Title: A Girl’s Best Friend for Life Author: Hollyjp Summary: Harm and Mac talk with a little nudge from Mattie. Their relationship changes or does it? Rating: PG/PG 13 Spoilers: Anything and Everything up through and including season 9 episodes and spoilers. Disclaimer: JAG is the property of Bellisario Productions, CBS, and Paramount. I have borrowed their characters for entertainment purposes only. No monetary gain will result from their appearance in my story. Part 1 Jen and Mattie’s North of Union Station Harm leaned against the wall just inside the door, arms crossed over his chest and ankles crossed as he watched Mac, Jen and Mattie devour popcorn and engage in silly girl talk. He watched them smiling and shaking his head in amazement. “Ladies, if you promise not to stuff yourselves on that popcorn, I’ll fix us some dinner,” offered Harm. “Harm, this is dinner,” laughed Mattie as she looked up at him from her seat on the floor. “No...that’s a snack. Broiled chicken, salad, glazed carrots, baked potato...that’s dinner.” “Really?” asked Jen. “Yes really...Mac...want to help me out here?” “I suppose...actually he is a pretty good cook and he isn’t offering meatless meatloaf or tofu lasagna so it might be worth going light on the popcorn and give him a chance.” Mac looked at Harm and grinned. “Do I need to come help or can I stay here and indulge in girl talk for a few minutes?” Harm shook his head, “By all means...enjoy your chick chat. Dinner should be ready in an hour.” Harm left and heard the burst of laughter as he closed the door. For an instant he felt a flash of anger and realized he was annoyed. He wasn’t sure why he felt such an intense anger over Mac choosing ‘chick chat’ over him. He placed pots and pans on the counter with more force then usual and his chopping seemed to be a little louder then normal. In the other apartment, Mac kicked off her shoes and grinned at Jen and Mattie who had gotten very quiet after the burst of laughter when Harm left. “Ma’am, what did we do to upset the Commander?” Jen asked. Mattie piped up, “I swear that man has mood swings at times...one minute things seem fine and then some little thing will be said or something happen and he gets quiet and sullen...but he’s not usually mad or anything...just moody.” Mac listened to Mattie’s words with interest. “What kind of things make him get moody, Mattie?” “Oh I don’t know...let’s see... the other day we were goofing around and he thought we should get focused on what we were suppose to be doing - he had some files to read and I had homework to do - and I said something like, ‘Oh sure...suck the joy out of life’ and he got all moody and weird on me. Then another time we were at the hanger and we were joking around about me flying and he was working on a part to the plane. A piece broke off and I said something like, ‘Figures you’d break it instead of fixing it.’ He suddenly got really serious and agitated. Eventually he came up with an excuse to leave. I was just kidding with him. Usually he laughs or gives it right back.” Mac sat there hearing some of her own words coming from Mattie and suddenly she knew what was happening. “I think it has something to do with me, girls. Look...I’m going to go talk to him and help him fix dinner. Why don’t you come over in half an hour or so and help get the table set and stuff. Hopefully, if I’m right he won’t be moody by the time you get there.” “Okay.” Jen and Mattie answered as they watched Mac pick up her shoes and carry them in her hand to the door. After Mac left, Jen turned to Mattie, “Think it will work?” “Maybe...they couldn’t have walked into this better if we had set it up intentionally!” Mattie grinned. “Besides...I don’t even think Mac realizes she was set up.” “Did Harm really say those things?” “Oh yeah...he’s said other stuff too. I didn’t want to say too much just enough to get Mac thinking...and it worked. If you could have heard Mac when she testified in court, you wouldn’t be worrying if we were doing the right thing.” “I just need to be sure and I think you’ve just confirmed what I’ve thought for two years...those two are in love!” Harm’s Apartment “Hey Sailor...what can I do to help?” asked Mac as she joined Harm in his apartment. “Nothing...run out of chick chat already?” “No...just wanted to spend time with you...make sure you didn’t sneak in any tofu,” Mac kidded. Harm gave her a look of indignation and turned to put the seasoned chicken into the oven. The potatoes were already in so he turned back to the salad. His chopping was less emotional now and Mac, helping herself to another knife, went to work preparing the veggies for the salad along side of him. “Harm? Why did you seem so upset when you left the girls’ apartment...was it because we were kidding with you, the popcorn, or because we were bonding and you felt a little left out?” Harm looked at Mac in amazement. She just summed up his emotions in one swoop that had taken him fifteen minutes to sort out for himself. He sighed and turned to Mac and in a soft voice said, “Yes...all of it I guess - well except the popcorn...” “Harm, we weren’t laughing at you. You’ve made us feel good and you gave us a reason to be joyful...it felt good. And yes we were bonding...I thought that was part of why you invited me to come over.” “I did... I do want you to get to know Mattie. I think it will be good for both of you.” “But...” Mac prompted. Harm exhaled and his movements got choppy as he tossed the salad and found things to occupy his time. Again Mac, jumped in to help him out. “But you were hoping that we could reconnect too, weren’t you?” “Yeah...” “And when I stayed with the girls, you thought I’d come to be with them, and you felt used?” “Maybe a little...” “Oh Harm...I’m sorry.” “For what Mac?” “For lots of things...hurting you, doubting you...lying to you...” “Lying? When did you lie to me, Mac...” “When I told you that you have a way of sucking the joy out of life...when I told you you break everything you touch...and other things...” “Like what other things?” “...when I said never...” Harm’s head came up then and he looked at Mac. He studied her face and thought about what she was saying. “Have you ever lied to me about your relationship with Webb?” “No...” “Oh.” “Harm...repeat back to me what I’ve told you about my relationship with Webb...not what you think you’ve seen or heard or know...what I’ve actually said.” “You said you were dating him...” “No. I said I had a date with him.” “You said you were having dinner with him...” Mac nodded and Harm continued. “You said that you were friends...that you shared an experience that brought you closer...that Webb was in love with you...I saw you kiss him Mac...” “Remember you need to think about what I said...not what you saw, heard or thought...” “You said you weren’t with Webb...” “Right. Anything else?” Mac asked him. “No- I don’t think so.” “Tell me then-using your investigative skills- if that adds up to me being involved with Webb or not.” “I guess not....” “Harm, I have stronger feelings for you as my friend, then I do for Webb as someone that I’ve been out on a date with...I’ll admit I was hoping that I could see him in a new way. It would be easier to feel what I feel for you for someone else...” Mac stopped realizing what she had said. She glanced at Harm, who was waiting for her to continue. She realized then that even with her slip, he didn’t get it. “I hope eventually to find someone that feels as strongly about me as I do them...instead of this one-sided stuff. I tried to convince myself with Brumby that it would work...I know now that it wouldn’t have lasted.” Mac stopped and studied Harm again. She was truly amazed that he didn’t seem to get what she was trying to tell him. “Knock, knock...dinner ready?” asked Mattie. “Just about...Set the table?” asked Harm. “Sure. Harm?” Mac frantically tried to get Mattie’s attention and shake her head no. Harm was responding to Mattie, “What?” “This had better be good, because I just spent the last twenty minutes trying to convince Jen you were a good cook.” Mac breathed a sigh of relief and exchanged glances with Mattie and Jen. Dinner went off without a hitch. They laughed and talked and sounded like a family each sharing something from their day. When they had finished, Mattie and Jen took charge of clearing the table and doing the dishes. Mac and Harm took their tea and sat on the couch listening to the girls and talking. “What you thinking about Harm?” asked Mac. “That I’m pretty lucky to have all three of you in my life. Mattie is helping me to think things through; Jen is almost like having a kid sister - she respects me enough to look up to me but knows me well enough not to let me take myself to seriously; and you - you’ve challenged me to rethink almost every thought I’ve had since I met you...” “Are you telling me that you disagree with everything I say and do?” “No!’ Harm sighed, not sure how to express the feelings inside him. “Mac...I’m saying that you help me see other sides to issues and when I think I’ve got something figured out, you show me an angle or side I hadn’t considered.” “Is that good or bad Harm?” “I guess it depends. Professionally it’s made me a better investigator and litigator...a better officer. Personally it makes me question myself and what I thought I knew about me, my life and what I want from it...I don’t trust myself to have the big picture or the right picture or a complete picture because I think I have things figured out and you seem to have a different view or angle on the situation.” “Does this have to do with the never comment I made?” “Some...I guess it is more to do with that instruction manual I asked you for and your comment that you didn’t want much but that I hadn’t figured it out.” “You’re still trying?” Mac couldn’t keep the amazement out of her voice. “Yeah, Mac...you said I didn’t fight you and maybe it didn’t look like I did but I guess that I fought with myself first as to whether or not I should fight you on it...then I tried to figure out if there was even a chance.” “What did you decide?” Mac’s voice was barely above a whisper. “That maybe if I could find common ground with my best friend again, she’d help me figure it out?” Harm grinned at Mac. “I’ve told you that smile is nice but it is not going to get you everything you want.” “And what do you think I want?” “The answers without asking the questions?” “There was a time I would have to say you’d be right...but now I think I’m getting to where I can at least ask the questions.” “Really? Why the change?” “Well, I’ve been sitting back watching and wondering and thinking and now that I’m approaching this as an investigation I have to ask questions.” “Aahhh...using professional, analytical strategies in your personal life, huh?” “Hey, its worth a try. The other way wasn’t working for me.” Harm and Mac shared a smile as Mattie suddenly landed in the space on the couch between them. “What are you two in such a deep discussion about?” “Friendship...” “Really? I thought maybe you two would be talking about something more interesting then that.” “Mattie...” “What? I’m just picking Harm...” “Fine...just remember the first time you bring someone home...” “Alright...never mind. I’m out of here. Homework’s calling... Night Colonel Mackenzie.” “Night Mattie...and call me Mac.” “Okay Mac...see you.” “Night Mattie, Jen.” “Night Commander...thanks for dinner.” Jen followed Mattie back to there new apartment. Once it was quiet again, Harm looked at Mac and asked, “I hadn’t planned to have a conversation like this tonight, but it seems to be going okay. Do you want to keep talking, change the subject or do you have to leave?” “I think maybe we should stay with it a little more...good question by the way.” Mac smiled at Harm. “Why’s that?” “You just showed me you aren’t making assumptions about what I want; you cared enough about me to ask what I wanted and you gave enough choices that it didn’t feel like an ultimatum. I’ve done that to you too often, haven’t I?” Mac asked. “Sometimes...it’s not so much that I feel like I’ve been given an ultimatum, as I haven’t been given a chance to think it through and answer in a way that isn’t misleading.” “Harm, I’m sorry I gave you such a hard time about Mattie...I mean not telling me about her. I guess I just felt like that was something we might have done together in the past...” “You felt left out?” “Yeah...Mac?” “Yeah?” “I wanted to tell you, but it never seemed like the time or place and all of a sudden I ran out of time so I had to go to your place and ask.” “And I tried to make it about the way you treated me when it wasn’t that at all...” Harm stopped Mac before she could parcel out any more blame. “Mac, you came through big time when it counted and I should have known you would...its just I was afraid you wouldn’t want to because even our friendship seemed strained.” “I know Harm...we’ve both hurt each other too many times to count and sometimes not even intentionally. I’d really like to forgive and learn from our mistakes.” “I would too...I just...I mean...Mac...” “Go ahead Harm...I’ll listen and give you time.” Harm smiled a little and then said, “You know how you’ve said that sometimes an addict has to just give up the thing they want most for the greater good and to get and maintain control?” “Yeah...” Mac acknowledged and questioned him at the same time from the tone of her voice. “I guess in away you’d become my addiction and when you said never I couldn’t separate out ‘us’ from friendship...those two things are so deeply entwined-for me- that I didn’t think I could separate them.” “Is that why you didn’t return my calls?” “Yeah...I wanted so much more then ‘friendship’ but it hurt too much to be just a friend. I couldn’t watch you with anyone after having tried it with Brumby. I know what I want Mac, but I can’t always say it.” “I know...but I think you’re doing pretty good tonight.” Again they shared shy smiles. “Mac, I just want to know one thing...have you thought about the ‘never’ comment since you made it?” “Yes...” “Do you think if you had it to do all over again you’d still say never?” Mac just sat and stared at Harm with her heart pounding in her throat. She hoped he wouldn’t be angry but knew she owed him the truth. “Harm, I probably would say it again, but knowing what I know now, I would probably tell you that I was wrong...that I had misjudged many things and that even though its been said, I hope that something proves me wrong.” “So if I was to try to prove you wrong, I might have a chance of changing your opinion?” “Yes...I mean you are a strong litigator and as Bud says you are a master at impassioned pleas...” Harm slid closer to Mac then and smiled. Lowering his voice to a soft very seductive pitch he spoke to Mac in a voice little more then a whisper. “Then you best be prepared Marine...I am going to begin a campaign to prove to you how much I want you to be a part of my life and it’s not just because I think you will be good for Mattie. You’re good for me, too...and I think we can be good for you.” Mac swallowed hard. It had been a long time since she had heard Harm speak softly like this, and never with the passion she heard this time in his words. She felt her face get warm from the words and warmer still when she sensed him leaning even closer to her. “Nothing to say?” Harm smiled and enjoyed watching Mac absorb his intent. “Ummm...I think I need to leave...” Harm stood up and reach a hand out to Mac. “I’ll walk you to your car.” “You don’t have to...” “I want to.” Harm helped Mac into her coat. He started to open the door and as she stepped forward, he closed it again and leaned close to her brushing his lips against hers. Then he opened the door and held it for her. He kept one hand on her back and they went down to her car, parked across the street. She unlocked it and got in. He held the door opened while she got in and started the engine. Harm bent down and leaned in brushing her lips again with his. “Just remember to keep a few evenings a week open for us, okay?” Mac just nodded. Her lips parted just a little and Harm leaned in to give her one more kiss...this one lasted just a little longer then the others did. This time when he pulled back he shut her door and stepped back. Crossing his arms across his chest to stay warm, her watched Sarah Mackenzie drive away. “Okay, Mac...I’ve declared my intentions. What are you going to do about it?” Harm smiled to himself and jogged back up to his apartment to get warm and to rethink this evenings turn of events. He had invited Mac over so he and Mattie could thank her for helping them and as an excuse to spend time with her. He hadn’t planned on the talk or letting her know what he was planning. He had figured it would talk a few more visits to get to this point. But when she had let slip that she felt something special and something strong for him...he played it cool. She had been nervous about letting that slip and so as not to scare her off, he let her think he hadn’t caught on to her slip. He had decided to move his plans forward. Tonight he had let her know he was ready to fight for her...for them. Tonight his confidence was back and his hope for a family that included Mac had returned. Soon he would ask her out on a real date and make sure she knew his kisses were for her and her alone. The dance may have gone on for way to long, but Mac was one girl that was destined to be his best friend for life. He was going to make it happen. Part 2: Harm stood at the window of his apartment watching the street below. Last night he had watched Sarah Mackenzie drive away after he had planted the seeds of his intent in her mind. He heard a soft knock on his door and went to answer it. “Mattie!” Harm immediately noticed the tension in Mattie’s face. “What’s the matter?” “Nothing - I just wanted to talk for a minute if its okay,” she said. “Come on in...” Harm led her to the table and pulled out a chair for her. “Tell me what’s going on.” “Well, I did something tonight and I’m not sure I should have and I just wanted to make sure you weren’t mad at me.” “Mattie...” Harm spoke softly and signed. “Tell me what you did.” “I called Colonel Mackenzie and told her I was worried about you.” “Why didn’t you come to me? Why are you worried about me?” “Well, it just seems like you really miss Mac. When she’s around you just seem happier. Anyway, I told her I thought you needed an adult to talk to and she said she’d try to stop over later. Jen found out and ordered me to come talk to you before she got here.” “Mattie, I’m fine. There’s nothing for you to worry about. I think it’s sweet of you to try to fix something you see as a problem, but I’m afraid that it’s too late for that.” “Harm! Don’t give up on Mac. She misses you too.” “And how do you know that?” “I watched her watch you leave the church Christmas Eve. I saw her hurry over here last night when she thought you were upset. And I see how you look at each other.” “Pretty smart kid aren’t you?” “Sometimes...” Mattie smiled at her Guardian. “Look...I’m not mad at you, but I would rather you didn’t try to get Mac and I together because...” “Don’t you dare tell me you don’t care for her!” “Mattie?” Harm softly warned her to hear him out with his tone. “Sorry.” “Okay, I do care about Mac and I am hoping I can get her to rethink her decision to give up on us. I do have a plan and part of it does involve you...but not all of it.” “Really?” “Yes, really.” “So fill me in...” “No. I will tell you that I think you and Mac will be good for each other and I have no problem with you calling and talking to Mac and I hope that Mac will join us for dinner and maybe some outings at times. Okay?” “More than okay, Harm. It’s great!” Looking out the window again, Harm saw her car pull up outside. He turned to Mattie. “Mac is going to be knocking on that door any second. You are going to invite her in and then you are going to level with her.” “Harm, I don’t think it’s a good idea. I think I should just thank her for coming by and then leave. I promise I won’t do it again.” “Maybe...” {Knock, knock...”Harm you home?”} Mattie skipped to the door and answered it. “Hi Mac. Come on in. I’ll catch you later, Bye Harm!” Mattie was out the door and away shutting the door behind her faster then either Harm or Mac could comprehend. “I will get that girl...Hey Mac.” “Hi Harm. She’s a good kid. She’s worried about you, you know?” “So she just told me...I’m fine Mac.” “You sure?” “Yeah. You don’t seem so sure.” “Well, Mattie is a pretty perceptive kid. She says she’s worried; you’re standing by the window when I arrive...and you’re still there. And um...last night...” Mac’s voice trailed off. “What about last night? I thought we had a good talk for once...and made some steps toward some action too.” “I guess...” “Mac, I saw you blush and you didn’t pull away when I went for the third kiss.” “I didn’t blush!” “Oh...you must have just gotten warm and that’s why your face turned red after I kissed you.” Mac started looking around nervously. Harm watched her for a minute and then afraid she would bolt on him, he reached for her hand and moved closer to her. “Mac...look at me, please.” Slowly her head came up and she let her eyes meet his. “If I kiss you again are you going to slap my face or something?” Mac shook her head no and swallowed, her lips parting slightly waiting for Harm’s lips to touch hers. As his face got closer her eyes closed. She waited for his lips to touch hers again. Instead, she felt them on her eye-lids. First the right one, then the left. Then the tip of her nose. She felt his hands slide from her hands to her wrists. His lips touched her cheeks one at a time and then her chin. She waited again as she felt him pull her arms around his waist and then put his around her, pulling her closer. Finally his lips touched hers. She couldn’t stop her tongue from darting out to moisten her lips. She didn’t see him watch her tongue and missed his eyes flash with passion as he watched her mouth. With a groan, Harm held her tight and allowed himself the pleasure of taking her beautiful seductive mouth in a kiss filled with desire. Their kiss deepened, both mouths opened; tongues dueled and explored. Slowly they parted gasping for air. Their hearts were racing and their breathing was coming hard and fast as if they had just sprinted across the finish line. Harm rested his forehead against Mac’s and murmured, “Wow, Marine...that was something.” Taking a deep shaky breath, Mac smiled, “Guess we don’t need mistletoe, porches or tragedy after all...” “Think that was a one time thing?” Harm asked with his big grin. “Maybe...probably should check that out, don’t you think?” Mac whispered as she wrapped her arms tightly around Harm’s waist and raised herself on tip toe to meet him half way. Harm enfolded her in his arms partially lifting her off her feet as he lowered his head for another kiss. This time when the kiss ended they continued to hold each other and nibble on the others lips with quick little kisses. “Mac...do you...think...we are...moving...too...fast?” Harm asked quietly between kisses. “Not yet...” Mac slid herself back down his body and rested her head against his chest as she smiled and said, “But taking care of your little problem would be...” “Little problem?” Harm asked puzzled, thinking to himself, ‘she can’t mean what I think she does can she?’ “Oh, I’m sorry...do you have something in your pocket?” Mac asked innocently grinning from ear to ear. “Mac!” Harm was surprised at her open teasing and flirting. This was something that they hadn’t allowed themselves to do before. Harm felt himself blush and he thought to himself, ‘God she did notice...kissing doesn’t usually do this to me this quickly...the woman is potent.’ “Mac, you’ve got to help me here by behaving...I think you’d better unhand me, woman.” Harm smiled so she would know he was teasing her too, although part of him thought it best if they kept a little more distance between them. Reluctantly Harm and Mac separated and Harm went to the kitchen while Mac sat on the stool by the island. “Coffee?” Harm asked. “Have any hot chocolate?” “Sure...good idea...hot chocolate coming up.” Harm busied himself in the kitchen fixing their hot chocolate while Mac watched him. He sat her mug in front of her with a flourish while she appreciated the little extra touches Harm had gone to in an effort to make it something special. The mug of hot chocolate was topped with whipped cream and a sprig of mint. “Want to sit here, the table or the couch?” Harm asked. “Couch?” Mac suggested. Harm took her mug over and set it on the end table for her before taking a seat on the opposite end and turning to face her. “Mac, I think we need to talk about this latest development, don’t you?” “Probably...but if you don’t want to it’s okay...for now at least.” “Let’s try it...we seem to be on a roll lately.” “You surprised me last night and tonight...” “Because I kissed you?” “Partly...but because you didn’t back away from me afterward.” “I did stop it...” “...So we didn’t go to far to fast. It was smart, Harm. And you didn’t walk away or turn your back, ignore it or change the subject.” “I do it when I’m feeling unsure...” “And I see such a confident, arrogant man at work that I could not believe that was why you backed off...out of embarrassment. It just didn’t add up.” “Mac, why is it so hard to believe that I’m shy...you even called me a prude before...” “And you denied it.” “Yes, I did...but I guess I am.” “Why?” “You’ll probably kill me for saying this, but it was one good thing that came out of my relationship with Renee...she actually asked my mother why I was so shy.” “She didn’t!” “Yeah...they decided that because of losing my father at an early age, I didn’t see them hugging and kissing. By the time Frank came along I was at an age where it was ‘disgusting’ to see people their age ‘making out’. It’s not the making out I had an issue with - it was that it was in public. Anyway, because I was shy and didn’t like public kissing, I didn’t experiment much in high school and then at the academy dating was limited and usually highly chaperoned. By the time I got out I hid the fact I was shy by acting brash and cocky and waiting until I was alone with the girl. Then I’d try to act as if I knew what I was doing...once I got to know the girl and relaxed with her, it was fine...but I’ve usually ended up with fairly aggressive women because I’m never sure how to make the first move.” “You did great last night and tonight...how come?” “It took me eight years to work up the courage, Mac.” “Wow! Harm I swear you will never cease to amaze me.” “I hope that’s okay with you.” “It is. Harm, if you and Mattie aren’t busy tomorrow night, why don’t the two of you come to my place for dinner and a movie.” “School night Mac...” “Since when is Friday considered a school night, Harmon?” “Oh, yeah...tomorrow is Friday isn’t it?” “Yes. What do you say?” “I’d like that. What do you want me to bring?” “Just you and Mattie...” “May I ask what’s on the menu?” “Sure...but I’m not telling!” “Maaaacc...” “You’ll like it, I promise,” Mac laughed at his expression. “Trust me?” “You know I do...it’s your sense of humor that worries me.” Mac rolled her eyes at Harm and stood up to go. “It’s getting late.” “I’ll walk you down to your car.” “Harm, stop. I am capable of walking myself to my car. You can watch from your window.” “I know Mac, but...” “Harm?” “Yes?” “If you are worried, watch from your window...” she walked up to him and pointed her finger into his chest to make her point. “Alright...”he reached for her then and whispered in a soft sexy voice, “But I get to kiss you goodnight here then.” “Wouldn’t have it any other...” Mac’s words stopped when Harm’s lips covered hers. This time, her toes curled and she clung to him so she could stay upright. When the kiss ended, she stepped away without a word and Harm helped her into her coat. She reached for the door and Harm leaned over to give her a quick kiss and a smile. “She you tomorrow Marine.” Mac just smiled and nodded. She didn’t think she could speak if her life depended on it. He was one sexy sailor and she was slowly coming to understand that he truly wasn’t aware of his power over the opposite sex. She hoped that she was the last women to discover that about him as well. Now she knew why Kate and Jordan said little about him and Annie ran from him. He was a powerful force and a woman would have to be equally as powerful to stay with him. She smiled and waved up at the window where he stood watching as she pulled away. Never hadn’t last long after all. She hoped that if they ever tried forever it would last longer - much longer. Mac suddenly had a feeling that she understood why Harm was so cautious. He needed to be sure she was as ready and willing to make the kind of commitment he was before he forged ahead. For some reason, he has decided she was. Suddenly she remembered her slip from the night before. Maybe he had caught it. Mac smiled. It seemed that Harm was ‘her flyboy’ again. It was going to be a good thing they had a chaperone for dinner tomorrow night. Now that she was on to him, she wanted to see if she could have a little fun. Mac was smiling when she climbed into bed. She fell asleep dreaming of the future and the fun she would have rattling his cage. PART 3: Mac had been given an eggplant recipe she adored. Anytime she found a recipe that would appeal to both of them, she made it several times in small portions so that she could get it just right. She feared she would never have a chance to try this one out on Harm, but thanks to Mattie and his resolve to work things out, she was getting her chance. The salad was ready and chilled. The eggplant was baking in its cheese sauce. The rolls were ready to pop in the oven when she heard them arrive. She had even made her best brownies and Harm’s recipe for fudge sauce for their Brownie Sundae dessert. And in case Mattie didn’t like eggplant, there was fresh hamburg that could perform back-up duty. Mac heard them and slipped the rolls into the oven before she went to answer the door. She heard Harm’s typical knock but still peeked out to be sure it was them. Taking a deep breath to relax and calm her suddenly racing heart, she opened the door and greeted her guests with a smile. “Right on time...nice work Mattie.” “Thanks, but I didn’t have to do much to get him moving tonight.” Harm rolled his eyes and shook his head. “I’m not always late.” Mac and Mattie shared a smile, both refraining from laughing aloud. Harm and Mattie slipped their coats off and hung them up. “Dinner is just about ready if you want to have a seat, I’ll bring it out.” “Mac, you don’t have to wait on us. What can we do to help?” “Sit down while I bring out dinner and then you can serve it up, okay?” “Alright...” Harm acquiesced. Mac had to smile. It was another piece of evidence to support the ‘Harm really has changed’ theory that his friends had noticed since his return to JAG. Harm sat facing toward the kitchen door with Mattie across from him. Mac brought out the salads and water pitcher on a tray. Mattie helped move the items from the tray to the table. Next Mac brought out a warming tray and a basket of oven fresh rolls. Finally, she returned with the casserole dish with the browned cheese topping and set it on the warming tray by Harm. “Mac this smells great.” “What is it, Mac? Lasagna?” “No...but it’s on that idea. Try some and then I’ll tell you about it if you want.” Harm served Mattie while Mac settled into her seat. Before Mac’s plate was filled, Mattie sampled her dinner. “This is good...it’s eggplant, isn’t it?” “Very good Mattie. You like it?” “Yeah...my mom use to make this sometimes. It was one of her favorites.” Mattie’s voice seemed a little sad. Mac and Harm watched her for a second. Mattie looked up at them both and smiled. “I never thought I’d have this again after I lost her. Thanks Mac.” “I’m glad you like it.” “What would you have done if she hadn’t Marine?” Harm teasingly challenged. “Cooked her up some hamburg that I got just in case...” “In case you ruined dinner?” “No...in case you made me mad and I wanted to punish you by serving red meat!” Mac laughed. “No ganging up on me you two,” Harm laughed shaking his head at the idea. “But it’s so much fun Harm,” giggled Mattie as she caught Mac’s wink to her. They laughed and shared more stories over dinner. Together Mac and Harm told Mattie about Chloe. Mac explained that she had called Chloe and told her all about Mattie and now Chloe was begging to come down to meet her. Mattie agreed it sounded like they could have fun together. Harm groaned at the thought and tried to hide a smile thinking how happy they would all be chick chatting, doing their hair and nails. All the things he figured teenage girls loved to do - and Mac. Mattie and Harm insisted on helping Mac to clean up. They decided to eat dessert later. “So what’s Petty Officer Coates doing this evening?” asked Mac. “I think she was going to get together with a few of her friends, but she sounded upset when she came home.” “Upset?” asked Mac and Harm together. “Yeah. She said something about looking forward to an evening alone and not having to worry about doing or saying the wrong thing.” “Think we should call her?” asked Harm. “Let me,” suggested Mac. Harm agreed and Mac dialed Jen’s number. She answered on the fourth ring, just beating the answering machine. “Jen, this is Mac. Mattie said you seemed upset when you got home. Everything okay?” “Yes, Ma’am...It was just a rough day at the office.” “The admiral?” “Yeah.” “Harm and I noticed this morning that he seemed a bit crankier then we’ve seen him for awhile.” “Ma’am, it’s worse then when Commander Rabb was gone. I think there’s trouble with him and Dr. Cavanaugh.” “Why’s that Jen?” “She tried to call several times and she sounded like she had been crying. He refused every call and really snapped at me when I offered to get her on the line for him.” “You’re right. It doesn’t sound good. Try not to take it personally, Jen.” “No Ma’am.” “Do you want to come over with Mattie, Harm and me? There’s plenty of food left over.” “Thanks, Ma’am, but I’m enjoying the quiet...don’t get me wrong, I adore spending time with Mattie. She’s a great kid, but it’s nice to have a few minutes alone too.” “I know what you mean. Take care and call if you want to talk, okay?” “Thanks, Ma’am...Mac.” Mac hung up and turned to look at Mattie and Harm as they sat on the couch looking at one of her photo albums. Harm looked up and she came to join them. “She okay?” “Yes...It seems things in the admiral’s world are not so good right now and Jen has been on the wrong side of the Admiral’s temper...just for trying to help.” Harm grimaced. “I know how that feels...” “Harm, I thought you and the admiral got past things.” “I think we have. Actually I wasn’t thinking about him.” Harm and Mac held eye contact as they silently communicated. No words were exchanged, but Mac knew that Harm was talking about how he felt when he had tried to help her in Paraguay and she had not thanked him; in fact she had put him down for everything he tried to do. With sudden clarity Mac realized that the chasm that had developed between them had been mostly her fault and that Harm had just reacted to her. She knew too that Paraguay would not be completely behind them until they had talked about it at least one more time. Tonight they wouldn’t go there, but soon she would make it up to him. Their talks lately were productive and healing. She hoped that this one would be as well. “So, are we going to watch a movie or play games?” Mac asked changing the subject and drawing Mattie in. “What movies you got?” “Sound of Music, Runaway Bride and Code 11-14.” “I’ve seen Runaway Bride and I’m not sure I’m up for a musical. What’s that Code one?” Mac read off the label, “ A suspense action movie starring David James Elliott, Terry Farrell and Nanci Chambers originally made for televison and delayed in airing due to the events of September 11. FBI agent Curt Novak and his family return from a trip to Australia only to encounter a serial killer on their flight. It’s up to Novak to stop him before he kills again. This time it could be his family in danger.” “Let’s watch that one! He’s such a major babe for an older guy. The girls at school even have his picture in their lockers and a couple of the teachers have his picture on their computer wallpaper.” Mattie went on, “Besides, if we don’t want Harm complaining all night about chick flicks and chick chat we better go with the action thriller.” Mac smiled, “He is easy on the eye. Good choice Mattie. Any complaints Harm?” “No...No, what ever you want.” Harm rolled his eyes at the reason the two females in his life settled on the thriller movie. Although he didn’t care about the male lead, he recognized the name of one of the female leads and knew he would have his own ‘eye candy’, as the women called it. They settled in together on the couch, Mattie between Harm and Mac. Toward the end of the movie when the action grew and the suspense reached its height, Mattie held on to Harm and Mac’s hands as tightly as she could. She then hid her face in Harm’s chest as he had draped his arm behind her on the couch. Harm looked down at her and smiled as he touched Mac’s shoulder with his hand that rested near her on the back of the couch. She looked over at Mattie snuggled into him and glanced toward her hands. Harm looked and smiled when he saw she was holding on to both of them. “Mattie? You okay?” Harm gently asked. “Yes....oops sorry,” Mattie realized how hard she was holding their hands as she sat up again looking at Harm and Mac. “It’s almost over. You going to watch the rest?” “Yeah...ssshhhh....” Mac and Harm grinned as they all turned back to the movie. Mattie slipped her hands back into Harm and Mac’s but didn’t grip them tightly this time. When the movie ended Harm looked down at Mattie. She was leaning against him, her eyes closed. Harm wiggled his fingers against Mac’s shoulder where they had rested throughout the movie. Mac looked over and smiled. “Someone’s tired by the looks,” Mac said. “Coffee or tea, Harm?” “Tea would be good.” Harm eased Mattie on to the couch as he carefully stood up to follow Mac into the kitchen. “Mac,” he whispered once there, “I’m trying to figure out if she is really asleep or trying to give us time alone. What do you think?” Mac smiled and peeked out at Mattie. “I think she’s trying to give us time alone. Do you mind?” “No. Do you?” “It’s kind of cute...reminds me of things that Chloe has done.” “Yeah, the two of them together could be trouble.” “You know Harm, I think the thing that amazes me is that sometimes Mattie seems so much older then fifteen and then she’ll do or same something and I realize that she is so much more of a little girl then I was at that age. Don’t let her grow up to fast, Harm. Let her enjoy what little childhood she has left.” “I’m trying Mac.” “I know you are. And thanks for sharing her with me.” Mac handed Harm his tea and they quietly returned to the dining room table. “Harm did you want some dessert? I almost forgot about it.” “No. How about joining us for dinner tomorrow night and bringing it over?” Harm waggled his eyebrows at Mac while giving her his best grin. “What else is on the menu?” Mac asked returning his smile. “Boiled potatoes, carrots, onions and ...” Harm paused for effect, “pot roast.” “You are making a pot roast?” “Yes. My grandmother’s favorite recipe in fact.” “Harm, are you actually going to eat it?” “Yes. Mac, I will eat red meat once in awhile. It’s not my first choice and I don’t think it is healthy to eat it all the time, however, my grandmother made the best pot roast and I never passed it up. Hopefully mine will come out as good.” “Then I’ll be there.” “Thanks...Mac?” “Yeah...I had a great time tonight.” “Me too flyboy.” “So tomorrow night’s a date?” “Is it?” “Of sorts...although I think one of these times we should actually go out.” “That would be nice. What time should I come over?” “We’ve been trying to eat around 1800, but we’ll be around all afternoon, so come over anytime.” Harm stood up as Mac nodded her understanding. Together they started talking to Mattie. Harm put his hand on her shoulder and conitinued speaking softly to her. “Mattie, come on kiddo. Let’s get you home so you can crawl into your own bed. Mattie?...Come on Mattie.” Slowly she started to move and blink her eyes open. She sat up quickly and asked, “Movie’s over?” “Yes...what’s the last thing you remember?” “They were all sitting in the bottom of the plane and he put the hatch back on...” “Well you didn’t miss much. I’ll fill you in tomorrow.” “Did you guys have dessert without me?” “No. Mac’s coming over for dinner tomorrow night and we’ll have it then.” Harm explained with a smile. “You really fell asleep didn’t you?” “Yes. I didn’t sleep much last night. I had a report I had to finish so I stayed up late working on it...It’s okay, Harm. I had it done and handed it in when I walked into class.” “Let’s go, okay?” “Okay. Harm, can I go start the car? Let it warm up a little?” “It won’t take long...it’s not as cold tonight anyway.” “I know but I want to...please?” Mac stood and watched as Mattie got what she wanted. She already had Harm wrapped around her little finger when it came to the little things. He’d be a pushover if he ever had children of his own. Harm handed her the keys and she dashed out the door putting her coat on as she went. “Thanks Mac...she you tomorrow.” “Night Mattie,” Mac laughed as she watched Harm’s face. Slowly she approached him, moving into his personal space as she went closer and closer to him. When she was as close as she could get without actually touching him she looked up into his face and whispered, “I was really hoping to kiss the chocolate sause off your lips after dessert tonight. Guess that has to wait until tomorrow night now, huh?” Harm gulped. “There might be a bit of cheese left from dinner lingering there?” he offered. “Nah...rather have sweet, sticky fudge sauce...” Mac licked her lips and closed her eyes. Harm felt the rush of heat course through him and he swiftly moved to plant a kiss on her lips. When he lifted his head he whispered to a stunned Mac, “I’ll make sure I get fudge sauce in lots of places tomorrow night.” With that he quickly brushed her lips with his again and trotted down the hall to catch up to Mattie whistling “Anchors Aweigh.” Mac stood in her apartment and burst out laughing. Maybe tomorrow night she’d be whistling the Marine’s Hymn when she left him. Mac wrapped her arms around herself and danced around her apartment. She hadn’t rattled his cage tonight after all, but as long as they were happy she didn’t care. And Mac was as happy as she had been in years...maybe in her life. The fun was back in their relationship. Part 4: 1645 Local North of Union Station Harm’s Loft The dinner was cooking and it was a matter of waiting until it was done and they were ready to eat. Mattie and Harm were sitting at the table while they worked on her math homework. Mattie was trying to keep up with advanced math after having missed the first half of the school year. Harm spent time every weekend trying to help her get caught up. He usually helped her most evenings by reviewing her work and going over any that she had wrong. So far it was working and she was keeping up. She had taken her first test Friday and was sure she had passed. This was the scene Mac found when she arrived that afternoon at Harm’s. She had knocked on the door and heard him call come in. She opened the door and watched as the two sat with their heads bent and books, papers, calculators, pencils, protractors, compasses and rulers spread out before them. Harm intently watched as Mattie worked step by step through the complex problem before her. Quietly, Mac had hung up her coat, put the dessert items away in the kitchen. That done, she stood behind, but between, Harm and Mattie, watching them work. Eight minutes later, Mattie put the pencil down and looked up at Harm expectantly. He met her gaze and smiled. “Excellent Mattie! That was one of the most complex problems I’ve seen and you did it without any problems on the first try. “Shows what a good teacher you are Harm,” Mattie smiled and then looked at Mac. “Hi Mac...sorry we were ignoring you.” “That’s okay. I like watching you two together...even if you were doing math,” Mac smiled. “Hi Mac...did you remember dessert?” “Yes. All put away for now.” “Hey, we should have dessert first so we’ll have room for it!” Mattie suggested. “No way...I slaved over dinner and it will get eaten before dessert.” Harm announced. “Oh come on Harm, “ pleaded Mac. “We could have some now and then more later if we wanted,” she suggested. “I like that idea, Mac. Come on Harm...we can just eat dinner a little later.” Mattie pleaded. Mac watched Harm. She knew he would crumble eventually if Mattie played her cards right. Trouble was, Harm had learned a few knew tricks as well. He would not look Mattie in the eye. He shook his head no, stood up and turned so he wasn’t facing them. Mattie however, tried another tactic. She danced around in front of him and hugged his arm, “Come on Harm...just a little. I worked hard on that math and I finished my reports this week...just a taste. Please?” “No Mattie...what if Child Services did a spot check and they found us eating dessert before dinner?” “Harm...they aren’t going to make a spot check on a Saturday afternoon and if they see us eating homemade brownies and smell pot roast cooking with all the veggies and stuff, they are going to see how well you make sure I’m taken care of. And I can show them my homework - and my laundry is done and put away.” Mattie hesitated just a second before she reached up and took Harm’s face between her hands and made him look at her. “Please Harm?” Harm rolled his eyes and then looked to Mac for support. What he saw however, was the final straw. Mac had slowly and carefully moved over to the kitchen counter and dipped her finger into the fudge sauce and was sucking and licking it off her finger as Harm looked at her. Heat coursed through him as he watched her tongue wrap itself and around her finger and her lips nibble the sauce from her long slender finger. For good measure she ran her tongue over her lips and said, “It really is awfully hard to resist Harm...a little wouldn’t hurt would it?” “All right...” Harm capitulated with a groan. He had to find something to do because he knew watching Mac eat her brownie sundae would be more then he could handle after their little exchange the night before. “While you two indulge, I’ve got to run an errand. I’ll be back in a few minutes.” “Not going to join us?” asked Mac. “Not this serving...later,” Harm smiled. He needed to get out of here for a few minutes and he had forgotten to pick up a few things at the store, so he decided now would be a good time to get some air and some sparkling juice...and maybe regain control of his hormones. Mac and Mattie laughed as Harm grabbed his jacket and keys and waved to them. They went ahead and made their little brownie sundaes. They split a brownie and each took just one scoop of ice cream and trickled some sauce on after they heated it up in the microwave. Together they indulged in the early dessert and Mac told Mattie about how Harm had made his fudge sauce and brought it over for Chloe and her the first time. “He knew I had been through a lot that day at JAG and he wanted me to join him for take out. I told him I couldn’t because Chloe was coming over for the weekend and besides if I didn’t have Chloe I’d be heading for the chocolate ice cream, fudge brownies and fudge sauce to drown my blues in. Anyway, he told me to have fun and if I needed anything to call. About three hours later he shows up at my door with a big container of still warm fudge sauce he had made and some warm brownies and a half gallon of chocolate and vanilla ice cream.” “That’s just so Harm...taking care of people he cares about. He just seems to know when to do those kind of things that make you feel special and loved. My Mom was like that.” Mattie smiled and went on. “I told him he was like my Mom on the inside.” “He get all flustered and brush it off?” “No, actually he said he thought he’d like my Mom. You’re a lot like her too Mac.” “Really? How?” “Well, if something needs to be done, you do it. You love to do things just for the fun of it...like this dessert before dinner. You show how much you care for people in the smile you give them.” “You are very perceptive for a kid. You know Mattie, when I was about your age, my Mother left my father and me. He drank and he was abusive and she couldn’t take it anymore. I didn’t have someone to care for me that knew what I was going through and I grew up fast. I learned to say and do things to protect myself emotionally and physically. I made some bad choices and started following in my father’s footsteps.” “You drank?” “Yes...until one night a friend died in an accident and I was badly hurt. My uncle, my mother’s brother came along and decided I needed a little boot camp. He stayed with me while I sobered up and he helped me to see that I could make better choices. He felt terrible that he hadn’t been aware of what was going on and that things had gotten so bad. I ended up joining the Marine Corps. It helped me but I never healed or was able to forgive my father until I met Harm. He showed me that there were people other then my uncle I could trust. He made me realize that if I didn’t forgive my father it would be a burden for me my whole life. He was on his death bed when I finally was able to forgive him. I saw my mother again at the same time. I realized that the warm caring person I had always thought she had been turned out to be was my wishful thinking.” “What happened?” “I forgave her too. I realized that I could either be what they had each become or I could be what they had started out to be...two loving caring people that made mistakes and couldn’t get past it. I made better choices, I had gotten an education and I had the good fortune to be partnered with Harm.” “And sometimes he drives you crazy?” “Yeah, but I do it to him too.” “You guys have been through a lot together.” “He’s my best friend, Mattie...and I did some things that almost ended that...but once again, Harm wouldn’t give up.” “Do you think you and he will get married some day?” “Wow, Mattie, you get right at it don’t you?” “Yeah...how else can I learn and understand what’s going on?” “I don’t know, Mattie. I’m not sure he feels that way about me. We care about each other and will always be there for each other - if we know we are needed...but as for marriage...I don’t know.” “But my mother use to say that the best thing about being married to my dad was she got to have her best friend by her side. She would have stood by him if she hadn’t died.” Mattie wiped a tear away and tried to stem the other tears that wanted to follow. Mac gave her the space to get control as she picked up their dishes and took care of them. Mattie soon joined her. “We better get the table set and cheer up before Harm gets back. He’ll have a fit if he thinks I’m upset.” Mac smiled, “I’m sorry if I did upset you.” “You didn’t...I get tear eyed sometimes when I think about what could have been...it doesn’t usually last long. So what can we do to bust Harm’s chops when he gets back?” Mattie grinned. Mac smiled, pleased at the girls ability to bounce back. It felt good to know that she could contribute to Mattie’s healing by sharing her own story...and the fun of teasing Harm. By the time Harm returned from his errands, the table was set but Mac and Mattie were lounging on the couch holding their stomachs groaning. “Oh No...what did you guys do?” “I think I made the Sundae’s too big Harm...my stomach is so full,” groaned Mac. “Me too...” Mattie groaned as Mac had. “Alright...do you want something for your stomach aches?” “No...but my mother use to rub my stomach when I had a stomach ache. Maybe you should rub our stomachs.” “How much did you two eat?” “Three servings, “ Mattie groaned. Harm looked to Mac and caught her hiding a grin. He knew something was up. “Okay, I’ll rub your stomachs in a minute, but I’ve got something in the kitchen that should help...my grandmother swore by it when we over ate.” Mattie and Mac exchanged glances and Mattie said, “I don’t think I really need anything, Harm.” “It won’t take a minute...let’s see baking soda and warm water I think it was.” Mac couldn’t help it. She watched Mattie’s face and burst out laughing. “We’re just giving teasing Harm. You didn’t really think I’d let Mattie eat that much before dinner - which smells wonderful by the way.” “Not nice to play tricks you know. Next time if Mattie is really sick I might not believe her now.” “Harm, I won’t do it again...but you should have seen your face. It was like you didn’t know who to go to at first.” “Well, you both seemed to be in distress...but Mac gave it away.” “I did not...” “Yes, you did...I caught your lip curling up...” “Watch him Mattie. He’s very observant about things like that...” “Well at times I am...but sometimes when I need clues like that the most, I can’t figure them out.” Harm commented as he turned and went to the kitchen to serve dinner. “Mattie, is Jen around?” “I don’t think so. Why?” “I was going to suggest she join us.” “Actually I think she is baby sitting for Bud and Harriet tonight.” Mac said. “Really? That’s good that Bud and Harriet are going to go out.” “You know we haven’t done much together at JAG lately.” “True. We’ve all been so busy. No one has had the time to plan anything extra.” “May be we should plan something - introduce Mattie and make it a family thing.” “Good idea Mac. When and where should we do this?” “I can ask Harriet if she’d like to do it at her place. That way the kids can go to bed if they need to...she has the space and we can all bring something.” “She’s a genius, Mattie,” Harm smiled at his ward and then asked, “What do you think? You up for meeting the JAG family?” “The grumpy one going to be there?” Mattie asked. “Admiral Chegwidden,” Harm explained to Mac. “He and Mattie didn’t exactly hit it off when they met.” “Oh...He has been a bit grumpy. His coming will probably depend on whether or not he and Meredith get over this bump in the road.” Mac stated. “What if we did a sliding party or a skating party?” asked Mattie. “You know, that’s a great idea. There’s a great hill behind Harriet and Bud’s,” Mac enthused They planned the party while they ate dinner. The date and time would depend on Harriet and Bud’s schedule. Once Mac knew that, she thought she’d see if Chloe could come down for a weekend. Mattie was thrilled with the idea. After dinner and the planning, Mac went out to the kitchen to fix Brownie Sundae’s again. Mattie and Mac each had another small one like they had before dinner. Mac made Harm a full size one. They sat in the living room - Harm and Mac on the couch and Mattie in the chair. She finished hers first and excused herself saying there was a show on TV that she wanted to watch. She hugged Mac and Harm and planted a kiss on Harm’s cheek. “Night. I love you guys.” “Love you too.” Harm answered. Mac watched him as Mattie left and shut the door behind her. “You are her hero, Harm.” Harm shrugged it off, “She loves you too.” “Maybe...she certainly found her way into my heart.” “I’ll have to ask her how she did it.” Harm’s voice was so soft and low she almost didn’t hear him. Mac smiled and thought, ‘You don’t have to...you’re already there.’ Instead of saying it she said, “Mattie’s a smart girl.” Harm smiled at Mac and took another spoonful of his Sundae. He licked his lips and though about Mac’s maneuver with the fudge sauce on her finger earlier. “By the way, Marine...that was not nice to tease me like that when you knew I couldn’t do a thing about it.” “What are you talking about Harm?” “The fudge sauce on your finger?” “Oh that...what was wrong with that?” “Mac...didn’t you do that on purpose?” “What...this?” And she dipped her finger into the sauce in her bowl and began to suck and lick it off her finger. “Maaccc...” Harm set his bowl aside and reached for her wrist...pulling her hand to his mouth. Mac watched as her heart raced while Harm took her finger into her mouth and cleaned the rest of the sweet residue away. His tongue tickled and teased the palm of her hand and when she gasped from the sensation, Harm released her hand and looked into her face. He saw the same passion there that he felt coursing through his own body. Again he whispered her name, “Mac...” Somehow she ended up in his arms. Their mouths fused together as their tongues danced and darted sending the flames of their passion higher. When they broke apart sometime later, Mac was in his lap, his hand on her breast and they were both glassy-eyed with passion. “Mac, right now I want to take you to my bed and make hot passionate love all night long, but I’m not sure that either of us is ready for that step yet.” “I know...I want you too Harm...but we do still have some things to talk about.” Mac pulled away and sat back on her end of the couch. “Yeah...Paraguay is just laying there waiting for us to forget about it before it bites us.” “I don’t want that to happen, Harm. I realized the other night that I had not handled things quite the way I would have wanted to and everything got out of focus down there.” “What do you mean Mac?” “By the time you got there to save me, I had already decided that I was not a good friend or a smart Marine. I insisted on doing things my way which led to Webb and me being caught and Webb being tortured. He protected me and I had to listen to him scream in pain. I was scared and alone and I wanted you to come charging in to save me. I needed you to hold me and yet after what I said to you before I left your apartment I didn’t think I had that right...that you would only say, ‘I told you so.’ So I made myself mad at you to give myself what ever I was going to need to fight my way out of there. Sort of like what you had done with me when I got stabbed and didn’t think I could go on.” “That makes sense.” “Yeah, but then you showed up and instead of taking me in your arms, you cut me loose and got back to business. You did the right thing, but I had convinced myself I was mad at you and I couldn’t let it go. And when I saw how bad off Webb was, I wanted to shut him up so I kissed him good-bye. When I turned around and saw the look on your face, I knew I had hurt you and instead of trying to explain it I let you believe what you wanted to believe.” “After we crashed...” “I didn’t take into account that you had hit your head. I just had this driving need to take action - to regain control. I guess my true nature showed through from fear like it does when I drink. I got mean...took it out on the people that meant the most to me.” “Mac you are not a mean person.” “No? But you said yourself that I’m a mean drunk and drinking does not change who we are, just allows us to say things we think and feel without filtering it as we would normally.” “So all those things you said, you really meant...you were telling me what you think and feel but don’t normally say?” “No!” “Mac, we’ve been doing better talking things out...but I guess you’ve lost me tonight. Maybe we should wait. What do you think?” “Let me try one more time, okay?” Harm nodded his agreement. “Last night when we were talking about the Admiral taking it out on Coates when she just wanted to help, it suddenly hit me. You were there to help me and yet I lashed out at you. I didn’t want anyone to see how much I was hurting and I knew if I didn’t keep you at a distance that you would see it. I knew we still had work to do and I braced my protective walls by keeping you at a distance. For everything I said, you of course reacted. That in turn fed my ability to hold you at arms length.” “Mac, when you said that you really needed very little, did you really want me to hold you and tell you how worried I had been and how glad that I was to get there in time?” Mac nodded with tears in her eyes and a smile on her face. Her flyboy got it...several months too late to avoid the pain and suffering they had both suffered, but he got it. “Come here, Mac.” Mac scooted closer to him and he gathered her in his arms and held her and rocked her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and let her tears fall onto his shoulder. It was a time for the two friends to heal. Harm tried to give her the comfort she had always wanted and he had been to afraid to give or to blind to see. Tears escaped his eyes as well. Yet that night in his loft apartment Harm and Mac healed the hurt they had inflicted on one another over the years. They held on tight to one another, while their heart beats synchronized and the pain left them. Part 5: January 18, 2004 The weeks had passed quickly since Mattie had come to live with Harm and the door had opened for Harm and Mac to heal their pain from Paraguay. They both had taken steps to move their relationship along. The joy of being together and finding fun in the things they said and did put a sparkle in Mac’s eyes and a smile on Harm’s face. Every one that knew them could tell they were happy, but Jen and Mattie were the only ones that had even a clue as to why these two people glowed with happiness. Harm had kept to his word and at least three times a week Mac was invited to dinner North of Union Station, or Harm would take them out to dinner. At least once a week, Harm would press his luck and ask Mac to go out with him on a date. Well he didn’t ask her to go on a date, but he would ask her if she would like to go with him to try a new restaurant, see a movie or go someplace to see something. At first, Mac had expected Mattie to join them, but she didn’t. Harm and Mac continued to tease and flirt with each other and tempt the fates by exchanging kisses and a little light petting. Harm would often caress Mac’s breasts and she often pressed herself against the evidence of his reaction. They enjoyed the physical relationship and both wanted more but neither was willing to give in until they were certain the other one was ready for it. Last weekend Mac had told Harm that Webb had called her and asked her out. He had been tense but kept calm and refrained from lashing out with sarcasm. Mac had rewarded him by telling him that she had turned Webb down. “You did?” “Yes.” “But I thought you wanted what he was offering?” “Not that much. I would rather keep my calendar open for JAG and the time we want to spend together.” Harm had just smiled and pulled her into a hug. It was Sunday evening. Mac had been at Harm’s all day. They had gone jogging together that morning and then returned for brunch with Mattie. They had worked side by side in the kitchen preparing snacks for the football game and getting dinner ready to put in the oven when they were ready for it. Mac had worked with Mattie on a report she was writing while Harm read some files and then she read her files while Harm helped Mattie on her math again. When the New England Patriots played the Indianapolis Colts they gathered in front of the TV next door with Mattie and Jen. Chloe had told her that she had to cheer for the Patriots because of Chloe living in New England and the fact that anyone in the military should support the Patriots. Harm didn’t agree with Mac’s reasoning, but agreed to side with her on the Pats. Their team had pulled through and would be going to the Superbowl in two weeks in Houston. “You aren’t flying CAPS for the Superbowl again are you?” Mac asked Harm. He had teased them all with his picture of the Superdome in New Orleans that he and Skates had taken from their F-14. Harm had sat in the one regular chair in Jen and Mattie’s apartment. They had several bean bag chairs and said they liked them for lounging. Mac had settled herself in Harm’s lap much to Mattie’s delight and Jen’s surprise. Harm had wrapped his long arms around her and she had enjoyed the sense of security she felt within his arms. Each time the Patriots scored points, Harm had snuck a kiss against her ear or cheek. When they had added points with just seconds left by the way of an Adam Venetari field goal, he had stuck his tongue in her ear and laughed when he felt her shiver. He had then whispered in her ear, “If you liked that, wait until we are alone later...” Mac had felt herself blush and had then begun to wiggle in his lap a little. She figured two could play the game. Harm muffled a groan as he felt her settle her six a little tighter against him. Getting out of here without embarrassing himself could be difficult. Jen and Mattie were planning to watch the other game, but Harm said he needed to get some things done and they could fill him in on what he missed tomorrow. He held Mac in front of him as he stood up and moved toward the door using her as a shield. “You leaving too Mac?” asked Mattie. “I’ll be next door for a while. We need to work on a case some tonight to make sure we are ready for court tomorrow.” “Okay. Night guys...love you...have fun.” Harm and Mac could hear the giggles from the apartment after they closed the door. “Think we fooled them, Mac?” “No...but it was fun trying.” Harm led Mac into his loft and locked the door behind him. He didn’t want to take a chance that Mattie would walk in on them...if this went where he thought it might go tonight. They did really have to work on a case for morning, and they sat on the couch to do that. Mac had put her feet in Harm’s lap and every now and then would wiggle her toes against his crotch. He would groan, “Mac, behave...” and they would grin at each other and work more. Two hours after they started, Mac wiggled her toes against him again. This time Harm threw the files on the coffee table and pulled Mac by her ankles so that as he stretched out above her she lay beneath him on the couch. They gazed into each other’s eyes, and then he lowered his lips to hers. Their mouths met in a hungry kiss. The weeks of teasing and testing each other had given them a comfort level that allowed them to enjoy each sensation without embarrassment. Harm rolled to his side and allowed his hand to cover her breast as he continued to kiss her. Mac’s nails lightly scratched Harm’s back and then slid under his sweater and against his skin to tease and tickle his firm muscles and satin skin. Harm’s hand then slid under Mac’s top and he let his fingers dance lightly across her stomach. Little by little his hands inched upward until he could feel the weight of one breast in his hand. He kneaded the warm, soft pliant flesh and heard Mac’s gasp of pleasure. They didn’t rush as they explored each other a little at a time. Thirty minutes later, Harm stood up and pulled Mac with him. He took her in his arms again and kissed her until they were both out of breath. He pulled back and rested his forehead against hers. Mac tried to hide her disappointment. Although they had taken their touches a little further this time, Mac realized that Harm was about to call a halt to their lovemaking and send her home. She didn’t want to go. “Mac, if you want to stop now, I will...but if you are ready then I want you to spend the night with me...I want to make love to you.” Mac shook her head a little, “What did you say?” “I want to make love to you tonight and I want you to stay, but if you’re not ready...” “No! I mean yes, I want to stay...I want to make love to you too, Harm.” Harm led Mac to his bedroom turning off lights as they went. Once in his bedroom, he turned to her and reached for the hem of her top. Slowly he lifted it up and over her head. He tossed it on the bureau as he gazed at her skin glowing in the soft light. Her breasts were full and barely contained by her bra. Harm lowered his head and began kissing the creamy skin swelling above the lace cups. Mac gasped as she held his head there and felt his soft hair against her fingers. She felt his tongue dip into her cleavage before he kissed his way across the other breast. Mac slid her hands to his sweater, pulling it up as she tried to remove it from him. She wanted to feel his skin with her skin. Harm moved away from her long enough to rid himself of his sweater. Mac placed her hands flat against his chest and slid them to his collar bone and then back to the flat of his stomach. She studied the fine hair and the pattern it made across his chest. She tangled her fingers in its silkiness then and before leaning forward to kiss the little hollow at the base of his neck. She felt his pulse racing there before she kissed and tasted his skin, amazingly warm in the cool air of the apartment. Harm let her explore his chest as long as he could take it and then he captured her face and raised it to his lips so that he could kiss her again. Together they fell back on to the bed and spent a passionate night making love, talking and sleeping in each other’s arms. Part 6: Three weeks of investigations and intensive court hearings limited Harm and Mac’s time together to explore their personal relationship. Harm and Mac worked one case together against Sturgis and Bud and worked two others as opposing counsel. They each won one case and lost the case against their colleagues. Mattie and Jen spent more time then ever together as Harm was either working late at JAG, away on a case or exhausted and asleep. Mattie missed Mac and the family times the three of them had been having together. Toward the end of the third week, Mattie was in Harm’s apartment getting a casserole out of the freezer when a call came in. The answering machine picked it up but when Mattie heard the girl’s voice leaving a message she picked up. “Hello?” “Oh hello. Who’s this?” “My name is Mattie. Harm’s my guardian.” “Hi Mattie. I’m Chloe. Mac’s my ‘big sister’. She’s told me a lot about you.” “Yeah, she’s told me about you too.” “Look I’ve been trying to get in touch with Mac for two weeks and I haven’t heard back from her. Has she been around there?” “Not really. Harm and Mac have been right out straight with cases. Harm has been home to get a few hours sleep and to check on me and that’s about all. Mac did stop with him the other day when he needed to re-pack his sea bag before they left on an investigation. They should be back tonight according to Jen.” “Jen?” “Petty Officer Coates.” “Oh, I remember Jennifer. Harm rescued her from the brig at Christmas two years ago.” “He rescues lots of people I gather.” “Oh yeah...but once he does I’m not sure he knows what to do with them.” “He’s been doing pretty good with me. Even when he’s gone he tries to check in everyday.” “Mac said that Harm has really changed a lot.” “Well he does seem happier these days. I think he likes the fact that Mac spends a lot of time with us together and some with just him.” “What? Mattie, are you telling me that Harm and Mac are dating?” “Yeah.” “Wow! He has changed.” “Look, I’ve got to go. I’ll let Mac know you called when I see her or talk to Harm.” “Thanks Mattie. It was good talking to you.” “Same here.” Mattie hung up the phone and took the casserole back to the apartment she shared with Jen and put it in the oven. Jen arrived home at 1835 and smelled the aroma of the casserole when she stepped into the apartment. “Smells great Mattie. Thanks for doing this.” “No problem. Any word from Mac and Harm?” “Last I heard the investigation is over and they are on their way home. The admiral said they don’t have to report back until Monday at 0800.” “They get to have Thursday through Sunday off?” “Yes Ma’am!” “Harm will probably sleep the first day; do housework the second day and play doting ‘Dad’ the rest of the weekend,” Mattie sighed. “He does it pretty well, huh?” “I won’t complain. I miss him and Mac when they’re gone.” “We miss them at JAG HQ too,” Jen offered. Same Time Washington Dulles Airport Harm grabbed the taxi and helped Mac get their bags stowed. They slid into the back and Harm gave him the address North of Union Station. “Harm, I really need to go home.” “I know...but come to my place with me, see Mattie and then I’ll take you home. Okay?” “You’re up to something, aren’t you?” “Me? What would I be up to?” Mac gave Harm one of those looks as she rolled her eyes to look up at him and stared. She smiled though and then leaned against him in the cab. “Tired?” “Aren’t you?” Mac asked Harm. “Yeah...I was just thinking about how crazy the last three weeks were. There was no time for us and it was getting to me.” “I know what you mean. In one way I want nothing more than to have you wrap those long arms of yours around me and hold me and kiss me and do a repeat of that night at your apartment...but then I think I’d rather just curl up and sleep.” “Me too. Mac, why don’t we compromise here? Curl up in my bed and sleep with me tonight and then I’ll take you home in the morning to do the things you need to do.” “Do you really think all we’ll do is sleep now that we...umm...know what it’s like?” “If we do anything but sleep its because its what we both want...” “I know Harm. Actually I guess it wouldn’t hurt anything.” “So you’ll stay?” “Yes.” “Good.” They rode the rest of the way in silence, relaxing against each other. When the taxi stopped North of Union Station, Harm paid the driver and then took out their things. Mac insisted on carrying her own bags. They dropped their things in Harm’s apartment before knocking on Jen and Mattie’s door. The door flew open and Mattie launched herself into Harm’s arms, almost knocking them over. “Whoa, Mattie! Take it easy kiddo. Missed us, huh?” “Yeah I did. Hi Mac.” “Hi Mattie. Hey Jen.” “Ma’am, Sir. Welcome home.” “Thanks Jen.” “Mmm something smells good.” “That’s one of your casseroles I went and got to fix for dinner. Want some?” “That would be great. Thanks Mattie.” Jen and Mattie went to fix them each of plate. Mattie told them about the call from Chloe. “When I was over there the phone rang and when I heard Chloe I picked it up. Hope you don’t mind.” “That’s fine. What did she want?” Harm asked. “She was calling Harm?” asked Mac. “Yeah. She said she had been calling and leaving messages for a couple of weeks and hadn’t heard back from you Mac so she decided to call Harm.” After they finished eating, Mattie and Jen caught Harm up on a situation with Mattie’s English teacher. Harm promised to call and make an appointment for the next day. He glanced over and saw Mac yawning. His own fatigue was setting in so he excused them giving Mattie a hug and kissing the top of her head. Once in the loft, he asked Mac, “Do you want to call Chloe so she’ll stop worrying about you?” “I suppose...” “Okay Marine, what’s going on here? Why are you avoiding your little sister?” “I’m not avoiding her, Harm.” “Mac...How about I call her?” “No!” “There’s a story here. Spill it Marine.” “It’s complicated.” “My line...you make things simple. Remember?” “Harm...” “I’m waiting...” “Chloe has this thing about us and I just don’t feel up to dealing with it right now.” “What kind of ‘thing about us’?” “Harm, please...” “Mac, haven’t we been working things out...moving forward?” “Yes...” “Can’t you try and trust me and tell me what this is all about?” “I trust you.” Harm approached Mac and gently pulled her into his arms. “Then talk to me Marine.” “Chloe asked me once if it was possible for your best friend to become your boyfriend.” “And what did you tell her?” “I said that I hoped so.” “When was that?” “Over two years ago now...” “And she keeps asking if I’ve become your boyfriend?” “Yeah.” “And what do you tell her?” “At first it was easy...I just said no...then she started giving me advice because her best friend had asked her out on some dates.” “So she thought she knew how to move things along for you in her vast experience.” Harm smiled at the thought of young Chloe counseling his Marine. “Yes...anyway, I tried explaining that we were just friends and that’s what we both wanted.” “And then Paraguay happened?” “Yes...and I told her that you were upset with me. Last time I talked to her I explained that we were rebuilding our friendship...” “And?” “And nothing.” “Mac, you’re blushing. What did Chloe say or ask you?” “If we had slept together yet...” “And you are afraid she’ll ask and you don’t want her to know but you figure she’ll weasel it out of you?” “Exactly.” “Mac, call her. You can stonewall her if she asks something you figure is too personal or you can shock her and tell her that you are calling her from my bed and I have my arms around you and that you’ll talk to her later. It’s up to you.” “Have I told you lately that I’m glad you’re my best friend?” “I always like hearing that...and you know what else?” “What?” “I hope you’ll be my best friend for life...” “Through thick and thin, Harm.” “Does that ‘thick’ mean like when you get pregnant?” “Harmon Rabb!” “Well does it?” “Are you asking me to have your baby?” “I don’t want you having anyone else’s...” “Harm...” “Mac, think about it...sleep on it. This isn’t about the baby deal. This is about the fact that I love you as a friend...and now as my lover. I want that to be a permanent part of my life forever...I hadn’t really meant to spring this on you so fast but it just seemed the time to do it.” Harm smiled and looked around like a bashful little boy. Mac stepped into Harm’s lose embrace and hugged him tightly. Together they walked up the stairs into the bedroom. Harm went in to take a shower while Mac called Chloe. “Chloe?” “Mac! You’re home.” “Sort of...” “At Harm’s?” “Yes.” “So are you and that gorgeous man getting it on yet?” “Chloe! You know there are some things that are personal and you have no business asking.” Chloe let out a whoop of joy and Mac held the phone away from her ear. “Chloe...calm down. Look Harm and I are working things out. Things are going well and that’s all I’m going to tell you.” “It’s okay Mac...your reaction tells me more anyway.” “Chloe...please.” “Look Mac...I want you to be happy and I’ve always thought Harm was the one that could make you happy. You convinced me that you and Mic would be happier and you were cute together...and he gave me what I wanted. Harm doesn’t do that...he’s more honest. Anyway, I do want you to be happy and as long as you are working things out, I’ll behave and give you time to do that...just don’t take too long. I’ve got Mattie for back up now, remember?” “Only too well. I know you want us to be happy, honey, but you’ve got to let us do this our way.” “I will Mac...I promise...so is he there?” Mac watched Harm come out of the bathroom in his clean boxer and slide into bed besdie her. “Yeah he is. Want to say hi?” “Of course.” Mac handed Harm the phone and then slid out of bed to take her own shower while Harm talked to Chloe. “Hey Chloe.” “How are you Harm?” “Just fine. I hear you and Mattie talked.” “Yeah...sounds like you’re doing okay as a Dad.” “I’m giving it my best shot.” “She’s lucky... I had hoped you and Mac would adopt me before you found my Dad...but there are times I still think about it...” “I’m sure Mac and I have thought about it almost as much over the years Chloe.” “Really?” “Yeah...we haven’t talked about it exactly, but after you left to live in Vermont we’ve talked about what it would be like to have a family and that some day we would.” “Harm, are you telling me that you and Mac are getting married?” “Well, we haven’t finished the conversation, Chloe, but I hope she’ll agree to it. You going to give us your blessing if that happens?” “Of course...and Mattie and I are going to do everything we can to make sure you don’t take too long to make it happen!” “No meddling, Chloe. I’ve told Mattie the same thing and I hope I won’t have to remind either of you.” “Alright Harm. I promised Mac I would behave.” “Just remember one thing Chloe...” “What’s that?” “Never make a promise that you don’t intend to keep.” “Promise...” “Good. We’ll talk to you later, Chloe.” “Bye, Harm.” Harm smiled as he hung up the phone. He watched when Mac came out of the bathroom after her quick shower and joined him in bed wearing panties and a tank top. She slid in beside him and as he had promised he wrapped his long arms around her and they curled together and fell asleep. Part 7 Friday morning Mac stretched and rolled as she slowly woke. She turned to look at the man sleeping peacefully beside her. He had been as good as his word and they had slept curled together in each other’s arms. Now as she lounge in his bed beside him, watching him sleep, she thought about his comment the night before. He wanted a commitment from her to be his friend for life and to have his children. He had said he loved her. For years they had both refused to acknowledge there was anything more then friendship between them. In fact, there was a passion and desire that neither knew they possessed when they had been with other partners. It had only surfaced when they gave in to their mutual desire for each other. When it came down to it they had already shown the ability to stick it out in good times and bad. They had learned that they could overcome devastating situations - even when self inflicted - and become stronger as a result. They had learned to trust each other and then to trust again when the foundations were shaken to the core. They had fallen in love, fought it and then realized that no matter what, they had a bond that could be battered but not broken. Mac smiled as she realized that there was nothing that she wanted more then to have Harm as her best friend for life. That was the first thing Harm’s eyes focused on when he opened them. Mac’s beautiful face and glowing smile directed at him. “You are so beautiful...” “Thank you. You know Harm, you are pretty easy on the eye.” “You think?” Mac shook her head no, and watched a puzzled expression flit across Harm’s face before he could hide it. “I know,” she whispered as she leaned in to give him a kiss. Her velvety soft lips touched his lightly and then moved to glide over his suddenly heated skin. Mac’s hands caressed his face and neck before sliding down his chest to expose more of it to her view. She then nuzzled her face into his neck kissing and tasting him. She became fascinated with his ear. Harm’s hands began lightly caressing her as he enjoyed the sensations she was creating in him. “Harm?” Mac sat up a little, still gazing at his ear. “What happened to your ear - I mean do you know?” “According to my mother, I always slept with that side of my face on the pillow or mattress and the ear would get folded over while I slept and eventually grew that way. My grandmother said it was hereditary and that my father and grandfather each had a crooked ear too.” “You do tend to sleep with that side of your head down...at least from what I can remember...even when you are sitting you tend to turn toward the right instead of the left.” “I guess I always have favored the right in lots of ways,” Harm grinned. “Can we move on? I was really enjoying what you were doing up until this discussion over my ear...” Mac smiled and her lips twitched as she leaned down and began nibbling on his ear again. When her tongue darted out and Harm felt it swirling against his ear, he took action and rolled Mac onto her back and propped himself over her growling, “”My turn Marine...” Harm then proceeded to try some tantalizing moves of his own on the beautiful woman in his arms. 1440 Local North of Union Station Harm and Mac had spent the day making love, although they had fallen asleep for a little while. Harm had showered and dressed while Mac slept a little longer. While she showered and dressed he fixed a meal. As they sat at the table together to eat, Harm reached over and took Mac’s hand. “Watch it Sailor, I’ve got an appetite,” Mac warned. “I’ve noticed,” Harm grinned as he raised his eyebrows and wiggled them. Mac gave him the look - the one where she tips her head, partially rolls her eyes, smiles, and sighs in exasperation. “Have you thought any about what I told you?” Harm asked. “What would that be? We’ve talked a lot about many things in the last few weeks.” “The one about being my best friend for life?” “Oh yeah...it almost sounded like a proposal, but , don’t worry - I didn’t really take it that way,” Mac tried to reassure Harm. “Mac...no...you should have.” “I should have what?” “Are you messing with me Marine?” Harm asked as he caught her upper lip curl just a little. “Maybe a little...” “Okay...no misunderstandings...ready?” Harm asked. When Mac nodded he slid off his chair and onto one knee. “Mac, I love you. You are my best friend. You are the only lover I want. I can’t imagine my life without you and whenever I think about children I might have someday they look at me with your eyes or I see your smile...Will you marry me?” Mac gasped as Harmon Rabb Junior found a way to say the things he hadn’t been able to say for years, even though Mac had always thought that maybe he felt that way. Now she was hearing it for herself with her own ears. At first she could only nod. “Yes? Can you say something here, Mac?” “Yes...yes! I love you, too!” Mac launched herself into his arms, toppling them both onto the floor. Mac started placing kisses all over his face and saying yes after each one. They were both laughing and rolling on the floor when they heard a knock and the door slowly opening. “Harm? Mac? You guys here?” Mattie called out to them as she slowly entered the apartment. Harm and Mac jumped to their feet just as Mattie spotted them on the floor by the table. “Oh...sorry...I didn’t mean...” “Mattie, it’s okay...come here.” Harm held his hand out to his ward encouraging her to come to them. Glancing at Mac and getting her nod of agreement, Harm pulled Mattie to him with one arm while still holding Mac’s hand. “Mattie, I just asked Mac to marry me.” Mattie looked from one to the other as a smile lit up her face. “And?” “I said yes.” Mac told her. Mattie reached for Mac to bring her into the embrace she shared with Harm. “Does anyone else know?” Mattie asked. “Not yet...I just answered him.” “Right before she attacked me,” Harm added to which Mac lightly punched his bicep. “Wow! Are you going to call Chloe?” Mattie asked. “Why not? Mac, shall we do this on speaker phone?” “Sure...although you may want ear plugs,” Mac warned. Chloe’s grandmother answered, “Hello?” “Mrs. Anderson, this is Sarah Mackenzie. Is Chloe home from school yet?” “Oh, hi Sarah. Yes, she’s just coming through the door. How are you dear?” “I’m fine. I have some news for Chloe so you may want to put your earplugs in before I tell her.” “You do sound happy...here she is.” “Mac?” “Hi Chloe...hey, you sitting down?” “No...” “Sit down, okay?” “I’m sitting. Mac, what’s wrong?” “Nothing...” “Then why are you having me sit? And why are you calling me so early?” “Well, Harm and Mattie are here with me...” “Hi Harm. Hi Mattie.” “Hey Chloe.” “Chloe this is so cool!” “What? Come on you guys...what’s going on? Are you all coming for a visit?” Harm and Mac exchanged smiles. “Chloe, we’ll come up sometime, but not right away. There’s too much to do now that we are getting married.” “Oh..what! Married? Did you say you are getting married? Harm? Harm did you ask her?” Mattie and Mac just laughed at Chloe’s exuberance. “I did, Chloe and she said yes,” Harm spoke with a quiet confidence. “Do you have a date or anything yet?” “No...it’s only been about ten, maybe fifteen minutes since I asked.” “Chloe, we’ll keep you posted on the wedding plans, okay?” “This is so cool! I knew you two would eventually figure it out.” “Chloe...” Mac warned. “Wish you’d have filled me in sooner, Chloe,” Harm laughed. EPILOGUE It was a beautiful April morning in Washington D.C., with cherry blossoms in bloom. The air was filled with their scent. Sarah Mackenzie and Harmon Rabb Junior were to exchanged wedding vows in the chapel garden. Mac was dressed in a simple sleeveless sheath gown with tiny pearls sewn around the scalloped neckline and at the hem. It was white but had a pale metallic gold hue to it. The veil, with it’s gold tint was short and attached to a crown of roses, pearls and cherry blossoms. Her bouquet repeated the creamy white roses, cherry blossoms, and babies breath. She wore a simple pearl drop necklace on a gold chain at her throat. Chloe, Mattie and Harriet were all dressed in shades of pink and carried a simple pink rose with babies breath. Bud, Sergei and Sturgis stood next to Harm in their dress whites. Chaplain Turner stood ready at the alter to join these two fine people in holy matrimony. Admiral AJ Chegwidden, met Mac at the door and escorted her through the garden and gave his permission for her to enter into this union when asked by his friend the Chaplain. He didn’t show how much he was hurt by Meredith’s betrayal and vowed not to let it impact this special day for these two people. After placing Mac’s hand in Harm’s he took his seat and glanced across the aisle at the groom’s mother and step-father. Next to them sat Harm’s grandmother, the feisty Sarah Rabb that Harm gave credit to for keeping him in line and making sure he grew up to be as honorable as the Rabb men before him. She was hopeful that she would see the fourth generation of Rabb’s before she left this world. The Admiral had no doubt that she would be going strong for years to come. Chaplain Turner welcomed the congregation and explained that Sarah and Harmon had asked to exchange vows that they had prepared for each other. He indicated for Harm to begin. “Sarah, when you came into my life I felt an immediate connection to you. I learned to respect you and trust you. We were able to laugh together and cry together. I could talk to you about anything...except us. I was afraid that if I tried to take the best friendship of my life and tried to change it, I would ruin it. I wanted you to be happy and safe and I could put aside my feelings and desires if I knew that was what you had...but so many things kept bringing us to a point where I thought maybe we needed to deal with us. I was so afraid of losing you that I became tongue tied or said the wrong thing. Once again our friendship was tested and once again we found our way back to each other. It was then that I knew that loving you wouldn’t destroy us, but ignoring that love could. There is nothing that we cannot get through together. Today, before God and these witnesses I vow that I will love, trust and respect you as a friend, a partner and a lover for the rest of my life.” Chaplain Turner nodded to Mac then. “Harm, I think I fell in love with you the very first time we met. I tried to convince myself that it was just friendship. I tried to convince myself that your friendship was all I needed. But I knew I wanted a commitment and it didn’t look like you were interested in me that way. I tried to find it with others but even they knew that we were destined to be together. When I dismissed us as something that could never happen I almost destroyed our friendship for good...but again we were there for each other when we were needed. The most beautiful words I ever heard was not ‘I love you,’ although they were beautiful and very special, but instead when I heard you say that you wanted me to be your best friend for life, I knew that you were making a commitment to us. “Harm, today, before God and these witnesses I vow that I will love, trust and respect you as a friend, a partner and a lover for the rest of my life.” “We have heard Harm and Sarah exchange their own vows. Harmon, do you take Sarah as your lawfully wedded wife to have and to hold for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and health, for a long as you both shall live?” “I do.” “Sarah, do you take Harmon as you lawfully wedded husband to have and to hold for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and health, for a long as you both shall live?” “I do.” “May I have the rings please?” requested Chaplain Turner. “Harm and Sarah, please join hands. These rings are an outward symbol of the never ending love and devotion that you have pledged to each other here today. Again, Harmon and Sarah have prepared their own declaration for this ceremony. Harm...” Harm held Mac’s hand and slid the golden wedding band onto her ring finger. “Like this never ending circle, my love and devotion for you will go on for eternity.” As he slid the ring into place, he rubbed his finger across it as if to polish it. Then it was her turn. Sarah slid the gold band onto Harm’s left hand and smiled at him as she declared, “Like this never ending circle, my love and devotion for you will go on for eternity.” “Harmon and Sarah have declared their intent and made their vows to each other before God and us today. With the power invested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.” Harm bent his head and place a kiss on Mac’s lips that looked innocent to the onlookers, but made her go weak in the knees. Harm’s hands at her waist, was the only thing keeping her upright as he raised his head and smiled. Quietly he whispered, “Still think dress whites and gold wings are overrated?” Mac smiled and shook her head no just before Chaplain Turner turned them to the guests and presented Mr. and Mrs. Harmon Rabb Junior for the first time. Harm and Mac then walked arm in arm to toward the chapel where they lined up on the top step to thank their guests as they filed back out to the street. Later they would meet at the restaurant for the reception. They had chosen to have candid shots taken as opposed to the traditional posed wedding photos. The designated photographer had managed to take pictures during the ceremony as well as during preparations before and afterwards. Five hours later, Mac and Harm finally broke free from the gathering and left on their honeymoon. Frank Burnett had offered his house in the Bahamas which Mac and Harm had decided to accept. When they returned they would move into their new house in Falls Church and Mac would begin her work as a judge. At the end of May they would discover that they were to be parents which took some of the sting of having Mattie go back to live with her father. He had promised that Mattie would be able to see them and he appreciated all that they had done for her. She had played an important role in their lives and they would always give her credit for being the link that saved their friendship and paved the path for Harm becoming Mac’s best friend for life. THE END