What_Now3


	Chapters 1-7 Chapters 8-14 Chapters 15-21 Chapter 22-28 Chapter 29-35 Chapter 36-40 Title: What Now Chapter 15 Harm’s apartment 2210 Mac walked over and plopped on the couch as Harm closed the door behind Sturgis and Varese. “That went better than I thought it would,” Harm commented, walking over to sit by Mac. “Why, what did you expect?” Mac wrinkled one eyebrow. “I guess more of an inquisition. I thought people would wonder why two people who had never dated were getting married. Not what took me so long to ask.” Harm let his hand rest on Mac’s lap. Twisting herself, Mac put her legs over Harm’s lap and laid back against the arm of the sofa. “Hey, you must be exhausted.” Harm began gently rubbing his hand along Mac’s calves. “No more than you,” she smiled. “Yeah, well, I didn’t have surgery last week.” “It’s no big deal Harm, I’m fine now,” she said sternly. “Still, tomorrow is your first day back to work and you should be resting.” “Yes, mom,” Mac teased, stifling a yawn. “That feels nice,” she smiled wearily, letting her eyes fall shut. Harm watched her lying there peacefully, gently caressing her legs. She had to be the most beautiful woman he’d ever met. A vision of Mac surrounded by bubbles in a bathtub in Paraguay settled in his thoughts. Even asleep, she was beautiful. Wondering if he should let her sleep here, wake her up and take her home, or just move her into his bed, Harm ran all the pros and cons quickly through his mind. She was still a little sore from surgery, though she wouldn’t admit it to him, so a night on his sofa probably wasn’t the best idea. He didn’t want her driving home alone if she was this tired, and if he took her, she wouldn’t have a car to get to work in the morning. Since he knew she kept a sea bag in her car with an extra uniform, Harm decided she should just sleep in his room. Slipping out from under her, Harm went over to his room and turned down the covers to the bed. Returning to Mac on the sofa, he took off her shoes, then bent over and carefully eased his arms under her, scooping her up against him. Winding her arms around him, “Where we going?” Mac asked groggily. “To bed,” he whispered, hoping she’d fall right back to sleep. “That’s nice,” she purred, snuggling into his shoulder. Harm took a deep breath. His body was starting to react to her soft low voice. If she could have this affect on him when she was half asleep and not trying, what would it be like when she was awake and …oh, not a good place to go. He sighed again, gently laying her down and tucking her in. Kicking off his socks and shoes, Harm decided to only strip out of his shirt. Still wearing his jeans, he crawled into bed next to Sarah, praying he wasn’t plagued by dreams tonight. Harm’s apartment 0530 Slowly the hint of morning light was forcing Sarah MacKenzie out of her sleep induced haze. Her body clock was still not working precisely but she was pretty sure it was somewhere around five o’clock in the morning. Shifting a little, her arm reached out to the nightstand in search of the thermometer. Groping blindly with her eyes closed, she bumped against something and heard it crash to the floor. Opening one eye, she realized immediately, this wasn’t her room. Rubbing the sleep out of his own eyes. “Whaaaawassssssthyyoook?” Both eyes open wide. Mac turned around, fully awake and aware of whose bed she was in. “What!” “I asked,” Harm squinted his eyes a few times trying to get them to stay open. “What was that and are you okay?” His eyes finally open and cooperating, Harm rolled over by Mac to see the clock on her side of the bed. “Morning, I guess ‘that’ was my clock. What time is it?” Harm asked rolling back to his side of the bed and propping himself up against the wall “Around 0530,” Mac replied coldly. “What happened?” Harm asked. “I was reaching for my thermometer and ran a collision course with your clock before I realized I wasn’t home,” Mac explained casually. “Sorry. Want me to get you a thermometer?” Harm asked, still groggy. “Yes, please.” Mac hadn’t made up her mind yet if she was annoyed or not that Harm hadn’t woken her to go home. It only took Harm a minute to get back to Mac with a thermometer. “Here you go.” Yawning loudly, he handed it to her. “You slept in your jeans?” Mac scrunched one entire side of her face. Looking down at his pants, Harm blushed slightly. “Uh, yeah.” “Why?” Her features had smoothed out, but her eyebrows were both furrowed in confusion. “I uh, well, I…didn’t want you to wake up and get the wrong idea. I mean, I know you know me better than that and all, but still, it just seemed right.” Harm shrugged, giving her a trace of his flyboy smile. Okay, now she was sure she wasn’t annoyed. Holding back a laugh, Mac unceremoniously stuck the thermometer in her mouth. Staring at her for a few minutes, Harm finally decided there wasn’t much to be gained other than make her uncomfortable. “I’ll go start the coffee.” Mac waited patiently, 98.6. She shook the thermometer out and laid it on the night table. Getting out of bed without any remnants of discomfort from surgery, Mac joined Harm in the kitchen. “It’s still pretty early, shall I make us some eggs too?” Harm asked, curious about her temperature. “That would be really nice.” Mac smiled, taking a seat on the nearest stool. “So, what’s the verdict?” Harm smiled a little more confidently than he felt. “Normal.” She nodded, waiting for the coffee to finish brewing. “Why don’t you go ahead and get out the cups while I start the eggs,” Harm suggested as he cracked two eggs into a bowl. “Sure.” “Mac?” “Hmn?” “What if your temperature had been higher?” Harm tried to sound casual. “Then we’d have to…” Freezing a minute, coffee cups still in mid air, Mac turned quickly towards Harm. “To start trying.” She stood there, holding the cups, her mouth hanging open in surprise. She’d known that’s WHAT came next, but she honestly hadn’t really thought about what they’d have to DO next. “I thought so.” A low sizzle could be heard as Harm poured the eggs into the heated pan. “We’re supposed to make every effort to increase the odds of success as soon as your temperature changes, right?” “Uh huh.” Mac filled the two cups with coffee. “What if you were home, I was here, and we don’t see each other for another 10 hours after work?” “We’d lose the most optimum hours." Mac finished fixing the coffee and set Harm’s cup next to him. "I see what you mean?” Harm scooped the eggs onto her plate and walked over to the table waiting for Mac to say something. Sitting down, Mac picked up her fork. “I suppose, we should probably be together the mornings when I’m close to ovulating.” She wondered if she could possibly sound any less sure. “I mean, we really should be together as much as possible.” Why did she feel so tawdry pointing that out? “Makes sense. Would it be a problem for you to stay here? I mean with Mattie and all, I hate to ask Jen to take on more responsibility.” Harm knew he could easily come home, feed Mattie, help with any homework problems and then go over to Mac’s, but somehow that seemed so- cold. He didn’t want this to turn into a mechanical exercise in conception. “That will work. I’ll stop at my place tonight and pack a bag for a few days.” Harm couldn’t stop the small smile that escaped. It was infectious, the corners of Mac’s mouth twitched up as well. “Why are you smiling?” Shrugging one shoulder, “I was just thinking it’ll be really nice having you here.” He couldn’t help it, there was no way he could stop smiling. Mac was moving in, even if it was for only a few days. Chapter 16 Harm’s apartment Later that morning Mac and Harm had been so preoccupied with what was going to happen next that they completely forgot about Mattie. Harm knew he wanted to be home for her as he normally was, but he hadn’t given a second thought to explaining why Mac was there at 0715. “Morning Harm.” Mattie breezed into the apartment heading straight for the fridge. Mac was just finishing up in the bathroom. Harm was standing by his bed. Their eyes met instantly in horror. Mac walked into the bedroom like a zombie, all color gone from her face as she mouthed, ‘Mattie.’ Putting on his jetjock calm the way you would slip on a comfortable pair of shoes, Harm walked out of the bedroom. “Hey, kiddo. You’re running late this morning.” He walked up to her and gave her a quick hug good morning. “Yeah, didn’t want to get out of bed.” She opened the drawer in search of a spoon for her yogurt. “Are you almost ready?” she asked, just as Mac emerged from the bedroom. “Hey, Mac.” Mattie smiled brightly, sitting down to eat her yogurt as if it was an every day occurrence for Mac to come out of Harm’s bedroom. Harm and Mac turned their heads to look at each other, looked back at Mattie happily engrossed in her version of breakfast, then looked back to each other. Before either could decide what to say next, Mattie spoke up. “You two better get a move on it or I’m going to be late. Do you have your car or is he driving all of us?” She looked straight at Mac, swallowing another spoonful of yogurt. “I’ve got my own car,” Mac answered slowly. “Great, than you can take your time.” Turning towards Harm, “YOU on the other hand, Mr. Soon-to-be-married, pick up the pace.” Tossing the empty container in the trash, Mattie threw her backpack on her shoulder and headed for the door. “Will I see you tonight?” she asked Mac quickly. “Probably,” Mac responded. “Cool! See you then.” And she was out the door. Harm looked at Mac with a ‘what just happened?’ expression. Mac on the other hand, laughed quietly, throwing her arms up in the air with a shrug. JAG Headquarters 0800 Mac had arrived in the office a few minutes ahead of Harm. She wasn’t completely out the elevator door when people began congratulating her. Bless Harriet, she was the personification of the old cliché - ‘telegraph, telephone, and tell a woman.’ At exactly 0815 Mac and Harm were standing at attention in front of the Admiral’s desk. “Take a seat,” she ordered. “I’ve taken the liberty of informing my predecessor of your newest situation.” Harm and Mac looked at each other out of the corner of their eyes. “Once he stopped laughing, he was quite helpful.” She pushed her chair slightly away from the desk. “He sends his congratulations,” she offered, looking at Mac. Turning to Harm, “And you, he said for a smart boy, it took you long enough to figure out how to keep her.” “Yes, ma’am,” he smiled. “Now, if I understand correctly, the only reason either of you are seeking alternate positions is because of your impending nuptials?” “Yes, ma’am,” they chorused. “Very well. It has been brought to my attention that Captain Sebring’s wife is very ill. Apparently she isn’t expected to be with us much longer. Because of the Captain’s often unexpected need to be away from the office, the judiciary frequently needs some assistance.” Looking straight at Mac. “As of 0800 tomorrow morning, Colonel, you are TAD to the judiciary. Since you will only be needed when Captain Sebring is unavailable, you will spend the rest of your time here with us. Is that acceptable?” “Yes, ma’am,” Mac nodded. “Commander, since I can not count on Colonel MacKenzie being fully available the next few months, beginning immediately, you are my new chief of staff.” “Yes, ma’am. Thank you.” “Colonel, you do understand this is only a temporary fix depending on Mrs. Sebring’s health?” “Yes, ma’am. Understood.” This was too easy. Things weren’t supposed to happen like this for her. She preferred litigating, but she did enjoy sitting on the bench. She couldn’t help but wonder if poor Mrs. Sebring was going to pass on, only because it would be Sarah MacKenzie’s bad luck. “Any questions?” “No ma’am,” they both replied. “Very well, dismissed.” The Admiral leaned back in her chair, first catastrophe avoided. A wave of relief rushed over her. Thank God she and AJ were on friendly terms. She would never have come up with that idea on her own and it would have been awful to lose one, if not both, of her best attorneys before she had time to even get her feet wet. Patio outside JAG 1230 “I’m so happy we get to keep both you and the Commander a while longer.” Harriet smiled gleefully. “I mean, look at me ma’am, I’ve been TAD to JAG for almost six years. Maybe Mrs. Sebring will surprise everyone and live a long life.” Harriet took a bite of her sandwich. “I don’t know about that Harriet, but it does mean we can start planning the wedding,” Mac said taking a sip of her drink. “Then I suppose I’m here in the nick of time,” Harm said, pulling out a chair next to Mac. “I wasn’t sure you’d be able to join us.” Mac looked up, obviously pleased to see him. “I didn’t think Sturgis was ever going to finish his cross on that last witness.” Harm took the lid off his salad. “As much as I would like to stay and hangout with you two lovebirds, I’ve got work to do.” Gathering up her things, Harriet smiled sweetly. “Where do you think you’re going? I need the voice of experience, Harriet. Surely, the Admiral won’t notice if you take a few more minutes to finish your lunch. Please?” Mac puckered her lower lip. “Well, if you insist.” Harriet eagerly sat back down. “So my opinions don’t count?” Harm put his hand on his chest feigning a pained expression. “I thought you didn’t care?” Mac laughed. “I only care about how long it’s going to take.” His expression suddenly serious. “We could get a license tomorrow and be married by the weekend.” “And your mother would shoot you before we could give her grand children.” Mac shook her head, smiling. “When did my mother get involved in this?” “The day you were born,” Mac deadpanned, still shaking her head. “Commander, you may not care much now, but as the years go by, it’s nice to have the photos and memories to look back on. Besides, it makes it easier answering all of your kids questions, and believe me they come up with a lot of them about what it was like when you and daddy, or mommy got married. I mean after all, you wouldn’t want them to think it was a shot gun wedding,” Harriet chuckled loudly. Taking another sip of her drink, Harriet’s eyes flew open wide as she took in a large gasp before spitting and coughing. Harm was out of his seat and at Harriet’s side in a flash. “Are you okay, can you breathe?” Harriet’s eyes looked panicked, bugging out of her head as they were, Harm was preparing to do the Heimlich maneuver on her when she waved her hand at him. “I’m okay, sir,” Harriet managed to whisper. “You sure?” He asked before leaving her side to take his seat. “I’m sorry, I just had a….startling thought and was concerned I might have said something…inappropriate.” Harriet took a deep breath, before nibbling slowly on her lower lip. “Inappropriate? Harriet if we didn’t want your advice, we wouldn’t have asked you to join us,” Harm answered, a little confused at her comment. Mac’s expression had changed from horror, to utter bewilderment, to absolute hilarity in only seconds before laughing out loud. Harm turned his head to see if his Marine had maybe lost her mind. He found nothing about Harriet almost choking amusing. “No, Harriet,” Mac smiled, trying to control her laughter. “I’m NOT pregnant.” ‘Yet’ she thought. “I’m sorry ma’am,” Harriet blushed. “I didn’t mean to imply anything. It’s just that this is a little unexpected and when it dawned on me you had said something about, before giving Mrs. Burnett grandchildren. Well, I was a little concerned I might have, well, you know. I’m really sorry.” Harriet smiled again, her normal color returning slowly. Still snickering a little, Mac patted Harriet’s arm reassuringly. “Really, Harriet. It’s okay. Forget it.” Chapter 17 The three friends managed to work out a few basics to start with. Both the bride and groom definitely wanted a church wedding. Mac’s first marriage had been before a justice of the peace and she wasn’t interested in reliving that experience. She also didn’t want the big circus event that she and Mic had planned. She wanted her wedding to Harm to be unique in itself with nothing to remind her of past mistakes. There was also no debating they wanted Chaplain Turner to officiate. Besides Harm’s having known Chaplain Turner since his days at Annapolis, the man had a sage, peaceful influence on people, and had developed a special place in both his and Mac’s hearts. Since neither Harm nor Mac attended church regularly, where to have the wedding was more of a challenge. Annapolis was suggested, but it was doubtful it would be available on such short notice. The church where everyone attended Christmas services was also suggested, but Harriet had a gleam in her eye and told Mac and Harm she’d find a church. Harriet was delighted when Mac asked her to be the Matron of Honor. Since she was already in charge of finding a church, Harriet said she would coordinate finding a date when Chaplain Turner and a church would both be available for a wedding. Harm and Mac both wanting the wedding sooner than later, Harriet would try for the first available weekend in July. Before they’d gotten much further, Mac pointed out they’d all well over extended their lunch hours and Harm moved to reconvene at a later time. Harriet had walked away from the conversation rolling her eyes, ‘you could take the lawyers out of the courtroom but you just couldn’t take the courtroom out of the lawyers, reconvene.’ Harm’s apartment Later that evening “You sure you don’t need any help with your homework tonight?” Harm asked for the tenth time since they’d sat down for dinner. “Harm, the year is almost over. What little work we get is a breeze. I just have to study for finals,” Mattie said helping clear the table. “Besides, you two have a wedding to finish planning,” she grinned broadly. “Alright, you did the cooking, so we ladies will do the dishes.” Mac kissed Harm on the cheek and then gave him a hard shove out of the kitchen. “I’ll start loading the dishwasher,” Mattie announced, delighted Mac didn’t give her an argument over who was scrubbing the pots. “I still can’t get over Harm finally told you he loves you,” Mattie blurted out, filing dishes into the machine. “I mean, whenever I would ask him about you all I ever got was, ‘it’s complicated.’ He nearly floored me when I asked him if he loved you and he actually answered.” Mattie rolled in the bottom tier and pulled out the upper level. “What did he say?” Mac asked quietly, not looking at her. Stopping to look over at Mac with incredulity, “What do you mean what did he say- he said yes.” She went back to loading the glasses. “After all, you don’t ask someone to marry you if you’re answer was no.” She was really starting to think maybe it was a miracle these two finally got together at all. “You came out and asked, ‘do you love her?’, and he just answered, ‘yes.’ Mac had stopped scrubbing the pot and was staring straight ahead. “Yeah, that about covers it,” Mattie answered, a little exasperated. Closing the door to the dishwasher, she moved to the other side of Mac and grabbed a dry dishtowel. “You’d better quit daydreaming and get back to washing,” Mattie teased. “Sorry, I was just wondering how long he’s felt this way and hadn’t told me.” Mac let the sides of her mouth curl up in a small smile hiding the surge of excitement she felt at the possibility Harm had really loved her all along, despite the nagging doubt that Mattie’s conversation was just one major misunderstanding. “Ask him.” “Maybe,” Mac smiled. “You’re really happy for him aren’t you?” “Yeah, you’re good for him. He needs someone besides me.” Mattie turned to put one of the pots away. “You don’t mind my being here?” Mac asked softly. “You mean over night, like yesterday?” Mac nodded. “I’m not a little kid, Mac. I mean, you guys are like totally in love. Not to mention you’re getting married in what - a month?” Mac nodded again. “That’s what we hope.” “Then why the heck would I care where you sleep?” Mattie put the rag down and leaned against the counter. “It’s not like I’m going to run off and start sleeping around anymore than I would if you were already married.” Mac raised one eyebrow at the last half of the statement. “I hope that didn’t mean this is something you’ve had reason to…consider?” “You and Harm sleeping together?” Mattie’s brow was completely twisted. “No,” Mac smiled, “you.” “Don’t be silly. Not all sixteen year olds think it’s cool to be having sex.” Mattie picked up the rag and went back to drying the pots. “Besides, sixteen is no where near old enough to be thinking about marriage. If I’m going to be a fighter pilot, I’ve got other things more important to deal with.” “You know, if for any reason you need someone to talk to, I’d be glad to listen.” Mac turned off the water and took an extra rag to dry her hands. “Thanks, but everything’s copasetic.” Detecting a twinge of doubt in Mac’s eyes, “honestly.” Mattie raised her right hand, the rag hanging like a flag. The two women looked at the dishrag and couldn’t help laughing. Mac pulled it out of Mattie’s hand and tossed it on the counter by the one she’d just used to dry her hands. Stepping closer, she pulled Mattie into a tight hug. “I wish I had a head on my shoulders like you when I was your age,” Mac sighed. “Am I missing out on something here? What are you two talking about?” Harm walked into the kitchen, smiling at the two women he loved. “Sex,” Mattie chirped mischievously. Harm’s eyes practically fell out of his head almost as quickly as his jaw dropped to the floor. Her shoulders shaking from withheld laughter Mattie didn’t have the heart to let him suffer too long. “Cool your jets, Dad, I was only kidding,” Mattie grinned. “We were just agreeing what a good head she has on her shoulders.” Smiling, Mac winked at Mattie. “I think I forgot something in my room,” he mumbled. Whatever made him think he was prepared for teenagers. Whatever they were really talking about, he decided he was better off not knowing. This was definitely one of those times to live by the credo ignorance is bliss. Harm turned towards his room when Mattie interrupted. “Nah, don’t bother, I’ve got studying to do. Night.” Mattie leaned over and kissed Mac on the cheek, then stepped forward and kissed a still stunned Harmon Rabb good night. Before Harm could react, Mattie was out the door and Mac was by his side rubbing her hand along his shoulder. “Don’t worry, maybe we’ll have a boy.” Mac kissed him on the cheek and walked into the living room. Finally finding his voice and rational thought. “You weren’t really talking about sex were you?” He still wasn’t sure if he really wanted to know the answer. “Not really. I asked if she minded my being here.” “Does she?” Harm’s tone had softened as he sat down next to Mac. “No, that’s when the subject of sex and sixteen year olds came up. She seems to have a pretty good head on her shoulders. She might have been snowing me, but I don’t think so,” Mac smiled. “That’s a relief. I’m sorry if you were uncomfortable this morning.” Harm took hold of Mac’s hand. “No big deal. I just wasn’t sure how you wanted to handle it.” Mac smiled, rubbing her thumb along the strong hand holding hers. “Neither was I, but I guess that’s taken care of now. So, what else needs to be decided for the wedding?” Harm really wished they could skip all the hoopla and just get married, but Harriet was right. If you’re only going to do this once, you might as well get your money’s worth. A couple of hours later they’d worked out more of the basics. “Okay, church, guests, honor guard, reception, we can invite the entire navy and Marine corps, and of course, my mother.” That flyboy smile was in full force tonight. “Could we maybe fall somewhere in between. The entire navy and Marine corps is probably more than even Harriet could organize.” Mac rolled her eyes, forcing aside any fears she might be having. “I think we’ve covered just about as much as I care to in one night,” Mac yawned. “I’m heading to bed. Night, flyboy.” Mac leaned over for a little kiss and froze at the look in Harm’s eyes. She didn’t understand how they went from charming to charcoal so quickly, but the intensity of his glare was enough to turn her to rubber. Realizing she must have sensed something, Harm blinked his eyes a moment and swallowed hard hoping to subdue all the raging desire that had surfaced at the uttering of four little words. “Night, Mac.” Harm leaned up and kissed her on her forehead. “I’ll be in soon, sweet dreams.” Chapter 18 Harm’s apartment Near Union Station 0520 Mac rolled over for the umpteenth time in the last hour. She was trying to go back to sleep but it was no use. Her mind wouldn’t let go of what could happen this morning, and now it was almost time. Banging the pillow with greater force than would ever be necessary, Mac blew out an exasperated breath and tried once again to rest. Closing her eyes her mind wandered back to last night. When she turned towards the bedroom after saying good night, Harm had immediately jumped off the sofa. “I forgot to show you something.” He waved for her to follow him as he made his way up the steps. “I cleared out some space for you. I hope you don’t mind. I thought you might be more comfortable.” Harm opened the drawers on the right side of his dresser before turning and opening one side of an empty closet. “Wow, how much stuff did you think I’d bring?” Mac asked, her eyebrows high in surprise. “Well, the doctor did say it might take a few tries.” Harm hoped he wasn’t blushing. “Yeah, she did,” Mac acknowledged staring into the empty drawers. She still had to determine the pattern for her likely time of ovulation so they could start trying a few days before her egg was released, once her temperature rose that would indicate the near end of her fertility window. He was right, she could easily be here several days every month. “This was really thoughtful of you, thanks.” A nervous smile twitched. “Also,” Harm turned into the bathroom, “I know you prefer baths, but I thought this might make it a little more pleasant.” Reaching around the glass wall, Harm pulled out a basket of scented body gels and lotions with assorted sizes of loofa sponges. Mac scanned the basket he was holding, noticing some of her favorite fragrances were included. He must have recognized the question in her eyes. “I remembered seeing some of these scents in your bathroom. I hope they’re right.” His eyes locked on hers again. His grip tightening unnoticeably on the basket. “I’ve put out fresh towels for you, over there.” Raising one arm he pointed to his left. Mac walked over to the towels and touched them with a gentle awe as though they’d been spun of gold. Turning to her right, she reached for the medicine cabinet and swung the door open. “You cleared space for me here too.” The words almost choked over the knot in her throat. “I also raised the thermostat a little. but if it’s not warm enough, there’s an extra blanket at the foot of the bed.” Harm was still holding the basket, his heart melting at the soft doe-like glimmer in her eyes. She seemed really pleased. He’d hoped she would be. “When did you find time for all this?” She closed the cabinet and reached for the basket. “I secured a little early today.” He gave her a low watt smile. “If you need anything else, just let me know.” Harm slowly turned as though he might change his mind any second, then walked back into the living room. Mac had packed a comfortable cotton nightgown for her stay with Harm. Although she was tempted to pack some of her best lingerie, at the last minute she chickened out thinking it was too, too. This wasn’t a bad looking nightgown. At least it was a step up from the t-shirt and shorts she had briefly considered. She may not want to look like a vamp, but she certainly didn’t want to look like one of the boys either. Looking at herself in the mirror she wondered if she had made the right choice. It was a pale pink, floor length, sleeveless nightgown with a square neckline and a ribbon laced through the edging. Just a hint of cleavage showed, with her bust size that was unavoidable in anything short of a turtleneck. Shaking her head, she turned off the light and started for bed. When she reached the bed, she noticed for the first time a small bud vase with a single white rose on the nightstand. She was positive that hadn’t been there yesterday. She wasn’t sure how long she had been standing there smelling the rose when she heard Harm clearing his throat. “It reminded me of you,” he said softly, kicking off his shoes. “Thank you,” she answered, putting the vase back on the table. “I left the thermometer there as well.” Harm pointed before taking off his shirt. “I noticed, thanks again.” Mac’s heart was swelling at all his attentive gestures. “Well, good night.” She reached down and pulled back the covers. “Night, Mac.” He finished stripping down and climbed into bed next to her. It hadn’t taken her long to fall asleep, but by four o’clock she was tossing and turning. Her anxiousness had crept into her dreams, and that blasted internal clock was ticking like a time bomb. Shifting one more time, she squeezed her eyes and decided she was putting off the inevitable. It was now 5:35 and she might as well get it over with. Carefully reaching over, she picked the thermometer up off the table and put it in her mouth, admiring the beautiful rose while she waited to read her fate. Removing the thermometer, she stared at it blankly, 99.2. She’d hoped to have a few more days, but for what? No matter how many roses Harm bought her, this was still going to be awkward as hell. How was she supposed to tell him? ‘Wake up big boy’, or maybe she should just shout, ‘Attention!’, and hope all of him stood up. Looking at him sleeping so peacefully, Mac had to admit, he was gorgeous. All she’d ever wanted to do was get lost in his beautiful eyes, tasting and touching every sexy crevice and corner. Tilting her head slightly, staring at his invitingly luscious lips, ‘why not’ she thought. Rolling onto her hands and knees, Mac crawled closer to where Harm was sleeping. Softly, she placed a slow, barely there, kiss on his shoulder. Noticing no reaction, she moved closer and kissed his collarbone a little more boldly. Still not getting any response, Mac spread her right hand over his chest and kissed the crook of his neck. Letting out a slow moan, Harm moved one leg and lifted his chin slightly to allow her better access. Aha, progress, she thought. Glancing down for just a second, Mac could see the most important part of Harm was starting to wake up. Twirling her finger around the edge of his nipple, Mac began a trail of kisses up his neck, across his chin and settled at the corner of his mouth. Carefully, she picked up her right leg and slid it across, nudging Harm until her thigh settled between his legs. Still raised up on her knees, Mac heard a low growl just as she felt one of Harm’s hands begin to caress her left leg. Encouraged by the strength of his arousal growing against her right thigh, Mac began to lay feather light kisses on Harm’s lips, alternating between kissing and nipping his lower, than upper, than lower lip again. Unexpectedly, Harm’s arms wrapped around Mac and he spun her onto her back. His lips never leaving hers, he responded with the full force of a hungry sailor his first day in port. Feeling the blood pulsing through her veins at his sudden response, Mac’s arms pressed tightly around Harm, her hand drawing aimlessly at the nape of his neck, her other hand toying with the waistband of his boxers. Harm’s lungs stopped working when her fingers scooped past the edge of his boxers teasing the delicate skin along his lower back. This was by far the best dream Harm had ever had. Everything he’d ever dreamed of Sarah MacKenzie paled in comparison to the intoxicating touch of this encounter. More, he wanted more of this. His hands skimmed over her shoulder, tugging at the strap of her nightgown. Like a snake on its path, harm’s fingertips swirled a path to her breasts. At the first feel of the soft, supple flesh Harm was almost overcome by the shooting desire that was surging through every pore. Mac was on fire, she couldn’t get close enough. She could feel Harm pressing against her, unknowingly taunting her to the core. When his fingers took hold of her breast, a short moan escaped her lips. Something about the sound of her voice, the tone of her gasp, that caught Harm off guard. For just a second he hesitated, his hands frozen in place. Then he heard it again. “Oh, Harm.” Her voice came out weakly at the loss of his touch. This wasn’t a dream. He was making love to Sarah MacKenzie and he wasn’t asleep. For an instant panic rushed through him. Then he realized she wasn’t exactly fighting him off, when he felt her lips nipping and nibbling at the base of his jaw. “Mac,” he had to say something. His lips, unable to resist lightly kissing the soft flesh before them as he waited for her to respond. “Mmm,” she uttered in almost a moan. “I’m not dreaming, am I?” His fingers once again began drawing delicate circles on her soft skin. “Uh uh.” Her fingers had brushed around his waist and began twirling circles on his stomach. Fighting for air, recognizing he was long past the point of no return, “Is this okay?” “Ooh yeah, it’s time.” She managed to get out. Her body was starting to move of its own volition at the soaring pleasures his slow caresses were inspiring. “You’re sure?” He was trying desperately to refrain from exploring her anatomy further. Opening her eyes and turning his face to look at hers, “It’s time Harm, love me.” Chapter 19 Harm’s apartment 6:00 He’d been waiting all his life to hear this woman say those words. Somewhere in the back of his mind he was aware that this was time to be making a baby, but all he heard was time to love her. All he could think was to show her how much he loved her. The initial passion of a desperate sailor’s dream had been washed over by the agonizing desire to love her forever, to share their very souls. When Mac coiled tightly around him screaming his name, Harm emptied himself into Sarah, her name on his lips, and seared in his heart. Unable, or unwilling to move, he tightened his hold on Mac as she rested her head on the crook of his shoulder. “Are you okay?” Harm asked, truly concerned about whether or not she had held back any post surgical discomfort. “I’m more than okay,” Mac answered, a smile buried in Harm’s shoulder. Immediately, a Cheshire grin spread across Harm’s face. “Do you suppose anyone would notice if we didn’t show up for work today?” “You mean other than our clients, the judge, the Admiral, the OPs’ staff, and the rest of the building?” “Okay, smartie pants, I get the message.” Harm began soothingly moving his hands up and down Mac’s back. “Harm?” “Hmn?” “It’s 06:45, what time does Mattie usually come by?” Mac spoke into his shoulder. Her entire body felt as though it was made of rubbery lead. Suddenly, she found herself practically flung to the other side of the bed. “OH God, Mac! She’ll be here any minute if she’s running on time.” Harm practically sprinted into the bathroom. Popping his head back out of the bathroom, his voice came out a little calmer. “Maybe you’d better join me?” A flyboy grin slowly replacing his look of panic. “I mean, you don’t want her to find you in bed like that, do you?” “Oh no, it’s much better she find the two of us in the shower.” Mac nodded sarcastically, happily walking into the shower to join him. Making every effort to actually take a shower, the two officers were clean and dressed by the time Mattie came prancing through the door. Unknown to them, Harm’s walls weren’t as thick as he thought and Jen being an early riser had distracted Mattie until she thought the coast was clear. JAG Headquarters 1245 Mac’s office “Excuse me, Colonel.” Harm stood in Mac’s doorway, a bright grin on his face. “You had lunch yet?” “No, I was just about to grab a bite, Commander,” Mac replied, tapping a few last keys before moving away from her computer. Stepping into the room, Harm leaned over the desk. “Don’t suppose there’s time to go home for lunch?” His voice was low and gravelly, and Mac was tingling from head to toe at the sound of it. “Have to be in court in 42 minutes,” she shrugged. “Any chance you can secure early?” He looked down at her hand, fighting the urge to reach out and hold it. Following his eyes, Mac felt his longing to hold her hand, and maybe a little more. Looking up again, their gaze locked intently on each other. “I’ll do my best,” she whispered. Three hours later Outside the courtroom The large wooden doors flew open as though blown by gale force winds. Lt. Colonel Sarah MacKenzie stormed out rattling at Bud, her second chair. “Where the hell did he come from? I want everything you can get me on Dr. Costabile, and I want to know why I didn’t know about this evidence sooner. Damn new lawyers, always trying to show off their first case at HQ.” She was moving at such a pace she hadn’t noticed the effort it was taking for Bud to keep up with her. “Yes, ma’am. I assume you want a history of the lab as well, ma’am.” Bud was glad to have finally reached her office, though inside, he was proud of himself for keeping up. “I want to look under every rock,” she huffed, slamming her briefcase down on her desk. “I gather things didn’t go well?” Harm stood behind Bud in the doorway. “These blasted neophytes always want to make a big splash their first time up and all I wind up with is a major headache and overtime.” She was banging things on her desk so loudly that every other file caused a different head in ops to look up towards her office. It wasn’t just the extra work that had her upset, it was the extra work TODAY that had her so upset. When was life going to cut her even a small break? “I guess securing early is out of the question?” Harm tried not to sound too disappointed. Freezing in place, Mac looked up at him, her eyes filled with a sense of loss. “Don’t hold your breath.” “Ma’am, if you and the Commander have plans, I can get started on this right away and let you know if I come across anything that will make a difference.” Bud wasn’t exactly sure what was going on, but it looked important. “No, Bud, thanks. This is going to take hours. You get started and I’m heading over to see Corporal Lebeaux again. If he’s lied to us, so help me, he won’t have to worry about the brig, I’ll break his scrawny little neck myself.” Picking up her cover, she marched passed Harm and Bud without another word. “Big plans tonight, Commander?” Bud knew she was upset over more than just a surprise witness in court. “Sort of Bud, sort of.” Slapping Bud on the back, Harm turned back towards his office, a slight slump in his shoulders obvious to anyone who knew the Commander well. One hour and 34 minutes later Mac came walking up to Bud’s office. “He swears he’s told us everything. You come across anything?” she asked, her frustration clearly evident. “Maybe, there seems to be a few discrepancies with some of the dates available through public records and what we’ve been given, but I can’t quite put my finger on why it would make any difference.” Bud answered staring at his computer screen. Sitting down in the nearest chair, Mac raised her chin to peer over his desk. “Show me what you’ve got so far.” “Ma’am. I know you and the Commander had something planned for tonight. Harriet’s mom is visiting, she doesn’t need my help, and I’d just as soon have something to keep me busy. You go ahead with your plans and if I come across anything that needs your attention, I’ll call you, promise,” Bud suggested, pressing his lips together. “I can’t, Bud...” “Ma’am, I insist. I know you outrank me, but with all due respect, go.” Twitching one side of her mouth in a faint smile. “Thanks, Bud. You promise you’ll call me on my cell if you find anything we can use?” “Promise, ma’am.” “Okay, you win. I’m out of here.” With a slight spring in her step, Mac headed to her office ready to go home to Harm. Chapter 20 Harm’s apartment 1815 Not knowing how late Mac would be, Harm ordered a couple of pizzas and had gone next door to join Mattie and Jen for dinner. Well, he hadn’t actually eaten anything but he stayed to visit anyway. Mac came through the front door exhausted from the emotional afternoon, yet excited about the evening’s possibilities. No sooner had she set her things down than the beautifully set table caught her eye. Looking around the apartment she was fairly sure Harm wasn’t home. Walking into the bedroom, the first thing she saw was a fresh rose by her bedside. This one was pink. She smiled to herself at how hard Harm was trying. Placing her bag she had brought the night before on the bed, she began putting things away in the space Harm had cleared for her. With such a small bag, it hadn’t taken her much time. Grabbing a pair of slacks and comfortable shirt to change into, Mac suddenly noticed a muffled sound. Turning her head, she walked closer to the bed trying to place it. Stepping up to the bed, her eyes widened, and her mouth opened fully as her empty hand slowly made its way up to her face. Laughing, she could hear laughing. She couldn’t hear any of the conversation, the TV was barely a steady hum, but whenever one person in particular let out a piercing cackle, Mac could hear it. Quickly changing out of her uniform, Mac scurried down the stairs and out the door. Standing in front of Mattie and Jen’s door, Mac took a deep breath and knocked. “Hey, Colonel. The Commander said you would probably be home late. Want some pizza?” Jen offered. “No thanks, Jen. I think we have dinner at the apartment.” Mac looked at Harm waiting for him to confirm or deny. He nodded his head yes and smiled. “It sounds like you guys are having fun,” Mac commented, her eyes carefully scanning the wall behind her hosts. “Yeah, have a seat,” Mattie suggested. “No, thanks. I’ve got some paperwork to go over. I just wanted to let Harm know I was home.” Mac smiled sheepishly. “I’m going to head back.” Waving bye to the girls, she turned towards the door. “I’ll come with you, Mac,” Harm called out, standing up. “Are you going to need any help with homework tonight?” He asked Mattie, before catching up to Mac. “Don’t think so. Jen and I are just going to watch a movie, then probably hit the sack early.” “Then I’ll see you tomorrow?” he asked, making sure he didn’t have to worry about any interruptions. “Yeah, don’t work too hard.” Mattie tried not to grin. “Good night.” Echoed in different voices through the room as Harm and Mac closed the door behind them. “I didn’t expect you home so early.” Harm smiled broadly. “Bud insisted.” Mac smiled back. “I’ll have to remember to thank him,” Harm nodded. “I’ve been thinking. I may have to put an extra lock on this door,” Harm commented as he opened the door and let Mac walk in. “Mattie?” Mac asked, stepping in. “Yeah, she pretty much just comes and goes at will. It could get…embarrassing.” “There’s something else that could get embarrassing.” Mac walked over by the stairs. “Did you know you can hear what’s happening on the other side of that wall?” She frowned, pointing to the back bedroom wall. “No you can’t, Mac. That’s a solid brick wall.” Harm walked up next to her. “Well, you may think it’s solid. And I’ll admit, it’s mostly sound proof, but I could hear someone laughing while I was putting my things away.” Mac raised an eyebrow and placed her hands on her hips “Are you sure?” Harm moved over into the room. “No, Harm. I thought I’d make it up just for the hell of it. Of course, I’m sure. Do you think anyone heard…us?” Mac’s frown turned to one of blushing concern. “Well, even if some sound does travel. That’s the living room wall. They only hang out there after school or work,” Harm shrugged. Seeing Mac wasn’t convinced, he walked back by her side and gathered her in his arms. “Or getting ready in the morning?” She pointed out, one eyebrow straight up. Thinking about it a moment. Harm ran the memory of this morning through his mind. They were definitely vocal, more so sometimes than others, but they weren’t that loud. “Mac, I don’t think they could have heard anything. So long as neither of us lets out a blood curdling scream, I think we’ll be fine.” He smiled and tightened his hold on her. “I hope you’re right, sailor.” Mac breathed into his shoulder. Something about his embrace always made her feel so safe, able to forget whatever was worrying her. Harm leaned his head down and kissed the top of her head. “Hungry, Marine?” Taking a deep breath, boy was she hungry, but she suspected that wasn’t what he meant. Her mind and heart battled over what to say next. She was hungry all right, but for more of what they’d shared this morning. Her mind argued it was important to take frequent and full advantage of her fertility window, even Harm acknowledged it, especially since he suggested sneaking home for lunch. Still, knowing how much she just wanted him, she felt weird walking in the door and dragging him straight to the bedroom. Maybe she should have something to eat and suggest going to bed a little early. Harm could tell Mac was weighing something in her mind. She was staying too still in his arms for too long. He wasn’t sure when he began stroking the back of her head. “Mac, is something wrong?” he asked quietly, placing another kiss on the top of her head. He really wanted to do so much more, but he wasn’t going to rush her. “Is it the case?” Pulling back a bit, she looked up at Harm. The look of total concern in his eyes floored her. “I was just thinking.” “Care to share?” “I was debating whether we should have dinner or…do what I really feel like doing.” Harm just stared at Mac. His breath seized in his throat when he realized that her beautiful dark brown eyes were filled with a passionate longing that mirrored his own. Without giving her a chance to say another word, he leaned down and pressed his lips against hers, unable to contain the quiet moan that escaped at the first taste of her. To his delight, Mac responded immediately, wrapping her arms around his neck and silently urging him towards the bedroom. Guiding the woman in his arms up the stairs, Harm only paused to flip out the light, bathing them in the moonlit darkness. It only took a few minutes for the two new lovers to disrobe each other. Harm scooted back higher on the bed, pulling Mac across him and capturing her lips in his. He would never get enough of Sarah Mackenzie. Hours passed before they made their way back to the kitchen for dinner, even though dinnertime was technically long since over. Together they ate quietly, their eyes smoldering with a growing desire that demanded to be quenched yet again. Food would never be enough to satisfy their mutual hunger. Leaving the dishes on the table to be dealt with later, they once again fell into each other’s arms. Mac’s earlier uneasiness at dragging Harm straight to bed seemed to vanish. Over the next morning, evening, and night, they focused intimately on each other, forgetting everyone and everything around them, with the one exception of early the next evening when she insisted on bringing a blanket and pillow into the living room in case she was right about the thin walls. JAG Headquarters Mac’s office Two days later “Excuse me ma’am.” Harriet knocked on the front door. “Do you have a minute?” “Sure, Harriet. Let me just send this off and I’m all yours.” Mac finished typing the last bit of information and hit the send button. “Okay, Harriet. What’ve you got there?” Harriet sat down with a bundle of files in her arms. “Oh, I’m on my way to return these to Commander Turner.” Harriet waved off the files in her arms practically bouncing in her seat. “I just wanted to let you know I finally arranged for a church and date.” “Well, what is it?” Mac smiled amused. “Even though Chaplain Turner and the church were both available on July third, I made an executive decision and opted for the weekend of the tenth. I thought the fourth of July is such a high traffic holiday it made sense to avoid anything other than watching fireworks for that particular weekend.” “I’m sure that won’t be a problem, Harriet. Besides, it will give us more time to get the invitations out.” “Have you picked out what you want to send ma’am?” “Not really, I thought I’d wait until we had all the information that way I could get it all over in one visit. So, where am I getting married?” “The National Cathedral, at 1600 on July 10th.” Harriet leaned back, smiling proudly. Mac sat stunned. Her voice was completely gone. She was pretty sure all the air had leaked from her lungs because she seemed unable to take a breath. Swallowing hard, “Did you just say the National Cathedral?” “Yes, ma’am.” Harriet’s grin grew wider. “It took a few days, and I had to call in a few favors, but compared to organizing the USO, this was a breeze.” “Harriet, don’t you think there’s something in the word ‘cathedral’ that fundamentally is at odds with the word ‘simple’?” Mac seriously thought she might have a heart attack. How was she going to explain to Harm, who was practically marrying her as a last resort, that they were getting married at the National Cathedral? “Colonel, Mac. Just because you want a simple wedding doesn’t mean it can’t be beautiful or somewhere beautiful,” Harriet announced firmly. Sitting back in her chair, “I don’t know, Harriet, I think this may be a bit much.” “Trust me, ma’am. It will be wonderful.” Chapter 21 JAG Headquarters Harm’s office Same day Harm was working on his latest defense strategy when he heard his office door click shut. “Why don’t you just come on in,” he snickered. Immediately a more solemn expression came over his face at Mac’s none to friendly glare. “I’m sorry Mac, what’s wrong?” Bud had already drummed into Harm’s head the number one rule for a happy marriage, always apologize even if it’s not your fault. “We need to talk.” Mac sat down heavily in front of him. Whatever he had eaten for lunch lurched into his throat forcing him to swallow hard. Every horrible end to anything good in his life always started with, ‘we need to talk.’ Almost snapping the pencil he held in his hand, Harm took a deep breath and sat back in his chair. “Okay, what’s up?” His voice portrayed a calm he didn’t feel. “Harriet booked the National Cathedral for our wedding,” Mac answered stone-faced. Harm tried not to laugh. A wave of relief washed over him. Then it hit him exactly what she had said. “The National Cathedral?” His eyebrows raised in total surprise. “Don’t you have to be someone, or at least know someone REALLY important to get married there?” “I suppose. I think she called in some favors from the USO thing.” Mac shook her head. “That’s not the point, do you realize how big that place is? It’s a cathedral, not a church!” her voice was slowly climbing a few octaves. “I know.” Harm wasn’t sure what to say to calm her down. “It’s a very pretty cathedral, though.” “I thought we wanted simple?” she raised and dropped her arms, obviously exasperated. “We can still have a simple small ceremony in a big beautiful place.” Harm didn’t understand why she was so upset. “That’s what Harriet said.” Now, she looked almost annoyed. As if she wanted Harm upset. “Mac, as long as we get married, I honestly don’t care where it is.” Harm tried to explain without irritating her further. “I’m sorry. Maybe I shouldn’t let it bother me.” Mac felt totally overwhelmed, her gaze dropping to the floor. Harm got up and walked over to where she was sitting. Squatting down in front of her, he took hold of her hand. “Why don’t we talk about this some more when we get home?” Another sense of panic rushed through him as he realized their needed time together was up and maybe she wouldn’t want to go home with him. Technically, most authorities believed they only had 12 to 24 hours after ovulating to conceive, but they’d willingly agreed to an extra 24 hours just in case. “You are coming over after work, aren’t you?” His voice wasn’t able to mask his fear this time. “If that’s okay, yeah.” She was looking at her hand in his. “Good, then I’ll see you at home and we can work everything out. Okay?” He forced a smile. “Okay.” She stood up with him and walked to the door. “Thank you,” she whispered before turning the doorknob and leaving. Harm’s apartment Later that night Mattie and Jen had joined them for dinner. Although Harm had been serious about getting an extra lock for the door, it had proved to be a moot point since Mattie developed the habit of calling to let him know she was on her way over. Snuggled up on the sofa, listening to some music, Harm wondered how long it would be before he wouldn’t want to make love to Mac all the time. They’d pretty much spent the better part of the last couple of days in each other’s arms unless they were at work, and Lord help him, he wanted to carry her off to bed now as well. Mac had been so unsettled by the cathedral thing that she hadn’t given a second thought to how many days they’d been trying, or if the time when she was supposed to be at Harm’s was over and she should be going to her own apartment. She couldn’t stop thinking about the cathedral, and why it bothered her so. “Want to tell me why you were so riled up today?” Harm decided to tackle the easy stuff first. Hah. “I’ve been thinking about that.” She let out a short sigh, “I guess it reminded me of the grandiose wedding Mic was planning and …” She stopped, her voice catching in her throat. “Go on, and…” “And, I don’t want anything about us to remind me of then,” she said quietly. “And….” he said again. “That’s it.” “No, there’s more, and…” he coaxed. “Well.” Mac dropped her gaze a second before looking back up into his eyes. “We’re not a couple of twenty year old kids with a fairytale vision of life, marriage, and happily ever after. You said it yourself, this is a practical marriage planned by two people who have lived a very unfairytale-like life.” Those words cut through Harm’s heart as surely as if she’d stabbed him with a knife. He knew he’d presented his proposal as a logical solution to an illogical situation, but he’d hoped after almost three days of trying to conceive a child, that she would recognize it for so much more than that. “I just think we shouldn’t make so much of this. It’s not fair to you.” That snapped him out of his momentary self-imposed pity. She was worried about what he was being subjected to? Could it be she couldn’t feel his love for her in every touch, every caress. Was it possible she really thought it was just sex, lust, his want of an heir? Why did this surprise him, he’d given up everything to rescue her in Paraguay and she still didn’t get it. He’d have to say the words, tell her so there’d be no confusion, but not now, not yet. He couldn’t risk scaring her away when he was so close to having everything he’d ever really wanted in life. “Mac, we’ve both agreed, we’re in this for the long haul. Hopefully we’ll have a family to raise. We’re only going to do this once. Don’t let what you think is too much for me, stop you from having the fairytale wedding every young girl dreams of.” “I never believed in fairytales,” Mac mumbled, sadness creeping into her gaze. “Then let Harriet make one for you. If you don’t want to be reminded of what Mic had planned, we’ll stick with the original plan of simple, but don’t let a few extras scare you. Even with a small crowd, the cathedral will be beautiful. Besides, my mother will love it,” he chuckled, hoping to lighten things up a bit. “Harm, we haven’t told your mother!” “Actually, yeah, I have. I’m sorry. She called the other day while you were in the shower. I was a little distracted when you finally came out and forgot all about the call. Forgive me?” He hoped he hadn’t done something really stupid but who can remember their mother when a gorgeous 5’9 brunette comes walking towards you wrapped in only the towel of many fantasies. “It’s okay. I understand,” Mac smiled, she really wasn’t upset, she was just glad Harm felt good enough about them to tell his mom at all. “Then we’re getting married at the cathedral?” Harm asked “Looks like it.” Mac tried to smile. “We don’t have to, if you really don’t want to,” Harm pressed. Whatever else, he wanted this day to be special for Mac, even if meant getting married in a field of goats. “No, you and Harriet are right, where isn’t really that important. What matters is that we do it right.” Her first real smile of the day made its appearance. “I just need to know one little trivial detail.” Harm grinned knowingly. “What?” she inquired. “When?” he asked. “When?” Mac frowned in confusion. “Yes, Mac. When is the wedding? What date?” he chuckled, feeling like he was in a bad Abbot and Costello routine. “July 10th at 1600,” Mac giggled. That was sort of a crucial piece of information. “I’ll be there,” he smiled. Mac smacked him across the chest. “You’d better! National Cathedral.” She was actually starting to like the idea, Sarah MacKenzie having a fairytale wedding. Who’d of thunk. Harm couldn’t resist any longer. Pushing her back against the sofa, he captured her mouth in what would inevitably be another searing kiss. Kissing Sarah was like striking a match, it would always start a fire. BACK NEXT HOME