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Title: Gold Wings and Dress Whites: Parts 11 to 15
Author: Anaika Skywalker
Author’s Email: lindsay30@xxxxxxxxx.xxx.xx
Rating: 13
Summery: An old friend of Harm’s comes back into his life and old feelings resurface between them.
Disclaimer: I don’t own JAG; I just like to spread my wings occasionally.
Author’s Note: I’ve never written a Jag story until this one. As you may of guessed by my penname what I usually do write, but despite this I thought I’d give it a go, as I love JAG too. After all you do know what they say about gold wings and dress whites, if you don’t then it’s time to watch the pilot episode of JAG again. And I really wish they’d put season eight on here in Australia. Well enough of my ramblings, please review and let me know if I’m on the right track.
Author’s Extra Note: After getting only two reviews for this story, I decided to go back and do a little rewriting, to fix up a few things and make a few changers hopefully for the better. I’d also to thank everyone at dresswhites.net for all the information on Harm, knowing when, and what he’s been up to since leaving high school has helped me fit Sera into this story - my sincere thanks. - A/S
Chapter Eleven: The Wedding
Rabb Residence
MacLean, Virginia
24th December 2000
(The morning of the Wedding)
Chloe answered the ring phone. “Rabb’s residence.”
“Chloe its Admiral Chegwidden, is Sera there?”
“No sir, she went out jogging about an hour ago, said she needed to clear her head.”
“Damn! So did Harm,” he swore.
“I’m sure they wouldn’t meet up sir,” Chloe said innocently.
“I wouldn’t be. Thanks Chloe.”
“No problem sir,” she hung up chuckling.
Corey came into the kitchen. “Who was on the phone?”
“Admiral Chegwidden, it seems your dad went jogging this morning too,” she smirked and saw him grin, which made her knees week. He was his father’s son when it came to that flyboy grin.
“They had to clear their heads right,” he mused, knowing full well what his smile did to her.
“Yeah, I think the Admiral is going to blow a fuse.”
Grandma Sarah came into the kitchen. “And why is Admiral Chegwidden going to blow a fuse?”
“Mum went out for a jog this morning and it seems so has Dad,” Corey told her.
“I wouldn’t worry,” his great grandmother said calmly.
Chloe was going to comment when they heard the door open and laugher.
Sera and her sister came into the kitchen. “Morning.”
“Hi Mum,” Corey kissed her cheek.
“Hi sweetheart,” she greeted. “Morning Grams, did you sleep well?”
“Like a baby, honey. How was your run?” Grandma Sarah inquired.
“Long,” Samantha answered for her sister. “I still don’t know why anyone would want to get up early to run in the snow.”
Sera grinned. “You should try running on the deck of an aircraft carrier,” she suggested cheerfully. “It’s just as much fun.”
Her sister snorted very un-lady like. “Sure.”
Grandma Sarah made herself a cup of tea. “So did you happen to meet up with Harm?”
“No,” Sera shook her head, suddenly concerned. “He was out running?”
“Admiral Chegwidden called this morning and said he’d gone jogging,” Chloe revealed. “I’m sure he’s back by now.”
Sera grabbed the phone and dialed the Admiral’s number, he answered quickly. “It’s Sera, sir. Is Harm back?”
“Just walked through the door, Sera,” he told her. “He assures me he didn’t meet up with you.”
“No sir he didn’t. It was just Sam and I.”
“Well I’m trusting you, only because Mac was with him. Now Lieutenant Commander, relax your getting married in a few hours.”
“Yes sir.”
“Good, we’ll see you at the church.”
“Yes sir,” she said, and then hung up. “I think I’ll take a shower.”
“What about breakfast?” Grandma Sarah asked.
“I’m not hungry,” she said happily and then wondered out.
“Nerves,” Samantha noted.
“So did she meet up with Harm?” Chloe asked excitedly.
“No, we jogged, that’s it.”
“Bummer.”
Corey laughed. “As if dad would try and see her or even sneak back here.”
“Well enough speculating,” Grandma Sarah told them. “Lets get breakfast, Trish and Frank will be here soon, as will Ryan and Rebecca.”
In the main bedroom, Sera slipped in and had a shower; she came out in her bathrobe, stopping sharply. Her husband-to-be was sprawled on the bed. She grinned. “How did you get over here?”
“I jogged,” Harm mused and pulled her down onto the bed, kissing her before she could comment.
She sighed. “How long do you think we have?”
“I’d give Mac 30 minutes to realize I’m not in the shower,” he answered.
Sera pushed him back against the bed and straddled his hips. “I’ll take it.”
“I thought you would,” he drew her down and kissed her, throwing all his passion into it and they made love as quietly as they could which wasn’t easy for the two of them.
“You should be getting out of here,” she said lazily, drawing circles on his chest with her finger.
“I know, but I’m comfortable.”
“I know the feeling, but,” she placed a kiss where she’d been stroking. “We are getting married this afternoon.”
He smiled. “We are aren’t we?”
“Uh huh.”
“Well then,” he got up and got dressed, turning back when he had. “I’ll just get my six out of here.”
Sera drew the sheet around her body as she knelt on the bed. “It’s a good thing this isn’t a two story house.”
“Damn good thing considering I climbed through the window,” he smirked, then lent on the bed and kissed her. “See you later.”
“You bet, don’t be late.”
“Never,” he kissed her again. “I love you.”
“I love you too.”
She watched as he eased his 6’4 frame out the window and jogged off in the direction of the Admiral’s house.
After taking another quick shower, Sera got herself dressed and went out to the kitchen.
Trish was there with Frank and her parents. “Tea, honey?”
“Yes, thank you,” she sat beside her Dad.
“Are you alright honey, you look a little peaky?” he asked her.
“I’m fine Dad,” she assured, smiling happily.
Samantha came in, standing behind her sister, she whispered in her ear. “I know what you’ve been up too,” she then chuckled as Sera blushed. “My secret.”
Rebecca swatted her daughter. “Leave your sister alone Sam.”
“Yes Mum,” she said, then pooked her tongue at her sister, who did the same to her.
Grandma Sarah sighed and then chuckled; it was nice to hear family laughing.
********************
The Wedding.
24 December 2000
********************
Sarah ‘Mac’ Mackenzie had been at her partner side through the best of times and the worse of times. You could say they’d been to hell and back and survived, making them closer friends then ever.
Now she had the honor of standing at his side as he got married. Something she swore she’d never though she’d do, not fancy free Harm. Yet she’d also quickly discovered she hadn’t known her best friend as well as she thought she did. He’d had a secret life and a secret love. His love for Sera made her think of the poem that was in Angel’s End, the last novel of the Angel series. It was a poem that could have been written for Harm and in a way it had been, considering who the author was. These were Sera’s thoughts, even though she was using them for the character in the novel.
‘I never realized how helpless he could feel until I saw him sitting there,
The tears in his eyes, the relief on his face so handsome and strong
When I was falling apart he held me together.
When I was willing to give up he wouldn’t let me.
And I cannot give up on him; I will not give up on him.
Through thick and thin we will remain together, side by side.
Two old souls who have found their way to each other,
Who will remain beside each other until the end?
Now standing there waiting for the bride to arrive, Mac considered herself lucky to have been a part of Harm’s life and have such a close friendship with him and Sera especially now at this moment.
“Are you all right?” she asked him.
Harm nodded, but didn’t say anything glancing around in wide-eyed awe. Admiral Chegwidden and Admiral Mitchell had said they had a surprise for them, Harm had never expected this. Never.
“He’s nervous Colonel,” Bud whispered in Mac’s ear.
“I’d say so, Bud,” she agreed.
“Dad.”
Harm came out of his daze, finding his son standing in front of him. “Yes?”
“She’s here Dad,” Corey informed. “Good luck,” He smiled, and then returned to his seat next to Grandma Sarah.
Harm managed an uneasy smile, teasing Mac about something he’d noted earlier. “By the way your sister is sweet on my son.”
Mac groaned. “Don’t even think about it flyboy.”
He chuckled but didn’t comment. This was it. He was marrying Sera, his Sera and of all places - the deck of the Patrick Henry. This was a secret everyone had known about except for himself and Sera.
A red carpet divided the rows of chairs, which were all decorated with white covers and flowers. An archway stood at the top, decorated with white ribbons and silk flowers. The minister stood before it, a Navy Chaplin.
Behind him was Admiral Mitchell’s surprise, A F-14 Tomcat, Sera’s Tomcat to be correct, from the Liberty Bell. It had been flown over by the Liberty Bell’s Gag, who was attending the wedding a long with Lieutenant David Smith, who had the honor of becoming Sera Rabb’s RIO.
Looking over the guest, Harm noticed a sea of military dress uniforms with only a sprinkle of civilian attire. These were their family and friends.
The wedding march began and he saw them, little Emily in her pretty cream dress came first, then, Chloe, who also wore a cream dress. Samantha was next, her cream dress a little more daring then Chloe’s. Sole attention though was on the Bride.
Sera wore a figure-hugging gown, the straight skirt was a cream color, and the bodice was black velvet and gold lace, as were the long sleeves. Small silk flowers were delicately woven into her hair; she looked a vision, an Angel. His Angel.
Her father guided her to her future husband, kissing her check before joining his wife.
The Chaplin began the service. “We’re gathered her today to witness the wedding of Harm and Sera. From the moment they met they knew their lives were destined to be together, through their love of the Navy, their love of the law, of flying and family. Tragedy and triumphs have tested their loyalty and friendship, showing them an eternal love for each other. It is fitting that this union takes place here on the deck of the Patrick Henry; it was here that Harm and Sera took to the air in defense of their country. It is here today that they become man and wife.”
Harm and Sera faced each other on prompting from the Chaplin, Samantha taking Sera’s bouquet so she could join hands with Harm.
“Harm and Sera the vows you take today are those which you have decided on. Harm,”
He smiled at his lovely bride. “I, Harmon David, take you Sera Elisabeth to be my wife and partner in this life and the next. You are my Angel, I cherish your love and devotion to all you set your mind too. I feel honored to be your husband and the father of our son.”
Sera smiled as tears misted her eyes. “I, Sera Elisabeth, take you Harmon David to be my husband and partner in this life and the next. You’re my soul mate, my strength in times of need; you have encouraged me to achieve all that I have. I’m honored to be your wife and mother of our son.”
The Chaplin gestured little AJ forward, taking the smaller of the two rings from the cushion he carried, he handed it to Harm.
Harm gentle slipped the ring on Sera’s finger. “I give this ring as a symbol of my love and commitment to you as your husband.”
The Chaplin then took the last ring and gave it to Sera; she slipped it on Harm’s finger. “I give this ring as a symbol of my love and commitment to you as your wife.”
“It is my pleasure before God, family and friends to pronounce you husband and wife,” the Chaplin proclaimed. “Harm you may kiss your wife.”
“Yes sir,” he said happily, cupping Sera’s face in his hands he did just that.
Mac turned and signaled the guard of honor to form up, which they did quickly and quietly.
Harm broke the kiss and took Sera’s hand as they turned. Mac and little AJ had moved to the head of the honor guard, which his father was a part of; they had drawn their swords.
“Ladies and Gentlemen,” Mac announced. “I present for the first time, Commander and Mrs. Harmon Rabb, Jr.”
All stood and clapped as the bride and groom walked beneath the drawn swords. As they passed Elisabeth Hawks and Jack Keeter, Harm and Sera were swatted on the six’s with their swords, Hawkes and Keeter saying “Go Navy!”
Harm and Sera laughed, continuing as the guard of honor was dismissed.
Matt congratulated his sister and brother-in-law, then went over to Mac, who was making sure little AJ got back to his parents. “Nice touch there at the end.”
“I thought so and both Keeter and Skates were happy to assist,” she mused.
He drew her away from the crowd. “There’s something I want to ask you.”
“You can ask me anything,” she told him happily.
“All right,” he took a deep breath, letting it out he asked her. “Sarah Mackenzie, will you marry me?”
She stared at him in shock, until it hit her was he was asking. She grinned silly. “Yes.”
He produced a small velvet box from his pocket and removed a ring from it, slipping it on her finger. “I love you Sarah.”
“I love you Matt,” she said, and then kissed him.
Sergei saw them as he was congratulating his new sister-in-law. “I suggest you throw Mac the bouquet.”
“I think I should,” Sera smirked. With Sergei in his dress blues, both Rabb brothers were now apart of the US Navy. She put her hand on his shoulder. “Just remember to take it easy at Pensacola, Lieutenant Rabb.”
“I shall Lieutenant Commander Rabb.”
“There are way too many Rabb’s in one spot,” Admiral Chegwidden announced. He kissed Sera on the cheek. “Congratulations, Sera.”
“Thank you sir.”
He then shook Harm’s hand. “Remember Commander, I don’t take lightly to brooding husbands in my office.”
“I’ll restrict my brooding to home sir.”
“Good, carry on.”
“Aye, aye sir.”
Sera slipped her arm around her husband as one by one each guest came and wished them well before they were then ushered away by the photographer to have the wedding photos taken, some with the Tomcat in the background.
The sun was setting behind them as the last of the photos were taken; the guests had been shown into the marquee that had been set up for the reception.
Harm drew his wife into his arms, his mouth claming hers in a lingering kiss.
The photographer captured the moment without their knowledge, then left the newly weds alone.
They were about to join the reception when they noticed a man standing not far from them, a wrapped box in his hands.
Harm knew who it was. “Webb.”
Clayton Webb came closer. “Harm. Congratulations,” he shook his hand, then handed him the gift. “The President wanted me to give you this.”
“The President?”
“Well your wife did give him a ride in a Tomcat,” he glanced at Sera. “You made a friend.”
“Thank you,” she said sincerely.
He shrugged. “Well, I’ve got to go.”
“Wait, Clay,” Harm stopped him. “Stay, have a drink with us.”
Webb hesitated for a moment. “All right, if you insist.”
“We insist,” Sera said happily.
Nodding he went with them into the marquee. At the bridal table, Sera opened the gift Webb had brought from the President. Inside the cautiously packed box were two crystal Tomcats the size of a man’s hand. Looking carefully, the first had ‘Angel’ etched under the canopy, the second had ‘Hammer’. Harm and Sera glanced at each other, then Webb.
“Well you are both Aviators, he thought it appropriate as did the First Lady.”
“I’ll make sure we send him a thank you note,” Sera insisted, and then replaced them both carefully. Then kissed his cheek. “Thank you, Clay.”
“You’re welcome,” he said embarrassed.
“So how did the President know we were getting married today, Clay?” Harm inquired.
“Your father-in-law,” he answered, then wondered off to get a drink.
Sera smiled. “Well he does have the Presidents ear,” she said casually.
“True,” he agreed, then drew her into his arms. “I love you Mrs. Rabb.”
“I love you Mr. Rabb,” she said, then rose on his toes and kissed him.
********************
Chapter Twelve: Conclusions
The Wall
Christmas Eve
11:30 Zulu
********************
It wasn’t unusual to find Harmon Rabb, Jr. at the wall on Christmas Eve; it was unusual to have someone with him. Or two someone’s as it was on this cold, snowy night. But here he was with a woman also in Naval uniform and a teenager, all three in heavy coats.
Jenny Lake watched them from a distance, twelve months ago she’d stood near the wall and recalled her meeting with Harmon Rabb, Sr. to his son.
Sighing Jenny smiled and turned to leave, she didn’t want to intrude.
Harm looked back and saw her. “Miss Lake, Jenny?”
She stopped and turned, seeing this warm smile. Returning it she walked over to them. “Hello Harm.”
“It’s nice to see you again,” he greeted, and then took his wife’s gloved hand in his. “This is my wife Sera and my son Corey.”
Jenny was surprised to say the least. “Congratulations, last time we spoke you were spending Christmas alone.”
“Only because Sera was at sea that Christmas,” he admitted with that flyboy smile of his.
“Dad spent some of it with me,” Corey informed, happily.
Jenny couldn’t help but grin. “You also never told me you had a son, Harm. Nor that he was handsome like his dad.”
“I only found out myself recently, you could say I got a few early Christmas presents this year.”
“Harm told me how you were on the Ticonderoga the Christmas Eve his dad was shot down,” Sera announced.
Jenny nodded. “I was with the USO tour, I kept going back each year until our boys came home, one way or another.”
“I know Ma’am, you did a show on the USS Enterprise Christmas Eve 1970. You signed my father’s flight jacket.”
She thought back. “Your father wouldn’t have been Lieutenant Ryan ‘Bulldog’Mitchell by any chance?”
“Yes Ma’am,” Sera said amazed Jenny Lake remembered.
“How is he?”
“He’s a Rear Admiral now Ma’am, with the President’s ear and a second wife.”
“Well I’m glad he’s still here with us.”
“As am I, Ma’am,” Sera agreed whole-heartedly.
“Well I have to go, I’m visiting my grandchildren,” Jenny said cheerfully. “Have a Merry Christmas.”
“Merry Christmas,” each bided before she left.
Harm turned back to the Wall, he touched his father’s name with his gloved fingers. “Merry Christmas Dad,” he whispered. “Look after Sera for me while she’s at sea.”
Corey moved closer to his father. “We’ll be fine Dad and so will Mum.”
“I know Corey.”
Sera smiled. “Come on guys it’s cold, lets go home and get warm.”
“Good idea Lieutenant Commander Rabb,” Harm said smiling.
“I thought so Commander Rabb,” she said laughing, grinning. Then heard her son groan. “Groaning is not expectable Mr. Rabb.”
“Sorry Ma’am,” he said coming to attention.
Harm laughed. “At ease Mr. Rabb, lets move out.”
“Aye sir,” he smirked, happily going with his parents. This Christmas they were together. They were a family and that was all that mattered.
******
Day is Done, Gone the Sun,
From the Sea, From the Hills,
From the Sky, all is well.
Safely rest, God is nigh.
********************
Chapter Thirteen: The Path We Walk
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church, Virginia.
Washington DC.
********************
Captain Joseph Janus stepped off the elevator and walked through the doors to the officers of the Judge Advocate General Core. The place was a hive of activity. No wonder Angel feels more relaxed in the cockpit of her Tomcat, he mused to himself.
A Gunnery Sergeant approached him. “Captain Janus,”
He recognized the man from Rabb’s wedding. “Gunnery Sergeant Galendez?”
“Yes sir. Can I help you?”
“I’m looking for Commander Rabb, is he around?”
“In his office sir,” the Gunny announced, and then showed the Captain the way.
“Thanks Gunny.”
“You’re welcome sir,” he acknowledged, and then went back to work.
Joseph Janus chuckled; he knocked then opened the door, going in.
Harm glanced up from the brief he was looking over; he wasn’t expecting to see who he did. “Captain Janus,” he was instantly on his feet.
“Relax Harm, nothings wrong. I’m in town for my daughters wedding.”
Harm forced a smile, he gestured for the Captain to sit as he did so himself. “How is Amy sir?”
“Working herself into a state, still she is getting married. I’m sure Sera was just as bad,” Joseph declared lightly.
“As I recall sir, no. She was more relaxed the day of our wedding then I was,” Harm recalled, “But then again she’d done it before.”
“True,” the Captain agreed. “So how are you and Corey?”
“We’re good.”
“Yes well, I had orders to ask,” Joseph said smiling. “And since I left Sera acting Cag, I thought I’d humor her.”
Harm laughed. “So she’s settling in okay?”
“Just fine, the squad loves her,” he put his cover on Harm’s desk. “To be honest Harm, you’d never know she had a three month break,” he sat back in his chair, he knew the look in the Commander’s eyes. “You miss it, don’t you?”
“Some days more than others,” Harm admitted. “I’m still flight qualified so I get to fly.”
“You’d make a good Cag, Harm, the Skipper said so himself. He told me he’d have you in a heartbeat, and his exact words were ‘stuff regulations, they’re a dam good team’, unquote,”
“Well I don’t think the Navy would agree with him.”
“Maybe not, but he knows good officers when he sees them,” Joseph informed. “And he’s looking Harm, I’m leaving at the end of this tour. I’ve been at sea for most of my married life, it’s time for a change.”
“What will you do?”
“There’s a trainers position opening at Fallon, the Skipper put in a good word with the CO there. It’s mine. Ally’s happy, she’s looking forward to having me home and I get to train young pilots and keep flying.”
“You could get stuck with a bunch of Sera clones,” Harm joked. Though he knew what it was like to leave a squadron.
“Well I’d rather a clone of her, then some of the pilots I’ve had to deal with.”
“You’ll be missed, Sera speaks highly of you in her calls home and emails.”
“Yes well she’s a little one sided, she’s known me since she was a kid,” Joseph revealed, and then sighed. “Harm I’ve watched kids like Sera come through the ranks, some good, some not so good. It’s time to give something back.”
Harm understood. “I wish you well sir.”
“Thank you,” he rose to his feet, as did the Commander, taking his cover. “Come by the house for dinner, bring Corey, Ally would love to see you both.”
“I’ll do that,” Harm agreed and walked the Captain out. He spotted Harriet and called her over. “Captain Janus, this is Lieutenant Harriet Sims. Lieutenant Commander Bud Roberts’ wife.”
“It’s nice to meet you Lieutenant,” Joseph greeted.
“You too sir,” she replied smiling, a little anxious. “Sir would you know how Bud is. I mean Commander Roberts.”
He chuckled. “I know what you mean Lieutenant and ‘Bud’ is just fine. He’s a friend of Angel’s, so my aviators treat him well.”
“Thank you sir.”
He smiled. “I’d be happy to deliver a letter to him Lieutenant when I return. I’ll be in port until Sunday, why don’t you and AJ, isn’t it? Come to dinner with the Commander and Corey tomorrow night?”
“Thank your sir, I’d like that.”
“Good I’ll see you all than,” he nodded to Harm. “Commander. Nineteen hundred and don’t be late.”
“We wont sir.”
He smiled and hurried away.
Harriet was a little stunned. “I didn’t expect that, Commander.”
“Well Captain Janus knows you and AJ are family, Harriet,” Harm said gently. “Would you like Corey and I to pick you and AJ up or would you just like to follow us there.”
“I think it might be best if I just follow you sir.”
“All right Harriet, we’ll be at your place at eighteen thirty.”
“Yes sir.”
He smiled, returning to his office where he sat at and sent an email off to his wife, letting her know of the Captain’s visit and the dinner invitation. Once it was done he sat back in his chair and stared out the window. Thinking of what Joseph Janus had said to him.
Mac found him in the same position a few minutes later, she knocked then went further in. “Hey you awake in here?”
Turning he smiled warmly. “Yeah, what’s up?”
“Want to grab some lunch?”
“Yeah,” he stood and grabbed his cover, following her out. Taking their lunch down to the courtyard.
Mac could see there was something bothering him. “What’s wrong Harm?”
“It’s nothing.”
“Harmon Rabb, don’t lie to me,” she ordered.
His flyboy grin eased onto his face. “I had a visit from Captain Janus.”
“The Cag from the Liberty Bell?”
He nodded. “He’s on leave for his daughters Wedding, Sera is acting Cag until he returns. He invited, Corey and I, as well as Harriet and AJ to dinner tomorrow night.”
“Is that what’s bothering you?” Mac asked concerned.
“No. It’s... Mac do you remember the night I came over and told you about putting in my request to change designators?” he asked and saw her nod. “After I left your place I went home and rang Sera and poured my heart out to her.”
“What did she say?”
“She told me to follow my heart. The same thing I told her when Chris was killed and she was thinking about becoming an aviator.”
“You loved her even than, didn’t you?” Mac stated and saw him nod. “So what does this have to do with the Captain’s visit?”
“It was something he said to me,” he informed vaguely.
“Harm,” she reached across the table and put her hand over his, her fingers brushing over his wedding band. “Tell me what’s bothering you, maybe I can help?”
“He told me the Skipper of the Liberty Bell thinks I’d make a good Cag. That he’d have me in a heartbeat, in his words ‘stuff regulations, they’re a dam good team’ unquote. Captain Janus is leaving the carrier after this tour. It just made me think what may have happened if my ramp strike had never happened. Where would I be now? What kind of person would I be?”
“And?” she pushed, knowing he needed to talk about this.
Pulling his hand free he sat back. “All I could think about was I probably wouldn’t of met you or Sera, I would never have known about my father or Sergei and I’d never have known about my son.”
“But you would have been still flying and possibly Cag,” Mac supplied and saw him nod. “Harm...”
“No Mac, it’s okay, I don’t have any regrets. I love doing what I am this is my life. What could have been never happened, this is my path.
She smiled in relief. “Than I have nothing to worry about?”
“Nothing at all,” he dismissed, than asked. “So where is Matt?”
“Norfolk interviewing a witness,”
“Haunting his old stomping grounds, huh?” Harm teased.
Mac laughed. “Something like that,” she agreed.
They finished their lunch and were about to head inside when they head Harm’s name being called out.
He turned and saw a pretty, but very pregnant blond headed woman in Naval uniform hurrying towards them. “Meg?”
She smiled. “Hi Harm,” she greeted, and than asked. “Permission to hug the Commander?”
“Permission granted, Lieutenant Commander,” he insisted and drew her into his arms for a friendly hug. “You look wonderful.”
She blushed and grinned. “I look like a house sir, but thank you.”
Mac held back a laugh, holding her hand out to Meg, smiling. “Lieutenant Colonel Sarah Mackenzie,” she introduced herself.
“Lieutenant Commander Meg Austin-Smith, Ma’am,” Meg stated, shaking the Marines hand. “Harm would of gotten around to it sooner or later.”
“Most likely later,” Mac smirked.
“Hey, I didn’t even know you’d gotten married, Meg,” Harm defended himself.
“That’s all right sir, it was kind of a shot gun wedding,” she mussed patting her swollen belly gently. “David is a Radar Intercept Officer aboard the USS Liberty Bell. We meet during a case and fell in love, about six months ago, I heard they were on a three-day stop over in Hawaii and I flew over to surprise him. The result was this little ones conception. When David found out I was pregnant, he purposed and we got married straight away.”
Harm and Mac glanced at each other, both thinking the same thing, both with silly grins on their faces.
“Lieutenant Commander, your husband wouldn’t be ‘Zapper’ by any chance?” Mac asked her.
“Yes Ma’am he is,” she answered as Harm laughed. “What’s so funny sir?”
“Meg, your husband is my wife’s RIO,” he informed. “My wife - Lieutenant Commander Sera Rabb is an aviator aboard the Liberty Bell.”
“Angel is your wife?”
“Yes.”
She shook her head, chuckling. “It’s a small world sir.”
“That it is Meg.”
“So what brings you to JAG, Meg?” Mac asked as they started inside.
“The Colby case Ma’am,” she informed, explaining the case regarding Gunnery Sergeant Colby.
“It’s a strong case against him,” Mac noted as they entered Harm’s office and sat down.
“I know Ma’am, but I’m confident with the help of this witness we can turn things around,” Meg declared, happy to be off her feet.
“Well I wish you luck.”
“Thank you Ma’am.”
Harm saw Matt come into ops. “Mac, Colonel Mitchell is back.”
She glanced around and smiled. “Excuse me,” she stood. “It’s was nice meeting you Meg, please don’t get up,” she insisted, than left the office.
Meg smiled at Harm. “So that’s Mac?”
“It is and that’s her fiancé,” he acknowledged, “Who happens to be my brother-in-law.”
“You’re a gluten for punishment.”
“True,” he smirked. He picked up the framed photo that sat on his desk and showed it to her. “And that’s Sera.”
She took a look, remembering him talking about Sera. “Wow, you weren’t exaggerating when you said she was beautiful, were you?”
“No, I wasn’t,” he said smiling that flyboy grin of his as he put the photo back. “And well you do know what they say about Gold wings and Dress whites.”
She laughed. “I do,” she mused. Than told him. “It was good to see you again Harm.”
“It’s good to see you too Meg.”
********************
USS Liberty Bell
Persian Gulf
********************
Lieutenant David Smith sat down at his driver’s table, putting his dinner down. “Hey I just spoke to my wife, you never said your husband and my wife were partners at one time?”
She stopped pushing her dinner around her plate and looked up innocently. “Meg knows Harm?”
“She does,” he rolled his eyes at her. “Oh come on, you’re trying to tell me you didn’t know?”
Grinning she gave in. “Harm’s told me about all his partners, Kate, Meg and Mac. We have no secrets.”
“Well apparently he told Meg about you too.”
“I’m flattered,” she mused, and than gave up on her dinner. “So was that all you came to bug me about, Zapper?”
“Nope, I wanted some advise.”
“Oh?”
“Well with the little one on the way, I want to make sure if anything happens to me, Meg and my son or daughter will be all right.”
“You can update your Will, you don’t need to wait until the baby is born to do that, once the baby is born you need only update it,” Sera informed. “Bud can help you with that.”
“I was kind of hoping you would.”
“How about I help out, Bud is the JAG onboard, and he’s a damn good lawyer.”
“All right.”
“Anything else?”
“Well,” he hesitated, and than brought out a copy of her latest book. “Could you sign it for me?”
Sera laughed. “I’ve been onboard for nearly three months and you’re just asking now?”
He shrugged. “Meg only sent it to me a few weeks ago.”
“Okay,” she took the book and the pen he handed her and signed it. Giving it back to him. “There you go.”
Opening it he read what she wrote. ‘To Zapper, clear skies my friend. Angel.’ “Thanks Sera.”
“You’re welcome,” she stood. “I’ll see you later.”
“Unless you want to fly alone,” he jeered.
“Funny Zapper, keep that up and I might think about it,” she smirked.
“Oh that hurt Angel,” he mocked as she walked away from him.
She merely laughed and kept walking, heading for the ready room.
Captain Mitchell came up behind her. “Can I have a word, Angel?”
“Of course sir.”
He handed Sera the report he been carrying as they entered the ready room. “We’ve just received word we have a peeping Tom, one that’s packed with explosives, we could be looking at a terrorist attack,” he pointed to the map hanging on the wall. “We’re here and the Patrick Henry is here, either one of us could be a target.”
“Or neither of us, we could be looking at something bigger.”
He nodded. “So far our orders are to keep our eyes on peeping Tom.”
“We’ll do that.”
Pete pattered her on the back. “You’re doing a good job, Sera.”
“Thank you sir.”
“On a more personnel note,” the Skipper said calmly. “How are you Sera?”
“I’m fine sir, a little tired but I’m handling it,” she answered.
“Have you spoken to Harm, lately?”
“A couple of days ago, I got an email from him tonight. He’s having dinner tomorrow night with the Cag,” she revealed. “Harriet and AJ Roberts were invited along too. Corey emailed me as well saying he’s looking forward to it.”
Pete crossed his arms against his chest, smiling. “He’s more likely interested in picking the Cag’s brain about flying. He’s his father’s son when it comes to that.”
“Yes sir he is.”
“And I’d guess he’s smart like his mother when if comes to the approach.”
“That he is sir, thank you.”
Uncrossing his arms he pattered her on the shoulder. “I need to get back to the bridge, but if you ever need to talk. You know where to find me.”
“Yes sir.”
He gave her a friendly smiled than left the ready room.
Sera sat down and twisted her wedding band around her finger. It was times like these she missed Harm the most. His love. The way he knew when she needed to be held, like now.
Glancing at her watch, she saw she had time, going quickly to the Cag’s office. Sitting behind his desk she made a call state side.
Harm’s voice filled her ear. “Rabb.”
“Hi honey.”
“Sera,” he chuckled. “I was just thinking about you.”
“I know,” she mused. “I’ve got a little time before my next mission, so I thought I’d call.”
He wasn’t quiet convinced. “Are you okay, you sound a little tired?”
“I am, being Cag isn’t the walk in the park Joseph Janus makes it out to be.”
“Well I’m sure the Cag wouldn’t have left you in charge if he didn’t think you could do it.”
“I know,” she heard a knock. “Hang on Harm,” she covered the mouthpiece. “Enter!”
Bud Roberts came in. “Can I have a word Commander?”
“Sure Bud, close the hatch,” she ordered, when he had she removed her hand. “Harm, Bud’s just come in. Let me put you on speaker and you can say hello.”
“Sure babe.”
She did, sitting back. “Okay Harm.”
“Hi Bud.”
“Evening sir,” he greeted smiling. Knowing the Commander was probably rolling his eyes at the sir.
“Bud I wont you to do two things for me,” Harm told him.
“Anything sir.”
“Well for one stop calling me sir, this is a personnel call after all and two get your six over to my wife and give her a hug for me. That one is an order,” he commanded cheerfully.
“Yes sir. I mean Harm.”
Sera laughed as she stood and went around to Bud, who hugged her. She chuckled at his discomfort, stepping back. “Thanks Harm,” she said but have Bud’s shoulder a gentle squeeze.
“No problem sweetheart, I’ll let you go, if Bud’s there you obviously need to talk.”
“It was nice to hear from you sir, umm Harm,” Bud said grinning.
“You too Bud.”
Sera went back behind the desk and picked up the receiver once more, taking him off speaker she preached on the desk. “Be good Harm.”
“Of course,” he said lightly. “You too. I love you Sera.”
“I love you too Harm,” she said softly. “Bye.”
“Bye sweetheart.”
She hung up, than sat once more, gesturing for Bud to do the same. “So what’s up Bud?”
“The Captain wants me to go through the Rules of Engagement tonight before you fly, is he expecting problems?”
“We have a peeping Tom full of explosives hanging around.”
“A Terrorist attack?”
“It could be. The Patrick Henry is near by, so either of us could be targets,” she answered, and then sat forward. “Don’t worry Bud, we’ll blew him out of the sky before he can take out the Bell or the Henry.”
He nodded, going on to a more personnel note. “I got an email from Harriet, she said she’s going to dinner at Captain Janus’ tomorrow night with Commander Rabb and Corey.”
“I know Harm emailed me too, as did Corey,” Sera told him, she stood noticing the time. “We have to get to the ready room.”
He stood and went with her. “Do you worry Ma’am, about what could happen?”
“A little, I’d be silly not too, but I have to deal with it too. Sometimes fear can be a strength not a crutch,” she patted his arm. “Tell you what Bud, when this is all over, I’ll arrange for a ride for you.”
“Really, you’d do that for me?”
“Sure, I have pull with the Cag.”
He laughed. “Thank you Ma’am.”
“No problem Bud.”
They walked into the ready room together; Bud left her to get ready with the other members of the Liberty Aces.
She was heading over to Bud a few minutes later, with her helmet in her hand when the alarms when off. She grabbed the phone and called the bridge.
“Commander, our peeping Tom is back and on his way and his not alone. Get the squad in the air,” Captain Mitchell ordered. “They are not to make us a target.”
“Aye sir,” she hung up and quickly addressed them all. “We have a peeping Tom with friends inbound, he’s loaded with explosives. We are to make sure he doesn’t make the Bell his target.”
Bud came up beside her. “The Rules of Engagement still stand, he must make an aggressive move first.”
“All right people, lets fly,” Sera ordered, she nodded to Bud than rushed out with her fellow aviators, all knowing the seriousness of their mission.
Bud looked around the empty ready room and felt a shiver run up his spine, he had to get to the bridge he knew that. Taking a deep breath he did what Sera said, turned his fear into strength and forced himself to move, his heart pounding against his chest.
********************
Chapter Fourteen: Conspiracies
USS Liberty Bell
Persian Gulf
********************
Lieutenant Commander Sera Rabb turned her Tomcat away from the rising sun, heading back towards the carrier. “Home One this is Rogue Leader.”
“Acknowledged Rogue Leader,”
“Home One skies are clear, no sign of unfriendly visitors.”
“Rodger Rogue Leader, Skipper says to come on home.”
“On our way Home One,” she acknowledged, glancing over to her wingman. “Lets go home, Ice.”
“One your wing, Angel,”
In the rear seat Lieutenant David Smith yawned. “I’m getting too old for this Angel.”
Sera chuckled lightly. “Dose this mean you don’t want to go dancing later, Zapper?”
“What I want is to see what the inside of my eye lids are doing,” he retorted.
“Fair enough, Zapper, I could use some shut eye myself,” she agreed.
They approached the carrier landing without incident, climbing down from their Tomcats the four left the flight deck and returned to the ready room. Stripping off their safety gear, they put it away along with their helmets.
Lieutenant Jordan Powell hurried over to Rabb and snapped to attention. “Ma’am, Rogues three and four are ready to fly,” he announced, then handed her the reports he’d received. “Doc and Rattles are on their way to the Patrick Henry to escort a helio back and the Skipper wants to see you on the bridge ASAP.”
“Thank you Snow, send Jolly and Falcon on their way. If anyone needs me, I’ll be in my quarters after I’ve seen the Captain.”
“Yes Ma’am” he stated, then hurried off to carry out the orders given.
Sera turned and patted David’s arm. “Go to bed, Zapper, that’s an order.”
“You don’t need to tell me twice,” he informed.
“Me either,” Becca agreed. She glanced at her RIO, Lieutenant Jodi Kane. “Come on Thumper.”
“On your six, Ice,” he jeered.
She groaned. “Such a gentleman.”
Sera smiled. “Leave,” she ordered, chuckling as she left, hearing them laughing as they did so as well. As she headed for the bridge she went over the reports Powell had given her. In the past twelve hours they had been going at Mach 1, with barely a few hours sleep between them all. There had been casualties, two on the bridge, the XO being one. He’d died protecting the Captain, who despite badly bruised ribs had remained on the bridge until the initial attack was over and he was sure all his crew were taken care of first. Than and only than had he gone to sickbay and his quarters to rest.
As she came onto the bridge, Sera could see the repairs that had been made in a hurry, still it looked better then it had. She went over to the Skipper, standing at attention. “Lieutenant Commander Rabb reporting as ordered sir.”
“At ease Commander, what’s our status?”
“Skies are clear sir, patrols are continuing. A helio is being escorted over from the Patrick Henry,” she gave him the reports. “Catapult two will be working in another hour and the deck is finally completely clear of debris.”
“Good work Commander.”
Lieutenant Commander Bud Roberts came over to them. “Skipper, we’re received word the Patrick Henry is underway again. The incoming helio is one of theirs, it’s bring a JAG officer over, the other JAG is remaining on the Henry.”
“Excellent, what about long rang communications?”
“We have ship to shore, your report is being retransmitted in full,” Bud informed, during the attack he’d been on the bridge. When the XO had been killed, he’d stepped into the position and began handling the situation.
Captain Mitchell was more then pleased with his temporary XO. “Nice work Commander, you’re making a damn fine XO.”
“Thank you sir,” Bud said ginning, despite his exhaustion.
The Captain addressed Rabb once more. “Good work too Angel.”
“Thank you sir.”
“And Angel.”
“Yes sir?”
“Get some sleep, you’re not going to do us any good if you collapse from exhaustion.”
“I was heading for my quarters as soon as I leave the bridge, sir.”
“Very well then, dismissed.”
She came to attention. “Aye, aye sir,” she said, then turned and left the bridge. She was too tired to even think about who Admiral Chegwidden had sent, too tired to even wonder. Though deep down she knew who it would be.
Stopping quickly at her quarters, she grabbed what she need for a shower and went and had one, returning to her quarters, she dressed and crawled onto her bunk. Being asleep before her head hit the pillow, not even caring Becca was snoring in the bunk above her.
******
Lieutenant Commander Roberts met the helio a half an hour later, greeting its passenger. “Welcome aboard sir.”
Commander Harmon Rabb, Jr. smiled warmly. Shaking the younger officers hand. “How are you Bud?”
“Tired but alive sir,” he answered. “This way, sir,” he led him off the flight deck.
A crewman took the white vest, helmet and goggles from Harm, who waited while Bud told the crewman where the Commanders luggage was to be taken before they continued to the bridge.
Harm was surprised by what he saw as they came onto the bridge, it hadn’t looked so bad from the helio.
Captain Mitchell greeted him. “Commander Rabb, welcome aboard the Liberty Bell.”
Harm stood at attention. “Thank you sir.”
“At ease Commander. You’ll have to forgive the mess, we’re redecorating.”
Harm chuckled softly. “It looks a lot better then my place does after my son has his friends around.”
“Well being the father of two boys I can understand that, Commander,” Pete smirked and than came straight to the point. “What I’m going to say next isn’t regulation Commander, but considering what we’ve been though, I’m making an exception. Before you start on your report go and see your wife, Angel would never forgive me if you didn’t. She should be still asleep but I know she’d want you to stop in and see her. I’ll have all the recordings, reports and everything else you’ll need sent to your quarters.”
“Thank you sir.”
“XO.”
Bud came up beside him. “Sir,” he saw the surprised look on the Commanders face, dismissing it.
“Escort Commander Rabb to his wife’s quarters,” the Captain ordered. “Make sure he knows where his are, than go and get some sleep yourself.”
“Aye sir,” he acknowledged. “This way sir.”
Harm came to attention and than followed Bud off the bridge. Along the way, Bud let him know where his quarters were and how he’d come by his temporary position. Harm smiled and patted the younger officer on the back. “Nice work Bud, Harriet will be bragging for months.”
“I believe so sir,” he said grinning.
Coming to what was known as female country, Bud knocked three times and announced male personnel were on deck, they waited the allotted time then continued. At Rabb and Summers’ quarters, he knocked on the hatch and waited, he didn’t expect an answer however. “They’re probably still asleep sir.”
“That’s all right Bud, I’ll be quiet,” Harm informed and opened the hatch. “Get some sleep, we’ll talk later.”
“Aye sir.”
Harm went in and quietly closed the hatch, as he approached the bunks, the curtain on the top was pulled back a little. A sleepy Becca looked blurry eyed at him. Then smiled knowing who he was, closing the curtain again.
Harm knelt down and tugged open the bottom curtain, seeing his wife still asleep curled up on her side. He gently brushed the hair from her closed eyes and lent over and kissed her. She responded, her arms snaking around his neck. Before he could react she had him on the bunk beside her, which was a tight fit but he wasn’t complaining. Her sea green eyes sparkled with amusement as well as tiredness.
“Good morning,” she purred quietly in his ear.
“Morning, do you greet everyone who wakes you up this way?” He smirked softly.
“Only those who walk and kiss like you.”
“Which I’m the only one.”
“Of course,” she declared, tugging the curtain closed again before kissing him.
They heard the light thump and them Becca’s voice. “I’m going to bunk with Sharon, Angel. Three’s a crowd.”
“Thanks Ice.”
“Hey no problem,” she said, and then left.
When they heard the hatch close, Sera addressed her husband once more. “Now where were we?”
“About here,” he informed and kissed her again. Three months of not seeing each other fueled a passion that both gave into and clothing became a pile on the floor beside the bunk, as they made love with an consuming need.
In the aftermath Harm held his wife in his arms while she slept once more, he’d missed her so much. When he’d heard what had happened his first thought was of her. Was she all right? Had she been hurt? It had scared the hell out of him and Corey. Right now their son was waiting to hear from him, he’d insisted on staying at JAG with the Admiral and Harriet, neither could say no to the teenager. Nor could he, he understood all to well what it was like.
Carefully he moved out of Sera’s arms and off the bunk, getting dressed.
She woke and rolled on to her side. “Where are you going?” She asked sleepily.
He sat on the edge of the bunk. “To my quarters to give Corey a ring and let him know you’re all right.”
“Okay,” she closed her eyes again. “I love you.”
“I love you too sweetheart.”
“Tell Corey.”
“I will,” he lent over and kissed her forehead. Getting up he picked up her clothes and folded them, putting them on the end of the bunk before pulling the curtain across. Running his fingers through his hair to tidy it a little, he left her quarters; he was going to have to thank Captain Mitchell. He owed him big time and so did Sera.
At his stateroom, he requested a ship to shore line, going over the written reports while he waited. Finally he was put through. “Tiner, it’s Commander Rabb, put me through to the Admiral.”
“Aye sir,” their was a paused, then. “You’re on speaker Commander,” the Admiral announced. “What’s the situation?”
“The Liberty Bell’s bridge was hit as was the flight deck, both are under repair as we speak. Casualties were limited the XO was one. He and the communications officer were killed when the bridge was hit. At the moment Lieutenant Commander Roberts is acting XO.”
“Roberts?”
“Yes sir,” Harm smiled, mostly because he knew the Admiral couldn’t see him doing it. “This was a surgical strike sir, they knew what to hit and when to hit.”
“What are you suggesting Commander, a traitor?”
“It’s possible sir, the Liberty Bell and the Patrick Henry were hit simultaneous. This was a planed strike.”
“Damn!” the Admiral cursed.
A younger voice came over the phone, an impatient one. “Dad is Mum all right?”
“She’s fine Corey, I spoke to her a few minutes ago. She’s getting some sleep, they’ve been flying constant patrols since the attack,” he said calmly to put his son at ease.
The Admiral spoke again. “Commander, I want you to remain on board and do a thorough investigation. If there is a traitor on board I want him found,” he ordered. “Until the new XO arrives, you’ll take over Roberts’ JAG billet. Keep your head down Commander.”
“Aye sir.”
“Commander?” this time it was Harriet. “Can you ask Bud, Commander Roberts to ring me, please?”
“I will Lieutenant.”
“Oh and sir, the Admiral and I will keep an eye on Corey for you.”
“Thank you Lieutenant.”
“Yes I’m sure Mr. Rabb and I will get along fine,” the Admiral informed. “Correct Mr. Rabb?”
“Yes sir.” Corey said with only the slightest hesitation.
“Keep me informed Commander,” Admiral Chegwidden added.
“I will sir,” he agreed.
There was a pause, and than Corey spoke again. “Dad, is Mum really all right?”
Harm was guessing the Admiral had taken them off speakerphone and given the teenager a few minutes alone. “Your Mum is fine, Corey. I did speak with her, she said to tell you she loved you.”
“Tell her I love her too.”
“I will son.”
“Dad?”
“Yes Core?”
“I love you too. Be careful?”
“I will Corey. Take it easy on the Admiral, huh?”
“I will, bye Dad.”
“Bye Corey,” he said, and than hung up. Looking back at the reports, he went over them again. Someone had wanted the Liberty Bell and the Patrick Henry out of commission, but whom and why? Those were questions he needed the answers too and fast.
********************
Chapter Fifteen: Theories
USS Liberty Bell
Persian Gulf.
********************
Captain Joseph Janus walked causally into the ready room, his aviators were chatting among themselves and they had one extra among them and in the flight suit he looked like he belonged.
Suddenly Lieutenant Jordan Powell spotted him. “Attention on deck!”
They jumped to their feet, standing at attention.
The Cag smiled to himself as he moved to stand before them. “At ease people.”
“It’s good to have you back sir,” Sera Rabb said cheerfully.
“It’s good to be back Angel,” he insisted. “Sit down,” he ordered. “I have a few messages from your loves ones, well for those of you who have loved ones.” He paused as they laughed, removing the folded paper form his pants pocket and unfolded it, reading. “Ice, your fiancé wants his favorite shirt and you back in one piece,” there were a lot of awe’s and aha’s. “Zapper, your wife said if you die before she has this baby, she’d kill you.”
David rolled his eyes, and then laughed with them.
The Cag continued, reading out more and getting plenty of laughs. Coming to the last two. “Angel, your son says to take care and make sure Dad doesn’t crash any Tomcats,” they all chuckled at Harm’s expense. “Oh and Hammer – the Admiral said to tell you. ‘No you cannot change your designator again. Stop enjoying yourself. Finish the investigation and come home.’ Unquote.” Laugher filled the ready room as they took humor in that. Since his arrival Harmon Rabb had been adopted into the squad, he was one of them. No questions asked and it wasn’t because he was Angel’s husband.
“All right settle down,” the Captain ordered as he folded the paper up. “The fun and games are over ladies and Gentlemen, so suite up we’re going flying.”
All jumped to their feet. “Aye, aye sir,” they chorused, then rushed to get ready, returning to their seats when they had.
“All right people, despite what everyone thinks we’re not returning state side just yet. Any repairs that need doing at this point will continue to be done while we’re at sea,” he informed. He paused as a woman entered the ready room, carrying a yellow helmet, wearing a fully equip flight suite. “Yes.”
“Lieutenant Elizabeth Hawkes, sir, from the Patrick Henry. Captain Mitchell mentioned to Captain Ingles he required an extra RIO, so I volunteered.”
He remembered the Skipper mentioning it. “Excellent. Skates isn’t it?”
“Yes sir.”
He gave her a smile. “Take you seat Skates. Hammer your RIO is here.”
They all laughed as Hawkes went and sat with Harm, who gave her a smile.
The Cag continued briefing them on the information the Captain had given him. “We’re to continue to monitor the no-fly zone,” he announced and then issued assignments to them and than a warning. “Keep your eyes open, I don’t want any surprises. All right people, lets fly.”
All stood coming to attention before leaving the ready room.
“It’s good to see you again Skates,” Sera greeted.
“You too Angel,” she said; giving the younger woman a hug, which wasn’t ease because of the gear they both wore. “So how’s married life?”
“Not bad, the fringe benefits are excellent,” she smirked grinning.
“Thank you sweetheart,” Harm purred in her ear.
“You’re very welcome.”
Beth laughed. “You guy’s never change.”
“So you’ve flown with these two before?” David asked her, and then introduced himself. “Lieutenant David Smith, Zapper, Angel’s RIO.”
She nodded. “When they were both assigned to the Patrick Henry, they were always together, so much it had the Cag worried.”
“Nothing went on,” Harm defended himself and his wife. “Angel needed advice on her book, which I was glad to help her finish.”
“I got more writing done in those months Harm was with us than I’d ever done,” Sera praised. “I just needed my muse to give me a kick start.”
“Which he gladly did, within regs,” Becca smirked guessing. “Lieutenant Becca Summers, Ice, I fly Angel’s wing,” she told Beth. Then grinned. “I bet he’d would have gone over the regs given the chance.”
“Like you wouldn’t believe, the sexual tension was so thick at times you could have cut it with a knife,” Beth teased.
Sera groaned. “Thanks so much.”
The Cag caught up with them before Harm could say anything. “Commander Rabb, I’d like a word,” he announced.
“Yes sir.”
The others went on a head.
The Cag kept his voice down as he continued with Harm. “I spoke with the Admiral before I left. He’s authorized your TDY to the Liberty Bell for the next two months; he feels once the heat dies down you may get somewhere. So you’ll remain on board as the JAG billet. Roberts will remain as XO. The Captain and I both agreed you would continue to fly with the Ace’s while you’re onboard.”
“There’s a catch, I know it,” Harm stated. “Even on TDY I can’t serve on the same Carrier as my wife.”
“Well let’s just say the Admiral called in a few favors and the SecNav wants whoever is responsible found ASAP. Even if it means having two Rabb’s on one carrier.”
“Yes sir.”
The Cag patted him on the back. “Don’t sweat it Harm, you get this guy and the SecNav will be owing you a favor.”
“That I’m counting on.” Harm remarked.
Putting their helmets on they went out onto the flight deck and to their respective Tomcats.
Harm followed Beth up into the cockpit of their Tomcat. “Just like old times huh Skates?”
“Yeah well just don’t dump us in the ocean,” she smirked, settling in.
“Not this time,” he announced as he did the same.
Sera’s Tomcat catapulted off the deck, her wingman’s seconds behind her.
“She’s still good, Hammer.” Beth praised.
“Yeah she is Skates,” he agreed. “Then again she always was.”
“So are you.”
He smiled. “Thanks Skates.”
“Lets move Hammer.”
“On it,” he ignited the engines after he lowered the canopy, sealing the cockpit. After catapulting off the deck they formed up with their wingman, than with Sera and hers. He glanced over at this wife’s Tomcat. “See you when we get back Angel.”
“Clear skies Hammer,” she bided and banked her Tomcat away, followed closely by Becca’s.
Harm went on with the patrol. “So how long will you be with us, Skates?”
“For as long as you need a RIO, sir,” she answered. “The Skipper told Captain Mitchell you needed someone to keep you in line, other then your wife.”
He chuckled softly. “And you volunteered?”
“What can I say, I missed flying with you,” she said with a grin.
“Thanks Skates.”
“You’re welcome sir.”
By the time they returned to the carrier Sera and her division were already back. “Jeez guys we were starting to think we’d have to send out a search party,” she smirked.
“Well you know men, they never want to stop to ask directions,” Lieutenant Michelle Venus Cater smirked, she was Tyler Rattles McGregor’s RIO. They’d flown wing for Harm and Beth.
Everyone laughed; removing their safety gear they joined them, taking their seats.
The Cag settled them down and they went through the mission debriefing before being dismissed.
Harm held his wife back; he needed to talk to her alone. “Walk with me Angel.”
She knew that tone. “Yes sir.”
He said nothing until after they entered one of the small conference rooms. He closed the hatch and repeated what the Cag had told him and his conversation with the Admiral.
“The attack on the Bell and the Patrick Henry was well timed, by the book,” she informed. “From the moment we launched they were on us.”
“When did the peeping Tom make his move?” Harm asked.
“After the flight deck was hit on the Bell, he broke configuration and headed for the Henry. Which was also when the bridge was hit on the Bell.”
“So they knocked out the bridge so communications between the ships was impossible,” he theorized.
“Except we warned the Raptor’s, who in turn warned the Henry,” she enlightened. “Harm that Leah Jet was packed with explosives, it was a suicide mission from the start. The thing is, whoever was controlling the detonation screwed up, that Jet exploded prematurely.”
“It doesn’t make sense.”
There was a knock on the door. “Enter!” Harm barked.
The door opened, two people he didn’t expect entered with the Skipper, Cag and XO – Lieutenant Colonel Sarah Mackenzie and Gunnery Sergeant Victor Galendez. The Gunny carried a backpack and a high-powered rifle.
Both Harm and Sera snapped to attention.
“At ease,” Captain Mitchell insisted. He nodded to Mac. “Go a head Colonel.”
“Yes sir,” she acknowledged. “We’ve received word this morning Clark Palmer escaped from Leavenworth. According to Webb he’s onboard the Liberty Bell.”
“Mr. Palmer also left a message for you both,” the Gunny informed and handed Harm the folded note.
Taking it, Harm read it out loud. “One Rabb will die, guess which one. Both fly but only one dies.”
Gunny then opened the pack and removed two bulletproof vests. “From Mr. Webb.”
“Until we find this lunatic, you’ll both be under twenty-four hour guard,” the Skipper announced. “Gunny Sergeant Galendez will be sticking to Angel’s six. Corporal Rylands outside will stick to yours, Hammer. No ifs or buts, you do as you’re told. Including wearing those vests.”
Sera took the one the Gunny handed her. “They don’t look like they’d stop anything,” she remarked, noting the thinness.
“They’re new, Webb said they will,” Mac reassured.
“Put it on, that’s an order,” the Skipper told them.
“Aye sir,” both responded and did as they were told, wearing them under their flight suites.
“How did Palmer get on board?” Harm asked out loud.
“It seems he’d been on for about a month,” Bud revealed and handed Harm a print out. “He came in with a rotation.”
Both Rabb’s looked at the print out. Palmer hadn’t disguised himself at all; the print out showed him smiling at the security cameras.
“So why wait until now to make a move?” Sera asked out loud, than answered her question. “Unless he organized the whole think. Knowing that the Navy would send JAG to investigate.”
“And if it were big enough, the Admiral would send Harm since your onboard,” Mac theorized.
Sera nodded, concluding. “Which means Harm isn’t the target, I am.”
That brought silence to the room. She lent against the table. “From what I’ve been told of Palmer, he wants Harm to suffer.”
Despite who was in the room with him, Harm drew his wife into his arms. “I won’t let him hurt you.”
“Neither will I Ma’am,” Gunny declared bluntly.
She glanced over to him. “Thank you Gunny.”
The Cag had heard enough. “I think it’s time we went looking for this Palmer.”
Mac agreed. “The sooner the better,” she, like the other’s were armed.
“All right,” Captain Mitchell agreed. “Lets take a look,” he jabbed a finger at the two Rabb’s. “Stay here until one of us gives the word.”
“Yes sir,” both answered moving apart. Sitting back and letting others be in the thick of it, wasn’t easy for either of them.
“Gunny give them a moment,” Mac suggested as she left with the Captain’s and Roberts.
“Yes Ma’am,” he acknowledged, handing Harm his sidearm before leaving.
Harm put the pistol on the conference table and perched near it, drawing his wife back into his arms. “We’ll get through this, sweetheart. I promise.”
She rested her forehead against his. “I don’t like this Harm.”
“Neither do I,” he agreed.
Both heard the distinctive sounds of bodies hitting the deck outside, Harm grabbed the pistol and cocked it, Sera moved as he pointed it at the door, which slowly opened.
Clark Palmer came in grinning, behind him both the Gunny and the Corporal were down. “Well, well isn’t this just sweet.” He pointed his pistol at Sera. “Now the thing is, Harm. If you shot me and I’ll shot your wife.”
“You’ll do that anyway, isn’t that why you’re on board, Palmer?” he asked him.
“It is indeed,” Palmer smirked.
Outside the door, Gunny slowly reached for the Corporal’s sidearm, grabbing it. He knew Harm had his full attention on Palmer, Sera though was watching him. Painfully he lifted the pistol, and slowly squeezed the trigger.
To be continued.
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