:: It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas ::Part Four Santa baby, slip a sable under the tree, for me 23 December 2002 "What do you mean, you can’t come? Frank, we’ve had this planned.... What? Is she okay? What! But when? Oh, god. I’ll be right out there. This is my mother we’re talking about! I’m sorry, Frank. Of course. Thank you, but.... Really, I can.... You’re right. No, I don’t think so; it’s a bit too soon for Haley Marie to travel. Thanks, Frank. I’ll see you then." Harmon Rabb grabbed his cover, exited his office and ran right into Sturgis Turner. "Whoa. Hey, watch it, Harm." But when he looked at his friend’s pale features he immediately became concerned. "Are you okay, buddy?" Harm shook his head at his old Naval Academy roommate. "I have to leave," he muttered. "Hold on there. You’re not going anywhere looking like that." Sturgis knew his friend had been having a rough time, but this was serious. He pushed Harm back into his office. "What’s up?" Harm took a deep breath and leaned against the wall. God, could life get any worse? he wondered as he closed his eyes to stop the tear that threatened to escape. She’s my mom -- don’t take her away from me, he prayed. "It’s my mother," he finally said. Sturgis closed the door. "How bad?" "She had a stroke last night. Frank just called me. She’s in the hospital hooked up to a bunch of machines." He tried to push past his friend, who effectively blocked him. "I gotta go to her." "Of course you do, but you aren’t going anywhere by yourself." Sturgis poked his head out of Harm’s office and spotted Sergeant Toni Miller. "Sergeant Miller! You’re scheduled to start your leave this afternoon, right?" "Yes sir," the young sergeant replied as she stood up. "Commander Rabb needs a ride home, then to the airport. If you need a vehicle, go get one." "Yes sir. On my way, sir," she said, grabbing her cover and coat and heading out. "Shall I meet him out front?" "That’s fine, Sergeant. Oh, and Miller," he added, "if you don’t have to come back, don’t bother." "Thank you, Commander. Merry Christmas!" Sturgis returned to his friend, who was again leaning against the wall but the color was returning to his face. "You going to be okay?" At Harm’s nod, he told him, "Sergeant Miller’s gone to get a vehicle. She’ll meet you out front, drive you back to your place, then take you to the airport." Suddenly all life returned to Harm’s features. "Miller? Are you nuts? I thought you were my friend." "She was available, she’ll help you with your bags, and besides...." Sturgis gave his friend a wink. "Her chatter will keep your mind off your troubles." "Or numb me into a coma before I get to the airport. Thank you, but I’ll drive myself." "Oh no you don’t, Harm. Your arm’s in pretty bad shape, you’ve just had one heck of a shock, and I’d worry about you passing out between here and the airport. I’d call Mac, but she’s in the opposite direction. Let Miller take you. You don’t want to be driving yourself right now. Your car will be fine here -- heck, better off that it would be at your place. I’ll clear everything with Admiral Hickory. Just get out of here and go see your mother." Harm was waiting for an elevator when he suddenly remembered to call Clayton Webb. "Hey Clay, its Harm. Listen -- my mom’s sick.... Pretty bad. I need to fly out there. No, I’m okay. Sergeant Miller’s going to drive me home and then to the airport. Toni Miller. Thought you knew everyone. Ah, jeez. I haven’t done that yet. I’ll.... Hey, I can.... Alright. Thanks, Clay. I’ll wait for your call." As he rode down in the elevator, Harm wanted to kick himself. Frank had been telling him for more than a year that his mother hasn’t been feeling well. Naturally, she kept saying she was fine, and just two weeks ago he’d called her from Hawaii and she’d told him how much she was looking forward to spending Christmas with her grandchild. God, when would he ever start listening to Frank? He was a decent man, a good man, who loved his mother dearly. Yet Harm still looked upon Frank as his father’s rival. It was childish -- he knew that. Suddenly Harm remembered that he hadn’t said anything to Frank about his arm, or his split with Mac. Harm walked out of the building just as his cell phone rang. "Rabb. Hey, Clay. Hang on. Let me write this down. I got it. Fine -- QCB534788. Hey, I really appreciate this, but First Class isn’t necessary. I just...well, you know how it is. She’s my mom. She’s always been there. This just doesn’t make sense to me. Oh, can you check in on Mac and Haley Marie? I don’t know how often I’ll be able to call, and I don’t.... Yeah, I know, but.... I’ll let you know as soon as I know something. You bet. And thanks again, Clay." Miller was waiting at the curb. "You ready to go, sir?" she asked as she opened the passenger side door for him. "Yeah, thanks," he replied, getting in. As the Marine closed the door a bit too enthusiastically, he debated the wisdom of Sturgis’ choice of a driver. :: :: ::
23 December 2002 "It’s for you, Papa. It is Mac." "Thanks, sweetheart," AJ said, taking the phone from her. <<<I wasn’t expecting her call this early.>>> "Yes, Mac. How are you?" Genial conversation first, he reminded himself. "I’m fine, sir. Actually, I’m calling about Harm." Oh god. "What’s he done this time?" "It’s his mother, sir. She had a stroke last night." "Is she okay?" "He’s on his way out there. It doesn’t look good. I just got off the phone with his stepfather -- she hasn’t regained consciousness since the stroke." "Oh hell. How’s he holding up?" "Reasonably well, considering. Commander Turner called me to tell me what happened, I called Harm, then I called Frank. Frank’s not holding up so well." "I can’t imagine he would be, Mac. Next time you speak with him, please pass on my best. I take it you and Haley Marie will be spending Christmas with the Roberts then?" "I haven’t spoken to Harriet yet, but I imagine so." AJ paused, wondering if he should ask the question, then figured what the heck. "So, Mac, have you heard anything yet on those tests?" "Uh, yes," she said hesitantly. "And?" "They indicated pretty conclusively that I and...ah...the gentleman in question are her parents." Oh god. "And?" "Sir?" "Listen, Mac. We discussed this. I want a name." She took a deep breath; he’s gonna kill me, she knew. "I don’t suppose I could ask that you not yell at me?" "I’ll take that under advisement. Hell, Mac, as long as its not the SecNav, I can’t imagine yelling." "Victor Galindez." "GUNNERY SERGEANT VICTOR GALINDEZ?" So much for taking my request under advisement, she thought with a sigh. "Uh, yes sir." She took a deep breath when he didn’t reply. "Admiral, if you want my resignation...." "Dammit, Mac, no. I told you I’d help you, and by god, I’ll figure some way out of this. Good grief, Mac -- Gunny?" He rubbed his hand across his head. "Do you know where he is?" "He’s in Peru." "Peru! Jeez, he could get killed down there!" "Sir, you and I both know why he’s there." "Damn, that’s right. And you did say something about his mother. All right, let me think about this. I’ll get back to you." "Thank you, admiral. But if you change...." "If I want your resignation, I’ll ask for it, Colonel!" "Yes sir." "Now, have you told Rabb?" "No. I only found out right before I got in touch with Frank." "Well, don’t tell him. Hell, the man has enough to worry about as it is. Just...just take care of yourself and your baby girl, Mac. I’ll talk to you when I get back. Oh, and Mac -- you did the right thing by coming to me first. I’m angry as hell with you right now, but thank you for trusting me." "Is everything okay, Papa?" his daughter asked him when he returned to the living room. "Yes, sweetheart," he said distractedly. "One of my people is in a little trouble, but it’ll be okay." "That is good. Your gunnery sergeant is a nice man." He looked at his daughter for the first time since walking into the room. "I didn’t realize you knew him." She smiled the smile that never failed to melt his heart. "We only spoke once, at the party you held for me four years ago. We did not have much in common, but he mentioned he was raised Catholic, and he talked about his sisters and what family meant to him. He is a good man, Papa. I know you will help him." Not for the first time AJ wondered how the hell he got so lucky to have such an incredible little girl. "You’re right, Francesca. Would you excuse me, darlin’? I need to make a few phone calls." "Of course. Would you like me to wrap up the swan for Dr. Fredricks for you?" "Oh, no thank you. Don’t wrap any of my gifts. They’re still opening packages in the airport, remember?" AJ went to the spare bedroom he was using and pulled out his cell phone. "Judge Advocate General, Admiral Chegwidden’s office, Petty Officer Wilkins speaking. How may I help you sir or ma’am?" "Wilkins, Admiral Chegwidden here." "Sir! Admiral Hickory just asked me to call you. Shall I patch you through?" "In a moment, Wilkins. First, I need the number for Brigadier General Huck; he’s the Chief of Staff down at SouthCom." Wilkins had been his assistant since Jason Tiner had left the Navy to go to law school. He liked Tiner, but Taylor Wilkins was proving to be a jewel. "Certainly, sir. Would you like commercial or DSN?" "I’m on vacation, Wilkins -- commercial." Okay, so he still had his rough spots. "Of course, sir. Here it is sir. 305-555-1534. Shall I get Admiral Hickory for you now?" "Yes, Wilkins." AJ waited as the Petty Officer connected him. This was Bob’s first time as Acting JAG; AJ’s chief of staff was on maternity leave and even if Rabb hadn’t been on the injured list, AJ didn’t want to put him in his chair right now. Admiral Morris would have been AJ’s first choice, but he was on terminal leave. "Hello, AJ. How is Milan and your daughter?" "Just fine, Bob. I just got a call from Colonel MacKenzie. Sorry to hear about Rabb. Do you need me to make any phone calls to get you some help?" "I think we’ll be fine until you get back. We’ll know more about his mother’s condition by then as well." "Okay. Anything else?" "Nope. Everything’s fine here otherwise." "Great. Can you give me back to Wilkins then?" "No problem, AJ. Merry Christmas!" "Yes sir, admiral. What can I do for you?" "I need you to pull the service jacket on Gunnery Sergeant Victor Galindez. He worked at JAG before you arrived." "No problem, sir. Anything else?" "Yeah. Call personnel and have them make up his retirement paperwork. I want both his jacket and that paperwork on my desk by noon Friday." "Sir?" "And not a word about this to anyone." Like Tiner, Wilkins periodically needed reminders when it came to confidentiality, but once reminded, AJ knew he could be counted on. "Yes sir!" "Merry Christmas, Wilkins. I’ll see you on Friday." "Merry Christmas to you too, sir." AJ looked at the number Wilkins had given him. He hadn’t seen Richard Huck in more than five years, and they’d never served together. However, he was a Marine, and a one-star, which gave AJ the advantage. This will take some sweet-talking, though, he knew. He dialed the number. "Admiral AJ Chegwidden for General Huck. Richard--AJ Chegwidden here. How’s Paula? Great. Listen, Richard, I need a favor...." :: :: ::
23 December 2002 "I can’t believe we got it done." Kate wiped her brow dramatically and stepped back almost to the door leading to the dining room. "Jesus Kate, we’ve worked on the damn thing for the past 14 hours." Clay climbed down from the ladder and stood next to the almost twelve-foot tree soaring above him. The star just fit and he was glad the builders of his historic home had the decency to have such high ceilings. It had never occurred to Kate that the thing might not fit. She had taken one look at the monster and archly advised him that "it would do." He had seen the anxious look in her eye and he could deny her nothing. He had gotten the name of the tree farm from his mother. They had driven out to rural Maryland just after noon, yesterday, and he had gladly paid the obscene charge the wily owner insisted was the going rate. Evidently the farmer had pegged Kate as a sucker. It hadn’t helped when he had obviously overheard her sigh, "I’ve never had a live tree, Clay. Mom always hated the mess." She walked up behind him and hugged him tightly around the waist. "Well, it’s not like we did anything else for the past day," she whispered just before flicking her tongue at the base of his neck. She was right about that. Between getting the tree and making love, and buying the extra ornaments and lights they needed for the king of all trees...and making love...and Harm’s phone call...Harm’s phone call. He sighed, turned into her embrace and hugged her tightly. The memory of the phone conversation earlier today clouded his happy mood. At 9:10 he had just opened the front door to leave for the hardware store for more lights when his cell phone rang. He groaned and she softly cursed. "Hello?" He listened carefully and Kate immediately knew something was wrong. "Harm. How bad is it? You want me to drive out there and pick you up? Sergeant who? I don’t know her. Well yeah, I do know most of the people there but anyway what flight are you on? Stand-by! Like hell. Give me a minute. Leave your phone on. I’ll fix it." He closed his phone and reached inside his wool coat. "Clay? What’s wrong?" "Harm’s mother had a stroke. He has to get out to California." "Oh no. What can we do?" "Hold this?" He handed her the phone and opened his palm and searched his database. Taking the phone back he punched in a number and waited. "Charlie? Clayton Webb. Yeah, Merry Christmas to you and Lora, too. Listen, I need a favor." Five minutes later he was back on the phone with Rabb. "Go to the United 1st Class check in. Give them this number." He made Rabb repeat it back. "Don’t worry about it. I called in a little bitty favor. Just get out to her. Now what do you need me to do on this end?" He listened to his friend stumble and ramble a little. He knew exactly what Rabb was going through. His mother was still young and vibrant -- in his eyes. But he had no illusions as to what lay ahead and he wasn’t sure how he was going to handle it when Porter became frail. He wouldn’t allow himself to think further than that. "Harm." He finally interrupted. "You don’t even have to ask. Of course I’ll watch out for Mac. She knows to call me. Promise you’ll call me when you know anything. And damn it, Rabb, call me if I can help." When he broke the connection he told her everything he knew. She laid her head on his shoulder. "You’re a good man, Clayton Webb." "It was nothing," he whispered. The day momentarily no longer fun and gay. "It was a good thing to do," she insisted and pulled his chin to her and kissed him sweetly. "Now. Is there anything else you can do for Harm?" He shook his head. "Do we have other stuff that we have to do?" "Yes." "You gonna be a gloomy Gus about something you have no control over?" "No," he sighed. "Good." Her lips on his brought him back to the present and he felt his arousal grow. Who the hell needed Viagra when he had Kate Pike in his bed? He really wasn’t sure how many times they made love after that first time. He had been thrilled when he learned that she was on the pill. He was touched when he found she had tucked her own medical bill of health into his pocket after he had brought his and Amy Li’s records to her. Thinking back, he wasn’t sure if a single box of Trojans would have lasted. He lowered his lips to hers and sweetly kissed her. "I’ve enjoyed every minute of it, Kate." "Truly?" "Would I lie to you?" he grinned. When she slapped at him, he grabbed her wrist and roughly pulled her back to his embrace. His lips ravished hers. His tongue traced the curve of her mouth before plunging deep. She gripped his shoulders pulling him tighter still, demanding more. Finally gasping for air, he roughly pulled her toward the stairs, not giving her a moment to catch her breath. As they climbed the stairs they tore at their own and each other’s clothes. Her shoes were kicked off in the foyer. His sweater landed on the stairs. One of his shoes ended up on the first landing and the other at the top of the staircase. By the time they reached the bedroom they were both panting and laughing. Laughing until he kissed her again. His hands worked the clasp of her bra and she groaned as his hands roughly caressed her fevered skin. "Clay please." "Please what, baby?" "I need you." "Is that why you were copping feels all afternoon." "Yeah, I kinda thought you had lost interest." He proceeded to prove to her how wrong she was. He knelt before her and pulled the last of her clothes off. He buried his face into the apex of her legs and she held him there as he licked and tormented her. She tried to fall back against the bed. But he held her tight until he brought her to her first orgasm. "I’m going to make you beg, Kate Pike." "Oh God, Clay you don’t need to. Please...." "You still haven’t told me what you want, Kate or how you want it." His growl had her on the brink again. Grabbing his hair, she stared down into his eyes almost black with his passion. "I want your cock deep inside me. I want you to take me against the wall...from behind." He hissed in surprise and approval. He had always known she would be loud, even a bit coarse in bed, but he hadn’t expected her to be this bold this soon in their relationship. He fell more in love with her than he thought possible. Standing up, he brutally assaulted her already swollen mouth. Grabbing her by the arm he pulled her over to the bathroom. Closing the door behind them he pushed her against the full-length mirror attached there. "Watch me fuck you, Kate." He ran his hands over her back before reaching around and grasping each breast. Pinching the already hardened nipples he watched in wonder as her eyes fluttered closed. "Open your eyes, Kate," he demanded. She licked her lips and complied. A sheen of sweat already covered her body as he released one aureole to bring his hand down to her curls. "Oh God, Clay. Feel how wet I am for you? I want you in me. I want you hard and rough. Please Clay." "You want this, Kate?" He rubbed his cock along her slit. "Is this what you want?" "Yes, damn you, yes." She bucked against him, but he held her at her hip, gripping her so hard she knew she would be red afterward. When he finally plunged into her, she gasped at the intensity but ground back into him. He held both hips now and began to thrust deep before pulling almost all the way out. Their eyes locked in the mirror and he couldn’t remember ever being this aroused. "You are so damn beautiful like this, Kate. I will never get tired of doing this." He felt her walls begin to clench around his cock and he sped up until the sound of his balls slapping against her was almost louder than their twin moans. They came within seconds of each other and as he came down from his high, he managed to fall back and sit on the toilet seat, pulling her with him. Laughing, he nuzzled her neck. "Good thing the maid was in today. She put the seat down." She couldn’t speak yet, but when he finally fell from her, she turned and nuzzled his neck. "You mean that?" He knew she wasn’t talking about the maid. "Mean what, lover?" "Mean what you said about never getting tired of having sex with me?" He kissed her swollen lips and sighed. "Actually, I meant I would never get tired of being with you." He gently pushed her off his lap and went to the huge claw-foot tub that, before today, he had never shared with any woman. Before Kate he had never brought any woman to his home for sex. To some of the classiest hotels all over the world or to their places, but never to his home. Running the water, he helped her step over the edge in front of him. Sitting down he guided her back to his lap and together they cuddled while the tub filled. Picking up the bar of soap from the dish, he proceeded to wash her all over. "Mmmmmmmm. This can’t be happening this fast, can it, Clay?" "Why not?" he whispered. "I’ve waited a very long time for someone like you, Kate Pike. I’m not pushing you. But I want you here with me. I want you in my bed. Every night, if possible." "Oh, Clay." Her sigh was mostly content but he heard the hesitation in her voice too. "What’s wrong?" "I’m awfully set in my ways. I bet you are, too." "That’s true. But I don’t care." He wrapped his arms around her. "Don’t make me tie you to the bed and make you so weak that you can’t stand." He laughed softly into her hair. "I probably would pass out first." "You know it. Do you want to know what I’m going to do to you?" "What?" He stroked his hand from her neck down to her curls. "When we get out of here, we’re going to take a nap and I promise you I will wake up before you. Just you wait, Clayton Webb." "Well, then let's get out of here right now." They stood and he dried her off, making sure to carefully dry her folds. She groaned as he ran the thick terry over her tender breasts. "I am so going to get even with you, Webb." "Talk’s cheap, Pike." She sashayed into the bedroom, pointedly wiggling her ass at him. Slowly, she bent over the bed to pull back the comforter. Looking over her shoulder at him, she arched her eyebrow and grinned evilly. As she climbed into bed she made sure he got a full view of her sex before falling down onto "her" pillow. "You are going to kill me, Kate Pike." "You have no idea, Clayton Webb." :: :: ::
24 December 2002 He woke immediately. He was warm; the comforter still covered him, but the soft caress of her tongue against his inner thigh was definitely raising the temperature. Groaning, he lifted up the covers and whispered. "Is this your idea of payback?" "Yep." "Outstanding." He threw back the covers and let his eyes adjust to the meager light. Locking his fingers behind his head he watched her work her tongue closer and closer to his cock, already twitching as if trying to find its home. "Oh sweet Jesus, Kate." He gasped as she trailed her tongue along the vein on the underside of his penis. She twirled her tongue around the base of the head, then completely engulfed him. He arched off the bed, but she firmly pushed his hips back down and released him. "None of that or I’ll stop," she teased. "Please, don’t," he whimpered. "You gonna behave?" "Yes ma’am -- for awhile, anyway." "Good boy." Oh lord, he thought, where did she learn to do this? No, I don’t want to know. I’ve got no room to.... The rest of his thoughts immediately returned to the talented woman driving him to distraction. Her teeth scraped along the entire length of his cock then her lips soothed her way back down. She stroked his balls and she felt them tighten. "Kate, I'm so close. Come sit on me, Kate. I want to come inside you." Instead of complying, she began to gently hum around his cock. They were both very pleased with the results. She wondered if they would have to keep the bedroom windows closed during the spring. She wasn’t positive if the neighbors hadn’t heard his shout even now. His chest heaved with the effort and he groaned as she licked him clean. "Oh damn, Kate. I may not be able to get out of bed in the morning." "Yeah, you will. We’ve got Christmas shopping to do." "Only if I can get out of bed." "You will." He suddenly sat up and pushed her back until her head was resting near the footboard. "Then maybe I’ll have to see about making sure you can’t get out of bed." "Talk, talk, ta...." The rest of her taunting was lost as his mouth descended on hers. He kissed his way down her body pausing to worry and tease her nipples into distended peaks. As he got closer to her mound he was relieved and amazed that his cock was acquiring an interest in the prize awaiting it. Slowly he licked along her folds. He parted her labia with his fingers and slowly began to circle her clit. It was her turn to groan and writhe under his ministrations. "Just like that, ooooohhh, yesssssssss." He felt his cock harden further as his tongue made her all the more vocal. His fingers caressed her depths, curling slightly to increase her pleasure and she began to buck furiously. "What? No! Damn you, don’t stop." She started to arch up but he knelt between her thighs, lifted her hips and thrust into her in one long stroke. She stiffened and gasped at the force of the orgasm that shook her. He watched the flush travel up along her chest, tightening her nipples even more. Her hair was plastered on her cheeks and he knew he had never seen anything so beautiful in his life. The sight of her tightened his balls and he lost control. Three hard thrusts later and he was emptying his seed deep within her. Still buried in her, he pulled her up and fell back to flop on the pillows. Deftly, he toed the covers back up until he could reach them and covered them both. :: :: ::
24 December 2002 He groaned at the light that suddenly flooded the room. "Waky, Waky, sleepy head." "What the hell time is it?" "0700 hours" "Seven o’clock! We didn’t get to sleep until nearly 3:30. Are you insane?" "Nope, just determined. Go shower, I’ll meet you downstairs." "Why?" Her snort was his only answer. Groaning some more, he struggled out of bed and stumbled into the bathroom. He had always scoffed at people who said you could get hangovers from too much sex but damnation, he couldn’t clear his head. The shower helped. The shave and brushing his teeth even more so. He studied his reflection in the mirror and shuddered at the thought that this was too good. In less than a month she had stealthily claimed his heart and he knew that all he wanted was to curl up next to her and go back to sleep only to wake up and make her scream his name again and again. He sighed when he realized that he would even brave the last minute shopping crowds if she was with him. "Oh my God!" Her squeal turned the heads of several early morning strollers and she blushed. "Sorry," she whispered. She saw the huge smile on his face. "I’m really not used to dating rich people, Clay." He helped her in to the limo, thanked the driver and climbed in next to her. "He’s not my driver and this is just a rental. Mother has Harrison drive her if the occasion calls for it, but even she doesn’t keep a stretch limo, kid. I just thought no way was I battling traffic, shopping and your groping all at the same time." "Clay!" she hissed, as she quickly glanced at the back of the driver’s head then at the rear view mirror. But the driver had his eyes on the street ahead. Clay reached for a button and the smoked glass thermal window rose, effectively sealing them off from the driver. He picked up the interior phone and rapidly gave the man instructions before lounging back against the leather seats. "Come here." He reached for her. She nestled her head on his shoulder and watched as the scenery sped by. :: :: ::
24 December 2002 Margaret Angelica Powers grabbed up her four-year-old daughter Amelia and chased after Amelia’s twin brother Andrew as he barreled down the hospital corridor as only four-year-olds can. One would never know that the little boy had just had three stitches put in his forehead were it not for the tell-tale bandage her son now wore as a "badge of honor" -- damn that doctor for putting ideas into little boy's heads. He’d told her son he’d be up and running in no time, so now he was. The pretty blonde was exhausted after two hours in the emergency room. The first 30 minutes she’d spent waiting to see the doctor, less than thirty were spent with the doctor, and she’d spent the rest of that time waiting to get the damn bill taken care of, when she wasn’t chasing after Andrew or Amelia. She could see an elevator opening up ahead and prayed, "Please don’t let him get on." :: :: ::
Harm didn’t want to go out, but Frank insisted he needed some fresh air. Harm’s mother had awakened briefly less than an hour after he’d arrived yesterday, but that had been more than eighteen hours ago. The doctor still didn’t have any good news. And after the second stroke she’d suffered shortly after her brief period of lucidity, if he could call it that, she’d slipped into a coma. <<<She didn’t even know I was there.>>> His mother looked right at him as she spoke, but both he and Frank knew right away she was talking to his dad. "I didn’t think you’d ever come. I’m sorry, Harm. I couldn’t wait. But Frank’s a nice man, and he loves me very much." She’d closed her eyes and they thought she fell asleep, but the next thing he knew, both he and Frank were screaming for a doctor as she went into convulsions. Harm looked down at the clothes he’d worn since Sergeant Miller had made him change while she packed up the things he’d need. Smart woman, he thought, despite her incessant need to talk. He would have been terribly uncomfortable in his uniform, altered such as it was to accommodate his arm, not to mention how wrinkled it would be by now. She’d tossed him a flannel shirt and a pair of button-fly jeans -- "Trust me, they’ll be easier than dealing with a zipper." Amazingly enough, she’d been right. The elevator finally made it to the first floor and the doors opened. He was just going to get some coffee and a few pastries from the cafeteria for him and Frank and head right back to the room. He scanned the signs, looking for directions when he was tackled at his knees. Harm barely managed to catch himself with his one good arm on the elevator’s opening, then looked down at his assailant. "Hey there," he said to the little dark-haired boy who still had hold of him at his knees. "Andrew! I’m sorry, sir," Andrew’s mother said distractedly as she finally caught up with him. She pried the little boy’s arms from Harm’s legs. "You’re going to put me into an early grave, young man." Something about the woman’s voice sounded vaguely familiar. "Little boys can be pretty rambunctious," he said with the first bit of good humor he’d felt since he’d gotten the news about his mother. The young woman froze at his words. "Are you okay?" he asked, suddenly concerned. Slowly she looked up at the man Andrew had nearly bowled over. She took in the long legs, slender hips, broken arm, but then she got to the face. "Harm?" "Meg?" :: :: ::
24 December 2002 Harm balanced the tray Meg handed him on his cast. "Are you sure you can handle that?" she asked him for the third time. "I’ll be fine. This isn’t the first time I’ve done this." "Call me before you leave town -- I’d really like to get together, without the two holy terrors here," she said as she grabbed Amelia’s hand right before she could take off running down the hall, again. "We have a lot to catch up on." "Will do. Hey Andrew -- watch out for those killer slides. You gotta teach them that you mean business every time you climb that ladder," he called teasingly as the elevator doors closed. Harm had lied. He really could have used the help, but Meg just looked so tired he couldn’t ask. Fortunately, the tray wasn’t too heavy, and since the nurses’ station was next to the elevators, he figured he’d just ask someone up there. The elevator wasn’t moving, though. He felt a moment of panic until he realized that he’d forgotten to push the button. He carefully maneuvered his elbow into position and pressed "5." Meg looked gorgeous. In fact, he’d never seen her look so beautiful. Motherhood definitely agreed with her. According to Meg, Andrew looked just like his father, who died in New York City helping in the search for bodies in the aftermath of September Eleventh. Marshall Powers had been one of the many firefighters from across the country that had volunteered to fly there to help once air service resumed. Meg had looked at Harm with sad eyes as she mentioned that this would be the twins’ second Christmas without their daddy. Amelia, on the other hand, looked just like her mother -- white-blond hair, pale blue eyes, and one darn pretty smile. Looking at the little girl gave him hope that Haley Marie would still prove to be his. Harm had given up hope that he and Mac would ever get back together after having watched Clay with Kate. He realized that what those two had was real love; the kind of love he’d always seen between his mother and father -- the kind of love he wanted. He wasn’t going to get that with Mac. Although he hadn’t said anything to her yet, he had the feeling she knew he’d accepted their separation. When Mac had picked him up at Bethesda, their conversation had been easy and their playful joking had returned. He hadn’t realized just how much he’d missed his best friend until then. No matter what happened in the situation with Haley Marie, he wanted their friendship to continue. Meg had done really well for herself, though. She said she was working for a corporate security firm in their computer investigations department, or something like that -- he hadn’t really been paying attention. Instead, he found he was fixating on her mouth or her hair. God, she had long hair now. She wore it in a braid that nearly reached her waist! He never looked at her that way when they worked together. Meg had just been, well, like the pushy kid next door that he always had to watch out for and to keep out of trouble. He’d never really considered her a partner, not like Mac or Kate had been. Yeah, she was smart -- she knew more about computers than Kate ever did and her knowledge of advanced weapons systems was phenomenal -- but he’d never been impressed with her investigation skills. And here she was working for a firm that did nothing but investigate corporate crime. Go figure. She’d noticed his ring and asked. Harm had been afraid to say anything because he knew he’d just sound so cliché -- "Yes I am, but we’re getting a divorce." Yeah, right, like she’d really believe that. Instead, he managed to stutter out "Yes, seven months ago. We have a little girl." As the elevator doors opened on "5" he wondered if he’d ever stop feeling like a heel. :: :: ::
Meg strapped Amelia into her car seat as Andrew fidgeted in the identical seat next to his sister. "We’re going home, I’m going to fix us all something to eat, then we’re all laying down for a nice nap," she told them. "Mommy’s tired and she’s still got to get ready for Santa Claus to come tonight so we can have lots of presents to open, remember?" "Santa!" Andrew squealed. "Santa Claus!" Amelia echoed. Meg tightened the last strap securing her daughter in and closed the back door of her Mercedes. He’s a married man, she berated herself as she made her way to the driver’s side door. You had him out of your system years ago. Long before you met Marshall. You have no right to look at him that way. She paused in her thoughts a moment to give herself a good mental kick. You are such an idiot, she told herself. You gave him your phone number! Meg gave herself one final mental shaking before she opened the door. <<<I’ll think about this when he calls....IF he calls.>>> :: :: ::
24 December 2002 They’d spent the morning shopping along Pennsylvania Avenue at some of the tiniest, priciest shops Kate had ever been in. Clay sometimes had her wait in the car and would disappear for just a little while before returning with yet another bag to be placed in the limo’s trunk. They drank hot cider and cuddled. They also spent an hour in the liquor store carefully discussing selections of wine for each person on his list. "We’ll deliver them tomorrow in the afternoon, okay?" he said as they left. "Sure. What did you get for your mother?" He heard a little anxiety in her voice. He handed the packages to the driver, who put them in the trunk as they got into the limo. "A pashmina shawl and an antique clock she’s been admiring." "When are we going to stop by Mac’s and give Haley Marie the teddy bear? And did you get something for Mac?" "Tomorrow, and yes, WE did." "We’re going to be really busy tomorrow." Her sigh was more pronounced and just a little petulant. "Hey, what’s wrong?" She had idly been stroking his thigh for most of the trip. Nothing really sexual, it had been almost calming in fact. Now Clay wondered just which one of them she was trying to calm. She stopped and placed her hands in her lap and looked away from him. He quickly glanced at his watch and then looked out the window. Picking up the phone, he said, "Mike, turn right at the next corner. Do you know where Armand’s is? Good." He helped her out of the car and they entered a small, very crowded restaurant. A booming voice rang out. "Clayton! You’re early." A stout woman with gray streaked black hair pushed through the crowd. "No matter, come! Your table’s ready. The senator’s girlfriend stormed out in a huff and he left before the cheese course." Several patrons sniffed in annoyance, but Kate noticed that a couple of them clasped Webb’s hand and wished him Merry Christmas. She was glad that no one said anything to her and Clay didn’t take the time to introduce her. There would be time for that later. Instead he led her up a narrow, richly polished staircase. Small paintings covered practically every inch of space. He opened a door and her gasp thrilled him. "Oh damn, Webb. This is almost decadent." His hot breath on her neck made her wet for him. "You like?" The room was small. The table was meant only for two. A deep bay window overlooked a courtyard covered in snow. Against another wall was a bureau. A coffee carafe sat next to a wine bucket already containing a towel-wrapped bottle. "What’s not to like?" He led her over to the window seat and seated her. At the single knock at the door he sighed. "Yes." The woman came in followed by two people carrying trays with several covered dishes. Quickly, they put them on the bureau and left. The woman quirked an eye at Webb who smiled warmly. "Carmella St. Clair, I would like you to meet Commander Katherine Pike." "Commander! My dear, you are lovely." Kate had never been the most demonstrative of people, but felt completely comfortable being embraced by the woman. "You command him often?" Kate laughed. "Occasionally." "And he obeys?" "Occasionally." The two women laughed together before Carmella kissed Webb on the cheek. "We will leave you alone unless you ring, Clayton." "Thank you Carmella, it smells delicious." "Of course." She smiled and quickly left the room. "Old friend?" "Old colleague." "She was a spy?" "During the cold war, she was the best. She speaks 10 languages." He sat back down on the window seat and pulled her down next to him. "Now, enough of Carmella. What’s bothering you?" She hung her head. "Nothing really. I just...." He lifted her chin with his finger, making her look him in the eye but didn’t say anything. "Clay I’m just nervous that’s all." "About?" Nothing. "Kate, honey? What are you nervous about?" "What if you mother doesn’t like me?" "Why in heaven's name won’t she like you? You don’t drool. At least not while you’re awake and upright.... Ouch." "Don’t tease. I mean it. I’m just nervous because she’s going to be all...." Her hands fluttered. He leaned over and gently kissed her on the lips. "Mother is a great person, Kate. She’s been the only stability in my life. She’s...she’s...she’s my mother and she will adore you. Will you trust me on this?" "And what about your friends?" "What are you, the hunchback of Notre Dame? You’re a beautiful, assured woman. You’re a Commander in the US Navy. What’s up with this?" Kate sighed and tried to stand but this time when he pulled her back it was to his lap. Holding her around the waist, he trailed kisses down her neck. She groaned at the sensation but pulled away, stood and turned to face him. He took her hand in his. "Mother will adore you. I promise." They lunched on wild greens in vinaigrette, crab cakes, and fed each other Christmas stollen for dessert. "What time are we expected?" She allowed him to help her with her coat. "Eight." "Fashionable." "Come on, we have a couple more stops to make." "Well, yeah. Is Landmark Mall nearby?" "A mall! You’re going to drag me into a mall!" "Yep. It isn’t Christmas until you’ve been jostled by the masses, my love." Mike the driver was waiting for them. Clay had called him as they were finishing their coffee and they found him double-parked on the already narrow street. A ‘5’7" 150-pound-soaking-wet’ cop was yelling at him to move. The former linebacker was studiously ignoring the member of DC’s finest. Webb quickly hustled the astonished Kate into the back of the car before the cop could turn his sputtering rage on them. "Mike, Landmark Mall." "You’re kidding me." The rich baritone growled. Webb sighed. "No. That’s where the lady wants to go." The crowds were every bit as bad as he had expected but she ignored them and sailed through them like a Clipper ship cutting through the entire British Navy. All he could do was follow behind her. She studied the color-coded map, found what she was looking for and took off again, trusting that he would keep up. He had to dodge and rush and wished now that he had Mike to run interference for him but he kept her in sight. They managed to ride up the escalators together but she was intent on something and she wasn’t talking. Finally, on the third level she stopped and looked around. "Wait over there." She pointed to a spot across the mall. "Yes, ma’am." He tried to follow her with his eyes but he was pushed against the wall by the hordes and he lost sight of her. He prayed she would find him. Prayed that she didn’t get cold feet about the whole evening ahead of them and ditch him. But he waited and tried to watch the people. Next, he studied each store. There was nothing here that peaked his interest. Except.... "Hi. Sorry it took so long but the line was incredible." " ‘so kay. What did you get?" He glanced down at the bag. "JC Penny's?" "Snob," she sniffed and started to walk away. Again, he followed her. But this time he had a goal that had nothing to do with getting back to the limousine. He got to the inside, next to the wall and kept her between him and the crowd. Not quite the gentlemanly thing to do, but then his ultimate plan wasn’t particularly gentlemanly. As they passed the small corridor leading to "Access Alley – J. Crew, Harry & David, JC Penny’s, Wicks & Sticks -- Authorized Personnel Only," she found herself being tugged out of the flow of last minute shoppers. "Clay?" "Hush." He prayed he would find what he was looking for. He prayed that no one would be out here smoking. The corridor ended in a "T" crossing. Quickly glancing both ways, he made a quick decision and turned right toward Harry & David and Wicks & Sticks. "Clay." Her tone was definitely more concerned but when she looked at him she saw an evil grin on his face. "You owe me for making me get out of bed at the crack of dawn AND dragging me to this hideous place." "Owe you?" She returned his look with one of her own but before she could say anything she found herself being pushed into a dark little alcove. He pushed her against the wall and without warning, brought his lips to hers. She had an instant flashback to her dream from the plane. Groaning, she pulled back and stared at him. It was dark like it had been in the dream. The sounds of the crowds had disappeared. "Isn’t there someplace more secluded?" "Don’t know. It’s quiet here. And, it’s dark." She didn’t have a uniform on today. Instead, he slipped his hands underneath the soft red sweater she had worn with her black slacks. "Clay, you can’t do this here." But she couldn’t help herself. She had been so intent to get started this morning that she hadn’t realized how much she would want this again so soon. As his fingers fondled one of her nipples through her lacy bra, her traitorous hand moved to caress his hardness through the tight jeans he had worn with a blue oxford button-down. He growled his appreciation as, together they lowered each other’s zippers. He had worn his black wool coat and she should have realized that he had something planned when she came out of the store and found he had put it back on. It was hot in the mall. She had known it would be and she had wisely left her coat in the car. "You always plan ahead don’t you, Mr. Webb." She breathed into his shoulder as she quickly lowered his jeans and underwear. He braced his legs so they would only slide so far down his legs. His coat covered them both. She was almost completely protected from sight. In fact, someone would have to actually step into the corridor leading down to the central garbage chute before they spotted the two lovers. Her slacks and thong dropped to the floor and she stepped out of her shoes and the discarded clothes. Within moments, he had her pinned against the wall and he was buried deep within her. She was so wet he slid easily in and out. She buried her nose, not into the collar of a leather jacket like in the dream, but into the softness of his neck. He would have a sizable hickie if the pressure she was putting on his collarbone was any indication. But even that couldn’t muffle the whimpers that escaped her. As in the dream, Clayton had no such compunction, though. Even with his mouth pressed against her neck, his grunts of pleasure seemed to resonate throughout their little alcove. Her feet were off the floor and her legs were wrapped around his waist. As in the dream, the danger of discovery was intoxicating and she felt herself so close to the edge. She clutched at Clay, urging him on, wanting him deeper, praying all the while that no one would try to investigate. Fortunately, unlike the dream, no one woke her or bothered them and they came together in gasping panting moans. He reached down and found his handkerchief and cleaned her before wiping himself off. "There. I think payback is fun. Don’t you?" "Oh yeah. Just you wait." Once they’d adjusted their clothing, he carefully looked both ways and started to lead her down the hall. A door just ahead opened and they found themselves face to face with a startled teenager. Clay muttered. "I guess the bathroom isn’t down this way?" The little blonde studied them, obviously considered their advanced age and then looked directly at the little alcove. "Oh. My. God. You didn’t." Kate looked her right in the eye and laughed. "Honey, just wait. Trust me, it gets better with age." And sailed right by the girl. "Come on...darling, we’ll be late." After stopping at the rest rooms for a more thorough cleanup, they quickly left the mall. Mike put Kate’s bag in the truck and announced. "Well I hope ya’ll are done cause ain’t nothin’ else goin’ back here." "Just one more stop, Mike. We can put the stuff back here with us." "Now where?" she questioned him. "Ellen’s, I want you to pack some more stuff. In fact, I would like you to pack everything, but regardless, I want you to stay with me through the week. ‘Kay?" Kate bit her lip but finally nodded. "Okay, but...." He kissed her quickly. "No buts. I like you with me. And lord knows I have the room. You can even have your own room if you want. Please Kate?" "Now why the hell would I need my own room?" :: :: ::
24 December 2002 "Well yeah, I’m gonna need my own room. Where were you planning on me putting my clothes, Clay?" She stared at his closet in consternation. She had never known any man with so many clothes. He had more shoes -- neatly organized -- than she had owned in her life. And, speaking of neat? "Uh, Clay?" "Yesssss?" There was a note of amusement, exasperation and a little worry. "Uhm...exactly how obsessive are you about your stuff?" "You mean, other than my clothes?" "Yeah." "Not much." He sighed. "Tell me what you want me to do here, Kate?" She turned away from the closet. Picked up her suitcases and walked across the hall to the bedroom he had offered her when they had returned from the shopping trip. "Absolutely nothing." She said with resolve. He followed her into the room, now clearly worried and upset. "Kate?" "No. Don’t," she whispered turning to hug him tightly. "This is small stuff. We can deal. Do you wear all that stuff all year round?" "No." "Good. Then later we will put your summer stuff in here and move my winter stuff in there. I’ll use this room when I’m pissed off at you." "No." "No?" "Rule number one. Never go to bed angry." "Bullshit. Don’t quote platitudes, Clay. We are going to fight. Big time. That’s the way I am and by God I won’t put up with a milquetoast saying ‘Fine’ because he doesn’t want to argue the point." She glared up at him. "Fine," he snarled. "Jesus...that hurt." He rubbed his side where she had pinched him. "You want to fight? Will that get your mind off of tonight? Fine, we’ll fight." He roughly pushed her back to the bed and glared down at her. She was suddenly a little scared. "What are you going...stop. Stop right now. Clayton Webb...damn you!" She tried to get away from his tickling. She tried to kick out at him but he straddled her pulling her hands over her head before descending for a passionate kiss. "No fair," she groaned when he began to suck on her neck. "Hey, you want to check out the mark on my neck. I had planned on wearing a v-neck sweater tonight." "What? You afraid of what momma’s gonna say?" She snarled and he jerked back in surprise. Grinning, she took the advantage and flipped them both until she was straddling his chest. Her knees pinned his forearms. "Leave my mother out of this," he snarled only half in jest. "Oh yeah? Make me." She grabbed his ears and roughly kissed him. Forcing his lips open she invaded his mouth with her tongue. When she broke the kiss he panted, "Oh Jesus, Kate. What you do to me." "This is the nice thing about fights, Clay. The making up." "Oh yeah. Kiss me again." "Okay but just once." The kiss was long and sweet and she finally stretched out on him, freeing his arms and letting him embrace her. He rolled them over, never breaking the seal of their lips until he had to take in a long gulp of air. "I love you, Kate Pike." She sighed. "You can’t. It’s too soon. Besides, I can be a bitch." "I can. I know. And I can be a secretive obsessive bastard. I don’t care." "You will," she whispered, tears springing to her eyes. He kissed them away and rose from the bed. "We’ll deal. Just like we’ll deal with the stupid closet." She sighed and sat up. "You sure?" "Oh yeah. Come on, Kate. You know this is just nerves. I swear it will be fine." "Okay. Get out." "Excuse me?" "Go." She turned him and pushed him to the door. "I’ve got four hours to wrap all my stuff -- and no, I won’t wrap yours. I’ve got to do everything that I have to do to be presentable and I can’t do that if you are touching and groping and kissing." "Hey!" he exclaimed to the closed door. "I like the touching and groping and kissing. And for your information, Commander Pike, I’ve been wrapping my own presents for a hell of a lot years. Thank you very much." "Fine. Go away." He went to his own room, found the gifts he needed to wrap and grinned evilly before returning to the hall. "Kate?" "What?" "Can I have some wrapping paper?" "Here." She shoved a roll out at him. He wrapped several gifts, whistling to himself. The grin never his face. "Kate?" "What?" "I ran out of tape?" "Here." Some ten minutes later he knocked on her door again. "Kate?" Angry, she flung open the door and then burst out laughing. "For God sake. You are insane. Please tell me you will never ever do this again." She plucked the bow off his erect penis and stepped into his naked embrace. "You are insane." "Yes ma’am and I love you. Let me love you, Kate." She took a deep breath. "Oh well, I guess. But." He stroked her back under her sweater and raised his lips from her neck where he had been softly licking the love bite he had left earlier. "But?" "We’ll do it in the shower. I have to take a shower anyway." "A planner. I like a planner." "Yeah, uh-huh." The water was warm, his hands were soft against her skin and she was soaring by the time he impaled her against the wall. "Oh God Clay, don’t stop. Just like that. Yes, yesss, yessssss, yessssssssss," she cried as she came and came hard. "So good. So very, very good." She held him tight as he continued to thrust into her. "Come for me, Clay. Come in me hard, baby." Afterward, he insisted upon cleaning her. "If I watch you touch yourself, I’ll just want to do it all over again." "Where the hell did you get your stamina, Clay?" She whispered as he ran the hand-held showerhead over her body. "You. You make me this way, Kate. I can’t get enough of you," he growled as he helped her out of the shower. She wouldn’t let him dry her off. In fact she banished him from the room again. "I’ve got to finish. I will not be late for dinner at your mother’s. Now go." He sulked all the way out into the hallway. She never saw the self-satisfied grin on his face. "Damn good thing I’ve got this room. Man is going to drive me to distraction," she muttered as she walked to the suitcase she had packed at Ellen’s. Clay had offered to drive Ellen to his mother’s but she had explained that Harrison was picking her up at the shelter and taking her right to Porter’s. "I’ll change there." Kate pulled out black thigh hi’s and carefully pulled them on. Next she found a black demi bra that accentuated her curves. She reached for her black lace panties; grinned evilly and let them fall back to the suitcase. Instead she found a slip. Finally she walked to the closet and pulled out a crepe dress. While it was demure in length and really wasn’t anything other than a basic black number, it made her look good. Real good. Evidently, Clay thought so too. "Damn, Kate." His hoarse whisper was all he could manage. <<<Dear God in heaven -- what she does to me!>>> He started to reach for her, but she slapped his hand away. "Don’t EVEN think about it, mister. Grab those shopping bags." She pulled her alpha dress wool coat from the hanger. He insisted on holding it for her. Needlessly, he smoothed the material over her back. She stepped away and glared at him. "Don’t start, Clay. I mean it." He sighed heavily. "Fine." His arms were full with the gifts they had bought. She wouldn’t let him carry the JC Penny's bag in from the limo. She hadn’t let him touch it even after he offered to carry it out of the alcove. She placed it and another box under the tree. Right next to two boxes with her name on it. They had agreed beforehand that they would open a couple each the following morning. She wouldn’t let him near the tree. "I know you’ll peek." "I don’t peek." "That’s what all peekers say." "Peekers? Peekers? What kind of word is that?" They playfully snipped at each other all the way down the curb where Mike had returned after dropping them off and leaving to have his own dinner and do some last minute shopping facilitated by the rather large tip Clay had bestowed on him. This time when she settled in the seat, she noticed a ice bucket with a bottle of champagne in it. Two glasses rested in the holders next to their seat. "I really shouldn’t, Clay." "You really should. You need to relax." "One." "Depends on how fast you drink it." It took two glasses each before they arrived at the brightly-lit home in Georgetown. The tree was shining through the window, but the only other Christmas decoration was a fresh wreath with a red bow on the door. Clay helped her out of the car. Placing his hand at the small of her back, he guided her up the steps. Kate wasn’t really sure whom she was expecting to meet. Visions of tall, thin, cold-eyed Victorian spinsters had flashed through her mind. Porter Webb was nothing like what Kate had expected. Several inches shorter than her son, her smile was warm and she insisted upon hugging Kate. "I’ve been dying to meet you. Are you sure you’re all right? Ellen has just filled me in on the nasty details. I think you are very brave." Porter took Kate’s coat and handed it to a butler who Webb solemnly introduced as "This is Harrison. He has been with my mother for years." "Nice to meet you, Harrison." "Likewise, ma’am." Porter then embraced her son and whispered. "She’s very pretty, Clayton. Not at all like those blondes you have been seen with over the years." And when have you ever seen me with any blondes, Mother?" he whispered back. "Oh, I have my ways, Clayton," she retorted in a normal tone. "Yes you do, dear." "Come, Kate. You know some of the people, but I want to introduce you to several close friends." She was introduced to a Senator from Virginia and the Governor of Maryland as well as their wives. Next was a very friendly man who was introduced as Tim Fawkes, an old family friend. Clay embraced the man warmly. Thankfully, Ellen was there and Kate went to sit next to her. They were both rather surprised to see Mac sitting in a corner by the window. Clay immediately walked up to her and crouched down to her level. "How you doing?" She smiled tiredly. "Fine. Considering." "Considering Rabb’s mother’s stroke?" She shook her head. "Considering ‘Nana’ Webb insisted that I pack up Haley Marie and come and spend the night." "Excellent! Where is my godchild?" "Mercifully, sleeping. She’ll be up soon enough." "Miss, tonic and lime." Harrison brought a tray and held it before Mac. "Thank you, Harrison." Mac took the glass and smiled over at Kate. "I hear you had one hell of an adventure," she called to her. "Come and tell me all about it. Nobody tells me anything anymore." Promptly at 8:30, Harrison called dinner. At 9:00, Mac excused herself and climbed the staircase to the floor above muttering, "At least she’s like clockwork." When Mac didn’t return in an hour, Porter started to rise. "I think I’ll check on Sarah." Kate hastily stopped her. "Let me, Porter. You stay and visit with your guests." Kate climbed the stairs and went to the room Harrison indicated. "Thank you, Harrison." "I hope the Colonel is well." "I’ll call if there’s a problem." "Yes, miss." Kate tapped softly on the door but didn’t wait for Mac to answer. Pushing it open the light spilled into the room and she saw Mac sitting in a rocker by the window. Haley Marie was sound asleep in her mother’s arms. "You okay?" "Yeah, I’m fine. A little tired. Will you give my good nights for me?" "Sure, Mac. No problem." Kate walked farther into the room and sat on the corner of the bed. "Clay told me." Mac stiffened and her eyes sparked at the betrayal. "Told you what?" she hissed. "About you asking for the divorce. About how hard you are trying to make a good home for Haley." Mac berated herself silently. She should have known that as besotted as Webb was with Pike, he would never betray such a confidence. "Yeah, well sometimes it’s pretty hard day-to-day, you know?" She softly stroked her daughter's thick dark hair. Haley hadn’t lost the baby fuzz like the doctor had insisted was normal. Just one tiny patch on the side where she seemed to constantly rest her head. Unbidden tears threatened to spill over and when she glanced up at Kate’s soft touch on her hand, Kate could see the moonlight reflecting off the brightness in Mac’s eyes. "Oh, Sarah, please. I know we got off on a bad foot two years ago but please, I want you to know, I’m here for you. So is Clay. You mustn’t ever hesitate to call either of us." She gripped Mac’s free hand. "Come on. Put Miss Haley down and come back with me." "In a minute. I promise." After Mac’s tears were shed and her face was rinsed, she rejoined the group for presents. The senator and governor had bid their farewells and only Porter, Fawkes, Ellen, Clay and Kate were settled in the living room around the beautiful blue fir decorated in white lights and Italian glass ornaments. :: :: ::
"Sarah, I’m afraid I am going to be such a pest about this." Porter sighed as Mac opened the third gift addressed to Haley Marie. Each box had held an outfit, one very frilly, the other two just adorable playsets. "I never had a girl to buy for. It seems that all my friends insisted upon having boys." Mac picked up a tiny elastic contraption and Porter actually blushed. "It’s for around her head. Not that anyone would ever think she is anything but a little girl." "Oh Mrs. Webb...." "Porter, dear." "Porter, I can’t thank you enough. They are so pretty. I really haven’t had time to go shopping for her. And everyone at my shower gave me such practical outfits." For the first time since she heard from Harm about Trish’s stroke she genuinely smiled. "The little moose has grown out of most of them." "That’s the way it is supposed to be, dear. Why when Clayton was...." "I think we should move on, Mother, don’t you think?" Clay hastily interrupted. "Of course, dear." Porter smiled conspiratorially at Kate. "We’ll talk later. Perhaps at lunch one afternoon." "Oh, I will definitely look forward to that." Kate sighed happily. This was going to be much easier than she had expected. :: :: ::
Ellen and Porter exchanged almost identical scarves and burst out laughing. "How do we do it?" Ellen chuckled. Porter shook her head in amazement. "Excellent taste?" This wasn’t the first time it had happened. Porter made sure to include Kate in on her thanks for the clock and shawl. She gave Clay several books, a CD and a small box that she insisted that he open in the morning. "I’ll get all teary-eyed if you open it tonight, dear." Clay stood and kissed her on the cheek. "That’s what Christmas is supposed to be about, Mother," and proceeded to open the square box. "Oh...." was all he could manage before he sat back in the settee next to Kate. "Oh." Kate picked up the heavy paperweight. It was all swirls of blue and purple. "It’s beautiful, Mrs. Webb." "It belonged to Clay’s father." Porter choked back the tears. "I just found it last week when I was going through some things in the attic." "Thank you, Mother," Clay whispered. Then he took a deep breath and insisted, "Okay, Commander Pike. What have you gotten me?" "Me? You think I actually got you something for Christmas?" She found the small box and handed it to him. Sitting back down she leaned over and whispered, "The other stuff is definitely not something you want to explain to your mother." His cock twitched but he kept his face perfectly calm and said in a firm voice, "Now why would I want to exchange it?" He pulled the shiny paper from the box, opened the lid and picked up one of the cufflinks to inspect it. "Oh my, Kate. Where the hell did you have this engraved?" "State secret." She winked at Ellen. "Ellen found a very trustworthy artisan at one of the Museum’s workshops. I really don’t think anyone will really notice, do you?" "Don’t care." He breathed before passing it to his mother. "See." "Oh Kate. It’s incredible. Look at the detail. No, I don’t think most people will recognize the CIA emblem. It is perfect, though." Porter insisted. "Well, I’m glad I decided to wear French cuffs tonight. Put them on for me, please." Webb held out his hands and Kate exchanged the simple silver for the heavy gold engraved links. As she was putting on one, Clay fingered the other one and turning it over, finally saw the inscription. "CW with love, KP." He gulped and his eyes met hers as she reached for it. "I love you," he mouthed. She blushed and dropped her head, carefully attaching the other cufflink. He proudly showed everyone, but glared at Ellen. "And the guy who did this? I suppose he knew what it meant?" Ellen laughed. "Of course. I had to give him a picture I found on the Internet. He tried to find out who they were for, but I just gave him my steely stare and told him, ‘if I tell you....’ " "Then I’d have to kill you," the rest of the room finished for her and everyone burst into laughter. Clay had been in a solemn mood after opening the paperweight. It had partly lifted upon first seeing the cufflinks. The laughter completely restored his good mood. Kate fingered the antique locket that Clay gave her. When she opened it she smiled at the pictures he had used. Both of them official ID photos -- hers and Clay’s. "We’ll have to find softer pictures than these, Clay." He just smiled back. He rather liked her official picture. He tensed when she turned it over to read the inscription -- Where have you been all my life? The smile never left her face but he could tell by her eyes, she was touched. "I guess waiting to haul your sorry ass all over Hawaii." Everyone laughed softly and suddenly realized what she had said. "Sorry." She looked at Porter who just laughed and shook her head. "I, for one, am rather glad that you did, my dear." The rest of the gifts were opened and Mac stood up and excused herself. "I have to get up early to be at the Roberts’ home for their ritual. I can’t thank you all enough. Not just for tonight, but for all the support you have given me and Haley Marie." Clay walked her to the bottom of the steps. "Sarah, I didn’t know you were going to be here tonight. We were planning on stopping by tomorrow afternoon to give you and Haley Marie your gifts. I should have called you this afternoon but...." "Clay, stop it. You called me last night." She glanced over at Kate. "I figured your were a little busy." She smiled at Clay’s blush. "And anyway, I know I can always count on you if I need anything." She kissed him gently on the lips. "You are a good friend, Clay and I hope you and Kate are every bit in love as you look." Clay sighed. "I know I am, but I’m not really sure about how Kate really feels about me." "Idiot," Mac snorted and started to turn. "You, not her. Can’t you see the way she looks at you? Good night, Clay." Clay returned to the living room to see Tim helping Ellen on with her coat. His was already on. "Tim, we can drop Ellen off." "No problem, Clayton." Porter came up behind them. "Tim and I will drop off Ellen. We plan to drive around and see the lights." "You do, huh?" "Yes, dear." She offered him her cheek and then embraced Kate warmly and whispered, "I like the way you make my son smile, Kate." It was only 2330 hours when they left Porter’s house. Kate sighed contentedly as she sat back in the seat. "Now I have to say this is one really nice thing about have a chauffeur and car, Mr. Webb." "And what would that be, Commander Pike?" "The car is all toasty warm. No need to sit and shiver until you’re almost home." "Well, there is that." He grinned as he put the bag full of their gifts in one corner before settling next to her. "Uhm...how long do you have the car and Mike?" "For as long as we want. Why? What do you have in mind?" She hid her grin by looking out the window. "Oh, I just thought that your mother had a wonderful idea. I would love to see some of the lights of DC." He ran his fingers down her cheek and whispered. "Then we’ll see the lights." She snuggled into his embrace but soon realized that he seemed distracted. Looking up at him she saw he was staring out the window. "What’s wrong?" "Nothing, I thought we were looking at the lights?" <<<He’s not here with me. What’s going on?>>> Sitting up she studied him and he had a faraway, almost sad look on his face. She stood, ducking her head and shoulders, then stooped until she could lower herself on the floor between the two sets of facing seats. "Clay?" she whispered. "Sweetheart? What is wrong?" He closed his eyes in pain, reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out the heavy paperweight and held it out to her. "You know I remember when he got this. Mother gave it to him the Christmas before he just...." "He just what, Clay? Died? Disappeared?" He nodded and took the globe back from her. "It nearly killed her, Kate." "And?" She knew what he was thinking. She wanted to reassure him but wanted him to get it out first. "And what are you going to feel if it happens to me?" "Terrible. Awful. Like I want to die too, I expect. Clay, I’m not going to lie to you. I think that is the one thing that is holding me back a little. I know once I admit it to myself, there will be no turning back. And even as Deputy Director in Charge of Covert Ops, we obviously both know that hasn’t made you any safer. But Clay, I suddenly realized that if I had asked your mother if she would have known what was going to happen, she would have still married your father. She would still have had you. They were happy weren’t they, Clay." "Yes." He raised his fingers to her hair and pulled her closer until her lips were less than an inch from his. "Are you happy right now, Kate?" "Deliriously." She closed the gap and kissed him. He gently invaded her mouth and their tongues stroked until they were both groaning. Pulling her closer still, he pushed the coat from her shoulders and began to stroke her back. Breaking the kiss he cocked his head to one side and said, "I don’t suppose you ever saw ‘No Way Out’?" Sitting back on her heals, she steadied herself by placing her hands on his knees. Grinning evilly she shook her head. "That was the one where the dark haired beauty makes love to the NAVY Lieutenant Commander in the back seat of a limo as they drive through Washington after dark and the NAVY Lieutenant Commander turns out to be a Russian Spy?" "Yeah that one." "No, I never saw it. What happened?" He started to pull her back to him, but she began to caress his thighs, spreading his legs as she did. He groaned. "That’s not how it happened." "It isn’t?" she breathed, inching closer to him. "You mean she didn’t do this?" She drew her finger down his fly. "No," he gasped. "Oh?" she pouted. "Then I guess she never did this either?" She ran her hands up his chest pausing to rub his nipples through the starched white material. "Well I don’t think so," he whimpered. "Or this?" She expertly divested him of his tie, suit coat and shirt, then tackled his undershirt. She kissed his chest, sucking on each nipple. "Or this?" Her tongue began to trace a line down his sternum before following the path of hair leading to his groin. "God, no," he cried out as she quickly lowered his zipper freeing his straining cock. "Please, Kate." "Well unless you want to explain to the dry cleaners what happened, lift up a little." She pulled his slacks and underwear off. After she did, he toed off his shoes and socks. He was panting heavily now and when she spread his legs again he grabbed her hair and bent over and kissed her hard, biting her lower lip. Pulling back, she gulped. Her composure was pretty much shot but she managed a hoarse. "Did she do this, Clay?" She engulfed him whole and he couldn’t help himself as he rose up to meet her assault. His fingers played in her hair and he tried hard to control his thrusting, but he knew he was so close. When she released him to blow on the head of his cock he found one last ounce of control and grabbed her roughly by the arms. "That’s not how it happened, Kate. I believe it was a little closer to this." He kissed her hard. She threw her arms around his neck and allowed him to pull down the zipper on her dress. Lifting it over her head he pushed her to the seat across from him. As she lay there, sprawled before him, he knelt before her and pulled the slip from her hips and gasped. "Holy shit, Kate. You sat there all evening with no panties. And you didn’t tell me?" "I kinda hoped you would cop a feel. But now I’m glad you didn’t." "Oh yeah. The mall is one thing, but my mother’s pantry is a whole other story." "Come here, Clay." He fingered her nipples through the lacy nothing covering her breasts. Instead of opening the clasp in front though, he gently lifted them up and over their prison before laving them with his tongue. Instead of pulling off her stockings, he left them on. Spreading her legs, he lifted them over his shoulders before bringing his mouth to her already glistening curls. His tongue traced the length of her and his fingers resumed their torture of her breasts. "Claaaaaay," she gasped at the new sensations. "Oh Clay." She gripped his hair, trying to hold his mouth in place but he wasn’t through tormenting her yet. His tongue probed her sex and he had to hold her still, she was thrashing so much. Her fingers fished in his hair, holding him to her. "So close, Clay so close," she whimpered. "Please," she begged. Rising up, he pushed her legs even farther above her, forcing her knees to her chest. Replacing his tongue with his cock, he plunged deep into her core. She screamed his name as he began to pump into her hard and fast and just as he was about to come he pinched her clit and she came again with a groan. Falling forward, he finally released her and she dropped her legs and held him tight. He buried his head in her shoulder and for a moment she watched the bright lights of the mall. It was the first time she had actually paid any attention to what was going on outside the car. "Clay?" "Hmmmmm?" "Clay, these windows are...I mean no one can see inside, can they?" "Don’t think so. Want me to ask Mike?" "Oh shit. Mike? Oh God. What will he think? I know he heard me that one time." Clay placed his chin on her chest and grinned. "Baby, had the President been in residence, he would have heard you." "Oh damn, what will Mike think?" "That I am the flat bottom luckiest son-of-a-bitch on the planet?" He found a whole box of tissue and even a couple of towels. Holding them up, he grinned. "What do you think, Commander? I think we aren’t the first couple to ‘do it’ back here." "Ewwwwww." She glanced at the seat and sighed. "Leather. Poor Mike. Will he have to clean this up?" She rubbed away the proof of their lovemaking. "You will tip him again?" "Enough for a down payment on his own limo, darling." Webb laughed and handed her the slip and dress. When he finally called Mike and told him take them home, Kate insisted he open the windows. "It smells like sex in here." "Yeah and it’s toasty warm. If I open the...oh okay." He grumbled as he flicked a button. The moon roof slid open and a light sprinkling of snow drifted in. By the time they reached his townhouse, she was satisfied that everything was as back to normal as it could be. As Mike held the door for them, Webb shook his hand and placed several bills in it as he did. "Now, Mr. Webb, ain’t no call for that. You already tipped me before dinner." "Merry Christmas, Mike." "Merry Christmas, sir." He tipped his hat to Kate. "Ma’am." By the look on his face you would have thought he had driven the dowager duchess to high tea with the first lady. "Merry Christmas, Mike," she whispered. Her cheeks were red with cold and embarrassment. As they entered the foyer she yawned, which caused Clay to follow suit. Looking at the presents under the tree he asked. "Tomorrow morning, right?" "Absolutely." She waited for him to turn off the lights, double-check the locks and set the security alarm. Wrapping his arm around her shoulders, they walked up the stairs together. Home :: JAG Index :: e-mail Paula :: e-mail TheLadyT |