Title: Kiss Goodbye

Author: Becky

Email: beecky18@hotmail.com

Disclaimer: these characters do not belong to me

Rating: R

Categories: Best Cliffhanger Harm/Mac

Summary: After Mac returns from CA in 'Second Sight', her relationship with

Harm changes

~*~*~*~*~*

1500 EST

Mac's Apartment

Georgetown

After her extended leave of absence because of a crisis in Fresno,

California, Mac finally returned home. She was emotionally drained from the

trip since it resulted in seeing both her father and mother after more than

fifteen years. While at the Sacred Heart, she learned some things about her

father that she never associated with Joseph MacKenzie before. Even with

the way he treated her throughout her teenage years and calling her his

'stupid tramp daughter', Joe MacKenzie was proud of Mac. She overcame his

failure as a father and excelled in her life as a Marine Major and a lawyer

in the military. It just hurt her because he didn't know any other way to

love someone. He might've abused her verbally, but made a home for her,

unlike her mother who abandoned Mac when she was fifteen years old.

Before Mac left, she and Harm had a talk and he threw out some explanations

that she never once thought about before. Mac realized how much influence

her father had on her, although she denied it all her life. All that Joseph

MacKenzie was to her was a drunken son of a bitch, who made her life for two

years a living hell. Mac never thought of influences, but Harm found a few

after only being her friend for a little over three years. It amazed her a

bit to know that Harm cared that much about her to listen to what she said

about her past, whenever she opened up to him.

Mac sighed deeply, amazed that the thoughts from the past few days took over

her mind completely. So many things happened while in Fresno that her brain

was on information overload.

She curled up on the couch and leafed through the numerous cards from the

staff at JAG, as well as her friends. The one from Harm stopped her cold.

The front was a picture of two roses and on the inside it read, 'Friends

help each other in time of need'. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes

even before she read what Harm wrote for her. The card was true for the

both of them---they were always there for each other whenever things got bad

for them.

Mac followed Harm to Russia when he went in search of his father. He helped

her during Dalton's death and when she fell off the wagon briefly during

that time. Yet, nothing more came out of their friendship---no relationship

between the two of them because neither of them wanted to lose what they had

together. But Mac would risk all that now after what Jordan said to

her---she would be with Harm until Mac decided that she wanted him. Jordan

happened to be right. She and Harm shared something that no other two

people had---a trust and love for each other that nothing could break. Mac

realized all those things while out in California. She had a reckoning with

her own soul and decided to do some things when she returned. One of them

concerned Harm and their friendship together.

Mac again found herself lost in thoughts and returned to reality. She got

back to Harm's card and started reading what he wrote, savoring every word.

<Mac-

I hope that your trip to California was soul healing and you kept an open

mind when visiting your father. I know that you had a not-so-great

childhood, but I wanted you to be able to put aside your feelings and hear

what he had to say. I never got to say goodbye to my father the way that I

wanted to. I hope that you got to say goodbye in your own way. I'm here

for you if you ever need to talk about it. Hope you like the flowers as

well.

Your Friend Always,

Harm>

She wiped the few stray tears from her eyes after reading Harm's note. He

had a way of saying just the right thing to her. She put the card back in

the envelope and admired the flowers that he sent her. They were extremely

beautiful and it made her heart swell just from the fact that he cared that

much about her.

The ringing of the phone startled her and she answered it on the third ring,

"MacKenzie."

"Mac, it's me, Harm. How are you doing?" Harm's voice was a gentle tone in

her ear.

"I'm all right. Just got back from California." She responded softly.

"I can call back later if you want. You're probably tired and want to get

some sleep before work tomorrow." Harm stuttered.

Mac broke in quickly, "No...no, it's all right. If you want to come over,

we can talk about my trip and catch up on things. I'll fix us some dinner.

Please say yes, because I need a friend right now."

She heard a hesitant sound on the other end and figured that he already had

plans with Jordan. "Mac, I'll be over in fifteen minutes. We'll catch up one

things and I'll listen to everything you need to get off you chest."

"If you have plans with Jordan, I'll understand."

"It's all right, Mac. Jordan and I had a fall-out while you were away. We

decided that the relationship wasn't going anywhere. I'll tell you the

whole story once I get there." Harm explained.

"All right, see you then." Mac said before they hung up at the same time.

She then thought about what he just told her. Him and Jordan weren't

together anymore. They might have a chance together, if he felt the same way

about her. He always showed her trust, compassion, and love on their

investigations, but how deep did those feelings go for him?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

1530 EST

Mac's Apartment

Georgetown

A knock sounded at the door while Mac was in the kitchen. She figured it

was Harm and he had his own key to her apartment for emergency reasons. She

heard the key in the lock and then Harm's voice that brought a smile to

Mac's face. When she was in California, she missed having her best friend

near by to help her through that troubling time. Yet, it was also something

she needed to do on her own----conquer her demons.

Harm's voice broke through her thoughts, "Hey, Mac. What are you doing in

here?"

"Trying to figure out what to make for dinner. But, there's nothing

around." Mac faced him and leaned against the counter.

"Well, we can order in then. You did not have to cook for me. What are you

in the mood for? Pizza or Chinese?" His signature smile lit up his face and

she couldn't help but smile as well. Harm had that effect on her---always

knew a way to bring a smile to her face and make her feel better.

"I think pizza will be suffice for my mood. After you order, we can start

talking because I believe we both need it." She pushed herself away from the

counter and sauntered out of the kitchen with Harm following close behind.

"You're telling me. I'm sure my last few days have been almost as stressful

as yours." He caused a small chuckle from Mac. "Why don't you get

comfortable while I order the pizza?" Harm picked up the phone and dialed

the number.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ten Minutes Later

Mac's Apartment

"So, what happened between you and Jordan?" Mac tucked her legs underneath

her and faced Harm on the couch.

A deep sigh escaped his lips while he pondered Mac's question. How would he

tell her that the reason Jordan broke up with him was because of her? Would

Mac understand or would she become intimidated of his feelings? He couldn't

hide his feelings any longer, but he wanted to take this slower than his

other relationships because this one mattered the most to him.

"Well, Mac, you wouldn't believe it even if you were there yourself."

She wondered why he was stalling. It could not that bad, could it? "Harm,

it's not that bad, is it? Please, tell me what happened between you and

Jordan. Why did you break up with her?"

"First off, you got it backwards. She broke up with me. She told me that

she was jealous of our friendship and the amount of time we were together.

I told her we were just friends and partners---nothing more, nothing less.

Nonetheless, Jordan didn't believe me and stormed out of my apartment. The

end of another failed relationship." Harm took a sip of his water.

"I'm so sorry, Harm. I know you wanted this one to last. I don't mean to

make your girlfriends jealous," she added with a smile.

Harm returned the smile before responding, "What is it with us, Mac? Why

can't we have long-term relationships with significant others that aren't

jealous of either one of us?"

"I don't know, Harm. God knows we've tried over the last three years that

we've been friends." She ran her fingers through her tousled hair while she

really thought about Harm's question.

He was right about their significant others being jealous of both of them.

Jordan was the most insecure about Mac and her friendship with Harm. Mac

did not know how she made Harm’s girlfriends feel better about her and that

she wasn't a threat to them. But they never believed her.

"What are you thinking about, Marine? Something intense?" Harm asked as he

scooted closer to her on the couch. Mac noticed the movement but said

nothing.

"Just about what Jordan said to me at Bud and Harriet's 'wet-down' party.

She thought I was a threat and I tried to reassure her, but she didn't

believe me."

Harm's hand settled on her thigh as he spoke, "What did she say to you that

night?"

The air in her lungs left in a huge rush, but it went unnoticed by Harm.

Somehow, she found her voice, "She told me that she would only be with you

until I decided that I wanted you for myself."

"Jordan said that? I can't imagine her saying that to you. I knew she was

jealous, but never that much." Harm was flabbergasted.

The doorbell interrupted their conversation. The pizza had arrived---a

diversion for the both of them since the sexual tension was enough to send

the apartment up in flames. Mac jumped up quickly and answered the door.

After paying the delivery boy, she carried the box over to the coffee table.

They started eating in silence, just observing each other and remembering

the good times before they both had their problems right now.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

1700 EST

Mac's Apartment

Georgetown

Mac had her feet propped on Harm's lap as he gently massaged them. She felt

like she was in heaven, floating on air. She forgot how wonderful Harm was

with his hands. Her head leaned back against the arm of the couch and her

eyes closed slowly, giving in completely to the heart-stopping sensations he

was sending through her body.

At the other end of the couch, Harm observed Mac in a whole new light. No

longer did he see her as just his best friend, but also as a woman---a

breath-taking, beautiful, and sensual woman. Yes, he was attracted to her.

He just never noticed the attraction until now. He loved the soft sighs

coming from her lips, her slender neck, but most of all, her smile. In the

past ninety minutes, he has managed to make her smile a lot, considering the

mood she should be in after burying her father. Harm had never seen a smile

more beautiful---it lit up every room she was in and it was truly amazing.

"You want to talk about California?" His voice was a low whisper while he

continued to massage her feet.

"Not really, but I need to get it out of my system. As you told me, I went

with an open mind." Mac opened her eyes and looked at Harm. His eyes were

gentle and had a touch of tenderness. She added with hesitance, "My mother

was there as well."

"How was that for you?" He knew how she felt about her mother from what she

told him about her past.

A small chuckle came from her lips, her own way for dealing with the bundle

of nerves that formed while Harm's fingers danced over the soles of her

feet, comforting her. "Well, it's a little bit hard to describe, but it was

a learning experience."

"Did you two talk about her leaving while you were a teenager?"

"Yes, it came up. She told me her reason for leaving so abruptly when I was

fifteen. I know the truth now and in a way, I understand what she felt;

knowing my father and all." Mac reached down and clasped one of his hands in

hers.

Harm's thumb gently caressed the soft skin of her palm, while he asked the

hardest question for Mac to answer, "How did it go with your father?"

"Ah, the trump question." Mac sighed deeply before continuing with her

answer, "It was more than a learning experience---more like a soul healing

phenomenon that took me by surprise. Harm, my father was proud of what I

became in life---had newspaper clippings of me throughout the years that

I've been at JAG and all.

"It surprised me so much because he never showed love or affection towards

me---just called me his 'stupid tramp daughter', but I made my father proud.

In a way, I felt bad about how I treated him the two years I lived with

him. Joe MacKenzie wasn't a bad man at all; he was a poor man with a

tortured soul who didn't know any other way to love." Tears trailed down her

cheeks and Harm leaned forward slightly and wiped them away with the thumb

of his free hand.

"Mac, it's all right to feel ashamed, but it's also all right to still hate

the part of him that hurt both you and your mother. Your father probably

changed over the years and felt ashamed of his actions while he was younger.

It's been known to happen. Time doesn't always heal all wounds, but it

does change people." Harm whispered as he pulled Mac onto his lap, her face

settling into the curve of his neck.

Mac inhaled the strong masculine scent of Harmon Rabb as she wrapped her

arms around his middle, drawing comfort from him. "Thank you for being

here, Harm. It means a lot for me."

"I know, Sarah. I know," he whispered in her ear as he slowly rocked them

together, lulling the both of them to sleep in each other's arms.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

0100 EST

Mac's Apartment

A distant car horn brought Mac out of her peaceful sleep. She and Harm were

still lying on the couch, wrapped in each other's arms. Her head lay

against the strong wall of his chest, rising slightly in time with his

breathing and she was still snuggled on his lap, in the same place after he

pulled her there upon telling him about California. Mac gently disengaged

herself from Harm's arms and strolled over to the window overlooking her

neighborhood.

Harm still slept peacefully on the couch and she occasionally watched him.

She never noticed it before, but he almost looked like a little boy while

sleeping. He just had that innocence that wasn't present when he was awake.

Harmon Rabb definitely wasn't an innocent person, though he tried to be

with her. The simple mental image brought a small smile to her lips.

She stood beside the window a few minutes longer before retreating into her

bedroom. She wanted Harm to get a few hours of sleep before work tomorrow.

She still had leave until Monday, which was five days away. Mac took one

last look at Harm before quietly closing the door and then climbing into

bed. She did not know how she would fall asleep without his strong,

comforting arms around her. Even after only a few hours in his arms, she

was addicted. Yet, could she blame herself? What better thing to be

addicted of than Harmon Rabb, Jr. Just the thought of that and the numerous

images of him, helped her drift off to sleep.

~*~*~*~*~*~

0700 EST

Mac's Apartment

She felt a wall of muscle against her back and thought she was dreaming.

Mac certainly went to bed alone---she remembered clearly. Her eyes opened

and scanned the room before settling on the pair of arms wrapped around her

middle and the lithe form lying behind her, spooning against her back.

While her eyes convinced her that it was definitely Harm, her senses let her

know as well. The light tickle of his breath against the back of her neck,

the sensual feel of his body pressed against hers, and the musky scent that

drifted into her nostrils. Nope, she was not dreaming. This was the real

thing and so much better than her fantasies.

Mac snapped out of her thoughts and realized what time it was. Harm would

be late for work if he didn't get moving. "Harm, wake up. You're going to

be late if you don't get back to your apartment to change." She rolled over

in his arms and faced him.

"Mmm." Harm groaned low in his throat. "Called the Admiral earlier and told

him that I was not coming in today. He allowed it, so I'm here to stay,

Marine." He opened his eyes and stared into her chocolate brown ones.

Her stomach fluttered when he flashed his 'fly-boy' grin. Thank goodness,

she was lying down because she felt her knees weakened from the result of

his smile. "So, you're playing hooky today, Commander."

"Yes, ma'am and I would really like you to spend it with me. We can go

flying in 'Sarah', if you like or we can stay in D.C. and do something."

Mac thought about taking a trip in his Stearman, spending the day hiking

through the woods, a picnic in a field. As long as it would be a quiet trip

unlike the last time, where they managed to be mixed up with some crazy

poachers. "How about a trip in 'Sarah' today? Just promise that it'll be a

quiet one. I really don't want to get shot today."

Harm grimaced inside when she mentioned that last trip. He still regretted

that, and it was over two years ago. He would never put Mac in that much

danger again. He made that promise to himself after the trip. "Sounds

wonderful. Let's just sleep a little while longer. I'll even make you

breakfast since we slept together." A devilish grin broke out on his face as

he gathered her closer, nestling her face against his muscular chest.

In a matter of minutes, they were both asleep; wondering what their trip

later would bring them. Mac hoped it would bring her and Harm closer

together than they were---in both friendship and intimately. She hoped her

dreams would come true.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

1145 EST

Somewhere over Virginia

"Hey, Mac! I'm going to set her down in that field over there!" Harm

shouted over the headset as he pointed to a large clearing off to their

left.

"Sounds good to me, Harm!" Mac replied with a smile on her face.

"You all right back there?"

"Yes, Harm. I only get sick in a Tomcat, not your Stearman." Her response

produced a bout of laughter from him.

A few minutes later, Harm gently set the plane down in the large clearing.

He quickly climbed out of the cockpit, and decided to lend a hand to Mac,

although he knew she did not need any help. He carried the picnic basket to

a nice patch of grass near the plane and set it down. He then spread out

the blanket while Mac carried the small cooler that housed their drinks.

They both sat down beside each other and withdrew the contents of the

basket.

"Well, is this what you expected today?" Harm asked while he took out his

salad that he made while he handed Mac her sandwich.

"Yes, this is wonderful. How about we take a walk afterwards?" She said

with a smile before taking a bite of her sandwich.

He gave her a bright smile, "Whatever the lady desires today, she gets."

Mac returned the smile and then resumed eating her lunch. She occasionally

glanced up, stealing some glances at Harm. She had never seen him look more

handsome than he did today, although he only wore a pair of worn, faded

jeans. Of course, they were molded to his body, just like his turtleneck

that he wore underneath the blue flannel that brought out the blue hints of

his eyes.

She found herself paying more attention to Harm than to her sandwich, when

she realized that he was finished eating and she still had half of hers

left. She casually threw out that she was not hungry because of the

breakfast he made for them earlier. Harm might have bought it for a moment,

but Mac knew that he didn’t believe her by the look in his eyes. In all the

years, that he knew her, he never once remembered a time when she wasn’t

hungry. Harm’s only thought was what she was thinking about during the

time. If he only knew.

~*~*~*~*~*

1700 EST

Somewhere in the Virginian Mountains

They hiked a good distance, enjoying the time together and the easiness that

came with it. Both of them knew they haven’t been this way with each other

for some time---most of it due to Harm’s relationship with Jordan and the

incident involving Chris Ragle. Mac knew that she lost some of Harm’s trust

after Chris’ murder because she did not tell anyone about her husband. She

wanted to forget about that life and leave it completely in the past. That

was one of the reasons for lying to the Marine Corps. She wanted a new

start in life and got it with the Marines. As far as she was concerned,

nothing existed before Eddie’s death, and that’s the way she wanted it.

Finally they returned to the plane and dusk was just setting in. Mac knew

that Harm couldn't fly at night, so she wanted to get going before it got

worse for him. Yet, Harm made no move to get the plane ready or himself.

She only wondered what he was doing. He knew that he could not fly at

night, so what was he trying to prove to her?

"Harm, we have to get going before it gets darker."

"No, we don't, Mac." Harm sighed deeply, knowing he would have to explain

his reasons and what happened while she was in California.

Mac said with a look of confusion on her face, "What are you talking about,

Harm? You know you can't fly at night because of your eyes."

Harm leaned against the plane while Mac stood in front of him. He wanted to

break it to her easily, but he did not know how to go about it. There was

just no other way to tell, except straight forward. "I got them fixed. I

had an operation while you were in California, Mac. I didn't have night

blindness---it was scars which caused my bad vision. I'm sorry that I

didn't tell you last night. I wanted so much, but you had so much on your

mind."

She crossed her arms just below her breasts, as she absorbed the information

that Harm just gave her. How could he get this done without telling her?

On the other hand, even think about getting it done? Granted, she had a lot

on her mind last night, but he could have given her the benefit of the

doubt. Back in her mind, Mac knew that she shouldn't be mad at Harm. He

did have his reasons for keeping it from her---she had kept things from him

as well. He felt bad about it as it was; she should not make him feel

worse.

"Mac, are you mad at me for keeping it from you?" His voice had a slight

quiver in it and it didn't go unnoticed by Mac.

A smile graced her face before she responded, letting him know that she

wasn't mad. "Harm, I'm not mad at you. I understand your reasons for not

telling me last night. You thought I had enough to deal with, so you

decided to wait."

"Thanks, Mac. You had me worried." His 'flyboy' grin appeared as he started

getting the plane ready for the flight back.

"How about we make a promise right now? Promise that we'll tell each other

the truth and what's on our minds, no matter what the circumstances are."

Mac stood in front of Harm, waiting for his answer.

He pulled her into his arms, crushing her against his chest in a tight hug.

Mac inhaled the scent of him, mixed the pine scent, which to her was

intoxicating. His voice was a sweet sound in her ear as he told her his

answer, "I'd say you have a deal, Marine."

"Now, let's get out of here, so we can go home and have some dinner at my

place." Mac said into his shirt.

Harm did not want to let her go, but he did have to let her eat something.

He loosened his arms around Mac so that she could lean back and look at him.

"Sounds good to me. I know by the time we get back to D.C., you'll be

hungry again."

"That was mean, Flyboy." She playfully hit him on his chest, before stepping

out of his arms to help him to get everything ready.

Before long, they were on their way to the airfield. In the car ride back

to D.C., Mac fell asleep with her head against the window. Once in awhile,

Harm would glance over at her and he wished that she were really his,

instead of just his best friend. He wanted them to be together so much that

it hurt, but he did not know of her feelings for him. And it scared him to

think that she didn't love him the way that he loved her. He hoped that

would be a day where they could tell each other about their feelings and not

be afraid of the consequences.

~*~*~*~*~*~*

2100 EST

Mac's Apartment

Georgetown

Their dinner was long done as well as the movie they watched together. Mac

only lasted through half the movie, before she fell asleep in his arms. She

felt so wonderful in his arms, as if she belonged there for all time. Not

that Harm would mind that. Harm gently situated her until he could

comfortably stand with her nestled in his arms. Mac snuggled against the

warmth of his body, her face settling in the curve of his neck, and her

light breath tickling his skin. He then carried her into the bedroom,

setting her gently on the bed as if she was a rare piece of china. Harm

pulled down the covers down just enough to slide her underneath. He tucked

the blankets around her, leaned down and placed a kiss on her forehead,

although he truly wanted to kiss her soft lips. They looked so inviting

now, but he would never take advantage of Mac.

Harm tucked a strand of hair behind her ear before standing tall again. He

turned to leave the bedroom, but stopped when he felt a hand on his arm. He

looked down and saw a pair of chocolate brown eyes staring up at him.

"Harm, please don't go." Her voice was a mere whisper.

He sat down on the edge of the bed and trailed a hand down her cheek, "I

would love to stay, Mac, but I've got to work tomorrow. If I do not go in,

the Admiral would have my six for breakfast."

"I'll call the Admiral tomorrow morning if you're late and let him know why.

I'll tell him it was my fault, not yours. Please, Harm, I do not want to

be alone tonight. I just want you to hold me like you did last night." Mac

wrapped her fingers around his wrist and brought his hand to her lips. She

placed a light kiss on his palm, then held it over her heart.

It felt like he was stuck in a difficult situation. The 'difficult

situation' as being Sarah MacKenzie. He never really thought of Mac as a

persuasive person, but tonight she was doing a real good job on him. God,

he wanted to say yes, but he knew the consequences from its outcome. No

matter how hard he tried, he could not think of a relationship with Mac

without the regulations in tow. It pained him. Harm heaved a huge sigh as

he thought of his response. What he really should say meant nothing to him

right now---all that mattered was what was really in his heart. And that

was staying with Mac tonight because she needed him.

"Well, Marine, you've managed to persuade this Sailor." He said as he toed

off his shoes and discarded his flannel shirt.

"Thank you so much, Harm. You don't know how much this means to me." Mac

crawled out from under the covers and stood beside the bed. "I'm going to

go brush my teeth and put on my pajamas. You get comfortable. It won't

take me long."

After Mac retreated into the bathroom with a pair of boxers and a t-shirt,

Harm discarded his jeans as well, so he was now in his boxers and

turtleneck. He crawled into the bed and got comfortable underneath the

covers. By the time he was situated, Mac returned from the bathroom. Harm

threw the covers back to let her climb in as well. She settled into his

arms with her head lying on his chest. The steady thumping of his heart

lulled Mac to sleep in a matter of minutes. Harm heard the change in her

breathing and knew she was asleep.

He placed a series of kisses in her hair as he whispered, "I love you, Sarah

MacKenzie."

It went unheard by Mac. Harm soon fell asleep, hoping that he could say

those words to her when she was awake in the near future.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

One Week Later

2000 EST

Harm's Apartment

Mac finally returned to work and was pleased to be doing something other

than twiddling her thumbs. Over the course of the past week, she and Harm

had spent more and more time together, whether it be dinner or just a simple

movie night. Normally, the other would stay the night whenever they got

together. It just became a regular thing that they both were comfortable

with. Especially Mac, who found that whenever she was away from Harm, her

nights were restless and full of little sleep. It was an addiction that she

didn't mind having, although she wished he were truly hers, instead of just

in her dreams.

"Hey, Mac, are you finished with your dessert?" Harm asked, breaking through

her thoughts.

'I'd rather have you for dessert', the thought raced through her mind. Mac

looked up at him with a bright smile, "Yeah. Thanks, Harm."

"You're welcome. I know you haven't been eating well lately."

A light chuckle came from her, "Is there anything about me that you don't

notice?"

"No, I don't think there is. Why do you ask?" He sat back down at the table

after clearing away their dessert.

"Because you always seem to be taking care of me." Mac gestured towards the

living room and they retreated in there with their coffee.

"I care about you, Mac. I've been telling you that for the past week or

so."

"I know you do, Harm. It just seems like a dream and I keep telling myself

that it's not. This is for real." She tucked her legs underneath her.

"That's right, Marine. This is for real---I care for you deeply." Harm gave

her his 'flyboy' smile.

Mac returned the smile, but it slowly faded when Harm's head started

descending towards hers. Their lips met in a heated kiss, electric shocks

going through both of their bodies as their tongues met. They lashed with

each other, curling, twirling around and exploring each other's mouth.

His arms gathered her close; not even a shadow fit between them, and

deepened the kiss. Her mouth opened wider and his tongue plunged to the

deep recesses of her mouth. God, this was what he dreamed about the past

week, not to mention the last two years. It was much better than his

fantasies---the 'real' Sarah MacKenzie was better than any fantasy he could

conjure up right now.

Mac's fingers dived into his hair, letting the silkiness of it slip through

her fingers. He pulled back slowly and with one final swipe of their

tongues, they parted completely. Breaths coming in heavy gasps, they rested

their foreheads against each other.

"Mac, I'm...I'm..." Her fingertips on his lips stopped his words.

"Don't be sorry. Don't ever be sorry, Harm." Her voice was hoarse to his

ears. "I've been waiting for you to do that for the past week as well as

two years. It was what we both wanted."

"You got that right." Harm flashed his smile again. "God, Sarah, I want you

so much, but I want to do this right. I don't want to rush things." His

fingers bit into the soft skin of her waist through her shirt.

A shiver passed through her body at the sound of her name coming from his

lips. It sounded so sensual---his bedroom voice, she presumed. Thank

goodness, he did not call her 'Sarah' at work or this would have happened

sooner. "I know, Harm. I want you, too. But, it is also best to take it

slow, no matter how nerve-racking."

"Yeah, I know what you mean."

Mac took two cleansing breaths before regaining her full composure. "I

think it would be wise if I went home tonight."

Harm quickly responded, "No, Mac. Do not do that. Please, stay."

"Harm..." Her words stopped short when he held up a hand.

"We're both adults, Mac. I think we can handle ourselves in bed tonight.

And you know that we both sleep better when with the other." His voice was

low in her ear.

The mere sound of his voice---the sensual bedroom voice---made the decision

for her. Who wouldn't want to spend the night with a man who sounded like

Harm? If they did not, they were deemed crazy. Mac was far from being

crazy.

"All right, Harm. I'll stay the night."

His reply was a smile. They settled down on the couch and watched some TV

for a little while before retreating to the bedroom. Mac got ready for bed

with the quickness of a Marine and climbed into bed while Harm strolled into

the bathroom. Minutes later, he returned in boxers and Mac prayed that she

had the willpower to not jump him during the night.

Harm climbed into bed behind her, wrapping his arms around her middle and

burying his face in the sweetness of her hair, the faint scent drifting into

his nostrils. He gathered her closer and realized that more skin was

touching his leg than usual. Only then did he realize that she was only

wearing a t-shirt and panties. He groaned low in his throat and did not go

unnoticed by Mac. God, he was a dead tonight. How could he keep his

promise to resist her?

~*~*~*~*~*~

Two Days Later

0730 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, VA

He could not believe it. It had to be some bad dream because surely this

would not happen to him. The car he adored and cherished---his

Corvette---was stolen. Just like that---gone in the night. How could this

happen? It was bad enough that he could not get through the police

department hot line. All he wanted was his car back. It was like a child

to him---had it since he got his 'wings'. As if his night was worse enough,

being away from Mac, his morning did not look any brighter.

Harm strolled off the elevator and met Mac on her way to her office. She

gave him a bright smile and he returned it with one of his own, as they

continued to her office. Once inside, their inhibitions faded. With the

blinds closed and the door locked, their mouths met in a heated kiss, arms

holding each other tight.

"I missed you last night." Mac whispered once their mouths parted.

"Me, too." Harm sounded somber and she wondered why. She did not mean to

cancel their dinner last night because of her caseload. She only thought

that he understood since he said that he was not mad at her.

Mac ran her hand down his cheek and over his jaw before asking her question.

"What's the matter, honey?"

"My 'Vette was stolen last night."

"Well, did you call the police and report it?" She stepped out of his arms

and went behind her desk. She sat down and Harm took a seat in the chair

that was in front of the desk. Mac dialed the number quickly and waited for

someone to answer.

Harm sighed deeply in frustration; "You're never going to get through. I

tried this morning with no luck."

While Mac continued to wait for someone to answer on the other end, a knock

sounded at her office door. Harm stood up and opened it to find Tiner

standing on the other side. It appeared that the Admiral wanted one of them

for something. "Yes, Tiner?"

"Sir, the Admiral would like to see you ASAP."

"Thank you, Tiner. Tell him I'll be right there." Harm answered and then

closed the door again. He turned to Mac and found that she had no luck.

"Nothing, huh?"

"No, but I'll try later in a few minutes. You go and see the Admiral. I'll

still be here when you get back." She gave him a sultry smile and chuckled

when a low groan came from Harm before he exited her office.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

1100 EST

JAG Headquarters

"Have you heard the joke about the elephant, the mouse, and the Porshe." Mac

gave him one of her 'Marine' glares with a devilish smile formed on her

face. After Harm made the crack about her sexuality being compared to a

Humvee, she would make him pay somehow, but didn't know quite yet.

Harm raised his eyebrows in question, wondering what his Marine was hinting

at. Granted, he shouldn't have made the comment about Humvee and her

sexuality, but he just could not resist. However, he now realized his

mistake and surely Mac would make him pay later tonight, considering their

dinner was still on after what just went down.

"I'm outta here. I will talk to you later, Major. Commander." Harriet

acknowledged them both then quickly left the office.

Once the door was closed, Harm finally spoke, but in a low whisper, "You

know that joke does not apply to me, Mac. You've had first hand experience

already."

Mac could feel the blush creeping into her cheeks just from his words. He

was leaning against the file cabinets, not touching her and she was getting

all hot and bothered from the sound of his voice. She took a deep breath

before responding, "Harm, we made a promise of not to talk about our

relationship while we're at work."

"But we're in your office with the door closed. No one can hear us." He now

stood behind her and his voice was a soft whisper in her ear. His fingers

brushed against her neck lightly and he smiled in satisfaction when her

breath hitched in her throat.

She swallowed the lump in her throat, hoping that her voice did not betray

her now. "Harm, we cannot do this now. You don't know how much I want too,

but we can't."

"I know. I know. It's just that I want you so much, too. Probably because

you weren't with me last night." He moved to the chair in front of her desk.

"Like my night was any better? All I did was write briefs and go over my

cases. What I really wanted was to be with you, but all I had last night

were dreams of you and reality is so much better."

A seductive smile formed on her face as she met his intense gaze with her

own. A groan emitted from deep within his throat. How would he survive the

rest of the day when all he wanted do was kiss her senseless? The whole

bullpen be damned, Harm thought, as he continued to look at her with his

desire-laden eyes.

"What's the matter, Harm? No witty comeback? Cat got your tongue?" She said

with a hint of laughter in her voice.

He opened his mouth to respond, but a loud knock on her office stopped him

short. Mac shouted 'enter' and the person opened the door. It was Bud.

Harm had a feeling that it was Bud. The young Lieutenant had a knack for

interrupting certain things---plainly, he just had the worst timing. "Yes,

Bud?"

"Sir, the police just called. They found your Corvette." A smile filled his

face. Harm felt his spirits lift slightly just from Bud's statement.

"Thank you, Bud." He gave him a smile and waited for Bud to exit the office.

When they were alone again, Harm spoke, "Are you coming with me?"

"Well, I'll have to ask my boss since I'm taking an early lunch break. He

might be a little angry." She flashed him a bright smile while she stood up

from her desk.

"Oh, I'm sure he'll understand. He's an understanding guy." Harm rose to

his feet as well. With the Admiral on personal business, Harm was the

acting JAG, something he thoroughly did not enjoy, since the last time he

did it, the Secnav chewed him out for Mac's questioning during a trial.

Mac grabbed his arm as they exited her office, "Come on, Mr. JAG himself."

Their laughter was heard throughout the bullpen as they rounded the corner

to the elevators.

~*~*~*~*~*~*

1730 EST

JAG Headquarters

"Knock, knock," Mac said as she opened the door slowly to the Admiral's

office.

Harm looked up from the paperwork he was finishing and a smile came to his

face at the sight before him. He had missed her earlier today when he was

working with Bud on the budget proposal. "Hey, there. You finished

working?"

She strolled into the office, shutting the door behind her. After sitting

down in a chair in front of the desk, she responded to Harm's question,

"Yeah, finally. I never thought I get done. So, how did things go with

Bud?"

"Great, actually. He knew what the Admiral wanted and did just that."

"Have you heard from the Admiral, yet?" Mac fiddled with a penholder on the

desk.

"Yeah, he called about an hour ago. Said that he would be back in two

days." He stood up from the chair and rounded the desk. He leaned against

it just in front of Mac, which made her look up at his face. "I have

something to tell you. No one knows about this, not even the Admiral right

now."

Harm now had her full attention. Before, it was just normal conversation at

work, trying to mask what they were really thinking. "What is it, Harm?"

He did not know how he would break the news to her about his career

decision. He knew that she would be heart-broken and feel as if he would be

abandoning her. Yet, he was not doing that at all. For the past couple

days, Harm had really been thinking over his decision, wondering if it was

the right one or not. He loved Sarah MacKenzie with all his heart and did

not want to be apart from her in any sense. He wanted to be with her

always, but this chance to do what he always dreamed of doing his whole life

was a miracle. He was given the chance to be a fighter pilot again, but was

it the worth being away from the woman he loved? Only time would tell.

Harm took a deep breath before continuing, "Sarah, I've been thinking about

this decision ever since I got my eyes fixed, so to speak, and I think I've

finally a decision. I wanted to tell you first because we're in this

relationship together and I want to always be honest with you, no matter

what." He sighed, "Whew, this is harder than I thought."

Now Mac was worried. This was something extremely serious that could change

the course of their relationship. Something that has Harm rendering

speechless. "Honey, what's wrong? You're really scaring me here." She

placed hand on his arm, reassuring him to continue.

"I have decided to change my designator. I'm going back to flying, Mac."

There he said it.

This had to be some kind of joke, Mac thought, as she let Harm's words sink

in fully. He could not be doing this to their relationship, let alone her.

Mac stood up from the chair and started pacing. She thought better when she

paced a little bit.

"Mac, please tell me what you're thinking." Harm was worried when she didn't

respond right away. It was not like Mac to do such a thing.

"Well, what I am thinking is that you're leaving me. What I'm thinking is

that you really don't care about our relationship."

It was the anger talking. Harm knew that right away. She was angry with

him for this decision. He did not blame her. She had a right to be angry

with him and think those kinds of things right now. He dropped a bombshell

on her and expected to take it all in at once. "Mac, I know you're

angry..."

She cut him off quickly as she stopped pacing the office, "I'm not angry. I

am furious! God, Harm, how could you do this to us? How could you choose

flying over our relationship?" Tears streamed down her face as she said all

that.

His heart clenched in his chest at the sight before him. Harm hated to see

her cry over something he did to her. He stood straight, went over to her

and gathered her in his arms. Mac buried her face in his neck, the sobs

becoming louder as he held her harder. His voice was a sweet whisper in her

ear, calming her slightly; "I love you, Sarah. More than you'll ever know.

I am not leaving you---I could never do that to you. You will always be

with me, although we will be miles apart. I want this relationship to last

forever, but this something I have to do. I will come back to you---I

promise you that. Don't ever doubt my love for you."

"I never could, Harm." Her voice a mumble in his neck. Mac raised her head

and looked into his eyes, "I am sorry for the way I acted. I just want to

be with you and it will be so hard being separated from each other."

"You don't have to be sorry for your reaction. I understand completely.

You have a right to angry at me for what I just told you. We will get

through this, Mac. We always get through things and this is nothing

different." He ran a gentle hand down her cheek before lightly kissing her

lips, thanking God that the office door was closed.

"Mmm, Harm, how about we take this party some place private? Like your

apartment?" Mac said lowly after their lips parted.

A small smile came to his lips, "So, you still want to be with me?"

"Yes, Harm, I still want to be with you. You might make me furious, but I

still love you with all my heart." Mac returned the smile before taking his

hand in hers and pulling him towards the door.

He stopped her quickly, "Wait, baby, I have to get my things first."

"Well, hurry up. I'm hungry for Pete's sakes." Her impatience brought

another smile to Harm's face.

"What's new, Marine?" He stated after grabbing his briefcase, cover and

jacket. They strolled out of the office together and through the bullpen to

the elevators. Harm knew that they still had issues to iron out about his

change in designator, but he would not pressure Mac into discussing them

tonight. She needed some time to let the information really sink in before

talking about it more. Harm only hoped that his decision would not ruin

their relationship that they had. It was special to both of them simply

because it was something neither of them ever experienced.

Both had a best friend in their lover. Neither of them had it with their

past significant others. As they rode the elevator down, Harm held Mac's

hand in his and thought about a time that her hand would bore his ring. A

time that hopefully would come sooner than he thought.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Two Weeks Later

2200 EST

Harm's Apartment

North of Union Station

Harm was emotionally drained. Not to mention physically too. The last two

weeks had been torturous from the start, with telling his co-workers that he

would be returning to a fighter squadron and then issues with Dar-lin. He

could forget how he found that little girl, how vulnerable she was, and how

someone could treat a child like that. He just could not fathom those

thoughts. Moreover, he felt no remorse for shooting Charlie earlier in

Philadelphia. It was self-defense and he was protecting Dar-lin, but Harm

was somewhat relieved that the man's life was done on this earth.

He sighed deeply while running a hand through his hair. Harm had not seen

Mac for the whole day and just wanted to see her, hold her in his arms and

know that something in his life was real. If they did not make love, it

would not matter to him. He picked up the cordless phone and dialed her

number.

Mac picked up on the third ring, her voice a soft tone. "Major MacKenzie."

"Mac, it's me. Did I wake you up?"

"No, Harm, you didn't wake me up. I was going through some work. What's

the matter? You sound a little drained."

"Can you come over right now? I know it's late. I will you everything when

you get here, I promise. Remember, I haven't made a promise that I haven't

kept."

His words launched her back a week ago when their godson was born. She and

Harm had been standing outside, watching the ambulance drive away. She was

a little down from the fact that Chloe would be living with her grandmother

in California and Harm would be returning to carrier life. Everyone in her

life was leaving her and she had no way of stopping them. Then Harm made a

deal. A deal that would take forever to arrive. A deal that she could not

wait for to happen. They would have a baby together---someday in the

future. Since he told her that he was returning to a fighter squadron, she

felt that their relationship would not survive. However, when he mentioned

having a child together in the future, Mac knew that Harm wanted to be with

her for all time.

"I remember. I'll never forget that." A smile could be heard in her voice.

Mac picked up her car keys as she continued, "Harm, give me fifteen minutes

and I will see you soon. Okay?"

"Sound good to me, Marine. See you soon." Moreover, with that, they both

hung up and Harm waited patiently for Mac to arrive. Fifteen minutes could

not come soon enough.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

15 Minutes Later

Harm's Apartment

At the first knock on the apartment door, Harm was off the couch in a flash.

He swung the door open with a huge smile on his face. He gathered Mac in

an embrace, making her drop everything that she held in her hands. They

both pushed the door shut behind them. Harm buried his face in the curve of

her neck, breathing in the intoxicating fragrance of her, like sweet

strawberries in a summer morning. How could he leave all this behind in two

days? In two days, he would be in Pensacola and then he would transfer to

the Patrick Henry in the Adriatic Sea. He would definitely miss the

intimacy that he and Mac shared---not just making love, but the

conversations they shared, their morning runs, weekends when they caught a

movie at the cinema.

He felt tears at the corners of his eyes as he realized that he really did

not want to leave Sarah Mackenzie, but he was given another chance at his

dream. Which meant more to him; flying or being with Mac? His heart knew

which one, but his mind had trouble. Why was it so difficult for him? He

loved Mac with all his heart----meant more to him than the air he breathed.

Nevertheless, flying was his dream his whole life, yet it also tied in with

the memory of his father. Maybe it seemed, to him, that if he gave up

flying, he would be giving up his father. Harm knew that was not true, but

he just could not convince himself. It would something that he'd have to

conquer while away.

"Harm, what's wrong?" Mac whispered softly in his ear as she wrapped her

arms around his middle tighter. She felt a few drops on her neck and

realized that he was crying.

"I'm sorry for acting like this. I don't want to leave you, Sarah." He

raised his head from her neck and looked into those dazzling chocolate brown

eyes.

"Hey, I don’t want to hear that. I want you to go and fly and maybe then

you’ll figure out that it’s not what you want to do for the rest of your

life. But the only way you’ll know that is if you go." Her hands cupped his

face as she told him that.

He dropped his eyes when he responded, "You were angry with me for going

back."

"But, I am not anymore, Harm." Mac’s voice was a gentle tone. She leaned up

on her tiptoes and placed a few gentle kisses on his lips before she

continued, "I’ll wait for you, however long it takes for you to get flying

out of your system this time. I’ll wait for you forever." She whispered the

last line.

"It won't be forever, Sarah. I'll never stay away from you for that long.

Just give me a couple of months." He flashed her a lop-sided smile.

"Well, I'm glad that you only want to be away from me for a couple of

months." Mac dropped her hands and they retreated to the couch. Harm sat

down at the end and pulled her into his lap, where she curled up

comfortably. Her head lay against his chest and she listened to the steady

thump of his heart.

Harm placed a gentle kiss on her forehead while he whispered, "I never want

to be away from you, Sarah, now that I've found you. These past four weeks

have been nothing but heaven for me. I love you so much."

"I love you, too, Harm." Mac whispered softly. "What did you want to talk

about when you called me awhile ago?"

He took a deep breath before answering her, his voice full of no feeling, "I

killed a man today, Mac. A man that tortured a child but, yet claimed that

he loved her. I know that I should feel some remorse for taking such a

life, but I don't and I don't quite understand that."

"Sometimes we do things that we don't understand. Even today, I do not

understand why I started a relationship with John Farrow. I almost ruined

both of our careers because of that decision." Mac raised her head until

their eyes met, "Harm, you have to realize that that man hurt Dar-lin in

imaginable ways. I couldn't believe what he did to her, from what you told

me."

"But did I do the right thing, Mac? Was that the only option I had at the

time?" He sighed as he looked away from her, focusing on the dark night

outside.

"I can't answer those questions for you, Harm. Only you can."

His voice was a low whisper; "I just wanted to protect Dar-lin as well as

myself. He came at me with an axe and I did what I thought was right."

"You defended yourself and Dar-lin. You saved that little girl, Harm, in

more ways that you'll ever know. Please don't beat yourself up because of

this. That little girl now has a family that loves her very much and it was

because of you. You did that, Harmon Rabb. That's one of the reasons why I

love you." Mac ran a gentle hand down his cheek in a loving manner.

A small smile formed on his face, "Why do I deserve you? I could not make

my last relationship last for very long and now I am leaving you in two

days."

"Because I am the only one who can put up with you. No other woman can

master that feat." Mac stood up from his lap and offered him her hand.

"Come on, let's get some sleep. I am tired and tomorrow is Saturday, so we

can both sleep in a little later." She pulled him towards the bedroom.

They both got ready for bed quickly, then crawled in between the covers.

Harm held her close to his body, afraid to let her be even an inch away from

him. He buried his face in her hair and fell asleep almost instantly.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

0900 EST

Harm's Apartment

North of Union Station

The sound of the shower roused Harm from his peaceful slumber. He rolled

over in the bed, encountering an empty space beside him. It was still warm

to the touch, so Mac had not been up long. Harm sat up and focused on the

glass wall of the shower. He watched her silhouette for a few moments,

still amazed that she was his forever. After what seemed like hours, but

only mere minutes, Harm finally climbed out of bed and padded to the

bathroom. He stripped himself of his boxers before stepping into the

shower.

His arms immediately went around Mac's waist, tugging her back against him.

"It's about time you woke up. I never thought you would." Mac whispered as

Harm placed tiny kisses on her neck. She tilted her head away from him,

giving him easy access.

"I guess I was tired from everything that happened in the past couple days."

Harm turned her around in his arms and locked his hands behind her back.

Mac held him tight, combing her fingers through the hair at the nape of his

neck. "Well, you better get used to being tired, ‘cause I’m sure you’ll be

working hard once you arrive in Pensacola."

Her statement brought him back to reality. "I don't want to leave you,

Sarah." Harm whispered as he buried his neck in her neck.

She lifted up a hand and combed through his wet hair, "I know you don't

want to, but you have to. We'll make this work, Harm. Somehow, someway,

we'll make this work."

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Three Months Later

1345 Local Time

USS Patrick Henry

Adriatic Sea

The afternoon sun shone overhead as Mac disembarked from the helo. She was

conducting an investigation onboard the same ship that Harm was on

currently. She could not wait to see him after they departed from each

other three months ago. The young Lieutenant handed her the overnight bag

and she slung it over her shoulder. Upon turning around on the flight deck,

her eyes caught a tall Navy pilot nearby with a huge smile on his face.

Before she knew it, a smile broke out on hers as well as she strolled over

to him and they embraced each other in a tight hug.

For the first time in three months, Harm held the woman he loved in his

arms. Earlier, she emailed him, letting him know that she and Brumby were

flying out to the Patrick Henry to investigate the incident involving Lt.

Buxton. He had never been happier in all his life than after reading that

email. Though he did not like the thought of Mac being with Brumby the

whole flight out. He personally did not trust the guy, but he wouldn't tell

that to Mac. She would only tell him that he was being overprotective and

he had nothing to worry about.

"Hey, there, Sailor." Mac said as they pulled back from each other.

"Hi, Marine." He said as they walked to the door leading off the flight

deck. Once they were inside with the helmets off and vest unzipped did Harm

notice the silver oak leaves in place of the bronze ones that were there

when he left. He immediately stood at attention with a small smirk on his

face, "Colonel, ma'am."

Mac chuckled softly as she shook her head at him. "At ease, Commander. I

meant to tell you about my promotion in the email, but decided to wait and

tell you in person. Are you mad that I kept it from you?"

"No, no, I'm not mad. I am damn proud of you, Marine. You earned it and

deserved it so very much." Harm drew her in another quick hug before setting

her back. He did not want to get in trouble for hugging a superior officer.

"Thank you, Harm. You don't know how much that means to me to have your

support." She gave him a small smile. "So, Sailor, since you're familiar

with this ship, would you like to show me to my stateroom and then to the

bridge?" Her hand laid on his arm in a seductive manner and Harm used all

his strength not to pull her into his arms and kiss her senseless.

"It would be my pleasure, Ma'am." He started strolling down the corridor

with Mac following and admiring the view that his cute six made.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Thirty Minutes Later

Mac's Stateroom

After her conference with the Captain and the CAG, Mac had some leads on her

investigation. She returned to her stateroom a few minutes before Harm

would be back, so she decided to write the information down that she learned

earlier. She only wrote a short paragraph when there was a knock on her

door. Mac got up and went over to it, pulled it opened to find Mic Brumby

on the other side. Could things go anymore wrong for her today? All she

wanted was to spend some private time with Harm before she really had to

start this investigation. Was that too much to ask for a woman madly in

love with a man? Mac did not think so.

"Mic, what can I do for you?" She asked politely, though she really to tell

him to bugger off. Ever since Harm left for flying, Mic had been trying his

damnedst to get her to go on a date with him. No matter how times she told

him, he never truly got the hint that she was not interested. She did not

know how else to tell him to make him understand.

"I was wondering if you wanted to grab a cup of coffee in the mess. We

could talk about the investigation and anything else. What do you say,

Mac?" He gave her a dashing smile, hoping that Mac couldn't resist it.

Mac wanted to laugh at his attempt to win her over with a smile. The only

person that had that effect on her was Harm. No one could match his

'flyboy' smile. "I'm sorry, Mic, but I rather stay in my room and go

through my notes that I got from my meeting with the Captain and the CAG.

Maybe some other time."

"Yeah, some other time. See you later, Mac." He replied, his ego a bit

deflated from her rejection. Mac watched him walk down the corridor and

round the corner before she retreated into the room.

She got back to organizing her notes when another knock sounded on the door.

Mac sighed deeply before getting up again. If it were Mic again trying to

change her mind, she would tell him otherwise. She opened the hatch while

saying, "Mic, I thought I told you that I didn't want to go for a cup of

coffee."

Harm chuckled lowly, "I don't know whether to be insulted that you thought I

was Mic or joyful that you turned him down for a cup of coffee."

Mac blushed slightly at making the mistake of thinking that Harm was Mic.

"I'm sorry, Harm. I wasn't expecting you for another few minutes, since

you're always late. I truly thought it was Mic again since he can't take

'no' for an answer."

"Has he been bothering you since I left?" He asked as they went into the

stateroom and closed the hatch behind them.

"Not bothering me, just wanting me to go on a date with him. I kept telling

him that I'm not interested, but I don't think he gets the idea that I don't

like him that way. Do you know how much I want to shout to everyone that

I'm with you and want no other else?" She sat down in the chair at the desk

while Harm leaned against it in front of her.

His lips curved in a small smile, "Probably as much as I want to."

"What are we going to do if you ever decide to come back? What would happen

then?" Mac laid her hand on his knee while looking up at him.

He ran his fingers through her hair in a loving manner, "We'll figure that

question out when the time comes. Until then, we just do what we've been

doing for the past four months. It's worked so far."

"Yeah, but I don't want to do this forever, Harm. I don't want to hide our

relationship from our friends. They have a right to know how we feel about

each other. God, why did this have to be so complicated?" She stood up from

the chair and started pacing the stateroom.

Harm stood up as well and went over to her; he drew Mac into his strong

embrace, nestling her head against his chest. Mac buried her face and

breathed in the intoxicating scent of Harmon Rabb; masculine mixed with

cologne. He placed his mouth only mere inches from her ear as he whispered

to her, "Do you know what I hate the most about this? It seems like we're

always kissing goodbye instead of hello. I don't want to kiss you goodbye

anymore, Mac.

"When this is all over, out of my system, I'll give this to you properly,"

he set her back slightly and withdrew a velvet box from his pocket. Harm

flipped it open and revealed an exquisite diamond ring.

A gasp escaped her lips at the sight. It was the most gorgeous ring she'd

ever seen. She had no idea that Harm bought a ring, having the courage to

propose to her when he returned from flying. "Oh, Harm, it's beautiful.

When did you get this?"

"I got it a few days after we made love for the first time. After that

night, Sarah, I realized that I didn't want to live without you. I could

not imagine waking up every morning without you curled up against me, or

going to bed at night alone. I love you, Sarah MacKenzie and want to spend

the rest of my life with you. Believe me, this was not the place that I

wanted to do this. I wanted it be special for you." Harm flashed his smile

at her and Mac giggled softly.

Mac whispered, "This is special for me, being here with you is enough to

make this moment special."

"In that case, Sarah MacKenzie, will you do me honor of becoming my wife,

spending the rest of our lives together?" He laid his heart out for her,

hoping that she would not break it.

Mac was finally getting the dream that she wanted her whole life---well, the

last four years. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she answered

him, "Yes, Harmon Rabb, I will become your wife and spend forever with you."

He slipped the ring onto her finger, seeing that it belonged there on her

finger and no one else's.

He lowered his head and captured her lips in a searing kiss. His tongue

slipped inside and caressed the velvety interior, exploring the curves and

crevices of her luscious mouth. His fingers dived into her hair, holding

her head still as his mouth ravished hers in plundering kisses. Her arms

wound themselves around his neck, her fingers combing through the strands at

the nape of his neck.

Harm backed them up, their mouths never breaking contact, until Mac's legs

bumped into the metal bunk. He gently deposited her on the bunk as if she

were a rare piece of china.

~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mac lay on his chest, her fingers combing through the hair. She never felt

so happy in life than she did right now. She was officially engaged to the

man that she loved whom she just finished making love to and there was still

her surprise that she had to tell him. Her only fear was that he would not

get mad at her for it happening. It's not like they planned it or

something. It was just that her form of birth control sort of failed---more

like the fact that she forgot to take a few of her pills which cost her

dearly. Since she and Harm made love almost every night, they were together

after that first time.

The gentle caressing woke Harm up and his eyes settled on his new fiancée.

A smile immediately came to his face, "Hey, beautiful."

"Hey." Mac propped her head on a hand as she returned his smile. "Harm, I

have some important to tell you. I'm late." She took a deep breath and

waited for his response.

"Late for what? A meeting with the Captain or the CAG?" Mac groaned at his

answer. Typical male response to that statement.

"No, Harm. I'm <late>." Mac stressed the word ‘late’, grabbed one of his

hands, and placed it on her stomach for emphasis.

It seemed to work because Harm's eyes went wide and he tried to say

something, but no words exited his mouth. He was in complete shock at what

Mac said. He could not believe it---they were having a baby. He was the

happiest man on the earth now. A bright smile filled his face, his eyes lit

up, and Mac saw it. Even without hearing his response, but seeing his

reaction, Mac knew that he was happy just she was about the news.

"When did you find out about this?" Harm asked once he found his voice.

"A few weeks ago. I had a doctor's appointment just to make sure before

telling you. When I found out that I would be coming out here on an

investigation, it seemed the perfect time to tell you instead of in an

email. I'm about two months along---I think it happened the weekend before

you left."

"I'm glad that you told me in person. Oh, Sarah, we're going to be parents.

This is too good to be true." Harm gathered her in a tight embrace as they

celebrated the good news.

"Do you know what this means? Whenever you come back from flying, we will

have to tell the Admiral about our engagement and relationship as well as

the baby. I won't be able to hide my pregnancy like I can the ring for the

time being." She placed a few light kisses on his jaw.

Harm sighed deeply, "Yeah, I know."

This time when they made love, all the caresses, kisses had to last them

until Harm returned home for good. Mac only hoped that it wouldn't be too

long. She couldn't bear to be apart for him any longer than she had to be.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Four Months Later

0930 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

The conference room was filled with everyone he knew and loved. It felt so

good to be back at JAG. Flying might have been his first love when he first

started his career in the NAVY, but being a lawyer was in his blood now and

all those he cared about were at JAG. Not on some aircraft carrier in the

Adriatic Sea. Besides, it took himself and the CAG telling him that flying

was a career setback for him. He would not go anywhere and he proved to

everyone that he could still do it----Harmon Rabb could still fly with the

best of them. He really proved that with the tail-hook stunt.

That was the reason why everyone was gathered in the conference room early.

Because of his heroics in a war zone and by helping his wingman get to the

water where he could safely eject, Harm earned his second Distinguished

Flying Cross. He was only doing what he was trained to do. He never once

thought of receiving another DFC.

The Admiral finished speaking, pinned the DFC on his uniform and handed him

the plaque. Harm stood at attention and waited for him to continue, "Since

you're not married and your mother isn't here and I'm damn well not willing,

I'll let the Colonel do the honors."

Everyone chuckled at the Admiral's statement while Mac stepped forward from

the crowd and then faced Harm. The love for her shone in his eyes as he

looked at her. Mac's waist was thickening considerably now that she entered

her twentieth week. He still could not believe that it was their baby

growing inside of her. Well, no one else knew that. They just assumed the

Colonel met someone after Harm's departure, it did not last very long and

she realized that she was pregnant after it ended. It just seemed natural

to them to think that Harm would help her through this tough time.

"Congratulations, Commander." Mac said as she lightly kissed him on the

cheek.

"Thank you, Colonel." He smiled at her.

The Admiral cut in on their private moment; "Shall we get started with our

meeting for the day."

"Um, Admiral, if you don't mind waiting, Harm and I have something to tell

everyone." Mac spoke up and looked for reassurance from Harm. He held her

hand in his, refusing to let it go for anything.

"Certainly, Colonel." Chegwidden noticed their hands, but said nothing. He

wanted to hear what they had to tell everyone. He only hoped that it wasn't

what he thought---his Admiral's Privilege only went so far.

"Thank you, Sir." Mac took a deep breath, "Everyone, Harm and I are have a

baby---this is our baby. We have been seeing each other personally for six

months. And we're also engaged," Mac pulled out her dog tags out to reveal

a ring to them. She efficiently withdrew it from the chain and placed it on

her finger. It felt so wonderful being able to wear it without having to

hide it from her friends.

"Well, I believe congratulations are in order. Colonel, Commander,

congratulations on your new edition and engagement. We'll figure out the

arrangements here at JAG later. I'm sure I can pull something off, but I

don't know what yet." The Admiral gave them a cheerful smile.

Harm and Mac returned the smile and thanked him for his congratulations.

"All right people, let's get this meeting started." The Admiral bellowed and

everyone took his or her seats.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

1930 EST

Harm's Apartment

North of Union Station

"Mac, honey, I'm home. You here?" Harm shouted as he came through the door

into the apartment.

He quickly scanned the large room and found no sign of Mac coming there

after work today. After setting down his briefcase and hanging up his

jacket, he went into his bedroom to change. There he found the most

beautiful sight bestowed upon him. Lying on his bed, sleeping peacefully

was his fiancée. She lay on her side facing his direction with her hand

lying protectively on her rounded stomach. Her lips were curved in a small

smile, telling him that she must be having a delightful dream. For just a

few moments, Harm stood at the top of the steps and watched her sleep. The

rising and falling of her chest, the way her hand unconsciously rubbed her

stomach. His heart swelled in his chest at the simple gesture, knowing that

their child was growing inside of her. He still had a hard time believing

that she was his to stay and they created a life together.

Harm quietly walked over to his closet and withdrew a pair of jeans and a

t-shirt. He went into the bathroom to change and five minutes later, he

strolled out to the living room. He grabbed his briefcase on the way and

sat down on the couch. Harm went to open it and withdraw his new cases, but

stopped in mid-motion. For the first time in a long time, Harmon Rabb did

not want to look over cases, write briefs, or think of an opening or closing

argument. He just wanted to spend time with the one he cared about the

most. In addition, that particular person was in the next room.

While engrossed in his thoughts, Harm did not hear Mac come down the steps

from the bedroom and stroll over to him. He saw a shadow cast over his feet

and looked up quickly. His 'flyboy' smile graced his face when he saw her.

His arms opened and Mac graciously curled up in his lap with her head

nestled in the curve of his shoulder.

"How was your nap?" He asked while placing soft kisses in her hair.

"It was wonderful. I never realized how tired I was until I lay down. Our

child is wearing me out, literally." A sigh of contentment exited her mouth

when she felt Harm's hands lightly rubbed her lower back in a soothing

motion.

He heard the sigh and knew that was what she needed right now. "Feel good,

me rubbing your back like this?"

"Mmm, Harm, that feels wonderful." Mac sighed as his fingers continued to

work their magic on her lower back. "You know, Flyboy, if you ever consider

a career change, you can be a masseuse."

"Do you really want me to touch other women?" He whispered in her ear, his

breath tickling it which sent shivers down her spine.

Her voice was a little raspy when she spoke, "When you put it that way, no

you can't quit your day job. I don't want you touching other women---I'm

the only one from now on." Mac raised her head and looked into his

eyes---darkened with desire for only her. The sight made the breath hitch

in her throat and her heartbeat quicken in her chest.

Harm's voice was a harsh groan, "You're the only one I want, Sarah. You

were the only one ever since we met---I just couldn't make myself see it

until this year." He moved his hands underneath her shirt.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

One Week Later

0630 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, VA

Harm strolled into the Admiral's office alone. Earlier, he gotten a call

from the Admiral saying that he needed to see him about a situation that

arose. He didn't need Mac's presence, which threw Harm for a loop. It

must've been something really serious if the Admiral didn't want Mac

involved for the fear of her getting hurt.

"Morning, Sir." Harm stated as he sat down in front of the desk. "What did

you want to speak to me about, Sir?" He patiently waited for Chegwidden to

give him the news.

AJ Chegwidden rounded the desk until he stood in front and leaned back

against it. "Harm, I'm going to say this bluntly, simply because I don't

know how to any other way. They need you on the Patrick Henry again, but

this time as the CAG, until the original returns from a family emergency."

"Who approved this, Sir?" He blurted it out.

"The SECNAV approved it as well as me. We can function without you until

your return. Commander Brumby is staying a little longer and I have another

Staff JAG coming in for when Colonel MacKenzie goes on maternity leave."

Harm's only concern was being away from Mac for a long period of time. He

didn't know how he survived while he was flying for seven months. "How long

will I be gone, Sir?"

"That question is up in the air right now, Commander. I'm sorry." He

watched the emotions flash over Harm's face as he pondered the answer that

he was given. AJ wished that he knew how long Harm would be stationed on

the Patrick Henry.

"When do I leave, Admiral?"

"You leave tomorrow at 0700 from Andrews. Tiner has your travel

arrangements, so you can get them from him when we're finished in here." He

crossed his arms over his chest and waited for another question.

"Admiral, why did the SECNAV approve this, Sir? He refers to me as 'Harmful

Rabb' and did not like the time that I was the temporary JAG when you were

away."

A sigh came from AJ before he answered, "He believes that you're the best

person for the job. You are an excellent pilot, he knows that, and he

respects you after you received your second DFC. Believe that you earned

this position, Harm."

"I do, Sir." Harm stood up and spoke softly, "Will that be everything, Sir?

I would like to inform Mac of this situation before she hears about it

through the office scuttlebutt."

"Yes, Commander, that is everything." He watched Harm turn to go out the

door, but spoke which made Harm face him, "We'll watch over her, Harm, while

you're gone. She'll be safe, I promise. Before you go, just let her know

that you love her."

He gave the Admiral a small smile, "I will, Sir. I love her with all my

heart and she knows it everyday."

"I'm happy that you both found happiness in each other. You are also lucky

that the SECNAV let you both stay at JAG Headquarters, though you work for

the SECNAV's office now. Good luck, Harm." The Admiral finished.

"Thank you, Sir. I'll see you when I get back from the Patrick Henry." Harm

saluted the Admiral and then left the office.

He picked up his travel arrangements from Tiner and then crossed through the

bullpen to his office. He opened the door and strolled in to find Mac

sitting at his desk with tear tracks on her face. Harm rushed over to her

and kneeled down in front of her, taking her hands in his. His heart

clenched in his chest when he saw more tears come from her eyes. He hated

seeing her cry. It hurt him as much as it hurt her, knowing something bad

was going to happen to their relationship again.

"Baby, what's the matter?" He reached up with a hand and brushed the tears

away with his thumb.

"After you left the apartment, the Admiral called again, saying that he

needed me at Headquarters as well, but did not say why. He just told me to

wait in your office until you were finished with your meeting with him.

Harm, what did you and the Admiral talk about?" Mac whispered as she

clenched tighter to his hands.

Harm was a little hesitant in answering her question; "I am to report to the

Patrick Henry tomorrow. Until the original CAG returns from a family

emergency, I am taking his place. I don't know how long I'll be away."

She wrenched her hands from his and stood up abruptly. She started pacing

the office, absorbing all that Harm told her. He was leaving her

again---going to fly again. Yet, this wasn't his choice. As far as she

knew, he did not ask for the assignment. Mac stopped her pacing and faced

Harm, who now leaned against the desk. "Who gave you this assignment?"

"The SECNAV approved it. He thought I would be the best person to have in

the position. Believe me, Sarah, I don't want to go. I do not want to be

away from you again. God knows how long I'm going to be gone---probably

going to miss our baby's birth." He opened his arms and motioned her to come

to him.

Mac went over to Harm and he enveloped her in his arms, drawing her close to

his chest. She buried his face in the curve of his neck and inhaled the

scent of his cologne. She filed that memory for the time he would be gone.

Just when they thought that they had gotten past everything, something was

thrown in their path.

"The Admiral told me to tell you something before I left. He told me to let

you know that I love you. Sarah, I love you with all my heart---I love you

more everyday. You will be with me while I'm gone. And when I come back,

we'll have the wedding that you always wanted. I promise." Harm pulled back

from her and placed a soft kiss on her lips.

"Wow. I don't think the Admiral told you to say all that." For a brief

moment, a smile graced her face. "When you get back, I'll be waiting for

you, whether it just be me or the two of us." She rubbed her stomach to let

him know what she meant.

Harm buried his face in her hair as he spoke, "What else did the Admiral say

to you when he called?"

"That we have the whole day off until you leave tomorrow morning." Mac

seductively whispered in his ear.

He released her, grabbed his briefcase and cover, then clasped her hand in

his. "Then by all means, let's go home and spend the next couple hours

making love. I want to have some memories of how you feel while I'm away."

Giggles came from Mac as he practically dragged her to the elevators and

then down to their cars. He escorted her to the SUV and helped her in. She

rolled down the window and leaned her head out, captured his mouth in a

heated kiss. Her tongue tangled with his, brushed over the roof of his

mouth, swiped over his teeth. With one final swipe, she pulled back from

him with a satisfied smile on her lips.

"See you at home, Flyboy." Mac started the engine and pulled out of the

parking lot, leaving Harm standing there dumbfounded.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Two Months Later

1230 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, VA

It had been two months since Harm left for the Patrick Henry and it felt so

lonely around JAG nowadays. Mac always found herself glancing over at his

office, expecting to see him there, only to find it empty. Her days only

got worse since Harm’s departure. Since she entered her seventh month, the

Admiral put her on strict desk duty. He did not want to try any cases that

would put stress on her or the baby. She knew it was his way of protecting

her while Harm was away, but it was driving her completely insane. All day,

everyday, she would look over cases, write briefs and sit in her office,

twiddling her thumbs.

Mac turned around in her desk to look out the window. Each holiday that he

missed was much lonelier than the last. Christmas was unbearable. It was

their first Christmas as a couple and he was not there to share it with her.

Mac had sent him a box for the holiday, filled with pictures of everyone

from JAG, including her and a recent ultrasound picture. She wrote a short

note to him, telling him that they were having a son. A few weeks later,

after he received the package, Harm called her late one night. She had

never heard him so excited in his life.

~*~*~*~*~

"We’re having a son, Marine." She could hear the excitement in his voice and

tears threatened to fall from her eyes.

She laughed slightly, "That would be correct, Sailor. I take it you’re

excited about the sex of our child."

Harm shouted, "Damn right!" He lowered his voice slight, "Not that I don’t

want a little girl, so much like her mother. It’s just that I’ve always a

son, to show him the things that my father showed me when I was little.

Maybe after this one’s born, we’ll try for a little girl, who has her

mother’s eyes and smile."

Mac felt her heartbeat quicken a little bit at the images that flashed

through her mind. Practicing for another baby with Harm. She could get use

to that activity. "Is that a promise, Flyboy?"

"You bet, Marine. And it’s one I intend to keep for the rest of our lives."

His voice rang in her ears.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After talking with Harm that night about the baby, Mac felt a little better

about the upcoming Christmas holiday, but still had doubts about how she

would be spending it. Bud and Harriet had asked her to spend Christmas with

them, but she did not want to intrude on their family holiday. The Admiral

even suggested she go to New York with him to visit Francesca. Again, Mac

declined the offer. All she wanted to do for Christmas was spend time with

the man she loved. Yet, that particular man was on the other side of the

world. She knew the wish she wanted for Christmas wouldn’t come true.

However, she got another wish during the day on Christmas Eve. Harm’s

parents, Trish and Frank, dropped in for a visit.

~*~*~*~*~

Mac was lounging on the couch, reading a book she just purchased when a

knock sounded on the door. A few days before, Bud and Harriet said they

might drop by on Christmas Eve, just to cheer her up. They knew that she

was a little depressed about being alone. She slowly got up from the couch

and padded over to the door. She opened it to find the two people that she

never expected to see.

"Sarah, dear, how are you?" Trish Burnett gave her a bright smile as she

drew Mac into the comfort of her arms.

"I’m quite all right, Trish. Just a little depressed about Christmas and

not being able to spend it with Harm." Mac said with a little hesitation in

her voice as she pulled back from Trish.

She invited them into the apartment and Frank went straight over to the tree

that Mac had put up in the spirit of the Christmas season. Mac and Trish

strolled over to the couch and sat down beside each other. Trish could see

some of herself in the young woman. She understood what it was like to

spend Christmas without the one you love. When Harm Sr. was alive, she

experienced many Christmases alone while he was stationed in some God

forsaken place. She never once thought that Harm would be away from his

family like his father.

Trish laid a comforting hand on Mac’s as she spoke, "I know you feel, dear.

I had to experience lonely Christmases when Harm was a boy, with his father

gone. Sure, it helped a little, hearing Harm Sr.’s voice on the tapes he

sent, but it just wasn’t the same. Every year, I always made the same wish,

hoping that he would be home next year for Christmas."

"I never thought that our first Christmas together, we both be spending it

alone on opposite sides of the world. He might miss the birth of our child

because of this assignment." She looked away from Trish, over in the

direction of Frank. He was busy arranging the huge pile of presents they

brought, under the tree.

"Sarah, he’ll be home before you know it and once he sees the baby, I do not

think he’ll ever go away for long periods of time again." She made Mac

advert her attention back to her. "It always pained Harm Sr. to leave after

Harm was born. He loved the time that he spent with his son, but he never

got enough time between tours."

Mac decided to tell Trish about the baby. Harm would not object to his

mother knowing the sex of the baby. He would be delighted. "Trish, a few

weeks ago, I had another ultrasound and they discovered something."

"What? Is the baby all right?" She was a bit scared at what Mac said.

A small smile graced her face, "No, nothing is wrong with the baby. It’s

perfectly healthy. It was facing the screen during the time of the

ultrasound and the sex was determined. Harm and I are having a boy."

"Oh, my goodness. That’s wonderful!" She pulled Mac into another hug.

"This has to be the best Christmas gift I had ever gotten."

Mac felt tears forming at the corners of her eyes. She now knew that she

wouldn’t be alone for Christmas. She had an angel watching over her and she

was glad that it answered a prayer---having someone to spend the holiday

with, even if it was not Harm. To her, it was the next best thing. "And

this is the best gift, having you and Frank here with me."

~*~*~*~*~*

A knock on her office door brought her back to reality. She turned around

in her chair and ordered the person to enter. The office door opened and

three people strolled in, each carrying vase full of roses. They set them

down on her desk, then retreated from the office as quickly as they came.

Mac was bewildered as to why she was receiving three dozen roses.

Valentine’s Day was not until next month. She stood up from the chair and

rounded the desk. She searched among the roses for a card, but found none.

She had a feeling who they were from, but she wanted to absolutely sure.

Mac exited her office and strolled over to Harriet’s desk in the middle of

the bullpen. "Harriet, did any of the messengers leave a card with you?

There wasn’t one with the roses."

"Um, no, Ma’am. Maybe Petty Officer Tiner knows something more about than I

do. I just returned from the library, so I didn’t see them deliver you the

roses." Harriet said and Mac thanked her before heading over to Tiner’s

desk.

"Tiner, did any of the messengers leave a card with you? I did not received

one with roses." She stood in front of his desk with her arms crossed just

below her breasts.

Tiner stuttered slightly, "No, Ma’am. Maybe Gunny knows something about it.

I just got of a meeting with the Admiral."

"Does anyone have a goddamn card for me? I would like to know who the roses

are from!" Mac shouted at the young Petty Officer before stalking through

the bullpen to her office and slammed the door shut.

The Admiral came out of his office after hearing Mac’s shouting. He took

one glance at Tiner and realized that she had yelled at him. The poor boy

never got a break. If it was not him yelling at Tiner, it was something

else. "What is wrong with the Colonel?"

"She got some roses, Sir, but no card. She’s asking if anyone received it

and no one got it. I think the hormones are raging beside her moods have

been really strange lately, Sir." Tiner said lowly.

"Thank you, Tiner. If you need me, I’ll be in my office." He retreated

into his office.

~*~*~*~*~*

Mac was again sitting in her chair, staring out the window. She breathed in

a sigh and the fragrance of the roses engulfed her nose. It brought back

some heated memories of her and Harm’s last day together before he left.

She could still feel the smoothness of the rose petals on her skin, how they

smelled on Harm, the way that they stuck to their damp bodies after they

made love. The sound of phone ringing startled her and she quickly picked

it up.

"Lt. Colonel MacKenzie." She barked into the phone.

"Is everything all right, baby? Did I catch you at a bad time?" Harm’s

voice rang over the phone.

It took a second for the voice on the other end to register. Mac cursed

herself for how she answered the phone. "Oh, god. Harm, this that you?"

His laugh eased her shame a bit, "That would be correct, Marine."

"I am sorry for answering the phone that way. I got three dozen roses

delivered earlier and they came without a card. So, I’m a little frustrated

about not really knowing who they are from." Mac sighed deeply.

"Three dozen? The guy must really have the hots for you. Have you told

everyone that you’re taken and having my baby?"

Mac giggled low in her throat at the statement. On the other end, Harm

relished in the sound. He missed hearing her laugh. He missed many things

about her since he has been away. "Everyone at JAG knows that I’m with you.

You shouted it every morning that you love me when we came to work.

Besides, what do I owe the pleasure of this call?"

There was a brief silence on the other end, and then Harm spoke softly, "I

am delivering your card that did not come with the roses."

The door to her office opened and Mac turned around to tell the person that

she was taking a personal call, but the words died on her tongue when she

saw the visitor. It looked like he had not shaved for about a day, his hair

was a little tousled from him running his fingers through it. His slacks

were wrinkled as was his shirt, but to her, he looked wonderful. Harm

flashed his smile and her heart melted on the spot. She dropped the phone

back in the cradle then rushed over to him. Harm closed his cellphone and

put in his pants pocket.

Harm gathered her into his arms, holding her tight against so that a shadow

could not fit between them. It felt so good to hold her in his arms again.

He did not know how he survived two months away from her. It was too long

and he vowed never to be away from her that long again. Unexpectedly, he

felt a tiny kick against his abdomen and pulled back slightly to look at

Mac. A smile filled her face as she realized what he felt. For the first

time, he felt his child kick. It was a feeling that Harm would cherish.

"I am so happy to see you, Sarah." He cupped her face in his hands and

gently kissed her lips, despite everyone watching from the bullpen.

"And I you. When did you get back?" She asked when their lips parted.

"About two hours ago. I had a meeting with the SECNAV after I landed. I

let him know that I would not do an assignment when I was away for an

extended period, away from my fiancée and unborn child. I don’t want to

miss our son’s birth." Harm ran his fingers through her tresses.

Her voice was a soft whisper as she reached up a hand and caressed his

cheek, "I am glad that you’re back before our son’s birth. You know, we

haven’t discussed names yet."

"Yeah, I know. That just was not my high priority. I just wanted you to be

healthy as well as our child." Harm sat down in one of the chairs and pulled

her into his lap.

Mac tried to tell Harm that the display of affection was not allowed, but he

silenced her with a passionate kiss that practically made her toes curl.

She stilled her movements and settled in his arms. He held her hands in his

as he spoke, "Now that you’re settled, I am going to give you the card."

Harm pulled a small envelope out of his pocket and handed it to her. She

pulled the card out and read it:

<Let’s have a replay of our night together two months ago with these roses.

Love, H. >

A blush crept into her cheeks and traveled below her uniform blouse. Harm

wanted to follow that blush with his lips, but restrained himself. Mac

raised her eyes, "That can be arranged, Flyboy."

"How about tonight? I have some more errands to run, but I’ll meet you at

the apartment." Harm gave her another kiss before putting her back on her

feet.

She gave him a sultry smile, "Sounds good to me. Don’t be late."

He flashed her another smile, "I wouldn’t dream of it." With those last

words, he exited her office.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

1745 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, VA

Mac signed her last report of the day, closed the file, and grabbed her

things, then retreated from her office. She made her way across the

bullpen, but stopped suddenly when two DC officers walked through the JAG

Ops doors. For some apparent reason, Mac felt an eerie feeling in her

stomach. She set her things down on Harriet’s desk and waited for the

officers to approach someone.

"Is there a Sarah MacKenzie here?" The tall one of the two asked as he

stopped in front of Mac.

Mac spoke up; "I am Lt. Colonel Sarah MacKenzie. What can I help you with,

Officer?"

"Colonel, I’m Officer Johnson and this is my partner Officer Raines. At

around four o’clock this afternoon, we responded to a call at a liquor store

concerning a robbery. When we arrived, there were two people down---one of

them was a Harmon Rabb."

She felt the air leave her lungs and her knees buckle. She grabbed the side

of Harriet’s desk as she sunk to the floor. Through her clouded mind, she

heard someone call for the Admiral as someone else asked her if she was all

right. All Mac could think about was Harm’s fate. Was he dead? Did he

survive the robbery? So many questions ran through her mind, but she did

have the strength to ask them.

Mac felt a pair of strong arms encircle her from behind and pull her back

against their chest. Tears started to fall, letting her know that her

strong façade was fading. Before long, sobs were wrenched from her body,

breaking everyone’s heart, especially the Admiral’s, who was holding her.

"Harm!" Mac shouted through her sobs as she sagged against the Admiral.

AJ’s heart clenched in his chest at the sound of Mac’s shout. It took them

so long to find each other, only to be torn apart by the wrath of God.

~*~*~*~*~*

THE END

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