The song ‘Love Is A Gift’ is performed by Olivia Newton-John, no
infringement intended. A section of the wedding ceremony was taken
from ‘Wedding Vows Online’ and used without permission.
DEDICATION: To those who have been a constant support of this series; Jo. R, Madi, Sue, Unicorn, Sally, Lynn, Jen (uk), my two wonderful beta’s, Kes and Jenn, and everyone else who has sent me feedback over the last thirteen parts. This one’s for you guys!
~~o0o~~
Jack turned to watch Sam walk up the aisle on her father’s arm. He could see Jacob was saying something to her, and the twitch of Sam’s lips suggested that she was trying gallantly not to smile. Jacob said something else and Sam lost her resolve, laughing. She stopped, turning to smack his arm. “Dad! This is supposed to be serious! I swear if you do this tomorrow, I’m going to disown you!”
“I’m sorry, Sammy. I just couldn’t resist,” he replied. He took her hand and placed it back on his arm, before continuing on up the aisle.
They reached Jack and started rehearsing their lines. Between Jack and Jacob, the rehearsal was very light hearted. Sam tried to act cross, but really she was glad it wasn’t serious. She was nervous enough as it was.
Jack insisted that they practice the ‘you may kiss the bride’ part of the ceremony, grabbing Sam and dipping her as he thoroughly kissed her. Sam’s arm came up and around his shoulders as she got into the kiss. The priest cleared his throat, but in the end Jacob was the one to make them stop. “Remove your lips from my daughter, Colonel,” he ordered, in his best general’s voice.
“Yes, sir,” Jack replied with a cheeky grin, setting her back on her feet.
Once the rehearsal was over, they all went out for an early dinner to the restaurant that Jack had taken Sam on the night he proposed.
“Wow, nice place, Jack,” Janet said, as they were led to their table.
“Yeah,” Daniel agreed, holding Janet’s chair out for her. “How did you find this place?”
“I recommended it to him,” General Hammond told them as he held Cassie’s chair out for her, making the teenager giggle.
They all stared at the General, except Jack who laughed at everyone else’s reaction. “What, guys? Didn’t you know our General was a closet romantic?”
Everybody decided to leave that comment alone, instead looking at the menu. “Well, what do you recommend?” Daniel asked.
“The oysters were nice,” Jack replied, winking at Daniel.
“Yes, well...” the red faced archaeologist mumbled.
“I don’t think there’s a bad meal on the menu, son,” Hammond told him with a chuckle.
They had a lovely meal, just as the General promised, and by nine o’clock they were making their way out of the restaurant. Jack and Sam had decided to go out by themselves for a while, much to Janet’s displeasure. “Now, I want her back by eleven. We have a big day tomorrow and the last thing we need, is the bride to be sleep deprived.”
Jack groaned. “Yes, ma’am.”
Sam grinned as she got into her Mustang. “See ya later, Mom!”
They drove to a small bar on the other side of town. Jack led her into the bar and bought them both a drink as Sam found them a cozy little booth in the back of the room. “Here you go,” he said, placing her drink in front of her and sliding into the booth beside her.
“Thanks,” she replied, picking up the glass. “Here’s to a smooth day tomorrow,” she toasted.
“Oh yeah,” Jack replied, touching his glass to hers.
They stayed for a few drinks and a couple of dances, just enjoying the quiet time together after the chaos of the previous few weeks. Jack made sure they left early enough to be back at Janet’s before her curfew.
He pulled up out the front of Janet’s house, switching the engine off and turning to look at the woman beside him. “Sam, there’s something I wanted to give you.” He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a red velvet bag. “It’s something for you to wear tomorrow... if you don’t already have something else you wanted to wear, that is.”
Sam opened the bag and pulled out a gold armband. It was a Celtic design, with a beautiful blue stone that didn’t quite look like a sapphire. “Jack, this is gorgeous. Where did you get it? It looks so authentic, almost like it came from a Celtic...” She stopped, her eyes going wide. “P1X787! The Celtic village we visited a few weeks ago. Is that where you got it?”
Jack just grinned. “It’s a wedding bangle. It’s supposed to bring good luck, happiness and fertility to the couple.” He shrugged, not really believing the tale. “I just thought it was nice.”
Sam nodded her agreement, leaning over to give him a deep kiss.
He reached over to her, putting his arms around her as best he could in
their awkward position. When he pulled away, he noted that Sam’s
eyes had darkened, as they always did when she was aroused. “You
do know that this whole ‘not seeing the bride before the wedding’ thing
is just a superstition, don’t you? There’s no logical reason for
you not to come home with me.” He kissed her again. “No reason
why we shouldn’t both
be sleeping in our bed tonight.” He moved his lips to her neck,
running a hand up her thigh, making her moan. “No reason why we shouldn’t
be making love tonight.”
With more self control then she knew she had, Sam pulled back from him. “No reason except for the short, feisty doctor standing at the door over there,” she said with a grin.
Jack groaned, looking over and spotting Janet. “That woman’s gonna kill me. I mean, look at the state I’m in! It’s cruel to leave me this way.”
Sam laughed, leaning over to give him a final kiss. “Go home and have a cold shower, Jack. I promise I’ll make it up to you. It’ll be our wedding night after all.” She opened the door. “I’ll see you tomorrow at the altar.”
“I’ll be there.”
“Love you,” she said as she climbed out of her Mustang.
“Love you too, angel. Sweet dreams.” He watched as she walked up the path to Janet, before starting the engine and driving home for that cold shower.
“What have you got there?” Janet asked as she ushered Sam inside.
“A present from Jack,” Sam replied, taking the armband out of the bag to show her friend.
“Oh, wow. That’s exquisite!”
“Show me!” Cassie said as she and Jocelyn, who was also spending the night at Janet’s, walked up to them. “Cool!” the teenager enthused. “Uncle Jack’s got good taste, huh?”
“He most certainly has,” Jocelyn agreed.
Sam nodded her agreement, trying to smother a yawn. Janet took that as their cue to go to bed. “Okay, bedtime everyone. We’ve got a big day ahead of us. Cass, honey, you’ll have to sleep in my bed tonight. Then Sam can sleep in your room and Jocelyn can have the guest room.”
Everyone nodded, saying goodnight and heading to their beds.
*****
Janet woke up when Cassie shifted, kicking her in the leg. Groaning softly, she turned over to look at the bedside clock. It was just after two in the morning. She quietly got out of bed, careful not to wake her daughter, and headed to the bathroom. Once she came out, she made her way downstairs to get a drink. Still half asleep, she jumped slightly when she caught sight of Sam, sitting on the sofa with a glass of water in her hand.
“What are you doing up?” the doctor asked, sitting down next to her friend.
Sam shrugged. “I couldn’t sleep.”
“Getting a bit nervous, are you?” Janet deduced, with a knowing smile.
“Yeah. Nervous, excited, scared out of my mind.”
“Which are all very natural feelings for a bride to have the night before her wedding.”
Sam sighed. “This is stupid. Jack and I have been living together for over a year. Why should signing a piece of paper scare me so much?”
“I guess because it makes things so official. But you’re right, Sam, it doesn’t change anything. The two of you have been sharing your lives together already. All that’s happening tomorrow is you’re making it legal.”
Mulling over Janet’s words for a few moments, Sam finally nodded, draining her glass. “You’re right. In every way that matters, Jack and I are already married. Tomorrow is just a formality. Thanks, Janet. I guess I just needed to be reminded of that.”
“Get some sleep. Sam. You’ve got a big day ahead of you.”
Getting up from the sofa, Sam bid her friend goodnight and headed back upstairs. Janet stayed in the living room a little longer, remembering her own wedding day. At the time, it had been the happiest day of her life. Everything had gone according to plan and they’d had a wonderful, if slightly brief honeymoon. Both herself and her husband had been fresh out of medical school and he had plans for them. Plans that she didn’t agree with.
Growing up, she’d often thought about joining the Air Force. Tending to those who were protecting her country was a job that she knew she would find very rewarding. Her joining up had been the start of the tensions that led to a messy and extremely painful divorce. She hoped that Sam and Jack’s marriage would never come under that sort of strain. “Please let them be happy,” she prayed quietly. Sighing, she got up and got herself a drink before heading back to bed.
*****
The morning dawned sunny, with the promise of a beautiful, warm spring day. Sam was the last one up, surprised to find the other three in the kitchen preparing her a lovely Champagne breakfast. They ate their bagels on Janet’s back deck, sipping their glasses of Champagne and joking together. Sam was feeling great. Her talk with Janet had belayed all of her fears and she was so excited about the day ahead of her.
After breakfast, they all showered and dressed before heading off to
the beauty salon where they were getting their hair, make-up and nails
done. Cassie, who had never been pampered like that before, was ecstatic.
Her commentary kept everyone amused and relaxed as they had their nails
shaped and polished and their hair styled. They had a light lunch
before it
was time to have their make-up applied.
Sam had decided that she wanted to get dressed at the church. That way she wouldn’t have to worry about her dress getting ruined if it rained and there was no chance of Jack seeing it before the ceremony. The church had a little room for just that, and their dresses were waiting there for them. They headed there from the salon.
It was too early for any of the guests to be there yet, so they wandered
in, taking a moment to look at the transformation the church had undergone.
It looked wonderful, with floral arrangements and large candelabras by
the altar and pale blue satin bows on the end of every second pew.
Sam had been worried that the bows would be too much, but the wedding
planner had been right, it was beautiful.
Heading into the small room, the bridesmaids got dressed first, helping each other so that they wouldn’t disturb their hair and make-up. Once they were ready, they turned to help Sam. She’d put on her lacy underwear while the others were getting ready, as well as the pair of lace top panty hose. First they helped her step into her underskirts, arranging them so they sat properly on her hips. Then Janet got the pale blue dress and they helped her slip it carefully over her head. Jocelyn zipped up the invisible zipper and they all stood back to look at the bride.
“Sam! You look *so* beautiful!” Cassie enthused, moving to hug her carefully.
“We’re not finished yet,” Janet told them, moving to carefully put Sam’s necklace on. It was very simple and elegant, with a teardrop shaped sapphire surrounded by tiny diamonds. Her mother had worn it on her wedding day. Next Sam slipped on the armband that Jack had given her, pleased that it fit in perfectly with the rest of her attire. She put on her matching blue satin high heels, and she was ready.
Janet took in the whole look with a critical eye, but she couldn’t fault it. Sam looked like a princess. The dress was simple, with a straight cut across the top of Sam’s bust and thick straps over her shoulders. The cut of the bodice tapered in to show off Sam’s slim waist before gently going over hips and out to a full skirt. Janet got a tear in her eye. “Look at you,” she said, moving to hug her friend. “You look stunning.”
Regaining her composure, Janet pulled back and smiled at her friend. She took a quick look at the clock and realised it would soon be time for the ceremony to start. “Okay, do we have everything? Something old?”
“Mom’s necklace,” Sam said, touching the object in question.
“So, check. Something new?”
“My arm band, and the blue can be my dress.”
Janet nodded. “What about something borrowed?”
Sam looked down at herself. “I don’t have anything borrowed.”
Janet and Jocelyn looked at each other. “We need something borrowed!” they cried in unison and started hunting around the room.
Sam watched on, amused. She didn’t really believe in the superstition, but her friends were having so much fun that she didn’t want to spoil it for them. She looked at Cassie, who was trying not to giggle as well.
At that moment there was a knock at the door and Susan poked her head in. “Just wanted to see how everything was going.”
Sam smiled. “Come in, Susan.”
The older woman walked into the room and stopped dead. “Sam, you look so beautiful!”
Sam blushed. “Thanks.”
“Mrs O’Neill? I don’t suppose you have something that Sam can wear as ‘something borrowed’? She’s got everything else.”
Susan thought for a moment. “As a matter of fact I do.” She unpinned the diamond heart brooch that she was wearing. “I wore this the day I was married to Charles. It’s brought me fifty-one years of happiness, maybe it’ll bring the same to you.”
“Susan, it’s beautiful. Are you sure?”
“Yes,” she replied. She pinned the small heart on the top of Sam’s dress, pleased that the added jewellery didn’t look too much.
“It’s perfect,” Jocelyn said, nodding her approval.
*****
Jack got out of the car, once again adjusting his tie. He looked around, smiling at the people who had began milling around the church. He saw his mother, who waved, making her way over to him.
“Hi, honey. You look so handsome,” she told him, batting his hands away and straightening his tie.
“Thanks, Mom. Have you seen Sam?” he asked.
She nodded. “I was in there a few minutes ago. She looks breathtaking.”
Daniel, Teal’c and Ferretti joined them. Jack still had to look at Teal’c twice. The black curly wig looked out of place on the Jaffa’s normally bald head. But, as he couldn’t wear a hat in the church, they’d needed something else to hide his tattoo. “Mom, these are my friends and groomsmen. This is Daniel, Teal’c and Louis. Guys, this is my mother, Susan.”
“Nice to finally meet you, Susan,” Daniel said, Ferretti voicing his agreement. Teal’c merely bowed his head slightly.
“Did you have a nice morning?” she asked them, brushing lint off Daniel’s blue jacket.
“We partook in a game of golf,” Teal’c informed her. “It was most enjoyable. I won.”
The priest walked out to them then, and suggested they head inside. Jack’s heart leapt momentarily into his throat. He took a deep breath to calm his nerves and they all headed into the church to wait for the bride.
*****
Jacob knocked quietly on the door before opening it. He knew Sam was in the room by herself and wanted to talk to her before he gave her away. His breath caught in his throat when he saw her. She looked like an angel, and very much like her mother. She hadn’t heard him enter, and Jacob noticed the sad look that graced her face. “Hey, Sammy. What’s wrong?” he asked as he walked up to her.
She turned in surprise, smiling slightly when she saw her father. “Hi, Dad. I was just thinking about mom. I wish she was here.”
He smiled, giving her shoulder a squeeze. “She may not be here in the flesh, Sam, but I know she’s here in spirit. She’s smiling down, thinking how beautiful her little girl is and how proud she is of her.”
Sam smiled sadly at her father, a tear slipping down her cheek. “I miss her, Dad.”
Jacob took his only daughter into his arms. “I know, sweetheart. I miss her too. Hey, come on. This is supposed to be a happy day. Besides, Doc. Fraiser will kill me if you ruin your makeup.”
She laughed at that and moved in front of the mirror to fix her makeup.
There was a knock at the door and Janet poked her head in. “Everyone’s ready, Sam. The Colonel is looking rather handsome... and rather nervous. Let’s not keep him waiting too long.”
“Ah, why not?” Jacob asked as he offered Sam his arm. “Gotta keep the man on his toes. Hey, Sammy?”
“Absolutely!” Sam replied, picking up her bouquet of white roses.
*****
It took all of Jack’s self control to stand still at the altar. He needed something to fiddle with. Anything would do. But Daniel was watching him like a hawk and he was sure the guy would slap his hand if he reached out to touch something. He looked across at his mother and caught her eye. She could see he was nervous and gave him a reassuring smile. Just then, the music started and Jack’s heart skipped a beat.
The guests all stood, turning to look at the doors as they opened. There were murmurs as Cassie started walking down the isle, looking so grown up in her royal blue satin dress. It was a simple long dress, with spaghetti straps and a cut that showed her blossoming figure. She walked slowly down the isle, carrying her bouquet of white lilies. She grinned as her eyes met Jack’s and he waggled his eyebrows at her.
As Cassie made it half way down the isle, Jocelyn started walking down. She was wearing a dress of similar style to Cassie’s, although hers was cut to allow for her pregnant stomach. Cassie made it to the alter, where she gave Jack a quick kiss, before Janet started her walk down the isle. She too was wearing a simple royal blue dress and Daniel’s jaw dropped momentarily when he saw her. She smiled at him, loving the way he made her feel as he gawked at her.
Janet made it to the alter and then the music changed, announcing the arrival of the bride. Jack’s legs almost gave way when he saw her standing in the doorway. He’d always known she was beautiful, but seeing her standing there, in the pale blue dress, she took his breath away.
“Breathe, Jack,” Daniel whispered in his ear, as Sam’s father escorted her down the aisle.
“Don’t remember how,” he whispered back, his eyes never leaving Sam.
Sam briefly looked towards the guests, but once her eyes locked with Jack, it was like there was no one else in the room. She thought about how gorgeous he looked in his dress uniform. She smiled, as she saw the way he was looking at her. It was then that she knew that she’d made the right choice with the dress.
Finally making it to the alter, Sam smiled at the groom, who had the biggest grin on his face. “You look so beautiful,” he whispered.
“You look so handsome,” she returned.
“Hush, you two. This is serious,” Jacob told them, unable to resist the dig.
The priest briefly greeted the bride, before beginning the ceremony. “We are gathered here today to join this man, Jonathan Charles O’Neill, and this woman, Samantha Jane Carter, in holy matrimony. If anyone objects to this union, let them speak now or forever hold their peace.”
Everybody held their breath for a few seconds. Jack looked up, waiting for an Asgard transport beam, or maybe Goa’uld transport rings. Sam giggled quietly at him.
“Who gives this woman?” the priest continued, satisfied with the silence.
“I do,” Jacob answered, giving Sam’s hand to Jack. “Be happy,” he told them both quietly, kissing his daughter’s cheek.
“We will,” they both replied, just as quiet.
The priest waited until Jacob had taken his seat before turning to the guests and continuing. “This marriage is an event in the lifetime of a love. Neither I, nor all society, can join these two lovers today. Only they can do what they have chosen. They are joining themselves, each to the other. As they find union with one another, they proclaim that union today and pledge it’s future. We, by our participation in this celebration, recognise and honour their intention to be together as husband and wife.” He nodded to Jack, giving him the cue to say his vows.
Jack took a deep breath and looked into the crystal blue eyes of the woman he loved. “I, Jonathan Charles O’Neill, take you, Samantha Jane Carter, to be my lawful wife. To have and to hold from this day forward. For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, ‘til death do us part. This is my solemn promise.”
Sam’s lips were trembling as she tried to hold back the tears. She took a shaky breath as the priest nodded for her to say her vows. “I, Samantha Jane Carter, take you, Jonathan Charles O’Neill, to be my lawful husband. To have and to hold from this day forward. For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, ‘til death do us part. This is my solemn promise.”
The priest nodded and turned to Daniel. “Could we have the rings please?” he asked.
Daniel scratched his head for a moment, but Jack’s glare made him quit joking and place the rings on the open book the priest held. He stepped back as the priest spoke again.
“These rings are a symbol of the unbroken circle of love. Love freely given has no beginning and no end, no giver and no receiver. For each is the giver and each is the receiver. May these rings always remind you of the vows you have taken.” He nodded for Jack to take one of the rings.
Jack grasped Sam’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze before sliding the wedding band on her finger. “With this ring, I thee wed. Take it and wear it as a symbol of all we shall share.”
Once the ring was in place, Sam took the second gold band and grasped Jack’s hand. “With this ring, I thee wed,” she repeated and slid the ring into place. “Take it and wear it as a symbol of all we shall share.”
The priest then turned to the guests. “With the taking of vows, and the giving and receiving of rings, Jonathan and Samantha have given themselves to each other. Two halves have come together to make one whole. It gives me great pleasure to pronounce them husband and wife.” He smiled at Jack. “You may kiss the bride.”
“Finally!” Jack muttered, moving to kiss Sam soundly.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Colonel and Mrs Jonathan O’Neill.” The guests stood, applauding as the priest spoke.
Sam took Jack’s arm and they walked down the isle, being congratulated as they went. The rest of the wedding party followed behind. Sam and Jack stopped at the entrance to the church, standing side by side as the guests began to file out. They greeted everyone, accepting well wishes, hugs and kisses.
Finally, when the last guest had exited the church, Jack ushered Sam to the door. They stood together on the top step, framed by the arch of the door as people took photographs of the happy couple. Jack turned, smiling at Sam before touching his lips to hers. As they pulled apart they were showered with sunflower seeds which, Daniel stated, was a fertility blessing.
*****
The church had the most beautiful gardens, and it was there that the professional photographer had them pose for half an hour. He took photos of just the two of them, and ones of the whole wedding party. They were standing, sitting, under trees, in front of gardens. By the time the guy had finished, Jack was about ready to do some interesting things with the camera. If someone said “smile, Jonathan!” one more time, he was going to hit them.
Finally, they were allowed to go and Jack helped Sam into the vintage Bentley for the short ride to the reception. The rest of the wedding party followed behind in a stretch limousine. They were met at the door to the function room by General Hammond, who they had asked to be Master of Ceremonies for the reception. He greeted them, once again insisting that they called him George for the evening, and then headed back inside to do his job.
Grabbing the microphone, he interrupted the chatter that was filling
the room. “Ladies and gentleman, the bridal party has arrived.
Please give them a round of applause as I introduce them. Firstly,
we have Cassandra Fraiser, escorted by Louis Ferretti.” The guests
clapped as Cassie and Ferretti walked in and made their way to the bridal
table. “Next we have
Jocelyn King, escorted by Teal’c ah, Shartayl,” Hammond finished quickly,
almost forgetting the last name they’d given Teal’c. No one seemed
to notice the slip, clapping as the huge man escorted Jocelyn into the
room and to the table.
“Next we have our Matron of Honour, Janet Fraiser, escorted by our Best Man, Daniel Jackson.” Janet and Daniel walked in, smiling as the guests clapped and quickly walked to their seats. “Ladies and gentlemen, could you please stand to welcome the bride and groom. I introduce Jack and Sam O’Neill!” Everyone cheered as the happy couple entered the room.
The happy couple made their way over to their seats and Jack held Sam’s chair out for her before sitting down next to her. They smiled at the continued applause.
“Well, ladies and gentlemen,” Hammond continued, once they had quietened. “The official part of the evening will occur after dinner. I’m sure the bride and groom will make their way around the tables in between courses, but for now the entrées will be served.”
On cue, the waiters arrived, serving the wedding party first, before making their way around all of the tables. Jack looked down at the plate in front of him and then at the one in front of Sam. She grinned at him checking out both of the entrées. “Which one do you want?” she asked. The waiters were placing alternate entrees around each table, so Jack had the potato and leak soup, while Sam got the salmon vol-au-vent.
“I don’t know, they both look so nice,” he replied with a grin. “Which one do you want?”
Sam shrugged and took a forkful of her entrée, bringing it up in front of his mouth. He grinned before taking the offered morsel, savouring the flavours. Sam smiled at the look on his face, taking the opportunity to try the entrée for herself. She understood Jack’s expression, it was delicious.
Having recovered, Jack took a spoonful of soup and offered it to Sam. She tasted it, nodding that she liked it. Jack took a sample and knew which one he wanted.
“I think I prefer the soup,” Sam said, eyeing the bowl in front of him.
“That’s good, because I liked the salmon,” Jack returned. Laughing, they swapped dishes and began eating their meal.
Once entrée’s were finished, Sam and Jack rose from their seats and started making their way around the tables to talk to their guests. The first table was where Jacob, Hammond, Sam’s brother and his family were seated.
Mark was the first to see them, rising from his seat and moving to hug
his little sister. “I’m happy for you,” he whispered in her ear.
Sam looked at him, raising an eyebrow in question. He grinned and
pulled her back in
his arms. “Look at you, sis. You’re positively glowing
with happiness. There was a time when I didn’t think I’d see you
this happy again. I know I was a bastard when you guys were out visiting
us, and I’m sorry for that. Just remember I’m always here if you
need me.”
“I love you, Mark,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.
“Love you too, Sammy,” he choked in reply.
They pulled away, smiling at each other as Sam carefully wiped the tears from her eyes. “Why is it my family keep making me cry today?” she asked, smiling at Jack as he rubbed her upper arms.
“Because we love you,” Jacob replied, opening his arms to his daughter.
As Sam stepped into her father’s embrace, Mark turned to Jack. “Welcome to the family, Jack,” he said, holding out his hand.
Jack accepted the handshake with a smile. “Thanks, Mark.”
Jack felt a tug on his jacket sleeve and looked down to see Jeremy looking up at him. “Hey, buddy.”
“You’re really my uncle now, right, Uncle Jack?”
“That’s right. You’re now my nephew and Madi’s my niece.”
“Cool!” the little boy replied with enthusiasm.
They stayed there a little longer, before moving on to the table where Jack’s parents and his aunts and uncles were seated. Sam hugged Charles, accepting his kiss and blushing as he told her how beautiful she looked. Looking over at Jack, Sam was amused at the fuss his Aunts were making over him. He didn’t talk about his family that much and she was surprised that they were so doting of him. He introduced them all to Sam, and they proceeded in hugging and gushing over her and her dress. By the time they left the table, Sam’s head was spinning.
Jack lead her back to the bridal table as the main course was served. There was no debate over which meal they wanted this time. Jack was craving red meat, while Sam wanted chicken. They talked quietly with the rest of the wedding party while they ate and when they were finished, they rose and went to talk to more of their guests.
“Ah, look. The rowdy table,” Jack quipped as they walked to the next group of people. Seated at this table were Lucy, Brett Cowley, Ben King, Major Davis and his date, Sergeant Siler and his wife, and Graham Simmons.
“About time you got around to us,” Brett retorted, getting to his feet and giving his friend a manly hug. He then turned to Sam and gave her a peck on the cheek. “Congratulations, both of you. Your colleagues here were just telling us about the two of you before you got together. They all thought you’d be lusting after each other for ever.”
Jack looked at Siler, Simmons and Davis, who were trying very hard to blend in with their chairs. “Is that so?” he asked, enjoying seeing them all squirm.
“Yeah,” Brett continued. “They said they’d tell me more when I join you guys in the mountain and I have clearance. Something about a locker room and a tank top?”
Sam blushed, giving a glare to the grinning boys at the table.
Lucy, deciding that the boys had had their fun, got up and hugged Sam. “You look *so* great, Sam. The ceremony was absolutely beautiful!”
“Thanks, Lucy,” Sam replied, returning the hug. “These guys aren’t giving you any trouble are they?”
Lucy grinned. “Nothing the threat of needles can’t fix.”
Jack laughed. “You’ve been around Janet too long.”
They made it to a few more tables before dessert was served. Sam had insisted that one of the deserts be Wild Berry Cassata, and was determined to replay the night that Jack had proposed to her. She took her spoon and offered some to him. He smiled, remembering the special night as well, and moved his Apple Crumble to the side so he could share with his wife.
Once everyone had finished their dessert, Hammond took the microphone and started the official part of the evening. “Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve come to that time of the evening where the speeches occur. If you’ll all make sure your glasses are full and take your seats, we’ll begin.” He waited a few minutes while the waiters ensured everyone had drinks.
“Okay, I’ll be starting off this evening with a toast to the bride and groom. Sam and Jack. Separately, we have a sarcastic colonel and a super smart major. Together, we have a unit that was made for each other, both professionally and personally. I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to watch the love evolve between them over the last few years. Seeing them first try to deny the special bond they shared, and then finally embrace it and let it blossom. I’ve been there for the ups and the downs, and feel privileged that I’ve been allowed to witness such a special kind of love, as I’m sure all of you are. So, I’d like to propose a toast to the bride and groom. May their lives together be filled with love and happiness.” He raised his glass. “To Sam and Jack!”
“Sam and Jack!” the guests chorused, clinking glasses.
George allowed them time to take a sip of their drinks before he continued with the proceedings. “Next we’ll have the response from the groom.”
Jack took the microphone and stood. He took his speech out of his pocket before he reached down and entwined one hand with Sam’s. “Well, I’m a man of few words, but on behalf of my wife and myself, I’d like to thank you all for joining us in celebrating our wedding day. There’s been a few times when we thought that we wouldn’t make it to this day, but someone’s looking out for us, and we’ve managed to stay alive and together. Thank you to everyone who has helped us stay that way.
“Now part of my responsibility is to thank the six wonderful people sitting here with us. Janet, Jocelyn and Cassie, who all look absolutely stunning today. Thank you for agreeing to be Sam’s bridesmaids, and I especially thank you for being there for both Sam and myself, not just today, but since we’ve known you. Ladies and gentlemen, will you raise your glasses to toast the bridesmaids?”
“To the bridesmaids!”
Putting his glass back down, Jack found where he was up to and continued his speech. “Next I need to thank Daniel, Teal’c and Louis. You guys are three of my best friends and I thank you for everything you’ve done for us. And I have to admit, they scrub up alright, don’t they?” The women in the room clapped and cheered at this. “Ladies and gentlemen, a toast to the groomsmen.”
“The groomsmen.”
“Well that’s all I wanted to say. Thank you all once again for coming and I hope you enjoy the rest of the night.”
Hammond took the microphone off him. “Daniel Jackson will now respond on behalf of the bridal party.”
“Thank you George,” Daniel said, taking the microphone. “Firstly, on behalf of the bridal party, I thank Sam and Jack for asking us to be a part of their special day. It means so much to all of us. You know, not long after I met her, Sam became a sister to me. The sister I never had. Now, my sister and my best friend have found happiness in each other.” He turned to look at them both. “Just don’t waste a day of it, and never take the love you share for granted.”
“We won’t,” Sam replied quietly, tears in her eyes.
Smiling at her, Daniel gave her a wink before turning back to the guests. “I know everyone here is probably expecting a long speech from me, but I was told I’d be sleeping outside if I babbled. So I’ll finish by proposing a toast to four people who, without them, we wouldn’t have a Sam and Jack. Susan and Charles O’Neill, thank you for giving us the sarcastic man that we’ve all come to know, and some of us even love, amazing as that may seem.”
He had to move slightly to avoid Jack’s comic swipe, laughing with everyone before he continued his speech. “And to Jacob and Madeline Carter. Unfortunately Madeline couldn’t be with us in person, but I know she’s with us in spirit, watching over her daughter, and I’m sure she’s extremely proud of her and the choice she’s made for a husband. Thank you, Jacob and Madeline, for giving us this wonderful woman. So a toast, to Charles, Susan, Jacob and Madeline.” Glasses were clinked as the guests toasted the parents.
Hammond smiled, surprised by the young archaeologists moving speech. “Thank you, Daniel. And thank you for making it shorter then your mission debriefs normally are. I’m sure that the bride and groom want to make it on their honeymoon before their first anniversary.” He allowed everyone a moment to laugh before he continued.
Charles and Jacob both gave equally moving speeches, each welcoming their child’s spouse into their family. By the time they were finished, the tears were streaming down Sam’s cheeks. Jack smiled at her, feeling a little choked himself, and gently kissed the moisture from her face.
George smiled at the tender moment, as did most of the guests, before informing them it was time to cut the cake. Jack rose from his chair and helped Sam up, before leading her over to where the three tiered cake stood. Sam picked up the Stirling silver knife and Jack placed his hand over hers. Together, they sliced into the bottom tier, pausing while flashes went off. Then they cut a small piece each so they could feed it to the other. Sam got a bit on the side of Jack’s mouth, automatically reaching up and kissing it off, much to the delight of those with cameras.
Once the photo time was over, Hammond continued with the next formality. “Could we have the bride and the groom on the dance floor for the bridal waltz?”
“That should be changed to the bridal shuffle for you, Jack!” Ferretti called.
“There’s gotta be one at every party, doesn’t there?” Jack returned.
Sam smiled as Jack pulled her into his arms, holding her body as close to his as he could. They started swaying to the music, eyes locking as they became lost in their own world.
Here we are at last
Suddenly the pieces fit
All at once, I make sense
of this crazy world
Loved you for so long
Now your hand is holding
mine
It's like we're standing
still in time
This is our moment
This is our night
A new beginning of the rest
of our lives
With every heartbeat, with
every kiss
Let's always remember that
love is a gift
Hammond asked the rest of the wedding party to join them on the floor, but Sam and Jack didn’t even notice. They were lost in the eyes of the other.
With each passing year
We will keep our love alive
I will be here by your side
forever
Looking in your eyes, I
believe in destiny
I believe in you and me
This is our moment
This is our night
A new beginning of the rest of
our lives
With every heartbeat, with every
kis
Let's always remember that love
is a gift
The guests were invited to join the wedding party. Many people made their way to the dance floor, but no one dared to interrupt the bride and groom as they kissed tenderly, barely moving with the music.
The rarest thing we have on earth
Is so special there's no measuring
its worth
This is our moment
This is our night
A new beginning of the rest of
our lives
With every heartbeat, with every
kiss
Let's always remember forever
and ever
Let's always remember that love
is a gift
It's a gift
Finally, as the song finished, Sam and Jack pulled away from each other, acknowledging the other people in the room. Daniel swept in between them, pulling Sam off to dance with him as a new song started.
Chuckling, Jack held his hand out to Janet and they started dancing together. “I hope Daniel’s told you how great you look today, Doc,” he asked, veiling the complement.
Janet blushed slightly. “Yes, he has. Thank you.”
Jack nodded, twirling her around. “So, who do you think’ll be the next to get hitched?” he asked, the gleam in his eye not lost on Janet.
“Give us a chance, Jack. Neither one of us want to rush into things.”
Jack just grinned and dipped her, making her squeal. She shook her head as she rose back up. “You two make each other happy. Everyone’s seen it,” he told her, not giving up.
“Well, we all knew about you and Sam years before the two of you got together.”
He chuckled. “Touché.”
Janet looked at him seriously for a moment. “Promise me you’ll both be happy, Jack?”
He nodded. “I’ll do everything in my power. You know I will.”
She nodded, moving to hug him. Jack had to stoop slightly so he could return the gesture.
“Hey!” they heard from the other side of the dance floor. “Stop smooching up to my husband!” Sam called. She dragged Daniel behind her as she made her way over to them. “This is your man, give me back mine.”
Jack laughed, moving away from Janet and wrapping his arms around Sam. “Your man, huh?”
“Oh, yeah,” she replied. “I’ve got the piece of paper to prove it now!”
“Look out, Jack,” Louis said, walking up to them. “The possessive streak’s coming out in her already.”
Sam’s retort was cut off by the arrival of her father. “Let go of her for a few minutes, Jack. It’s only fair that a father gets to dance with his daughter at her wedding.”
Grinning, Jack stepped away from his wife and watched as her father pulled her close. “It was a beautiful ceremony, Sammy. I think Selmac was actually crying, though she’d never admit it.”
Sam chuckled. “This would all be a bit strange for her, wouldn’t it?”
Jacob nodded. “It was, but she liked it. The Tok’ra don’t have a formal joining ceremony, mainly because there’s never enough time to do it. She thinks it’s a great way to celebrate love. She also thinks the two of you have a special kind of love that very few get to experience.” He paused for a moment, then chuckled. “And she thinks I should shut up and enjoy dancing with my daughter.”
Sam laughed and snuggled closer to her Dad, enjoying the rare moment to be with him.
Across the other side of the dance floor, Jack was dancing with Lucy. “You know,” the young nurse started. “When I met you at the hospital, and you were telling me what the two of you had planned for the wedding, I never dreamed that I’d be here celebrating with you.”
Jack smiled. “When I was telling you, I didn’t think it would happen. I really thought I’d lose her then, but you didn’t let me wallow. Thank you for that. Sam told me that I saved her, but that was only because you made me. After all that you did, it’s only right that you’re here to celebrate with us.”
She smiled shyly, thanking him once more as they continued to dance.
*****
Several hours later, Sam was sure she’d danced with almost every male in the room. Just when she went to sit down, someone would come and drag her back onto the dance floor. She’d hardly had a minute with Jack since their waltz. She smiled at her current partner, George Hammond, glad to get the opportunity to talk to him. “Thank you for supporting us,” she said quietly.
“You’re like a daughter to me, Sam. In some ways I’m closer to you than my own daughter. I just want you both to be happy.”
“We will be.”
Hammond smiled and looked to the two people dancing next to them. “Care to swap partners, Jack? I haven’t had a chance to dance with your beautiful young partner there.”
Jack grinned, giving Cassie a hug and handing her off to George. He then took Sam’s hand and pulled her close. They were quiet for a few minutes, just enjoying holding each other for a while before Jack finally spoke. “You almost ready to get out of here?” he asked, giving her a playful grin.
She nodded. “Just as soon as we finish the official stuff,” she replied.
They told Hammond that they were ready to go and he nodded, going to the stage and getting the music turned off. He grabbed the microphone. “Ladies and gentlemen, our guests of honour are ready to leave us now.” The teasing and wolf whistles were not unexpected, but Sam still blushed slightly. “Now, before they do. We’ll ask Sam to come up on stage, and all of the single women to come out and stand on the dance floor.”
Jack let go of Sam and she got her bouquet before heading for the stage. Hammond helped her up and she grinned at her friends before turning around and throwing the bouquet over her head. Turning back to see who caught it, she laughed when she saw Lucy standing there, bouquet in hand and shocked expression on her face.
“I need a guy first!” she called with a laugh.
“And we’re about to find you ‘the one’,” Hammond said. “Jack, come and get your bride so we can see who the eligible bachelor will be.”
Jack came and helped Sam off the stage, escorting her to the chair Daniel had placed in the middle of the dance floor. She sat down and he knelt, with some effort, at her feet. Lifting her leg, he ran his hands up to the lacy garter at the bottom of her thigh.
“Hey! Aren’t you supposed to use your teeth?” Ferretti yelled out. All the guys whooped and hollered as Sam lifted her dress higher to give him better access.
Jack turned to his buddies. “Hey! Keep your eyes off my wife’s legs!” He turned back to Sam and kissed her knee before grabbing the garter with his teeth and pulling it off to everyone’s cheers.
He took the garter out of his mouth and leaned up to give Sam a kiss. She then helped him stand and he led her to the side of the dance floor before going up to the stage. “Okay,” Hammond called. “This is the moment when all of the bachelors stand out on the floor and try to catch the garter. So, all of you single guys, up you get.”
Jack had to laugh at the sea of uniforms on the dance floor in front of him. “Spot the civilian,” he mumbled with a chuckle, turning around and throwing the garter over his shoulder. He turned to watch the mad scramble and laughed when he saw the victor. Brett Cowley.
“Okay, now if we could have our lucky couple on the dance floor. Everyone else, move out of the way,” Hammond said.
Lucy walked onto the floor, blushing furiously at the cheers and whistles. The blush got deeper as Hammond reminded them that Brett had to put the garter on her before they were to dance together.
While this was happening, Jack moved off the stage and over to Sam who was standing to the side, laughing at the couple on the dance floor. She put two fingers in her mouth, letting out a whistle as Brett and Lucy started dancing to ‘Going To The Chapel’. She turned and gave Jack a dazzling smile as he put his arms around her. “They make a cute couple, don’t they?” she asked, a mischievous glint in their eyes.
“I know that look. You’re not going to play matchmaker, are you?”
Sam grinned. “Well, now that Brett’s coming to work at the SGC. Why shouldn’t they go out?”
Jack shook his head, leaning forward and kissing the tip of her nose. “Leave it to them, cupid. If they like each other, they’ll figure it out eventually.”
“Whatever you say, Jack,” she replied. Her tone made it clear that she probably wouldn’t give up until they were married with a tribe of kids.
Giving up, Jack pulled her closer, nibbling on her ear as he whispered in it, “Can we leave yet? I want to do some celebrating that just involves you and me.”
Sam moaned at the feelings he was evoking. “Mmm, lets just say goodbye to everyone and then we can go.”
*****
They finally made it out to the car, after having to say goodbye to every person in the room, some of them more than once. Jack helped Sam in the back before getting in with her and nodding to the driver. They headed of to the hotel, snuggled together in the back of the car, kissing and caressing each other.
They were ushered to their room, Jack pausing to lift Sam into his arms and carry her across the threshold. He put her down in the middle of the room and turned to tip the porter, who had placed their overnight bags just inside the door. Once he’d closed the door, he turned back and looked at his wife. She smiled gently at him, beckoning him to her.
A soft, loving smile crossed his face as he gazed at her. “Hey, Mrs O’Neill,” he said quietly, reaching out for her.
“Hey, Mr O’Neill,” she returned, just as quietly. “How ‘bout making love to your wife?”
He pulled her closer, kissing her gently. “Oh, yeah,” he breathed.