Title: Full Engagement - The Untold Story

Authors: Margie Harkins and Bridget Walker

Summary - Full Engagement, in our opinion is the ultimate shipper episode and therefore our favourite episode of all time. After much thought and much discussion we decided to fill in the bits that we did not see on camera.

Disclaimer - The characters depicted in this story do not belong to us. They belong to Donald P Bellisario and Bellisarius Productions. Although our Harm clones belong to us and no one can take them away from us. We did however borrow some of the script from the episode Full Engagement in order to make this fanfic work.

Authors Notes - a special thank you to a special friend - Pat thanks for your help and encouragement. We really do appreciate it

Feedback is encouraged and appreciated.

PRESENT

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

VIRGINIA

Harm leaned over Mac, gently stroking her forehead. He could feel that her fever had risen even higher. Slowly Mac opened her eyes at his touch and softly whispered "Harm..." Taking her hand and squeezing it gently "I'm right here, Mac, I'm right here. You're at the hospital, they are going to take good care of your leg. You're going to be OK. Just relax." Mac closed her eyes and nodded, secure that Harm would see that she would get the care she needed. He made her a promise by the creek. A promise that he had kept.

There was a knock on the door of the treatment room. A doctor followed by a State Policeman entered. The doctor walked over to the stretcher with a chart in his hand. "Miss MacKenzie, I'm Dr. Morgan, I'm going to take a look at your leg. If your friend would just step out into hall for a minute." Harm looked down at Mac, he could see the fear on her face. Leaning over her once again he whispered "I'll just be outside. I'll be back in as soon as they let me. You need to have that leg taken care of. OK?" As Mac nodded her head, Harm bent down and placed a soft kiss on her forehead. Squeezing her hand again, he slowly stood up.

The policeman moved closer to Harm "I'd like to get you statement now. I need to know what events occurred while you were in the mountains." Both Harm and Mac looked at each other as the question was asked. Their eyes locked, and in the others eyes they could see the horror of the past 24 hours. "Certainly, officer" Harm replied and followed the patrolman out of the room. Looking over his shoulder, Harm couldn't take his eyes off his partner until the door closed behind him.

The policeman's words echoed in both of their heads. "What events occurred while you were in the mountains." Both Harm and Mac thoughts drifted back to the past.

It was supposed to be a day of fun and relaxation. Just 48 hours earlier they had planned to play hooky from work. In their wildest dreams, they never thought that their plan would turn into their worst nightmare. That they would be running for their lives.

48 Hours Earlier

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

Lieutenant Commander Harmon Rabb, Jr. stopped outside his partners office. Unnoticed, he watched her work, her dark head bent over a file. They had only been partners for a short time, but in that time they had worked many cases together. Their partnership had seemed to gel overnight. He had had partners before, but never had their skills meshed with such ease.

Major Sarah MacKenzie was a strong woman. "Mac' as she preferred to be called, had to be, to survive in the male dominated world of the Marines. But, she had given Harm glimpses of the soft woman underneath the tough Jarhead exterior. Harm was intrigued by the woman inside that Marine uniform. Something was different about Mac, something that Harm couldn't put his finger on.

He sensed that Mac let very few people close to her. It was as if she had a wall between her and the rest of the world. But, on their first case together, she let that wall slip a little. She trusted him enough to open up to him about her alcoholism. He wanted to get to know Mac better, he also wanted to be a friend, a friend that he sensed she desperately needed. Harm also wanted to break that wall down and free Mac. So, Harm had come up with a plan

Snapping his attention back to the present, Harm raised his hand and knocked softly on her door.

"Enter" Mac called, without looking up.

"Hey, Mac, have a minute?" Harm asked as he slipped into her office.

Mac raised her head and welcomed her partner with a smile "sure, pull up a seat. What can I do for you?"

"More like what I can do for you, Mac" Harm replied.

Mac raised a questioning eyebrow at Harm's statement "and what would that be, dare I ask? she chuckled.

"I was wondering, would you care to go flying with me tomorrow? We're not scheduled for court and it's not too busy around her, so it would be the perfect time to play hooky."

Mac stared at Harm, not believing what she just heard "you want me to go flying with you?"

Harm shifted in his seat "yeah, why not? It will be fun. I have bi-plane that I remodeled, I took Bud up in it a couple of weeks ago. He had a great time. The weather is supposed to be perfect tomorrow. There are some beautiful spots to fly over in Virginia. So, what do you say?"

A slow grin graced Mac's features "actually, that sounds like fun. I guess we wouldn't be missed. I mean, it's only one day and our cases are all caught up."

Harm grinned at Mac's response "Great, I'll pick you up tomorrow morning. Oh, and dress warm, it gets cold up in the air."

Harm stood to leave, but was stopped by Mac's words "Ah, Harm, it's not necessary to pick me up, why don't I meet you? Just tell me where you keep your plane."

Harm turned back to her, she was pulling that wall up again. He didn't want to force her, he had to give her some space, for now at least. "The plane is in a hangar in Blacksburg, Virginia. I'll write instructions down on how to get there"

Mac's grinned at Harm "Great. Should I bring anything with me? Do you want me to pack a lunch for us?"

Harm shook his head no "I’ll take care of everything. You just bring yourself."

Mac nodded "Now do you mind if I get back to work? You see, I'm planning on playing hooky tomorrow and want to leave a clean desk."

"I'm out of here." Harm laughed as he closed the door behind him.

Mac sat back in her chair. The paperwork in front of her forgotten for the moment. She hadn't been able to figure her new partner out yet. She had never met anyone quite like him before. Mac wasn't sure what to expect when she was told that she was being assigned to work with a former Tomcat pilot. Actually, she expected to meet a cocky, arrogant, self-centered jerk. Well, he was cocky, but in a good way. And she had to admit he certainly was a good lawyer. He also kept his word, defending her Uncle Matt at his trial. She also had to confess that he was so good looking. Chuckling at that last thought, Mac ordered herself to snap out of it. He's you partner, what are you doing thinking thoughts like that? Returning to her paperwork, she tried to concentrate on the words on the papers, but her mind kept drifting. She had agreed to go flying tomorrow with Harm.

PART 2  

AIRFIELD

0908

Next Morning

Mac sat against the bonnet of her car. She could not believe that her partner had actually talked her into playing hooky from work. She had worked hard for her position. And this felt so irresponsible. But at the same time she couldn't help but think that it felt right as well. Yes this is what they needed. The start of their partnership had its ups and downs to say the least, what with him agreeing to defend her Uncle Matt, her opening up to him at the Mesa, and then him shooting the courtroom ceiling up. At times she wondered what on Earth she had gotten herself into.

"Hmm" Mac hummed. "He is officially late." Pulling out her cell phone, Mac hit Speed Dial one for her partner's apartment. Not surprisingly she got his machine, she left a message anyway. "Harm, it's me Mac. I'm at the airfield it must be the right place, I see your plane. Guess you're on route. Nine and half minutes late and counting." Laughing she flipped closed her cell phone and threw it in her car. She knew that where they were going today there was not a chance of getting reception. Settling back she waited for Harm.

Harm's Apartment

North of Union Station

SAME TIME

Harm ran around his apartment like a madman. He was late. And Mac was going to kill him. During his remodeling he had managed to blow a fuse and therefore his alarm had not gone off this morning. Thankfully he had been able to fix it this morning in the light of day. But Mac was still going to kill him. He was just about out the door when he heard the telephone ring. Knowing that the machine would get it, Harm continued towards his destination, but stopped cold when he heard his partner's voice. "Harm, it's me Mac. I'm at the airfield it must be the right place, I see your plane. Guess you're on route. Nine and half minutes late and counting."

Harm laughed. Trust his partner to be checking up on him. And he just knew that she was able to tell how late he was without a watch. He really had to find out how she did that. Reveling in the sound of his partner's husky voice Harm once again made a dash for the door. He couldn't wait to take 'Sarah' up and spend some time getting to really know his partner.

AIRFIELD

0930

When she saw his car approaching Mac left her place by the bonnet of her car, and walked towards his parking space. As soon as he opened the door to his corvette she spoke. "Nice car Rabb, by the way you're 31 minutes late. "

"Why thankyou Major. I am glad you approve. And yes I know I am late. What can I say. Remodeling accident. I was finally trying to hook up that outlet for my fridge."

"Lovely, now come on."

"Coming Dear." Harm joked, which earned him an unusual stare from his partner.

Once inside the hangar they were greeted by the mechanic.

"Mornin' Son. Taking the Stearman up today."

"That I am Sir, is she ready?"

"Of course. Ah and it looks like you are going to have company. Mornin' Ma'am."

"Good Morning."

"Guess you are taking this pretty lady out for the usual tour Harm?" the mechanic questioned with a grin.

"Something like that, this is my partner. Major Sarah MacKenzie. United States Marine Corps."

"Okay whatever you say. Now get out of here, you are wasting the day."

With that Harm and Mac made their way towards the bright yellow Stearman. Harm performed a thorough pre-flight inspection while Mac watched eagerly, as he talked her through it. When he was finished she spoke.

"So can you actually fly this thing? Because I am not sure that I trust you enough to go up there."

"Ahh Major, but you are here. If you weren't sure, you wouldn't have agreed and you wouldn't have shown up."

"That is true, now tell me Sailor. Why am I here exactly?"

"You are here, because you know that you can't be a straitlaced Jarhead all your life." Mac pouted as Harm lifted her into the front cockpit, and then climbed into the back cockpit himself. "You need the Navy to show you how to have fun. Besides I have only ever crashed once."

Before Mac could respond, Harm started the engine and the propeller started to spin and he radioed the tower to get clearance for take off.

"Hold on!" He called out over the noise of the engines.

"Like I wouldn't Mac called back." as she gripped her safety belt she watched as Harm taxied the plane up the runway and then into the air. Looking down at the ground below, Mac thought to herself. <This was certainly going to be an interesting day.>

1130

Field Over Virginia

"Hey, you promised to feed me. When are we going we going to eat?" Mac called back over her shoulder. Harm laughed, she was always hungry "There's a nice spot a few minutes from here, we can land there and eat."

A short time later Harm landed the plane in a grassy meadow. Quickly unstraping himself, he jumped out of the plane. Turning, he offered a steadying hand to Mac, helping her jump from the wing. Harm went to the storage area behind the rear cockpit and pulled out a large insulated bag that contained their lunch.

"Come here often?" Mac inquired, impressed with the beauty of the spot that Harm chose for their picnic.

"A few times, there is a nice trail that you can hike over by those trees. But I'll show you my favorite spot. Come on, follow me."

Harm led Mac away from the plane, toward a field of wild flowers. Putting their lunch down and unfolding a blanket he started setting their picnic up. Mac was stunned, next to their area was a small pond with a family of little duck swimming lazily.

"Harm, this place is unbelievable. How did you ever find it?"

Harm grinned at Mac "I always fly in this direction, the mountains are just so compelling. I noticed this meadow and had to check it out one day. This is what I found. I come here some times when I need to get a way and think."

Mac realized that this spot must be special for Harm. As she wandered over to watch the ducks swim, she was touched that he would bring her here and share it with her. Harm pulled Mac's attention when he called "Lunch is ready."

Turning back to the blanket that now held a feast. Mac couldn't help but laugh "How many people are you planning to feed, Harm?"

Harm loved the sound of Mac's laugh, and realized that she didn't laugh enough. "Well, I know a certain Marine lawyer who has a healthy appetite. So I packed accordingly."

Mac sat down across from Harm "Please tell me you didn't bring twigs, root and veggies for us to eat? Please tell me there is some real food in that pack."

"Well, yes and no. For myself I brought a fresh green salad, with shrimp. And for my guest" Harm handed her a plate with fanfare "a Beltway Burger with the works, large order of fries and a chocolate milkshake." Mac was touched by Harm's thoughtfulness. She knew he didn't agree with her eating habits, so for him to pick this up special for her, moved her.

"Harm, this is wonderful. I can't believe you packed a Beltway Burger, and this is the perfect setting for a picnic. I'm really glad that I came today. I almost didn't............." Mac stopped speaking. She didn't want him to know that she had doubts about today. Especially since he had gone to so much trouble to please her. But Harm did catch what she started to say.

"Mac, were you going to back out of today? Why?"

Mac put her plate down, she didn't know how she was going to handle this. If she could only figure Harmon Rabb, Jr out. She had never knew anyone like him before, and he always seemed to keep her off balance. Harm sat and watched Mac, he could sense that she was fighting some inner conflict. He had seen her battle this before. She would start to open up with him, and then without warning, she would climb back into her shell. "Mac, talk to me. What is bothering you?"

Mac looked at Harm, her eyes dark and troubled. "Can I ask you a question?" Harm nodded.

"Why did you invite me to come flying today?"

"Mac, I just thought that you'd enjoy it. We've been working long hours. I know you have to be tired, I certainly am. This is where I like to come and relax. It just seem reasonable that you would appreciate this." Mac didn't take her eyes off of Harm as he answered. "Mac, what's bothering you? Why do I get the feeling that you don't trust me."

Mac lowered her eyes, realizing that Harm zeroed in on her true feelings. She had learned through the years not to have faith in anyone, especially men. She bit her lip, how was she going to answer him, without spilling her whole life's story? "Mac, what's wrong?" Mac raised her eyes at his pleading tone. Their eyes held, his softly questioning.

"Mac, I want you to know that I brought you up here to relax and enjoy the day. I'm getting a feeling that you don't trust me, that you question my motives. Why, I don't know. I just want us to be friends. We were thrown together as partners, we never really got a chance to know each other. That wasn't fair to either of us." Mac was calmed by his words. He was right, they were thrown together, they've been working long hours and didn't really know much about each other. He had never given her any reason not to trust him, in fact, just the opposite.

Realizing that he was waiting for an answer Mac took a deep breath and prayed that she wasn't making a mistake. "Harm, you don't know much about me. You don't know about my past. Most of it isn't pretty. I've learned the hard way not to trust people. You are right, you've never given me a reason not to trust you. But I've been hurt so many times before........ "

Harm slowly reached out and caught her hand in his. "Mac, you have nothing to be afraid of. I just want to be your friend. I would never hurt you. You have to believe that."

The sincerity in his voice shook her soul. She trusted her instincts to come with him today, she was going to keep listening to those instincts. Sighing deeply, Mac looked at Harm and smiled. Picking her Beltway Burger up, she took a big bite "Where else are we going to fly to today?" Harm grinned, he had his Marine back.

After Mac and Harm had finished their lunch, and packed away their picnic, they stood up and walked back towards the plane. "So, where to now, Flyboy?" Mac enquired.

PART 3

"Ah, that, Marine, is a surprise. Come on, let's go."

Just before Mac climbed into the front cockpit, she stopped and turned around once again to face Harm. "Harm, can I ask you a question?"

"As long as it's not too painful, sure."

"Well, um... before we took off from the airfield, you joked that you'd only crashed once. Is that true? And if so, when?"

Harm suddenly couldn't hold Mac's gaze anymore. At his downcast expression, Mac gently reached out and took hold of his hand. "Hey," she began softly, "if it's too hard to talk about..."

"No, it's alright," Harm interjected quickly, " it's just that I don't talk about it often. It happened when I was flying off the Sea Hawk. One night, my sight stuffed up, and I crashed into the carrier deck. The doctors told me I was night blind, and that's how I lost my flight status, and the reason that I am where I am today."

Mac noticed that Harm still wouldn't meet her gaze. "There's something else, isn't there Harm? Something you're not telling me."

"Yeah," Harm admitted softly, "my RIO was killed in that crash. He panicked, and ejected us over the deck. He was killed on impact." Harm sighed, but he continued. "That ejection killed him, but it saved me." Only now would Harm meet Mac's gaze, and was surprised not to find the hard look of a seasoned Marine, but instead the look of a compassionate woman. <Maybe they were making progress> he mused to himself. Wanting to change the subject, Harm cleared his throat, and focused back on today's mission.

"Enough about that, Mac, we've got stuff to do, and not much time to do it in. And I promise, because of my, er, condition, I will try my best to have you back by nightfall."

Mac gave his hand a gentle squeeze before letting go and clambered into the front cockpit. When she was firmly strapped in, Harm mimicked her movements, then started the engine and took off smoothly..

A short while later, they were flying over the Appalachian mountains, when Harm decided to show Mac exactly what his Stearman could do. He put it into rolls, and loops, before telling Mac it was 'her bird'. Mac enjoyed herself thoroughly, putting the plane through its paces, until she miscalculated and put the plane into a steep dive. Harm wasn't fazed, in fact it almost seemed like he was enjoying himself more. Mac, on the other hand, was in a deep panic, as she called out to Harm to do something. Harm allowed her torture to go on for a few seconds more before straightening out the plane.

They continued to fly uneventfully for a few minutes before both noticed the engine begin to sputter. Harm expressed his concern, which was something Mac definitely didn't want to hear. In fact, she told him to stop kidding around, to which Harm responded that he wasn't. The pair flew over the trees, looking for a place to land. Harm even urged 'Sarah', in the hope of a miracle being presented to them. Someone must have been listening, because almost immediately a clearing, large enough to land, and take off from, was presented to them.

At the sight of this miracle, Harm breathed a sigh of relief, and brought the plane in for a reasonably smooth landing. Once the plane had stopped, both disembarked in order to investigate. Mac went in search of the emergency kit, to find binoculars, while Harm checked the engine. His inspection uncovered a cracked fuel line. This discovery made Harm upset with himself. He was sure this problem could have been averted if his preflight routine had been more thorough. Mac reminded him that it was as thorough as it could have been, and she had watched it. Mac then queried Harm on the presence of this clearing, to which Harm responded that he didn't - they just got lucky. Mac told him that he must have been worried, considering he called her 'Sarah', while they were looking for the clearing. Harm proceeded to inform Mac that it wasn't her he was calling Sarah, it was the Stearman. Mac's feminine values made a protest imminent on her lips, but she was cut off by Harm informing her that it was a tradition.

After their banter which included the Wright brothers, and when they actually did fly, Mac made the decision that they were going in search of the cabin that she had seen from the air. Harm protested this suggestion, and it was obvious to Mac that he didn't want to leave his plane. Mac couldn't understand Harm's emotional attachment to an aircraft, and promptly informed him that she would go on her own. This idea didn't sit well with Harm, and with one last look at his plane, he ran to catch up with her.

The pair walked along in companionable silence for an hour, in the direction Mac thought the cabin was. When they reached the top of a ridge, it was Harm who finally broke the silence. "So, Mac, tell me, did you ever come hiking like this when you were a little girl?"

Mac didn't answer Harm, but instead looked at her feet and continued walking. Mac's lack of response wasn't lost on Harm. He had the feeling that she was deliberately ignoring his question, rather than being angry at him for not wanting to leave 'Sarah'. This of course piqued Harm's curiosity, and made him want an answer even more.

It was approximately another fifteen minutes before he prompted her again. "Well?" he asked. "Did you used to come hiking like this as a kid? Don't think that I didn't notice that you ignored me when I asked you this before."

Mac sighed. <Why does he have to ask me about my childhood?> she thought. "No," she answered softly - so softly, in fact, that it was almost a whisper, and inaudible to Harm's ears. "No, I didn't come hiking like this. In fact, I didn't do a lot of things that are usually done in childhood. My childhood wasn't ideal."

Harm knew that admitting this was a big step for Mac in her trust for him, so he didn't push the issue any further.

After about another hour, Harm stopped them and asked Mac to use her internal clock to determine how long they had been hiking. Mac could tell that Harm was once again apprehensive about his plane.

A sound broke the silence of the woods. Harm's beeper started chirping. Looking at the display, Harm read another message from Bud. "Did you tell him you were taking me flying?" Mac asked. Harm shook his head no, "I didn't want to hurt his feelings."

Mac could see the concern for his plane was still on his mind. She suggested that he turn back while she continued, but Harm dismissed the idea, and told her that the cabin would probably be empty anyway, seeing that it wasn't hunting season. He was about to say more, but was cut off by the sound of two gunshots.

Mac looked at Harm. "not hunting season?" she asked. Concern wreathed Harm's face "probably target shooting". They continued to hike in the direction of the gunshots. They came across an old cabin which appeared abandoned. A Game Warden's jeep was parked in front. They knocked on the cabin door, but there was no response.

Seeing the jeep, they were hoping to catch a ride with him to town. Walking through the brush, they came to a clearing and found three men. Introducing themselves they asked for a lift into town. Both Harm and Mac became aware that the men were hiding something. Harm told them that they didn't want to bother them, they'd just find the game warden and get a ride from him. One of the men spoke up, saying that the jeep was his. Harm questioned him further, making the man's companions nervous. One of the men dove for a rifle, shooting at Harm and Mac. Harm pushed Mac to the ground, trying to shield her from the bullets. Rising he grabbed her arm to help pull her up and along with him, together they ran for cover.

They ran back in the direction of the cabin and the jeep. Knowing the poachers were on their heels, Harm broke into the jeep, telling Mac to get the radio while he tried to hot-wire the vehicle. Mac found a flare gun and decided to return fire as Harm tried to start the jeep. Unable to start it, he told Mac to get out. Seeing the flare gun, a plan developed in Harm's head. While she fired at the poachers Harm opened the hood of the jeep and removed the fuel line. His attention was drawn back to Mac when he heard her cry of pain. Turning quickly, he saw Mac on the ground writhing in pain. Crying her name, Harm ran to her side. Grabbing their supply bag, Harm picked Mac and the flare gun up. The poachers shots hand ruptured the jeep's gas tank, causing a pool of gas to form on the ground. Turning, he fired into a pool of gasoline, creating a fiery escape diversion. Carrying Mac, they fled into the woods.

After escaping, and carrying her a distance, Harm stopped. He tended to Mac's leg. Working with only the supplies on hand, he poured bourbon on the wound to clean it. Gently wrapping her leg, he asked if she thought she could walk. Mac realized that she wouldn't make it back to the plane, and mentioned it to Harm. He formulated a plan, that they head to high ground for the night, and try to reach the plane in the morning. He told Mac about the fuel line that he took from the jeep. Hopefully, he'll be able to use that on the plane. Harm's beeper sounded once again. Checking his message, Mac commented that Bud wasn't giving up.

Realizing that the poachers would be catching up with them, Harm helped Mac to stand. Wrapping an arm around her, he helped support her weight. They hiked for several hours, Harm could feel Mac's strength faltering the further they went. He could also see fresh blood staining the gauze and her pant leg. Seeing the determination on Mac's face, Harm finally called for them to stop and rest. Leaning against a tree, Mac slowly slid to the ground. Harm glanced at her, trying to judge her condition.

Harm tried to calculate the distance that they were from the plane. Mac couldn't understand why the plane is so special to him. Harm explained the connection of his father and his grandfather with the plane, and how the plane helped him while he was recovering from his crash.

Harm noticed movement through the trees, the poachers were closing in. Gathering their supply bag, Harm tried to help Mac stand . Mac realized that she couldn't continue, especially with the poaches tracking them. She tells Harm to leave her, which he vehemently refuses to do. Harm decides to try and fool the poachers, and leaves to set his plan into action. Mac asks what he plans to do, his only reply was for her to stay out of sight.

Harm used his military belt buckle as a mirror to reflect the sun. Catching the poachers eye, this drew them away from Harm and Mac. Two of the poachers headed toward the object in the distance. Harm quickly returned to the area where he left Mac. Hearing a struggle and Mac's low cries, Harm ran, only to find one of the poachers attacking her. Grabbing the poacher, Harm pulled him off of Mac, prepared to hit him, but instead finding that Mac had stabbed him with his own knife. The poacher collapsed next to Mac, dead.

Harm looked at Mac concern shining in his eyes, knowing what the poachers intentions were. Mac stares up at Harm, tying to control her emotions by taking deep breaths.

Harm marked a different path to try and throw the two remaining poachers off their trail. Returning to Mac with the dead poachers rifle, Harm helped her stand. Mac is unable to look Harm in the eye. Harm gently asks if she is going to be OK, Mac replied "I have to be." Harm reminds her that she didn't have a choice but to defend herself. Mac nodded in understanding. Harm wrapped his arm around Mac, supporting her once again as they continued to elude the two remaining poachers.

PART 4

As they walked a up a slight ridge in order to find covering and a place to dig in for the night Harm stopped their progress. Without giving Mac time to think, Harm turned towards her and enveloped her in his arms. Mac was hesitant at first but soon felt herself returning his embrace. She rested her head on Harm shoulder and was rewarded by having herself held tighter by her partner.

After a couple of minutes Harm maneuvered himself so that he was able to meet Mac's eyes while still holding her in his embrace. "I am so sorry that I left you there. You know that right? I mean.." Harm stopped. For once he was lost for words. He just could not convey to Mac what he wanted.

Mac looked into Harm's eyes with her own chocolate brown ones. She knew exactly what Harm was trying to get across to her, and she had to find a way to tell him that she understood. Tentatively she disentangled herself from where Harm held her. Once she was free she reached up and cupped Harm's face in her palm. Softly she spoke. "I know that you are frustrated at the moment because you had to leave me. But please don't. When you fly. One of the things that is drilled into you is to never leave your wingman right?"

Harm simply nodded. Mac continued.

"But at times, it is necessary to leave your wingman in order to lessen a threat that might be posed towards them, correct?"

Once again Harm nodded.

"That is exactly what happened here. You had to leave me in order to protect me. Yes, something bad almost happened to me. But the key word is almost. I was a scared woman, but my Marine training kicked in and I took care of him. Even if I hadn't, you were right there when you heard me call out in distress. You would have been there in time to help me. So please don't feel guilty."

Harm returned Mac's gesture by cupping her face in his palm. "You tell me not to feel guilty, but I do. You are my partner and even though you may be a Marine, it is still my responsibility to watch your six. Now I can't guarantee that I will stop feeling this way anytime soon, but I can guarantee that I won't bring it up again until we have found somewhere to bunk down for the night. Deal?"

"Deal." Replied Mac. "Now let's get moving Flyboy."

Hands were dropped from faces as Mac and Harm once again made their way up the ridge towards higher ground. Harm still felt guilty and needed to connect with his partner in order to reassure himself of her presence. Gently he took her hand in his.

Mac knew what Harm was doing by holding her hand, so she allowed it. But she had a feeling that their talk about guilt was not over.

They reached a spot that they could camp for the night. It was secluded, which gave them some protection from the poachers. Harm started preparing a small carved out area of rock as their "bedroom", lining it with tree branches for insulation.

A small fire was built in the clearing, offering a little warmth to the chilly night air.

Harm tried joking that they would have to sleep close, using body heat for warmth. The temperature was rapidly falling as night approached.

Mac was sitting on an outcrop of rock as Harm readied their bed. She noticed the dried blood that stained her shirt. Blood from the poacher that she had stabbed and killed.

Pulling the shirt out away from her, she started rubbing the spot, as if to erase the blood and the memory of the attack.

Unable to remove the blood, Mac called to Harm, asking for water to remove the blood.

Harm noticed her frantic movements, concern over her emotional well-being was forefront on his mind. Trying to calm her down, he offered to replace her shirt.

Walking to where Mac is sitting, Harm crouched down next to her. Trying to soothe her, she pushed him away, telling him that she was fine.

Harm knew that she wasn't fine. Later, as they sat by the fire, he managed to get her to open up and talk about what happened earlier.

Mac surprised Harm by even talking about her past, about her drinking and a friend who was killed. She explained what forced her to face her drinking problem and how her uncle helped her dry out.

Mac still carried guilt for the death of her friend, Eddie. Harm tried to comfort her, saying that Eddie was responsible for his own actions, just like the poacher was.

Then it was Mac who tried to comfort Harm, over his feeling of responsibility for the plane's malfunction.

Finally, they agreed that they wouldn't hold themselves responsible for actions out of their control.

Sitting quietly, they relaxed, enjoying each others company. It was almost as if they forgot that they were being chased by poachers and that Mac was injured.

They were watching the small campfire slowly burn down. "Guess we should get settled for the night. Are you ready?" Harm asked, turning to Mac.

"Yeah, I guess so." Harm stood up, kicking dirt to extinguish the fire. He offered a hand to help Mac stand, as soon as she placed weight on her injured leg, it buckled.

"Hold it there Marine!" Harm admonished, you are not walking any further than you have to. He then stooped to pick her up only to have his hand slapped away from Mac. "I can do it!" she fairly shouted at him. Harm picked her up anyway. "I know that you can do it, but why? why walk on your sore leg, when I am more than capable of carrying you?"

Carrying her to the makeshift bed, he gently lowered her down. Mac tried to hide the grimace of pain that flashed across her face, but Harm saw it "What's wrong? Does you leg hurting worse?"

"I think my leg stiffened up while we were sitting down. It will be fine. You are going to join me, aren't you?" Mac questioned.

"Of course I am " Harm replied. "Unless you want to freeze?" "No thanks Harm. Considering how much pain is currently coursing through my leg, I will welcome your body heat. So get down here Commander!" Harm grinned. This new partner of his continued to surprise him. It was only a few minutes ago, she was freaking out over the blood and was telling him a painful story from her past. Now she was joking with him. Carefully as to not bump her leg, Harm spooned himself behind Mac. Without a second thought to it, Harm pulled her into his chest.

Lightly brushing hair off her forehead. Harm was surprised when he felt how warm she was. Placing his hand flat on her forehead, he was shocked to feel the extent of her fever. "Mac, you're burning up! Why didn't you say something to me?"

"When we were talking, I did not feel so bad. But now that it is quiet, I am not too proud to admit it. I feel like hell! You don't by any chance have any painkillers tucked away in that little bag of yours do you? If so I'll have twenty."

"No painkillers but I did see some aspirin. Let me get them for you. Gently sliding out from under her, he rooted through the bag, coming up with a small bottle. Opening the bottle he was dismayed to find only two tablets. "Mac, you're going to have to settle for aspirin. There are only two pills in the bottle. I'm sorry."

Suddenly Mac felt quite ill. Everything was finally catching up with her. Sitting up quickly she launched herself out of their makeshift bed. She only just made it out into the clear before becoming sick. Harm was at her side at once. He cradled her body against his and moved her hair out of her face. When she was finished, he gently pulled her back into their bed. He resumed his position behind her and whispered in her ear.

"Feel better now?" he asked, gently stroking her hair. Mac turned, looking into his eyes "I hate to tell you this, but I'm feeling worse every minute."

"You're really burning up, let me get the aspirin for you." Once again sliding out from under her, he got the aspirin. Digging through the supply bag, looking for a cup, he came across the almost full bottle of bourbon. Looking at it thoughtfully, he thought to himself 'I can't give it to her, but it would help with the pain', shaking his head he put the bottle back into the bag and grabbed the cup. Sliding over to her, he raised her into a sitting position and held her while she took the pills.

Mac gulped down the water that she used to chase the pills, and then burrowed into her bed. suddenly it felt as if she could not get warm. She tried to pull her legs into herself, but only gasped in pain.

Harm was immediately at her side at her gasp. "What's wrong Mac?"

Mac started to shake. She found that her teeth were chattering as she tried to answer Harm.

"I. I .. am so cold Harm. Since you put the fire out.. I am just so cold, and I can't warm myself up because I my damn leg."

Seeing her shivering tore at Harm's heart. "We've got to get you warm, Mac. I have an idea, just don't kill me. And tell me if I'm hurting you." Harm carefully slipped his arms around her, slowly covering her with his body. Trying to keep most of his weight off of her, he brought his body as close as he could, trying to share his body heat. The chills tore through Mac's body, causing her to convulse under him. "Hang in there Mac, we're going to make it through this." Harm encouraged, his mind once again returning to the bottle of bourbon still in the emergency bag.

Although still cold, Mac found the shivers begin to subside. After a short while of Harm sharing his warmth with her, Mac did not feel as cold. Her leg however was throbbing. Turning her head towards Harm she found their lips to be so close that they were almost touching. Trying to take her mind of the fact that a few inches more and she could be kissing her partner Mac whispered. "Thankyou Harm. Now if you don't mind do you want to grab the comforter?" As quickly as he could, Harm reached out and pulled the branches over them. He also brought the bag with him. As Harm settled down again behind Mac. She gasped as he accidently hit her leg. Harm immediately began apologising. Mac reached behind her and placed a finger to his lips, stopping the apology on his lips. "Shh it is all right. It is just my stupid leg. I tell you what. A drink would be really good about now. That sure would be one way to dull the pain. " With that thought Mac withdrew her hand and once again snuggled into Harm's embrace.

Mac quickly fell into a restless sleep, the ordeal taking a toll on her. Rest was not that easy coming to Harm. He kept replaying in his mind Mac's words 'A drink would be really good about now'. He knew that as a recovering alcoholic she shouldn't drink the bourbon, but it was killing him seeing her suffering. His mind also raced ahead, to the day ahead of them. They still had a lot of territory to cover before they reached the plane. Would Mac be able to make it? He could see the pain sapping her strength. Harm closed his eyes and prayed, he prayed not only for their escape, but for his partner who depended on him. Mac began mumbling and tossing in her sleep. Trying to comfort her, he softly murmured "Shhhh, it's OK, I'm here, go back to sleep." Mac continued to mumble, his name being the only words that he could make out. Slowly Mac quieted down and returned to a restless slumber.

Harm must have fallen asleep because before he knew it he was awoken by Mac once again thrashing about. She was trying to get the covers off her. Knowing that she would hurt her leg if she continued, Harm slightly increased his body weight. This worked because soon Mac stopped struggling. She was still speaking however, and this time Harm listened more carefully. What he heard broke his heart. "So much pain. Help me Harm. Please help me. Take away the pain please Harm." That was it, Harm couldn't handle it anymore. Reaching into the bag he pulled out the bottle of bourbon. He unscrewed the cap and tilted Mac's head back. He was just about to pour it down her throat, when he stopped himself. From the little that Mac had told him about herself he figured she had almost ten years sobriety up. He couldn't do it to her. He knew how much sobering up meant to her. He had to find another way to take away her pain. He quickly replaced the lid of the bourbon and put it back into the bag. He then threw it away from him. Out of the reach of temptation. Gently he squeezed Mac's shoulder in order to wake her. Mac stopped murmuring and turned so that they were face to face.

"Harm, I'm so hot. I feel like I'm on fire." Mac cried as she fumbled with the zipper of her coat. Harm quickly stood up and retrieved the bag. Finding a cloth and grabbing the cup, he ran to a nearby creek. Returning to Mac's side he started wiping her face and neck with the water. Mac sighed as the water cool water soothed her burning skin. Over and over Harm bathed her, slowly talking to her the whole time. Mac tried smiling at Harm, but was only partially successful.

"Thanks, Harm, I'm sorry to be such a burden."

"None of that, you're no burden. You know I'd do anything to help you. There is still more bourbon in the bottle."

Mac looked sharply at Harm "I'm not going to drink it."

"I wasn't going to suggest that, I want to redress you leg. I know that it is going to hurt, but we have to try and keep that leg as clean as we can.." Harm explained.

Mac sighed and shook her head in agreement. Harm quickly unwrapped the bloodstained bandage. He was not surprised to see the wound red and angry looking. Unscrewing the cap, saying a prayer of thanks that the bottle didn't break when he tossed it, he slowly poured the liquor over the wound. Mac cried out as the fiery pain hit her leg. Harm grabbed her hand, allowing Mac to squeeze it. "You doing OK there?" Harm asked.

"Just peachy, Harm." she replied. Harm quickly re-wrapped her leg. Try and get a few more minutes sleep, Mac. We're going to have to start moving soon." Mac nodded at him and closed her eyes. In the early morning light Harm could see the deep circles under Mac's eyes and the pallor that her skin had taken on. She was getting sicker on him and he knew it. He also knew that she wouldn't last much longer if they didn't get help.

Quickly Harm weighed his options. He and Mac could continue on as they were, with her getting sicker and sicker, and the pressure on her leg getting worse and worse. Or the other option was for him to camouflage Mac the best he could with leaves and branches and then going for help himself. Knowing that this was the smartest option Harm extracted himself and replaced the branches over Mac. He also fetched some more water, as well as some leaves and covered her up. Quietly he bent down and kissed her forehead. "Sorry Sarah, but I have to do this. Forgive me." he whispered. He then straightened, and headed off in the direction of his Stearman

PART 5

Harm was careful to leave no trail. The quicker he made it to the plane, the quicker he could bring help. He couldn't get his mind off of his sick and injured partner. A simple day of flying and fun had become the makings of a horror story. Harm stopped in his tracks. The poachers that were tracking them were good, he had to give them credit for that. He had done his best to conceal Mac, but what if they found her? He still wasn't over her attempted attack the day before, what is something else happened to her? She was much weaker now, less able to defend herself. Cursing his choice, Harm quickly turned and retraced his steps, returning to his partner. They had to do this together. They had proven to be a team, they'd have to get out of here as a team. He made a solemn promise to himself. He was going to get his partner out of here alive. Uncovering the hiding area, he heard Mac calling his name.

"Harm you there?" She called fitfully, stirring and finally rolling in the leaves.

"I am" he called back, quickly returning to her. He crawled back into the nest of leaves and pine branches, grateful for its warmth in the early morning chill.

"Thank you" she sighed as he snuggled back with her. "Is it time to get moving?"

"No not quite" Harm shook his head. "I want you to rest a little more while you have the chance and let the sun give us a little warmth before we start off."

Mac quickly fell back to sleep, but Harm only lightly dozed. Several minutes later Harm gently got up, trying not to wake his sleeping partner. Harm looked over the mountains. He was deep in thought about how to get Mac to safety, when he heard a rustling behind him signaling that his partner had awoken. He enquired after her leg, and was told that it must be good considering that she could not feel it. Harm tried to allow a smile to grace his features. But his worry did not allow it to fully reach his eyes. Harm helped Mac to her feet, they bantered again. This time Mac making a quip about how usually men make her breakfast. Harm laughed and apologised at the lack of breakfast facilities, and jokingly asked her exactly how many would that have been. Surprisingly Mac did not answer him. Just gave him a playful look instead.

Together they looked out towards the sunrise knowing that they would have to get an early start or they would be risking the chance of the poachers finding them. Harm looked over at Mac. Her colour was awful, but he knew that she would get by for most of the day today on her Marine spirit alone.

Noticing the pain etched on her face, he felt her forehead and looked away. Something inside told him that if he did not see to their escape and rescue today the infection would progress to her blood stream and cause her death; even assuming the poachers did not find them first.

"Where did you go?" she whispered

"Taking a leak" he grinned slightly, "and stretching the stiffness away. You know I never imagined the first night we would spend together would be like this."

Her ears picked up on that at once. "You're telling me you've imagined us...us in the same bed before?"

"And you haven't?" he retorted, "besides what's the first rule of questioning--ask only what you know the answer to."

She gave a small smile at his response. "I have too--pictured us together" she admitted suddenly and then quickly added, "no before--you were gone a little while. I was starting to worry about you. I thought you'd been eaten by a bear."

He laughed lightly. "Don't say that. There are bears in these mountains. It's like borrowing trouble."

"Then where?" she persisted.

"I....I tried to leave you and make a run for help" he said, crumbling under the scrutiny of her gaze.

"And what stopped you?" she demanded at once. "God Harm you would have been out of here by now. I told you before you were going to have to and now it's even more....."

She was stopped by his fingers to her lips. "No" he said simply, "It was wrong. Every fiber of my being told me it was wrong. Mac if I had gone and come back to find your body I would never have lived with myself. I know how I am. If you have to, then attribute it to stubborn selfishness. I couldn't put myself through that." He moved his hand to cup her face, his thumb gently massaged the cheekbone. "Now you listen to me Marine. When we get back to JAG you can kick my six up between my shoulder blades and if you have the strength I'll gladly let you. But right now you're in my care and under my orders. I'm not leaving you. Fate has ordained that we be partners, so partners we'll be and that means we stay together and face whatever comes---together."

Her only reply was a short sniffle and he pressed the hand to the back of her neck, drawing her forehead to rest on his chest. "I'm going to get us out of here" he vowed and kissed the top of her head.

They remained like that for several minutes until Harm finally lifted her head and she nodded her acceptance.

He reached for one of the water bottles and held it to her lips. "One of the things I did accomplish while I was out" he explained. "Now all we have to do is hope it doesn't finish us before the poachers do. I poured out the minnows."

She gasped before she realized he was teasing. "Are we going to laugh about this someday?"

"No I don't think so" he answered seriously. "I don't think we'll ever be able to look back on it that fondly. I'm afraid the best we'll do is to stop having nightmares about it."

He gave her a swift hug and pulled her to her feet out of the leaves. "I think your leg is better left wrapped at this point. You'll be in a hospital soon enough."

"If you say so" she tried to smile.

"I do" he nodded, with more confidence than he felt and he suddenly realized she was staring down at her shirt, where her attacker's blood was a prominent stain even among those of mud and grass.

"Mac, his death wasn't your fault. Remember that. You were only protecting yourself. Something that you had every right to do." Harm reminded her.

Mac looked up at Harm. Seeing the sympathy in his eyes, she smiled and nodded in agreement.

Harm didn't hesitate, he moved towards where she was standing and pulled her into his tight embrace. Mac surprised him by welcoming it easily. She placed her ear against his heart and listened to it beat. Listened to the rhythm. Savoured the feeling of their closeness. <oh!> Mac thought <this trip will forever have changed me. changed us.> They stood that way for awhile before Harm broke the embrace. He kissed her lightly on the forehead and then stood back so that he could see her eyes, and therefore gauge how she was feeling.

"What time is it Mac?" he asked.

"0515." Mac replied without missing a beat.

Harm shook his head in amazement, but continued his line of thought. "It was sunrise about 20 minutes ago, and I am sure that those poachers would have started out at first light, so I think that we are going to have to get going. I figure, it should be about 40 minutes to the plane. I think if we head straight down and then follow the creek that we saw yesterday we should be right. Think that you are up to this?" Harm locked onto her gaze intently in the hope of finding out if she was actually in pain.

Mac smiled and patted his arm reassuringly. "I won't lie to you Harm. At the moment my leg is beginning to hurt like hell. But as you said it should only be about 40 minutes to the plane. And just think of all of the good stuff I have to look forward to on our return. The breakfast you are going to buy me, not to mention the new shirt. Did I ever tell you how much I love Gucci?"

Harm groaned mockingly but smiled nonetheless. "Sounds expensive. But if it means that we are out of this mess and home free, I will gladly send away to Italy and buy you ten Gucci shirts. Now time to get moving. Harm held out his hand in invitation and Mac gladly took it.

The first step was the worst. Mac's leg immediately buckled, and if it was not for Harm's quick reflexes and strong grip, she would have tumbled to the ground. She refused to waste time by stopping however. With each step she seemed to get a little bit stronger, but Mac could feel her the pain in her leg once again getting worse. Also she could tell that she was beginning to spike a fever again. Together the partners walked. Hand in hand. They were making pretty good time at the beginning, but it was not long before Harm felt Mac begin to lag behind. He could feel that he was pulling her now, but still she refused to stop or have him let go of her hand. It was only when they reached the river, did Harm finally sit her down. He used the excuse of wanting to check her leg, but he knew that if she didn't rest sooner or later she would collapse, from fever, pain and exhaustion.

Harm immediately noticed that Mac once again had a fever.

"Oh Man! you're burning up." he observed.

"It's been no stroll in the park, Mac replied. The exhaustion evident in her voice.

Harm took his scarf off and dipped it in the cool water of the river.

Gently he probed Mac thigh with his fingers. Mac's gasp of pain. Answered his question, but he made the statement anyway.

"That leg is infected. You're gonna need antibiotics." Using the wet scarf, Harm set to work cooling down Mac's face. When he was done he just held the cloth up against her skin.

Mac locked her gaze on Harm, in the hope of drawing from his strength. While they watched each other Harm spoke. "You're going to be okay Mac. I am going to get you through this. I promise."

Mac nodded knowing that Harm wasn't a man who made promises that he felt he couldn't keep. She took her own hands and laid them over his. Needing to reconnect with him.

They stayed that way for a few seconds before Mac began to speak, wanting to ask him a question that had been on her mind since they landed. At the sound of her voice Harm started to stand from his crouched position.

"Harm. There's something I gotta know."

"What?" Harm replied and nodded for her to continue. But Mac didn't get the chance. Gunfire cutting off any further conversation. Harm grabbed her and using his own body as a shield pushed them behind the rocks.

They established where the gunman was and Harm fired a shot from the rifle. The shot must have been close to the target, because Harm felt that they now had the opportunity to make a getaway.

"Come on let's go." he said.

"I can't. I'm sorry. I can't." Mac replied the pain and exhaustion now evident in her voice.

Harm was hurting for Mac but he knew that if they didn't get away now they both would be dead. So he figured that he had to appeal to Mac's other side. The side of her that she is most proud of.

"What do you mean you can't? You're a Marine. Come on Mac! What happened to that gung-ho, Semper Fi, kick ass jarhead I used to know? Don't let me down now Mac. We've made it this far. You know this is precisely why we shouldn't allow women in combat. Because when it comes to the clinch you know they're going to fall apart. If you were a real Marine..."

Harm was stopped by Mac. "Alright already shut up you made your point!" Reluctantly and with great strain she pulled herself to her feet and headed towards where she knew the plane was. Harm followed, rifle raised ready to fire back if the gunshots started again. And they did.

Together they ran towards the plane. Stopping only to rig Mac's jacket up as a decoy. When he did this, Harm turned around to find Mac shivering, both from her fever and the cold. Quickly he stripped his own leather jacket off, and helped her into it. When she was securely zipped up, he once again pulled her into a hug, this time to reassure himself as much as her that they were going to be okay. In a mirror performance of last time, this time Mac pulled Harm's forehead down to her and kissed him. Then she surprised both of them by kissing him chastely on the lips.

"C'mon Sailor, I can see the clearing." Harm nodded, as they both went to run towards the clearing, Mac's leg buckled. As many times as she tried to get up again, she couldn't. She looked pleadingly up at her partner who had no hesitation in picking her up into a fireman's carry. He then took off for the clearing.

Before she knew it, they were in the clearing and there was the plane. Harm came up the side of the Stearman and lowered her into the front cockpit. He then ran around the front in order to attach the new fuel line.

He just got it attached and set up when the gunshots started again. He shouted directions at Mac so that she could start the plane and get it running. Using the plane as cover, Harm returned fire, while at the same time pushing the plane so that it began to roll. He continued to return fire, and only stopped at Mac's voice. He looked in her direction. Only to see the plane gathering speed. Without a pilot.

Harm hopped into the cockpit at the last minute, after firing and hitting the last poacher. Giving the plane all the power her could, and with a prayer from both occupants, 'Sarah' gained enough altitude to clear the trees. Harm radioed to the nearest air field, requesting for police and an ambulance to meet them. Noticing that Mac was very quiet and slouching in her seat, his concerns for her well-being returned full force.

"Mac, hang on. We'll be landing soon. I've radioed for help, they'll be there to meet us" Harm called to her over the sound of the engines. Mac's only acknowledgment was a weak nod.

Worrying that she would lose consciousness, Harm was trying to find a way to keep her alert. Remembering that she had wanted to ask him a question before they were shot at, he called to her asking what she had wanted to ask him.

Mac's question was regarding who Harm's plane was named after, and was he still in love with her. Sitting in the back seat, Harm was unable to see the smile of relief on Mac's face when he told her that 'Sarah' was named after his grandmother.

The air strip was ahead of them, and as Harm prepared to land, he sighed with relief. The ambulance was already there, waiting for its patient. Landing and pulling as close to it as possible, Harm quickly unstraped himself and climbed toward Mac.

She was slumped in her seat, barely conscious. Loosening her seatbelt, he gently stroked her face, calling softly to her. Slowly, she opened her eyes, trying to focus them on his face. "Mac, we're here. Let's get you out of here." Harm whispered, lifting her from her seat. He gently lowered her into the outstretched hands of the waiting paramedics. They quickly placed Mac on the stretcher, and start checking her vital signs. Harm hovered protectively near her, never taking his eyes off her.

The state patrolman stepped forward and spoke to Harm as they loaded Mac into the ambulance. "I'll follow you to the hospital and get your statement there." Harm nodded to him, then quickly climbed into the ambulance next to Mac.

Harm sat close to Mac's head, stroking her hair lightly. Mac flinched as the paramedic started an IV in her arm. "Harm?"

"Right here, Mac. I haven't left you. You're on the way to the hospital. Just hang on a little longer." Harm whispered.

"Don't leave me, please." Mac cried.

"I won't. I'll be right with you." looking up, Harm saw that they had reached the hospital. Silently, Harm offered a prayer of thanks. He had never been so happy to see a hospital in his life.

Mac was quickly ushered into a treatment room, Harm right by her side.

PRESENT

SURGICAL WAITING ROOM

" ................................... Then we took off, I radioed for an ambulance and the police. We landed and came right here. That's the whole story, sir."

The policeman finished taking notes, nodded, and closed his notebook. "We'll send a search team up to recover the poachers and game warden. I think this about finishes up the paperwork. I have your phone number Mr. Rabb, if we have any further questions. You two had quite a day. Sorry your girlfriend was hurt, but you two were very lucky." Shaking hands, the policeman left to file his report.

Harm stood, took a deep breath, wondering for the millionth time, how Mac was faring.

THAT EVENING

MAC'S HOSPITAL ROOM

The doctor had just stepped out after reporting to Harm that the surgery to removed the bullet had been a success. An IV in her arm fed strong antibiotics into her system to battle the infection. She was to spend the night in the hospital, and be discharged into Harm's care in the morning. Harm sat back in the chair and watched as she slept. Relieved that their ordeal was over, Harm still couldn't leave her side.

He dozed in the chair, waking when he heard Mac shift position. Jumping up, he was pleased to see that her eyes open and clear. "Mac, welcome back. How do you feel?"

Looking at Harm, Mac murmured "You didn't leave me."

"Hey, I wouldn't desert my partner! The doctor was in a short while ago, you're going to be OK. They got the bullet out and you're on antibiotics. The doctor is going to release you into my care tomorrow morning. You're going to be on crutches for a while though. That should be interesting to see.  Two nurses just came in to check on you.  They were looking at me kind of funny, sighing and saying all this stuff about how they wondered whether their boyfriends would sit around their bedsides like this. " Harm shot her a killer grin.

Mac nodded at his words, licking her parched lips. Seeing this, Harm gently lifts her into a sitting position. Moving behind her to support her, he grabs the cup of ice chips on the table. Slowly, he spoon feeds her the ice chips.

"Better?" Harm asks.

"Yes." Closing her eyes, Mac relaxes back against Harm.

Mac began to speak slowly. "You know, I didn't mean to sound so surprised that you didn't leave. It's just.. It is just in my experiences I am not used to people sticking around. No one has really stood by me like you have these last couple of days. Thankyou."

Harm smiled. "You are very welcome, but just to let you know. You can stop feeling like that as of now. I am here, and I will never willingly abandon you. Ever."

Mac allowed Harm's words to wash over her. Wanting to change the subject before things got too emotional, Mac turned to humour. "This pain medication is pretty good stuff Harm. I can't feel my leg at all. I like it."

Bending down, Harm gently kisses the top of her head "I'm glad."

Grinning at Harm's action, Mac opens her eyes "You know Harm, ice chips aren't my idea of breakfast in bed."

Chuckling at his Jarhead's words, "I promise you, once you get out of here, I'll serve you a breakfast in bed you won't forget. "

"Is that a promise, Harm?" Mac questioned.

"Yes it is Marine. And remember, I haven't broken a promise yet." Harm replied.

Snuggling closer in Harm's arms, Mac closes her eyes and mumbles "I know.....I trust you." as she drifts off to sleep.