Title: A Daisy for Harm

Author: Kimberly Knipp

Email: MCK8686@aol.com

Rating: PG

Classification: Story - This is mostly going to be about Harm but there will be some romance brewing.

Spoilers: None

Summary: Disclaimer: JAG, its characters and premise are the exclusive property of Bellasarius Productions, Paramount Television and CBS Entertainment. No monetary gain is appreciated from this endeavor, nor is any copyright infringement intended. This story is created purely for recreational purposes.

Author's Notes: It's taken me a really long time to write this story due to the amount of research it took.

I also had continuing problems with getting a feel for it. In terms of real life, this is a skewered version but the reality is that the process of fostering and adopting children can takes months or years to accomplish and I couldn't have that kind of timeline in the story. However, there are exceptions and I milked them all as much as I could. Yes, there are some things that wouldn't be plausible but it is simply a story and one I hope will entertain you. I want to say a special round of thank-yous to my great friend Michelle. She is an attorney who has dealt with family cases and was invaluable in getting me on my way. She also answered numerous questions for me about the laws. And also to my true-blue friend Audrey who kept me going when I was terribly afraid this was the most boring story ever put to paper! Without the help of these two ladies, I'm very afraid this work would still be sitting on the hard drive here it sat for a year or so before I actually got busy on it.

DEDICATION: I want to dedicate this to a very special friend who will know who she is when she reads this. A few months ago she confided to me the news that she may never be able to have her own children. Adoption is something she has given a lot of thought to. I want her to know I support her in everything she does and to never give up hope. I believe that everything this on earth is under God's guiding hand.

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1640 ZULU - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15

THE SHANE RESIDENCE

1420 LOCKHART ROAD, GEORGETOWN

WASHINGTON DC

"Hello again, Mrs. Shane."

The petite woman who answered the door looked like she was carrying the weight of the world but her smile was warm and welcoming. "It's so good to see you, Commander," Ava Shane greeted.

She closed the door behind Harm and led him into the living room, where she pointed to the couch.

"It's nice to see you again, too, Mrs. Shane," Harm answered, smiling easily.

"Please, call me Ava, and thank you. Daisy is thrilled about having someone to spend time with all by herself."

"I'm looking forward to it myself," Harm returned. "I love kids although my exposure has been limited until recently when I became a godfather. My partner has been a Big Sister for many years and I watched what she's gained from the relationship…" his voice trailed off. "This is going to be every bit as good for me as it will be for Daisy."

"I'm so glad," Ava said softly. "This has been very hard on all of us…" her voice wavered slightly and she drew a slow breath. "Most of the couples who have inquired about the adoptions pass Daisy over because she's older ad carrying a lot of baggage."

"That's a shame," Harm arched one brow. "She's a charmer," he grinned.

"I've done my best by her. I spend as much time as I possibly can with her-we all do-but it's difficult to manage with the other children to care for and now with Robert's cancer. It will do her a world of good to have someone whose only goal is to be with her," Ava sighed. "Are you really committed to what this program is going to require of you, Commander? Daisy has suffered through so much in her young life and I want to protect her from more as much as possible. I have to know that you aren't going to decide in a few days or even weeks that you don't want to do this anymore," Ava went on.

"Ava, I understand your concern. Being a military officer may not matter to some people but to me

it represents who and what I am. I take my commitments very seriously. I wouldn't start something like this without knowing I could stay with it," Harm promised gently. "I'll take very good care of her," he put in. "No matter what lies ahead."

Finally, Ava smiled. "I'm convinced. I took her to lunch today and this was all she talked about," she admitted. "I know this is going to be the best thing for her."

"I hope so," Harm grinned.

"Let me go get her." Ava patted his hand as she rose and went toward the stairs.

Looking around the small house, Harm could feel the years of memories it contained. Though old and worn, it was clean and displayed the warmth and love of the woman who owned it. Pictures of her 'kids' were everywhere, even ones who'd gone onto permanent families or grew old enough to be on their own. His thoughts floated back to the first day he had met with Erin Parker about becoming a mentor. She was enthusiastic and dedicated to her job of helping children, especially those in high-risk or unstable situations. She had been thrilled to have an applicant of Harm's caliber and diversity. Harm had envisioned a young boy much like Chloe that he could build a relationship with. Someone to give him purpose away from work and fill an empty hole that had been steadily growing larger.

"Why are you applying to be a mentor, Commander Rabb?"

Harm stared thoughtfully at Erin Parker. "My partner at work is a Big Sister, has been for years.

She said it gives her a lot of pleasure and satisfaction to be a steadying influence in Chloe's life. For the past year I've been struggling with a feeling of emptiness. My whole life is centered around work, Ms. Parker, and I want something more. I started researching different youth programs because it seemed like a perfect way to… pass something on, I guess. I want to know that something I'm doing away from the Navy matters to someone. Someone who doesn't really care about what I do every day or where I come from. Does that make sense?" he asked, frustrated that he couldn't find the right words.

Erin smiled, her dove gray eyes kind. "It makes perfect sense, Commander, and it's the main reason people volunteer. Many are single like yourself who feel they have something to give but aren't sure how to do it. With the rising tide of adolescent crime and broken homes in our society these days, children need a steadying influence more and more," she explained.

Harm nodded thoughtfully. "That's what I want," he confirmed.

"I've gone over your file extensively and I have a special case I'd like to talk to you about. Ninety-nine percent of the time we would place you with a young boy who is without a regular male influence.

And girls would go with our female volunteers. However, we're currently very short on female volunteers and a new case came across my desk two weeks ago for a little girl. Her name is Daisy and she lives in a group foster home. There are three other children, all up for adoption. Another consequence of today's society is the drive for couples to adopt infants, even going so far as to adopt overseas so Daisy has been passed over repeatedly. Her foster parents are not able to continue because the husband has recently been diagnosed with cancer."

"I'm sorry to hear that," Harm murmured. "What happened to her real parents?"

"We don't know where her mother is. She abandoned Daisy at six months and we haven't heard from her since."

Harm's mouth flattened into a tight line at her last words. "People like that should never even be allowed to have children. There are so many people in this world dying to have children of their own and can't and someone who can tosses theirs away," he stated in disgust.

Erin hid a smile at his words. "I agree, Commander. It takes much more than biology to be a parent."

Her words reminded him of how lucky he'd been to have Frank. "And her father?" he prompted.

"Her father is deceased. He was a corporal in the Air Force, killed during a mission in Bosnia. He was listed on the birth certificate but he had no family so without a DNA test, we can't confirm paternity. It's most likely that Daisy was the result of a one-night stand or something close. Unfortunately, we see all too much of that in the foster-care system. More often the children come from broken or abusive homes. Anyway," she cleared her throat slightly. "Daisy is in desperate need of some steady adult contact beyond that of her foster parents. Mr. and Mrs. Shane have agreed to keep her until the other children are all adopted. If Daisy isn't adopted by then, she'll be moved to another foster home. Someone like you that she can build a relationship with, will be helpful in making any future transitions by giving her some kind of permanence," Erin explained.

"That certainly makes sense. How old is she, Ms. Parker?"

Erin hesitated a split-second. "Four."

"Four?" Harm exclaimed. "And she's already being passed around?"

Erin nodded sadly. "It happens much more than people realize. I could sit here for the rest of the day regaling you with things I've heard and seen. There are so many of them who slip through the cracks - we do the best we can to help them all, but unfortunately, there is never enough of us to go around. I know you were probably expecting to have a boy to do guy type things with but please consider taking Daisy. She's a wonderful child. I'll make you a deal - I'll take you to meet her and the Shanes. After that, if you would rather still have a boy, I'll find one for you ASAP," she promised earnestly.

Harm held up one hand and smiled. "Deal. I would be glad for the chance to meet her, Ms. Parker."

"Great," she beamed. "Can you go right now?"

He laughed at her enthusiasm. "I can. Your car or mine?"

In the end, he rode with Erin to the small suburban neighborhood in Georgetown, not too far from where Mac lived. They pulled up in the drive of a small house. It was older and in need of some upkeep but it was tidy and welcoming.

Erin and Harm walked to the front door and rang the bell. A dark-haired woman around the age of Harm's mother answered the door.

"Hello, Ava," Erin said, smiling gently. "How are you?"

"Just fine, dear. Come in, please," Ava Shane invited.

Harm waited for Erin to go first then followed her into the cool depths of the house.

Ava Shane closed the door behind them and pointed toward the couch. "Would you care for some iced tea? I just made a fresh pitcher." Erin and Harm both nodded. "I'll be right back. Please, have a seat."

Erin made her way into the living room and found a spot on the overstuffed couch while Harm chose to look at the pictures all around the room. He was about halfway through when he felt a tug on his pant leg. Looking down, he saw one of the most beautiful little girls he'd ever seen.

Slowly, he squatted down until he was closer to her level. "Hi," he smiled.

"Hi," she grinned, flashing small white teeth at him. "Are you a policeman?"

Harm chuckled softly. "No, ma'am. I'm in the Navy."

"You mean on the boats?" she asked, her eyes growing wide.

"Sometimes I go out on a boat," he answered. "I work in an office and sometimes I fly."

"In a big plane?" If possible her eyes grew wider.

"I fly in small jets," he told her, trying to think of explaining it in a way she would understand.

"Oh!" she nodded then as if she completely understood. "Like my Daddy did."

"Did your Daddy fly big jets?" Harm asked.

"No. He flied little jets. He was in the 'force."

Harm looked at her for a minute. "The Air Force?" he guessed.

"Yes, silly. That's what I said!" she rolled her cornflower blue eyes.

Harm couldn't help but laugh. "Yes, that's what you said," he agreed.

She planted one hand on his bent knee and leaned forward, her other hand coming up to fiddle with his tie. "What's your name?"

"My name is Harm. What's yours?"

"Harm? You got a funny name like me!" she giggled.

"It's short for Harmon," he told her gently. "It was my Dad's name, too. What is your name?" he prompted.

"It's Daisy." She said it with such drama that Erin laughed, too. "Mama said it was 'cause I'm pretty as a daisy but I think it's yucky. 'Cept there's Daisy Duck and I like her."

"I think Daisy is a lovely name," he murmured, his eyes taking in her long fall of white blond hair and the slightness of her build that left only a warm spot against him. "How old are you?"

"I'm old," she grinned outrageously. "I'm four."

"Gee… that is old," Harm agreed.

This got a laugh from her. "You're silly," she announced, patting his cheek with a small hand. "Did you come to play with me?"

"Today I came to visit. But I'd like to come back and play," Harm told her, making his decision without anymore thought. "Would that be all right?"

"Yep. I gotta go now. Promise you'll come back tomorrow?" she demanded.

Harm mentally went over his schedule. "Promise. I'll come over after work. Deal?" Harm asked, holding out his hand to her.

"Deal," she answered, slapping her small palm against his.

And now here he was after work about to embark on a new adventure with the little girl who had so effortlessly wrapped him around her finger the day before.

"Harm!"

Before Harm could even stand up, Daisy flung herself into his lap, her thin little arms coiled around his neck in her imitation of a bear hug. Harm laughed and hugged her back, surprised by her exuberance.

She pulled back and he helped her back on her tiny feet.

"Aren't you pretty as a picture!" he exclaimed with exaggerated surprise.

Daisy giggled and did a lopsided curtsy. "Auntie Ava helped me make my hair pretty." She leaned forward a bit. "She even ir'nd my dress!" she whispered loudly.

Harm suppressed a chuckle. "Well, you look quite lovely, Miss Daisy. " He rose to his feet and held out his hand. "May I have the pleasure of escorting you to dinner?" he asked.

Daisy made a perfectly straight face and placed her hand in his as formally as any Queen would have. "Of course," she stated.

They ended up at McDonald's, Daisy's favorite place. He talked her into eating before they headed out to the playground. There were three other families with kids in the area. Daisy eyed them for a moment and Harm wondered if she was too shy to go play by herself.

"Want me to push you on the swing?" he offered.

She beamed at the suggested and took off, yanking at his hand. Harm hurried his steps and she let go of him so she could get up on the swing.

"Don't push me too high, 'kay? I might get scared."

"I'll be very careful," he promised.

He pushed her for several minutes and she seemed content not to say anything. She asked to go a little higher and he obliged her. As she swung away from him, she tipped herself back and looked at him upside down. It made her giggle hysterically. She did it again and Harm stuck his tongue out at her. On the third pass he crossed his eyes and wrinkled his nose. And still she laughed, the musical sound stealing inside of him. Finally she told him she was ready to get down. He caught the plastic covered chains and drew her to a halt.

"That was fun," she stated. "You're sooo silly!"

"Think so?" he asked.

"Uh-huh!"

He walked her out to the SUV and buckled her in before going around to his own side. "Would you like to see a movie?"

She looked at him and her eyes grew wide. "Can we really?"

He nodded, knowing it would be a special treat and silently promising himself there would be more movies. Ava had mentioned to him before that money was tight and there weren't many extra luxuries.

"What will we watch?" she asked.

"How about a Disney movie?" he suggested.

"Oh, yes! That's my fav'rite!" she answered, clapping her small hands together.

"Disney it is," he grinned and put the car in gear.

They went to see Monsters, Inc. and Harm found himself laughing almost as much as Daisy. By the end of the movie she was draped over his arm, struggling to keep her eyes open. As the credits rolled, Harm rose to his feet. Daisy didn't make any move to get up and held her arms up to him. Bending, he lifted her easily and settled her against his chest. Daisy held onto his wide shoulders and tucked her head under his chin trustingly.

"'s good movie," she mumbled.

He smiled over her head. "It was a very good movie."

"Are we going home now?" she asked.

"Yes, ma'am. It's almost time for you to be in bed," he murmured.

"'kay."

She was asleep when he got her home and Ava smiled at the sight of the tall Commander carrying the little girl up the front walk.

"Did she have a good time?" Ava whispered.

"I hope so. I did," Harm grinned easily. "Do you want me to carry her to her room?" he offered.

"That's okay, I can take her," Ava returned.

"Tell her I'll see her Friday after work," Harm promised.

"I will. Goodnight, Commander Rabb."

"Goodnight, Ava."

1930 ZULU - SEVERAL WEEKS LATER

JAG HEADQUARTERS

FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

"Hey, sailor."

Harm looked up and smiled as Mac stopped in his doorway. "Mac."

"It's Friday and it feels like we should go out to dinner."

He arched an eyebrow at her. "Dinner? What brought that on?"

She smiled warmly. "We haven't had dinner in a long time and you've been running out of here every night right on time a lot lately." Her face clouded slightly. "Are you seeing someone?" she asked hesitantly. Harm hesitated long enough for her to get a bad feeling. "I'm sorry, I didn't…"

"It's not what you're thinking," he interrupted, rising to come around the desk. Harm put one hand on the doorjamb next to her head and leaned closer. "There isn't any other woman except you," he murmured, looking right into her eyes.

His words seemed to take her by surprise. Mac opened her mouth the say something then closed it when she couldn't find the words.

He smiled slowly and her knees weakened. "I can't believe I made you speechless over that," he teased.

She recovered quickly and thumped his shoulder lightly. "Don't think it's going to be a habit," she warned.

"I have been going someplace after work the past few weeks and if you'll come with me, I'd like to take you there tonight," he asked gently.

She searched his eyes. "It's important to you," she guessed.

He nodded. "One of the most important things I've ever done."

A short while later they pulled up at the house and got out. Mac looked at Harm expectantly, a little confused by where they ended up. He only smiled.

"You'll see in a minute."

He rang the doorbell and it took several minutes for Ava to answer.

"Oh, Harm, I'm so glad you're here!"

It was the first time she'd ever called him by his first name and Harm was alarmed by Ava's haggard appearance. He ushered Mac into the house with him and shut the front door. Ava was twisting her hands together in agitation.

"What's wrong?" he demanded. "Has something happened to Daisy?"

"No, no, it's Robert. He collapsed this afternoon and I had to call for an ambulance. He's in the hospital now."

"Where's Daisy?" Harm asked. The other three children had gone to permanent homes in the past weeks, leaving the little girl by herself.

"In her room. She was with me when he collapsed, poor thing."

Harm's mind spun. "You need to get to the hospital," he told her firmly. "Daisy can come with me."

Ava's eyes widened slightly. "Oh, Commander, I don't know if that's…"

"You don't have any other choice right now. If it'll make you feel better, I'll have Mac stay with us or Daisy can stay with her." As soon as the words left his mouth, Harm realized Ava didn't know yet who Mac was. He introduced them quickly. "Ava, just go. It'll be okay," he promised. "Call me later tonight and let me know how your husband is. I'll pack Daisy enough things for the weekend and then we'll see where we are later. You're place is with your husband," he stated gently. "Daisy will be fine with me for the weekend at least and if necessary, I'll call Erin."

Ava looked like she was about to object again then finally nodded. "Thank you so much. I really do need to be with Robert…" her voice trailed off.

"Go," he ordered gently. "And drive carefully."

"I will," she nodded, her dark hair bobbing. She grabbed a sweater and her purse from the rack behind the door and was gone in a flash.

Mac looked completely bewildered as she touched his arm. "What in the world is going on? Who's Daisy?" she asked.

Harm ran a hand over his hair. "I'm so sorry, Mac. This wasn't at all how I envisioned telling you this. I've been mentoring Daisy for the past few weeks. You know, kind of like how you are with Chloe. Ava and Robert are her foster parents and Robert has cancer."

For the second time in as many hours Mac was speechless. "Mentoring?" she finally managed to get out. "A little girl?"

Harm nodded. "The National Mentorship Program. I didn't say anything before because I didn't know how it was going to turn out. I thought it might not fly," he admitted.

"But…" her voice trailed off slightly. "You could have told me." Her eyes were faintly accusing.

"I know and I'm sorry now that I didn't. I guess I was afraid if it didn't work out… hell, I don't know why I didn't do it. Maybe because I thought you'd think it was a game to me," he admitted.

Mac tilted her head a fraction to the side. "I would never think that. I've watched you with little A.J. and Chloe many times and I'll never forget our case with Darlynn. I'm just surprised. How did you get a little girl and not a boy?"

"It was a special case and I'll tell you all about it later. Let's go get Daisy so we can get out of here."

Mac followed him up a narrow staircase. It was obvious he was no stranger to the house since he knew just where to go. He carefully pushed the door open and called Daisy's name. She was sitting on the bed with a doll staring into space.

"Harm!" she cried when she saw him in the doorway.

She scrambled off the bed as he walked into the room and he bent to catch her as she threw herself at him. Rising, he cradled her against his chest as she started crying. He smoothed one big hand over her silky hair as she clung to his neck.

"Why are you crying, honey?" he asked softly.

"Uncle Bobby got very sick today. Men came and took him away in the am'lance," she said, scrubbing at her eyes.

"I know - that's what Aunt Ava just told me. She left to go see him and you're coming home with me for a day or so. Think that will be okay?" he asked her.

"'kay," she mumbled. Then she caught sight of Mac. "Who's that lady?" she asked in a pseudo whisper.

Harm turned toward Mac and Daisy shifted in his arms, still holding tightly to his neck. "Daisy, this is my partner, Mac. She works with me."

Mac smiled warmly and Daisy eyed her solemnly. "Is she your best friend?" Daisy whispered loudly.

Harm nodded and gave her a small smile. "Yes, she is. She's my best friend in the whole world," he stated, glancing at Mac as he said it.

Mac caught the warmth she saw in his eyes and tucked it away in her heart. "Hi, Daisy," she greeted gently.

From her small, sturdy little body and the fall of white blonde curls to her vivid blue eyes and bow mouth, the child was exquisite. She was studying Mac just as hard, sizing her up as an intruder into the relationship she was building with the big man holding her. Finally, she seemed to relax against Harm.

"Put me down, please," she told him.

Squatting, Harm set her on her feet. She walked over to Mac, who went down on her haunches to meet the little girl's eyes. She reached out one tiny hand and touched Mac's oak leaves. Then she traced a strand of dark hair, her touch as light as a butterfly.

"You're pretty," she murmured.

Mac smiled and fingered one of Daisy's curls. "So are you, sweetie. I'm very glad to meet you," she went on.

"Are you a 'mmander like Harm?"

Mac chuckled softly. "I'm a Lieutenant Colonel, Daisy. I'm in the Marines."

"Oh," Daisy answered sagely. "Harm is in the Navy."

"Yes, he is," Mac agreed.

"Daisy, let's get some things packed for you so we can get out of here. I promise you can talk to Mac all you want later if it's all right with her, okay?" Harm interrupted.

Daisy turned and looked at him over her shoulder. "Okay. I got a suitcase."

It took them only a few minutes to gather all of her stuff and Harm was glad to have Mac there or he would have forgotten half the little girl things that needed to be packed. He bundled both of them into the SUV and headed for the loft.

While he ordered pizza and changed clothes, Mac got Daisy in and out of the shower without getting drenched herself, and into her jammies. Mac changed into one of Harm's sweatsuits and they came out to have dinner with him.

"Hey," he grinned. "There's my two best girls. I thought you were going to stay in the bathroom all night!"

Daisy giggled as Mac helped her into a chair at the table.

"Isn't he silly?" she asked Mac.

Mac met Harm's eyes over Daisy's head. "Yes," she agreed. "He is silly."

It was growing late and Daisy's eyes started to droop halfway through dinner. When they finished, she disappeared into the bedroom and came back with a book and her ragged teddy bear clutched in her arms.

"Will you read me and Mac a story?" she asked Harm.

Mac hid a grin because the little girl looked so earnest. Harm took the book and guided her into the living room. Mac followed behind him and lowered herself to the couch while Harm made himself comfortable in the recliner.

"No, no, you have to sit over here, too, Mac," Daisy stated, glaring at Mac like she should have known that.

"Where, sweetie? You want me to sit in the chair and Harm to sit over here?"

"No, on his lap and then me. You read stories sitting on laps," she told them.

Mac shot a quick glance at Harm who merely grinned smugly at her. Without a word, she stood and went to the chair. Sitting down on Harm's lap, she put her legs over the arm of the chair then held out her hands to pick Daisy up. The little girl sat on Mac's lap facing the same direction and curled trustingly against Harm's chest. He opened the book in front of Daisy and the little girl touched the bookmark.

"This is where Auntie Ava read to me last night," she murmured, her voice low with fatigue.

"This is a good book," Mac put in gently. "I love all of the Winnie the Pooh stories."

"Me, too," Daisy answered, snuggling deeper into Mac's embrace.

Harm looked down at their bent heads, auburn strands mixed with pale blonde and felt his chest tighten. He really had everything in the world right there in his lap. Releasing a slow breath, he began to read.

"So they began going there, and after they had walked a little way Christopher Robin said:

"What do you like doing best in the world, Pooh?"

"Well," said Pooh, "what I like best is -" and then he had to stop and think. Because although eating Honey was a very good thing to do, there was a moment just before you began to eat it, which was better than when you were, but he didn't know what it was called. And then he thought that being with Christopher Robin was a very good thing to do and having Piglet near was a very friendly thing to have; and so, when he thought it all out, he said, "What I like best in the whole world is Me and Piglet going to see You, and You saying, 'What about a little something?' and Me saying, "Well, I shouldn't mind a little something, should you, Piglet', and it being a hummy sort of day outside, and birds singing."

"I like that, too," said Christopher Robin, "but what I like doing best is Nothing."

"How do you do Nothing?" asked Pooh, after he had wondered for a long time.

"Well, it's when people call out at you just as you're going off to do it, What are you going to do, Christopher Robin, and you say, Oh, nothing, and then you go and do it."

"Oh, I see," said Pooh.

"This is a nothing sort of thing that we're doing now."

"Oh, I see," said Pooh again.

"It means just going along, listening to all the things you can't hear, and not bothering."

"Oh!" said Pooh.

"She's asleep."

Mac's soft voice broke in before he could read any further. Harm looked down where Daisy's small head rested under Mac's chin and saw the shadowy feather of lashes on her cheek.

"I would have put her straight to bed if I thought she'd go on the first try," he whispered, grinning.

"Story time is a ritual," Mac assured him.

"Can you get up without waking her?" Harm asked.

"Umm…" Mac shifted slightly and tried to think of the best way to turn herself around on Harm's lap and stand. "You may have to give me a push," she teased.

He gave her a slow wink. "I can handle a push."

Mac gingerly turned and put her feet on the floor. A rush of heat flooded through Harm and he prayed she couldn't feel his body's response to her movement. With her arms wrapped firmly around Daisy, Mac tried to stand up. She didn't have enough momentum and sank right back down on Harm's lap. She heard the barest hint of a chuckle from him and nudged his leg with her foot.

"Once more with feeling," she giggled softly.

"On three," he teased. "One, two… three."

He curved both big hands around the gentle flare of her hips and pushed her up on her feet. She turned, holding Daisy and nudged his leg again.

"Are you coming, too, or are you just going to sit there?"

He shrugged lightly. "You look like you're doing just fine without my help. I'd rather watch you." His tone was light enough but the look in his eyes spoke of something a whole lot more serious.

Mac glanced down at the sleeping child then back at him. "She's beautiful, Harm," she murmured.

Harm's eyes drifted to Daisy. "More than you know," he whispered, almost more to himself than Mac.

"Do you want me to put her down?" he asked.

"Have you ever put a child to bed?" Mac asked lightly.

"No, but it can't be all that hard," he stated optimistically.

She smiled and turned away. "Then come get your first lesson."

In his room, Mac guided him through the motions of tucking Daisy in, making sure she had her favorite bear and kissing her goodnight, even though she was asleep. At Harm's questioning look, Mac shrugged.

"Harriet said it's important because you're still bonding," she whispered.

He nodded as if that made all the sense in the world then bent to press a tender kiss to the little girl's forehead. They went back to the living room and Harm fixed tea before they settled on the couch.

"I know you're dying to know how I came to be mentoring her," he opened dryly. "This isn't how I meant for you to find out."

Mac regarding him thoughtfully. "It was a surprise when you announced it in such a rush today. I'm a little hurt that you didn't tell me you were doing such an important thing. I didn't even know you were thinking about it," she accused faintly.

He sighed helplessly. "It happened fast. I'm not even sure I can explain it to you. Lately, I've been feeling like something is missing. Our lives revolve so much around work and…" his voice trailed off. "I don't know how to explain it. I just felt like I needed something - something I couldn't get anywhere else. I was tooling around on the computer one day and got to the national mentoring website by accident. I started reading some of the stories, thought about you and Chloe and that was that. I didn't want to say anything at first because I didn't know if I could go through with it."

"Why would you think that?" she asked.

"I don't have a lot of experience with children other than little A.J. and I just didn't know what to expect. There was so much emphasis on the website about being a positive influence for these kids."

"Please don't tell me you had doubts about being a positive influence," she frowned.

His gaze was sheepish. "I did," he confirmed. "Doesn't the Admiral always say I walk to my own drummer?"

She laughed softly. "You say that like it's a bad thing and maybe at times it's inappropriate but it's part of who you are. Standing up for what you believe in at any cost is not an attribute many people claim. I think it's a fine influence for a child."

His eyes shone at her soft compliment. "Thank you," he answered, reaching over to squeeze her hand. "Anyway, I just didn't know what would happen and if it didn't work out then I would be the only one disappointed."

"What I really want to know is how you ended up with a little girl. They generally keep boys and girls with the same sex."

"That's what I thought, too, but Daisy was a special case." Briefly he related his first visit with Erin Parker and the subsequent visit at the Shane home. "I was hooked the minute I saw her. It's hard for me to comprehend how easily she was left behind."

"I know that well enough myself," Mac returned softly. "And we saw such abuse with Darlynn. I think it's good you got a little girl. There is a world of difference from little boys," she grinned.

Harm rolled his eyes. "You're telling me. She worries about how pretty she looks when I pick her up for our 'dates' and she can't get dirty so I have to tell her ahead of time to wear play clothes. Geez, she's only four!"

Mac laughed. "And then she'll be thirteen and eyeing the boys and wanting to wear makeup."

He groaned at the picture that invoked. "I hope I'm still around when she hits thirteen! She'll be wearing a gunny sack," he grumbled.

"I have a feeling even a gunny sack won't be able to hide how lovely she's going to be." She murmured sympathetically. "I'm going to bed, sailor-boy. Are you sure you don't want me to take the couch?" she offered.

"Nah, I'll be fine. You sleep in there with her."

Harm jerked out of a sound sleep, not sure at first what woke him. Heart pounding furiously, he sat up and strained his ears. He could hear crying. Jumping up, he ran toward the bedroom and saw Mac cradling a sobbing Daisy in her lap. She held up her hand to ward him off as soon as she saw him coming.

"It was just a bad dream, sweetie. Shh…" she whispered, stroking Daisy's long curls. "Go back to sleep now."

Daisy shifted her head beneath Mac's chin and Harm saw her rub her eyes with her tiny fists. "I was 'lone," she sniffed.

"In your dream?" Mac asked gently, shifting back a bit to look down at her.

Daisy nodded slightly. "I coun't find Auntie Ava or Uncle Robert or you an' Harm. It was dark an' I was scared."

Mac hugged the little girl tightly and pressed a kiss to her silky hair. "You aren't alone, honey, never," she whispered fervently. "Harm's right here and so am I and you'll see Aunt Ava and Uncle Robert very soon."

From the shadows, Harm watched his partner soothe away the remnants of the nightmare. The scene suited her more perfectly than any he'd ever seen.

"Where's Harm?" Daisy demanded, twisting in Mac's arms to look for him.

Harm stepped forward in the darkness to the foot of the bed. "I'm right here."

Daisy scrambled out of Mac's lap and launched herself at Harm, who caught her up against his chest and hugged her close.

"I had a nigh'mare," she whispered against his neck.

"I heard you crying," he murmured, smoothing his hand down her back.

He walked to the side of the bed and carefully put her down. "Think you can go back to sleep now?" he asked softly.

"Will you stay with me 'til I go to sleep?"

"Sure I will. I can't let my best girl be afraid," he teased gently, touching her check. "Slide over next to Mac and make room for me."

Daisy giggled and scooted over to Mac. Harm met her eyes over Daisy's head as he settled himself on the other side of the bed. A wealth of emotion stretched between them, warming the room and weaving them closer. It was amazing what a short time with a small child could do.

2310 ZULU - THURSDAY

THE SHANE RESIDENCE

There was a car in the drive Harm didn't recognize and he parked on the street so he wouldn't block it in. As he started up the drive, he could hear Daisy screaming from inside the house. Afraid she might be hurt, he ran to the front door and knocked sharply. There was no answer but he could still hear Daisy screaming so he went in on his own. Every protective instinct he had went into overdrive when he saw a man struggling with Daisy, who was in turn holding on to Ava's legs with a death grip. Harm rushed toward them.

"What are you doing?" he demanded. "Let go of her."

Startled by an unexpected voice, the man loosened his grip on Daisy and spun to face Harm. "Who are you?"

"Harm!"

Daisy plastered herself against his legs, holding on for all she was worth. Glaring at the shorter man, Harm hauled Daisy up into his arms.

"Commander Harmon Rabb. I'm a friend of the family. Who are you?" Harm demanded again.

"Dave Frankey. I'm from Child Protective Services and I'm hear to relocate this child to a new home," the man stated, gathering his composure.

"A new home? Why? Where's Erin Parker?"

"She's on vacation and no matter what this man says, I refuse to believe she would authorize this without letting us know first!" Ava cut in angrily from the other side of the room.

Harm took in her distraught face before turning back to stare down the CPS agent. Calmly, he smoothed a hand over Daisy's hair and turned to Ava.

"Honey, go with Aunt Ava for a few minutes, okay? I want to talk to Mr. Frankey."

Daisy sniffed. "'kay," she said and easily fell into Ava's arms.

When they were gone from the room, Harm stepped toe-to-toe with the man and felt absurdly pleased when the stuffed shirt took a step back in nervousness.

"No one here has requested that Daisy be relocated and I agree with Mrs. Shane that Erin Parker would have forewarned us. That little girl has been through quite enough in her short life and I won't have you causing her any more grief. I want to see proof that Ms. Parker arranged for a move."

"Now, look here," Frankey began. "I don't have to prove anything to you, Mr. Rabb. You aren't even her foster parent. We feel a move is in the best interest of the child because of Mr. Shane's deteriorating health. I am acting on Ms. Parker's behalf while she is away on vacation."

"That 'child' has a name so why don't you use it," Harm snapped. "I'm not letting you take her out of here, Mr. Frankey, and if you have a problem with that, then you and I can go visit your superiors right now and hash it out."

"I could have you arrested for this!" Frankey threatened.

"Go ahead and try it. I'd like to see you explain away the scene I walked in on. It sure looked to me like you were manhandling Daisy."

"That's absurd! Fine, she can stay here but you better believe this isn't over!"

"I'll look forward to your next visit." Harm smiled grimly.

As soon as the front door closed behind the man, Harm called for Ava. She came back in and handed Daisy to him. Harm lowered his tall frame to the couch and settled Daisy on his knee. She was clutching her teddy in one arm and held a cold washcloth in the other. Without a word, Harm took it and gently bathed her flushed face.

"Do I hafta go away?" she asked in a small voice.

"Not if I can help it," Harm answered calmly, keeping his anger at bay for her sake. He looked up as Ava sat down. "This was the first you heard about it?"

She nodded. "He showed up at the door and told me they were moving her to a new home because it would be too difficult for me to take care of her. We've been managing just fine with Robert being sick and I would never have them move her unless it was absolutely the last straw!" she stated, still angry by the man's unexpected visit.

"Do you know when Erin is due back?" he asked.

"Next week, I believe she said. Can he really take Daisy away?"

"I suppose he could but he won't get her without a fight."

"I din't want to go with that man," Daisy interrupted. "He was tryin' to make me."

"We'll get this all straightened out," Harm promised, smoothing her hair down.

"Harm," Ava murmured, drawing his attention back to her. "Have you ever thought about…" Ava nodded toward Daisy and let the sentence trail off.

Harm looked at Daisy then back at Ava. "Briefly. I didn't think they would allow someone like me. I could be called to duty at a moment's notice, I'm single and I work all day."

Ava's kind eyes looked over the loving way the big man was holding the little girl and she smiled. "You're resourceful, Commander, I bet you could figure out a way."

"Would it be easier for you?" Harm asked quietly.

"It breaks my heart to admit it but, yes, it would. I really need to be spending more time with Robert."

Harm looked back down at Daisy, who was playing with his tie. She glanced up and beamed her angelic smile at him. Then he looked back at Ava. "Maybe there is a way," he murmured.

The phone rang and Ava got up to answer it. Harm watched sharply as she talked, noting the relieved look she took on. When she hung up, she was smiling.

"That was Erin's boss. She ordered a stop to any changes until Erin comes back. She'll have her call me then and we'll see where things stand."

Harm nodded. "That gives me a few days to work out a solution."

0010 ZULU - SUNDAY NIGHT

HARM'S APARTMENT

NORTH OF UNION STATION

"I would have loved to see the look on his face when you were staring him down!"

Harm laughed, looking back on Dave Frankey's visit as he related it to Mac. "I wanted to take a swing at him so bad I could taste it."

"At least you got them to wait until Erin gets back."

Harm nodded. "Yeah, I'm glad. I don't think she'll move Daisy, although, it's getting harder and harder on Ava and Robert to care for her. Ava is torn between Daisy and being with her husband. She…" he paused, unsure of how to proceed.

"She what?" Mac prompted.

"She asked if I had thought about applying to be a foster parent and taking over Daisy's care."

"Really?" Mac asked incredulously. "Are you considering it?"

"Actually, I am," he answered slowly, meeting her eyes.

Mac sat back in her chair and studied him. "It's a big responsibility. What would you do with her during the day or if you're called out on duty?"

"I've done nothing but think about this since Ava brought it up on Thursday. Mac, I don't really want to be a foster parent where there's a possibility of them taking Daisy without a moment's notice. I can't put that kind of emotional commitment forth only to lose her." He leaned across the table and tenderly picked up Mac's hand. Holding it in his own, he studied her slender fingers for a moment. Then he looked up at Mac, hitting her with the full impact of his gaze. "I want to adopt her."

To her credit, she didn't fall over dead from the announcement like he thought she might. But she didn't answer right away, either, just looked at him instead for several long minutes. "Do you have an idea what would be involved? Have you talked to anyone else about this?"

"No, I've just spent the whole weekend thinking about it. I have an appointment to go see Erin on Tuesday. I think she'll be able to tell me what I'll need to do. You didn't react the way I thought you might. What do you think about all this?" he asked.

"Me?" she looked surprised. "I'm not the one who has to make the decision."

"No, but you're the other most important person in my life. Do you think I could be a Dad to Daisy?"

Mac smiled softly at his question. "I think you would be a very good Dad to any child, Harm." His words about her being important caught her off guard and she wondered exactly what he was getting at. "I guess it would depend on what Daisy wants, too. Does she ever talk about her mother?"

Harm shook his head slowly. "She doesn't remember much about either parent, just bits and pieces.

One day when she's older I imagine she'll want to know the whole story about how she came into the

CPS system."

Mac was quiet for a moment. "This seems very sudden, even for someone like you who is prone to acting on impulse." She held up a hand when he started to speak. "I meant that in a good way. Making decisions on the fly is another piece of who you are. How long have you been mentoring Daisy?"

"A little over a month."

"How long did you think about becoming a mentor?"

"About a week. I looked at several volunteer options first because I thought it might be a good outlet for me."

"You've never talked much about having a family of your own. I know how much you love little A.J. and that you take being his Godfather very seriously but having a child of your own is so much different. Have you thought about attending some single parent groups? Or what this will do to the lifestyle you lead now? Have you talked to the Admiral? Does he even know you're mentoring?"

"Whoa!" Harm grinned, holding his hands to stop her flow of words. He leaned forward slightly and laced his fingers together. "Tough questions, Mac. I thought you'd be happy for me but instead you seem to be looking for a reason to dissuade me from adopting Daisy."

Her expression softened even more and she immediately rose to come around the table to his side.

Bending slightly, she wrapped her arms around his shoulders and hugged him. Harm's automatically returned the embrace, curving his arms around her tiny waist.

"I am very happy for you," she murmured. "I'm just worried and that's because of what you mean to me. I don't want to see you hurt by all of this because I know how attached you've gotten to Daisy. And it's clear to anyone watching that she adores you."

She pulled back enough to look down at him. She studied him for a long moment, her eyes tracing the line of his brow, the tiny lines that fanned from the corners of his eyes, the line of his nose and finally, the wide, mobile mouth that smiled so easily at her. Her gaze flicked back to his and emotion darkened his blue-green stare. His hands tightened on her hips.

"What are you thinking?" The husky growl sent a shiver racing down her spine.

Instead of answering, Mac felt herself leaning toward him. Her hands slid up; one at his jaw and one along his throat and she laid her lips on his. The air around them changed slightly and current sparked. Neither one made any moves to deepen the tender kiss. They just rested against each other as if they'd been doing it forever.

Without a word, Harm pulled away and drew Mac down to his lap. She wrapped her arms around his neck and laid her cheek against his silky hair. Suddenly, Harm felt overwhelmed by the desire to have her this close to him forever. Just holding her against him, feeling the beat of her heart under his cheek, made it seem like all his worries would disappear and the world would magically right itself.

Mac smoothed her cheek against his hair and sighed gently. "You know I'll support any decision you make. I guess I'm just trying to protect you but in the end only you'll know what's best."

Harm moved back, forcing her to look at him. "Do you think I can raise her?"

She smiled but there was a touch of sadness in the gesture. "I'm not the one you need to be asking. I think you can do anything in the world you set your mind to, Harm. Do you think you can raise her? And are you ready to make this kind of commitment?" There was something else in her words then and he realized she wasn't just talking about Daisy anymore.

"Are you saying you don't think I can?" he asked softly, really afraid for once in their history of what she would say.

"No, that's not what I'm saying. I know you have it in you, Harm, but I've watched you draw yourself back from other types of emotional commitments. Granted, Daisy's demands aren't going to be the same as that of a wife or girlfriend but they'll be just as strong. I think you should talk to the Admiral and to Erin Parker about adoption proceedings then go from there."

1530 ZULU - TUESDAY

CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES

WASHINGTON D.C.

"So, what brings you to see me, Commander Rabb?"

"How was your vacation?" Harm asked with a smile as he sat facing Erin.

"Too short," she grinned. "But I'm glad to be back, as well."

"Have you had a chance to look into Frankey trying to relocate Daisy?"

"Yes," she stated flatly. "He was acting on his own accord, not mine, and you can believe I gave him hell for it. I don't know why he even got into this business. It can't be for the money and he doesn't seem to have any patience for children," she growled. "Daisy will stay with Ava unless the situation somehow becomes detrimental to Daisy's well-being or Ava is forced to request a move."

"That's kind of why I'm here to talk to you."

"Oh?" she arched one brow and leaned forward slightly.

"I want to know what it would take to adopt Daisy."

To her credit, Erin reacted much as Mac had. She didn't fall over in her chair from shock but he could tell that she was caught off guard by his announcement. "Wow, that wasn't what I was expecting. You've only been a mentor for a few weeks, Harm. Adopting a child for full time responsibility is a horse of a different color. Have you thought about this?"

Harm rolled his eyes. "Why does everyone keep asking me that? Of course, I've thought about it. Do I have irresponsible written on my forehead?"

She gave him a small smile. "Not at all. It's just a very big step for such a short amount of time. And there would be a lot involved. Starting with the fact that Daisy's mother is still her legal guardian. Either she or the courts would have to terminate her rights in or for Daisy to be adopted. Fortunately, she's been gone long enough to lose her chance at reunification."

"So what happens to Daisy then? A lifetime of foster homes?" Harm demanded.

Erin nodded. "Sadly, yes. Until she's old enough to head out on her own."

"Can't you find her mother?" he asked.

"We tried when Daisy first came into our system but had no luck. She's been in Robert and Ava's care this entire time and no one has ever inquired about adoption. If you make a formal application to adopt her, then we'll conduct another search for her mother. It can take a year or longer for such a process."

"What about fostering her in the meantime? Can I apply for that?" Harm questioned.

"You could. Many people are granted temporary custody while adoptions are being processed."

"What do I need to do?" Erin eyed him for a long moment and Harm felt a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. "You don't think I'm serious, do you?" he asked.

Erin shook her head. "It's not that at all. I can tell you're serious. I just wonder if you're prepared for such a step. I reviewed your background file when you applied as a mentor, Harm. You have an extensive career, your job can take you away at a moment's notice and from all accounts, you're somewhat of a daredevil. Are you ready and able to provide all that a small child will need?"

Stung, Harm sat back in his chair. "You make me sound irresponsible."

"No, I don't think you're irresponsible. Frankly, I find you to be very honorable and well respected. My job is to do the very best for these children and that means I'll pick apart every aspect of your life if I have to. The courts will do the same thing if you apply to adopt. We run very thorough checks, there are home visits, counseling sessions, weeks of training - I don't think you have any idea the extent of what you'll have to do. But aside from all that, it's very clear from what I've seen and what Ava and Daisy have both said, that Daisy is crazy about you. You're all she talks about and that is the most important thing. For someone with very limited time around small kids, you're a natural with her and it shows." She opened a file drawer to her right and pulled out a packet she handed across the desk to him. "Take this with you and read through it carefully. Everything about becoming a foster and/or adoptive parent is in it. There's also a list of groups that meet regularly where you can go and listen to others who have been in your shoes. Make a list of pros and cons that would make or break your application. Most of all, ask yourself again, Harm, why you want to do this. Make sure it's for the right reasons and not a sense of obligation."

Harm studied the front of the envelope then he looked back to the woman behind the desk. "Thank you," he murmured. "I know you're only trying to help and I appreciate it."

She smiled warmly. "I really would like to see you get her, Harm. I think you have the qualities to make a fine parent, whether you see them in yourself or not. But this won't be easy and I just want you to be prepared. Why don't you come back and see me next Tuesday at this same time? That gives you a week to explore the options and make a final decision."

He gave her a small smile then. "Deal. I'll see you in a week."

1500 ZULU - THURSDAY

JAG HEADQUARTERS

FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

"You can go right in, Commander."

"Thanks, Tiner," Harm murmured as he pushed open Admiral's Chegwidden's door.

"At ease, Commander. Have a seat."

"Yes, sir. I need to talk to you about something very important."

A.J. picked up on the undercurrent in the words and straightened in his seat. He removed his glasses and set them aside along with the folder then he turned his full gaze to Harm. "I'm listening."

Taking a deep breath, Harm slowly began to tell his superior about mentoring Daisy. The older man listened intently without interruption as Harm struggled to find all the right words.

"I don't know how to explain how I've changed," he stated quietly. "Before joining the program and taking on Daisy, I felt like a loose cannon. I have no life outside of my career. Maybe it's because I'm getting older," he shrugged negligently. "And maybe it's just a desire for something more. I never used to think much about settling down and having a family. For years I've had so much going on - flying, the crash, changing careers, making a name for myself here. You've known me a long time, sir, you know what the past few years have been like."

One corner of A.J. mouth lifted. "Like a roller coaster."

Harm shot him a quick grin. "More or less. Things are calm now and I'm at a different place in my life. Since the crash and all the things that accompanied it, I've been doing some serious thinking about where I'm headed. All I found was emptiness and I didn't like it. The things that drove me for so long - flying and my Dad - are settled. And now I realize just how little exists in my life because I pushed everything away in my pursuit of those two obsessions."

A.J. glanced down at his crossed hands pursed his lips thoughtfully. "You're a lot farther ahead then most in the fact that can distinguish that," he said gently. "I know you didn't recognize what it was doing to you at the time. For years I've watched you hide yourself behind carefully constructed walls. Outside you appear happy enough and you're always the first to pitch in or crack a joke but it's all smoke and mirrors. Little by little, I've watched you open up. It just took the right people around you providing unquestionable support and friendship."

Harm was more than surprised by A.J.'s astuteness. Then he smiled slightly and shook his head. "You've always been good at observation."

A.J. grinned. "That's one way of putting it."

Harm sobered and leaned forward, putting his hands on the front edge of A.J.'s desk. "I want to adopt Daisy, Admiral."

A.J. lifted one eyebrow in surprise. "That's a tremendous step, Harm. I assume you've thought about all it would entail?"

Harm nodded. "Yes and I talked to her caseworker, Erin Parker. She gave me a huge packet of information on foster and adoption processes. I also have a group meeting to attend tomorrow night with other people who have adopted or are foster parents. She said it would give me some insight."

"That's a good idea," A.J. agreed. "And you've talked about it with Mac?"

Now it was Harm's turn to be surprised. "Briefly."

"Don't look so surprised, Commander. I'm quite aware of the situation between you and Mac. I see a lot more than you think."

"But you… haven't said anything," Harm faltered.

"I haven't needed to. You've both always conducted yourselves with the utmost professionalism here in the office and you're in the same chain of command. I am also aware that things have changed between you since you were in Afghanistan. Apparently for the better and all I can really say is it's about damn time."

Now Harm was really surprised. He rubbed a hand over his face and chuckled. "I thought we were more discreet than that."

A.J. leaned back in his chair and flashed a quick grin. "You've been perfectly discreet - it's just apparent to those of us who know you best," he stated matter-of-factly. "You know Bud and Harriet and you and Mac are the closest thing to a family I have."

"Yes, sir," Harm answered quietly. "I have talked to Mac about it. She wanted to make sure I was doing this for the right reasons and she told me to talk to you because it will have some bearing on work."

"You can't run off around the globe at a moment's notice with a child," A.J. remarked. "I've allowed you to take an active part in investigations but as a senior officer, you should really be taking on more responsibility here and leaving the field work to the junior officers. If you're really serious about adopting Daisy, I can change your duties."

Harm stared at the other man like he'd never seen him before. "Just like that? You aren't going to try and talk me out of it?" he asked in disbelief.

"I would if I thought it would be a detriment to your career, Harm, but it won't. I can tell by the way you're talking that you've put a great deal of thought into this and you sometimes act impulsively without considering the consequences, I know this isn't one of those times. I just hope you've considered all the ramifications."

Harm sighed and looked down at his hands. "I'll have to make a lot of changes, starting with a new place to live. She has to have her own room."

A.J. tilted his head. "Yes, and room to play."

Harm looked up suddenly, his eyes alight with something A.J. had never seen. "I want Daisy, Admiral, more than I could ever express. I don't know why now or why this child - I just know I want to raise her. I'm prepared to do whatever they tell me I have to do," he stated emphatically.

A.J. simply smiled. "I wouldn't expect any less from you, Rabb."

0010 ZULU - LATER THAT NIGHT

MAC'S APARTMENT

GEORGETOWN

"This looks great, Mac."

She smiled as she took her seat across the table from him. "I love fresh fish," she answered.

"Me, too."

They started on their dinner in silence, just enjoying each other's company. Mac knew he needed to talk to her but she would let him get to it in his own time. She didn't have to wait long.

"I had a talk with the Admiral this afternoon," he began.

"I know," she answered softly. "You were in there when I came back from court."

"He continually surprises me," Harm grinned.

Mac's eyes lit up. "How so?"

"He didn't try to talk me out of it and said it wouldn't affect work." Harm told her about his talk with the Admiral, including what the older man said about the two of them.

Mac blushed slightly and her eyes twinkled at him. "So much for trying to hide it," she teased.

Harm reached across the table and laid his big hand over hers. "I don't want to hide it anymore," he murmured.

Her expression was serious as she turned her hand over to link their fingers. "You really have changed your way of thinking," she stated finally.

He simply nodded. "I went to see Erin and she gave me all the information about adopting. And I've talked to the Admiral. Now I want to talk to you. You're the most important person in my life and I want to know how you feel about all this."

Mac looked down at their joined hands and sighed. "Harm, it really isn't up to me," she answered.

"How can you say that?" he asked. "You're my best friend," he stated firmly.

For an instant Mac felt tears mist her eyes. She squeezed his hand gently and blinked to clear her vision.

"I didn't say that to upset you," he murmured.

She managed a smile. "You didn't. You've just never been very vocal about your own feelings."

"I can't go back and fix the things from before," he said. "I can only go from here. Like I told the Admiral this afternoon, when I no longer had the search for my Dad or the dream that I would someday fly again, I was left with nothing. All those years I forced everything and everyone else away and in the end there was just a big hole."

"How can you feel that way?" she asked. "Look at all you've accomplished. You've worked very hard to get where you are," she admonished.

He snorted. "I worked hard because I always felt like I needed to prove something."

"And you did. You finally found out what happened to your Dad and you gave up everything you worked so hard for at JAG to give flying one more chance," she went on.

"But to what end? Don't get me wrong - I love the Navy and I wouldn't trade my service career but I have to ask myself now if I pushed so hard because I felt I owed it to my Dad. I don't know what's happened to me in the past few months. I started to see things differently after the crash. Maybe it was the combination of all that was going on. Whatever the reason, I've got my eyes open now."

Mac rose and came around the table, pulling another chair close to his so she could sit in front of him. She reached out and Harm grasped her hand, resting it on his thigh.

"Daisy is a beautiful little girl, Harm. She adores you and I know you have it in you to be an excellent father. If this is what you really want then I know you have the determination to see it through. I'll help you and we'll do it together," she promised.

Harm leaned forward and rested his forehead against hers, drawing a slow breath. "Sometimes, I don't know what I would do without you."

Mac laughed softly, the sound soothing him. "You'd be bored."

He laughed then, too. "You got that right, Jarhead." He lifted his head and his expression turned serious. "Wanting to move forward with you has nothing to do with wanting Daisy. You know that, don't you?"

Her dark eyes were clear. "Yes, I know that. I trust you," she stated simply.

His eyes reflected how much her words meant to him.

"Now," she spoke again, brightening her tone. "Didn't you say Erin gave you a bunch of information? Want to show it to me?"

"There's a quiz here for me to take." Harm picked up a pen and studied the form.

"What kind of questions?" Mac asked, leaning closer to peer at the quiz. "Question number one; why do I want to adopt?" she read aloud.

Harm studied the paper pensively. "Because Daisy is the sweetest, brightest little girl I've ever met and I've fallen quite in love with her." His eyes took on a distant glow. "She's remarkably funny for as young as she is and sure can wrap me around her little finger. I know when she gets older the boys will be lining up around the block. I want to be there as she grows up, watch her change and mature. Most of all I just want to love and protect her. I want to be her Dad so she won't ever have to know what it's like to grow up without one."

Harm was so lost in his own thoughts that he didn't notice when Mac took the paper from him and started writing down what he was saying. When he stopped talking and refocused, he looked into her expectant face and flushed.

"Guess I got a little carried away," he muttered.

She smiled. "On the contrary, I think this is exactly what you need to do. Next question. On a scale of one to ten, how badly do you want to adopt?"

"Ten," he answered immediately.

She grinned and wrote the answer in. "Who is the driver of wanting this adoption? Will it cause a conflict?"

Harm read over her shoulder at the choices listed. "It's A - me. And question four is no for conflict. Five is a no-brainer since I already have a child - Daisy - but you can write on there that if I didn't, age wouldn't be a factor for me."

Mac filled in all three questions and shifted the page up higher on the book she was using as a table. "Then you would be firm on the age," she mumbled as she answered number six. "And now comes the hard part. Which of the following disabilities would you be willing to consider in an adoptive child?" She looked at him expectantly.

Harm sighed and met her eyes. "You know as well as I do that even biological parents can turn their backs on their children, even for reasons they can't help like deformities or handicaps. It would be easy to take a child who was perfectly healthy so there wouldn't be any extra work involved but if you love someone, it wouldn't be work. Isn't that what we learned with Bud's leg?

Mac nodded slowly. "And Darlynn. She had a lot of emotional scars and required a lot of love and patience."

"If I had to make a choice to give a child a good, stable home and unconditional love, I don't think I could let any of these things stand in the way," Harm whispered.

Mac turned her head slightly and pressed her lips to the lean hollow of his cheek. "That's just one of the things that makes you the man you are."

He cleared his throat slightly to dispel the tension and looked back at the questionnaire. "The answer to number eight is any race, nine is either gender and ten is yes for twins. Eleven doesn't really apply because I'm not married but I can provide a stable environment." He read over the next question while Mac finished writing in his answers. "On twelve, the people I would tell are you, the Admiral, Bud, Harriet, Sturgis and Mom and Frank. And all of you are completely supportive," he stated with certainty.

"Just like you would be if the tables were turned," she commented.

"My level of openness with the birth parents would depend on the child and the circumstances of her adoption. In Daisy's specific case, we have no father to deal with and I wouldn't let her mother within fifty feet of her - if she ever even showed up again," he stated firmly. "But I guess we really shouldn't write that down. I would have to meet with her first before I let her see Daisy and I certainly wouldn't let them spend time alone without me under current circumstances. I guess the State might also want to be involved there because she abandoned her child."

Mac wrote his words under number thirteen and moved the tip of pencil to the next question. "Would you be willing to comply with certain birth family requests such as name, religion or schooling?

"I would have to consider what they were asking first if this were any other child but, again, Daisy has no birth parent present so the decision would be up to me." He scanned the next questions. "I would be willing to go to any state but Daisy is here already, I'll take off however much leave I need to before, during and after the adoption, money is no option and it wouldn't be an economic hardship if that's what it takes for me to get her."

Mac went on writing and Harm studied her bent head. "You're doing fine," she murmured, without looking up. Honesty is the only way to go."

He dropped a light kiss on the top of her head and hugged her against his side as they continued on. "Number nineteen - I want to tell her from the beginning that she's adopted, twenty - I would support her all I could if she really wanted to take a shot at finding her mother and twenty-one doesn't apply either because I'm not doing a dry run."

"Will you change your workload outside the house?" Mac read off the next one.

"I'll be slightly changing the scope of my duties so I won't be traveling much and sticking more to a regular workday," Harm answered.

"Now here comes a toughie. What do you feel you can contribute to a child?"

Harm sighed and looked up at the ceiling for a moment. "I have a lot to offer Daisy. A stable environment, the benefit of being around all of you, a chance to travel and expand her horizons…" his voice trailed off. "Most of all I can love her. I know what it's like firsthand to lose a parent so I know what type of feelings she'll experience as she gets older."

Knowing him as well as she did, Mac didn't have to say anything. She simply put his answer down and read number twenty-four to him.

"I would be willing to compromise on anything if it were the best thing for Daisy. Of course, I would want the best schools and I'll make sure she has regular discipline so she grows up knowing right from wrong. She'll have my religion - Methodist - since I don't know what hers is. I'm not very good at taking myself but once I have her, I think it would be wise to find a good church to join. I want her to understand God and her faith. As she gets older, it will be her decision whether or not she stays with it but at least I can give her the foundation. And the answer to the next question is definitely yes. I couldn't love her more if she were my biological child."

Mac chuckled when she read the next question and glanced up at him. "Do you want to keep trying the infertility treatments?"

"Ha ha." Harm answered dryly. "I don't think that will be necessary."

She shrugged lightly. "Just checking," she teased. "The answer to twenty-seven would be no because you aren't adopting as a last resort or because you have to."

Harm peered over her shoulder. "I don't think there is an 'ideal' adoption situation. Unless their definition of ideal is one that goes off without a hitch. I imagine there are some like that. Next question - ideally, I don't know how many children I want. I want to get married one of these days and then I'll just have to see. I do want more kids but it will depend on what my wife wants."

And those were the words that caused Mac's hand to still just for an instant. She dared a glance at him and the look in his eyes made her stomach do a slow somersault. "She'll probably want children of her own," she stated slowly, hearing a slight tremor in her own voice. "And you'll want to marry a woman who will treat Daisy just like her own and not an outsider," she went on.

Harm watched the tip of her tongue slip out to moisten her lips and his heart thumped painfully. "That's important," he nodded. "That she accepts Daisy and I as a package deal."

"I'm sure the woman you choose won't have a problem with it," Mac returned with a calmness she didn't feel inside when more than anything, she wanted to be the woman they were talking about.

Forcing his eyes away from her and his mind away from a situation growing too intense, Harm looked back to the paper. "Last question. I'll wait as long as I have to until they agree to let me adopt Daisy. I'll still be her mentor and Erin said I can also apply for temporary foster status while they process the adoption."

"That's it," Mac stated, putting the paper aside and picking up the next one. "What's this about group meetings?"

"Erin suggested I go to a support group meeting at least once and talk to some other people who have been in my shoes."

"Did she sound positive about your chances?"

"As positive as she could, I guess. I looked through some of this information already and there's a whole piece about military adoptions. It says they're the hardest and that the adoptive parents really have to want it. However, it does say social workers are starting to take a better look at military families as the list of waiting children outgrows the list of adoptive parents."

"Our situation is a little different," Mac commented. "We don't change duty stations like enlisted or junior personnel. "

"Let's hope they see it the same way," he sighed.

"Harm?"

"Hmm?" he turned his head to smile at her.

"Can I go with you to the support group meeting?"

"You really want to go?" He seemed surprised.

"If it's all right with you."

He reached out and curved his hand around the side of her face, his fingers sliding into her hair. Mac's breath caught slightly in her throat as he leaned toward her. He hesitated a mere inch away, his breath warm against her lips. The lazy tide of desire flowed between them, swirling closer and closer to the surface with each second that ticked by.

"It's more than all right with me," he breathed against her mouth.

He felt more than saw her smile and then he closed the remaining space and just barely joined their lips. Then he smiled back at her, so close he could see himself in her eyes.

"It's very right," he whispered.

1800 ZULU

THE BURNETT RESIDENT

LA JOLLA, CA

"Oh, my, God, Harm! It's so good to see you, honey! Why didn't you tell us you were coming?"

Harm found himself in his mother's warm embrace and he laughed at her surprised questions. Almost lifting her off her feet, he hugged her back tightly. Pulling back, he kissed her cheek and gripped her hands in his.

"You get prettier every time I see you," he grinned.

Trish laughed musically and then hugged him again. "And you get more charming," she teased.

"Good to see you, son," Frank put in, stepping around his wife to extend his hand to Harm.

Harm released Trish's hand to accept Frank's.

"What on earth are you doing here, Harm?" Trish asked again.

"I wanted to surprise you and I have some news that I wanted to deliver in person," he returned, following her as she headed towards the kitchen.

Trish stopped abruptly and turned to look at him. "Oh, God, you're getting married," she gasped.

Harm burst out laughing. "No, although you'll be the first to know if that happens. It is just as serious, though. I'm going to adopt a child." The look on his Mom's face was priceless and Harm would have killed for a camera. "It's not that bad," he teased.

"Adopting a child? Harmon Rabb, this isn't something you just decide overnight! Why didn't you say something before or even tell me you were thinking about it?" she scolded, pushing him down into a chair at the kitchen table.

"Actually, it's all happened so fast," he explained, running a hand through his hair. "Do you remember me telling you about becoming a mentor?"

"Yes, but you never did say how that turned out," she answered reproachfully.

"I haven't been keeping in touch like I should," he admitted, responding to the censure in her voice. "And I'm sorry for that. They assigned me to a little girl and somewhere along the way, she's just become the best thing to ever happen to me."

Briefly, Harm told Trish and Frank about Daisy's case and about his growing relationship with her. He also explained the precarious situation the Shanes were in and why Harm was acting so fast.

"Are you sure you've thought this through?" Trish asked.

Harm rolled his eyes. "Everyone keeps asking me that," he grumbled.

"Do you blame them?" she asked gently. "This isn't like deciding to change vehicles or remodel the loft. Speaking of which, you can't live there with a little girl. Have you started looking for a house?"

"Not yet. Mac and I have an appointment with a Realtor next week. And I know this isn't like buying a new car. I really have thought it over. I had long talks with Daisy's social worker, Mac and the Admiral. Now I'm talking to you."

"Sounds to me like you've already made up your mind and I doubt there's anything I can say to change it," she smiled softly and reached out to cover his hand with her own. "You're my son, Harm, and I know you wouldn't do something of this magnitude with really thinking it over. I can tell how committed you are to the idea and if it's really what you want, then you know Frank and I will support you all the way. Just please keep in mind that raising a child is a ton of work and for all the moments of happiness it brings, it will also try your patience. I worry about you getting in over your head since it's hard enough for two parents, let alone one. You're very lucky to have good friends around to help out."

Harm turned his palm up and squeezed her fingers. "Thank you. That means a lot to me and I hope I can count on you for advice, too."

That made her laugh. "That goes without saying but I have a feeling you'll do just fine on your own."

The group meeting went better than Harm ever imagined. He and Mac met several nice couples and even a couple of single parents. All were anxious to share whatever knowledge they had but the most resounding suggestion was that Harm contact Erin about getting his home study underway because it would take the longest.

"This is going to take some time but I promise you I'll work through it as fast as I can," Erin explained, taking Harm's application.

"I know we're looking at a few months," he nodded.

"I'm going to put a rush on your foster application and I think I'll be able to cut a few corners since you're already a mentor. Daisy's situation is unstable and I'd rather not move her anymore than I have to. That means you're going to need a new place to live, pronto, Commander."

Harm smiled at her choice of words. "I'll get on it immediately."

"Even if the judge grants temporary foster care for you, I'll have to make a home visit and be sure everything is in order. You've had a lot of training with the mentor program so I don't expect that will be an obstacle. As for the home study, that's going to require me digging very deeply into your life. I want to make sure you understand that," she stated earnestly.

Harm's expression grew serious. "I read the information about it. Do whatever you have to, Erin. Whatever it takes for me to have Daisy."

She smiled then. "I'm glad you're still as passionate as you were last week."

"I'm not going to change my mind about having her. No matter how long it takes or how many hoops I have to jump through," he stated firmly.

1950 ZULU

HARM'S LOFT

NORTH OF UNION STATION

"You sure you trust me to live here?"

Harm grinned without looking up from the salad he was making. "Hey, I know where you work," he joked.

He brought the bowl to the table where the rest of dinner awaited and the two men sat down to eat.

"So," Sturgis began. "Are you really sure this is what you want to do?"

"Yes," Harm answered without hesitation. "Like I've told everyone else, I don't know how to explain it. Somehow, I just know this is the right thing to do."

Sturgis flashed a quick grin. "You're probably tired of being asked that, aren't you?"

Harm rolled his eyes. "I know everyone means well. It's just that I don't really know how to answer. Do you believe in fate, Sturgis?"

Sturgis put his fork down and laced his fingers together. "I suppose I do. Growing up a Chaplain's son, I was raised to believe in the possibility of miracles. That a higher power guides our lives with a specific plan in mind. Is that what you think is happening to you?"

Harm put his fork down, too, and met Sturgis' gaze. "I'm not sure," he admitted. "Since my crash the night before the wedding, things have slowly been changing for me. I know I didn't realize it at first but I do now."

"Near death experiences have a way of doing that to people - changing their lives," Sturgis remarked.

"And maybe that's what happened to me. It feels like the accident was the first domino and over time, I've watched one domino after another fall, like a chain. Life turned around practically in the blink of an eye once I got out of the hospital. Mic left and when Mac called me that night…"

"The night Renee's father passed away?"

Harm nodded. "She'll never know how hard that night was for me. I asked her to trust me enough to come to me and then I wasn't able to help her. I know her well enough to know what a momentous step it was for her to come to my apartment and then to find Renee there… When she took the TDY it suddenly hit me that I was on the other side of the fence. After all the years we've been together and the times she's wanted me to open up, I was suddenly the one begging for something from her."

Appetite gone now, Harm pushed his plate away and leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. "She was so remote when we talked on the carrier. She asked if I was willing to give up Renee for her and then walked out of the room before I could answer. She made it sound like a competition and I never had any idea she felt that way."

"Maybe she felt like she was second place to Renee that night. It must have been a surprise to her to see Renee here ahead of her," Sturgis commented.

"Maybe she did and I'm sorry for that. What was I supposed to do, Sturgis? A million times I've wished I could go back and change that night. She said she understood but on the carrier I realized she didn't. She thought she wasn't important enough to me to comfort her over Renee."

"I'm sure she doesn't feel that way now," Sturgis said. "It's been a long time and I'm sure Mac doesn't hold it against you. You and Renee did have a history and her father had just died. You wouldn't have been much of a man to turn your back on that."

Harm smiled ruefully. "It didn't seem like it at the time. I felt like I was about a foot tall. But again, it was just one more domino falling. Do you ever feel like you're an outsider watching your own life on a movie screen?"

Sturgis chuckled. "I think we've all felt that way at times."

"I never have," Harm stated. "Not until then and I was suddenly watching my own life spiral out of control. All the things I thought I understood suddenly made no sense. My predictable partner was acting in a very unpredictable way, I was questioning the law I'd practiced for so many years…" his voice trailed off. "It wasn't until Renee came to say goodbye and tell me about Cyrus that I realized I wasn't at all where I wanted to be in my life. That's why things didn't make sense anymore."

"Because they weren't the right things?" Sturgis guessed.

"Yeah, because they weren't the right things. Trying to turn all of this around has been hard," Harm confessed wryly. "Mac didn't believe anything I was telling her and that hurt me because it made me realize even more how much I'd hurt her. "She was ready to marry a man, went more than a year planning it out and in one night it was all gone." Harm looked at Sturgis, eyes blazing. "I knew then it was because she loved me."

Sturgis didn't respond right away to that. He knew Mac did indeed love Harm but it wasn't his place to admit it. "How does she feel about you adopting this little girl?" he asked instead.

"She seems to be fine with it," Harm sighed, rubbing his hand over the back of his head. "She said it was my decision alone. I'll tell you the same thing I told her - it just feels like this is something I have to do. It's as simple as that."

Sturgis smiled and picked up his fork. "Life has a way of working itself out."

It was Friday before Harm's newly acquired Realtor came back with how much Harm qualified for and a list of houses matching the Commander's needs and income.

"Are you sure you don't mind doing this?"

Mac punched him lightly in the arm as they crossed the JAG parking lot. "I wouldn't be going if I minded," she retorted. "You're buying a house - that's a big deal."

"I just know I've been asking a lot of you lately in this quest. I never want you to think I'm taking advantage of you."

Mac waited until he climbed in on the driver's side of the SUV before she answered him. "Friends are allowed to do that sometimes," she answered softly, briefly resting her hand on his arm. "I'm going to miss the loft, though," she grinned.

He chuckled. "Actually, I'm not going to sell it. I've put so much work into it and I could use the extra money rent would bring in."

"You're going to take a renter? That's just another responsibility on top of what you're already doing."

He flashed her a quick grin. "Not if the renter is Sturgis."

She laughed then and nodded. "Well, in that case…" she teased.

Since they left work slightly early, they beat most of the Friday rush hour traffic and pulled up in front of the realtor's office right on time. Harm's agent, Wade Foster, wasted no time in ushering them to his car.

"What made you choose Alexandria, Harm?" he asked as he turned out of the parking lot.

"I have coworkers who live in the area. Their son is my Godchild and I figured it was as good a place as any."

"Very good," he chuckled. "Colonel, are you along to offer a woman's view?"

Mac glanced over at him from where she sat in the front seat and smiled. "Yes, sir. And to make sure he doesn't buy another bachelor pad."

Harm made a face in the backseat. "Thanks a bunch," he retorted.

As it turned out, Wade took them to the far side of the neighborhood Bud and Harriet lived in. "There are several homes listed with us and it's a good place to look because of the variety."

The first three houses he took them to were not what Harm had in mind and Mac didn't seem too thrilled, either.

"Don't get discouraged," Wade warned jovially. "Finding just the right house can take some time."

"I don't have much time to look," Harm sighed.

"I think you'll know as soon as you see it," Mac smiled comfortingly.

"Maybe," he nodded, returning her smile.

"Incidentally, I have a new house that came over the listings just before I left to come meet with you," Wade went on. "I think this might be just the place you're looking for," he smiled confidently. "I saved it for last because it's the best."

He took them a few miles west on highway 123 to a sparsely populated area. The houses were all custom and set apart from each other, offering large lots and privacy from immediate neighbors. Harm and Mac looked out the window as Wade turned into the curved driveway of a ranch-style home. Slowly, they got out of the car and stood for a moment, looking at the house and the surrounding property it sat on.

"This is beautiful, Harm," Mac murmured, taking in the expansive lawn and the half dozen massive oaks, in all their Fall glory, shading part of the house and area.

"And quiet," he answered.

They followed Wade up a stone walk and moved inside once he got the door open. They looked at each other and judging by their expressions, Wade was fairly certain the Commander had just found what he was looking for. "Go head, take a look around," he urged.

Slowly, they moved further inside the house. From the tiled entryway they could see into the main body of the home. 14-foot ceilings housed a large living room and kitchen. The focal point of the living room was a giant stone fireplace, perfect for cold winter nights. 6-foot windows flanked the front and sides of the room before it curved into the kitchen. Following the line of the house, Mac giggled when she saw the kitchen.

"This alone should thrill you," she teased Harm.

He smiled ruefully. "It's a dandy," he agreed, taking in the large work island in the center, the multitude of cabinets and state of the art appliances. A door on the far side revealed a walk-in pantry with built in shelves, a space that held boxes of foil and plastic wrap and another holder for a broom and mop.

Harm glanced around at Wade as he closed the pantry door. "Who lived here?" he asked, looking at the stainless steel, industrial size stove and refrigerator. "This house is very well designed."

"The owner was originally from south Texas. From what I understand, his wife died recently from a long illness and he needed to move back closer to their families because of their children."

"How sad," Mac stated. "So selling the house was a surprise?"

Wade nodded. "He wanted to hold off until he was absolutely sure he would need to be back in Texas. We got the listing as soon as he made a decision. He isn't in the frame of mind to handle negotiations so we've been told he'll accept any reasonable offer as long as it doesn't fall below a certain amount."

"Let's look at the rest of the house," Harm suggested to Mac, already imagining her living in this house right along with him and Daisy.

The house echoed the owner's southern heritage in the woodsy accents and earth colors he chose. If you went left at the front door, a short hall broke off into two smaller rooms, a large main bathroom and a coat closet. A few feet more and the hall ended right in another bedroom. It was bigger than the other two with large windows, built in shelves and a big closet. At its side was a small bathroom with a charming claw foot tub and a matching pedestal sink. There was a small linen closet and plenty of overhead cabinet. The appliances and fixtures were all white enamel, the walls lilac and the carpet a soft dove gray.

"Is this a second master suite?" Mac asked Wade.

"Actually, this was the children's room. As you can see, it's large enough to hold two children and one would have plenty of play space. Mr. Maddox wanted the children to have their own bathroom to form early independence. It also allows them to still have their own space when they have overnight guests who would be using the main bathroom," he explained.

"Smart man," Harm mused. "I don't think I would have thought of that," he smiled briefly.

"Mr. Maddox had a team of designers, too, and it's their job to think of every contingency," Wade grinned.

They went back to the front door where the main entry hall opened up into the living room and kitchen with its small eating area and bay window. Beyond a set of French doors was a formal dining room. The hallway that curved to the right from the front entry revealed a laundry room with a state-of-the-art washer and dryer and shelves lining the walls above the appliances. Another door opened to a large two-car garage. Continuing down the wide hall, Mac followed Harm into the master suite and gasped softly.

"This is so beautiful," she exclaimed.

Even though it was empty, Harm could immediately picture the possibilities for decorating. He stood in the middle of the room and slowly turned. The vaulted ceiling held two large skylights that would let in the stars at night and a ceiling fan to combat the summer heat. On the far side of the room, floor-to-ceiling windows flanked the sides of the wall where a bed would go. In the far left corner of the doorway was another stone fireplace and what could be a small sitting area in front of it.

"This room is bigger than the loft," Harm stated.

"There's another smaller room over here," Wade spoke up, passing them to open a set of French doors at their right. "I believe this was meant to be a nursery or perhaps an office for one or both of them. It's big enough to be a guest room if you chose and there's room to put in a door from the hallway."

Harm and Mac glanced into the smaller space, seeing another skylight, a larger, single window and a small closet. They drifted back across the main room and went into the master bath.

Harm couldn't hold back a laugh at the expression on Mac's face. "What is it with women and bathtubs?" he teased.

"Bite your tongue," she groaned. "You could float a battleship in here!"

The black marble tub was on a raised platform in one corner of the room with two small steps, surrounded by natural stone in earthy colors. There was room all around for plants or candles or whatever else suited one's fancy. Instead of a window, there were two more steps on the other side down to French doors that opened to the private backyard.

"It would be just like an outdoor Jacuzzi," Mac commented, ignoring the images the tub evoked.

"Among other things," Harm answered huskily, turning so she couldn't see his expression.

There was a walk-in closet big enough for a small family to live in, a shower stall walled with the same kind of stone around the bathtub with double showerheads and a built in bench, a toilet partially sectioned off by a half wall and matching his and hers vanities - one on either side of the doorway.

"He thought of everything when he built this house," Mac told Wade.

"He did. It was a smaller version of their dream home since they hoped to move back to Texas later and buy a ranch. We handled his purchase of this property when they first moved to Virginia. Unfortunately, it isn't the first time I've had to push through a home sale because of a death in the family."

"What's his asking price?" Harm questioned, almost certain it would be more than he could afford.

Wade came back with a figure well below the home's value and Harm knew his eyebrows were hiked to his hairline.

"You're kidding!" he exclaimed. "He's practically giving it away."

"I agree but as I said, he's not in any frame of mind to deal with it. He has two small children and the missus died less than a month ago. He wanted us to get rid of it so I'm quite certain that if you decide to pass it up, it won't last the week before someone takes it."

"I want it," Harm blurted. "It's more than I hoped I'd be able to find and it's perfect for raising a child," he glanced down at Mac. "Do you think Daisy will like it?" he asked worriedly.

She smiled reassuringly and touched his arm. "I know she will. There's tons of room for her to play. You'll probably have to get some yard toys or a playscape and with trees like those, a rope swing, too," she answered, already imagining endless possibilities.

"If you have time to go back to the office, we can get things moving immediately," Wade smiled brightly.

It took about three days from that evening for Harm to feel like he was on a runaway train. Wade was rushing the sale of the house through, cutting corners everywhere he possibly could to help out both parties. Erin was doing the same, trying to push through approval of Harm's foster parent application. Her main focus was doing a home study, which she assured Harm she would get on the second he was moved in the new house.

"However," she interjected, smiling at him across her desk. "Daisy can be placed with you as soon as I do the home study with your application for licensing still pending."

"Really?" Harm gasped, not quite believing he would get her without the months of waiting.

"Really," Erin grinned. "We got really lucky and got a judge I've worked with many times before. Normally, being in the military is no help at all but you seem to be living right, Commander, because we got a rush on all of your background information and fingerprints."

Harm saw back in his chair, stunned. "They never rush anything," he muttered.

"They do when an Admiral is breathing down their neck," she teased.

Harm's gaze shot up to hers. "Admiral Chegwidden?"

She nodded. "That would be correct. I don't know who he leaned on but I got the information yesterday when it usually takes weeks. You can have Daisy with you in as little as two weeks if there's no hold up on the house."

"Oh, Lord," he sighed, running a hand through his hair.

"Hits you kind of suddenly, doesn't it?" Erin guessed.

"Like an avalanche," he smiled ruefully. "I feel like I'm in a Tomcat spiraling out of control."

"You're not having second thoughts, are you?"

"No way," he answered adamantly. "I want her as much now as I ever did. It's just that talking about doing it and actually seeing it happen so fast are two different things,"

She laughed softly. "You got that right. But it will all work out fine if you really want to raise Daisy."

"There's no question about that, Erin," Harm stated firmly, meeting her eyes. "And there never will be."

Later that afternoon, Harm stuck his head into Admiral Chegwidden's office.

"Come in," the older man invited.

Harm closed the door behind him, not walking any further into the room. "I just stopped by to thank you, sir."

A.J. looked up over the rim on his glasses. "For what?"

"For putting a rush on my background information and fingerprints."

A.J. flashed that funny little half-smile of his. "You're welcome, Commander. In return I expect you to throw a housewarming."

Harm grinned. "You got it."

1300 ZULU

ONE WEEK LATER

"Thanks for taking the day off to shop with me."

Mac grinned, here eyes hidden by her sunglasses. "You know how we women love to shop," she teased. "Especially when it comes to house stuff. Since I have a dinky apartment I can use this chance to live vicariously through you."

Harm laughed and she was warmed by the sound. "Giving it my best guess, I would say we have a few grand to spend but that doesn't mean you have to wipe me out down to the last penny."

"A few thousand?" she gasped. "Have you been saving? I thought your bank account was empty after restoring the Corvette."

"It was," he nodded. "And I sold said Corvette just yesterday."

Mac was stunned into silence. When she didn't answer, Harm spared her a glance and saw her remove her sunglasses.

"You sold your car?" she asked softly.

He nodded slowly. "I needed the money more than the car, Mac. And it isn't the safest thing for Daisy to ride in. Some of the books I read all mentioned they should be in the backseat. Between the fees for foster care and adoption, buying the house and furnishing it, I didn't have any other option. There will be other cars," he shrugged negligently.

But Mac knew it was much more to him than that and selling his beloved car spoke volumes louder than anything else could have about his seriousness to adopt Daisy. She reached over and laid her hand on his arm. When he looked over at again, her smile said it all.

They went on a marathon shopping spree and by the end of the day, Harm was fully setup with enough furniture to take care of Daisy's room, one guest room and the living room. Mac also helped him pick out toys and play things for the yard that Daisy would like, dishes and utensils needed for small hands and essentials for her bathroom like bubble bath, toys and a little girl-size brush, comb and toothbrush.

"You'll still have a lot more to buy but it can wait until later," Mac advised. "Probably clothes and you'll want to take her shopping to the grocery store with you. You might also want to ask Ava what kind of stuff she feeds her and what she likes or doesn't like."

"She likes French fries and hot dogs," Harm grinned.

Mac laughed softly. "Most little kids do. Just do me a favor and don't turn her into a veghead like you!"

"Hey, I resent that remark!" he retorted, laughing.

"It'll probably be up to me to make sure she gets a hamburger once in a while," Mac rolled her eyes.

Chuckling, Harm slung his arm around her shoulder as they walked toward the SUV and hugged her to his side.

"Thank you for going with me today."

She looked up at him and squeezed his waist. "My pleasure."

On the first day that Harm's new house was officially his, he turned into the long driveway and was surprised to see a bevy of cars already waiting for him. Climbing slowly out of his rented U-Haul, he walked toward his small circle of friends.

"Good morning, Commander!" Harriet greeted brightly. "We're here to help you."

"Good morning," Harm answered softly. "What's all this? How did you know I was moving today?"

A.J. grinned. "A little bird told us," he returned and Harm knew he meant Mac.

Solidifying his assumption, Mac came to his side and slipped her arm through his. "Surely you didn't think we'd leave you to do all this alone?" she asked softly.

"Well, I wasn't expecting it but I sure am glad to see all of you," Harm stated. "It was enough just packing up the truck this morning."

Just then a big truck pulled into the drive behind the U-Haul, bearing the name of the furniture store logo.

"And I'd say we all got here just in time," A.J. put in. "Let's get to it, people."

It took the better part of the day but with everyone there to help, Harm's new house came together like magic. Mac and Harriet took over the arrangement of the guest rooms and Daisy's room and bathroom, fixing it up just right for the little girl while the men settled all the rest of the furniture in the house and brought in all the stuff from the U-Haul. Surprising Harm further, his friends carted in housewarming gifts that included artwork, curtains and other odds and ends to make his house warmer.

"Commander, thank you so much for dinner," Harriet said much later as she and Bud got ready to leave.

Harm drew her to him for a brief hug. "Thank you for giving up the day to help," he laughed. "I could never have gotten this far by myself. Buying a bunch of pizzas and drinks was the least I could do."

"You've got yourself a great house, son. I think that little girl will be perfectly happy here," A.J. put in, slapping Harm on the back.

"Thank you, sir."

"Daisy is happy as long as she's with Harm," Mac chimed in and they all laughed.

A few minutes later everyone but Mac was gone. Harm closed the front door and locked it. Then Mac caught his hand and tugged.

"Come with me," she murmured.

Harm let her lead him down the dark hall to Daisy's room where she stopped. He was right behind her and the scent of her perfume teased his nose. He tightened his grip on her hand.

"Ready?" she asked.

"For what?" he countered.

"For this."

She flipped on the bedroom light and Harm blinked against the sudden brightness. Then he just stood, transfixed by the sight. Mac and Harriet had transformed the empty bedroom into a little girl's fairy tale. In the far corner sat a pedestal bed with a little wooden step for Daisy to use. It had a white canopy, a white down comforter and sheets Harm knew were a delicate shade of lilac to match the color in the bathroom and the walls of the bedroom. Next to the bed was a white bedside stand with two drawers and beneath her bed the pedestal housed several drawers for clothes.

On the shelves they'd placed the multitude of books Mac and the saleswoman had helped Harm pick out along with some of the toys and a few stuffed animals. A big wooden toy chest sat along the wall opposite of the bed filled with toys and next to it, a dollhouse complete with furniture and a family made just for Daisy's little fingers.

Slowly, Harm walked into the room. Mac followed closely, waiting for him to say something. He turned, looking at the wall over a large wooden toy chest that was painted with a family of Walt Disney characters parading along a dirt road. He shook his head in amazement and turned to her.

"I opened the windows just to get some of the paint smell out," Mac rushed in nervously.

"How did you do all this without me knowing?"

She grinned and slipped under the arm he held out to her. "It was easy enough since you were so busy working on getting everything else set up. Do you like it?" she asked eagerly.

"I love it and I know she will, too."

"Come see her bathroom."

They walked to the doorway and he flipped on the light. More Disney characters spotted the walls in strategic places and there was a giant Mickey head on the bottom of the tub to keep Daisy from slipping. All the things Harm had bought like her toothbrush, a little cup to hold it and her toothpaste, the rugs, trashcan and soap dish holder were all from Disney, too. A small enamel shelf extending over the knobs of the tub held bubble bath, shampoo and soap. Harm turned the light off again and looked back over the bedroom. His gaze landed on a hobbyhorse in the corner and he looked down at Mac.

"I don't remember buying that."

"That's because you didn't," she teased. "I did. It's my gift to her. Do you really like everything?" she asked again, suddenly anxious for him to really like what she and Harriet accomplished.

"I really, really do," he answered honestly. "Let's go look at the rest of the house, okay? I was so busy I just didn't have a chance to really take it all in."

Mac smiled broadly. "I'd love to."

They went slowly back down the hall, pausing to look into both of the guest rooms, one of which held Harm's old bedroom furniture and the other that held all the new stuff they had bought on the shopping spree. It was definitely the nicer of the two rooms and the two women had even managed to paint the walls a pale lemon yellow that offered the perfect backdrop to the white drapes around the large window, the pine armoire, chest of drawers and vanity. It was perfectly coordinated right down to the yellow and white silk flower arrangement on the dresser.

"This turned out really great," he stated, his amazement evident.

"I've never put together a room so fast in my life," she teased. "We were trying to hurry on the odd chance that you came investigating."

He laughed and flipped off the light as they went to the bathroom door. "I had plenty to do and the time flew before I realized it."

He flipped on the next light and stuck his head in. The medium-size bathroom was awash in varying shades of blue. From the towels and washcloths to the shower curtain and rugs, the colors offset each other perfectly against the white cabinets, countertop and appliances. Harm didn't say anything but Mac could tell he liked the look and she smiled.

They continued their journey to the living room and kitchen, which wasn't as much of a surprise since Harm had been present for the furniture arranging and box unpacking. Still, he was pleased anew at the look of the furniture in the spacious front area. The cavernous living room with its high ceilings and full-length windows was filled with warmth and comfort - from the dark brown leather chair, loveseat and oversized couch that framed the stone fireplace to the stone floor and earth-toned area rug. When they were shopping, Harm had surprised Mac by choosing a lot of country-style decorations. The loft was so small that he hadn't been able to do much but she thought he did a grand job of putting together the living room and kitchen of this new home. The living room looked like something out of a classic western.

It flowed well into the kitchen with the speckled granite countertops, oak cabinets and stainless steel appliances. The floor in the kitchen wasn't wood but the original owner had chosen something that closely resembled smooth, natural stone in a dark red-brown shade that fit the living room, kitchen and small breakfast nook perfectly.

"I feel like I'm going to wake up any minute and find I'm dreaming," he told her softly, crossing his arms and leaning back against the back of the new couch.

Mac moved closer, her own arms crossed and leaned against him. Harm immediately shifted and wrapped her in a loose embrace, resting his chin on the top of her head.

"It isn't a dream," she answered gently. "I prefer to think of it as years of hard work finally paying off. You were overdue for something really good to happen."

She raised her head and smiled, the light in her eyes warming him. He smiled back and lifted his hand to stroke her cheek. "Let's go take a look at your rooms," she suggested.

He raised one eyebrow and leered comically at her. Mac laughed as she pushed herself away from his arms and grabbed his hand, tugging him after her. When they reached the back suite, Mac sighed. Personally, she thought Harm's area turned out the best of all. He'd gone all out at the store with a brand new bed and furniture and let her help him pick out all new linens for the bedroom and bathroom. Working with the very delicate sand shade Mr. Maddox had used for the walls and carpet, they'd bought a beautiful mahogany armoire that would not only hold a television but also had a cabinet to the side with three shelves and four drawers below that. It had matching bedside stands with drawers and there was a chest at the foot of the bed that would hold extra blankets, sheets and pillows. The bed itself was high with a carved mahogany headboard.

Mac had read somewhere that neutral would never be boring if you went about it the right way. The owner had made the bedroom large and Mac suggested that Harm to make the most of the sweeping space with the skylights and recessed lighting. Long sheer panels hung around the full-length windows from mahogany holders. Harm gazed at the rest of the room, surprised anew by the fabulous job Mac had done at helping him pick the right look. The salespeople had helped a little, too, but his partner had a definite eye for color.

"I think this is my favorite thing in the room," he told her, walking over to touch the new comforter.

"I fell in love with it the minute I saw it," she admitted, coming to his side.

The comforter and its matching pillowcases had a background color that was some sort of off white - probably ivory or sand as near as Mac could figure, embroidered with a scrollwork pattern and edged in something that looked like braided rope. Shot through the designs were varying shades of the palest dove gray and darker shades of eggplant. The sheets beneath were the same shade as the purple color. To pull the room together, were two lamps on either side of the bed with jade colored bases and a tall, narrow vase in eggplant that matched the window sheets on the floor beside the armoire filled with a dried arrangement in warm, masculine hues.

Harm walked over to the big wall to the side of the bed. Mac had found a large picture of the Grand Canyon at sunset when the layers of the canyon walls turn purple and blue under the haze of the falling dusk. Around the big picture were four smaller ones showcasing different shots of the canyon at other times of day.

"These pictures are stunning," he commented softly. "I've seen colors like this many times in the sky."

She didn't comment, choosing to just watch him instead.

The room looked masculine without being overdone and calmed Harm as he took it all in. Walking slowly across the room, he turned on the bathroom light and poked his head in. On their shopping spree, they bought towels, hand towels and washcloths in rich shades of brown, red and sand to make the most of the stone around the bathtub and in the shower. The floors in the bedroom and bathroom were the same stone that ran through the rest of the house except for the three bedrooms on the other side of the house and they had put down small rugs in a deep coppery shade.

Admiral Chegwidden had turned up with a dozen or so plants in various shapes and sizes, three of which now sat around the bathtub. When they were carried in, A.J. had simply said he assumed Harm would want plants but the younger man suspected Mac had been the guiding hand for getting all the perfect gifts.

"Oh, gosh, I just remembered something I got for you!" Mac exclaimed from behind him.

Harm turned and lifted a brow. "Something else?"

"Stay here. I'll be right back," she promised and dashed out of the room.

She was back in minutes carrying a large box. Mac came into the bathroom with him and put the box down on the steps. Folding back the flaps, she pulled out several pieces in black wrought iron and sat them around the bathtub, varying the heights so that tall and short ones were together.

Harm watched for a moment, his brow furrowed. "They're candlesticks!" he announced suddenly.

She laughed and began hauling out candles that matched his towels. "Didn't recognize them?" she guessed.

"Not at first. But I think you've done quite enough around here, fancy pants. You didn't have to do this, too."

She shrugged slightly as she put the candles on the stands. "It was nothing. Besides, you're my best friend and as such, it's my duty to help you with things like this," she stated matter-of-factly. She did look back at him then. "I dropped something on the bed I couldn't carry. Would you please get it for me?"

"Sure."

Harm went back into the room and froze. There on the middle of the bed was a white envelope. He went over and picked it up, reading his name on the front in her familiar scrawl. Pulling up the loosely sealed flap, he slid out a beautiful card that read, 'Life is the grand master at throwing you curves.' Opening the card, he began to read what she wrote.

'This may all seem like a dream to you now but I believe you are exactly where you're supposed to be. Daisy came to you at this time for a reason. And maybe you are exactly what she needs, too. I believe in you, Harm. You're the kindest man I've ever known and I believe you'll tackle this role with the same tenacity and graciousness that you have to every challenge that's come before it. Love always, Sarah.' Below her signature was a tiny P.S. - 'But just in case, you know my number!'

Harm read the words over, feeling tiny tendrils of emotion seep deep into his heart. For an instant, he felt his throat tighten and his hands shook slightly. Closing his eyes, he drew a slow breath just as he felt her arms slip around him from behind. Holding the card in one hand, he placed his other one over her laced fingers and pressed them gently against his flat stomach. Then he turned, dropping the card on his bed before drawing her into his arms and holding her tight.

Mac felt the tenseness in his tall frame and realized he was trembling slightly. She smoothed her hands up and down the length of his back then lifted her head from his shoulder as his embrace loosened marginally. In the soft light, his eyes shown blue but they darkened as he studied her face. Very slowly, he lowered his head and touched his lips very gently to the corner of her eye. The silky brush of her lashes fluttered against his bottom lip. Leaving his mouth against her sensitive skin, he trailed a path over her cheekbone, dipping slightly into the hollow of her cheek before stopping at the corner of her mouth.

Mac's breath caught when he moved a bit more and drew the tip of his tongue across the fullness of her bottom lip. Her breath came out in a rush, warming his skin and he smiled against her mouth. Mac slid her hands up over his shoulders to the base of his throat and leaned into him. It was all the invitation he needed. Desire burst between them like a rush of falling stars. Harm wrapped his arms around Mac tightly, holding her soft contours against the harder lines of his own body. He kissed her slowly, savoring the taste and feel of her lips. Mac caught his bottom lip lightly in her teeth, allowing them to scrape the tender inside. She was rewarded with a soft hitch in his breath and she could feel the furious beat of his heart against her breast. He moved slightly and sat down on the edge of the bed, drawing her between his legs without breaking the contact of their mouths.

Mac lifted her arms and cradled his head, feeling the cool silk of his hair against her fingers and palms. Bending her head down, she shifted her mouth away from his and pressed tender kisses to his closed eyes, the tiny little furrow at the bridge of his nose and the tender skin right beneath the middle of his bottom lip. She moved around to delicately nip at his earlobe and Harm took advantage of the position to brush his lips along the smooth column of her throat. Leaning back, he tumbled them both onto the bed, rolling over to pin her beneath him. For several long moments, they simply stared at each other. Harm was so close that Mac could see the tiny pores in his skin and the shadow of beard that darkened his cheeks.

"You're beautiful," he murmured, the timbre of his voice rubbing sensuously over her nerves.

His eyes missed nothing - from the delicate curve of her jaw and the fan of dark lashes shadowing her brow bone to the fullness of her bottom lip and the way her mouth tilted up at the corners.

"There are a lot of things I need to tell you," he murmured. "Things I should have told you a long time ago."

Her eyes searched his. "Are you worried?" she asked.

Idly, he traced one finger over the curve of her cheek. "No, but I'm afraid you might be."

That surprised her. "Why…?" she began, then stopped. "Because things are happening so fast?"

He nodded. "That and I'm afraid you'll think this is somehow connected to Daisy."

The implication of his words hit her strongly. Pushing lightly against his chest, Mac urged him to sit up. Harm felt a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach when she remained quiet. Reaching out, he uncurled her crossed legs and drew them over his thighs. Catching her at the hip, he pulled until she came up on his lap.

"I don't want you that far away from me," he murmured. "And I'm afraid you misunderstood me."

Mac touched the pads of her fingers to his lips to silence him. "I didn't misunderstand what you said. You've thrown me so many curves in the past few weeks that I don't know what to expect from you anymore." Her expression was more serious than he could recall it ever being. "I like to think I know you better than anyone else alive, Harm. And I know as sure as I'm breathing that you would never use me that way. Shame on you for even thinking I might," she scolded softly.

Harm sighed and pressed his forehead against hers. "Things are moving so fast and I feel like I'm out of control. I don't know what I'm thinking half the time, let alone what you're thinking. I was afraid you might believe I was acting this way with you because I'm trying to get Daisy. I love that little girl more than I can begin to explain but even that isn't enough to come between us."

Mac lifted her head and smiled. Very tenderly, she rubbed her palms against the sides of his head and face. "I know that, Harm, just like I know the reason you're sitting here now is because you love me."

His head snapped up and he met her eyes. Her husky chuckle stirred his senses. "Don't look so surprised. You've shown me in a million little ways, Harm. From bringing me coffee in the mornings to putting up with my love of Beltway burgers to everything in between. For so long I believed you didn't care beyond friendship because I was waiting for you to come out say something - anything about how you felt. After I got back from my TAD, I realized what I should have known all along. All the time I was waiting for words, I was getting the actions. There at the end I blamed you for driving me to Mic but I was just as much to blame."

Without answering, Harm laid his hands against her throat and tilted her face up. His mouth settled over hers with gentle pressure. Kissing her made everything in his world feel right.

"You've never been second place in my life, Mac. I didn't know it at the time but looking back, I can see it now. But I didn't know how or what to say. When you accepted Mic's ring and the chasm between us grew wider and wider, I didn't know how to stop it."

"I think we both had a lot of growing to do. Maybe we just weren't ready to handle the commitment on either side," she admitted.

"I'm ready now," he whispered.

"So am I," Mac returned.

He kissed her again, angling her head for better access. Mac gripped his upper arms, feeling the muscles bunch under her palms. She relaxed against him, feeling the strength of his longer form against her own.

"Having you this close makes so many things go through my mind that I don't know where to start," he whispered against her lips.

"We have all the time in the world," she returned, touching kisses to the corners of his smile.

"I don't think I'll ever have enough of you, Sarah. Of your touch, your scent, the sound of your laughter." He cupped her face in his hands, his thumbs brushing lightly over her cheekbones. "What I've been searching for all this time was right under my nose and I'm glad you didn't give up on me."

Instead of answering right away, Mac wrapped her arms around his wide shoulders and hugged him tightly. Harm returned the embrace, running his hands up and down her back. He could feel her trembling and tightened his hold.

"For a long time I wasn't sure if your feelings went beyond friendship. Each time I tried to dig a little, you put up another wall." Pulling back, she pressed her hands to his chest, feeling the reassuring beat of his heart. "I did give up for a little while." Mac raised her head and met his gaze. "When I tried to marry Mic. After the crash, I think he finally admitted to himself that it was never going to work."

"You seemed so devastated when he left," Harm murmured, almost afraid to say too much and break the delicate moment.

"I felt a lot of things. I was relieved that he called off the wedding and saved me from having to do it myself. And then I was ashamed because I'd let things get so far out of hand. It wasn't until after we got the news of you going down that I admitted to myself I didn't want to love anyone else but you," she explained, her voice growing steady as she grew comfortable with the subject. "I hurt Mic deeply by denying my feelings for you. After that I didn't care anymore. I just wanted to be a part of your life," she admitted.

quot;And you were willing to settle for that?quot; he asked, surprised that she would.

"Yes." Her brown eyes were clear and calm. It wasn't until the night you drove all the way back to my apartment to ask my advice about breaking your attorney/client privilege that I finally believed you might love me, too."

Harm was torn between surprise and knowing at her words. Surprised that he could have been blind to her for so long and knowing that she could still read him better than he could read himself. She knew he loved her before he could admit it to himself. Before he spoke, he carefully eased back against the pillows, keeping her against his chest.

Mac moved with him, allowing her body to drape his. "The night we almost lost Bud on the carrier was the clincher," she went on, not waiting for him to talk. "I know how hard you guard your protective layers. When you sat beside me and cried…" she paused and drew a slow breath. "I knew for sure."

Holding her tightly, Harm rolled them to their sides so he could look at her. "I've been trying these past few months," he revealed. "I wanted to go forward but I didn't know how. We've been up and down like a yo-yo in the years we've known each other and as well as I think I know you, at times I'm not sure I know you at all. I was so afraid of making a mistake and…" His voice cracked but he went on, unashamed. "I didn't want to lose you," he stated simply. "And I wanted to proceed slowly until I could be sure I hadn't waited too long and lost you anyway."

"You will never lose me," she promised. "I love you."

The purest feeling of happiness Harm had ever felt washed over him at hearing her say it outright for the first time. "I love you, too, Sarah."

Mac felt the greatest joy she'd ever known and thought her heart might burst from her chest. She closed her eyes briefly against a sudden sting of tears then she gave him a watery smile. "We'll take things one day at a time, Harm. We can do anything together."

His arms tightened marginally and she saw the tiny frown that marred his brow.

"What is it?" she asked.

"I can see how much you like being around Daisy but are you…?" Again he was unsure of how to proceed. "I can't seem to find the right things to say tonight," he sighed.

"Are you trying to ask if I'm willing to share you with her fulltime?" she guessed.

He arched one brow. "Have you thought about it?"

"In great detail," she admitted. "Except that the decision is still yours. You'll be the one with fulltime care of her."

"Not unless you aren't prepared for our relationship to go any further than this," he retorted gently.

Her eyes widened slightly. "Are you making more admissions? This is a record for us, Harm," she returned, breaking the tension slightly.

He chuckled, the sound a low rumble from deep in his chest. "One of the things I realized in sorting everything out is that I don't want to be alone for the rest of my life. And I'm certainly not willing to settle for halfway with you. We've come too far to turn back now. I want everything with you that we can have."

She smiled lovingly. "So you assumed we would have a permanent future?"

"Wrong," he grinned. "I hoped."

"Well, you hoped right."

1830 ZULU - TWO DAYS LATER

CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES

WASHINGTON D.C.

"Judge McDonald came through for us. She's approved you for temporary care pending the outcome of your adoption application."

Harm sat across from Erin and just stared at her. He put a palm to his ear and pressed down then looked at her again. "Sorry, I didn't hear what you said," he told her.

Erin laughed happily. "You heard me just fine. You've cleared the first hurdle, Commander. Congratulations."

Harm sat back in chair, his heart thudding hard against his chest. "I can't believe it," he murmured. "I can really take her home now?"

Erin nodded, her eyes bright. "Yes, you really can. I already called Ava to let her know and she'll have Daisy's stuff packed up and ready by Saturday."

"Just like that?" Harm asked.

"Just like that," Erin confirmed.

"What about my adoption application?"

"Now that you'll have full time custody of her, we'll give it a couple of weeks to see how both of you take to the changes. I'll be coming by for home visits, some planned and some not. The idea is for you to be yourselves. We're not looking for you to win most perfect parent in the world but to prove that you can provide a warm, stable and loving environment for Daisy. Personally, I don't think you'll have any trouble, Harm, but I never make promises because I've seen the tide turn too many times. I don't want you to get your hopes up at this stage," Erin warned.

"So, you're saying there's still a chance I might not get her permanently?"

"Yes, that's what I'm saying. Mainly, I have to present justification to the judge that you and Daisy are a good match. There is also the matter of terminating her mother's rights. We have to conduct one more search to find her. If that is unsuccessful, then as her caseworker, it will be my recommendation to the judge that we terminate all bio-parent rights."

"How long does that take?" Harm asked, leaning forward in his chair.

"Depends. Probably around two months."

He sa