TITLE:  "New Beginnings XV-With This Ring"
    AUTHORS:  Anne R. and Pat Steiner
    SUMMARY:   The fifteenth in the New Beginnings series as Harm and 
Mac 
endeavor to keep their promise to each other—to make 2002 'their' year. 
All chapters 
are rated PG for mild violence and language.
    DISCLAIMER:  JAG belongs to CBS, Paramount et al.  No copyright 
infringement 
is intended with this work of fiction.
    FEEDBACK:  Yes, if you're moved to do so, to [SSbpmn@aol.com] and 
it would be 
much appreciated by both of us.  However, if your intent is only to 
tell us you are not 
liking our work, please don't spend the time.  While we realize our 
work does not 
please everyone, we do ask that the journey be respected.
    
    NOTE:  All parts of this story and previous chapters, as well as 
much of our other 
works, are available at 

             http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AnniePatJAGstories

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              or the Harm-Mac shipper archive at    
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          or BTL-
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          http://destined.to/btlarchive - {BTL H/M Fanfiction archive.}

Previously in NB—   Vengeance is mine sayeth the Lord, which Singer 
learns quickly 
after her final attack on Harm and Mac proves to be her own undoing.  
Harm and 
Mac turn their attention to the widening gap between Ryan and Brooke.  
Enter Grams

From NB XIV-- Sunday Afternoon
 
 "Grams thanks for this weekend" Harm said as he gave his grandmother a 
long 
 hug. "I think I can safely speak for everyone and say we had a 
wonderful 
 time."
 
 "You're all welcome back anytime you want" Grams smiled. "And I expect 
it 
 not to be a long time between visits either young man. Sarah and I 
have a 
 wedding to plan."
 
 Mac smiled at the words and her gaze fell to the ring on her hand. 
She'd 
 never felt comfortable wearing Mic's ring, but this one seemed to be 
made 
 just for her.
 
 "Yes you do" Harm smiled as he reached for Mac, pulling her against 
him 
 before dropping a quick kiss on her lips.
***************************

 "New Beginnings XV-With This Ring"—

MONDAY MORNING
 JAG HQ
 
 "We are late Flyboy, not good," Mac groaned as he opened the door for 
her.
 
 "Hey we weren't doing anything," he yelped.  "We didn't oversleep or 
fool around or 
shower together or fool around or anything."
 
 "You want to say fool around a little louder?  I don't think the guys 
in Public Affairs 
downstairs got it all."
 
 "Sorry."  His leer indicated he was not.
 
 Ryan and Brooke were just going into AJ's office for staff call and 
Harm hurried Mac 
along, his hand to her back.
 
 "We're not that late," he hissed.
 
 "Yes you are," AJ told them.  "I'm open to an excuse."
 
 "Actually sir you heard about the accident on the bridge?  It happened 
just in front of 
us," Mac explained hastily.
 
 "Sit all of you," AJ motioned, dismissing Mac's concern.  "And here 
are the 
Lieutenants Roberts and Sims.   Can no one arrive on time?"
 
 "Hey we were here twenty minutes ago sir," Ryan spoke up.
 
 "Teacher's pets."  This from Harm.  "Sorry sir."
 
 "OK before we get to the business at hand, Colonel show your ring to 
the people 
who were not privy to it."
 
 "Sir?" Harriet gasped and looked at Mac.  "Oh ma'am that's beautiful."
 
 "Yeah it is, who's the lucky guy?  No wait, let me guess--that good 
looking dude who 
picked you up for lunch last week?"  Bud delivered those words with 
such 
seriousness that Harm shot her a long look until he realized he had 
been baited.
 
 "You're a dead man Roberts," he growled.
 
 "To work people," AJ ordered.  "Except for me to ask, any idea of a 
time period on 
the nuptials?"
 
 Harm and Mac exchanged looks and Mac spoke.  "No sir.  No real hurry. 
I mean 
having my name--well my non-duty name--as Rabb isn't going to change 
how I feel 
and. . ."  She stopped and blushed bright pink.
 
 "I get it, thank you," AJ smiled.
 ==========
 One week later
 
 "Hey beautiful."  A second later a pair of cool hands clamped around 
Brooke's eyes 
as she stood awaiting the elevator to take her up from the basement, 
her arms 
loaded with dusty files.  At the same time a pair of lips nuzzled the 
back of her neck 
and she sighed happily.
 
 "Ryan you said you were going to be gone all day.  How did you get 
back?"
 
 "Hmmm. . . maybe there's a closet you and me could. . .Bet you've 
never made out 
in a closet with a CIA agent."
 
 Brooke froze for a second and then tore the hands from her face, 
spinning around at 
the same time.  "Clayton Webb how dare you," she yelped.  
 
 "Sorry honey I couldn't resist that," he laughed easily.  "I had you 
going for a second 
didn't I.  You weren't exactly fighting me off."
 
 "Only because I thought you were Ryan," she groused.  "What are you 
doing here 
anyway?"
 
 "Looking for you and your three partners in crime," he grinned.  "The 
whole place is 
almost deserted up there.  Roberts said you were down here.  Did you 
get stuck with 
the dirty job today, and anyway let me take those for you."
 
 He reached for the files just as the elevator arrived.
 
 "Thanks.  Yep I got research detail.  Mac and Ryan are at Federal 
Court in 
Alexandria and Harm's talking to an opposing counsel.  I imagine 
they're in one of the 
conference rooms.  And me, I'm pulling old case files."
 
 "What are you doing for lunch?" 
 
 "Yogurt at my desk."
 
 "No way.  Come share a pizza with me."
 
 "Clay I can't," she smiled.  "Not that it's not tempting, but you know 
why."
 
 "Look this is just lunch, but well if you ever get tired of that 
jarhead, you know who to 
call," he grinned.
 
 "I've got your number," she smiled going along with the banter as the 
doors opened, 
only to come face to face with Harm, escorting his guest out.
 
 "Yeah so do I and it's zero," he growled at Clay once the doors had 
closed again. 
"Webb what are you doing here--and it better be something important or 
I'm going to 
have you arrested for loitering."
 
 "I need to talk to you.  All of you," he nodded, his face growing 
serious.  "Admiral 
Chegwidden gave me permission to speak to you."
 
 "Clay is this one of 'those' things?" Harm demanded.
 
 "Harm don't say it like I'm asking you to die in the gas chamber," he 
groaned.  "it's a 
simple thing and I just need a little help."
 
 "You've got a whole agency of people to help."
 
 "Not really.  You'd be surprised how few people there are actually to 
take something 
like this---ones that aren't already on an assignment or whose plates 
aren't too full as 
it is," he sighed.  "You know we're as spread thin as everyone else 
since 9/11."

 "Yeah you're breaking my heart."  Harm shook his head and pierced Clay 
with a long 
glare.  "One word Clay----Panama."
 
 "Hey that all came off well," he yelped in protest.
 
 "We were lucky, very very lucky," he reminded him, shuddering as he 
recalled the 
bullet going into Mac's leg and how sick she became afterward.
 
 "Look all I ask is that you hear me out.  It's just not that big a 
deal, but I do need 
some help," he groaned.  "I'm not above begging."
 
 "You're already doing that."
 
 "Clay I'll help you if I can," Brooke spoke up shyly, putting a hand 
on his arm.
 
 "Lieutenant," Harm warned.
 
 "Hey I'm not doing anything here that's so vital. . .sir," she pointed 
out.  "I mean Ryan 
and Mac have the espionage charge against Nelson and you're doing a 
murder case 
and me----well my D and D isn't much of a case."
 
 "Lieutenant there are no small cases," he tried.
 
 "Still if the Admiral isn't objecting, then Clay I'd like to at least 
hear what you've got to 
say.  Is that pizza offer still open?"
 
 "Donatello's?"
 
 "Hey first class pizza at that.  I'm impressed," she smiled.  "Let me 
get my things."
 
 When they were alone Harm turned on Clay, and pressed his palm against 
his chest 
none too gently.  "Listen Mr. Spook, that Lieutenant you're so casually 
recruiting into 
your op whatever it is means a great deal to me.  Not only that but 
there's a Marine 
Major in love with her.  If anything happens to her. . .well let's just 
say it would suck to 
be you."
 
 "Rabb lay off," he growled, irritably pushing his hand away.  "We're 
just going to talk 
is all right now.  The invite to join us is still on the table."
 
 "Thanks no," he groaned.  "I've got a desk full of work and I'm hoping 
Mac will wrap 
up soon."
 
 "Then I guess you get these," Clay grinned, shoving the stack of 
folders he had 
carried up for Brooke into Harm's hands.
 
 "Clay, I'm serious here," he hissed.  "Do not interfere with Ryan and 
her.  You tried 
that once remember."
 
 He was about to respond when he saw Brooke coming toward him and shook 
his 
head.  "You worry too much.  Last chance to join us."
 
 "What part of no do you not understand," he grumbled and looked to 
Brooke.  
"Lieutenant don't let this guy talk you into anything until you speak 
to me and Ryan 
first."
 
 "Commander I'm a big girl here.  Thank you.  Clay I'm ready."
 
 Clay smiled and took her arm.  "me too."
 
  An hour later Harm was still mumbling about Clay when Mac and Ryan 
returned.
  
  "Missed you" Mac whispered as she walked up behind him and wrapped 
her arms 
  around his waist.
  
  "Missed you too" he sighed. "You didn't see Lt. Hastings in her 
office did 
  you?"
  
  "No why?" Mac frowned. "Something wrong?"
  
  "Do the words Clayton Aaron Webb mean anything to you?"
  
  "Oh no. What does he want?"
  
  "I have no idea but he managed to talk Brooke into lunch with him. 
And I 
  think he's trying to recruit for something. He said he talked to the 
Admiral 
  about using us."
  
  "She went to lunch with him?" Mac groaned. "Why didn't you stop her? 
Or at 
  least go with them?"
  
  "I did try and stop her. But Clay has some kind of power over her. 
And I 
  warned her not to get sucked into one of his schemes."
  
  "You still should have gone with them."
  
  "Sorry. I was trying to avoid getting us involved in this mess. But 
somehow 
  I get the feeling that's not going to be possible."
  
  "Any clue what he wants us for?"
  
  "None. God only knows what Clay has in mind."
  
  "Did you say Clay as in Clayton Webb?" Ryan asked as he walked into 
the 
  office.
  
  "Uh yeah" Harm sighed. "He needs help with something and the Admiral 
said we 
  would be willing to help."
  
  "Yeah right" Ryan said with a long look. "Where's Brooke? She said 
she was 
  staying in for lunch."
  
  "She's uh with Clay" Harm admitted. "They went to lunch."
  
  "I see" Ryan said quietly. "Mac when you want to talk about Nelson, 
just let 
  me know, I'll be in my office."
  
  "Hold up there Marine" Harm ordered. "The only reason she went to 
lunch with 
  him was to find out what kind of help Clay wants."
  
  "Why didn't you go with them?"
  
  "I was tied up with something else" Harm lied. "And I told Brooke not 
to 
  agree to anything until we'd all had a chance to talk about it."
  
  Ryan looked at him doubtfully before letting out a long sigh and 
walking out 
  of Harm's office.
  
  "Okay I think I botched this one" Harm sighed. "I should have gone 
with 
  them. I was just hoping we could find a way to stay out of this. I 
forgot 
  how much Clayton Webb gets to him."
  
  "Well we're going to make sure Mr. Webb stays out of their 
relationship" Mac 
  replied. "They just got everything worked out and I'm not going to 
let him 
  ruin it."
  
  The sound of Brooke's laughter interrupted what he was going to say 
and they 
  turned to see her and Clay step off the elevator.
  
  "Hey Mac" Clay smiled as he walked over to them while Brooke headed 
to her 
  office.
  
  "You never learn to do you Clay," she said irritably. "I warned you 
last 
  time to stay away from her."
  
  "What do you mean last time?"
  
  "The last time you tried to make the moves on her" Mac snapped. "At 
her 
  apartment."
  
  "Okay I'm not going there with you Mackenzie. And I did nothing 
wrong. I 
  simply took the Lieutenant to lunch to discuss the assignment with 
her."
  
  "What assignment?" Mac demanded.
  
  "God you're worse than Rabb. You two will make great parents one day.  
  You've got that protective thing down pat."
  
  "Damn right we do" Mac continued. "Cause I know what you're like and 
I'm not 
  going to let you do this to them."
  
  "Mac chill. We had lunch. Nothing more."
  
  "Not for your lack of trying I'm sure" she scoffed. "I'm warning you 
Clay. 
  Stay away from Brooke."
  
  "Can't do that" Clay smiled. "She's a big part of the assignment."
  
  "Okay spill it Webb" Harm interrupted. "What is this assignment 
anyway?"
  
  "So I don't have to explain it again, grab Nichols and I'll explain 
it to 
  you all in the conference room."
  
 "Mac would you get the major while I escort the lieutenant and this 
guy into the 
meeting room please."
 
 "I'd like to escort him somewhere," she mumbled as she hurried to 
Ryan's office.
 
 "They're back Major," she said softly and Ryan looked up, one eyebrow 
raised.  

"And I care because?"
 
 "Because Clay wants to talk to all of us.  I'm guessing from the ease 
they're getting 
along Brooke has probably agreed to go along with whatever half-assed 
plan he's 
cooked up."
 
 "She wouldn't.  Panama wasn't enough for her?" he gasped.  "Mac this 
guy is 
dangerous."
 
 "Well in all fairness, he's a good agent.  Damn good.  He just 
sometimes employs 
the same disregard for other people as he has for himself.  Which of 
course is why I 
suggest you come hear what he has to say.   Brooke will listen to you."
 
 "Hah.  Good one Colonel.  There's something about him that makes her 
go off the 
deep end."
 
 "You feel threatened by him don't you?"
 
 "Yeah I do," he confessed sheepishly after a moment.  "He's not me.  
And yes I 
know that sounded whiny.  But he's so different from me."
 
 "Of course he is.  And it's not him Brooke is in love with," Mac 
assured him, taking 
his arm.  "Come on.  Whatever he's talked her into, you don't want her 
involved in 
alone."
 
 "You got that right," he muttered.  "I don't suppose you can order her 
not to help 
him?"
 
 "You know if the Admiral gave his consent for Clay to ask then I 
can't.  Hey maybe it 
involves something OK.  Like a warm place to travel."
 
 "Panama was warm."
 
 "Oh yeah, OK not a good comparison," she grinned, wrapping her hands 
around his 
arm and bringing him along.
 
 Brooke smiled at Ryan the second she saw him.  "Missed you," she 
whispered 
reaching for his hand, which he took at once and she pulled him down 
next to her, 
kissing his cheek as he sat down.
 
 "OK Clay let's hear you out," Harm told him.  "And let's not make it 
sound like 
something out of the latest James Bond movie."
 
 "Actually for the glamour part it almost is," he smiled.  "What does 
the wedding of 
Paul Adams's niece Isabelle mean to you?"
 
 Four blank faces greeted him, Harm being the first one to have the 
light bulb go on.  
"The Secnav's niece.  He's hosting the wedding because her folks are 
dead."
 
 "And here I thought it was the sports pages you were reading in the 
little Sailor's 
room," Mac smiled.  "I didn't know you took in Lifestyles."
 
 "Grabbed it by mistake one morning," he teased.
 
 "Isabelle Adams is marrying Samuel Weiss," Clay confirmed.  "And 
children what 
significance does that name hold?"
 
 "Clay I have work to do and we're playing twenty questions here," Ryan 
snapped.
 
 "OK OK.  Mr. Weiss happens to also have a close relative in 
government.  In Israeli 
government.   By the name of Sharon.  Uncle Ariel to be exact."
 
 "It's a security nightmare," Mac gasped, understanding dawning.  
"These two should 
have eloped."
 
 "Yeah well it seems Mr. Adams has been planning this wedding for over 
a year, and 
he's determined that she's to be given the wedding of her dreams," Clay 
sighed.  
"They're having a horse drawn carriage for godsake.  Who does she think 
she is, 
Princess Di?  Anyway, guess who's been tasked with being the 
CIA-slash-State 
Department's head of security."
 	  
 "And that's our problem why?" Ryan retorted.
 
 "Because your CO has offered your assistance" Clay smirked. "I'm short 
 agents thanks to a certain war on terrorism so you four are going to 
help 
 out."
 
 "Doing what?" Harm asked.
 
 "Security. I need people in the crowd to keep an eye on things with 
me. 
 Course you'll need to blend in so you won't be in uniform. And since 
this is 
 the wedding of the year, you'll need to be dressed appropriately."
 
 "You springing for a new dress for me again Clay?" Mac asked.
 
 "I'll be providing you and Brooke with gowns for the occasion" Clay 
nodded. 
 "Harm you'll be wearing a tux. Nichols you will be acting as security 
so 
 you'll be in uniform."
 
 "Wait. If I'm in the security detail, whose going to be with Brooke?" 
Ryan 
 asked.
 
 "I am" Clay smiled. "Your partner is going to be my date for the 
evening."
 
 "No way" Ryan shouted. "No freakin' way."
 
 "Ryan" Brooke sighed. "Please. I already told Clay I would do this."
 
 "Why?" he demanded.
 
 "Because Clay needs someone with him so he doesn't stand out in the 
crowd."
 
 "There isn't anyone else you could have asked" Ryan said irritably as 
he 
 glared at Clay.
 
 "I told you before we're short on agents. And the ones available 
wouldn't 
 fit as my date. Brooke however is perfect."
 
 "Yeah of course she is" Ryan snapped as he stood up.  "I've heard 
enough of 
 this BS."
 
 "Ryan" Brooke started as he stormed out of the conference room.
 
 "I'll go talk to him" Harm sighed as he stood up. He shot Clay a long 
glare 
 as he walked past him, resisting the urge to wring the agent's neck.
 
 "Hey I didn't do anything," Clay said as he caught Harm's glare.
 
 "Yeah right" Harm scoffed.
 
 "He didn't take that real well" Brooke sighed as she looked over at 
Mac.
 
 "Clay would you mind leaving us alone for a minute" Mac said tersely.
 
 "Yeah sure. I have to go anyway. I'll be back tomorrow to go over 
everything 
 with you guys for this weekend."
 
 "I'll be looking forward to it" Mac sighed.
 
 "Brooke I'm sorry Nichols doesn't understand" Clay said softly, his 
hand 
 gently resting on her shoulder.
 
 "Goodbye Clay" Mac said with a wave of her hand. "You have somewhere 
to be 
 don't you?"
 
 "Fine I'm out of here. Brooke I'll be in touch."
 
 He finally left and Mac looked over at her friend with a long sigh.
 
 "Brooke how many times do I have to warn you about that man."
 
 "Mac I’m not doing anything wrong" Brooke countered. "Look Clay came 
here 
 and told me he needed someone to act as his date. And I agreed."
 
 "Brooke you've never worked an undercover assignment before" Mac said 
 patiently. "Trust me, things can get hairy sometimes."
 
 "Just because I haven't done it before doesn't mean I can't handle it. 
I 
 wish you guys had some faith in me."
 
 "We do. We just don't want you to get hurt."
 
 "You'll be sitting at the table with Clay and I" Brooke sighed. "It's 
not 
 like I'm going to the wedding alone with Clay."
 
 "I'm not talking about getting hurt like that," Mac said gently. 
"Brooke 
 you're not used to dealing with men like Clayton Webb. He knows how to 
play 
 the game. And he knows how to manipulate you to get to Ryan. You see 
that 
 don't you?"
 
 "I see that you guys are treating me like I'm not a real member of 
this 
 team" she said irritably as she stood up and stomped out of the 
conference 
 room.
 
 "Some mother you'll be" Mac muttered to herself.
 ********************
 "Ryan" Harm called as he followed the young man out to the courtyard. 
"Major 
 wait up. That's an order."
 
 "With all due respect sir, I'd like to be left alone" Ryan sighed as 
he 
 turned around. "Please."
 
 "Not before we have a little chat. Now have a seat."
 
 With a long sigh, Ryan sat down at one of the small tables, Harm doing 
the 
 same.
 
 "First off, you're over reacting here" Harm started.
 
 "Excuse me sir, but if it were Mac that Webb was hitting on, you'd be 
acting 
 the same way."
 
 "You're probably right about that," Harm said with a small smile. 
"Course I 
 probably would have decked him so you showed more restraint than I 
would 
 have."

"Well you know him better and probably can not let him get to you as 
bad," Ryan 
groused.  "And so does Mac, and his BS wouldn't impress her, but it 
does Brooke.  
For all her college years, for all the time she lived in California, 
she's not. . .well you 
know."

"You're not going to tell me you were her first?" Harm gasped.

"Oh no of course not but I bet it's in single digits," he sighed.  "And 
that's not here nor 
there anyway.  Harm I'm worried about her.  This guy has some influence 
over her.  
He's hitting on her and she's loving the attention."

"And that's all it is," Harm assured him.  "That and Clay is pushing 
your buttons for 
his part.  He sees you react, and he pushes more.  He and I have had 
that friend-
adversary relationship for a long time.  I'll tell you this though, in 
a tight spot, I'd want 
him there.  He's got ice water in his veins."

"Harm you and I both know that if it came to the mission or Brooke, 
what would win.  
And don't tell me you'd be fine with that if it was Mac."

Harm opened his mouth to speak and then closed it as the reality of 
Ryan's words hit 
home.  "You know what Major, I pray every night--every night--that I 
never have to 
make such a choice.  To choose between the woman I'd gladly die for and 
my 
country--my oath--I don't ever want to be tested that way."

"Well he'd have no qualms about what to pick."

"Hey I'm not so sure of that.  There's a heart beating under that 
Italian suit 
somewhere.  I think he'd go all out, including sacrificing himself, 
before he'd let that 
happen.  That's my gut feeling."

Ryan shuddered visibly.  "You don't think I'm losing her to him do 
you?"

"Good god no," Harm screeched.  "She loves you.  She's flattered by his 
attention 
and by the so called air of mystery about him because of who he is and 
what he 
does, but that's all.  It's a crush--if that.  More like a fascination.  
Don't give it more 
credit than it deserves."

"Well if this was Mac I'd like to see you maintain an air of calm" he 
groused.

"You're right.  It's easy to talk from where I'm sitting, but at the 
same time, be careful.  
You could drive her away.  And I do know that from experience."

Ryan nodded, hearing truth in his words.  "OK thanks.  I do feel at 
least a little better 
now.  Sir I'm. . .well if I was out of line before. . ."

"You were.  Apology noted.  You want a little time yet?"

"Would it be OK?  I'd like to be a little more under control when I 
come back."

"I think we'd all like that," Harm nodded.  "But you do have a desk 
full of work."

"Yes sir, give me fifteen please."
==============
Harm returned inside and found Mac at her office door, too frustrated 
to work.

"Well?" she asked anxiously.

"He's calming down--slowly," he answered.  "But really Mac, Clay is 
making him 
crazy."

"Well Clay does that to everyone," she smiled fondly--enough so that 
Harm looked at 
her sharply.

"OK, now he's getting you on his side," he snapped.

"Harm we're all on the same side here," she reminded him, her hand to 
his arm.  
"Clay has a job to do, and he's asked for help, which the Admiral has 
offered us as 
volunteers.  I'm not thrilled about it either, and I don't think Brooke 
is the right person 
for this job.  Which brings me to my suggestion that may resolve the 
matter."

Harm eyed her suspiciously.  "Yeah?  What?"

"That I be the woman Clay escorts."

"No way.  No freakin' way.  To quote Major Nichols," he gasped, trying 
to keep his 
voice down.

"Because?"

"Because it's. . ." he attempted, trying for an answer that made sense 
in view of 
Brooke's eagerness.

"Because the thought of anything happening to you tears me apart," he 
admitted 
finally, throwing up his hands.

"Or because I'd be Clay's date?"

"Well there is that," he murmured, coloring slightly.  "It's certainly 
what's sticking in 
Ryan's craw."

"Harm you know Clay is just being Clay.  He's found a hot button with 
Ryan and he's 
pushing it.  If Ryan didn't react so, he'd back off.  But right now 
it's too much fun for 
him."

"Yeah well he'd better knock it off before Ryan pushes back," Harm 
sighed.  

"Back to the subject of me doing the job in Brooke's place."

"No."

"Why not?" Mac demanded.
  
  "Because I don't want you anymore involved in this than you already 
are. At 
  least if you're with me, I can keep my eye on you."
  
  "Rabb I don't need you to hover over me all the time" she reminded 
him 
  tersely. "I am capable of handling myself remember."
  
  "I know. That's not the point."
  
  "What is the point?"
  
  "I don't want Clay all over you" he admitted. "There. Are you happy?"
  
  "You don't trust me with Clay?" she smiled. "I'm wearing your 
engagement 
  ring remember."
  
  "Yeah and that's why you should be with me and not Clay."
  
  "Harm the only reason I'm offering is because I'm not sure Brooke is 
ready 
  for something like this" she said quietly. "She's never worked 
undercover 
  before. And she'll be worried about Ryan's reaction to everything and 
I just 
  think it might be easier if I was his date."
  
  "I know what you're saying" he sighed. "We can talk to the Admiral 
about 
  everything and see what he thinks. It was his brilliant idea to get 
us into 
  this one. Speaking of Brooke, where is she?"
  
  "She uh got mad when I mentioned she might not be the right person 
for the 
  job" Mac sighed. "I guess I didn't approach it the right way. Course 
Clay is 
  not helping the situation any."
  
  "He's being Clayton Webb and you know it" Harm smiled. "The problem 
is Ryan 
  and Brooke don't know what he's like."
  
  "Let's go see if the Admiral is around and talk to him about this."
  
  A few minutes later they both were seated in front of AJ's desk.
  
  "I guess you've spoken with Mr. Webb" AJ said with a small smirk. 
"And 
  that's why you're both here."
  ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^













  "Sir we have no problem with the assignment" Harm spoke up. "Except 
that 
  we're not sure that Brooke is the right person to be Clay's date."
  
  "Why the hell not Commander?" AJ demanded.
  
  "Sir, she doesn't have any experience with this type of thing" Harm 
started.
  
  "She isn't going to get any experience unless we let her now will 
she?" AJ 
  countered. "I happen to think that Lt. Hastings is very capable of 
handling 
  this assignment."
  
  "Sir, you know that Webb has tried to cause problems with Ryan and 
Brooke 
  before" Mac spoke up.
  
  "Look, we've got an assignment to handle and that's what we're going 
to do" 
  AJ sighed. "Even though Webb has been put in charge of security, you 
can be 
  damn sure my head will be one of the one's that rolls if something 
happens 
  at that wedding. I need everyone there to be on their toes, not 
worrying 
  about their personal problems."
  
  "Sir with all due respect" Harm tried again.
  
  "Commander it's not up for discussion. You and the Colonel will be 
together 
  and Lt. Hastings will be Webb's date. Ryan will be part of the 
security 
  team. End of discussion."
  
  "Aye aye sir" he sighed.
  
  "That went well" Mac murmured as they walked back to Harm's office.
  
  "He's right though" Harm sighed. "Brooke is never going to get the 
  experience if we don't let her handle this. And Ryan is just going to 
have 
  to deal with it."
  
  "Ma'am I think I need to apologize" Brooke said quietly as she walked 
in. "I 
  think I was out of line earlier."
  
  "It's okay Lieutenant," Mac smiled. "I wasn't giving you much credit 
and that was 
  wrong of me."
  
  "So you're okay with me being Clay's date for this?"
  
  "Yes" Harm nodded. "But remember we'll be with you the whole time. 
You're 
  not handling this alone."
  
  "Good" she said with a small smile. "To be honest, I'm a bit 
nervous."
  
  "You'll do fine" Harm assured her.
  
  "Is Ryan still upset about all this?" she sighed.
  
  "He's going to have to deal with it" Mac said gently. "Because the 
Admiral 
  doesn't want any personal issues interfering with your duties. So I 
suggest 
  you and he take some time after work and get this settled."
  
  "Yes ma'am" Brooke nodded. "I'll talk to him. He needs to understand 
that 
  Clay isn't a threat to us."
  
  "That's a topic for outside the office" Harm smiled. "Before the 
Admiral 
  decides to send all of us to Alaska."
  
  ***********
  "Chegwidden" AJ barked as he grabbed his phone.
  
  "Maybe I should call back later," Shelby said quietly.
  
  "No it's okay" AJ sighed. "I'm sorry. It's been one of those days."
  
  "Secnav's niece's wedding right?"
  
  "How'd you know about that?" AJ demanded. "And don't even tell me 
you're 
  going to be there."
  
  "He's got a lot of pull AJ. And he wants as many good people as he 
can get 
  there."
  
  "Dammit this whole thing is a security nightmare" AJ sighed. "And now 
you're 
  telling me you're going to be in the middle of it too."
  
  "You can be my date if you'd like" Shelby teased. "I'm supposed to be 
one of 
  the guests."
  
  "A thousand guests and half of them will be security" AJ sighed. 
"Tell me 
  there isn't anyone stupid enough to try something."
  
  "You know there is" Shelby said quietly. "So what do you say? Be my 
date."
  
  "Hell yes. If you're going to be there, it's sure not going to be 
alone.  As 
  it is my four people got corralled into this. I might as well be 
there with 
  them."
  
  "Can I interest you in dinner tonight? A little fettuccine Alfredo 
and some 
  wine. And then maybe a massage because a certain Admiral is sounding 
very 
  uptight."
  
  "Keep talking" AJ whispered. "Because just the sound of your voice is 
doing 
  wonders."
  
  "Think about how much better it will be in person with my hands 
massaging 
  those tense muscles" she said softly.
 
 "I should not be engaging in talk that could be construed as erotic in 
nature on a 
government phone," he whispered again.
 
 "Then why don't I call your cell phone and you can go some place 
private and we'll 
really talk."
 
 "As tempting as that sounds, I'm afraid I'm stuck here," he laughed, 
feeling much of 
the tension leaving his body.  "Shelby honey thank you.  Now about that 
dinner 
invite?"
 
 "I will meet you at Buca at 1830.  Does that work for you?"
 
 "In a heartbeat," he declared.  "Long as the massage for later is part 
of the deal."
 ===============
 "I'm sorry, and we need to talk--but not here," Ryan said softly at 
Brooke's door once 
she was back in her office.
 
 She was facing away from him and froze at the sound of his words.  
"I'm not sure 
that's a good idea," she finally got out, her voice hoarse from 
repressed sobs.
 
 "Oh I think it's a very good idea," he responded.  "About today.  I 
handled it badly.  I 
want to make it up to you.  And we need to talk.  Brooke we were just 
back to being 
us when this happened.  It's starting to scare me that we can be pulled 
apart so 
easily."
 
 "Oh Ryan I don't mean for that to happen either," she wailed softly, 
looking around 
the office to see who might be watching them.  "And sometimes I think 
we need to 
stay apart for just that reason, as unreasonable as that sounds."
 
 "Well it does sound totally unreasonable," he snapped, his temper 
rising again, 
despite his best effort to remain calm.   He took a long breath and 
tried again.  "OK I 
want you to come over tonight.  Please."
 
 "To do what besides. . .?"
 
 He gave her an exasperated look.  "Not just that.  I think we need 
some time just you 
and me, away from here, which if we bring our problems into here too 
much anyway, 
the Admiral is going to stop looking the other way and one of us is 
going to get 
bounced out on his or her ear, or rear, as the case may be."
 
 "Thanks.  I'll be there," she smiled, sniffling back a soft sob.  "You 
know I love you 
right?"
 
 "I love you," he answered at once, adding miserably, "I just hope 
that's enough."
 
 "Ryan don't think that please," she begged.  "We're just hitting a 
rough patch again.  
It happens to all people doesn't it?"
 
 "I don't know.  I mean look at Harm and Mac."
 
 "Well maybe they're just better at keeping it private," she smiled.  
"I'll see you 
tonight."
    ********************
  Ryan's Apartment
  6:30 PM EST
  
  "Hi, thanks for coming" Ryan said softly as he let Brooke into the 
  apartment. "Dinner's almost ready."
  
  "You didn't have to cook," she said quietly. "But it smells 
wonderful."
  
  "One of Harm's recipes. I just hope it tastes have as good as his 
usually 
  does."
  
  "I'm sure it will."
  
  There was a moment of uncomfortable silence as both tried to figure 
out what 
  to say.
  
  "Brooke I'm sorry about today" Ryan said finally. "I was totally out 
of 
  line. But in my defense you act different when you're around Clayton 
Webb. 
  It's like he has some kind of power over you."
  
  "You were totally out of line" she agreed. "And maybe I do act 
different 
  around Clay. Maybe it's because he sees me as someone who can handle 
things. 
  Unlike everyone else."
  
  "That's not fair. I know you can handle things. I'd just rather not 
have you 
  involved in those types of things."
  
  "Why?" she demanded. "Why is always different with me? If Clay had 
asked you 
  to be his date, there would have been no problem with it. Am I 
right?"
  
  "Uh, let's hope Clay wouldn't want me to be his date" Ryan sighed.
  
  "You get my point though."
  
  "It's different because I love you and I know that whenever this guy 
is 
  around things between you and me always seem to fall apart."
  
  "I never stopped loving you Ryan. Just because I'm going undercover 
as 
  Clay's date doesn't mean anything has changed between you and me."
  
  "Then why do I feel like when he's around, I don't exist to you" Ryan 
  sighed.
  
  "I have no idea. Yes I'm flattered by Clay's attention. I've admitted 
that. 
  But it's not because of his attention towards me as a woman. It's 
because of 
  his attention towards me as an officer."
  
  "You honestly think I treat you differently?"
  
  "Yes. And maybe it's because of our relationship but dammit Ryan I 
want to 
  do my job as much as the next person does. And having you and Harm 
and Mac 
  standing there all the time telling me I can't handle stuff isn't 
fair."
  
  "It's only because we all care about you" Ryan said softly. "That's 
my 
  defense anyway. I love you and the thought of anything happening to 
you 
  scares me to death."
  
  "Can't you just have a little faith in me?" Brooke asked quietly. "To 
trust 
  that I can handle myself in a given situation. And to trust that 
while I'm 
  with Clay I'm not going to do anything to jeopardize our 
relationship."
  
  "I do trust you" Ryan sighed. "It's him I don't trust."
  
  "If you trusted me, it wouldn't matter what he tried. Because you'd 
have 
  enough belief in me that I wouldn't let anyone come between you and I 
  because I happen to love you more than anything else in this world."
  
  "You do?" Ryan whispered.
  
  "How many times do I have to tell you before it gets through that 
thick 
  jarhead of yours?" Brooke smiled. "Yes Clay is fun to flirt with but 
I love 
  you."
  
  "So you admit you flirt with him?"
  
  "Maybe a little" Brooke admitted.
  
  "I rest my case. But I promise that for the rest of this assignment I 
will 
  trust you. I just don't want you to do anything risky that day with 
Clay. 
  If there's problems, let the pros handle it."
  
  "And I'm chopped liver?" she sighed.
  
  "No. But this is the first time you've done anything like this. 
That's all 
  I'm saying."
  
  "Sorry" she said with a small smile. "I guess I need to work on that 
  sensitivity issue."
  
  "Just a little" Ryan smiled. "So are we okay? Because that's all that 
  matters to me."
  
  "We're okay," she said as she reached for his hand. "No one said this 
was 
  going to be easy you know. Harm and Mac warned us."
  
  "I know. But the best things don't come easy do they?"
  
  "No they don't," she said softly as she drew him closer to him. "And 
you 
  Ryan Nichols, are one of the best."
  
  "I guess dinner can wait" he whispered before guiding her to the 
bedroom.
  
  ***************************
  JAG HQ's
  Next Morning
  
  "I guess they made up" Mac whispered to Harm as Ryan and Brooke 
walked off 
  the elevator, laughing and giggling.
  
  "About time" Harm smiled. "The Admiral was ready to send us all 
packing 
  yesterday. Speaking of which, have you seen him yet this morning?"
  
  "No actually his truck wasn't in the lot this morning. He didn't 
mention 
  being out of the office today."
  
  "Maybe he took a day off" Harm sighed. "He was a little grouchy 
yesterday."
  
  "I don't think he likes this wedding assignment any more than we do."
  
  They made their way to the break room and were on their way back when 
the 
  elevator doors opened again.
  
  "Good morning Commander, Colonel" AJ said brightly as he stepped off.
  
  "Morning sir" Mac smiled as she looked over at Harm. Something had 
obviously 
  put the Admiral in a good mood. Harm just shrugged his shoulders and 
added 
  his own good morning.
  
  "Mr. Webb will be over this morning" AJ continued. "We'll be 
discussing 
  everyone's assignments for this weekend. Just so you don't think I 
stuck you 
  four with this, I will be there as well."
  
  "You will sir?" Harm questioned.
  
  "Yes Commander I will. Seems the SecNav has been recruiting security 
from 
  all areas he can get his hands on. Shelby was asked to help out so 
I'll be 
  going with her."
  
  "I see" Harm nodded.
  
  "Against my wishes" AJ muttered. "Course there's nothing I can do 
about. But 
  I'm sure as hell not going to let her go alone."
 
 "Sir you're not happy with the whole set up either are you?" Ryan 
spoke up, having 
caught up to them.
 
 "No I'm not, but it's got more to do with what's going down that I 
don't like, rather 
than the fact Webb is involved," AJ nodded.  "This should have been 
canceled or 
moved or something.  To be planning a big wedding in an area that can't 
be secured 
properly is the height of asininity and that's probably not even a 
word."
 
 "I think in all fairness to the man, he's simply trying to keep his 
promise to the young 
woman he thinks of as his daughter," Mac said spoke up, her voice 
taking on a 
slightly distant quality.  "And I think the idea of being married 
outdoors like that, with 
the horse drawn carriage is wonderfully romantic."  Unconsciously she 
twisted her 
engagement ring as she spoke and Ryan poked Harm with his elbow.
 
 "You're getting sent a message there buddy."
 
 "Oh he is not," Mac groaned.  "I'm just understanding his side that's 
all.  I mean OK 
look at 9/11. It wasn't enough that they killed hundreds of people, but 
it's changed 
everything.  Ruined lives of people not even remotely connected with 
the Pentagon 
or the Towers and. . .yes OK I'm on my soap box.  Shutting up now.  My 
point simply 
being that I kind of admire the guy for not letting it change plans he 
had in place a 
year ago."
 
 "Amen," Brooke said quietly.  "Thank you Colonel.  I think that's a 
large part of why I 
want to help.  It just doesn't seem unreasonable to me that they can't 
have a simple 
wedding."
 
 "Simple wedding?  Not quite. This is akin to a coronation," AJ 
groaned.
 
 "Exactly," Ryan muttered.  "And anyway Colonel you said at first they 
should have 
eloped."
 
 "Yeah well I withdraw that.  If that's the kind of a wedding she 
wants, she should be 
able to have it without giving in to terrorist threats."
 
 "Save me from gung ho jarheads," Harm sighed, "or from CIA agents."  
He gestured 
down the corridor to where Clay was striding towards them.
 
 "Good morning," Clay called cheerfully.  "Glad we're all together and 
guess what, I 
brought donuts."
 
 "Well you are good for something I guess," Mac grinned.
 
 "Hi Brooke," Clay smiled, turning his gaze on her.
 
 "Morning Clay," she smiled back and felt her cheeks redden despite her 
intention to 
remain impassive.
 
 "You look lovely this morning."
 
 "Oh for godsake she's in her uniform," Ryan groaned before he realized 
he had risen 
to Clay's bait, which of course sent Clay into a fit of laughter.
 
 "People could we--please," AJ ordered.  "Mr. Webb is there a purpose 
to your visit 
other than to create dissension among my staff?"
   
  "Just that there's been a small wrinkle in this whole mess that might 
  actually make things easier for us."
  
  "Conference room people" AJ directed and the group assembled in the 
large 
  room. "Okay Webb, what's the wrinkle?"
  
  "One of the couples in the wedding party has decided they can't stand 
the 
  heat" Clay smirked. "The rumors are floating all over Washington 
about this 
  affair and they've decided that as close as they are to the happy 
couple, 
  they're not close enough to become targets."
  
  "So there's one less in the bridal party" Harm retorted. "Isn't there 
like 
  10 attendants on each side already?"
  
  "And she wants it to stay at 10" Clay sighed. "Says that any less 
will ruin 
  the pictures and upset the balance or something stupid like that."
  
  "So ask someone else to stand in" Mac spoke up. "I'm sure she has 
other 
  friends."
  
  "She does but we don't want to make it known that someone has left 
the 
  bridal party because they're afraid. The less everyone knows about 
what's 
  going on behind the scenes the better."
  
  "Webb just say what you're going to say and get over with it" AJ 
sighed. 
  "Cause I think I know what you're about to ask so just do it."
  
  "Thanks AJ" Clay smiled. "We'd like to have Harm and Mac stand in for 
the 
  other couple. That way there's always someone close to the bride and 
groom."
  
  "You're joking right?" Harm demanded.
  
  "Do I look like I'm joking" Clay sighed. "The wedding is in 
forty-eight 
  hours. I'm way past joking at this point. It's no big deal Rabb. You 
just 
  need to get measured for a tux and the seamstress is already working 
on 
  altering the dress to fit Mac."
  
  "How does she know my size Clay?" Mac asked.
  
  "I gave her some rough measurements" Clay smiled. "Of course you'll 
need to 
  stop in and make sure those were right. I'm sure I'm not too far 
off."
  
  "Webb you are a dead man" Harm growled as he looked across the table 
at him.
  
  "Harm calm down" Mac said softly.
  
  "I don't like the fact that he's been eyeing my fiancee up enough to 
know 
  your size" Harm countered.
  
  "Hey wait when did that happen" Clay interrupted. "You two are 
officially 
  engaged?"
  
  "Some kind of agent you are" Mac smiled as she held up her ring. "You 
didn't 
  notice this the other day?"
  
  "He was too busy noticing Brooke" Ryan muttered under his breath, 
earning 
  him a long glare from Brooke.
  
  "Okay everyone cool it" AJ ordered. "Rabb, take a chill pill. You too 
  Nichols. We have an assignment to handle here. What ever personal 
issues you 
  all have, lose them now."
  
  "Understood sir" Harm said quietly, a sentiment echoed by Ryan.
  
  "Good. Back to the business at hand. Webb, is this the best plan?"
  
  "It gets us someone close to the bride and groom" Clay replied. "Harm 
can 
  still carry a weapon in his tux."
  
  "What about Mac?" Harm demanded.
  
  "I think I have something small enough for Mac to carry" Clay smiled. 
  "Something she can work under the bouquet she'll be carrying. And 
remember 
  there's going to be a ton of agents and security around."
  
  "I still don't like it" Harm sighed. "Isn't there anyone else who 
could do 
  this?"
  
  "No one else I trust as much as you and Mac" Clay said seriously. 
"And it's 
  not like you're doing this alone. We're all going to be there."
  
  "Harm we can handle this" Mac spoke up. "It's going to be fine."
  
  He nodded and Clay let out a long sigh. "Okay good. Harm, I'll get 
you the 
  name of the tux shop. You'll need to get over there ASAP. And Mac 
needs to 
  stop at the seamstress."
  
  "I'll take her on my way" Harm growled, knowing what Clay was about 
to say.
  
  "Okay, I was just going to offer to take her since it was on my way" 
Clay 
  smiled. "Brooke, I've got your dress in the car. I think you'll like 
it."
  
  "You got me a dress to wear?" Brooke asked.
  
  "Well it is the wedding of the year" Clay grinned. "You need to look 
good if 
  you're going to be the date of a deputy director of the CIA."
  
  "Please" Ryan murmured, just low enough that AJ didn't hear. Harm 
gave him a 
  sharp kick under the table and Ryan leaned back in his chair, a 
decided 
  scowl upon his face.
  
  "Thanks Clay" Brooke smiled. "I'm sure I'll like it."
  
  "Good. I picked it out myself. Tried to find something that would 
look 
  perfect on you. Course that wasn't hard."
  
  "I'm going to barf" Ryan muttered.
  
  "Okay I think we're done here" AJ sighed. "Webb tell me you're 
finished for 
  today please. My people do have other jobs to do."
  
  "I'm done" Clay said as he stood up. "Brooke if you'll follow me I'll 
get 
  you the dress." He opened his briefcase and pulled out two cards. 
"Harm, 
  here's the name of the tux shop and the seamstress. Make sure you two 
take 
  care of that today."
  
  "Yeah sure" Harm said as he took the cards.
 
 "For someone who's going to escort his fiancee to the wedding of the 
year, you don't 
look real happy there Sailor," she teased.
 
 "Oh I'm thrilled to death believe me," he growled.  "Mac this has 
disaster written all 
over it."
 
 "It has a wedding of her dreams that she's not going to allow to be 
spoiled by these 
bastards written all over it," she retorted.  "And now I'm looking 
forward to being part 
of it thank you.  And to seeing my good looking fiance in a tux, though 
I could have 
enjoyed the dress whites too."
 
 "You can enjoy me in dress whites," Ryan muttered.  "I'm going stag 
remember."
 
 "Never mind big boy.  I'll dance with you," Clay grinned and patted 
his shoulder 
teasingly before leaping back.
 
 "Webb I swear you and I. . ." Ryan yelped starting toward him.
 
 "Major at ease please," Harm ordered.  "Webb believe it or not there 
is other work 
going on around here."
 
 "I'm outta here.  Brooke let me get you that dress and then I want to 
see it on you 
before I go in case it needs to be altered."
 
 Clay and Brooke left with Ryan's glare following them out.
 
 "Major you need to lighten up," Harm told him quietly.  "Focus some of 
that energy 
on the security concerns and not on Brooke and Clay.  You know it's so 
obvious to 
the rest of us that he's toying with you.  You're taking his bait every 
time and if you'd 
stop, it would stop being fun for him."
 
 "Yeah well maybe if I bust him one he'd stop just as quickly."
 
 "Don't."  Mac and Harm both spoke at once, seeing AJ's raised 
eyebrows.  "A 
conduct unbecoming in your jacket does not help you make Lieutenant 
Colonel," 
Harm told him.
 
 "It might be worth it," he glowered.  "Excuse me."  Without waiting to 
be dismissed, 
he left the room.
 
 "Colonel, Commander," AJ began, giving them both a pointed look.
 
 "Yes sir, keeping him in line.  We promise," Mac sighed.
 
 "You'd better.  As of right now, I'm making you two personally 
responsible for doing 
so.  Any reprimand will be shared three ways."  AJ gave them another 
look and 
walked out behind Ryan.
 
 "Could this assignment get any better," Harm muttered and Mac squeezed 
his hand. 
 
 "Hey it's going to be over in forty-eight hours, and something else 
just as fun will take 
its place."
 
 "Goodie."
 ============
 "Brooke that's beautiful," Clay gasped when she emerged in the dress, 
walking into 
the hallway off one of the conference rooms he had appropriated for 
them.  He 
walked up to her as she spun around so he could get the full view.  
 
 "Clay it's amazing.  You have great taste," she gasped, trying to see 
herself.  "And it 
fits wonderfully."
 
 "You think?"  he walked to her, putting his hands on her waist to see 
for himself.
 
 "Let me guess, you did an undercover assignment as a couturier?" she 
giggled.
 
 "I've done enough undercover work that needed costuming I guess," he 
smiled 
softly.  "You do look beautiful in that.  And I think it's perfect.  
We'll make a lovely 
couple."

  *****************
  "God you look beautiful" Harm gulped as Mac walked out in the long 
red 
  strapless dress.
  
  "You think?" she blushed and he nodded appreciatively.
  
  "Not much work to do here," the seamstress said as she motioned Mac 
up onto 
  the small step. "Just a little hemming and we're all set."
  
  "I want to know how Webb knew your size" Harm mused.
  
  "Well he did get the dress for me that time we did the embassy party. 
It's 
  not like I've changed sizes since then."
  
  "I guess. But if I catch him looking at you again, he's in trouble."
  
  "Little protective there aren't you Commander?" Mac smiled, loving 
every 
  second of Harm's jealousy.
  
  "Damn right I am."
  
  "In case you forgot, I love only you" she reminded him softly. "So he 
can 
  look all he wants but I'm not available."
  
  "Just keep reminding me of that" he sighed. "And you do look 
incredible in 
  that. Much better than I'm going to look in that penguin suit."
  
  "I thought you looked quite handsome" she smiled. "I know it's not 
dress 
  whites but you'll survive for the day."
  
  "I just want this whole thing to be over with. And when it is I hope 
I don't 
  hear the name Clayton Webb for a long time."
  
  ******************
  Saturday Morning
  Harm's Apartment
  
  "Move it Flyboy" Mac said as she gave Harm a gentle shove. "We have a 
  wedding today."
  
  "Do we have to?" Harm moaned as he opened his eyes to look over at 
her.
  
  "Yes now move it. Clay wanted us there early."
  
  "Remind me again why we have to do this" he complained.
  
  "Because it's this or the Admiral sends us to that nice little 
airbase in 
  Iceland" Mac grinned. "And since you don't like the cold I suggest 
you get 
  that cute little six in gear. We have to pick up Brooke and Ryan on 
our way 
  remember."
  
  "I hope they're still not bickering" Harm sighed as he pushed himself 
out of 
  bed.
  
  "Don't count on that. Clay will be in full gear today and you know 
he's 
  going to be pushing all of Ryan's buttons. So you better have a 
little 
  reminder talk with the Major about him acting up. "
  
  "Why do I have to talk to him?"
  
  "Cause I'm getting you ready for fatherhood" she grinned. "And we 
know what 
  your kid is going to be like."
  
  "My kid. Your kid is going to be the stubborn one" Harm smiled as he 
grabbed 
  her and wrestled her back down on the bed, a long kiss ensuing.
  
  "This is not going to get us to the church on time" Mac whispered 
when they 
  parted.
  
  "All right. But I get you all to myself tomorrow."
  
  "Counting on it" she smiled. "Now move it. Shower time sailor."
  
  An hour later she whistled as he walked into the kitchen. "Very nice" 
she 
  smiled. "Maybe we should skip this affair."
  
  "You look beautiful" Harm whispered as he once again studied her in 
the 
  dress. "Absolutely stunning. No one is even going to notice the 
bride."
  
  "Stop it" Mac blushed.
  
  "I mean it. You look incredible."
  
  "Thank you. You ready? Duty calls."
  
  Their first stop was Ryan's apartment and the young Marine couldn't 
help but 
  stare at Mac.
  
  "Eyes off buddy" Harm warned.
  
  "Sorry" Ryan smiled. "Mac, you look great. In case Harm didn't 
mention 
  that."
  
  "He did, but thanks" Mac smiled. "Course when you see Brooke you 
won't even 
  notice I'm alive."
  
  "She'll be too busy hanging onto Clay's arm" Ryan scowled.
  
  "Ryan, we need to talk about that" Harm sighed as Mac shot him a 
warning 
  glance. "You need to stay cool today. No matter what Clay does."
  
  "Easier said than done" Ryan sighed.
  
  "I know but the Admiral isn't going to put up with much more this" 
Harm 
  warned. "So you need to keep your cool today. Don't buy into Clay's 
games. 
  Just let it go."
  
  "I'll try Harm. But you see how he is with her. And she's eating it 
up."
  
"Ryan she's got a hot secret agent flirting with her.  She's enjoying 
it.  What woman 
wouldn't," Mac said gently.  "The more you fuss and holler the more 
they're going to 
play.  It's harmless.  Trust me."
 
 "Yeah listen to the. . ." Harm began, "OK wait just a damn minute.  
'Hot secret 
agent?  What woman wouldn't enjoy it'?"  He scowled and took Mac's arm.  
"And 
would that woman be you--Ms. Engaged to Commander Rabb?"
 
 Mac blushed and Ryan laughed.
 
 "See it's not so funny is it?  Not when it's yours that's the subject 
of the flirting.  Or 
flirting back."
 
 Harm started to speak again at that, his face darker still, and Mac 
quickly touched 
gentle fingers to his lips.  "Don't even.  This ring I'm wearing 
belongs to you.  It 
means I belong to you.  I always have."
 
 "OK that helps," he sighed and pulled her into his arms.  "Sorry.  
This whole thing is 
getting to me.  More than I want to admit."
 
 "Well it's gotten to me and I don't mind admitting it," Ryan scowled.  
"Can we just get 
this over with please."
 
 "Yes of course, and Ryan I have to say that the weapon complements the 
dress 
whites very nicely," Mac smiled from the comfort of Harm's embrace.  
 
 "Yeah now you just have to keep me from using it on Webb."
 
 "Mr. Nichols," Harm groaned.
 
 "OK Sorry. That's my last comment."
 
 "My ass, but let's go.  We're going to meet Clay and Brooke."
 =============
 DUMBARTON OAKS ESTATE
 
 "And there they are," Harm said quietly.  He had parked at the south 
entrance near a 
service gate where they could be unnoticed, and as promised Clay was 
waiting with 
Brooke.  
 
 She and Ryan stared at each other awkwardly for a minute before he 
took a long 
breath and whispered, "You look beautiful Angel."
 
 She actually blushed at that.  "Thanks.  You know a handsome Marine 
who wants to 
take me away from all this when it's done?"
 
 "You bet I do." 
 
 "Then lead me to him."
 
 "You won't have to look far," Ryan breathed, stepping forward to her.  
He took her 
arms and for a moment they simply focused on each other.
 
 "Oh for godsake kiss the woman and then let's do what we're here for," 
Clay 
groaned.
 
 "I don't think I need your permission for that," Ryan muttered as he 
placed a soft kiss 
on her lips.  "There's more where that came from for later."
 
 "There better be."
 
 "OK enough," Mac ordered, though she was smiling.  With a little 
patience and 
tolerance, this would all turn out all right.  "Major go join the 
security detail and get 
your orders from Colonel Withrow like is planned.  We'll see you at the 
reception."
 
 "Yes ma'am but I've got to say this first."  Ryan turned to Clay and 
put a hand on his 
arm.  "Mr. Webb I'm making you personally responsible for her 
well-being."  When 
Clay did not flinch, he added softly, "take care of her please."
 
 "Promise," Clay smiled, being serious for once.
 
 Ryan fixed his gaze on Clay for a long minute in an attempt to convey 
what the 
woman in question exactly meant to him, as if Clay was not already 
aware, and then 
with a last kiss to Brooke's cheek, hurried away.
 
 "Brooke he loves you a whole helluva lot," Clay told her softly, 
taking her arm.  "I 
wish I had someone like you in my life."
    
  "Keep wishing" Mac murmured as she and Harm followed behind them.
  
  "What was that Colonel?" Clay said as he whirled around.
  
  "Nothing Clay. Just remember that you're here to do a job" Mac 
reminded him.
  
  "Of course. Doesn't mean I can't enjoy myself along the way" Clay 
smiled.  
  "By the way, I think I forgot to mention how hot you look Colonel."
  
  "Down Webb" Harm growled. "The lady is taken remember."
  
  "Oh yeah sorry I forget."
  
  "Yeah I'm sure" Harm sighed.
  
  "Mac the girls are over there in the main house" Clay pointed. "Harm 
the 
  guys are outback in the guest house. Brooke and I will be standing in 
the 
  first row of guests on the bride's side. Right next to the Sec Nav. 
The 
  reception is immediately following the ceremony and we'll be sitting 
at the 
  table closest to the bridal table."
  
  "I'll just be glad when this thing is over" Harm sighed.
  
  "Brooke and I are going to go mingle and keep an eye on things" Clay 
said as 
  he reached for Brooke's arm. "You two know what to do."
  
  "I guess this is where we say goodbye," Mac said softly once they 
were 
  alone.
  
  "I have a really awful feeling about this" Harm sighed as he pulled 
her into 
  his arms. "Please be careful Marine."
  
  "Always" she whispered. "Love you sailor."
  
  "Love you too. I'll see you later."
  
  She nodded and headed to the main house. For the next hour she 
attempted to 
  blend in with the nine other bridesmaids, not wanting to draw any 
attention 
  to herself. Only the bride knew who she really was thanks to Clay's 
cover.
  
  On the other side of the grounds, Harm tried to do the same. He 
watched the 
  clock, wanting this whole affair to be over. He'd liked it better 
when they'd 
  simply been in the crowd, not part of the wedding party. The wedding 
party 
  that was a target to terrorists.
  
  **************
  "I don't like this" AJ groused as he and Shelby made their way across 
the 
  grounds to where the ceremony was being held. "How can they protect 
this 
  large of a space?"
  
  "Everything is under control AJ" Shelby assured him. "Besides, it 
gives me a 
  chance to see you in dress whites. Which by the way, you look quite 
handsome 
  in."
  
  "I do?" AJ smiled.
  
  "Yes you do" Shelby grinned.
  
  "And I'm such a jerk that I didn't even tell you how gorgeous you 
look" AJ 
  groaned.
  
  "You've got other things on your mind. But I wish you'd relax. 
Everything is 
  going to be okay."
  
  "I'd relax if my people weren't knee deep in the middle of this mess" 
AJ 
  sighed. "I don't like Harm and Mac being in the wedding party. I just 
have a 
  bad feeling about this Shelby."
  
  "Come on, there's Clay and Brooke" Shelby said as she caught sight of 
the 
  pair.
  
  ****************
  The appointed time finally arrived and Mac nervously walked through 
the 
  gardens to where the hundreds of guests were waiting. She finally 
caught 
  sight of Harm and a small smile crossed her face as their eyes met. 
He 
  looked so handsome that for a moment all she could almost imagine it 
was 
  their wedding. He smiled as she neared, finally losing eye contact as 
she 
  moved to the opposite side.
  
  Harm stood anxiously during the ceremony, watching for any sign of 
trouble. 
  To his relief the ceremony went off without a hitch and he let out a 
long 
  sigh when the pair was finally declared man and wife.
  
  "Hi beautiful" he whispered as he reached for her arm as they bridal 
party 
  made its way down the long man made aisle. "How you doing?"
  
  "Glad that part's over" she smiled. "How about you?"
  
  "Be happy when it's all over" he smiled as the photographers snapped 
  pictures of them.
  
  "You, I'm the one stuck wearing these shoes" she sighed.
  
  "Picture time" the wedding coordinator called a short time later. 
"We're 
  doing to do the entire bridal party and then we'll split up and do 
the guys 
  and girls."
  
  "How did we get roped into this again?" Harm sighed.
  
  "No idea" Mac smiled. "But don't worry. Our wedding will be nothing 
like 
  this."
  
  "And for that I love you even more" Harm said as he dropped a quick 
kiss on 
  her lips.
    
 "Let's see how much you love me tonight when you're giving me that 
foot massage," 
she groaned.  "I have combat boots not this bad."
 
 "Ladies please this way," the coordinator called impatiently.
 
 "See you soon Sailor."
 
 "Yes you will," he told her.  "I won't be far off."
 
 Meanwhile the music had begun and Clay led Brooke onto the dance floor 
while 
Ryan circulated through the crowd nearby.  
 
 "It's like we've danced together a whole lot of other times," Clay 
marveled, amazed 
at the ease with which he took her around the floor.
 
 "Well you're very good yourself Mr. Webb.  "But in college I took five 
semesters of 
dance because I loved it.  Ballet too, for the exercise.  I can still 
do a backbend."
 
 "Would you?"
 
 "When I'm in a leotard."
 
 "Would you then?" he repeated, grinning wickedly.
 
 "No.  At least not for you."
 
 "I could pout."
 
 "Let's see."
 
 At once he made such a pathetic face that she giggled and kissed the 
corner of his 
mouth.  "No backbend in leotards but that might help."
 
 "Just a bit."  Clay swung her around the floor once more, catching 
sight of Ryan 
nearby watching them.  Whether he had seen the kiss he could not be 
sure.  
 
 "I wish Ryan wasn't on duty," Brooke sighed.  "I'd love to dance with 
him."
 
 "Hey we're the Fred and Ginger of the place and you want to dance with 
a Jarhead," 
Clay groaned.
 
 "A Jarhead whom I happen to be in love with."
 
 "I know."
 
 "You don't sound very convinced."
 
 "Are you sure he's. . ."
 
 "Clay don't please," she begged, blushing fully.  "I do love him, very 
much, but you 
and I. . ."  Her voice trailed away and she simply shook her head to 
convey her 
confusion to him.
 
 "Then it's not my imagination or wishful thinking," he said gently, 
trying without 
success to look into her eyes.
 
 "No it's not, but it's also not what I need," she replied firmly.  "I 
am in love with Ryan 
Nichols, and to dump that for the unknown quantity that is Clayton 
Aaron Webb, 
globe-trotting spook, is not going to happen."
 
 Clay was about to object when he felt Ryan's eyes boring into him and 
a second 
later knew that she had seen him as well.  Her face changed and she 
smiled and 
nodded to him, mouthing "love you."
 
 "Love you more," Ryan mouthed back and retreated into the crowd.
 
 "Clay let's not talk about this any more," she urged when she turned 
back to him.  
"It's not a subject I'm comfortable with."
 
 "You would be if you were more sure of your own feelings."
 
 "I'm serious here.  And being in your arms like this is not helping by 
any stretch of 
the imagination," she snapped, feeling the tension of the day finally 
getting to her.  
"Excuse me please.  I need the little Lieutenant's room and then I'm 
going to watch 
the picture taking I think."
 
 "OK I'll see you soon for the reception," he reminded her.  "Sitting 
together--place 
cards, remember."
 
 "I'll be there," she assured him.  "It's an assignment and I'm going 
to see it through."
 =======
 "Brooke hey," Shelby called to her as she was halfway to the building 
that housed 
the restrooms.  "You heading there?"
 
 "Yes ma'am. . .Shelby," she smiled wanly.
 
 "Something wrong?"
 
 "Men."
 
 "Say no more.  Look they're taking the pictures over by the cherry 
trees."
 
 "Yeah I was going to go watch.  I need a break."
  
  "Poor Mac" Shelby said sympathetically as they watched. "Those shoes 
have 
  got to be killing her feet."
  
  "I can only imagine" Brooke sighed. "At least she got paired with 
Harm."
  
  "Having a problem with Mr. Webb?"
  
  "No I can handle him. I just wish I were with Ryan instead."
  
  "Speaking of those men, I wonder where they all wandered off too," 
Shelby 
  said as she glanced around.
  
  "Clay can vanish for a while for all I care" Brooke muttered and 
Shelby 
  smiled. "I wouldn't mind spending some time with Ryan but I know I'm 
not 
  supposed to."
  
  "It'll be over soon" Shelby smiled.
  
  "We hope" Brooke sighed.
  
  Across the grounds, Harm forced a smile as the photographer shot 
picture 
  after picture. He hated not being able to see Mac easily and he hoped 
it 
  wouldn't take much longer for the pictures.
  
  He finally got a break, as the photographer wanted some pictures of 
the 
  groom and best man alone. He saw Ryan and AJ and quickly hurried over 
to
  the pair.
  
  "Everything okay so far?" Harm asked.
  
  "So far so good" AJ said as he looked around. "Be glad when this 
whole damn 
  thing is over that's for sure."
  
  "That makes two of us" Ryan muttered. "If I have to watch Webb with 
his 
  hands all over Brooke any longer I'm going to strangle him."
  
  "Calm Major" Harm warned. "You know he's just trying to get to you. 
And 
  Brooke is just playing along with him for the assignment."
  
  "I hope" Ryan sighed as he looked across the grounds to where the 
other 
  pictures were being taken.
  
  "Lovely wedding isn't it?" Clay asked as he wandered up to them.
  
  "Just lovely" Harm murmured. "Clay go keep an eye on the ladies. They 
  shouldn't be alone over there."
  
  "Be happy to" Clay smiled. "I'm sure my date is missing me."
  
  "Oh I'm sure she is" Ryan scoffed.
  
  Clay had taken but a few steps when a scream from where the women 
were 
  gathered shattered the peaceful afternoon. They all turned in time to 
see a 
  cloud of choking gas over the area. Before they could react, one of 
the men 
  dressed as a caterer pulled something from his jacket, lobbing it 
towards 
  them.
  
  "Get the backup in here" Clay yelled into radio as the gas grenade 
exploded 
  near them, thick gas quickly covering the area. Screams could be 
heard from 
  all around as several other gas grenades exploded throughout the 
grounds.
  
  Harm's first thought was the woman he loved who was now lost in the 
thick 
  gas cloud. His sense of duty kept him from running in that direction 
and he 
  and Ryan quickly found the groom and stayed with him until the armed 
  Marine's arrived to take him away.
  
  Despite the choking and blinding gas, Mac managed to make her way 
over to 
  Isabelle, keeping in front of the bride in case they were planning 
more than 
  just the gas attack.




&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&






  
  "Mac" Brooke gasped as she and Shelby reached them. Coughing hard 
they all 
  stayed close to the bride, doing their best to pull her away from the 
area. 
  Fortunately two Marines arrived and quickly whisked the bride away.
  
  "The guys" Mac managed between long coughs and started towards the 
area 
  where they had been.
  
  The groom now secure, Harm and Ryan turned their attention to finding 
the 
  women they loved, AJ and Clay close behind them. They ran through the 
cloud 
  of gas, coughing and stumbling as they went along.
  
  "Mac" Harm gasped as she stumbled into his arms a few seconds later. 
He'd 
  finally found her in the pandemonium and he hugged her tightly to him 
as he 
  tried to find a clear area to take her to.
  
 Both with their eyes streaming and coughing hard, Harm led her away 
from the 
crowd and the gas into clear air.  The gas was a heavy tear gas that 
settled directly 
over the area in which it was released.   It took only a few minutes to 
get away far 
enough that the air they drew into their lungs did not burn.
 
 "Slow deep breaths honey," Harm soothed, dropping to the cool grass 
and pulling 
her down onto his lap, rubbing her back.  The scream of sirens coming 
closer made 
him sigh in relief.  If she needed medical help it was on the way.  
 
 "Harm I'm all right," she panted shakily.  "What happened?  What the 
hell 
happened?"
 
 "I don't know.  Some kind of attack, but not meant to be lethal.  I 
know the groom is 
safe and taken care of.  Now you're my concern."
 
 She nodded and coughed hard once more, allowing him to press her head 
to his 
chest.  "Where's the others?  Brooke and Ryan. . .Clay?"
 
 "Soon as I know you're OK we'll find out," he assured her, and the 
words were barely 
out of his mouth when he was seized by his own fit of coughing.
 
 "You're not sounding that great yourself there," she chided him, 
stroking his cheek 
with her fingertips.  
 
 "I guess I need some of those deep breaths myself," he admitted when 
he could 
speak.
 
 "And to stop fretting so much over me."
 
 "That's never going to happen.  Long as we live."
 ============
 "Admiral there's Shelby," Ryan pointed and a second later his sigh of 
relief was long 
and loud.  "She's with Brooke.  Thank god."
 
 "Shelby, Lieutenant," AJ panted, reaching them first and taking Shelby 
with one arm 
while guiding Brooke to Ryan.
 
 "Hey you," Ryan whispered, gathering her to him.  "How are you?"
 
 "I. . .I guess OK.  You?"  Her eyes were still streaming tears and she 
leaned weakly 
against him.
 
 "I'm fine, just coughing a little, but I hear you wheezing," he 
fretted.  "Come on I want 
you to see the paramedics."
 
 "That's the last thing I want," she sighed.  "Right now I just want 
you to hold me."
 
 "I will hold you the rest of the day and all night," he promised.  
"But I want to know 
you're OK first."
 
 "Ryan please just let me. . ."
 
 "No."  He turned to AJ.  "Sir I hate to be a snitch but your 
lieutenant here is wheezing 
and she needs medical attention."
 
 "Mr. Ryan see that she gets it," he ordered, not looking up from 
Shelby.
 
 "Aye sir."  He kissed Brooke and wrapped a strong arm around her.  "I 
have my 
orders."
 
 "Tattletale," she murmured, leaning against him.
 
 When they reached the triage area, one of the dozens of paramedics who 
had 
responded took one look at Brooke and put an oxygen mask on her.  "Sir 
I don't think 
it's serious--nothing that a half hour of some good air won't cure.  
You on the other 
hand look like you could stroke out on me.  Are you going to be able to 
calm down?"
 
 "I'll calm down when I know she's OK," he snapped, nonetheless 
responding to the 
pleading in Brooke's eyes and the tugging of his hand, and sitting down 
with her.
 
 It wasn't long before Harm and Mac arrived, their arms wrapped around 
each other 
and submitted to a quick check by the medics, as did AJ and Shelby.
 
 "Lieutenant you going to be OK?" AJ asked, his fatherly concern 
showing.
 
 She nodded and leaned back against Ryan, only to sit straight up a few 
seconds 
later, ripping the mask from her face.  "Clay," she yelped.  "Where is 
Clay?  Has 
anyone seen him?  Is he OK?"
 
 "Hey no you need that on," the medic scolded her at once.  "Else you 
may end up in 
the hospital having medicine sprayed in your lungs and that's not 
pleasant."
 
 "You heard the man."  Ryan replaced the mask.  "Clay is around.  
Unless he's one of 
the ones they've transported already."
 
 Her eyes widened and she once again reached for her mask.   
 
 "NO," Ryan screeched.  "If you will promise to leave this on, we'll 
find the man."
  
  "Yes we will" Harm said with a long sigh as he pushed himself up. 
"You stay 
  put while we go look for Clay."
  
  Brooke nodded and Harm and Ryan started off through the triage area.
  
  "She's more worried about him than herself" Ryan muttered as he and 
Harm 
  walked. "Tell me there isn't something more there than just 
flirting."
  
  "Ryan take it easy" Harm soothed. "You know how Brooke is. She 
worries about 
  everyone."
  
  "No Harm, this is more" Ryan sighed. "She's falling for him. I'm not 
blind. 
  I can see what's happening."
  
  "She loves you."
  
  "Well it wouldn't be the first time someone was in love with two 
people at 
  the same time now would it" Ryan snapped. "And if Clay is what she 
wants, 
  fine, she can have him."
  
  They finally came upon the agent, now being treated by the 
paramedics.
  
  "Where's Brooke?" Clay demanded when he saw Ryan and Harm. "Is she 
okay?"
  
  "Mr. Webb, please" the paramedic sighed as he placed the oxygen mask 
back 
  over his face.
  
  "She's okay," Ryan said quietly. "She's being treated but they said 
she 
  should be fine. But she was worried about you."
  
  "If Mr. Webb would stay in one place and keep his mask on for more 
than five 
  seconds he'd be fine" the paramedic remarked.
  
  "I needed to find out how my people were" Clay countered as he once 
again 
  removed the mask. "Is everyone okay?"
  
  "No worse for the wear" Harm assured him. "Never a dull moment with 
you Clay 
  is there."
  
  Before he could reply a fit of coughing over took him and the 
paramedic once 
  again snapped the mask in place.
  
  "Leave it" he ordered. "Or I'm hauling you to the ER."
  
  "I should go back and tell Brooke we've found him" Ryan sighed. "So 
she 
  doesn't freak about him."
  
  Harm nodded and Ryan sprinted back to where the others were.
  
  "Did you find him?" Brooke demanded.
  
  "Yeah he's over at the other end. Harm is with him. I just figured 
you'd 
  like to know that we found him. He's still being treated but I think 
he's 
  okay."
  
  "Help me up" Brooke ordered and with a long sigh Ryan helped her to 
her 
  feet. "I want to see for myself that he's okay."
  
  "Of course" Ryan said quietly.
  
  "Is Harm still over there?" Mac asked as she stood up and Ryan 
nodded. "Why 
  don't I come along as well then?"
  
  When they could see Clay and Harm, Brooke sprinted ahead and Mac 
didn't miss 
  the long sigh from Ryan.
  
  "You okay Major?" she asked.
  
  "I'm losing her Mac" Ryan whispered. "He's slowly pulling her away 
from me. 
  And you know I can't compete with him."
  
  "Ryan" Mac started.
  
  "Mac don't" Ryan said sharply. "Look I need some time alone. Tell 
Brooke 
  I'll talk to her later. I'm going to go check with Colonel Withrow 
and see 
  if he needs anything else and then I'm going to get out of here. I'll 
call a 
  cab or something."
  
  "Ryan she loves you" Mac said softly as he walked away.
  
  "Yeah sure" Ryan sighed. "I'll see you later Mac."
  
  "Where's Ryan?" Harm asked as he met her half way.
  
  "He took off. I think you know why."
  
  "Yeah I do" Harm sighed as he looked back at Brooke and Clay. "I have 
no 
  idea what's up with her."
  
  "She's confused," Mac said quietly. "She loves Ryan but Clay is 
coming in 
  here and doing everything she's always dreamed a man would do for 
her. I 
  know the feeling. I was in love with you but Mic was offering me 
everything 
  I ever wanted."
  
  "You think she's falling in love with Clay?" Harm asked.
  
  "I'm saying she might think she is. Just like I'd convinced myself I 
was in 
  love with Mic. Even though there was only one man I really loved."
  
  "I thought these two had everything straightened out. And then Clay 
waltzes 
  in and everything is amuck again."
  
  "I know" Mac sighed. "And Ryan is hurting so much. I need to talk to 
Brooke 
  and get her to see that Clay is not the man she wants to spend her 
life 
  with. Ryan is the one she truly loves."
  
  "You do that" Harm smiled as they walked back over to Clay and 
Brooke.
  
  "Guys I'm going to take Clay home" Brooke announced. "Just to make 
sure he's 
  okay.  And where's Ryan gone anyway?"
 
 "Brooke you and I have to talk about that," Mac said softly.  "Right 
now he's feeling 
the need for space and I think you know why."
 
 "That's asinine," she groaned.  "But I'll deal with it.  In the mean 
time I'm taking Clay 
home like I said."
  
  "And how do you plan on getting home Lieutenant?" Harm asked.
  
  "Like I said before, you two have the parental thing down pat" Clay 
smirked. 
  "I'll take her home later or call her a cab."
  
   "See it's going to be. . .," she got out before a long coughing 
spasm took her breath 
away and she wavered on her feet.
 
 "I thought you said she was OK," Clay screeched, reaching for her at 
the same time 
as Harm and Mac did.
 
 "No she's not totally OK," Harm glared.  "But she was concerned enough 
about you 
that she insisted on getting up.  She should be back resting with her 
mask on as 
well."  He looked to her directly and added, "before she has to be 
hospitalized for 
treatment."
 
 "Not acceptable Brooke," Clay scolded, giving her arm a squeeze.  "I'm 
OK.  And I 
need for you to be.  So does Ryan."
 
 "Ryan has decided his presence isn't needed right now," she gasped out 
as the 
nearest paramedic brought her a fresh mask.
 
 "He's just being a jerk," Clay grinned, adding hastily, "but you love 
him.  God knows 
why."
 
 "Webb," Harm snapped.  "Let's get out of here please.  Brooke we'll 
take you home 
with us for the time being."
 
 "Why am I always the orphan step child," Clay yelped, his last word 
barely 
understandable as another spell of coughing racked his chest.
 
 "Clay is not going home alone," Brooke stipulated at once.  "Clay you 
come to my 
place.  We can take care of each other."
 
 "I like the sound of that.  Is a sponge bath involved?  Don't answer 
that."
 
 "OK please let's just get away from here," Mac begged. "And Clayton 
Webb behave 
yourself or so help me I'm going to put that oxygen mask in a place 
where you least 
need it."
 
 "So what's the plan?" AJ asked, keeping his arm tightly around Shelby.  
"For my part 
I'm taking Shelby back to my place.  The situation here is resolving.  
We were very 
lucky.  These guys were just saying they could.  Next time they may be 
proving it."
 
 "Yes we were," Harm sighed, giving Mac a long look.  It could have 
been so much 
worse.
 
 "I'm taking Mr. Webb home with me," Brooke said firmly.  "And I want 
to find Ryan at 
some point."
 
 "OK we'll run you two over to your place," Harm nodded and reached for 
Clay's arm.  
"Come on super-spook, looks like you earned yourself some TLC."  
Purposefully he 
guided him away from Mac and Brooke who followed behind out of earshot.
 
 "Brooke, you want some advice on Ryan?" Mac said softly.  "From one 
who's been 
there.  From one who accepted the attentions of a man she did not love 
while she 
pushed aside the man she did."
 
 "I know all about it," she snapped.  "All about how you and Harm 
waited and didn't 
commit and saw other people.  The whole long sad story.  That's not 
what's 
happening here."
 
 Mac put up her hand at once.  "OK sorry.  Touched a nerve.  We're all 
on edge right 
now and this was the wrong time to mention that.  Please just be 
careful.  And come 
talk to me if you need to.  You know when Harm left to fly three years 
ago I cried in 
his arms, and tried to tell him I loved him.  When he came back, I had 
put up such a 
wall, leaving a small opening for Mic to get in to me.  It took two 
years--and Harm 
almost dying, for that wall to start to crumble, and even then six 
months passed 
before that cold night at the Wall."
 
 Brooke nodded, saying nothing, and Mac went on.
 
 "This thing with you and Clay--don't take lightly it's affect on Ryan 
OK.  I can 
understand it's fun and flattering to have two men vying for you.  Been 
there-done 
that-wore the tee shirt.  But in the end everyone gets hurt.  And 
that's all I'm going to 
say right now, but we can talk any time."  She gave Brooke's arm a 
quick squeeze 
and hurried to catch up to Harm, sliding her arm across his back.   
  
  "You okay?" he asked as he dropped a quick kiss on her forehead.
  
  "I'm fine. Just glad this is over."
  
  "Me too" he sighed. "We'll get Clay and Brooke home and then you and 
I 
  deserve a little time to ourselves."
  
  "You're going to rub my feet right?" she smiled.
  
  "I was thinking of something a little more fun than rubbing your 
feet" Harm 
  grinned.
  
  "Don't lose that thought" Mac smiled. "After we drop off the kids I'm 
all 
  yours."
  
  ************
  "Brooke are you sure this is what you want to do?" Mac asked quietly 
as she 
  helped the young woman up to her apartment, Harm following behind 
with Clay.
  
  "Mac I know what I'm doing" Brooke sighed. "Please. Clay shouldn't be 
alone 
  and neither should I. And since Ryan is off pouting somewhere, Clay 
and I 
  are going to take care of each other."
  
  "Okay" Mac sighed. "Don't say I didn't warn you."
  
  "Thanks for the lift" Clay smiled as he made himself comfortable on 
Brooke's 
  sofa.
  
  "Brooke you okay?" Harm asked. "Do you need anything else?"
  
  "I'm fine big brother" she assured him. "Thanks for the ride."
  
  "Clay if you need a ride you can call us" Mac offered. "We'll be 
happy to 
  take you home later."
  
  "We will?" Harm frowned and Mac shot him a warning look. "Of course 
we 
  will."
  
  "Thanks but I can always call a cab" Clay smiled. "But I'm not going 
  anywhere for a while."
  
  "Thanks guys" Brooke said again and Harm led Mac to the door.
  
  "I don't like leaving him with her" Mac whispered to Harm.
  
  "You don't have any choice" he murmured before turning back to Brooke 
and 
  Clay. "If you need anything call."
  
  "Bye guys" Brooke smiled. "I'll see you Monday."
  
  "Well I guess we've been dismissed" Mac said once they were outside 
Brooke's 
  apartment. "And for the record I think she's making a big mistake."
  
  "It's her mistake to make" Harm reminded her. "And now that we're 
done 
  baby-sitting the world, I want to take you home and slide you out of 
that red 
  dress and make love to you all night long. If you can take your mind 
off of 
  Brooke and Clay long enough to concentrate on the man who loves you."
  
  "I think I can do that" Mac smiled. "Take me home sailor."
  
  A short time later they arrived back at Harm's place, heading at once 
to the 
  bedroom.
  
  "Did I mention how beautiful you looked today?" Harm whispered as his 
hands 
  gently reached around to the zipper on the back of the dress, slowly 
  unzipping it.
  
  "Did I mention how handsome you looked today?" Mac smiled as she 
slowly 
  unbuttoned his shirt.
  
  "I love you so much Sarah" Harm said softly as he gently slid the 
dress off 
  her shoulders. It fell to the floor and a second later he lifted her 
into 
  his arms and carried her to the bed.

Afterward they lay wrapped in each other's arms and Mac looked over to 
find 
 Harm staring at her.
 
 "What's on your mind flyboy?" she asked softly as she stroked his 
cheek.
 
 "Mac I know we just got engaged but I don’t want to wait to marry you" 
he 
 whispered. "Today I could have lost you."
 
 "Harm it was just tear gas" she reminded him. "And I'm fine remember."
 
 "It could have been worse. What if they'd had real weapons Mac? I 
would have 
 lost you. In an instant you could have been taken from me." His voice 
 trembled at the end and she quickly pulled him closer to her.
 
 "Easy sailor" she soothed. "None of that happened."
 
 "But it could have" he whispered. "You know it easily could have."
 
 "Yes" she whispered. She hadn't allowed herself to think those 
thoughts only 
 because she didn't ever want to think of her life without him. "It 
could 
 have. And I could have lost you. But I don't want to think about it."
 
 "I don't either. Except to know that I don't want to wait any longer 
for us 
 to get married."
 
 "So what do you want to do?" she whispered.
 
 "I'm not taking you to Vegas. I still want you to have a beautiful 
wedding 
 somewhere special. I just want it to happen sooner."
 
 "How soon?"
 
 "Is next weekend too soon?"
   *******************
  Brooke's Apartment
  
  "You need anything else?" Brooke asked Clay as she handed him the 
pillow and 
  blanket.
  
  "Nothing except you joining me" he smiled.
  
  "Just for a minute" Brooke yawned as she sat down beside him. "I'm 
beat and 
  all I want is to crawl into bed."
  
  "Just for a minute" Clay said softly as he gently brought her next to 
him. 
  "You did good today Lieutenant. I was quite proud of you."
  
  "Thanks, but I didn't do much" Brooke sighed.
  
  "You handled yourself well during the chaos. That's all that 
mattered."
  
  "At least someone appreciates me" she murmured as her eyes started to 
close.
  
  "Oh I appreciate you" Clay whispered as he leaned forward and dropped 
a kiss 
  on her lips. "Very much."
  
  "Clay" she whispered as her eyes flew open.
  
  "Brooke you are so beautiful," he said softly as his hand caressed 
her 
  cheek. "I'm sorry but I can't help it. I think I'm falling in love 
with 
  you."
  
  His lips found hers again and his arm reached around her, bringing 
her 
  closer to him as the kiss deepened.
  
 For the next several seconds she lost herself in the feel of his arms 
around her and 
the taste of his mouth on hers.  If it would have gone further they 
would never know, 
for the doorbell rang.  "Brooke it's Ryan."
 
 At once Clay's hold relaxed and he shook his head with a rueful smile.  
"The man's 
timing is incredible."
 
 "I happen to love him Clay.  You and I. . .it's not the same," she 
whispered, hoping 
he would understand.
 
 "Get the door," he sighed.  "You and I. . .well we'll talk another 
time."
 
 She nodded somberly and rolled from the sofa, taking a second to 
smooth her hair 
before swinging the door open to face a sheepish Ryan.
 
 "Hi," he managed to get out.  "I uh. . .I ran off today and that was 
not good. So I'm 
here to apologize and well. . .are you OK first of all.  You're not 
hurt?"
 
 "I'm coughing a little is all," she smiled, feeling as hesitant as he 
obviously did.  
 
 Before he could answer there was another cough from the living room 
and his eyes 
widened.  "Company?"
 
 "Clay."
 
 "Then I guess I'm not wanted."  He sounded for all the world like a 
little boy and she 
shook her head, grabbing his hand.  
 
 "Get in here jerk," she groaned, grabbing his hand and pulling him 
inside.  "Now 
listen up.  Clay was having a bad reaction to the gas.  He would have 
had to go 
home alone and I wasn't going to allow that to happen."
 
 "Oh no we couldn't have had that," he said sarcastically.  "And you 
were the only 
person able to take care of him I assume."
 
 "I was the only one volunteering," she snapped.  "Ryan I'm not going 
to do this.  
Please.  I'm worn out, I have a pounding headache and my stomach hurts 
from 
coughing.  I'm glad you're here.  Believe that or not.  I love you.  
Believe that or not 
too.  I was just on my way to bed.  And Clay is supposed to be resting 
too.  On the 
sofa by the way before you ask."
 
 Ryan hung his head, accepting the chastisement.  "OK.  We need to talk 
but this isn't 
a good time.  Would it be all right if I just came and lay down with 
you?"
 
 "I'd like that a lot."
 
 "Ryan hi," Clay said quietly, having made his way to the door.  
"Brooke was nice 
enough to nursemaid me while I get this gas out of my lungs."
 
 "Yeah she makes a great nurse.  And a great lover but you wouldn't 
know about that 
right?"
 
 "That's right," Clay answered, refusing to rise to Ryan's bait.  
"Brooke I'm fine.  I just 
want to sleep and then I'll be out of your hair."
 
 "No rush," she said firmly.  "Not until you're sure you're OK.  Let's 
get you back lying 
down and then I'm going to do the same."

 Ryan followed Brooke as she gently led Clay back to the sofa.
 
 "Thanks" Clay smiled. "Go on. I'm fine."
 
 "You sure?" Brooke asked. "Do you need anything else?"
 
 "No I'm fine. Ryan take her to her room so she can rest."
 
 "You don't have to tell me twice" Ryan murmured as he reached for 
Brooke's 
 arm. "Come on honey" he said softly. "You've had a rough day."
 
 "Yes it has been," she said with a long sigh as she allowed Ryan to 
lead her 
 to the bedroom.
 
 "Let's get you tucked in," he said as he helped her under the covers. 
He 
 slid in beside her and she moved closer to him as she rested her head 
on his 
 shoulder.
 
 "Thanks for stopping by" she whispered as he stroked her hair. "I hope 
you 
 understand why Clay is here."
 
 "It's okay. We can talk about all that later. Right now you just need 
to 
 rest."
 
 "I love you Ryan" she murmured as her eyes drifted shut.
 
 "And I love you too "he said with a gentle kiss to her lips. "Sleep 
honey. 
 I'll be right here."
 
 He stayed with her until he knew she was sound asleep. Only then did 
he 
 gently remove himself from the bed, careful not to wake her. He closed 
the 
 bedroom door behind him and turned around, surprised to see Clay up 
and 
 gathering his stuff.
 
 "You don’t have to go Clay" Ryan said quietly.
 
 "I'm not leaving because of you" Clay scoffed. "I have a situation 
that 
 needs my attention ASAP." His words ended with a long cough and Ryan 
gave 
 him a long look.
 
 "Sounds like you're the one that needs attention" Ryan said quietly.
 
 "I'll be fine. Just tell Brooke I had to go."
 
 "You're not going to tell her yourself?"
 
 "No. She's sleeping and I see no reason to wake her." He coughed again 
and 
 Ryan shook his head at the agent.
 
 "Webb you need to go to the hospital" Ryan sighed.
 
 "Nichols the world doesn't stop because I'm having a reaction to tear 
gas. 
 I'll be fine. I just need to call a cab so I can get to Andrews."
 
 "I'll take you. But I'm taking you by Bethesda first. You may not care 
about 
 yourself but Brooke does. So I'll drive you to Andrews once they make 
sure 
 you're okay at the hospital."
 
 "Why are you doing this?" Clay asked as he studied the young man.
 
 "Because I care about Brooke. And she cares about you."
 
 "And I care about her" Clay said quietly. "But I know she loves you."
 
 "Yes she does" Ryan nodded. "You ready?"
 
 "You're not really taking me to Bethesda are you?" Clay asked as they 
walked 
 to the door.
 
 "Yes I am" Ryan said with a hint of a smile. "Now move it. You don't 
want to 
 miss your flight do you?"
 
 *******************
 JAG HQ's
 Monday Morning
 
 "He just left" Brooke sighed. "He didn't leave a note or anything."
 
 "Brooke that's what he does" Harm reminded her. "He works for the CIA. 
He 
 doesn't punch a clock from nine to five like we do. He has to go when 
and 
 where he's needed."
 
 "He could have at least told me he was leaving. I wake up and he's 
gone."
 
 "That's Clay" Mac smiled. "Here one minute and gone the next."
 
 "Hi guys" Ryan smiled as he walked into the break room. "What's going 
on?"
 
 "Brooke was just telling us how Clay vanished into the night again" 
Harm 
 replied.
 
 "I see" Ryan said quietly. He hadn't said a word to Brooke about 
helping 
 Clay out that night and obviously Clay hadn't called and told her 
where he 
 was going either.
 
 "Lieutenant don't you and the Major have the McMasters case to work 
on?" Mac 
spoke up. "Unless of course you think that you can beat JAG's best."
 
 "Yes we do" Brooke nodded as she looked at Ryan. "You ready to go plan 
our 
 attack against the pro's."
 
 "Your office or mine?" Ryan smiled as they walked out together.
 
 "Well at least they're together" Mac sighed. "That's a good starting 
point. 
 And they're working together so that's a plus."
 
 "They'll be fine" Harm assured her. "And now I think we'd better plan 
our 
 attack before we get our sixes whipped by those two."
 
 "Your office or mine?" Mac smiled.
 
 "Mine" Harm grinned as he walked over and closed the door and pulled 
the 
 shades down.
 
 The End	
	Watch for the next chapter of New Beginnings Coming Soon