Title: Charade 3: But But But 

 

Author: Rising Sun

For feedback e-mail me at: jagrslc@yahoo.com

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FF Archived at: http://www.geocities.com/jagrslc

 

Rated: PG-13/NC-17 implied (NC-17 available)

Summary: Mac and Harm must break up a diamond
smuggling ring.

Classification: JAG Story/Romance: Harm/Mac

Disclaimer: JAG characters portrayed belong to JAG,
CBS and Paramount Television. No copyright
infringement intended.  All other characters depicted
are purely fictional and any similarities to actual
people are purely coincidental.

 

Author’s Note: 

This is developing into a series of its own.  I had to
find a name for it. LOL! 
By the way the FF that introduces Alex is called
“Leave it to the Marines” and may be found at
http://www.geocities.com/jagrslc/jag/one/marines.htm 
 

Feedback: Please! Pretty Please!

 

Story Written January 2002

 

 

SUNDAY – 1600 LOCAL
RABB RESIDENCE

 

“No! No! No!” Mac was adamant.  “If I wanted to be an
actress I would go look for a job with Donald P.
Bellisario.”  She was angry but her next thought
brought a small smile to her lips. “… and as for you
Harm I think you get some perverse pleasure from
watching me act the rich bitch.”

 

Mac, Harm, and his sister Alex were seated in the
living room. Well … they sat Mac paced.

 

Alexandra Rabb stretched out her long dark frame and
waited for Mac to calm down.  The two had only met
once before but Alex felt that Mac would come round to
the idea of another undercover mission.

 

“I am a lawyer for heaven’s sake.  Give me a beak!  I
know I am uniquely qualified but…” She trailed off and
dropped into a nearby chair.

 

The three looked at each other and said nothing for a
moment.  Then.  “So. How’s your Dutch?” Alex asked.

 

Mac sighed. “Dutch?”

 

Alex had her. “The assignment is set in the world of
diamonds.  That means you either need Dutch or
Afrikaan. Now I figure that Dutch will profit you in
the long run.  Most Dutch people speak English
particularly in the diamond industry but it pays to be
prepared.” 

 

Mac held up her hand and stopped her. “Diamonds?”

 

“Yes we suspect a smuggling ring and that a Senator
may be involved.” Alex imparted.

 

“A Senator?” Harm was shocked.  “Who?”

 

“We don’t know.” Alex admitted.

 

Mac straightened up in the chair. “And where is
Clayton!”

 

Alex chuckled. “He didn’t think he could face both of
us at the same time.”

 

“I don’t speak Dutch.” Mac replied.

 

“Not a problem we’ll arrange lessons.  I understand
the last two times Harm had to hold on to your wedding
ring. We have arranged the cover for you to be a widow
so this time you can keep your ring if you so desire.”

 

“Oh thanks.” Mac was sarcastic.  “Who said I’m going
anyway?”

 

“The Admiral.” Alex replied.  Mac’s shock showed.
“There is a possibility that Admiral Benjamin Foster,
who is also based in the Netherlands is involved.” 
Harm groaned.  Alex continued. “If that turns out to
be true the JAG wants him.”

 

“And then some I’m sure.” She surrendered “All right
if my CO has given his stamp of approval then I’m your
gal.”

 

“Oh good.” Alex was satisfied “Now when are you two
going make me an Aunt?”

 

====================================

 

2025 LOCAL

RABB RESIDENCE



Mac emerged from the bathroom clad only in a large
towel. Her hair stuck to her head. She sat on the bed
next to her husband.  “You coming on this mission?”

 

“Don’t think I can get away.” He grumbled. 

 

“Why?”

 

“I don’t think that the legal liaison to a
Congresswoman can afford to be out on missions.” He
explained. 

 

“Is that you or Bobbie Latham talking.”

 

“Policy.” He dodged the question.

 

“I see.” She stood.

 

“Mac?” he had a sense of foreboding.

 

“Yes?”

 

“What are you going to do?” the apprehension growing.

 

“Let me ask you. Do YOU want to go with me?” She
stared at him.

 

“Yes.”

 

She returned to the bed. “Then you will.” She replied.

 

“Oh good you me and Alex… a family reunion.” 

 

She dropped the towel.  “I hardly think so.”

 

====================================

 

It had been five weeks that Mac would not easily
forget.  From 0800 to 1200 she attended to her duties
at JAG. Grabbed lunch and then from 1300 to 1700
attended Dutch lessons with Alex. That was followed by
lessons on diamonds from 1730 to 2200.

 

She got home, acknowledged her husband and dropped
into bed to wake up the next day to repeat the ritual.
On Saturdays she attended the classes earlier but they
were no less intense. 

 

Sundays she slept all day.

 

Finally she was pronounced fit for the mission. She
and Alex headed for Europe.  Bobbie had refused Mac’s
request for Harm to go along.

 

====================================

 

JULY 4

1921 LOCAL

 

Mac was attending the US Ambassador’s Annual
Independence Day Cocktail Party.  She had been in
Holland for about two weeks and with the assistance of
Porter Webb she was already connected to the rich and
famous.  

 

Antonia Van Dross approached her as she stood waiting
for a tonic and lime at the bar.  “Mac!” 

 

“Toni.” Mac replied.  “How are you?”

 

“Not as good as you. You look gorgeous all the men are
eyeing you.” 

 

“Well that is good isn’t it?” Mac smiled.

 

“Not if my husband is in that drooling group.” Toni
replied.  “But I have the cure for that.”

 

“You do?” Mac had met the woman at a tea party for
some charity and the two had become fast friends.  

 

“Oh yes. I have the most delicious US Navy Captain for
you to meet.  Like you his spouse is dead.  Now I want
you to appreciate the favour Mac. If I were younger I
would not do this.”

 

“Toni you are married.” Mac teased.

 

“Your point?’

 

Mac gave up. “Lead on.”

 

The two women crossed the lawn, waded through a few
hundred people stopping all along the way to touch
base with friends or to be introduced to new ones. 
Finally they approached the Captain.  Mac got cold.

 

Toni tapped the Captain on the shoulder.  He turned
and his eyes fell into Mac’s.  She licked her lips. 
Toni spotted the reaction. “Do you know each other?”

 

“No.” Mac said.

 

“Yes.” He said. 

 

Mac looked at him surprised.  

 

“I’m sorry.  Of course I don’t know you Mrs. Van Der
Mir.” He said.

 

“Must be the setting.” She was having déjà vu.

 

“Actually its you. You remind me of my wife.” He
explained.

 

“You have me at a disadvantage sir.” Mac said. “You
know my name.”

 

“A  woman like you walks in and all men make it a duty
to know your name.” He was gallant.

 

“What is the matter with me!” Toni wailed.

 

“Mrs. Mackenzie Van Der Mir… widow. May I present
Captain Harmon Rabb Jr. … widower, the new attaché to
Admiral Foster.” Toni was watching them like a hawk.

 

Harm took her free hand and kissed the back of it
“Enchanted”

 

“So you are a widower?” She inquired.

 

“Yes she died eighteen months ago.” He explained.
“You?”

 

“Two years.” 

 

“My condolences.” He offered. 

 

She nodded. She felt faint.

 

“Would you like to sit ma’am?” He asked.

 

“Yes go sit and talk I’m off in search of Gerald.” And
with that Toni was gone.

 

Harm and Mac headed for the edge of the celebration.
She leaned on a tree with her back to the party while
Harm stood next to her facing the festivities.  “Sorry
about that.” He apologized.

 

“When did you get in?”

 

“This morning.” He said.

 

“I thought that Bobbie couldn’t release you.” She
wanted information.

 

He shrugged “My performance dropped, but I think what
really clinched it was when during a debate in her
office I called her Mac.”

 

“You didn’t” She chuckled.

 

“I did.” 

 

“So your mission is to latch on to Admiral Foster?”

 

“We figured that if you work the Senator angle then I
could work the Admiral angle.” He explained.

 

“We?” she arched her eyebrow.

 

“Webb and me.”

 

“Clayton is here too?” She inquired.

 

“Oh yeah. You have Alex I have Webb.  We were trying
to figure a way to make contact.” He informed.

 

“God bless Mrs. Antonia Van Dross.” Mac intoned.

 

“So now that the dashing Captain has met the sensuous
Mrs. Van Der Mier how about dinner?” he requested.

 

“Sensuous?”

 

“Long before we met I had the full 411 on you.” He
proceeded to recount. “Mrs. Mackenzie Van Der Mir –
American – Independently wealthy but no one knows from
what – widow of two years.  A force to be reckoned
with in bed and out.”

 

On that tidbit she faced him. “Bed? Where do these
people get these notions!”

 

“Actually I just added that part.” He grinned.  “So
what about dinner?”

 

“Tonight?” she demanded.

 

“Wow you are a terror! The gossips are right.” 

 

“You realize that the we are being watched.” She
pointed out.

 

“That’s why it’s my intention to court the available
Mrs. Van Der Mir.  That way we have a public reason
for maintaining contact.” 

 

“There is a private one?”

 

“Definitely.” 

 

“Ok when this is over we go get dinner.” She said. 
“By the way most people call me Mac.” 

 

“My friends call me Harm.” He offered her his arm and
escorted her back to the throng.

 

+          +          +

 

Mac found herself with Toni Van Dross and Senator
Jessica Warner.  “So I see you met the delectable
Captain.” Jess observed.

 

“Nothing gets pass you.” Mac smiled.

 

“Notice how she can’t stop smiling.” Toni pointed out.

 

Mac looked round and spotted the topic of discussion. 
“Look at him Toni…” She breathed.

 

“You going to bed him?” Jess asked point blank.

 

Mac considered the question.

 

“Oh come now Mac!” Toni said.  “The man is a widower
for eighteen months and Gerald told me that the
Captain has abstained since.“

 

“Really?” Jess was intrigued “Mac if you don’t may I?”

 

“You may not!” Mac informed her.  “He asked me to
dinner.”

 

Toni laughed “…and I know what’s for desert!” the
other two women joined her in the laugh.

 

+          +          +

 

Harm was talking with Gerald Van Dross and Alex
Ferdinand.

 

“I see that my Toni is playing match maker.” 

 

“With Mrs. Van Der Mir no less.” Alex said. 
“Delightful woman.”

 

“How would you know?” Gerald challenged.

 

“She has been by my place a couple of time and made
purchases. Knows her diamonds that one.” He explained.

 

“I hope you know that you are the envy of most men
here.” Gerald said to Harm.

 

“I am?”

 

“Oh yes.  Mac has been a breath of fresh air round
here and most men would love to be in her company. But
so far no luck.” Gerald explained. “And there you are
in one night you manage to isolate her for a private
conversation.  There was considerable envy round here
I can tell you.”

 

“Then I suppose the fact that she agreed to have
dinner with me is a coup?” Harm was curious as to the
public perception of his wife.

 

Alex chocked on his drink. Gerald just stared, then
managed “You have a date with her?”

 

“Yeees” Harm drawled.  “There a problem?”  The three
men turned as they heard female laughter. They saw the
three women looking their way.

 

“Seems the hunt is afoot Captain.” Alex observed.

 

“But what a huntress!” Gerald sighed.

 

====================================

 

JULY 4

2300 LOCAL

MAC’S CHALET

 

The limousine pulled up and Harm escorted Mac to her
door. She handed him the key. “Stay the night?” She
whispered.  

 

“Why Mrs. Van Der Mir on our first date too?” He
teased.

 

“I promised Toni that I’d bed you tonight.” She
replied.  Harm was stunned he had no words to counter
with. “You’re not going to make me a liar are you?”

 

“Heaven forbid.” He kissed her.

 

The door opened. “Mrs. Van Der Mir if you must have
desert at least take it to your room?!” Alex feigned
shock. 

 

Mac chuckled and escorted Harm inside.  Alex followed
them in after dismissing the driver.  “You realize
that this will be at every breakfast table by morning?
Hey bro.” Alex hugged Harm.

 

“Hey sis.” He hugged her back.  “She behaving?”

 

“Hey! Hey!” Mac interrupted. “Alex dear I realize that
he is your brother but to night he is desert.” She
undressed him with her eyes. “You may have him in the
morning … if he survives.” With that she grabbed him
by the hand and led him up the stairs to her bedroom.

 

“Auntie wants twins! One of each!” Alex shouted after
them.

 

====================================

 

1117 LOCAL

MAC’S CHALET

 

Mac finally emerged, in a negligee with matching floor
length robe.  Alex spotted her.  “So! Where’s the
beefcake you came home with last night?”

 

She held up her hands as if fending off the paparazzi
and headed for the kitchen. Alex followed.

 

“Goedemorgen mevrouw” (Good morning ma’am) Mrs.
Anderson the housekeeper greeted her.

 

Mac growled then replied “Koffie”  (Coffee).  Once she
had the brew inside her she turned her attention to
Alex and continued in Dutch. “Don’t quiz a woman first
thing in the morning even before her first cup of
coffee!”
 

Alex gaped like a fish. “Mac! It’s almost afternoon!”

 

“1120 to be exact.” Mac corrected.

 

Alex threw up her hands in surrender.

 

Mrs. Anderson chuckled.  “Ma’am Mrs. Van Dross and
Mrs. Warner” called and asked to meet with you this
afternoon. I told them that you would call back.”

 

“I see the pack want details of the kill.” Alex
commented.

 

Mac ignored her. “Thank you.” As the older woman left
to deal with other areas Mac switched to Farsi.  “Did
you get the bio?”

 

“Forget the bio.” Alex changed to match.  They didn’t
know the extent of Mrs. Anderson’s English and she may
be a nice woman but one never knew.  “What have you
done with my poor brother?” 

 

Mac grinned. The coffee had taken instant effect on
her.  “He’s upstairs recuperating.” 

 

“You realize that not only did he stay for breakfast
but lunch too?  That is not the profile we developed
for you!” Alex was worried.

 

“I suppose if the reputation of Mrs. Van Der Mir is to
be salvaged the good officer and gentleman will have
to marry me!” she chuckled.

 

“I’m glad you find it amusing.” Alex grumbled.

 

“Clayton is here.” Mac informed her. “He came with
Harm yesterday. The two of them are to work on the
Admiral while we work on the Senator. Which by the way
brings us full circle. Did you get her bio?”

 

Before Alex could reply the residence was rocked by a
scream.  Mac dropped her cup and followed Alex at a
dead run towards the source.  It seemed to be coming
from the upper landing.  There they came face to face
with a shattered Mrs. Anderson.

 

Mac changed language not for the first time that day. 
“What is wrong!” she demanded.

 

With a trembling finger the woman pointed in the
direction of Mac’s bedroom. “There’s a man in there!”

 

Mac could hear Alex giggle as she entered the room.
“Wat…” she paused she was still thinking in Dutch. She
adjusted her thoughts and for the first time that day
she spoke in English.  “What happened!?”

 

Harm stood with the bed sheet around him in an
imitation of an ancient Roman. “What kind of place are
you running here? Folks just walk in on a man…”

 

Mac got the picture in one. She stopped him. “She’s
the housekeeper and she didn’t know. How could she? 
Get dressed and come down stairs.  We’ve got coffee.“

 

“Humph.” Was all his reply.

 

She left him and returned to Alex and Anderson.  “I’m
sorry...” She said to the woman. She had to change
idiom again.  This was too much for one who had just
woken up.

 

The housekeeper now composed nodded, left them and
went to another room.

 

“Come on.” Alex said in Farsi “We’ll get breakfast
while lover boy comes joins us then we can track Webb.
 I have no intension of repeating myself.”

 

“I suppose we can then plot the joint effort.” Mac
responded.

 

Alex’s eyes twinkled with mischief. “I suppose we
speak English?”

 

Mac grinned at her. “If Harm were not in the group I
suppose we could speak French even Dutch I doubt
Clayton knows Farsi… but we all know English.”

 

“Then we need a secure place.” Ales responded.

 

“Ah! Just give Mrs. Anderson and the other staff the
rest of the day off.” Mac instructed.

 

====================================

 

1816 LOCAL

GARDEN OF MAC’S CHALET 

 

Alex looked at her watch again. “Where can they be? 
For heaven’s sake nowhere here is more than two or
three hours from Amsterdam!”

 

Mac stretched out in her chair.  “What can you expect?
Harm is never on time.  It’s a miracle he arrived at
the church before me for our wedding. Give it time
they are only sixteen minutes nine seconds late.”

 

Alex scowled. “Want a drink?”

 

“Sure a coke will be great.” Mac replied.

 

+          +          + 

 

Alex returned with the drinks. “Look what the cat
dragged in.”

 

“Hey!” Mac welcomed Harm and Webb.

 

“Sorry for being late.” Webb apologized “but one road
looks much like the other.”

 

“They got lost.” Alex translated.

 

“We did not!” The men chorused.

 

“Have a seat.” Mac smiled with the secret knowledge
that they were indeed lost.  “Alex has been bursting
to gives us the 411 on the dear Senator but is just as
adamant that she is not repeating herself.”

 

Webb took a swig of the beer that Alex had brought
back. “By all means inform us.”

 

“Senator Jessica Warner, fifty one years old widow,
and rookie Senator. One son Jason, he is presently an
exchange student at Nottingham University. So far
nothing of great import, however this caught my eye:
She visits The Netherlands regularly and it’s not
business related. Her son is in England and on the
surface she has no ties here.”

 

“How regular is regular?” Harm asked.

 

“At least once a fortnight.  She arrived on the same
day as we did returned home and is back already.” 
Alex replied.

 

“You think she’s a mule?” Mac asked.

 

“What else?” Webb said.

 

“This is flimsy; we need more. I say we take a look at
her place.” Alex offered.

 

“Uh huh I can just see us knocking on her door and
asking for access to her deep dark secrets.” Harm
said.

 

“Well a variation anyway.” Alex replied.

 

“What break in?… When!” Webb demanded.

 

“Leave that to me.” Mac said.  They all looked at her.
 “Toni has been on our case for a shopping spree in
London. She and Gerald have a place in Sloan Square
and she wants to go to Harrods.”

 

“How long have you been here?” Webb was amazed at how
Mac had entrenched herself into the society.

 

She just smiled and said “I will be at a private
performance of Aida starring Kathleen Battle, Toni and
Jess will be there we’ll organize ourselves for a
weekend trip. Thus leaving the coast clear for you all
to go in and get out without being caught.”

 

“Are you saying that we can’t do this without getting
caught?” Harm challenged.

 

“All I will say is that the last time you and Clayton
were left to your own devises Alex and I had to come
get you!” She teased.

 

“Is that my card you are going to exercise?” Webb
inquired.

 

“Is that not why you gave it to me?” Mac replied,
“What is the use if a titanium credit card guaranteed
to have no limit if not to abuse it! Note not use but
abuse. But on to more important matters.”

”Such as?” Harm asked.

 

“Who is escorting me to the opera?” Mac posed her
question.

 

“That will have to be Webb.” Alex said.

 

“Great minds think alike.” Mac concurred.

 

“Why him!” Harm wanted to know.

 

“You don’t like the opera; Clayton does.”  Mac pointed
out.

 

“What about the romance factor.” Alex grinned “After
all Harm was dinner, desert and breakfast or was it
brunch?”

 

“Tut tut tut a girl can’t be tied to the first
eligible widower that crosses her path. Besides this
way Clayton can come visit here as often as needed
with me as the excuse.” Mac defended.

 

“Not to mention a boost for the ego.” Harm pointed
out.

 

Mac only winked at him in reply.

 

“Well that settles it. Webb it is!” Alex announced.

 

“What time do you want to be collected madam?” Webb
asked.

 

“If you think you are going to have me waiting while
you figure the route and in that set of wheels you are
sadly mistaken my boy.  The limousine will collect you
at 1830 sharp.  Then it will pass for me.” She
instructed.

 

He saluted “Yes ma’am!”

 

====================================

 

INTERMISSION 

HET MUZIEKTHEATER

 

The three women had commandeered a corner of the room
and awaited their escorts who had gone in search of
drinks.  “I always enjoy a performance at Stopera.”
Toni gushed.

 

“It’s my first time here but I too like it.” Mac
agreed.

 

“It’s the most important Opera house of Amsterdam. Of
course it also features other performances but Opera
is my favorite.” Toni gushed.

 

“But enough of that …” Jess interrupted over the din
of talk.  “I see you have another man on your arm Mac.
What happened to the delectable Captain? Eighteen
months off the wagon and he forgot how to get back
on?”

 

“Oh say that is not the case or I’ll just die!” Toni
pleaded.

 

Mac grinned the two women though older than her were
incorrigible. She decided to tease them with the
truth. “The delectable Captain as you put it is
recuperating.”

 

Toni chuckled “Way to go my dear way to go.”

 

“One can only assume that if he is recuperating, then
it was … ah … an athletic night?” Jess tried to be
delicate, but she still wanted to know.



“I never burned so many calories in my life even when
I did track at school!” Mac admitted.  They three
burst into laughter.

 

“Mac have you considered my idea?” Toni changed the
subject.

 

“What idea!  What are you two hatching.” Jess accused.

 

“I have no idea what she is on about.” Mac defended
herself.

 

“London, my dear.” Toni stated as it were the most
natural thing in the world.

 

Mac was relieved as the topic she most wanted to
discuss had just floated to the top. “Yes actually I
have.  I see no reason we can’t go this weekend.”

 

“Wow when you make a decision you move don’t you.”
Toni said.

 

“What you and Gerald have a marathon planning?” Mac
asked sweetly.

 

“Is this a private party or can anyone come?” Jess
interjected.

 

“You are very welcome to come.” Toni expanded the
invitation. “I want to go to Harrods and we have a
house in Sloan Square… but shopping is no fun by ones
lonesome.”

 

“I hear that.” Mac said.

 

“This weekend I am due in South Africa can’t we change
the days?” Jess asked.

 

“I do you one better.” Mac said. “We’ll come with you.
 London … Johannesburg. Shopping is the same
everywhere.”

 

Jess’s eyes widened as Toni agreed.  “None of us need
visas consider it done. Now where will we stay?”

 

“I will consider nothing less that the Hilton
Sandton.” Mac stated in a tone that brokered no
argument.

 

“I can’t afford that!” Jess pronounced.

 

Mac ignored her.  “Suites for three and I will pick up
any slack.” She looked at Jess “I’m not asking your
permission on this point.”

 

“Yes ma’am” Jess replied. “Mac I had heard that you
were rich but I never appreciated how much until now.”

 

Mac responded, “Personally my dear money is a tool…
pure and simple. A tool to get me what I want, need
even desire.   And on a personal level I much prefer
plastic to paper don’t you?”

 

Jess shook her head. “I can’t stay long I have to get
back home.”

 

“When?” Toni demanded.

 

“I have to be Stateside by Friday.”

 

“Not a problem.” Mac assured her. “We go this Friday
and return on Tuesday… plenty of time. Right Toni?”

 

“Absolutely.” She concurred, “Ah here come the men at
last.”

 

====================================



FRIDAY – 2111 LOCAL

ROYAL SUITE, HILTON SANDTON

 

It hadn’t taken the troop long to get out of
Johannesburg International then to take the
fifteen-kilometer ride from the M1 city highway, onto
the M40 Sandown that eventually led to Rivonia Road a
short ride all in all.

 

The Hotel had one Royal Suite on the Executive Floor
with an additional six Terrace Suites.  Mac had
commandeered the Royal Suite with Toni and Jess being
assigned one of the other suites. As the weekend wore
on and guests came and went Mac managed to end up with
the entire Executive Floor in the exclusive use of the
three.

 

They met in Mac’s suite to compare notes and plans. 

 

“According to the info pack the Johannesburg Art
Gallery is fifteen kilometers away and the Kyalami
Grand Prix Race Track twelve from here.” Jess
announced.

 

“With the shopping centers of Sandton City and Sandton
Square a stones throw away.” Toni came to shop not
sight see.

 

“Speaking of… I’m here to get some of a girl’s best
friend.” Mac announced.

 

“You were in a country where diamonds are sold on
every street corner and you come here to get more?”
Jess wondered.

 

“Variety my dear… is the spice of life.” Mac informed
her.

 

“I know … vary your men and vary your diamonds.” Toni
grinned.

 

“Especially if they come together!” Mac squealed.

 

“So we are here to diamond shop?” Jess didn’t seem
comfortable with the concept.

 

“When in London go look at the Queen. When in Jo’burg
look for diamonds!  What is the matter with you?!”
Toni demanded.  She stood. “I’m going to freshen up.
Meet you later I’m off to dinner and to man spot.
Don’t call me I’ll call you… in the morning.” With
that pronouncement Antonia Van Dross waltzed out of
the suite.

 

Jess and Mac looked at each other.

 

“Seems like a plan.” Mac shrugged.

 

====================================



SATURDAY – 0721 LOCAL

ROYAL SUITE, HILTON SANDTON

 

Mac opened the front door in response to the knock. 
There stood Jess and Toni.  “We need company for
breakfast.” Toni announced.

 

“Then you have come to the right place.” Mac let them
in.

 

“You have a man here?!” She accused.

 

“Not right now … feel free to case the joint if you
don’t believe me.” Mac was amused. These folks had but
two obsessions: Wealth and sex.

 

“Then what’s with the disheveled look?” Jess inquired.

 

“I was out jogging. There are Jogging Trails all over
I did fifteen miles.” 

 

“Fifteen?” Toni mouthed with no voice coming through.

 

“Another secret of your success, revealed.” Jess said.
 I for one have wondered at your appetite versus your
figure.”

 

“Jogging helps.” Mac replied tongue in cheek.  “But
sex REALLY helps.”

 

“So! What say we add another sport to the list and go
do some shopping!” Toni declared.

 

“Oh let us not lose focus!” Mac replied.

 

====================================

 

1310 LOCAL

SENATOR JESSICA WARNER’S APARTMEMT

 

Alex, Webb and Harm stepped out of the elevator and
immediately began scanning door numbers. “Here we are,
number eleven ten.” Alex identified the apartment.

 

Webb stuck a key into the lock and the door opened.

 

“Where’d you get that?!” Harm was surprised.

 

“…from Mac.” He replied. Harm’s face registered
disbelief. So Webb expanded “The night of the opera
during the intermission, while in the ladies, Mac held
the purses of the others.  The rest was easy.” He
stepped in and the other two followed.

 

“Mac lifted the key!” These people were changing his
wife in more ways than one.

 

“He’s your brother.” Webb spoke to Alex.

 

“For which I most humbly apologize.” She remarked,
“Mind you I still love him dearly. Now if he would
only give me a nice or nephew. I could over look
moments like this!”

 

“What is it with you and this Auntie stuff?” Harm
inquired.

 

“I live vicariously though other folk.”

 

“Get to work people.” Webb instructed.

 

35 MINUTES LATER

 

“I got something!” Harm called.  The others joined
him.

 

“Where’d you find it?” Alex asked. Then examined the
photo of a young man that Harm handed to her.

 

“Stuck to the underside of the desk draw.”

 

“What made you look there?” Webb asked as he accepted
the photo Alex passed to him.

 

“I suddenly remembered the Admiral giving a story
about hiding stuff – he was right.” Harm explained.

 

“Must be her son.” Alex surmised.

 

“But why hide it?” Harm asked.

 

“Look at this place.” Alex walked round the room.
“This does not look like the place of a diamond
smuggler.”

 

Webb was amused “Oh? And what is it supposed to look
like?”

 

She paused.

 

“Mac’s place.” Harm volunteered.

 

“This place is ok – right for a Senator – no more than
that.” Alex insisted.

 

“Maybe she’s not the one?” Harm suggested.

 

Webb shook his head “I think she is.” 

 

“We done here?” Alex asked.

 

Harm looked round “I think so.”

 

By mutual consent they left. As the elevator descended
with them Webb inquired. “Any one meeting Mac at the
airport on Tuesday?”

 

“Yep.” Harm replied.

 

====================================



SUNDAY – 1307 LOCAL

HILTON SANDTON

 

The ladies had spent the entire Saturday giving new
meaning to the phrase shop till you drop.   By
afternoon their reputation of not looking at the price
tag preceded them and as far as the merchants were
concerned nothing was a bother to produce for the
three.

 

Mac had decided that she didn’t like the quality of
the diamonds that were available and refused to let
Toni purchase any.  She had finally decided that what
she needed was a private viewing from a select sample
of merchants.  By now what Mac wanted Mac got.

 

It was Sunday afternoon they were leaving the next day
and Mac and Toni were eyeing the gems.  Jess had to
pass as she had a business meeting.

 

Mac examined a stone while Toni awaited the verdict. 
She had learnt that Mac knew about diamonds so she
deferred to the younger woman.

 

Mac pointed. “That, that, that….” She went down the
line identifying at least twenty-five of the best in
the display. “Put the rest away. We’ll choose from the
ones identified.”

 

The men hustled to obey. As they did so; Toni
consulted with Mac quietly “So which ones do you
recommend?” 

 

“Do you have price range?” Mac inquired.

 

“Half a million US.” 

 

“Mmmm … there are stones to fit that. Do you want one
or more than?” Mac queried.

 

“Ah now life gets interesting… let’s go for four.”
Toni instructed.

 

“Four it is.” The sales man and his assistants had
stood waiting for the women.  Mac strode across the
space to further narrow down the choice of the
merchandise.  She scrutinized the stones again and
made her decision.  “One – two – three and four for
the lady here.” She picked up a diamond ring. “And
this for me.”

 

“Should we get one for Jess?” Toni prompted.

 

“Oh how remise of me.” Mac apologized reached over and
picked up a second. “This one for me as well.”

 

“Madam has excellent taste.” The man complimented.

 

“Don’t I know it!” Toni said as her bill came up to
exactly the amount she had specified.  Mac’s on the
other hand drew a whistle from Toni.  

 

Mac just smiled, “Now we can go home.”

 

====================================

 

2039 LOCAL

SCHIPOL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

THE NETHERLANDS

 

The three women had cleared immigration and customs
and were looking forward to a hot bath and some rest.
Toni spotted him first.  

 

“Oh look!”

 

“What?! Where?!” Jess demanded.

 

“Over there. Mac’s sailor has come to meet her!” Toni
was tickled.

 

Mac looked and sure enough there was Harm, in civilian
dress. They walked up to him.  “Evening ladies.” 

 

“Evening Harm.” Toni replied.

 

Mac hooked her arm in his and replied in a sultry
voice “Evening yourself sailor, miss me?” In reply he
kissed her cheek.

 

“Oh now we KNOW you can do better Captain!” Jess
teased.

 

Harm blushed. “Ladies if you will wait here I’ll go
fetch the taxis for you.” He turned to walk away but
Mac maintained her grip on him effectively anchoring
him.

 

“Harm darling.” Toni purred.  “You are new here. We
don’t use public transport. If you will organize the
bags you will find that there are three limousines
waiting for us out there.”

 

He looked at Mac. She grinned her confirmation.  “OK”
he agreed. This time Mac let him go.

 

+          +          +

 

EN ROUTE TO MAC’S CHALET 

 

“So how was the trip?” 

 

“We shopped till we dropped.  Nothing that would
interest you.” She assured him “That reminds me …” She
pulled out a gift box. Open it.”

 

She watched as Harm opened the box and gasped at the
tiepin laced with tiny diamonds.

 

“You like it?” 

 

“Wow! I love it! It must have cost…” he gushed.

 

She placed a finger on his lips “Two lesson sir. You
never ask a woman her age or speculate on the price of
a gift.”

 

“Aye ma’am.” He answered “Thank you.” He gazed at it
for a moment then closed the box. “So what was the
diabolical Mrs. Van Dross whispering in your ear as I
loaded you luggage?”

 

“Ah … I’m glad you reminded me.” She thanked him “It’s
more a case of show that tell.” She grinned wickedly
at him.

 

“I don’t like that look.” He got suspicious.

 

“Then maybe you’ll like this.” She positioned herself
between his legs and proceeded to test the driver’s
concentration and vision.  Was he watching the road or
Mac and Harm in the rearview mirror?

 

Harm groaned both from the pleasure and the fact that
he had lost control of the situation.

 

====================================

 

NEXT DAY - 1613 LOCAL

MAC’S CHALET

GARDEN OF MAC’S CHALET

 

Once again the four gathered in the safety of Mac’s
garden to discuss the case.

 

“So how was the trip?” Webb asked.

 

“Shopping was great.” Mac replied.

 

“You know what I mean.” Webb cautioned.

 

“OK OK just kidding.  We went to Johannesburg on the
Senator’s request. Seems she had business there and
wanted to mix the business and the pleasure. So we
scrapped London and headed south.  She indeed had
business there but I don’t about what or with whom.”

 

“Interesting.” Alex observed.  “Did she buy any
diamonds?”

 

“Not a one. She seemed uncomfortable around them
unlike Toni who likes them a lot. The one diamond Jess
came back with Toni and I bought for her.” Mac
expounded.

 

“Sounds like Toni is a more likely candidate than
Jess.” Harm said.

 

“So what happened here?” Mac was dying to know.

 

“Came up empty handed.” Alex replied.

 

“Found a picture of her son … hidden.” Harm
volunteered.

 

“Why hidden?” Mac wondered.

 

“Who can figure?” Harm replied.

 

“We wondered if Jess was indeed our perp.  The
apartment is not flashy. What I consider just right
for a Senator, but a diamond handler?  Nah … it don’t
fly.” Alex told Mac. “Webb on the other hand still
thinks that she’s the one.”

 

“One way to find out.” Mac said.

 

“And that is?” Webb was curious.

 

“Tip of US Customs.” She explained.

 

They all got sober. This was a US Senator they were
talking about.  Webb made a decision. “OK. We’ll tip
them off.” 

 

====================================

 

1426 LOCAL

US EMBASSY

ADMIRAL BENJAMIN FOSTER’S OFFICE

 

“Good afternoon Captain Rabb.” Senator Jessica Warner
greeted Harm. 

 

“Afternoon ma’am.” He stood to greet her. “May I
assist you?”

 

“I wish to see the Admiral, I understand that you are
his new attaché?”  She said.

 

“Yes I am. Is he expecting you?” 

 

“Not at any specific time but yes he is.” 

 

“If you will wait here Senator I’ll inform him that
you are here.” He walked away.

 

+          +          +

FIVE MINUTES LATER

 

“Senator! What a pleasant surprise!” The Admiral
greeted her.

 

As Harm closed the door behind him he heard her reply.
“Don’t Senator me! When are you going to release my
son!”

 

====================================

 

SAME DAY

1950 LOCAL

EN ROUTE TO ALEX FERDINAND’S RESIDENCE

 

Alex Ferdinand was known for two things both
expensive: Diamonds and Art. That evening he was
having an exclusive viewing of his private collection.
 Apparently it was not something he did often and the
cocktail party and viewing was the event of the year. 


 

Mac had received an invitation and as exclusive as it
was she was attending alone.

 

“Driver this is not the way to Mr. Ferdinands’
residence.” She said.  Then remembered, she repeated
in Dutch.  The driver ignored her. Her instincts went
into over drive.  She tried the door it was locked.

 

She was being kidnapped and there was nothing she
could do about it! “Scheize!” (shit) she muttered and
settled back. She’d find out soon enough what was
happening.

 

====================================

 

DULLES INTERNATIONAL

CUSTOMS AND EXCISE OFFICES 

 

“Senator Jessica Warner?” Admiral AJ Chegwidden
stepped into the interrogation room.

 

“Admiral AJ Chegwidden?” She asked.

 

“Yes ma’am. May I inquire as to why you sent for me?” 

 

“You are the Navy Judge Advocate General are your
not?” She demanded.

 

“Yes ma’am I am.” He confirmed.

 

“Well Admiral for the past six months I have been a
mule for one of your people.” She stated.  “And now I
find myself in a most embarrassing situation.”

 

AJ sat across the table from her.  “Go on ma’am.” He
encouraged.

 

“May be I should have reported this a long time ago.
May be it’s a good thing that I have been caught. How
long this would have gone on I don’t know.” She was
rambling.

 

“Ma’am?” AJ tried to focus her.  “The diamonds?”  Jess
had been caught with the stones by Customs, who had
had an anonymous tip.  She’d agreed to talk only with
the JAG.

 

She collected herself. “Six months ago my son Jason
was kidnapped.  He was a student at Nottingham
University in England.  The Admiral contacted me and
laid out his terms.  Shuttle the diamonds or I’d
receive my son in bits and pieces.” She struggled to
control herself. “Jason is all I have… so I complied. 
My work takes me to Europe but for the last six months
I have traveled fairly often. I suppose it was only a
matter of time.” She finished.

 

“Which Admiral was it Senator?” AJ probed.

 

“Foster and his pal Ferdinand.” She replied.  “I tell
you this and not Customs for two reasons. One the
Admiral is Navy and I want you to get the son of a
bitch the other is that if you can I want you to save
my son. I am finished… but my son!” she finally burst
into tears.

 

====================================

 

WAREHOUSE

SOMEWHERE OUTSIDE AMSTERDAM

 

Had her abilities extended into reading the future she
would have dressed more appropriately. As it was the
silk sudo-Japanese outfit, which comprised of a knee
length top with trousers would have to do.

 

As her eyes finally adjusted to the dimly lit room she
realized that she was not alone. She looked hard at
the young man with her. “Warner?” She guessed.

 

He was startled. “Who are you?”

 

[Excellent question.] She thought [Who am I?]  She
chose to remain in character. “I am Mackenzie Van Der
Mir… Mac to everyone. You are Senator Jessica Warner’s
son aren’t you?”

 

“You know my mother?” He was eager.

 

“Yes. How long have you been here?” she asked, her
brain was in overdrive.

 

“I don’t know.”

 

“When were you kidnapped?” she tried a different
approach.

 

“March.” Came the prompt reply.

 

She did a quick calculation “Six months.” 

 

“Six months!” The young man could not believe it.

 

“Tell me what is the routine here.” She needed to find
a weak link and fast.

 

“The guards come in three times a day: Breakfast,
Lunch and Dinner.  The toilet is over there.” He
pointed. “Every now and then someone…  I assume the
boss comes and takes a picture of me with the days
newspaper but they don’t leave it with me.”

 

“Uh huh.” She acknowledged. “Therefore we can assume
that such a visit will occur soon so as to take a
photo shoot with me.” 

 

“Probably.” He agreed.

 

“Can you defend yourself?” she asked.

 

“Yes. I’m a martial arts black belt, but there were
too many of them, they eventually overpowered me.” He
looked at her. “No offence ma’am but you don’t strike
me a woman built for battle.”

 

She smiled at the compliment. “Don’t judge a book by
its cover.” 

 

The door opened and Alex Ferdinand walked in escorted
by one guard and one photographer.  

 

He saw Mac’s surprise.  “Mrs. Van Der Mir.” He greeted
her.  “It seems that your bon ami is getting too
curious in the affairs of my friend Admiral Foster. It
is unfortunate but the Ben suggested that we could
control the good Captain by using you as a lever.  I
was forced to concur.  Now if you will just stand here
with this newspaper in you hand… you know … proof of
life and all that. Then I can get back to my party.”

 

“And if I don’t?” she challenged.

 

Alex gave a sigh of resignation. “Karl…”  

 

The guard stepped toward Mac.  Without warning Jason
Warner struck the guard. Mac had not expected that
from the youth but took advantage of the situation. 
She grabbed a chair and swung at the photographer who
was standing closer to her.  He went down with one
hit.

 

As Jason dealt with the guard she moved in on Alex. 
He swung, she grabbed the fist and using his own
momentum she flipped him and sent him hurling across
the room.  She was about to assist Jason but he too
was done.

 

“Let’s get the hell out of here.” She said.

 

“You were right he said as they searched for an exit.”
He informed her.

 

“OH?”

 

“Never judge a book by its cover.” He said.

 

They found a door and eventually used Alex’s car to
drive back.  The whole incident happened so fast that
no knew that she had been grabbed.

 

+          +          +

 

TWO HOURS LATER

 

Harm, Mac, Alex and Webb hovered in the hallway as
Jason spoke with his mother.

 

“Did they get Alex and his people?” Mac inquired of
Webb.

 

“And the Admiral.” Harm informed her. “It’s been a
busy night.  Jess was the mule but under duress as
they had Jason.”

 

“Speak up Alex and stop muttering.” Webb said.

 

“That man just gave the name of Alex a bad
reputation!” She fired off.

 

“Come my friend.” Mac coaxed. “Let’s go find some
coffee.” 

 

====================================

 

TWO DAYS LATER

1327 LOCAL

THE GARDEN, MAC’S CHALET 

 

Mac’s lease on the chalet was good for another week so
the team decided to take some well deserved time off.

 

“Harm darling.” Mac cooed at her husband as Alex and
Webb raided the fridge. 

 

“I know that tone.” Harm was on alert “You are up to
something.”

 

“Actually the something already happened.” She
corrected, “I’m pregnant.”

 

“But…” He floundered.

 

“But…?” Alex walked up and handed her brother a beer.

 

“But what!” Webb wanted to know too.

 

“How could this happen!” Harm was still reeling.

 

Mac was amused. “Darling are you saying that your
mother NEVER had the talk with you?”

 

Alex leaped to a conclusion “You’re pregnant!”

 

“Yes Auntie.” Mac smiled.

 

“Well about time!” she stated.  “How long is a girl
expected to wait on you two!”

 

“But…” Was all Harm could manage at that stage.

 

THE END