Carter X Oneill - Tumblr Posts

I do not own SG-1. That said, please note that some rather iconic scenes and dialogue from the end of season 8 and the beginning of season 9 taken directly from the show are depicted in this story. I don’t own those either. -spnae AKA RavenLove12

Chapter 1

Jack watched as Sam ran back towards her car parked in his driveway, she was clearly upset. Either about finding him with another woman, or because of the phone call she had just received. He wasn’t entirely sure, probably both, yeah, both. Whatever had happened to Jacob was obviously serious if they had called her on her day off. The whole situation had been awkward as hell. He wished he would have handled it better. Suddenly he felt a surge of desire to just drop everything and go with her. Instead he just turned to the pretty woman beside him, trying to assess the situation he found himself in. She didn’t deserve to be in the middle of all this; whatever this was.

“Kerry, I huh, I should probably-”

“Do you need to go?” she asked calmly. It was one of the things that had attracted him to her, she was a very calm, level headed sort of person, and just happened to look fantastic in parado.

He sighed and shook his head putting down his beer “Kerry, I’m sorry….”

“Ok Jack, slow down a second. We don’t even know what happened yet. I know she’s your friend, I get that. Look, lunch is already overdone, why don’t we at least eat and then you can head over to the SGC after?”

He fiddled with the barbecue fork with the charred meat still stuck to the end of it. It really didn’t look all that appetizing anymore and yet, he couldn’t just run off and leave Kerry there all alone. “Yeah, I guess you’re right” he agreed even though the voice inside his head was screaming at him to go after Sam.

As they attempted to salvage the rest of their lunch date, Jack’s mind kept drifting to Sam. Specifically what she had said, what she hadn’t said, and what he hoped she would. All these years he’d dreamed she would come to him and make the first move and she comes now? Her timing was really awful! he thought.

“Earth to Jack!” Jack looked up to see Kerry looking at him expectantly.

“Humm?”

“Are you alright?”

“Oh yeah, sure I’m fine” he sat up straighter in his seat and took half a swig of beer.

“Liar” her tone was light but she smiled sadly, “You really do need to go huh?”

“I’m really sorry Kerry but, Carter…Eh, Jacob is a friend too.”

Kerry nodded, her eyes held just a little too much understanding. Damn he hated to do this to her. He swallowed “Besides that, it’s my command, I really should know what’s going on.” He stood up and started clearing the table.

“Jack, if it’s that important then let me clean up. I have to stop by the SGC to finish up some paperwork I’ve been putting off anyway. I’ll lock up here and check in with you sometime this evening before I head home for the night, alright?”

Jack gave her a curt nod “Thanks Kerry, I appreciate it.'' Then a quick peck on the cheek that was much different from the passion filled kisses and simi-long goodbyes they had shared over the last few weeks. Or even this afternoon for that matter. Yes, something was definitely wrong, and not just with Carter’s dad.

After checking in and making himself presentable, Jack made his way to the infirmary where he knew he would find Sam and her dad. He had already asked the attending Doctor for a status update on Jacob’s condition so as he would not be blindsided when he entered the room. The news had made his stomach turn.

The door was open when he got there. Jacob was resting quietly, sound asleep. While Sam slowly paced the floor. Unsurprisingly she was still dressed in the same outfit she had been wearing when she had come over to his house. She had always looked nice in blue, he thought. God, he had been such an ass. “State of affairs”? Really Jack? If only Kerry hadn’t been there, then maybe they could have had a real conversation, He thought to himself. Kerry was great, sexy, smart, professional, great sense of humor, and that smile. Yet as much as he had enjoyed Kerry’s company he would gladly let her go. Just so long as he knew for sure that Sam wanted him as much as he wanted her and that there was even a slight hope they could ever actually be together.

He had never really thought much of Pete but figured, “Hey, if Mr. Potato-Head makes her happy then so be it” and had tried to move on with his life. He tried to act like he was happy for her. After all, he only ever wanted her to be happy. Even he thought of her being happy with someone else was slowly turning him into a bitter old man but it was a small price to pay for her happiness. The truth was that he had never been able to justify taking any of the actions necessary for them to be together. He couldn’t ask her to leave the Air Force, that not only would kill her career but very possibly everyone else on earth. He hated the idea of her ever resenting him if he allowed that to happen.

The last time he had talked to Hammond about retirement he had made it clear that it was out of the question. He had screwed up in reverse, he had somehow made himself indispensable. And so he sat, heart locked in a box trying to pretend it wasn’t. Miserable without her.

Then again, who said he had to be miserable anyway? It was only after Sam had told him she actually accepted Pete’s proposal that he had even thought about dating. It was only fair that he should try finding a little happiness for himself wasn’t it? Damn, he was an idiot then too wasn’t he? She had practically begged him to give her a reason to tell Pete “no” and he just stood there with his foot in his mouth. Always the good little soldier, Jack. Where the hell had that got him? Command of the SGC and not court martialed, that’s what; but he sure as hell hadn’t got the girl. What was the point of playing the hero all the time if he couldn’t even get the girl? The girl that had pulled his ass out of the fire more times than he could count and had done a pretty spectacular job of playing hero herself on more than a few occasions. Damn he loved her for that.

Sam had a list of qualities he loved that could fill a book. The tiny masochistic part of him even loved when she would drive him crazy with her tekno-bable.

He watched as that same amazing woman slowly paced the floor, head down, shoulders drooping uncharacteristically. Pain shot through him seeing the woman he admired so much looking so- forlorn.

Jack knocked lightly on the doorframe “Hey there, Carter, mind if I come in?” his voice had been soft but he would have thought a bomb had gone off by Sam’s reaction. Her head whipped up and she had a look of pure shock mixed with a myriad of other emotions Jack wasn’t entirely certain he was qualified to decipher. “Sir! What are you doing here?”

He might have laughed if the situation hadn’t been so serious “Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you” he said gently as he entered the room “I just wanted to check in and see how your dad was doing. That’s ok, isn't it, Colonel?” He asked, raising his eyebrows.

“I, eh, yeah, yes General, of course it is. It’s just, I thought, I just didn’t expect you to leave…”

He really didn’t want her to finish that sentence “How’s he doing Carter?” he cut her off as he walked over to sit next to Jacob’s bed.

Sam closed her eyes and took a breath to collect herself. “Selmak is dying, Dad says he’s going to die with him.”

Jack nodded, that much he had already heard from the Doctor “Isn’t there anything they can do? The Tok’ra maybe?”

Sam shook her head, “I’m not sure, Sir. I’ve been running through possible solutions in my head, but I haven't had a chance to talk to him about them. I was going to bring it up when he woke up but the wait is killing me.” Jack stepped up to her as he laid a hand on her shoulder and pulled her close to him. Close but not too close, he was remembering the loss of his own father. That had been a difficult time but at least Sara had been with him and that had made all the difference in the world.

“Sam” he murmured and regretted using her name when he heard the breath catch in her throat. Distance, O’Neill, distance.

“Carter” he corrected himself and felt her relax a bit “Look, why don’t you go. Change out of your civvies, get something to eat, get a coffee, stretch your legs, whatever you need to do. I want you to take a break. I’ll stay with him, he won't be alone and I’ll call for you at the first sign of trouble. Ok?”

Sam started to protest, shaking her head “Carter, please. I’m asking you as your friend, to take a break. I’d rather not have to make it an order as your CO”.

“Understood” she took her father’s hand patting it gently, “I’ll be back, Daddy” she murmured.

She couldn’t have been gone more than three minutes before Jacob started to stir “Sam?” he rasped.

“Hey there Jake”

“Jack? Where’s Sam?”

“I sent her out for some fresh air and a bite to eat.”

He shook his head, “She wont you know.”

“Yeah, but hopefully she’ll at least try. How are you feeling?”

“Selmak and I are dying Jack, how do you think I’m feeling?”

“For what it’s worth-”

“Don’t go getting all mushy on me now Jack”

“Hey, no mush, I’m being honest. You’ve been a good friend and ally. I consider it an honor and a privilege to work with you and the amazing woman you fathered. See no mush.”

Jacob eyed him critically “Damn, I really am dying aren't I? We both know that for you that’s pretty damn mushy” he choked out a laugh that turned into a cough.

Jack grabbed for the glass of water sitting nearby and helped Jacob into a more comfortable position to drink.

“Come on now, Sam will kill me if you die on my watch, you wouldn’t want a double funeral now would you?” he teased.

“Has anyone ever told you that your bedside manner stinks?” It was Jack’s turn to laugh.

Jacob turned serious again “Jack, you mind if I ask you something?”

“Eh sure, I guess” he said sitting back onto the stool next to the bed.

“When are you--” He stopped himself “What do you think about this ‘Pete’ guy?”

Shit, “I don’t really know him. He seems like a decent guy”.

“Oh cut the crap Jack, I’m dying here.”

“You really want my honest opinion?”

“Please”

“And you won't say anything to Sam?”

“Like we never had this conversation”

Jack took a deep breath and nodded once “He’s a nice guy, but...”

“But?”

“Damn it Jake, the guy is a potato, and I know I’m out of line here but, Sam…”

“Sam what?” Jacob tested.

“Well you know, she’s your daughter. If he’s a potato then, then Sam is a freaking diamond. I just mean…”

“I agree”

“I, you what?”

“I agree”

“You do?”

“Well of course she’s precious to me she’s my little girl. I just met Pete and I already think of him as ‘Spud-nik’''

“Mr. Potato-Head”

Jacob nearly choked on another laugh, “Ow Jack, it hurts to laugh”

“I’m sorry” he grinned sadly.

Both men sat in silence for a number of seconds before Jacob broke the quiet, “I just want my little girl to be happy, Jack. Is that too much to ask?”

“No. But it’s her choice, whether it’s the right one or not, it’s her life, her choice. Not yours and sure as hell not mine” he spat out the last words like poison, suddenly wishing he had a beer, or maybe something a little stronger than a beer.

Jacob set Jack with one of his patinated sole-piercing gazes “I think you and I both know that it isn’t quite as simple as that, Jack”.

“I, what are you talking about?” his throat was suddenly dry.

“Do you really think Sam would chose a potato if she thought she could have the blue Jell-o instead?”

He was not having this conversation “I really shouldn’t have said anything. And you know, potatoes aren’t that bad depending on how they are cooked. I mean, sometimes french fries can really hit the spot”.

“Look, if you want to be flippant and pretend you don’t know what I’m talking about, fine. All I know is it seems to me like Sam is having some serious doubts about good ol’ Spud-nik and I’ve got a pretty good hunch that you have something to do with it”

“What? Me? I… no, Jake, come on… you know that I, that Carter and I-”

“Are complete professionals and you would never do anything to jeopardize either one of your careers, yes I know. Which makes you good as gold in my book. But, I also know that you can’t go on living your lives lying to yourselves”

“Sure you can if the alternative is court martial or worse”

He shook his head and sighed “I know my girl. She loves you Jack, and from what Fraya has said, you love her too. Or at least you did a few years ago, personally I think you still do.”

“Filthy, slimy, good for nothing… damn it! She had no right to say anything to anyone about that!”

“Calm down Jack, it wasn’t like it was water cooler gossip. She just said something a few years ago about you turning her down. Knowing you as I do, that didn’t surprise me. Then during an unrelated conversation, she mentioned the difficulty in determining zatark test results. She gave an example of two “test subjects” that sounded an awful lot like you and Sam. I sort of put things together from there. So don’t be so hard on the girl.”

Jack was still pissed, but he really couldn’t stay mad when Jacob had simply done the math. “So how long have you known?” He asked quietly.

“Heck I first suspected the day I met you.”

“What?”

“I kinda thought there was potential for something there anyway” he shrugged a shoulder weakly. “Look Jack, I wasn’t going to mention it but maybe I should…”

He paused long enough to wonder if he was actually going to continue. “Mention what, exactly?”

“Just before I collapsed I had been on the phone with George. He and I go way back you know. He’s talking about retirement. In fact he was getting ready for a meeting to discuss his replacement as we were talking. He’s already made his mind up on who he wants to replace him in Washington but wanted my take on who might be a good replacement for you” He paused again taking a shaky breath “Now I’ve been out of the loop in Washington for quite a while of course but I gave him a couple names of some good men I think might be up to the job. He knows the one guy I mentioned, so I’m hoping they will go with him. He’s a bit of a bird nut but he’s a good guy. The SGC would be in good hands with him. Washington could open up a number of new doors for you, you know.”

Jack took a moment to let his words sink in. He would no longer be Sam’s CO for starters, but Technically he would still be in the same chain of command. But Washington? The very thought made his head hurt. “Washington?” he asked numbly.

“I know it doesn’t fix everything but at least give it some consideration, alright?” Jacob rested his head back on his pillow clearly exhausted from the lengthy conversation. “Whatever you decide, please just make sure she knows how you feel. She deserves to know what her options are before she makes a final decision. I just want what’s best for my girl.”

“Even if that means blue Jell-o?”

“Especially the blue Jell-o, she’s always loved that stuff. Just promise me you’ll tell her how you feel.”

Jack looked down at his hands and backup at Jacob “Jake, I don’t think I can do that to her. I can’t give her the life she deserves.”

“Just tell my girl how you feel. She doesn't deserve to settle for anything she doesn’t really want and we both know that’s what she’s doing. As far as your careers go, you two have been in this long enough. It’s time to work out a solution. That’s what you two do best isn’t it?”

“Yeah well I can’t really use C4 and duct tape to fix this mess now can I?”

“Is that really how you see yourself Jack?” That gave him pause.

“I don’t deserve her Jake”

“No one does” He rasped “But if there is a man alive that has proven he deserves a chance to make her happy, it’s you.”

“Alright, fine, I’ll talk to her.”

“Just tell her” Jacob was growing weak.

“Rest, Jacob. Sam will be back soon. I told her I’d stay with you until she got back. I’ll think about what you said alright? I will talk to her.”

Jacob nodded weakly, “You’re a good man Jack. Thank you. I mean it. A diamond deserves to be set in gold.” With that Jacob closed his eyes and soon fell back asleep.

Jack sat there until Sam returned. She was wearing BDU pants, a black shirt and carrying two cups of hot coffee. She handed one of the cups to him without meeting his eyes. “Everything ok while I was gone, Sir?”

“Just fine, Carter” he took a sip of the hot coffee, just the way he liked it.

“Did he wake up at all?”

“Ehh, yeah, for a bit. He’s only been sleeping for about ten minutes or so now”

Sam nodded. She looked tired and yet there was a determination in the set of her jaw. “Sir” she started “About earlier, I mean, before-”

“Not now, Carter” he cut her off and his voice came out more forceful than he had meant it to.

She swallowed once and stood up a little straighter, “Of course, Sir. I’m sorry, I was out of line.”

He took and breath and tried to slow his heart “Carter”

“You don’t have to say anything, Sir. I understand completely, I shouldn’t have brought it up, I’m sorry.”

“Carter! Would you knock it off?” For the first time she looked him in the eye. “First of all, Samantha,” his voice was very low, but not quite a whisper, “Yes I do. Secondly, No, you really, really don’t. And third, yes you most certainly should have. In fact I’d go as far as to say that it’s about damn time ya did. We need to have a very long talk indeed, but for crying out loud, Carter! Not Here, Not Now!” he said, gesturing to the room in general and then to the dying man laying in the bed next to them. Jack hadn’t raised his voice an octave.

Sam looked between the two men for a moment then went to take her father’s hand in her own, turning with her back towards Jack. She didn’t look back to him when she uttered “Yes, of course, Sir”.

It was barely a whisper but Jack heard her loud and clear. He took an uncertain step towards her putting his hands gently on her shoulders leaning into her slightly but still maintaining distance “We will talk, Carter. I promise we will, but for now, lets just get through this. One step at a time like we always do, alright?” With that he released her shoulders and made his way back to his office.

He sat at his desk for what felt like hours. Considering that Walter had already been in a couple of times to let him know members of the Tok’ra were coming to say their farewells to Jacob and Selmak he figured it probably had been at least that long. He really had tried to get some work done but it was a lost cause. Between the Tok’ra coming and going and his mind drifting back and forth between Carter and her dad, Kerry and Pete, retirement and Washington... Damn he really didn’t need all of this right now. He had enough on his plate already with the paperwork strewn all over his desk and Daniel still missing. He really didn’t have time to be thinking about his love life. And yet here he was.

Contemplating the woman he’d been afraid to love for the past eight years. Eight years? Had it really been that long? And Kerry, the woman whom he had allowed to partially fill the void. They hadn’t really been dating that long, only a couple of weeks but things had been good. Really good in fact. They had taken things slow but had just been getting to the good stuff. He suddenly felt a pang of guilt. Like he had somehow been unfaithful to Sam, which was ridiculous. If anything he should feel guilty for even thinking about Sam when he was still with Kerry. He liked her a lot. He made him feel something he hadn’t felt in years. Partly because he could actually act on his desires with her, the way he couldn’t with Sam. Even so, she was nothing compared to the few fantasies of one Samantha Carter he’d allowed himself to indulge in over the last few years. Granted at this point he wasn’t sure if the real Samantha Carter herself would compare to the fantasies either.

That was one of the many reasons he had never let things get any further. Fear. When it came to a mission or protecting someone he cared for he’d risk bodily harm any day. But his heart was another story altogether. He hadn’t always been like that, just after Charlie, after Sara. But Sam, she had often left him wondering if he could find love again.

Then there was Mr.Potato-Head. And there was what Jacob had said about choosing between a potato and blue Jell-o. After thinking about it he could vividly remember seeing Sam with the bright blue stuff on several occasions and remembered her saying something about how much she loved it. Damn Jacob and his insightfulness.

He knew they would have to talk, he had meant it when he said they would. He just didn’t know what the hell he was going to say to her. He also needed to talk to Kerry. Hell what was he going to say to her? “Sorry Kerry, but this woman I’ve been in love with for years is having second thoughts about her upcoming wedding and she MIGHT be interested in trying to pursue a relationship with me if we can figure out a way around regulations.” Oh yeah, sure, that would go over really well. He really sucked at this sort of thing.

Just then there was a soft knock at his door and none other than Kerry sidled in wearing a top he felt sure she picked out just for him. He pretended not to notice and was more than a little surprised when the first thing out of her mouth was to inquire after Sam’s dad. Then she closed the door.

As much as he liked her he knew she was right, he wasn’t about to fight her. Especially since she was doing his dirty work for him. He simply let her have her say, responding appropriately to move things along. It wasn’t fair to her, she really deserved someone who could freely give his heart to her, today had proven to both of them that he couldn’t be that man for her. What had surprised him was her calm when she asked him if regulations were really all that lay between him and Sam. Her advice of course had been to retire.

It wasn’t a bad idea of course but he just wasn’t sure if he was ready for that yet. Washington didn’t seem much better. Maybe after he had a chance to talk to Carter he could better make a decision. Heck, officially, he hadn’t even known about Hammond wanting to retire, yet alone been offered his position. There was still the possibility that Washington wasn’t really an option. The Joint Chiefs could just as easily appoint someone else and then retirement would be his only option if he wanted to be with Sam. Retirement might not be so bad. Perhaps this would be easier than he could have hoped for.

Read it here or follow the link to AO3 —spnae AKA RavenLove12

Chapter 2

Jack sat up to looked at his watch, it was almost 0400. He had tried to lay down in one of the empty bunkrooms but found sleep impossible. Rather than going home he had decided to stay on base in order to handle the steady stream of Tok’ra coming in every few hours. It amazed Jack how when the SGC needed help they were lucky if they could get it within a week if not more, yet for Jacob/Selmak at least 20 of their closest friends had dropped everything on short notice to be there. Jack tried his best to look at it as a sign of respect for Jacob/Selmak but there was still a part of him that was annoyed by the way they seemed to prioritize. He had been assured that the final small group of visitors had just come through the gate about half an hour ago to pay their last respects.

The doctor overseeing Jacob had informed him that he expected Jacob would probably pass sometime early that morning and he didn’t want Carter to be alone when it happened. Therefore he was determined to stay close. It had already been a few hours since he had that conversation with the doctor and at least twenty minutes since he last had checked on Sam. So much for trying to catch a nap.

He had checked in with her a couple of times, not really saying anything at all, sometimes not even making his presence known. He didn’t really know what he should do but he knew he couldn’t leave her alone like this. The truth was that there really wasn’t anything he could do. Just be there for her and he couldn’t even do that the way he wanted to. He wanted to hold her, kiss her and tell her she wasn’t alone, that he loved her and they could get through anything together. This was ridiculous. He got up to go look for Sam.

She was in the observation room hunched over with her hands clenched in front of her face watching her father and the other Tok’ra in the room below. He stood in the doorway unnoticed watching her for several minutes before entering. Even as dejected as she looked he couldn’t help but admire her strength, her grace and even her beauty in such a situation. All the same, he hated seeing her like this. He entered the room to sit down next to her. Listening to her talk about how lucky she was to have gotten the last four years with her father. How grateful she was to Selmak for allowing her the opportunity to get to know her father in a way she never thought she could. It was both beautiful and heartbreaking to hear her talk like that. For as “fine” as she said she was he knew she was hurting, how could she not be?

He couldn’t stand it any more, he pulled her close to him, as close as their chairs could permit, and allowing her to take his hand. This was where he belonged, by her side. So when she thanked him for simply being there there was no question in his mind about where else he would be, he would always choose her. All he could think in that moment was how much he loved her but couldn’t say it, so instead he just said “Always” and hoped she would understand what he really meant. That he loved her with every fiber of his being.

Merely seconds later, Carter had been called to her father’s side. Jack sat alone in the observation room watching the woman he loved say goodby to her father; a man Jack both liked and respected. Even if they hadn’t always seen eye to eye. At least where Sam’s happiness was concerned they could agree, and he was determined he was going to let her know exactly how he felt.

She stayed with him for quite some time after he took his final breath. She probably would have stayed longer had the attending nurse not gently insisted on her leaving so they could prepare the body for a Tok’ra ceremony to bid farewell. It had been his final wish to be able to honor both himself and Selmak so that there would essentially be two “funerals”. The first would be carried out by the Tok’ra immediately following death. The second would be a proper military funeral for Jacob’s family and friends on earth where his body would be cremated for obvious reasons.

Sam made her way into the hall rubbing her arms slightly as though she were trying to shake off a cold breeze. Jack was waiting for her. The moment she was close enough, he pulled her into his arms holding her as tight as he dared. She began to cry, shaking almost imperceptibly, he tightened his hold on her. Jack tried to stand as straight as he could looking at a spot on the wall across from him, he couldn’t show any more emotion than absolutely necessary at this time. There were too many people and cameras watching. He shouldn’t even be holding her but at least he could explain it away easily enough. They stood that way for several moments before she was able to collect herself and look up at him. Her voice thick “I’m sorry, Sir” she said as she took a step back where she would be at a safe distance.

“Don’t be Carter, that’s what I’m here for” he resisted the urge to brush a stray hair out of her eyes with his thumb. Even bloodshot from crying and exhausted she was still beautiful.

“Come on Carter. You can rest in one of the guest rooms until everything is settled” She nodded weakly. He led the way, guiding her gently. At this hour he wasn’t worried so much about being seen by many people in the halls, however he did keep his distance for the benefit of the security cameras. By the time they had reached the room Sam had recovered a bit.

“Sir, you didn’t have to go through all this trouble.”

“Nonsense, Carter. It really isn’t as gallant as it seems, the rooms are already made up and ready to go. I just commandeered a couple of the empty ones. You haven't slept that I know of and from my understanding this Tok’ra thing is a Tok’ra only affair. Seems a little odd they won’t let you attend, if you ask me, but I figure it gives you some time to try and get some much needed rest” he said as he opened the door. It was a standard SGC guest room with a bed, tv, desk and a couple of reasonably comfortable chairs in a sitting area with a small table. It sure wasn’t fancy but it would do.

“Now young lady, get some rest” He made to leave but she stopped him.

“Sir, about that talk.”

“Carter, please, get some rest. I’m not going anywhere. In fact if you need me I’ll be across the hall trying to get a little shuteye myself.”

“I was just going to say that I’ve got a few things to take care of later. For the— for the funeral and I was wondering if you would be willing to come with me, I don't think I want to go alone.”

“I’ve had Walter on making all the arrangements, Carter. I’m not sure what else you really have left to do.”

“I know Sir, and thank you. He stopped in to talk with me earlier. You have no idea how much it means to me Sir. Everyone here has been so great. I just have a few things of my dad’s I’ve kept for him at my house after he sold his place. His dress uniform is there for one, a few photos I’d like to have set out, that sort of thing”

“Understood, Carter. No, I don’t mind.”

“Thank you Sir” she paused for a moment “I needed to call Mark.”

“Phone is on the desk. It’s been patched through so you can call your family”

“Thank you Sir” she hesitated a moment “Sir, if you come with me later, do you think maybe we can talk then?”

“Only if you’re up to it Carter, I’m in no rush, I’ll wait as long as you need”.

“Understood, Sir, but with all due respect I think I’d rather discuss it sooner rather than later.”

“As you wish” he nodded wondering if she’d get the movie reference. Her smile told him she did. “Alright, that’s enough of that, time for bed, I mean it this time, Carter. Sleep!”

Jack woke for the second time in what felt like as many hours, this time to a quiet knocking at his door. “Sir?”

He let out a disgruntled huff and looked at his watch- 0830. He’d probably been asleep for about three hours if he had been lucky.

“What is it Carter?” He asked opening the door with a yawn.

“I’m sorry to disturb you General. It’s just, it’s nothing, Sir”

“Carter?” He groused.

“I couldn’t sleep Sir”

“Did you even try?”

She flushed slightly “Yes, Sir I did. I’m sorry. The talk with my brother was kinda rough. I shouldn’t have woke you up.”

“S’alright Carter, what do you need?” He yawned.

“Honestly Sir, I… I think I’d just like to get out of here for a while if that’s alright with you.”

“Fine by me, I don’t have anything scheduled until late this afternoon. Paperwork can wait, let’s go. Breakfast, my treat. If we can’t sleep then at least we can eat, I’m hungry. Then we can go collect whatever personal items you need for the funeral,” He was already halfway down the hall when he realized she was still standing by the door. “You coming Carter?”

They emerged in the parking area several minutes later dressed in civilian clothes. Sam made a beeline for her little car before she realized Jack was moving towards his truck parked two spaces over. “Oh huhh, yours or mine, Sir?”

He felt his eyebrows raising automatically “Excuse me?”

Her cheeks burned “I, I’m sorry, Sir! General, that came out wrong. I just meant- I didn’t mean-“

“No offense Carter but as sweet of a ride as you have there, I’m not sure if my knees would survive the trip. Perhaps driving separately would be best.

A few minutes later they were pulling into a little diner Jack liked to frequent when returning from missions or long nights at the SGC. He’d often brought his team to this spot in the past, especially Teal’c and Daniel, Sam occasionally came along but always with at least one of the other two. This was the first time he had been out alone with Sam.

If anyone had anything to say about it he would just explain that he was looking after the welfare of his 2IC after the death of her father. Surely there wasn’t anything unseemly about that. He would have to be careful though. She was in a vulnerable state, he was sure of that despite her reassurance that she was “fine”. He wouldn’t stand for any accusations that could possibly damage either of their reputations.

“Know what you want, Carter?” That was a loaded question. She turned over the little menu “Not sure if I’m all that hungry Sir.”

“I’m having pancakes” he announced as he took a sip of his coffee “Ahh, just what I needed.” He said trying to lighten the mood a bit.

“Maybe I’ll just have some toast.”

He raised his eyebrows “Your CO is offering you breakfast and you are going to order toast?”

“I’m I having breakfast with my CO, Sir?”

“Did you really want to have this talk right now? I don’t mind waiting.”

“Honestly? I think I’m tired of waiting. I’m ready for a new chapter in my life and I just don’t know if Pete should be in it. I need to know if you want more out of… please tell me I’m not making a fool out of myself. Are you even still interested?”

Just then the waitress came up to get their orders. Jack ordered the pancakes “Carter?”

Looking Jack in the eyes “Pancakes sound great, make that two please” Jack smiled thinly.

“You got it Sugar!” the waitress replied and walked away.

“Are you sure you want to talk about this here?”

“You picked the place Sir, I just followed you”

“Yeah, no I know. It’s just… there is so much,” he took a breath and leaned in a little closer. “Sam, I’m really going to need you to take the lead on this. If it’s going where I think it’s going, I need you to tell me exactly what you want from me here.”

“Sir…”

“Why don’t you just start with what you wanted to tell me yesterday, Are you still having second thoughts about the wedding?”

“That would be putting it mildly, Sir”

“And for God's sake, stop calling me ‘Sir’ , you're making me nervous. If we’re doing this… God, Sam I need to know what the heck this is. What do you want? If this is just pre-wedding jitters or if it has something to do with your dad, or if you just want to get the big ‘What-If’ out of your system then let’s just end it here.”

Jack O’Neill, nervous? Hell, forget nervous he sounded downright terrified. The thought that this was anything but a major life changing decision hadn’t even crossed her mind. Sam let out a breath and leaned across the table slightly lowering her voice “You’re afraid that I am going to change my mind?”

“What do you want?”

“Same thing I’ve always wanted.”

“The house with a picket fence and a dog in the backyard? Because I can’t give you that, Sam. I don’t even know what I CAN give you. Heck I don’t even know if we’re going to be stationed in the same state in the next three months.”

“What are you talking about?”

“It’s nothing”

“Jack?”

“Nothing official, but I might be getting called to Washington. The Pentagon.”

“Jack, I don’t care, I want you. Whatever crazy messed up circumstances there might be, I want you. I want to know that when I get back from a mission that you are the one waiting for me. Even if you’re waiting for me in Washington. Even if we only get together a few times a year. I don’t care, Jack. I just want you.”

He took a deep breath “Why, Sam? Why me? You deserve so much better than me.”

“Why?” She could feel tears stinging the back of her eyes “Why? Because I love you, that’s why. Because I’ve realized that there is absolutely no one else I want to spend my life with. Don’t you think I should be the one to decide what I deserve? I don’t want ‘better than you’, I just want you.”

“So what? We’re just going to sneak around in our off time? You’re just going to be my dirty little secret? What kind of a relationship are we talking about here?”

She paused to take a deep breath, “I don’t know, Jack. I think we’re just going to have to be flexible and figure it out along the way. I’d like to think of it as being ‘discrete’ rather than secret. I don’t know if I really care, just as long as I know we’re together.”

“I’m still your CO” he shook his head, “There’s still a bunch of red tape in the way. If I thought Hammond would allow it I’d seriously be considering retirement.”

“You don’t think he’ll let you?”

“Do you?”

“Not really, especially not during the present situation. And I know you won’t do anything until we get some information on Daniel. What if I put in for a transfer? Nevada or I could go back to the Pentagon.”

“The SGC needs you”

“That won’t always be the case.”

“We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”

“I can live with that.”

He took a sip of coffee, “Let’s just see how the next few months go and take it from there. Hey, we might decide this whole thing was a dumb idea anyway.”

“You wouldn’t be talking about retirement if you believed that.”

Jack squeezed Sam’s hand briefly “No, you’re right, I wouldn’t.” He still felt uneasy “So, I’m afraid to bring it up but, aside from the Air Force, there is the question of one Pete Shanahan.”

Pete! She had barely given him a thought since the conversation with her father the night before. She had called her brother, Mark but not Pete. If that wasn’t enough of an indication she should break things off with him, she didn’t know what was.

She nodded gravely, “I’ll have to sit down and have a talk with him too I suppose” she took a deep breath pulling her hands in her lap, “And what about Ms. Johnson?” She countered.

“Who? Ohh you mean Kerry!”

“Yeah, Kerry.”

“Not an issue.”

“That definitely was not the impression I got” she snorted indelicately.

He took a sip of coffee trying to hide the smile tugging at the corners of his mouth and shook his head “What I mean is that we broke up, Carter.”

“What? When? Why?”

“Oh for crying out loud, really? After all that,” he lightly chided, “Here I was thinking you were the smartest person on the planet.”

“Smartest person on the planet, huhh?” She smirked.

“Well there is that McKay guy but you know he’s kind of a jerk and not as cute, and you know, not exactly—oww!” She kicked him in the foot under the table. Jack allowed his face to split into a huge grin.

“Attacking a superior officer now, Carter?” He said with a grin.

“You made your point; I’ll talk to Pete. You know, if I do get transferred, then at least I’d have weekends and regular time off. I might even be tempted to take a vacation if I had a good reason to.”

“Maybe fishing?” He said, wiggling his eyebrows.

“Maybe fishing,” Sam let out a small laugh, “So, how do we want to do this?”

“Slowly”

“Certainly puts a damper on things, Sir” she groused.

“Sir?”

“Carter?”

“What? I like ‘Carter’ , it's my pet name for you.”

She laughed “No it’s not.”

“Maybe sometimes?” he smirked “All right, all right, I get your point, Samantha,” he smirked, Sam glared but gave him a small smile, “Sam.” he nodded once. “I’m sure I’ll come up with some kind of a nickname for ya.”

“Thank you, I’d expect nothing less,” she grinned, taking a sip of her coffee as the waitress came out with their pancakes.

After breakfast the two of them headed over to Sam’s place. Jack looked up at the little home from his parking spot. Before leaving the SGC he had taken a moment to arrange for some flowers to be delivered to her home, they were waiting for her on the front step. He didn’t know much about flowers. Ok so he didn’t know anything about flowers, but he had asked for flowers that would make her “happy”. He was pleased to see yellow carnations, some kind of smallish sunflowers and daisies mixed in with white and yellow roses.

Sam let out a groan, “Damn it Pete” she said, picking them up roughly. “Eh, Sam, you might want to check the card there.”

A look of frustration passed over her face as she pulled the card out to look at it. Her face softened as she read, “Always! -Jack”

“Oh Jack, I’m sorry, they are beautiful.”

Jack shrugged, “I figured that no matter how our conversation went that you could still use some cheering up” he said trusting his hands into his pockets. The effect made him look almost like an embarrassed little boy. She was already getting to see the softer side of him she had only guessed at and she was feeling almost voyeuristic.

“Thank you. They are lovely.”

“Don’t mention it.” he rolled his eyes comically. Carter cracked a small smile.

Jack looked past her to the front door. The only times he had ever been here he’d been either in an official capacity or with at least one other member of his team, much like the diner. Sam seemed to know what he was thinking “Come on in, you can wait in the kitchen if you want. I have some lemonade made up.”

“Sure, why not.”

The phone was ringing when she opened the door and she rushed to answer it. “Hello?” she caught Jack’s eye as he stepped over the threshold “Oh hey, Pete.”

Jack’s heart sank, he made a move to exit but Sam waved with her free hand toward her kitchen and silently asked him to take the flowers.

“No, Pete, actually my dad passed away early this morning” there was silence for a few moments “Thank you, I appreciate it. No, everyone at work has been really terrific. Thanks to them, I think I’ve got everything under control. But really I’m ok,” a pause, “I actually have some things to take care of this morning. I’ve got a friend from work helping me out. Yeah. No Pete, like I said I have someone from work here with me so I’m not alone. I… I do need to talk to you though—”

Jack decided to fill the awkward silences by trying to remember where Sam kept her drinking glasses. He hit pay dirt on only the second try.

“Huhh sure Pete, I can meet you at our house” Jack could hear the strain in her voice and wondered why Mr. Potato-Head couldn’t. “No, I have the next few days off but I’m really sorry, I have plans for lunch today, I’ll just meet you at the house tomorrow afternoon, ok? Alright, that’s fine. I think I just want to be alone today, I’ll see you then.”

Jack couldn’t help but notice there hadn’t been any signs of real affection from Sam’s side of the conversation. He was already sipping lemonade when Sam came into the kitchen. “You heard that?”

He shrugged.

“I’ve got dad’s uniform in my closet. The pictures are in the first three albums on the bookshelf in the living room, if you could get those please. I know this could wait but I’d just rather get it done now. I think I’ll run this stuff over to the funeral home later.”

“I thought you said you had lunch plans” he raised an eyebrow.

She smiled a little sadly, “I don’t like the idea of lying to him. I’m just not feeling up to dealing with him today. There is no way I can avoid hurting him. I already feel so guilty.”

He tilted his head back, “Now you had me right up to that last part there. Guilty? About what exactly? I’m pretty sure I’d be the first to know if you had done something. We’ve talked about the possibility of crossing a line that we’ve been dancing around for years with nary a hint of inappropriate behavior. Except maybe for that kick, Carter, I haven’t forgotten that you know” he teased.

“That’s just it, Jack. That’s what makes me feel so guilty. I should have never let it get this far. I should have never agreed to marry him in the first place. Not when I knew I was madly in love with someone else.”

“Madly in lo… why did you then?” He knew the answer before the question had fully formed and shook his head “I mean I know why you didn’t” he gestured between the two of them “Same reason I didn’t, but why Pete?”

“You know why. Besides that, you never said anything. I thought you were fine with me moving on. Especially when I talked to you about his proposal; I thought you were, you know… over me.”

Jack shook his head and knocked back the rest of his lemonade like it was whiskey, “I couldn’t, and I sure as hell wasn’t “ok” with you marrying Mr. Potato-Head.”

She raised her eyebrows at that, “You don’t get to be mad at me for that, especially when I asked you for advice. It’s not like you haven’t been dating too.”

“Of course I’m not mad at you. I’m mad at myself. I should have told you then. If the answer didn't come to you immediately when he asked, then your answer should have been “No!”. That’s what I wish I had told you,” he looked her in the eyes. “Me, too,” she said quietly. “I’m going to go gather a few things. Can you get those photo albums?”

“Yeah, sure you bet.”

The albums were exactly where she said they would be. He took a few minutes to thumb through them, partly out of curiosity and partly to give Sam a little space. The first one was mostly of Carter’s parents when they were young, dating most likely because half way through he found their wedding photos. Sam looked a lot like her mom. The second one featured a pregnant Mrs. Carter and then a tiny baby wrapped in blue, Sam’s brother. A little further and the baby bump appeared again, this time followed by a tiny Sam wrapped in pink.

The third album held photos from what looked like family gatherings, vacations and the like over the years. It was interesting to see Sam grow and evolve into the beautiful woman he knew now. He suddenly thought of Charlie and what he would have looked like now, God, he would have been nearly eighteen. He snapped the album shut a little harder than he probably should have. What was taking Sam so long?

He looked down the hall leading to Sam’s bedroom, exactly where he should not be going. He sighed and made his way back to the bedroom. He hesitated a moment with his knuckles hovering over the surface of the door before knocking.

“Come in,” she sniffed, she had clearly been crying. She had changed into fresh clothes, a pale blue athletic hoodie and a pair of jeans. She sat there holding a garment bag next to her on the bed and wiped furiously at her eyes with the back of her hand, “Did you find the albums ok?” She asked thickly.

“I did. Are you alright?”

“Hahh, yeah sure I” he gave her a look “No, not really” she sniffed “It just hit me all of a sudden. I know he’s gone, I was with him when he died but…”

“Yeah, been there.” He said as he moved the garment bag to sit down next to her. He took her hand in his.

“He’s not coming back. He’s really gone” she said, finally crumbling into fresh sobs. Jack pulled her close to him into a hug, cradling the back of her head in one hand and stroking her short blonde hair. This was definitely not how he had ever pictured holding Samantha Carter in bed. He rolled his eyes at the stupidity of his own inner thoughts and pulled his attention back to the present situation. He held her there for a long time before she started to sit up a little. He released his grip on her slightly to look her in the eyes, this was definitely not the time to be thinking about kissing her, no matter how badly he wanted to. “You are going to be ok, Sam” it wasn’t a question, but rather a firm statement.

She nodded wiping at her eyes “Tissue” she mumbled. Jack removed his hand from the back of her head and reached for the box on her bedside table handing them to her. She laughed weakly “I don’t think I need the whole box”

“Oh you know me, I like to be prepared” he chuckled “Feeling any better?”

She nodded again “Yeah, I don’t know what came over me. I mean I saw him this morning, I was with him when it happened. I even called Mark to let him know. I KNOW he’s gone and yet it just hit me all at once. I’m sorry you have to see me like this, I’m a mess.” She wiped her face with a tissue.

“No apologies needed, I’ve seen you a heck of a lot worse than this, Carter. It’s perfectly normal. Anyone who has lost a loved one has been exactly where you are now.”

She wasn’t sure if she could even imagine him crying but she was sure he must have, at least when Charlie had died. How many others though? She had never heard him talk about his own parents. She assumed they must have passed years ago. “I’m sorry, Sir. I never…”

“A lot of people will say they understand, but most don’t unless they’ve been through it. I get it. Probably a lot more than most. You know, in some ways I think losing the second parent is even worse than the first. It’s probably different for everyone I guess but that’s how it seemed to me.” he shrugged.

Sam stared at him for a moment. Jack wasn’t one for opening up about his own feelings but this was more than that. He was connecting with her in a way she never expected. “I think it's sort of the opposite for me. But then I was only a teenager when my mom died. That’s a rough time anyway.”

“Yup” The two of them sat in silence for a moment. “Jack?”

“Hum?”

“I was just thinking. I don’t think I’ve ever heard you mention your parents before now. I think I remember you saying something about your grandpa once. But not your parents.”

“Ah yeah, I don’t really talk about them.”

“Any particular reason?”

He took a deep breath “You sure you want to hear about this today?”

She shrugged, “Not if you don’t feel like it.”

“Nah, it’s ok. I’ve pretty much dealt with it by now. Well mom died in a car accident”

“Sounds familiar.”

“Huhh, yeah. Well my dad was driving. Mom died instantly. Dad was in the hospital for a couple of weeks but pulled through alright physically.” He paused, “He loved her. After she died… well there were a lot worse things he could have done I guess. Ya see, he threw himself into his hobbies. Astronomy mainly, but towards the end he had also got into model building.”

“That doesn’t sound so bad. The hobby part I mean. The rest is awful. How old were you?”

Jack shrugged, “Oh I was already in the Air Force. No, the hobbies weren’t so bad I guess. But he became reclusive after a while. I wasn’t really around much then; Air Force, ya know? He did come to my wedding though. He had actually seemed better then than I had seen him in years. We talked a few times a month. Sara and I’d gone to visit at Christmas, had a great visit. He got me a new Swiss Army knife, like the one I had as a kid but a lot cooler. Then, about five months later...” He paused looking at his hands.

“You don’t have to tell me if…”

“Sara and I were sitting down to celebrate our first wedding anniversary. It was a month late because I’d been on assignment… Anyway, that’s when we got the call. He hanged himself.” He paused again,“They eh, they figured he’d be there for about three days before his neighbors found him.”

“That’s awful.”

“He was a great dad. A really good guy...”

“Jack…” she was stunned. She thought he’d been through hell before, but now, no wonder he never talked.

“That was a long time ago. Now that was waay more than enough about me. We’re focusing on you. Would you like me to bring you a glass of water? Lemonade? Tea, maybe?”

She smiled at that, being offered a drink in her own home by a man who had just told her about his parents tragic deaths. “Water would be great, I’ll be out to get it” she paused “Would you mind hanging that, in my entryway?” She asked motioning towards the garment bag Jack had laid at the foot of the bed. He nodded, getting up to leave.

“Jack?”

“Humm?”

“I’m glad you’re here, I’m not sure if I would be able to get through this without you.”

“Sure you could. You’re the toughest person I know. That doesn’t mean that you should have to be alone, not if I can do anything to help,” He picked up the garment bag and slipped out into the hall back towards the kitchen.

Sam looked up at the simple black dress she had hung up on the inside of her closet door and her dress uniform next to it. She knew she would appear in uniform at the funeral but a part of her wanted nothing more than to just be a daughter for a few days and not a decorated Air Force Colonel. She was suddenly very tired. Her heart ached. She pulled herself up, checked her reflection in the mirror and left her black dress and her uniform hanging side by side.

“Here ya go” Jack said as he closed the refrigerator door.

Sam raised an eyebrow “Thanks” she said as she accepted a glass of ice water from him.

“It’s nothing.” He paused, “I do have a rather serious question to ask you though” she looked up swallowing a sip of water, a flicker of apprehension crossing her face.

“I couldn’t help but notice you have some ehh interesting things in your fridge”.

She nearly laughed “Interesting?”

“Yeah, we might have to have a serious talk about that. I mean tofu? Sprouts? Carter, are you a closet health nut?” She actually did laugh a little. “I wouldn’t put it that way exactly. I like to try new things, that stuff is for a recipe I found” she said a little defensively. Jack smirked, “Not judging” he put his hands up in mock surrender “I like trying new things too, hey, for all I know it might actually be good.”

“Well I’m afraid you won’t be finding out just yet.” She said as she crossed the kitchen to lean up against the counter. “Maybe we could start with coffee or drinks.”

“Ah nah, too cliche, I was thinking hockey or fishing.”

Sam smiled at that, “Still trying to get me to go fishing, huh?”

“Oh, come on. I wouldn’t invite you if I didn’t think you’d enjoy yourself. I bet you’ll love it. It's not like fishing is the only thing to do up there either” Sam raised her eyebrows “I didn’t mean it like that” he groused rolling his eyes “I just mean it's quiet, you could read a book, we can go hiking, or take out the canoe, I keep a small telescope up there, I’ve also got a stack of board games and puzzles I haven’t touched in years if you what to give those a try...”

“And fish?”

“And fish,” he smiled.

“And the other?”

He shook his head “Other?” He asked, raising his eyebrows, “Carter, I learned a very long time ago to let things unfold naturally. No expectations. Hopes and dreams, maybe the odd fantasy, but no expectations. You can even make the first move when you’re ready. No bondage crap though, pretty sure I’ve been captured by the enemy a few too many times to enjoy that kind of stuff.”

He grinned a grin Sam had rarely seen, damn he was sexy. She shook her head at the way he was able to joke about such things. Especially at a time like this.

“Fair enough. I don’t have a problem taking the initiative, Sir. I’m thinking hockey. I’ve never actually been to a game and it looks like it might be fun. ”

“Great and I already have tickets for next Saturday. I was going to ask Daniel but… hey, no—”

She was giving him an uncomfortable look.

“I already told you, I have confidence in him. The Space-Monkey could still show up! Any day now. You know, when he gets back you might have competition after all. Although I’m thinking you would be a much better date, a heck of a lot sexier.”

Sam laughed a little “Depends on who you ask I guess.”

“Humm, not me. Any-who, It’s a good public venue for our first unofficial date.” Jack turned and rubbed his hands together, “So did you get everything you needed?”

“Just about”

“You know Carter, I’m practically passing by the funeral home on my way back to the SGC, why don’t you try to get some sleep and I’ll take this stuff over.”

“You don’t mind?”

“I wouldn’t have offered if I did”

“Thanks Jack, I actually am feeling kinda tired.”

While Jack took the albums and Jacob’s uniform out to his truck; Sam went back into her living room to grab a couple of framed photos of her family and one of her dad. Pain stabbed through her as she did so but she held it together. She was feeling much better after her moment in the bedroom with Jack. It wasn’t until that very moment she realized she had, had Jack O’Neill in her bed. She suddenly regretted that it hadn’t been in any of the more interesting ways she had ever imagined.

Despite all of the other emotions vying for supremacy she suddenly felt a surge of disappointment, and dare she admit it, sexual frustration? She felt her cheeks grow warm and she seriously had her doubts about taking the pictures out to him. She shook her head, pulling herself together. She must have taken longer than she thought, because before she realized it, Jack was back in the house.

“Starting to rain,” he said, shaking water out of his short hair.

“Here, take my umbrella to protect the pictures. Are the albums ok?”

“I took good care of them.”

She turned to hand him a silver urn, “I had planned on taking this myself,” She paused, “It’s my mom. She is supposed to be interned with dad.”

“Carter, are you sure you want me to take, ehh— your mom?”

“You’re already going. I… Yes it’s ok.” She stood looking at him for a moment. She wanted him to stay. But she had things to take care of with Pete still.

“Well, I should probably be going,” Jack said. His mind had been running along the same path. “Call if you need anything, anything at all. I really mean that. Oh and Carter, barring some kind of a galactic catastrophe, I don’t expect to see you back to work until after the funeral. You hear me?”

“Yes, thank you. I’ll keep you posted.”

“Do that, Carter. I’ll expect a full report on Shanahan. This thing… whatever, aside. I do need to know if he’s going to be a security risk for the SGC. I’d like you to do a rudimentary threat assessment just SOP.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Seriously though, Carter. I know none of this is easy. I know you can handle it… but if you need backup, I’m here. Just call. Day or night.”

“Thank you Jack, I’m sure I won’t have a problem. Take care of my mom.”

“Like she was my own, Sam.”

Chapter 3

Sam watched as Pete walked back to his car and drove away. She had tried being as honest and gentle as she possibly could but she knew she had hurt him terribly. He really was a good guy, they had many things in common and yet they were worlds apart, often literally.

She just sat and looked at the house Pete had picked out for them, it was a beautiful house. Exactly as she had described her perfect home or at least the house she thought she had wanted. Seeing it in person was just too much for her. It made her realize that it wasn’t everything she wanted. That what she really wanted was a sometimes grumpy General who still had the heart of a child despite being through more pain and heartbreak than any one person should.

Sure, she tried to put on a brave face for her father. She’d tried convincing him she was happy and had everything she ever wanted and more. However she knew even then that he could see through her lie. He almost always could.

As she made her way home the gravity of the last few days was finally hitting her. It wasn’t just her father’s death. She was still worried about Daniel, she had broken Pete’s heart, and now… now she had Jack.

She had tried to ignore her feelings for him for so long and now they were talking about actually beginning a relationship. She knew that she loved him, she had since… Antarctica? Maybe even before that? She wasn’t even sure. He was a brave, honest, honorable man, sexy as hell, great sense of humor and all she could think about was how they could simply be together without ruining their lives.

All she wanted to do now was get a shower, pull on some sweats and curl up on the couch. Preferably with a tub of Ben and Jerry’s. She half regretted letting Jack take the photo albums with him. It would have been nice to have a look through them on her own, It had been ages since she had gone through them.

The next day they would be holding calling hours for Jacob. They would be having calling hours most of the day tomorrow. The funeral service would be the following day at a local cemetery where Jacob’s cremains would be buried along with her mother’s. They would once again be together.

As much as Sam dreaded the thought of the funeral, it was the calling hours that she really dreaded. She hated the idea of standing around mingling and talking to her father’s old friends and family while her father’s lifeless body lay in a casket less than five feet away. It was not exactly something she was looking forward to. However her brother Mark would be there. His wife hadn’t been able to get off of work and would be staying at home with the kids. Sam rather thought that her niece and nephew had a right to be there to say goodbye to their grandfather. Although she couldn’t argue that they could sometimes be a handful and could understand why they didn’t want to bring them. For Sam they would’ve been a welcome distraction, she would have loved to have taken them to the park.

At the funeral home the mood was subdued. She had told jack how much she hated funeral homes. Therefore he insisted on taking the day off and staying with her. “Carter, why don’t you go in and spend some time with your brother and let me know when you want me to come in, I’ll wait out here until you’re ready,” he said as he met up with her on the back porch of the funeral home. She smoothed her skirt a bit and nodded “Here goes nothing”. Sam was guided through to where her brother was waiting with a small handful of other relatives she hadn’t seen in years.

“Sammie, you’re here!” Her brother said as he pulled her into a hug “How are you holding up? You look amazing.”

“Thanks Mark, I’m doing ok. It was pretty rough that first day or so but I’m doing better now. How are you doing?”

“I don’t think it’s really hit me, he just came to visit last week. He told me the cancer was back and had spread but he seemed fine except for some headaches. I just thought we had more time. Maybe if I had insisted on getting him to a doctor, maybe they could have done something for him.”

This was the part of her job she hated, “Mark, no. You can’t think like that. Dad was very sick. There wasn’t anything anyone could do. Believe me, he was in one of the best hospitals in the county. He knew it was his time and he died with honor and dignity.”

“I’m glad you were with him, Sam” he said, hugging her again.

“Mark, Mark, is this little Samantha?”

Mark released Sam with a sigh and quickly plastered a smile on his face “Yes, it is Aunt Violet.”

Sam suppressed a groan and adopted her own artificial smile. Of course Aunt Violet would be here, she was really Sam and Mark’s great-Aunt, she was about 95 and as stubborn, opinionated and cantankerous as anyone Sam had ever met. She was also one of the most physically fit old ladies she had ever seen. Her dad used to joke that she would never die because death was too afraid of her.

“Hi Aunt Violet it’s great to see you” Sam said through a smile.

“Now I thought I heard something about you finally getting married, is that right? You know it’s really about time you settled down and left all this military nonsense behind you. You’ve always been such a pretty girl, it’s a shame you’re wasting all your time and your good looks stuck in some astronomy tower somewhere running your silly experiments. Where is your young man anyway?”

Sam was stunned at how this woman could insult practically everything she stood for, in a matter of seconds. Mark, who knew his sister well, was trying not to laugh “Yeah Sam, where is Pete anyway? You didn’t leave him out in the car did you?”

“No, actually, Pete won’t be coming. We broke up, the wedding is off.”

“What? Sam?” Mark looked stunned and attempted to take Sam by the arm to lead her away from Aunt Violet.

The old woman was too quick “Oh dear, I was afraid of that. You know it can be so difficult for a man to love a woman who spends so much time in a man's world. Perhaps you should think about getting out before you never find a decent man who will have you.”

“I broke it off actually. I think you’d be surprised at how much the world is changing, Aunt Violet.” Sam answered dryly. “I’m sorry Mark, I know Pete is a friend of yours but it just wouldn’t have worked out between us.”

“But Sam, I thought you guys really liked each other.”

“It wasn’t enough Mark, I’m sorry,” she turned on her heel suddenly making her way into the other room where her father had been laid out. The room was completely empty of people. It was peaceful and creepy at the same time. On top of that it was disturbing to see him laid out like that. He looked like he was sleeping but he wouldn’t have ever slept in his dress uniform.

She walked up to the casket suddenly remembering her mother’s funeral. Another shot of pain ran through her and she felt tears stinging her eyes. “Well Daddy. I broke it off with Pete, I could tell you didn’t really like him. Although that’s not why I did it. I… I don’t know how but I think you somehow knew how I feel about Jack. I don't know how, or if it’s going to work out with him or not Daddy but I do know that I love him and we’re ready to take that chance. I’m done letting rules get in the way. I… I just wanted you to know that I heard you. Goodbye Daddy, I love you” she said as a few tears fell.

Sam took a deep breath as she walked away from her father to a box of tissues nearby. Once she was sure she was presentable she made her way back outside making sure to avoid Aunt Violet just the thought of her was making her feel more angry than she should have.

Outside, Jack had struck up a conversation with one of her cousin’s on the back porch. “Carter?” Jack inquired the moment he saw her coming “You ok?”

“It’s nothing, Sir, I’ll be fine.”

“You kinda look like you’re getting ready to go into battle.”

“No, just my Great-Aunt Violet. The old bat.”

“Ooh boy” Jack said, sarcasm dripping from each syllable, “Is this the one you told me about when we were on that little field-trip with your dad. You know the one with the do-hickey with all the yellow wires?” Sam knew the mission he was talking about, of course. She also knew that he couldn’t just come out and say “the time we had to open a hyperspace window through the earth to stop a giant asteroid from hitting it,” in front of her cousin.

“I, yeah it is but how did you even remember that? That was years ago.”

Jack just shrugged, “Didn’t you say she was in her 90’s or something? How bad could she be now?”

“I think she gets worse with age, she’s 95 now.”

“Well it’s your family Carter, you want me to come in?” he asked as he excused himself from the cousin.

She huffed out a breath, “I could use the backup, wish I had a zatt with me.” She said low so only Jack could hear.

“Now, now, Carter, she is family” Jack grinned.

Back inside Sam found Mark. Thankfully Aunt Violet was nowhere to be found. “Mark, I'd like you to meet my CO, Brig. General Jack O’Neill.”

“Nice to meet you” Mark extended his hand to him “It’s really nice of you to come to support Sam like this.”

“Of course, she is like family. Carter and I worked with your father occasionally on different projects. I considered him a friend. Jacob was a good man, I’ll really miss working with him.”

“Oh I guess I didn’t realize that dad’s liaison position interacted with deep space telemetry that often.”

“Oh yeah, he was instrumental in a number of our projects, coordinating things and what not.”

“Dad always had a way of making people work things out. It’s probably why Sam and I are so close and didn’t kill each other when we were kids.”

“I absolutely agree, I myself owe an awful lot to your father. I am really going to miss him.”

“Thank you, General. Sam has mentioned you a couple of times over the years. It’s nice to meet someone that appreciates ‘The Simpsons’ as much as I do.”

Mark smiled, Jack couldn’t help but smile a little too, “The pleasure is all mine.”

Sam giggled softly “I thought you two might hit it off.”

“Funny, you told me about Aunt Violet but not about your brother’s mutual interests in ‘The Simpsons’, you’re dropping the ball Carter,” he teased.

“Sorry, Sir. I’ll have to remember to prioritize better.”

“Do that, Colonel,” Jack nodded.

“So Sam told you about Aunt Violet did she?” Mark grimmised as he cast a look around the room for the elderly women “She’s definitely a handful.”

“So I hear. Well I’m off to go pay my respects, and keep a lookout for a rogue nonagenarian.”

Sam raised his eyebrow.

“Nonagenarian, A little used word to describe a person between the ages of 90 and 99,” Jack answered.

“I know what it means, Sir. I’m just…”

“Surprised that I do? Oh Carter, Carter, Carter.” He said, shaking his head, “Go on, you lead the way.”

It wasn’t long before Sam and Mark had been overtaken by a steady stream of well wishers. Friends and a few colleagues of their father. Jacob was well liked by the SGC crowd. Siler and Walter both showed up. General Hammond came, as he promised he would.

“General Hammond, it’s good to see you, Sir. It’s been far too long.”

“Colonel Carter, I was so sorry to hear about Jacob. We had been talking just before it happened as I understand. I considered your father a very dear friend.”

“I know General, I think he felt the same way about you, Sir.”

“This must be Mark then.”

“Yes of course! Mark, this is General George Hammond. He is my former commander.”

“Pleasure to meet you Son, although I do wish it were under better circumstances. Sam has mentioned your little ones on several occasions, I have a couple of granddaughters that are around the same ages.”

“That’s really nice, Sir. Unfortunately I couldn’t see bringing the kids today. The trip alone would have been crazy and I didn’t know if they would really understand. They just saw him last week and he seemed fine, I didn’t want to believe him when he said he was dying,” he said, shaking his head.

“I think it took us all by surprise, Son”

“Yes, Sir.”

“It’s a shame he won’t be here for your wedding Colonel” he said turning back to Sam.

“Oh I guess you haven’t heard then General, Sam here called off the wedding” Mark interjected before Sam could get a word out.

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that, Colonel,” Hammond said clearly taken aback, “I didn’t really know the man, he seemed nice enough when I had met him. However I know better than to question your judgment, I’m sure you made the right decision.”

“Thank you Sir”

“No offense, General but I’m not sure if I agree. I’ve known Shanahan for years, he’s a great guy.”

“My love life isn’t any of your business” Sam shot at Mark.

“It is when it’s a friend of mine and you haven’t even explained why.”

“I just realized that I wanted something else from my life, marrying him wouldn’t have been fair to Pete or me.”

“I’m sure you’re right, Colonel.”

“Thank you, Sir.”

“Sounds like someone if you ask me,” Mark spat.

“And what is that supposed to mean?” Sam asked, her temper now flaring.

“I don’t know, Sam, you work with a bunch of guys, maybe you got a thing for one of them.” Hammond noticed the mussels in Sam’s jaw tightened but said nothing, mainly because Mark wasn’t finished “That Jackson guy you’re always talking about would be my guess.”

“Daniel?” Sam almost laughed, “I talk about him because he’s like my little brother!” The fact that he was still missing stabbed at her, cutting her off. Even so, Hammond thought she sounded a little too relieved.

Mark had been closer to the truth than he realized. “Whatever, Sis, I just think you made a mistake letting Pete go.”

Hammond sought to change the subject, “Now, Colonel, I was certain I saw General O’Neill when I first came in. Any idea where he got to?”

“I, I’m not sure, Sir,” she said, as she searched the room. She suddenly saw him in the next room sitting next to none other than Aunt Violet. She was laughing. What was more surprising was that Jack was smiling. She suddenly felt like she was looking at something alien. “He’s with Aunt Violet. We should probably go rescue him, Sir.”

Sam cut her way through the crowd with Hammond behind her, “General O’Neill, look who’s here,” she said abruptly, interrupting his conversation with aunt Violet.

“Excuse me Ma’am”

“Oh it’s quite alright, Dear, she’s always been like that. It was a pleasure speaking with you young man, I hope you catch lots of fish.”

“Thank you Ma’am, that’s very kind,” he said, patting her hand.

Jack stood up to shake Hammond’s hand “It’s good to see you, Sir. I was hoping you’d be here.”

“Something you needed to talk about, Son?”

Jack shot Sam a look which she answered with a micro shake of her head. “What makes you say that?”

“Call it a gut feeling Son.”

“There is something actually Sir. You see, I’ve been seriously considering retirement.”

“Jack, I know you and Dr. Jackson were close but that’s no reason to retire. Especially not now.”

Jack locked eyes with Sam for a fraction of a second but it was long enough that Hammond caught it. “Why don’t we go get some fresh air, Colonel I’m sure you could use a break.”

The back porch was empty when they got there, Hammond settled himself down on a wicker chair. Sam and Jack followed suit but he noticed they chose to sit across from each other so that Sam was on his left and Jack on his right. “Would you like to tell me what’s really on your mind, Jack.”

“This has nothing to do with Daniel Sir. Let’s just say that there are certain things I’d like to do that can’t be done on active duty.”

“You two mind telling me what is going on here?”

“Nothing Sir,” Sam blurted.

Hammond eyed her, “What the Colonel means is ‘nothing’ yet, Sir. However, the Colonel and I would very much like there to be something going on, if you catch my meaning,” Jack corrected, feeling it was best to be honest.

“Subtle you are not. And just to be clear, is this the reason why I won’t be going to a wedding?”

Sam’s cheeks flushed slightly, “Partly, Sir.”

Hammond shook his head “Jack I just can’t let you do that. You’re the only one I trust at this time to take over Homeworld. How serious are you two about this?”

“I’ve considered requesting a transfer, possibly to the Pentagon so we can be together but I’ve also considered Nevada. Unless of course General O’Neill retired, and if he doesn’t… Sir, we’re not trying to buck regs. We just want to be together.” It sounded hopeless as she said it but she had faith in Jack.

Hammonds eyebrows went up “Jack” he said in a harsh tone “Am I to understand that-”

“Wohh, wohh, Sir. That sounds a bit more, ehh— advanced than the situation really is” he shot Sam a look “If I may use baseball terms Sir, let’s just say that we’ve entered the stadium and we’re sitting next to First, waiting for the game to start. That’s it Sir.”

“Waiting for the game to start ehh?”

“Yes, Sir” Sam agreed “I only meant that we had discussed the possibility, certainly not to imply there has been any improper fraternization.”

“So nothing has happened, especially before Jack got promoted to General is that right?”

“Absolutely not Sir. We’ve only been talking about this for the last few days. Carter, eh—”

“You came to him about this?”

“I had to, Sir. Pete bought a house” she said as though that should explain everything.

“I see” he paused “Who else knows about this?”

“No one, Sir.”

“Well you two do have impeccable timing. It so happens that I had reviewed the regs a few years ago when I suspected something might be going on between the two of you.”

“You what? When?”

“After that zatarc incident. But then I thought maybe I had misread the situation because I didn’t really notice anything after that to make me suspicious,” he shrugged, “I never saw any reason to bring it up.”

“But now?”

“Now Jack is a General, about to receive another promotion to take over Homeworld. You Lt. Colonel, are a high ranking field officer.”

“Reasons one and two we have never taken it any further than our professional relationship.”

“What about you, Sir?” Sam asked.

“I have been advised to retire for my health and I intend to follow orders by the end of next month. Before that time I might have an opportunity available for Colonel Carter to help further break the chain of command between the two of you. But in the meantime, as long as you are discreet and as professional as you always have been on duty, I don’t really see this relationship being a problem.” They both looked at him dumbfounded, “Allow me to explain. There are certain exceptions to every rule. In this case there is a legal exception for Generals specifically in regard to Field officers. I would have never known about it had I not been looking for any kind of loophole to help you two out. Not that this particular one would have helped back then anyway. Now I will certainly double check for you. But if memory serves correctly then it shouldn’t be an issue so long as you still observe all other fraternization rules when on duty. What you do off duty at this point really isn’t an issue.”

“You’re sure?”

“I’ll double check with the legal department and make sure I have my facts correct. If I’m right, the loophole we are looking for isn’t actually in the regs but rather in an amendment made later on, providing General officers with a little leeway in regard to fraternization with Field Officers. It seems even the Air Force has some level of understanding of how difficult it is to meet someone when your life is devoted to duty.”

Sam and Jack simply stared at Hammond for a moment, Sam was the first to speak “You’re kidding.”

“No Colonel, I’m not.”

“So the General and I…”

“That’s what you want isn’t it?”

“Absolutely, Sir.”

“Sir, as much as I appreciate this information and no offense to your considerably sharp memory. I think I would feel better if you did double check on all of this before Carter and I, huh, move forward.”

“As would I, Son.”

“We certainly appreciate it, General.”

“As long as I get invited to the wedding.”

Sam laughed at that, “I’m not sure if we’re quite there yet, Sir but we’ll definitely let you know.”

“In that case I’ll let the Joint Chiefs know I’ve already spoken with you about taking over for me Jack. If everything goes well, I should have the transfer orders on your desk within the next two weeks.” Hammond said with a smile, “I’m assuming that Colonel Carter is currently on bereavement leave?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Good.”

“I figured I’d let Carter finish up a few projects with R&D at the SGC for a while until we get more intel on Anubis.”

“I’d say an official department transfer might be a good idea. It might even help with what I have in mind. In fact I bet you could use some leave time right, Colonel? Maybe go fishing.”

“That’s exactly what the General had suggested, Sir.”

“It’s settled then. You two have my blessing, I’ll double check on the legal stuff.”

Sam turned to Jack “What do you think?”

“What about the chain of command? Even if you went to Nevada you’d still technically be under my command, although not directly. What happens if you get transferred back? What happens if the Asgard specifically requires our help? Or…”

“All valid concerns, Jack. I’ll see what kind of strings I can pull.”

“Thank you Sir.” Sam said.

“Need I remind you two that, this baseball game of yours has been delayed, got it? I’m already in enough of an awkward situation simply knowing about this. But I’m glad you were honest with me, that will go far with what I might be able to do for you.”

“Got it, Sir. Slow and steady, that’s me.” Jack said.

“Again thank you, Sir.”

“Jack, I can get started on this tonight if you don’t mind me using your office.”

“General, you outrank me, sure you can use it! Just don’t be surprised by my redecorating.”

“Alright then, I believe I’ve got some work to do.”

“If you need anything I’m sure Walter can help, he is working the evening shift tonight.”

“Thank you Jack. I’ll see you both tomorrow.”

The three of them made their way back into the funeral home. Hammond went ahead of them walking towards the front exit. Sam turned to Jack “You seemed to really hit it off with aunt Violet, should I be worried?”

Jack smiled “Ehh you just have to know how to handle her, she’s not so bad.”

“Really? Because I’ve known her my entire life and I’ve never seen her like she was with you. She’s always just so- ornery.”

“That she is. At least until you disarm her, she responds well to sarcasm. Ya just gotta know how to talk to her. Kind of reminded me of my grandma really. I wonder if she bakes?”

Sam had to laugh, here was this woman who had driven her and her brother crazy for years and Jack just waltzes in and tames the old shrew.

Fortunately Sam hadn’t had to deal with Aunt Violet much the rest of the evening and the few times she did come over Jack had been by her side to deflect any of Aunt Violet’s usual nagging. In fact, Jack hadn’t left her side since their talk with General Hammond.

Chapter 4

Sam’s brother had convinced her to accept the flag from the flag folding ceremony the next day at the funeral. She had fought him on it because she had already gotten their father’s medals and ribbons. She was trying to be fair, but Mark had insisted she should have all of the military things since they had actually served together. It was all Sam could do to hold it together. She looked down at the grave where her parents' urns now sat. She was sure this is what they both would have wanted.

When it was all over, Sam felt an odd mixture of relief and devastation. She stood by the grave site for several minutes even after Mark had gone. Jack stayed with Sam, standing sentinel several feet behind her. He knew better than anyone what she needed now was a healthy balance of distance and support. Finding that balance had been his problem in the past. Sam was stronger than him in that respect and he knew it. He also knew that it sure as hell didn’t mean she should have to go through it alone if and when she needed someone.

“Goodbye, Mom. Goodbye, Daddy. I love you both.” When Sam turned around to see Jack still standing there she nearly broke down, but her respect for the uniform held her in check. Instead she simply gave a small nod as she collected herself. The two of them exited the grave site together.

There was to be a meal served at a nearby restaurant. Sam wasn’t sure if she even wanted to go but she had told Mark she would meet him there and the two of them would leave from there to make the final arrangements for their father’s estate.

Emotionally speaking it was going to be a grueling day. She also knew that she would much rather get it done so she could move on. Jack had already given her so much to look forward to. She didn’t want to waste her time dwelling on the negative when there were so many wonderful things to be had in life.

Before they had reached the car however, General Hammond stepped out of a small cluster of people milling about near the cars, “Jack, I was hoping to catch you.”

“What can I do for you General?”

“Walk with me please.”

“Will this take long, Sir?”

“No, not long. In fact if the Colonel is up to it, I think she would like to hear this as well.”

“Carter?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“With me.”

After they had walked a few minutes, Jack interrupted the silence, “So what did you find out General?”

“As it turned out, I did have to pull a few strings for you too. Mostly to ensure there wouldn’t be any repercussions down the line if you are ever required to return to work together directly. I was trying to cover all of our backsides in the event one of our allies or even one of our enemies ever insisted on dealing with the two of you specifically, or if you two were otherwise needed for your shall we say ‘unique’ skills and experience. Earth can’t afford to have you two tied up with red tape, especially Colonel Carter. No offense, Jack.”

“None taken, I’ve said it before, Carter is one of Earth’s most valuable natural resources.”

“I’m inclined to agree. That’s why the string pulling.”

“And what did you unravel, Sir.”

“You’re clear. As of today, out of uniform you two will not be restricted by any of the usual regulations involving a romantic and/or domestic relationship. You can date, marry, have children if that’s what you want. However when you are in uniform. Or more specifically, on the job that is. I strongly recommend you stick to regulations.”

“As of today?”

“That’s correct.”

“We don’t have to wait for my transfer?”

“No, you don’t. It’s a good thing I’m retiring because I had to use up all of my markers with the president on this one and I’m afraid I had to sacrifice one of yours too to swing it, Jack. I hope that was alright. I may have given him the impression this was the only way you would stay with the Air Force.”

“A marker well used Sir. You weren’t lying. Retirement was pretty high on my to-do list.”

“Alright then. Play ball! Off duty, of course,” He added with a wink.

“Hypothetically, what happens if one of us slips up, on duty I mean.”

“Well I certainly hope it never comes to that, Colonel. However, the agreement has been made for demotion as the standing consequence in this situation as opposed to a much more serious consequence such as court-martial. And before you ask, I most certainly do have that in writing. Had the president himself sign it this morning. The original has been filled in your office and I’ve faxed a copy to be filed with the legal department. I have a copy in my possession that I will keep in my office and so does the president. I made hard copies for each of you as well.” He added handing Jack a manila folder.

“All this since yesterday afternoon? Holy Hanna, General you’ve been busy.” Sam replied.

“Nearly missed the funeral because of it. I truly believe you kids deserve to be happy regardless of your working relationship. I’ve spent too many years watching you two, personally and professionally not to believe it could work. Don’t disappoint me.”

Jack let out a long breath, “Ok, so overall it’s about as good as we could hope for.”

“And then some, Sir.”

“Thank you General,” Jack said offering Hammond his hand, Hammond took it and went so far as to pull him into a one armed hug which Jack returned.

“My pleasure, Son,” he released Jack and turned to Sam pulling her into a quick hug as well, “Colonel, you take care of each other now. I know your father would have been pleased to see the two of you get together.”

“Thank you, for saying so. I think taking care of each other might be hardwired into our brains, Sir.”

Jack cleared his throat, “Eh Sir, aren’t you forgetting something? For old times sake.”

Hammond smirked, “Godspeed.”

“Thank you Sir.”

“Now, I suppose we should get you two on your way. I’m afraid I won’t be able to attend the dinner. I’m due back in Washington.”

“Sir, if you have a moment, I did want to talk to you about my replacement.”

“I’ve already been looking into a man I trust. Jacob had also suggested him and seeing that he was already up for consideration, I see no reason not to go with him. I’ll be needing you to brief him when the time comes, Jack.”

“This is the bird nut right?”

“I think you know the man actually. Landry, is his name, he’s no worse than you are with hockey.”

“Hank? Yeah I know him. Not well, but we’ve met a dozen or so times. Seems like a decent enough guy. Didn’t know about the bird thing.”

“And how did he strike you?”

“I couldn’t say how he’d be in a crisis, Sir. I’ve never seen the man in action so I’m not sure if I’m really the right person to ask.”

“What’s your gut tell you?”

“Well, he only laughed at about half my jokes so I guess he’s at least half ok.”

“I only ask out of curiosity. I have seen him operate, Son. He’s always kept a remarkably level head in a tight spot.”

“I sure hope you’re right, you never know when the bad guys will pop up next. Certainly don’t want someone down there with their finger on the self-destruct every five minutes.”

Hammond eyed him a moment, “Yes, well I guess we’ll find out soon enough.”

**********

After the dinner Sam left with her brother as planned. The meeting did take a little longer than she had anticipated. However when all was settled and they were just about to leave Mark turned to Sam “You know, I really don’t want to nag, but I just don’t understand why you would dump Pete.” Sam groaned. Here she was thinking maybe they could get in some quality sibling-time, but no.

“Do we really have to go over this?” she asked as she opened the door to leave the office building.

“Well I’m leaving early tomorrow morning, it’s not like we get to see each other very often. So are you going to tell me or do I have to call Pete?”

“I already told you, we just really want different things. I was trying to convince myself that I wanted the same things as him but the truth is, I don’t. My job for one, I wouldn’t want to give that up. It’s all for the best too because I just found out that I might be getting transferred.”

“What? What the hell for? I thought you loved it where you are.”

“For the Air Force obviously”

“Classified BS right?”

“I probably shouldn’t have mentioned it. I haven’t actually received orders yet but I’m expecting them soon.”

”You mean you put in for a transfer but it hasn’t been approved yet. I might not be military but I do understand a few things, Sam” he replied in a falsely light tone. Sam knew her brother well enough to know he was still angry at her but it was his way of trying to move forward.

Never mind the fact that he was way off the mark on this one, but Sam wasn’t going to correct him. “Want to go do something?”

“I hate to say it Sammie but I’m actually pretty tired. If you just want to get a coffee or something, I’d be up for that.”

“Coffee sounds great” they walked on for half a block before Sam spoke again “So how are the kids?”

“Good, well I don’t know, maybe not ‘good’ exactly. I think they are having a little bit of trouble understanding what happened to dad. So I’m I for that matter. I still can’t shake it, Sam. That last visit. I just didn’t believe him. Or maybe I didn't want to.” He paused to open the door of the coffee shop for Sam, “He just seemed like himself. Maybe a little tired. He had complained about a headache a couple of times but not excessively. I told him he might be dehydrated, Sam. He was dying and I told him to have a damn glass of water.”

“Mark”

“I know Sam, there wasn’t anything I could do and I think maybe that’s what bothers me the most.” Sam ordered for herself and gestured to Mark to do the same, “I’m sorry about getting angry about Pete, I just really hoped it would work out. I know it’s stupid and outdated but I just don’t want to see you end up alone Sam. I want you to be happy. I see you with my kids and I know you’d make a great mom someday.”

“I’m fine Mark, really. I really am happy. I don’t know if kids are in my future. It might be nice one day, but right now it really isn’t at the top of my list. Let’s face it, if I was really meant to be a mother, I can’t help but think I would feel a little differently about my priorities. I just don’t right now. I don’t know if you remember me telling you about Cassie”

“Yeah, the daughter of your friend that died right?”

“My best friend,” she corrected, “Well Janet didn’t have any other family. And since she died I’ve kind of been something like a second mother to Cassie. She’s in college now and works during the summer so I don’t really get to see her much at the moment but, she’s family Mark. She is my family. And who knows, maybe with this transfer I can actually have a little time for a new relationship.”

Mark eyed her as they retrieved their coffees a moment later. “Ok, so don’t take this the wrong way. I’m not trying to start a fight or anything but tell me the truth, Sam.”

She tried keeping a neutral expression as they sat down, “Go on.”

“There is someone isn’t there? It has something to do with this transfer doesn’t it?”

Sam contemplated her response, “Possibly.”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“I’m not trying to be cryptic or difficult. It’s just complicated right now,” she took a sip of her coffee.

“Complicated, as in you work together?”

“For now.”

“How long have you been with him?”

“I’m not, “with him”, but I want to be. Very much. If I do get approval then it could open up some possibilities for us.”

“So you’re trying to tell me that you broke it off with a sure thing purely on a gamble? I mean how do you know this guy is even worth it?”

“Mark, marriage isn’t the ultimate goal here. Finding someone that supports me in every aspect of my life and loves me for all I am is the goal. He’s seen me at my absolute worst, he’s fought for me when necessary and most importantly he knows when to stand back and let me fight on my own. Trust me, he’s worth everything.”

Mark just shook his head, “I don’t know about this Sam. You make it sound like you're fighting off in some distant land, not working in some office. I hope you know what you’re doing,” he took a long drink of his coffee, “I just can’t help but wonder what dad would say about all this.”

“No you don’t. You’re just trying to guilt trip me. When I happen to know he respected him greatly and think he might have somehow known. Dad was the one who told me to give it a shot.”

Mark didn’t say anything. They lapsed into an uncomfortable silence. She sighed into her coffee. “You ok Sis?” Mark said, pulling her out of her head. He seemed to realize he had been behaving like an ass.

“Oh yeah, just thinking about dad.”

“And your potential boy-toy?”

Sam nearly snorted coffee through her nose “Gahh” she choked.

Mark handed her a napkin, “Sorry about that,” he was trying not to laugh.

Sam composed herself, “I would hardly call him that!” she sputtered.

Mark was still trying not to laugh “I haven’t seen you this flustered about a guy since high school.”

“I’m not flustered, I just wouldn’t have called him a ‘boy-toy’; although he can be kind of a big kid sometimes,” she grinned. She wasn’t going to mention the fact that he was older than her.

“You think this guy would marry you?”

“Mark, what did I just say? Marriage isn’t my main goal here. If we decide to get married then we will. It’s no one’s business but ours.” she said in a warning tone.

“Fine, I’ll drop it for now, but I expect to meet this guy if things get serious. I’m still your big brother.”

“Sure Mark” she smirked. She had to admit that the idea of turning Jack O’Neill into her own personal “boy-toy” did seem rather appealing. She really had it bad for the guy. Marriage on the other hand. Hammond had mentioned they could without any kind of reproductions so it was a possibility. She just wasn’t sure if it would be possible for them living in different states, or in orbit. Maybe that was the exact reason they should get married.

After saying goodbye to her brother and promising to visit when she could get some time off, Sam headed back home. She was anxious to get out of her dress uniform and into something she could relax in. She pulled on her favorite old jeans and paired them with a comfortable blue-green top. Then sat down to watch a little TV. She never really watched TV much but thought she would see what was on to pass the time. She was flicking through the channels when she stumbled across ‘The Simpsons’. She had watched a few episodes before, mainly because of Jack but hadn’t ever really got into it. She could see why Jack enjoyed it though.

Oh well, it wasn’t like he would be watching old musicals with her. Actually, she wasn’t sure what kind of movies he liked. He usually let someone else pick the movie for team nights, on the rare occasions they actually did watch a movie at all. They normally played poker.

She must have fallen asleep because it was already getting dark when she heard a knock at her door. Her heart leapt as she looked through the peephole to see Jack.

“Hey there,” she greeted him.

Jack had changed into jeans and a green button down shirt. “I hope you don’t mind me dropping by.”

“No no it’s fine, did you need something or… where’s your truck?”

“Felt like taking the bike out,” he said as he threw a thumb over his shoulder to a motorcycle parked on the curb. “I just thought I’d check in, see how things went.”

“I didn’t even know you had a motorcycle.”

“I don’t really ride it much anymore, just when I need to clear my head.”

“Come on in. Everything alright, Sir?”

“Please don’t call me ‘Sir’, not tonight.”

Sam stepped aside to let him in. “Are you alright Jack?”

“I’m fine, like I said, I just wanted to see how you were holding up.”

“Other than Mark grilling me about canceling the wedding and insisting I’ve got a ‘boy-toy’ waiting for me. It went just fine.”

Jack raised his brow, “Boy-toy?”

“His words, not mine.”

“So, whatcha tell him?”

“The truth, mostly.”

“Oh yeah?”

“He knows I’m interested in someone I work with. You want a beer?”

“Thanks. You didn’t mention me specifically?” They continued into the kitchen. Sam grabbed two beers out of the fridge and handed one to Jack.

“I thought it was a bit premature for that. I mentioned something about possibly getting transferred and he latched on to it. He seems to think I’m just waiting for approval of a transfer so I’m sure he knows you’re Air Force. He insists on meeting you when things get serious.”

“Naturally.”

“Jack, is something bothering you?”

“I looked into that agreement Hammond finagled.”

“And?”

“It’s more like part award for services rendered and part presidential pardon. Sure it cites the loophole Hammond was talking about but there’s a lot more to it than that, this is definitely not SOP.”

“Kind of figured that, but it is binding isn’t it? I mean it can’t be revoked right?”

“No, no, as far as I can tell they crossed their T‘s and dotted their I’s. They must’ve been busy, looks like legal has already gone over it with a fine tooth comb. I can’t see any loopholes of any kind. Looks like they really covered their asses, and ours, on this one.”

“So that’s a good thing, right?” Sam stood up gesturing towards the living room. Jack followed.

“Yeah sure, it is just… I don’t know, something about the whole thing seems a little too… easy. I guess I thought there would be more of a fight than this.” The two of them sat down on the couch.

“Well we have been known to save the planet on occasion.”

“Yeah, you know that’s mentioned in there too. They are calling it a “Presidential Favor” for services rendered to the United States and the planet in times of need.”

“Can we just enjoy it then?”

He looked at her startled for a second, then his face relaxed, “Of course, Sam. I don’t know what’s gotten into me.”

“You’re not having second thoughts about all this are you?”

“What? Me? Heck no.”

“Anything else bothering you?”

“I have issues, Sam”

“Nooo! Ya think?” Her blue eyes widened in mock surprise as she drew out the words sarcastically.

“Yeah all right smart ass. I just… I don’t wanna mess this up, I’ve messed up too many things.”

“First of all it would probably help if you would talk to me and be honest.”

“I told you about my parents. you already know about Charlie and Sara. I’ve been honest about all of that. Hey I’m supposed to be here to comfort you, not the other way around.”

“I know you and Sarah went south because you wouldn’t talk to her.”

“God Sam I was heading out like my dad back then. That’s how I got into the Stargate program to begin with, you know all that too. Things have changed a lot since then.”

“Now you’re leaving the Stargate program, you don’t think that isn’t bothering you?”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right. Then there’s your dad and Daniel and who knows what’s going on with Anubis and frickin’ Ba’al. But it’s nothing out of the ordinary for me Sam. I’ll deal with it, I always do.”

“And I am dealing with most of the same stuff as well, plus my own issues. I’m here for you Jack.”

“Until you’re not.”

“We’ve dealt with worse things than a long distance relationship. We’ll be fine.” She didn’t know where the sudden burst of confidence came from but somehow she knew it was true.

“Yeah you’re right, not like I haven’t dealt with it before.”

“What’s that?”

Jack let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding, “I’ve done it, Sam, hell, I was damn good at it. The long distance thing I mean. Heck, Sara and I were apart more than we were together for the better part of our marriage and we were happy. It wasn’t easy and it sure wasn’t perfect but we didn’t just make it work, we were great.”

Sam turned her head facing away from Jack. She wasn’t sure how she felt about him talking about how happy he had been with his ex-wife. Even though she knew how awful their marriage had ended and his current relationship with Sara was practically nonexistent. Even after all this time, Jack still blamed himself for Charlie’s death, and always would. That was just part of the packaged deal that was Jack O’Neill.

“It’s been a really rough couple of days. Especially for you, Sam. How is it that you end up playing shrink?”

Sam laughed and looked at the spot where her mother’s urn used to sit. “I don’t know. I guess maybe I’m just focusing on the future. I’ll be back to work tomorrow, you said something about Anubis. I’m still worried about Daniel. And I’m worried about you.”

“About me?”

“If Daniel doesn’t show up like you hope, I’m worried about how you’ll deal with it. Especially without the rest of us around.”

“He will, he has to. Anubis can’t win and I’m thinking Daniel is out there doing what he can to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

“I just hope you’re right.”

“Yeah well we’ll have to see. Anyway, I should probably head home. It’s pretty late for a school night.”

“Please don’t” Sam looked up at him.

“Sam, I…”

“I don’t think I want to be alone, that’s all. You can leave early so you can stop at home. I just want you to stay with me. Please?”

“Antarctica”

“Excuse me?”

“We slept together, snuggled up for warmth. It would have been really nice if I hadn’t had a punctured lung.”

“You want to snuggle Sir?”

“Hey, you’re the one insisting I stay. I tried to leave.”

“Oh yeah, you really put up a fight.” She smirked, taking his hand.

“So, humm just so we are clear. Shanahan? You never gave me your report.”

“Sorry, Sir. Threat assignment complete, threat deemed minimal. Situation resolved,” she said in her military tone.

“Understood, Carter.” Jack stood up taking Sam’s other hand “I don’t know about you Sam but I could really use some sleep, I hope you weren’t expecting more.”

“As much as I might like to, no. We’ll save that for another time. I’m inclined to agree with you that we should let it happen naturally.”

Chapter 5 and the M rating I promised 😉

Their eyes locked. Sam tilted her head back as Jack moved in for a kiss. The kiss was soft, almost gentle. Almost. Jack wove his fingers into Sam’s hair, deepening the kiss. They broke apart after what could have been an eternity. Jack rested his forehead against hers regulating his breathing. “Been wanting to do that again for years.”

“Me too,” Sam said a little breathlessly.

They broke apart reluctantly, “I think it’s time for some shuteye. I have a feeling I’m going to have to leave pretty early, Sam.”

“Expecting trouble?”

“Not sure, just a gut feeling.”

Sam knew better than to second guess him. They made their way back to Sam’s bedroom. “You don’t by chance have an extra toothbrush do you?” He asked her as she began to brush her own teeth.

“Should be some under the sink.” Jack couldn’t help but notice that Sam’s was the only toothbrush in the holder. Either Pete had never had one or Sam had already thrown it out.

Sam finished and made her way back into the bedroom to change for bed. She pulled on a pair of flannel sleep pants and an old t-shirt.

“Don’t suppose you got anything I can sleep in?” Jack’s voice floated in from the bathroom. He stood in the doorway watching her from behind. Sam was a little surprised to find that she didn’t mind the thought of him watching her.

“Just the bed” she corked a smile.

Jack shucked out of his jeans and button down shirt and stood in his boxers and the Air Force t-shirt he wore as an under shirt. Then he flopped onto the bed.

Sam watched as Jack O’Neill, all six feet some-odd inches of him stretched out on her bed with his hands behind his head. His feet nearly reaching the end of the bed, “I’m about to fall asleep over here Carter.”

Sam smirked “On top of the covers?”

“You coming to tuck me in?”

Her grin widened, what she really wanted to do might have rhymed with “tuck”. Her grin hadn’t gone unnoticed, “You know, I suddenly feel a little like the fly caught in the spider’s web.”

Sam gilded towards him pulling down the quilt on the side Jack wasn’t lying on as far as she could “Are you getting under the covers or not?”

Jack twisted himself gracefully, maneuvering himself under the covers. His heart was starting to speed up, as he watched her expectantly. He was really starting to question his resolve about taking things slow as she cuddled up next to him wrapping herself around him with her head on his shoulder. “Uhh, Sir?”

“Yeah, I know, sorry. That’s definitely not my sidearm,” he said as he attempted to adjust his position.

She didn’t mind one bit and reached up to put him down for a kiss. Suddenly all of the grief, stress, uncertainty, anger, fear and regret of the last few days and even the last several years seem to melt way. The kiss was intense, both yearning for more but holding back. After what seemed like an eternity they slowly pulled away. Jack grinning like a school boy. “Alright, Carter?”

She realized her cheeks were warm “You betcha” she hesitated for a second “Although I am curious to know what happened to taking things slow?”

“I’m innocent here, you kissed me” he grinned. “I’m not going to deny I’d like to do more.”

She smiled, “At least I can count on your discretion, I don’t think I’ve ever really heard you mention any of your girlfriends. I certainly didn’t know about Kerry.”

Jack flopped back onto his back and laughed at that, suddenly not quite so amorous, “Ha! “Girlfriends”? Oh sure Carter, that’s because Kerry was the first Earthbound relationship I’ve really had since Sara. Everyone knew about the off world ones, even if the one didn’t make it into the official report. Talk about embarrassing.”

She sat there stunned for a second. It wasn’t like she had, had a ton of boyfriends over the years either. But she certainly assumed he had, had more relationships than that. “May I ask why?”

“Why what?”

“Why you didn’t date more.”

She felt him shrug under her, “For one, I don’t really like dating. I like solid meaningful relationships. For a long time I guess I just didn’t feel like I deserved to be in a relationship after Sara. Then there was that stupid thing with the marriage cake and the Grandpa Moses STD”

Sam started to laugh “Those were nanites!”

“That turned me into an old man after I got infected when she— oh hell you know what happened. Anyway, after that I just, I hadn’t met anyone outside of work that I could see myself getting serious with. Then there was Laira.”

“You loved her” Sam heard herself say.

“She reminded me a lot of Sara actually. I tried to hold onto hope that you would find a way to bring me home, I really did Sam. It just didn’t seem like it was going to happen, I started thinking about making a new life for myself and…”

“You started to fall in love with her.”

“And then she asked me to give her a child.”

Sam looked up at him “Did you?”

“I mean it looked like my best option at the time, I didn’t think I was coming home. I had a wonderful woman who wanted to start a new life with me. Ehh… anyway, yeah we did spend the night together and then the very next day… Laira brought me my radio. I think she knew what I would do the moment she heard voices coming from it, but she told me anyway. She had her people to think about too of course. She made the right choice. The moment she told me I ran off to find Teal’c. She knew I had to go home, and that was that. I’d screwed up another good relationship with a good woman that didn’t deserve it. I never did find out if I managed to give her that kid or not. I kinda doubt it but I do think about it sometimes. The kid would be about five now I think.”

Sam was quite for a long time “I couldn’t stand the thought of leaving you there. I think it was then I realized my feelings for you weren’t based on just physical attraction or hero worship but honest love. It was one of the worst times of my life. Realizing how I really felt and not being able to get you back to tell you. Then, when we found you… I had planned on telling you how I felt when we got you back home but then…”

“Then you saw me saying goodbye.”

“It was like a knife in the heart.”

“I’m sorry.”

She snuggled into him tighter “You couldn’t have known.”

“Yeah I guess,” they laid there in silence for several minutes “Sam? You awake?”

“Humm?” she murmured into his chest.

“You know I love you right?”

“Ah humm” she acknowledged sleepily “Me too.”

He pulled her even closer as he adjusted into a more comfortable sleeping position. He couldn’t remember a time he felt more complete holding a woman, even Sara. And they hadn’t even had sex yet, he reminded himself with a grin as they fell asleep together.

The next morning Jack woke up earlier than usual as he feared he might. He turned his head to look at the beautiful woman still fast asleep next to him. Thanks to her, he’d slept better than he had in a long time. He knew he had to get going though.

Jack quietly extracted himself from Sam’s side. He wanted nothing more than to stay next to her between the sheets and see what sorts of things happened from there. With a sigh he pulled on his clothes and made his way into the kitchen. Jack fumbled around for a few minutes looking for the necessities to make coffee and got the pot going. While that was running he looked for paper and a pen to leave Sam a note. The pot was barely finished brewing before he was ready to leave. He had found a travel cup and poured himself some of the hot liquid. He figured he’d get the cup back to Sam later. If nothing else it might give him an excuse to come over again, not that he needed one, not now. Jack then drove home on his bike, changed his clothes, shaved and was back in his truck heading over to the SGC within a matter of minutes.

By the time Sam had arrived in the briefing room, Teal’c had just received word from Bra’tac and was filling Jack in. Anubis had taken Dakara, he had the weapon. Before she knew it the situation had grown rapidly more desperate. Sam gave Walter the order to dial the Alpha site to buy them a little more time when the gate started to dial from off world. It was already too late. They were frantically trying to figure out how to best handle the situation when Jack interrupted her, barking an order to enter her self-destruct code. In that instance she almost forgot herself. All life in the galaxy as we know it was about to be destroyed and there was nothing she could do. If she had time maybe, but there just wasn’t time. Jack gave her a pleading look repeating her name still as an order but more softly this time. Jack knew the situation was hopeless but he had to do something, anything. He had to try.

Tense moments passed as the clock rapidly ticked down. Then just as quickly as everything had happened it seemed to stop. The timer literally slowed to a halt, and the gate shut down. Jack was the first to snap himself back into action “Shut it off!” he commanded, bringing Sam’s attention to abort the self-destruct.

It had been a close call. Too close.

After several moments Jack, Teal’c, and Sam made their way back to the conference room. Teal’c was the first to speak, “O’Neill, I believe it would be prudent to send word to Bra’tac of what has occurred here to determine if there is a correlation with events happening on Dakara.”

“You do that Teal’c, report back as soon as you know something,” they watched as Teal’c returned to the control room.

“Carter, a word please?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Your thoughts?”

“I really couldn’t say until I ran a diagnostic.”

“Alright, you go do that,” he hesitated for a fraction of a second but Sam caught it, giving him a quizzical look.

“It’s nothing Carter, work first, other things later.”

“Sir?”

“Just stay focused Colonel. Run along and play with your computers, report back.”

Sam nodded curtly before exiting. Jack poured himself a cup of coffee and went over to the window overseeing the gate room. He never tired of this view, even though at the moment it was strangely stagnant. For the life of him he couldn’t explain what had just happened. For some reason he was certain that Daniel had something to do with it. He found himself oddly at ease with whatever it was.

Jack was almost finished with his coffee when Teal’c came back in the room “O’Neill, Bra’tac had not yet arrived at Dakara when I managed to make contact, however he has received word that the battle has suddenly shifted drastically. He could not yet determine the cause. Bra’tac has agreed to notify me when he has more news. He believes the Jaffa should be able to end the battle shortly if this keeps up. I am certain the council will want to meet at that time and I would like to be there when they do.”

“If they are falling that easily I want to know why before I send a member of my te- eh SG-1 anywhere. If my hunch is right, then once I know you’re not likely to come back full of holes then I guess you can go out to play with Bra’tac.”

“As you say O’Neill. May I ask what is this ‘hunch’ of which you speak?”

Jack shrugged one shoulder and downed the rest of his coffee before answering, “Daniel.”

Teal’c raised an eyebrow then bowed his head slightly but did not comment. Jack figured his friend either thought he was nuts or perhaps he agreed there was a possibility their friend could still be out there looking out for them. After all, Teal’c was the one other person that Daniel had appeared to the first time he had ascended, why couldn’t it have happened again?

Less than an hour had passed before Walter came into the briefing room. “General O’Neill, Teal’c. Master Bra’tac is sending a video transmission requesting Teal’c’s presents at the Jaffa Council meeting.”

“Is he still on the line Walter?”

“Yes, Sir, I thought you might like to speak with him.”

“Next time lead with that,” the quip was barely out of his mouth before he was already halfway down the stairs with Teal’c following closely.

“Yes, Sir,” Walter answered, following the two men.

“Bra’tac, Buddy! How’s things?”

“I am well O’Neill of Minnesota. I require that Teal’c accompany me to the council meeting. The way to the gate has been cleared.”

“Good enough for me, T?”

“I shall retrieve my staff weapon.”

“You shall not need it,” Bra’tac smiled.

Teal’c raised an eyebrow, “Does not the battle still continue?”

Bra’tac smiled “It does but not for long, the fight has moved far from the temple and I expect it will be over in a matter of moments.”

Jack and Teal’c exchanged a look “I do not understand.”

“That is why you must come my friend, to see with your own eyes.”

“Go,” Jack said to Teal’c, then turning to the monitor to address Bra’tac, “I’m not sending him unarmed.”

“As you wish O’Neill, I shall await your arrival Teal’c,” then the transmission ended.

“Carter!” Jack barked “Where’s, oh there you are Carter,” he turned around to find her hunched in a corner looking up at him from behind a laptop.

“Sir?”

“Did you turn up anything?”

“Nothing, Sir. Everything seems to be normal. Whatever happened it wasn’t on our end.”

“Teal’c you have a go, report back as soon as you’re able, I want answers.”

“Carter, you finished there?”

“Just about” she hit a few keys “Yes, Sir.”

“Alright then, with me,” he said as he took the stairs back up to his office, Sam behind him.

“You heard that right? What do you make of it?”

“No idea, Sir.”

Jack frowned, “Have a seat Carter, coffee?”

“Yes, Please.”

Jack retrieved two cups of coffee. Handing one to Sam, he sat down on the opposite end of the little couch with her taking a sip of his own cup.

“Just because I didn’t find anything yet doesn’t necessarily mean there isn’t something going on. Anubis is probably still out there somewhere. This could be a trick for all we know.”

“This place is going to fall apart without you, you know”

She laughed, “They manage just fine when I’m off world; I’m more worried about what they are going to do without you, Sir.”

“Well at least I’ll be able to keep tabs on things from Washington.”

“This isn’t what you wanted to talk about though is it?”

“Not even close.”

“Are you going to tell me?”

“That was a close call.”

“We’ve had close calls before.”

“Yup.”

“But that’s not all, is it?”

“No. Actually it got me thinking about the possibility of getting remarried. Someday.”

Sam gave him an interested look, “You don’t say? And do you see yourself having a family too?”

“Oh, I don’t know, I’m a little old for that, but if the potential future Mrs. wanted kids I sure would do my part to make it happen,” Jack realized how that sounded as it came out of his mouth, “I just mean I wouldn’t say ‘No’ that’s all.”

Sam barely heard him, she was laughing, “I bet you would, Sir.” She tried to compose herself.

“I was actually trying to have a serious conversation there, Carter.”

Sam sobered up a bit, “I know you were. I’m sorry. I guess it’s probably the adrenaline, Sir.”

“I did kinda stick my foot in my mouth,” he sighed, “Adoption could work, get em after they’ve been potty trained and everything. I’m not too old for that.”

“Have you talked to your girlfriend about this?”

Jack gave Sam a knowing look, “Eventually, it’s still kinda early. Although I think I might have to see how she feels about the whole marriage thing. She’s away a lot though so I don’t know if she’ll go for it. Who knows, maybe I’ll get a dog.”

“Sounds complicated. A dog might still be a good idea. Although if she travels that much, maybe she wouldn’t mind the thought of being married. It might give her something to look forward to on those really bad days.”

“That’s a very good point, I’ll have to talk to her about it.”

Sam was satisfied with that answer. After calling off the wedding she certainly wasn’t ready to jump back into wedding planning so soon. What she had told Mark was true. She didn’t see marriage as the ultimate goal here. The important part was having someone to love. But not just anyone, Jack. It was nice knowing where they stood on the topic and it made her even more willing to consider the possibility. She had been willing to marry someone who was totally wrong for her. Why should she hesitate to consider the possibility of marrying the man she was madly in love with?

“Sir, I imagine Teal’c will probably be a while. You want to get a bite to eat?”

“You know me, I’m always hungry, Carter.”

Sam still didn’t have much of an appetite but she decided that a turkey sandwich and the blue Jell-O sounded pretty good. Jack took note of the blue jell-o again which belied her inner turmoil and need for comfort, although she seemed to be doing better.

By the time they had finished their meal and were returning their trays the loudspeaker announced, “Off World Activation”.

“Carter, with me,” he said once again as he started a loping jog to the control room.

“What’a we got, Walter?”

“It’s Teal’c, Sir.”

“Well by all means let him through.”

“Yes, Sir.”

Jack caught Carter’s eye, “You think something is wrong Sir?” She asked.

“With our luck? Nah.”

However the moment Teal’c and Bra’tac entered the gate room both wearing large smiles on their faces it was evident they bore good news. Jack hit the intercom button “Welcome back you two! Wipe those smiles off and meet in the briefing room!”

It was clear that Teal’c and Bra’tac were pleased, if not altogether happy because of the heavy losses they had suffered. They both attempted to dawn more conservatived expressions as they sat down, neither of them were wholly successful. Bra’tac managed a bit better when taking into account the loss of life. However it was clear that the lost Jaffa had not died in vain. The battle was won, they were now free, and most importantly they were in agreement that the weapon must be destroyed. Given the grand scale of the victory it was surprisingly one of the quickest briefings Jack had ever conducted. Sam looked hopefully at Jack, “Ya think?”

He didn’t have to ask what she meant “I do.”

At Bra’tac’s obvious confusion Teal’c graciously stepped in, “O’Neill believes that Daniel Jackson was somehow responsible”.

“Nope, not me!”

“Did anyone else hear that?” Jack asked the room. When it seemed everyone at the table had indeed heard Daniel’s voice coming from Jack’s office and Jack wasn’t losing it, he got up to investigate.

Jack had hoped Daniel would show up. The timing was so perfectly aligned with the defeat of Anubis that he didn’t think twice about going to welcome him home. However, that changed very quickly when he saw him in his office… Naked!

“Wooh!” Jack staggered back out of the door. In a moment of embarrassment Jack had pulled the SGC flag off the pole. Unceremoniously handing it to Daniel to wrap around himself. Jack tried to look at anything but Daniel wrapped in the flag. He was glad to see his friend again but really had wished he hadn’t seen quite so MUCH of him. “It’s a- long story,” Daniel said apologetically.

Sam also didn’t know where to look. Daniel was like a little brother, so seeing him in this state was extremely awkward. Bra’tac was the only one in the room who really seemed to grasp the humor of the situation.

“Ahh yes, well I’m sure it is a tale we all would love to hear, once you have some pants on” Jack added, “Teal’c, eh, would you mind escorting Daniel to the infirmary to get checked out and for crying out loud, find the man some clothes!”

“Nice to see you too Jack, how’s things?” Daniel scowled at his friend.

“Naked? In my office? Why?”

“Well believe it or not it wasn’t exactly my idea, it was the- others. Fortunately I seem to have all my memories this time.”

“Wonderful, glad to have you back! Pants! Teal’c!”

By now Bra’tac was all but laughing. Even Sam had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep from smiling.

“Come with me please Daniel Jackson. It is good to see you again.”

“You too Teal’c” Daniel shot Jack an exasperated look as he followed Teal’c out towards the infirmary. Yeah he was home alright.

Bra’tac stood up collecting himself, “I am glad to see Dr. Jackson has been returned to you, O’Neill. As much as I would like to hear Dr. Jackson’s story, I’m afraid that I too should be returning to my duties. There will be much to do. I trust you will send Teal’c to Da’kara as soon as you can spare him.”

“Understood Bra’tac, thank you for coming. Congratulations on your new found freedom my friend,” he gave Sam a nod which she returned, “I don’t know if Teal’c told you but Carter’s father passed away.”

“Of course O’Neill. My greatest sympathies Colonel Carter, your father was a brave and wise man. My people owe him a great debt as well as you.”

Sam stood up to give the old warrior a hug “Thank you Bra’tac, that really means a lot coming from you.”

“Take care of yourself Samantha Carter,” he said to Sam. Then turning to Jack, “Without the help of you and your people this day never would have come, thank you O’Neill. Thank you.”

The two men clasped arms in a Jaffa handshake then Bra’tac was on his way. Jack left briefly to see him off then returned to Sam in the briefing room to await Daniel and Teal’c.

Sam spoke first, “So…”

“I told you he would be back,” Jack smiled.

“You did.”

“Looks like it’s about time to start thinking about fishing,” he smiled slyly.

“I still have the leave time I asked for the wedding and honeymoon.”

“Funny you should mention that, I believe I’m scheduled for a fishing trip about the same time.”

“Really, Sir? You were planning on going fish… oh I see.”

“I really wasn’t sure if it was a good idea for me to go, Carter.”

She knew Jack had been hurt by her engagement, until now she didn’t really realize how badly. The thought of getting married without him being there was unbearable. At that moment she also realized that had Jack not been there she would have realized she couldn’t have gone through with it.

“Well this fishing trip is sounding a little better all the time. Maybe I’ll join you Sir, I think it’s about time. We certainly deserve it.”

“Deserve what?” Daniel asked as he and Teal’c came back up the stairs. Daniel now dressed in blue BDUs.

“Carter has had a really rough week. I’m trying to convince her to take some time off.”

“Really? What happened?”

Sam proceeded to tell Daniel and Teal’c about her dad, and her engagement.

“What? Oh Sam, I’m so sorry” Daniel said, pulling her into a hug. “What happened? Why are you even here?”

“Today was my first day back after the funeral. I’m really not too bad. Overall it’s actually been a really good day.”

“That it has,” Jack said, throwing an arm around Daniel in a brotherly hug.

The four of them spent the next two hours swapping stories from the last time they had all been together. Not including Sam and Jack’s decision to start a romantic relationship, of course, not yet. It was part briefing and part simply catching up.

It was exactly what Sam needed. Seeing Daniel back, healthy and whole was doing her heart good. Sam took a moment to appreciate just how lucky she was to have these men in her life and how much she was going to miss them. Teal’c would of course be helping set up the new government for the Free Jaffa Nation. She was sure Daniel would find something to keep himself occupied.

Maybe she could convince Jack to let them come to his cabin. As much as they had both wanted that trip to be just the two of them it would also be nice if they could come along too.

That evening Sam stayed a little longer at the SGC to get caught up on a few things. When she did leave she was feeling restless. She found herself driving over to Jack’s. Her heart pounded in her chest remembering the last time she was here. But then she remembered the note she had woken up to. He’d left it taped to the coffee pot.

It simply read: “Morning Gorgeous, hope the coffee is ok. See you at work! Love, Ya! P.S. Not stealing a travel mug.”

She took comfort and made her way to the front door. “Carter! Hey”, a half smile tinged his lips. He checked his watch, “Pizza guy should be here soon.” Jack’s smile broadened, damn she loved that smile.

“I assume you haven’t eaten then?”

“Nope. Care to join me?”

“Mushrooms and mild pepper rings?”

“You betcha.”

“Got a beer for me?”

“Need you ask?”

Sam glanced at the TV in the living room, he had been getting caught up on episodes of ‘The Simpsons’ he had recorded while at work.

“You know I tried watching that last night before you showed up.”

“Tried?”

“I sort of fell asleep,” She said apologetically.

Jack mimed being stabbed in the heart, “You wound me!”

“Hey I’ll give it another shot, I just don’t know if it’s really my thing.”

“Fair enough, a shot is all I ask.”

There was a knock at the door, it was the pizza guy. The two of them sat down to eat and talk while they watched TV. It was nice just having some down time together.

They had just finished watching a particularly ‘Burns-centric’ episode when Sam turned to him looking aghast “I can’t believe it. I get it now. Burns as Goa’uld. I can’t believe I didn’t see it before!”

Jack pulled her closer to him “You are so hot right now,” he said, kissing her without abandon. Until the nearly empty pizza box was knocked off the coffee table. Sam broke the kiss to glance at it.

“Leave it,” he growled. The two of them spent several minutes kissing like a couple of teenagers in the backseat of a car, until Sam’s phone rang.

Sam moaned as she pulled away to check it “Crap I’ve got to take this, it’s Mark,” she said looking at her phone, “Hey Mark, what’s up?” She gave Jack an apologetic smile as she stepped into the kitchen.

It had been a close call. Jack wanted her more than anything but he also didn’t want to mess things up like he always seemed to. He wanted to make Sam his forever. Somehow sleeping with her so soon after her father’s funeral just didn’t seem like the way to start that kind of a relationship. He had been very close indeed to just saying ‘Screw slow’ and simply giving into their mutual desires.

Instead he got up and cleaned up the pizza that had fallen on the floor.

Sam returned a moment later “Sorry about that.”

“No problem, everything ok?”

“Yeah, I guess my brother decided to tell his wife about our talk. Apparently my sister-in-law gave him an earful for being a jerk to me about it. He was calling to apologize.”

“I think I might like her.”

“Yeah she’s pretty cool. So where were we?”

He rubbed the back of his neck absently “Sam…” she moved closer to him positioning herself for a kiss.

“So how’s this work? Do I actually have to get you to eat a drugged marriage cake or should I just ask you to give me a child?”

“For crying out loud, Sam, if I didn’t know you better I’d say you just wanted to get into my pants” he choked out.

“Too soon?”

“Ya think? I mean do you normally put-out before the first date?”

“I’m willing to make a special one time exception for you.”

“That’s an awfully tempting offer, Sam…”

“Are you serious?”

“You know I want to, I was just trying to avoid, ya know, taking advantage of you.”

“Taking advantage of me? You’re kidding me right?”

“Well, yeah, I mean we just buried your father. I just don’t want to screw this up.”

Sam would have laughed if Jack didn’t look so serious, “Look at me.” Sam said sternly. Jack did so.

“First of all, thank you for the concern. But I’m only going to say this once, I’m not some sweet young cadet. I’ve wanted this. With you. For years. I really am fine as far as things go with my dad. Yes, I’m going to miss him, yes I loved him dearly. But I’m a big girl, Jack. I know what I want. And at this point the only way you’re going to screw things up is to suddenly start treating me like some damn flower to be protected. One of the things that made me fall in love with you in the first place was the fact that you never did that. Don’t start now.”

Jack nodded once and downed the rest of his beer, “Alright, Sam. You’re right. I was… well I can’t argue with that. I give. Come on Ms. Carter, I’m at your mercy. Have your wicked way with me.”

“Oh I plan to Mr. O’Neill” she grinned.

Sam allowed him to guide her into his bedroom. She was more than a little surprised by the swiftness he had managed to pin her against the wall. He had caught her off guard using a move she had seen him use countless times before, except this time he ended it with a passionate kiss.

Well, two could play that game. They hadn’t spent time sparing in the gym for nothing, she thought wickedly as she managed to turn the tables on him. For his part he seemed to have been expecting it and offered little resistance. He suddenly dipped down to pick her up. Jack carried her the short distance to the bed, laying her down. He followed her down kissing her, breaking the kiss to take a nip at her neck. Then he resumed the kiss with renewed desire.

That was all she needed. God he was an amazing kisser. Not breaking the kiss she repositioned herself so she was straddling him. She could feel his hands start to wander under her shirt, relishing the feel of his long, strong fingers caressing her skin. How long had she wanted him? It seemed like forever and now it was finally here.

She stopped suddenly panting and looked him in the eyes, “Jack?”

“Screw slow” he said as he practically ripped her shirt off over her head taking her in, God she was beautiful. He didn’t get much time to enjoy the view before she was already working to undress him. “A bit impatient are we?” He teased.

“Eight years is not impatient, Jack O’Neill!”

He pulled his own shirt off at that and helped her with his jeans. Sam had somehow already ditched her favorite jeans sometime during the last long kiss. His head was full of her, the feel, the touch, the taste of her kiss and skin. He started to feel around the tiny panties and matching lacy, parado-green bra. He undid the clasp on the first try, impressed with himself. Sam shrugged it off and removed her panties as well. Then she swiftly moved onto his boxers, releasing him from their confines and taking a moment to appreciate what she saw. She was suddenly regretting not doing this year’s ago.

She started kissing him again more slowly this time. She felt Jack groan with delight into her mouth as she reached down to take him in her hand. She only had to feel him respond once before she knew she needed him inside of her. Before she could even maneuver herself into the proper position he suddenly flipped her onto her back barely taking his lips from hers. They had saved the planet and even the galaxy countless times. Now they were about to claim their prize.

“Oh God, Jack!” Sam groaned as he positioned himself. She responded almost forcefully. Both of them enjoying the moment they finally joined.

Jack paused to watch her face. She pulled him down into another kiss rolling him onto his back, still astride him, forcing him deeper. It was a little power play they were both enjoying thoroughly. Jack half sat up to better explore the curves of her body. He cupped a breast in one hand.

For a fleeting second Sam worried she might leave fingernail marks on his back but that thought was washed away within minutes by a wave of shear ecstasy unlike any she had felt before, then another, and another. He flipped her over once more, increasing the power of the finale wave as he joined her.

They laid there, hearts racing in tandem, “So that’s what— eight years of— sexual tension feels like.” Jack gasped.

Sam smirked, “Oh I’m sure there’s lots more where that came from, Fly-boy” she kissed him again.

“Damn, I hope so.”

The two of them stayed entangled for several minutes. Sam moved into a more comfortable position letting Jack pull her close.

Chapter 6

The next morning Jack woke up early with Sam’s still naked body pressed into him with her arm draped across his body. He was loving the feel of her skin against his but he faced a problem. The call of nature.

He quickly and quietly managed to extract himself from her side and made it into the bathroom. As he was relieving himself he happened to glance at his reflection in the mirror behind the sink. He had fresh scratches on his back, battle scars of a very different kind than he was used to. But damn if he didn’t have fun getting them, he grinned. He could live with these ones. Jack pulled on some boxers and a t-shirt and made his way into the kitchen. It was Saturday morning. Jack remembered once telling Sam he would have to make her his famous pancakes sometime.

He was just about finished making breakfast when Sam padded into the kitchen wearing one of his T-shirts that just barely brushed the tops of her thighs. “You’re up,” he smiled when he saw her “I hope you’re hungry, I might have gone a little overboard on the food.”

“Oh, I’m hungry alright,” she said as she walked up to him grabbing his butt with appreciation.

“Samantha…”

Sam backed up to the counter “Come over here, O’Neill. That’s an order.”

Jack flicked off the griddle “Ma’am, yes Ma’am” he drawled. Allowing himself to be pulled into a kiss. Jack picked her up onto the counter where he soon realized Sam was naked under his shirt.

This time was slower, yet more passionate, as they very carefully abandoned the kitchen in favor of the bedroom. Jack took his time getting to know every little thing about Sam. Committing her to memory.

Sam was certain she had never had a lover like him before. This time she allowed herself to relax and summit herself to his will. With Jack it wasn’t just sex, it was making love. She had always thought that terminology to be trite and unnecessarily flowery, but now. Now it was the only term she could think of to describe what they did. The myriad of feelings and emotions he ignited in her. She relished in the sensation as he touched and tasted his way around her body. He was driving her crazy. “Jack” she gasped.

Later as they lay in bed, Sam rolled to her side to look at Jack, “I’m hungry.”

“Hey, isn’t that my line?”

“What can I say, you know how to work up an appetite.”

By the time they got to the breakfast Jack had prepared the beer pancakes were ice cold. “Got a cookie sheet?”

“Humm, yeah, I’m a single guy with a sweet tooth.”

“Single, huhh?”

“Not so single”

“That’s better. No, I was just going to warm these up for us since you were sweet enough to make them.”

“You were pretty sweet yourself, Samantha. I’m glad you stayed.”

“Me too, I don’t think I’ve ever had sex like that!” She grinned.

“Yeah, we’re pretty damn great together aren’t we? But more than that Sam, thanks for putting me in my place last night. I have a feeling you’re going to need to every once in a while. I’m sorry in advance.”

“I look forward to it, Sir.”

“Sir? Do you see a uniform?” He pointed to the boxers he had on that were decorated with little donuts. Sam let out a giggle. “But seriously Sam, when we transfer. This,” He gestured between them “is going to get a lot harder. I’ve been there. If there is anything I’ve learned, it’s that we have to use the time we have together wisely, and not just in bed. As fun as that is.”

“I hear you Jack. I want to make the best of our time too.”

They kissed slowly, releasing each other as the oven pre-heat timer went off. Jack turned to look out his kitchen window, “I’m going to miss it here.”

Sam frowned as she slid a tray of pancakes into the oven, “Maybe you can get a place on the outskirts of the capital. It would be more of a drive but at least it would be quiet.”

“Hammond is letting me take over his place. He wants to be closer to his granddaughters.”

“Oh? And where is his place?”

“Walking distance from Barcroft Park.”

“Wow.”

“Yeah, traffic is going to be nuts, especially on game days.”

“Well I guess that depends on what side of the park you’re on.”

“Yeah, I’m going to have to call him about the details,” Jack turned back to the window, “D’oh!”

“Jack?”

“I just realized that means selling everything. Not just my house, but also my truck, my motorcycle…” he huffed.

“Your cabin?”

“Watch your mouth! Nah, I’ll never sell that, it’s been in my family for years. Besides that, I’m kinda thinking ‘love-nest’ for the two of us.”

“Love-nest huh?” She giggled.

“Unless you have a problem with that.”

“Well I can’t help out with the house or the truck, but I can certainly help you out with the motorcycle. I’d hate for you not to have anything to ride when you come to visit me,” she grinned.

“Oh, baby, I like the way you think. Humm, if we do that then maybe we won’t be spending as much time at the cabin as I’d hoped,” he frowned a bit.

“And of course you know that means that you have to take time off to sign over the papers too,” Sam said, smiling wickedly.

“Damn, I love you” he smiled as he pulled her into a kiss.

“Ok, so beer pancakes aren’t half bad after all, it’s nice having real maple syrup with them too,” Sam said as they finished breakfast.

“So what do you want to do today?”

“No idea. I’ve probably got laundry to do and I thought about doing some grocery shopping.”

“You know maybe we should go to the zoo, I haven’t been there in years.”

“Colorado Springs doesn’t have a zoo.”

“Wow, and I thought I didn’t get out of the mountain much. Yes, Samantha there is a zoo. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, in fact. And it’s actually quite nice. We used to get season passes when Charlie was little. I’ve even taken Cassie a couple of times over the years. How did you not know about the zoo?”

Sam shrugged “Pete suggested it once but I didn’t think we had one so the conversation didn’t go very far.”

“Well lucky for you, I’m not Pete. I have connections.” There was a hint of pride in his tone.

“I think you’re forgetting we have a hockey game to go to.“

“I didn’t forget, that’s next Saturday night. What I really need to do is get you up to my cabin.”

“You know I was actually thinking about that.”

Jack grinned, “You were, were you?”

“You’re bad. As much as I want to spend time together, just the two of us. The truth is that we’re all going our separate directions and I was kind of wondering how you felt about inviting the boys along to the cabin as well.”

Jack regarded her for a second, he was definitely torn. Of course he knew how much Teal’c and Daniel both meant to the two of them but at the same time he really wanted Sam all to himself. Finally he came up with a compromise “How about this Sammie, you and I go up and spend a week alone, no distractions. We get a glorious week just the two of us and we can fish and hike or whatever to our hearts content and then we can invite the boys up. And if at that time, you are willing,we can tell the guys about us and our transfers. Deal?”

“A full week with Jack O’Neill all to myself? We might not leave the cabin.”

His eyebrows raised on their own accord, “Alright then, I’ll make the arrangements.”

“Ready to go?” Jack asked as he finished cleaning up the kitchen a bit.

“Sure.”

************

Sam couldn’t remember the last time she had been to the zoo but she knew she would never forget this trip. It seemed that Jack had made acquaintances, if not actual friends, with a number of the veteran-staff over the years. It was also clear that he hadn’t been there for a while.

That was especially evident when they went to the giraffe feeding station at lunch time. Jack insisted it was the best time of day to go and he was of course right. When they arrived the woman at the nearly empty giraffe feeding station greeted him as “Colonel O’Neill!”

“Hey there Betsy! Good to see you! This is Sam. Sam, Betsy. And would you knock it off with the Colonel crap, it’s Brig. General now. But don’t start with that either, it’s my day off.”

“Well congratulations on the promotion, Jack. I guess it’s been a while. I haven’t seen you around much, where’s your niece?”

“College, work, she’s a busy girl these days.”

“Time has a way of changing things.”

“No kidding.”

“So Sam, how do you know our Jack here.”

“Oh I…”

Jack cut in, “Sam is an astrophysicist on base. She’s also Cassie’s favorite Aunt.”

“Oh sweetie, I was so sorry to hear about your sister.”

Sam didn’t feel like correcting her, “Did you know, Janet?”

“Not well, she came here with Cassie and Jack a couple of times a few years ago. She seemed nice.”

“She was the best.” Sam smiled sadly. Jack cut in, “We all miss her, Sam.” He said tenderly, but then looked around at the giraffe enclosure and now completely empty feeding area “So where is my buddy anyway?”

“Oh, he’s a little distracted today, Juliet is in heat, she’s inside with the baby. He might come over for you though.”

“Baby?”

“Oh yeah, Romeo is a daddy now. Good heavens Jack it has been a while, she’s a little over a year old now.”

“Yeah, new job, dealing with some stuff, you know how it goes.”

“Sure I do,” she looked at him a little oddly but shook it off quickly, “So, Jack. Does this mean you’re dating again?”

“Huh, yeah, you could say that. Sam and I finally decided to give it a shot.”

“Finally?” She said smirking at Jack, then turned to Sam, “Well it’s nice to meet anyone that can get this one off his roof.”

“Oh come on, Betsy that’s enough of that!” Jack jumped up onto the side of the fence, “Romeo O’ Romeo wherefore art thou Romeo!” Sam wasn’t sure what was funnier, Jack referring to a giraffe as his “buddy” or the fact that he just quoted Shakespeare as loudly as he could.

“I think that did it, Jack! I think I see him coming now.” Betsy said, handing him an extra large bunch of lettuce. Sam could have sworn the large animal actually picked up his pace when he saw Jack.

“Hey there big guy,” Jack said to him as he came up to take a piece of lettuce from him. “The man keeping you away from your girl huh, big guy? I know that story.” Romeo nudged towards the bunch of lettuce in his other hand, Jack took another leaf and handed it out to Sam, “Come on, he’s a big sweetie”

Sam took the lettuce and stepped up to the giraffe. Romeo stuck his long tongue out to wrap around the lettuce and several of her fingers “gahhh, yuck” she said with a smile on her face.

Then quicker than she could have imagined he wrapped his tongue under her chin and up her cheek. Sam grimmised as she stepped back from the feeding platform. Jack laughed “Hey big guy, she’s taken!” he said chuckling.

Sam couldn’t help it, as slimy and gross as it was to be licked by a giraffe it was also pretty hilarious. She broke down laughing along with him.

“Oh he got you good, Sam” Betsy chortled as she handed her a disinfectant wipe.

“Thank you,” Sam said, still chuckling.

They continued their trip around the zoo. It wasn’t as busy as Sam would have expected for a Saturday which actually worked out in their favor. Jack had a number of Acquaintances amongst the senior staff which only added to the experience. They all loved Jack.

As they walked along, Sam spoke, “I keep thinking about what Hammond said about my dad being happy about us getting together. I always had the impression that he wouldn’t have liked anyone for me. Except for something he said just before he died.”

Jack knew exactly where this was going “Oh yeah?”

“He told me not to let rules get in the way. Like he knew.”

“That’s because he did.”

“So he did know about us?”

“Yeah, we had quite the little discussion about it actually.”

“Why didn’t he just come out and say so? He was being so cryptic and I saw you with… and all I could think to do was tell him that I was already happy with Pete. He didn’t want to hear it but I kept insisting… I just wanted him to believe I was going to be happy.”

Jack puffed out his cheeks before letting out a long breath, “Yeah, he wanted to let you make your own life choices. All he wanted was for you to be happy.”

“I get that, it’s just… what did you two talk about anyway?”

“Oh come on Carter, you don’t want to hear about all that.”

“Huhh, yeah, I kinda do. Did you tell him about us?”

“Didn’t have to.”

“Go on.”

“Well first off he just wanted my opinion of Pete. Then he kinda blindsided me by saying he knew you and I had feelings for each other. He had put it together on his own. And then he made me promise to tell you how I felt.”

“That’s it?”

“Yeah, all your dad did was talk some sense into me before I let you get away.”

“Well I guess I can’t really get too angry about that. I mean, I am happy. I just wish you would have said something about talking to him.”

“Eh, pretty sure I did, I just didn’t tell you what we talked about. But seriously what was I supposed to tell you? That your dad assured me that you would choose the blue jello over a raw potato if you knew it was on the menu?”

Sam laughed, “He said that?”

“He called me blue jello Sam, yeah pretty sure I remember that.”

She laughed more at that, “Yeah that sounds like something dad would say,” she paused still giggling. “You know, I could really go for some blue jello,” she said as she drew him to her kissing him in the middle of the footpath.

“Humm, Sam, people are starting to notice,” Jack said in a low whisper after the kiss ended.

“Nervous, Jack?”

“We are in our hometown, you don’t know who from the SGC is here with their kids.”

“We’re also off duty, Jack. Remember?” She said, taking his hand to continue their walk.

“They don’t know that though. I’m serious Sam, exemptions or not there are people out there who would love to cause trouble for us.”

“Like the folks in the zoo who have no idea we’re Air Force.”

“Ok, so maybe I’m being paranoid.”

“A bit,” she paused as they walked. “It doesn’t mean you’re wrong though. I’m sorry.”

“Ahh, for crying out loud, Sam. Don’t apologize. I just… damn it, we’re going to have to put our uniforms back on. When we do, we go back to the way it’s always been. I give the orders, you follow. Do you really want a relationship like that?”

“I’m not saying it’s going to be easy. In fact I’m thinking it’s going to be damn hard but we have never had a problem with our professional relationship, Sir and I don’t plan on starting now.”

“And when our professional relationship bleeds into our private relationship?”

“We’ll deal with it.”

“I’ll hold you to it, Carter.”

“We’ll hold each other to it, I’m not about to let Hammond down” she said jokingly.

She hadn’t been to a zoo in years and had actually scoffed at the idea when Pete had suggested it. She did feel a bit foolish for not knowing about it when she had lived there for eight years. Now she was glad she had gone with Jack. He had made the trip one to remember in the best possible way.

It wasn’t long before she realized that the more time she spent with Jack out of uniform the more she wanted to stay with him. But she knew that just wasn’t possible, not for long periods at a time at least. That thought was simply too depressing to give credence to.

“Did you have a good time today?” Jack asked as they were heading out.

“Absolutely, I’d forgotten how much I enjoyed the zoo. I’ll never forget Romeo, that’s for sure.”

“Yeah, he has a way with the ladies,” Jack laughed.

“Betsy seemed nice too.”

“Yeah, she is. Her oldest was the same age as Charlie. She was their Den-Mother for Cub Scouts when they were little.”

Sam wasn’t really sure what to say so she just gave a noncommittal “Uumhuh” of understanding.

“Yeah, she’s good people. So Samantha Carter, What’s next?”

“I honestly haven’t given it much thought.”

“Well, I have some stakes marinating if you want to come back to my place. Unless you have to get home.”

“As tempting as that sounds…”

“I promise I won’t overcook the meat this time.”

“I’m flattered.”

“So where am I going? Yours or mine?” This was starting to become a game for them.

“Are you asking me to sleep over again?”

“If I am?”

“Stakes sound great, but maybe I should get a few things from my place first.”

“Can do!”

************

The next morning Sam woke up alone in Jack’s bed wrapped up in nothing but a sheet, and feeling more than a little sore. It took her a minute to remember the night before. They ate and talked and drank. Good lord did they drink.

It started to come back to her. They had a couple of beers when Sam asked if he had anything else. Jack pulled out a bottle of whiskey. And all she could remember after that was him. She couldn’t keep her hands off of Jack. She had practically dragged him into his bedroom. The sex that followed was… Sam was suddenly very glad that Jack’s neighbors weren’t close. Sam pulled on her panties and found one of Jack’s t-shirts.

A moment later she padded into the kitchen where he was reheating leftover pancakes in the oven. His face split into a huge smile when he saw her. “Mornin’ Wild Thing” he drawled.

“Coffee,” she groaned.

He set a cup down in front of her “Bless you.”

“After last night, I can die a happy man.” His grin was almost manic.

“I can barely walk.”

“Hey, don’t blame me. I just followed orders.”

“Oh God, you did, didn’t you?” She laid her aching head on the table “Got anything for my head?”

Jack continued to grin as he put a plate of pancakes down in front of her with one hand and a bottle of Tylenol with the other. A moment later he followed it up with a large glass of water. “Thank you.”

“Oh no, thank you. Now I’ve got something I could write Penthouse about.”

“You wouldn’t.”

“Course not! But I could” he said, wiggling his eyebrows.

By the time they had finished breakfast Sam was feeling considerably better. She had really wanted to get a few household chores finished before work on Monday but she was still nursing the hangover and enjoying a lazy Sunday with Jack. In fact it was nearly dark before she finally left. He had a way of making her feel like a teenager again as she lingered on his doorstep kissing him goodbye.

spnae AKA RavenLove12

Chapter 7

At the SGC the next day Sam found herself too busy to focus too much on a certain General. In fact she had barely seen him. When she had seen him he was his normal snarky, self.

By Friday Sam had finished up most of her smaller on going projects. She then had been able to devote more of her time studying up on the Daedalus. “Hey Sam, whatcha doing?” Daniel asked as he and Teal’c walked into her lab.

“Hey guys, I was just going over the specifics of the new ship being built.” She continued telling them what she could about the Daedalus, leaving out the part about her transferring. She wasn’t sure if she was ready to tell them just yet, even though she was beyond excited for the experience. She had just finished when the phone rang, it was for Daniel. Sam watched him as he spoke, she could tell he was shaken. “What is it?” She asked.

“Catherine Langford died last night.”

Sam hadn’t known Catherine as well as Daniel had, but they had worked together years ago. Then there was the mission they went on to find her old fiancé. It saddened her to hear of her death.

“I’m so sorry Daniel, I know how close you two were.”

“Yeah, humm. If you could excuse me, I ah, I need to go talk to Jack.”

“Are you going to be alright?”

“Yeah, fine,” Daniel said as he left to find Jack.

Jack was in his office when Daniel knocked on the door, “Jack, do you have a minute?”

“Ehh” he looked at Daniel’s face and could tell it was important “Sure, what’s up?” He said closing the file he had been reading.

“It’s Catherine.”

“She alright?”

Daniel collapsed onto the little couch in Jack’s office “She’s dead Jack, last night.”

“Daniel…”

“I know, she wasn’t a blood relative, but Jack…”

“She was practically family. It’s fine Daniel. When’s the funeral?”

“Monday morning.”

“You have until Wednesday.”

“Thanks Jack,” Daniel sat looking at his hands, “She was the first person I called when I got back; like I almost always do after missions. I just talked to her last week. I never thought it would be the last time I talked to her, you know?”

“Daniel. I know you probably don’t want to hear this but, the woman lead an amazing life. None of what we do here would have been possible without her. Without her, there would be no Stargate program, and without a Stargate program there would be no… well you know.”

“No you.”

“Yeah, that. Look I just mean that Catherine touched a lot of lives even if she didn’t know it. I’m not going to pretend that I knew the woman well but I do owe her.”

“I know what you’re trying to do. Thank you Jack.”

“Think nothing of it. Hey, why don’t you come over tonight, we’ll invite Sam and Teal’c and have a little memorial thing for her.”

“I appreciate that Jack. What time?”

“Oh say, 7:00?”

“Deal, I’ll go tell Sam and Teal’c. Thanks again Jack.”

********

That night the four of them sat around Jack’s living room with boxes of takeout toasting to Catherine’s memory with Jack’s beer. Sam was upset about Catherine’s passing as well but felt odd about going to the funeral. She was glad Jack had arranged this little low key “memorial dinner”. They all needed it. After some time the focus switched to Jacob. Teal’c and Daniel were both sorry they hadn’t been around. However she assured them both that given their roles in recent events it would have hardly been expected for either one of them. Especially Daniel.

“At least you have the opportunity to be able to go to Catherine’s funeral. That’s what counts.” Sam said.

“You should all come. You all met her, and her husband. Why don’t we all go?” Daniel said. He was slurring his words slightly. Jack reached a long arm over and took his beer away from him. “Oh, I think that’s enough for you, Buddy.”

“You said yourself, you owed her, Jack.”

“That I did, but it doesn’t mean that I’m at liberty to drop everything and just go.”

“What about you two?” Daniel asked, looking to Teal’c and Sam for support. “I am sorry Daniel Jackson, I can not. I’m afraid I have a prior engagement I must see to.”

“Sam? Come on Sam.”

“Sam’s got a thing this weekend. Don’tcha Carter?” Jack supplied absently.

“General’s right. I have plans I can’t cancel, Sorry Daniel. I’m planning on sending flowers though and I’ve been thinking about making a donation to a foundation that supports scientific studies for girls.”

“Catherine would have loved that, Sam! Count me in!”

Jack and Teal’c also offered a modest sum to go towards the donation, which gave her the idea to put the word out around the SGC, unofficially of course, to see if anyone else would be interested. She would ask around Monday morning.

It was nearly midnight when Teal’c decided it was time to go. Teal’c and Daniel had driven together which worked out well because Daniel was in no condition to drive. Sam hung back on the pretense of helping Jack clean up. “You go on, make sure he gets settled in. I’ll probably just finish up here and head out.”

“Very well Colonel Carter. I shall see you on Monday then.”

“Night Teal’c! Daniel!”

“Night, Sam! Tell Jack thanks for everything.”

“You already thanked me Daniel. Six times.” Jack was both amused and annoyed “Good night you two!” Jack said as he closed the door behind them. Jack waited to make sure they left before he went back into the living room where Sam had already managed to get most of the mess cleaned up. “You don’t have to do all that.”

Sam shrugged one shoulder, “You can get the empties.”

“On it!”

Minutes later Jack asked “So, whatcha doing Sam?”

She held up a plastic shopping bag filled with trash and raised an eyebrow in answer.

“I ment where are you staying? Were you planning on staying here until after the hockey game or did you need to go home?”

“I’ve got an overnight bag in my trunk. I was kinda thinking maybe we could stay at my place after the game tomorrow. Maybe watch a movie.”

Jack smirked, “Sure, we can do that.”

In the end Jack would have been fine with Sam going to the funeral if she wanted. He’d find someone else to go to the hockey game with him, maybe Siler. But Sam was dead-set against changing their plans for the hockey game and they both wanted to spend as much time together as possible.

Ten minutes into the game and Sam had already decided it was a sport she might actually enjoy once she learned more about it. Fortunately, Jack was a good teacher. By the end of the game Sam felt like she had a fairly good handle on the game and most of the terminology. It was exceptionally thrilling when Jack’s team won.

Jack’s face split into a wide smile as the buzzer sounded with the winning goal. It was all he could do to stop himself from pulling Sam into a celebratory kiss. He was having trouble with the idea of showing too much affection in public aside from holding hands or a hug. It took Sam a moment to realize that it probably had more to do with him being such a private person more than anything else.

She had always respected Jack, and had loved him as she knew him for years. Now, the more time they spent together, the more they got to know each other on a personal level, the more she fell in love. There was so much more to the man than he let on at work and yet he was still a simple man. Ironically “Down-to-Earth”, for a former fighter pilot, Black-Ops, leader of SG-1, and the current commander of the SGC. She imagined that people who only knew him outside of the Air Force, might not ever really realize he was even in the Air Force if he didn’t mention it. But then the same could probably be said about her as well.

They decided to pick up Chinese food on the way back to Sam’s. Since the zoo and the hockey game were both Jack’s idea the rest of the night was Sam’s to dictate. Chinese food, ice cream and an old movie.

Jack sat down on the couch busying himself with the takeout containers as Sam went to get plates. “What do you want to drink?” She yelled from the kitchen.

“Ya have a beer?”

“Sure do,” Sam walked in moments later with plates and beer.

“So what movie are we watching?” He asked as he filled a plate with rice and orange chicken.

“The Court Jester” She eyed him for a moment testing his reaction.

She wasn’t really sure what movies he liked, except that he didn’t really care for Sifi. Jack didn’t even look up from what he was doing but nodded, “Classic, gotta love Danny Kaye,” he said before taking a big bite of food.

Sam gave a satisfied little smile as she prepared the movie and hit play. “So out of curiosity, what kind of movies do you like anyway?”

Jack shrugged “Don’t really watch them much. I read more than anything.”

“Pick a genre.”

“Ehh,” he sighed, “I guess I like a good mystery, some action, but it has to have some comedy, whatever it is. I’m not really a fan of anything too serious. Or sifi, it’s too much like work. I like to laugh. A classic like this is good but I wouldn’t want to watch musicals all the time. Variety is a good thing.” Jack took a big bite of chicken while the beginning credits started. “So did I pass the test?”

“Test?” He eyed her sideways, chewing his food. “Yeah alright. So maybe it was a little one.”

“And?” He grinned.

“It’s a reasonable answer, I can live with,” she smirked as she sat down next to him taking the plate he offered. As much as Sam enjoyed old movies she also liked a variety.

By the end of the movie Sam was laying with her head in Jack’s lap half asleep. Maybe she shouldn’t have picked a movie she’d seen twenty times or maybe it was just because of the late hour, either way she was exhausted. “That’s it Sammie, time for bed,” he sing-songed , patting her on the hip.

Sam sat up stretching “What time is it anyway?”

“Ahh, I’d say bedtime, humm almost 2:00”

“No wonder I’m tired.”

Jack had already started cleaning up their plates and the leftovers, “Not getting soft on me are ya, Carter?”

“No, Sir,” she yawned.

Jack chuckled, “I got this, Hun, you go get ready for bed.”

“You sure? I don’t mind cleaning up”

“Nah, you go, I’ll be along in a minute.”

Sam made her way back to her room, changed into a pair of blue and white sleep shorts and a t-shirt. Jack came in as she was brushing her teeth. “Ok… so I know it’s been a little while since I saw your room but wasn’t it different?”

“Humhum” she mumbled through a mouthful of toothpaste.

“When did you have time to do it?”

“It didn’t take that long. It’s just new bedding, a couple of lamps and a few odds and ends. I just went shopping one day after work. I wanted to paint but haven’t got to it.”

“Sam this is really nice in here,” he let out a little whistle.

“I thought it was time for a change,” Sam stifled another yawn. “I’m pretty pleased with how it turned out. It was kinda fun.”

“Sprinklers huh?”

“What? Oh that, no. I think this has less to do with dad and more to do with just doing something for myself. Ok so maybe it had something to do with you and Pete, but mostly it was just for me.”

Jack gave her a skeptical look then shrugged one shoulder, “Well whatever the reason, I like it, it's very you. I’m digging the Air Force color scheme.”

Sam looked around at the dark blue quilt with the soft gray and white floral print and the little touches of blue she had added in various places. Okay… so maybe he had a point. However lots of people used blue, gray and white to decorate with. Oh well, she still loved the look.

Sam watched as Jack pulled his shirt off and stripped out of his jeans. “Where should I put these?” He asked.

“Over there is fine” she said, indicating a small blue decorative basket on the floor near her dresser. Jack finished getting ready for bed himself and followed Sam back into the bedroom. “I did have other plans for tonight but I’m just too tired.”

Jack let out a bark of laughter “Trust me, sleep is the only thing on my mind.”

“Maybe in the morning” she teased as she made herself comfortable. Jack curled in behind her holding her close “Could happen”.

A moment past “I thought you were too tired” Sam grumbled.

“I am. Just ignore it, that thing is always insubordinate.”

“If you say so” she murmured and promptly fell asleep grinning.

**********

About a week later, Jack Got in before anyone else per usual to find there was an unscheduled delivery truck waiting for approval to unload. Much to his surprise it was addressed to Daniel. After checking the shipment and verifying the address Jack allowed a group of his men to unload the truck. The last few crates had just been delivered when Daniel came in. Jack was waiting for him.

“Jack?”

“Daniel.”

“What’s goin on?”

“You been shopping online lately?”

“Whatcha talkin about?”

It was the delivery from Catherine’s estate and it was much larger than Daniel could have expected. His office was filled from top to bottom, it would take him forever to get through it all. Daniel was still trying to process what he was going to do with all of it when Jack excused himself, making a joke about stamp collecting.

Daniel spent the better part of the week going through the items from Catherine’s estate before he came across a particularly interesting crate. The most interesting thing about this case was that it contained a modern looking video camera as well as what was unmistakably a ZPM and a tablet Daniel was certain had been written just for him in a sort of code HE had developed himself.

He ran into the briefing room where Jack was clearly bored out of his skull by a group of geologists showing him rock samples. Daniel of course barely noticed them, pausing just long enough to apologize for the interruption before Jack latched onto his arm desperate to get out of there, grateful it was for a good reason.

Within a matter of minutes Danielle had the rest of SG-1 assembled in his little office and Sam was already getting the video hooked up to her laptop so they could watch it. It was clear from the video that they had in fact used the time machine in the Ancient craft, it was also clear that whatever they had done had been successful because the ZPM accompanied the rest of the shipment. The only detail Jack noticed out of place as he watched himself on the tape was when he said there was no fish in his pond. Which there most certainly were fish in his pond.

Really was there any reason to mention that one little detail? Risk his team all to get rid of the fish swimming in his pond? How could that be a bad thing? It meant that his pond was healthy enough to support life and heck, they had a ZPM. Why should he risk his neck just because his pond apparently didn’t have fish in the alternate timeline? Nope, no way he was gonna say a word.

Especially not when he had already made arrangements with Sam to leave on their vacation the next morning. Daniel and Teal’c would be joining them the following week. They were under the impression that Sam was going to surprise her brother with a visit and then meet up with them at the cabin later. It was a bold face lie of course however they had planned on telling the guys about their relationship and their transfers. The transfers that had already been processed. Sam’s at least would take effect before they returned from their trip. She was due to report only a few days after returning home. This trip would be the last trip they would go on together. Possibly ever, and Sam wanted to make sure it was a good one.

“Ok, I’ll get this up to the lab for analysis…” Sam said, moving to take the crate holding the ZPM. Jack quickly stepped in, practically ripping it from her. “No! I’ll take it. There’s a whole room of geeks just dying to get their hands on this. You got packing to do.” He said, looking her up and down. He couldn’t wait to get her up to his cabin, finally.

She was of course looking forward to having Jack to herself for a week. However, the idea of fishing in a pond devoid of fish did not seem all that appealing to her. She gave him an exasperated look. He was so excited about this trip, there was no way she would back out now.

***********

The drive up to Jack’s cabin was beautiful. Sam could already feel herself starting to relax. Even she had to admit that she really did need some time off to recharge. When they arrived she was surprised at how nice his cabin was. She didn’t really know what she had expected.

The more she thought about it the more she supposed she had been expecting more of a shack than the nice sized cabin she saw. In fact it could easily be a year-round home. “You mentioned before that the cabin had been in your family for years. Does somebody live here full-time?”

“Not for a long time. My grandparents lived here for years. I’ve been thinking I’d like to retire here. Apparently that won’t be happening anytime soon though. Here, let me take that.” He said taking the duffel bag she had slung over one shoulder. “Our room is in the back. Through the kitchen here. Teal’c and Daniel each get one of the small bedrooms. There’s just the one bathroom.”

“We’ve shared much worse accommodations, Jack. Is everything ok?”

“I’m just having second thoughts about telling the guys about us.”

Sam raised her eyebrows “Any particular reason?”

Jack shrugged a shoulder but didn’t answer. “Jack? I’m pretty sure they are going to figure it out when they see we’re sharing a room.”

“Yeah I know, I know,” he groused.

“Hey, this was all your idea O’Neill. Now snap out of it.”

“Yes, ma’am!” He grinned, pulling her close. She giggled “I can see where this is going.”

The first two days they didn’t leave the cabin, in fact they barely left the bedroom. “I kinda feel like we’re on our honeymoon” she teased him one night.

“Nah, we’ll go somewhere with sand for that” he had meant it as a joke but the look Sam gave him made him unsure. “I mean…”

“I’d love that Jack, I’m just not sure how to make this work yet alone, marriage.”

“Let’s not overthink it. Nothing good ever comes out of over-thinking.”

She leaned in for a kiss, “You’re right.”

The truth was that Jack was scared stiff about where their relationship was going to end up. All he knew for sure was that he loved her and that he’d never do anything to stand in the way of or jeopardize her career. Even if that meant losing her. “Jack, I love you.”

He let out a breath he hadn’t realized he had been holding, “I love you too.”

“How do you want to handle this?”

“Tell the guys, play it by ear. Keep things quiet until a time when we can be together permanently.”

“And if that never happens?”

“I’m retiring someday. Until then maybe keep things loose. I mean I don’t see me finding anyone to top you but I know I’m not that great of a catch. We both know you could do way better than me,” he tried to laugh.

“Don’t even joke about that. I need you in my life, whatever form that might take.”

“Will the Daedalus have the ability to send and receive private emails?”

“Yes, it should be set up already but if it isn’t then I can set it up to send e-mails along with the regular data bursts when the Daedalus connects with the SGC or Area 51 for regular reports.”

“Do it. Be prepared to get some interesting emails from me.”

“Oh boy” she laughed.

“Hey, I’d prefer what we have now over an email but even an email is better than nothing. I’ll take what I can get.”

“Ditto.”

After their talk Jack was able to relax considerably. “Want to go for a hike or take the canoe out?” He asked her on the third day after lunch.

“I haven’t been canoeing in years, I’d love to take it out.”

“Canoe it is then! Fishing or no fishing?”

“Pass for now, let’s wait for the guys for fishing.”

“I see what you’re doing there Carter, I’m watching you.”

She shot him an innocent smile as she pulled on her jeans and a comfortable sweater. Her waterproof hiking boots were next. They spent the rest of the day out on the water until they returned to shore to watch the sunset. It had been a beautiful, relaxing day. Nowhere to be, nothing to do except whatever they wanted. Sam couldn’t really remember the last time she had let herself relax like this. She was almost starting to feel like a new person.

Saturday morning Sam and Jack laid in bed curled up still naked from the night before; when the phone rang. Sam woke up with a start and fumbled for the cell phone barely opening her eyes. “Hello?”

“Oh ehh, hey Sam.”

“Hey Daniel, what’s up?”

“Oh nothing, I thought I dialed Jack’s number. Ahh anyway Teal’c and I just wanted to let Jack know we made it to the post office, according to his directions I think we should be there in about an hour. I guess I must have called your phone by mistake. Where are you anyway?”

Sam looked down at the phone in her hand, she had picked up Jack’s by accident. “Oh I already made it to the cabin” she said trying to sound natural. Which was getting more difficult since Jack had awoken and started kissing her exposed shoulder. “Daniel I’ve got to go, Jack needs my help with something inside. We’ll see you in about an hour.”

Daniel looked at the phone, checked the number he had just dialed, “That’s odd.”

“What is that Daniel Jackson?”

“I definitely called Jack’s phone but Sam answered.”

“Perhaps he was unavailable.”

“Ehh yeah, maybe.”

Sam hung up the phone and turned to Jack, “Well I guess it’s a good thing we already planned on telling them.”

“A lot can happen in an hour you know,” he grinned.

Forty-five minutes later Sam threw Jack’s boxers at him and made her way into the bathroom. By the time she had finished Jack was already halfway to the dock with two folding chairs and fishing gear in hand. Sam followed him out taking one of the chairs,“That was fun.”

“Yeah it was” he grinned.

They both sat quietly and cast their lines into the water, it was a beautiful morning.

“This is great.”

“I told you.”

“I can’t believe we didn’t do it years ago.”

“Yes well, let’s not dwell.”

They both reeled in their lines preparing for another cast when a fish breached the surface of the pond. They were both so distracted by it they barely heard Daniel and Teal’c come up behind them with a cooler. “Didn’t that tape say there were no fish in your pond?”

They turned to look at each other, “Close enough” Jack replied. He knew she didn’t really approve but there was nothing to be done about it now.

For the first time in a long time he had it all. He had the woman he loved, he had his friends, and he had his fish. Whatever the future held it couldn’t take this moment from them.

“Hey guys, you want a beer?” Daniel asked.

“I’ll take one, Jack isn’t allowed to have any” Sam smirked.

“Aww come on Sam, it’s close enough isn’t it?”

“It’s going to have to be now, but you have no idea how else it could have affected other things.”

“Sure I do, we’ll have fish for dinner, so, can I have a beer? Pretty please?”

“Ok fine! Daniel, you can give Jack a beer.”

Daniel was stunned by their odd behavior but did as he was told. “Thank you, Daniel” Jack gave a satisfied sigh “Personality I think it’s all working out fine.”

Sam couldn’t argue, the truth was that everything seemed just about perfect. “Did you guys have any trouble getting up here?”

“Ehh no, I tried to call earlier.”

“Oh yeah, Sam told me. I was still in bed.”

“You were still in bed so Sam answered your phone for you?”

“Well they were next to each other, it was an honest mistake, right Sammie” he gave her a fond look.

“Absolutely.”

“What’s going on here?”

Teal’c had been listening with interest, “I believe Daniel Jackson, that O’Neill and Colonel Carter are trying to tell us they have finally entered into a romantic relationship.”

Daniel’s eyebrows practically disappeared, “Huh?”

They proceed to fill their friends in on the events of the last several weeks. Glossing over the particulars of their relationship. Sam thought Daniel’s head might implode if he heard anything about their sex life. In fact they had decided to let them believe they had wanted until this trip before making their relationship “official”. Sam switched her pole to her other hand so she could reach for Jack’s hand “We don’t really know how things are going to work out. Jack is going to Washington and I’ve technically already been transferred.”

“That’s what the PowerPoint of the Daedalus was all about, you were trying to see what we would say.”

“Yeah, I didn’t want you two to be too surprised.”

“I will be returning to Ta’kara shortly. O’Neill will be leaving. It is only natural you should wish to go where your skills are most needed.”

“That’s what we figured too.”

“Honestly, the part that surprises me is that there is a loophole worked into the regulations specifically for this type of ehh, situation.”

“Yeah well there’s quite a bit more to it than that but it kinda surprised us too.”

“Had I known about it I might have said something a whole lot sooner. You know, like the day after taking over the SGC,” He smirked at Sam.

“Yes, well. Let’s not dwell” she returned the grin.

“Should Teal’c and I leave you two alone?”

“Nah, we’re good.”

“Gross…”

“Oh what? It’s not like we’re making out like teenagers, in front of you,” Jack complained.

“Yeah well if I hear you two going at it tonight, I’m sleeping outside.”

“Should be a hiking tent in the footlocker by the fireplace,” Jack said flatly, earning a swat on the arm from Sam.

“We’re not that loud!”

“Maybe not me.”

“Ahh, la la la la. This is like finding out your sister is sleeping with your best friend.”

“Indeed,” Teal’c agreed, “O’Neill, if you hurt Samantha Carter I will be forced to do you a great deal of harm.”

“Hey now, I thought we were supposed to be brothers here!”

“They like me more,” Sam grinned widely.

“Yeah well at least that’s something we can all agree on,” Jack said leaning over the side of his chair for a kiss which Sam gladly reciprocated.

Epilogue:

The rest of the week proceeded the way most of Jack’s cabin trips normally did. Daniel only used the hiking tent once. Monday, Sam would be reporting to the Daedalus. Teal’c would be going back to Ta’kara. Daniel still wasn’t sure what he would be doing other than working on translations with other SG teams. Although it hadn’t missed his attention that the new ZPM could potentially open up some possibilities. He was very interested in the idea of finally going to Atlantis but he knew that might still take some time. Jack would be leaving for Washington the following week to receive his promotion and get settled in before Hammond officially retired and handed over the reins. As much as he loathed to admit it to himself he did take comfort in knowing that general Hammond was going to be there in an advisory capacity to get him started.

The first thing was to brief his own replacement. General Hank Landry, reminded him of someone’s favorite uncle. After only talking to the man for a half hour it was very clear to him that Landry had a sharp mind. There was a good reason why Hammond wanted him in the position. He still couldn’t shake the ‘favorite uncle’, opinion of him. Even so, he decided he liked him, he might not be his best buddy but he approved of the choice.

Throughout the course of the conversation he learned a little bit about the man. Asking him about the birdwatching turned out to be a little bit of a mistake but he managed to reel it in quick enough. Jack told him that he wouldn’t mind if he used his cabin on occasion since he wouldn’t be able to use it as much as he’d like. Jack would rather that someone got to use it at least every once in a while rather than sit empty. Anytime he would use it he’d make sure Hank didn’t have plans first.

The next thing he had to think about was who would be the next SG-1 team. He hated the fact his team was splitting up, he did not want to go there.

He did at least need to appoint a new leader of SG-1, if not the team. He had a guy in mind he needed to check out. He wasn’t even sure if he was back to active duty yet after he had gone down in the dogfight over Antarctica. He had led his squad in a daring battle that bought Jack and his team the time they needed. His efforts saved their lives and ultimately the world. He had told him that he would let him have his choice of assignment once he was back in commission. Jack had put in an inquiry already though official channels to see if he would be up to the task. Now it was time to talk to the man himself.

“Colonel Mitchell”, Jack said as Mitchell opened the door in sweats and a t-shirt.

He snapped to attention when he saw Jack standing there in his dress blues “General O’Neill, Sir. This is a surprise.”

“How are you doing kid?”

“Fine Sir, real good now I’ve been cleared for active-duty. I’ve been anxious to get back to work, feeling pretty good.”

“I hear you loud and clear Colonel. That’s actually what I’m here about. Mind if I come in?”

“Yes, of course Sir.”

“At ease Mitchell.”

“Yes, Sir. By all means, have a seat, Sir.”

“You’re not going to relax are you?”

“I’m sorry, Sir. I guess, I’m just wondering what brings you here.”

“Remember that favor I owe you?”

“Rings a bell.”

“How would you like to be a part of SG-1?”

“SG-1, Sir?”

“It’s yours if you’re interested.”

“Interested? Yes, Sir. Your team is legendary, I’d love to have the opportunity to learn from the best.”

“Well it’s not exactly my team anymore, Mitchell.”

“I heard you were running things now.”

“Yes, well…” he briefly imagined Sam’s look of disapproval for not being open with the kid, “I hoped you would say that. I brought you your very own SGC issue laptop. I had Colonel Carter set it up for you. It’s encrypted with mission reports so you have an idea of what you’re getting into. You’ll need these too.” He said handing him an SGC keycard and ID badge “Welcome to Deep Space Telemetry.”

Jack didn’t have the heart to go into the details of his team splitting up and or going to Washington. Jack wasn’t worried about Cam, he was confident in his choice. If anyone could handle the job it was him. As he headed back towards Cheyenne Mountain he started to think about Sam. She hadn’t even been gone that long but he missed her terribly.

The more he thought about Sam being away the more depressed he got. He was happy for her, proud even, but she had left a hole in his heart when she had left. They had e-mailed a few times already. It was working out fine at the moment. She was still in orbit around Earth and could send e-mail anytime she wanted, for now. That usually meant at the end of her shift when she was no longer on duty. He had plenty to keep him busy of course, but he had gotten used to seeing her in their off time.

Sam’s initial trip to Nevada was marred with weather delays and a small number of other inconveniences. She had been assured that her trip to the Nevada base would be the last time she would have to take a plane there. She would be splitting her working time between the Nevada base and the ship, with trips to the SGC as needed. Her permanent quarters were located on the ship and arrangements had been made on her behalf for transportation to her house in Colorado during her off time.

While the Daedalus was still in this construction phase, everyone on board was on a 6 weeks on, 2 weeks off rotation. This detail was the first thing she made sure to tell Jack, well, maybe the second. Despite being extremely busy and typically engrossed in her work, she missed him desperately. Video chats were of course a possible means of communication, however given the private nature of their relationship, it didn’t always seem to be their best option. No matter how much she longed to see his face. She couldn’t wait to see him in person.

Her first two weeks off, Jack had planned on coming back to Colorado Springs to sign all of his things over to their new owners. Including “selling” his motorcycle to Sam, which really just meant he was keeping it at her house. She couldn’t wait to see him but her job came first, it had to. Cam Mitchell had already started pleading with her to come back to SG-1. She liked Cam and appreciated him as a fellow officer but right now she really felt her time was better spent on the Daedalus. She wouldn’t say it to Cam or anyone else that didn’t need to know but her leave was about to start the next day. She had already cleared it with the commander of the ship to be beamed into her own home instead of the base in an effort to avoid the SGC.

Sam stood in the teleportation room of the Daedalus wearing civilian clothes, jeans and a nice top. She had already put the coordinates in and was just awaiting approval. “No life signs detected. This will also be your departure point, correct?”

“Yes it will, we’ll see you in two weeks time, 0700 Monday morning.”

“See you then Colonel, enjoy your leave,” the commander said bidding her farewell.

The next moment Sam was standing in her living room. That was definitely her favorite way to travel.

Jack was feeling somewhat despondent as he sat playing chess with Hank. He knew he was right. He should have been more forthcoming with Mitchell. The more time he spent with Hank the more he liked the guy. He didn’t have enough people around to play chess with. Although he was sure that would be changing once he was completely settled in Washington. He was pretty pleased with himself when he realized that he had won the match.

Jack was just finishing his beer when his phone rang. The display showed it was Sam. “Sorry, Hank, important call.” He said excusing himself walking towards the front of the house “Hey, Carter. What’s up?”

“I’m home.”

Jack’s heart leapt, “I’m finishing up a meeting with Landry now, unofficial.”

“Beer and chess?” She laughed.

“You know me too well.”

“So when did you think you could make it over?”

“Twenty, thirty minutes tops.”

“See you then.”

Jack walked back around to the back of the house where Hank had already put the chess set away. “Everything alright Jack?”

“Oh yeah, great. The buyer for my motorcycle is ready to meet.”

“You actually seem happy about that, I thought you didn’t really want to sell it.”

“I know the buyer. It makes it easier knowing I can ride it when I’m in town.”

“Plan on checking up on me frequently, Jack?”

“Nah, you’ve got this. I’ve got personal interest here still.”

Hank nodded “Alright Jack, I won’t pry.”

“Not like I’d give you a chance anyway” Jack gave him a lopsided grin.

“Anyone I know?”

“I’ll see ya Hank. Thanks for the beer and the game.”

“Safe travels, Jack.”

Jack threw Hank a sloppy half salute as he climbed into his truck that he hadn’t sold yet. He was meeting with someone interested in buying it later in the week. He drove straight to Sam’s house, damn he had missed her. However, this arrangement certainly had it’s perks. He wondered about requesting her arrival and departure point being designated as his house in Washington. That might raise an eyebrow or two but it was certainly worth looking into. He had the clout and the authority to do it, he grinned to himself.

No matter what. Side-by-side or galaxies apart, SGC, Washington or the Daedalus, they would always find a way to make it work because they were both willing to do whatever it took... Always.

The End

Thank you so for reading, I hope you liked it!

Chapters: 8/8 Fandom: Stargate SG-1 Rating: Explicit Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Samantha "Sam" Carter/Jack O'Neill Characters: Jack O'Neill, Samantha "Sam" Carter, Jacob Carter | Selmak, George Hammond Additional Tags: Episode: s08e18 Threads, Sam and Jack Ship Day 2022 (Stargate) Summary:

Takes place mainly during ‘Threads’. Her father, Jacob’s last act of love for Sam is to make sure she ends up with the man she loves. The one man who has loved her in secret for years. Jack. Will a dying man’s last words of wisdom fall on def ears or be taken to heart? Jack/Sam

imagine Sam and Jack cuddling with each other late at night, each not wanting to fall asleep. imagine soft sleepy morning kisses between them and whispering sweet nothings into the other’s mouth. imagine silly sloppy kisses where they’re both laughing breathlessly. just imagine them.

I'm curious. Nightmares for any character of the original SG-1 team, pls.

Sam’s biggest fear is failing. Letting everyone down. There’s so much pressure on her shoulders so much of the time... Sometimes it gets too much.

Sometimes she goes home and can’t sleep, and when she does sleep, she has nightmares about not being able to find a solution, of not being good enough.

She dreams of the SGC being attacked or vaporised when something goes wrong with someone’s experiment or a piece of alien technology.

She dreams of the replicator version of herself running loose through the facility, hurting or killing those Sam cares about.

With her face. Her hands.

She wakes up in a cold sweat sometimes, fearing the nightmare is reality and someone she loves is dead.

She’s alone most of the times she wakes up in the dead of night, wishes she was alone on the nights Pete’s there and tries to get her to talk.

Years later, after the first nightmare in the early days of her tenure on SG1, she wakes up and turns into the warm body wrapped around hers. She lets his voice and his hands and his lips chase away the darkness.

She doesn’t always fall asleep again afterwards, and on those nights, Jack stays awake with her. They don’t talk, they just lie there together, in the soft light of a newly dawning day and wait till the nightmares fade.

Shit Jack RDA says + Sam’s Amanda’s reactions (p II) (p I)

personal gif challenge - [1/10] romantic relationships

Sam/Jack in Stargate SG-1