Chapters 1-5          Chapters 6-10       Chapters 11-15          Chapters 16-20           Chapters 21-25 Title: Keep One Eye on the Road Chapter 6 “How dare you imply my wife had anything to do with this!” Harm’s voice could be clearly heard past Beth’s desk and halfway through the bullpen. “I’m not implying any such thing. The security staff and video cameras show that your wife interacted with the suspect on more than one occasion, and one guard in particular felt fairly certain the two had made introductions.” “Interacted?” “Do you prefer conversed?” “I’d prefer it if Scotland Yard solved their cases without involving my wife.” Despite not being particularly happy at the detective’s implications, Harm was quickly accepting the reality that if Mac did know anything, she was duty bound to help Baskin. No matter how distasteful Harm found the idea. Sighing audibly into the phone, “Very well, we can meet in my office at...” Harm looked at his watch, then up at his wife.  “1330.” Mac nodded her agreement.   That would give them enough time for the birthday celebration with the staff and then a quick lunch before she’d have to leave for her appointment with Dr. Rovner. She wasn’t able to put all the pieces together, but it was fairly obvious from what little she had heard that her presence was being requested. “Captain, time is of the essence.  Would half an hour be enough time for your wife to be able to meet with us?” “That won’t work. We’re on our way out the door.” “Excellent! I’m just around the corner. Be there in a mo.” Harm looked at his watch again. “Around the corner?” “Already entering the building.  Be right there.” Baskin snapped his phone off before Rabb could argue.  It probably would have been more up front if he had mentioned he had actually rung from in front of the Rabb residence, but somehow he hadn’t thought it prudent to disclose that information until he was sure of Mrs. Rabb’s whereabouts. Mac recognized the look on Harm’s face.  What ever Baskin had said, she wouldn’t want to be in his shoes when Harm met up with him.  As she watched Harm set the receiver down, she would have been willing to testify in court she could see steam coming from his ears. “Not good?” she tested. “He’s on his way up.” Harm took a deep breath.  Maybe he could get rid of Baskin quickly enough to still be on time for the special staff call Mac had planned.  “Harm.  It’s not his fault Mary died.” Mac was taking her life into her hands broaching that particular subject.  Stepping closer to her husband, she gently laid her palm flatly on his chest.  “Mary was too close to finding the truth.  Kathy would have gotten to her no matter who Mary was partnered with.” Letting her hand slide away slowly, she let if fall on his, “Give him another chance.” Before Harm could answer either way his intercom buzzed, undoubtedly announcing the detective’s arrival. “Send him in,” Harm spat, not giving James enough time to announce the visitor.  Watching as the door cracked open. “Make this quick, my staff is expecting me in fifteen minutes.” “Good to see you again, too, Captain.” Baskin stepped over to Mac and nodded. “Sorry to take up your time Mrs. Rabb, but it appears you have information we need.  Shall we sit down?”  Baskin turned waiting for Harm to offer him a seat. “Fine, have a seat.” Harm waved at the chairs in front of his desk. “As I said, we’re expected elsewhere.” “Yes, Inspector.  What is it you need from me?” Mac added with a tad more patience than Harm was showing. “As I told the Captain, some important documents were stolen from a display at the National Maritime Museum yesterday afternoon.  Shortly before closing, an obnoxious odor began filling the hall.  The museum was in the process of being evacuated when one of the guards noticed an odd mist filling one of the cases. It was decided for safety reasons to remove the documents immediately to safekeeping.” “I fail to see what this has to do with Navy personnel if the museum guards were the last to have possession of the property,” Harm interrupted impatiently. “Closed circuit television tapes viewed this morning showed a young man hovering over the cases shortly before the odor began. The young man placed something into his right hand coat pocket. Upon closer inspection we were able to make out what appeared to be a syringe.  We suspect it was used to inject the smoke generating gas through the rubber seal.” “Unless your video showed this same man carrying off the stolen property. You still haven’t proven anything even close to circumstantial.” Harm wasn’t going to let Baskin railroad a young sailor. “Captain, the security guards recognized the suspect as the same young man who has spent at least a little time at the musuem almost every day for the last two weeks. He is the only person seen on the CCTV tapes entering or leaving the building in a Navy issue peacoat.” A small knot began to twist in Mac’s stomach. She was now all too aware of where this conversation was going. “A few days ago you were seen talking to him on more than one occasion, Mrs. Rabb. The guard in question thinks the young man introduced himself to you.” “I did converse briefly with an American sailor, but I can assure you the young man who I spoke with wouldn’t be capable of something like this.” “I suggest you just give us the sailor’s name and let us decide the rest.” Mac glanced briefly at Harm, sighing quietly at his affirmative nod. “ Seaman Thomas Moore.” Harm stabbed at the intercom, “James, I need you to get me the current posting on a Seaman Thomas Moore.” “I’ll want to be present for questioning,” Baskin added quietly. Harm nodded.  He didn’t like it, but he had no grounds to object, yet. Lister Hospital 1530 later that day “Looking good, Mrs. Rabb,” Dr Rovner smiled, gently tapping Mac’s knees. “Any discomfort?” “No.” “Continued bleeding?” “Not for almost a week.” “I would say things look almost as good as new.” “Almost?” “You do understand this disease is not reversible? Permanent damage is just that, permanent.” “Yes, but what do you think my odds of conception are now?” “I think we can safely presume 25, perhaps 30%.” Dr. Rovner removed his gloves and pushed his chair back from the exam table. “Don’t look so disappointed. Those are really much improved odds.” “I know. I’m not disappointed.” “Then why so grim?” Dr. Rovner didn’t believe in pulling any punches. If he felt his patients were unsettled, he did his best to reassure them. Fear and anxiousness could be as much of a deterrent to conception as the actual disease. “Just trying to be realistic.” “Well, don’t.  Don’t rely too heavily on the odds. All healthy women of early child bearing years have the same odds of conception, and yet some women conceive after one try, and others after as long as two years. Odds mean very little.  What is important is that it is no longer impossible.” The doctor smiled as broadly as he could, trying to encourage his patient. “When... when would it be okay to start, you know, trying?” Mac tried not to blush. Dr Rovner’s eyes twinkled merrily. He could see Mac’s attitude slowly coming around. “As long as it does not bring you any physical discomfort, you could start now if you like.” “And if it does bring ...discomfort, will that adversely affect my chances?” “No. It would not have any physical affect on your disease, but I would not recommend it.  Sexual activity during periods of physical pain after surgery, or traumatic injuries, can have long-term psychological affects that could adversely affect your relationship with your husband. I strongly encourage you not to pursue intercourse if it brings you any serious discomfort.” “I see.” Mac glanced away momentarily. She was a marine. She could handle a little discomfort if necessary. “Mrs. Rabb?” Dr Rovner recognized that far off look. It was the same one his wife got whenever she had made up her mind about something regardless of his opinion. “Yes.” “Remember, if it’s painful, there won’t be any risk in waiting. Understood?” “Yes, thank you, doctor.” Mac was already planning out their evening in her head before she’d had time to get up off the table.  Harm was going to finally get his proper hello. Chapter 7 London Headquarters Same time “You did a wonderful job today, Petty Officer.  I appreciate your willingness to help Mrs. Rabb out.” “My pleasure, sir,” Beth James smiled sweetly.  One of the bright spots of her life was working for Captain Rabb. At first she wasn’t sure she was going to cut the mustard, but now, she couldn’t think of a finer man to serve under.  His apparent gruff exterior at their first meeting had given way to a fair and patient man.  When he got personally involved in finding Mary Philips’ killer, Beth’s esteem for her superior officer grew tenfold. The man was apparently a walking embodiment of an officer and a gentleman.  Add to that, he appeared to be head over heals in love with his own wife, and there wasn’t a woman in the building who didn’t think the Captain was any woman’s dream come true. “Any news on ...” “Yes, sir. I have the seaman’s file right here.  The MPs are transporting him now. ETA ten minutes.” Beth stretched out her arm, handing Harm a narrow file folder. “What about...” “On his way, sir. He phoned a few minutes ago. Barring any unforeseen traffic issues, Inspector Baskin should arrive before the seaman, sir.” “Thank you, Petty Officer.” Smiling inwardly, Harm turned on his heel and proceeded through his office door, quickly perusing the file Beth had just given him.  Electrician’s Mate. Hmm.  That would certainly give him the needed skills to finagle a burglary. Taking a seat behind the large oak desk, Harm continued reading. Nineteen. That certainly fell in line with what Mac said.  Harm had known a lot of sharp seamen in his day, but the likelihood of finding a nineteen year old seaman capable of masterminding a museum heist were about as high as finding a needle in the proverbial haystack. The sound of the intercom buzzing dragged Harm’s attention away from the Seaman’s records. “Yes, James?” “The MPs and Seaman Moore are waiting for you in conference room B, and Inspector Baskin has just checked in at the front desk.” “Thank you.” Harm closed the file, holding it firmly as he strode out of his office and past Beth. “Have the inspector meet us in the conference room – in ten minutes.” “Aye, sir.” Nodding to the two MPs as he entered the room, Harm took a seat across from the obviously frightened sailor. “At ease,” Harm waved.  “Tell me Seaman, did you do it?” “No, sir.” Thomas bit his lower lip, making every effort to maintain his military demeanor.  Deep down he believed the innocent would always be vindicated, but he couldn’t help being just plain scared that this time he might be wrong. “Where were you yesterday at 1630?” “In the tube, sir.  I had to report for duty at 1800 hours. I usually work the night shift, sir.”  Thomas glanced at the Captain’s nametag. “What time did you leave the museum?” Harm had noticed the odd contortions in the young man’s brow since the last question. “Around 1600, sir.” “Is something wrong, Seaman?”  Harm watched as the young man stiffened to attention in his seat, his eyes focusing at some unknown point behind Harm’s shoulder. “No, sir.” Thomas glanced sideways at Harm a moment. “Permission to speak freely, sir?” “What’s on your mind, Seaman?” “Sir, are you any relation to Colonel Rabb, sir?” Harm couldn’t help the slow grin that tugged at the corners of his mouth, but as usual, he managed to suppress the shear pleasure he felt at the mention of his wife’s name. “That would be my wife.” The two men turned at the sound of the door swooshing open. “I didn’t realize commanding officers sat in on prisoner interrogations,” Baskin forced a smile. “Seaman Moore is not a prisoner, he’s merely giving us his statement.” “His statement? You started questioning him without the presence of a Scotland Yard representative.” “The Navy is quite capable of gathering the facts without the need of Scotland Yard to hold her hand.” Thomas watched the two men bicker back and forth with the intensity of a spectator during the last three minutes of a tied pro ball game. A sense of the seriousness of the matter took firm hold of all his fears. “Repeat for the inspector where you were at 1630 yesterday afternoon,” Harm finally directed at the young man. “Yes, sir. I was on the tube.  I had to report for duty at 1800, and sir?” “Yes.” “I have the right to request counsel, don’t I?” “You do.” Harm knew where this was going. “I think I’d rather not answer anymore questions until I speak with Colonel Rabb.” Thomas sat back heavily in his seat, a small wave of calm passing over him for the first time since the MPs appeared at the base to detain him. Baskin glared at Harm before turning to Moore.  “Whose idea is this?” “Mine, sir.  The Colonel seems like a nice lady and I’m willing to take my chances that she’s a good lawyer too.” Harm sat back swallowing the smug grin that was threatening to overpower his face. The kid had no idea how right he was. He had just asked to be represented by one of the military’s best. Rabb Flat 1730 Mac quickly glanced around the room, making sure everything was neatly in place. She’d left only one light on in the far corner of the room, and set the dinner table for two with fresh flowers and candles.  Originally, Mac had planned for a quiet family dinner, followed by a cozy tete-a-tete with her husband later in their room. When Mattie called to say she was going to stay after school to watch the volleyball games and then go home with Barb to spend the night, Mac decided instead a romantic dinner for two was now in order.   This was only the second time Mattie had asked to spend the night somewhere else and Mac was pleased to see her falling into a normal teenage routine more like the one she’d had before the accident. Having Mattie spend the night away from home still made Harm a little over protective, but Mac knew deep down Harm understood it was a good thing. She was tossing some lettuce and tomato into a bowl when she heard the front door open.  Wiping her hands quickly on a nearby towel, Mac hurried to meet Harm in the entryway. “Hey,” she offered saucily, walking into his space before he could hang up his coat. “Hey,” Harm grinned back. “Let me,” Mac reached out and took hold of his coat, turning momentarily to place it on the wooden rack by the door where he had already hung his cover. Harm could feel the heat rising quickly in the room.  Having Mac stand so close always warmed his soul, but the look in her eyes set the blood in his veins to boil. “Hello,” Mac whispered softly, as her lips raised up to gently caress the edge of Harm’s chin before reaching upward to meet his descending lips. Immediately, his arms wound their way around Mac’s tiny waist.  Without any effort Harm had melted into the warmth of the tender kiss. Her supple body molding perfectly to the contours of his own. Never had he known two people who fit together as well as they did.  His lips matched perfectly with hers as they teased and played, savoring the sweet flavor that was Sarah MacKenzie Rabb. When her tongue grazed lovingly across his lips, lingering at the corners, pleading for entrance, Harm’s arms pulled her more tightly against him. They’d kissed and snuggled but it had been weeks since they’d allowed the heat of a kiss to build to this level.  Harm could feel all the blood in his brain racing forcefully to his body’s center, pooling shamelessly in what was quickly becoming an aching need. Mac folded further into his warm embrace, her fingers tangling through the short locks at the back of his head when she felt Harm slowly ease the pressure of the kiss, his head pulling back, his breath blowing heavily on the side of her now sensitive neck. “Wow.”  Harm pulled Mac against him, this time resting his chin on the top of her head. “Do you have any idea what you do to me when you kiss me like that?” “I’d like to think so,” Mac grinned, placing a tender kiss on his shoulder. “Mac?” Harm suddenly remembered where Mac had been this afternoon. “Hmm?” she mumbled into his chest. “Is this your way of telling me the doctor gave you a clean bill of health?” “You noticed?” Mac turned her head and kissed the hollow of his neck, just above his shirt collar. Harm felt a surge of electricity shoot through his entire body at the warm feel of her soft tongue on his now burning skin.  Nothing seemed as important as carrying his wife off to the nearest bed. Reaching down and capturing Mac’s lips in another searing kiss, Harm pulled away momentarily and breathed onto the top of her head, “Where’s Mattie?” “Spending the night at Barb’s.” Harm would have taken the time to discuss the wisdom of that decision if he weren’t overcome with desire to ravish his beautiful wife from head to toe and then back again from toe to head. “What do you say we skip straight to dessert?”  Harm whispered in her ear before sucking in the soft lobe. “I...I need to... turn off... the ... oven,” Mac managed to spit out, her heart racing at the sensations raging through her body. Slowly backing her into the kitchen, Harm continued nibbling on her neck and jawline, reaching out blindly for the knob.  Glancing up to see if he’d successfully turned the contraption off, Harm leaned down and scooped Mac into his arms, carrying her off down the long hallway. Chapter 8 Rabb flat Same night 2330 “This is delicious.”  Harm took another bite of the seafood casserole. “I’m sorry it’s a little dry.” Mac shrugged one shoulder. “I suppose that’s my fault,” he grinned rather pleased with himself. “Works for me,” she answered quickly, too quickly. “You set me up.” Harm waved a fork at Mac. Rolling her eyes innocently, “Hey, I wasn’t the one who suggested skipping right to dessert.” “Touché.” Harm took another bite, contemplating if he should bring up Moore’s request now or wait till morning. “Something on your mind?” Mac had been watching Harm struggle with something the last few minutes and decided maybe he needed a little push. “Sort of.  Are you up to discussing a little business?” “Sure.” “It’s Moore. We brought him in for questioning, and he’s refused to answer any more questions until he talks with his lawyer.” “And?” “He wants you, Mac.” “Me?” Mac dropped her fork with a loud clank. “It’s his right to request private counsel.  You are on reserve.  There’s no reason you can’t defend him. If you want to that is.” “I thought we were going to start working on a family.” “I thought we already were.” Harm wiggled his brow at his wife. She looked so damn beautiful with her hair wild and tousled after a night of lovemaking. “You know what I mean,” Mac tried to hide her blush. “I know. It’s up to you, but if it’s worth anything, I agree with you.  I don’t think the kid did it either.” “I know.” Harm could hear it in her voice. She was going to do it. There was no way she would walk away from an innocent kid asking for help. “Where is he now?” Mac asked. “Confined to quarters under guard.” “Baskin agreed to that?” “He didn’t exactly have much of a choice.  So far all he has is some hearsay and very circumstantial evidence.” “Such as?” “Moore frequents the museum more often than your average museum lover.  From the recent videos, he appears to be the only patron to be wearing a peacoat that day.” “But...” “All you can get from the video is a distant angle. There’s no clear shot of his face. Even his size is an approximation.  The person in the video is probably his height, but they could be an inch or two taller or shorter.   There’s also no proof that what he was putting in his pocket wasn’t simply a pen. The idea of it being a syringe is rather sketchy at best. There’s also the probability that he isn’t the only patron to visit the museum wearing a peacoat.  Perhaps he was that day, but I’m sure with a little effort...” “And time,” Mac interrupted. “And time. We could review surveillance footage further back to determine the veracity of our theory.” “Veracity, huh? A little good loving and your vocabulary improves,” Mac teased playfully.  “I’ll show you good loving.” Stepping out from the chair in a flash, Harm had reached around and thrown Mac over his shoulder in a fireman’s carry. “Harm!” Mac screeched, not having anticipated the move. Patting her rear end softly, Harm smiled broadly, taking his wife down the hall, “Just you wait Henry Higgins.”  London Headquarters Monday morning The elevator doors opened ever so slowly, the large double doors to Ops only a few feet across the hall.  It had been some time since this marine had spent any amount of time in an office building. Almost four years to be precise. At first he was startled to receive his new orders, almost annoyed.  When he reached the name of who he was to report to, a small smile spread across his face.  He’d heard through the grapevine that the new captain was recently married to a marine colonel.  He could only hope it was the same marine colonel. He had never seen two people more suited to each other, or more stubborn to admit it. Taking a deep breath, he pushed his way through the glass doors almost marching squarely to the CO’s office. “Master Gunnery Sergeant Victor Galindez reporting to Captain Rabb.” “Yes, Gunnery Sergeant, he’s expecting you.”  Beth James had to make a serious effort to keep her jaw from dropping.  She was used to seeing men in uniform, even handsome men in uniform, but there was something strikingly impressive about this dark eyed man. Calling the Captain over the intercom, “Master Gunnery Sergeant Galindez to see you, sir.” Expecting to hear a voice respond, Gunny and Petty Officer James were startled to have the door fly open behind them.   “Gunny!” Harm extended his arm. “Glad to have you aboard.” Harm stepped back, waving the marine into his office. “Thank you, sir.” Gunny stood at attention before the Captain’s desk. “At ease, Gunny.”  Harm gestured for Gunny to take a seat.  “You have no idea how happy I am to see you. Besides the fact that we are short staffed, making running an efficient office twice as difficult, I’m in desperate need of good investigators.” Pausing to gauge Gunny’s response. “You’ll find your duties similar to those you had at JAG HQ, but leaning more heavily on investigations and research.” “Yes, sir,” Gunny assented stoically. “I’m hopeful we’ll be able to convince you to accept a permanent position with us.” “Yes, sir.” Harm smiled, not much had changed. Gunny was still a man of few words. “You’re first assignment will be working shot gun with Colonel MacKenzie.” “I didn’t realize the Colonel was stationed here,” Gunny interjected. “She’s not, but her services were requested by a seaman accused of burglarizing the national museum.” “A seaman, sir?”  Gunny shifted his brow curiously. The first readable expression Harm had seen since the Gunny arrived. “Yes. Scotland Yard seems happy to convict on circumstantial evidence. I want the truth.” “Aye, sir!” Gunny stiffened to attention.  Maybe working in an office again wouldn’t be so bad after all. “The Colonel is expecting you. She’ll fill you in on all the details. She’ll be interviewing the suspect later this morning. I’m sure she’ll want you present. Petty officer James will show you the way to her temporary office.” “Aye, sir.” Gunny stood at attention. “Dismissed, and Gunny...” “Sir?” “We really are glad to have you back with us.” “Thank you, sir.  It will be a privilege to serve with you again.”  Turning on his heel, Gunny made his way to Petty Officer James’ desk. “Excuse me,” “Yes, Master Gunnery Sergeant?” Beth looked up from papers she’d been sorting. “I understand you can direct me towards Colonel MacKenzie’s office.” Beth curled her brow in confusion before recognition dawned. “You mean Mrs. Rabb?” Gunny couldn’t help the broad grin that spread across his face.  He hadn’t wanted to say anything inappropriate to the Captain, but he was damn glad those two finally found each other. He just couldn’t believe it took them almost four more years after the Brumby incident. “Did I say something amusing Master Gunnery Sergeant?” If Beth had thought the Gunnery Sergeant was handsome before, that smile was definitely a lady-killer. He probably had a string of broken hearts from marine camp to camp. “No, Petty Officer, and it’s Gunny. Just Gunny.” Gunny squared his shoulders and wiped the silly grin off his face, his marine persona firmly in place once again. “Follow me.” Beth stepped out from behind the desk and waved for Gunny to follow her. Without warning, her mind flashed back to Greg’s cocky smile and the first day they met. Damn she missed him. Not a bad view, Gunny thought as he watched the Petty Officer walking across the bullpen.  Gunny wondered momentarily what the petty officer would look like without the heavy glasses and her hair down, but it wasn’t long before he shook away those thoughts.  He was back in civilization and going to be surrounded by women. He needed to keep his mind on business. Besides, she was probably as young as she looked. Turning the corner at the end of the bullpen, Beth stopped short knocking lightly on the frame of the first doorway on the left. “Ma’am, excuse me, but Master Gunnery Sergeant Galindez is here to see you.” “Gunny!” Mac exclaimed enthusiastically as he stepped out from behind the younger petty officer. “Good morning, Ma’am.” “Ready to start counting paper clips?” Mac teased, thinking back to the first job she’d offered him years ago. “More than ready, ma’am.” A small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “Thank you, Beth. That will be all,” Mac dismissed, noticing the young woman watching the conversation curiously. She had no way of knowing that Gunny and her boss’ wife had a relationship that went further than the brotherhood of marines.  Few soldiers had more respect or trust for each other than these two had. Gunny had often taken it upon himself to protect Colonel MacKenzie, both physically and emotionally, and he was prepared to do that again if necessary. Though he strongly suspected, now that the two senior officers had finally gotten together, the Colonel wasn’t going to be needing very much protecting anymore. Chapter 9 R.A.F. West Ruislip Later that morning Gunny walked briskly beside Mac.  It had been a while since they had seen each other and he’d almost forgotten what a skilled attorney she was, almost.  He had watched with utter fascination as she communicated with the nervous Seaman.   His first instincts had been that the Seaman may very well have been involved, but there was no way such a young person would be able to mastermind such a complex operation.  Now his instincts told him Scotland Yard had the wrong man. “I’m going to need exact times for when Moore returned to base. There should be log in information at the front gate.” “Yes, ma’am.” Gunny knew not to take it personally that she was stating the obvious. “I’ll also want to see every minute of surveillance tape the Museum has.” “Yes, ma’am.” Gunny kept in step with Mac’s brisk stride.  “You may have to get the day of the burglary tapes from Baskin. He’s not as bad a character as Harm makes him out to be. He just made the mistake of not expecting the unexpected.” “Understood.” Gunny had done a little recon work before reporting to duty. He’d heard the scuttlebutt about Lt. Philips having been caught up in the serial killings a few months ago.  He also wasn’t surprised to hear that Commander, that is, Captain Rabb had been her CO, and personally involved in the investigation. “There shouldn’t be any problem getting videos of the previous days from the Museum. I’d like to see who came and went in a peacoat for the last two weeks. If we don’t find anything we’ll go back even further.”  Mac stopped in her tracks and looked over at Gunny. “You don’t really need me to tell you all this do you?” “No, ma’am,” Gunny withheld a smile. London Headquarters’ Wednesday two days later Gunny stepped quietly up to Petty Officer James’ desk, noticing her sudden pallor as she slowly returned the phone to its cradle. “Is anything wrong, James?” Her face was taking on a gray waxy texture, and concern was quickly raising the hairs on the back of his neck. “Hmm?” The small sound was barely audible. Beth’s eyes were still intently focused on the black phone. “Are you okay?” Gunny put the files he was carrying down and stepped around the desk.  Carefully placing the back of his hand against her cheek, afraid to do much more, but horrified at how cool and clammy she felt. Beth almost jumped out of her skin at the sudden touch.  Without thinking, her arm shot out instinctively, nailing Gunny forcefully in his midsection, only inches away from causing him severe pain. “Gunny!”  Beth pushed the seat away from her as she reached out to the doubled over marine. “I’m so sorry. I... I didn’t realize it was you.  What were you thinking?” “You looked... ill.” Gunny took a deep breath and straightened up slightly. “When you didn’t answer me...I was ... concerned.” Letting out another deep breath, Gunny rose to his full height. “You pack one hell of a punch for the Navy.” Taking a few steps back, Gunny reached for the files just as the Captain’s door opened. Harm’s eyes were quickly scanning the situation. Gunny had an oddly pained expression on his face and James looked as though she’d just been shown a late night screening of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre. “What’s going on out here?” “Nothing, sir. I’m just dropping off these files you requested,” Gunny offered. “Sorry, sir. Just a little ... misunderstanding.” James appreciated Gunny’s efforts to play it down. Captain Rabb was many things, but stupid or deaf weren’t any of them. “Would I be correct in assuming you don’t need my intervention?” Harm looked from Beth to Gunny and back. “No, sir,” they both responded quickly. “I’ll take those reports.” Harm motioned for the files. “Yes, sir. Here you go, sir.” Gunny picked the balance of the files up off the desk and handed them to the Captain. “Carry on.” Harm turned and entered his office closing the door behind him. “Damn,” Beth muttered under her breath. “Damn the phone call, or damn our commanding officer thinks we’ve lost it?” Gunny approached carefully. “Just damn in general,” Beth couldn’t resist letting a slight smile show. For someone she’d just punched in the gut, Gunny was being unusually nice, especially for a marine. “I’d better get back to work before they transfer me back out of here.” Gunny hesitated a long moment before deciding the petty officer no longer looked in need of assistance.  “Gunny,” Beth called out as he turned from the desk, “Thanks.” Rabb flat Later that night “You look beat,” Mac noticed Harm dragging towards her in the kitchen. “More like something that died under the porch,” Mattie added, reaching into the fridge for a can of coke. “Gee, thanks.” Harm leaned over and gave Mac a quick peck hello, grabbing a tomato out of the salad she was making.  “How was your day?” he asked, giving her another quick kiss. “You mean besides going cross-eyed? Scotland Yard is insisting if the Navy doesn’t press charges, they will.  Gunny and I have interviewed every guard on duty that day except for the one who suggested emptying the case. Apparently no one recognizes who he is.” Mac walked over to set the salad on the table where Harm and Mattie had taken seats. “Do you need help with something?” Harm asked, moving the bowl between him and Mattie. “No.” Taking a seat beside Harm, “It’ll be a few more minutes before the lasagna is ready.” Harm pulled another tomato out of the salad. “Will you cut that out!” Playfully, Mac swatted Harm’s hand. “So who’s the extra guard,” Harm tried redirecting Mac’s attention. “An accomplice, maybe?  Baskin suggested he might even be the mastermind.” “Oh, so Scotland Yard’s finest finally agrees with what the rest of us have known all along? The kid isn’t capable of pulling off a job like this.” “Not exactly, he still thinks he’s capable, but since he doesn’t have the stolen letters, they’re concluding whoever does is the one who actually planned the heist.” Mattie jumped up at the sound of the oven timer. “I’ll get that.” She was happy to have an excuse not to listen to the boring adult conversation. “You don’t have to do that.” Harm gestured for her to sit as he started to get up. He still tended to coddle her when it came to overdoing walking around. “I know, but I will.” Completely ignoring Harm’s efforts, Mattie walked over to the oven and brought back the piping hot meal. “So, now what?” Harm began scooping out a hefty portion. “Gunny and I spent the better part of this afternoon going over the videos practically with a magnifying glass.” “And?” “Nothing, we only got through half the tapes before I had to leave. Gunny was going to continue looking over them and let me know if he finds anything.” “Speaking of which, have you noticed anything odd about the Gunny?” “Our Gunny?” Mac scrunched her face in confusion. Harm nodded. “Mm. Do you think there’s something going on with him and Petty Officer James?” “Beth!” This time Mac’s eyes flew open wide. “Why do you keep making faces?” “Well, for starters I’ve never known a more squared away marine than Gunny, even when he’s in love with the suspected enemy.” “True,” Harm nodded, thinking back to Faresa in Afghanistan a few years ago. “And as for Beth, he and she have only known each other for a couple of days.  What could possibly being going on?” “If I knew, I wouldn’t be asking you. All I know is there was an unusual commotion outside my office, and when I went to see what was going on, Gunny looked as though he’d been kicked in the teeth, and James looked as though she’d been watching a horror flick.” “Well, if there is something going on, from your description, it doesn’t sound very promising,” Mac chuckled quietly before taking a bite of dinner. She wondered if Beth had heard anything about her test results. Mac was hopeful that Beth not needing a friendly ear implied she’d received good news. “Has anyone mentioned you make eating lasagna look very sexy?” Harm couldn’t help but notice the way Mac’s lips slowly closed over the fork as she pulled it away from her mouth. “Excuse me! Impressionable teenager here! I suppose it would be asking too much for you two to behave more like old people and not newlyweds? You guys really bring to life the expression, get a room.” Mattie rolled her eyes in frustration.  She loved Harm and Mac, but someone really needed to tell them they’re not hormonal teenagers anymore.  Actually, if she stopped to admit it, she did think their love puppy expressions were cute, just not during dinner. Chapter 10 Short time later Rabb Residence Mattie had just dropped her plate in the sink and headed back to her room to finish the mounds of Calculus homework that beckoned from her desk when the phone rang just as she passed by. “Rabb Residence. Sure, no problem. Hang on.” Placing her hand over the mouthpiece, “It’s for you, a Gunny Galindez.” Mattie handed Mac the phone and waved her fingers as she turned the corner down the hall. “Yeah, Gunny.” Harm watched as Mac nodded and grunted at sporadic intervals into the phone. It was amazing to watch her body language change as she shifted from wife and mother to marine attorney.  He watched her move stealthily back and forth across the kitchen floor, her one arm occasionally rising up in a responsive gesture to something Gunny said.  A wayward thought flashed through his mind. She was so in her element when she was in a courtroom. Was she maybe regretting all she’d given up to be with him? Harm swallowed the errant thought. She’d done nothing to imply she wasn’t happy. As a matter of fact, she’d almost protested taking on Moore as a client, reminding him their priorities were elsewhere. No, the time for second-guessing each other had long passed.  He needed to focus on the here and now, and not the what-ifs.  He couldn’t allow fears to color their blissful reality, and he was in heaven.  Had he realized what he was denying himself all those years that he suppressed his feelings for Mac, he would never have allowed his tainted obsessions to get in the way of true happiness. “Harm?” Mac repeated. “Oh, sorry. I guess I was lost in thought.” “You were certainly lost in something.  I know you had a hard day. Care to share?” Mac took hold of Harm’s hand and led him over to the sofa. “You mean you really want to hear about the most boring day in JAG history reviewing efficiency reports? I put if off so long, the files are planning a coup to take over my office.” Harm would have laughed a little louder if it didn’t feel like the truth.  “Why don’t you tell me what Gunny had to say?” He sat heavily on the large sofa, pulling Mac down nearly on his lap. Immediately, shifting so her back leaned up against Harm’s side, Mac snuggled in under his arm, placing it gently across her tummy, doodling on the back of his hand. “He thinks he may have found something on one of the surveillance tapes.” “Something good?” Harm began brushing back strands of her hair with his free hand. “Don’t know yet. He thinks it’s an accomplice. The video is rather dark and sketchy. He’s going to send it to a private lab, have a small portion enhanced. See if we can find something else to help solidify Moore’s claims he’d already left the museum.” “None of it makes any sense, Mac. I mean, what does Baskin think was Moore’s motive? He certainly can’t fence them.  It would be like trying to unload a stolen Rembrandt. He’d need a professional fence in a very private niche. Where would Moore come in contact with people like that?” “He wouldn’t. Sometimes I think Baskin is on a Brit versus Yank ego trip and isn’t coming even close to doing his job.” “Sometimes?” Harm’s fingers stilled a moment. “He’s done a good job at putting the circumstantial evidence together.  The amount of time Moore spent hovering around the letter cases. His excellent fit reps in direct contradiction to his bumbling behavior at the museum.” “He thinks it’s an act?” “That’s the way he’s presenting it.” Mac sank a little deeper against Harm. “Well, surely there must be someone who can corroborate that Moore can be a bit...awkward.” “Gunny’s working on it. He’s a bit of a loner.” A momentary silence fell across the dimly lit room. Harm continued gently raking his fingers through Mac’s long hair. He liked it long like this. She’d let it grow. It was now a little longer than the night of their engagement, but not quite as long as in that horrible daydream he’d had at Jennifer’s promotion celebration. “Mac?” “Mm?” Mac had let her eyes fall closed, enjoying the relaxing moment. “Are you happy?” “What?” Mac practically shot up off the couch, “Why would you ask that? Of course I am.  Are you?” Harm held back the urge to chuckle. He should have known better than to start the domino effect of second-guessing. “I am without any doubt the happiest man on the face of the planet and very possibly in the universe.” Leaning forward slightly, he kissed her briefly on the forehead and urged her to lie back down. “It’s just, you’re such a good attorney. Watching you work with Gunny again, I thought maybe, well... maybe you might be having second thoughts about giving up the Corps to be with me.” Mac shot up from the sofa even faster than the time before. “Oh, Harm.” Turning fully to face him, she put both her hands on either side of his face. “The only thing I regret is that I didn’t ask for a proposal five years ago on the front steps of HQ instead of accepting a long term deal.”  Mac pressed her lips firmly against Harm’s, drawing out every luscious sensation possible when two hot wires are intertwined together. Gradually she pulled back, her eyes locking on his. “I’m going to take it that means no second thoughts?” Harm breathlessly responded. “Uh uh.” Her mouth descended once again, slowly capturing his in another endeavor at silent communication. Some things were best expressed without words. London Headquarters Next morning 0900 hours “Thanks, Gunny. I appreciate your covering the phones for me.” Beth James hurried up to her desk. “Just give me a second to take this to the Captain.” Knocking softly, Beth entered through the large oak door. “Your coffee, sir.” Beth practically shuffled over to Harm’s desk. “Thank you, Petty Officer. Perfect timing.” “Anything else, sir?” “No, that will be all.” Harm returned his attention to the remaining efficiency reports still piled on his desk.  Briefly he wondered if she really didn’t know he didn’t need anything else, or was it a habitual way of asking to be dismissed.  Shaking his head, he quickly decided he was no more likely to find an answer to the enigma that was Petty Officer Beth James than he was to how Mac could tell time with such amazing accuracy. Back by her desk, Beth paused a moment as Gunny moved out of her chair. “I’m sorry it took longer than I thought. I needed to use the rest room first,” she smiled almost bashfully at the handsome marine.  She could have asked Petty Officer Blair to cover for her the way she always did before Gunny arrived, but the Gunny didn’t huff at her as though she’d just asked him to move a sofa across the room for the umpteenth time. “No problem, I’m not expected to meet Colonel Mackenzie, I mean Mrs. Rabb at the lab for another hour.” Gunny clicked his heels, nodded politely at Beth, then returned directly to his own duties.  He had a few more things to go over before his meeting with the Colonel. There was no way he was going to remember to call her Mrs. Rabb. On reserve or not, she was always going to be Colonel MacKenzie to him. Glancing at the files on his desk, so many things about this case were all wrong and he couldn’t quite put his finger on it.  He missed the information network from home. It was going to take some time, but he would need to build the same thing here.                                                                     BACK     NEXT                                                                    HOME