"Temptation" by Samantha Thomas
TITLE: Temptation
AUTHOR: Samantha Thomas
EMAIL ADDRESS:
alias_dictus_Sam@hotmail.comRATING: NC17
CONTENT WARNING: Character Death (temporary)
ARCHIVE: Sam & Jack and Heliopolis
SUMMARY: Major Carter begins behaving strangely after an off-world mission. Her relationship with Colonel O’Neill is irrevocably altered. Can there be a happy ending?
DISCLAIMER: Stargate Sg-1 and its characters are the property of Stargate (II) Productions, Showtime/Viacom, MGM/UA, Double Secret Productions, and Gekko Productions. This story is for entertainment purposes only and no money exchanged hands. No copyright infringement is intended. The original characters, situations, and the story are the property of the author. This story may not be archived elsewhere without the consent of the author.
AUTHORS COMMENTS: This is my first fanfic, so constructive comments welcome. My thanks to Mark for beta reading and his excellent critiques, and my sister Anne for braving my wrath to let me know my first ending didn’t work. I used the (( .... )) symbols to represent the persons thoughts. Hope you enjoy it.
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She moved quietly through the dense undergrowth, senses on full alert, her partner had been behind until a few metres back, she’d heard a small ‘oomph’ before he’d disappeared. The hairs on the back of her neck stood up, she knew she was being watched. Holding her weapon at waist height she continued stealthily in the direction of base camp, constantly scanning the surrounding woodland for movement, knowing she was the next target.
The silent watcher observed unseen from his vantage point, admiring the skill she demonstrated in eluding him for so long. He enjoyed the challenge of tracking her, she tested his abilities, he liked that. Smiling slightly to himself he continued to watch, savouring the sight of her obvious proficiency in the field and wondering if she was as talented in other areas ....... Pulling his thoughts sharply back in line he planned his approach.
The attack when it came was swift and brutal, she was face down on the damp ground with a heavy body on top of her before she had chance to react. She felt his hot breath on the side of her face as her assailant leaned down to whisper in her ear, "You’re dead Carter, but first we’re gonna have some fun." Tremors coursed through her body as she was flipped over onto her back, arms pulled above her head and legs pinned down, his breath full on her face now. She could feel herself starting to tremble, her attacker was practically nose to nose. In a last-ditch attempt to extricate herself from his powerful grip, she smashed her head with as much force as she could muster, straight into his nose. His grip relaxed momentarily and she used the opportunity to wrench her arms free and rammed her elbows down on his shoulders to force him back and rolled out from under him, grabbing her gun and firing at point blank range.
Major Carter looked down at her victim as he lay holding his nose and muttering expletives before offering a hand to help him up into a sitting position.
"Dammit Carter, I would have let you up if you’d asked nicely!" ((How the hell did she beat me at this game?)) Briefly he closed his eyes, trying to bring the insistent throbbing in his groin under control, ((Oh yeah, too busy thinking of a different type of game, God.. she felt good!)) Military tactics had been far from his mind, instead he had been conscious only of her body wriggling beneath his. Struggling to dislodge the images of a wanton Carter on a bed of soft leaves, Colonel O’Neill got carefully to his feet. "You sure have one hell of a hard head Major."
"Sorry Colonel." Major Carter watched as he stood up, wondering if she should have put a little less effort into getting free, it wasn’t often she had the opportunity to get up close and personal with her CO, looking at his mouth she briefly allowed herself to imagine how it would feel against hers, would it be hot and moist or hard and relentless, heat spread throughout her body at the thought, ((whoa, brakes on NOW!)) Snapping back into military mode Carter addressed Colonel O’Neill, "What happened to Daniel Sir? I heard a scuffle back in the woods."
"Ahh, Teal’c got him, they’re already headed back to base."
As they started in the direction of the SGC, Sam looked at O’Neill’s paint-stained jacket and bloodied nose, "I think you should go see Doctor Fraiser Sir, get your nose checked."
Jack chuckled to himself, "Yeah, you got me but good Major, next time I won’t be so gentle."
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Back at the SGC Infirmary, Major Carter was speculating on the incident in the woods as Doctor Fraiser pulled on clean latex gloves, "Honestly Janet, I think the Colonel must have been distracted, for the first time I was able to overpower him, it was too easy!"
Janet moved to clean the scratches on Sam’s face where she’d hit the ground, "I don’t think impact bruises from those paint pellets and a broken nose qualify as easy! Do you think he was making allowances for your being female?"
Sam observed her friend as she moved with practised ease, deciding she wasn’t ready to share her thoughts on the matter just yet, she simply shook her head saying, "No, that’s not his style."
Janet was smiling to herself as she finished applying the dressings to Sam’s scrapes, "Or .... could be he’s got a hot date tonight, hmm?" Then stepping back, "Okay, all done."
Sam smiled through gritted teeth, hating the thought of the Colonel with some ‘hot date’, "Thanks Janet." Leaving the infirmary she considered the Colonel’s comment, ((what did he mean "have some fun?" Could he have been thinking what I was thinking? Maybe next time we practice these games I’ll jump on him - yeah, and pigs might fly.)) Sam couldn’t help the illicit pleasure she felt at the thought of having the Colonel at her mercy as she continued on in the direction of her lab.
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Shafts of silver moonlight filtered down through the clouds, outlining the contours of two bodies lying entwined in the long grass. He could feel her shifting beneath him as the weight of his body pressed her down, could feel her rapid heartbeat as he slid his hand underneath her tee shirt, her moans reverberating in his ear when he bent to nuzzle the tender flesh of her neck. Her body bucked as he gently bit her ear and moved to fondle a firm breast, his thumb grazing the sensitised nipple. Inhaling the musky scent of her soft skin he licked and nipped his way down to her collar bone, when strong hands gripped his head to pull him into a deep hungry kiss. Long legs wrapped around his hips, she deftly flipped him onto his back, then breaking the kiss she slowly sat up, grinding her pelvis into his groin as she straddled him. His statement spellbound, he watched as she casually removed her tee shirt and bra, mesmerised at the sight of her hands moving down to pop the button on her trousers, then lower the zip, inch .. by ... inch. His breathing ragged, he frantically rid himself of his shirt before grabbing her by the waist and rolling her over. She yelped as heated skin came into contact with cold, damp ground, then moved quickly to rid him of the remainder of his clothing, kicking hers off at the same time. His hands roaming over her soft skin, nibbling and tasting he bent his head to suckle first one hard nipple then the other, flinching with painful pleasure as he felt her nails scraping down the length of his back and digging into his butt. He groaned as she rubbed herself against his thigh, her hand reaching to stroke his throbbing erection with a firm, rhythmic motion. Her back arched as he cupped her damp mound, slick fingers probing, penetrating, his thumb massaging the sensitive nub. "Oh God Jack ................. now, please ......... NOW!"
Nudging her knees apart he moved to position himself between them .......... "Holy Hannah!" Sam jerked awake, awareness coming immediately, along with the realisation her frustrated body was positively humming. "Where the hell did that come from?" She flopped back down onto the bed remembering the way the Colonel had ambushed her just a few days ago. ((I wonder if that’s what he meant by ‘having fun’.)) Sam leisurely stretched her arms above her head, arching her back as she briefly entertained the fantasy of luring Jack O’Neill into her bed, or onto the sofa, or that sinfully soft rug in the lounge, or perhaps even the kitchen table? ((Would he quote regulations at me or would he respond? .... Oh get real, he’s off-limits.)) Checking the time Sam figured she needed a distraction, deciding to go to the base early so she could make use of the extra time on her latest project before going through the Stargate.
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Later that day Colonel O’Neill strolled into the embarkation room, where the other members of SG1 were geared up, ready and waiting to leave. As he glanced around checking everything was in order his gaze locked on Major Carter, memories of their tussle in the woods evoking erotic images of soft pale skin and long limbs tangled with his. He jumped as he heard her voice asking if he was ready to go. ((Get a grip Jack, breathe in, breathe out.)) Ignoring the tension in his groin he forced a smile, "Ready when you are Major."
Carter watched as he moved up the ramp towards the event horizon, the vivid dream of the night before still fresh in her mind, ((nobody has a right to look that good in fatigues. Better off without them!)) Abruptly putting an end to her wayward thoughts she stomped up to the Stargate, mentally chastising herself for lusting after someone who was out of bounds.
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SG1 stepped through the Stargate emerging into a fine mist. They appeared to be on a rocky plateau, with no visible plant-life, not even a tree. The moisture hung in the air with no breeze to disturb it, without even the sound of animal-life or birdsong to alleviate the stillness.
O’Neill stopped, peering into the haze he looked to see how far this barren landscape extended, "I guess this means I don’t get to work on my tan after all."
Moving carefully across the smooth stony surface the Colonel addressed his second in command, "Carter how far away is the MALP?"
Major Carter looked up from the instruments she had been studying, "It only got a few hundred metres before we lost transmission," turning she pointed behind the ‘gate, "In that direction Sir."
As they headed in the direction Carter had indicated O’Neill became aware of a change in the mist, it appeared to have developed a green hue and acrid smell, visibility was decreasing rapidly.
Teal’c was also observing the weather, "O’Neill, the mist appears to be thickening."
Colonel O’Neill stopped at Teal’c’s statement of the obvious, squinting at him through the fog. "Ya think?"
Teal’cs response was to raise one eyebrow before continuing, "I believe it would be wise to return to the Stargate."
"Agreed." As he turned to issue the order to put masks on he saw Major Carter slump down to the ground, closely followed by Daniel. O’Neill heard a buzzing noise in his head before everything went black.
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General Hammond was in his office when the klaxons sounded, PA system blaring, "OFF WORLD ACTIVATION, OFF WORLD ACTIVATION!" Quickly descending the staircase to the control room he heard the familiar ‘whoosh’ as the Stargate came to life, "INCOMING TRAVELLER, REPEAT, INCOMING TRAVELLER." Hammond addressed the airman on duty, "Who is it Lieutenant?" Simmons continued to watch the monitor as he replied, "Code coming through now Sir, it’s SG1!"
"Open the iris!"
The General entered the ‘Gate Room as SG1 came through the event horizon. Giving the armed personnel in the room the order to stand down, he addressed the leader of the team. "What happened Colonel? You were due back 24 hours ago."
While Major Carter, Teal’c and Dr Jackson began unloading their equipment to the waiting airmen, Colonel O’Neill moved towards the General. "Sorry Sir, Daniel got into some intense negotiations with the natives, took longer than we thought."
Dr Jackson was enthusiastic, "General Hammond I think we may have found ourselves an important ally on P3X497, they call themselves the Bacchic and are keen to trade, they have numerous resources that could prove useful to us."
"Very well people, debriefing will be at 1400 hours, I look forward to hearing about it then. In the meantime I want you all to get down to the infirmary, let Dr Fraiser have a look at you."
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Two hours later, sitting in the briefing room at the head of the table with the four members of SG1, General Hammond couldn’t believe he’d heard right, "They want WHAT?"
Daniel pursed his lips and slowly tapped his pen on the blotter while formulating his reply to the General’s outburst, "If you look at it from their perspective it’s quite a reasonable request, they saw that we were genetically compatible, and considerably more evolved than some of the species they’ve come into contact with. From their point of view it’s a fair trade."
General Hammond leaned back in his chair and looked questioningly at the members of the team seated around the table, "Is this for real?"
Pushing his glasses up, Dr Jackson continued, "The Bacchic culture is based on trade, their planet has a temperate climate which encourages verdant plant life, it also supports many natural resources and minerals, Naquada being only one of them."
O’Neill stopped fiddling with his pen to look up, "Yeah who would have thought a tropical paradise existed outside of that dome, and there was I without my shades."
General Hammond looked questioningly at the Colonel. "Dome?"
Major Carter hastened to explain, "The defence system the Bacchic developed consists of a dome shaped force-field which completely encloses the area around the Stargate. This segment of land has been stripped of all vegetation to give the appearance of a barren planet. When the ‘Gate is activated from off-world a knockout gas is pumped into this area thereby neutralising any possible threat."
Once Sam finished, Daniel carried on... "To these people, what we can offer them is far more valuable than the naquada they are prepared to trade. Their numbers were decimated by the Goa’uld before they had completed construction of this defence system. Consequently their gene pool is seriously depleted, they desperately need fresh genetic material, specifically male, and our race is the closest physiological match they’ve found. We each have something the other needs, and their supply of raw naquada is plentiful."
Jack looked up from examining his nails and smiled, "And let’s not forget that booze they make........." Opening his eyes wide Jack silently mouthed the word ‘WOW’
At the General’s interested look Daniel elaborated, "Bacchic means of or pertaining to Bacchus or his worship, Bacchus himself being the god of wine. The particular brand they gave us to sample was, umm .....extremely ........potent."
O’Neill grinned as he said "Yeah and those guys know some really good drinking songs!"
Jack sat doodling on his pad while Daniel continued with his account of the Bacchic culture and requests for trade. He became aware of being watched and looked up in time to see Major Carter quickly avert her eyes. She was holding a pen and absently running her fingers and thumb up and down in slow suggestive movements, apparently unaware of her actions. Jack’s eyes were drawn to her hands, and what those actions implied. ((What the hell is she doing? I must be imagining she means what I think she means.)) But still he watched, eyes locked on slim fingers continuing to stroke that pen, torrid images burning into his brain of alternate uses for the long conference table. He shifted in his seat, trying to ease the increasing tightness in his pants, only vaguely listening as Daniel wound up his commentary of recent events.
General Hammond turned from Dr Jackson, "Colonel O’Neill, do you have anything to add to this?"
Forcing his mind away from the seductive fantasy, Jack struggled to avert his attention from the Major’s hands while trying to remember what Daniel had been saying, "Uh ... no Sir ..... I think Daniel’s covered all the relevant points."
The General surveyed the assembled group, "And you all feel this is a genuine offer to trade, there’s no possibility of these ‘Bacchic’ being in league with the Goa’uld?"
Teal’c answered, "I saw no hint of guile or evidence of collusion with the Goa’uld."
Jack leaned back in his chair absently scratching his head, "Yeah, they even gave us that big lump of Naquada as a token of their goodwill. But with respect Sir, I feel we should proceed with caution, we’ve been fooled before."
"Agreed. These proposals will have to be investigated further. You have 48 hours downtime people. Get some rest. And Teal’c, your request to go and visit Ry’ac has been approved, you can leave within the hour."
Teal’c bowed his head in acknowledgement, "Thank you General Hammond."
As they all got up to leave Jack gave Teal’c a friendly slap on the back, "So Teal’c, say hi to Ry’ac for me."
Teal’c gave the barest hint of a smile, "I will do so O’Neill," before heading off to collect his gear en-route to the ‘Gate room.
As O’Neill and Doctor Jackson walked out towards the elevator Major Carter caught up with them, "Colonel, are you okay? You looked a bit out of it for a while there."
Jack looked at her, ((has she really no idea what she was doing? must be my mind playing tricks on me,)) "Just peachy, Major."
Sam stepped up next to him, placing her hand on his arm and giving a firm squeeze, "See you soon then Jack." Stretching up she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before walking away.
A stunned Colonel watched her walk off down the corridor, ((Okay, I didn’t imagine that, since when has Carter called me Jack?))
Daniel was gaping at O’Neill, "Uh Jack, what was that? Is there something going on here?"
"Huh? NO!" ((Carter’s not normally the touchy-feely kind,)) "Don’t know what’s gotten into her."
Jack entered the elevator with Daniel following. "Since when has Sam started using your name? she never calls you Jack, you don’t think that’s a bit unusual?" Daniel was openly grinning now. "And kissing you?"
"Maybe it’s hormonal." ((Maybe she has the same kind of dreams i’ve been having, and maybe i’m just sleep deprived. Yeah ... deprived... that’s the word.)) Sighing, Jack rubbed his hand over his eyes, "Look Daniel, I don’t understand Carter’s behaviour, and it’s not what you’re obviously thinking so back off!"
Daniel looked speculatively at Jack wondering if his friend was perhaps objecting too much, but wisely decided to keep his thoughts to himself, simply commenting, "Hmm, I wonder...."
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As Sam walked into her lab, she was mentally cursing herself, ((Stupid. Stupid. What was I thinking? Why couldn’t I can’t keep my hands to myself. He’ll think i’m coming on to him.)) Sam stopped in her tracks wondering if that was such a bad thing. ((He could have me court-marshalled! That’s not good! )) She sank down onto a chair looking around at the equipment but not really seeing any of it, she could feel her face starting to flush as she remembered kissing her commanding officer, the brief taste and texture of his skin, the faint scent of aftershave then the shocked statement on his face. ((Something’s not right.)) Surprised by a huge yawn, Sam decided her best course of action at the present time was to get some sleep. ((Too tired to think now.))
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Two days later, Colonel O’Neill sauntered into the lab and found Major Carter peering intently into a microscope, he stopped to look for a second, rocking on the balls of his feet as he admired the way she filled out her fatigues, "So how are you feeling today Major, get a good rest?"
Sam jumped at the sound of the Colonel’s voice, then turned and smiled brightly at him while every brain cell was screaming at her to grab him and not let go. He smiled at her and Sam could feel herself starting to heat up, the urge to run her hands over his chest and taste that seductive mouth causing her pulse to speed erratically. She leaned back onto the worktop, hands gripping the edges behind her, "Yes Sir, thank you Sir, and you?" ((Whoa! Close mouth, engage brain.))
O’Neill was looking at her intently, "Yeah ... fine" He paused as he noticed Carter’s agitated manner and flushed face. "Um ........ about the other day in the corridor."
The impulse to jump on him was intensifying, her need for escape from this temptation urgent, Sam gripped the bench harder, her knuckles white with the effort, "Sorry about that Colonel, I was a bit out of it, tired I guess." ((Please leave, just leave, before I make a complete fool of myself.)) "If you’ll excuse me Sir, I really must go and see Janet."
Colonel O’Neill frowned at the Major’s obvious desire to get away, wondering at her unusual response, "Sure Major, catch you later."
Sam halted in her backward retreat toward the door, seized by panic her voice came out as a squeak, "Later? ... Sir?"
"Meeting with General Hammond, 1000hrs, remember?"
Torn between relief at the brief respite and perverse excitement at the prospect of seeing Jack again, Sam continued to edge her way toward freedom while endeavouring to respond in a normal tone, "Oh ... yes ... that later." By now she was almost through the door, "See you at the meeting then, Sir." she was off down the corridor as fast as she could while trying not to draw attention to herself.
Colonel O’Neill was left standing in the empty lab, a puzzled statement on his face, "What the hell......... !"
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Later, back in the briefing room General Hammond was advising SG1 of the verdict reached. "After careful consideration, it has been decided to go ahead with negotiations for a trade agreement with the Bacchic people. Arrangements will be made with pre-selected donor centres to obtain the necessary material for dispatch."
During Hammond’s discourse O’Neill was surreptitiously watching Carter, her recent behaviour had been a little ..... odd. She in turn was staring intently at her hands, which at first glance appeared to be resting on the desk top but on further inspection proved to have a death grip on her pen, the tension radiating up through her body was tangible.
Taking a couple of deep breaths to ease her taut muscles, Major Carter forced her attention toward General Hammond’s remarks. "Sir, would it not be a breach of contract to use these donations as a commodity to be traded?"
"That point was raised Major, the donors all sign a contract which effectively waives any rights over what happens to their contributions, they are also generously remunerated, therefore does it really make a difference if these ‘donations’ are used here on Earth or on a different planet?"
Colonel O’Neill leaned back in his chair, idly tapping his pen on the blotter, "Yeah, just think Major, all those little suckers swimming to further mankind, searching out new frontiers, boldly going where no-one has gone before..."
General Hammond smiled, "Thank you Colonel, we get the point. Dr Jackson you will accompany SG9 to assist the setting up of diplomatic relations with the Bacchic and negotiation of the trade agreements. SG5 will go along as backup. Any questions?"
Everyone shook their heads in the negative, "Okay people, I think that about wraps it up for now. Dismissed."
Jack was teasing Daniel about bawdy drinking songs when he noticed Major Carter leaving the room, hands tightly clenched at her sides. Awareness of her as a woman aside, he was concerned about her as a friend, something was wrong, even he could see it, and he wasn’t known for being in touch with his own feelings, never mind anyone else’s. Maybe Doc Fraiser would know something.
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Sam headed straight for the infirmary where she found Dr Fraiser in her office. "Hi Janet, got a minute?"
Janet put down the report she’d been reading and looked at Sam, she could see her friend was tense, "Sure, have a seat, it’s fairly quiet in here at the moment. What can I do for you?"
Sam sat down, visibly relaxing as she did. "I need to talk to you about something but i’d like it to stay between the two of us, and you have to promise not to laugh."
Janet smiled and settled herself more comfortably on the chair, "Okay shoot."
"Since we got back from P3X497 i’ve noticed a tendency to become agitated around a certain individual."
"You mean Colonel O’Neill?"
Sam released a sigh, not really surprised Janet knew who she meant. "The defence system on the planet operates by use of airborne chemicals in the form of a mist, which when inhaled incapacitates unexpected travellers. This gives the Bacchic the tactical advantage and option as to whether to open communications with the visitors, or simply send them back through the Stargate. We were assured any side-effects of the mist would wear off within a few days."
"I take it you’re still experiencing these side-effects?"
"Every time I get within sight of Colonel O’Neill, my hormones go haywire, my brain turns to mush, I can’t formulate coherent sentences....." By this time Sam was beginning to feel distinctly uncomfortable, trying not to squirm she continued, "And I have to fight the urge to... ....to touch him."
Janet was trying hard not to smile at her friends discomfort, "And this is bad ....... how?"
Sam had jumped up and was pacing around the small office, but stopped at the Doctor’s comment, "JANET! It’s embarrassing ........ and completely unprofessional."
"Look Sam, all the tests we carried out on your return showed you to be in perfect health. I didn’t detect any irregular substances, but that doesn’t mean they’re not there, simply that they’re not recognisable to us. If there is still something in your system why is it not affecting Dr Jackson or Colonel O’Neill the same way?"
"I’ve been thinking about that, the obvious difference being that I was blended for a time with Jolinar."
Janet continued the thought. "... Which of course left traces of naquada in your system. It’s conceivable the elements utilised in the knockout mist evoked a divergent response in you, possibly due to the altered balance of your body chemistry caused by the blending."
Sam sat back down, leaning forward in her seat and nodding agreement at what Janet was saying, "So the side-effects could be more extreme, even different to any the others experienced?"
"It’s all conjecture at the moment, but it is feasible considering the only symptom they manifested was tiredness apart from Teal’c, he appeared to be unaffected."
"But how would that affect my self control?" Pushing her hair off her face Sam grimaced, "Whatever happened to military training and self discipline huh!"
Janet shook her head, "I can’t answer that without knowing the structure of the substances involved." Janet couldn’t resist a smile, "Or could it be a certain Colonel is simply irresistible?"
Sam snorted inelegantly, hoping Janet didn’t guess just how true that statement was, "I’ll try to stay out of his orbit until it wears off, wouldn’t want to shock the Colonel!"
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Colonel O’Neill stood transfixed on the other side of the office door. The Infirmary had been quiet when he entered, then hearing voices coming from the Doc’s office he’d headed in that direction. ((So that’s why Sam’s been so jumpy the past few days.)) His mind started to wander down the possible avenues this development could take, ((whoa! down boy! took weeks to get the libido under control after Sam was ‘touched’ by that virus thing, it’s not gonna happen.)) Not wishing to be caught eavesdropping and having got the answers to his questions, he quietly moved away from the door, intending to head topside for some cool fresh air.
Sam was just laughing at a comment Janet made when she heard a loud crash followed by some choice expletives emanating from the infirmary. On investigation she and Dr Fraiser found a very disgruntled Colonel O’Neill on the floor, attempting to extricate himself from an instrument trolley.
Fraiser gave O’Neill her sternest look, "Were you looking for me Colonel?"
O’Neill managed to look slightly embarrassed and indignant at the same time, he was trying to think up a suitable reply when the PA system came to life, "COLONEL O’NEILL REPORT TO GENERAL HAMMOND" with relief Jack disentangled himself, muttered his excuses to the Major and Doc and beat a hasty retreat from the infirmary.
As soon as he was out of sight, Janet’s stern statement relaxed and she turned, smiling, to where Sam had been standing silent during the whole debacle with the Colonel, "Did you see the look on his face? ... Sam, what’s wrong?"
Sam looked absolutely mortified, "He must have heard, how am I going to face him now?"
Janet observed her friend, "If he did hear our conversation, then he must be aware you’re still suffering adverse side-effects."
Shaking her head, Sam looked at Janet, "I think I need to get off base for a while." Then standing with hands on hips scowling at the door the Colonel had recently exited through she let out a frustrated sigh, "This stuff had better wear off soon!"
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As Colonel O’Neill was making his way back from General Hammond’s office, he turned a corner only to collide with Major Carter who was heading in the opposite direction. Instinctively reaching toward her shoulders to steady her, the conversation he overhead between Doctor Fraiser and the Major flashed into his mind. Abruptly releasing his grip he stepped back, "You okay Major?"
Carter was alarmed by the rush of awareness she felt toward her CO, her mind buzzed with visions of dragging him into the nearest store-room and finding out for herself just what lay under that uniform. Dimly aware of being spoken to she looked at O’Neill.
The Colonel was trying to be subtle in his attempt to put some distance between them, not only to avoid any undue attention from the other people in the area but also as an effort to hide his physical response to Carter’s proximity. "Major Carter, I asked if you were okay?"
Drawing a deep breath into her oxygen starved lungs Carter found she could reply in a normal tone, "Fine Sir." She noticed his actions, ((uh oh ... he heard what I told Janet, the man’s terrified i’m going to jump him! )) Maintaining the distance between them she resisted the desire to touch, taking instead a comprehensive inventory of the man facing her, her attention snagging at the obvious response this deliberate attention was generating. Seeing the Colonel was still looking at her she asked, "Was there something else you wanted Colonel?"
Jack’s libido was on full alert and standing to attention. ((Hell yes there’s something I want! )) Clamping down on that thought he simply said "No." Stepping back to allow Carter to pass he watched her retreating back heading down the hallway. Squashing the temptation to follow, he consoled himself by thinking how thoroughly he had just been checked out, ((if nothing else it’s gotta be good for the ego!))
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Walking down the corridor, Sam realised she was beginning to become accustomed to her unruly reactions around the Colonel. She grinned as she considered her brazen examination of his body, remembering the phrase Janet had jokingly shared with her just before they had heard the crash in the infirmary, ((what was it again? Oh yes, ‘Audaces fortuna juvat,’ ... I wonder....)) Continuing on, she decided to grab some coffee before heading outside for some fresh air.
A little later, climbing up to her favourite spot she was surprised to find it occupied. Thinking she could make good her escape before being detected she started to back up.
Colonel O’Neill pushed himself up from where he had been leaning against a rock, "Give it up Carter I could hear you half a mile away, if you’re looking for a little solitude i’ll head off, things to do reports to write, you know how it is."
Sam watched him as he moved past her in the direction of the base, Janet’s words echoing in her mind, "Audaces fortuna juvat."
O’Neill stopped his descent, turning to look at her, "What was that Major?"
Sam clamped her hand over her mouth, embarrassed that she’d actually said it out loud. As the Colonel started walking back towards her, she watched his deliberate stride, the economy of movement, her body flushed hot then cold. After their recent encounter in the corridor she was on system overload. ((To hell with it ....!)) "I said Audaces fortuna juvat. It means Fortune Favours the Bold."
O’Neill moved a few steps closer, "And does it?" ((This isn’t a game, don’t be stupid man, back off! )) But his body was firing on all cylinders and way ahead of his brain.
After repeated frustrating encounters with her CO, Sam’s fragile hold on her self control finally snapped, "Why don’t we find out, Sir." Moving quickly she flung herself at O’Neill but tripped on a tree root and went flying, catching him with a full body blow and taking them both crashing down to the ground. Lying sprawled on top of him she became aware of something hard digging into her hip. Wriggling around to better accommodate his arousal she pinned his arms down by his side, leaning down to whisper in his ear, "Are you having fun, Jack?" Releasing his arms to grip his head she kissed him hard, tongue delving into his mouth to taste as much of him as possible.
O’Neill was sinking fast, he had to do something and quick! Grabbing her upper arms he tried to prise her off him, "Sam ... we can’t do this."
Sliding one hand down to grasp the bulge in his pants, Sam was determined to get her way, "I know you want me Jack." Squeezing his erection, "You can’t deny it." Tightly holding his hair with her other hand she brought his mouth back to hers.
"Mmph... Sam! I heard what you ... mmph ... told the Doc."
The Major wasn’t listening.
"MAJOR CARTER!"
That got Sam’s attention. She realised Jack was not reciprocating, that he was in fact pushing her away from him. Awareness of just what she was doing and to whom hit her with a cold blast of reality. Scrambling to put some distance between them she quickly backed away. Swallowing nervously, arms wrapped around herself in a defensive gesture, Sam looked at O’Neill through wide eyes, "I ... i’m sorry Sir." Not knowing what else to say, she turned, heading rapidly in the direction of the base.
Jack sat watching her disappear back down the mountain, aware there was no way he could justify his behaviour or criticise her reactions. He’d deliberately taunted his second in command knowing she was struggling with the effects of that damn mist, and judging from her hurried exit, he figured hell would freeze over before she would ever speak to him again. Apart from that, how on earth was he going to explain the bruises on his elbows and butt to Doc Fraiser?
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Daniel was happy to be back on Earth, as much as he had enjoyed the Bacchic people and their culture over the past few days, he was glad to be home and looking forward to some downtime. Searching for Sam he headed in the direction of the lab where he found her working on the computer. "Hey Sam."
Sam looked up, a big smile lighting up her face, "Well hi to you stranger, when did you get back?"
Flopping down onto the nearest chair, Daniel eyed Sam as he answered, "We arrived back about four hours ago, been tied up with de-briefings pretty much since. I’m really looking forward to the party at Jack’s tonight, do you want me to pick you or are you making your own way over?"
Daniel didn’t miss the flicker of unease on her face when he mentioned Jack. He’d wondered at her strange behaviour in the corridor last week, only to return and find out from Janet that Jack and Sam had been avoiding each other for days! Maybe this party tonight would be the perfect opportunity for them to patch up their differences, off the base, relaxed atmosphere, who knows.
Sam had spent the past few days trying to find a way to avoid this get-together. Short of getting herself hospitalised she hadn’t come up with anything remotely feasible that wasn’t contrived. It was Colonel O’Neill’s birthday and a few of them were having an informal gathering to celebrate the occasion. She looked at Daniel as he sat waiting for her answer, resigned to facing her CO after ‘that day’ as she had taken to thinking of it, "I’ll take my own car, but thanks for the offer." ((At least the Colonel will be safe from me tonight, thank goodness that stuff wore off.))
Easing himself out of the chair Daniel got up to leave, "Okay great, I need to go get cleaned up, so i’ll see you tonight." Absently waving his hand in Sam’s direction he headed off in search of a hot shower and some decent coffee.
Sitting looking at the chair Daniel had just vacated, Sam thought about the evening ahead, knowing she couldn’t face the Colonel surrounded by friends while she felt this way, better to deal with him now and clear the air before tonight. Decision made, she got up and made her way to O’Neill’s office.
Jack was sitting at his desk feeling quite pleased at the amount of paperwork he’d shifted the past week, when Major Carter came in the door. Leaning back in his chair he watched as she approached, the sight of her causing an involuntary reflex and consequent tightening in his pants. Stamping down on the direction his thoughts were taking and glad of the desk to hide his condition, he smiled, "Major, what can I do for you?"
Sam stopped in front of the desk, thinking how in control the Colonel looked while she was once again experiencing the old familiar rush of awareness, "Permission to speak freely Sir?"
Jack couldn’t believe it, ((since when does she have to ask!)) "Go ahead."
Taking a deep breath Sam dived in, "Colonel, I know you overheard my conversation with Doctor Fraiser last week so you understand my uncharacteristic behaviour on the mountainside, but I still feel the need to explain that under normal circumstances I would never ........ attack you in that way."
Jack watched Sam as she spoke, she was way too serious, did she think she was facing court marshal? She really needed to loosen up. Feigning a shocked look he said, "You mean i’m not completely irresistible?"
Major Carter smiled a little at his attempt at humour, "No Sir."
Putting his hand on his heart Jack continued, "You wound me Carter," smiling at her he leaned forward to place his elbows on his desk, "I take it from your current attitude, not to mention the distance between us that those side effects have worn off?"
"Yes Sir, I believe the residual effects have worn off."
Jack leaned back in his chair, idly scratching the back of his head, "Well in answer to your next question, no there will not be any repercussions, you were under the influence of alien technology." He could see Carter’s stiff pose relax a little, ((she’s not usually this tense.)) "So, you gonna make it over for our little shindig tonight? grab a few beers, hang out with the guys?"
He was rewarded by one of the Majors brilliant smiles as she replied, "Yes Sir, i’ll be there."
Pleased that she was smiling at him again and starting to look more her normal self , he started to gather up some of the papers on his desk ready for filing, "Great, see you then."
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Later that night at the Colonel’s birthday party, Sam stood outside on the deck enjoying the cool breeze and relative quiet, the noise from inside subdued by the closed door. Staring thoughtfully out into the night she contemplated her life so far, well.... she acknowledged to herself ruefully, at least the past couple of weeks of it. Regardless of whether the knockout gas had worn off or not, it had caused more than just a physical reaction, she’d had to stop to re-reviewuate what she really wanted in life. One thing she wanted was Colonel O’Neill ..... Jack. She knew all the rules and regulations involving fraternisation between officers and subordinates, and up to a few days ago would not even have considered going against them. But the memory of the feel of him when she kissed him last week was refusing to be subjugated, she could no longer bury the emotions and carry on as normal. Thinking of him as Jack even to herself caused a delicious feeling of warmth to suffuse her skin, but there was just no way around the regs. Knowing he was just inside she gave her earlier thoughts another perusal, why not go for it, after all what did she have to lose? Shaking her head at the absurdity of her thoughts she reminded herself. ((Only my career!))
As Jack said his goodbyes to the last of the guests he was aware of Carter standing out on the deck. He’d been watching her over the course of the evening, she seemed more her usual self, relaxed and making jokes with the others, although he’d caught her looking at him occasionally with a pensive statement. Heading outside he found her leaning against the railing looking at the stars. He stood quietly observing her, the events since their return from Bacchic running through his mind, he could remember the feel of her mouth on his even a week after their encounter on the mountain, the sensation of her body sprawled on top of him. After their talk earlier he knew she wanted to forget that incident, and while he respected Carter’s wishes he personally couldn’t forget. All those erotic fantasies he thought he’d finally put the lid on burst out into his consciousness, his body responding in predictable fashion, she made him feel like a hormone driven teenager again. Forcing his mind along safer paths, like the cold shower he was going to take later, he moved out onto the deck. "Hey Carter, watcha doin?"
Sam turned at the sound of O’Neill’s voice, "Hi Sir, just thinking how nice it is to see our own constellations." Moving her gaze in the direction of the house she asked, "Has everyone left?"
Jack moved forward so he was standing next to her against the rail, "Yeah, it’s just us." Looking at her face partially hidden by the moonlight shadows, he couldn’t believe how drawn he was to this woman, he was totally captivated by her. Jack’s heart was racing, his palms itched to touch that soft skin, to smooth back the stray lock of blonde hair, to grip her head and pull her to him where he could taste that sexy mouth. ((Aw dammit! get a grip Jack.))
Sam smiled, "It’s okay Colonel, the feeling’s mutual."
Jack stopped mentally beating himself about the head, looking at her in disbelief, "Excuse me.....?"
She flashed one of her brilliant smiles at him. "The way you were looking at me, you had that ‘hungry’ look, it’s not difficult to guess the direction your thoughts were taking."
Jack was surprised, he hadn’t thought anything showed on his face, ((how could she tell? What did she say ..... mutual?)) Shaking his head Jack looked closely at Sam, ((she must still be under the influence of that damn mist.)) "I thought you said the side effects of that knockout stuff had worn off?"
"I did."
Cocking his head to one side with a questioning look, Jack prompted, "And.........?"
"The mist evoked a reaction in me which brought my emotions to the surface, it didn’t cause me to feel anything I hadn’t felt before, just intensified it. I know you want me ........ Jack, I held the proof in my hands remember?" ((What am I saying?)) Wincing inwardly at her abruptness, she waited for a response. ((What the hell am I doing?))
Jack remembered with painful clarity Sam’s hands on his body, "That could have been an involuntary reflex you know. You shouldn’t read too much into that." ((She wants me .... why the hell am I stalling?)) Shaking his head he continued, "I thought from our talk earlier today you wanted to go back to the way things were?"
Pushing her hair back off her face Sam shrugged, aiming for an air of nonchalance, "I’m tired of playing by the rules Jack."
Colonel O’Neill looked at his second in command in all seriousness, "You realise we shouldn’t even be having this conversation. There aren’t any loopholes just for us, it’s a cast iron rule, no fraternising."
"I know."
No longer willing to resist, Jack mentally booted his common sense out the window as he reached up to tenderly cup her cheek, brushing his thumb gently across her mouth, "So what are you suggesting Sam?"
Leaning into the warmth of his touch, Sam gave up trying to be nonchalant, she wasn’t going to pretend anymore, already she could felt the familiar ache of desire, she didn’t want to fight it any longer. ((I can’t believe what i’m about to say! )) "I’m suggesting one night out of time, to just be Sam and Jack instead of Colonel and Major."
Mesmerised by the feel of her soft skin, knowing he was fighting a losing battle, Jack whispered, "And then?"
Closing her eyes against his velvet soft brown ones, Sam replied, "Then we go back to the way we were."
Jack looked at the woman in front of him, he knew what she was asking, he’d considered similar scenarios himself when they were off-world on some deserted planet. But never in all his fantasies had Sam been the instigator, it was an incredible turn-on knowing she wanted him that much, but he had to be sure. "What if one night isn’t enough?"
Sam opened her eyes, giving him a direct, unwavering look, no hesitancy in her voice, "It will have to be."
Jack moved his hand around to the nape of her neck, drawing her closer to him, short silky hair tangling in his fingers. Knowing he was going to regret this but beyond caring he leaned into her until their mouths were barely touching, their breath mingling, "well ....... if you’re sure," then he cautiously touched his lips to hers, giving her the opportunity to change her mind.
Sam’s heartbeat was hammering in her chest as she slid her hands around Jack’s back, she could feel the heat of his skin through the tee shirt he wore, smell the sharp scent of his aftershave. Pressing herself closer against him she deepened the kiss, drawing him in, savouring the bitter taste of beer on his breath. He felt wonderful, better than she had ever imagined, it had to be worth the risk they were both taking.
Resisting the urge to undress her where she stood Jack lifted his head, he didn’t want to break the connection but some things just had to be said, "Sam..... we’d better take this inside, i’m not the only one in this neighbourhood with a telescope."
Realising where they stood was open to onlookers, Sam hastily pulled back from him then moved towards the house. Watching the sway of her hips as she walked in front of him Jack was uncomfortably aware of the steady throb of his arousal, slamming the door behind him he leaned against it then beckoned to Sam, "Come here."
Taking her time to saunter the few steps to where he stood, never taking her eyes off his, she gave him a saucy grin, "Still giving orders Jack? I thought we were headed somewhere more ........ comfortable."
Still leaning against the door Jack pulled her into the circle of his arms, brushing his lips in a feather light touch against hers, he gave her a slow sexy smile, "Indulge me." Sliding his fingers down the vee of her top he began slipping the buttons out of their holes one by one, observing the play of statements in her blue eyes, prolonging the anticipation before slowly pushing it down her arms. Sam shucked it off as Jack reached round to unclip her bra, enjoying the sight of utilitarian underwear on such a seductive body. Pushing that out of the way to expose her firm breasts, he groaned, "Perfect," then moving his hands, his thumbs caressed the already peaked and sensitive nipples. Feeling like all his Christmases had come at once he continued, kissing her pulse point with slow deliberation, his hot breath fanning her flushed skin causing sharp tingles to course through her body. Rubbing his cheek against hers he murmured softly into her ear, "Do you have any idea how much I want you? All i’ve been able to think about the past week is how you’d feel naked and hot against me, I imagine you in the shower with me, in my bed, or like this." Reinforcing his words with actions he nudged her legs apart, rubbing his thigh intimately against her. "I don’t want to stop until i’m so deep inside you you’re screaming my name."
Sam shuddered, Jack vocalising his desires was proving an incredible turn-on, she was virtually vibrating with need, forget any pretence at finesse she wanted him NOW. Sliding her hands down to locate the snap on the waistband of his jeans she pushed them down as far as she could while he did the same for her. Kicking off her shoes she helped him peel away her trousers in her haste to get naked, to savour the feel of his bare flesh against hers, she’d wanted this for so long, the waiting was over. Wrapping one leg around him she locked him to her, before dipping her hand down to stroke his aching erection, revelling in the sound of his sharply indrawn breath because of what she was doing to him.
Determined not to rush their first time together Jack slid his hand down to the damp tangle of curls between her legs, slipping a finger inside, drawing it out, again and again, "God Sam you have no idea how often i’ve thought about this, how long i’ve wanted you." Holding her head in place with his other hand he kissed her hard, his tongue insistent, thrusting and parrying, a prelude of things to come. Sam kissed him back deeply, hardly believing what she was doing and who she was doing it with, before gently biting his bottom lip then slowly sucking it. Breaking the connection, his breathing ragged, Jack looked into her lovely blue eyes, "This fantasy won’t wait." Kissing a path down her neck, on past her collarbone, he covered her nipples with his mouth, alternately flicking his tongue and sucking before gently nipping with his teeth while his fingers continued their intimate penetration of her body. Skimming his mouth over her slick skin, he moved down to her navel, licking the salty sheen from her body before circling the small indentation with his tongue. Sam stood absolutely still, holding her breath in anticipation, her fingers tightly curled into his short hair, any doubts she might have had entirely dismissed, her sole focus now being the man kneeling in front of her. Spreading her legs he positioned himself between them to nuzzle into those blond curls, the musky scent of her arousal exciting him further, he flicked his tongue against that hard little nub, then leaned in to enclose it in his mouth, purposefully sucking, he felt her beginning to tense, her subdued moans encouraging him to continue. Tightening his mouth over her clitoris he started to hum, knowing the gentle vibration would send her over the edge while holding onto her hips, keeping her immobile as she started to buck with the approaching orgasm.
Struggling to stay upright, her knees threatening to buckle, Sam knew she couldn’t take much more, she was lost to the sensations of what Jack was doing to her, the tension increasing when he focused on that one sensitive spot, pre-orgasmic tremors rippling throughout her body. Clutching his hair in both hands, keeping his head where she wanted it, Sam’s attention concentrated solely on her body’s responses. Close to the edge now, her breath coming in short gasps, "oh......my........God", the fierce spasms reaching almost painful levels as her whole body began to jerk with the force of climactic muscle contractions. Throwing her head back she released the breath she’d been holding, "Yesss......Jack............YESSSSSSSSSS!"
Pushing his trousers off the rest of the way as he stood up, Jack murmured softly in her ear, "I want you in my bed ..... now." Sam nuzzled into his neck, playfully nipping him as she wrapped her legs around his waist and held on tight, her body still rippling with the aftershocks of her orgasm, "Anything you say ... Sir." Jack carried her towards his bedroom, carefully stepping over discarded clothing before eventually collapsing in a heap on the bed.
Pausing to take a leisurely look at her he couldn’t believe she was actually here, his second in command, his Carter .... his Sam. He knew how serious the ramifications of their actions would be if they were discovered, but he was well past the point of caring, so was Sam apparently. Rifling through his bedside cabinet he was beginning to get a little frustrated when, with a sigh of relief he finally found the foil packets he was looking for, fervently hoping they hadn’t passed their use by date.
Rising up to take the packet from him, placing a hand in the centre of his chest, Sam pushed firmly so he was flat on his back, "My turn now I think." He smiled as she straddled him and efficiently applied the condom, keeping a firm grip around the base of his erection she scraped her nails gently around his testicles. Grinning at the sight of her Colonel at her mercy she leaned over him, lightly brushing her nipples against his chest, his wiry hair prickly against her tender breasts. His back arched off the bed and he groaned in exquisite agony as Sam’s fingers continued to tease, "You like ....... hmm?" Taking hold of her waist he pulled her towards him, "Now Sam!" Positioning herself, slowly and with great deliberation she impaled herself on him. Jack clenched his teeth, his body shuddering with sensory overload as he pushed himself further into Sam, she was so tight, her inner muscles gripped him, pulling him deeper, he knew he wouldn’t be able to hold out for long. Trying to maintain control so he wouldn’t shoot his load too soon, he started to mentally count last seasons hockey scores backwards as she began slowly rocking her pelvis, her internal muscles clutching him even more securely. Feeling like a dam about to burst, and hanging onto his control by a finger nail he flipped them so Sam was underneath, before giving in to the driving need to bury himself even deeper into her welcoming body. He was barely aware of her nails digging grooves down his back as the tempo became frantic, accompanied only by the sound of their laboured breathing and the slap of flesh against naked flesh. Legs firmly wrapped around his waist, Sam met him thrust for thrust, all senses focused on their joined bodies slick with sweat, her body screaming for release. Nails biting down into his shoulder, head arched back, her muscles contracted tightly around his shaft, "ohmygodohmygodohmygod .........JACK!" His body jerking erratically with the force of his release, Jack cried out her name as he exploded into her, letting out a contented groan he buried his face into her neck as they collapsed in a heap of tangled limbs, exhausted and spent.
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Jack awoke the next morning alone in his bed, Sam had left before dawn, he hadn’t tried to stop her. Shielding his eyes from the shaft of sunlight peeking through the curtains, he groaned inwardly as memories of the past few hours crowded in on him. Crystal clear images of her legs wrapped around him, all slippery and wet in the shower, ((Oh crap ..... what have I done, what the hell have I done!)) He knew Sam must still be under the influence of that Bacchic mist, had known it last night when they were still out on the deck. He’d just chosen to ignore it because he so desperately wanted what she had offered, an offer she would never have made under normal circumstances. So what did that make him? ((A complete and utter bastard that’s what! )) He didn’t have the luxury of an excuse, there were no mitigating circumstances to excuse his behaviour.
Climbing wearily out of bed he pulled on his boxers then headed into the kitchen for some good strong coffee, maybe the caffeine would clear his mind. What he and Sam had shared last night had been special, he cared about her more than anyone he knew, he wouldn’t want her or her career to be hurt by their actions, so where did that leave them?
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Sam spent the day vigorously cleaning her apartment. She figured she’d get all her chores done before going off-world the next day. She’d known there would be fallout from spending the night with Jack ...... ((better make that the Colonel)), and had decided the best course of action was to keep busy. Unfortunately the physical activity didn’t engage her mind which kept drifting to thoughts of the night before. They’d made love several more times during the night, no words of love had been spoken, no promises of a future together, she knew he cared deeply for her as she did for him but continued physical intimacy was not feasible, the regulations were very clear, even this one time together could ruin their working relationship. Tomorrow she would return to real life, to her normal persona of second in command and friend, laughing at his terrible jokes and trying to keep a straight face during his sarcastic moments.
Pushing her hair back off her face in a gesture of irritation, Sam slumped down onto a chair burying her head in her hands, ((what have I done!)) she hadn’t expected this gut wrenching pain, this desperate sense of loss. She didn’t really know why she’d acted the way she had, why she’d made that brazen offer, she’d been so sure she was in control, now she was beginning to doubt that. They’d had a mutually enjoyable time, ((enjoyable? who am I kidding? it was positively mind-blowing!)) She really didn’t know what to expect now, could they really revert back to their previous relationship? She didn’t think so.
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The next day SG1 stepped out of the wormhole into a large circular clearing within what appeared to be a dense wood, the hot sun shone brightly on trees and plant-life that were dazzlingly lush and vibrant, the many and varied shades of green, blue and violet on the ground and the canopy formed by the trees was a startling contrast to most of the planets they visited. A gentle breeze was causing the grass to undulate with an almost fluidic motion.
Colonel O’Neill stopped at the base of the Stargate platform, pushing his sunglasses up he looked around, "What can I say folks ........ trees!"
Carter tried to smile, it was an old joke and pretty much expected but somehow she couldn’t manage a response, even though the Colonel’s interest in trees (or lack of) was a standing joke. They had barely had time to speak to each other this morning before leaving, just a rather awkward "morning." Then O’Neill had been in with General Hammond until just before going through the ‘gate.
Daniel cocked his head to one side looking at Jack, "Bit more variety of colour than we usually see though."
Circling around they investigated the surrounding area, looking for clues to any human habitation, since the MALP had not shown any evidence of buildings.
Teal’c walked about the clearing looking intently at the ground and surrounding trees, "There does not appear to be any indication of a footpath, or any sign of access to the Stargate O’Neill."
Daniel was squinting in the bright light as he looked around, "Can you believe how vibrant the colours are here? I’ve never seen anything like this before, and according to the results we got from the MALP the air is absolutely pure, maybe we’ve finally found a planet with no people to contaminate it."
Teal’c continued to watch the area as he commented, "The scent from the plants is also most pleasant Daniel Jackson, I have never encountered it’s like before."
Jack turned towards the Jaffa, "Why Teal’c, I didn’t know you were a closet horticulturist?"
The big man raised an eyebrow but refused to be drawn.
Jack continued, "Anyhow, sniffing the flowers aside, we need a quick recon. of the immediate area, Teal’c, Daniel you head north, me and Carter will go south, meet back here in three hours."
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O’Neill and Carter had been walking only fifteen minutes but already they were surrounded by huge towering trees. The ground underfoot was soft and springy with moss, and sunlight filtered through in patches causing a dappled effect on the earth at their feet, it was also considerably cooler under the canopy of leaves and branches. The discomfort level between them grew as each silently contemplated how to broach the subject of the night of the party.
Sam was finding it hard to reconcile the Jack who’s bed she had shared, with the military man in front of her. Meanwhile Jack was berating himself for avoiding her this morning, he knew they had to clear the air, find out where they stood with each other. As he climbed over what appeared to be a huge purple root, he felt something snap under his weight as he put his foot down on the other side, then a sharp prick on his calf. He didn’t even have chance to warn Carter as numbness spread instantly throughout his body. Shock and surprise kept him upright for only a second, before his legs gave way and he collapsed with a heavy thud.
Carter was directly behind O’Neill when he suddenly slumped to the ground, dropping to her knees next to him she felt for a pulse, it was weak and erratic. "Sir ... Sir, what happened?" Receiving no response she quickly radioed Daniel and Teal’c for help as she systematically worked to locate a wound or some reason for his collapse, but was unable to find any clues. The Colonel’s colour was bad, his breathing appeared laboured and his lips were beginning to turn blue, Sam experienced the first stirrings of panic, ((what the hell is this, it’s too quick, come on guys, hurry.)) Trying to inject a positive tone into her voice Sam talked to O’Neill, "It’ll be okay Sir, Daniel and Teal’c will be here soon then we’ll get you back through the Stargate, let Janet have a look at you."
Struggling to open his eyes, Jack looked directly into wide blue ones full of concern and something else, fear ....... ? Why was she afraid? He opened his mouth to tell her everything was going to be okay, using the last of his strength to reach out and touch her face, his voice barely a whisper, "Sam..........."
Sam realised that the Colonel was slipping away from her, holding him tight she started to rock him, gulping back the tears as she looked into his warm brown eyes "Sir .. Jack, don’t do this, you can’t leave me now ..... please Jack," ((I should have told him, I should have told him I loved him and to hell with the regulations)), his eyes closed as his body went limp, "JACK ..... Noooo.........." Knowing she had to stay in control if she was to be of any help to him Sam concentrated on administering CPR, pumping his chest and trying to breathe life back into his lungs, ((come on Daniel, dammit, where are you ....... hurry! )) After a few minutes with no response Sam was exhausted, she couldn’t believe she’d lost him. The tightness and pain in her chest was intense, she felt she would explode, until no longer able to hold it in she crumpled over his still form as her body was wracked with great heaving sobs. Overwhelmed with grief and regret that they hadn’t had more time together, she stroked his face murmuring repeatedly, "I love you Jack, I love you ......." Why oh why had she wasted those precious minutes this morning, she could have had that little extra time with him, seen his smile and the way his eyes crinkled when he laughed. Closing her eyes to try and block out some of the agony, awareness gradually filtered through to her grief fogged brain, Jack’s body was beginning to move. Pulling back Sam realised he was sinking into the ground, grasping him by the front of his jacket she tried to hold on, but what appeared to be slender roots were wrapping themselves tightly around his body, slowly and inexorably pulling him down while she was powerless to prevent it. Within seconds he was completely enveloped, the earth sealing over where his body had lain. By the time Teal’c and Daniel arrived, Sam was hysterical, screaming his name over and over as she frantically scrabbled at the ground with her bare hands.
Daniel gripped her by the shoulders pulling her into a tight hug to try and calm her down, "Sam..... what happened, where’s Jack?" Sam’s screaming eventually quietened into a low keening sound as she pointed to a spot on the ground."
"Under ..... he went ... under. Oh God Daniel, I couldn’t hold on to him, I couldn’t stop it, he just got sucked under!" She collapsed onto Daniel shaking and sobbing uncontrollably.
Teal’c examined the area Sam had indicated and found nothing, no sign of clothing, no equipment .......... nothing. "We should return through the Stargate, Major Carter is in need of medical assistance, and we will require help to search this area."
Daniel was reluctant to leave if there was any chance of finding Jack, but he had to agree with Teal’c, Sam was in no condition to be left alone and they needed help if they were to find Jack. She was still sobbing into his jacket as they made their way back to the ‘Gate and home, no longer aware of anything except her grief and inability to help Jack.
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Later that night General Hammond walked into the quiet infirmary, the only sounds the beeping of the equipment monitoring Major Carter’s progress and the rustle of paper as Doctor Fraiser updated the charts. He nodded at the Doctor as she turned to face him, "How is she Doctor?"
Janet looked tired and worried, moving away from Sam’s bedside she spoke quietly, "She went into shock Sir, her vitals are stable now but for a while she was very agitated, I had to sedate her before she became completely hysterical."
The General looked at his friend Jacob’s daughter, concern clear on his features, "Has she been able to tell you anything at all about the incident?"
"No Sir, she’s barely coherent, just keeps repeating his name, saying that she’s sorry she couldn’t hold onto him. Have you heard any news from the search teams?"
General Hammond shook his head in a negative motion, "They haven’t been able to find any trace of the Colonel, it’s as if he was never there, even Teal’c can’t find any indication of what might have happened." Hammond sighed as he rubbed the back of his neck, tiredness evident in his gesture, looking at the sleeping form on the bed, "How do you think she’ll cope with this?"
"I’m not sure Sir, Major Carter and Colonel O’Neill were good friends, it’s going to hit her hard."
The General looked closely at Janet, "Is there something else on your mind Doctor?"
Janet wrapped her arms around herself, holding on to her professional demeanour, "When Major Carter returned from Bacchic she experienced certain symptoms resulting from exposure to the knockout gas used on that planet, her emotional reactions had been heightened to a degree that she found embarrassing and difficult to control."
Hammond didn’t look too pleased, "Why wasn’t I informed of this?"
"She only exhibited these extreme reactions around a certain individual, otherwise she seemed fine, it was decided the simplest solution was for the Major to avoid the person until the effects wore off, Sir."
The General was starting to look exasperated by now, "The certain individual being Colonel O’Neill I presume?"
Janet sighed softly, "Yes Sir, that’s why i’m concerned, if there are any residues from those substances still in her system, then the trauma of being with the Colonel when the incident occurred, combined with feelings of guilt at not being able to help him could be intensified to an intolerable level."
Looking back at the bed where Major Carter lay in an artificially induced sleep, General Hammond sighed sadly, "I see, well let me know if there’s any change." As he moved toward the exit he stopped, "And in future, I would appreciate it if you would keep me informed of any problems, no matter how small or potentially embarrassing, is that clear?"
Doctor Fraiser was suitably subdued as she responded, "Yes Sir."
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Jack awoke to find himself lying in the middle of the clearing around the Stargate, there was a chill in the air, the light of two moons illuminating the area giving everything an eerie grey tinge. Standing up he looked around, there was no sign of the rest of his team, "Carter! Daniel! Teal’c!" Silence was his only answer, apart from the rustling of leaves in the breeze, he was struck once again by how silent the place was. Memories flashed into his mind of being on the ground with Carter hanging on to him, she was crying and calling his name. ((They think i’m dead!)) He was beginning to remember more of what happened, he needed to get back. Brushing some of the dirt off his clothes he headed towards the Dial Home Device, not knowing how long he’d been out of it, his last thought as he walked through the event horizon was that he hoped his GDO signal was still active.
Jack stepped out of the SGC Stargate onto the ramp to be welcomed by the sound of klaxons blaring and airmen with their weapons trained on him, the shock evident on their faces when they saw who it was.
General Hammond came rushing into the embarkation room, "Colonel O’Neill, what in hell happened to you? We thought you were dead."
Jack acknowledged his superior officer, "Not quite Sir."
Practically on the General’s heels came Daniel and Teal’c, Jack grinned when he saw his friends, "Hey guys, pleased to see me?" Daniel stopped short, his face a picture of delight and amazement, "Jack, wha ... what happened..... we’ve been searching for days, where were you?"
Shaking his head he smiled at his friend, "Long story Daniel."
Teal’c clasped Jack by the shoulder, "It is good to see you well O’Neill."
Looking around Jack was aware of the absence of a certain member of his team, "Where’s Carter?"
Daniel’s smile faded as he told Jack, "In the infirmary, she was hysterical when we brought her back, Janet’s had to keep her sedated for a while, since then she’s barely spoken to anyone. She blames herself for what happened Jack, she thinks she failed you."
Jack turned to General Hammond, "If it’s okay with you Sir i’d like to see Major Carter before we debrief, I think I can help."
General Hammond nodded his agreement, "On you go son, we’ll meet in the conference room when you’re done, i’m sure Dr Fraiser will want to have a look at you as well."
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Sam woke up slowly, gradually becoming aware of someone holding her hand, that the voice quietly speaking to her was familiar, ((he’s dead, I saw him disappear, he’s dead, he’s dead!)) As the pain threatened to envelop her once again, the voice became more insistent. Focusing on the sound she could make out the words, "Sam, it’s Jack, i’m here, can you hear me? Sam, open your eyes." She looked up directly into velvet soft brown eyes full of concern, thinking she was dreaming she reached out a hand to touch him, "Jack ... Sir?"
Colonel O’Neill was sitting at the side of her bed, leaning into her touch he whispered in a soothing voice, "It’s okay Sam, everything’s going to be fine, just relax and let me help you."
As Sam leaned back against the pillow O’Neill placed his other hand on the side of her face, gently cupping her head. A feeling of contentment seeped into her mind, the sensation of well-being and safety permeated her body, the warmth of another persons love pouring into her consciousness. The knowledge that he was safe was her last conscious thought as she drifted off into a natural healing sleep.
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Early the next morning in the briefing room, Colonel O’Neill was trying to explain to General Hammond, Daniel and Teal’c what had happened on P3X996.
"I remember stepping on some twig-like thing, then I was on the ground with Major Carter asking me what was wrong. After that it’s a bit hazy until I woke up last night in the clearing."
General Hammond sat forward in his seat, he was relieved to see O’Neill back in one piece and Major Carter was greatly improved since the Colonel’s visit, now he wanted to know how. "Colonel, do you have any idea how or why this happened? Is there any possible threat from this planet we should be aware of?"
O’Neill’s pose was relaxed, leaning his elbows on the arms of the chair he swivelled it around to face the General, "No Sir, I don’t believe so, quite the reverse actually, we’re the threat to them."
Daniel picked up on this, "Them who? I thought the planet was uninhabited."
Turning again to face Daniel, Jack replied, "Uninhabited by people that is, the plants are the life-force of the planet."
Daniel had never heard of anything like this before, "You mean the whole planet is alive?"
"Yep."
The General was getting impatient, "Colonel, would you mind telling us what you mean?"
Jack sat forward, struggling to find the right words he started, "Sir, all the plants on P3X996 are somehow interconnected, the planet itself is a living being. When I stepped on what I thought was a twig, it was in fact one of their young, I hurt it so it retaliated like any child would, except in this case it’s sting was deadly."
Teal’c, who had been silent until now commented, "Major Carter said she saw you pulled under the ground, yet we found no trace of a disturbance."
Rubbing the back of his head Jack tried to imagine how that must have looked, "Yeah, I was in some type of cocoon while my body healed." Shaking his head he looked back to General Hammond, "I don’t understand how that would work though, you’d have to ask Carter, she’s more likely to be able to offer some kind of explanation for it. I mean, the whole experience was weird, I could ‘feel’ what they were communicating, mainly regret in causing pain and the wish to be left alone. I think they were also intending to somehow disable the Stargate so no one else could go through."
General Hammond nodded, "Do you think that’s possible?"
"Yes Sir, but I don’t know how long it will take them."
Hammond’s interest was piqued, "Do you feel there is any possibility of setting up some form of interaction with this planet?"
Shaking his head Colonel O’Neill was emphatic, "No, I came away with a strong feeling that they just want to be left alone."
Daniel was fascinated, a whole planet of sentient plants, not really his area of expertise but interesting nonetheless, "So ....... when you got back last night, how did you know you could help Sam?"
Jack closed his eyes for a few seconds, how could he describe it, "I just knew, as soon as you said Carter was sick, I knew. It wasn’t a conscious thought, it was simply that there was something, a ......... a life-force - call it what you will, buzzing around in me that could be utilised to help her. Which, I might add has now gone." Jack winced as he remembered the battery of tests Doctor Fraiser had carried out on him. "Doc tried everything she could think of on me, i’m my normal self."
Hammond smiled, "Well i’m certainly glad to hear that, I look forward to reading your report on this incident. As of now you’re on downtime for the next week, but you’ll need to check in with Doctor Fraiser, see if she needs to run any further tests. Good to have you back Colonel. Dismissed."
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A week later after undergoing the numerous tests that Janet had insisted on, Sam was finally released from the infirmary. All those days lying in bed had given her plenty opportunity to think, so it was a resolute Major that made her way over to the Colonel’s house. As she climbed out of her car she took a couple of deep breaths to prepare herself for the coming meeting. Warmed by the heat of the sun, Sam became aware of the smell of freshly cut grass and the sweet scent of flowers on this warm Sunday afternoon. Approaching the house she was amazed by how his garden appeared to be flourishing, an abundance of riotous colour - it was dazzling. Puzzling over how he achieved this feat in light of his long and frequent absences, she stepped up to the door and pressed the bell.
Jack was relaxing with a beer when he heard the doorbell. ((Aw for crying out loud, not again!)) He opened the door expecting to see another one of his neighbours and was instead pleasantly surprised to find Major Carter, in a dress! ((Whoa, down boy.)) "Carter ........... this is a surprise." Opening the door wide he waved her inside.
Sam wasn’t sure if he was pleased to see her or not. "Colonel, I don’t mean to take up your time but I wanted to discuss something ....... of a personal nature with you, it seemed more appropriate to come here rather than approach you on the base."
"No, no, it’s fine, I was just expecting another neighbour on the doorstep, been plagued with them all morning asking what type of fertiliser I use on the garden." Indicating the verdant plant-life outside he shrugged self deprecatingly, "I seem to have developed green fingers since I got back from P3X......whatever."
Sam smiled as she understood what he was referring to, "Aah. So what excuse are you giving?"
O’Neill looked innocent, "Oh I just plead ignorance. So, you wanna beer?"
((I want you.)) "Sure. Fine." Following him toward the kitchen Sam admired his comfortable home, it was spacious and welcoming, and just a bit messy with various newspapers littering the coffee table. Taking the drink he offered, she went into the lounge and sat down on one of the armchairs while O’Neill made himself comfortable on the sofa, sweeping the papers aside to put his feet up on the table.
Jack couldn’t take his eyes off her, she looked great in fatigues, but that dress, wow ........ and those legs..... images of those legs wrapped around him leaped into focus ...... ((don’t go there!)) "So ........ Sam, what can I do for you?"
After taking a sip of beer Sam carefully put down the bottle, "Colonel, I...." pausing as she noticed O’Neill’s raised eyebrows.
Jack looked at her in surprise, ((why is she back to being so formal?)) "We’re off duty, it’s Jack, remember."
"Right ..... Jack. The fact is, i’ve been experiencing sporadic memory loss, it’s mostly confined to the past couple of weeks, more side effects from my exposure to the Bacchic knockout gas. But I can recollect some things, one example being the incident on the mountain. It’s a little hazy, but from what I do remember it’s apparent that my recent behaviour has been unprofessional and I wanted to apologise for that. Janet tells me you had some spectacular bruises from that encounter?"
((What the hell.......!)) Jack wasn’t too sure what to make of this statement, the short tussle she was referring to was nothing compared to the night they had spent together, she didn’t remember that? He wasn’t sure whether to be relieved or concerned. How could she forget something so incredible! Deciding to play this by ear he responded, "You already apologised over a week ago for that."
"I did?"
Jack tried to smile, "Yeah, you did. Apology accepted .... again. And you don’t remember .......... anything else?"
Sam looked thoughtful, "I get odd flashes of you with a surprised statement, I can only assume there was more than one occasion when my behaviour was inappropriate. Did you have a specific incident in mind?"
Jack shook his head, "No, no, just wondered. You sure you’re okay now?"
"Yes. General Hammond persuaded the Bacchic people to supply a sample of the substances they use in their defence system, once Janet knew what she was looking for she was able to test me. The results came up negative, which leads me to the other reason i’m here, how did you know you’d have curative abilities that would help me?"
Jack shifted uncomfortably on the seat, he should have known she’d be looking for explanations, scientific solutions he couldn’t provide. "Instinct I guess, residual impressions I had after leaving the planet. I was overflowing with good health, I figured there was some to spare."
Sam looked at him earnestly, no hint in her statement or body language that she and the man in front of her had shared anything more intimate than that brief interlude above the base. Jack was torn, could he seriously pretend nothing had changed? They wouldn’t even have the opportunity to come to an agreement on how to handle the issue. In fact it was only an issue for him, Sam appeared oblivious.
Maintaining his calm exterior while his brain was puzzling over this conundrum, he was only vaguely listening as Sam launched into a detailed description of the effects of the knockout gas, commenting on the possible reasons one exposure could cause such extreme side effects. Realising he had tuned out for a while he pulled his mind back to what she was saying.....
"...... then when Janet described the condition I was in after Daniel and Teal’c brought me back from P3X497 I realised how serious the situation was. Apparently my emotional responses had been so heightened, that she was concerned my brain wouldn’t be able to cope with the overload and shut down."
Jack thought he knew where she was going with this, he didn’t want her gratitude, hell - she’d spent the night in his bed, he should be the one saying thanks, only he couldn’t. His mind continued to torment him with memories of their night together. Although distracted, he was aware she was still talking to him, he could see her mouth moving, ((that beautiful mouth,)) he remembered how it felt against his skin........
".......... it seems I suffered an extreme allergic response, the Bacchic people have never encountered anything like this before.........."
Seeing her like this, talking normally as if he was nothing more than her CO, ((but she doesn’t remember,)) Jack closed his eyes briefly as recollections of the scent and texture of her skin bombarded his senses, ((Oh crap, this really stinks!))
"Sir ..... Jack, are you okay?"
Jack opened his eyes to see his second in command looking at him intently, concern evident in her statement, ((get a grip man!)) He put on his best Jack O’Neill smile for her, "Yeah fine, so ........ are you cleared for duty now?"
Her face lit up with that smile he loved so much, "Yes, although P3X497 is off limits to me, General Hammond’s orders." She finished her beer then got up from the chair, "I’d better be off now, I just wanted to clear up any possible misunderstandings that might have arisen due to my odd behaviour and to thank you for what you did."
Colonel O’Neill got up and moved toward the door, "It’s okay Sam, Doc explained some of this stuff already, don’t worry about it." Opening the door he stood back to let her pass.
Feeling like she was being dismissed, she walked through the open door, "See you at the base tomorrow then." His only response being a nod, Sam stepped out of the house and heard the door close quietly behind her.
Climbing back into her car she drove a short distance until she found a quiet stretch of road before pulling over. Any semblance of a smile vanished as her features crumpled into an statement of anguish and misery. She’d hurt him, that much was clear, he’d hidden his feelings well, but she knew him. She hadn’t forgotten their night together, it was seared into her memory in glorious technicolour. But she’d done what she believed was right, to prevent their work from being affected and disruption of the team dynamics. If she kept it to herself, he would accept her memory loss and behave normally around her, thereby minimising the fallout. ((Who am I kidding? I’m protecting myself, i’m just not ready to deal with this......)) If she could just keep up the pretence, how hard could that be? ((What a joke, every time I see him I want....... I just want!)) Ruthlessly suppressing these traitorous thoughts and the temptation to return to Jack’s house, she continued to tell herself this was for the best, a personal relationship was out of the question at this moment. But oh, how she’d hated seeing the look on his face when he believed she’d forgotten their time together.
The night they’d shared was precious, like coming home, they had fit together perfectly, with none of the awkwardness sometimes evident in a first time together. She loved him, god how she loved him. She knew he loved her too, even though he hadn’t actually said the words, she knew. Doubts about the course of action she was taking were pricking her conscience, did she really think she had the right to make the decision for both of them? Leaning on the steering wheel, head resting on her hands, deep in her misery, she didn’t notice the glint of reflected sunlight flickering in the direction from which she’d just come.
Jack looked through his telescope from his vantage point on the roof, he could see Sam slumped in her car. At first he thought she was ill then he realised she was crying. He thought of following to find out what was wrong, but that would mean explaining what he was doing spying on her to begin with. ((I could drive by and act surprised. Nah, too obvious, she’d see through that straight away.))
She’d seemed fine when she left his house, or - perhaps that had been an act. Perhaps, and knowing Sam as well as he did, ((perhaps her memory of certain events hasn’t been affected at all.)) Jack considered this enticing possibility for a while. Presuming that was the case, what was he going to do about it? The idea of only one night together simply wasn’t going to work, not for him. He would have agreed to anything to be with Sam that night. ((Payback’s a bitch!)) If she felt the same way then at some point they were going to have to decide what to do. If, as he was beginning to suspect, Sam was pleading ignorance to give herself more time, then he would watch and wait. The temptation to go to her was strong, but if she felt she needed more time to deal with the change in the balance of their relationship then he would give her that time. He loved her that much. Had he been paying more attention earlier he would have been able to spot if she wasn’t being entirely honest with him. He would have to wait and see, he was good at that.
Feeling more optimistic, Jack smiled slightly to himself as he watched Sam’s car disappearing into the distance.
Yes, he would wait.
The end.