I Don't Like the Pink Stuff


Ali Cherry

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“Objection your Honor. This is only an Article 32 hearing. This line of questioning is irrelevant.” Harm sat down quickly. His stomach had been a little queasy this morning, something Harm had chalked up to too much coffee the night before, preparing for this case. Now it was openly rebelling as he gulped down yet another glass of water, hoping to gain some control before he retched his Latte on the floor in front of him.

That's it. No more coffee for me today. Solid food, good nights rest and oh god. No food right now. He swallowed hard. He just had to get to lunch, oh. Um to lunch break. Breath deep, through my nose. Just like the dentist tells me. Don't gag. It'll all come up. He went to drink another glass. The pitcher in front of him was empty. He looked to his client's glass, which was full.

“Objection. The Colonel is badgering the witness.” Harm was glad he caught that. His stomach really was not happy with him. It felt as if he had pulled a 9 “G” turn on his first run in a tomcat. His client glanced over nervously at Harm and slid his glass towards him. Harm gratefully took it and swigged it. The world swirled a little as he stood up to cross-examine.

He made it half way through his questions before his stomach asked again to be emptied. His throat closed up and he fought down the bile that was pounding at his throat. He made it through all of his questions this time and on his way back to his table, he snagged Mac's water pitcher, which was still full. He ignored her concerned look.

“We're going to take a 5 minute recess. I suggest Commander that you use the head and get something to drink.” The gavel banged and Harm shot out of his seat, the hammer sound having taxed his control. The bathroom was blissfully empty as he slid into a stall and bent down, heaving his breakfast into the toilet. He breathed heavily trying to calm down the gitters that shook his abdomen. He jumped when a washcloth appeared next to him. He looked up into the eyes of the Gunny.

“Are you all right, Commander?”

“I'm fine, Gunny. My breakfast didn't agree with me this morning.” The Gunny looked skeptical as Harm bent over and dry heaved into the bowl. “What time is it?”

“1015 hours.”

“Thanks Gunny.” Harm flushed the toilet, watching without seeing the contents of his stomach flow down the tube.

“Is there anything you need Commander?” Harm stood up shakily and used the washcloth to clean his face and wipe his hands. He handed it back to Gunny.

“No thanks, Gunny.” Harm left the Gunny in the bathroom.

By the lunch break; Harm had emptied the two water bottles he brought with him to court, and the two water pitchers that had been refilled during the break. The judge was not happy with him and his client was starting to send an increasing number of worried looks at him. But he was winning.

Only one witness, and the closing left. He thought as he walked slowly towards his office. He wiped a hand across his sweaty brow. Hold on stomach. I just emptied you. He reached his office and rummaged through a few drawers finding, in the last one, his prize. Barf bags from his tomcat days. He stomach quieted some and he pulled the blotter off his desk, laying his cheek on the cool metal. He closed his eyes, savoring the cool feel. Dreaming of his bed and the blankets, maybe a pair of sweats. Only a little more to go and then I can go home.

There was a knock on the door. Harm looked up and replaced the blotter. “Come.”

“Hey, Harm. I was going to go to Harvey's for lunch. Thought you might want to come along. I'll buy you an extra big drink.” Mac laughed at him. His stomach lurked.

“Um no, thank you, Mac. I need to work some more on my closing. I'll take a rain check though.”

She looked at him funny. Harm hoped his shirt or tie wasn't stained.

“Are you alright?”

“Yeah. Of course I am.”

She closed the door behind her. Harm removed the blotter and laid his head back down. The door opened. Harm looked up surprised. He sighed when he saw it was the Gunny. The man came in and closed the door. In his hand he held a mug that was spewing steam. Bad word choice, Harm. In the other, a brown bag. He put his head back down. It hurt too much to keep it raised.

“I hope you don't mind, sir. I picked up a few things at the drug store on my break.”

“Thank you, Gunny. You're a lifesaver.” The words mumbled to begin with, were hard to distinguish because the position of Harm's head. “Do you have aspirin?”

“I don't think you should take aspirin with an upset stomach, sir.” Gunny placed the mug in front of Harm's face. “Tea, sir. My sister always says that it tastes the same going down as it does coming up.” Harm managed a small chuckle. He took a sip. Jarhead tea. Strong and hot.

“I have some anti-nausea medicine, I also picked up some Dayquil and well some other stuff.” The Gunny spilled out the bag on Harm's desk. Four or five bottles rattled around.

“Pick your favorite three and I'll take them.” The Gunny looked at the Commander. He was leaned back in his seat, his head pushed back. The Gunny could see Harm's throat harshly swallow every once in a while. And he would regularly sip from the cup. The Gunny grabbed the Pepto Bismol and the Dayquil and set them in front of the Commander. He opened one eye.

“Do you have something besides the pink stuff? I don't like it.” Harm knew he was whining, but he couldn't stop. “Sorry Gunny. Thank you. How much do I owe you?”

“Nothing sir. I'm gonna hold on to them, for when the others get sick.” Harm nodded and grabbed the bottle the Gunny held out.

“Spoon?”

“I'll go get you one.” Gunny shut the door to Commander Rabb's office and started across the bullpen to find a spoon.

“Gunny!” The Admiral's voice grabbed the attention of everyone in the office. “I need your help.” The Gunny sighed. The Commander would just have to swig it without the spoon.

@@

Harm made it halfway through Mac's closing before he felt his stomach lurch again. He thought the meds he had taken had worked. Now with a vengeance his head sent signals to move up the small intestines to his mouth. He swallowed more water, hoping to force it back where it belonged. It wasn't working. His head felt light and he just wanted to pitch forward and lay on the cool tile.

“Commander?” Harm closed his eyes.

“Can I have a small recess your honor?” By now Harm was sure that everyone knew he was ready to retch all over the floor.

“Fine, Commander, you have fifteen minutes, but I will not tolerate this again. Is that understood?”

“Yes, ma'am.” The gavel pounded and Harm raced out of the courtroom. He nearly knocked down Tiner and the Admiral as he slid into the bathroom. His back slid along the stall wall as he bent and threw up all of the medication that he thought had been working in his favor.

“Hey Harm, are you all right?” Harm couldn't raise his head to glare at Brumby. “Blimey, mate, what are you, pregnant?” Brumby chuckled at his own joke. Harm retched more into his own version of the porcelain God.

“That's right, Brumby. I'm pregnant. That means that all this pain and suffering is worth something in the end.”

“You don't sound too good, mate.”

“I'm peachy, MATE.” Harm swallowed laying his head on his arm, which rested on the toilet seat. He threw up yet more at the thought of where he was sitting. I want to be home, where I know that the toilet is cleaned weekly and floor is mopped with more than feet. I want out of this tie. I want my bed. He threw up some more. He started breathing again through his nose, trying to bring his rebellious stomach back into line.

“Commander?” Oh great, the Admiral. There were clipped steps towards his stall. “Commander, what the hell are you doing on the floor of head?” Harm didn't look up from his position.

“Admiral, the Commander has just puked up most of the Atlantic ocean.” Great Brumby, thanks for the help.

“What do you mean?” The Admiral's voice turned surely.

“Admiral? Oh, Commander. Are you all right? Do you need anything?” The Admiral turned on Tiner.

“Tiner? What the hell did you need?”

“Commander, I heard you were out, do you need anything?” The Gunny stuck his face into the bathroom. He entered upon seeing the Admiral, Brumby and Tiner gathered around the door of a stall.

“Commander, the Colonel sent me in to check on you?” Bud stuck his head in and then motioned back to someone.

“Harm, are you all right?” Mac entered the restroom. She looked at the group hovering around the door. “Admiral, Mic, Tiner, Gunny.” She looked in to see Harm whiter than the toilet, spewing more water into the basin. “Harm, why didn't you say anything, we could've—” Mac stopped as the door shut in her face. Everyone looked up in surprise.

“I heard the Commander wasn't feeling well.” Harriet stuck her head into the room. She took in the closed stall door and the group gathered around it. “Everyone out!” They all opened their mouths. “Now.” It was Harriet's bridal voice and they knew it. “Gunny could you bring me a wash cloth and some water or tea?”

“Yes Ma'am.”

“Bud give me a quarter.”

“Harriet?” Harriet held out her hand and pointed with the other one. Everyone piled out of the head. Leaving Harm and Harriet alone. Using the quarter, Harriet opened the stall door. The Gunny returned with the bag of medicine and a wet washcloth.

“Thank you, Gunny.”

“Tiner's coming with the tea.”

“Thanks.” Walking back towards the stall, Harriet approached cautiously. “Harm?”

“Thank you, Harriet.” His voice was soft, but the sound of throwing up had stopped.

“It's all right. I got use to doing this during my pregnancy.” She helped Harm stand up, leaning against the metal walls. Handing him the washcloth, she watched as he wiped his face and blew his nose. She took the washcloth and handed it to the Gunny who gave her another one. This one she placed on the back of Harm's neck. The sweat prickled there, and she could feel the fever. She handed him the bottle of Anti Nausea liquid. “I don't like the pink stuff either.” He looked at the bottle. “Swig it, Commander.” He leaned back as he drank the liquid. After a swallow he made a face and handed it back to her.

“Okay. Gunny, can you get the Commander's stuff together? Tiner can drive him home.”

“No!” Harm yelled out suddenly. “No, Harriet, I just have my closing argument, then I can go for the day. I can make it.”

“Harm.” He smiled at her. “What?”

“You called me Harm.”

Harriet smiled. “No offense sir. I've seen you puke, we have no secrets.” The Gunny and Harm started to laugh. “Are you sure you want to go back to Court, sir?”

“I'll be fine, Harriet. Quit worrying.” Harm straightened up, checking his uniform in the mirror. “Gunny, I'm calling in sick tomorrow.”

“Understood sir.”

“Harm. Like Harriet says, we have no secrets anymore.” The Gunny half smiled at Harm's words.

Twenty minutes later, Harm gathered his stuff together and slowly staggered out of the courtroom. He had won of course. That outta piss Mac off enough. Sick and I still beat her. He didn't even head for his office; he headed straight for the elevator, hoping to make it home before he had to puke again.

Just the thought and Harm was heading for the head. Five minutes later he exited to a line of men waiting to use the restroom and one very protective Marine.

“Gunny, It's alright. I'm going home now.” Harm's face paled but he held it in.

“No offense, sir. But I'm driving you home. Admiral's orders.”

“Right now I don't care who drives.” Harm walked down the stairs, more control over the speed and more places to stop.

@@

Harm dashed out of the stairwell. His door flung open after several tense moments with the deadbolt. His stuff dropped on the floor, just inside. The Gunny walked out of the creaky elevator, not even lifting an eyebrow at the dumped jacket, cover and briefcase. Retching could be heard from the bedroom. The Gunny picked up the stuff, and closed the door. He hung up the Commander's jacket on the peg, placed the cover on the shelf over the closet with the others. The briefcase was set carefully on the desk. The noise still hadn't stopped. The Gunny placed the kettle on the range and went in search of the tea bags and maybe some toast.

God I'm glad that I have a strong stomach. The sound of the toilet flushing caught his attention. He looked between the glass partitions, to see the Commander strip down to his boxers, as he rifled through the drawers. The uniform was left in a pile as he put on a pair of sweats and a t- shirt. The Commander headed back towards the bathroom. The Gunny lifted his eyebrows. Commander Rabb was obviously running on less than a few cylinders. The man was a neat freak. A minute later he noticed that Harm grabbed a pillow and went back to the bathroom. The Gunny winced as the kettle whistled it was ready. Armed with more tea, the Gunny headed back towards the bathroom.

Harm was stretched out on his side near the toilet, his large frame barely accommodated by the tiled floor of the bathroom. His eyes were closed.

“Commander, why don't you have some more tea? It might stay down this time.”

“Harm.”

“What, sir?”

“Call me Harm.” The Gunny placed the mug next to Harm.

“Drink the tea, Harm.” Harm flipped a sloppy and weak salute.

“Yes, sir.”

“You can call me Victor, as long as you feel sick.” Harm chuckled.

“Victor, do me a favor?”

“Yes Harm?”

“Tell your sister, she was right. It does taste the same going down as it does coming up.”

The Gunny smiled. “I'm afraid I can't do that, sir. She already has a big head.” Harm smiled but didn't say anything more.

The Gunny went to find something to occupy his time as he waited for one of the others from the Jag office to relieve him.

@@

Two hours later, Colonel Mackenzie walked in the door, with a bag over her shoulder and dressed in civvies. She found the Gunny sacked out on the bed with a book resting on his chest. He looked exhausted. Harm was nowhere in sight. Rather than awaken the Gunny she went looking for Harm. She found him curled up on the floor of the bathroom. Sweat glistened on his body and she noticed the several mugs on the floor near him, as well as two wet washcloths.

Mac picked up the mugs and walked towards the kitchen. The Gunny joined her as she unloaded the dishwasher and washed the mugs and the one plate in the sink.

“He held down the last cup of tea. He hasn't had a problem in a half an hour.”

Mac looked up. “Thanks for staying with him.”

“It was no problem. He's got some great books, although I think it would be better if he had a TV.”

“He does.” Mac walked around and pulled a 9-inch TV from a cabinet. “Bud bought it for him for Christmas last year.” She left the TV out, and went to make some more tea.

“I'm gonna head home now.”

Mac tossed him a set of keys. “I used a Navy car so you could get back to Jag. Also I won't be in tomorrow.”

“Thanks, Colonel.” She smiled at him as he left. Then she went and grabbed the small wastebasket from beside Harm's bed. She took out the trash and relined it. Placing it next to the bed, she turned down the covers. Then went to wake up Harm.

“Harm?” She kneeled beside him. Touching his forehead with her hand she smoothed back his hair. His face didn't flicker. “Harm, you can't lay on the cold floor all night. It's not healthy.” He slowly opened his eyes.

“Mac.” The voice tore at Mac's heart. He sounded like a little boy, sad, tired and in need of a hug.

“Come on, Flyboy.” She helped him stand and led him to bed and slid him beneath the cool sheets. He closed his eyes once more. Mac sat beside him, careful to sit on the side away from bathroom. She started rubbing his back in circles. He started to shiver. She leaned against his body, lying close. She put her arm around his waist. He quieted and went back to his peaceful slumber.

By 0400, Mac was exhausted. Harm never slept for more than an hour before he had to throw up. The last time though hadn't been too bad, just a few gags and he was back in bed asleep. He started shivering against her circling hand and she pulled him close again. Hoping this time, he would continue to sleep.

At 0800, Mac's nose registered something besides the smell of Harm. She woke up, to see his broad back centimeters from her eyes. In fact, her nose was pressed against him. He held her arm over his stomach. Beneath her hand, his heart ticked slowly. She admitted to herself that this was a nice way to wake up. A clank from the kitchen woke her up the rest of the way and she went investigating. She found the Admiral in Harm's kitchen slowly stirring something in a soup pan.

“Morning, Sir.” He looked up as Mac made her way to the coffee pot.

“Colonel. What time did you finally fall asleep last night?”

“He finally stopped at 0357.”

“I made some broth. Francesca liked it when she was sick.” The Admiral stepped away from stove. “I restocked the fridge with some more water bottles. I have a meeting with the SecNav this morning. So, I'll check on the Commander later.”

“Thank you, sir.” He smiled back at her.

“Take care, Colonel.” The door closed behind him. Mac went to wake up Harm.

“Harm? Do you think you could handle some broth? The Admiral made it for you.” She stroked his forehead again.

“No not yet.” He didn't open his eyes.

“Okay.” She stopped stroking his forehead.

“Mac.”

“Yeah?”

“Could you keep doing that?” He still hadn't opened his eyes. She smiled.

“Sure thing, sailor.” She lay down beside him and continued to run her hand through his hair. He sighed and fell asleep.

@@

The first thing Harm felt when he woke up was the incessant pounding in his head. The second, the achy feeling in his limbs, the third thing, the slight quivering of his stomach. Then he felt the warm behind him. He opened his eyes to see Mac's arm wrapped around his waist. His own hand and arm covered hers, holding her to him.

He had to go pee. Reluctantly releasing Mac, he hobbled to the bathroom. He was exhausted by the time he rolled into bed. He forgot Mac and ditched his confining t-shirt. God, he felt like his skin was on fire. He took a huge swallow from the water on his nightstand, and went back to sleep, barely registering the arm that wrapped itself around him or the leg that inserted between his own.

@@

By 1800, Mac's inner clock was truly messed up. She didn't want to get up; she just wanted to stay in bed holding Harm. But technically she needed to work. Yeah keep telling yourself that. It'll work in about 30 years. Mac continued running her hand through Harm's hair, knowing that it soothed him. Who am I kidding? It soothes me.

“Mac?”

“Yeah, Harm?”

“Don't you have that McMaster's Case on Monday?”

“Yeah.” She stopped stroking his head. He leaned back, his shoulder bumping her chest.

“I appreciate you staying with me. But you should be working.” His glazed eyes looked earnestly at her.

“How about I make you a deal, Commander?”

“Terms?”

“I'll work on the case here, if you promise to eat the broth that the Admiral remade when he dropped the case files and research off.”

“Sounds like you get the better end of the deal.”

Mac got off the bed and held out her hand to Harm. He climbed out of bed, grabbing his discarded shirt. He followed her into the kitchen, pulling it on.

A few hours later, Harm and Mac inhabited the bed again. Harm was stretched out under the covers, watching the TV with concentration. Mac sprawled with case files and law books surrounding her. She looked over at the TV screen. Some woman was being devoured in flames.

“Harm what are you watching?” Mac dropped the file and leaned over him to get a closer look at the screen.

“I have no idea. One minute these women are doing this thing with their hands and the next they're talking about tampons. I don't understand.”

Mac took a closer look and noticed the network logo at the bottom. “No wonder, Harm. This is the WB, all their shows are for barely adults, not for someone as ancient as you.” Mac smiled widely at him.

“When did I get so old Mac?” He sounded serious.

“When you were puking up the Atlantic Ocean.”

“I was being serious.” Mac lay down and he turned to face her.

“Harm you started getting old the minute you were born. As for when you started to mature. I gotta say, taking care of Bud, teaching him how to be a lawyer. That was probably your downfall.”

Harm reached out with his hand and caressed her face. “So what makes you so young?”

“Chloe. Seriously, who could grow old when their little sister is still singing that kissing in a tree song.”

“Who indeed. Get back to work, Colonel, you have court martial on Monday.”

“Only for an hour more and then I want to watch ER, kay?”

“You're the TV expert. I'm just killing time, waiting for my stomach to turn.” Harm turned over and continued to puzzle the show before him, while Mac shook her head and went back to her work.

At 2158 Mac slid all her paperwork to the floor beside the bed and changed the channel on the TV. He didn't say anything. At 2204, Harm pulled her over his side and slid over to where she previously was. By 2215 he was asleep. At 2230 an arm pulled her securely to his body. She nestled in and promptly forgot about the TV. By 2236 Mac fell asleep. Both rested peacefully.

@@

Mac opened her eyes, registering the early morning light that was filtering through the window. It casted a gray shadow on the furnishings of Harm's apartment. Mac heard the steady thrum of the shower and felt the place next to her, the warm essence waning in the chill of the apartment. Mac closed her eyes again, mentally keeping track of the noises of the apartment.

Twenty minutes later, Harm still hadn't turned off the shower and Mac was a bit worried. She got out of the bed; glad that she was still dressed in the sweats she had worn all day yesterday. She knocked on the glass wall of the shower.

“Hey, Flyboy. Are you alright?”

“Yeah, Mac. I'm almost done.” Harm's voice sounded normal, no remaining hint of the sick person who had asked her to run her fingers through his hair.

“Don't take all the hot water.” The water turned off.

“Who me?” Harm peeked his head around the bathroom wall. He had traces of shaving cream around the edges of his face, the musky smell wafting around Mac.

“Get dressed, Flyboy.”

“Yes, Ma'am.” Mac headed to the kitchen to make coffee. Yeah coffee, then she could get the feeling of Harm's arms around her out of her head. She poured herself a cup and looked through to the bedroom. Harm came out of the bathroom, khaki pants and a white top.

“Harm?”

“Yeah?” Harm came down the steps to the kitchen pulling on his uniform top, buttoning it up.

“What are you doing in your uniform?” Mac watched as he pulled a carton of orange juice out of the refrigerator. Mac set down her mug of coffee as Harm walked to get a cup.

“I have to wear my uniform to work. It's regulations, you know that Mac.” She put the juice away as he turned to grab the carton.

“You shouldn't be going to work though, Harm. You're getting over the stomach flu.” She pulled out apple juice and handed it to him. “Easier to digest.” The toast popped up from toaster. She started to butter it. Harm reached for the boysenberry pop-tarts. He popped them into the toaster.

“I feel fine, Mac. 48 hours, see all better. I rested all day yesterday. Besides I have an interview today.” The toaster popped again.

“Harriet and the Gunny have probably already rescheduled it.” Mac gave the toast to Harm and bit into the pop tart.

“Mac. That was mine.”

“Not today, sailor. Can you imagine what this would taste like coming back up?” Harm looked white as a sheet. He reached for the box and tossed it at Mac.

“Have them.” He contemplated the toast and took a bite, enjoying the grumble in his stomach. “You should go shower, Jarhead. I know how long it can take you to get ready.”

“Ha ha, Flyboy. This coming from the man that takes twenty minute showers.”

“What? Were you timing me?”

“I figured you were drowning.”

“I'm in the Navy, Mac. There's no way I'd drowned in my own shower.”

“The Navy even takes idiots that can't swim.”

Harm made a face at her. “Get.”

Mac made a strategic retreat to the bathroom. Harm made a grab for the coffee pot.

“Don't even think about it.”

Harm looked up to find Mac watching him through the glass. He sighed. “Yes, ma'am.”

Mac retreated to the bathroom; Harm loaded the dishwasher and wiped the counter. In the bedroom, he stripped the bed, replacing the sheets and unplugged the TV. Wrapping the cord, he smiled. Mac watched ER, wonder if she likes that Clooney Character. What's his name Dr. Roscoe? No, that doesn't sound right. Whatever. Harm walked to the cabinet and put the TV away. Harm picked up the work from beside the bed. Being careful not to look, he closed the files and straightened them. The notebooks were flipped to the first page and page numbers written down of pages marked. The shower had stopped by now and he tried not to look towards the bathroom. He packed Mac's briefcase and walked over to the pile of clothes by the dresser. He emptied the pockets, throwing the important stuff into his pants pockets. Mac emerged her uniform clinging to her body slightly from the dampness, and her hair, still dripping.

“I forgot you don't have a hair dryer.” She smiled at him.

“Actually, I do. Jordan made me buy it.” Mac nodded but made no comment. “It's in the towel cabinet.”

“Thanks.” A few minutes later, her hair dried and styled, she emerged to Harm's apartment, immaculate as usual. There was no trace of his sickness. “You sure you want to go to work?” Harm rolled his eyes as he grabbed his cover and gestured with his briefcase that they should go. “Just had to ask.”

“Lets go, Marine. We're going to be late.”

“Only if we go to work today.”

“Mac.”

“Alright. If you want to spend eight hours in an office where you—“

“Mac.” The door closed behind them, the lock turning.

@@

“Commander Rabb. What are you doing back?” Tiner's voice reached across the bullpen as Harm and Mac strode into the office.

“I'm better, Tiner. See no problems.” Harm spun as Mac rolled her eyes behind his back.

“I saw that, Colonel.”

“Sure you did, Flyboy. Let's go.” Mac pushed Harm towards their respective offices, but Harm veered off to see the Gunny.

“Gunny, how are you today?”

“I'm feeling fine, thank you, Commander.”

Harm smiled at him. “That's good. Thank you, Gunny, for everything the other day.”

“Just doing my job, Commander.”

“I was wondering? Did you reschedule my appointments today?” Harm rested his arm on the cubical wall beside the Gunny's desk.

“Commander! What the hell are you doing back?” The Admiral's strident voice pierced eardrums. “I want to see your six in my office, ASAP.”

The Gunny looked slyly up at the Commander. “All but a Corporal Johnson, I was unable to reach him.”

Harm started to walk away. “Thanks, Gunny. Don't cancel that appointment.”

“Yes, sir.” The Gunny smiled at the Commander's retreating back. That man should have been a marine.

Harm walked in the door to the Admiral's office and stood stock still before the desk.

“Commander. Just what the hell are you thinking? Yesterday afternoon when I stopped by, you were dead to the world. What good do you think you're going to do here today?”

“Sir, I have a client meeting that is important—“

“Not more important than your health, Commander.” The Admiral sat down. “Speaking of which Commander, what the hell did you think you were pulling on Wednesday? You had no business being in a courtroom in your condition, let alone, continuing on after you had deposited your breakfast in the head. And I don't appreciate you encouraging the Gunny to sneak behind my back to patch you up!” Harm flinched slightly as the Admiral's voice took on the tone of a dull roar. “Now I want you to march your self back down to your car and take the rest of the weekend off. Is that understood?”

“Yes, Sir. However, sir.” The Admiral growled.

“Go on, Commander.”

“The Gunny was unable to cancel one of my morning appointments. It won't take more than a half an hour, sir.”

“You're gonna be the death of me, Rabb.”

“I thought I was a hired assassin for the Admiralty, Sir. You're paying my check.” Harm smiled. The Admiral sighed.

“Dismissed, Commander.”

“Aye, sir.” The Admiral started to chuckle as Rabb shut the door. Jag life wouldn't be the same without the Commander.

“Tiner! Get your ass in here. We have work to do.” The Admiral smiled again, Tiner was probably jumping out of his seat by now. “And send the Gunny in. I want to make sure he knows the Commander is to go home after his one appointment.”

“Yes, Sir.” Today was going to be a good day.

Harm walked out of Tiner's inner sanctuary and spotted his client exiting the elevators.

“Commanda Wrabb. Commanda Wrabb. See I'm all-betta. No upset tummy.” Tommy Johnson rubbed his round belly emphasizing his point. Harm reached down and swung the four-year-old up into his arms.

“Are you sure, Tommy? I better check.” The Commander raspberried Tommy's tummy. The little boy giggled. The female staff sighed.

“You're fun, Commanda. Not like Daddy's XO. He's not nice.”

“Commander Rabb. I'm so sorry. Miranda flaked out again. I know it's an imposition.” Corporal Johnson balanced an identical boy on his hip.

“Don't worry about it Corporal. Hey there, Nathaniel.” Harm reached out and gave Nathaniel a quick rub on the head.

“He's not feeling well, Commander. The doc thinks it's a nasty cold virus going around.” Harm turned to look at the little boy in his arms.

“And you aren't sick?”

“No silly, we're never sick together. That wouldn't be any fun.” Harm chuckled and started walking.

“My office is just this way.” Harm waved at Mac as they passed her office and she waved back. Making a face at Tommy, who giggled.

“Whose she? She's funny, making that weird face.” Harm looked over at Mac catching her eye. She went beet red.

“That's my friend, Mac. If she's really good, I'll let her come out and play for a few minutes.” Tommy laughed. The group trooped into the Commander's office.

Five minutes into the productive questioning, which equaled twenty-five minutes of talk, Tommy had to go to the restroom. Harm smiled when Johnson got up, understanding. Nathaniel begged to be put down and Johnson and Tommy left the two others to the quiet. Thirty seconds later, Harm was greeted by a sickly face, puppy dog eyes and two arms held out. He immediately picked up Nathaniel.

The little boy started to wipe his nose with his sleeve, but Harm stopped him, using a tissue to wipe the boy's nose. “Is your tummy bothering you?”

“No.”

“What's wrong then?”

“My head hurts. And my nose is drippy.”

“Your head hurts real bad?”

“No daddy gave me yucky stuff, now it's kinda better.”

“Oh. Well why don't you lay your head down, and see if you can't relax.” Harm guided the little boy's head to his shoulder and leaned back in his chair. Harm wiped the little boy's nose again and rocked gently, humming and patting the boy's back. Harm was careful to run his hand over the boy's brow occasionally. He started singing.

“Itsy bitsy baby boy, itsy bitsy boy. Itsy bitsy baby boy, itsy bitsy boy.” Within minutes Nathaniel was asleep. Harm looked up to find Mac looking through the windows smiling at him. He smiled back. She turned away and addressed the exuberant Tommy who was back with his father. A conversation ensued and ended with Mac holding out her hand and Tommy taking it. Johnson entered alone and looked shamefaced at the Commander, who was rocking his other son.

“I'm sorry, Sir. He likes to be held when he's not feeling well. Although, I could never get him to sleep.” Harm smiled.

“I think it was the medicine you gave him. About the day in question you said.” The questioning finished fifteen minutes later, when the Gunny knocked on his door.

“Commander? The Admiral said that your time is up.” Johnson looked at Harm.

“Thank You, Gunny. I'll be leaving now.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Time up, Commander?”

“It's nothing Corporal. The Admiral's just concerned over some health issues I had. No big deal.”

“If you're sure.”

“Positive.” Harm stood up and filled his briefcase one handed, still cradling the sick boy. Keeping the conversation light Harm knocked on the wall between Mac's office and his own. She entered the office with Tommy in tow, laughing at some joke she made.

Harm smiled at the boy. “Hey Tommy, I have to go now. Can you do me a favor and carry my hat down to my car?”

“Don't you know? It's called a cover.” Tommy said indignantly.

“Really. I didn't know that.” Harm handed him the cover and Mac grabbed his briefcase before he could reach for it.

“I'll just walk you down to your car, Flyboy.” Harm smiled.

“Don't you know, Colonel? It's called a sports utility vehicle.”

Tommy laughed hysterically from where he clung to his father's arm. “You two are soo funny. Nate's gonna be soo sorry he missed this.” Tommy jabbered on all the way down to the Corporal's car. When he and Nathaniel were seated, Johnson thanked the Commander and the Colonel and drove away leaving Harm holding his cover and Mac his briefcase.

“I hear you got busted. I warned you, Flyboy.” Harm looked over into Mac's sympathetic but smiling eyes.

“I knew that he'd show up come hell or high water, cause I had to go over to his apartment last time. He was the only reason I came in today.”

“You mean the two little boys are the only reason you came in today.” Harm rolled his eyes. “Tommy was telling me all about his tummy ache that he had last time you came over.” Harm started towards his car, with Mac in hot pursuit.

“Your point.” Harm opened his door, taking his briefcase and tossing it into the passenger seat. He turned back to Mac.

“No point, Commanda Wrabb.” She smiled at him, and then reached up and kissed his cheek. “You big softie.”

“Don't spread it around, or I'll have to start calling you Sarah.”

“Now now, no threats.” Harm climbed in the car. “Do you feel up to dinner?”

“Sounds good. You making.”

“Yep. I'll even be nice and cook non- meat.”

“Sweet talker. 1900?”

“Make it 1800, my place, we'll watch a movie. Bud loaned me Fight the Future.”

“What's that?”

“X-files?”

“Oh that's that mold guy and that red head, right?”

“Mulder and Scully and maybe I should start you on the first episode. Bud has those too.” He closed his door and rolled down the window. “Don't worry Harm, before you know it, you'll be a couch potato like the rest of us.”

“Not a chance, Colonel.” Harm started the car.

Mac's voice dipped low. “Trust no one.”

“I want to believe.” Harm rolled up his window and backed out of the space, while Mac looked at him, surprised. Harm chuckled to himself. Sometimes rooming with Bud came in handy.

@@

“That was surprisingly good for a woman who eats Beltways like they're going out of business.” Harm smiled at Mac from where he was loading the dishwasher.

“Beware, Flyboy.” Mac shot him a glance.

“You marines are all talk no action.” Harm yelped as Mac's dishtowel snapped his butt. “Red light, Colonel.”

“There's no such thing as red lights in my home, Harm.” Mac smoothly replied.

“I guess retaliation is my only discourse, eh?” Mac started sliding toward the door to the kitchen.

“Actually your only course of action is to take it like a squid, lying down.”

“I don't think so.” Harm grabbed the black water spray gun, he had installed in Mac's sink last year. The water shot out, soaking Mac's sweats.

“You're going to pay for that, sailor.” Mac started across the slick floor quickly loosing her balance.

“Mac.” Harm reached out an arm to steady her, cursing their own stupidity. With Mac safely standing, Harm caught his breath. “Haven't you heard the phrase slippery when wet?”

“Never about my kitchen floor, but thanks for the advice.”

Harm chuckled then closed the dishwasher door. “We have a floor to mop up, marine.”

“We? No way, sailor. You're mopping while I change.” Mac slid across the floor, coming back a minute later with some towels. “Get a mopping.”

Harm smiled as he sopped up the water, seeping across the floor. When he was done, he grabbed the laundry basket and loaded the towels on top of the other load and trucked them down the stairs to the basement.

When Harm re-entered the apartment he found Mac, hands on hips. “What did you do with the clothes that were in that basket?”

“I put them in the washer.”

“They were clean.”

“Then they should've been folded.”

“I just got them from the dryer before you came over.”

“Your point?”

Mac sighed. “I guess I have none.” Harm smiled. “Come on, Flyboy. We have a show to watch.” Mac pushed the tape into the VCR, while Harm grabbed a cushion from the couch and stretched out on the floor. Mac seated herself next to his head. Absently, she began running her fingers through his hair.

“What is this again?”

“X-files. This is the pilot episode.”

“Oh.”

Harm started making rude comments at the screen, quoting lines and wolf whistling at Scully. He finally shut up when Mac bopped him on the head. Harm reached over and hit pause on the remote when Scully went to Mulder's hotel room in nothing but a robe.

“Now I know this is Science Fiction. No way would a man start talking about government conspiracies with a half naked woman in front of him.” Mac smiled, he's hooked now.

“That's only cause you have a girl in every port.” Harm sat up and looked at Mac intensely. He wasn't laughing. “Harm. That was a joke.”

He grunted and turned back to the TV. “Let's watch the movie.”

“It's a television show, and it can wait.” Mac shut off the video and hit mute on the TV. “Now what's wrong?”

“Nothing's wrong, Mac.”

“Sure and I'm an Admiral.”

“Nice to meet you—“

“Don't bother it's a lame joke.”

“Yes ma'am.” Harm laid down again facing the TV, his back up against the couch. Desperate times call for desperate measures. Mac moved and lay down beside him, their faces sharing the pillow. He didn't meet her eyes.

“Is this about Tommy and Nathaniel?” She didn't touch him, but her face was just inches from his.

When he sighed, the minty smell caressed her cheeks. “Corporal Johnson is three years younger than me.”

“And he has these two great little boys.” Mac prompted.

“Yeah.”

“So what do you have?”

“I have memories of a father whose dead, thousands of dollars and hours spent in pursuance of a ghost. Wings that are just ornamental cause I'm bordering on ancient. And a Jag career that I'm struggling to keep going.”

Mac sighed. One of these days he'd understand how good he really is. “You know Tommy told me that you were the only person to visit him when he was sick. You had an entire bathroom full of people that wanted to know if you were all right.” She touched his cheek. “Would you be able to give up Bud, Harriet, and baby AJ? What about the Admiral, Tiner, and the Gunny?” The rest of the question hung between them.

“No. I couldn't do that again.” Mac felt the relief trickle down her spine like a spider. Harm reached out and pulled her body closer, giving her a hug.

“Was that Mac's 12 step program for appreciating what we have?”

“Yeah something like that.” Mac's voice was muffled from where she had hid her face in Harm's chest. “I have to remind myself at least once a month.”

“Some days are harder than others.” Harm's voice rumbled under her ear.

“Yeah.”

Harm held on tighter to Mac. “So what happens to Mulder and Scully?”

Mac looked up at him. “You have to watch to find out.”

“So hit play.”

“Behave little boy.” Harm smiled at her, hoping to look innocent. Mac looked from where she was scrambling for the remote, and caught her breath. Harm's hand closed over her own, where it grasped the remote and the area on her back felt oddly cold.

“Did you need some help?”

“Yeah.” Harm turned the volume up and hit play while Mac turned over. In silent agreement she stayed lying against him, his arm resting lightly across her stomach. By the time the video ended, Harm's leg had slid between Mac's. They didn't moved; just channel surfed lightly neither wanting to move from the place on the floor.

“Mac can I have my leg back?” Harm's voice rubbed on her ear.

“If you want to keep things, you shouldn't put them where they don't belong.”

“Who says it doesn't belong there? I just need to use it to go to the head.”

“Mmmm.” Harm pulled his leg from between Mac's, cursing his need to go to the bathroom. When he got back Mac was pulling out the video and surveying her other video choices.

“What's up next? More Mulder and Scully?” He inquired.

“Nope I'm up for a chick flick. Do you mind?”

Harm rolled his eyes. “As long as you don't cry on me, I'm game.” He grinned when Mac stuck her tongue out at him. “You know, Grandma Sarah always says that when you stick your tongue out it means kiss me quick.”

“In your dreams, Flyboy.”

“Yes ma'am.” Mac glared at him.

“I think you threw up your brain Commander, cause you sure aren't exercising it tonight.”

“I kept my brain, it's my pride that took a beating.”

“You didn't like the whole Jag staff watching you ralph?”

“Not particularly.”

Mac's phone rang. She smiled at him and picked it up. “Hello? Oh hi, Mic. No you didn't interrupt anything important. What? You're joking right?” Harm moved around her and shut off the kitchen lights, walking the apartment shutting everything down. “Norfolk? Tonight? Yeah I'll meet you there.” Harm left one light in the living room and put on his jacket. He held Mac's jacket for her, and she slid her arm in the sleeves one at a time. “No it's not that big of a problem. No, I can get down there myself. Alright. Night.” Mac hung up and turned to find Harm holding her keys.

“Ready?”

“I guess. You turned off the bathroom light?”

“Yes, ma'am.” Mac exited and locked her apartment. They walked down to the street together. “Why don't we take my car? Yours will probably get us a ticket on Friday night.”

“Harm. You don't have to go. I can make it by myself.”

“I know. But what am I going to do? Go home? Watch…Television?”

Mac took the keys he held out and headed for his SUV. “What do you mean my car will get us a ticket?”

Harm climbed in the passenger seat, perfectly willing to let her drive his car. “I mean that every cop will be on the look out for red sports cars and no matter how much you obey the speed limit they'll eventually catch you speeding.”

“I haven't gotten a ticket yet.”

“Yeah but how much of that was luck?”

Mac shot him a look.

@@

Mac pulled up into the parking lot of the Norfolk Jag offices. Beside her, Harm resettled himself and continued to sleep. She was trying to decide if she should wake him when there was a knock on the window. She turned around to see Brumby's smiling face She rolled down the window.

“The Commander's playing sleeping beauty, eh?” Brumby smiled wider.

“Mic.”

“Are you going to wake him? I'd like to get this finished so I can take you out to breakfast.”

Mac reached over and shook Harm. His eyes popped open, disoriented. “Norfolk?” His voice was a whisper.

“Hey, Flyboy. Want to help?”

Harm looked over at Mac and saw Brumby standing behind her. He closed his eyes and opened them again. Darn no such luck.

“I think I'll just grab a couch inside. You can wake me when you're done.”

Mac chuckled. “Alright Sailor, lets go.” She and Harm walked towards the building.

Mic followed behind somewhat disgruntled. “Someone needs their beauty rest.”

“You coming Mic?” Brumby waved at Mac and jogged to catch up.

@@

“Is this what your looking for?” Harm handed a sheet of paper to Brumby and rubbed his eyes.

“Good eyes, Mate. This is perfect.”

Harm handed him another sheet. “Then you won't like this.”

Brumby's eyes widened. “Shit!”

“What?” Mac stood in the doorway holding three cups of coffee.

“Harm found what we were looking for, and he also found what the prosecution's looking for.”

Mac set down the cups and looked at the two documents. “Damn it. I should have known he was lying.” Mac looked over at Harm and noticed his head resting on his hand. “I guess we shouldn't use this then. Put it back and try another route.”

“We could always misfile the second document.”

“That's unethical, Brumby.” Harm's voice was flat and emotionless like he was half asleep. “Besides you'd get caught, we had to sign in remember.”

“You're right. We would get caught.” For once a conversation between Brumby and Harm didn't escalate to name-calling. Harm's cell phone rang.

“Rabb. Hello Admiral. No you didn't wake me. Umm no I'm not at home. I'm at Norfolk.” Mac and Brumby winced as shouts could be heard from Harm's ear. “No sir, rest does not mean Norfolk. Yes, sir. When does the flight leave? The Gunny, sir? All right. Good night, sir. What? Oh have a good morning.” Harm looked at his watch.

“I have to go. I'm headed out to the Patrick Henry. Sexual harassment.”

“Anyone you know?” Mac asked.

“Gunny is bringing the file with him to the airport.”

“Good luck, mate.”

“You too, Brumby.” Harm left his coat slung over his arm. “Mac, you can get a ride?”

“I got her covered, mate.”

“Watch what you cover, Brumby.”

“I intend too.”

“Boys! Harm you were going.”

“Yeah.” Harm sighed. “Night, morning whatever.” Harm was gone.

@@

Gunny looked over to where the Commander was checking in, his garment bag slung over one shoulder. Harm looked worse than he had three days ago when the Gunny had found him on the floor of the head. Harm walked up to him.

“Hey, Gunny. You have the file.”

“Yes sir. Are you all right, sir?”

“I'm fine I just spent the night in Norfolk is all.”

“If you don't mind my asking…”

“Mac and Brumby's salvation and damnation.”

“Excuse me, sir.”

“You were going to ask what's in Norfolk, right?”

“Yes, sir.”

“The Colonel and the Commander made a trek down there to look for a document. I went along.”

“Oh.” The Gunny sat down waiting for their flight to start boarding. “You certainly like to push the Admiral's buttons don't you?”

“This coming from the man that said Seals can't hold their own in a boxing match, right in front of said Admiral.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Flight to Naples now boarding.”

“I guess that's our cue.” Harm said as he looked towards the other officers headed towards the door. “Ever been on a carrier, Gunny?”

“No sir.”

Harm looked over with a grin on his face. “It's an experience.” Harm walked away leaving the Gunny to ponder his words.

@@

“Do you get the impression that all is not right here?” Harm asked when they were in the air.

“I don't know, sir.”

“Something doesn't feel right.” Harm sighed. “It may just be Aldridge's style of questioning.”

“Aldridge, Sir?”

Harm looked up from where he was puzzling over the file. “What? Oh he was a Lt. I've worked with before. Nice guy, he'll make a good attorney someday.”

“Oh.”

Harm closed the file in front of him. “I think I'm going to try and rest some. Investigations aboard carriers usually mean no sleep.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Gunny, you can call me Harm. Please.”

“I'll think about it, Sir.”

Harm leaned back in his seat and closed his eyes. As he drifted off to sleep he wondered where the feeling of Mac's body was. Oh yeah, Patrick Henry.

@@

“Gunny you're on speaker phone.” The admiral called out. “Colonel Mackenzie is here as well.”

“Sir, Ma'am.”

“Gunny, where is Commander Rabb?” There was a silence on the other end.

“Sir, Commander Rabb is in Sickbay getting his head examined.” Mac and the Admiral started to laugh, covering it with coughs.

“There was an accident and the Commander was pushed down a flight of stairs.”

“Is he alright?” The admiral's voice took on a tone of concern

“Yes, Sir. He completed the investigation sir. We leave on the evening cod. We should be back by late tonight.”

“Alright, Gunny. Would you care to tell me what happened out there? This was supposed to be a question and answer trip, not a stay half a week trip.”

“Commander Rabb thought there was something fishy with the story in the file. As we started asking questions it became apparent that the Petty Officer in question was more frightened about something else other than the sexual harassment charges. It seems a Master Chief was threatening him. He thought the sexual harassment charge would be an easy way to talk without alarming anyone.”

“Was Mr. Rabb's accident, an accident?”

“I don't know sir. The Commander wouldn't say.”

“Alright, Gunny. We'll see you tomorrow.” The admiral punched the phone off and turned to Mac.

“That man is going to kill me.”

“Who sir? The Gunny or the Commander.”

The admiral sighed. “You're right.”

Mac smiled. “Yes sir.”

@@

Mac looked up the next morning as the Gunny and Harm dragged themselves into the office. They both had stubble on their chins, their uniforms creased and saggy. Wrinkles hung on top of their cheeks and the gleam in their eyes was from exhaustion rather than from winning. Neither looked happy and both carried their suitcases slung over their shoulders.

Harriet rushed up to them. “Commander? Gunny? Are you two alright? No offense, Sir. But you look like hell.”

Harm flicked Harriet a half grin, while the Gunny shot her an annoyed glance. Harm tapped the Gunny. A warning glance was sent and received and the Gunny's gaze turned tired again.

“We're fine Harriet, but could you get us some coffee.” Harm rubbed his forehead. “Just leave mine in my office, I'm going to change.” Harm turned around and headed towards the head. The Gunny followed.

Five minutes later the men re-entered the bullpen looking neater if not rested. Harriet delivered two mugs of coffee and Mac headed to check on Harm.

“Hey, Harm.” She watched as Harm flipped through files on his desk.

“Mac.” He found the one he wanted, and opened it. “Was there something you needed Mac?” He rubbed his forehead again.

Mac sat in front of his desk, just observing him. “What did the doctor say?”

“What?” Harm looked up disoriented with the conversation.

“The Gunny said you were pushed down some stairs.”

“I'm fine, and I tripped, I wasn't pushed.”

Mac nodded. “So your plane got delayed?”

“Yeah.”

“Which part?”

Harm looked over at her and sighed. “All of them. I swear that every flight was late last night. We spent an hour strapped into the cod waiting for clearance while they fixed the catapult. In Naples, we had a 6-hour delay. In the plane. I was seated next to this Admiral. I had to listen to him snore for 6 hours when I had a headache from my fall. We had a layover in London. I never knew how much women's voices hurt. All these people were disembarking and the wives, sisters and devil worshippers were screeching. When we landed at Andrews. We had to sit on the plane while they tried to find us a place to unload. An hour on top of flight time. My head hurts.” Harm's voice had gone from strident to a low whine.

Mac looked over concerned, to where Harm was rubbing his forehead. “Here, let me feel your forehead.” Mac got up and circled the desk. He leaned back and closed his eyes. His forehead felt warm to the touch and Mac worried a bit. “So why did you and the Gunny come in today?”

“I have no idea why the Gunny followed me in. But I have Corporal Johnson coming today.”

“Tommy and Nathaniel?”

“Hopefully not. I don't think I can deal with them today. I'm just so tired.”

“And you wanted some little ones of your own.” Mac leaned against the desk and ran her hand over his brow, double checking his temperature. Was it hotter than it was before?

“I still do.” Harm stretched and slowly slid back in his seat. “How is the McMaster's case going? The Prosecution find that document?” His eyes were closed.

“No and we're doing pretty good.”

“Good. Brumby keep his hands to himself?”

“I don't think that's any of your business, Commander.”

“Okay.”

Mac narrowed her eyes, he never said okay when it came to Brumby. “Are you sure you're feeling all right Harm?”

“I told you my head hurts. I'm going home after Corporal Johnson.”

“Do you want me to stop by after work?”

“No, I'm gonna be asleep.”

“You're sure?”

“Commander Rabb.” Mac turned around to see Tiner in the door. “The Admiral would like to see you and the Gunny now.”

“We'll be right there, Tiner.” Harm stood up. “You don't have an aspirin on you, do you Mac?”

“No, sorry. I'll dig some up for when you get out.”

“Thanks.” Harm walked out of the office to get the Gunny and they both disappeared into the Admiral's office. The door shut and within minutes shouting could be heard. Tiner walked away from his desk and disappeared into the coffee area.

Brumby stuck his head out of his office. “Eh Mac. Whose in there?”

“Harm and the Gunny.”

“Blimey, I'd hate to be in their shoes at the moment.”

Mac frowned as she looked at the door to the Admiral's office. A sudden hush had fallen over the office again. That would be Harm being logical, explaining his reasoning behind his actions. A loud roar could be heard. That would be the Admiral's response. A door opened and the Gunny emerged unscathed. Tiner looked out from the doorway of the break room.

Mac moved to intercept the Gunny, who headed straight for Harriet. Harriet looked up as the Gunny approached.

“Is there something I can do for you, Gunny?” Harriet's voice was soft and sweet.

Yes, ma'am. I was wondering…” The Gunny looked around checking for signs of someone watching him. And stopped when he saw the Colonel.

“Go ahead, Gunny.”

“Ma'am. Do you have any aspirin?” He looked embarrassed.

Harriet looked up at him surprised. “Of course.” She rummaged in her drawer and came up with an Advil bottle.

“Is that for the Commander?” Mac questioned. The Gunny took two and swallowed them dry.

“No ma'am. Why does the Commander's head hurt?” The Gunny closed his eyes in relief.

“Yeah he wasn't feeling well.” Mac sighed.

“Poor Commander. I hope he feels better soon.” Harriet smiled up at the two marines standing near her.

“Ma'am I'm not sure I'm cut out for investigative work, here.”

“Why would you say that Gunny?” Mac leaned against Harriet's desk and Harriet moved closer, to better hear the muted conversation.

“I like to ask the questions and get the answers. Commander Rabb likes to sneak around the question, talk nice to people we're questioning. And on top of that, there were all these women that kept hitting on the Commander. Some of it bordered on sexual harassment. All of these pilots kept coming up to him and slapping him on the back. It's a wonder the poor man didn't fall before.” Harriet and Mac laughed, clearly enjoying themselves. The Gunny looked at them in pain.

“Sorry Gunny. About the people there, you just spent half a week on a carrier that the Commander flew off of a few months ago. So yeah the pilots like to talk and congratulate anyone they know. The questions. I'm like you, I like to ask and answer, but I think you'll find that the Commander's always has a purpose when he sneaks around.”

The Gunny looked around nervously. “What about all those women? I swear he was hit on more times than a punching bag. Even in the airport, we had a lay over in London; ten women came up to the commander and asked him if he'd like to have a drink with him.”

“No women hit on you Gunny?” Harriet asked sweetly, an evil grin in her eye.

“That's a need to know, ma'am.”

Mac smiled. The Gunny fit in here perfectly. The door to the office closed and the three of them looked up to see a weary Harm leaning against a wall in Tiner's office. Mac grabbed the bottle of Advil and stopped by the break room, to warn Tiner and snag a water bottle. She found Harm hunched over in a chair by the door.

“Harm?” He didn't move. She sat beside him; from this close she could see muscles twitching beneath his navy coat and the lines that creased his pain face. She ran her hand across his brow. It felt extremely warm. She poured two tablets out and opened the water bottle. “Harm? I have the aspirin you asked for.”

He held out his hand, as Tiner walked in. The petty officer didn't make a comment, just sat down and started typing on the computer. Mac placed the bottle in Harm's hand and held out the pills. He gulped them down and stood up. Mac kept a supportive hand on his back.

“Good luck, Tiner.” Harm's voice was subdued with less of the jovial cheer that was a constant when he talked with the Petty Officer. Mac smiled at Tiner and followed Harm out.

“Harm, why don't you go home now. Johnson can come another time.”

“Commanda Wrabb.” Harm looked down the hall to see little Nathaniel speeding down the corridor at mach 3. Harm scooped up the little boy, swaying a bit with the activity. Mac's hand pressed tighter on his back. He threw a glance down at her.

“So buddy. All better?”

“Yes sir.”

“Commander Rabb. Sorry again, I just picked them up from preschool.” Johnson held out his hand.

“It's not a problem, Corporal. Why don't we get down to business?”

“Yes, sir.” Johnson headed towards Harm's office Tommy asleep on his shoulder.

Mac looked up to see Nathaniel spinning Harm's wings around his chest like a little propeller.

“You have court this afternoon?” Mac looked up to see Harm's glazed eyes, questioning her.

“Yeah Brumby and I. You'll go home?”

“Yeah, I could sleep for a week.”

“I'll see you when I get off work then.”

“Mac.”

“Don't argue Commander, I outrank you.”

“Yes, Ma'am.”

“Dismissed.” Harm turned to walk away, but Nathaniel looked over his shoulder at Mac. She waved and made a face at him. He shyly ducked his head into Harm's neck.

“Commanda Wrabb?”

“Yes, Mr. Johnson?”

“Are you sleeping with the pretty marine?” Harm's eyes grew wide in astonishment.

“What?”

“She looks like a good mommy. You should take her home for your little boys.”

“I don't have any children, Nathaniel.”

“Oh.” Nathaniel pursed his lips. “Maybe my daddy could bring her home then.” Harm laughed and gave Nathaniel a big noisy kiss.

“I think you should let your daddy pick the mommy he wants.”

“No, He already chose bad once. It's up to Tommy and me now.”

“Mac is off limits.”

“You said you didn't want her. She doesn't sing you lullabies. She doesn't hug you good night. So why not my daddy.” Harm looked at the little boy, unable to answer the question. “Oh. You want her to sing you lullabies. Okay Commanda, but if you know any good mommies, let me know.”

“Deal Mr. Johnson.”

@@

Mac opened the door to Harm's apartment quietly. Sometimes even the creak of a door could rouse Harm out of a peaceful slumber. Then again sometimes it took ten rings of the telephone to get him up. She looked into his apartment and found him standing in front of the stove, stirring something in a pan. She dumped her briefcase and gym bag on the floor.

“It's not doing the soup thing.”

“What?”

“It's burning. It's not becoming soup.”

Mac looked over his shoulder at the mass of goo in the pan and the can on the counter. “Harm? You forgot to add the water.” She reached over and flipped the burner off. Slowly she poured out the pan's contents and the water in the can, throwing the latter away in the trashcan. She felt his forehead. It felt extremely warm. “Where's your thermometer?”

“My what?”

“Ther- mom- e-ter.”

“I don't have one.” Mac looked at him incredulously. “Mac, when am I ever sick?” Mac moved to open her mouth. “Besides last week.”

“Alright then, Flyboy. Put your shoes on cause we are going to get supplies.” Mac followed Harm into the bedroom where he pulled out tennis shoes. He placed his sock clad feet in them and shoved the laces inside the shoes, not bothering to lace them. Mac kneeled down in front of him. “So we need a thermometer.” She pulled the laces out of his right shoe and pulled tight, lifting his foot off the ground. “Do you have any vitamin C?” She made short work tying the laces in double knots.

“No.”

“Okay so Vitamin C, too.” She picked up his left foot and tied the laces. “And we'll ask for the best cold remedy.” She looked up at him as she set his foot down. “You really don't have a thermometer?”

He shot her a look as he stood up, his joints cracking in protest.

“Let's go.” They walked out of his apartment, locking up.

@@

Mac and Harm walked along the juice aisle; Harm reached out and threw various juice bottles into the cart. Mac threw in a few bottles of Gatorade and shot a dirty look at the woman who was checking out Harm's sweat clad six. The woman noted the marine uniform and moved along. Mac turned back around and admired the butt in question. Harm, leaning heavily on the basket, was unaware of the scrutiny. Mac decided that action was needed to head off any other would be lookers. She patted his rear and he straightened up, giving her a weird look.

“If I wasn't sick, that would be a green light Colonel. But since I am, I'm gonna have to call yellow light.”

Mac smiled sweetly and asked, “How much aspirin did you take, Commander?” He didn't comment and they moved on to the drug area of the supermarket.

@@

“Shouldn't you be pulling a late night with Brumby?”

Mac looked up from where she was finishing the meat lover's pizza slice. “No. Brumby doesn't really do late nights.”

“Mmmm.” Harm didn't say anything more, just took a long gulp from his Cran-something- or- other juice jug. On the nightstand beside him sat three bottles and a spoon. Enough to keep him from sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, stuff- head fever, so he can rest. Mac watched as Harm closed his eyes and relaxed, the cold medicines working against his natural night owl tendencies.

She picked up the pizza box and their discarded napkins and walked to the kitchen. She turned off the lights and moved back into the bedroom. “Its bed time, Flyboy.” She reached out and pulled the covers while he scooted down into a laying position.

“But Mom…I wanted to stay up and watch West Wing.” Harm chuckled.

“What?” Mac asked.

“Just something, Nathaniel told me today.”

Mac sat down next to him, smoothing the covers. “What's that?”

Harm looked up to her eyes catching them. “He said I should take you home for my little boys cause you would be a good mom.”

Mac sighed happily. “Someday, Flyboy I will be a good mom.”

“I don't doubt that Mac.” Harm reached over past the Nyquil bottles and grabbed a Kleenex, wiping his nose.

“I should head home.” Mac moved to get up, but Harm stopped her.

“Mac. Thank you.”

“It wasn't a problem.”

“Stay.” Mac didn't know what to say. “Please.”

“Of course.” Mac found out two things that night. One that it's easier to take care of a sick person when you share the bed. And the other, that it's exhausting sharing a bed with a sick person, who cares enough not to want to wake you with their illness.

@@

Mac sighed as she heard coughing from the other side of the wall. She growled and laid her head on her desk. She had listened to him sniffle for a week, occasionally blowing his nose. Now it was a cough, one that sounded terrible. His voice was going too. And he hadn't asked for any help. Not since the night when he asked her to stay. It was really annoying.

Mac got up to reheat her lukewarm coffee. On her way back, she looked into Harm's office, stopping at the view before her. His head propped in one hand, the other trying to smother another hacking cough; he looked exhausted. Mac walked in and sat in front of his desk.

“So when are you going to the doctor's?” Mac took a sip of her coffee.

“I have an appointment at 1500.” He didn't look up from the law book in front of him. He made some notes on the notebook next to his elbow. “Mac?”

She lifted her brows in reply.

“I never thanked you properly for staying with me the other night. When I'm better, dinner my treat. Where ever you want to go, Beltways, La Tours, whatever.”

“That's a date, Flyboy. But now it's 1415 and you have an appointment to keep.”

Harm looked at his watch. “How? Never mind. Thank you.”

Mac smiled at him. “No problem. Just make sure the doctor checks that cough. It sounds terrible.” She shot him another smile and sashayed out of his office.

@@

Mac heard him in the hall before he even knocked; she knew the occasional hacking cough by heart. She didn't even bother with the peephole. She opened the door to see her best friend on the other side. He smiled at her wobbly.

“Harm?”

“Hi Mac.” The voice cracked and faded, but Mac understood him. She reached out and pulled him into her apartment. Jingo came to investigate, her gray muzzle snuffling at Harm's pant leg. “You got a dog?”

“Are you alright, Harm?” Mac eyed him suspiciously.

“Jingo. You told me about her.” Harm looked back at Mac. “They gave me codeine. I think I took a little too much. My head's kinda blurry.”

Mac stepped closer to him, and slipped an arm around his waist settling him on the couch. She held his face in her hands and tried to stare into his eyes, they kept jumping, never focusing on her. “Oh, Harm.”

“I'm sorry, Mac.” His hand covered hers on his cheek.

“What are you sorry for?”

“You deserve so much more.”

“So much more than what?”

“You shouldn't have to keep taking care of me.”

“I like taking care of you.”

“I like you taking care of me.” He coughed. “Can I stay here?”

“That depends, sailor. Did you drive here?”

“No. I just wanted to see you.”

“Did you walk?”

Harm nodded yes.

“That's an awful long walk.” She watched as Harm's eyes closed in front of her.

“It was worth it.” His body started to relax.

“Wake up, fly boy. We need to get you to bed.” He snuggled into the couch.

“I can sleep here.”

Mac pulled on his arm, lifting him slightly. “Nope, you're sick enough. Let's go.”

“Stay with me?” He asked getting up, looking down at her.

“I'm not going anywhere, Flyboy. This is my apartment.”

Harm stopped her and wrapped both arms around her. “Please don't leave, Mac.”

“I'm not going anywhere, Harm.”

“That's what my dad and Frank said.” He sounded lost, like a little boy who needed a teddy bear. “They left. I see them in my dreams and they keep telling me something and I can't hear them. I want to hear them.” He buried his head in her neck, small coughs racking his upper torso.

“Let's get you in bed and you can tell me about these dreams. Are they like before? Playing baseball?” Mac walked Harm into her bedroom. She helped him remove his jacket and he tugged at his shirt below. She helped him pull it over his head; his dog tags clinking softly back to his chest. He hadn't answered her. She bent down to take off his tennis shoes. “Harm?”

“Sometimes. Other times we're watching a game. Sometimes I'm in court. I don't want to talk about it.”

She looked up at him and watched a tear drop down his face. She used her thumb to wipe it away. “Oh Harm.”

“Remind me no more codeine.”

Mac laughed. “I promise no more codeine. Why don't you lay down?”

“No. You can't leave.”

“I'm not leaving, I'm going to change.” Mac showed him the Pajama's that rested on the bottom of the bed. “Jingo will keep you company.” Mac pointed to the dog that rested on one half of the bed. Harm reached out and petted her. Laying down facing the dog, his back was to Mac.

When Mac came back, he was still petting Jingo, who was snoozing contentedly. She touched his bareback. “See I told you I'd be back.” He rolled onto his back. Something flickered and died in his eyes. “Why don't you let me sleep in the middle, Jingo likes to run in her sleep.”

Harm stared at her, his eyes glazed with too much medication. “Whatever.”

“You need to be under the covers, Flyboy.”

“Huh?”

Mac tugged at his arm, and he reluctantly got up. Mac slid under the covers wiggling til she reached the middle. “Come here, Sailor.” Harm got back in the bed. Mac wrapped the covers over him and snuggled him. His arms wrapped around her, pulling close. He stifled a cough. With the codeine working it's magic, he slipped into a peaceful slumber. Mac sighed as Jingo snuggled up against her back, sandwiching her in warmth.

“I missed you, Mac.” The words were sighed in dreams, but they were better than a confession of love. Mac relaxed into sleep as well.

@@

Harm opened his eyes to see Mac's nose pressed against his chest. Her breathing stayed even and soft, as he shifted a bit. God, he hated and loved Codeine. Loved it, cause he had a wonderfully cough less night with Mac in his arms, hated it cause he had told Mac about the dreams. He didn't want anyone to know about them; they'd lock him up. Just like they wanted to, when he was searching for his dad. Wait wait. No one was trying to lock him up!

Mac wiggled a bit in his arms and he closed his eyes. He felt her eyelashes flicker against his chest. She sighed and pressed a kiss to his breastbone. She squirmed up the bed til her head rested on the same pillow. His leg slid between hers. She kissed his chin. His arms tightened around her, pressing her closer.

“I promise, Mac. No more codeine.” He kissed her forehead, opening his eyes to stare at her.

“I meant what I said, Harm. I like to take care of you.”

“I like you taking care of me.”

“Every man likes to be taken care of.”

“I like you taking care of me, no one else.” He pulled her hard against him. She wrapped her arms around his neck, playing with his hair. The bed jolted and both Mac and Harm looked to find Jingo standing above them, tail wagging, shaking the whole bed.

“Some one should have named her earthquake.” Harm whispered.

“I like aftershock, better.”

“How about San Andres?” Harm's hands wandered until they touched bare skin and stopped.

“What?”

“It's the big fault line that runs through California. The geologists are always predicting it's gonna go.”

“Oh.” Mac's breathing hitched as she realized how close she was to Harm. Where his hands were. Where they were slowly moving. His large warm hands rested just at her shoulder blades. Right where her bra usually rested. It made her feel oddly naked.

“Yeah, every year they say the big one is going to hit. Then Los Angeles will fall into the sea and this little Podunk town, Riverside will have beach front property.”

“You learn something new everyday.” Mac hitched her leg higher on his, pressing closer to him.

“Yes, you do.” He was still staring at her with his eyes; it was like being caught in a spider web, the cloying strings suffocating a person. This close to him she felt the cough before he pulled away. He tugged away entirely and sat on the edge of the bed, caught in the give and take of his breath. Mac sat behind him and rubbed his back, hoping to make it better.

When his coughing subsided, Harm looked at her and said, “I should probably get to work.”

“It's Saturday.”

“Corporal Johnson's coming in.” He shot her a smile.

“I could go in and entertain Tommy and Nathaniel.”

“I don't want to impose.”

“It's no problem, we can take Jingo and play outside.”

Harm reached out and caressed her cheek. “You surprise me more and more everyday Ninja Girl.”

“The feeling's mutual, Sailor.” They stopped caught in each other's gazes. Harm's watched beep. He looked away to turn it off.

Mac kissed him. On the lips.  It was...wow.  Harm's arms wrapped around her, then he felt the tongue.  Not Mac's.  Jingo's.  On his hands slobbering all over him.  He pulled back.
 
"Johnson."
 
"Johnson."  She echoed.
 
They both turned to look at the happy Irish setter. She panted at them.

@@

The Admiral pulled into the parking lot of Jag cursing his lack of planning that had brought him to the office on Saturday. Smiling he parked next to the Commander's SUV, which was parked in it's usual spot, even in the deserted parking lot. He checked the spacing; as usual Harm was in the direct center of the space. It always amazed AJ that no matter how sloppy the Commander's handwriting was his parking was always on check; even pulling in at 90 mph, 30 minutes late for work.

He walked up to the door and stopped, recognizing Harm sitting on the veranda with a man a little younger. Harm had on jeans and a sweatshirt, with the tech specs of a Tomcat on it. His head was covered with a ball cap turned backwards and the wind ruffled the spiky hairs that peeked out from beneath the adjustable strap. The admiral went inside, deciding not to disturb the Commander.

When he exited he again looked over to Harm and noticed something leaning against his leg. An ancient Irish setter rested its head on the Commander's thigh and he was petting it gently. If AJ wasn't mistaken that was the Colonel's dog, which begged the question where was Mac?

The Admiral walked towards Harm to ask, when shrieks came from the other side of the porch. Both Harm and the man looked over and smiled. Within seconds, two little boys came scrambling for the men, with Mac hot on their heels, making odd noises. The men grabbed the little boys and swung them around, planting noisy kisses on their faces, while Mac slowed her stalking, to go after her dog. She stopped abruptly when she saw the Admiral. She, Harm and the other man straightened perceptibly while the boys just hung, smiling unrepentantly. The Admiral felt the warmth of the dog leaning heavily on the back of his legs. He looked down to find the dog panting heavily at Mac, hiding its form behind his legs. Its tail twitching around to hit the Admiral's feet.

“Admiral. Good Morning.” Harm made the first move, not bothering to release his young captive, whose feet swung limply from his body.

“Morning, Commander. Colonel.”

“Sir.”

“This is Corporal Johnson and his sons Tommy and Nathaniel.” Harm made the introductions and the Corporal saluted crisply.

“And may I ask who the coward is?”

Mac blushed. “Jingo, sir.”

The boys started to laugh and Harm tried to stop his own chuckling, which aggravated his coughing. He set the little boy down and sat down heavily on the chair behind him. Jingo immediately moved to his side, leaving the comfort of the Admiral's calves.

“Commander, are you alright? Can I get you something, some water?” The Admiral was a bit concerned, Harm was never sick and when he was injured he always bounded back with enthusiasm.

“No.” He coughed some more and the Corporal was looking a bit worried. “No, sir. I'll be fine.” A few dry coughs later he took a deep breath and smiled.

The Admiral grunted. “Good. I've got a golf game to get too.”

“Have fun, Admiral.” AJ looked back to see Mac holding a little boy, smiling impishly at him.

“I intend to Colonel.” From inside his Expedition (AN: CAN I HAVE ONE OF THESE PLEASE?) the Admiral chuckled at the childish laughter that reigned in the morning sun.

@@

Harm and Mac waved at the two little boys as the Corporal drove away. Harm sat back down to begin gathering his notes. “So why was it so important that the Corporal come today?” Mac asked Harm, sliding a notebook into his briefcase.

“He leaves in a few hours for a training exercise. He'll be out of state for a week.”

“Oh.”

“Besides if I hadn't had to speak to him, we'd both still be in bed like the lazy bums we wish we were.” Harm watched her face, which took on a rosy hue.

“You sound pretty sure of yourself, Commander.”

“Well Colonel, I have a lot of experience with rolling over and going back to bed, especially after the earth has moved.” Harm's voice dipped low and inviting.

Mac's eyebrows rose.

“I am from California, the capital of earthquakes.” Harm shut his briefcase and stood up, Mac following him, stepping closer.

“Oh yes, the San Andres.”

“Yeah the big one.” Harm put his hands on her waist.

“Half of California falling into the ocean.” Like my soul is falling into your eyes, Mac thought.

“Yeah.” Was he echoing her thought or her words? “Do you want Beltway Burgers for lunch?”

“No, how about that Sub place that opened up at the Post Office Pavilion?” She suggested.

“What about Jingo?” His hands still rested on her hips, keeping her in contact with his body.

“We can eat outside, I'll go get it while you sit with her.” Mac said leaning closer to him.

He stepped back, to pet the dog. “Sounds like a plan.”

@@

“You rolled a three. So it's either Science and Technology or Geography?” Mac smiled as she drew a card from the question deck.

“I'll take geography.” Harm moved his little character to the place on the board.

“Alright then. What is the name of Luke Skywalker's home planet?” Mac's eyes sparkled merrily at him.

“That is so easy. Tatooine.”

Mac flipped over the card and her smile faded. She looked up at Harm. “How the hell did you know that?”

“Wouldn't you like to know?”

“You better spill it or I'll sic Jingo on you.”

Harm looked pointedly at the pile of red fur that lay in his lap. The dog was snoring loudly and paying no attention to the people that were talking about her. Harm shifted a bit; relieving some of the pressure of Jingo's elbow into his thigh. Damn the dog was bony.

“Play the game, Mac.”

Mac picked up the dice and threw it. “Two. Hmmm. I'll go with Technology.”

Harm read the question and smiled. “Oh this is easy. What is the name of the vehicle that Luke uses to drive Obi Wan and the droids to Mos Eisley?”

“Hovercraft.”

“Wrong sci-fi series, that would by Star Trek not Star Wars. It's a Speeder.” Harm picked up the Dice and threw it. He smiled. A two, enough to get him his last pie piece. “Technology.”

“Okay. What was the substance Han Solo was frozen in on Cloud City?”

“Carbonite.” Harm smiled at her, driving her blood pressure up, from anger or passion she didn't know.

“Alright Commander, I want full disclosure. That's an order.” Mac woke up Jingo who moved out of Harm's lap. Mac slinked closer on her hands and knees. Harm slid backwards pulling himself away from Mac with his powerful arms. She kept coming.

“Why does it matter that I know what he was frozen in.” Harm smiled, enjoying the game.

“You are holding out on me.”

Harm lost his handheld on the floor and fell backwards. Before he knew it. Mac had him pinned beneath her.

“Tell me, Sailor.”

“Harmon Rabb Jr. Lt. Commander, United States Navy. Serial Number 6587458.”

“Try again, Flyboy.”

“Harmon Rabb Jr. Lt. Commander, United States Navy. Serial Number 6587458.”

Mac tightened her grip on Harm's hands. There was a knock at Mac's door.

“Who is it?”

“Colonel Mackenzie? It's me Lt. Roberts.”

“Bud Help, I'm being held hostage, yuck. Jingo!”

Mac started laughing as Jingo continued to lick Harm's face, her tongue making contact with his open lips. She laughed even harder when Bud opened her door, his eyes going wide at the scene before him.

“Lt. I need your help, questioning a witness.”

“Ma'am?” Bud's voice sounded faint with disbelief.

“The Commander knows things. I'm trying to figure out where he obtained that knowledge.”

“What sorts of things, Ma'am?”

“Help Bud she's gone mad. And she's taken the dog with her.” Harm rolled his head to the side to avoid another dog kiss.

“Did you know the Commander knows the name of the planet Luke Skywalker was born on? And Han Solo's birth planet and the name of the barge that Jaba the Hutt uses?”

“You don't say, ma'am.” Bud's eyes went dark, with suspicion. He got down on his knees. “Spill all your information, and I'll prevail on the dog to go easy on you, Commander.”

“Bud. You're selling me out?”

“I think of it as satisfying my curiosity, Sir.”

“Be careful Lt., curiosity killed the cat.”

Bud's hands came out to tickle Harm's exposed sides. “Bud!” Bud stopped and turned to look at his wife in the doorway. “Colonel.”

“Harriet. My savior.” Harm looked up with his head, noting Baby AJ on Harriet's hip.

“That wasn't very nice to start without me.”

Harm's head fell down and he started laughing as Jingo started to lick him again. Mac moved off him the minute she felt his body convulse under her. He turned on his side, coughing until he couldn't breath. Bud patted his back, while Mac held on to Jingo.

“Sorry.” Harm's voice was raspy. “It's not a classified secret you know.” He was still curled into fetal position.

“Okay, Harm. Where did you learn that useless piece of information?”

“My bunkmate in Pensacola's call sign was Obi wan. Does that answer your question?”

Mac let go of Jingo who went straight for Harm's hand licking it. “What did you need, Bud?”

“Oh I needed the Carlisle File. It wasn't at the office.”

“It's on my desk, go ahead and get it.”

“Thank you ma'am.”

@@

“I told you they were sleeping together.”

“Harriet, that was just a friendly game. The Colonel and the Commander are not sleeping together.”

“Bud. Women know these things. They're hot bunking.”

“Harriet. I work with them everyday, I'm a lawyer and an investigator. I'd think I'd know if my best man was sleeping with your maid of honor.”

“I love you Bud, but you're clueless.”

@@

Harm rolled over and opened his eyes. Mac was curled up around Jingo on the bed. Less than a foot apart and he still felt alone. He scooted over and curled around her, holding her close. Harm fell back asleep, not feeling Jingo getting up and moving to the other side of the bed. Mac turned and buried her head in Harm's chest, her hand moving to his six.

@@

“Mac. I can't move.”

“Hmmm?”

“I can't move.”

“Just five minutes more, Flyboy.”

“I can wake you up now, marine.”

“Harm.”

“You asked for it.” Harm rolled over taking Mac with him. In one quick movement, Jingo was on the floor and Mac was under Harm's considerable bulk, opening her eyes.

“Was that supposed to wake me, Sailor?”

“No, but this is.” Harm leaned down and licked a spot at the base of Mac's neck. She sighed and moved her hands to his back, pulling him even closer. “You like that, Marine?”

“Oh Yeah.”

Harm bent again, blowing on the same spot. Mac was ready right then and there to dump her nightgown. Harm bent down a third time. Third time's the charm. He raspberried her. Just like with Tommy, he blew, making an incredible racket. She started to wiggle and squirm under him.

“That's not fair, squid.”

“All's fair when sharing a bed with you and your dog.” Harm grinned down at her.

“You wouldn't have had to stay if you hadn't fallen asleep during 'The Birds.'”

“I wouldn't have had to stay if you hadn't screamed when the birds attacked.”

“I didn't scream. That was a marine warning call.”

“Yeah a call to run for the hills, there's a bird coming.”

“Come on Flyboy, your telling me you weren't the least bit frightened by that movie?”

“Hitchcock had it wrong, Mac. The only thing I'm afraid of with birds is one heading for my engine.”

“What if I was heading for your engine?” Did that come out of my mouth? Mac thought. Jingo barked. “She needs to go out.”

“I'll get it, because you are obviously still asleep.” Harm got up and pulled on his pants and one of Mac's x-large Marine Corp t-shirts. Grabbing the leash he hooked up Jingo and started down the steps to the outside. Walking the small block with Jingo was a bit like walking a mile with a turtle. It took a century to finish. When he got back though, he found Clayton Webb leaning against the gate to Mac's apartment complex.

“Morning, Rabb. Thought I'd find you here.”

“What do you want, Clay.”

“Actually nothing, if you can believe that.” Clay smiled. “I was driving around, just doing nothing, and I saw you heading out with the dog there.”

“Jingo.”

“That's right, she was an old drug dog.”

“Anyone ever told you, you have an annoying way of making a short story seem long?”

“Can I have breakfast with you and Mac?”

Harm raised his eyebrows. “You will have talk to the big marine with the big stomach, that's not my call. You're welcome to ask though.” Harm led the way up to Mac's apartment.

“Hey, Mac. Someone's here to offer breakfast!” Harm unhooked Jingo's leash, and the old dog walked back to the bedroom to go back to sleep. Harm followed.

Mac was curled up under the covers, asleep. Harm's pillow was tucked beneath her cheek.

“That's not fair, Mac. You made me get up to take your dog out.”

“You offered.” She mumbled, clearly someplace between dreams and reality.

“Yeah, new deal. I'm offering you put on a robe and get ready for breakfast or Clayton Webb will see what you wear to bed.”

“Yeah right. Clay is probably sitting down to a big breakfast with his mother.”

“You asked for it.” Harm picked her up, pillow and all and walked towards the living room, her short red satin nightgown riding up her legs. “See Clay. She's ready for breakfast.” Mac didn't bother to open her eyes.

“I can tell.” Clay answered dryly.

Mac's eyes popped open. “Harmon Rabb Jr. Put me down now.” Harm set her down, and she turned and hit him.

“I warned you, Mac. Now hurry up and get dressed, for once I'm hungry.”

Mac scurried out of the room, shooting Harm a look.

“Interesting domestic scene, Harm.”

“Don't start, Clay. We're—“

“I know. Just friends.” Harm turned to head towards the bedroom; he didn't hear Clay's muttered. “Who sleep together, and melt ice sculptures in their spare time.”

@@

“So Mother turns to the Secretary of State and starts speaking in Navajo. The poor idiot didn't know what to do. So he gave the signal that I should ring him on his cell phone. Mother picked the phone out of his hand and started talking to me. She ended the call by telling me we needed better signals.” Harm and Mac were sitting across from Clayton Webb, laughing at the antics of his mother and him. Harm was reclined in his seat and Mac had started digging into what was left of Harm's breakfast.

“Not that I haven't enjoyed Breakfast, but what do you want, Webb?” Harm gazed at Clayton Webb steadily.

“What makes you think I want something?” Both Harm and Mac looked at him skeptically. “I don't really. I'm on vacation.”

“Oh, I'm sorry Clay.” Mac sounded devastated.

“Don't be. I'm going to Virginia to go riding for a few days.”

“You need someone to water your plants?” Harm flashed a smile at his partner as he said the words. She shot him a look.

“No. I just was checking in. Seeing how things were going since Frank, your stepfather, you know.”

Harm sighed. “Things are good since everyone stopped chasing us with cameras. And my mom said she was coming out for a visit next month sometime, she didn't know when.” Mac hit him. “Hey!”

“Why didn't you tell me your mom was coming out?”

“I would have. When she told me exactly when she was coming.”

“If you two are done.” Clay interjected. Both looked up at him. “I have to leave if I want to make it to the ranch by noon.” Clay threw some bills on the table to cover breakfast while they all stood.

“Thanks for the food, Clay.”

“It was on the State dept. account. You owe them.” Clay climbed into his car and waved, speeding away before they could ask any questions.

“Do you have the feeling we accidentally, just sold our souls?” Mac looked up at Harm.

“I'm not sure I want to know.”

“You have the Walchuck court-martial tomorrow?”

“Yeah I should head home and work on it.”

“Jingo and I have an appointment at the groomer's.”

“Is it wash and trim time for you, Mac?”

“Funny, Flyboy.”

“I try. So I'll see you tomorrow?”

“Yeah.” The two parted company and headed towards their different destinations.

@@

Harm rolled over and pulled a pillow to his chest. It was cold. His whole damn bed was cold. He rolled again, trying to seek the warmest position for his legs. He looked at the clock. 1:23. He had court in the morning. He needed to sleep. Technically, it is morning. I wonder if Mac's awake. He turned again, his legs shivering in the dark. At 1:30 he gave up climbed out of bed and pulled on some clothes and shoes, grabbing his pillow and his keys, he headed for the door, ready to beg Mac to let him sleep with her.

He opened the door to find Mac, pillow in hand, dog on leash, ready to knock on his door. “I couldn't sleep.” She looked sheepishly at him.

Harm opened the door wider to reveal his own pillow. “I couldn't either.”

Mac smiled at him and came in the door. He took Jingo's leash and unhooked it, hanging it on a coat hook. Mac and he both took off their jackets and hung them, side by side. Then they followed Jingo into the bedroom.

“Do you need a shirt to sleep in?”

“Yeah.”

Harm opened a drawer and pulled out a shirt, she had never seen before. He held it up and she smiled reading it. The front had the words “USS Patrick Henry.” The back had a quote, “…the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty.”

“Let me guess. They didn't sell many of those to drunken sailors.”

“They sold a few. Mostly to the family men trying to impress their kids.”

Mac laughed and held out her hand. He tossed the shirt at her and shut the drawer. He moved over to Mac's side of the bed, he pulled his shirt over his head and dropped it on the foot of the bed. Mac slid her pants down her legs and moved to the buttons on her shirt. Harm stepped closer.

“Here let me help you.” His fingers replaced hers and she looked up into his face of intense concentration as his fingers slid the buttons out of the holes. Her shirt shifted down to the floor leaving her clad in her bra and panties. Harm handed her the Patrick Henry shirt, which had slipped to the carpet. “Here.” He turned around and undid his pants, pulling them off.

Mac stripped down to just the shirt and her underwear climbed into bed, snuggling up to Harm. He held her close and closed his eyes. He opened them. “Mac?”

“Yeah.”

“I still can't sleep.”

“I can't either.”

“Want me to get the TV?”

“I'll do it.” Mac climbed out of bed and pulled out the TV setting it up across from the bed. She turned it on and channel hopped finding an old show on one channel.

“What if we want to change the channel?”

“The only way the channel's getting changed is if Richard Simmons's Deal a Meal infomercial is on.”

“Deal.” Harm slipped a kiss on her neck. She pressed back into him. His arms came around her, crossing just under her breasts, his leg slid between hers. They fell asleep within minutes, with Jingo resting her chin on Harm's hip, watching the forgotten TV. It sounded like Lassie, her favorite show.

@@

“Hey Flyboy. When's your mother coming into town?” Mac asked as she poured herself a cup of coffee. She moved to near the door to wait for him as he poured his own coffee.

“I don't know, Mac. She still hasn't told me. I called her yesterday, actually no I guess it was Wednesday, and she said she hadn't decided.” As the two walked out into the bullpen, the Friday morning work ran smoothly around them. Harriet watched them from her desk. They were sleeping together, she could tell.

“See honey. Just look at them, they aren't sleep together.” Bud came up behind Harriet and handed her a file.

“Who's sleeping with who?” Caroline leaned her head into Harriet's work area.

“Harriet has this silly idea that the Commander and the Colonel are sleeping together.”

Caroline watched the two interact. “No Lt. I've got to go with Harriet on this one. They're sleeping together.”

“Who?” Tiner stopped walking as he heard Caroline's statement.

“Commander Rabb and Colonel Mackenzie.” Harriet supplied.

“No way. Not Commander Rabb.” Tiner was adamant.

“What do you mean not Commander Rabb?” Bud looked at Tiner scathingly.

“I mean, not that I'd think that Colonel Mackenzie would break the regs its just.”

“It's alright, Tiner. Why do you say not Commander Rabb?” Harriet took pity on the petty officer.

“I just can't imagine him getting involved with a superior officer after Commander Krennick.”

Bud nodded sagely. “You're right, Tiner. He wouldn't do it.”

“Who wouldn't do what?” Mattoni stuck his head into the group.

“Harm wouldn't sleep with a superior officer.” Caroline supplied.

“What about Krennick?” Mattoni asked.

“The Commander never slept with her.” Bud answered him.

“I know there was talk of sexual harassment.” Tiner put in softly.

“Who sexually harassed who though?” Caroline asked.

“Krennick kept implying things to the Commander when they were on board the SeaHawk for the Schnook investigation. He threw up more red lights than the beltway.”

“It could have been a relationship gone sour.” Mattoni interjected.

“The Commander was going to ask Lt. Schnook to marry him the week she died. Why would he sleep around?” Tiner asked.

“How did you know that, Tiner?” Harriet asked.

“Oh. Oh, I hear the admiral calling, got to go.” Tiner took off like a bat out of hell. He came back slower. “Oh and five bucks says they aren't sleeping together.” He left leaving money on the table.

“Who's sleeping with who?” Clayton Webb stuck his head in the group and they pulled back some. “And can I get in on the action?”

“Commander Rabb and Colonel Mackenzie, Mr. Webb. Harriet says they're sleeping together but Tiner and I say no.”

“Lt.” Clay looked at Harriet. “Define your terms. When you say sleeping together, do you mean sex or sleeping?”

Caroline popped in. “Sex, definitely.”

“I don't know. I guess it could just be sleeping together?”

“Harriet, I'm not prying here, but did you and Bud just sleep together?” Caroline asked.

“Sex it is.” The group contributed their money and Harriet marked down names: Caroline, Mattoni and herself for sex, Bud and Tiner for nothing and Clayton Webb for just sleeping. She put the money away and turned back to her work when she saw the Gunny peak over the wall of her cubicle.

“Oh, Gunny. Is there something I can do for you?”

The Gunny looked both ways and passed her a five-dollar bill. “Just sleeping together.”

She smiled up at him. “You got it.”

@@

Trisha Burnett stepped off the rickety old elevator and wandered to her son's apartment door. Looking under the mat she found the key he hid and opened the door quietly. She was trying to surprise her son, so last night she booked a flight on the red eye and here she was. She figured she could have breakfast ready before he even knew she was in his apartment. She was greeted at the door with a rather old looking Irish setter. The dog didn't bark, thank god, but she stood at the edge of the doorway, looking back. The 'aren't you going to take me for a walk' look came. Trish set down her bags and looked for the leash. Finding it, she stopped to look in on her son and nearly tripped on the steps when she realized there were two bodies in the bed. Closer inspection revealed Sarah Mackenzie sharing very close quarters with her bare chested son.

The dog clicked back across the floor, Trish looked down. The Irish setter tugged on the leash. Dog walking, then breakfast, and try to pretend it's normal that there are Marine uniforms hanging in my son's closet.

“I would have liked some notice.” She admonished the sleeping forms. She hooked the leash and she and Jingo wandered outside for a walk.

@@

“Harm.” Mac didn't bother to open her eyes.

“Mmph.”

“Jingo probably needs her walk.”

“She's not on my side of the bed therefore you get to walk her.” Harm said patting the area behind his body, coming up empty.

“She's not on my side.” Mac opened her eyes and popped up. “Harm, where's my dog?”

Harm sat up and looked across his apartment. He zeroed in on the luggage. “You like my mom, right?”

“Harm. Your mom isn't the issue, my missing big red dog is.”

“Big red old dog. And I wasn't changing the issue.”

“Are you telling me, Flyboy, that you forgot to tell me your mother was coming?” Mac's voice was tinged with marine anger.

“She didn't tell me when she was coming, but I'm pretty sure that's her suitcase.” Harm pointed and Mac looked. The leash couldn't be seen from the bed. Mac got up and crossed the floor, Harm's t-shirt swishing just at her upper thighs.

“The leash is gone.”

Harm got up and checked the luggage. “It's my mom.” Outside they heard Jingo's happy bark, followed by hushed voice. “Umm Mac?”

“What?”

Harm looked her up and down and Mac shot him a glance and went to put on a pair of sweats that she kept in his drawers. A second later, Harm was hit in the head with a pair of jeans and a shirt.

“Gee thanks.”

“You're welcome.” Mac came bounding down the stairs and walked to the fridge, fully dressed. He was pretty sure his mom wouldn't buy what actually happened, just sleeping. But limiting the issue seemed good. Harm went and shut the door to his closet, effectively hiding the uniforms. He threw Mac's 9 pairs of shoes under his bed and went to join Mac by the counter. His mom walked in carrying a newspaper and the dog leash, Jingo trotting happily beside her.

“Hello, Sarah. Hello, Honey.” Trish walked up and kissed them both like it was no big deal to have found Mac in Harm's apartment. “Sarah, this must be your baby dog Jingo.”

“Yes, isn't she great.”

“She insisted that I take her for a walk the minute I stepped inside.”

Harm sighed a bit. Maybe they would get out of this alive.

“Harm dear, I can make room for my clothes in your closet, right?”

“I'll do it for you mom.”

“Nonsense. I can do it.” Trish picked up her bag and flung open the closet. Harm and Mac winced, but she didn't say a word. Trish hung up her clothes, and turned to them. “I've really got to use the restroom, but then we can go get breakfast somewhere.”

Mac and Harm looked at each other. The bathroom. The most telling part of any apartment. Harm's had feminine products littering every surface. There were even tampons under the sink. Makeup was scattered on his medicine cabinet shelves. They might as well lie through their teeth and admit undying love for each other.

“Where did you put my shoes?” Mac hissed at him. As she climbed the stairs to the bedroom.

“They're under the bed.” He hissed back as he joined her.

“What are they doing there?”

“I was hoping to buy time. You had nine pairs here.”

“Well get me a pair, so Jingo and I can take cover.”

“You mean quack like a chicken and run.”

“Chicken's don't quack.”

“It's an expression. It means duck like a coward.”

“I got it. But I still am…Hi Trish! Jingo and I have to be going.”

Trish smiled benevolently. “Of course Sarah, you can go as soon as you tell me how long my son and you have been living together.”

Harm muttered something under his breath and turned to walk into the kitchen. He started pulling ingredients out.

“We aren't living together. We're just.”

“Having sex?” An egg dropped in the kitchen. Mac and Trish turned to see Harm on his knees cleaning up the mess. They both looked back to each other and started giggling.

Mac smiled evilly. “Yeah. Wild passionate sex. Your son is really good in the sac.” The whole carton of eggs squished on the floor.

“Shit!”

“He does this thing with his hands.”

An orange juice container followed the eggs.

“Does he do that thing with ears? His father did that, I think it's genetic.” A glass fell.

“Harm?” Mac called with more volume.

“I'm fine.”

“You're sure?”

“We're going to have to go out for breakfast.” The ladies stood up and walked into the kitchen, laughing at the mess Harm was trying to clean up. “You enjoyed that didn't you?” He asked his face red.

“Oh yeah.” Mac looked at Trish who was slightly red.

“Harm and I aren't…. it isn't what it looks like.”

“So the tampons under the counter aren't yours?”

Mac blushed.

“Mom. We're just sleeping together. We aren't lovers.”

“God help me, I raised a clueless wonder.”

Harm wasn't about to touch that with a ten-foot pole. “So where do you want to eat, Mom?”

Harm pushed everyone to get ready and as he was shutting the door on Jingo's sad face Mac touched his arm. She checked to make sure Trish was further away and leaned in close. “What ear thing was she talking about?”

Harm grinned at her. “I'll show you later.”

Mac looked up at him in frustration. “Do you have your wallet?”

Harm felt his back pocket. “Crap. Mom, I forgot my wallet, why don't you go down and get in the car. I'll be down in a minute.” Harm tossed her the keys and picked up the spare from under the mat. He opened the door and went inside. Mac shut the door behind her.

“Hey Sailor, looking for this?” Mac held up his wallet in her right hand. Harm moved to reach for it but she put it out of reach. “Nope. Not til you tell me what the ear thing is.”

“I can't really tell you. It's a show kinda thing.”

“Well then show me, Pappy.” She was teasing him, baiting him. The in and out game they had been playing since the night of Frank's funeral.

Harm backed her up til her back was against the door; his body came in full contact with hers. “You sure you want this.”

“Yeah.”

Harm pulled back so she could see his whole face. He placed both his hands on her face, and then she saw it. Harm's ears started to wiggle. Mac started laughing. She leaned against him, laughter gushing from her.

“I warned you.”

Mac reached up took hold of his face and stopped inches from him. “Your mom.”

“My mom.” Harm leaned down the rest of the way, lightly tapping his lips to hers. They broke apart and headed downstairs for breakfast. Mac tugging on his ear occasionally in fun.

@@

“Mom, I'm gonna drive Mac and Jingo home.” Harm called to his mother as Mac gathered up Jingo.

“So I'll see you tomorrow when I come by to get you for lunch?” Trish stepped out from the bathroom, still spreading clear cream over her face.

“No, mom. I'll be back in twenty minutes.”

“It was nice to see you again, Trish.” Mac hugged Harm's mom.

“You don't have to go, dear. There is more than enough room here for three and a dog.”

“I have some paperwork to catch up on.”

“Well alright as long as we get to do something while I'm in town.”

“Mom. Mac. Time's a wasting.”

“Hush up, Flyboy, your mom and I are bonding.”

“That's what I'm worried about. Come on Jingo.” Harm muttered as he walked out the door, dog following obediently.

“Kiss him dear, and he'll stay.” Trish said, smoothing back Mac's hair.

“Trish. It isn't like that. Not really. It's hard to explain.”

“I understand.”

“I don't.” Mac sighed as Trish gave her a hug. “We sleep together, but we don't sleep together. There's this line we don't cross, and yet we cross it every night.”

“It'll work out.”

“Maybe.”

“No maybe. Really.” Trish stated emphatically. “Now you take the dog, lock her in the kitchen or at least out of the bedroom, and you kiss my son. Show him what a marine colonel is made of.”

“How did you know?”

“About what, dear?”

“Jingo?”

“Hasn't Harm ever told you about his Jack Russell?”

“Yeah.”

“Percy liked to sleep in between Frank and I. I think Harm trained him especially for distraction duty.”

Mac started to laugh, but was interrupted by a beep of Harm's horn. “I'd better get going before Jet Jock, down there, starts revving the engine.”

“Sarah.”

Mac turn back to face Trish. “Yes?”

“I'll be very disappointed in you if my son comes home tonight.”

“Understood ma'am.”

@@

“I'll never understand my mother.” Harm said as he snuggled closer to Mac, late night had fallen and the passing headlights and the orangish glow of the streetlight illuminated the bedroom.

“At least you have a reference point.”

“Trust me, it doesn't help.” They were spooned together, satin meeting Harm's chest, his arms crossed just across her belly. Before his eyes, sat Mac's delicate ear. He bent forward, nipping and licking, blowing gently on the outer edge. Mac felt herself relax into a warm cocoon, her muscles tensing with sexual energy. Harm's right hand splayed across her lower abdomen, his thumb resting on her waistline. His left hand moved up experimentally, hovering just under her right breast. The trail of his hands left echoes of sensations along her skin and she molded back into his chest.

“That's the ear thing, isn't it Flyboy?” Mac sighed.

Harm chuckled in her ear. “What do you think?”

“I think I know why your mom married your dad.”

“Go to sleep, Marine.”

“Tease.”

“Mmmm.” His answer was non-committal.

“You have court tomorrow?”

“Yeah. Corporal Johnson.”

“What's he accused of?”

“He called in sick one day and his CO declared him UA.”

“Ouch.”

“Thing is, I have a half a dozen witness that were around when the CO got the call. He ranted at them about sick kids and then declared Corporal Johnson UA.”

“He's the kind of man that gives the Marines a bad name.”

Harm kissed her shoulder and sighed. “Sleep Ninja Girl.”

@@

The bullpen jumped as shots were fired in a courtroom. Shouts could be heard as a bailiff screamed for 911. Most of the lawyers came running as Tiner informed the Admiral. The scene in the courtroom was silent and serene. Captain Thomas lay stretched out, his face a bloody molten mess. A guard stood over him, gun trained waiting for any excuse to shoot to kill.

Mac noticed Corporal Johnson bending over the crying form of one of his sons, Harm held the other in his arms, gently rocking the terrified boy. Admiral Morris was clearing the courtroom, with shots of his gavel and shouted directions. When everyone was cleared except for essential personnel, the scene was even more eerie. Captain Thomas was being detained in the security office, denied even an ice pack. Tommy Johnson was being wheeled out on a stretcher, a bullet wound in his leg and his father right there, holding him, telling him what a good boy he was.

When the court was clear of even the paramedic's, Mac found Harm standing on shaky legs, gently rocking the now sniffling Nathaniel, a look of absolute horror, etched in his round eyes.

“Harm?” Mac touched his arm; his right fist, resting on Nathaniel's back, was turning purple and swelling painfully.

The admiral watched from the doorway as Mac led Harm to a bench and sat him down. Nathaniel clung to the Commander's neck, but Mac enveloped both of them, her arms trying to sooth their pain. The Admiral pulled out of the room and started for his office. His attention was drawn to a lovely lady quietly interrogating the marine who stopped her at the elevator.

“What do you mean authorized personnel only? Doesn't this.” She waved her visitor's pass. “Make me authorized personnel?”

“I'm sorry ma'am, but there has been a breach—“

“What kinda of breach, um… Corporal?”

“There was a shooting in one of the courtrooms ma'am.”

“Oh God. Harm.” She turned a look of determination on the marine. “Let me pass, Corporal.”

“I'm sorry, ma'am.”

“My name is Trisha Rabb Burnett, and if you don't let me pass, I'll have Chrysler's lawyers after you for every penny you have, so help me god.”

The corporal looked at her. Rabb? This woman was Commander Rabb's Mother?

“Excuse me, Ma'am.” The admiral interrupted. “Did you say your name was—?“

“Trisha Burnett. And you're Admiral…?”

“Cheggwidden, ma'am. Corporal, let her pass.”

Trish walked by the Corporal with her head held high. His eyes followed her widening with every step. That woman was Commander Rabb's mother? She was slim and fair, every step cultured. She had been pleasant, until he told her no. Then she was like an angry marine after a terrorist. The Commander must have inherited more than his looks from his father. The Gunny stepped into the Corporal's view, his expression warning eyes back to sentry position.

“There was a shooting today in the courtroom ma'am, however Commander Rabb wasn't hurt. He was defending a father of twin boys and they were the targets. The man hit one of the boys before his face was obliterated by Harm.”

“Oh that poor father.”

“Harm has taken responsibility for the unhurt child until later.”

Trish nodded her head and peeked in the courtroom. And pulled back as Harm walked out, a boy clutched to his chest.

“Mom! What are you? Oh lunch.”

“Lunch. But I understand we'll have to make it someplace with a playground. Whose your friend?”

“Nathaniel Johnson this is my mom, Mrs. Burnett.”

“Mrs. Burnett indeed. Call me Ms Trish or Mom.” Mac, a step behind Harm, smiled, her hand resting on his back.

“You're prutty, Ms Trish.” Nathaniel sniffled. “What happened to you Commanda Wrabb?”

“I'm not pretty?”

“No, you're handsome, but how come you don't look like your momma?”

Trish held out her arms and the boy made a beeline for them. “You see Nathaniel, Harm's daddy was so handsome that when they made Harm, God decided that they should make Harm just like his dad, handsome and strong and intelligent.”

“That's why Tommy looks like me? Cause I'm soo handsome?”

“Too handsome for words.”

“I wish Tommy could meet you. He'd like you a lot. You're even more fun then Mac.”

“Really. Well Mr. Handsome, where shall we go to eat?” Trish started to walk away, Nathaniel in her arms.

“We need to go get my brother. My daddy's CO shot him.”

“Nathaniel, I don't think Tommy's gonna be able to leave just yet. But we should probably get him some food too. Hospital food is only for sick old people and he's not sick or old.” The last was heard as the two walked through the glass doors.

“That is a woman in need of grandchildren, mate.” The Admiral, Harm and Mac shot Brumby a dirty look as he wandered up to the group.

“Go to hell, Bugme.” Harm said following after his mother. Mac headed to her office and took off after the small group.

The Admiral chuckled. “Bugme. That's a new one.” He sauntered off to his office, leaving an embarrassed Brumby standing in the corridor alone. Brumby looked around and found an amused Tiner and Gunny staring at him.

“What did I say?”

“That was Commander Rabb's mother.” Tiner delighted in telling him.

“Blimey, you'd never guess, they look nothing like each other.”

The Gunny didn't say anything, but his expression said it all. You stepped in it this time, Commander.

@@

Mac came out of the bathroom and climbed into the bed next to Harm. He had his back to her, so she snuggled him, understanding the need to distance himself. She slid her hands underneath the t-shirt he wore, and squeezed him.

“Are you cold?” She asked him. He only shook his head in response. She tugged on his shirt, pulling it over his head. “Then we can loose this.” She pressed a kiss to his back. She lay in the darkness holding him, hoping for him to talk. The only response she got was his shuddered breathing. His hand clasped hers, knotting their fingers. She closed her eyes and relaxed. After a few minutes, of stillness, he reached up and kissed their fingers. Her hand grazed his cheek, feeling the warm chill of tears.

“Harm?”

“Mmmm?”

“When did you know you wanted children?” He shifted a bit, lying on his back; his arm came around her and held on. “I mean, when did you say, that's what I want.”

“When I first saw Luke holding Josh. Luke's hands were huge in comparison, but Josh was the one with the power. Here Luke was cooing at this one year old, exhausted from carrier duty, but he insisted on pointing out his friends to the baby.” Mac was surprised; there was no mention of Annie. “What about you?”

“Harriet's first trimester.” They chuckled.

“I'm surprised, I thought you'd run screaming from that part of having a baby.”

“I'm a marine, I can handle anything.” There was a silence in the apartment; even Trish's breathing seemed muted in the large airy apartment.

“I can't believe he shot Tommy.” Harm's voice softened. “I was standing there, questioning him and he… he just stood up and started shooting at them.”

“We're military officers, Harm. We see people shot everyday. It never gets easier.”

“It wasn't the same Mac.” He sighed pulling her closer, his hand tangled in her hair. “It was like…”

“Seeing your dreams shot?”

“Everything we serve, everything we protect, killed in one shot.”

“Tommy didn't die, Harm.”

“No but something in him did.”

Mac tugged on him, til he was facing her on his side. “Nothing was taken that can't be replaced with a whole lot of love. Trust me.” She wiped at the snail trails of tears down his cheeks.

“I wonder how many people's faith in what we do was shaken by one man with a gun.”

Mac reached up and kissed Harm sweetly, her fingers brushing through his hair. Harm ran his fingers gently down her side, tickling her as she cringed and continuing til he reached the hem of the t-shirt she was wearing. His fingers danced along the edge, taunting her skin with caresses.

“Tell me, Sarah Mackenzie, are you cold?” Harm's hand wandered back up her side, stopping next to her breast. He ran a finger along the underside of one breast.

“No.” Mac shivered. Harm smiled. Mac's shirt joined Harm's on the floor.

“You know what I just realized.” Harm asked a second later, when they were skin to skin, his hand making excruciatingly slow circles along her back.

“What?” She really wasn't interested but hey, if he didn't stop doing that thing with his hands then she didn't mind him making small talk.

“We are alone in this bed. No slobbering tongues to stop us.”

“There better be slobbering tongues here.” Mac said as her hands pushed down Harm's sweat pants.

“No honking cars. No corporal's waiting.” Harm's hands helped her and his pants disappeared.

“Just one mother, in the not so other room.” Mac sighed, his hands wandering over her ribcage, avoiding the most sensitive areas.

“Just one mother whose going home tomorrow.”

“You aren't kicking your mother out.”

“No. Actually she told me today, before you got home. She has a problem at the gallery.” Harm pulled her close to him and tried to calm his breathing. That is, until she started to lick his chest.

She pulled his head to her and kissed Harm, enjoying the feel of his lips pulling at hers, the way his tongue ran across the rim of her lips, the way she was so lost in sensation that she didn't hear the phone.

“I swear I'm going to hurl the phone across the room, if this isn't an emergency.”

Mac felt Harm squish against her as he reached over her for the phone. She ran her hands down his lean sides, loving the ripples of muscle as he barked hello into the phone.

“Sorry, Tiner, what?” He sighed. “Yeah she's here, hold on. By the way how did you reach Mac?” He seemed satisfied with the answer and handed the phone to Mac.

“Alright, thanks, Tiner. Have you called Lt. Roberts?”

“Thanks, Tiner. Bye.” Mac hung up the phone and turned to Harm.

“What's up?”

“Sexual harassment.”

“Call Bud. I can take you both to the airport, no need to drag Harriet out of bed.” Harm got out of bed and pulled on jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt. He wandered into the other room and she heard a whispered conversation.

“Bud? This is Mac. Listen why don't I pick you up, so Harriet doesn't have to get out of bed.” “ Oh he does?” “ Why don't I drive over to your place then.” “ Alright.” She hung up the phone for a second time as Harm came meandering.

“You're still in bed, Marine?” He teased as he got socks out of his drawer and sat down to put them on.

“AJ isn't sleeping so Harriet is up and she thinks a car ride will put him to sleep.” She pulled her t-shirt over her head and proceeded to get out of bed.

“Not to mention put Harriet to sleep, too. So I'm still going.” Harm got up and pulled his garment bag out of the closet and made sure the pockets were empty, then he placed Mac's spare set of shoes, and fresh uniforms in it. “So where are you going?”

“Yuma.”

Harm packed in Mac's sundress that she kept as well as her workout clothes. Mac came out of the bathroom, her body wrapped in a towel.

“Toss me a uniform. And could you make sure to pack pj's for me.”

Harm smiled at her slyly. “What Pj's?”

“Don't make me drop this towel, Flyboy.”

“You're going to be late.”

“That's what I thought, you squids are all talk no action.”

“I'll show you action. Go get dressed.” Harm finished packing her bag, slipping in one of the T-shirts she had stolen from him.

“Thank you.” He turned to see Mac dressed in her uniform, looking like she always did, beautiful. “I could have packed my own bag.”

“Why should you have to when I had the time? Where are your toiletries?”

Mac handed them over and he zipped her bag up, carefully folding it. He put it on his shoulder and motioned for her to go. Turning out the lights he followed her down to the car.

@@

Harm stopped his drill when he heard the shrill whistle of the telephone.

“Rabb.”

“Hey Harm.”

“Mac. What's up?” Harm got up to get something to drink.

“I couldn't sleep. What about you?”

“When have I ever sounded this perky when you wake me up?” He chuckled at her.

“Never.”

“Tommy says hello.”

“How is he?”

“Doing better than his dad. Corporal Johnson is ready to shuck the military and go back to civilian life.”

“I think I understand why.”

“So how's the case going?” Harm took a swig of soda and glanced at the mess he had made of his closet.

“Good. We should be home by Thursday.”

“Harriet must be happy.”

“Yeah, speaking of which, Bud told me that you made sure Harriet got home alright.” Mac started snickering under her breath.

“Yeah by carrying her and baby AJ up two flights of stairs.”

Mac laughed. “Bud appreciated it, Flyboy.” There was a silence on both ends, and Harm pressed the phone closer to his ear so that he could hear her breath.

“Brumby and I have a case.” Harm finally told her.

“Promise me you won't kill him.”

“I don't think I'll have the chance. It's a case of blackmail in Okinawa.”

“Oh, chasing your tail for a while.”

“Yeah with Brumby acting like a flea.” Harm complained.

“When do you leave?”

“Tomorrow morning.”

“Do you know when you'll be back?”

“I don't think it'll take more than a week.”

Mac sighed. Another silence followed. “So what were you doing at 0225, Flyboy?”

“Annoying Jingo with the drill.”

“You were chasing my dog with a drill?”

“No, I was working on the drawers in the closet. Since more of your stuff has migrated over here, I figured I should put the drawers on rollers, maybe add some more of them.”

“So how big of a mess have you made?”

Harm looked at the piles of clothes neatly stacked on the bed and the uniforms hanging on the glass wall to the bathroom. “Let me put it this way, I'm thinking of taking Jingo and running for your apartment.”

Mac laughed. “Are you going to finish before you leave?”

“No. By the way, I talked to the Admiral and he agreed to take Jingo until you get back.”

“What about Caroline?”

“She has a…guest staying with her now.”

“Ohhhh.” Mac yawned.

“You should probably get some sleep, ninja girl.”

“Yeah. I'll talk to you later?”

“Yeah. Night.”

“Night.”

@@

A week and a half. It had taken him and Brumby a week and a half to find out that the damn blackmail was a hoax. He was tired, too many hours spent in a car staking out some poor schmoe's apartment, while Brumby snored next to him. Too many hours without Mac, the time difference had made for short phone calls, every few days. But he was going home now. He could crawl into bed with her and Jingo and know that she was watching his six. He wouldn't have to be on guard because of a double cross. Brumby was a great attorney but he was a snake to achieve his goals.

Harm yawned, his back crunching in the hardback airport seating. Beside him, Brumby was talking to another Australian that he had found while checking in.

“Lt. Commander Harmon Rabb, please pick up the nearest courtesy phone.”

“Damn.” Harm got up and headed over to the white phone. “This is Commander Rabb.”

“One moment Mr. Rabb.”

“Commander.”

Harm straightened up noticeably. “Admiral, what can I do for you?”

“Change your flight, Rabb you're going to Naples. There was a murder on the Naval Base there. I need you to check it out. Mattoni will meet you in Naples with the details and you will be answering to Captain Krennick. I do believe you remember the Captain?”

“Yes Admiral, we worked the Schnook case together before her transfer.”

“I want this over with quickly and so does the SecNav. It is in your career's best interest not to piss him off any more.”

“Yes, Sir. I'll do my best.”

“I expect you to, Commander, that's all.” The phone disconnected in Harm's hand. He hung it up slowly and stretched. Bones popped loudly in his neck and he felt a nerve pinched. Wandering over to Brumby, Harm told him the situation and picked up his briefcase and cover.

Walking over to the attendant at the counter, he said. “I need to change my flight.”

30 minutes later Harm was rapidly moving down the gangplank to the Airplane; he reached it just as they were about to close the hatch.

“Wait!” The flight attendant shot him a dirty look. Stupid American Military. “Thank you.” Harm smiled at her, hoping to at least wipe the disgust off her face. She didn't respond. Harm was shown to his seat: back of the craft, window seat, next to the engine. This was going to be a comfortable flight. The man next to him let one rip. Harm turned back to the window and tried to see the moving runway; all he saw was the silver metal of the airplane. What he would give to have Mac or Bud sitting next to him now, or barring that, a gas mask.

@@

Mac rolled over and punched the pillow, for the thirtieth time. Jingo was giving her dirty looks from her side of the bed. Mac rolled over and climbed out of bed. Maybe she should clean out her closet while insomnia had her. Harm wouldn't be home for a while, the Admiral had informed the staff that Mattoni was to fly out and meet the Commander in Naples.

Poor Harm had to deal with an investigation and Krennick. The whole staff had flinched when the Admiral had mentioned her. Did they all know? Wait, one word and Bud probably spilled the story. Mac started pulling things out of her closet. Nope that can't go, not that either.

@@

The Admiral sighed. Brumby had just reported to him on the hoax, he had looked frazzled and exhausted. Dammit I had to send the Commander on that investigation, he is the best, besides Allison asked for him. She never asked for favors. The Admiral sighed again. “Tiner!”

“Yes, sir?” Tiner stuck his head in.

“Come in and shut the door.”

“Yes, sir.” Tiner shut the door and stood at attention in front of the desk.

“At ease, Tiner.” Tiner relaxed noticeably. “Do you know of any problems between the staff and Captain Krennick?”

“Problems, Sir?”

“Yes, Tiner, problems. Was there any particular reason that my entire staff flinched when I mentioned her name?”

“Not that I know of, Sir.”

“You'd think there was a problem between Mattoni and her, or Rabb.”

“Commander Rabb, Sir?” Tiner squeaked.

“What aren't you telling me, Tiner?” The Admiral sucked in his breath, ready to yell.

“There was scuttlebutt, sir. But nothing else.”

“What was the scuttlebutt, Tiner?”

“Just that there was talk of sexual harassment before she left.”

“Rabb sexual harassed Krennick and he's still alive?” The Admiral chuckled. “Why wasn't it reported Tiner.”

“No, Admiral. Everyone assumed, Captain Krennick was harassing Commander Rabb.” Tiner paused. “It was just a rumor, Sir.”

“Send in Lt. Roberts and Colonel Mackenzie please.”

“Yes, sir.”

The Admiral sighed. “God dammit.” He leaned back, life just got a lot more complicated.

@@

Harm was the last person to exit the plane. His uniform was stained with coffee, which had burn when it hit, but was now just a chilled wetness. Allison Krennick met him at the gate.

“Captain Krennick. Nice to see you again.” Harm saluted her crisply.

“Looks like you're out of uniform, Commander.” Allison's eyes roved over Harm's body. Harm refused to rise to the bait.

“Yes, ma'am, there was an accident with the coffee in flight, ma'am.”

“I hope you came prepared to investigate this murder now, Commander.” They started walking towards the luggage carousel.

“I'll do my best, ma'am.”

“You'd better, Commander. I understand fit reps are coming up.”

“Yes, ma'am.”

“I'd keep that in mind, Commander Rabb.”

“Yes ma'am.” Harm looked at the slowly moving rack. The place was empty, the last passenger having collected his or her suitcases. There was nothing on the luggage rack now. No. No. No. They didn't lose my luggage on a day like today.

“I'm sorry, Mr. Rabb.” The man in an airline suit said to him. “Your luggage unfortunately didn't make the transfer. That happens when you switch planes abruptly.”

“I understand. Can you tell me where it is?” Harm looked over to where Krennick was tapping her foot.

“It arrived on time in Washington. It's still there.”

“Thank you.” Allison walked up to Harm.

“Commander, are we going to waste all day or are you going to start your investigation?”

“I need a clean uniform, Captain.”

“You'll have to wait, Commander.”

“The investigation can wait until after I pick up some clean uniforms.”

“It's Sunday, Commander, you're not going to find anyone open. Now let's go.” Mattoni was waiting out in the car when they reached it.

“Commander Rabb.”

“Hey Mattoni.” Harm slid into the front seat with the driver, everyone looked at his lack of luggage and stained uniform.

@@

“Colonel Mackenzie.”

“Mac, it's me.”

“Harm. How's Italy?”

“I have no idea. Look Mac, can you do me a favor?”

“Sure.”

“My luggage managed to stay on the flight back home. Could you go pick it up for me?”

“If your suitcase is here. What have you been wearing?”

“Yesterday, I spent the entire day in a stained uniform that I had slept in and spent the entire day before in. Today I had a too small uniform, because Mattoni's shorter than I am, and right now, I'm attired in a pair of borrowed shorts and t- shirt. Tomorrow, I had to schedule a meeting in the commissary just so I could pick up something to wear. Krennick is not impressed, although she made a comment about the fit of Mattoni's uniform on me.”

Mac was struggling not to laugh. “I'm sorry, Harm.”

“Right now I'm so tired, I could sleep until next week.”

“Brumby said it was a hard case in Okinawa. Lots of late nights.”

“I'd like to know how he knows that. The man snored through every single stake out.” Harm sighed. “Tell me he's done the report on it and that I don't have to?”

“Sorry. He said that you would be better able to handle the paperwork.”

Harm groaned. “Look I've got to go. You'll go get my luggage?”

“Of course, Harm.” She said goodbye and hung up as Bud stuck his head in the door.

“What did the Commander want?”

“He wanted me to go get his luggage.”

Bud looked at her quizzically. “Excuse me ma'am?”

“His luggage came here, instead of Naples.”

“Ouch.”

Caroline poked her head in the doorway. “Did you guys hear? Commander Rabb's luggage was lost. Can you imagine him in Mattoni's uniform?” Caroline laughed and continued on to tell Brumby.

Mac and Bud shook their heads.

@@

Harm and Mattoni exited the airplane after everyone had left.

“I can't wait to get home. I never thought I'd get tired of pasta.” Mattoni joked to Harm, who was trudging beside him.

“I swear to god, I'm going to hug the first thing that reminds me I'm home. I don't care if it's Ronald MacDonald or the damn sign on the Burger King restaurant.” Harm said, dead serious. Mattoni laughed at Harm, knowing the Commander was fed up with oversea assignments. “I can't believe the Admiral sent us to Italy for that case.”

Mattoni didn't reply, just looked at Harm again. After the fourth questioning Harm had caught the mistake that everyone including the suspect had missed. It had been in front of them the whole time, but only Harm had caught it.

“Daddy!” Mattoni scooped up his little girl and held her close.

“You lost a tooth.”

“Yeah and the tooth Fairy came and traded me money for it. I wanted to pull out more, cause I only have a quarter more to have enough for the Bridget Bear.”

“Wow, only a quarter?” Mattoni's face was inquisitive. Harm watched them with envy, wanting to have a similar homecoming. He settled for accidentally dropping a quarter on the floor.

“Hey Alan. Is that quarter yours?” Harm looked at the father and daughter.

“Nope not mine, but you know what they say, 'finders keepers losers weepers.'” Denisa scrambled down her dad and scooped up the quarter.

“I got it! I got it! Daddy would you hold on to this for me?” Harm smiled and turned towards the rest of Mattoni's family walking up to them.

And there was Mac wearing his Patrick Henry shirt over a pair of Jeans. He dropped his briefcase and cover and enveloped her in a hug. She stiffened, and then relaxed into the embrace.

“Better than Ronald MacDonald's, eh, Rabb?” Mattoni joked.

“Yeah, Mac doesn't smell like burnt grease!” The adults all laughed as Harm released Mac, but not before he whispered in her ear. “I missed you.”

“You know Harm, you smell like alcohol.” Mac told him, her brow wrinkling.

Mattoni laughed loud and long. “Can you believe, Harm finally gets to sleep, after like 2 hours of tossing and turning in the seat and the flight attendant spills a bottle of Vodka all over him. And I don't mean those small bottles, this was the going- to- give- a- drink- to- all- of- Russia kinda bottle.”

Mac looked at Harm, noticing his flinch and the tired lines crisscrossing his face. “Well I guess I should drive you home, so you can shower.”

“I won't argue with you there, Colonel.” Harm joked at her.

“Come on, Flyboy. Let's get you home.”

“Mattoni, Mrs. Mattoni.”

They made it out to the car before Harm stopped in his tracks. “Damn it, the Closet!”

“You just now thought of that?”

Harm threw her a look. “I'll have to clean up before I get to sleep.”

“Who said anything about going to your home, sailor.”

He grunted and closed his eyes, as Mac pulled out of the parking lot and on to the road. His hand snuck across and rested on her thigh.

“I missed you too, Harm.”

@@

Hazy afternoon sunlight was filtering through Mac's windows when Harm leaped up from his dream. He could still hear Krennick's words to him.

“We do good work together, Commander.” Allison had said sliding up next to his seat on the desk.

“Yes, Ma'am.” What else was he suppose to say. No ma'am. I do all the work and you get all the credit, just like what you accused me of doing to Meg.

“I could call in some favors, get you transferred here.” Her gazed roved over his body, not looking at his eyes.

“No, thank you, ma'am. I'm happy at HQ.”

“I can make it not an option Commander.” She purred.

“Permission to speak freely, ma'am.”

“Go ahead, Harm.” This was said as her eyes stayed firmly transfixed in his lap.

“I have options inside and outside the Navy. Don't back me into a corner, or you'll find out you won't like what I do.”

“I wouldn't think of calling sexual harassment, Harm. A brash naval aviator who has had countless lovers. No one would believe that you couldn't handle me.”

“I doubt that my resignation would sit well with Admiral Cheggwidden, so don't bother trying ma'am.”

“We'll see, Commander.” She had walked away then as Lt. Aldridge had approached.

It was a nightmare that had started in reality. He hope to god she wouldn't think anymore of getting him transferred. Harm got out of the bed and pulled on some clothes Mac had left out. Walking in to the living room, he found her bent over several files. He touched her shoulder.

She looked up. “Hey. You didn't sleep long.”

“I didn't have my teddy bear to snuggle with.” He bent down and kissed her cheek, and then moved into the kitchen to grab a soda.

“I don't know about your teddy bear, but I had work to do.”

“Mmmm.” Harm leaned down and wrapped his arms around her, his head buried in her neck. “What are you working on?”

“A sexual harassment complaint that came in over the hotline.”

“What ship?”

“It wasn't ship based. It was a naval installation.”

“Mmmm. How about ditching that for something more interesting?”

Mac closed the file in front of her and put it away in her briefcase. “What did you have in mind?”

“A jog, a movie, anything.” Harm said as he plopped down on the sofa.

“How about that new movie down the street?”

“What new movie?” Harm asked, puzzled. I don't remember any new movie. But then again I have been out of the country for three weeks.

“Come on, Flyboy. It'll be a surprise.”

@@

Harm smiled into her hair as he heard a car swish down the street. A light rain had fallen over DC as he and Mac had sat and watched… He chuckled.

“What are you laughing about, sailor?”

“I can't believe you made me watch a cartoon.”

“It wasn't all animation. Some of it was CGI.”

“CG whatsit?”

“CGI, computer generated images.”

“That makes more sense.” Harm said, his fingers tickling her outer thighs. “Not.”

“You are computer illiterate.”

“I am not. I just don't watch TV or surf the web, so I don't know these things.”

“You don't do anything fun.”

“I do a lot of fun things.”

“Name one.”

“Snuggling you. Teasing you. Thwarting Webb and Krennick, keeping the latest office pools going.” Harm silently counted. “That's four.”

Mac pressed back into him. “I like the first one.”

“I thought you might.” Harm smiled down and blew on her ear.

“Don't start something you're too tired to finish.”

Harm stopped and rolled over. “Okay.”

Mac hit him. “Squid.” She rolled over too and snuggled into his back.

“I missed you, Sarah.” Harm murmured, dreams already snatching at his mind.

Mac pressed a kiss to his back. “I know, lover boy.”

'Sarah' hung in the air.

@@

“You did good, Commander.” The Admiral's gruff voice commended Harm.

“Thank you, Sir.”

The Admiral picked up a file from the small stack next to him. “Your next case will be Lt. Jg Mantillas. An indecent exposure case.”

“Sir?”

The Admiral opened the file and chuckled at what he read. “Commander, I think this is right up your alley.” He handed the file to Harm. Harm opened it and chuckled slightly at the description of the crime.

“I'll get right on it, Sir.” Harm stood straight up, waiting to be dismissed.

“Oh, Commander. You need to give a new statement to the NCIS agent investigating the Johnson shooting.”

“Sir?”

“The file disappeared, Commander.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Dismissed.”

“Aye, sir.” Harm walked slowly out of the Admiral's office and smiled at Tiner, behind the desk.

“Sir?” Tiner asked quietly.

“Yeah, Tiner?”

“I was wondering if you knew how the little boy was doing?”

“You mean Tommy Johnson?” Harm asked.

“Yes, Sir.”

“I'm not sure, I was going to go visit them later.” Harm said.

Tiner brought two bears one with fatigues on and one in a flight suit, wings on his chest. “If you could give these to them. My mom made them.”

Harm took the stuffed animals from Tiner. “These are really nice, Tiner. I'm sure Tommy and Nathaniel will appreciate them. Tell your mother thank you.”

“Will do, Commander.” Tiner smiled at him.

Harm tucked the two stuffed animals under his arm and rifled through the new case file in his hand as he walked across the bullpen. A flashbulb went off and Harm jumped, dropping the file and the bears. Harm looked around startled, another flash went off. Two staff members held up disposable cameras. Harm glared at them, and picked up the file and the bears and walked in his office. He dialed Mac's number.

“Colonel Mackenzie.” Her voice was husky in his ear.

“Mac, do you know why there are disposal cameras all over the office?”

“Harm, haven't you read the memo?”

“Mac, I have three weeks of mail sitting on my desk. I'm lucky I can find my phone.”

Mac chuckled in his ear. “They're for the office party. You take your camera, take pictures, and then we're going to have a slide show at the party.”

“Harriet's idea?”

“I think she collaborated with Tiner on this one.”

“Great. So where's my camera?” Harm sighed.

“It came with the memo.”

Harm shuffled the large stack on his desk when he came up with a package. “Here it is.” Harm pulled out the camera and the instructions. “I thought when the camera went off...”

“I know. I did too.”

“I guess I better clear my desk before I go talk to Lt. Mantillas.”

“So he stuck you with the indecent exposure case, huh?”

“Yeah. Listen tonight, I'm going to visit the Johnson's.”

“Oh Bud and I got them something in Yuma.”

Harm looked up at the stack of toys sitting on his file cabinets. “Bring it on over. You can put it with the others.”

“I'll do that on my lunch. You do realize that we are in neighboring offices?”

“I didn't want everyone to know that I didn't know about the cameras. I've got a reputation to protect.”

“Sure, Flyboy.” They both hung up, not bothering to say goodbye.

@@

Tiner looked at the request he held in his hands. Bitch, he thought. He
looked at the stack of mail to go into the Admiral's office. He couldn't do
that. He couldn't calmly summarize a request for the transfer of Commander
Rabb. Not knowing what Krennick was like. Tiner slid the paper into a folder
and stuck it on the very bottom of the stack. Beneath reports of the
janitorial staff. Something about excessive traffic in the men's restroom.
Maybe he could hold her off til she forgot. He looked up suddenly, Gunny watched him
curiously. Tiner begged him to understand.

“Tiner!” The Admiral's voice vibrated over the intercom.

“Yes, Sir."

"Have you finished with the mail yet?"

"Yes, Sir. Right here."

"Well bring it in. I don't have all day."

"Yes, Sir."

@@

Harm growled incoherently at the mess that still hadn't been delegated off his desk. 3 memos from records about particular files, one had been a last notice before confiscation. Harm couldn't find them for the life of him. Mac knocked on his door.

“Mac have you seen the Emerson file?” Harm didn't look up from his search.

“I think records came and got it. Ensign Langstrom was pretty pissed with you.”

“Thanks.” Harm still hadn't looked at Mac. He picked up the phone. “Yes, My name is Commander Rabb.” He looked at the phone in his hand. “They hung up on me. Dammit, Now I'm going to have to go talk and make nice with them. Fine.” Harm moved the three memos to the have- to- go- clear- up- this- mess pile. It was rather large while the out pile and the trash pile was nearing empty. He looked up at Mac. She hadn't moved from the doorway. Harm's eyes soften and his face relaxed.

Mac stood, holding two hummers signed by the recon team Mac had defended in Yuma. “Where do you need these, Flyboy?”

Harm got up to take the toys from Mac. Their hands met and their bodies relaxed. A woman screeched from just beyond the bullpen. Harm and Mac looked out to see Caroline walking in with a smile on her face. She stopped just inside the door.

“I'm pregnant!”

Harm grabbed his camera and snapped a picture of the stunned Jag staff. They turned to glare at him. Mac started towards Caroline.

“I'm so happy for you, Caroline.”

“I've got to tell Billy!”

The Gunny stared at her. “You haven't told him, yet?”

Caroline shook her head and smiled. “I'm going to be a mother.” Caroline turned and hugged the person just behind her. Harm got a shot of the Admiral surprised as hell as Caroline Imes squeezed him, not caring about protocol.

The Gunny snapped a shot of Harriet hugging Bud, a smile of contentment on her face, his adoring. No one noticed that Harm retreated to his office, his door closing.

@@
Mac opened her door to Harriet and invited her in. "Thank you ma'am, for inviting me. I hardly ever get out anymore.” Harriet said. Harriet walked over to Caroline. "Congratulations, Ma'am."
"Thank you, Harriet.” Caroline was all smiles.
"So Caroline, How did "Billy" take it?” Mac asked as she brought out cookies and the jug of milk.
"He was ecstatic. He almost didn't let me come tonight."
Mac and Harriet laughed.
"I've got to pee. Where's your bathroom.” Caroline asked.
"Get use to it ma'am. It gets worse before it get better."
"Harriet, call me Caroline."
"Before we bond too much, the bathroom's just through the door there.” Mac pointed out. Caroline disappeared. A few minutes later Caroline squealed for Harriet. Both women jumped up, terrified of what they would find in the bathroom. Caroline stood looking at Harm's side of the medicine cabinet.
"I told you they were sleeping together.” Caroline turned to Harriet.
"Guys...” Mac tried to calm down their hormones.
"Ma'am, tell me its just sex.” Harriet begged.
Mac's jaw fell. "Harriet!"
"It's just that we have a bet."
"Harriet! You're not suppose to tell her that."
"What am I suppose to tell her, Caroline."
"You have a bet? About what?"
"Well Tiner and Bud said you and Commander Rabb weren't sleeping together. And I said that you were. But Mr. Webb..."
"Clayton Webb?” Mac asked.
"Yes, Ma'am.” Harriet took a breath. "Well he asked us to define the terms. He and the Gunny..."
"You mean the Gunny put money down too?” Caroline asked incredulously.
"Yes, ma'am. Anyway he and the Gunny said you were just sleeping together, but we.” Harriet pointed at Caroline and herself. "Didn't think you'd just sleep together. So we said it was sex. It is just sex right, ma'am."
"So what's he like in bed.” Caroline grinned.
"He's a snuggler."
"So's Bud."
"Soooo?” Caroline asked a gleam in her eye.
"I hate to disappoint you guys, but Webb and the Gunny win the bet."
"Shit.” Caroline looked disappointed. "You know, Mac, you've got to teach that boy how to..."
"He knows how, Caroline? We just haven't...” Mac stated a blush rising up her cheeks. "So how about the movie?"
"What did you get again?"
"I felt like a chick flick. How does Goldeneye sound?"
"Ohhh PPPPIIERRCE BROSSSSSSNANNNN.” Harriet drooled. Mac and Caroline laughed at her. "What he's soo handsome."
"I prefer Flyboys. If I wanted a spook, I'd go corner Webb.” Caroline said.
"So Billy's a Flyboy."
"I'm not saying anymore."
"We'll get it out of you eventually, ma'am.” Harriet said.
"Not tonight. Tonight is for fast cars and faster women.” Caroline smiled wickedly.
Harriet led the way back into the living room. "Let's go ladies, we have gorgeous men to watch."
"I love movies."
@@
“Okay Guys! This one is for the Jag staff. Can you say Ninja Turtles?” Harm stooped low to get the shot of the two little boys with all their toys. The Gunny had gone with Harm, and now smiled indulgently at them.

“What are Ninja Turtles?”

“Uh, Gunny? What's the equivalent?”

“I believe, sir, you mean Pokemon.”

“You mean like that ugly Pikachu character?” Harm asked incredulously.

“Pikachu is the bomb!” Tommy screamed from playing with one of the hummers.

“Bomb! Where? Drop to the floors, Marines. Duck! Take cover!” Harm made scrabbling motions, ducking to the ground. The boys started laughing. Harm managed to get both the boys and the two marines in the shot. The Gunny's hand rested on the Corporal's shoulder, a look of understanding in his eyes.

“Commanda Wrabb! We weren't ready!” Nathaniel protested.

“Too bad!” Harm smiled at their dirty looks.

This is what I want. Harm thought. Harriet and Bud, Caroline, they're all younger then me. A little bit later, Harm and the Gunny left.

Harm walked into his dark and deserted apartment. Mac was sleeping at her home tonight. Harm looked at the mess on his bed. He bypassed the bedroom and sat down at his computer. When he was done, he tucked the piece of paper into his briefcase. Tomorrow it would go into his pocket, a contingency plan.

Harm slowly cleared his bed of clothing. He settled into the cold empty bed. “Goodnight, Jingo. Goodnight, Mac.” No one answered his lonely call. Yes things were back to normal, but it felt more like he was suspended over a cliff, waiting for gravity to take him to hell. With my recent luck, hell will be full of Pepto Bismol. God, I hate the pink stuff.

---

Some Dreams Must End

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