"Tiner, is the Admiral available for a few minutes?"

"Commander, Colonel, good morning. Wait here and I’ll check."

Harm and Mac exchanged a nervous glance as Tiner disappeared into the Admiral’s

office.

"What are we doing?" Harm moaned softly.

"I sure don’t know but I hope we’re doing the right thing," she whispered back.

"Of that I am sure. No matter what – you and I are going to be together. Even if I have to transfer out to do it."

"Whatever it takes," Mac agreed firmly. "No more waiting."

Harm smiled fully then and she felt him relax. "No more waiting."

"Commander? Colonel? You can go in," Tiner stated, coming back.

"Thank you, Tiner."

The pair stepped into A.J.’s office and came to attention.

"At ease," A.J. greeted, his mouth partially turning up.

"Aye, sir."

They sat down and he leaned forward over his desk, clasping his hands. "I’m glad to see both of you back now and well. I take it Commander McShane is doing better?"

Mac nodded. "She’s getting there. However, John paid her a visit last night while Harm and I were out. They’ve patched things up and decided to get married!" she grinned, her excitement bubbling over.

A.J. smiled fully then. "I’m glad to hear it. It seems those two have been through more than their share of grief. Now, what have you two come to see me about?"

Harm and Mac looked at each other again and then turned back to him.

Mac took a deep breath and plunged on. "Admiral, Harm asked me to marry him and I’ve accepted."

"It’s about damn time!" A.J. growled with a warm, bright smile.

He rose to his feet and came around the desk, hands outstretched. Harm and Mac jumped up from their chairs, surprised by his actions as he shook Harm’s hand and hugged Mac tightly. He pulled back slightly, still holding her hands and smiled.

"I was wondering if I would have to order you two to get married," he teased dryly.

They both laughed and Mac looked back over her shoulder at Harm. Then she looked back at their Commander.

"There’s more," she began.

"Oh?" A.J. arched one brow.

"I’m pregnant," she announced, her eyes aglow.

And that announcement rendered A.J. speechless. He looked at both of them and them engulfed them both in a hug.

"That’s the best news I’ve heard in a long time. Congratulations, both of you."

When they broke away, Harm looked at him anxiously. "You’re not angry with us over it?" he asked.

"Not at all, Commander. In fact, I’m thrilled. You two are the closest thing I have to a family with Francesca so far away. I’ve been watching and waiting a long time now to see if you would make things work. And if you’re worried about what will happen here, if you’re both desiring to stay with JAG then we’ll find a way to work that out, too."

"Sir," Mac murmured. "Thank you, Admiral. Thank you very much for all you’ve done for us," she told him gently.

Never one for the emotion, A.J. simply shrugged in the way that was so familiar with them and smiled that little half smile. "You done as much for me," he answered simply. "Have you told Bud and Harriet?" he asked.

"No, sir, we wanted to tell you first," Harm put in.

"Then you best get to it. I expect you’ll be arranging for the happy occasion soon?"

Mac laughed. "Just as soon as we can get it arranged."

A few minutes later they were back in Harm’s door with Bud and Harriet – who was working a half-day. Harm closed the door behind them and went over to stand close to Mac. Bud and Harriet eyed them closely, realizing something was up.

"Sir? Ma’am? Are you okay?" Harriet asked.

"Never better, Harriet," Harm grinned. "We have something to tell you."

From across the bullpen, A.J. smiled to himself when the happy shouts rang out from the office as the four hugged each other. Other people in the bullpen glanced curiously at the display but no one said anything with A.J. on deck. Nodding to himself, the tall Admiral turned slowly on his heel and strode back to his office, hands clasped behind his back and he started thinking about what to buy for a wedding present.

"This is so exciting!" Harriet crowed.

"Mac and I want to ask you something before it gets lost in the excitement," Harm interjected, his voice quiet.

Bud and Harriet both looked at him and then at Mac. "Is something wrong?"

"Oh, no," Mac assured them. "Harm and I talked about this last night and we would like to know if the two of you would do us the honor of being the godparents for our baby."

For a moment no one spoke.

"You want us to do it?" Bud finally managed to choke out.

"We would be very honored, Bud," Harm answered gently.

"We’re honored that you even asked! We know you’re friends with King and Storm and with Commanders McKaye and McShane and…"

"Harriet," Mac cut off, grasping the younger woman’s hands. "You and Bud are our best friends and have been so for a long time now. We didn’t even think of asking anyone else."

Tears welled up in Harriet’s eyes and she smiled. "Then it would be our pleasure," she stated simply.

"It’s so good to see you both! And you look terrific!"

Mac and Harm were engulfed with hugs from Storm and then Ellie. As the women moved away King stepped in to hug Mac and shake Harm’s hand.

"We didn’t expect to see you away from work so soon but we’re glad you’re here," King greeted warmly. "Let’s go on out back. The others are at the pool."

The five of them took the stone walkway that ran around the house beneath the graceful sway of several mammoth cedars. The ‘pool’ looked more like a small oasis – surrounded by trees and shrubs and a multitude of flowers and rose bushes. The sparkling water in the oval-shaped pool waved invitingly but no one was swimming, choosing instead to spend the cool winter day sitting around visiting.

"Harm! Mac! It’s great to see you!" Travis called, rising from the deck chair next to his wife.

Jenny rose as well and followed to give her share of the hugs. Minutes later everyone was seated.

"I’m surprised to see all of you here," Harm grinned, remembering that they were all in different directions except for holidays and emergencies.

"After what happened to Travis we decided to take a short break together. Everyone’s kind of regrouping," Wade answered.

Silent as Harm talked to them, Mac looked around at the large family and wondered if someday she and Harm would have such an extended brood to look on. Nearby there was a giant sandbox and a mini playground where most of the eighteen children played. Baby monitors sat near Storm, Wade’s wife Katie and Tucker’s wife Nina – who all had infants. Cassandra, Brett’s pretty wife was pregnant with their second child.

"That’s what we’re doing as well," Harm grinned easily. "And we have some news."

"News?" King asked sharply. "What kind of news? We aren’t taking anymore of the bad stuff here," he teased dryly.

"No bad news," Harm shook his head firmly. "Mac and I are going to be married."

The second the words sank in, the group descended on them, laughter and hugs all around. The two JAG lawyers soaked it all in, relishing in the feel of family.

"Have you made any plans?" Storm asked excitedly, her pretty face flushed with color.

Mac shook her head. "Nothing yet. He just asked me and we wanted to tell you in person. There’s more, though."

"More? What else? Please tell me John and Brie worked things out!" Travis interjected.

Mac laughed softly. "They did, as a matter of fact, but that’s not the rest of our news. We’re going to have a baby."

Harm and Mac didn’t think it could get anymore exciting around there but it did and they found themselves swept up all over again.

"This is so wonderful," Jenny sighed. "I can’t think of two people who deserve it more."

"Harm, Mac," Storm interrupted softly, shooting a glance at her husband. He nodded slightly and she continued. "We would be very honored if you would consider letting us host the wedding and reception here at the ranch."

The announcement hit the pair from out of nowhere. Shocked, they looked at each other.

"Please don’t say no right away," Storm rushed on. "We’d love to have you here and you won’t have to worry about the expense of finding some place or limiting your number of guests. You could have the run of the place and we have room for lots of people to stay."

"The band and I would be very happy to provide the music, too, unless you have someone else in mine," Jessie put in from her place by Steve.

Harm and Mac exchanged another look. "We hadn’t really talked about what we wanted to do," Mac began, pausing to look at Harm again. He nodded and squeezed her hand. "It’s very beautiful out here and I can’t think of any place I’d rather be married. This is more than we could have hoped for – are you sure it’s something you want to do?" Mac asked hesitantly.

"We’re sure," Storm answered firmly. "The sky’s the limit so you two do whatever you’d like. And I realize you have heavy schedules so if there’s anything we can help with – all you have to do is say the word."

Unaccustomed to such openness, Mac didn’t know what to say at first. She swallowed down the lump in her throat and smiled at the younger woman. "You’ve done so much for us already," she murmured.

"No more than you have done for us," Storm countered. "We would be honored to have you here." She grinned impishly. "And this will give them-" she swung her hand around at the men. "-a chance to treat you to their wedding thing."

"Wedding thing?" Mac questioned, arching one brow.

"A wonderful tradition you’ll never forget," Storm assured her.

"Then I can’t wait," Mac murmured.

The sun had barely started its rise over the distant horizon but it already promised to be a beautiful day. Mac stood at the window of the room where she’d been for the past week overseeing the last minute details of their wedding and reception. In the beginning, she hadn’t had any idea what she really wanted so she’d tentatively asked the McKenzie women and Brie and Dana – two women she’d become very close to – to help her brainstorm. What they came up with took Mac’s breath away. She couldn’t wait for Harm to see the final product.

He’d arrived last night from DC along with John and Fox Mulder. They were the last to arrive. Admiral Chegwidden, Bud, Harriet, Webb, Tiner, Gunny, Imes, Mattoni and most of their other staff, Jack Keeter and Trish, Frank and Grandma Sarah, Chloe and Kyle Anderson, arrived a couple of days before and we’re staying at the ranch. Goliad, the little town closest to them, was overflowing with wedding guests. Mac and Harm had invited all that they could possibly think of – including Captain Boone, Lt. Rivers, Captain Glenn, the men from the Nimitz squadron that Harm and John both flew with, the SECNAV, Lt. Teresa Coulter and Lt. Hawkes. Walker and Alex had were on hand as well, and the entire McKenzie family.

All though it wasn’t quite light out, the ranch was already astir as the ranch hands began their daily activities. Mac watched toward the barn as several of them rode out. She could get used to life here. It was March and the bluebonnets were in full bloom, dotting the fields like little miniature oceans of blue. It was hard to believe that in a matter of hours all her dreams would reach their culmination. Behind her on the door of the closet hung her beautiful gown. Due to the impending birth of their child, the dress was custom made to accentuate and make way for her burgeoning belly and the fullness in her breasts.

Just then there was a slight knock on the door.

"Come in," Mac called absently.

She turned when she heard the door and smiled as Scully tiptoed in.

"Good morning," Mac smiled.

"Good morning," Scully smiled warmly. "How do you feel?"

"Nervous," Mac blurted out. "But I imagine it won’t really hit me until it’s time."

Scully laughed gently. "Everything will be fine. That man loves you more than his own life. This is where you both belong."

"I’ve waited my whole life for this. I’m ready for it," Mac smiled serenely, her face alight not only with love but with the effects of pregnancy.

Later, Harriet, Scully, Brie and Storm helped her dress and do her hair and nails and makeup while the other women checked on the final preparations for the ceremony and reception. Jessie and her band, the Texas Knights, would be singing. Mac and Harm veered a little from tradition for the ceremony. Jessie had written a song for them that she would sing as Mac made her way down the aisle. She would sing a different song as the wedding party proceeded down the aisle and then one for their first dance.

"Okay, you ready to take a look?" Storm asked softly, as she pushed the last pin into Mac’s hair.

"I’m ready," Mac nodded.

She turned and walked to the full length where the others waited.

"Oh, ma’-," Harriet caught herself and flushed. "Mac, you look stunning."

Mac stopped before the mirror and her breath caught. She almost didn’t recognize herself! The other four gathered close around her and together they made quite a picture of two brunettes, a redhead and a blonde.

"Harm’s gonna pass out when he sees you!" Storm teased breathlessly. "You look simply beautiful."

"Thank you," Mac stated, grabbing them impulsively into a group hug. "Thank you for supporting me in this and for all you’ve done and for making me look so beautiful," she murmured.

"You’re welcome," Brie answered for all of them.

Just then a knock sounded at the door. Storm went to answer it and found her husband and brothers-in-law in the hall. "You’re just in time," she greeted, smiling brightly. "Wait until you see her," she whispered conspiratorially, stepping back to let them in.

When Mac saw who it was she smiled a touch shyly as the seven of them filled the room.

King whistled low and flashed her a dangerous grin. "Colonel MacKenzie, look at you! Quick – let’s get out of here while my wife isn’t looking!" The group laughed and King drew Mac to him with one arm. "You look extraordinary," he stated sincerely.

"Thank you," Mac laughed gently.

"We’ll see you downstairs," Storm called, shooting her husband a loving look as she and the other girls left the room.

Mac smiled at the tall men before her. "Am I in for some kind of practical joke?" she teased.

King laughed. "Oh, no. When I married Storm these knotheads started a tradition with the brides and since then we’ve carried it on with each new addition. Since we consider you and Harm to be like family we wanted to share it with you," he explained simply.

Touched, Mac laid her hand on his arm. "I’m honored, King. Thank you."

Clearing his throat slightly, Brett stepped forward and flashed her an easy grin. "Traditionally, I believe the women of the wedding party handle this part. I have the ‘something old’," he explained, catching her hand. He pressed something warm and hard into her hand before continuing. "This belonged to our Great-grandmother on Dad’s side. He gave it to me when I was little. Now I want you to have it."

The ‘it’ he was referring to was a cameo in a delicate shade of pink and on a new white velvet ribbon.

"I had the new ribbon put on it in case you might like to wear it," he confessed.

Mac could only stare in wonder at the exquisite craftsmanship. "Oh, Brett, I couldn’t possibly accept this!" she whispered, raising her eyes to his.

"You can and will," he rebutted gently.

Mac stared at the item for a moment, rubbing her finger over the tenderly carved face. "Would you help me put it on?" she asked finally.

Brett flashed even white teeth at her. "My pleasure." He fastened the ribbon around her slender neck and they both turned to look in the mirror. "It looks beautiful," he reassured.

"Thank you," she said again, squeezing his hand.

Clearing his throat slightly, Travis moved forward as his older brother stepped away. Smiling, he took Mac’s hand and gently pushed her to sit on the edge of the bed.

Swirling around the tip of his index finger was a lacy white garter trimmed in midnight blue silk. Mac flushed prettily as he gathered the bottom of her dress in his hands. Wolf whistles abounded when he bared her legs until they had her laughing.

"Can’t have you getting too serious on a day like this," Travis shrugged casually, a playful grin tugging at his mouth.

He slid the little scrap all the way up until it rested mid-thigh, giving her bare knee a gentle pat. "You look beautiful," he stated.

Mac glared at him balefully. "I look like a beached whale," she grumbled.

Travis only smiled. "Don’t you know there’s nothing sexier to a man than to see the woman he loves carrying his child?" he asked her gently.

She eyed him cynically. "If you say so," she sighed.

"I do," he shot back and rose to his feet.

"Stay there," Wade told her, coming up to take Travis’ place. "I have the lucky penny for your shoe," he revealed, kneeling at her feet.

"How do I know it’s lucky?" she grinned.

Wade shrugged and gave her an easy smile. "Guess you’ll have to make your own luck but I was carrying it in my pocket the day my first son was born," he explained.

Mac nodded in agreement. "Then it sounds lucky to me. Thank you," she whispered, leaning forward to brush a kiss across his tanned cheek. "I’ll make sure you get it back."

Wade slipped her pump off and dropped the little penny inside before replacing it on her slender foot. Then he rose to his feet and extended a hand to her, tugging her up from the bed.

"We got a little out of order but I have the something borrowed," Tyler announced.

He stepped close to her and held out his hand. In it was a small, tattered photo. Mac took it and looked closely at the smiling, gap-toothed faces. Then she looked up at the men facing her.

"This is of all of you!" she exclaimed.

A round of laughter rang out and Tyler nodded. "I’ve carried this around with me for years. Tucker was four and King was fourteen. The rest of us all fall between."

Mac laughed again and traced her finger over the face of the picture. Then very carefully she tucked it down inside of her bouquet. "I’ll make sure you get it back," she promised.

"I’m not worried," he teased gently and moved back.

Steve came to her side next and he smiled gently at her. "You look mighty purty, Miss Sarah," he drawled laconically and winked at her.

Mac laughed. "Okay, okay, thank you all for telling me how lovely I look!" she quipped.

Steve only smiled at her. "It’s the truth. We’ve got this tradition all out of order, don’t we? I have something new for you."

He held out a slim, leather-bound book to her. Mac took it and gently smoothed her fingers over the fine leather. It was a family bible. Much like the one that Storm had shown her of their growing family. She flipped open the cover and saw an inscription inside.

For a handful of very long minutes, all Mac could do was stare at the engraved inscription on the first parchment page. Reverently, she traced her fingers over the words, reading them over and over. Finally, she looked up at the men facing her, her dark eyes liquid with unshed tears. Drawing a slow, shaky breath, she tamped down on the tears in order to hold herself together. She met each of their eyes in turn and then looked back at the book.

"I could never tell you how beautiful this gift is," she whispered haltingly. "Thank you.

So very much. I’ll make sure that Harm and I keep it going like the ones you keep."

Steve kissed her lightly on the cheek and squeezed her waist. "We never doubted it for an instant," he stated simply, his deep voice a mixture of teasing and seriousness.

DOWNSTAIRS….

It was almost time. Harm waited just inside the foyer until it was he had to go out to the altar. He couldn’t believe this day was here safe and sound. After all the years behind them… he shook his head to dispel the old memories but they came anyway. So much had happened to bring he and Mac to where they were now. The good and the bad was all just a part of what made them what they were now. It’s what built their love and cemented it. For the past couple of days he hadn’t slept well between excitement over the wedding and the impending birth of their first baby but it was more then that.

It was the silhouette of memories that came to him. Once upon a time he’d been on the borderline of losing her forever. During a time in his life when he wasn’t sure of himself or what he was doing. He almost drove her away while he walked a tightrope between hope and fear, believing that if they gave in to what was between them it would tear them apart. Instead, the undeniable attraction continued to grow and sizzle, just drawing him deeply into love with the pretty Marine Colonel who had so firmly stolen his heart.

{{{The DJ continued to shift smoothly through songs, some two-step, some slow and the two couples kept dancing, losing the tension of the past week and feeling peace settle in. King and Storm came by and drew closer.

"How about a break after this next song?" King suggested.

"Sounds good," Harm returned.

Don't look so sad, I know it's over,

But life goes on and this whole world will keep on turning,

Let just be glad we had some time to spend together,

There's no need to watch the bridges that we're burning.

Lay your head upon my pillow,

Hold your warm and tender body close to mine,

Hear the whisper of the raindrops blowin’ soft against the window

And make believe you love me one more time,

For the good times.

"This is one of my favorite songs," Harm murmured in Mac’s ear.

"I didn’t even know you liked this kind of country music."

"I don’t listen to it routinely but Mom and Dad loved it. Mom played this song over and over when Dad first disappeared. I didn’t think I’d ever want to hear it again for years after that because it reminded me so much that he was gone. But then I heard it in passing one day on the radio and it brought back so many good memories with it. It’s really a beautiful song even though it’s heartbreaking," he explained lightly.

Mac didn’t answer that but instead tucked her face into the curve of his neck and held on. She knew the pain of his father’s disappearance and death would always be there, hidden in his heart but it was easing with time. Knowing of the man’s final days had helped a great deal toward easing the feelings of loss and abandonment. The same as being with her father on his final days had helped Mac release some of the hatred she’d carried for so long toward the man who’d abused her but ultimately did the best he knew to do for a young, rebellious girl.

I'll get along, you'll find another,

But I'll be here if you should find you ever need me,

Don't say a word about tomorrow or forever,

There will be time enough for sadness when you leave me.

Lay your head upon my pillow,

Hold your warm and tender body close to mine,

Hear the whisper of the raindrops blowin’ soft against the window

And make believe you love me one more time,

For the good times.}}}

BACK IN MAC’S ROOM….

"Tucker and I have extra gifts. Typically, it’s always been one of us getting married so y’all are special – you get two gifts," King teased, coming closer to her. He held out a bulky white envelope. This is from Storm and I and Tucker and Nic."

Mac opened the flap and pulled out a sheaf of papers and two airline packets. She took a second to scan through the items before lifting wide eyes to them. "This is way too much. Harm and I can’t possibly…"

King cut her off mid-sentence with one upraised hand. "We wanted to do it and it’s already done so you have no choice. We checked with the Admiral, too, and he said you can go as soon as the reception’s over," King explained.

Mac couldn’t suppress a grin. "He did, huh? Harm’s gonna flip when he hears about this," she joked, holding up the papers.

"All we want to hear is that you two will enjoy yourselves," King answered,

"Let’s see… first class to Athens, Greece, two nights at the Athenaeum Inter-Continental Athens, then a 10-day cruise from Athens to Istanbul, Turkey. I think we’ll enjoy ourselves very much," she teased.

Just then there was a rap on the door and King went to see who it was. After opening it a crack it stepped away and let the Admiral in. The older man’s steps faltered when he saw Mac. She smiled hesitantly as he slowly came to her.

"Thank you, Admiral," Mac whispered, feeling overwhelmed with unfamiliar emotions she blamed partly on her pregnancy.
From behind them King made a motion and the McKenzie men silently slipped from the room to take their places downstairs.

"It’s time to go down," A.J. murmured, smiling.

"I know," Mac answered. "Thank you, Admiral. Thank you so much for all your support and everything you’ve done for Harm and I. We…" she stopped and marshaled her rampant feelings. "We never would have made it this far without you. And thank you for seeing to it that we stay together. We’re both grateful that we can continue to serve under you," she explained softly, clutching his hand tightly.

A.J. squeezed her hand tightly in return and bent to kiss her cheek. In many way she’d become more of a daughter to him than his own since he spent considerably more time with her. There was a fragileness to Sarah MacKenzie that many people were never privy to but he was proud of the place he held in her life. Of she and Harm both.

"I’m honored you asked me to give you away," he responded.

"You don’t need me to tell you that you’re more of a father to me than mine ever was or could have been but I’ll say it anyway. I can’t think of anyone else I would rather have at my side for the trip down the aisle. Thank you for being a part of our lives," she stated and rose of tiptoe to kiss his lean cheek.

A.J. drew her to him with one arm and hugged her as close as he could over the mound of her belly. Then he pulled back and blinked, his eyes suspiciously bright, and held out his arm to her.

"Shall we?" he inquired, giving her his little half smile.

Mac smiled fully and slipped her arm through his. "Yes, sir," she answered.

They made their way downstairs to the open great room where French doors opened to the endless road of white marking the aisle. At that end of that aisle was the altar built by King and the others. It was actually a wide footbridge that arced over the swimming pool. Reverend Stewart stood in the middle beneath a trellis covered with trailing ivy and dozens and dozens of white roses. On either side was row after row of chairs where close to one hundred people had turned out for the ceremony and following celebration. A.J. and Mac stopped just inside the doors, out of sight of those waiting outside. Harriet, Mac’s matron of honor and Brie, Scully, Alex, Storm and Jenny were all walking down the aisle. Bud had agreed to be Harm’s best man and next to him waiting at the altar were John, Mulder, Walker, King and Travis. The guests were all seated and quiet descended as Jessie went over to the baby grand piano they’d moved outside for the occasion.

"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I have to say this couldn’t have turned out to be a better day," she stated with a wide smile. Murmurs of agreement rose from the crowd. She ran her fingers lovingly over the edge of the piano. "We’re very glad to have all of you here today and I know some of you have traveled quite a way. Going with Harm and Mac’s wishes, we’re going to veer a bit from tradition and start the ceremony out with a song. The bride and groom wish to dedicate this to all of our couples here today and those of you still waiting for the love of your life."

Carefully, Jessie moved the skirt of her long dress and sat down on the bench before the piano keys. She drew a slow, deep breath and adjusted the microphone. Slowly, she began to play and a slow, romantic sound filled the late afternoon sky.

I don't know how I survived

In this cold and empty world for all this time

I only know that I'm alive

Because you love me

When I recall what I've been through

There's some things that I wish I didn't do

But now I do the things I do

Because you love me

Harm stood at the altar, poised and relaxed on the outside but astir with emotion beneath. In a few short moments the woman he loved more than life would come down the aisle and become his wife. The words he wanted to say to her were firmly memorized but at this moment, silent but for the music, memories from other times flitted through his mind. Oddly enough it was some of the more harrowing moments that came to him. Like their time on the Watertown.

{{{With a cry of rage, Harm hit Hodge from behind with a hypodermic needle, plunging it into the younger man's back. Howling anger, he reared back, stumbling against the wall. It took only a second for the drugs to work and he slumped to the floor. Harm turned and grabbed Mac, lowering her to the floor. Tipping her head back, he cupped one hand around her chin and the pinched her nose with the other. Fitting his mouth to hers, he blew in one quick breath. He turned to look at her chest. Nothing. He blew another breath and looked again. Still nothing. He started to blow once more when she gasped, immediately

coughing as air filled her lungs. Harm got her by the neck and shoulder and lifted her up, moving behind her. He held her close, his own heart beating frantically as he pressed his rough cheek to her soft one, closing his eyes on a prayer of relief. Mac drew in several shallow gasps, lifting her hand to her burning eyes. Harm pressed his hand to her forehead, sliding it back over her damp hair as Mac lifted her arm and pressed her hand to his cheek.

Harm turned his head into her caress, closing his eyes for just an instant.

"You saved me," Mac ground out, hoarse from the pressure Hodge had put on her windpipe.}}}

After days of fighting and squabbling over mostly nothing, one second of insanity turned it all around and showed them not only how much they needed each other but of how strong their ties were. Just the way they were reminded when they believed Clay to be dead.

{{{"I expected there to be death when I joined the Marines. Not when I joined JAG. Not like this. It’s like everyone around me keeps dying." She dropped her head and a small sob slipped out.

"No, Dalton would still be alive if he hadn’t been involved with me. My ex-husband wouldn’t have died if he hadn’t come back to see me."

"You don’t know that, okay? And you certainly had nothing to do with Clayton’s death," Harm continued, trying to reassure her.

"Look at me, I’m crying like a big baby," she wiped ineffectually at her tears. "No wonder they don’t want women in combat."
"Hey, men cry in combat all the time. They just don’t admit it," he grinned, stepping right up next to her. He reached out and tenderly cupped the side of her face, leaning closer.

Mac curved both of her hands around his wrist, rubbing her fingers against his skin. She managed a small smile. "Hey, go on, go back to bed. I’m supposed to be here watching out for you remember?"

"Oh, yeah, I forgot," he gave her that little half-grin of his. "Goodnight, ninja girl."}}}

{{{ The phone interrupted one of the best parts in his book. Sighing, Harm put it down and reached for the phone. "Rabb."

"Commander, you’re up rather late. I hope I’m not interrupting anything?"

Harm was surprised to hear A.J.’s voice on the line. "No, sir. Just catching up on my reading. Is something wrong, sir?" Harm laid the book down on the couch next to him and leaned forward slightly.

"I just spoke to Mister Roberts and it seems there’s a problem. He believes Major MacKenzie has disappeared."

The Admiral’s direct words dropped the bottom right out of Harm’s stomach. "What? What does he mean disappeared? What happened to her?"

"He has no idea, Commander." A.J. relayed what he’d learned from Bud and Harm drew in a steadying breath.

"That’s not like Mac, Admiral. Just the act of not making the bed tells me something is wrong. The woman’s a neat freak. And she wouldn’t take off without telling Bud, especially if they had plans." Swallowing down his first reaction to jump on the next plane, Harm continued. "What would you like me to do, Admiral?"

"Meet me at the office, Mr. Rabb. I’m going to try and locate Webb and get him in on this. I have a feeling he may be the only one we can turn to."

"Yes, sir."

With a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach, Harm hung up the phone and rose to his feet. A few minutes later he was headed toward their office.}}}

And now that you're in my life

I'm so glad I'm alive

'Cause you showed me the way

And I know now how good it can be

Because you love me

{{{Slowly, Harm bent and slipped one arm beneath her knees and then straightened, cradling her against his chest.

"Where are we going?" she whispered against his mouth.

"It’s a surprise," he told her.

He carried her into the bathroom where dozens of candles were lit, throwing flickering shadows along the walls and on the water swirling the Jacuzzi. He slowly lowered her legs so she could stand and then kissed her again, deeper this time.

He lifted his head and smiled that little half smile of his. "I wanted to do something nice for you."

Mac looked at the tub again and then back to him, touched by the obvious effort he’d gone through. There had to be at least two dozen candles of various shapes and sizes and scents and floating in the water were mounds of rose petals. Beautiful, lush rose petals.

More of the same were rested everywhere. On the floor, the towels, the counter, next to the candles…}}}

And now that you're in my life

Oh, I'm so glad I'm alive

'Cause you showed me the way

And I know now how good it can be

Because you love me

I believe in things unseen

I believe in the message of a dream

And I believe in what you are

Because you love me

Mac stood waiting, one arm linked through A.J.’s and the other holding a bouquet of streaming roses and white satin ribbons. The words and music of the song she and Harm asked Jessie to sing filled the yard and made her heart swell. It was one of her favorite songs and one they’d danced to many times. Standing, she had a few minutes to collect her thoughts and as she did so memories came to them. Memories of a time when their partnership and later, their very friendship became unraveled.

{{{The sharp knock on his office door brought his head up. Mac was standing there, her face closed and drawn.

"Can I come in?" she asked. "Thanks," she stated, walking in without waiting for him to answer.

"You’re…welcome," Harm answered. "What’s up, Mac?"

His eyes swept over her appearance. The lines of her body were rigid – like she was prepared for an attack. Her pretty mouth was set in a flat line and there were dark circles under her eyes. Harm knew if anyone looked close enough, they’d find matching ones under his eyes.

"The next time you have something you want to tell me, Commander, I suggest you do it yourself instead of sending Jordan to do it for you."

The sharp, cold words hit him like a slap in the face. Stunned by her verbal attack, he sat back in his chair. Then coming to life, he rose to his feet and came toward her.

"What are you…?" he began.

She didn’t give him a chance to finish. "That was a low blow even for you," she accused and turned to walk back out of the office.

There wasn’t anyone else in yet so Harm followed her out into the bullpen. He grabbed her upper arm and pulled her around to face him.

"What are you talking about, Mac?" he demanded.

"Like you don’t know," she scoffed, trying to pull her arm from his grasp.

"I don’t," he repeated flatly. "Why don’t you enlighten me?"

Mac stopped her struggles for an instant and searched his face. She could see the beginning of his anger but he looked like he honestly didn’t know what she was talking about.

"Let go of me, Harm," she ordered, her voice a little quieter.

He released her and she dropped her arms to her sides, fists clenched. "Jordan came to see me last night. To tell me to stay away from you outside of this office."

His mouth literally dropped open. "What?"

Now, Mac was beginning to experience the first seeds of doubt. There was no way he could have known. The expression on his face said it all. "She ordered me to discourage any personal contact with you so that the two of you could begin building your future together."

"Why that lying little…" he broke off abruptly. His eyes narrowed on her face. "And you believed her?"

Mac crossed her arms over her chest defensively. "You haven’t exactly been a wealth of warmth and comfort lately," she retorted. She knew she was being unreasonable but couldn’t seem to stop herself.

"I would never have had anyone do something like that. You, of all people, should know me better than that, Mac. How could you even…" he stopped and suddenly he looked defeated.

Mac watched him mentally and physically pull himself up straight. He schooled his face into a blank mask of indifference and glared down at her. "I don’t know what to say. I’m disappointed, I guess. That you would think I’d do something like that…" he shook his head slightly. "I guess it doesn’t matter now. I have work to do. Excuse me."

He turned away from her and started back into his office. That was it? He wasn’t going to yell at her?

Oh, God, what had she done?

Quickly, she followed him. "Harm, wait. I’m sorry, it’s just that…"

"It doesn’t really matter, Mac. You’ve already told me what you thought."}}}

{{{"It looks to me like you may have been hit with a pipe or perhaps a metal frame piece. Ensign Howard is going to give you a local and I’ll stitch you up, son. Be back in a few minutes."

Mac smiled and passed her hand over his sweaty brow. Her eyes were sympathetic. "You holding up okay there, Commander?" she asked softly.

Harm just nodded, his eyes glazed. Mac stood very close to the edge of the gurney and Harm leaned sideways against her, resting his weight against her. Mac steadied herself against him and bet her head slightly, looking down at their clasped hands. Harm’s temple rested against her forehead, his breath stirring her hair.

"All set?" Captain Pierce asked, coming back.

"Ready as I’ll ever be," Harm ground out.

It took only a matter of minutes but he was sweating profusely by the time Captain Pierce was done and had nearly crushed the feeling out of Mac’s hand. The pain was almost overwhelming and he couldn’t seem to get his breath. Concerned, Mac looked at Captain Pierce, who also appeared worried. He walked around in front of them and Mac stepped back a bit.

"It shouldn’t have been that bad, Commander. I’m going to send you down to x-ray and have them take a look at you. I think you may have cracked a rib."}}}

{{{A scream erupted from Alex and Mac turned in time to see the heavy roll of plastic hit her in the legs, knocking her off her feet.

"Alex!" Mac cried, diving toward her.

The instant Alex’s bright blonde head disappeared over the edge, Mac caught her arm. The momentum forward was enough to keep their combined weight headed for the ground below. Mac dug in the toes of her boots but couldn’t find anyway to slow herself down. The whole tableau played out in just seconds. Mac felt herself slipping over the edge of the roof as she grappled desperately for a way to hold on for herself and Alex. She twisted as she went and somehow managed to get the heavy-duty gutter, which shuddered and groaned as it took the burden of their weight.

"What the hell…!"

"Mac!"

Mac’s arms shook painfully and she looked down at Alex. "Hold on!"

"I’m going to make you fall, too!" Alex answered.

"You go, I go!" she yelled.

"Mac!" Harm called. "Hang on, Ninja-girl!"

"I can’t!" she cried. "Do something!"

"Alex? Honey, let go!" Walker ordered.

"What?!" Alex cried.

"Damn it, Alex! Let go! I won’t let you fall!"

"I’m scared!" Alex wailed.

"I know, baby, but it’s not far and we’re all here. Let go - I’ll catch you."

"I’ll catch you, baby. Come on now. Let go of Mac," he coaxed.

"Don’t you dare let me fall!" Alex told him, her voice shaky and thin.

"I won’t, honey, promise!"

"Okay, here goes!" she yelled back.

"Mac! Do what Alex just did!" Harm called up to her.

"Don’t you let me fall!" she warned.

"I won’t, Sarah. I’m right here below you!" he reassured her.

"Okay," Mac answered.

She dragged in a deep breath and let go of the gutter. The air rushed around her and her stomach shot clear to her toes and then she felt a bone-jarring thud as Harm plucked her out of the air. Mac wrapped her arms around his neck and held on tight, feeling the sickening rush of fear course through her.

"Oh, thank God!" Harm breathed against her ear.}}}

She ran from him after the night they made love for the first time. And when she gathered her thoughts and came home, he was gone. Back to flying. She believed in her heart on that fateful day that his leaving would be the end of all they had. Instead it served as a turning point. A turning point that rebuilt what they had and made it stronger than ever before. They got carried away with arguments and doubts until Mac felt as if she were chasing a pipe dream. Like roping the wind and getting nowhere fast. Then the second ill fated trip to Russia, which had proved to be their point of no return.

{{{The man was standing right in front of her now. He was close enough for her to feel his warmth and hear his sharp indrawn breath. Who was here? Who was doing this to her? Mac tried to move her body back away from him.

Harm stuffed the penlight into a pocket, holstered his gun and whipped off the night vision goggles, dropping them at the feet. "Mac? Oh, God… Mac, can you hear me?"

I must be dying, she thought. Harm is calling me. But he couldn’t be here. He doesn’t know where I am.

"Mac, can you hear me? Sarah? Answer me, damn it."

Harm tenderly slid his hands around her head and tugged off the blindfold. Reverently, he ran his fingers over her face and through her sweat-soaked hair. Emotions threatened to choke him as a feeling unlike anything he’d ever known coursed through him.

"Oh my God, Mac. You’re alive. I thought…" his voice trailed off in a painful whisper. "I thought I wouldn’t make it in time. I thought…"

He stopped speaking and dropped his head forward close to hers, his warm breath brushing past her ear. It was then that Mac realized she wasn’t passing through Heaven but really and truly had been found by her beloved partner. His heart was pounding furiously against her breasts and his big hands clenched reflexively in her hair.

"You… you found… me," she choked out.

A strangled chuckle escaped his tight throat. "Of course I found you. I’m not ready to break in a new partner yet."}}}

And now here they waited, about the commit the rest of their lives to each other under the hand of God and before all their family and closest friends. The final verse of the song reached Mac’s ears and she drew herself back to the present, shaking off the reminiscent traces of the past. The next song would signal the procession of the wedding party and then in lieu of the traditional bridal march, Mac would make her way to the altar with yet another song – this one written especially for them by Jessie.

With all my heart and all my soul

I'm loving you and I never will let go

And every day I'll let it show

Because you love me

Because you love me

Ooooh, Because you love me

As the final strains of the song faded away, applause rose from everyone gathered. She launched immediately into a new song. As she began the first words, Jenny stepped onto the white runner and began her journey to the rose covered arch where the men waited.

I can't imagine any greater fear

Then waking up without you here

And though the sun would still shine on

My whole world would all be gone…

But not for long

Mac watched as the wonderful young women who’d become some of her closest friends began their parts in the wedding procession. But part of her mind was spinning elsewhere to other times and circumstances that had gotten to where they stood now. The aftermath of what she once though was only an illusion. They had enough intrigue in their lives to make them the stuff legends were made of but she wouldn’t changed one horrifying moment of any of it. Without those times, they wouldn’t know what they held so dear now.

{{{"There’s been an Amtrak crash 60 miles North of here," she gasped.

"What?" The pencil Mac was holding snapped in her hand.

"Oh my God," Jenny breathed. "Travis!"}}}

{{{A short way ahead of her was another fire. They seemed to be everywhere. She stood for a moment, lost in thought when a figure came from the billowing black cloud, seemingly appearing out of thin air. She stared hard at the man, something supported in his arms. She would have known Harm’s six-four body in a crowd of a million other men. Shock held her immobilized for a split second. Here he was in the flesh, coming right at her. Harm saw her right then and he stumbled slightly. He gave her that funny little half smile of his, only this time it was rimmed with exhausted lines. He kept walking toward her.

When he got right in front of her, Mac saw that he was carrying a baby. He was filthy and there was a cut on his temple that trickled a slow trail of blood down his face where it mingled with sweat. He didn’t look very surprised to see her but she was stunned to the soles of her feet to finally be looking at him.

"I didn’t know where else to look for you," she murmured slowly.

"I knew you would come," he countered.

"As soon as we heard the news. I wouldn’t have given up. I couldn’t," she stated simply.

Then Harm moved and wrapped his free arm around her, drawing her up against his chest. Mac wrapped her arms around his waist and held on for all she was worth. She felt like she should be showing something more of her emotions but everything seemed frozen inside her. She was so damn happy to see him that… well, it seemed to override everything else. She clung to him tightly, burying her face in the crook of his neck. Harm slid his hand up her back to her hair and gently tugged until she raised her eyes to his.

Then he kissed her.

The second their lips met everything that was out of whack in their world shifted to the right place. Time seemed to stand still and Mac felt something twist inside her. More than once reality had threatened to take her from him. Deep inside she was grateful for every day they had together but now… now was another chance in a long line of second chances.}}}

If I had to run, if I had to crawl,

If I had to swim a hundred rivers

Just to climb a thousand walls

Always know that I would find a way

To get to where you are

There's no place that far

One by one, the women followed the same path, their faces alight with tender smiles of happiness. Jenny and Travis and King and Storm who looked at each other with so much love it was blinding. And Alex and Walker who still glowed like young kids in love for the first time. The petite redhead who’s eyes rested on the tall man she called partner who weren’t quite to the point the others were but who’s love showed just as strong.

It wouldn't matter why we're apart

Lonely miles or two stubborn hearts

Nothing short of God above

Could turn me away from your love

I need you that much

If I had to run, if I had to crawl,

If I had to swim a hundred rivers

Just to climb a thousand walls

Always know that I would find a way

To get to where you are

There's no place that far

Harriet was the last one, waiting a couple of seconds before she started forward. Bud’s eyes were aglow with love and Mac imagined he was probably thinking of the day they got married. Or maybe of the first time he ever saw her on the deck of the carrier.

Oh If I had to run (if I had to run)

If I had to crawl (if I had to crawl)

If I had to swim a hundred rivers

Just to climb a thousand walls

Always know that I would find a way

To get to where you are

There’s no place that far

Baby, there's no place that far

The third and final song began with Jessie’s own brand of piano. Reverend Stewart motioned for the crowd to rise to their feet and everyone turned to get their first look at Mac as she and A.J. stepped out of the house and onto the aisle. Across the distance between them, Harm and Mac met gazes. Jessie’s heartfelt words symbolized the long road they’d taken to each other.

I still can remember times when the night seemed to surround me

I was sure the sun would never shine on me.....

And I...I thought it my destiny to walk this world alone

But now you're here with me..... now you're here with me

And I don't regret the rain

Or the nights I felt the pain

Or the tears I had to cry some of those times along the way

Every road I had to take

Every time my heart would break

It was just something that I had to get through

To get me to you.... get me to you... get me to you

Mac’s breath hitched as he came into view. In all the years they’d been together, the sight of him in his dress whites never failed to stir her senses. From the arch, he flashed her a small version of his flyboy smile and her knees went weak. This was the love she’d always dreamed of and she knew when they were old and gray, moments like this would still be making them fall in love all over with each other.

Well I.... I still can recall the days when I had no love around me

Makes me glad for every day I have with you..... And I.....

I look in your eyes and know I’m right where I belong

And I belong with you…. Always belong with you,

And I don't regret the rain

Or the nights I felt the pain

Or the tears I had to cry some of those times along the way

Every road I had to take

Every time my heart would break

It was just something that I had to get through

To get me to you..... get me to you..... Oh, yeah…

As she drew nearer to him, Harm felt his heart would pop out of his chest. He couldn’t remember her ever looking as beautiful as she did to him then. Eight months pregnant with their first baby and glowing in a way he’d never seen. Her dress was the purest white satin, cut just beneath her breasts so it flowed over her stomach. The halter type top left her arms and shoulders bare. A circle of baby roses sat on her dark hair and the long wispy material attached to it fluttered behind her in the light breeze. The long skirt flowed like liquid satin to the ground and then trailed behind her. Her brown eyes were alight with the deep love she felt for him ad he hoped with all his heart she could see that answering love in his gaze.

And if I could I wouldn't change a thing

Wouldn't change a thing, baby

Because your love was waiting there for me

Waiting there for me, baby

And I don't regret the rain

Or the nights I felt the pain

Or the tears I had to cry some of those times along the way

Every road I had to take

Every time my heart would break

It was just something that I had to get through

To get me to you.... To get me to you.... To get me to you....

As the final strains of music faded away, Reverend Stewart smiled fully. "Who gives this woman today to the bonds of matrimony?"

"I do," A.J. stated clearly.

He turned slightly and lifted her hand from his arm, bringing it to his lips for a gentle kiss to the back before he placed it in Harm’s broad palm.

"Take care of her, son," he murmured with a squeeze to Harm’s shoulder.

"Aye, aye, sir," Harm answered.

"Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here today…"

Silence reigned save the Reverend’s voice as he talked about the sanctity of the union they were about to enter into. When he reached the part of their vows, he smiled and looked past them to the audience, announcing that they had written their own passages. Mac handed her bouquet to Harriet and the two turned to face each other, hands clasped between them.

Harm opened his mouth to speak and his voice cracked. With the barest shake of his head, he cleared his throat slightly and began again.

"I remember the first time we met. You were as prickly as a cactus and immune to my best smile. I wasn’t sure we would ever be friends. But as time wore on you quickly filled a place in my heart I didn't know was empty. I found myself looking forward to your smile, to your laughter, your support and all the things that made me fall in love with you all those years ago. We took the long way around to get to where we are today. I know I’ve hurt you and I can’t promise I’ll never hurt you again but no man will ever love you the way I do. Ever. You are my home and the freedom I feel in your arms is more than any Tomcat could ever give me. I’ve never had anyone I could count on and I’ve been let down so many times. Then you walked into my life and it was a feeling I’ve never known. It scared me to death but for the first time I wasn’t alone. No other woman will ever make me feel like you do, Mac. You’re more than a lover and I don’t where I’d be without you here with me. You’re my best friend. You make me feel like the king of the mountain.

I have many reasons to be thankful. Many of them are gathered here with us today. But the most important one is looking at me now with her heart in her eyes. I never felt like I belonged anywhere until I settled in at JAG. But more than that, I’ve found a place at your side. Right here before all the people who mean the most to us, I thank God for giving you to me and for all we have and all we share. You make me laugh, you keep me on my toes, you’ve never once been afraid to stand up and tell me I’m wrong. You’ve saved me a thousand times over, guided me, supported me and a million other things I can only start to touch on. You’ve been the one constant thing in my world that has been unwavering since the day I met you. I never knew how much until I came face-to-face with losing you. Not to enemy fire or another man but to my own lack of insight. I promise you, Sarah, that I will be with you every day of the rest of our lives. Through all of our wondrous times, new discoveries, old friends and new. Through the times that will surely test the ties that bind us together. I’ll be the strength you need to lean on, the arms that offer shelter and the heart that will protect you for the rest of your life."

He released her hands and slowly knelt at her feet, placing both of his palms flat on her stomach. "Outside of your love, thank you for the most precious gift I’ve ever received. This child that will bear our legacy in what I hope to be a long line, will know every day what it’s like to be loved and wanted." Tenderly he pressed his lips to her tummy before he rose and clasped her hands again, blinking to clear the tears that threatened.

"The things I could thank you for are endless. Mostly, I want to thank you for loving me. For loving me with every fiber of your being and for never giving up on me. Even when any other woman would have turned her back and walked away. I love you, Sarah MacKenzie-Rabb, from the very bottom of my heart."

With that softly spoken statement, Harm slid the diamond-studded band that matched her engagement ring onto her slender finger and then raised her hand to his mouth, pressing a tender kiss to the place where the rings rested.

The only sounds to be heard were the soft sounds of tears throughout their audience. A tear slipped down Mac’s cheek but she gathered in her emotions. She didn’t want to cry before she said all that was in her heart, too. Holding his hands tightly, she smiled and began.

"Sometimes I think you give me far too much credit, Commander. For every step I’ve taken with you, you’ve taken an equal one with me. Through times when I wasn’t a very nice person. When I was outright mean. You took it and you stayed. How miserable you must have been when I shut you out over and over. But you stayed and you stood your ground, giving me patience and understanding where there’d been none before. Despite our rocky start that day in the Rose Garden, I’ve learned a great deal with you and from you. More than anything, I’ve learned what it truly means to be a partner and a friend. You’ve stood by me during times when no one else in my life would have. Through death and drinking and all the times that I took my anger out on you. You never wavered, Harm. You just kept…" her voice broke slightly and she took a deep breath. "You just kept going, taking it all in stride and proving to me that you had staying power. All my life I’ve been running from something. You gave me something to run to. I promise you that I will be at your side always. No matter what comes because I already know we have all we need to get through anything.

You give me your trust every single day, your support, your love and thousands of other things I couldn’t even begin to touch on. You’ve been my friend from the start, my hero, and the only light in a world sometimes filled with darkness. You’re the biggest part of what makes me whole. You’ve given me the faith and the freedom to find my own way and that road has led me to you. I don’t think I could ever live without you, Harm. You’ve taken me too far to ever turn back now because I need you like I need my next breath. Thank you for this tiny new life that’s growing. This baby represents the culmination of all the stars I’ve wished on and all the dreams I believed would never come true. It’s the very best part of us. I love you today, Harmon Rabb, and I will love you more and more every day for the rest of my life."

Smiling fully at him, her love shining like a beacon, Mac slid the simple platinum band that matched her wedding set onto his finger. Eyes shimmering with tears, she lifted his hand and held it against her cheek for a moment before they turned together to face Reverend Stewart again.

"If there is any one present today who feels a valid reason this man and woman should not be joined, please speak now or forever hold your peace." Silence held out as they all knew it would and he continued. "Whom God has joined together let no man put asunder. I now pronounce you husband and wife. Commander Rabb, you may kiss your bride."

Harm stepped marginally closer to her and lifted his hands to her face, his fingertips barely grazing her satiny skin. He lowered his dark head and pressed his lips to hers, giving her the most tender kiss she’d ever received from him. One filled with love and his respect and affection for her. Covering his hands with her own, Mac joyously returned the kiss. Separating barely an inch, they stared into each other’s eyes and smiled secretive smiles before finally turning to face the others.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you Commander and Mrs. Harmon Rabb, Jr."

Amid and applause and cheers, Harm and Mac walked through the salute with swords officiated by Admiral Chegwidden and carried out by Bud, John, Keeter, Captain Boone, Tiner, Gunny and Mattoni, complete with the sharp tap on Mac’s bottom by A.J. A short time later the guests had all migrated to the other side of the huge backyard where tents were set to hold the food, dance floor and a multitude of tables and chairs.

Jessie and her band took their places at the head of the small dance floor and the light towers were turned off, leaving only the many candlelit sconces to illuminate the dance floor. Jessie took her place at the piano again and smiled.

"The first song will be for the bride and groom. Harm, Mac, I wrote this for you today and I hope it will remind you of all the love you have yet to come. Steve and I would like you to have it as a wedding present."

In the middle of the dance floor, Harm waited with his arms around Mac, holding her close. He nodded at Jessie and looked down into Mac’s shining eyes. Lovingly, he lowered his head and kissed her. The music began and Jessie’s clear, husky voice swept over them.

With his hand at the small of her back and her other hand tucked close to his chest, Harm guided them around the floor. He tightened his grip on her hand, flattening her palm against his heart, his eyes never leaving hers. Mac titled her head to the side just a bit, her gaze wide and unblinking. Sentimental memories swirled around them both. Evoked by the emotion of the day, by the presence of so many of their loved ones, by the words to the song Jessie was singing. Timeless, shifting sands that marked to passage of their present and the future yet to come.

{{{As the final notes of the song faded away, Harm turned his head and looked up at her. In the moonlight, he couldn’t see her expression clearly but her gaze was deep and luminous. Carefully, he shifted in her arms, turning until he faced her. Bracing one hand on the arm of the couch, he lifted himself into a sitting position. Mac was still, almost holding her breath in anticipation of what he might do. Reverently, almost hesitantly, Harm lifted one hand and cupped the side of her face. There was a fine tremor in his big hand as he touched her bottom lip with the pad of his thumb. It was Mac’s turn to tremble then. Her hands lifted seemingly of their own accord and curled into fists in the front of his shirt.

Harm put his arms on either side of her, his hands on the back of the couch. He leaned forward until only an inch separated their mouths. The only sounds in the room were the radio and the quiet intensity of their breathing. Harm tipped his head forward that last little bit but didn’t kiss her.

Mac’s long lashes drifted downward when she felt the first brush of his

mouth against her jaw. He wasn’t kissing her but rather caressing her skin with his lips. She felt the brush of his lashes as he closed his eyes. The tiny rasp of stubble on his jaw sensitized her nerves and his mouth moved to the corner of her eye. She felt his warm breath against her ear and a tiny shiver coursed through her.

Mac turned her head slightly, bumping her nose against his jaw. She brushed her own lips against his skin. They moved together, covering each other’s faces with the tiny caresses that were as light as air. Harm slid his hands into Mac’s hair and tilted her head back. He pressed his lips to the slender column of her throat, feeling the rapid beat of her pulse. The swirling desire between them was building like a backdraft. Mac’s hands still held tight to his shirt, afraid if she let go she might float away. Her lips parted on a soft sigh when he pressed a string of tiny kisses from her jaw to the corner of her mouth.

Then the memory of a long ago kiss gave way to reality.

Fire exploded between them the second his lips settled over hers. His arms went around her slender form, drawing her tight against him as her own hands slid around to clasp the back of this head. Days and months of pent-up emotions spilled forth. All the tension and anguish of their most recent ordeal bubbled to the surface. Harm kissed her like a man dying of thirst who’d just found a pure spring. It was Heaven… and Hell… and all that lay between.}}}

The times they were separated by their own anger. Other times by circumstance and still others by misunderstanding.

{{{Harm, for the last three years now you've been my partner and my very best friend. There isn't anyone else in this world that knows me the way you do. That's why I can't understand how we've reached this point. Unraveled and carried away... That's what we've been reduced to.

After all we've been through together are we determined to let it end this way? I don't want to believe we will. Or believe that we even could. All that we've worked so hard to accomplish is coming unraveled, like a fragile knot that wasn't tied tight. We're being carried away by our growing feelings, Harm, and that is something we should be taking seriously. Not something to sweep under the rug and forget about. But when you and I are together all this distance and confusion fades. I've always thought my feet were planted firmly on the ground - that I was pretty levelheaded. But when you come around... well, I get carried away by the look in your eyes. By your smile... One touch and I turn into a dithering idiot. I feel like nothing else in this world should matter but being with you.

I guess that's why I'm so confused. Because I don't know how you feel about me. I'm certain we're making this harder than it should be. There must be a way for you and I to make it together. To overcome my stubbornness and your pride.

A way to admit our feelings for each other. Feelings I'm sure we have because no matter what the silly voice in my head says, my heart knows you would never have kissed me the way you did if you didn't care for me. And, I, my love, wouldn't have kissed you back wishing we could go on that way forever.}}}

Thoughtfully, he reached out and picked up a picture he had of her on his desk. There was another picture of her next to his bed at home. And one of them together on the little window over the kitchen sink. And a bigger one sitting on a shelf behind his desk in the front room. This particular picture was his favorite. The one next to his bed was a duplicate of it. It had been taken not long after they’d become partners at a NATO ball they’d attended as protection for the Romanian King and his daughter.

But that was a long time ago. Sometimes it felt like a lifetime. He had a hard time remembering sometimes just how long they’d been friends. They were so close he couldn’t remember what it felt like before he’d had her. As least they had been close. Now he feared they might have lost it forever because he had no idea how to get it back. His finger smoothed over her image under the glass. She was looking at something only she could see, her eyes watchful and direct, her full lips pursed in just a hint of a smile. A seductive smile if he ever saw one. He’d always wondered what she was looking at when the photographer took the picture. Drawing in a slow, even breath, he went around and sat down in his chair, still looking at the picture.

He wished he could tell her all the things he was thinking of. He had started to a dozen times but something always seemed to get in the way. Lately she cut him off every time he tried. There wasn’t anyone else he could really talk to. And this was so private – just between the two of them. Thoughtfully, he set the picture down and pulled his notepad over in front of him. Picking up his pen, he twirled it between his fingers for a moment, studying her face. Then he started writing.

Oh, Mac, where do I begin to talk to you? We’ve never had a problem communicating before but suddenly it seems like we can’t even exchanges hellos. How did we get to this point? A week ago I was holding you in my arms and kissing you. A week ago I never wanted to be away from you. I wanted to keep you so close a ray of light couldn’t come between us. And now a week later when we aren’t even speaking, that’s what I still want.

A week ago I felt like the King of the mountain. I had everything. A job I love, a CO I would die for, two junior officers that are more like family to me than anyone I’ve ever known and… and you, Sarah. Most important of all, I had you. The one thing I want more than anything else in my life is you. But, now – this morning – with harsh words between us, I feel like the biggest fool in the world standing on the littlest hill. Everything that I rejoiced in a week ago is unraveling at my feet. Unraveling like so much string wrapped in a ball. An unraveled King of the mountain. That makes a lot of sense, doesn’t it? But you always make sense of what I say, Mac. You make sense of things when I don’t understand them myself.

I wonder if I ever stop to tell you that? Do I tell you how much you mean to me? Do I tell you how grateful I am for all the times you’ve stood by me? All the times you’ve supported me, held me up, urged me to keep going. To keep seeking the truth, the justice. Did I thank you for going with me to Russia? To search for my father and uncover the truth? You risked your life and your career for me. Even though I desperately tried to talk you out of going. I didn’t want anything to happen to you. But at the same time I wanted you with me. I want you with me all the time – every second, every minute, every day. There’s a place for you in my heart, Mac. And there’s a place for me in yours. I feel it inside. One day we’re going to match up those two places. I won’t let you go this easily. Not when I’ve waited my whole life to find you.}}}

{{{Mac breathed deeply of the fresh country air. She lowered herself down on the old-fashioned porch swing and gently set it to rocking with her foot. The other leg she drew up to her chest, resting her chin on her knee. It was so different here from where they lived. The stars overhead sparkled so brightly she felt as if she could reach out and touch them. Th sounds of the night were all around. Crickets chirping, a faint rustle of the wind through the trees, an occasional whinny from a horse and off in the distance, the faint lowing of the cattle.

"It’s very quiet here, isn’t it?"

Mac whirled around, dropping both feet to the floor. "Harm! I thought you were going upstairs?"

"Didn’t mean to startle you," he murmured, staring off into the distance as he moved to the porch railing. "I did but I changed my mind. It’s very rare we get exposed to a place like this. I guess I’m a little wound up," he shrugged negligently.

Mac’s eyes hungrily traced the long lines of his back as he stood before her. He’d changed earlier into jeans and a plain white T-shirt, which did every bit as much for him as his uniform as far as she was concerned. He’d gotten that haircut she’d wondered about, his dark hair close-cropped now but still long enough for her to imagine running her hands into it. It was dark around them but the moon was bright, silhouetting his stance. She shifted a little on the swing, leaning forward a bit.

She could tell he was distracted. Despite the darkness, she knew him well enough to read every line of his tall form. His hands were braced on the porch rail, the muscles in his forearms bunched from clenching the smooth wood. There seemed to be a touch of melancholy in his demeanor. He looked… down trodden. Like the weight of the whole world somehow rested squarely on his broad shoulders. Her heart ached for him.

She knew he was struggling every bit as much as she was but they both seemed powerless to stop what was happening. Hesitantly, she rose to her feet and moved up to him. She stood for just a moment right behind him, feeling the warmth of his body.

Harm heard her first gentle movement on the swing just as clearly as he could hear the whisper of her breathing. She was wearing jeans and a dark red tank top and he heard every brush of the denim when she shifted. A moment later she rose and came up behind him. He tensed just a tiny bit as he waited to see what she’d do. He could feel her nearness, her warmth. Slowly, he released the porch rail and straightened up, bringing them even closer as she was right at his back.

Uncertainly, Mac lifted her hand but stopped just short of touching him, wavering for a second on indecision. Then she laid her palm flat against him, feeling the slender indentation down the middle of his lower back. Slowly, she lifted her other hand and placed it on his back as well, moving the first one over a little. Then she leaned forward the last couple of inches and laid her head against him.

Of all the things Harm expected her to do, that wasn’t it. Stunned, he stood perfectly still, relishing the feel of her. She was so small compared to him, her body soft where it touched him. She moved then and her hands slid around his waist, coming to rest on his flat stomach. Tentatively, he covered her small hands with his.

Mac felt him tense a little with her first touch but he didn’t show any reaction otherwise. Sliding her hands around him, she felt the hard muscles in his stomach contract at the first gentle touch of her palms. Then he surprised her by covering her hands with his, pressing them flat against him. She allowed herself to relax, feeling his tall form shift to support her weight.

"Come here," he whispered huskily.

He tugged on her hands, bringing her around between his body and the porch rail. Before she realized what he was doing, he grasped her by the waist and lifted her to sit on the rail. Purposefully, he stepped between her legs and slid his arms beneath hers, drawing her up against his chest. Surprised, Mac could only sit there. This was one of the last things she would have thought he’d do.

Then sensation took over and there was no more hesitation.

Brought almost to eye level by her new position, she lifted her arms and wrapped them around his wide shoulders, holding on as if her life depended on it. His own embrace contracted, almost taking her breath away. She sensed a sort of desperation in him and knew it was no less than the desperation she felt in herself. He shifted a little, his jaw sliding against her temple. She shifted then, too, tipping her head back just enough to find his gaze and sliding her arms down.

"Harm…"

He cupped her jaw in one big hand and pressed the pad of his thumb to her lips, effectively silencing her. "I don’t want to talk, Mac. I just want to feel."

And those few whispered words went straight into the darkest part of her heart. Mac’s hands slid up his arms to his shoulders, moving closer even as he was drawing her in. He brought her down from the porch rail with barely a flicker of movement, holding her tight against him and they slowly began to move. It was then that Mac realized in some distant part of her mind that music was coming from one of the windows on the second floor.

Eyes locked, they began to dance. Mac found herself drowning in the spell he was weaving. He tucked one of her hands against his chest and drew her a little closer, their bodies brushing just enough to tantalize them both. Mac lowered her head and let her eyes drift shut. She felt Harm shift and then his cheek was resting against her temple. One big hand splayed across her back above the line of the tank top, his callused fingers just a little rough against her smooth, silky skin. She shivered slightly.

"Cold?" he murmured, his breath stirring her hair.

"No."

And she realized it was the truth. She wasn’t cold at all but was instead losing herself to sensation. Mac lifted her head and met Harm’s eyes. He studied her intently, his gaze steady. The delicate scent of jasmine wafting off her skin was driving him to distraction, as was the dreamy look in her eyes. He knew they were treading dangerous territory here but he couldn’t seem to stop himself. All he ever thought about was her. Being close to her, the smell of her perfume, the light in her eyes, the warmth in her smile… everything about her.

Mac tried desperately to relax against Harm but was finding it to be a losing battle. There was just too much tension in the air. Her stomach felt like one of the herds was stampeding through it. His was drawing a tiny pattern on her back, making it darn near impossible to think straight. She wondered if Harm was even aware of his petting and then decided it didn’t matter because she desperately wanted this contact with him - had been wanting it for a long time. Slowly, she slid her hand free of his grasp and wound it around his neck where the other one rested, slowly massaging the tight muscles she found there.

Harm tensed slightly at the touch of her fingers. He dropped the arm that had been holding her hand and clasped her hip, his fingers flexing against her jeans. Harm could barely hear the music as they continued to move. It was more of a feeling really. He could feel the hard beating of her heart and realized she was nervous. He was nervous, too, and his own heart was beating out an answering staccato. They were headed into unknown territory where they were both strangers but Harm had known from that kiss in his apartment that they’d already come too far to turn back. Bending his head slightly, he nuzzled his cheek against hers, feeling the difference between his own stubbled skin and the silky softness of hers.

Sighing almost inaudibly, Mac tilted her head into the caress, pressed so close to him now that it didn’t feel like they were two people anymore. Encouraged by her positive response, Harm turned his head slightly and touched his lips to the same spot. Moving slowly, almost not at all, his pressed a string of barely there kisses to the curve of her jaw and down to the warm, scented hollow of her throat. His fingers clenched on her hips for a second before sliding around her fully, gathering her in even tighter than before if possible. Mac sensed the small changes in him, from the tightening of his body around hers to the slight increase of his breathing.

Her own breathing sounded none too steady at that particular moment. Reveling in his tenderness, Mac dug her fingers into his shoulders, feeling as if she would fly away if she didn’t hold tight to him.

Harm’s mouth brushed against her earlobe and she gasped, feeling the touch zing clear to her toes. A tingling started deep in her tummy, causing the muscles to clench. Heartened by the tiny sound that reached his ears, Harm slid his tongue across the spot, enticing her further. Aching for more than just a darting touch, Mac restlessly turned her head toward his.

Harm watched her from beneath half-lowered lids, wanting desperately to kiss her but knowing he couldn’t let this go any farther. They were already way in over their heads and with so much else going on, this wasn’t the time to get this particular ball rolling. There in the dark, under the glow of the moon, he tried to find a way to show her that without her thinking he was rejecting her. He wanted nothing more than to whisk her away somewhere where they could hide away and never come back. Somewhere he could lay her down and make the sweetest, slowest love to her. Without him saying a word, Mac understood what he was trying to communicate to her and nodded slowly. There was no need to rush because they had all the time in the world. They also had some things to solve before they let this - fire between them flare to life. There was too much else at stake.

Harm reluctantly drew back a little, putting some space between them. He cupped her lovely face in his hands and stared down at her for endless moments, his bottomless gaze unwavering. Finally, he tilted his head forward and pressed a tender kiss to her forehead. Mac reached up to cover his hands with her own and closed her eyes for a moment, feeling an almost overwhelming urge to cry. Then he stepped back away from her and the tiny tendrils that were wrapped around them separated… for now.}}}

The final strains of the song faded away but the tall dark-haired Commander and his lady had eyes only for each other. As dusk fell and a warm evening breeze ruffled the tents and flickered the candles, he held her close and continued to guide her around the dance floor. As the next song started, along with Jessie inviting all the members of the wedding party to join the bride and groom for the next song.

When I lost faith you believed in me,

When I stumbled you were right there,

For every act of love you’ve done, I owe you one,

There were hard times I know I survived,

Just because you stayed by my side,

With all I have, with all I am, I promise you all my life…

{{{"Hang on!" King yelled. "That’s the water coming! If you get caught up, let go of your horse so you don’t get pulled under!"

"Oh my God!" Harm heard Mac exclaim.

He looked up and saw a solid wall of water coming right at them. It swept through the clearing, picking up the pieces of the F-14 and dragging them along. Harm curved his body around Mac, pushing her into the rough bark of the tree for protection. Then it was upon them. Water sprayed everywhere, soaking them and knocking their feet out from under them. Pieces of debris slammed into the tree trunks. Harm lost his contact with Mac and he looked around wildly, trying to keep his head above water. He looked around again for Mac and caught sight of her trying to stand. The water jerked her legs out from under her and she went under for a second. Just as she came back up, Steve’s arm shot out and snagged her coat. Harm was knocked over again and then he was moving with the current.

"Harm!"

He turned toward the sound of King’s voice and saw the other man swirling a lasso over his head.

"Grab the loop!" King yelled and let it fly.

The end of the rope sailed past Harm’s head and hit the water with a splash. He lunged for it, losing his footing again when he let go of the tree. The rope jerked taught as it took his weight. Kicking against the water, he started to pull himself back up and when something heavy slammed into him.

"Harm!" Mac screamed his name when she saw him go under. The rope King had thrown to him floated free and there was no sign of her partner.

"Tie the end of this around your waist!" Steve ordered, handing her the end he was holding.

King was the closest to Harm and he reached out to grab the taller man when another wave hit them, sweeping Harm out of his grasp. Mac struggled to keep her own head above the raging tide. Another streak of lightning rent the air, striking a tree nearby. The acrid smell of burning wood filled the air as the giant oak tumbled over, landing with a horrific crash right in the middle of them.

"Harm!" she screamed again, frantically searching for some sign of him.

Lightning lit up the sky yet again and she caught sight of his dark head. He was coming close to where she was floating against the pull of the rope. Mac let go of her hold on the rope and almost lost her breath when it jerked around her middle. Gritting her teeth, she tried to find a foothold and lunged toward Harm.

Taking a deep breath, she thought she found the ground and pushed with all her strength, propelling herself toward him. She almost wept with relief when her fingers close around the duster. Another rush of water slammed into them and she felt her grip sliding. Letting out a yell that would have done any Marine proud, she flung her other hand out and yanked on her partner with all her might. She got him close enough to wrap her arms around him and held on tightly.

One by one, the others fought their way through the rushing current until they were all together. They were all held firm by ropes but struggling to keep their footing and their heads out of the water.

"He’s not breathing!" Mac yelled to King, her eyes fearful.

"We have to get to higher ground!" King yelled back. He moved closer to her side. "Let me have him!" he ordered.

"No!" she answered with a shake of her head.

"Move it, Marine!" King bellowed. "He’s too heavy for you!"

She knew was right but she didn’t want to relinquish her hold for one second.

"We’ve got him, Mac. Let go and go with Brett!" King commanded.

Mac could barely make out his features beneath the brim of his hat but she knew she had to trust him. She let go of Harm but he didn’t go anywhere as King and Tucker held tight to him. Brett grabbed Mac around the waist and steered her off in another direction. She twisted in his grasp, trying to see the others and realized they were following close behind. They pushed on through the trees, fighting the current and the wind.

Lightning continued to strike and it hit another tree, showering them with sparks. Mac screamed and Brett turned her away, shielding her with his own body as they tree fell over, narrowly missing them. Brett pushed her onward until they reached an embankment of sorts. Mac grasped at the protruding rocks, trying to haul herself up out of the water. Brett lifted her from behind until she could catch hold of a tree branch. Gasping for breath, she tightened her grip and pushed with her feet, struggling to get further up the muddy slope. Hand over hand she went until her entire body was out of the rushing water. The ground leveled out enough so she wouldn’t slide back into the water and she turned and stuck her hand out to Brett.

He clasped her forearm and she pulled with all her strength, falling backward as he came up beside her. King and Tucker were next with Harm and it took all their efforts to get his inert form up on the flat part of the slope. Mac immediately bent over him, checking for a pulse. There was nothing. Sliding her hand beneath his neck, she tilted his head back and bent over him. There was no sign of breath from his either. Dimly, she was aware of Tyler moving up to Harm’s other side. Pinching his nose, she fitted her mouth to his and blew gently. The she looked over to Tyler who started CPR.

"One-one thousand, two-one thousand…" When he reached six he stopped and Mac blew again into Harm’s mouth.

His lips were tinged blue and skin was chilled. Frantically she checked for a pulse again. Still nothing. Tyler counted out six more pushes. Then there was another breath from her. And six more pushes. And then Harm started coughing. Mac felt tears spilling down her cheeks as she rolled him onto his side so he wouldn’t choke. Gently, she patted his back as he spit up the water he’d swallowed. She eased him back down and leaned over him.

"You scared the hell out of me," she stated flatly.

Harm tried to muster a grin. "Sorry, Mac. Don’t know what came over me," he grimaced and lifted a hand toward his head.}}}

{{{Shots rang out and one hit the truck next to where Harm was standing. Grabbing Mac with his left hand, he turned and fired at the men running toward them. Their shots were alerting the rest of the camp. He and Mac started running for the trees, turning to fire.

"Come on, come on," Wade muttered under his breath. "We can’t shoot until the two of you are clear!"

Harm turned to fire again. "Run, Mac, I’ll cover you!" he cried.

"No! We go together! Keep going!" se answered.

They were only a few feet away now.

A movement off to the left caught Steve’s eye as he watched their progress. Turning, he saw two men coming from the direction, guns drawn.

"Harm! Mac! Look out!" he called, moving forward a little.

Mac, who was ahead of Harm, turned to see what Steve was yelling about. She saw the rifle pointed in her direction the same time Harm did.

"Mac! Get down!" Harm shouted.

Several shots rang out and his heart stopped beating when he saw her go down.}}}}

Through sorrow on the darkest night,

When there’s heartache deep down inside,

Just like a prayer you will be there and I promise you all my life…

Whenever the road is too long,

Whenever the wind is too strong,

Wherever this journey may lead to,

I will be there for you, ohhh, I will be there…

{{{"Commander Rabb, Dr. Corelli. Has Major MacKenzie’s family been notified?"

"She only has one remaining member and we aren’t able to reach him," Harm answered, referring to Matthew O’Hara. "I’m her partner and this is Admiral Chegwidden, her CO. How is she?"

"She’s going to be just fine," Dr. Corelli stated, smiling broadly.

For a moment, all Harm could do was stare at him. Surely he hadn’t heard correctly. "She’s going to be…" his voice cracked and he cleared his throat. "She’ll be all right?"

"Yes, Commander."}}}

Through sorrow on the darkest night,

When there’s heartache deep down inside,

Just like a prayer you will be there and I promise you all my life…

Whenever the road is too long,

Whenever the wind is too strong,

Wherever this journey may lead to,

I will be there for you, ohhh, I will be there…

Whenever the road is too long,

Whenever the wind is too strong,

Wherever this journey may lead to,

I will be there for you, oh, yes, I will be there for you…

I’ll always be there….

They stopped right where they were in the middle of the dance floor, oblivious to everyone around them. With one arm around her waist, Harm pressed his other hand to her stomach and smiled.

"I love you," he murmured deeply.

"I love you, too," she answered. "I…"

Before she could get the next word out, Mac gasped sharply and doubled over against him, her hands going to her stomach.

"Mac!" he cried in alarm. "What is it? Is it the baby?" he demanded, holding her up.

His cries drew everyone’s attention and the others gathered around.

"What is it?" A.J. demanded, pushing through the crowd to them.

"I think… the baby’s…coming," Mac gasped, trying to remember her breathing from the Lamaze classes they’d attended.

"It’s not time!" Harm groaned, smoothing her hair back from her face.

"Obviously the baby disagrees," King stated with a reassuring smile as he came to their sides. "Let’s get his show on the road. We’ll take the chopper."

They made it to the hospital in Victoria where a team was waiting to take Mac to Delivery. Harm was almost there when a nurse stopped him.

"Are you the father?" she asked calmly.

"Yes!"

"You’ll have to change into a scrub suit. Follow me, please, and we’ll get you to your wife as soon as possible," she ordered crisply, not at all daunted by his agitation.

Then he was at Mac’s side, clutching her hand tightly as he smoothed his hand over her sweat-dampened face.

"You holding up okay?" he asked tenderly.

"Ducky. Are you scaring the nurses?" she puffed.

"Me? Would I do something like that?" he asked, the picture of innocence.

"You want the truth?" she shot back.

"Nah," he grinned. "I’m as sweet as they come."

Another pain ripped through her and she screamed long and hard. Harm’s face was pinched, his lips pressed in a grim line. He leaned closer to her, capturing her attention.

"Look at me, Sarah," he ordered sharply. "Look at me and focus on your breathing."

"It’s almost time now, Mrs. Rabb," The nurse at the foot of the bed smiled reassuringly, the picture of calmness.

"Sarah? Harm? I’m Dr. Brooks. I came as soon as Storm called me. She said you weren’t due to deliver for another couple of weeks and your doctor is in DC. Is that right?"

Harm and Mac both looked at the tall, silver-haired man who came into position at the foot of the bed as he pulled on latex gloves.

"Yes, sir," Harm confirmed.

"I’ve delivered all of the McKenzie babies," he assured them. "Storm felt you would be comfortable with me. You ready to have this baby, Sarah?" he asked warmly.

"Yes!" Mac hissed between clenched teeth as another contraction seized her body. "But it’s early. The baby’s early!" she cried, panting hard. "Is something wrong with it?"

"Sarah, the only thing wrong is that your baby is ready to be here. Sometimes babies come early, sometimes late. Yours seems to be ready now."

"Must take after its father," Mac stated, trying to smile at Harm.

He kissed her forehead. "Very funny," he grinned.

"Okay, Sarah, when the contraction hits, push hard! Push with all your might! Here it comes!" Dr. Brooks coached, moving her knees just a bit farther apart.

When the pain clamped down on Mac, she pushed as hard as she could, grinding her teeth together and growling like a bear. Harm held her hand tightly, feeling her fingers cut off his circulation. He whispered to her soothingly and helped her breath. She collapsed against the pillow, taking shallow breaths, her eyes glazed with pain.

"We’re almost there," he whispered reassuringly.

"You’re doing fine, Sarah. The head is crowning. Push hard! Bear down!" Dr. Brooks called, coaxing.

The combination of the pain and the pushing drove Mac nearly halfway off the bed. Harm supported her back and she reached for her knees, holding herself aloft. She fell back again to the pillows, her hands clutching at him.

"Harm, it hurts so bad. I can’t do this anymore. Make it stop," she begged, sobbing against him.

"You’re doing fine, baby. It’s almost over now. Be strong," he soothed.

Mac shook her head wildly as another pain built. "No, no, no. I can’t! I can’t push anymore!" she cried.

Harm leaned down until a mere inch separated their noses. "You listen up, Marine! You draw a breath and push! Do you hear me, Jarhead?! We’re gonna have this baby now! Suck it up and push!" he yelled with enough bellow to make any drill sergeant proud.

The contraction came and Mac gripped his hand and pushed with all her might, letting out a scream that nearly broke their eardrums. She pushed again and again and Harm held her up. Then in the midst of it all a loud, angry squall cut across the room. Looking down, Harm and Mac watched with wide eyes as Dr. Brooks held up a red, squirming baby, arms and legs flailing.

"You did it, Sarah! It’s a girl!"

He laid the screaming infant on Mac’s stomach so he could cut the cord. Mac’s hands went to the tiny baby girl, a look of wonder crowding out the exhaustion on her face.

"Oh, Harm, look at her," she whispered, her fingers tracing the tiny toes and fingers.

"She’s absolutely beautiful," Harm whispered, his voice choked with tears.

"Mrs. Rabb, let us get her cleaned up and checked and then we’ll bring her right back. I know you and the Commander are anxious to get acquainted with your new daughter," Dr. Brooks explained, patting her knee.

A few minutes turned into more like an hour by the time they got Mac cleaned up and settled into a room and brought the baby to her. A nurse brought Harm in after he’d gone to call and report the news of the birth. He sat down in a chair at her bedside and leaned close. Thinking she was sleeping, he lifted her hand and pressed a tender kiss to her knuckles. Her eyes snapped open and she turned her head toward him.

"I thought you were sleeping," he whispered.

"I wanted to wait and feed the baby," she smiled tenderly, her eyes tracing the tired lines of his face.

"You feel okay?" he murmured.

"Just exhausted. I feel like sleeping for the next week," she mustered a small grin.

The door opened then and one of the nurses from the delivery room came in, wheeling a portable layette. She lifted the small, wiggling bundle and came to the bed

"Someone is very anxious to meet her Mommy and Daddy," she told them, smiling brightly.

Harm rose to move his chair back and the young woman looked at him first. "Would you like to hold your daughter, Commander Rabb?"

Harm stared at her like she had grown another head. He could only nod, the lump in his throat to big to speak around. Carefully, the nurse transferred the baby to his big arms and he cradled the infant to his chest. With trembling fingers, he lifted the blankets from the baby’s face. The door closed behind the nurse with a soft click at the same time Harm got his first good look at his daughter.

"Oh, Mac, she’s so perfect."

Mac watched her husband with their child and felt tears well up and slide into the hair at her temples. Harm sat down in the chair and leaned forward, settling the baby between them on the bed. He turned the impossibly small wristband and glanced at the numbers.

"Six pounds, 5 ounces, nineteen inches. She’ll be tall," he grinned, glancing up at his wife. He studied the tiny baby’s face.

Now that she was clean they could see the dimple she sported that matched Harm’s and she had a head of dark hair that came from them both. Her fingers were long like Mac’s, her chin shaped the way his was when he smiled.

"She needs a name," he murmured.

"What would you like to name her?" Mac asked sleepily.

"I wanted something that would be a reminder of us," he answered gently, his eyes taking in Mac’s features.

"What about Harrah?" Mac questioned, her lashed fluttering closed.

"Harrah? A mix of Harm and Sarah. I love it," he smiled, tracing the baby’s tiny fist. "Harrah MacKenzie Rabb."

"Sounds perfect," Mac returned. "Thank you, Harm," she stated tenderly.

"For what?" he asked, surprised.

"For giving her to me," Mac told him. "And for loving us both. Do you remember that song you sang for me when we first made love?"

His eyes shimmered at her. "I remember."

"Would you sing it for me now? For both of us, I mean," she amended, looking down at Harrah. "I think it fits us," she added.

"I would be honored to," Harm breathed.

Clearing his throat gently, he began to sing to Mac and their baby in a low, husky voice.

I was never alive,

'Til the day I was blessed with you,

When I hold you late at night,

I know what I was put here to do,

I turn off the world and listen to you sigh,

And I will sing my Angel's Lullaby.

Know I'm forever near,

The one you can always call,

Right now all you know to fear,

Are the shadows on your wall,

I'm here close enough,

To kiss the tears you cry,

And I will sing my Angel's Lullaby.

So tell me how to stop the years from racing,

Is there a secret someone knows?

I'll never catch all the memories I'm chasing,

I'll never be ready to let go.

And when the world seems cold,

And you feel that all of your strength is gone,

There may be one tiny voice,

Your reason to carry on,

And when I'm not close enough,

To kiss the tears you cry,

You will sing your Angel's Lullaby.

Let this be our Angel's Lullaby…

As his finished the final words of the song he realized how true they really felt. Harm leaned forward over the baby and kissed Mac, letting his lips rest against hers for a moment before pulling back just a bit. His fingers smoothed her hair back and his eyes glimmered at her with unshed tears.

"This is the best day of my life, Sarah Rabb. Eternity wouldn’t be long enough for how long I’m going to love you."

The End