Matt handed Mac her drink and sat beside her on the sofa. “So now we’re all alone, what shall we do?”

She took a sip of apple cider, and then placed the glass on the coffee table. Straddling him. “Oh I thought we could find something to entertain ourselves.”

He ran his hands under her shirt. “And what would that be?”

Leaning forward she kissed his lips lightly. “I think you’d better use you imagination?”

“I could get into trouble using my imagination,” he taunted light heartedly.

“Well I happen to know a good lawyer.”

“I think I’m in good hands than.”

She lent forward again, this time whispering in his ear. “Give me time.”

He groaned and sat forward taking her with him. “I will my love,” he promised and stood, feeling her wrap her legs around his waist. Carrying her up to the bedroom, he suddenly his imagination was running wild. He’d never felt this free with anyone except Mac. They tumbled onto the bed together and began removing clothing, not holding back as they made love.

“Matt.”

“Mmm?”

She lay snug against him, his arms around her. A sheet pulled over their naked bodies. She was exploring his hand, how much bigger it was against hers. “Why did you give up flying?”

“I thought I could do more as a lawyer,” he answered her, adding. “Besides I haven’t given it up completely, I still keep my hours up, stay qualified,” his fingers entwined with hers. “And Sera and Sam weren’t the only genius’ in the family. Shawn and I held our own. I had my law degree before I joined the Marines and went to flight school. And I had Emily to think about, I didn’t want to leave her with my parents to raise, she was my daughter, my responsibility.”

She turned in his arms. “Do you miss it, flying?”

“No, I would miss not having you in my arms every night and I’d miss having Emily grow up before my eyes,” he slipped his hand beneath the sheet and stroked her flat stomach. “I’d miss seeing our child growing inside you, coming into the world. Growing up with Emily.”

“So would I,” she said affectionately. “I can’t wait to have your baby, Matt.”

“Then why should we wait?”

“You’re serious?”

“I’m serious,” he told her, seeing the love in her eyes. “I love you Sarah, I want a child with you, the soon the better.”

“I love you too,” she told him as tears misted in her eyes and she kissed him. “In the morning I’m throwing my conception pills away.”

“Well then we’d better start practicing, you know what they say.”

“Practice makes perfect?” she suggested giggling.

“That’s it,” he agreed and pined her beneath him. “Practice, practice, practice.”

“Until we get it right?”

“That’s the idea.” Matt said and proceeded to show her what he meant, over and over all night.

The next morning, after a long shower, they both dressed, going down to have breakfast.

“So what are you going to do this morning while I’m at the fitting?” Mac asked him as they ate.

“Harm, Corey are coming over and Tom is coming here straight from Norfolk.”

She smiled. “So I get to met the mysteries Matrix.”

“You do.”

“And then what?”

“Oh I thought we’d go cruising for girls.”

Mac groaned. “Just remember Corey is only sixteen, he doesn’t need to be corrupted by two Jarheads and a Squid,” she warned. “You might also remember his mother is coming home in three weeks, she wants to find her son just as she left him.”

“He’ll be fine, we couldn’t get up to anything with his father with us.” Matt added.

“Yes well just make sure Tom understands that.”

“He will,” he assured and kissed her forehead. “We’ll wait for Tom, then sit around telling war stories, drink a few beers and order a pizza.”

“Sounds better,” she cleared up their breakfast dishes. “Make sure you have plenty of soft drink for Corey.”

“I will,” he stood and drew her into his arms. “Relax Sarah, everything will be fine.”

She sighed and rested her head against his chest. “I just want everything to be perfect.”

“Then stop worrying,” he advised. He heard the doorbell chime. “Go answer the door, I’ll wash up.”

“Okay,” she kissed him quickly, and then hurried to the door, opening it.

Harriet and Samantha were outside, having come together. “Good morning Ma’am.” Harriet greeted.

“Harriet it’s Mac,” she told her.

“Yes Ma’am. Mac.”

Samantha shook her head and laughed as they went inside.

Mac closed the door. “I want be long, Matt’s in the kitchen tidying up.”

“Now that’s what I like to see, a man who know where he belongs.” Samantha jeered.

“I heard that sister dear,” Matt called from the kitchen.

“You were suppose to, brother dear.”

He came into the lounge. “How are you Harriet?”

“Fine sir. I mean Matt.”

Samantha sat down, popping her feet up onto a footstool. “So is Tom arriving today?”

“He is, this morning.”

Harriet sat down too. “What’s he like?”

Matt grabbed a framed photo off the shelf and gave it to her. “That’s him. Lieutenant Colonel Tom Harrison. Call sign Matrix, the biggest flirt this side of the equator.”

Harriet smiled. The man in the photo was handsome, boyish, sandy blond hair and blue eyes. A cheeky grin on his face, and every bit the dashing hero. “When did you two meet?”

“Flight school, he kept my feet on the ground. If it wasn’t for him I probably wouldn’t of made it.”

“Not to mention survive his first tour of duty at sea,” Samantha smirked.

Mac returned. “I’m ready,” she announced. “We’ll take Matt’s car, he want be needing it.”

“I like that idea,” Samantha agreed. “Saves me driving.”

Matt returned the photo and walked them out. “Just drive carefully.”

“We will,” his fiancée assured as they got in. She backed the car out and they waved as they drove off. Passing Harm and Corey, who were driving Sera’s blue Shelby Cobra.

“They are so dead if they scratch Sera’s baby,” Samantha observed. “Even if Harm is driving.”

“Don’t tell me she’s as possessive about her car as Harm is about his Vette?” Mac asked.

“More. Right down to the gold wings embossed into the gear stick.”

“You’re kidding, Harm has those too.”

“I know he got Sera’s done for her.”

Harriet sighed romantically. “They are soul mates.”

Both Mac and Samantha groaned out loud, and than laughed a long with Harriet.

At the mall they went directly to the bridle shop, where Samantha was given a comfortable chair to sit in, by the very helpful shop assistant. Who then went to help Mac and Harriet as they tried on their dresses, Chloe would have to have her fitting when she arrived at the end of the month.

Harriet stepped out first; her dress was a pale powder blue, with spaghetti straps. It was cut low at the back; the bodice was form fitting, the skirt dropping straight down to her ankles. “What do you think?”

“It’s beautiful,” Samantha insisted. “Is Chloe’s the same?”

She nodded. “Just not as low cut at the back.”

Mac came out next, her gown was a beautiful and perfect on her.

“Oh Mac, it’s gorgeous,” Samantha exclaimed.

“Thank you,” she blushed a little, turning to give her a look at the back.

Samantha smiled when she saw the back, like Harriet’s dress it was low cut; the difference was the embroidered roses around the edge. It also had a firm-fitting bodice that was also embroidered with roses. The skirt was straight, dropping to the floor with a small train.

“I hope you don’t expect Matt to keep his hands off you during the reception?” her future sister-in-law teased.

“Nope, that’s the idea,” Mac stated with a silly grin.

Melissa, the shop assistance, who was helping, smiled at their bantering. “Did you decide on the veil or the headdress?”

“Why don’t you try on both and see which one you like?” Harriet suggested.

“Lets do that,” Mac agreed.

Melissa got both and tried the veil on first, letting Mac look in the mirror, before switching over to the headdress. Which Mac decided she liked better. It was a circle of silk flowers that sat more to the back of her head, with silk ribbons hanging from it and down her back. It was all done in a light pink and white.

“I like the headdress better,” she told Melissa.

“So do I,” Samantha agreed.

“It’s settled then,” Melissa told them. She made a few alterations to the dress, then Harriet’s. “They’ll be ready to pick up as planned. You’ll be in at the end of the month for the junior bridesmaid’s fitting, correct?”

“Yes.”

“Everything will be ready. Will you be needing anything else?”

“No, I think that’s if for now,” Mac told her. “We’ll go change.” She and Harriet disappeared back into the changing rooms with Melissa, who took the gowns to hang up. They dressed and rejoined Samantha.

“See you later, Melissa,” Mac told her.

“Goodbye, have a nice day.”

“You too.”

They left the shop, deciding to do some window-shopping through the stores in the Mall.

Finally though Samantha headed them towards a coffee shop. “I’m hungry, lets sit down and feed the staving pregnant lady.”

“You’re always staving,” Mac, teased her.

“I know, so are you, so lets go eat.”

“Okay,” she gave up and they headed inside, finding a table they gave their order to the waiter.

Harriet spotted a familiar face in the crowd. “Is that Doctor Weldon, the Admiral’s lady friend?”

Mac found Harriet’s tact amusing. “It is. I wonder where the Admiral is?”

Sydney Weldon spotted them and waved as she made her way over to them. “Hello ladies.”

“Doctor Weldon, will you join us?” Harriet asked her.

“I’d love too and please call me Sydney,” she insisted sitting down, giving the waiter her order when he appeared.

“Do you know Samantha, Sydney? Harm’s sister-in-law?” Mac asked.

“No, we haven’t met.”

“Samantha Elliot,” she introduced herself.

“It’s nice to meet you, Samantha.”

“Sam please; only my mother calls me Samantha.”

“Alright,” she agreed. “I remember AJ saying you and Sera were twins, but I didn’t realize you would be so much a like.”

“We get that a lot, which is why in the end I let my hair grow long and she kept hers short, it sets us apart.” Samantha revealed.

“It must be fun though at times to have a twin sister.”

“It can be,” she agreed.

“So where is Admiral Vigorous?” Mac inquired teasing.

“I believe he’s at your place, Mac, with the rest of the boys,” Sydney answered. “Matt asked him to stop by, something about meeting a friend.”

“Tom Harrison, he’s Matt’s best man. They went to flight school together.”

“So I shouldn’t expect to see AJ for lunch?”

“I wouldn’t expect to see him for the rest of the day,” Mac corrected. “So you’ll just have to spend it with us.”

“I’d like that, thank you.” Sydney agreed.

Their order arrived and they chatted together, getting to know one another.

“So are you having a bachelorett party, Mac?” Sydney asked.

“I am, I’m waiting for Sera to come home first,” she answered. “That way we get to tell stories about Harm and Matt.”

“Like you did at hers?” Harriet asked. “Is there any more to tell?”

“Plenty,” Samantha informed. “You only heard a little of the Harm/Sera soap opera that night and there is so much to tell about Matt.”

“I hope you’ll come, Sydney?” Mac asked her.

“I wouldn’t miss it.”

“I’m glad.”

Samantha felt a sharp kick. “Ouch,” she rubbed her stomach, seeing their worried looks. “It’s all right, one of the twins is just letting me know they’re there.”

“I remember little AJ doing that,” Harriet recalled. “Usually at the most inconvenient times.”

She felt another. “Harm’s good at calming them down, I think they like hearing their daddy’s voice.”

Sydney was a little confused. “I’m a little lost. You’re carrying Harm’s twins?”

“Harm and Sera’s, I’m being a surrogate mother for them.”

“Is it a medical problem for one of them?” she asked slipping into her doctor mode.

“Sera was married before, her husband was killed in a training accident,” Samantha explained first. “She met Harm will at Law School, he’d gone through the Academy and flight school with her husband at the time. When Sera felt pregnant, Harm told Chris he’d keep an eye on Sera, while he went back to sea. At four months, Sera suffered a miscarriage and they had to operate, she was hemorrhaging so badly. In the end they had to do a hysterectomy. On advice from our sister, who is a doctor, before the operation, Sera agreed to let them harvest some of her eggs. Which they did, they were frozen until she needed them. After she and Harm got married, I volunteered to be a surrogate so they could have a child. It worked and at nine weeks we found out it was twins.”

“You’re giving them a wonderful gift, Sam.”

“I think so and they’re going to owe me for the next decade,” she smirked and everyone laughed.

Sydney then looked to Mac. “What about you Mac, are you going to wait a while to have children?”

“No, Matt and I decided we want them as soon as possible,” she announced. “I’ll have a stepdaughter, but I’d like a child of my own and a brother or sister or two for Emily.”

“So we can expect plenty of pattering of little feet around JAG then?”

“More then likely,” she agreed, glancing at Harriet, they two of them laughed.

“Oh I know there is a story here,” Samantha declared. “Come on tell?”

“It’s just what Sydney said,” Harriet explained. “You see I went into labor while at work and the Admiral delivered little AJ in his office, we never made it to the hospital.”

“I’ll make a mental note to stay away from the JAG office around delivery time,” Samantha assured.

“And I’ll go on leave before mine.” Mac added.

“No fun, the Admiral was very good.” Harriet noted giggling and they all started.

Sydney sat back in her chair. “I’d like to thank you all for including me, I’ve had a good time.”

“You’re very welcome,” Mac said. “Besides you’re family, we all stick together at JAG.”

“Thank you Mac.”

“So what’s next on the addenda?” Harriet asked.

“How about a manicure?” Sydney suggested. “I know this fantastic manicurist.”

“Lets do it,” Samantha urged. “On me, I feel like a little pampering.”

“We couldn’t.” Harriet declared.

“Nonsense, I insist.”

“Oh come on Harriet,” Mac urged. “It’ll be fun.”

“It will be,” Samantha stated. “And I can afford it.”

Finally she gave in. “All right.”

Getting up they followed Sydney, who walked with Mac. Curious, she quietly asked. “What exactly does Sam do for a living?”

“She’s a scriptwriter and she’s married to actor Michael Elliot,” Mac told her, keeping her voice down. “She also has a law degree, though she doesn’t practice any more.”

“Really, she’s so young to have done so much.”

“She and Sera graduated high school at fifteen and a half, they’re considered genius’.”

“Is Matt a genius too?”

Mac nodded. “He and their sister Shawn, as he told me, held their own.”

Sydney laughed. “I take that as a yes.”

“I did,” she remarked and the two of them laughed harder.

“We should do this more often,” Harriet suggested.

“We should,” Samantha agreed, as did Sydney and Mac, continuing. “A girls day out, doing girl stuff and having girl talk.”

“Especially girl talk,” Mac added and they laughed some more.

Matt saw his sister’s blue Shelby cobra pass his car and waited for it to pull into the driveway, his brother-in-law and nephew getting out. “You’re risking life and limb driving your wife’s car, buddy,” he teased.

“Only if I let Corey drive.” Harm taunted back.

Corey groaned the sixteen year old had only had his license for a mouth. The Admiral had finished teaching him to drive. “I’m not that bad, my jeep is still in one piece.”

Matt arched an eyebrow as they went inside. “You bought him a jeep?”

“Well he needed something to drive, and we didn’t buy it. It was Sera’s old jeep.”

“That’s different then.”

“Oh come on Uncle Matt, I’m not that bad.” Corey grumbled good heartedly.

“No you’re not,” his father defended, adding lightly. “It’s a good thing though you don’t drive like you fly.”

Matt started to laugh. “This from a man who has ejected how many times?”

Harm wiggled three fingers in the air as he sat down. “And how many times have you punched out, Cobra?” he asked using the call sign the Marine had used while flying.

“Only once, Hammer,” he heard the doorbell ring. “It’s not something I’d like to repeat,” he remarked and opened the door. “Good morning sir.”

AJ Chegwidden frowned. “Matt, it’s AJ, we’re not at work now.”

He nodded. “Yes sir.” He gestured the Admiral inside, closing the door. They joined Harm and Corey.

Harm acknowledged him. “Good morning sir.”

AJ sighed. “I am going to say this only once, so pass it on. Lets drop the sir, it’s AJ, we’re not at work,” he took a seat. “Is that clear?”

“Crystal,” Matt stated.

“Very,” Harm and Corey agreed.

“So Corey how’s the jeep?” AJ asked the teenager.

“It’s great, though dad thinks it’s a good thing I don’t drive like I fly.”

“Your father can’t talk, we’d all be in trouble if he drove like he flew?”

“Especially since he’s a life member of the Martin Baker Fan Club.” Matt smirked as he sat down.

“The what?”

“The Martin Baker Fan Club,” his Uncle told him. “Martin Baker makes ejection seats, aviators who have ejected say they’ve become members of the fan club.”

“I believe your mum is a member too.” AJ noted.

“My mum,” Corey shook his head. “My mum has never ejected.”

“She has Core,” Harm corrected, realizing this was something his mother had never told him. “During her second tour, she and her wingman were flying through a storm when lightening struck her Tomcat,” he recalled. “She and Blades ejected and spent two hours in the water before they were rescued.”

“Why didn’t she tell me?”

“She probably didn’t want to upset you, Core.”

“But you knew.”

“I was the investigating officer, Core,” his father told him.

“Was she hurt?”

“Other then a few bruised ribs, no.”

“If your lucky Corey, you’ll never get to experience it first hand,” his Uncle declared. He heard the doorbell ring again. “Excuse me.” He got up to answer it.

Corey looked at his father. “What was it like, knowing it was mum who had ejected?”

“Frightening, I didn’t know if she was hurt or not until after we landed on the Patrick Henry,” he remembered. “Pilots don’t like to eject Core, you only punch out if you have too and I knew you mum would of done everything she could first.”

“I just can’t believe she didn’t tell me.”

“She knew you would have worried,” he said calmly. He didn’t like to think of his wife punching out, even now.

Matt returned with Sturgis and Mic, having pre-warned them about the sir business. “Sit down, I’ll get us a drink.”

“So where is the guest of honor?” Mic asked.

“Late.”

“Well what did you expect for a Jarhead,” AJ declared dryly and they all laughed.

Matt came back in with their drinks, choosing soft drink since it was too early for alcohol. “We’re not always late.”

“Whatever you say Matt.” Harm teased.

The doorbell rang again. “That will be him,” he went over to the door, opening it.

Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Harrison smiled as the door opened. “Hey Cobra.”

“Matrix,” he gave his friend a manly hug, slapping him on the back. “It’s good to see you.”

“You too buddy.”

“Come on in,” he urged and then shut the door. “I’ve got some friends I want you to met.”

“Great.”

In the living room Matt started introducing Tom to everyone, he shook their hands, saying hello.

Lastly Matt came to Corey. “You probably don’t recognize him, but this is Corey.”

Tom was surprised. “You’re kidding, little squirt.”

“I’m not so little anymore,” Corey said blushing.

“You certainly aren’t,” he glanced at Harm. “You’re a lucky man, Harm. Corey is a great kid and Sera,” he whistled. “So how is the sexiest Naval officer?”

Matt handed Tom a can of Coke and sat. “Coursing havoc on the USS Liberty Bell if I know my sister.”

“You’re kidding, so when did Sera get carrier duty, I though being married again would be enough adventure for her.”

Matt shook his head. “When did you last talk to Sera?”

Tom shrugged. “Must have just been after Chris died. Why?”

Mic laughed. “Mate, you’re behind the times.”

“Sera changed designators, she’s a Naval Aviator now,” Harm told him. “She has been for nearly four years.”

“She gave up a fine law career to be a jet jockey.” AJ said bluntly.

“Wow, wait a minute. Sera is an aviator aboard the USS Liberty Bell?” he saw them nod. “Damn, we’ve been flying against them all week in war games. In fact the Hawks have a bounty on the Liberty Aces XO, six hundred dollars goes to the man who nails Angel’s six.” That really got them laughing, leaving Tom confused. “What did I say?”

“Angel is Sera, you’ve been flying against the distinguished Lieutenant Commander Sera Rabb all week, Matrix.” Matt revealed.

“So you’d better find a charity to donate that money to.” Harm suggested.

“It’s a good advice.” Sturgis agreed.

“Well sorry guys but I’m not going to give up,” Tom told them cockily. “This just gives me more incentive to nail her six.”

“Your funeral.” AJ told him.

“It’ll be more like mum nailing your six, then the other way round.” Corey added.

“She already has, twice.” Tom grumbled.

“Well she is the best.”

“We’ll see.”

Matt shook his head. “Matrix, you’re up against a Top Gun pilot with two DFC’s, who’s been nominated for a third. To say you’re flying against the best is no exaggeration when it comes to Sera.”

“Great,” he grumbled again.

“It could be worse,” Mic noted and jabbed his thumb at Harm. “You would be flying against him too.”

“Then it would be double trouble,” Sturgis remarked.

“So you’re an aviator too?” Tom asked Harm.

“No I’m a lawyer,”

“A lawyer who use to be an aviator,” AJ filled in. “Who went back to being an aviator, then returned to being a lawyer.”

“I think I’m getting a headache.” Tom groaned.

“I’m just a lawyer now.” Harm told him. “I fly to keep my hours up and to stay qualified.”

“Just so he can take temporary assignments like being Cag aboard the Liberty Bell,” Matt told his friend.

“And that makes you good?” Tom challenged Harm with a wicked grin.

Harm just ignored him.

“Dad went to Top Gun too and he has two DFC’s.” Corey praised.

“Not to mention being nominated for his third also.” AJ added.

The teenager’s grin widened, where is Harm looked like he was ready to crawl under the coffee table.

“That still hasn’t answered my question.” Tom stated.

Matt patted his friend on the back. “Do you remember hearing about a Tomcat pilot that pushed his wingman out of enemy territory by using the wingman’s tail hook?”

“Sure, every pilot has.”

“Well Harm is that pilot.”

Tom shook his head and laughed. “Well I’ll be, no wonder Corey is gushing. So what did you do to get nominated for your third DFC?”

AJ crushed up his empty tin. “He landed his Tomcat on an aircraft carrier that didn’t have any landing lights and the LSO was using a flashlight to bring him in,” he answered for him. “Sera landed before him, which is why they’re both nominated.”

“Okay, then perhaps you are good.” Tom decided.

“Perhaps,” Harm said silently.

The phone rang and Matt jumped up to answer it. “Mitchell.”

“Sir, it’s Lieutenant Commander Roberts.”

“What can I do for you Bud? Is Emily all right?”

“Yes sir, I was just wondering if Harriet told you what time they’d be home?”

“She didn’t say Bud, why don’t you just make the kids some lunch, then pack everyone up and come over and join us.”

“Are you sure sir, I could just wait for Harriet, then we could bring Emily home.”

“I’m sure Bud. And leave the sirs at home, there’s no rank here today.”

“Yes sir. I’ll try.”

“Okay Bud, see you after lunch.”

“Goodbye sir.”

“Bye Bud,” Matt chuckled to himself as he hung up. It was going to be an interesting afternoon. He sat back down finding the conversation had changed; now it was about him.

“So Cobra, being the guy he is,” Tom was telling them. “Marches after the Lieutenant and announces that if he was a sexist pig, he would have told her just how much she did have in common with the Duracell Bunny.”

They roared laughing, except for Matt who tried unsuccessfully to no be embarrassed, but failed.

“So what did she do?” Corey inquired.

“She spun around, grabbed Cobra and pined him against the bulk head. Than told him if she wasn’t a lady and his commanding officer, she’d show him just how much she did have in common with the Duracell Bunny,” Tom announced grinning. “Poor Cobra just stood there stunned as she walked away.”

Matt felt like disappearing, he remembered that incident and the repercussions that accrued after it. He also noted his nephew was laughing as hard as everyone else. “God Corey, don’t tell me you know the joke too?”

The teenager seemed surprised by his Uncle’s reaction. “It’s just a joke Uncle Matt.”

Harm saw Matt glaring at him. “Hey don’t look at me, I didn’t tell it to him.”

“No,” AJ said calmly. “I did.”

Once the initial shock wore off they laughed even harder, after all men were just boys on the inside.

Mac, Harriet, Samantha and Sydney were surprised by one thing when they walked inside the house. It was tidy.

“Did we come to the right place?” Harriet inquired grinning.

“I’m starting to wonder.” Mac declared.

They heard laugher. “Sounds like it’s coming from the back yard.” Samantha noted.

“Well come on ladies, lets go look.” Sydney urged and they did.

Out in the back yard, the men were sprawled on the grass laughing. A garbage bin was near by with empty pizza boxes and Coke tines. Emily was sitting on Harm’s lap, giggling as he trickled her. Little AJ was curled up on the Admiral’s lap, asleep. To top it all off there wasn’t a beer bottle in sight.

Mac cleared her throat, getting their attention.

“Hi Mum!” Emily called out.

“Hi honey.”

They joined them, Matt helping his sister to sit down next to Harm and Emily.

Sydney sat beside the Admiral. “That’s so sweet,” she whispered and he smiled.

Harriet sat beside her husband. “Did you enjoy your day?”

“I did, how about you?”

“It was great.”

Tom grinned. “Jeez Sam, you look like you’ve swallowed a watermelon.

“Very funny Tom, if I could get up I would thump you one,” she told him playfully.

“I’m safe than.”

Mac sat comfortable in Matt’s arms. “So have you told enough war stories and tall tales?”

“For today,” he mused.

Tom chuckled. “You have to be some kind of Marine to handle Cobra, Mac.”

“Thank you Tom.”

“Well anyone who can survive punching out of a MiG with Harm would have to be.” AJ noted straight-faced.

Rolling his eyes, Tom smirked. “Jeez Hammer, you should stick to just being a lawyer, you’re dangerous.”

“He must remind you of yourself then, Matrix.” Samantha teased.

“Oh that’s low,” he remarked as everyone laughed.

Harm glanced at his sister-in-law. “You look tired, do you want me to drive you home, Corey can follow in your car?”

She nodded. “I think it’s a good idea.”

Emily hoped off his lap and went over to her parents.

“We’re going to head home,” Harm announced as he got up, helping Samantha to her feet with Corey’s help.

Bud and Harriet decided to go as well, lifting a still sleeping AJ from the Admiral’s lap. He and Sydney got up too, calling it a day. As did Sturgis and Mic, the later stating his wife would kill him if he didn’t get home soon.

Mac, Matt, Emily and Tom walked everyone out.

“Take it easy with my car, Corey,” Samantha told the teenager as she handed him the keys.

“I will,” he assured and headed for the sports car.

She smiled and got into the cobra, Harm giving her a hand. “Thank you kind sir.”

“You’re welcome Milady,” he teased and than got in himself.

Waving goodbye, one by one they all left, promising to do it again.

Matt slipped his arm around his fiancé, as she slipped hers around him.

Tom, having carried Emily out, put her down. “I’d better head off too, we’re doing a surprise attack tonight.”

“Be careful,” Matt urged, adding. “I don’t want to have to look for another best man.”

“Hey it’s me.”

“I know that’s why I’m warning you.”

Tom laughed. “Sure Cobra,” he grinned. “It was nice meeting you, Mac.”

“It was nice meeting you Tom, come and have dinner with us one day next week,” she suggested.

“I shell,” he gave Emily a cuddle. “Bye Em.”

“Bye Uncle Tom.”

“Bye guys,” he bided, getting into his car.

They waved as he drove away, than headed inside.

“You look tired too sweetheart.” Matt noted.

Mac smiled sheepishly. “I didn’t get a lot of sleep last night.”

“Well you’d better go to bed early tonight,” he suggested with a gleam in his eye.

“I think I will,” she agreed, then turned her attention to the little girl. “Come on Em, let go sort out your over night bag.”

“Okay.”

Matt smiled to himself as his fiancé and daughter climbed the stairs. He was a lucky man to have two such wonderful girls in his life - very lucky.

Mac saw her future sister-in-law slip out into the garden and followed her; she’d noticed Sera had been quiet since she’d spoken to her father earlier in the afternoon. “Want some company?”

“Sure,” They walked for a while in silence; moonlight lit the garden and surrounding grounds. Family and friends had gathered at the Mitchell home for dinner, Sera had paid little attention to the food or the conversation. Her husband and son had noticed it as she was sure Mac had too, that was why she was there. Leaving it for the moment she asked. “Are you getting nervous?”

“A little,” Mac admitted, and then asked. “Would you like to go jogging in the morning?”

“Sure, it’s a good way to clear your head on the day of your wedding.”

“I know I went jogging with Harm, the morning of yours remember.”

Sera smiled recalling that morning. “Oh I remember. I just don’t think Matt will pull the same stunt as Harm did.”

“You mean sneaking over for a, what’s a nice way of putting it?”

“A quickie?” Sera inquired grinning.

“That’s it,” she answered and they both laughed.

Silence fell over them again as they continued walking.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Mac asked her finally. “Sometimes it helps?”

Sera sighed. “Dad informed me the Liberty Aces will be based at Norfolk, I have a feeling he organized it because I’m in the squadron. And the twins being due in September.”

“Would it be so bad?”

“It’s not that, he thinks I need a more grounded assignment, that just taking time off want cover it,” she hugged herself. “What if he’s right Mac, I am being selfish by not wanting to give up flying?”

“No one said you have to give up flying, Sera,” she assured as they stopped. “But you do have to think of the twins as well, what they need and they do need their mother as well as their father.”

Sighing Sera turned away from her as tears welled in her eyes, it had been eating at her all evening and it hurt more then she could say. “So I am being selfish.”

“Oh Sera, that’s not what I’m saying,” Mac stated, she put her hand on her shoulder. “Would it really hurt to be based at Norfolk for a while? You’d be home at night with your children and your husband. That has to count for something.” She saw her nod and the tears as she turned back, coming to her own conclusion. “Sam’s sharing her mode swings with you huh?”

“Yeah,” she wiped her eyes. “The price you pay for being a twin.”

“So what does Harm think about it?” Mac asked her as they started back.

“He likes the idea of having me home, though I think he was more concerned with having to deal with the twins alone.” Sera remarked and they both chuckled.

“Not our Harm.” Mac mocked lightly.

Sera found that amusing, feeling the stress lift from her shoulders as she slipped her arm around the Marine. “I don’t mind sharing my husband with you Mac, I know he’s your best friend and you love him too.”

“Thanks Sera.”

They returned to the house, going in. Harm had been looking for them. “There you are.”

“We went for a walk,” his wife informed, taking his out stretched hand. “What’s up?”

“Tom has something to say to you.”

“Oh?”

“Come on, I’ll let him explain it.”

They went back into the family room; Mac went and sat with her fiancée. Harm and Sera remained standing.

Tom stood. “I wanted to do this in front of everyone,” he began. “As some of you know, the Hawks put a bounty on Angel’s. Sera’s head and since no one was able to get her, the Hawks had to make a decision as to what to do with the money.”

“How much money was on my daughters head, Colonel?” Ryan asked, slightly amused.

“Six hundred dollars sir,” he admitted, and added. “When our CO and the other CO’s involved in the war games found out about the bounty, they weren’t happy. They demanded we give Angel an apology and out of our own pay, double the original bounty and the money were to be given to a charity of her chose. So I have a check for twelve hundred dollars here for you to give to any charity you chose. As well as our sincerest apologies.”

“And.” Matt pushed, knowing what else was ordered.

“And the Hawks also picked out a gift for you for the twins,” he nodded to Corey, who brought out two teddy bears from behind his back. Both wore Dress Whites and Gold wings, one had a JAG mill-rind insignia and the other a Line Officers Star.

Sera smiled as her son handed them the bears. “They’re fantastic Tom, please thank the Hawks from both Harm and I.”

“So we’re forgiven for the bounty?” he asked handing her the check.

“Forgiven but not forgotten,” she smirked. Then handed the check to AJ. “Sir would you hold onto this until Harm and I can decided on what charity will receive the money?”

“Of course,” he took it, putting it safely away. “I have to head back to the office quickly tonight, so I’ll put it in the safe.”

“Thank you sir.”

He and Sydney stood. “With that said, we must be going. Thank you for dinner Ryan, we’ll see you tomorrow.”

“You certainly will, AJ,” he said and he and Tiffany walked them out.

Sera showed her sisters and their husbands the bears, as Harm spoke to Tom. “Nice touch with the teddy bears.”

“One of our guy’s wives makes them, we told her what we needed and she made them up,” he revealed. “They’re suitable for newborn’s, she made sure of that.”

“Thank you,”

“Well we made a mistake of underestimating Sera, we won’t do it again.”

“Not many do, Tom.”

Sera came over to them. “Thank for the bears, Tom.”

“You’re welcome.”

She smiled as she took her husbands hand. “We should head off too.”

He nodded. “All right.”

“Can I drive?” Corey asked.

Harm dug the keys from his pocket. “Sure,” he through them to his son, who caught them.

Mac was surprised. “Now that was something I thought I’d never see.”

“He’s mellowing, sweetheart.” Matt teased.

“Very funny.” Harm remarked. “I just happen to trust my son.”

“And we get the back seat to ourselves.” Sera smirked.

“See big brother, there is always a motive for their reasoning,” Shawn told Matt.

“Which I shouldn’t be surprised about.”

Bud looked worriedly to Harriet. “Does that mean one day I’m going to have to let AJ drive the car?”

“Yes dear,” she answered calmly and everyone laughed.

Since it was getting late, everyone who was leaving headed out, that included Matt and Tom, since Mac, Chloe and Emily were staying at the estate.

“What time do you want to go jogging tomorrow, Mac?” Sera asked.

“Oh six hundred.”

“Sounds good, I’ll pick you up, we’ll go to the pack and do a few laps.”

“Fine. See if you can drag Harm out of bed too.”

“What is this pick on Harm day?” he asked.

“Yes,” she answered bluntly.

“Gee thanks.”

“You’re welcome,” she said and laughed.

“Good night Mac.”

“Good night Harm.”

“Night Mac,” Sera bided.

“Night.”

One by one they left until it was just Matt and Tom to go. Tom got the keys and started the car, waiting.

Matt drew his fiancé into his arms. “See you tomorrow Sarah Mackenzie.”

“You shell Matthew Mitchell.”

He lent forward and kissed her, pulling her against him.

Chloe rolled her eyes went back inside, glad Emily was already asleep.

Mac pulled away before she couldn’t. “You’d better get going.”

“Yeah, home for a cold shower,” he grumbled.

“Well just think about tomorrow night,” she propositioned going back into his arms. “Just you and me, all alone.”

His pulse raced. “Tomorrow night. I’m not sure I can wait that long.”

“You use to live here Cobra,” she purred making his old call sign sound sexy as hell. “I’m sure you know how to get back here on your own.”

Tom groaned out loud. “All right that’s enough,” he pulled them apart, giving Matt a show towards the car. “You in the car,” he then turned to Mac. “There will be no midnight quickies on my watch, now inside bride while I take the groom home.”

“Yes sir,” she mocked, giving him a salute before rushing back inside.

Tom shook his heard and got into the car. “As for you,” he started the engine, as he addressed Matt. “Don’t even think about it.”

“Not even a little?” Matt teased as they drove away.

“Not even a little,” Tom repeated, adding. “You can handle a cold shower for tonight. If you can’t ring her up, I’m sure you can find something to chat about.”

Matt grinned. “Tom, you’re full of ideas tonight. Good ones at that.”

“Damn right,” he exclaimed and his friend laughed.

Mac moved restlessly around the guest room, seeing Harriet finish doing Emily’s hair.

“Mac, please sit down and relax.” Chloe asked for the hundredth time.

She stopped pacing and did so. “Sorry, I guess I’m a little nervous,” Her cell phone rang making her jump; she dug it out of her bag and quickly answered it. “Mackenzie.”

“Hi Mac, it’s Harm.”

“Harm, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing Mac, everything’s fine. Sera and I are at the hospital, Corey’s already heading over with the Admiral.”

“Why are you at the hospital?”

“Meg went into labor last night, David called us. He needed a little support this morning.” Harm told her. “They had a little boy, Mac, Dylan Mackenzie Smith.”

Mac smiled. “Is Meg all right?”

“She’s fine, tied but happy. Zapper is on a natural high that’s going to take him days to come down from.”

“Give them both our congratulations.”

“I will, we’ll see you soon we’re heading over now.”

“Thanks for letting me know, Harm.”

“No problem Mac, see you in a little while. Bye.”

“Bye Harm.” She hung up, seeing the inquisitive looks. “Meg had a little boy, Dylan Mackenzie Smith.”

“Oh that’s so sweet,” Harriet exclaimed.

Mac agreed. “Harm and Sera are on their way over now and Corey is already heading over with the Admiral.”

“Then they should be here soon,” Chloe, noted, her excitement was because of Corey, not the Admiral.

“Settle down tiger, they’ll get here.”

“I know,”

Harriet laughed. “Young love.”

“Oh please,” Chloe exclaimed. “He’s my best friend.”

Mac found that amusing, especially since Corey was a Rabb through and through. “Just take your time sweetheart, you have plenty of it.”

“I will.”

A knock came at the door as Harriet was helping Mac into her dress. “Come in.”

“Is everyone decent?” a strong Texan accent asked first.

Mac smiled. “Yes sir.”

The door opened and Admiral Chegwidden came in, he closed the door quickly. “Mac you look beautiful.”

“Thank you sir,” she said blushing. She’d asked the Admiral to give her away since her only family was in Leavenworth.

AJ came out of his daze; remember why he was there. “I have someone out side who wants to see you.”

“Oh?”

He opened the door, smiling.

Mac couldn’t believe who was standing there. “Uncle Matt?”

Matthew O’Hara smiled and than stepped into the room taking her in his arms. “It’s so good to see you Sarah.”

“How?”

“Well you’ll have to thank Commander Rabb and his wife,” her Uncle answered.

“Harm and Sera?”

“Well I got dug out of bed at an ungodly hour, driven to the airport. Put into flight gear and shown to a Tomcat,” he explained. “The pilot introduced herself as Angle and said she was flying me to Norfolk. On the way she told me she and Harm had called in a few favors.”

Mac smiled and hugged him again. “Let me guess she didn’t mention she was married to him until after you’d landed?”

“How did you guess?” He smirked, and then held her at arms length. “You look gorgeous honey.”

“Thank you Uncle Matt.”

“That certainly explains why Sera looked so tired this morning when she picked you up for your run.” Chloe remarked casually.

Uncle Matt turned towards her. “My goodness is this little Chloe?”

The teenager blushed and accepted a hug from him. “I’m not so little now Uncle Matt.”

“No you’re not, you’ve grown into a beautiful young lady,” he praised.

“Well I couldn’t stay a little girl forever,” she said blushing.

“Especially with a certain young Rabb chasing her,” Harriet teased, then introduce herself. “Lieutenant Harriet Sims-Roberts, sir.”

“It’s nice to meet you Lieutenant.”

“You too sir.”

“Now what’s this about young Rabb?” Matthew asked Chloe.

“Corey is just a good friend, nothing more.”

“And he’s Harm’s son, correct?”

“Yes sir.”

“Well then I’d say you’re lucky to have a friend like him, sweetheart,” he told her.

“Thank you Uncle Matt.”

AJ cleared his throat. “I’d better go see if the Dynamic Duo has arrived, excuse me.”

“Thank you Admiral.” Mac said sincerely.

“You’re welcome Sarah,” he said with a smile, and then left the room.

Emily pulled at Matthew’s pants leg; she’d come over with Harriet.

He hankered down so he was eye to eye with her. “You must be Emily,” he saw her nod. “How do you do, Miss Emily?”

She smiled. “I’m good,” she said cheerfully. “Why does Mum call you Uncle Matt, aren’t you her dad?”

Matthew saw Mac going to explain, but shook his head. He would handle this, addressing the little girl. “Well Emily, Mac’s father passed away, I’m her Uncle, her mother’s brother.”

“But Mum said you’ve been like her father.”

“Well we’re very close,” he saw she was a little disappointed. “Why Emily?”

“Well if you were my Mum’s dad, you could be my other Grandpa. I have lots of Uncle’s. Uncle Michael, Uncle David, Uncle Harm, Uncle Bud and Uncle AJ.”

“Well I suppose you do,” he agreed, and then winked at Mac. “So I think you’d better just call me Grandpa Matt. How’s that?”

She grinned and hugged him. “Thank you Grandpa Matt.”

“You’re welcome sweetheart,” he said, and then gave her another hug. Releasing the little girl he stood. “Shell we get this show on the road, I think you’ve kept Matt sweating enough.”

“Agreed.” Mac said smiling.

Harriet handed Mac her bouquet, and she let her Uncle guide her out, Harriet and the girls following.  Leaving the house they crossed to the marquee where the wedding was taking place, tow ushers stood ready to left the heavy material and let them enter.

Before they did, Mac lent close to her Uncle. “How long are they letting you stay?”

Matthew patted her hand where it rested on his arm. “For as long as I like, sweetheart. It seems the President saw fit to pardon me.”

As shocked as she was, Mac didn’t have time to respond, the ushers pulled the heavy material apart and the music started. Emily went first, then Chloe and Harriet. Matthew tugged on his nieces arm and guided her down the aisle to the man she was about to marry.

Lieutenant Colonel Mathew Mitchell turned at the sound of the wedding march, his eyes widened with surprise.

“Breath Cobra.” Tom advised.

“Yeah,” he managed.

As they walked down the aisle, Mac noticed not only had Sera and Harm made it, so had Harm’s brother Sergei. He smiled as she passed by, they all did.

Matthew O’Hara smiled at the young man his niece was marrying; he kissed Mac’s cheek and took his seat beside the Admiral.

Father Johnson smiled happily at the couple before him. “We gather here today to join Matthew and Sarah in the bonds of marriage. From today they shall no longer walk as two independent souls but as one, bond together by their love and devotion to each other,” he began. “As Marines they know duty to their country, themselves and those who serve with them. As man and wife they will know duty to each other and their children.” He paused again. “Matthew and Sarah, please join hands.”

Mac gave Harriet her bouquet and turned, joining hands with Matt.

“Matthew will you please say the vows you’ve chosen,” Father Johnson requested.

Matt gave Mac’s hands a gentle squeeze. “I, Matthew Ryan, take you Sarah Catherine, as my friend and love, beside me and apart form me, in laugher and in tears, in conflict and tranquility, asking that you be no other than yourself, loving what I know of you, trusting what I do not know yet, in all the ways that life may find us.”

Tears misted in Mac’s eyes as on Father Johnson’s urging said her vows. “I, Sarah Catherine, take you, Matthew Ryan, as my friend and love, beside me and apart form me, in laugher and in tears, in conflict and tranquility, asking that you be no other than yourself, loving what I know of you, trusting what I do not know yet, in all the ways that life may find us.”

Father Johnson gestured seven-year-old Rick Cameron, who was ring bearer, closer. Matt’s nephew held the pillow out to his Uncle that the rings sat on.

Matt took the smallest ring and slid it onto Mac’s finger as he said to her. “Sarah, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of God.”

Rick then held the pillow out to his new Aunt.

Mac took the last ring and slid it onto Matt’s finger as she said. “Matthew, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of God.”

Rick stepped back to stand beside Gunnery Sergeant Victor Galendez, who was Matt’s groomsman.

Father Johnson smiled, addressing everyone. “With this statement made of love and trust, which we have just heard, I now wish you to greet Matthew and Sarah as husband and wife,” to the couple he said. “May this day shine eternally in your lives. May it add brilliance to every achievement and cast a divine light over any misfortune. May you care for each other in all sadness, may you give cheer to each other. May you give vitality to each other in all undertakings, may this day shine eternally. May all that is virtuous, beautiful and honest, remain with you always.” He concluded. “Matthew you may kiss your wife.”

“Yes sir,” he said happily and did just that, drawing Mac into his arms, his lips seizing hers in a long lingering kiss.

Tom, as the best man, turned and singled the guard of honor to form up, which they did quickly and quietly as the guests and the rest of the wedding party left the marquee. He and the Gunny stood at the front; swords were drawn to form and arch. It was then he announced: “Ladies and Gentlemen, I present for the first time. Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs. Matthew Mitchell.”

Everyone clapped as Matt holding tight to Mac’s hand, led her under the arch, as they passed Tom and Victor, the two Marines swatted the two of them on their six’s and said: “Go Marines.”

Matt and Mac laughed continuing. Tom dismissed the honor guard, and they joined the guests.

Harm gave Mac a hug. “Congratulations,”

“Thanks Harm.”

Sera hugged her brother. “Be happy Mattie.”

“I will,” he assured her.

Sergei stepped forward and gave Mac a hug. “You look beautiful.”

“Thank you, Sergei,” she said with a smile.

He shook Matt’s hand. “You are a lucky man.”

“Thanks Sergei.”

Matthew O’Hara joined them; he gave his niece a kiss on the cheek. “Congratulations honey.”

“Thanks Uncle Matt,” she hugged him. Then looked to Harm and Sera. “Thank you both for bringing Uncle Matt here today.”

Harm held tight to his wife’s hand, as tired as Sera was she was also happy. “You’re family Mac, we look after our own.”

“Thank you anyway.”

The photographer got the wedding party and family together and photos were taken, before everyone headed inside the second marquee for the reception.

During the night, Sera slipped away from the reception and returned having changed out of her Dress Whites into a beautiful dark blue dress and dark blue matching heals. She joined her husband on the dance floor, fitting snuggly in his arms.

Mac and Matt moved closer to them. “Nice dress, Sera,” he smirked.

“Thank you,” she said with a grin. “I bought it specially.”

Mac laughed. “You should have seen the one she didn’t buy,”

“Oh she did, it’s at home for another occasion,” Harm informed, grinning his sexy flyboy smile.

“Typical,” Matt mussed and guided his wife away.

The Admiral tapped Harm on the shoulder. “Can I cut in Commander?”

“Yes sir,” he reluctantly released Sera. Letting the Admiral draw her into his arms. Finding Sydney waiting for him.

“Don’t worry Harm, AJ’s a pussy cat,” she mussed, dancing with him.

“I wouldn’t say that too loud, Sydney,” he said finding it funny.

“I won’t.”

Sera moved gracefully with the Admiral, they’d danced together at her wedding, so she knew he was skillful on the dance floor.

“Sera, your not suppose to out shine the bride,” AJ teased her quietly.

“The bride picked out this dress,” she revealed with a sexy grin. “It’s for Harm’s benefit.”

“I got that impression, he’s frowning at me.”

She chuckled to herself. “He’s a big boy Admiral, he’ll get over it.”

The dance finished, but before Harm could make it back to his wife, Victor Galendez asked her to dance. So he went and asked the bride.

Mac willingly danced with him. “Your wife is getting a lot of attention, Harm.”

“Wipe that smirk off your face Marine, it’s your fault my wife is getting all this attention,” he said with mock annoyance.

“I know,” she said, and then giggled.

“You realize every man here is just dying to ask you to dance, Mac,” he teased lightly. “Hearts are breaking tonight.”

“Oh very funny,” she playfully swatted his arm. “They were breaking the day you got married.”

“True,” he smirked and they laughed together. Drawing her closer though he became serious. “Be happy Sarah, as happy as I am.”

“I am, Harm, I promise you,” she assured. “Now go rescue your wife,”

“Yes Ma’am.” He said, kissing her cheek, he released her and hurried over to intercept Sera before anyone else asked her to dance.

Matt embraced his wife from behind. “He’s a happy man.”

“I know, and so are you,” she agreed.

“I’ll be happier if we could get out of here and I could get you out of that dress,” he whispered, nibbling at her neck. “It’s driving me crazy.”

“I know it is, and,” she turned in his arms; pushing herself as close as she could against him she whispered what she was going to say in his ear.

Matt groaned. “That’s it,” he stealth fully guided her towards the entrance, the two of them slipping out.

“Where are we going?” Mac asked him, giggling.

“Somewhere, where I can get you out of that dress. We’ll go back to the party latter,” he informed as he led her towards the house.

“Matt we can’t,” she told him playfully.

“To hell we can’t, not after what you just told me,” he said huskily. Inside he guided her up to the guest room she’d been using, locking the door once they were inside. “Now lets see just how fast this dress does come off.”

Stepping back, Mac reached behind her back and unzipped the gown, pushing the spaghetti straps off her shoulders; she let it fall to the floor. Before her new husband trampled on it she picked it up and laid it over a chair. “See just as I promised.”

Matt draw her back into his arms and kissed her long and hard, feeling her pulling at his uniform jacket. Pretty soon it was thrown on top of the gown, as was his trousers, everything else went onto the floor as they found the bed. Making love with passion and vigor, not holding back, they were alone in the house, they could be as loud as they liked.

At the reception, despite the absent of the bride and groom, the celebrating went on.

Sera’s older sister tapped her on the shoulder as she and Harm were back on the dance floor. “You might want to go and throw a bucket of cold water over your son and Chloe.”

“Why?”

“Well they’re in a full lip lock outside.” Shawn smirked.

Both Harm and Sera went to have a look, seeing the two in question, doing what Shawn said they were.

“Corey Rabb release that young woman now!” his father barked in a strong command voice.

They parted in a hurry, both looking very guilty and sheepish.

“You’re lucky Chloe, Mac and Matt are occupied at the moment.” Sera announced.

“Sorry Ma’am.”

“Sucking up will not get you both out of trouble, young lady.”

“No Ma’am.”

“Inside, both of you and keep your hands to yourselves.” Harm ordered.

“Yes sir,” both responded and went back inside.

Sera waited until they were gone before chuckling.

Harm drew her into his arms. “He’s a chip off the old block, isn’t he?”

“Definitely his father’s son,” she smirked. “Come on Commander, let’s go back to the party.”

“Good idea Mrs. Rabb,” he stated and guided her back inside.

Mac and Matt returned to the reception, a little rumpled but none the wiser of what had occurred.

“Nice of you to rejoin us, son,” his father teased.

“Sorry Dad got distracted.”

“I can understand that, son,” he remarked and hurried away.

Mac laughed and went into her husband’s arms. “I love you Mr. Mitchell.”

“I love you too Mrs. Mitchell,” he said before kissing her.

Admiral AJ Chegwidden stood next to the Captain of the Liberty Bell, today a sea of uniforms filled ops. It had nothing to do with cases though; today it had to do with honoring four aviators. Also among the uniforms was a scattering of casual dressed visitors, all there for the same reason.

“While serving aboard the USS Liberty Bell, the following officers; Commander Harmon Rabb, his RIO Lieutenant Elisabeth Hawks, Lieutenant Commander Sera Rabb and her RIO Lieutenant David Smith. Were returning from a routine patrol with their wingmen, when Commander Rabb, acting in temporary duty as Cag; received word the electrical systems on the USS Liberty Bell had been sabotaged and the flight deck was rendered dark,” the Admiral read. “When for a brief moment landing lights were returned, both Commander Rabb and Lieutenant Commander Rabb ordered their wingmen to land. Their following decision was performed above and beyond the call of duty in the finest tradition of Naval services. Faced with no landing lights on the flight deck, Commander Rabb and Lieutenant Rabb chose to land on the unlit deck instead of ditching their aircraft because of low fuel. Their actions reflect great credit on themselves, Naval Aviation and the United States Navy. Commander Harmon Rabb and Lieutenant Commander Sera Rabb are hereby awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, third award.”

While the Admiral pinned Harm’s award to his uniform, Captain Mitchell pinned on Sera’s, both being handed the documentation.

“Congratulations Commander, Lieutenant Commander.” AJ said shaking their hands.

“Thank you sir.”

He turned a little. “Mrs. Burnett if you wouldn’t mind?”

Trish stepped forward and kissed her son and daughter-in-law’s cheeks, then returned to her husband’s side. They had arrived to be there for the ceremony and to help with the twins when they were born.

The Two officers stepped back, leaving Hawks and Smith before the Admiral and Captain.

Captain Mitchell took the commendations from Tiner. “Lieutenants David Smith and Elizabeth Hawkes are hereby awarded commendations. Their level headedness aided their drivers to bring their aircrafts down safely,” he presented them with their commendations, shaking their hands.

Taking a step back they stood once more with Harm and Sera, the four saluting the Admiral and Captain.

“At ease,” the Admiral ordered. “Well done.”

“Thank you sir,” all acknowledged.

As he and Captain Mitchell moved back, others offered their congratulations.

Mic shook Sera’s hand. “I wouldn’t have like to have been in your shoes that night, Angel.”

“You’d be amazed at what you can do when you have to, Mic,” she told him grinning.

“Which isn’t hard for Sera and Harm,” Matt teased his sister.

“Be nice.” Mac warned her husband.

“Yes dear.”

They laughed at the bantering between the two newly married officers.

Meg Austin-Smith came over to them, her son snug at the crock of her shoulder. She’d transferred back to Falls Church to be close to her husband. “Thank you for keeping him safe for me, Sera. I didn’t get a chance to say so before.”

“We look after our own, Meg.”

David slipped his arm around his wife as he teased his driver. “You just didn’t want to break in a new RIO.”

“You’ve got that right, Zapper.”

“And he didn’t want to have to break in a new driver.” Harm teased.

“Commander,” Pete Mitchell said joining them and their bantering. “You’re lucky I didn’t put Lieutenant Hawkes in for the Medal of Honor for surviving flying with you.”

“At least a Purple Heart,” he jeered and they all laughed.

“The squadron at least deserves that for having you as Cag,” Jack Keeter smirked.

“The whole Navy needs the Medal of Honor when it comes to surviving these two,” a new voice commented behind them.

Those who had to turned to see who the speaker was, finding it was Alexander Nelson, the SecNav.

“Mr. Secretary.” AJ greeted.

“AJ, sorry I’m late,” he acknowledged. “Commanders, Lieutenants, congratulations.”

“Thank you sir,” they all said.

“Commander I hope you’ll be staying out of the air for a while.”

“Until my quals are due and unless needed, yes sir.” Harm declared lightly.

The SecNav shook his head. “Perhaps you’d like an assignment where you get more flight time, Commander Rabb.”

The Admiral spoke up before Harm could. “Are you suggesting I don’t need Commander Rabb, sir?”

“I’m stating the Commander seems to spend more time in a cockpit then a courtroom, AJ,” the SecNav declared.

“Which has made him the officer he is, Mr. Secretary,” Trish Burnett stated as she and Frank came to stand next to Harm with their grandson. “And made Sera the officer she is.”

“I meant no offence Mrs. Burnett,” the SecNav assured.

“Of course you didn’t, Mr. Secretary,” she said smoothly with a smile.

The ringing phone, unnoticed by the others, was answered by the Gunny. “JAG ops, Gunnery Sergeant Galendez.”

“Gunny, it’s Commander Mitchell, could I speak to Commander Rabb or his wife please?”

“Yes Ma’am, hold on,” he answered and put her on hold. “Commander Rabb.”

Harm turned. “Yeah Gunny?”

“Phone call sir, line two. Commander Mitchell.”

“Thanks Gunny,” he gave his wife’s hand a gentle squeeze, then headed for his office.

Trish moved closer to her daughter-in-law. “Sera?”

She managed a smile. “I’m sure everything is fine.”

The SecNav meanwhile had ushered the Admiral into his office.

Captain Mitchell once more shook Sera’s hand. “Good luck Angel, let me know when the twins are born.”

“I will sir,’ she assured. “Don’t give the new squadron too much of a hard time, sir.”

“Nothing they won’t deserve, Angel,” he smirked. “Make sure you and the rest of the Liberty Aces don’t get to use to being state side. I want you all back.”

“Aye sir.”

He patted her arm, and then spoke briefly with Commander Keeter before leaving.

Sera left her friends talking with her mother and father-in-law, going over to her husband’s office, going in after rapping lightly on the door, which she closed. Harm was off the phone. “Is everything all right?”

He went around to her. “Shawn just wanted to let us know Sam is fine and so are the twins, that we should go home and relax, either she or Michael will ring us when it’s time.”

“Nothing else?”

Harm drew her into his arms. “Nothing, I promise,” he said calmly. “Are you all right?”

She nodded. “I suppose I’m just feeling a little selfish. Sam’s doing all the hard work and I’m just going to waltz in take the twins.”

“She doesn’t think that’s what’s happening, Sera. Sam knows how much you’ve wanted a child of your own. Of our own, this is her gift to us. Her way of saying how much she loves you,” he reassured.

“I know,” she sighed, she’d been feeling this way since Michael had rang and told her Sam had gone into labor that morning. It was a little disturbing.

“Hey,” Harm lifted her chin up. “Sam will be fine, the twins are going to be fine. They’re only a few days early.”

She managed to smile. “I guess then we’re going to be parents pretty soon, Commander.”

“We certainly are, Lieutenant Commander,” he whispered, then lent closer and kissed her, cupping her face in his hand.

A knock on the door broke them apart; they chuckled and moved to stand away from each other.

“Enter!” Harm called.

The door opened and his stepfather came in. “Are you ready to go?”

“We are,” both agreed following him out.

Saying goodbye to everyone, they left, driving home. Changing out of their uniforms into casuals they settled down on the sofa, Sera sat half in Harm’s lap so he could rub her back, slow even circles.

Trish came into the lounge, smiling. “You look comfortable, Sera honey.”

“I am,” she’d closed her eyes, enjoying the attention her husband was giving her. “I didn’t get a lot of sleep last night.”

“Oh?” Trish eyed her son as she sat across from them. “Was that because of Harm or some other reason?”

“Mum!” he complained.

Sera chuckled. “A little of both,” she opened her eyes. “Though mostly it was Harm.”

“Thanks babe,”

“You’re welcome,” she closed her eyes again.

Corey and Frank also wondered in, sitting down. “Are you okay Mum?” the teenager asked.

“Fine honey.”

“So Corey how’s the jeep?” Frank asked him.

“It’s great, I like having my own car.”

“As long as he’s not driving my Cobra or his father’s Vette,” Sera said sleepily.

Harm chuckled. “Not that we don’t trust him.”

Corey rolled his eyes. “Jeez thanks Dad.”

“Don’t mention it, Core.”

The phone stated to ring. “I’ll get it.” The teenager volunteered and got up to do so.

“Did you finally decide on names?” Trish asked, a little anxious to know if this was the phone call they were waiting for.

“Harmon Ryan and Katherine Patricia.” Sera answered opening her eyes.

Before anyone could comment, Corey returned. “That was Uncle Michael, he said things have speed up, it’s time.”

“Let’s go than.” Harm said. He got up and than helped Sera up.

“Do you need to get anything?” His mother asked.

“No. We’ve had everything prepared for a week.” Sera admitted sheepishly.

“Well than lets go.”

Harm handed Frank the keys to his Lexus. “Do you mind? Corey can direct you to Bethesda.”

“No, not at all,” he accepted, and then turned to Trish. “Come on Grandma.”

“Just watch it Grandpa,” she teased back.

Commander Shawn Mitchell was waiting for them as they came off the elevator. She smiled warmly as she saw Harm’s parents. “Hi Trish, Frank.”

“Shawn, honey. How are you?” Trish greeted her with a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

“I’m fine. We’ve a room for you to wait in,” she informed and headed them towards it. “Everything has been going well, no problems at all.” She told them as they walked into the room.

Harm dropped the overnight bag on the floor near the bed. “Is it normal for labor to speed up all of a sudden?”

“Babies have their own time table, Harm, they come when they’re ready and right now the twins are read.” Shawn explained.

Trish smiled at her son’s nervousness. “Don’t worry Harm, if they’re like you were, they won’t give Sam any trouble during deliver.”

Sera sat up on the bed. “So now we just wait?”

“You do, I’ll be back a little later on. Relax,” her sister mused and hurried out.

Trish chuckled and patted her grandson on the arm. “Corey, honey, why don’t you give the JAG office a ring and let them know we’re at the hospital.”

“Sure,” he agreed and hurried out.

Both Trish and Frank sat down on the chairs provided near the bed, Harm sat on the bed near its head with Sera in his arms.

“Why don’t you try and get some sleep, honey?” her mother-in-law suggested.

“It’s a good idea, babe,” Harm told her. “I’ll wake you if we hear anything.”

“Promise?”

“Promise,” he kissed the top of her head. “Sleep.”

She closed her eyes. “Okay,”

Harm smiled to himself, feeling her relax in his arms. Within moments she was asleep.

“Maybe we should wait outside?” Frank volunteered.

“It’s okay Frank, Sera’s use to sleeping on a carrier, she’ll sleep any where,” his stepson announced.

Corey returned, seeing his mother sound asleep. “Is Mum all right Dad?”

“She’s just asleep Core,” he answered. “What did the Admiral say?”

“That he’ll drop by later and that he’ll let everyone know,” the teenager revealed. “Oh and that Uncle Matt and Aunt Mac are on they’re way.”

“Thanks Core.”

He nodded and sat with Frank, the two chatting about car and other things.

Trish sat forward in her seat. “Are you all right, Harm?”

“Yeah Mum, I’m fine.”

She smiled warmly. “Your dad would be so happy for you both. He would of loved Sera and Corey, not to mentioned spoiled the twins.”

“I know Mum,” he said as he gently stroked his wife’s head. He felt his father was watching over them. “Do you ever wonder what it would have been like if Dad hadn’t have gone down that Christmas Eve?”

“Some times, do you?”

He nodded, smiling. “I can imagine him playing ball with Corey, bouncing the twins on his knee.”

Trish understood. “Where ever your father is Harm, he’s looking over you all. I believe that more then ever after all you’ve been through. You and Sera.”

Nodding he let it drop. “I’m sure he is Mum.”

A few minutes later the door opened and Shawn and Michael came in, each carried a small infant, smiling happily.

Harm gave Sera a gentle nudge. “Wake up babe.”

She did, still half asleep. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, I just thought you’d like to meet your children.”

That woke her up fully; she sat up seeing her sister and brother-in-law.

Shawn chuckled softly. She laid the infant she was carrying in Harm’s arms. “This is your Daddy, Katherine,” she said softly, then stepped out of the way.

Michael gentle laid the infant he was nursing in Sera’s arms. “Here you go little one, this is your Mum,” he said before moving back.

Tears welled in Sera’s eyes; the emptiness that had been in her heart, the pain of not being able to have a child disappeared as she held her son in her arms.

Trish sat on the bed next to her. “He looks just like Harm did when he was a baby, you named him well.”

“Little Harm is the smallest,” Shawn revealed. “Just six pounds, where his sister weighted in a six pound two.”

“How is Sam?” Sera asked.

“Exhausted, she delivered without tearing, but she’ll still be a little sore for a little while. She’s fine though. She’s being released in the morning. The twins can go home then too, I’ve arranged for you to spend the night with them.”

“Thanks Shawn.”

“No problem.”

Harm gestured Corey closer. “Would you like to hold her?”

“I don’t know Dad, she’s so tiny,” he answered hesitantly.

“You’ll be fine,” his father reassured and gently laid the infant in the teenager’s arms. “This is your big brother Kat, he’s a little rough around the edges but he’s a good guy.”

Frank stood next to Corey, putting his hand on the teenager’s shoulder. “Are you all right Corey?”

“Yeah,” he answered smiling.

Mac and Matt chose that moment to come. “Did we miss anything?” the later asked.

“No big brother you’re just in time. Come met your new niece and nephew.” Shawn invited.

Moving closer they took a good look at the two newest Rabb’s.

“They’re so gorgeous, Sera,” Mac praised holding tight to her husband’s hand. Their time would come.

Harm slipped his arm around his wife and son. “We were wondering Mac, if you and Matt would be the twins Godparents.”

“Of course we will,”

Sera saw the earning in Mac’s eyes she knew that look. “Would you like to hold him, Mac?”

“I’d love too,” she said excitedly.

Michael slipped out of the room as the twins were given to their Godparents. He went to his wife’s room, going in.

She smiled as he entered. “About time you came back, how are my niece and nephew?”

“Perfect,” he said as he sat on the bed next to her. “Are you all right?”

She snuggled into his arms. “I will be,” she said. “Next time I do this, it’ll be very different.”

“It certainly will be sweetheart,” he agreed kissing her forehead. “Next time it will be our turn.”

To be continued

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