Title: "ADRIFT Part II." (‘Shipper’s version’--?) F F. Author: John Ball. E-mail: < D.J.Ball@xtra.co.nz > Classification: Jag Story/Harm & Mac Romance. Rating: PG-13. Spoilers: "Lifeline", "Adrift Part I", "Yeah Baby" Disclaimer: JAG and its characters are the property of Bellisarius Productions and Paramount.---This is a recreational ‘endeavour’.---Neither is profit being made, nor is copyright infringement intended.---Please believe! Synopsis: After Harm sinks under the last wave on "Adrift part I", he surfaces once again.—It seems like an unseen force helps Harm’s efforts to stay alive!---Meanwhile, at the Wedding Rehearsal dinner JAG staff and friends are sad and apprehensive, and starting to believe the very worst scenario as we take up the story. ******************************************************************** Friday, 1635 hrs Eastern, "Toni’s Restaurant", WASHINGTON D.C. ---After Mac had turned around and faced Mic as he followed her out into the next room, entreating her to come back, Mic saw the expression on Mac’s face!---She had told him she had to be alone. She needed ‘space’!---Her "world" was falling apart—Harm was an integral part of her world, and if he was gone?----She needed to get a ‘grip’ of herself!---*Oh God!* she cried,---weeping uncontrollably! ---After a while she came back, and now sits at the table, and covers her face with her hands as tears still trickle down her face. Mic is sensing how much she loves and cares for Harm.—Mac has now ‘turned off’ and doesn’t answer Mic as he tries to comfort her.---Mac is ‘out there’ with Harm he realizes.—He starts to seriously think whether they should go ahead with their marriage, and sits dejectedly alongside her! -------------------------- Friday, 1635 hrs Eastern, Somewhere in the Atlantic off the eastern Seaboard of North Carolina. Harm resurfaced after that last big wave had submerged him!---Was that Mac’s voice calling that he’d heard?---What was it he thought he’d heard?-- Something like,---"Harm it’s me,--Mac,--I love you!--Don’t give up!--Don’t give up!--Don’t give up! (softly). ---Or, was it the howling of the wind, and just his imagination? As the next wave peaked, and the white top curled over him, Harm shook his head, and cleared the water from his eyes for the 50th time! ---His mind drifted to the conversation and what had happened in the porch at that Engagement party.---He was telling Mac that Mic said that all the guys were a little bit in love with her, and that he was right! --Then Mac was asking him, ---"When you look at me, what do you see?"—And his answer? --"A desirable woman!"---help!--she looked so beautiful in that attractive dress!--It had ‘flame-colours’ in it, and it was calculated to set him, Harm, alight! ----Wonder what she was thinking when I told her that?---Perhaps she was thinking,---*He finds me attractive,--I’m going to provoke him to make him say something about his feelings* --(Another wave rolled over him, and again he shook his head clearing the water from his eyes!) ----What did she say?--Yeah!--"I see a man so afraid of losing control!"--- Perhaps she was talking about his possible ‘feelings’ for her?---My answer? And spoken like a real "Macho" that I’ve got to be,---"You lose control in this life, you die!"---In an F 14 sure Rabb!---A Relationship is like having 10,000 lbs of Airplane between your legs?--This last F 14 is now at the bottom of the Atlantic Rabb!---like your relationship with Mac, who practically threw herself at you in Australia!---BUT MAN YOU BLEW IT! ---but did you BLOW IT BIG TIME Macho Rabb! ---Perhaps I’m scared of loss of control if I let myself love this wonderful attractive woman as she should be loved.—If she loved you, would she then start to control you Rabb?---Loss of control Rabb?---Look at yourself right now, ---where has that concept got you Rabb?---In the "Briny"! Look at the way she risked her life several times in Russia for your concern over your father, and then your half brother, and didn’t stand in your way when you had to go back flying F14’s!---What a jerk you are Rabb! Wonder what Mac thought about what I said?--- If she was thinking,--- *I can’t seem to penetrate, so I’ll provoke him about Mic not letting anything stand in the way of Love by saying, --um * ----"Mic knew what he wanted, and went after it!" ----Thinking about it, Mac implied that I wasn’t ready to commit, and therefore I missed out!--??---Then my "smart" reply?--Yeah! ----"And he got it!" ---What an idiot Rabb you are!--Most women would have given up at this point!--But what did Mac do?--Gee she must really care ‘heaps’!--She says,--"What do you want most?" ---Here is this beautiful woman asking you Rabb,--‘What do you want most?’---Wow!---That picture I fantasized, -- her in a bath-towel coming out of the shower!---And she is still looking at me wanting an answer! ---(These waves are damn persistent!--Swallowing salt water is definitely not good for the ‘constitution’!) ---Yeah!--where was I?--Mac wants me to answer,--I can see her beautiful brown eyes looking deep into mine, willing me to tell her the truth!---What did I say?---"What I want most is to never lose you!"—And then --- couldn’t help it, it just tumbled out….."Why Mac, did you have to go to him so quickly?" ---- Mac’s still looking into my eyes, reading my heart like a book,---says, even though she thinks I think that she went to Brumby on the ‘rebound’,---"You’re never going to lose me!--You pushed me away, --what was I supposed to do?" ---Yeah, I was thinking, --She still loves me, cares for me, and I pushed her into Bugme’s arms!---And then, so that there shouldn’t be any doubt, short of saying it outright, she says,--"You have someone who always loves you!" –And I know she wasn’t talking about Renee, ---that’s for sure Rabb! ---Looking in her eyes, I saw all the love that really had been there all along, and she wrung an answering heart response from me before I could stop myself. ---"And you have someone who loves you!"---I know she knew that I wasn’t referring to Brumby either! ---(Another wave over the top.---Every 7th wave’s a "Biggy".---How much longer Lord?)--- Yeah—where was I?---Then we’d got real close, and we were drawn together by a powerful magnet.---She kissed me first, and I couldn’t help it but holding her tightly, I really gave her a kiss that had all the frustrated years of waiting and longing wrapped up in it! ----And she kissed me back just as passionately!---Oh Lord what a kiss!---She loves me Lord, are You going to let me drown out here?---I love her God!---Let me be able to say that to her face Lord! ---And then her words,--"We’re getting too good at saying goodbyes!"—Why does she have to make comments like that?--"OH GOD, IS THIS GOODBYE?"---Harm shouted to the ‘Teeth’ of the Storm! ---(Another wave crashed over the top of Harm, driving him under yet again). --------------------------- At the Restaurant…………… ----Mac is still in tears!--Mic fills a glass ½ full with champagne, and, touching her shoulder, offers it to Mac.---Even though she’s distraught, she shakes her head placing a hand on his arm softly. Mic then offers it to Chloe, who by now is also crying, and Mac says, MAC: "Hey Mic, she’s my sister, and I don’t want her to end up being like I was, an ‘Alky’ –she’s a minor, dear!" MIC: "Sorry Luv, I guess I wasn’t thinking!--It’s automatic with me,--the ‘drink’ thing!--Hey Luv, bear up!--Harm’s a tough guy, He’s been in tight situations before huh?"—(Mic’s face registers shock!) Mac still sat shocked and tearful hardly hearing what Mic was saying. "Hell, Sarah!--I didn’t know that you two were that close!--I’m trying to understand Sarah.—Hey Honey talk to me Luv!" Mac had lapsed into silence,--she was in another world.—Her lips were moving in silent prayer.—She half-acknowledges Mic, and patted his arm softly, and continued saying nothing! ---Harriet, who was observing Mac, said to the Admiral, HARRIET: "Sir, I think she’s taking it real bad!--I’ll go and sit by her." --The Admiral nodded with a sad look on his face.—His eyes had a somber defeated look in them. ADMIRAL: "Rabb," he said defeatedly, "If anybody’s going to get into trouble, it’ll be you!" MAC: "Mic I just want to go to the restroom, and get myself together if I can.—I still need some space please!"---And Mac hurried quickly out of the main room once again, away from the others without a backward glance. --Chloe followed her with tears in her eyes, --determinedly. ---Harriet had got to her feet as she watched this with a sad face, and didn’t respond when Bud spoke to her, but then she said flatly, HARRIET: "Bud, I’ve got to go to the Colonel,--she needs support, O.K.? --With this said Harriet moved off quickly in the same direction.—All eyes were watching what had been happening. Inside the Restroom, to one side of the alcove attached to the bathroom, huddled up on a sofa, and,-- one sobbing ‘wreck’,-- was Mac! CHLOE: Chloe was already trying to comfort Mac, and she was saying, "Hey big sister, I love you,--you’re not alone!" ---Chloe managed to get this out even though it was in between her own sobs—She was rubbing one of Mac’s arms, and she was giving her several kisses as well. HARRIET: Then Harriet whispered, as she placed her arms around Mac,----"Ma-am.--- I love you too!, and we want to be with you --O.K.?" MAC: "Sure Harriet, sure Chloe!----What a fine example of a Marine I am!--If only I’d wished him luck!--If only I’d not made him feel bad about not possibly being at the Wedding!---Oh Harriet!" ---A fresh round of sobs wracked Mac’s frame.---"Oh Chloe, I’m praying hard! CHLOE: "Sarah, we’re all praying hard!---The Admiral is too!---You really love Harm eh Sarah?---More than you realized eh?" Chloe probed.—Mac knew that it was senseless to deny it now, and with tears streaming down her face implored her two friends, MAC: "I want you both to pray as hard as you can!--I’m going to wipe my face and go out there and face the others now." She said, wiping her eyes and face, and getting to her feet a little unsteadily! Outside the Restaurant, the Storm was unleashing its fury , as the rain lashed, the Lightning flashed, the Thunder rolled, and lit up the interior with stark unrealism! ---Harriet steadied Mac on her feet, and they all walked into the bathroom and they had a little smile on their faces as they saw their damaged ‘faces’ in the mirror----. Earlier. ---As Mic had watched Mac go, then Chloe, and last, Harriet, his spirit plunged into depression.—He was cradling his face in his hands and was just aware that someone had joined him at the table, hearing a chair scrape the floor.---Renee sat down at the table and asked, RENEE: "May I?’ MIC: "Yeah, sure!" he spoke sitting up, but looking despondent! RENEE: "Doesn’t look too good for Harm, does it?"—but going on before Mic could respond,--"I’ve had to finally face it, as you are, dear Mic, --that they are in love with each other I’m afraid1"—She whispered. MIC: "Yeah, Renee!--I thought we’d "made it", especially after they both seemed to be saying their ‘goodbyes’ at the Engagement Party", he murmured. RENEE: She responded, "If all it took was that one kiss, then now, if not later, we are both "casualties" Mic!"--She continued,--"I love Harm, but he wasn’t ready to commit because Mac had his heart I’m afraid, and now it looks like he’s been lost after all!"---Renee whispered brokenly. MIC: "Hey steady there Renee,--Harm’s one tenacious character!---You’re right about that kiss though.---I thought that they were really saying goodbye, but it looks as though it’s spelled trouble!--I thought, as you’ve said, that we’d "made it", and now this!--Mac is loyal enough to go through with the Wedding I know, but it’s going to hang over our heads for ever!--What a mess……..!"---Mic tailed off. RENEE: Renee went on sadly, "It almost looks like those two have a perpetuating history of bad luck and death!--She shot her ex-husband by accident, and some guy’s career’s on the wall because of her,-- then Dalton, her ex-boy-friend,--murdered. —Then Harm’s original girl-friend Diane was murdered,--his other affairs in between, and Jordan, his ex-girl-friend’s just been murdered.—At the risk of sounding superstitious, it may be safer if we each save our own lives….?" MIC: "Renee, --hey, I don’t know whether I’d go so far as to say that.---After all, people die around us all the time!---Don’t know about that girl!---Hey, but I appreciate you talking with me!--Have a drink of champagne Renee?" RENEE: She answered, "Yeah, sure, --just ½ a glass thanks!" They both ‘toyed’ with their drinks for a while, then Mac, Chloe and Harriet emerged from the Ladies, and Renee got to her feet saying,--"See you Mic, sometime!"---And moved away. ----The Storm increased its fury even more outside the Restaurant.—Everyone was thinking,--" poor Harm!---how could he survive?" Mac sat down at their table once again and asked him, MAC: "You must be grieved with me over my reaction to Harm’s disappearance right?" Mic was looking at Mac, and was about to speak, when another call for the Admiral was ‘patched’ through.---Everyone stopped talking and waited----. ADMIRAL: "Yes Captain,--Chegwidden!---You’re calling off the 2nd search?---Why? Too rough? --Yes, yes, I understand! ---We know that you’ve picked up Skates. ---O.K. Captain, I hope that it went off O.K. too!---I’ll probably call you… ---not this number Captain…Thanks….!" MAC: Mac turned agonized eyes towards the Admiral, and he was aware that every eye was on him,---she gasped,--"Sir?--What’s happening?" ADMIRAL: "Skates confirmed that Harm was having trouble with his Ejector seat,--bit sluggish he was saying, and that he’d told her that he’d see her down there.---If there was a delay in its ejection, then he could either have gone down with the F 14 ……".---at this point Mac involuntarily stood up--- "or be some miles away from Skates, who was picked up!--This 2nd search for Harm, as you heard, has now been abandoned by the Helo because of the Storm’s danger to its crew……" ----Mac crumpled into a heap in a dead faint, to Mic’s startled gaze, and he swiftly bent down and picked her up, while the Admiral finished, saying briefly, "The Captain’s had to do this, and especially as nightfall is here!---If Harm is in his Life raft there is still hope that he will survive!" ---Mic carried Mac over to the Lounge’s 4 Seater and laid her down, and Harriet and the Admiral moved quickly to her side.---Mac’s eyes fluttered open, and she weakly attempted to get up, but the Admiral ordered to stay there and rest a while. MAC: ---Mac complied with his order, but in tears said,--"Sir can’t you do something to continue the search?---I know in my heart that he’s still alive!" ---Mic looked sadly at Mac as she continued to press the Admiral, as she said, "Sir I knew Harm was still alive that time in the Sub’., and he was!---You know sir, about my instinct!--Sir, I feel that he is alive!--Please!---Please!" ADMIRAL: The Admiral agreed that Mac did have a valid point, and so he said, --"O.K. Mac I’ll see what I can do!"---The Admiral then got hold of the SecNav, and pleaded his case. ---After the SecNav had consulted with his ‘Weather-Man’, he agreed to send the "Patrick Henry’s" Helo’., out again at first light Saturday morning, and also as a last ditch effort, a specially equipped Helo’., from Andrews Air Base as well. MAC: Mac brightened with that, and gave Mic a hug saying,--"Oh Mic I’m not sure that I can go ahead with the ceremony tomorrow to be fair to you!---I feel that I’ve betrayed you dear Mic, breaking down like this!---I’m so mixed up Mic!" MIC: "Sarah Luv, I can see how much you really are affected by this, and as of now, I want to release you!---I’m calling the Wedding off Sarah!---I realize that though you may love me,---Harm really has your heart. You are in love with him Sarah! MAC: Mac looked up with a tear-streaked face, and didn’t deny Mic’s home-truth, and said,--"I thought that I could make it work.---I’ve loved you for giving up your career to be with me, and I know that you love me unreservedly!--I feel that I have betrayed you Mic!"---Once again Mac burst into tears, and wept this time on Mic’s shoulder, and Mic replied, MIC: "Sarah Luv I said that I wanted to release you now, ---and I want you to not feel you’ve betrayed me, because I realize that no one can help being in love!---I know that sweet Sarah!--- ----Go find him!----I know that you’ll want to go to Andrews!---I’m right aren’t I? Mic finished with a sad smile!---"I only hope that Rabb is worth it!"—he added. ---"I’ll leave you in care of the Admiral, Harriet and Bud O.K.?---Renee Peterson and I faced this earlier this evening.---I’ll see her home as well."---Mic said getting to his feet, and drawing Mac up too, and hugging her tenderly. ----"Take special care sweet Sarah.—I’ll always love you, you can be sure!--I’ll go now O.K.?"---Mic released Mac, who watched him in a daze, as he said a few words to the Admiral and Harriet. Later, Mac and the Admiral got in to a deep conversation for some time. ----------------------------- 1825 hrs Friday, Somewhere in the Atlantic off the eastern Seaboard of North Carolina. Harm is starting to hallucinate some, but he can tell that he must now be in the "eye" of the storm.---It is calmer, and the wind has changed direction.---After a while, as he peaked this larger wave he spotted a dark ‘blob’ about 4 waves away!---Could it be the Life-raft blown back his way by the change in wind direction? ---Excitedly he struck out in its direction, but the storm’s intensity has been increasing steadily once again!--He felt like he was getting nowhere, and even starts to slip under the surface.---This Life-jacket must be getting ‘water-logged’!---Harm starts praying for help, when,-- unbelievably, Harm hears the unmistakable cry of a dolphin, "cheeb—cheeby, cheeby, cheeb!"—right at his ear! ---A pair of dolphins semi-support Harm as he keeps swimming towards the Life- raft!---3 minutes later, (or was it 10 minutes?), he reaches the Life-raft,--and with energy born of desperation, manages to hoist himself exhausted into it!--- The dolphins together cry out to him, as they leave, and Harm weakly offers a prayer of thanks to the Almighty! Harm is amazed and grateful, and immediately activates the Life-raft’s signal beacon, and slides behind the semi-inflated hood, which gives him some protection from the weather. ---Through sheer exhaustion Harm drifted off to merciful sleep as darkness descended! ---------------------------------- Friday night, 1930 hrs, Tony’s Restaurant, WASHINGTON D.C. ---The Admiral clears his voice, and raising it, speaks to all at the Party, ADMIRAL: "As you know folk, there is little that can be done here tonight!--We can only hope and pray that our prayers are heard, and that the Commander will somehow survive this night in the storm! The SecNav has agreed to mount a further search at first light tomorrow morning. ---Commander Brumby and Colonel MacKenzie have called off their Wedding for tomorrow, and so I suggest that all of you go home to your families tonight now. We will be in touch with you all later. ---As for the search at first light tomorrow, Colonel MacKenzie and I are traveling over to Andrew’s Air Base, and we will both be on the Helo’., around 0400 hrs, as we endeavour to find the Commander. ---Well, that concludes our Wedding rehearsal dinner folk, I’m sorry!---Bud and Harriet, can I see you for a minute?"---(The Admiral told them that if he heard anything about Harm tomorrow that he’d call them immediately.) ---------------------- ---As Mac and the Admiral drove through the night, Mac had little to say, nor was the Admiral talking.—They each were preoccupied with their own thoughts.—Mac had initially told A.J. that she was grateful for both his support, and that he’d used his influence to get her the Helo’., ride out to search for Harm. ---Emotionally drained, Mac drifted off to sleep, and A.J. covered her with a blanket he got from the back seat, as best he could while driving. They arrived at Andrews at approx’., 0300 hrs, and A.J. left Mac, still asleep, in care of a ‘Duty Officer’, as he checked out the Helo’., as well as getting a Navy Seal suit for himself. ---A.J. also contacted the "Patrick Henry’s ‘Duty Officer’ to see if anything at all had happened.---He was then told that ‘Radio Op’.s’ had picked up a beacon signal that was operating intermittently.---It could be Harm’s Life-raft. The "Patrick Henry" was, by Helicopter, an hour and a half at sea from ‘Andrews’, and they were going to ‘scramble’ at 0445 hrs at this stage to resume their search.---He suggested that their Helo’., pilot contact them once they were airborne, and they’d receive the co-ordinates of that Signal Beacon then. ----But don’t raise your hopes too much Admiral",--he was advised!---- ----------------------- The Cathedral organ’s notes had diminished.---The Bridal party of Mac and Mic, with Bud as Best Man, and Harriet as Matron of Honour, with the Admiral giving Mac away,---were standing there while the Padre intoned the Wedding preamble!--- And then Harm heard these words clearly,---- "Is there any reason why these two should not be joined together in Holy Matrimony?" ----Harm found himself shouting,---"YES THERE IS!---Sarah loves me,--not Mic Brumby!" ---But,---his voice is not heard!---He looks around wildly, and nobody sees him!--- Nobody hears him!---It’s too late!---It’s too late!---Rabb, you’re too late!--- Harm falls down murmuring,--"I don’t want to live God!--let me die!" ---Then the Scene shifted----. Harm is standing alongside Sarah as Bridegroom! And she is his Bride! They are facing one another, and they are saying their vows.---They have exchanged rings!---They are pronounced,--"Man and Wife"!---He is lifting her veil and looking into her beautiful brown eyes.---Her eyes are blinking back tears of happiness!---They are looking at one another as if they’d just seen each other for the very first time! ----Harm found himself saying strongly for all the world to hear, --"I LOVE YOU Ninja Girl!", and Sarah was shouting,---"OH HARM I SO LOVE YOU!--Flyboy do you hear me?---Answer me Flyboy,---I LOVE YOU!--- ---Then his face is getting smacked sharply,--then the KISS! A.J. slipped the Rescue Ring off around Harm’s upper body as quickly as possible.---The slip-stream of the Helo’s rotors was freezing, because of the open door! ADMIRAL: "He’s semi-conscious and suffering obviously from hypothermia.—Let’s drag him further aft Mac, and strip these things off him!---Hey Medic!,-- you got that Thermal Suit ready? ---A.J. ordered. ----The other Seal, who, along with A.J. had secured Harm in the Rescue Ring, had just been winched up, and after a moment, the Helo’s Access Door was slammed shut!---Harm in his underwear, was being unceremoniously bundled into the Suit, which was now plugged in. ---Mac, to A.J.’s quiet amusement, was now kissing Harm all over his face, in an effort to still try and make him wake up.---She resorted to shouting in his ear again, because of the Helo’s noise! MAC: "Harm I Love You!---Flyboy I’ve found you at last, Sweetheart!"---And promptly gave him a long kiss.---She felt him respond, weakly at first, --then a little more strongly, he kissed her back! HARM: --Harm, still ‘spaced out’, mumbled, "I must be in Heaven, but I’ll shout ‘I love you Sarah’!--I love You!"—he managed to speak in a feeble voice. MAC: "Admiral, I’ve got him to respond!"—She was laughing and crying with joy! ADMIRAL: "I’d say a guy’d have to be ‘dead’ not to respond to you Colonel!"—he remarked drily.---Mac’s face coloured, and then----- HARM: "Permission to come aboard Maj---Colonel?"---Harm asked with a weak Flyboy grin! ADMIRAL: ---"Well, Commander you already are!---We’re on our way to Andrews at the moment.—Welcome aboard son!" HARM: "I was having this terriffic dream.—Mac and I were saying our Wedding vows……"Harm looked down at Mac’s left hand, and seeing no ring there, he gasped,--"What happened Sarah?" MAC: "I’m not marrying Mic, Harm.—I gave him his ring back.—The Wedding’s off!---Mic and I are no longer engaged Harm!" she said firmly and soberly.—"We both realized……" HARM: Harm, now fully awake, said in front of the crew, and A.J., directing his attention to Mac,--"I promised God and myself, if I ever got out of that….mess, that I’d tell Sarah…" and looking even more intently at her said,----I want you and all the world to know that I LOVE YOU TOTALLY SARAH,--with no reservations ever from this point on!" MAC: Mac, looking at Harm tenderly said, --"Thank you Sailor, and now that you can hear me with your complete faculties,---"I LOVE YOU HARMON RABB JR.!" ----Harm, with a Flyboy grin drew Mac’s face down to his, and gave her a tender kiss of acknowledgment. ADMIRAL: A.J. spoke fervently,--"It’s about damn time!"---Then he muttered,--"Looks like the SecNav and I are going to have that heart to heart talk about you two!" MAC: Mac, smiling sweetly said,--"Why Admiral that’s very gallant of you, and may I?"---Mac went across the Helo’s cabin and gave A.J. a kiss of affection on his cheek, and hugged him saying,--"Sir, you are much more than our C.O.!--You’re a father more like, sir, to us!--A very young father of course!" ADMIRAL: In a gruff voice he replied,--"I hope I don’t live to regret this!---Maybe there’s going to be a more peaceful ‘Bullpen’ from here on out?--Maybe!" The Helo pilot had reported a successful ‘pick-up’ to the "Patrick Henry’s" Captain.—"Patient suffering a little hypothermia etc., but O.K."—he advised him that they were en route to Andrews Air Base!--- The Admiral also talked to the Captain, and thanked him for the tremendous effort that had been expended on the Search and Rescue mission over the harrowing time in the storm! Would he convey special thanks to the personnel involved from him as also the SecNav?-------- ------------------------------- Saturday 0810 hrs., Andrews Air Base. Bud and Tiner welcomed the Helo’s occupants once it had landed,--Harm and Mac briefly spoke to them and expressed their thanks for meeting them, before the ‘patient’ was loaded in to the Ambulance.—Mac was going with him!--No question about that! ----As Harm was secured in the Ambulance, he said to the Admiral,--"I can’t help saying sir, that you’ve been a real father and mentor to me.---I agree with Mac on this sir, and I want you to know that I’m deeply grateful, and I don’t know how I’m going to ever repay you sir!" The Admiral smiled,---as only he could,--- and said, ADMIRAL: "Commander, you are going to be working your ‘butt’ off for a considerable time, ---plus ‘overtime’, for me in the future, that is unless a certain Marine puts her ‘oar in’ of course!"—with a laugh and with eyes twinkling. There was just the attendant, Harm and Mac in the Ambulance.—Harm said to the guy, HARM: "You don’t mind if we have a little ‘smooch’ or so do you?"---Grabbing Mac, who was seated alongside the gurney, Harm brought her down to lie on top of him, and gave her a real hug and 5 second kiss!---"I’m trying to recover my friend !"--- Harm offered as an excuse, to the smiling attendant. ----As the Admiral, Bud and Tiner watched the Ambulance speed off towards Bethesda Naval Hospital, the Admiral wiped a weary hand across his brow saying, ADMIRAL: "Thanks men for meeting us here.---Somehow we’ve got to get on to this Wedding cancellation.—I’m not looking forward to this I’m afraid!" BUD: "If I may speak sir?---Commander Brumby and my wife have been going through with all the cancellations etc.—I’ve got to take my hat off to him I must say, after calling off the Wedding!" ADMIRAL: "True Bud, true,--and what about the Caterers, Photographer etc.?" he asked. BUD: "Sir, --Harriet would have, and has got her Babysitter anyway, organized for today, and she’ll be already on the ‘phone!" TINER: "Sir,--Admiral?" ---The Admiral nodded---, "We heard the good news ‘patched’ initially through from the "Patrick Henry", and everybody will be aware now that Commander Rabb has been rescued now I’m sure sir!---They kept repeating it on the ‘military’ channel as we listened on the way down." BUD: ---"So sir, why don’t you get changed, and I’ll drive you back, and Tiner can take your car back for you, so you can catch some sleep on the way?" ADMIRAL: "I appreciate that men!--It’s been busy!--Well done!---good to see you men have got me organized!" --------------------------------- Saturday 1105 hrs, Bethesda Naval Hospital. Harm was whisked straight through ‘Admitting’ upon arrival. –Several doctors checked him out, and then for good measure he was put to bed and had several monitors strapped to him including an IV drip placed in his left arm.---Mac never left his side, and was quite in the ‘face’ of one doctor who wasn’t so tolerant. -----She told him that if it wasn’t for her, he’d probably be doing a post mortem on Harm instead, and she wasn’t going to be brushed aside!---She made sure that he realized that he was dealing with a Colonel! ----Harm grinned while this was going on, thinking,--*That’s my Marine!--Oops!--don’t ever cross her it isn’t worth it!* MAC: Later, when Harm was transferred to a Ward, Mac said,--"Hey, Flyboy!---what were you grinning about when that young upstart of a doctor was being ‘shirty’?-- Come on tell me!" HARM: Harm replied,--"Shucks Ma-am, I could get me into a ‘heap’ of trouble!-- So I’ll just say very little!---something safe, like,--‘have I told you lately that I …….’?" MAC: Mac automatically went to punch him, and restrained herself.—Instead she came close to his face and brushed her lips with hers, and said, --"You were saying something SQUID ?" They had their ‘banter’ up and running once more, but periodically Mac would look quite sad, as she thought of Mic……….. ---A knock at the door--------"It’s open!"-- Mac sang out.---Two visitors came in hesitantly.—It was Gunny and Lt. Singer. HARM: "Word travels fast!--Good to see you two!"—Harm greeted. ----They both acknowledged Harm, and Gunny spoke first. GUNNY: "Sir,--Commander Brumby wanted me to give you this message.---That he offers congratulations to both Commander Rabb and the Colonel on the rescue, and for your future together!" Harm and Mac looked at each other, and Harm said, HARM: "Well that sure is nice of Mic.—He’s a nice guy for sure!"—he said quietly.—"What a thing to be saying on what was supposed to be his own Wedding day!" MAC: Mac looked tearful as she said, --"I am sorry for Mic,--I told him last night that I thought I had betrayed him,--but he was generous about it."--- LT. SINGER: --"I have a message from Renee Commander, but first,"---Lt. Singer came over and gave Harm a kiss close to his lips,---"that was a kiss goodbye from Renee!--She said to say, ---"I’m glad you’re safe Harm, this is goodbye!--I’m going to New York to accept a position that I’ve been considering for the last 3 months.—Best of Luck with yours and Mac’s future!"----Lt. Singer waited expectantly, and Harm replied, HARM: Harm answered,--"Thanks a lot Lieutenant!--I really am not worthy of your kindnesses,--this I acknowledge!---Let’s all hope for better days ahead of us all!-- Thanks too Gunny, for everything!" GUNNY: Gunny brought out from behind his back a bouquet of pink roses, and smiled as he said,--"These sir are not from me, or the Lieutenant, but from a certain young lady, who’ll be seeing you later, or some time!--She said that I didn’t have to kiss you, but that she was sure her older sister would be happy to do it instead, and that we were to make sure that it was done sir!" ---Gunny smiled broadly as also Lt. Singer, and Mac responded with, MAC: "CHLOE MADISON!"---You’re getting more precocious every day!---but kissing Harm quickly and sweetly for their benefit.---"Is she………?" GUNNY: "Her grandma and her are catching a flight out later tonight, Ma-am, Sir!" MAC: "Thanks Gunny, and Lieutenant!" Mac said. ---Various tests were give Harm throughout the day.---Pills and still more pills.—He got X-rayed and given medicine to clear up any salt water that was residual in his lungs.—His eyes and ears were checked out as well.---He had to go through a ‘breathing routine’ several times while the doctor listened with his stethoscope on his chest.---Mac still insisted that she be present as much as practical. ---Later that day Harriet arrived with Little A.J. to see his god-parents.---Harriet was ‘bubbling’ with happiness as she came into Harm’s room and said, HARRIET: "Sir –Ma-am, I am so glad that the Commander….you,-- are O.K. sir,--- may I?"---Harriet gave Harm an affectionate hug and several kisses on his face, as he lay in bed.---She had tears in her eyes, and further said, --"Is it true that I hear sir,--you and the Colonel are getting together finally?---Oh forgive me if I’ve overstepped……." MAC: Mac cut her off with, --"Harriet, it’s Mac or Sarah and Harm outside the office!--You’re our friend for goodness sake, and yes, you are right!---We’ve confessed our love for one another, and as you already surmised, we are ‘together’!" HARRIET: Harriet squealed with delight, affecting Little A.J. as well, and said,--"I’m so glad Sarah and Harm!--I’m so very glad for you both!"---She went on, "I’ve been hard at work earlier today canceling out all Wedding arrangements.—They were all quite understanding,--because ‘things’ do happen! ---They wanted you to know Sarah that if, in the future etc., whatever, --well.. ---they’d be happy to fit in once more….."—Harriet ‘tailed’ off. ---Meanwhile Little A.J. had given Harm a cuddle and a ‘gooey’ kiss, --as also Mac.—Harriet was apologizing, getting a hanky out for them to use. Harriet stayed for a while longer until Little A.J. started to get bored, and said as she was leaving,--"Be sure to ring me now, you both!---Bud is coming back, and if you’re able to be released later today then he can give you a ride home O.K.?" Mac tackled the doctors about Harm’s release.—They were adamant that he should stay overnight.---Harm was equally adamant that he wanted to go home!---Finally he was released in to Mac’s care with certain instructions to follow. Mac then rang Harriet and told her the good news.—She was happy for them, and said that Bud was already on his way there and that he should be arriving in about ½ an hour.—Mac and Harm then decided to get something light at the Hospital’s own Food-bar instead of having to buy something later. So Bud happily drove the couple home to Harm’s Apartment.---Bud had this ‘goofy’ excited look on his face as he helped Harm up the stairs, into the lift and finally into Harm’s front door.—He’d been checking on him every few minutes, to see if he was O.K. ---As Bud was still ‘hovering’ around Mac said, MAC: "Hey Bud?--Harm has been released into my care, providing I stay with him, and so I’m not going over to my place until later on,-- perhaps tomorrow morning sometime.—So Bud, I think that Harriet and Little A.J. will be missing their husband and daddy right about now don’t you? ---So Bud, thanks a heap, --but I’m going to shoo you off now my friend, O.K.?" BUD: Bud answered, --"Thanks for letting me help you both, Col…Sarah!--I’ll be going now then.---Sure there’s nothing more?---No?-----Bye then!"---(Exit Bud!) HARM & MAC: "AT LAST!"---They both said together. MAC: "Whew!--I think he wanted to chaperone us Flyboy!--What do you reckon?" Mac asked….. HARM: Harm answered, --"Yep!--definitely!---Come here!--Hug me like there’s no tomorrow Sarah!"---- -----After hugging each other, and smooching and whispering ‘sweet nothings’ to one another, being content to be in each other’s arms, Harm apologetically said, --"I’m feeling beat, I’m sorry Sarah.—Harm stifled a yawn.--.I think I’ll have a quick shower and get to bed.—Hey bed!!----Where’ll you sleep Sarah?" MAC: "Flyboy, I can take the couch, no problem!"—Mac answered quickly. HARM: "Hey Sarah, after today, I don’t know whether I want to be apart ever again from you!--Would you just let me hold you,-- sleeping together?"—he answered. MAC: "I would like that very much Harm.—I believe our love is strong enough for us not to spoil this good start together by……….."—Mac left unsaid what they both knew.---"You go ahead, have your shower, and I’ll follow after!--Just don’t go yelling for me to come and help you if you’re feeling weak-kneed O.K.?" HARM:---(Muttering to himself),--"I’m already weak-kneed!" MAC: "Remember Flyboy, I’ve got good ears!--I heard that!"---(smiling to herself).—"What am I going to wear to bed,--like pyjamas?" she asked. HARM: "How about some over-sized ‘boxers’ and a T shirt?"---Harm opened one of the dresser drawers and ‘fished ‘ them out for her.—As Harm disappeared into the bathroom, Mac yelled out, MAC: "Hey!--They’re nicely folded and clean!--Wow!" ----Harm was singing softly in the shower,--"Have I told you lately …….."---It was nice to hear him sing!--He had such a melodic tricky ‘turn’ to the melody at times.—*He’s singing to me,--Sarah!* she thought. HARM: Harm was in his dressing gown.—Tired as he was, he looked handsome!--"All yours Ninja Girl.—I’ll be waiting!"—he said cryptically, with a faint grin.—"Here’s another lighter dressing gown for when you’re finished."—thrusting it at her. *It was great to get out of her clothes finally! ----This shower was wonderful!---At last!*--she thought.---- ----To Mac’s surprise Harm was still up, and he had a certain ‘look’ that she’d not seen before on his face.---There was a solitary chair placed in the middle of the lounge, and soft music filled the Apartment.---Chloe’s roses were also placed in a vase close to the chair.---Hmmmm!---Something was up!--Very definitely! ----Curious, Mac opened her mouth to question Harm, when he put a finger to his lips, and took her hand and lead her over to the chair, and sat her down.—He then took a rose that had been trimmed and shortened, and placed it through the ‘buttonhole’ of the dressing gown’s lapel.—A cushion placed on the floor, Harm kneeled on it, and he said,--- HARM: "Sarah, would you do me the honour of taking my hand in marriage?"--- Harm’s blue-green eyes had intense colour in them, and Mac’s heart not only skipped a beat, but emotionally her ‘heart’ melted with his look of love and earnest plea, as she replied! MAC: "Harmon Rabb Jr., I am honoured that you ask me for your hand in marriage, and I gladly accept, --but in the light of the events of the last 24 hours, don’t you think………" Harm wasn’t waiting for Mac to finish, but gently was taking her face in his hands, and was initiating the sweetest kiss of love, breathing…… HARM: "Oh Sarah, ---I’ve ever dreamed of this moment that has come!---I’m completely, utterly, and hopelessly in love with you!"--- MAC: Mac responded with,--"Harm, I honestly never expected to ever hear you say those words, the way we were going!---Yes!--I’ll marry you,--but when?" HARM: "Would you wear my Academy ring for a couple of days while I get something done with something I already have?---And when?---You ask?---How about in 7 days time?" ---He asked soberly. MAC: Mac said,--"Harm,--it’s yes on both counts!—Put it on now Harm, I love it! ---and 7 days time is fine with me!" They both hugged and kissed one another, kissing sweetly, with deep love. -----Passion will come later, they agreed!---Harm was just about ‘dead on his feet’ with weariness, and so, in T shirts and boxer shorts, they went to bed. Harm ‘spooned’ his frame in behind Mac, and snuggled into her back, aware of her sweet aroma! HARM: Harm sighed as he murmured,--"This is what I’ve dreamed about sweet Sarah!" ---And in a few minutes he was asleep. MAC: Mac knew that she’d finally come ‘home’!---This 6’4’ handsome, but very caring guy, was all hers!---By his own admission was completely, utterly, and hopelessly in love with her!---He sure was a good Actor, yet he probably knew deep down that I really loved him……..she was drifting………utterly…..completely……. hopelessly…..I mean, completely, utterly, and……..hopelessly in love……… with him…………Oh…..Harm………!" ------------------------------- Next morning—0832 hrs. ---The sun was shining, and Mac knew that she was somewhere,--some place she knew,--but not this bed!----She thought,--*Where am I? ---What have I done?---Oh Harm!* HARM: Harm was watching his Sarah.---His beautiful Sarah,--and as her eyes fluttered open, he placed a tender kiss on her lips saying, --"Good morning Sweet Sarah!"—softly.---Mac, realizing quickly what had happened, and in concern, awoke saying, MAC: "Harm,--love, were you O.K. last night?---I’m so sorry, --I should have woken periodically, and checked on you!--I’m a bad nurse!"—in frustration. HARM: Harm answered with a smile,--"Don’t berate yourself little lady,--I’m fine!-- The famous Rabb ‘recuperative powers’!---Want to go for a run?" MAC: "Ha-ha!,-- in your dreams SQUID!"—She answered, swatting him with her pillow. HARM: Harm replied,--"Hey!--steady on Ninja Girl, I’ve been released in your care,--not abuse!" MAC: "What happened to the famous Rabb ‘recuperative powers’?--Is it just a myth?" HARM: "I could definitely get used to married life with you Sarah!--I can see I’d get bullied, brow-beaten, cajoled, swatted at , and now?---- KISSED!--Come here!" ----Long kiss----(Breathless,--coming up for air!) MAC: "Hey Sailor !---we musn’t go over the ‘edge’ huh?" HARM: "No!--You’re right Marine, as long as you behave yourself!’ Harm gave his mother a ring to let her know he was O.K., as also his grandmother Sarah Rabb.—He also broke the good news about him and Sarah, and to prepare them for travel in a few days. Mac and he also rang Bud and Harriet, and last, the Admiral, and shared their happiness!---One hour later, Harriet rang and invited them over for an afternoon tea at their home at 1400 hrs.---They found to their astonishment and pleasure that JAG staff and friends and the Admiral had arrived as well!--- Harriet had somehow managed to get ‘cookies’, savouries and ‘finger foods’ together for a little celebration for Harm’s return. HARRIET: Harriet said,--"Everybody,--Bud and I wanted to make up a little, for the near tragedy that Commander Rabb experienced, and also for the fact that the Wedding was cancelled.—It’s times like these, that we all recognize true friendship, and I’d like Bud to propose a couple of toasts,---- thanks!--Bud?" BUD: "Yes, I’d like to propose a toast first of all to our C.O., Admiral A.J.Chegwidden.—To you sir!" (Everybody said,)---"Hear, Hear,---to the Admiral!" ---"And also a toast for friends and family!" (Everybody said,)---"To friends and family!" ----Applause---- HARM: "I would like to say a few words everyone.—While I was out on the ‘Briny", as you can imagine, I did a lot of thinking!--I came to realize more definitely that ‘things’, status and pride, are ZERO compared to the worth of those who really love you!--I am so honoured to have you all as my friends, and especially for two people, who’ve never given up on me! ----One is Admiral A.J., and the other is of course, Colonel Sarah MacKenzie!" ---Harm, despite himself, had a couple of tears trickle down his face, and shook his head to get rid of them. MAC: "I’m sure that you all know that Harm has always been ‘straight up’ and true, with a gentleman’s sense of honour,--which, this latter, has caused him and me both to be blind to the fact that all along for several years now, he and I have been in love. -----Anyway,---through this near tragedy, we have both realized that we were in love! ---Mic realized that though I loved him, I wasn’t in love with him, and stepped aside doing a very honourable thing! I honour Mic today.—He’s a good man, and though I feel in a sense that I’ve betrayed him, we both realized that we couldn’t build a marriage on me settling, because I wanted to get married!--I’d like to propose a toast to absent friends, and to Mic!" (Everybody said,)---"To Absent Friends and to Mic!" HARM: "Everyone,---THERE WILL BE A MARRIAGE THOUGH!" All eyes turn to look at Harm.---"Yes!---In 6 days time, if we can revive most of the bookings somehow, that were made for yesterday.---The same church except for the Restaurant!--- ----Then looking a t Mac, who nodded smilingly,---"We are engaged, using my Academy ring.--Sarah, show it!" ---Mac did a pirouette and flashed it in front of them all! ---Harm went on to say,--"This was the most important thing that I’d decided to do on the "Briny", --if I ever got the chance again to do folk!---By the way, If you’re making important decisions in life, don’t wait until near death to act!---Thanks everybody!" ADMIRAL: "Thank you Bud for your Toast, and all you kind people who drank the Toast.—I feel I’ve not deserved it at times!---But I would now like to propose a Toast to Commander Harm Rabb Jr., and to Colonel Mackenzie,--(soon Rabb),. --Their Health and Happiness!" (Everybody said,)---"Their Health and Happiness!" ---------------------------------- Two days later. Tuesday 1230 hrs, JAG Headquarters, Falls Church, VIRGINIA. ---The Admiral notices that all the women are in a ‘huddle’ with Mac in the centre.---Harm is standing to one side looking a little embarrassed.---Tiner is told to get the Commander and the Colonel into his office ASAP. ----They both stand to attention, looking straight ahead, as the Admiral speaks, ADMIRAL: "At ease Commander, --Colonel!---Now, we’ll dispense with the formalities Harm, Mac.---From what I saw in the Bullpen, you’ve got something to show me, right?"---The Admiral gently reproved.---"Now for the next 15 minutes or so, I’m A.J.---O.K.?" H’., & M’., "Yes A.J.—Sir"—they chorused. HARM: "It’s an engagement ring A.J." MAC: "Isn’t it wonderful A.J.?--I think it’s really beautiful!"—Mac smiled. ADMIRAL: "A Solitaire diamond flanked with two rubies?--Very original!--Why the rubies Harm?" HARM: "Well A.J. Sir, the Solitaire diamond was my grandmother’s ring, and the 2 rubies speak of a virtuous woman in Proverbs—(the Bible).—To me, Sarah,--despite her past is a virtuous woman whose price is far above rubies!"—Harm said, looking deeply into Sarah’s eyes. ADMIRAL: "That’s magnificent Harm!--True love is the finest thing on the face of the earth—sadly lacking in too many cases!----Anyway, how are the Wedding plans going?--Can I help you two in any way?--Do you still want me to give you away Mac?" MAC: "Yes A.J., --I’d still be honoured if you would!--The Wedding Party is added to with Harm’s friend Keeter, who’ll partner our young sister Chloe.—It’s still 2 pm in the afternoon at the same cathedral but the reception will be held elsewhere for obvious reasons. ---Harriet has been wonderful. -- Also Gunny!---He’s got good connections, and he wants to arrange a military ‘Archway-Processional’ for us to pass under, once we’re married! ADMIRAL: "Mac,--your leave of two weeks is planned for, but Harm’s we’re working on.—A temporary loan of personnel.--The SecNav has got someone in mind.—We’ll know tomorrow who it is I think! ---do you know where you’re honeymooning?---Hopefully not in far off New Zealand? HARM: "Gunny is looking at a few venues A.J. Could be Hawaii or the Caribbean.—He’s coming back to us tomorrow Sir on that one." ADMIRAL: "Good!--Then keep me up to date, and now we’d better make some impression on that work stacked up there people, O.K.? H & M: "Thank you Sir!" ADMIRAL: "That’s O.K.!--Dismissed!" --------------------------------------- Saturday 1355 hrs Eastern, Episcopalian Cathedral, WASHINGTON D.C. Harm was reliving his dream!---Almost!---The Cathedral’s organ’s notes had diminished.—He looked to his right.—Bud, as Best Man,--Keeter, as Groomsman, and HE WAS STANDING NEXT TO SARAH!--She was beautiful,--better than his dream in fact!--And then Harriet, Matron of Honour, and Chloe as a young Bridesmaid. The Padre intoned the Wedding preamble.—Then those words that he’d already heard out on the waves in the storm.---"Is there any reason why these two should not be joined together in Holy Matrimony?" Harm held his breath for ½ a minute, --listening!--For any voice,--anything that was going to deny him marrying his Sarah!----Nothing!------No sound! -----Slowly he exhaled as the Padre went on!----- His mind seemed ‘detached’ somehow, as he went through the vows. It seemed as though,--all of a sudden, --he had his consciousness ‘switched on’ again, as he lifted Sarah’s veil.---He’d found himself praying unconsciously,--"Thank You Lord, thank You Lord, for showing mercy and granting Sarah to be my wife!--Thanks God!"----Harm still hesitated! ----Mac was looking at him, and questioning his delay!--The Padre was clearing his throat and he’d started to reach forward to touch Harm’s shoulder, when Harm lowered his head to kiss Sarah.----They kissed!---- ---though it was only 7 seconds long, it was "ETERNITY’S SEAL"!---Mac wrapped her arms around Harm, and as their kiss deepened, she went limp!--Time seemed to stand still!--------------------------. The Padre pronounced them,-- "MAN and WIFE!" ----This profound sense of "Objective Unreality" ebbed and flowed, as they both ‘performed’ the post marriage Photographs/ Wedding ‘Breakfast’ Celebration/Dance Routine!----Mac knew that Harm was affected somehow, but still he was attentive with different little caring ‘acts of love’---. HARM: Finally Harm ‘breathed’ to Mac,--"I’m sorry Sarah, but I really think we’d better go.—I personally need to get away!---Reaction, I suppose from being out on the "Briny"---O.K.?" MAC: She said,--"Sure Harm,--I do understand, and you’ve done remarkably well I feel!--Let’s get Bud to arrange the "Getaway Thing!--I hope that you’re not going to ‘crash ‘ on me Flyboy!---Oops!--that was too close to the mark Harm—sorry!"—Mac laughed gently.--- HARM: Harm answered, "I know what you meant—no offense –no worry Mrs. Sarah MacKenzie-Rabb!" -------------------------------- Saturday Night, 2135 hrs, Honeymoon Suite, Hotel Grande, WASHINGTON D.C. The Bellboy pushed the bags in quickly as Harm carried his Sarah over the threshold1—The Bellboy waved away the offer of a tip, murmuring "Compliments of the House!"--and, indicating,--placed the ‘DO NOT DISTURB’ sign over the door knob on the outside as he shut the door. ----Harm set Sarah down gently, and she reached up and gently kissed him--- MAC: "At last Flyboy!"—Mac murmured, and moved seductively against him.—"Shall we watch TV, or would you rather do something else, __Husband?"—she asked in ‘honeyed tones’. HARM: "Words!--Words!--I believe in action,--real action Marine!--Come here you gorgeous thing you!" Harm kissed Sarah around the neck, and smooched her ear, while helping her, --(as she him), divest herself of most of those unnecessary garments! ----As she kissed him passionately, he carried her into the bedroom!----------- (A masculine arm reached around the bedroom door and hung another sign upon the door handle!--It read,------------------- "DO NOT DISTURB! P.P.S.U." (Not quite the End, this small epilogue follows) EPILOGUE 1155 hrs’ Hotel "Le Joie De Vive", An Island in the Caribbean. The tall handsome dark haired, blue-eyed guy, and the beautiful brown eyed brunette with a gorgeous figure, strolled downstairs from the Lift-foyer to the hotel’s restaurant. ---The hotel’s staff had become aware of their leisurely routine over the last week and a half.—They knew that they wouldn’t see the couple for breakfast, but certainly for---"Brunch"! Today, the ‘Public Relations’ Manager introduced himself, as he accosted them,--M’sieur and Madame Rabb?--I am Jean Picard,--how do you do?--I am this hotel’s P R Manager, would you be so kind as to follow me to the Staff Dining Room?---We have a little surprise for you!" Harm looked at Mac with an ‘arched’ eyebrow, and Mac nodded O.K.—So they followed M’sieur Picard through the main part of the hotel’s restaurant to a smaller, but no less attractive dining room, and were pleasantly surprised to see most of the hotel’s management and staff seated at an extravagantly set out dining table. They both were shown to seats together towards the head of the table.---Just then a half dozen camera flashes dazzled their eyes some.—Harm and Mac looked inquiringly at M’sieur Jean Picard.----- M’. PICARD: "Madam, M’sieur,--we would greatly appreciate your permission to be granted for 2 special requests!" Mac and Harm nodded for him to continue.---- "Because we have never had such a handsome couple grace our hotel, we wonder whether you would be prepared to let us use your photograph for a small promotional of our hotel in the Tourist magazine of our Island?---We would offer you a full week’s free stay in the hotel as a reward if you will let us! -----If you say No, then we will understand!----Please?" ---Harm and Mac looked at each other, communicating silently, and then Harm HARM: said,--"Why not?---M’sieur Picard, and Management,--we are happy for you to use our photograph as long as you don’t use our names!--O.K.?---We are in the Military’s Legal side and being involved in high profile cases sometimes, --it could be a problem! ---The Management expressed their delight enthusiastically with a round of applause. M’. PICARD: "Our second request is for you to indulge our curiosity, Madam,--M’sieur!---First of all, we are aware of your ‘movements’.—May we say arising in time for –shall we say "Brunch"? --We would absolutely have no comment to make on that matter, Madam, M’sieur,--after all you are on your honeymoon!--unless--?" ---Mac and Harm look at one another a little mystified, before he continued,----- "Unless, the room service personnel had not noticed something most intriguing! The sign hung on your bedroom door,--most intriguing—n’est ce pas!--It reads :- "DO NOT DISTURB", under which there are these initials reading, "P.P.S.U."!" ---At this Mac and Harm laughed outright, --and had to hold their sides as they continued laughing! HARM: Harm wiped tears from his eyes, and said,--"So M’sieur Picard, can you not guess what it means?" ---Harm asked with his Flyboy grin. M’. PICARD: "M’sieur we have a little wager going on amongst the staff, and we have several of the best educated guesses for you to hear!--Would you like to hear them before you enlighten us M’sieur, Madam?" MAC: "M’sieur Picard, for goodness sake tell us!"—Mac laughed! M’. PICARD: "Well the first one is:------‘Progressive, Pennsylvania State University’ –No?"---Harm and Mac shake their heads.---"Then we have,----‘Peoples Political Science Underground’—Oui?-- ou No?"---They shake their heads.---" Last, we have ‘Passion Party Schmaltz Ultimo’—Voila!--The Schmaltz is, according to the dictionary—‘excessive sentimentality’!"---They shake their heads.---"No?--Surely?" HARM: "M’sieur Picard, your last guess is close, but No!---Let me say that there would be very few of us here in this room who have never experienced an apparently innocent "opening of the Honeymoon bedroom door" by a maid on the pretext of asking whether we would like a coffee or not,---am I right?--Yes?--No? ---Smiling as he said it, Harm pursued with,--- "Come on!--be honest!--It happens!"—And so we added this little mystery to the bottom of the "DO NOT DISTURB" sign with the letters, P.P.S.U., as somewhat of a deterrent!"—Laugh—laugh! ----*Shall we Sarah?*--Harm silently communicated,--Mac nodded with a delighted smile, *O.K.!* ---"The first ‘P’ stands for Promised,--The second ‘P’ stands for Procreation,-- The ‘S’ stands for Session,--And the ‘U’ stands for Underway!---In other words folk,---M’sieur,---we’re doing our best to achieve a "Honeymoon Baby"!" We are trying to fulfill a promise that we made to each other several years ago, not really realizing how much we really were in love!---Romantic Schmaltz? M’. PICARD: "M’sieur, Madam,---What can we say?---Merveilleux!----A Toast! -------------------"May all your future troubles mon amis be only?-- ‘Little Ones’!" Harm flashed his famous Flyboy grin, while Sarah smiled brilliantly! T H E E N D. **************************************************************************