Returning to CQS was harder than Sam expected. The familiar hum of the office greeted her as she stepped into the sleek, glass-walled building. The staff welcomed her warmly, but their enthusiasm deepened her guilt. For so long, she had been the driving force behind the company, but now she felt like a visitor—an outsider trying to reclaim a place she wasn't sure she deserved anymore.
She went to the conference room where the Board of Directors waited. The air was thick with anticipation as she entered, her heels clicking against the polished floor. Natalie was seated, her calm demeanor contrasting Sam's tightly coiled nerves.
As Sam settled at the head of the table, she glanced at the familiar faces of the board members. These people had supported her vision when CQS was just an idea, and now she was asking them to trust her again—to trust Natalie.
Clearing her throat, Sam began, "Thank you all for being here. I know you're busy, so I'll get straight to the point. Over the past few months, I've had to reevaluate my priorities—not just as a leader but as a mother, a partner, and a person. Running this company has been one of the greatest privileges of my life, but it's also come at a cost."
The room was silent, the board members watching her intently. Sam continued, her voice steady despite the weight of her words.
"After much consideration, I've decided to step down as CEO and transition into the role of Chairman of the Board. I'll still be involved in the company's strategic direction but no longer oversee the day-to-day operations. That responsibility, I believe, should go to someone who's already proven herself invaluable to CQS: Natalie Pierce."
A murmur rippled through the room, and Sam glanced at Natalie, who gave her a slight, encouraging nod.
"Many of you already know Natalie as our COO, but you might not realize that she's been the backbone of this company. She's led initiatives that have propelled us forward, handled crises with grace, and earned the respect of every team member. Natalie is ready to take on this role, and I'm confident she'll lead CQS into its next chapter with the same passion and dedication I've tried to bring."
The board members exchanged looks, some nodding in agreement. One of them, a distinguished man in a gray suit, leaned forward.
"Dr. Carter, your leadership has been the foundation of this company. Are you certain this is the right move—for you and CQS?"
Sam met his gaze, her resolve unwavering. "I am. This isn't about stepping away—it's about stepping into a role where I can make the most impact while ensuring the company has the leadership it needs to thrive. Natalie is that leader. And I'll be here every step of the way to support her."
Sam watched as Natalie reviewed the legal documents spread before her. The General Counsel, Teresa Alvarez, stood to address the room.
"Under the District of Columbia's corporate statutes," Teresa began, her voice steady, "this transition must adhere to the provisions outlined in the CQS Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. The CEO appointment requires a majority vote from the Board and the completion of Form RA-9 to notify the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs of the leadership change. Additionally, Natalie must sign a Conflict of Interest Disclosure, ensuring compliance with both state and federal regulations."
Natalie nodded, her expression calm but focused. "I've reviewed the disclosures and understand the obligations, including fiduciary duties to prioritize the company's interests over personal gain. I'm ready to take this on."
Sam felt a swell of pride as she addressed the board. "CQS has always been about innovation and integrity; Natalie embodies both. She's been instrumental in our success and has earned this role through years of dedication and exemplary leadership."
The Board members exchanged nods of agreement. One member, Edward Cartwright, leaned forward. "Dr. Carter, this is a significant change for the company. Can you elaborate on how you envision your role as Chairman complementing Natalie's leadership as CEO?"
Sam met his gaze, her tone confident.
"As Chairman, I'll focus on guiding the company's long-term strategy, fostering key partnerships, and ensuring governance remains strong. Natalie will handle the day-to-day operations, bringing her unique vision to the role. We've already aligned on our shared priorities to make this transition seamless."
The General Counsel said, "By D.C. law, as Chairman, Dr. Carter will retain voting rights during board meetings, while Natalie, as CEO, will act as the company's primary executive officer. This division ensures clarity in roles and accountability."
With the procedural details clarified, the meeting moved to a formal vote. Each board member cast their ballot, and the unanimous approval solidified Natalie's appointment.
Teresa handed Natalie the official CEO Agreement, a document outlining her responsibilities, including overseeing corporate compliance, maintaining shareholder value, and executing the company's strategic vision. Sam felt a bittersweet mix of pride and relief as Natalie steadily signed her name.
The room erupted into applause, marking the beginning of a new chapter for CQS. Sam stood, her gaze sweeping the room before landing on Natalie.
"Congratulations, CEO Pierce. I couldn't think of anyone better to lead this company forward."
Natalie smiled, her confidence shining. "Thank you, Chairman Carter. I'll honor the trust you've placed in me."
Over the following weeks, Natalie's leadership impact became evident. She wasted no time immersing herself in her new role, conducting one-on-one meetings with department heads to identify immediate challenges and opportunities.
During a Monday morning meeting, Natalie presented her first major initiative. "We're streamlining our reporting structure to eliminate redundancies and improve decision-making speed," she announced, pointing to a detailed chart on the screen. "By consolidating these teams, we'll cut costs by 15% while enhancing collaboration."
Her decisive approach earned her the respect of employees and board members alike. However, Natalie also faced challenges. The legal team flagged concerns over pending contracts that required her signature as CEO, necessitating rapid familiarization with the company's legal commitments.
Teresa met with Natalie one afternoon to discuss compliance. "As CEO, you'll be held personally liable for ensuring that all contracts align with D.C. and federal regulations," Teresa explained, referencing sections of the D.C. Business Corporation Act. "We'll review these together to ensure there are no oversights."
Natalie's diligence reassured the team. She spent late nights poring over documents, her attention to detail inspiring confidence in her ability to navigate the complexities of her role.
For Sam, the change was both liberating and bittersweet. Back-to-back meetings or endless crises no longer consumed her days at CQS. Instead, she focused on broader strategies, meeting with potential partners, and working on innovative projects aligned with the company's long-term vision.
Her calendar became less demanding, allowing her to leave the office early enough to pick up the boys from school or attend their soccer games. She smiled more, the weight of responsibility easing as she watched Natalie thrive in her new role.
One evening, as Sam prepared to leave the office, she paused at Natalie's doorway.
"You're heading out already?" Natalie teased, glancing up from her laptop.
Sam grinned. "Perks of being Chairman. The CEO handles the late nights now."
Natalie laughed. "Fair enough. But don't think I won't still call you if I need advice."
"You'd better," Sam replied. "This company's success depends on both of us."
As Sam drove home, she reflected on how Natalie's leadership was transforming CQS. She felt at peace with her decision for the first time in years. The company was in good hands, and Sam could focus on what truly mattered—her family.
When she arrived home, Jake was endlessly chattering about school, and Benji was quiet but growing accepting of her presence.
One night, after the boys were asleep, Sam found Jack on the porch, a glass of whiskey in his hand. She joined him, wrapping a blanket around her shoulders as she sat beside him.
"How's it going at CQS?" he asked without preamble.
Sam smiled faintly. "Challenging but worth it. The transition is going smoothly."
Jack nodded, swirling the amber liquid in his glass.
"Good. Because I know how much you love that company. But I also know how much you love us."
Sam turned to him, her eyes soft but serious.
"I do. And I'm not going to let my ambition ruin that again. I've learned my lesson, Jack. I told you."
He studied her for a long moment, his expression unreadable.
"You've changed, Sam. In a good way."
She reached for his hand, her touch gentle.
"Because I know what I almost lost. You, the boys... our life together. I won't take it for granted again."
Jack's lips twitched in a faint smile. "Good. Because you're stuck with us."
Sam laughed softly, but her gaze didn't waver.
"And I'll make sure you're stuck with me, too. I'm going to win you back, Jack. One day at a time."
He raised an eyebrow. "Is that a challenge?"
"Maybe," she teased, leaning closer.
His smirk grew, but there was warmth in his eyes as he squeezed her hand.
"Bring it on, Carter."
Sam felt hope stir in her chest. It wouldn't be easy—Jack was cautious, the year apart having left their mark—but she was determined. They'd fought too hard to give up now, and she'd make sure he fell in love with her again.
Because this time, she wouldn't let anything come between them.
Not even her stubbornness or ambition.
The following morning, as breakfast wound down, Sam took a deep breath and glanced at Jack. "I've been thinking," she began, her tone measured. "What if we went up to the cabin this weekend? All of us. A little family getaway."
Jake's face lit up immediately. "Can we fish, Mom? Please?"
Benji's eyes sparkled with cautious excitement. "And roast marshmallows?"
Jack raised a skeptical eyebrow but kept his tone light.
"Minnesota in the fall? You sure you're up for that?"
Sam nodded, her determination evident.
"I think it's exactly what we need."
Jack's expression softened, and he gave a slight nod.
"Okay, Carter. Let's do it."
The drive to Minnesota began at dawn. The SUV was packed to its limit with fishing rods, snacks, and eager energy. Jack handled the first leg calmly while Sam fidgeted, sneaking at the boys as they alternated between animated chatter and quiet anticipation.
"Are we there yet? No, wait—don't tell me. We're not, are we?" Jake huffed, flopping against the seat dramatically, not one hour after the drive started.
Jack glanced at him in the rearview mirror, a smirk tugging at his lips.
"Only about fourteen more hours, buddy."
"Fourteen?" Jake dragged the word out as if it physically pained him. "That's like... forever times two!"
Benji looked up from his drawing pad, raising an eyebrow. "It's not forever. It's fourteen hours." He paused, tilting his head. "Which is... still too long."
"It's a long trip. We'll stop for snacks and breaks along the way. Besides, you have your books and games, remember?"Sam chimed in, twisting in her seat to look back at them.
A few hours later, they stopped at a rest area. The boys darted out of the car, stretching their legs and racing to the restroom while Sam and Jack grabbed coffees from a vending machine.
"They're holding up well so far," Jack said, leaning against the SUV as they watched the boys.
"Better than I expected," Sam admitted, sipping her coffee. Her fingers were still curled tightly around the cup, a subtle tell of her lingering nerves.
Jack noticed but said nothing. Instead, he reached out and squeezed her shoulder lightly.
"You're doing fine, Carter."
They switched drivers after lunch at a roadside diner, where the boys devoured cheeseburgers and fries. Sam took the wheel, her focus sharp as she navigated the highways. Despite her best efforts to appear calm, Jack caught her glancing in the rearview mirror more often than necessary, checking on the boys or stealing a look at him. Her determination to make this trip perfect was written all over her face.
By the time they crossed into Minnesota, the sun was setting, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape. The boys were dozing in the backseat, their earlier energy finally giving way to sleep. Jack reached over and turned down the radio, the soft hum of the music blending with the rhythmic sound of the tires on the road.
"Almost there," he said quietly.
Sam nodded, her grip on the wheel relaxing slightly.
"I hope they love it as much as you do."
"They will," Jack assured her. "You'll see."
The cabin loomed ahead, rustic and inviting, its wooden frame framed by a sea of golden leaves. The boys stirred as the SUV rolled to a stop, their sleepy faces brightening at the shimmering lake under the moonlight.
"We're here!" Jake exclaimed, rubbing his eyes.
Benji yawned but smiled. "Can we see the lake tomorrow?"
"First thing," Jack promised, ruffling his hair.
Inside, the cedar-scented warmth wrapped around them. The boys rushed to claim the smaller room, leaving Sam and Jack to unpack in the main bedroom. Sam's stomach twisted as she folded clothes, the weekend's weight pressing down on her. Jack walked in, carrying the last of their bags. He paused, glancing at the single king-size bed in the center of the room.
"Well, this will be... cozy."
Sam smiled nervously. "We've done it before."
Jack smirked. "Yeah, but you said I snore."
The tension in the room was palpable, but neither addressed it directly. Instead, Jack set the bags down and headed toward the door.
"I'll go check on the boys."
Left alone, Sam sat on the edge of the bed, taking a deep breath. She couldn't shake the feeling that this weekend was a turning point—one she couldn't afford to mess up.
Meanwhile, General Hank Landry sat in his dimly lit office back in Washington, staring at the stack of classified documents on his desk. A tumbler of whiskey sat untouched beside him. The laughter of his colleagues, muffled by the thick walls, filtered faintly through the door. He leaned back in his chair, rubbing a hand over his face.
"What are you doing, Hank?" he muttered to himself. The directive to summon Samantha Carter to the Pentagon—to turn her life upside down again—weighed heavily on him. He knew the risks she had taken for her country and her sacrifices. But he had no choice. Still, a nagging doubt clawed at him. Was this truly what things had come to? After fighting aliens who wanted to take over Earth, to wipe them out?
Landry's gaze fell on a photo of his daughter Carolyn on his desk. The thought of her brought an ache to his chest. He had made compromises before and justified them in the name of duty. But this... this felt different. Personal. And that made it dangerous.
Shaking his head, he downed the whiskey in one gulp and returned to the files. "Focus," he muttered, though the hollow feeling in his chest lingered.
When Jack returned, the boys were already in their pajamas, tucked into their beds after a long evening of exploring. He closed the door quietly and leaned against the wall, watching Sam as she folded the last of their clothes.
"You okay?" he asked.
She glanced up, offering a small smile.
"Yeah. Just... nervous."
Jack nodded, his expression softening.
"Me too."
The unspoken weight of their shared history hung between them for a moment. But as Jack sat beside her, their shoulders brushing, Sam felt a flicker of hope. Maybe, just maybe, they could find their way back to each other.
Later that night, the cabin's quiet was broken only by the rustle of leaves outside and the soft crackle of the heater. Sam lay on her side of the bed, curled tightly under the blanket. Despite the heater's efforts, the temperature had dropped sharply, and the chill seeped into her bones. She clenched her teeth to keep them from chattering and tucked her icy feet under the covers, hoping Jack wouldn't notice.
But Jack did notice. He'd always been attuned to her, and when his wandering foot brushed hers, he flinched dramatically.
"Holy crap, Carter! Are you trying to freeze me to death?"
Sam froze, a guilty laugh bubbling up. "Sorry. I'm fine. Go back to sleep."
Jack propped himself up on one elbow, his eyes narrowing in the dim light.
"Fine? Your feet are actual blocks of ice. You're not fine."
"Jack, it's—"
Before she could finish, he shifted closer, continuing with a smirk she could make out in the darkness. "Come here."
She hesitated, but the gentle insistence in his voice drew her closer. Jack tugged her into his arms, his body warm and solid against hers. Sam relaxed, her head resting on his chest as his hand moved in slow, soothing circles on her back. Outside, the faint lapping of the lake against the shore blended with the occasional hoot of an owl, wrapping them in an almost hypnotic rhythm.
"Jack, I'll just make you cold too," she protested weakly, though her body relaxed into his warmth.
"I'm a human furnace, Carter. We had this discussion years ago. You've got nothing to worry about." He securely tucked the blanket around them and slid his legs against hers. "See? Problem solved."
The room went quiet for some minutes.
"You've always been bad at asking for help," Jack murmured, his voice a mix of teasing and tenderness.
Sam huffed softly. "I'm not bad at it. I just... don't want to bother anyone."
Jack chuckled. "Carter, if keeping you warm is a bother, I'll take it every time."
Her lips twitched into a small smile. She tilted her head to meet his gaze, the vulnerability in her eyes catching him off guard. "I'm trying, Jack," she said softly. "With us, with everything. I don't want to mess this up."
Jack's hand stilled on her back, his expression softening. "You won't," he said firmly. "It's not just on you, you know. We're in this together."
Sam nodded, her fingers curling lightly into his shirt. "I know. It just... feels fragile."
Jack's arms tightened around her, grounding her. "It's not. We've been through worse, and we're still here. That's gotta count for something."
She closed her eyes, letting his words and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat calm her.
"Thanks, Jack."
"Anytime," he replied, pressing a light kiss to the top of her head. "Now get some sleep. We've got a big day tomorrow."
Sam smiled against his chest, her body finally relaxing as warmth and peace replaced her earlier tension. For the first time in a long while, she felt like she wasn't carrying everything alone.
The following day, Sam woke to sunlight streaming through the cabin's curtains. She shifted slightly, only to realize Jack's arm was still draped around her waist. Their legs were tangled together, and her head rested on his chest. Heat crept up her cheeks as she tried gently extricating herself without waking him.
Jack's groggy voice cut through her escape attempt.
"Morning, Carter. Planning a stealth mission?"
"No," she said too quickly, heat rising to her cheeks. "Just… stretching."
"Uh-huh," he muttered, a slow grin tugging at his lips. "You're terrible at sneaking out."
Before she could retort, the sound of crashing and yelling erupted from the kitchen. Both of them sat up abruptly.
"The boys," Sam said, throwing the covers back.
They rushed out to find Jake and Benji in the middle of an improvised "fort" made of chairs, cushions, and blankets. The boys froze when they saw their parents, wide-eyed and innocent.
"It's a castle," Jake declared, puffing out his chest. "And we're knights."
Benji nodded, holding up a wooden spoon like a sword.
"We're protecting the kingdom."
Jack crossed his arms, looking stern but failing as a grin tugged at his lips.
"Well, Sir Knights, your kingdom is under attack by breakfast. Clean up, and we'll head outside after."
The boys groaned but began dismantling their fortress. Sam shot Jack a grateful smile, and they worked together to prepare a quick breakfast. Afterward, they headed outdoors to explore.
Crisp air filled the morning as the boys darted along the lake's edge, their laughter echoing. Sam and Jack followed, their steps slow and steady. The rich scent of damp earth and pine filled the air, and a gentle breeze carried the faint sound of water rippling against the rocks.
"They're happy," Sam said, her gaze soft.
"So are you," Jack replied, meeting her eyes.
A flicker of tension passed between them before Jack looked away.
"We'd better catch up—Jake's bound to end up soaked."
Sam laughed, but the warmth of his earlier gaze stayed with her.
Later, Sam crouched by the lake, watching Benji intently as he struggled to untangle his fishing line. His tiny hands worked clumsily, his brow furrowed in frustration. Finally, he looked up at her, his eyes wide and uncertain.
"Mom, can you help me?" he asked softly.
Sam's heart swelled at the simple request. She knelt beside him, her hands carefully guiding his. "Of course, Benji. Let's do it together."
As they worked, his tension eased, and a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. When they finally freed the line, he looked up at her with a shy grin.
"Thanks, Mom."
"Anytime," Sam replied, her voice warm. She gently ruffled his hair, earning a giggle. The moment was small but monumental—a sign that the walls between them were beginning to crumble.
As the day wore on, Jack and Sam's unspoken connection grew. Simple touches—a hand brushing against an arm, a lingering glance—hinted at what neither of them was ready to say. The boys darted along the shoreline, their shouts of excitement punctuated by the occasional splash of water. By sunset, the golden light reflected off the lake's surface, and the air was filled with the mingling scents of firewood and roasted marshmallows.
By the time they returned to the cabin, the sun was setting, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The evening at the cabin was quiet, the warmth of the fireplace casting a soft glow across the cozy living room. The boys were sprawled on the floor, and Jake was engrossed in building a Lego spaceship while Benji sketched absently in a notebook. Jack sat nearby, a book in one hand and a mug of coffee in the other, his legs stretched out on the ottoman.
Sam watched them from the kitchen, her hands idly drying a dish. The tension gripped the family in the days leading up to the trip had eased, but an undercurrent of fragility remained. She glanced at Benji, his pencil moving steadily across the page, and made a decision.
Crossing the room, she knelt beside him. "What are you drawing?" she asked softly.
Benji hesitated, his fingers tightening on the pencil for a moment before he tilted the notebook to show her. It was a rough sketch of the cabin, the trees surrounding it reaching high into the sky.
"This is great, Benji," Sam said, her smile genuine. "You have such an eye for details."
He shrugged, but a faint flicker of pride crossed his face. "It's not done yet."
"Well, I'd love to see it when it is," she said, keeping her tone light. "Maybe we can hang it up in the cabin when you're finished."
Benji glanced at her, his expression guarded but curious. "Really?"
"Of course," she said, leaning in slightly. "It's your cabin too, you know."
He nodded slowly, returning his focus to the sketch. It wasn't much, but it was enough—a small step toward the trust she was working so hard to rebuild.
Finally, after a little more time playing, the boys collapse into their beds, exhausted but content, leaving Sam and Jack alone in the living room.
Jack poured two glasses of wine and handed one to Sam.
"To surviving day one," he said, raising his glass.
"And to more days like this," Sam added, clinking her glass against his.
The silence between them was comfortable but charged. As the fire crackled softly, their eyes met, and for the first time in years, the distance between them didn't feel insurmountable.
That night, the unspoken tension between them reached its peak. As they lay in bed, the room seemed smaller, the air thicker. Sam turned on her side, her back to Jack, but sleep eluded her. She could feel his presence; every breath he took was a reminder of how close they were.
Jack shifted, the bed creaking softly. "You okay?" he asked, his voice low.
"Yeah," Sam replied too quickly. "Just… thinking."
"About what?"
She hesitated, her fingers twisting the edge of the blanket. "About us."
The admission hung in the air, and Jack exhaled slowly. "Yeah. Me too."
Sam rolled onto her back, their eyes meeting in the dim light. The weight of their shared history, the years of love and loss, pressed down on them. Jack reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face.
"We've been dancing around this all day, haven't we?"
Sam nodded, her breath hitching as his fingers lingered against her cheek. "We have."
He leaned in, his voice barely above a whisper. "The boys are asleep. We'll be quiet."
Sam's laugh was soft, her hand resting against his chest. "Quiet has never been your strong suit."
Jack's smirk softened as he leaned closer, his lips meeting hers in a hesitant kiss, then deepened into something raw and familiar. The years of distance melted away, replaced by the weight of everything unsaid between them.
Sam felt the tension within her unwind as the kiss deepened, replaced by a warmth she hadn't realized she craved so profoundly. Jack's hands moved to her waist, pulling her closer, and she responded with equal fervor, her fingers threading through his hair. It wasn't rushed or desperate—it was deliberate, each touch and movement a reconnection of their bond.
When they finally broke apart, both were breathing heavily. Jack rested his forehead against hers, his voice husky.
"I've missed you, Sam. More than I can put into words."
Sam's throat tightened, her own emotions threatening to overwhelm her.
"Me too, Jack. Every day."
He smiled softly, pressing another kiss to her forehead before trailing kisses along her jawline. Sam melted under his touch, feeling cherished and wanted in a way she hadn't felt in years. As they lost themselves in each other, the years of pain and distance were replaced by the undeniable truth: they still belonged to one another.
Their movements remained careful, mindful of the sleeping boys just down the hall, but the quiet didn't diminish the intensity of their reunion. When they finally settled into each other's arms, the silence was filled with an unspoken understanding—this was the beginning of something new, built on the ashes of what they had once thought was lost forever.
For the first time in years, they slept peacefully, tangled together in a way that felt as natural as breathing.
The following day, Jack and Sam awoke to sunlight streaming through the cabin's windows, the birdsong mingling with the distant yelling of the boys at the dock. It was a peaceful tableau, but the weight of their unfinished conversation lingered between them.
As Sam brewed coffee, Jack walked in from the porch, his face serious. He set down his fishing rod and gestured to the couch.
"Sam, we need to talk."
She turned, already anticipating where this was going. Still, the knot in her stomach tightened. She nodded, pouring two mugs of coffee and bringing them over.
Jack sat across from her, his brown eyes searching hers.
"Last night was... good. It felt right, like old times." He paused, taking a sip of coffee before setting the mug down. "But I need to know—are we really doing this? Are you really ready to put us first?"
Sam set her coffee aside, her hands trembling slightly.
"Jack, I meant what I said. I want this—us, our family—to work."
His lips pressed into a thin line.
"I hear you, but... Sam, it's hard to trust that. You said it before. You'd be here, be with me, with the boys... but then it was CQS, late nights, and missed moments. I need more than words this time. I need to know you mean it."
Sam's heart clenched. She could see the toll the past year had taken on him—the guarded way he spoke, the weariness in his eyes. He wasn't just questioning her; he was protecting himself.
"You're right," she admitted quietly, her voice shaking. "I've broken your trust. And I can't undo that. But, Jack..." She reached out, taking his hand. "I've realized something over the past year. CQS—success—it doesn't mean anything without you and the boys. I love my work, but I love you more. I love our family more."
Jack looked down at their joined hands, his thumb brushing over hers.
"Sam, I don't doubt you love us. But loving isn't the same as showing up."
"I know," she said, her voice firm. "And you know I've already taken steps in that direction. Natalie is already the new CEO, but we must smoothly transition to ensure everything goes well. She is already handling day-to-day operations, and I have more free time. I'll prove to you and the boys that I'm here. Fully here."
His gaze softened, but his hesitation was still evident.
"I want to believe you, Sam, but I'm scared. Scared of putting everything into this and ending up right back where we started."
She leaned closer, her eyes unwavering.
"I don't blame you for feeling that way. But I promise, Jack, I won't let us fall apart again. You're my partner, my home, my everything. Please... trust me one more time."
Jack's shoulders relaxed slightly, his thumb tracing soothing circles on her hand.
"Okay, Carter. But we take this slow. No rushing back into old habits."
Sam smiled faintly, tears glistening in her eyes.
"Slow is good. I'll prove it to you, Jack. To all of you."
From outside, the boys' laughter floated through the open window, a reminder of everything they stood to lose—and everything they were fighting to keep.
Jack squeezed her hand and leaned forward, kissing her forehead softly.
"One step at a time, Sam."
She nodded, her heart swelling with determination. "One step at a time."
And for the first time in a long while, they both believed it might be possible.
The morning sunlight glinted off the lake as Jack and the boys fished at the dock. Sam sat nearby on a picnic blanket, sipping her coffee and sketching the scene. It was one of the rare moments where everything felt right—the boys' laughter, Jack's easy grin, the gentle lapping of the water against the dock.
"Mom!" Benji called out unusually loud, making Sam look up in surprise. "It's a fish! A real fish!"
Sam dropped her sketchpad and hurried over as Jack crouched to help untangle the line.
"Wow, Benji!" she said, her grin matching his. "That's the catch of the day!"
Jake sprinted over, craning his neck to see.
"No way! That's the biggest? I'm totally catching one bigger than that."
Jack watched her with a quiet smile, the tension in his shoulders easing as he saw her fully engaged with the boys.
Later, they gathered around the small firepit, roasting marshmallows. Benjamin's face was smeared with chocolate, and Jacob carefully assembled the perfect s'more under Sam's watchful eye.
"You know," Jack said, leaning back in his chair with a satisfied sigh, "I could get used to this. No meetings, no phones, just the sound of kids being kids."
Sam glanced at him, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "You and me both."
Jack met her gaze, and for the first time in a long time, there was no doubt, no hesitation—just warmth.
When the cabin retreat ended, the O'Neills returned home, but something felt different. Sam's promises weren't just words—they became actions.
The first Monday back, Sam woke early to make breakfast again, surprising Jack.
"Pancakes? From scratch?" Jack asked, raising an eyebrow as he entered the kitchen, still groggy.
Sam smiled as she flipped another pancake onto the growing stack. "You've been handling breakfast duty forever. Figured it's my turn."
Jack leaned against the counter, watching her with amusement and skepticism. "What's the catch?"
"No catch," she said, handing him a plate. "Just a new routine."
Sam's new routines at CQS started to get noticed. Mornings were spent with the boys before she headed to her office, and evenings were sacred family time. As CEO, Natalie took on more responsibilities at CQS, ensuring Sam could leave by 5 PM.
One evening, Jack walked into the living room to find Sam on the floor with the boys, guiding Benji's careful hands as he added a stabilizer to a half-built spaceship.
"Legos, huh?" Jack smirked. "Thought that was my domain."
"Not anymore," Sam teased, handing Jake a wing piece. "Care to join us, General?"
Jack crouched down, grabbing a handful of bricks. "Let's see what you've got, Doctor."
As the weeks turned into months, the changes solidified into a routine. The boys began seeking Sam out as much as Jack, their bond with her strengthening. Jack, too, started to let go of his doubts, though it wasn't without effort.
One evening, as they sat on the porch after putting the boys to bed, Jack handed Sam a beer and leaned back in his chair.
"You know," he began, staring out at the darkened yard, "for the first time in a long time, I feel like... we're actually a team again."
Sam turned to him, her expression serious but hopeful.
"I told you, Jack. I meant it. You, the boys—you're my priority now."
Jack took a sip of his beer and then set it down. "I believe you, Sam. I really do."
She reached out, her hand covering his. "Good. Because I'm not going anywhere."
Jack looked at her, his eyes softening. "Then I think we might just make it, Carter."
Sam grinned, her heart swelling. "We will, Jack. We will."
Jack's phone buzzed sharply, shattering the uneasy quiet. On the other end, Hank Landry's voice was clipped, businesslike.
"Jack, as a courtesy, I'm letting you know first—that Homeworld Command has requested Doctor Samantha Carter, current Chairman of CQS, and Doctor Natalie Pierce as its CEO, to appear at the Pentagon for a formal hearing. It's scheduled for two days from now. They'd be wise to bring their lawyers."
Before Jack could muster a single question or protest, the line went dead, leaving him staring at his phone, the weight of Landry's words sinking in.
Jack sat at the kitchen table, the phone still in his hand, staring at the wall. Sensing his mood, Sam stepped into the room, her expression concerned.
"What is it?" she asked, setting a cup of coffee before him.
Jack exhaled sharply.
"That was Landry. Homeworld Command wants you and Natalie at the Pentagon for a two-day formal hearing." He glanced up at her. "He said both should bring a lawyer."
Sam froze. "A hearing? About what?"
"He didn't say. Just hung up before I could ask."
Sam's mind immediately began racing. She sank into the chair opposite Jack. "If they're calling me to the Pentagon, it's not a courtesy visit. I'll bet it's about Kane and Project Phoenix. And Natalie just got caught in the crossfire."
Jack nodded grimly.
"We'd better get ahead of this. Call Natalie. She needs to know and get the best lawyer you can find."
Two hours later, Sam sat in her office at CQS, surrounded by Natalie and key leadership team members. Across the table sat their lawyer, Evan Rourke, a sharp-eyed man in his mid-40s with a reputation for taking on high-profile cases and winning. He exuded calm confidence, even as everyone looked increasingly worried.
"We're likely looking at accusations related to the origins of CQS's core encryption infrastructure," Natalie said, flipping through a thick dossier. "Specifically, the use of frameworks from Project Phoenix."
"Project Phoenix?" Rourke interjected, raising an eyebrow. "I'll need details."
Sam sighed, running a hand through her hair.
"Phoenix was a classified Air Force project I worked on when I was young. It focused on developing advanced encryption algorithms for secure communications. When I left the Air Force, I designed the CQS infrastructure from scratch, but I won't deny that my experiences informed its development."
Rourke's lips pressed into a thin line.
"That's a gray area. As a former military officer with high-level clearance, you're bound by specific rules regarding the use of knowledge gained during service. If they can prove you directly used classified elements of Project Phoenix, they'll argue it's a breach of national security laws. Worst case, they'll push for criminal charges: misappropriation of classified materials, unauthorized use of government resources, maybe even espionage."
The room fell silent. Natalie's expression hardened.
"This is ridiculous. CQS was built from the ground up. We've been audited multiple times, and no one raised a red flag."
"Audits are one thing," Rourke said calmly. "A formal Pentagon hearing is another. This isn't about routine oversight but politics and leverage."
"What are we up against?" Sam asked, her voice steady despite the weight of the accusations.
"They'll try to paint a picture that you leveraged classified knowledge to gain an unfair advantage in the private sector," Rourke said. "If they can establish intent, they'll escalate to criminal charges. But there's a lot of room to fight. First, we'll need to prove that CQS's infrastructure is an original creation, independent of Phoenix."
Natalie leaned forward. "We've got documentation of every development milestone from day one. That should help."
Rourke nodded.
"Good. But we also need to address the optics. This hearing isn't just about you, Sam; it's about the perception of what you represent—a former military officer turned successful entrepreneur in a sensitive field. They'll want to make an example of you. And they will probably use the recent transition timing at CQS to say that you were trying to shield from liability while exposing Natalie to legal and professional risks."
Sam sighed heavily and crossed her arms. "So what's the strategy?"
"First," Rourke said, "we'll review every detail of Project Phoenix and CQS's development to establish a clear line between them. Second, we'll emphasize your integrity and contributions to national security during and after your service. Finally, we'll challenge the idea that any classified knowledge was misused. They need proof, and we'll make damn sure they can't get it."
Natalie exchanged a glance with Sam. "What about the hearing itself?"
"I'll be there with you both," Rourke assured her. "The key is to stay composed. They'll try to rattle you, maybe even bait you into admitting something they can twist against you." He paused, his gaze sharp. "Can you handle that?"
Sam met his eyes. "I've faced worse. You have no idea how worse."
Natalie smirked, leaning back in her chair. "Worse than this? What, did aliens put you on trial too?"
Sam's lips twitched into a faint smile while Rourke shook his head.
"Something like that," she said dryly, earning a soft chuckle from Natalie.
"Well," Natalie said, crossing her arms. "If you survived that, we've got this in the bag."
As the hearing approached, the situation grew more dire. Leaked reports suggested Homeworld Command uncovered old project files linking Sam to Phoenix's encryption frameworks. The media began to speculate, and rival companies seized the opportunity to question CQS's legitimacy. The company's team worked tirelessly to counter the claims, but the pressure was mounting.
Jack wasn't helping matters.
"I'm going with you," he said firmly the night before the hearing.
Sam shook her head. "Jack, it's a closed session. You're not allowed."
His jaw tightened, frustration simmering beneath his calm facade.
"Of course it is," he said, his tone sharper than he intended. "Landry's got his fingerprints all over this, doesn't he? You're walking into their trap, Sam. You and Natalie."
Sam placed a hand on his arm. "You can't fight this one for me. I need to do it myself."
Jack didn't look convinced. "It's not right, Sam. Something about this stinks. Landry's too involved, and I don't buy that this is just about Phoenix."
Sam squeezed his arm. "I'll find out what's really going on. Just trust me, okay?"
That night, Sam barely slept. The weight of what lay ahead loomed over her, and every whispered doubt and potential misstep played on repeat. By morning, as she walked into the Pentagon flanked by Rourke and Natalie, her exhaustion was masked by the steady resolve she forced herself to summon. Still, the weight of every eye on her was a constant reminder—she was walking a fine line.