But I didn't think I could see you with someone else. Sha're, I've never got over you, I never stopped loving you even though I know you hate me."
Sha're's stomach turned at his words, she knew she did sometimes say she hated him but seeing him again had reminded her how much she did miss him.
"I have tried to move on," Daniel sighed, "I've gone on dates, but they always end the same way with me thinking of you and chasing the woman away. I know you'll probably kill me in the morning for holding you like this tonight but when I woke and found you in my arms, I couldn't let you go. Not again. Walking away from you was the hardest thing I have ever done."
Sha're turned and looked up at him seeing surprise in his eyes that she was awake.
"Why did you leave me?" Sha're asked, the night and his confession breaking through her walls.
"Sha're..."
"Tell me," tears filled her eyes, "Please tell me why you left. Why? After telling me you loved me, telling me that you wanted to be my husband, why did you leave me?"
"Because if I'd been selfish and stayed then something would have taken you away," Daniel dropped his eyes, shaking his head sadly, "It would have taken you from me, from everyone you love and destroyed you. I couldn't let that happen."
"You could have told me," she reminded him.
Daniel let out a sad laugh, "You would have told me I was being stupid, and I would have let you talk me into staying and then I would have lost you anyway," he trailed a finger along her cheek, "I have never loved anyone like I love you and I knew you for only a few days. It's been five years and I still love you," moving closer he waited for Sha're to push him away, but she didn't so he gently touched his lips to hers.
Sha're sighed as he deepened the kiss, losing herself in him when Daniel pulled her closer.
x
Daniel chewed on the power bar as he wrote his journal early the next morning, Sha're was still sleeping and as enticing as the thought of staying in bed with her had been, he'd decided he better be prepared for their search that day. He knew having sex with her last night was probably the worst thing he could have done, but in the middle of the night and holding her in his arms meant all common sense disappeared.
"Dan'iel?" the soft alarmed call made him look up.
"What's wrong?" Daniel moved to where Sha're sat the sheet wrapped around her.
"I...I thought you left again," she confessed, feeling foolish.
Daniel shrugged, "Still here."
"For now," she finished for him, she shook the thought away and stood pushing a hand through her unruly hair, "Once I am dressed, we can have breakfast then I will help you and your friends find what you are here for."
"Thank you," Daniel moved closer to her, he kissed her softly wondering if she'd let him in the light of day, but Sha're simply accepted the kiss before she turned her attention to getting dressed.
Once she was ready, she slipped her hand into his, as they left the tent Daniel looked around.
"No one else is here," he told her, "You don't have to keep up the front."
Sha're smiled but kept her hand in his.
x
Sha're stood watching the team from Earth in the cavern as they discussed things she had no idea about. She marvelled at the quickness of her Daniel's mind although Samantha seemed to be extremely intelligent too. The others stood watching, occasionally throwing in something and Sha're felt envious at what they shared with Daniel.
She shook herself, Sha're knew she couldn't let herself become attached to him again, she couldn't let her heart take control this time. Sha're knew what she wanted, and she knew if she had any chance of getting him to agree she had to allow him close to her, but she had to stay as clear headed as possible.
Sha're sighed, moving away to look around the cave a little more, she wondered how to approach him with her question. If what had happened between them last night had happened later in her cycle, she wouldn't need to ask.
"Hey," Daniel said, jolting her out of her thoughts.
Sha're gave him a quick smile, "Are you finished?"
"Yeah," he shrugged, "We've got what we came here for. Unfortunately, it's probably going to take a while for me to work out where to next."
Sha're squeezed his hand, "I'm sorry you did not find exactly what you wanted."
"I'm not," Daniel replied, "It has given us another clue to where the artefact is, and it gave me an excuse to come here to see you again."
Sha're felt her cheeks redden with a blush and began to smile but forced it down, she couldn't afford to let her emotions take over.
"I need to ask you something," Daniel said, he glanced over to where his friends were standing talking so he moved her further away from them.
"What is it?" Sha're wondered, allowing him to move her.
Daniel took a deep breath, "I know how much I hurt you when I left, and I know there's probably little chance that you actually trust me..."
"I know you are leaving again, Dan'iel," Sha're told him, "I have no illusions about what happened last night," gently touching his cheek, Sha're kissed him, "And I need you to do something for me."
"Can you let me finish?" Daniel asked nervously.
Sha're nodded, she could let him talk before she asked him.
"I've been thinking that I don't want to say goodbye to you again," he told her, his hand coming up to touch her cheek, "I was hoping you would come to Earth with me."
"What?" Sha're stared at him.
"I can't stay here; I have responsibilities now that I didn't have before. I know your family are here, but I thought we could try a few months," he said quickly, "I could show you my world and we could spend time together."
"Dan'iel," she breathed, realising this would be the best idea for what she wanted, as well as the fact she could get away from all the hero-worshipping idiots for a while at least.
"Will you come?" Daniel asked hopefully.
Sha're nodded, laughing slightly as he hugged her tightly lifting her off the ground.
Sha're hugged Kasuf, "Don't worry, Father. Dan'iel shall take care of me, I know this."
Kasuf nodded, "I always knew why he left, Sha're. I've kept this from you because I didn't know how to tell you. But Dan'iel loves you, trust in that."
Sha're tilted her head thoughtfully, "Just now that doesn't matter. I will see you soon, Father."
Kissing his cheek Sha're hugged her father once more before turning to where Daniel was standing waiting for her. She had three months that they'd agreed on to be with him in his home now, three months in which to get pregnant so that when he brought her home, she'd have a baby and would never again be as lonely as she had been for the past five years. Daniel took the bag she was carrying with her belongings before slipping his hand into hers and leading her through the Stargate to his home.
x
Jack watched as SG1 arrived back through the Stargate, but Daniel was missing. After a few moments the Stargate rippled, and the wayward archaeologist arrived – with guest.
"Sha're," Jack breathed, stepping forward as they stepped off the ramp, "You're here."
"Hello again, O'Neill," Sha're said slightly nervously.
Jack grinned at her before he looked up at Daniel who was looking completely innocent, "Okay, infirmary people. Daniel, I need to talk to you for a few minutes, but that can wait just now."
Daniel nodded before he rested his arm around Sha're's waist and escorted her out of the Gateroom as she looked around wide-eyed. Mitchell and Vala started walking behind them.
Jack motioned Teal'c and Sam to hold on, waiting until they were gone before turning to them to demand, "What happened?"
Sam shrugged, "I'm not sure."
Jack sighed, "I'll find out, let's get to the infirmary so I can get Daniel alone for ten seconds."
Sam swapped glances with Teal'c before they followed Jack.
x
Sha're was sitting on the infirmary bed watching Janet take her blood, the other woman was explaining everything she was doing as the Abydonian woman listened intently. Daniel was standing in the corner, watching Sha're with a look of wonder in his blue eyes. Jack arrived in the infirmary and grabbed the younger man by the back of his jacket, yanking him into the corridor to talk.
"Want something, Jack?" Daniel asked innocently.
Jack frowned at him, "She's not married then?"
"She is," Daniel grinned, "But still to me."
Jack listened as Daniel quickly explained everything that had happened on Abydos finishing with how he'd invited Sha're to come to Earth.
"We agreed on a three-month trial period," Daniel told him, "I know I should have warned you, but it happened fast."
Jack hadn't seen his friend this happy in a long time and couldn't bring himself to say anything, even in jest, to ruin this for Daniel.
"Then I don't want to see you in the base for a week," Jack smiled at his friend, "Take her home and let her get settled."
Daniel beamed, "Thanks, Jack."
Jack rolled his eyes and patted his friend's shoulder, "Go."
x
Sha're was now wearing an outfit native to the world she was in, so she didn't stand out. She felt herself smile as Daniel appeared again. She scolded herself silently, knowing that letting herself get too comfortable was stupid when she'd be leaving in a few short months but her attraction to him was so strong.
"Ready to go?" Daniel asked, he offered her his hand.
Sha're nodded before tilting her head in confusion, "Go where?"
"My home," he told her, "Well our home."
Sha're let out a breath before she nodded, "I would like to see that."
Daniel smiled and led her through the corridors, as they reached the exit he stopped them, "Are you ready to see my world?"
"Dan'iel," Sha're laughed, "Of course. Stop teasing me."
He leaned over and placed a gentle kiss on her lips, before he pulled her out of the door. Sha're gasped at the world in front of her, the alien world that she could never imagine.
Daniel wrapped his arms around her shoulders, "Come on, there's more to see."
Sha're couldn't say a word as Daniel walked her to his vehicle, a strange contraption that she stared at for several minutes until Daniel moved her inside it. The sudden thrum made her jump as Daniel started it and Sha're silently watched the world as it flew by. The people, the vegetation, the homes, and the vehicles all had her enthralled. After a while Daniel stopped the car in front of one of the large buildings.
"Here we are," he told her.
"Here?" Sha're stared at him, "Are you sure? This is..."
"Just a house," Daniel assured her, he got out and walked round to help her, "Come on, I'll show you around."
Sha're took his hand again, knowing how naive and primitive she must seem as she stared at everything. Daniel gently escorted her inside, and she turned to him in astonishment.
"This is so big," she told him, "You stay here alone?"
He shrugged, "It's not that big really. Two bedrooms, an office and that means nothing to you. Okay, come on I'll show you around properly."
x
Daniel took her hand and together they walked through every room in the house, Daniel telling her what each was. Sha're studied everything she could see, the pictures of Daniel and his friends, the books in the shelves, the unusual items Daniel had sitting around.
"This is my room," Daniel showed her into the bedroom before he opened up the door behind her, "This is the other bedroom. It's kind of plain but you can do something with it if you want."
Sha're tilted her head confused, "I...What do you mean, why would I do something with that room."
"I don't expect you to sleep with me, Sha're," Daniel told her, "This isn't Abydos, there's no one watching our every move. You can have your own space and we can go as slow as you need."
She stared at him for several moments in amazement, before she wrapped her arms around him and kissed his cheek.
"That is good to know," she replied, "I would like to settle in and perhaps we can have something to eat."
Daniel smiled at her, "Sounds like a plan. What would you like to eat?"
"I…"
"Or I could get something I know should be something you might like," Daniel suggested at her hesitation.
Sha're nodded before she slipped into the spare room and closed the door.
Daniel stared at the closed door for a few seconds, amazed that what he'd been dreaming about for so many years had actually happened. Shaking himself he headed to grab one of the takeout menus from the kitchen, he ordered from his favourite restaurant which did Mediterranean cuisine that would hopefully be food she'd like.
Thankfully the place was mostly tidy, he wasn't sure it would live up to Sha're's standards, but she could do whatever she wanted with the place once they'd eaten.
When the bell rang, he quickly took the bags off the delivery driver, paid him and took the bags into the kitchen. He set everything out on the coffee table in the living room but before he could call Sha're, she appeared in a one of her own dresses.
"I did not feel right in the garb given to me," she explained.
Daniel nodded, "As long as you're comfortable. Come and get some dinner."
When she took a seat on the ground next to the table, Daniel smiled and grabbed a cushion off the couch to sit on joining her.
"Your house is nice," Sha're said softly as she gingerly tasted the food Daniel had laid out for them.
Daniel smiled, "I honestly don't spend much time here. It's always really been just a place to put my things and sleep when they make me leave the base."
Sha're laughed softly, "They make you leave?"
He shrugged slightly embarrassed, "I tend to work a lot. Since I don't have…" he paused and looked at her, "Didn't have a reason to leave."
Sha're reached out and touched his face, "You were lonely?"
"I missed you," he breathed, "I missed what we could have had."
She leaned closer for a moment before stopping herself, "You told me you left because you were protecting me. Please tell me everything now."
Daniel sighed, "Your father took me to the Cavern of Truth…"
x
Sha're listened to Daniel tell her exactly why he'd left her, feeling tears fill her eyes as he explained all he saw that day.
"I was losing you anyway," Daniel whispered, when he finished, "At least this way I knew you wouldn't have to go through any of that pain, Kasuf wouldn't lose you and you would survive."
"Oh, my Dan'iel," she breathed, "I…" she trailed off not knowing what to say instead she wrapped her arms around him in a tight embrace.
Dropping his head onto her shoulder, Daniel held onto her.
"I have been so angry with you," she told him, "For so long."
"And I deserved that," Daniel replied.
She shook her head, "I wish you'd told me."
"I couldn't take the chance," he cried, "Because I was so scared that anything I did, other than leave, would mean you'd still be taken by Apophis."
Sha're stroked his hair, thinking things over before she finally asked, "Did anyone else know?"
"I finally told Jack a few years ago," Daniel sighed, "But only because we were in quarantine, and I was sick."
"You carried this alone for all that time," Sha're rested her hand on his cheek.
Daniel leaned into her hand, "I feared one of the others would persuade me to ignore what I'd seen then I would see you and what I feared most would happen."
Feeling tears fill her eyes, Sha're touched her lips to his in a soft kiss. The kiss deepened quickly and Sha're moaned as Daniel pulled her tightly to him.
She pulled back and Daniel winced.
"Sorry," he whispered.
"No," she bit her lip slightly as she stood and offered him her hand, "I thought this was not the best place."
Daniel took her hand and stood, surprised when she led him through to his bedroom.
"You know you don't…" Daniel started.
Sha're pressed a finger to his lips, "I know but I want to."
Smiling Daniel kissed her again and Sha're allowed him to move him onto his bed. As he kissed along her neck, Sha're glanced to the side and saw a picture on the bedside cabinet. Sitting up, to Daniel's confusion, Sha're took a hold of it.
"This is me," she frowned confused.
Daniel nodded, "It meant I got to see you every day," he smiled, "There's one in my office too."
"But this is a drawing of me that looks…" Sha're stared at it.
"It's called a photograph," Daniel told her, "I will explain but maybe later."
Sha're turned to him and realised that he was right, the explanation could wait they had more important things to do.
Relaxing into Daniel's kisses, Sha're sighed softly as he slowly began to undress her. He replaced each piece of fabric with kisses, and she moaned in pleasure remembering the night after Ra had been killed when he had explored her body in exactly the same way.
Sha're pushed him so he rolled onto his back, and she climbed onto him. Untucking his t-shirt Sha're grinned at him, before sliding down to kiss his stomach.
Daniel pulled her back up to him and they lost themselves in one another.
Sha're took a slow deep breath as she stood outside O'Neill's office, she remembered him being dark and full of rage. Although Daniel had assured her, he was different now, she was still a bit worried.
"Come on in, Sha're," the man appeared suddenly.
She followed him into his office and took the seat he offered.
"You can speak my language now," Sha're noted softly.
Jack frowned confused, "What?" he shook his head, "I assumed Daniel would have told you this. I'm still speaking English but one of our allies gave us a translator which means no matter what language we come across we can understand and be understood."
Sha're tilted her head, "That is useful."
"Daniel doesn't use one," O'Neill told her with slight amusement, "He thinks its lazy and against everything he stands for as a linguist."
Somehow that made her feel better knowing that Daniel was always speaking her language with her.
"I wanted to see how you were," he continued, "You've been on Earth a week and it's a huge change from what you know."
Sha're was surprised by his concern, "I am well. Dan'iel explains anything that confuses me."
He gave her a smile before noting, "He finally explained a few years ago why he left you. I don't know if he's told you, but it devastated him."
She thought for a moment, "Dan'iel told me why he left, but not what he did when he came back here."
"He left," Jack said, "Got his money then disappeared in the middle of the night. When it was decided to start looking at where else the Gate could go, we had the stuff he filmed on Abydos but no one who could translate. So, I went looking for him."
Sha're frowned at the sadness in Jack's voice, "Was he well?"
"He was depressed and drunk," Jack sighed, "But had been working on the information because he knew it would be needed. Not that I had any idea at the time. So, I cleaned him up, dragged him back to Colorado where he became part of my team."
"And your friend."
Jack shrugged, "That took a little longer but mostly because he was trying not to be anyone's friend. He didn't want to lose anyone else."
"I promise I will not hurt him," Sha're told Jack, understanding why he'd wanted to talk to her, "Although I was angry with Dan'iel when he left, I know the reason now. I wish he had told me at the time, but I understand why he did not." She paused for a moment before adding, "I do love him, I always have."
"Good," Jack replied, "Because he has been in love with you for all these years and I never want to see him as bad as he was when we came back from Abydos."
Sha're mused for a moment wondering what this would mean when she had to leave after three months.
A knock on the door made her turn to see Daniel there, "Are you finished?"
Jack nodded before he turned to Sha're, "It's good to have you here and I'll see you later."
x
Sha're held Daniel's hand as they walked through the corridors of the base, she was musing over her conversation with Jack.
"Can I ask you something?" she said as they reached his office.
"Anything you want," Daniel told her.
Sha're took a seat, "Where did you go after you returned from Abydos?"
"I hid in New York, it's where I grew up," Daniel sat across from her, "Found an apartment, worked on everything I could remember finding and drank more than I ever had to try to forget about how much I wanted to be with you."
Leaning in Sha're kissed him softly.
"I wanted to ask you if you want to start learning English," Daniel said, "I forgot to tell you about the translators we use here in the SGC."
"Jack says you do not use one," she smiled.
He nodded with a wry smile, "It's cheating. Anyway, outside the SGC we can't use them, so you'll need to know English if you want to talk to anyone other than me."
She nodded, "I wanted to ask you to teach me anyway. Not only to speak your language but also about this world."
"I've also been thinking of something else," he noted, "And I've set up a few tests for you."
"Tests?"
"Don't worry," he replied, "Trust me."
x
Sha're sat nervously in the small room wondering what the tests she was going to be put through were for. Daniel had promised her they were nothing that would hurt her, but she couldn't help but worry.
"Good morning, Mrs Jackson," a woman said as she entered the room, she was quite tall with long red hair, "I'm Dr Freeman. It's nice to meet you."
Sha're nodded, "Can I ask what the test I am taking is?"
"Of course," Dr Freeman said as she took the seat across from Sha're, "Dr Jackson mentioned that you have an extremely good memory. He and General O'Neill thought it would be a good idea to put that to the test, if you want of course. This is completely your choice, but it will help us work out a plan for teaching you whatever you want to learn."
Sha're had asked Daniel to help her learn while she was here and after a moment's hesitation finally nodded.
Freeman grinned, "That's great. We're just going to start simply; I'll show you some items and you just have to remember what they were."
Sha're hesitated, "What if I do not know what they are?"
"Just ask me and I'll give you the name," Freeman smiled, "We'll start very slowly. Ready?"
Sha're swallowed nervously before nodding.
x
Freeman shook her head in astonishment; the young woman across from her was wringing her hands nervously, obviously unsure about the tests she'd just taken.
"Sha're," Freeman said, "Have you always been able to remember like this?"
Sha're nodded, "It is nothing special."
"Yes, it is," Freeman told her, "Sha're, you have what we call an eidetic or photographic memory. It means that you see something for a moment, and you can recall it perfectly years from now. It's an incredible gift."
"Not really," Sha're whispered, "It means I remember how ill my mother looked before she died, the fear on people's faces after Ra sent his soldiers to punish us for helping Dan'iel and the others from Earth."
Freeman took a deep breath and returned them to the subject, "Sha're, this means you'll be able to learn very quickly. These test results are incredible."
Sha're shrugged again looking up as someone knocked, smiling as Daniel poked his head in.
"Hey, it's lunch," he grinned at Sha're, "Are you finished?"
Freeman nodded, "Yes. It was lovely to meet you, Sha're. We'll talk again soon."
x
"So," Daniel said as they walked along the corridors, "How were the tests?"
"Interesting," Sha're smiled softly, "Dr Freeman told me I have a photographic memory."
"I guessed that," Daniel grinned; he gently squeezed her hand, "Just a few little things you said over the past week. How about after lunch I start teaching you English."
Sha're nodded, "I would like that."
They continued walking towards the commissary and Sha're thought about the past week. They'd spent it together learning about one another properly, Sha're found that despite herself she was falling even deeper in love with him than she had been. Daniel had spent the week when they weren't lost in each other's arms explaining the new world she was in. It was strange but Sha're was beginning to like it and that scared her far too much. As they entered the commissary the other members of Daniel's team waved them over with a smile. Sam was in the middle of a story and Sha're sat silently not understanding everything being said but didn't care because it was nice just to sit with them. She'd become so used to sitting alone for her meals as she stayed away from all those who would not let her forget that she had been left. Slowly chewing her lunch Sha're thought about all the new things she was learning and how different things would be when she had to return to Abydos.
"Hey," Daniel said, his hand gently rubbing her back, "Are you okay?"
Sha're nodded, "Yes. I am. I am simply enjoying listening to the conversation, Dan'iel."
He gave her a smile and turned back to his sandwich before joining in the discussion. Sha're smiled again, she did like it here.
The middle of the night on Earth was so different to Abydos. From the artificial lighting on the streets that gave the world a strange glow, to the fact it was never silent with cars and people moving around at all hours.
Although their bedroom was at the back of the house, she could still hear some of the noises and Sha're was not yet used to them, so she found herself unable to ignore them when she woke in the middle of the night. At her side, Daniel was fast asleep murmuring softly in his sleep. She was not used to the sounds outside, but the soft murmurs of Daniel at her side she had become used to quickly, finding them comforting in such a strange world.
He turned in his sleep and his arm fell over her waist, snuggling close he sighed her name making her smile. Easing herself from beneath him, Sha're slid out of bed and walked softly into the kitchen. She poured some milk into a mug and heated it in the microwave, stopping it before it let out a loud ping, so she didn't wake Daniel.
Curling up on the couch with her mug in a dim light from outside she thought about why she'd come to Earth. Her initial reason was to have a child, but she found the entire world fascinating and looked forward to learning multiple things that she could take home with her to help her people.
Being with Daniel though was something she hadn't expected to happen again and even though she had initially allowed him close for the purpose of having a baby, now she knew why he left, Sha're let herself be in love with him once more.
Finishing her milk, Sha're placed the mug down and rested her head against the arm of the couch continuing to watch the lights outside.
"Sha're."
She jumped as someone shook her, wincing at the pain in her neck.
"It's okay," Daniel said softly, "It's just me."
"I must have fallen asleep," she sighed, seeing daylight starting to peek through the curtains, "What time it is?"
"About an hour before the alarm will go off," Daniel took her hand and helped her off the couch, "You can go back to bed for a while."
Sha're smiled and held his hand, pulling him with her, "I'm not tired now, Dan'iel."
He chuckled, allowing her to take him back to their bed where neither of them slept until the alarm went off.
x
"Where are we going?" Sha're asked as Daniel took a different turn off the road than normal, "The base is the other way."
Daniel smiled, "We're not going to the base today."
"We're not?"
"I thought that you would like to see some more of this world," Daniel told her, "You've been here for a few weeks now and not seen anything other than the base, the apartment and the park across from it."
Sha're looked at him intrigued, "Where are we going?"
"There's a lake with a beach a couple of hours from here," Daniel told her, "We're going there. The ocean is much further away but maybe we'll be able to see it one day."
"That sounds nice," Sha're said softly, "And I like the idea of seeing the lake."
Daniel grinned at her, "Then just relax and enjoy the journey."
x
It had taken several hours drive to get to the lake, Sha're had loved just sitting in the car with Daniel driving, music playing as she enjoyed watching the scenery fly by. Daniel parked at a small motel, and they checked into a room, where they left their bags before he took her by the hand.
"Ready?" he asked softly.
Laughing Sha're nodded, "I am."
They walked from the motel, along the road and Sha're stared in amazement at the large body of water, something she had never imagined could exist. As she looked at the water, Sha're felt Daniel's arms slide around her waist, holding her close and resting his head against hers.
"What do you think?" he asked.
Glancing around at him, Sha're smiled softly, "It is breathtaking."
"Yes, you are," Daniel murmured to her.
Blushing Sha're kissed him before she slid out his arms and grabbed his hand, "Come on. I want to walk in the water."
Daniel walked with her down across the sand to the edge of the lake, she paused and slid her shoes off before stepping into the cool water. Turning she saw Daniel watching her, a smile on his face as she enjoyed the new experience.
Reaching out her hand for him, Sha're smiled as Daniel slid off his shoes and carried both pairs as Sha're slid her arm through his while they walked through the cool water.
"How was your trip?"
Sha're looked up from her reading to find Jack standing in the doorway to the office, "It was wonderful."
Jack nodded, "Good. Is Daniel around?"
"He is getting us lunch," Sha're told him, "Do you want me to tell him you are looking for him?"
Frowning Jack grabbed a seat, "I'll wait, if you don't mind." He gave her a conspiratorial look, "I'm avoiding Walter and a meeting with some pencil pushers about finances."
She chuckled, "You are more than welcome."
Jack grinned, "What are you reading?"
"A storybook," she smiled, "Dan'iel gave it to me to help with my English. It is intriguing but I have not had to ask him too many questions on this one."
"Good," Jack smiled, "Glad you're finding things you're enjoying."
"Jack?" Daniel asked confused as he walked in with a tray in his hand, he placed it on the desk, "What are you doing here?"
"Wanted to see if the two of you were free tonight," Jack told them, "Short notice but I was thinking of having a barbecue."
Daniel frowned thoughtfully, "What's the occasion?"
"Does there have to be an occasion?" Jack demanded.
Shrugging Daniel turned to Sha're, "That is true. We once had a barbecue because to celebrate three sunny days in a row."
She giggled softly.
"Just thought it would be nice," Jack replied, "And it would introduce Sha're to another part of our culture."
Daniel gave her a smile, "What do you think?"
Sha're nodded, "I would like to go."
"Excellent," Jack clapped his hands, "Then see you about five, bring your appetites."
x
Daniel smiled as Sha're laughed at Jack's bad jokes while he barbecued the burgers, the rest of SG1 were scattered around the garden enjoying the warm weather.
He hoped that when the end of the three months came, she chose to stay with him. He had been stunned, but so happy, that she agreed to let him make things up to her, that she understood why he'd left and accepted him back into her life.
It felt so good to be with her and Daniel hoped that this was the beginning of the life he'd wanted to have with her when they'd first married.
Sha're was proving every day how clever she was, she'd learned English so quickly both to speak and read. Daniel was going to offer to teach her another language, likely Arabic or Dutch as they were his two first languages and he knew every so often he spoke them in his sleep.
Sha're brought over a plate with two burgers and sat at his side, offering him one she rested against him and gave him a smile. Daniel rested his head against hers for the moment before he started to eat feeling content.
Sha're wiped her eyes before washing away the tear stains. Her bleeding had begun this morning, meaning for the second month she was not pregnant. As Daniel called to her, Sha're fixed herself and left the bathroom quickly.
"Are you okay?" Daniel asked worriedly, "You were in there for a while."
Sha're gave him a smile, "Just a woman thing. I am fine."
Worry crossed his face, "Are you sure?"
"Of course I am," Sha're replied with another smile, no matter how forced it felt. She only had one month left with him, one month left to get a child.
Daniel wrapped his arm around her shoulders and pressed a kiss to her forehead, "Come on, I've a meeting this morning and I heard a rumour you're going to be working with Janet today."
"I asked her to show me how I could help those in Nagada," Sha're explained, "She was more than happy to agree."
"I'm glad you're finding things that interest you," Daniel breathed as he stroked her face, "I want you to be happy here."
"I am," Sha're told him.
Daniel kissed her, and she inwardly frowned, hating that they had only one month left together before she went home. Knowing what she knew now, Sha're wanted to stay with him but that wasn't the agreement. They had agreed on three months, and she hoped that she would at least have a baby when he left her at home.
x
Sha're sat in the infirmary taking in everything Janet was saying, she hoped when she returned to Abydos to implement some of these to help her people. When Janet was called to her patients, Sha're continued studying on her own. Deciding to go get herself a drink, Sha're headed to the water dispenser. As she reached the indoor fountain, she heard two women talking.
"You know all she needs to do to get this luxury compared to the world she's used to," one laughed.
"Oh yeah," the other replied, "Though I admit I'd never saw him as the kind of guy who would just want sex."
"He's a man," the first said, "Mind you he probably thinks she cares about him; you've seen them together. She's laying it on thick, getting a luxurious life all for the price of sleeping with him."
"Poor Daniel," the second sighed and they wandered away.
Sha're stood in the same spot hidden trying hard not to cry, was that what everyone thought of her? Taking a deep breath Sha're headed to Daniel's office to ask him to get her a car back to the house.
x
Daniel entered the house worried about Sha're. She'd left the base early saying she wasn't feeling well but there was something in her voice that worried him. As he reached the bedroom Daniel frowned to hear Sha're crying, instantly he moved inside finding her curled up on the bed tears streaming along her face.
"Sha're?" he whispered, moving to her side.
"Leave me," she pushed him away, "They are right, I am a horrible person."
Daniel shook his head in confusion, "What are you talking about?"
"They are right," she said again, "I am using you."
"Okay, stop," Daniel said gently, he coaxed her to sit up so he could talk to her, "You need to start at the beginning because you've lost me. What's wrong?"
"I agreed to come here with you for these three months originally because I wanted you to give me a child," Sha're dropped her head, "I know I am due to go home soon, and I am not pregnant yet. Then I heard two of the women within the base talking, they knew I was only here to use you. I know you must hate me but when my time here was over, I did not want to be as alone as I was the past few years ever again. I thought if I had your child, I could be a mother, I could…"
"Look at me," Daniel tilted her head up as she trailed off, "Sha're, the three months was so that you could decide if you wanted to stay with me. I love you and I've been trying to find a way to ask you if you do want to stay."
Sha're stared at him, "I thought…"
Daniel gently stroked her cheek, "I have been in love with you for so many years. And when I left, I did it because I wanted to protect you. These past few months, having you here with me have been the most amazing of my life and I don't want to go back to being alone either."
Sha're sniffed, staring at him.
"I will take you back to Abydos as we agreed and if you want to stay with your father then I will leave you there because I can't stay. I wish I could, but I can't ignore everything that's happening in the galaxy," Daniel told her, "But if you want to come back to Earth with me and live here, then I will be the happiest man in the world."
A smile touched Sha're's lips, and she threw her arms around Daniel's neck hugging him tightly.
"I want to stay with you," Sha're whispered, "Always."
Daniel beamed as he pulled away to look at her, "Good. Then I think we should get married."
"We are married."
"I know," Daniel said, pulling her close to him, "But considering everything, that we've been apart for so long then I want to let everyone know how much I love you, and I want to make the vows my people use for marriage."
Sha're smiled.
"And I want you to know that you are everything to me," Daniel continued, "That I hate how much I hurt you when I left. That I want to prove every day to you that I love you, that I'm sorry and make up for all the pain I put you through."
Taking his hand, Sha're whispered, "I hated you for a long time, Dan'iel but now I know why you left, the sacrifice you made to protect me. I do not agree that you did it without talking to me. However," she wrapped her arms around his neck, "I still love you and if you promise never to keep anything from me again then I will marry you once more."
"I promise," Daniel whispered.
With a smile, Sha're kissed him.
They'd decided to renew their vows on Abydos, so Sha're's family could be there. Daniel's guests were SG1, General Hammond, Cassie, Ferretti and Jacob Carter with Jack as the best man.
The wedding was going to be a mixture of ceremonies to celebrate their union, including wedding rings. Daniel had wanted to get her an engagement ring too, but Sha're refused it, she didn't need that as they were already married. She only agreed to the wedding ring as it would allow those on Earth to know she and Daniel were married.
Daniel bounced nervously on the balls of his feet as he stood at the end of the aisle with Jack and Hammond, who was going to be performing the ceremony along with Kasuf.
"Calm down," Jack told his friend, "You're driving me crazy."
Daniel frowned at his friend, "I'm just worried she'll change her mind."
"She won't," Jack replied, "After five years she let you back into her life, trust that."
Smiling slightly, Daniel took a few deep breaths hoping time sped up and the ceremony would start.
x
Sha're took a deep breath then turned and allowed her sister-in-law to lower the veil over her face before she left the tent to join Skaara. Sha're looked at her father who smiled at her.
"You look wonderful, my darling," Kasuf took her hands, "But I am confused why you are doing this though."
"Dan'iel and I want to have a formal marriage to make our vows to one another in public," she explained, "It is his people's way and for our people, they can think it is Dan'iel renewing of his love for Abydos and the gift they gave him."
"Are you sure about this?" Kasuf asked her concerned, "I remember the years…"
"Father," Sha're cut him off, "I am sure. Dan'iel loves me and I love him. I want to be his wife properly and he asked that we do this so he can prove he loves me."
Kasuf tilted his head thoughtfully, "And do you love him or are you just wanting away from your old life."
"I promise, Father," Sha're said softly, "I am happy with Dan'iel. He explained why he left, and I have forgiven him."
Kasuf nodded, "Then I am happy for you."
He offered her his arm which Sha're took with a smile. Stepping out of the tent, Sha're saw Daniel standing at the end of the aisle with Jack at his side and General Hammond, who she'd met the day before when they'd all travelled to Abydos.
Walking towards Daniel holding her father's arm, she was surprised to hear her people begin to sing. It was a song of joy, once to Ra, the words had been changed and now spoke of their freedom.
Reaching the end of the aisle, Kasuf place Sha're's hand in Daniel's before he moved to Hammond's side.
"Dear friends and family," Hammond started, "We have come together, two worlds different in many ways but connected by unique circumstances, to celebrate the union between Daniel and Sha're. I am proud to be here with Kasuf to officiate this marriage in front of all the people Daniel and Sha're love."
Kasuf took over, "Dan'iel inspired our freedom from the false god and Sha're is the gift, we the people of Abydos gave to him for this."
Sha're noticed the tiny frown that touched Daniel's lips at these words, knowing he did not like the thought she was only with him as a gift. Thankfully, she knew her father better than he did.
"A gift that we are only able to offer because my dear daughter loves him as much as he loves her," Kasuf continued, "After spending time out amongst the stars to protect the people of Abydos, Dan'iel has now returned to be with his bride. Today they will speak their words of love to one another, in the way of his people."
Hammond smiled, "Daniel and Sha're have chosen to make their own vows. Daniel."
Daniel turned to Sha're and offered her his hands; she took them smiling at him.
"My beautiful, brilliant Sha're," he said, "I am not worthy of your love, but I will do everything I possibly can to make you happy. You are so incredible and each day I fall for you deeper. I promise you that I will do everything to make you happy from this day on."
"Sha're," Hammond motioned to her.
"My dearest Dan'iel," Sha're said, "You appeared in my world and changed everything about it. We were parted for so long, while you were amongst the stats protecting our people and me, but now we are together once more, and I am looking forward to spending our lives together."
Hammond grinned, "The rings please."
Jack handed Sha're a ring first which she slid onto Daniel's finger, before he gave the other to Daniel who slid it onto Sha're's hand.
Kasuf stepped forward and handed the traditional Abydonian marriage cup to Daniel first. He took a quick drink before giving it to Sha're, she took a drink and returned it to her father.
"By these rings," Hammond stated.
"With the cup you both drank from," Kasuf added.
They then finished together, "We pronounce you, by the laws of Earth and Abydos, to be husband and wife."
A cheer sounded through the crowd and Hammond added, "You may kiss your bride, Dr Jackson."
Sha're smiled as Daniel pulled her close and kissed her.
Daniel lay watching Sha're sleep beside him in their Abydos home. They were returning to Earth tomorrow, and part of him wished they didn't have to leave. He remembered the first time he'd woken as her husband looking forward to living his life on the world so like the country of his youth, with an amazing woman who for some reason wanted to be with him.
He had always wondered how he'd seen the future in the cavern, because he didn't believe in that sort of thing but during the same quarantine where he told Jack about it, he'd realised that it had to be connected to the time he'd spent with the ascended.
It gave him insight into what they needed to know as well to start moving through the Gate network, but it had also forced him to make what would be the hardest decision he'd ever made.
Now though he had Sha're back in his life once more, not just in his life but as his wife and he could make up to her for the years they had lost.
"You are thinking deep thoughts," Sha're murmured sleepily as she turned and cuddled into him.
"Just thinking how happy I am," he replied, kissing her forehead.
"Good," she sighed.
Daniel smiled as she wrapped her arms around him and pulled him into a deep kiss.
"You know this is now three months," Sha're noted, "The end of our trial period."
He chuckled, "I think I know what your answer is to whether or not you'll stay on Earth with me."
"I hope so," she laughed.
Daniel sighed happily.
"There is one more tiny thing I should tell you," Sha're murmured, moaning happily as Daniel brushed kisses to her neck.
"Which is?"
Sha're smiled and whispered in his ear, "I'm pregnant."