More Than Anyone Deserves

By Flotternz & Tarra O'Neal

Email: flotternz@yahoo.co.nz and IrishLas413@msn.com

Status: Complete, 2nd in a series

Category: Romance, Hurt/Comfort, Angst

Pairings: Sam/Jack, Daniel/Janet

Spoilers: Some for Cold Lazarus; Slight for Children of the Gods; Slight for the original movie.

Season/Sequel Info: Part 2 in the Last Breath Series. Sequel to "Looking Through Your Eyes"; Season 5 (After Desperate Measures - Before Meridian)

Rating: PG/PG13

Content Warnings: None?

Summary: The lives of Sam and Jack have been changed drastically...will they make the right decisions?

Disclaimer: Sadly we don't own SG-1, or that lovely graying, brown eyed Colonel...*sigh*! Oh woe are we!! Anyways... Stargate SG-1 and its characters are the property of Stargate Productions, MGM/UA, Viacom, Double Secret Productions, Gekko Productions and the Showtime and/or Sci Fi networks. No infringement is intended to the above parties. This is for entertainment purposes only and no money exchanged hands. The original characters, situations, and story are the property of the author. This story may not be posted elsewhere without the consent of the author.

File Size: 200 KB

Archive: Dyiallias II - http://www.dyiallias2.bravepages.com, S/J archive, Jackfic . anywhere else please ask.

Author's Note: Song credits - Inspired by the song "More Than Anyone Deserves'" by LeAnn Rimes.

Feedback: SWEET!!! We love feedback!! The more we get, the more we write, and everyone's happy!! J

******************************************

Major Samantha Carter stood in her bathroom looking at the object in front of her. It couldn't be, she thought. She ran a hand through her disheveled hair, and looked at her reflection in the mirror. Her eyes had rings under them, there were strain lines at the corners of her mouth, and her hair....well, it had seen better days.

She glanced down at her watch and saw that if she didn't leave immediately, she would be late. She snatched the paper bag that was off to the side and left the confines of the bathroom. Grabbing her duffle bag off the kitchen table, she stuffed the paper bag into it, and rushed out the door.

A gust of wind nearly knocked her off her feet. It seemed like winter had come early to Colorado Springs, skipping autumn all together. She was glad she had put the top up on her car last night because a slight dusting of snow had settled on the ground and her car.

Relieved to feel at least some warmth from the interior of the car, she revved the engine, and cranked the heater up. She hoped the flurries didn't hinder her drive and cause her to be any later than she thought she would be. That wouldn't sit well with anyone, least of all the Colonel.

She and Jack had been treading on thin ice for the past couple of months. After her vision returned, everyone had assumed that she would just continue with her duties at the SGC. It wasn't in her nature to disappoint anyone. So being the dedicated soldier and doctor that she was, she had gone back. She went against everything her heart was telling her. Even a little voice in the corner of her mind told her to go with her heart. Too bad she didn't listen to it.

Even at five o'clock in the morning traffic was at a standstill, thanks to the snow. Crap. She was going to be in hot water when...if...she got there. She pulled her cell phone out of her coat pocket. She dialed the familiar number to Janet's office, hoping that she would be within hearing distance. After the sixth ring she nearly hung up but it was picked up.

"Dr. Fraiser." Janet sounded breathless.

"Janet? It's Sam. Looks like I might be a tad late. Can you pass along the word?" Sam knew she didn't even have to ask. Janet was always willing to do anything for her. She was so glad she had a friend like Janet.

"Of course. So did we get the snow that was forecasted?"

"Yeah ... that's what the holdup is. Not much right now, but enough to cause traffic to slow to a crawl," Sam said.

"Are you alright Sam?"

"I'm fine Janet, just a little tired. Why do you ask?"

Janet sounded concerned, and a little worried. "You just sound a little down today," she replied. "I know these last few weeks have been rough on you, ever since you came to work, and this whole thing with you and Jack-."

Oh not again! Sam rolled her eyes. Janet had been trying to get her to open up ever since she had returned to the SGC. Her friend meant well, but there was nothing that she could do to help, so what was the point of talking? It wasn't going to make the situation any better.

"I'm fine Janet," she replied, her voice a little harsher than she meant it to be. "I just had a bit of trouble sleeping last night."

And every other night. It was more difficult to sleep alone with the knowledge that it was her decision that had made it be that way. It was hard enough to sleep when the memories of those blissful few weeks they had shared together kept surging up every time she closed her eyes.

She was beginning to regret her choice.

"Oh okay then," Janet's tone sounded friendly enough, but Sam could hear the disappointment in her voice. "Well, you know where I am if you ever need to talk."

"I know, thank you. I'll see you later on today for that check up, okay Janet?"

"Sure. See you then."

Sam switched off her phone with a sigh. Why did things always have to go from bad to worse?

Today was going to be a bad day.

************************************

"Daniel, would you just quit it?"

Jack's voice was laced with irritation and exasperation. He felt bad for snapping at the younger man. Daniel was only trying to help him, but it was help he didn't want. It's wasn't like Daniel could help him anyway; there was nothing that anyone could do. It was hopeless.

He had his attention focused on the yo-yo in his hands, trying his hardest not to look at Daniel, to show that he wasn't interested in this line of conversation. Concentrating on something so simplistic also helped in keeping his attention from other things . things he would rather not remember just yet.

But even focusing on the most menial of tasks didn't serve to help him for long. Being in this place was a constant, heartbreaking, reminder of what he'd had for such a short time and lost just as quickly.

"Fine, I'll leave you to it then," Daniel snapped angrily. He stalked out of the office and slammed the door shut behind him.

Jack sighed, putting the yo-yo down on his desk. He thought things would be easier than this. He had hoped that it wouldn't affect the friendships that they had all fought so hard to build and nurture.

It was tough. He was pushing Daniel away. He and Sam were barely talking. It was too difficult. It killed him to have to see her every day knowing that she had chosen this place over him. That was the way it had to be. They had both agreed it was the best thing to do. He regretted it more and more with each passing moment.

Every day he stopped himself just before he printed his letter of resignation. It was so tempting just to print it out and hand it to the General, but he couldn't. He couldn't leave this job, not yet anyway. No matter how much his heart ached to be with Sam, he knew that his role at the SGC was too important to turn his back on. Besides, it's not like she wanted to be with him anyway, things would be very different now if that was the case.

There was a soft knock at his door and he sighed. Couldn't he get a moment of peace? "Yeah?"

The door opened and Janet's head poked around it. "Are you free at the moment, sir?"

Jack barely managed to stop the groan that threatened. Great, first Daniel now her! "Actually no, I'm not."

Janet frowned at his brusque tone. "Okay . Sam just called. She's going to be a little bit late, she's caught in traffic."

She couldn't call me and tell me that? I'm her CO for god sake! The CO that used to be her lover. It hurt more than it should have, like thousands of tiny little needles piercing his heart. Is this where we were now, relegated to sending messages to each other with our friends, because it was so unbearable being in the same room as each other?

He glanced up at Janet to find her staring wide-eyed back at him. Oh crap, how much of that did I say aloud? Her arms were now across her chest, her lips clenched in a tight, angry line. "Do you have any idea how hard this is on Sam? You aren't the only one suffering, Jack. Remember that, and quit being such an ass!"

Jack tried to form a reply, but he was left completely speechless. What's the point of arguing when she is right? He shrugged lamely.

Janet made a sound of disgust. Turning on her heel she left the office, slamming the door behind her.

Jack rolled his eyes. Great, he had just managed to alienate another friend. Not bad for an hours work! Sighing loudly he dropped his head onto his arms. How was it possible for this day to get worse?

**************************************

Whew! She made it.

Sam stomped the snow off her boots as soon as she entered the door to the top level of the base. It seems that the closer she got to the mountain the more snow she ran into. Looks like she will be staying on base for a while, whether there is a mission or not.

She glanced at her watch for what seemed like the hundredth in an hour. Good thing she always left her house early, today was no exception. She had forty-five minutes to spare. She rushed through the clearance check point, and proceeded down to the infirmary level. Before going on to her eye checkup with Janet, she thought she would stop off at a restroom.

Making sure there was no one else in the facility, she made her way to end stall and pulled the paper bag from the pharmacy she had stopped at the night before. She pulled the cover off the second pregnancy test from the opened box. Following the directions she finished and popped her head out the door, still keeping tabs on the vacancy status of the bathroom. The stall was too dark, so she moved over to one of the sinks where the lighting was better. Her hands were shaking so hard she could barely hold onto the test stick. She laid it on the sink and continued to watch for the window on the stick to change...or not to change. Her gaze shifted nervously between the door, her watch, and the test stick. Only one minute had passed. It seemed like forever. It only took five minutes to achieve the reading, though it seemed like time had slowed down.

Three minutes.

Two and a half.

Two.

One and three quarters.

One and a half.

One.

Thirty seconds.

Ten...nine...eight...seven...six...five...four...three...two...one...

Her watched beeped and seemed to echo off the walls. She reached her hand out hesitantly and picked up the stick. Her hand was shaking erratically, so she had to grip her wrist with her other hand so she could steady it to read it. She closed her eyes briefly before looking at it. She wasn't sure what she wanted it to say. Before she lost her nerve, her eyes slid open. And there it was in plain sight. A blue...positive sign.
 
 

"Sam, you made it! I was beginning to get worried about you."

Sam swung around with a jolt, stick still in hand. She hadn't heard anyone enter the restroom. Shock was written on her face and the color drained from her face as she saw Janet's own reaction.

"Sam?" Janet's voice was laced with surprise...and something else.

"I...uh..." Sam couldn't manage to talk at the moment.

Janet closed the door behind her and stepped deeper into the room, her eyes darting between the stick in Sam's hand and her face.

"Sam?" Her voice was quiet and full of surprise. "What's going on?"

"You're a doctor Janet, can't you tell," Sam snapped, flushing furiously as her surprise was replaced by anger. It was completely irrational, and she felt terrible the moment the words left her mouth.

Her voice dropped to a whisper. "Janet, I'm sorry...I didn't mean..."

"Sam, honey, it's okay." Janet moved closer to her and leaned over to look at the stick that Sam held out. She looked up into Sam's eyes, seeing the uncertainty there. "You know they aren't always accurate. If you want I can run a test. It won't take long at all."

Sam nodded, not trusting herself to speak. Turning away from her friend she quickly gathered her things back into her duffle bag and took the time to calm herself down. Straightening up she slung the bag over her shoulder, feeling slightly more in control of herself. "Can we do it now Janet?"

The doctor's arm slid around her waist, squeezing gently, reassuringly. "Don't worry Sam, everything will be okay."

**********************************

Sam sat on the bed in one of the private rooms off from the infirmary. Her hands were twisting in the single sheet covering the bed. She would know in a few minutes. She had some idea from the two home tests, but she wanted to know for certain. Her whole life could be changed in a split second. As odd as it sounded, she wasn't horrified. She should have realized that something like this could have happened. She hadn't been on birth control in ages. It wasn't as if she was ever in any serious relationships. Her relationship with Jack had come as some surprise. Though it was one she didn't regret...would never regret.

Questions kept flying through her head. Was she ready to be a mother? Could she handle it? She had always wanted to have children; she just never pictured it to happen this way. It wasn't as if she couldn't support a child. She could. But could she raise one on her own?

Sam's head flew up when she heard heels clicking down the hallway. That could only be Janet. Janet with her test results. She would know now. She would find out once and for all if she was going to have a baby.

Janet entered the room, clipboard in hand. She had a neutral look pasted on her face, not wanting her emotions to take sides before she found out how Sam felt about the results.

"Well?" Sam asked edging on impatience.

"The results were conclusive..." Janet started out professionally.

"Janet... please," Sam pleaded softly.

Janet glanced up from her clipboard and her expression softened. Feeling the need to comfort her friend she went over and sat down beside Sam. She put her arm around her and started again. "You're eleven weeks along. You are going to have a baby."

Sam sat there for a moment, not able to speak, or barely comprehend. Neutrality was written on her face. And then it clicked. I'm going to have a baby. Oh my God...I'm going to have Jack's baby. A slow smile formed on her lips as tears slipped down her face. She was actually thrilled. She wanted this baby. She just didn't realize how much until then.

As soon as Janet saw the tears she gathered Sam in a consoling embrace. "Sam, I'm sorry," she said through tears of her own. She didn't see Sam's smile.

"Don't be. I'm not," Sam managed through a constricted throat.

Janet leaned back to gauge Sam's reaction. Sam's face was wet with tears, her eyes had bags under them, and her face muscles were pinched with fatigue, but she looked genuinely happy. In fact, if Janet didn't know any better, she was glowing. The though made her giggle.

"So this means I'm going to be an aunt?" Janet asked jokingly.

"Looks like." Sam's smile seemed to increase in wattage.

"So when are you going to tell Jack? Or are you going to tell him?" Janet's voice returned to seriousness.

Sam bowed her head. "Yeah, I'm going to tell him. I just haven't decided how yet."

"If you need any support when you do, just let me know," Janet offered.

"I will. But I think I need to do this on my own." Sam raised her head again and gave a small smile.

*******************************

Jack drummed his fingers impatiently on the table. Where the hell was Sam? The briefing was supposed to start 5 minutes ago and she hadn't shown up yet. He glanced at the General, expecting to see impatience on his face. He was relieved to see that he wasn't.

He looked down at his watch again. He hated being kept waiting. He spared a glance for Daniel opposite him, who was studiously avoiding looking in his direction. A small sigh left his lips. He guessed he shouldn't be surprised; he had been pretty hard on the guy lately.

He just wanted to get this briefing over with so they could get the mission over with. At least then he would be able to go home. At least then he wouldn't have the constant reminder of Sam. He was glad for that, that they hadn't shared his bed. He knew it would have been so much harder on him if they had.

I wonder how Sam is dealing with this. His thoughts drifted back to his conversation with Janet. She had told him that this was hard on Sam too. It didn't show, but then again she was just as good as he was at hiding her feelings. Did she regret the decision as much as he did?

The sound of footsteps echoed up the stairwell. Jack squared his shoulders, unable to prevent the impatience that had crept across his face. He had a snappy remark about tardiness fresh on his tongue when her head appeared around the doorway. The words fled him as he drank in her appearance.

She had been crying. It wouldn't have been obvious to anyone else, but he had been the one that consoled her whenever she was upset after her accident, he could see it as clear as day. Her eyes were red and slightly bloodshot.

She was radiant. Her cheeks had a healthy glow and she was smiling as she walked up to the table. Her eyes were locked to his and he felt the breath leave his chest. She was so beautiful, breathtakingly beautiful. Why had she been crying? What could have had her in tears one moment and made her so delightedly happy now?

Sam broke eye contact as she looked at the General. "Sorry I'm late sir, my check up took a little longer than expected."

Then her eyes were back on his. He was taken back by the intensity of her gaze. What was going on? It was like she was searching for something, but he was damned if he knew what. He offered her a small smile and his mind worked overtime to comprehend what was going on.

This was the most contact that they'd had in nearly two months. He couldn't help but lose himself in her eyes. He could see the love there, the regret and the happiness. Was she having a change of heart?

"Colonel?"

The voice was so abrupt that Jack jumped and broke eye contact. He looked at the General. "Sorry, I drifted off for a moment there," he muttered lamely. Had the General noticed what had been happening? Probably.

D'oh!

Hammond looked mildly amused, much to Jack's relief. "I was asking if you thought your team was ready for this mission."

"Oh . yeah we sure are. I bet Danny is dying to find some more rocks to study."

The joke fell on deaf ears, as he had expected it would. He glanced at Sam to find her grinning at him, at least she laughed at his jokes.

"Great," Hammond announced, standing up. "You will depart in two hours."

Jack pulled his attention from Sam long enough to nod his agreement to the General. When he turned back to her she was gone.

What the hell?

*******************************

Sam had been pacing across her lab for the last half hour. She was delaying the inevitable. She had to go and talk to Jack. She had to tell him before they went on the mission.

She had no idea how he was going to take it. She knew from what had happened in the briefing that he had no idea. He was clueless as to why she'd been so happy when she had arrived, but she could tell that he knew that she had been crying too.

Jack had such a look of hope in his eyes as he watched her. It meant one thing to Sam, he thought that the looks she was giving him, the smile that split her face, meant something else. He had no clue that she was going to tell him that she was going to have his baby.

Jack's baby.

Those two words had such a pleasant ring to them. She felt like she was glowing. She never realized how happy the thought of having a child would make her. She felt like doing a little dance. It only firmed her resolve. She had to tell him . now.

Butterflies fluttering crazily in her stomach as she left her lab and headed in the direction of Jack's office. She arrived quicker than she expected. Shuffling her feet nervously, she hesitated before knocking on the door. How was he going to react?

Taking a deep breath, she knocked on the door.

"Yeah?"

It sounded like he was in a bad mood. Sam steeled herself and gathering her courage she opened the door and stepped into his office. He was seated at his desk, his face slightly flushed. He glanced up at her, his eyes flashing with irritation.

"Carter?" His voice was gravelly. He wasn't just in a bad mood, he was angry, furious.

"Sir, do you have a few moments, I have something I need to talk to you about," she pressed on despite the second thoughts that were plaguing her. She didn't expect him to be in this mood when she told him that he was the father of her baby.

"Sure Carter, I have all the time in the world for you." His bitter sarcasm was like a slap in the face to Sam.

"Sir . Jack . what's wrong?"

"What's wrong?" He exploded. Slamming his hands down on the desk, he pushed himself up a little to glare at her. "Why don't we start with what's right?"

Sam was lost. She was tempted to walk out of the room, to leave him to it, but she couldn't. Something was wrong and she wanted to find out what it was. "What?"

He fell back into his seat, his shoulders slumped. "General Hammond just paid me a visit. He gave me a warning about my misconduct during the briefing," he paused, scrubbing a hand across his face.

He looked tired, Sam realized, so tired and so unhappy. "He wanted to know if we were involved in a relationship," he murmured miserably.

"Oh." Sam had no idea what to say. They weren't in a relationship, but she wasn't about to ask Jack what he told the General.

"Oh?" It was almost a yell. "Is that all you can say? Oh? Do you have any idea how difficult these last few weeks have been on me?"

Sam felt herself losing her temper. Putting her hands on the desk she leaned her face in close to his. "About as difficult as it's been for me Jack," she spat.

He sprang up out of his seat. "Is that why you've wanted nothing to do with me? Why you've avoided me like the plague . because this has been difficult for you? If I had known that things would be so unbearable between us that you couldn't stand being around me I might have fought harder to convince you not to come back!"

Sam moved back from him, unable to handle the anger burning in his eyes, unable to contain the guilt of knowledge that she had done this to him. She couldn't think up a snappy reply.

"Or did you regret what happened between us and this is your way of showing it, of showing me that you didn't really want me in the first place?"

Jack's voice was cold. His words were like a knife plunged into her chest. She was skirting close to the limitations of her self-control. "You know that's not true Jack," she replied, her voice matching his for closeness. "You know that I love you and that I valued that time we spent together."

"You have a funny way of showing it!"

The words would have had less impact if he had reached over and slapped her in the face. "I can't believe you Jack," she said, her voice barely more than a whisper. "I can't believe that the father of my baby could be such an ass not to see how much I truly love him."

The words would have had less impact if he had reached over and slapped her in the face. "I can't believe you Jack," she said, her voice barely more than a whisper. "I can't believe that the father of my baby could be such an ass not to see how much I truly love him."

Sam couldn't stay in the room with him any longer. She had to get away; she had to clear her head. Turning she left the room quickly, certain that the last look she had seen on Jack's face was one of horror.

***

"I can't believe you Jack," he had to strain to hear the words; they were cold and succinct. "I can't believe the father of my baby could be such an ass that he can't see how much I truly love him!"

Jack slumped back in his seat hard enough to rattle his teeth, if his jaw hadn't hit the floor first. Did he hear that right? Father of her baby? No . he had to be hearing things.

He looked up in time to see the door slam shut behind her. His every instinct screamed to go after her, but he couldn't move. His brain fought to absorb this new piece of information. He was shaken to the core, it was completely unexpected. He was caught completely flat-footed, like someone had punched him in the gut sending all the air out of his body in one great rush.

Sam was pregnant . with his child. It didn't seem possible. It was like something out of a dream. Had he imagined it? No, definitely not. There was steel in her voice, certainty, when she said it. Sam wouldn't lie about something as important as that.

Breathe, Jack.

He groaned, dropping his head down onto his desk. He had been such an ass to her. He hadn't had the right to treat her as appallingly as he had. He shouldn't have taken his foul mood out on her. She must hate him now.

She must have come to tell him about the baby. Had he ruined his chances with her? Was she going to jump to the conclusion that he didn't want the baby and do something irrational, something she would regret?

It felt so weird to think about. He was going to be a father again. It was wonderful, it was amazing. It was like all his dreams had come at once. A beautiful woman who loved him and their baby on the way. What more could a man want?

Jack stood up. He had to find Sam; he had to apologize to her and make things right.

**************************************

After Sam had stormed out of Jack's office, she went in search of Janet. Her emotions were raging and threatening to overflow. Sam found Janet in the corner of the infirmary talking softly to Daniel. Sam tried to remain patient, as there were a couple other personnel present, however she didn't know how long she could take it. A few minutes went by as the personnel drifted out of the infirmary.

"Janet," Sam called out in a strangled voice.

Janet's head jerked up as she caught the upset pleading tone in Sam's voice, and knowing only all too well what it might mean. She rushed over to her friend and led her out of the infirmary and on to her office. Daniel followed closely behind, concerned for Sam's current state.

As soon as the door to her office was closed, Janet gathered her into a comforting embrace, as Sam broke down crying. "What happened, Sam?" Janet asked soothingly, although she had some idea what had just occurred.

"I went to go and tell Jack about the baby," she replied between sobs. "He... the General had just seen him. asked him if we were involved. He was so angry and unreasonable Janet. He thought I didn't love him."

"That son of a..." Sam heard Daniel swear under his breath, which caused her to cry even harder.

"Sam, calm down, honey. You need to calm down," Janet urged.

Sam was breathing hard and was clutching onto Janet like a lifeline. Why was she breaking down like this, she was a Major in the United States Air Force, for goodness sake. She was supposed to be tough and unbeatable. Why couldn't she stop crying?

"Sam, you are going to have to calm down before you hyperventilate." Janet's voice brought on a concerned tone.

"I didn't tell him Janet," she gasped, trying desperately to control her breathing. "I just blurted it out and left the room." She gripped the front of her friend's lab coat tightly. "I was just so angry . I couldn't help myself. He looked horrified Janet!"

Janet looked over Sam's shoulder and met Daniel's eyes. She could see the anger radiating there. Anger towards Jack. She felt the same way. Jack was breaking Sam's heart and he didn't even realize it.

Janet led Sam over to a set of chairs and eased her down into one. Sam doubled over with another wave of sobs. Both Janet and Daniel gathered around her; Janet putting her arm around her and Daniel offering a consoling hand on her knee.

"Sam, I am sure Jack wasn't horrified. You probably shocked him as much as yourself. You know how much he loves children. Which means he would love your child even more," Janet assured her.

Sobs overtook her again, and she struggled to ride them out. She took the time to try and sort everything out in her mind. She knew Jack loved her, there was no way feelings that strong could change so soon. He did love kids, and she was sure that he wanted another one. But that look of horror that was on his face . she couldn't forget it. Did it mean anything?

Her sobs slowly subsided. Taking a deep breath she looked up at both of her friends, straining to see them through the tears in her eyes. "Maybe your right . but if you're wrong I don't think I can do this on my own, Janet. I don't want my baby growing up with a father that hates it."

Daniel's arm slid around her shoulder. "If that happens, Sam, it happens. You'll still have us; we'll always be there to help you out."

Sam flushed, but her friend's reassuring words cheered her a little. What had she done to deserve such great friends? "Thank you both," she whispered, tears sliding down her cheeks once more. "I . I think I want to go up for some air."

"Do you want us to come with you Sam," Janet asked, worry still evident in her voice.

Sam shook her head. Standing she wiped her eyes on her sleeve. "No. I wanna be alone for a while. I've got a lot to think about."

Janet stood with her. "Would you like me to talk to General Hammond? Get you taken off this mission?"

"No. I want to go," she replied, a touch of defiance in her voice. Forcing a smile, she turned and left the room.

*******************************

Jack hadn't seen Sam since she left his office after his...yes his...blowup. He tried to find her all over the base, but either she didn't want to be found or he just wasn't looking in the right places. He felt absolutely terrible over what he did. He shouldn't have yelled at her. No matter what position he had been in, he never should have done that.

He had to talk to her. He had to find out if what he thought she said was what she really said. They were all waiting in the Gate room to depart, but Sam still hadn't shown up. He was really getting worried now. Sam was never late for a mission departure.

Daniel was avoiding him, he was sure of it. And if looks could kill, well...he would be way more than six feet under. Teal'c was his usual impassive self, though he did detect a bit of tension from him.

Jack tapped his watch again, making sure it was working. And it was. He straightened the strap on his P-90, again, trying to keep his hands busy while waiting.

As the Gate began its rotation, General Hammond came over the intercom from the Control Room. "Where is Major Carter?"

"I don't know, Sir..." Jack began, but was cut off abruptly by Daniel.

"She'll be here shortly."

Jack swung his head around and met Daniel's frigid stare. Surely he still wasn't mad about the earlier incident in his office. Though Daniel did hold grudges, so that was probably it.

Sam ran into the Gate Room apologizing to the General for her tardiness. She flew past Jack in a flurry of movement, making him think he just imagined her entry. She didn't acknowledge his presence other than a brief nod, which kind of hurt him, though he did deserve it. She moved in between him and Daniel.

He could hear Daniel talking to her, but could only make out a few words under the drowning sound of the Gate engaging. He did hear him ask her if she was alright. As to her response, he didn't hear that.

She looked drained, and her eyes were still puffy, thanks to him he was sure. Man he was such a jerk. Maybe he should relieve her of this mission. She was probably in no shape to carry out a mission, even if it was just a routine "take-samples-and-go-home" job.

"Major, perhaps you should stand down from this mission," Jack said wanting to sound impartial, but knew he failed. His suggestion came out too gruff and harsh.

"I'm fine, Sir," Sam responded lifting her chin a notch.

"I mean it Major. Stay behind on this one. There will be more missions," Jack urged, digging himself in deeper.

"I'm going, Sir."

"You're staying."

"I'm going."

Jack turned to look at her and caught her hardened gaze. God, did he do this to her? Leave it to me to screw something else up, he thought.

Sam was staring straight ahead waiting for the go. As soon as General Hammond gave the okay, she shot up the ramp like the devil himself was after her. And in a sense he was.

Man, she must really despise me. Heck, I despise myself right now!

He trailed up the ramp behind his team, a bad feeling lingering in the pit of his stomach. He had the feeling that something else was going to go wrong today. He just hoped that Sam would be okay.

************************************

Sam sighed and squinted up at the sky. Her back ached and she could feel a headache creeping up on her. Spending the last few hours in the sun hadn't helped; her eyes were achy and watering, despite her wearing sunglasses.

Standing, she stretched out the kinks in her back and took the opportunity to glance around the clearing. It was eerily quiet. Nobody was talking. She missed the Colonel's smart-ass comments, his complaints about being bored, and his jokes.

Her eyes instantly sought him out. He was sitting on a rock about twenty meters away bouncing a stone absently on the palm of his hand. He didn't seem to be angry anymore, but he was a lot more pensive and distant than she had expected. She had felt his eyes on her often during the last few hours, she was curious to know what he was thinking about.

Daniel stepped up to her, putting a hand gently on her shoulder. "You okay, Sam?"

He had stuck by her side most of the day, making no attempt to hide his concern for her. It was touching . and a tad annoying at times. At least she knew she could always rely on him.

"Yeah, I'm fine, Daniel."

She could feel Jack's eyes on her again. She glanced at him, surprised at the array of emotions that flickered across his face. There was definitely no anger there. Remorse, concern and maybe a little bit of doubt.

Daniel's hand tightened on her shoulder as Jack stood and threw the stone aside. He was still angry at Jack; the two of them had barely spoken since they had stepped through the Stargate. In fact, Sam realized, no one had spoken to the Colonel, not even Teal'c, except with the cursory responses to his orders.

Jack glanced once more in her direction before turning and heading the opposite way, his shoulders slumped. Sam watched until his back disappeared into the woods.

Sam looked at Daniel and he shrugged as if to say 'he did it to himself'. She couldn't help feeling a little guilty. Her anger at him had slowly been fading since she had spoken to Janet and Daniel. While she was still mildly annoyed about the way he had treated her, she knew that if the situation had been reversed she probably would have done the same.

She had to talk to him . now. She couldn't bear it any longer. "I'm going to go talk to him," she muttered, brushing Daniel's hand off her and taking a step in the direction Jack went.

"Sam?"

She glanced back at him. "Yeah?"

"Do you want me to come along?"

Sam smiled. He was so sweet. "I have to do this on my own, Daniel."

She crossed the clearing in no time, eyes searching left and right for any signs of where the Colonel might have gone. She spotted his boot print in the dry, dusty, soil and followed it deeper into the woods.

A low moan caught her attention and she automatically was put on guard. "Colonel?"

She walked towards it uncertainly, stepping around the thick foliage, gripping her P-90 in front of her. The moan grew a little louder. "Colonel," she repeated more insistently.

A muttered curse caught her ear. Stepping up her pace, she stepped deeper into the foliage in the direction she hoped the sound was coming.

Sam saw his booted foot first, sticking out from behind a tree. Without a sound thought she rushed forward, assuming the worst. "Teal'c . Daniel. The Colonel's down, I might need back up."

Not stopping to wait for their affirmative response she stepped around the trunk, trying to ignore the tiny knot of fear in her gut that her baby's father could be seriously injured.

Her relief was immediate. Jack was sitting propped against the tree trunk. His head was down, but she could see his eyes were squeezed tightly shut and his jaw clenched. There were no visible signs of injury, except that he was gripping his left knee tightly between both his hands.

Sam dropped to her knees next to him and touched his arm. "Jack, are you okay?"

He raised his head to look at her. Sweat was streaming down his face. "I've been better," he grated.

"What happened?"

He rested his head back against the tree trunk. "Wasn't paying attention . tripped over the roots," he replied through clenched teeth.

"Your knee?"

Gritting his teeth he nodded. "Yup."

Sam grabbed her radio again. "Daniel, can you have Teal'c bring the first aid kit? Stay behind and pack up our equipment, we're gonna have to go back."

"Is he okay, Sam?" He actually sounded concerned.

"He's fine . he's injured his knee."

One of his hands left his knee and grabbed hers. He looked up at her, his eyes alert and piercing. He squeezed it tightly. "I'm sorry, Sam," he mumbled, flinching through another wave of pain.

Sam placed her other hand gently on his shoulder. She could hear Teal'c crunching through the foliage. "We'll talk when we get back okay?"

*********************************

Jack couldn't believe his luck.

He gritted his teeth as his knee was jarred on the rocky terrain, biting back the curse that was on his lips. He knew they weren't jostling him intentionally, but it wasn't helping. He tried to keep his eyes focused on Sam's back, but the pain was too intense.

God, I am such an idiot!

He hadn't been concentrating, pure and simple. He hadn't been able to concentrate properly since his argument with Sam. He had so much to ask her and so much to sort out in his mind. So he had wandered off to relieve himself, his mind occupied with the events of the day.

So, instead of concentrating on the foliage in front of him, which was getting thicker the deeper into the woods he got, he was walking along with his head in the clouds. He didn't see the tree root, didn't notice it until his boot got snagged in it and he tumbled, a sickening crack echoing in his ears as his knee gave out.

He had been too embarrassed to call out for help, and in too much pain to concentrate on anything other than his own stupidity. He had been injured countless times on a mission, his parachute not opening, being shot, but never something as foolish as tripping over a tree root!

Jack had tried to stand when he heard footsteps coming towards him, tried to get up and pretend that everything was okay, but he couldn't. Whatever he had done to his knee, it was bad. If he hadn't been in so much pain he might have wondered why it was Sam that had found him, might have wondered if she had been looking for him.

Teal'c stumbled over a rock, jarring Jack's knee again. "Christ!" He hissed through his teeth.

Sam turned and looked at him, worry showing on her face. "Sir?"

"Nothing, Carter," he replied, his voice strained. "Can we just hurry and get back so Janet can jab a needle in my ass to stop this pain?"

Sam giggled, looking slightly more relieved. Daniel even snorted mirthfully. "You'll be lucky if that's all she'll do," he muttered under his breath.

Crap, does everyone have it in for me today?

Jack tried to ignore Daniel's statement, again focusing his attention on Sam's back. He had tried to talk to her, but she had brushed him off. Later, she said. Does that mean she was willing to forgive him? He still didn't know for certain that she was pregnant.

They were slowing down. He could see the Stargate in front of Sam. About time! He breathed out a sigh of relief. Soon he would be back on earth with a supply of painkillers. The thought was almost enough to put a smile on his face, nearly.

Sam dialed up the address on the DHD and moments later the gate activated. She turned, a comforting smile on her face. "Almost there Jack."

Jack, she said Jack, not sir and not Colonel. That has to be a good thing, doesn't it? Feeling somewhat cheered, he returned her smile and prepared himself for what was going to be an agonizing journey through the Stargate.

*********************************

Sam waited impatiently outside the infirmary. She had heard Jack cry out in pain a few moments ago, followed by cursing that had made her ears go red. She guessed Janet wasn't being too gentle with him. She could remember having to set his leg when they were trapped at the Antarctic gate; he wasn't the best patient when he was in pain anyway. Couple that with one angry Doctor and you didn't get a very nice mix.

She flinched as he yelped again. "Would you quit it, Janet?" His voice reverberated through the infirmary.

Sam stood and was about to go and find out what was going on when the curtain to the cubicle opened and Janet stepped out, a satisfied smirk on her face. "He's all yours Sam."

Nervously Sam made her way over to the cubicle, wiping her suddenly sweaty hands on her pants. She had promised him that they would talk. Now was as good a time as any. She had no idea what she was going to say to him. She had no idea what his mood was going to be like.

She stepped into the cubicle quickly, not giving herself the chance to have second thoughts. Jack's head jerked up, a frown etched deep in his forehead. He looked relieved to see it was Sam.

Sam stood there for a moment looking at him. His face was pale and flushed, and held a nervousness that she hadn't anticipated. He was wearing one of those charming green gowns, his knee strapped tightly in a black brace that went from mid-calf to mid-thigh. She flushed as she realized that her eyes were lingering on that bare thigh and pulled her eyes away.

"So what's the diagnosis?"

Jack shifted on the bed. "Oh, I'll be out of commission for a while. Managed to tear the ligaments in my knee. Doc has to wait for the swelling to go down before she can tell how badly it's messed up."

He definitely wasn't angry anymore, much to her relief. His voice had lost the gruffness of before the mission as well. She glanced up at him, meeting his eyes. "We have a lot to talk about."

Jack's face looked grim for a moment. "Yeah we do," he replied quietly. "First, I want to apologize for the way I treated you before. I had no right to take it out on you."

Sam looked at him sharply, "No you didn't, but I know the last few weeks have been pretty rough on the both of us. I . ah . I'm sorry for blurting out what I did."

Jack moved over on the bed and patted the vacant space next to him. "So it's true then," he asked uncertainly. "We're having a baby?"

She couldn't help grinning as she moved to the bed and perched herself next to Jack. His question cleared up all her doubts in an instant. "Yeah . we're having a baby."

His face broke out into the happiest grin she had ever seen. If she'd had any lingering doubts they were truly gone now. He reached over and pulled her into his chest. "I wasn't sure if I'd heard it right," he mumbled, holding her as tightly as he could. "How far along are you?"

"Eleven weeks," Sam replied somberly, pulling out of his arms. "We have so much to organize!"

She looked up as she heard Jack laugh lightly. He reached out and cupped her cheek with his hand. "Sam, you still have seven months. We don't have to have everything prepared straight away."

Sam smiled shyly, leaning her cheek a little more into his hand. She'd missed his touch so much. "I have no idea what I'm doing," she replied quietly. She was slowly beginning to realize the impact this was going to have on her life.

She had a whole other life to worry about now. Her baby. growing inside her. She was going to have to leave the Air Force, give up her position in SG-1 and the job she loved so much. Her life had to be devoted to this child.

Tears slowly trailed down cheeks. This was the happiest and most frightening day of her life. It was so much to comprehend in such a short period of time. To suddenly not only be responsible for herself, but for her baby too. Her baby . it was going to take her a while to get used to that.

"Sam," Jack asked softly, worriedly, "What's wrong, honey?" He leaned forward and began kissing the moisture from her cheeks gently.

Sam smiled at the loving gesture, her tears disappearing almost immediately as her heart swelled at the affection he was displaying. She had missed his tenderness, the feeling of his lips on her, his body pressed gently against her own.

"It's just so much to take in . I'm having a baby."

"No, Sam," Jack corrected. "We're having a baby."

It was such a simple statement, but it spoke volumes to Sam. Jack was going to be by her side the whole way. He was never going to leave her or their child.

She looked up at him feeling a sudden rush of emotions. "I love you, Jack," she whispered, holding his gaze, seeing the love she felt reflected in his eyes.

"I love you too, Sam."

He pulled her closer, capturing her lips with his own. Their embrace was not fuelled by need or desire, but by the depth of the feelings they needed to convey to each other. They both felt the need to convey how they felt with their actions and not words.

Breathlessly, Sam broke away and relaxed herself completely in the warmth and comfort of his arms. "We have one more problem," she pointed out, burying her face in his chest.

She felt Jack sigh gently against her neck. "Let me guess, the General?"

"Yeah."

He drew out of the embrace enough to look at her. "When do you want to tell him?"

"We have to tell him as soon as possible, Jack," she responded sadly. She envisioned that it wasn't going to be the most pleasant conversation ever.

"We'll go and see him as soon as I'm released from here okay?"

Sam nodded her agreement. Trying to keep her mind off the impending meeting she moved, stretching herself out on the bed so she was lying on her side with her arm over Jack's stomach. Before she knew it she had drifted off to sleep.

********************************

Janet couldn't help herself, she knew she shouldn't be doing this, but the temptation was too great. She was worried about her friend; she just wanted to know that Sam would be okay.

She had her head nearly pressed against the curtain of the cubicle adjoining Jack's. She couldn't help the smile that spread across her face at the gentle words that wafted through the thin fabric. Her anger at the Colonel was slowly dissipating as she listened to their conversation.

The love in his voice was obvious, without even seeing his face or hearing him say the words. Sam was one lucky woman; the man was completely devoted to her . and their unborn child. She had always known that the Colonel loved children, and she had known that he would be over the moon when he found out that Sam was pregnant with his baby.

A shuffling sound behind her made her jump with surprise. Turning around she found Daniel standing at the other side of the cubicle, watching her with a mixture of curiosity and consternation. She quickly put her finger up to her lips and motioned for him to come closer.

"What are you doing?" he whispered into her ear.

"Listen," she hissed, nodding her head towards the curtain.

Daniel scowled, but leaned his head closer to the curtain. A smile quickly replaced the scowl. Reaching out he took Janet's hand in his and pulled her closer to him, turning her so her back was pressed to him. "How about we give them their privacy?"

Janet closed her eyes as his breath brushed across her neck. She could definitely think of one thing she would rather be doing than eavesdropping on her friends. She twisted in his arms. Pulling his head down gently she pressed her lips to his. "Your office or mine?" she whispered flirtatiously, her hand slowly traveling down to his belt.

"Yours," he groaned into her mouth, pulling her hand away and gripping it tightly in his own. He stepped out of the cubicle quickly, pulling Janet behind him.

They crossed the infirmary quickly, desperate to be alone and away from prying eyes. They had been trying to keep their relationship as quiet as possible; being caught in a passionate embrace in one of the infirmary cubicles was not very good for decorum.

Daniel opened the door, led Janet in and released her hand long enough to close and lock the door. A grin split Janet's face. This was so bad, doing this sort of thing when she was supposed to be on duty, but it had been a long time since she skirted with trouble and she was enjoying the thrill it caused.

He turned, eyes gleaming with desire, a grin lighting up his boyish features. He stepped up to her, pulling her tightly into his arms and renewing his assault on her lips with glee, his hands resting lightly on her hips. Janet melted, reacting to his kiss with equal fervor as her hands drifted around his neck, pulling him closer still.

He was pushing her backwards as they kissed, slowly, step by step until she bumped up against her desk. Cupping her backside he lifted her gently so she was sitting on the desk. He pulled away slightly, enough to begin slowly kissing his way down her chin to her neck.

Janet threw her head back, moaning as he nipped lightly at the sensitive skin on her neck. Her hands slowly traveled down his torso, tickling and scratching softly as she responded in kind to his assault on her neck. Her hands found the hem of his shirt and she tugged it up. His lips left her throat long enough for her to remove the shirt. She tossed it to the ground. Reaching out she wrapped her hand around the back of his head and pulled it closer until their lips met in another soul-shattering kiss. Her free hand stroked down the length of his bare chest and torso, her nails scraping lightly on his flesh. He moaned into her mouth, the sound fueling her actions on.

Daniel pulled away, his eyes burning with passion. Janet took the opportunity to look him up and down. She could never grow tired of looking at him. Her eyes followed his collarbone, down to his well-toned chest and abdomen. You would never think to look at him that he would be as in shape as he was. She grinned, and he is all mine!

The look did not go unnoticed by Daniel. Eyes glinting feral he closed the gap between them again, pushing Janet down against the desktop. He leaned over her; his lips firmly against hers, tongue probing her mouth hungrily as he slowly unfastened the buttons of her shirt.

Closing her eyes she managed to smile as she wondered if Daniel's office had a good lock on the door.

***

Sam and Jack had decided after Jack was released from the infirmary, that they should inform General Hammond immediately of their decisions. Sam was going to resign her commission in the Air Force. After a long discussion, Sam had convinced Jack that being a mother was a higher priority than a Major in the USAF. He wasn't happy at first that she was leaving the military, but he also didn't want the mother of his child to be put into any danger. And that's exactly what would happen if she were to remain in the military.

They walked down the hallway to the General's office. Or rather, Sam was walking, and Jack was limping along with the help of crutches. They stopped right outside of their commanding officer's closed door. Sam was starting to get cold feet. She knew she needed to do this, but wasn't sure if she could manage it.

"Hey..." Jack whispered and lifted Sam's chin with his free hand. "We'll get through this, Sam, together."

Sam looked deep into his eyes and saw the love emanating from them. She knew he was telling her the truth. She also knew that they would have some rough times, but they would get through them together.

"Are you ready?" Jack's voice strengthened her resolve.

"As ready as I'll ever be," Sam said.

Jack knocked on the door and waited for the General to acknowledge them. "Come."

Jack opened the door before gripping the handgrips on the crutches again. He indicated for Sam to go before him. Just knowing that he was right behind her, gave her the much needed support to remain composed.

"Colonel, good to see you up and about. Is there something I can help you with?" General Hammond asked after briefly glancing up.

"Yes, Sir, there is," Sam said placing a plain white envelope on the desk in front of him.

The General picked up the envelope and looked up at Sam, confusion evident on his face. "What's this, Major?"
 
 

"It's my resignation, Sir," Sam said, drawing on her resolve.

"Resignation? What for? Why?" He asked, clearly not understanding what this meant.

Sam held under the General's strong gaze, until realization struck him. He sat back in his seat and studied both their faces intensely. He frowned and pursed his lips, looking genuinely annoyed.

"Colonel. I thought you said there was nothing going on between yourself and the Major." Hammond's voice got a steely tone to it.

"That's not entirely correct, Sir," Jack responded.

The General sat forward, fixing his sharp, angry glare, on Jack. His face was starting to go red with the anger he was barely suppressing. "Are you telling me that you purposely lied to your Commanding Officer, Colonel?"

Jack stared straight ahead at attention, or the best he could manage on crutches. "Not exactly, Sir."

"Why don't you enlighten me as to exactly what you do mean, Colonel!"

"Well, Sir, we aren't...that is...we weren't involved at the time of our discussion," Jack said trying not to break under the pressure.

Sam had to speak up; she couldn't allow Jack to take the brunt of the General's anger. "Sir, we became involved two months ago, when I was in that accident. When Ja...err..the Colonel was on leave of absence. I...that is...we didn't think I would ever return to the military. In all reality I was blind, Sir. It was confirmed by Janet. Nobody thought my vision would return, most of all me. I had accepted that I would remain blind." Sam's reply came out in a rush of words.

"So you're telling me that you have pursued this relationship even after you regained your vision, Major?" He was seething with anger at this point.

Jack spoke up again, fury radiating from him that Sam was being put through this, especially in her condition. "No, Sir! We did not continue our relationship. We respected the military's regulations, as stupid as they may be, begging your pardon, Sir."

He was skirting close to the edge of insubordination, but was past the point of caring. Like he had always thought, to hell with diplomacy. He took a deep breath, trying to control his anger. "I think it's a moot point now, General. Sam is resigning from her position in the Air Force. If you want to bring me up on charges you are welcome to, as long as Sam is left out of it."

The General was silent, his eyes shifted between Jack and Sam, searching for something. The redness had gone from his face, but he still did not seem entirely convinced of their claims. "There's something more isn't there?"

Jack glanced at Sam, but he couldn't keep the smile off his face as he thought of their wonderful news. Just the thought of their baby made his anger disappear. Sam smiled at him, her face taking on that radiance it had held earlier, during the briefing.

"I'm pregnant, General."

From the General's reaction they could tell that he had not expected this. His mouth open with surprise, his eyes flickered between Sam and Jack as their news slowly sunk in. "Pregnant?" A smile spread slowly across his face, his anger slowly ebbing away. He stood up and extended his arm to Jack. "Then I guess congratulations are in order."

Jack accepted the General's hand as laughter erupted from deep within him. Hammond came around the edge of his desk and gathered Sam in a fatherly hug, causing her to giggle.

"I hate to lose someone as valuable as you, Major. Or I guess it would be just Doctor now, wouldn't it?" Hammond smiled as he stepped back. "You will be staying on as a civilian advisor won't you, Sam?" he asked uncertainly, though it almost sounded more like an order.

Sam looked stunned, but soon was overcome with happiness. "You still want me here," she asked, skepticism lacing her voice.

"Of course. You're a wonderful asset. Not to mention with you around we can keep Jack in line," he said, giving in to a joke for once.

At the mention of Jack, she turned to look at him and couldn't miss the heated look in his eyes. This day had turned out good after all. Who would have known that after so many weeks apart that everything would do a 360 in one day.

The General emitted a soft cough, getting their attention once more. "Why don't you two get out of here? I am putting SG-1 on stand down until you're recovered. You need your rest Jack, after the day you've had. And you too, Sam, for that matter."

"Thank you, Sir!" Jack and Sam said at the same time, causing the General to chuckle.

Sam assisted Jack in turning around on his crutches. They didn't see the General shake his head or the most foolish grin on his face, as they retreated out of his office. He felt like he was going to be a grandpa again. And in a sense he was.

*****************************

Jack sat in a chair in Sam's lab waiting for her to gather her things. His knee was killing him, but his pervading happiness had nearly numbed the pain. He felt like he was flying, and it wasn't the pain killers talking either.

He was able to be with the woman he loved after all these years. They had been through so much that it almost seemed like a dream. But it wasn't. He and Sam were finally together, and they were going to have a baby. He couldn't be happier if someone told him he'd won the lottery. He had been given a second chance at life. And he wasn't going to screw this one up.

He was going to be a father. He still couldn't quite believe it. It seemed so unreal; yet looking at Sam across the room he knew it to be true.

She turned when she felt his gaze on her, making him smile. She definitely had the glow of a woman expecting, which only added to her beauty.

"Are you ready to go?" he asked, his voice suddenly husky. He wanted to get out of here, wanted to be alone with this woman. He wanted to show her how much he had missed her in the last two months.

"Uh huh," Sam nodded her head but quickly bowed it, overcome with a wave of shyness.

Jack stood up as she came toward him. He balanced himself on one crutch so he could gather her to him with his other arm. Their lips came together in a much needed release of emotions. He melted into her arms instantly, immersing himself in all the sensations that were Sam, her smell, her touch.

Minutes passed before he broke away grudgingly. He wanted to be home, now, snuggled up next to this woman and making up for lost time. Her eyes opened slowly and he could see she felt the same way. His head swooped down and he quickly stole another kiss before turning and gathering his other crutch.

Sam had gathered their bags, her face flushed. Jack couldn't help smiling. He had to be the happiest man on the planet right now. How could he not? He was finally able to be with the woman he loved, and she was having his child. He was over the moon with joy.

As they reached the main door to the base, after check point, they saw the ensuing blizzard outside.

"I don't think my car will make it in this, Jack," Sam said as she glanced between him and the snow outside.

"Well crap! Well we're not staying here. My truck could make it but..."

"...But you can't drive," She finished for him looking crestfallen.

Jack smiled. What the hell, he was planning on spending the rest of his life with her, what was his would be hers too soon enough. He reached into his pocket and pulled out his keys. "You can drive it though," he said, handing her the keys.

Sam fixed her wide, surprised eyes on him. She knew the truck was his pride and joy; he never let anyone drive it. "Really, are you sure? You don't like anyone driving your truck!" She exclaimed uncertainly, glancing at the key ring dangling from his hand.

"You're not just anyone now, are you?" He replied, winking at her, his voice belaying the depth of his feelings to her. Now that he had her he was never going to let her go.

Sam's face broke into a loving grin. There were so many reasons why she loved this man. His trust in her, being number one on the list. She tentatively took the keys from his hand, a surge of adrenaline in her veins at the thought of finally getting to drive Jack's prized Ford F-250. Just the thought gave her a rush. Since Jack had gotten that truck she had been dying to get her hands on it, since she had a thing for all things mechanical.

"That isn't a gleam in your eye is it, Carter?" It was more of an endearment now than anything.

"No, Sir, I don't know what you're talking about," she replied teasing with him.

Jack chuckled as he reached out and zipped up the front of Sam's coat. She eyed him speculatively with a smile.

His face held a look of innocence. "Wouldn't want the mother of my child catching pneumonia."

Sam couldn't resist the look in his loving brown eyes, so she leaned in for a quick, but passionate kiss. Of course the front door of the base was no place to get intimate, so she broke it off and opened the door.

A burst of wind and snow assaulted them from all directions. Jack had to of course park the furthest away from the base. They moved across the parking lot as quickly as they could, considering Jack was on crutches. Every now and then the rubber ends on the crutches would slip on the snow covered ground, and every time Jack would catch himself before falling. That's all I need, is too hurt myself again before we even make it home. Finally, after much deliberation, they made it to his truck, Jack grimacing in agony.

"Jack, sweetie, are you all right?" Sam asked, concern lacing her breathless voice.

"Yeah, I'm fine," he managed a smile through clenched teeth.

She unlocked the door on the passenger's side for him. He braced himself with the open door and the seat for stability, relying on his good leg for strength. When he made it onto the edge of the seat, he handed her the crutches. "Well, doesn't this seem kinda ironic!"

"Yeah it does, but I draw the line at carrying you," Sam responded in mock seriousness.

Jack busted up with laughter making Sam join him. "Oh, I sooooooo love you!"

"I know!" She said as she tossed his crutches into the bed of the truck.
 
 

Sam jogged around to the other side of the truck and opened the door when Jack beat her to unlocking it. After throwing their bags into the back seat, she slid into the cab, anxious for the welcoming heat. The temperature had dropped rapidly. Jack had adjusted the heater thermostat as she started up the engine and proceeded to pull out of the lot.

When she reached the edge of the lot, where the road connected to it, the tires slid. Sam braked without thinking, going against all her learned instincts. Jack's hand shot out instinctively to grab the steering wheel. He quickly dropped it, settling it instead on Sam's thigh. The truck went into a sideways skid. Sam finally got her mind to react to what was happening and turned the steering wheel away from the skid. The truck slid to a hard stop, nearly missing the entry gate by a hair. She pulled the gear shift into park and leaned back breathing hard. Jack quickly moved over to her gathering her into his arms.

"Are you okay, are you hurt? The baby..." Panic rose in his voice, as his hand went to her still flat stomach.

Sam exhaled deeply, and put on a smile, albeit a shaky one. "Yeah I'm fine...we're fine."

"Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all," Jack said, his chin resting atop her head.

"It's okay. Really. I just hit a wet spot. I can manage it, Jack," Sam replied earnestly.

Jack leaned back, searching her face. "Are ya sure? We could always bunk up in my quarters for the night."

"It'll be all right, Jack. I have driven in snow before. Trust me."

Jack trusted her with his life, which is why he agreed. He repositioned himself right next to her this time, making sure both their seatbelts were fastened. He put his arm around her shoulders for moral support, as that was the only thing he could do at the moment.

Sam took the truck out of park gear, and slowly inched out of the position they had landed in. She eased it forward carefully. At the edge of the road, she applied the brake lightly, not skidding this time, thankfully. She looked both ways and checked her mirrors twice; when she saw flashing orange lights off to the right in the distance.

She smiled up into Jack's face. "When in doubt follow the plow."

Jack laughed lightly as she pulled out behind the massive orange state snow plow truck. The salt the plow was throwing down was helping with traction, much to Jack's relief.

His arm tightened defensively around Sam's shoulders as they went around a particularly nasty curve. He didn't say anything, not wanting to break her concentration. The drive, which usually only took a half an hour, was going on an hour.

Sam's hands were white, gripping the wheel. The snow plow had turned off onto another highway about five miles back, leaving them to fend for themselves. The snow was getting heavier, and it was harder to see through. The wipers were going at the highest speed, which still didn't do much to clear the windshield.

"Jack," Sam whispered urgently.

"It's okay sweetheart. Just take it slow. We're almost there," Jack whispered back.

Sam decelerated down to a mere five miles an hour.

They could hear the snow crunching under the tires. The wind was whipping around the vehicle, threatening to brush them off the road. Or what road there was left. It didn't look like there had been any traffic through here at all, or if there had been, the tracks had been long covered. The road seemed to stretch on forever. They rounded another bend in the road, and familiarity came into view. The end stretch was near.

Sam increased the speed just a tad, anxious for this to be done and over with. Tiny beads of sweat had popped out over her brow. Her hands were losing their grip on the wheel. She just had a bit more to go and then they would be home free. Technically and literally.

One of her hands slipped off the wheel, causing the vehicle to veer. Jack's hand grabbed for the wheel and held on, as Sam slowed the truck down in front of his driveway. Between the two of them they managed to get the vehicle turned into the driveway and parked. Sam's limp hand was laying in her lap, though her other hand was still tightly gripping the steering wheel. Her eyes were plastered straight ahead. I cannot believe we made it!

"Sam. Sam, sweetheart!" Jack pleaded trying to get her attention.

"Huh...wha..?" She swung her head around to meet Jack's worried gaze.

"Sam, are you okay. Sam, talk to me."

"I'm fine, or I will be once I get out of here." She smiled reassuringly, starting to feel claustrophobic.

"Sounds good," he said as he dropped a quick kiss on her lips.

Sam opened the door and jumped out. The snow was coming close to reaching the tops of her boots. She looked upward at the dull gray sky. There was no obvious break in the clouds, and she heard distant thunder. Not good. Looks like we are in for one heck of a snow storm.

*********************************

Sam settled against Jack with a contented sigh. This was not at all how she had envisioned the day turning out this morning, far from it in fact. His arms wrapped around her tightly and she settled her head on his chest, basking in the warmth of the open fire.

She closed her eyes. She had finally managed to get over the shakes from that horrible drive to Jack's. Once they had managed to get inside, Jack had held her for what felt like hours, soothing her frayed nerves with gentle words. Once she had sufficiently calmed down, she set about making their dinner.

Jack had been busy while she had been preparing dinner. Walking back into the living room with their plates Sam found it very difficult not to drop the plates and throw herself into his arms. He had lit a fire, and turned off the lights, scattering candles around the room instead. A woolen blanket was stretched out in front of the fireplace; Jack was sitting on it waiting for her, a smile lighting his face.

They ate their dinner in companionable silence, and Sam quickly tidied the dishes and hurried back to snuggle with Jack. If there was a heaven this was what she wanted it to be.

His lips brushed lovingly across her forehead, filling her with a warmth that she hadn't felt for the two months they had been apart. Why had she been so stupid to enforce their separation in the first place? They should never been apart, they should have found some way to be together. She was thankful that they had now.

She twisted in his arms enough to look up at him, the father of her baby. He looked so happy and content as he met her eyes and smiled languidly. She could tell by the look on his face that he felt like he was the luckiest man on the planet. After the rotten luck he'd had in his personal life, maybe he was.

Sam certainly felt like the luckiest woman on the planet. It was all so unexpected, but it filled her with a happiness that she had never experience before. This was what love felt like, the love of a man and her unborn child. She felt like she must be glowing.

Jack's hand drifted down to rest gently on her belly. The baby was nowhere near developed enough to feel yet, but the gesture was paternal and immensely comforting.

"I want you to move in, Sam. As soon as the storm breaks I want us to move your things here."

Sam's jaw dropped in surprise. It was the last thing she had expected to him to say to her, and deep down it was something she had desired the most since she had found out she was pregnant. She just hadn't expected it to happen so quickly.

She was speechless, utterly and completely lost for words. It was the perfect way to end the day, knowing that her baby, their baby, was going to have a stable home and two parents that loved it.

"Is this moving too quickly for you, Sam? Do you want some time to think about it?" He had obviously taken her silence as uncertainty.

"No," she replies breathlessly. "I don't need to think about it. Of course I will, Jack!"

Jack's face lit up like the Fourth of July. Sam had made him the happiest man on earth for the second time that day. His day was complete now that she had agreed to move in. This was going to be a new chapter in their lives. And it was only the beginning.

Jack swayed closer to her, leaning down to capture her lips with his own. And he came home. It had taken them five years to get to this point. And he fully intended to spend the rest of his life enjoying it. He leaned forward, using his body to press her closer to the floor as his mouth plundered hers.

Sam wrapped her arms around his neck as he gently placed his weight over her. The heat of the fire placing a warm glow on her face. Her eyes sparkled. She smiled up at the man that loved her, body and soul. His lips descended again, making her world spiral out from under her. Sensations were coursing through her body.

Her hands drifted from Jack's neck to his waist, pulling his shirt from his pants. Her hands went under his shirt, making contact with the skin of his back. She needed to feel more. But she didn't want him to stop kissing her. She moaned as his lips kissed their way down her jaw and onto her neck. His hand came up loosening the buttons on her shirt. When he had her shirt gaping open, he lifted up and looked at her; desire and love lighting his eyes.

"Do you know how much I love you?" he asked, his voice heavy with emotion, as he pulled off his shirt.

Sam nodded as a tear slipped down her face. She did know. She reached her arms up to him, wanting the feel of him near her again.

His eyes went to her flat stomach. His drew close and laid his head against it, still not believing his baby was growing inside. He turned his head and kissed her belly, cherishing her. Sam's hand came to cradle his head closer to her, relishing in the feel of his tender ministrations.

***

Sam awoke and turned over leisurely to face Jack's side of the bed. It was empty and cold. She tried to remain calm and not jump to conclusions, when she saw a slip of paper lying on his pillow. She read the note, slowly coming out of the haziness of sleep.

Sam-

Went to run a few errands. Be back soon.

Love You

Jack xoxoxx

Sam smiled as she realized Jack must have let her sleep late. She had been catching up on lost and much needed sleep this past week. Among other things, she thought with a sated grin.

She stretched languorously, not wanting to get out of the nice warm bed. She turned her head and looked at the clock on the nightstand. Wow! It would be lunch soon. I really did sleep late!

She sat up in bed and looked at the note again. She was getting curious now. What could possibly be so important that Jack would want to go out in the dreadful weather? Especially when he was on medical leave? He was still having problems with his knee, so it couldn't be easy for him to drive. I hope he doesn't hurt himself again. Now she was a bit worried.

Sam rose out of bed, having the need to keep busy until Jack got back home.

Home.

That had a whole new meaning now. It just wasn't something physical anymore. It meant so much more. Wherever Jack was, was home. They could be in the middle of an ice covered desert and she would still be home, as long as Jack was with her.

She quickly dressed and moved into the kitchen to find something to eat. Her stomach was gru