Negotiating_Relationships2


	Chapters 1-5 Chapters 6-10 Chapters 11-15 Chapters 16-20 Title: Negotiating Relationships Chapter 6 Mac’s apartment Friday night 1850 hours Lying in the warm lavender scented bath, Mac could feel the tension literally draining out of her. Despite her uncanny ability to judge time, she’d managed to lose track of how long she’d been soaking when she heard the knock on the door. ‘Damn.’ “Coming!” She hollered from the bathroom as she stood up and grabbed a towel. Harm had his arm in the air, prepared to knock a second time, when the door flew open. Stepping inside, he closed the door behind him hearing Mac call out, “be right back,” as he caught a flash of powder pink wrapped around glistening flesh racing back to her room. That momentary glimpse of a wet, practically naked Sarah MacKenzie was already doing things to his body. He needed to focus on something else. The dentist maybe, proctologist would do it, Sec Nav, yeah that’s it. Harm refused to allow his thoughts to wander back to Mac while he emptied the cartons of Chinese food and poured himself a drink. “Sorry about that.” Smiling, Mac walked up to Harm and planted a soft kiss on his cheek. Resisting the urge to turn her around and kiss her for real. Harm handed Mac a plate, “No problem, I got you sesame chicken.” “Did you have anything in particular in mind for tonight.” Mac asked as she made herself comfortable on the sofa, attacking her dinner with gusto. Harm didn’t mind giving Mac all the time she needed to feel comfortable in this relationship, but he really wished she’d stop asking loaded questions. Deciding to stick with what she meant, and not what he’d like, Harm sat down next to her. “I picked up a couple of old movies.” Setting his dish down on the coffee table, he went to get the videos he’d left on the kitchen table. “I thought I’d let you pick.” He handed her the movies and made himself comfortable beside her. “Buona Sera Mrs. Campbell?” Mac looked at him questioningly. “That’s one of my mom’s favorite movies. There’s a military reunion in Italy twenty years after WWII. Gina Lolabrigita has been raising a daughter and doesn’t know which one of three men is the dad. She has to juggle them all so they don’t find out they’ve each been supporting the daughter all these years. The father’s either Telly Savales, Phil Silvers, or Peter Lawford. Shelly Winters and Lee Grant are great in it too. It’s actually a very funny movie.” “You just want to watch Gina Lolabrigita for two hours.” Mac smacked him lightly picking up the next tape with her free hand, still eating with the other. “Pocketful of Miracles? Betty Davis! Peter Falk? Have you seen this one too?” Mac asked between mouthfuls. She loved Betty Davis. “I haven’t seen any of them since I was a kid, Mac. It’s basically a Cinderella type story set in the 30’s after prohibition ends. A bootlegger played by Glen Ford, and his girl friend, played by Hope Lange, pass a street beggar, Bette Davis, off as high society to impress her daughter who is coming back from Europe engaged to a Count.” “Bette Davis it is,” Mac proclaimed enthusiastically. When the two had finished their meal, Harm turned on the selected movie and snuggled up on the sofa with Mac. As it turned out, they watched both Pocketful of Miracles and Buona Sera Mrs. Campbell. Despite her misgivings over Harm’s description, both movies were indeed lots of fun and exactly what she needed. By the end of Mrs. Campbell, Mac had started to doze off a bit. She’d pressed herself further back against Harm and was tightly gripping the arm he had around her waist. Contented to be wrapped around the woman he loved, Harm drifted off to sleep as well. Harm was dreaming of his Sarah, of a time when the two would be free to show their feelings in every way without the fears and restrictions from the years of mistakes and miscommunications. He could feel the pleasure of being with her slowly surging through his body when he was rudely interrupted by a twinge in his back. Becoming stronger and stronger, the pain in his back was bringing Harm out of his sleeping state. As the sleepy fog cleared from his brain, he was almost startled to find the warm enrapturing sensations were still flowing through him, especially to one particular part of him. Opening his eyes he saw he was still holding Mac, he also saw, to his horror, the hand that had been carefully placed at her waist the night before was now very obviously grasping her breast. To make matters worse, he’d been kneading that breast as though he’d been working on a loaf of bread. Instantly his hand froze. Mac’s arm was still wrapped around his, trapping his arm against her. Panic was beginning to replace his previous excitement. If she woke up and caught him in his current position, he was probably one dead squid. Heaven, Mac was in heaven. Wrapped in a blanket of loving warmth, she had never had sweeter dreams. The warmth was beginning to penetrate her very soul. She could feel the tingling slowly creeping throughout her body creating a small fire within her. The fire was growing, threatening to overtake her, when suddenly the heat began to wane. Mourning its loss, she let out a soft moan. ‘Oh lord.’ The ebbing excitement had just found a resurgence of power at the sound of her voice. Desire shot through Harm like a 90 mile an hour fast ball. He had to get out of this predicament before she woke up, he just had to. Shifting his weight slightly, he tried to put a little space between their bodies as he pulled his arm away from Mac’s strong grip. Even if she woke up, as long as his hand wasn’t anywhere conspicuous, he’d be all right. That of course was assuming he could manage to keep himself under control before she noticed his obvious reactions to being so intimately entwined with her. Immediately feeling the loss of body heat, Mac was jolted from her sound sleep. It took a bit for her to realize she was still on the sofa with Harm, but not quite as ensconced as she had been the night before. She was overwhelmed by the strong yearning she felt to turn around and swallow Harm whole. Harm was laying sideways, his back to the sofa, his front only inches away from Sarah. Scooting around to lay flat on her back, she smiled up at Harm. “Morning, sailor.” Her voice came out low and sultry, mostly because she was still half-asleep. “Morning.” Harm smiled back grabbing her right hand in his and laying it on her stomach. Her hand had casually been lying dangerously close to his lower extremities. The last thing he wanted was for her to notice what she was doing to him by just being near. He very much wanted to lean down and kiss Mac like she’d never been kissed before. He’d learned from experience though, to be very careful of when and where he kissed her, especially if he wanted to keep his pants on. “What do you say to me whipping us up some pancakes for breakfast?” Food was usually a good way to distract Mac, this time was apparently no different. Sitting up on the sofa, Mac stretched a bit. “Sounds scrumptious.” Harm headed to the kitchen to start on breakfast, while Mac headed into her room. Before Harm had gathered his ingredients, Mac was back in the kitchen, standing behind him wrapping her arms around his waist. “Thank you.” “For what?” Harm paused a moment to turn and look at her. Something in her voice told him this was a serious thank you. It was one of those subtle things he’d started picking up on, much like her behavior yesterday. He only wished he’d learned to do this years ago, it might have saved them so much pain. Stepping away and moving towards the fridge, “For last night, the movies, for understanding.” Harm stood still, hoping she’d say more. He was learning to detect more undertones in what Mac said and did, but he still had a long way to go in truly comprehending the significance of what she might be saying. “Abuse cases are always so hard for me. The pain and frustration of living with a drunken marine just emerges out of nowhere trying to recapture me. I get so tired sometimes of fighting it.” Mac took a gallon of milk out of the fridge and set it on the counter in front of Harm. “Is that a hint?” Harm smiled, turning back to finish mixing the pancakes, hoping she’d keep talking. “Guilty.” Mac chuckled. “I probably would have indulged in a small pity party if you hadn’t been here.” Harm turned his head to see her face without stopping what he was doing. “What ever you need, I will be here for you from now on, I promise. You just may need to tell me once in a while what it is.” He stopped mixing the pancakes and looked Mac straight in the eyes. “I know I can’t change the past. I can’t take away the bitter memories of your childhood, and I can’t get back the years I’ve lost in my obsessions, or the time we’ve wasted when we could have been together. I can however do everything in my power to make wonderful new memories until there’s no room for the painful old ones.” He leaned forward and placed a quick kiss on her nose, then dipped his finger in the batter and gently placed a drop on her chin. Mac stepped into his space and leaned up to press her lips on his just as the phone rang. Rolling his eyes, Harm shook his head. ‘Someone has really lousy timing.’ Moving slowly to the other room, Mac picked up the phone. “Hey Harriet.” Chapter 7 Mac’s apartment Same time “Good morning, I didn’t wake you did I?” Harriet thought Mac sounded a little groggy. She pulled the handset closer to her ear as if that might help her to decipher if Mac was alone. “No, I woke up a little bit ago.” “Oh, good. I know this is short notice, but I was wondering if you’d like to join your godsons and us for an impromptu little barbecue at our house?” Harriet crossed her fingers. “Sure, sounds good I’d love to.” Mac shrugged her shoulders at Harm. “I thought I’d see if Commander Rabb was free too, but he’s not answering his phone at home. You wouldn’t happen to know where he might be, would you?” Harriet’s eyebrows inched up slowly, hoping she’d found him as well. “If he’s not answering his phone, have you tried his cell?” Opening her eyes widely at Harm, Mac hoped he’d understand her signal to get his cell and turn it on. She let out a small sigh when he did. “No ma’am, I’ll try that next. See you around two o’clock, okay?” Harriet had noticed that Mac hadn’t actually answered her question, but as Bud had so successfully pointed out the other night, it was all circumstantial. “Sounds good. Should I bring anything?” “No ma’am, just yourself.” “Thanks, Harriet. See you at two.” Mac hung up the phone just as Harm’s cell rang. Mac listened to Harm’s side of the conversation, already aware of what Harriet was saying on the other end. “Gee, Harriet I had sort of planned to tinker with the vette today.” Harm was sporting an impish grin. He was getting even with Harriet for spying on them the other day and Mac knew it. “Of course you’re right Harriet, my godsons are most definitely more important to me than my car.” Harm was stifling a laugh. “Two o’clock. I’ll be there. Bye Harriet.” Harm outright laughed as he turned his phone off. “You’re terrible you know. So you still think Harriet’s up to something?” Mac moved in closer to Harm again. “Don’t know but I’m not taking any chances.” Harm kissed Mac on the cheek and wrapped his arms around her. “So, what do we do till two o’clock?” Mac’s eye’s twinkled with delight at teasing him. Pulling away, Harm headed back to the kitchen. “First, I’m going to feed you. I know better than to hang around a hungry marine. Then, I’m going home to change before Harriet figures out I slept in my clothes.” “Don’t you think it would be more of a problem if you hadn’t slept in your clothes.” Mac raised an eyebrow playfully. “Never mind, let’s get moving so we can find out what Harriet’s up to.” Harm’s apartment Near Union Station 1300 hours “Mattie Grace what do you think you’re wearing?” Looking down at her self. “Jeans and a shirt?” she replied with a slight frown and an expression that said, duh. “I can see your bellybutton.” Harm gasped in astonishment. “Everyone has one you know.” Mattie was losing patience with her conservative guardian. “You really shouldn’t flaunt yourself like that. What you wear says a lot about who you are.” Harm didn’t know what was worse; the underwear that wasn’t underwear or showing skin that apparently isn’t showing skin. “I’m not flaunting Harm, you can only see my belly button if I move my arms a certain way. It’s just the fashion. At least I’m not wearing hip huggers AND a tube top like your generation.” Mattie gave him that ‘I’ve just made my point dad, deal with it’ look. “I’d still feel better if you wore a regular t-shirt.” Harm knew he needed to trust Mattie’s judgement, but this was harder than he thought it would be. “Why don’t we wait for Mac to get here and you can ask her opinion.” Mattie gleamed with her brilliant idea. She knew Mac would back her up. “Mac’s not coming here.” Harm wiped the last spot on the counter once more before tossing the sponge in the sink. “Why not?” Mattie looked puzzled. “I thought you two finally got your act together?” “You said that, I never did.” Harm knew he was walking a thin line with the truth, but all is fair in love and war. “But...” “Never mind but. Go change your shirt, I’ll wait for you down in the car.” Harm grabbed his keys and followed Mattie out the door. He wasn’t sure who was going to be worse, Mattie or Harriet. Roberts residence 1600 hours “See I told you!” Mattie grinned triumphantly. Mac made every effort to bite back a laugh. “Keep in mind I had no way of knowing why she was asking me this.” Holding her hands up, palms out in surrender, Mac nodded defensively at Harm. “Mattie’s right, Commander. In the seventies all the girls wore hip huggers and halters. Most of them were very nice girls, and some are even grandmothers now.” Harriet came to Mac’s aid, trying not to giggle openly. She was beginning to get an idea of where she might find an ally brazen enough to take on Harm and Mac. “Okay, ladies, I can see I’m outnumbered.” Harm nodded in defeat. “I think it’s time for another coke.” He smiled and walked around Harriet to the cooler. Harriet had asked Harm and Mac to finish making the potato and macaroni salad while she took turns with Bud standing over the grill. When Bud couldn’t take it anymore, he’d come in and switch places with Harriet. Earlier that day, without thinking (yeah right) Harriet had spread some natural turkey fertilizer in the beds around the house. “Harriet, why did you decide to fertilize the shrubs NOW?” Bud asked, his mouth hanging open. “I didn’t have time after I planted them last weekend, why?” Harriet looked completely innocent and unaware. “Harriet, no one will be able to stay outside without a gas mask!” Bud couldn’t believe his together wife had managed to do something so stupid that even absentmindedly he wouldn’t have done. With a wave of her hand, “oh well, you can cook outside but we’ll just have to hang out in the house.” She walked away completely satisfied with herself. Containment would help. So far Harriet had managed to find a multitude of reasons to keep Harm and Mac working side by side in the kitchen. She’d watched the two carefully making sure her interest wasn’t detected. They worked together with an ease and comfort that she hadn’t seen in years. A comfort that after Paraguay, she thought she’d never see again. She was sure, if there wasn’t something going on already, that now was the best time to strike. Leaving Mac and Harm playing chef in the kitchen, Harriet slipped out quietly to go speak with Mattie. “So tell me Mattie, you really seem to be enjoying staying with Harm?” Harriet began. She knew she’d have to get to the point quickly before Harm or Mac came looking for them. “Yeah, except for days like today, he’s really cool.” Mattie rolled her eyes. “Do you get to spend much time with Mac too?” “Not really, do you know what’s up with them?” Straight to the point, Mattie twisted her mouth curiously. A glimmer of excitement appeared in Harriet’s eyes. “What do you mean?” Harriet asked coyly. “Well, it’s obvious they like each other, but they’re not dating. I mean, what’s up with that?” Mattie flipped one hand over in a gesture of confusion. “It’s a long story. Would you like to see them together?” That twinkle in Harriet’s eye was growing brighter. “Sure, you can tell he really loves her.” Mattie didn’t know if that was supposed to be some sort of secret, but just because the adults were behaving like children didn’t mean she had to play along. Rubbing her hands together enthusiastically, “Then I have an idea….” Before heading back to the kitchen, Harriet sat AJ down on the sofa popping his favorite video in the TV. Convinced he wasn’t going to be moving from that spot, she passed through the dining room on her way back to the kitchen. Making sure no one was nearby Harriet leaned over and opened all the windows about two inches. Pleased with herself, Harriet joined her friends in the kitchen just as Bud was coming inside with the burgers. “Anybody hungry?” Bud asked with a broad grin across his face, happy to finally breathe fresh air. Picking up the bowls of salad they’d been working on, “Lead the way oh great grill king.” Harm said, as he and Mac waved an arm extending it before them palm up. Harriet winked at Mattie. “By all means Bud, lead the way.” “Harriet!” Bud exclaimed, arriving in the dining room first. “Rushing past Mattie to catch up to Bud, “What’s wrong? OH, dear,” She frowned as she reached Bud. “I guess I forgot to close the windows.” The aroma of turkey fertilizer had permeated the room as effectively as if they’d been standing outside. “Guess we’ll have to eat in the other room, that’s okay Harriet, right?” Mattie asked casually. Harriet was going to enjoy working with her. “Sure, everyone into the den.” Mattie darted off first grabbing the burgers from Bud. “I’ll take those, you go have a seat on the sofa with AJ.” Mattie set the burgers down and went to sit in the oversized easy chair. Harriet headed for the loveseat carrying a large water glass. Just as Mac and Harm were setting the salads and plastic dishware on the table, Mattie popped up. “You know, I should probably sit on the sofa with AJ. Then I can help him so you adults can enjoy yourselves. You can take my seat Harm.” Mattie was most definitely going to be a great asset, Harriet decided. Mac made her way over towards Harriet. Before Mac had taken two steps Harriet let out a screech. “OOH. I can’t believe I did that!” Shaking herself off. “Now these cushions are soaked. At least it’s just water. Well Mac, we can’t sit here now.” Harriet shrugged her shoulders, her expression successfully bathed in embarrassment. Looking at Harm comfortably seated in the oversized chair, “that chair there really is big enough for two people. You don’t mind sharing with the colonel, do you Commander?” Harriet’s embarrassment changed quickly into the ever-accommodating hostess once again. Their mouths slightly opened, Harm and Mac glanced at each other and then turned back to Harriet. By now, any attempt by Harriet at acting had been completely subdued by her Cheshire grin. Standing up, “Here, Mac, you take the seat. I’ll sit over there on the floor by AJ. It’s closer to the food anyhow.” Harm tried not to burst out laughing when he saw Harriet’s eyes practically pop out of her head. ‘Okay, Commander, you want to play rough.’ Harriet glanced over at Mattie, who just shrugged her shoulders. ‘I don’t give up that easily.’ Harriet looked over to Mac, “Mind sharing?” Chapter 8 JAG Headquarters Admiral Chegwidden’s Office Monday afternoon “There’s been a friendly fire incident at Camp Pendleton.” The Admiral informed them, clasping his hands on the desk. “Isn’t that the second one this month, sir?” A deep furrow set in Mac’s brow. “Third. The local JAG office has failed to find any reason for the continued mishaps. I’m sure you agree the idea of bootcamp is not to blow up our own men. I expect you to get to the bottom of this, and quickly. Understood?” “Aye aye, sir.” Harriet had been keeping a watchful eye on her two friends. Noticing them lingering at the desk with Coates, she wondered if perhaps this wasn’t her next opportunity to encourage a little togetherness. Waiting until Harm and Mac had returned to their offices, Harriet casually approached Jennifer’s desk. “You look a little frazzled, everything okay?” Harriet asked. “The Commander and the Colonel need to leave for Pendleton but I’ve just been informed the VOQ is closed due to flooding.” Jennifer was still looking at the phone as if it were going to miraculously speak and offer her some instant resolution to her newest dilemma. “Flooded? In California?” Harriet was honestly curious. “A water main broke triggering a domino affect on several other over stressed pipes, flooding the VOQ, as well as some of the barracks’, and officer’s quarters, and a few other miscellaneous buildings.” “Wow, sounds like they’ve got real mess over there. When did this happen?” “This morning.” Jen looked up at Harriet. “I’m sure there’s a list of hotels the base is using to house all those people, why don’t you let me take care of it for you. You can just concentrate on transportation,” Harriet happily volunteered. “Yes, ma’am. They did give me a list of the three hotels they’re using. I’ve called the first one, according to the desk clerk, they don’t even have a broom closet left to offer.” If Jen weren’t so stressed, she would have found that comment rather amusing. “Fine, you give me the list, and I’ll take it from here.” Accepting the piece of paper, Harriet smiled to herself. Operation Make Love, phase two. Harriet hung up her phone, pleased with herself. Deciding her plan might need a back up she dialed the hotel’s number one more time. “Yes, this is Lt. Sims again. Do you still have the other rooms available? Wonderful, I need to make an additional reservation.” This was going to be a great day, Harriet thought. Arriving at the hotel, Mac and Harm practically dragged themselves into the lobby. The first leg of their trip started with the last transport out of Andrews. By the time they were done with their connecting flights, it was almost 1100 hours local time when they arrived at the hotel. “I’m Commander Rabb, this is Colonel MacKenzie. We have a reservation.” “Yes, here it is. MacKenzie Rabb. You got one of our last rooms,” the man smiled. “One?” Harm raised an eyebrow at the man. “Here you are, room 704. The 6th – 9th floor is reserved for officers.” The gentleman announced handing Harm the key. Harm and Mac looked at each other briefly before turning back to the desk clerk. “I believe that should be two rooms.” Was all Harm said. “No, it very clearly says here, one room for Mackenzie Rabb.” “That should have been one room for MacKenzie and one room for Rabb,” Harm sighed. “Please double check you don’t have another room for us.” “No, I’m afraid not. Shortly after this reservation was made someone took our last three rooms. We don’t even have anything on the enlisted floors.” The clerk looked up unremorseful. “Thank you,” Harm said through a forced smile. “Just what we needed.” Harm said once the elevator doors closed behind them. “I know,” Mac nodded. “It’s been hard enough avoiding the appearance of impropriety, sharing a hotel room on a floor of officers is going to be a…challenge,” Harm sighed again. The eyes of both officers looked up to the band of numbers above the door. This wasn’t going to be easy. Opening the door to the room, they were instantly relieved to find at least the room had two beds. They each placed their bag on a bed and began unpacking for the night. “I don’t understand how Coates could have made such a mistake,” Mac commented placing a few articles of clothing in one of the dresser drawers. “It’s not like her, it was probably an incompetent reservations person overwhelmed with the sudden influx of military,” Harm added, carrying his toiletries to the bathroom. “Still, the reservations agent would have had to give Jen the confirming information. Jen would have noticed they only gave her one room,” Mac questioned as she closed her empty suitcase. “Unless…” Harm said, popping his head out the bathroom door. “Jen didn’t make the reservations.” “You don’t think…?” Mac started. “Harriet!” The two offered in unison. The next two days were some of the most difficult Harm and Mac had ever spent together. They were the pictures of protocol. Never giving anyone the slightest reason to suspect anything. The pressure of keeping their distance, at the office as well as in their room was immense. The desire for even the slightest touch was beginning to consume them. Even when they were alone in their room, they didn’t dare do as much as hold hands. The possibility of being discovered by another officer was too real. Especially with two full bird colonels only two doors down. After some relatively simple investigation and comparisons, Harm and Mac were able to determine that similar incidents had happened at other bases across the country. All incidents involving the same weaponry. Something the local JAG office should have discovered as quickly as they had. Two new investigations would stem from the trip. One would look into the reliability of the new weapon being used, the other into the local JAG operations. Harm and Mac were able to procure a commercial flight home and opted to travel in civies. This way they could finally leave military protocol behind for at least a few hours. Looking down at Mac’s hand enfolded in his, “Do you have any idea how much I have missed being able to do this?” Harm asked. “Probably as much as I’ve missed you doing it?” Mac smiled. Harm brought Mac’s hand up to his lips and kissed it lightly. “I’ve missed us.” It was a simple statement but Mac knew exactly what he meant. “We have to tell the Admiral. I don’t think I could risk another assignment like that. It would probably kill me to ever go another day denying us.” Harm wanted to say so much more. “We should probably wait a few days. It might not fare well for us if we mention a change in our personal relationship the day after we return from sharing a hotel room in California,” Mac pointed out. “Agreed, but we tell him first thing Monday morning,” Harm insisted. “Agreed.” Mac lifted the armrest between them and snuggled up against Harm laying her head on his shoulder. Harm immediately wrapped his arm around Mac. Kissing her lightly on the top of her head, “Can we stay like this forever?” It was a ridiculous thought, but he really didn’t want to ever let her go. Mac simply nodded her head yes before drifting off to sleep. Despite not wanting to separate, Harm dropped Mac off at her apartment without going upstairs. It was late and they both felt they’d tempted fate enough over the last couple of days. Since tomorrow was Friday, they would just get through the day and enjoy quality time over the weekend. JAG Headquarters Friday morning Break Room “You’re sure everything is all set?” Harriet asked, phase three running through her mind. “Positive, Mattie and I have our parts down.” Petty Officer Coates reassured Harriet. Jen was learning to admire the matchmaker side of Harriet’s personality. Mac came walking up the hall, the sounds of laughter drifting from the break room. Just as she turned the corner into the room Harriet stiffened, she and Jen, falling instantly silent. Startled, Mac turned around to see if maybe the Admiral had been standing behind her. She wasn’t used to getting that sort of reaction from her friends. “Did I interrupt something?” It was obvious but she thought she’d ask anyway. “No, ma’am. We were just finishing up. Excuse me.” Jen made a hasty retreat. “You know Jen has a pretty good sense of humor.” Harriet tried to cover. “We need to find her a decent date, although if we do I’ll miss all the fun stories,” Harriet continued, hoping Mac wouldn’t catch on they’d been talking about her and Harm. “I’d better get back to my desk before someone sends out a search party.” Harriet smiled as she walked past the Colonel. Mac had too many things on her mind to pay very much attention to what she might have stumbled into. Later that afternoon Jennifer Coates winked at Harriet as she made her way to Mac’s office. “Excuse me Colonel,” Jen said knocking softly on the door. “Yes.” “You had these messages while you were away. I thought you might want to take note of the message on top ma’am. You’re landlord called to inform you that you’re building is being fumigated today. He suggested you might not want to go home after work.” Jen smiled, trying to look believable. Slumping her shoulders, Mac let out a small sigh. “Thank you Jennifer, did he say anything about when I could go home?” “No ma’am.” Jen shrugged. “Very well, carry on.” Mac waved her hand to dismiss Coates. She never looked up to see Jen give Harriet the thumbs up on her way to her next stop. “Tell Mrs. Benson if she needs an extra vehicle to give me a call. I know she’s got it covered but if you need me, I’m here… I know…. Have a nice night. See you tomorrow.” Harm hung up smiling. He never imagined how much pleasure he would get from having Mattie around. “Excuse me, sir.” Jen had been waiting for him to get off the phone. “Yes, Jen.” “Just wanted to let you know that I’ll be babysitting for the Roberts tonight. I’m going to go straight to their house after work, and will probably spend the night so they don’t have to worry about how late they stay out.” “That makes sense, but you do know if you decide to come home late, you call me and I’ll meet you outside so you’re not walking alone?” Harm often talked to Jen more like a father than a superior officer. “I know, sir. I just wanted you to know that I wouldn’t be home with Mattie tonight.” She already knew Mattie wouldn’t be home either but no sense in letting anyone else in on the plans. “Don’t worry. A bunch of girls are going to the movies and then spending the night at Maria Benson’s. Who knows what time tomorrow Mattie will be back.” “Very well, sir. See you tomorrow.” Jen returned to her desk, her part of the mission complete. Chapter 9 Mac’s office Same time Mac sat in her office contemplating her options. Tossing her pen on the desk, she got up and marched over to Harm’s office. “Any interest in joining a displaced marine for dinner?” “Displaced?” “My building is being fumigated today and the landlord suggests I not come home too early.” Mac sat down in the chair across from Harm’s desk. Harm’s eyebrow shot up suggestively. “Well, when you put it that way. I can see where choosing between me and a fumigated apartment might be a difficult choice.” The corners of Harm’s mouth were curling up slowly. “If you’d rather not, I’m sure I can go hang out with Harriet,” Mac teased. “Harriet and Bud are going out. Jen was just in letting me know she’ll be babysitting for them and spending the night.” Harm smiled brightly when it dawned on him that he and Mac could be alone tonight without the fear of bionic ears next door. “What’s the grin for?” Mac couldn’t help but notice the smile that had threatened to split his face open. “Just thinking about a marine I know.” He hoped a little of the truth would be enough. Flattered, Mac sprouted her own huge grin. “Then we’re on for dinner?” She asked. “Yeah, but if you can’t go home to change, do you want to just do take out at my place?” Harm suggested. “Good idea. Let me know when you’re ready to go and I’ll follow you out of here.” Mac stood up, she’d been in here long enough and didn’t want to draw too much attention to herself. Especially with Harriet so watchful lately. Nodding his head, “See you later.” Harm turned back to his computer screen as soon as Mac was out of his line of sight. Harm’s apartment Near Union Station 1715 “They’ve just left, have you got it all ready?” Harriet’s voice came through the phone to Mattie. “Yes, I’m almost all done. If you guys would quit calling to check on me, I’d have been finished half an hour ago!” Mattie exclaimed. “You’re sure you haven’t forgotten anything?” Harriet inquired for the tenth time. “NO.” “You remembered the bulbs?” Harriet wanted to make sure. “Yes, and the music. I’ve got it all. Now let me go, Mrs. Benson has been waiting downstairs for me for almost ten minutes.” Mattie didn’t want to keep her friend’s mom waiting. Fortunately, Mrs. Benson was a romantic at heart and didn’t mind helping out. 45 minutes later: Mac stood next to Harm holding the Chinese take out while he unlocked the door. Stepping into the apartment, harm flipped the light switch nearest the door. Nothing happened. “Hmm, bulb must have burned out. Go ahead and set that stuff down in the kitchen.” Harm walked into the living room intending to turn on the light by the sofa. “Do you want me to find you something more comfortable to wear?” Harm asked fidgeting with the lamp. “Nah, I’m okay. Thanks.” Looking over to where Harm was standing, “Is there a problem?” “I guess this bulb is dead too.” Harm walked over to the floor lamp in the back of the living room. “Aha, a light bulb that isn’t burned out,” Harm proclaimed happily. “It doesn’t give off much light, does it?” Mac commented casually, unaware Mattie had replaced the normal higher watt bulb with a lower 40 watt. “No, it should be brighter.” Harm wondered what was up. “Doesn’t matter, I’ve got some extra bulbs in the cupboard.” Harm went into the kitchen. Reaching into the cabinet under the sink he pulled out a box of 75 watt light bulbs. Harm replaced the bulb in the entryway. Surprised to find the new bulbs not working, he was reaching for the third bulb when the stereo came on. “Since when does it do that?” Mac asked startled by the sudden symphony of music. “Mattie must have been messing with it. She discovered the timer on it a few weeks back by mistake, she must have set it off again.” Harm was currently more concerned with why all of his new replacement bulbs appeared to be burned out. “Okay Thomas Edison. Dinner’s ready and I’m hungry. There’s enough light to see the food and right now that’s all that matters.” Mac carried the cartons of food to the table. “I don’t get it, why would all the new bulbs be burned out.” Harm handed the box to Mac when he reached the table. Taking the proffered box and shaking it slightly. “Sounds like the filaments are broken. The box was probably dropped before you ever bought it.” Mac suggested, then turned back into the kitchen opening drawers. “Where do you keep the matches?” “What for?” Harm asked tossing the bulbs into the trash. “To light the candle on the table.” Harm looked at the table more closely, his eyes falling on an oversized cranberry colored candle nestled in a floral centerpiece. “Where did that come from?” He asked. “How should I know, this is your apartment, remember.” Mac raised a box of matches in triumph. Lighting the candle, “Now, I’m really starved.” Mac began dishing out the food. Still somewhat confused, Harm took a seat and began serving himself. “You do realize something isn’t right here?” Harm took a bite of his low mein. “You mean burnt out bulbs, mystery candles and self starting music?” For the first time that night, Mac actually noticed the song playing. ‘…When will our eyes meet, when can I touch you, when will this strong yearning end…’ “Since when do you have Barry Manilow in your collection?” Mac asked taking another bite of food. “I don’t.” Harm answered quickly before recognizing the tune. “This is ridiculous.” Forcefully pushing off from the table, Harm walked over to the CD player. “Half my music is missing. All that’s left are the easy listening discs. Hmm, I’m sure you’ll be delighted to know you have just been enjoying the musical orchestrations of the Time Warner series: Romantic sounds of the sixties, seventies and eighties. We must have just been blessed with the seventies.” Harm carried the empty CD holders back to the table to show Mac. He didn’t know if he should burst out laughing, or have someone keelhauled. “I think it’s safe to guess, we’ve been set up.” Mac held up the CD cases. Chuckling, Harm sat down next to Mac. “Well, at least we know who the culprit is.” “You mean culprits?” Mac replied, waving her fork at him. “You think there’s more than one?” Harm raised a doubtful eyebrow. “Well, if you think about it, one person could have made sure none of the lights worked, that the replacement bulbs were all dead, and that you had extra candles readily available, which by the way smells delicious. The same person could have confiscated the rest of your music. Would I be correct in assuming the missing CDs are probably not considered romantic?” Waiting a moment for Harm to nod his head yes, Mac went on. “That leaves us with soft lights, and romantic music. None of which would have done you any good unless my landlord coincidentally decided to fumigate my apartment today.” Mac sat back crossing her arms in front of her, satisfied with her own powers of deductive reasoning. “Which of course is all conducive to a pleasant romantic evening, if the neighbors on the other side of that wall are out for the evening with no hope of coming home before dawn.” Harm pointed to the wall behind them, the light bulb of recognition shining bright in his head. “Colonel, I believe we are the focus of a well thought out conspiracy,” Harm smiled. “No sense wasting the musical genius of Peaches and Herb. May I have this dance?” Harm stood extending his arm in front of Mac. “I’d be delighted kind sir.” Mac semi curtsied as she stepped into Harm’s arms. Her mind lost momentarily listening to the words: ‘ reunited and it feels so good, reunited and it’s understood…’ “Someone went to a lot of trouble to create a romantic evening for us.” Harm spoke softly into Mac’s ear. Tightening his grip on her waist, Harm relished the opportunity to hold her so close. He’d been longing to do this for days. Having been forced to keep his distance had worn heavily on him, making him want her all the more. “Do you think Coates and Mattie thought this up themselves?” Mac asked quietly. She was enjoying being in his arms again. They would have undoubtedly had a pleasant evening but she was most definitely thankful to who ever guaranteed it. “Well, the light bulbs does seem very adolescent, and the landlord had to be Coates, but in order for the absent neighbors to work…” “Harriet,” the two echoed. Chapter 10 Harm’s apartment Same evening The two spent the better part of the evening dancing or curled up on the couch. In all the years they had been friends, there was never a shortage of something to talk about, or total comfort in silence. With the pleasant sounds of Chuck Mangione in the background, Mac laid across the sofa, her head in Harm’s lap. Harm’s fingers delicately, brushed through her hair, occasionally lingering to twirl or caress any one spot. “I think we need to tell Harriet,” Mac said, her eyes closed enjoying Harm’s ministrations. “I was thinking the same thing.” Harm was taking in the peaceful look on her face. “Learning to navigate this new relationship is challenging enough without stumbling across Harriet’s matchmaking efforts at every turn.” Mac had opened her eyes to see Harm’s reaction to what she’d just said. “You’re right. Even though the set up with the easy chair at her house was silly, our assignment at Pendleton would have been much easier if we could have retreated to our own rooms,” Harm added. “Although, I will admit, if I didn’t think it was possible to want you anymore than I already did, I know it now.” Harm’s stomach lurched when he realized what he’d just let slip. “We won’t tell her how nicely tonight has turned out either.” Mac could sense Harm’s discomfort at what he’d just admitted, so she chose to ignore the confession, even though she felt the same way. Relieved he hadn’t upset her with his dumb comment, he leaned over and kissed the tip of her nose. “No we won’t tell her, and you’re right. We can’t take any more chances of Harriet interfering and putting us in a precarious position.” Harm returned to caressing her hair. “Then after we tell the Admiral on Monday, we tell Harriet?” Mac confirmed. “You know,” A mischievous twinkle appeared in Harm’s eye. “It would probably serve Harriet right if we did a little ‘acting’ of our own.” “What have you got in mind?” This could be interesting, Mac thought. “Let me give it some thought.” Harm’s mind wandered off thinking of satisfactory ways to gracefully exact their revenge on Dolly Levi, AKA Harriet Sims. Content to lay together talking and making plans for how to deal with Harriet, neither one noticed the late hour. “Do you think they really fumigated your apartment?” “I honestly don’t know. It sounds legit, but I wouldn’t put anything past Harriet after Pendleton,” Mac chuckled. “Would you like to stay here?” Harm asked timidly. Mac hesitated staring into his eyes. Boy would she like, but she really shouldn’t rush this. ‘Rush! Gees MacKenzie this has been going on for 8 years. Yeah, but on a different level, sex can screw up any good relationship. Once you’ve crossed that line, there’s no going back.’ Harm noticed the fight within her. He hadn’t meant to make it so difficult. “I’ll sleep on the sofa,” He added, hoping to make her choice easier. “That wouldn’t be fair to you, I should probably go home,” Mac said reluctantly. Harm really wanted to her to stay, even if it was on the other side of the apartment, but he knew she was probably right. Getting back into a normal routine was most likely the best thing for them to do. “Okay, I’ll follow you home. This way if the fumigation was real, you can come back with me.” “Harm, if the apartment is unbearable, I can drive myself back.” Despite the intimacy of the situation, Mac was slipping into marine mode. “I know you could, but I’d feel better knowing you got home okay.” Harm smiled moving the hand that had been gently caressing her arm, up to cup her face. “Humor me, please?” Harm resisted the urge to lean over and kiss her. He knew, if she really wanted to go home, kissing her now would only make letting her go all the harder for him. Together, the two rose from the comfort of the sofa and headed off to Mac’s apartment. Mac’s apartment Georgetown “I knew it was part of the setup,” Mac huffed, stepping into her apartment. “Maybe we need to cast a wider net?” Harm suggested. “You mean trap all the spiders in their own web?” “Exactly.” Harm flashed an impish grin. Harm’s apartment Next day 1300 Harm was standing at the kitchen sink when Mattie came bouncing in the front door. “I didn’t expect you home so soon. Did Mrs. Benson drop you off?” Harm asked, wiping the counter. “Yeah, she had a few errands to run so this was a good time. Are you just going to be hanging out?” Mattie sat down on a barstool across from Harm. “No, I was going to leave you a note. Sturgis and I are going to go play some ball and maybe get a drink later.” Harm was purposely not looking at Mattie. “What about Mac?” She had thought for sure that she’d find Mac here after last night. “I’m sure she has plans. I’m not her keeper.” Harm was careful to only answer the truth. “She’s not spending the afternoon with you?” Mattie sounded panicked. “I’m playing basketball with Sturgis today. Do you want to watch a movie or something after I get home?” He and Mac had already decided they would stay home Saturday and Sunday night to throw Mattie and Jen off the scent and hopefully give them something to think about. “What about Mac?” It wasn’t supposed to work this way, Mattie thought. “You said that already. If you want to invite her over to watch a chick flick with you and Jen I could find something else to do.” Maybe he was laying it on a little thick, but they weren’t exactly subtle either. “No, we can hang out here, that’ll be fine.” Something wasn’t right, she needed to talk to Harriet. Harm neglected to tell Mattie the other part of his plans for Saturday afternoon with Sturgis. Harm and Sturgis played a little basketball while Mac and Varese invaded the local mall. Afterwards they met up for an early dinner. Benzinger’s Restaurant Late Saturday afternoon “Well, I have to admit, I can’t believe how long it’s taken the two of you to come to your senses,” Sturgis commented shaking his head. “I thought for sure after our little conversation a few years ago it would only be a short matter of time until Shaquil over here recognized how you felt.” Sturgis was looking at Mac but pointed to Harm before wrapping his arm around the new love of his life. “Hey, it’s not my fault I’m a better ball player than you,” Harm announced proudly. “No, it’s your fault you cheat,” Sturgis teased his old friend. “Okay, boys, we get the point,” Varese interrupted, laughing at the men’s antics. “I know, you can dress them up, but you can’t take them anywhere.” Mac joined in the laughter. “Sturgis, we need a little favor. Since you’re so good at keeping secrets, until further notice, please don’t mention to anyone that we were here together with you and Varese.” Mac requested waving her hand between Harm and herself. Sturgis rolled his eyes. “Not again.” “No, this will probably only be a day or two,” Harm shrugged. “Okay, a day or two,” He agreed, placing his hand on Varese’s. “You’re just lucky I’m a sucker for a good love story.” Next day Sunday Harm had told Mattie he was going to go run a few errands. That was the truth, he just neglected to mention it would be with Mac. It had been hard for them to separate on Saturday night after dinner. They’d gotten really used to being together day and night in California. Being able to finally show their feelings without reservation had opened a floodgate of tenderness that in only two weeks had become as basic to their lives as breathing and eating. Mattie had been patiently waiting in her apartment for any signs of Harm’s return. She had hoped desperately that Harm would come home with Mac. When she heard the rumble of the elevator, she quickly threw on her sandals and ran out the door to meet him. “Hey, where you going?” Harm asked, surprised to see Mattie standing in the hall. “I was just coming over to see what you were up to when I heard the elevator.” It was basically the truth, she thought. “Good, help me with this. I’ve got a couple more bags in the car.” He handed Mattie a bag of groceries and shifted his dry cleaning to the other hand making it easier to unlock his front door. He had run every possible errand imaginable in order to spend as much time as he could with Mac. They’d even gone so far as to wash his car just to kill a little more time. “You were gone a long time, did you get to see Mac?” Mattie asked nonchalantly. “It was such a nice day I decided to stop and wash the car.” It was a good thing his back was turned to Mattie so she couldn't see the grin he was unsuccessfully hiding. “I’m gonna watch a ball game on TV, got any other plans?” Harm asked “No, thanks. I’ve got a history paper I’ve got to finish up.” Mattie helped Harm with the rest of the groceries and went back to her apartment. “Are you sure?” Jen asked. “I’m positive. They haven’t seen each other all weekend,” Mattie insisted. “Did he say if they had a fight?” Jen persisted, her brow wrinkled with concern. “I don’t know. I didn’t think to ask. What could they fight about? The setting was perfect, soft lights, romantic music, no place to go. What more could they want?” Mattie asked waving her arms as she paced the floor. “Calm down, maybe they just had a lot to do today,” Jen offered shrugging her shoulders. “I don’t think washing your car because it turned out to be a nice day ranks higher than hanging out with a looker like Colonel Mackenzie,” Mattie huffed, rolling her eyes. “I have to admit, if I had my choice of hanging out with a hunk like the Commander or doing just about anything else short of winning the lottery, the Commander would win.” Pausing to contemplate if there was really such a thing as a sexy and smart enlisted man, or if maybe she was going to need to become an officer, she noticed Mattie reaching for the phone. “What are you going to do?” “I’m calling Harriet.” BACK NEXT HOME