Reunion
By Squacco
Rating: R
Summary: Jack accompanies Sam to her high school reunion.
Classification: Romance
Spoilers: None
Archive: SJD, yes.
Disclaimer: only the original characters belong to me, everyone else belongs to Showtime/Gekko etc. This fic. was written purely for pleasure, no money has changed hands.
Major Samantha Carter was striding purposefully down the corridors of the SGC, heading towards the commissary. Actually she was looking for Dr. Daniel Jackson, but having failed to track him down at either his quarters or his lab, she'd figured that the lure of an early morning coffee may well have drawn him to the only other place he was likely to be.
Rounding a corner she found herself face to face with her other SG-1 team mate, Teal'c.
"Teal'c, hi."
"Good morning Major Carter."
"Hey Teal'c, have you just been to the commissary?"
"Indeed I have Major, is there some way in which I may be of assistance?"
"Yeah, did you see Daniel there?"
"No, I did not"
"Oh, dammit! Where can he be?"
Teal'c raised an eyebrow.
"In that case Major, I am able to assist you, Daniel Jackson is in the infirmary."
"What! Oh no, not today, please" She stamped her foot in frustration and stormed off to the infirmary, leaving a somewhat bemused Jaffa staring after her.
Sam burst into the infirmary and strode over to where she could see Daniel lying in bed. Her CO, Colonel Jack O'Neill, was standing by the bed chatting to the patient but Sam didn't even acknowledge his presence.
"Daniel, what the heck d'you think you're doing here?" she exclaimed.
Daniel began to pull himself up into a sitting position, but O'Neill put out a hand and held him down.
"Hold it Daniel" he turned to Carter "Major what the hell d'you mean, bursting in here like this, Daniel's sick for cryin' out loud."
Sam had the good grace to look shame faced.
"It's okay, Jack" Daniel croaked, "don't be too hard on her"
He sat up, pausing to catch his breath.
"Sam, I'm really, really sorry. I hate letting you down but." he stopped suddenly, wracked by a fit of coughing.
Sam reached out and supported him until he got himself under control.
"Jeez Daniel, I'm sorry I lost it. You're obviously really sick, what happened?"
O'Neill answered for him.
"It seems that Daniel here's been incubating a chest infection. Doc's got him on antibiotics and bed rest. A minimum three days she says."
"Oh, crap" Sam said "Oh, sorry Sir, I didn't mean." her voice trailed off.
O'Neill gave his 2IC a searching look.
"What gives Carter? Why are you all so fired up?"
"Oh nothing Sir, it's not important" Sam said dully, her shoulders slumping.
"Sam" Daniel said huskily "why don't you ask Jack?"
She shook her head, smiling at her friend.
"No Daniel, I couldn't impose on the Colonel."
"Ask Jack what?" interrupted O'Neill.
Daniel explained. "Sam was going to a high school reunion in San Diego. She needs an escort and I'd agreed to accompany her."
Jack looked at his Major. She was looking a little pink in the face, a touch embarrassed by Daniel putting her on the spot he guessed. Under normal circumstances he would have steered clear of anything like this, but Carter's forlorn expression twisted his heart.
"Hey Carter, I'm off all this weekend, if you need an escort I'd be happy to oblige, that is if you think I'll do."
He could see her doing battle with herself until finally she reached a decision.
"Okay Sir, that would be great, if you're sure. I mean it'll probably be really boring."
Jack nodded. "I'm sure. I have nothing else planned, and hey it isn't every weekend I get to go to California. I kinda fancy a little sea, sand, sun."
"That'd be great" Sam smiled in relief "Flight's at 1530. You'll need a tux, but everything else has been seen to."
"Okay, I'll pick you up at your place at 1400, how's that?"
"That'd be good Sir, and thanks."
*********************************
Some time later that afternoon, O'Neill was seated next to Sam on the 1530 flight to San Diego.
"Okay Carter, we have some time to kill. Wanna tell me why this weekend is so important? Somehow I never figured you for a 'reunion' kinda gal"
Sam sighed audibly; she knew this was going to come. Somehow, explaining the situation to Daniel had been fine; he'd been in a similar situation to her at high school so he'd understood. The thing was - would Colonel O'Neill?
"Well Carter?"
"Sir, you see, well it's like this" she was a little embarrassed.
"Come on, spill."
"It's the twentieth anniversary of my high school graduation." Jack nodded, she continued.
"Now normally I'd avoid this kind of thing. To be perfectly truthful Sir. well, I didn't have a very good time at high school."
"You didn't?"
"No" she replied, sighing again "okay, picture me at sixteen - I was the school science nerd, I was a little overweight in those days too and shy and geeky - all those things. Most of the other girls laughed at me - and the guys - well I'm sure you can imagine. The only date I ever had was with a math textbook" she grimaced "I always swore, when I left, that I'd never go back and I haven't"
"Until now?"
"Until now"
"So, what's changed your mind?"
"I had a phone call, three weeks ago from 'the most popular girl in school'. I think she must have got my number from Mark, for which he's going to pay dearly. Anyway, Jesssica Toomey, the prom queen herself, called me up and as soon as I heard her voice it was like I was 16 again. She said she was calling to persuade me to come to the reunion. 'Please Samantha, you were always so popular at school, we'd all just love to see you again'. Huh, that's what she said" Sam shrugged "of course, what she really meant was 'come on science nerd, let's see what a mess you've made of your life, give us something new to laugh at."
"And?" Jack was fascinated by this snapshot of Carter's earlier life.
"I was just about to make the usual excuse, say I couldn't make it, when suddenly I found myself agreeing to go" she chuckled "I honestly don't know what got into me. Anyway, then she asked would I be bringing someone, a partner." she turned to look at O'Neill.
"I swear Sir, I was suddenly so angry, I wanted to show her, show them all. So I said yes, I'd be bringing my boyfriend. I said he was good-looking, sexy and very smart."
Jack grinned at her.
"So then you were stuck?"
"Yeah, but Daniel, bless him, understood and agreed to help me out."
"Er, Carter, does that mean I have to pretend to be, what was it, 'good-looking, sexy and smart'?"
"No Sir, you don't have to pretend, you already are, er.I mean ." Sam blushed realising what she'd just inferred. 'Oh God, I just said he was sexy, well he is of course, but - oh, I'll never live this down.'
"Carter, did you just infer that I'm .very smart?" Jack had a definite twinkle in his eye.
"Yes Sir, of course you're smart" Sam said with some relief "Well, maybe not smart as in Daniel smart, you're just smart in a different way, kinda, sort of." She was gabbling and they both knew it.
Jack chuckled. "It's okay Carter, I know what you mean."
She nodded, hoping that he'd change the subject.
"So, what's the program for this reunion?" he asked.
She gave a little sigh of relief. "We're booked into a hotel in San Diego, the Catamaran on Mission Bay. Tonight from 1930 there's a dance, then tomorrow morning our time's our own. There's a special lunch to follow, then that's it."
"Fine, no problem - but hey, if I'm meant to be your 'boyfriend' you'd better start calling me Jack. Your friends might find you calling me 'sir' kinda kinky."
They both laughed. "Yes.Jack" She smiled sweetly at him, causing his heart to flip and his pulse to race. If only this could be for real, he thought, but he was pretty sure Sam Carter didn't see him as anything other than her CO. Hell she'd turned to Daniel rather than him when she'd needed someone.
They arrived at their hotel at about 1800 hours. Giving them just enough time to get settled in, showered and changed, ready for the evening. They checked in at the desk.
"Hi" said Sam to the desk clerk "I'm Samantha Carter, for the Anderson High School Reunion Dance."
"Ah, yes - Miss Carter and partner." the girl smiled cheekily at Jack "room 232" she handed Sam the key "second floor, turn right, your room is right at the end on the left."
"Thank you."
Jack picked up the bags and followed Sam up the stairs. The room was a large one, with a balcony overlooking the garden and pool. Jack looked around him.
"Well, this is very nice" he said, pointedly looking at the single king size bed "cosy."
"Oh Sir, I.."
"Ah, ah .Jack, remember"
"Sorry, Jack - it was supposed to be a twin room, I'll go and see if I can get us changed."
"What, and give your old school 'buddies' something to gossip about. C'mon Sam, this is fine. We've slept in closer proximity than this on missions before now."
"Yes, I guess you're right" she agreed. Jack noticed that she blushed as she did so.
To save any awkwardness, Jack opened the doors and stepped out onto the balcony.
"Wow, nice pool - and is that a hot tub I see over there?"
Sam simply smiled as she busied herself unpacking.
"I'm going to take a shower"
"Sure, I think I'll just help myself to a little something from the mini bar and relax." said Jack "don't rush, we've plenty of time."
Sam emerged from the bathroom about half an hour later wrapped in a voluminous bathrobe. Jack was stretched out on the bed, eyes closed.
"Jack, bathroom's all yours"
"What?"
"The bathroom. I've finished and I need to get dressed."
"Oh sure" Jack got up, retrieved his wash bag and disappeared into the bathroom. Sam smiled to herself; he really was kinda sweet. She had the feeling that tonight might turn out to be good fun.
She dried her hair and quickly dressed. She'd decided to go for simplicity and wore a short clingy 'little black dress' that, and here she had to agree with Janet who'd insisted that she buy it, was really quite sexy. She applied a little make up and finished off the whole ensemble with a plain gold necklace and matching earrings. She was checking herself over in the mirror when Jack emerged from the bathroom.
"Wow Sam, you look great, you'll knock 'em dead."
"D'you think so?"
"Absolutely"
"Thank you Jack" she smiled at him, "Here, I'll go and sit on the balcony and leave you to get dressed."
She drew the curtains behind her and stood looking out over the pool, it's water glowing blue from the underwater lighting. It was a warm night and the air was full of the sounds of insects chirring.
Jack pulled back the curtains a short while later.
"Sam, I'm ready when you are." he said.
She turned and let her gaze wander over him. She had to admit that he looked 'drop dead gorgeous' in his tux and dress shirt, he even had a perfectly tied bow tie.
"You look great Jack" she smiled "I'm going to be the envy of all the girls tonight."
"Well that was the idea, wasn't it?" he chuckled "C'mon, let's go and get ourselves a steadying drink before we have to face the dreaded 'friends'"
"Good idea" Sam said, slipping on high heeled shoes and giving Jack ample time to admire her incredibly long and shapely legs, accentuated by the brief dress. 'Down boy' he told himself 'remember it's all pretend.'
They left the room, Jack taking Sam's arm as they took the elevator down to the ground floor. They found their way to a large bar looking out over the bay. Taking their drinks outside onto the terrace, they stood enjoying the warm balmy evening. Suddenly they heard voices behind them, a woman's high-pitched giggle and the deeper tones of a man's laugh. Jack felt Sam stiffen beside him.
"Sam?"
"It's her, Jessica Toomey - I'd know that giggle anywhere, even after twenty years - God, it still sends shivers down my spine."
"Hey, come on, show her what you're made of. You're beautiful, sexy, smart and successful - be proud of yourself."
She turned to him, her eyes large and luminous in the half-light.
"Come on Sam, is this the woman who regularly kicks Goa'uld ass - reduced to jelly by some spoiled, jealous girlfriend?"
She shook her head. "Yeah you're right, let's go and say 'hi'"
Jack beamed at her and, much to her surprise, leaned across and kissed her cheek.
"That's my girl." he stood up and, taking her hand, they crossed the room to where now a small group of people were gathered. The 'prom queen' was holding court.
For a moment Sam stood on the outside of the circle, Jack a little behind her. Then she stiffened her resolve and spoke.
"Hello Jessica"
The murmur of conversation stopped and all eyes turned to look at the newcomer. From his position Jack could clearly see the expressions on the faces turned towards them. First there was bafflement, it was clear no one recognised the tall, slim beautiful blonde before them. Then, on some faces at least, shock and yes, definitely pleasure.
"Samantha?" one of the women finally said "Samantha Carter?"
Sam turned to the speaker and smiled. "Yeah, hi Jenny, how are you?"
Before she got an answer however, Jessica grabbed back centre stage.
"Oh, my God" she gushed "if it isn't little old Samantha Carter, brought your math book with you Sam?"
Jessica's cronies laughed, but Jack saw Sam receive a number of sympathetic smiles. She didn't deign to reply Jessica's childish comment.
"It's great to see you all again" she smiled at them. Jack closed the gap between them and placed a comforting arm around her.
"You gonna introduce me honey?"
"Oh, of course. Jack this is Jessica, Jenny, Linda, Mike and Anthony" they exchanged smiles and 'hi's. "This is Jack O'Neill, everyone."
"Hey, come on people" came Jessica's shrill voice once more "it's time to hit the dance floor - and let me say I'm booking you - Mr Jack O'Neill -for at least one!"
She led the way from the room, her entourage following in her wake.
Jack looked at Sam and squeezed her hand. "Yuk" he whispered in her ear, causing her to chuckle as they followed the rest of the party to the ballroom.
********************************
There was a 'Master of Ceremonies' at the entrance to the ballroom, announcing each couple as they arrived. Standing in front of Jack and Sam was the woman Sam had referred to as 'Jenny'. She was clutching the arm of a man, her husband probably. Theystepped forward.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Jennifer Clarkson, now Antonidas - Jenny is a local realtor and is married to Peter. They have three children."
There was a scattering of applause as the couple made their way into the room. Then it was Sam and Jack's turn. Sam handed the MC a slip of paper.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Samantha Carter - Sam is a theoretical astrophysicist" he paused and looked at her "is that right?" he asked in a stage whisper. "Yes" she replied. Jack struggled to keep a straight face.
"Er, yes, astrophysicist and a Major in the US air force." Now that announcement caused a few heads to turn.
"Her partner this evening is Colonel Jack O'Neill, also of USAF."
The pair of them hurried into the room, Sam trying to find an inconspicuous table forthem. Once they were settled Jack went off to get them drinks. The next hour passed slowly for both of them. They were both feeling a little uncomfortable, their earlier shared camaraderie and relaxed manner had seemingly vanished. Finally Jack pushed back his seat.
"Er, think I'll go and have a wander about, maybe grab some air if that's alright with you?"
"Of course, you go ahead, I'll be fine." Sam watched him disappear among the people on the now crowded dance floor. She sighed, this was beginning to turn out as badly as she'd expected. True, she'd had her brief moment of triumph, but now she was simply bored.
"Well, well" a voice drawled behind her " been deserted my dear?"
Jessica slid into the chair next to her. "Now where has that gorgeous man gone?"
"Oh, er hi Jessica, Jack's just gone for some air, I believe."
"Mm, honey, well let me tell you if he was mine I wouldn't let him go wandering off on his own. You never know who might snap him up."
Sam barely managed a smile. She certainly wasn't in the mood to bandy words with Jessica.
"So, how long have you and he.?"
"Oh, not long" Sam finished the question.
"As I suspected. Your brother certainly didn't know about him."
"Mark?"
Jessica said nothing, simply smiling in a very 'knowing' way.
"So you're colleagues?"
"Yes." Sam refused to be drawn any more.
"Okay, my dear, keep things to yourself, that's fine" Jessica stood up "well I must continue to circulate, my friends expect it - see you later Samantha."
Sam nodded, forcing a smile. God how she wished Jack would return. It wasn't long however before Jessica's place was taken by Jenny. This time Sam's smile was genuine and welcoming. Jenny Clarkson had been a nice girl, and kinder to Sam than many.
"Hi, Jenny. A friendly face at last."
"Sam, it's so good to see you, and you look absolutely great, if I may say so. You've turned quite a few heads here tonight, that's for certain."
Sam chuckled. "Why thank you Jenny. I guess I'm not really the person I was 20 years ago any more."
"Well, it's certainly been one in the eye for Jess. But you'd better watch out, I think she has designs on your man."
"Oh, I think Jack can take care of himself" Sam said with a smile "Now tell me all about yourself."
When Jack returned, Sam was still deep in conversation with Jenny, who stood up as he arrived.
"Well, I must go and find Pete, it's been great talking to you Sam."
"Yeah Jenny, shall I see you tomorrow at lunch?"
"Sure, look forward to it." She nodded briefly to Jack and made her escape.
"Sorry, didn't mean to scare her away."
"Oh, it's okay, she's sweet but I was beginning to tire a little of her tales of domestic bliss." She looked at Jack and smiled brightly.
"You know I hadn't really realised before what a wonderful exciting and fulfilling life I lead, even if I do lead it alone." She smiled a little wistfully. "So, where've you been?" she asked Jack.
"Oh, circulating - and eavesdropping"
"And did the eaves drop anything interesting?"
"Yeah, as a matter of fact. I'm afraid your credibility is dropping fast - your 'friend' Jessica has apparently been telling everyone that we're just colleagues and that this is all a sham."
Sam sighed. "Oh well, she'd be right, wouldn't she?"
"Well maybe, but we could try a little harder to prove her wrong."
With that he stood up, pulling Sam by the hand and onto the dance floor. It had got to that time of the evening when the DJ was playing slow, romantic ballads. Jack pulled Sam into a close embrace.
"Now let's give them something to talk about, shall we?" he whispered seductively in her ear. He felt her tremble as he dropped his mouth to nuzzle at her throat. Almost involuntarily she slipped her arms around his neck, her fingers playing with the hair athis nape. Gently they swayed to the music, arms entwined around each other, eyes closed. They made a striking couple and many admiring glances were sent their way.
As the song ended Sam lifted her head from where it rested on Jack's shoulder. Looking up she found his dark brown eyes regarding her with such an intense expression that it took her breath away. She smiled tentatively at him.
"Oh Sam" he whispered. Then, keeping eye contact until the very last moment, lowered his head and kissed her. For a brief moment she didn't respond, she hadn't, in her wildest imagination, expected this. But when Jack ran his tongue along her lips, begging for entry, she was lost. She tightened her arms about him as her lips melted softly into his. She felt his hands caress her back, sending little shivers up and down her spine, until he rested them finally on the swell of her hips. Eventually they broke apart, both a little short of breath. Jack rested his forehead on hers.
"Sam I ." he began, but she pulled back a little placing her fingers on his lips. "Please don't say anything" she said softly before walking quickly away and out of the room.
Sam was in turmoil. She left the noise of the dance behind her, not knowing what to think. Quickly she climbed the stairs and headed back to her room, throwing herself onto the bed and pressing her hands to her burning cheeks. What was she going to do now? She had realised, when Jack took her into his arms, that she didn't want this to be pretend - she wanted it for real. His touch, his kiss had awoken feelings in her that she never knew she was capable of. She was on the verge of falling in love with him, she realised, but she couldn't - it was wrong, against all the rules and besides, for him it had only been an act.
Jack, meanwhile had followed Sam out of the ballroom, but seeing her head back to their room decided it might be better to cool his heels elsewhere. He headed for the bar and ordered a whisky. Well, he'd got himself into a fine mess, and no mistake. Dammit he'd not expected to release such a powerful surge of emotion when he'd held her in his arms. The strength of his desire for her overrode all his common sense. His intention had been to give the old school chums something to think about, not to lay himself bare in his Major's arms. But, he finally admitted to himself, he really did think he was falling in love with her, it wasn't just pretence, and the feel of her silky skin beneath his lips had been just too much temptation. He shouldn't have kissed her, but he had, and now he didn't ever want to stop. What in hell was he going to do?
Jack drank down the last mouthful of his whisky and glanced at his watch. It was almost one a.m. He should really go - he guessed that Sam would probably be asleep by now. He hoped he could safely put off any awkward conversations until the morning. He sighed; maybe a new day would help put things into perspective. Perhaps it was, after all, just the occasion that had got to him. 'Yeah and you'll end your career as a four star General' he thought wryly. Shaking his head he wandered up the stairs to their room.
Turning the corner into the corridor he all but bumped into someone, grabbing them to stop them from falling.
"Well, well honey - fancy bumping into you here" It was Jessica, no mistaking.
"You know I'd been hoping to end the night in your arms from the moment I first set eyes on you, Colonel Jack" she drawled, taking the opportunity to wrap her arms around him.
"Hey, er Jessica" Jack said, trying to disentangle himself.
"Now then, for someone who's supposed to be Samantha Carter's beau, you do seem to spend a lot of your time away from her" She grabbed Jack's arm "So now where are you off to in such a hurry? Why don't you come and have a nightcap with me? I tell you honey, I'll show you a better time than she ever could."
"Er no, no offence but really." stuttered Jack. Jessica, however, was adamant and noisy. The last thing Jack wanted was to be the cause of a scene in the hallway. He sighed, "Okay, just one very quick drink, it's late."
"Yeah, and you need your beauty sleep" Jessica purred.
She was, Jack supposed, quite a sexy little thing and she was certainly laying it on for him, but as far as he was concerned she was definitely wasting her time. He'd rather have Sam's genuine loveliness than this overt offering of sex, any day.
Jessica hung onto his arm and pulled him into her room, which was just a few doors down from his and Sam's. She pushed the door to behind them and pressed herself into his arms.
"Hey, No!" Jack cried, forcibly removing himself from her leech-like embrace. "Look, I don't want to offend but you're really not my type, okay?" He turned and reopened the door to make good his escape.
"Oh come on, I can't believe you'd rather have that emotionally frozen Sam Carter. I bet she's never had a passionate moment in her sorry little life. She was always such a coward too, hiding behind her science books."
This was too much for Jack, his temper, previously held in check, finally boiled over.
"Look here you jealous bitch! Sam Carter is worth ten of you any day. I happen to think she's beautiful, yeah and sexy and passionate" he was almost shouting now "and, let me tell you, she's a damn fine soldier too, a lot of people owe her their lives, including me. She just happens to be one of the bravest most courageous people I know, and I love her, okay?"
He stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind him. He stood for a moment trying to calm himself, only realising he had an audience after a moment or two. It was one of the women from the reunion party, looking out interestedly from her bedroom door. 'Dammit' thought Jack 'I bet this'll be all over the hotel by tomorrow. Jeez, what else can go wrong?'
He covered the remaining distance to their room, tapping gently on the door.
"Sam?" There was no answer; he hoped that she hadn't locked him out - that really would be the last straw. He tried the door, which fortunately was open. The room was in darkness. He stepped inside, waiting a moment for his eyes to adjust, not wanting to waken Sam. He switched on the bathroom light and quickly stripped off down to his boxers. Pulling a t-shirt from his bag, he slipped it over his head and crept across to the bed. Sam's body was a dark shape huddled on the far side. He strained to hear her breathing, it seemed she was asleep. Breathing a sigh of relief he slipped under the covers and quickly settled down. He was asleep within moments.
Sam lay still in the bed, staring out into the darkness. It had been well over two hours between her leaving him and Jack's return. She hated to think where, or more importantly, with whom he'd spent the time. She'd been fully aware of the predatory looks Jessica had been giving her CO. Sam knew that she had no right to feel so possessive about him but from the moment he'd held her in his arms all her good sense had flown out of the window. Now all she felt was a kind of jealous rage. How she wished she'd never come. Finally she succumbed to emotional exhaustion and slept.
************************************
When Sam awoke the following morning she was alone. She'd slept late for her, it was after 0800.
"Jack?" she called out, thinking he may have been in the bathroom, but there was no reply and no sound of running water. She was a little disappointed. It would have been pleasant to wake up with Jack O'Neill in her bed, even if nothing was ever likely to happen between them. On the other hand, his absence did make things a little less fraught with embarrassment.
She threw back the covers and got up. She too was dressed in a t-shirt and shorts. Drawing back the curtains she stepped out onto the balcony into the blazing sunshine of a Californian morning. On the table was a pitcher of orange juice and two glasses, one of which had been used. There was also a note.
'Sam - gone shopping - see you on the terrace for breakfast?? Jack'
She smiled. 'Shopping?' that didn't sound like the Jack O'Neill she knew. She poured herself some juice and drank it down gazing out over the gardens. It was lovely, she had to admit, very sub-tropical with humming birds flitting around among the flowering shrubs and climbers. There were a couple of people taking an early morning swim. Sam sighed; she hadn't thought to bring a swimsuit.
She glanced at her watch; she'd have to get a move on if she wasn't to miss breakfast. Quickly showering she dressed in a pretty blue and white button-through sundress. She'd recently spent 4 days on P7J 859, a hot sandy planet where she'd acquired a light tan. She was pleased with her appearance, revelling in the experience of feeling feminine, rather than 'one of the guys' in her BDU's.
Stepping out into the hallway she was dismayed to see Jessica just about to enter a room a few doors down. She'd been seen, it was too late to avoid her.
"Well Samantha, good morning" Jessica gushed, "Now I hope you slept well last night. Did your Colonel get back okay? I hope I didn't keep him from your side," she smiled evilly "well, bye for now - see you at lunch I hope."
Sam was left standing alone in the hallway; all her previous pleasure in the day had gone. So that's where O'Neill had been last night, just as she'd guessed. She felt totally humiliated and almost turned and fled back to the privacy of her room, but anger took the place of shame and she marched off down to the restaurant determined to give O'Neill a piece of her mind, CO or not.
A few minutes later found her seated at a table on the terrace overlooking the bay. She ordered coffee and toast from an attentive waiter, deciding to fortify herself before Jack should show up. Her seat was tucked away behind a pillar and overhung by a large potted palm so that she was pretty well screened from view. She couldn't face the prying eyes of her so-called friends this morning.
She heard chattering voices and stiffened as they appeared to be heading her way but fortunately she remained unseen. She recognised the voices as belonging to two of the girls from school - Kimberley Prescott, one of Jess's cronies and Penny Dean. They sat at a table immediately behind Sam, neither realising she was there.
"Well Pen" Kimberley said " I hear that that 'so-called' boyfriend of Sam Carters spent the night with Jessica - I might have guessed that shy little geek hadn't changed - she could never get a guy when we were at school, that's for sure." She giggled girlishly; it didn't become her.
"Well actually Kim, you're wrong there" Sam's ears pricked up and she leaned back in her seat so as to hear more clearly.
"What d'you mean Pen?"
"Huh, Jess has been spreading more of her gossip around, honestly Kim I don't know why you still fall for it."
"How d'you know it's not true?"
"Because I heard him myself, that's why."
"Heard him?"
"Yeah. Oh, he was in Jess's room alright, that much is true."
Sam's heart sank as she heard this, but Penny continued.
"The door was open and he was yelling at her."
"Wow, brave man" Kim chuckled
"Well he is an Air Force Colonel, after all" Penny said with a grin "anyway, I heard him yell that Sam Carter was worth ten of Jess and that he thought Sam was beautiful and that she was a fine soldier; she saved lives, he said."
Sam smiled to herself, she'd misjudged Jack after all - it certainly seemed like he'd stood up for her.
"Wow" Kim said.
"And" Penny paused dramatically "he also said that she was sexy and passionate" here both women giggled and Sam felt her cheeks flush "and that he loved her."
Sam nearly choked on her coffee, her eyes watering as she gasped for air. Had she really heard that correctly? Jack loved her - that's what he'd told Jessica. But no, he must have just been continuing the pretence for her sake. He can't have meant it.
Behind her the conversation continued unabated.
"Mm, I can't imagine my man standing up for me like that, more's the pity. There aren't many men of my acquaintance who would turn down a 'no strings attached' roll in the hay with Jess."
"Oh, but he was really fired up" explained Penny "I don't know what Jess had said about Samantha but boy was he angry. He obviously really loves her and I think it's so romantic." She sighed theatrically.
"Yeah isn't it. Well all I can say is that Sam Carter is a very lucky woman 'cause that guy is a hunk and no mistake."
Sam had to agree with Kim about that.
"Well, I'm glad for her" Penny said with some force "you know we were quite cruel to her when we were girls and she really didn't deserve it. Oh she was shy and geeky, I admit, but she was always good tempered and kind. She helped me with my math more times than I can say and I never even had the guts to stand up for her. I feel kind of ashamed about that."
"I guess you're right at that, but then it's tough at high school, and a lot easier to get through it unscathed with people like Jess as your friend rather than your enemy" Kim smiled at Penny "and you know Pen, I don't think we need to feel too sorry for Sam. She's changed, probably more than any of us. She's very attractive and obviously successful and she has a great guy who's in love with her. I'd say that that's pretty good going."
"Yeah, you're right - hey there's the guys we'd better get going."
Their chattering voices gradually faded into the distance, leaving Sam alone with her thoughts.
She sat gazing out over the bay, her breakfast forgotten, her coffee cold. She really didn't know what to think, it had certainly been a morning of revelation so far. She hadn't really been surprised that Jack had stood up to Jessica, a good CO would do that for any member of his team and as CO's went Jack O'Neill was the best. But some of the things he'd said had gone way beyond normal sense of duty.
She sighed in frustration. She decided that all she could do was behave as normally as possible and see what transpired.
Looking out over the bay she recognised a figure in the distance. It was Jack, dressed in cut off denims and a white t-shirt. He was carrying a couple of carrier bags, the 'shopping' she presumed. He hadn't seen her and she took the opportunity to admire him as he strode up the beach. He looked totally at ease; like her he'd got a tan from their last mission, accentuated by the bright white of his t-shirt. He was in excellentphysical shape of course, and his silvery grey hair only added to his appeal. Kim had most definitely been correct in her assessment - the man was a hunk.
Sam stood and waved to attract his attention. He waved back and jogged the last hundred yards or so to where she was waiting.
They smiled a little tentatively ay each other, the memory of their previous nights embrace still at the forefront of both their minds.
"Hi" Jack said finally, "it's a beautiful morning."
"Jack" she smiled at him "Yes it certainly is."
"Perfect for a swim wouldn't you say?"
Sam sighed, "Didn't bring my swimsuit."
Jack held his bags aloft "Ta da! - I've been shopping."
Sam laughed, "You bought swimming trunks?"
"Yeah, and" he held out a bag "this is for you."
Sam blushed furiously.
"Go on, take a look - hey if you don't like it I won't be offended, honestly."
Sam opened the bag and pulled out a rather skimpy black bikini. She raised her eyes, Jack grinned at her. There was something else in the bag, a short, filmy beach wrap in shades of soft blue and lilac.
"This is really pretty, thank you."
"So, whaddya say, shall we head for the pool. Or do you want more breakfast?"
"No, let's swim."
Jack picked up the bags in one hand and held out the other to Sam. She slipped her hand in his and allowed him to lead her back into the hotel to change.
"By the way" Jack said "I hope I didn't disturb you last night, I got back rather late I'm afraid."
Sam just shook her head, waiting to hear if Jack would tell her what had happened.
"Did you enjoy yourself?"
"After you left? Can't say I did. I spent an hour or so in the bar nursing a single whisky."
"Oh"
"Then I had a run in with your friend Jessica."
"She was never my friend." stated Sam.
"Nah, so much soon became obvious - Jeez what a bitch" muttered Jack. "D'you know she made a pass at me?" he was indignant. "I mean, as if I'd ditch you for someone like her?"
Sam just smiled, it seemed that Penny had been right, Jack was really angry. By now they'd reached their room. Sam unlocked the door and they went in, Jack dropping the bags on the bed before stepping out onto the balcony.
"You could have, Jack." Sam said quietly.
"Could have what?"
"Gone with her. You're under no obligation to stay with me."
"Obligation has nothing to do with it." Jack still sounded a little angry. "Yeah okay, I won't say that the thought of sex wasn't appealing, hell I'm only human. But I'd just been kissing the most beautiful person I know, and she was the only one I wanted to make love to."
He turned to face her, holding out his hands in a supplicating gesture "But I couldn't, could I? Because it's all supposed to be pretend." His voice was now only just above a whisper.
Sam felt her heart begin to race at his words, her mouth felt suddenly dry.
"Supposed?" she asked quietly.
He nodded and reached out for her. He ran his hands gently up her arms to rest on her bare shoulders, his hands absently caressing the silky, soft skin. She smiled at him and he noticed her eyes, normally pale blue/green, were now dark and filled with emotion - longing?
It was Sam who finally made a move. She slid her arms around him and pulled him close.
"Jack" she whispered, "I'm not pretending anymore."
She brushed her lips lightly over his, the merest touch, but it ignited a passion in them both. She kissed him again, this time more deeply. Jack groaned and held her tightly, returning her kisses. He felt as if he were drowning in her, her taste, her scent, the feel of her in his arms. It felt perfect.
He broke off the kiss and, catching his breath, smiled down at her.
"I never had to pretend Sam. I've always thought of you as special, much more than a friend, but you know that at the moment that's all we can be."
She nodded sadly, knowing that he was perfectly right.
"But we have today" Jack whispered "and, who knows, there may be other days, sometime in the future, if that's what you want?"
Sam caressed his cheek "It isn't what I want" she said "But I'll take what I can get."
Jack slipped down the strap of her dress and buried his head, kissing the hollow of her throat and running his lips along her collar- bone. She groaned and tugged at his t-shirt, sliding her hands across his back and pulling the shirt over his head. Jack began to nuzzle the soft skin above the swell of her breasts as he deftly began to undo thebuttons of her sundress. He tenderly caressed each newly exposed area of skin untilSam, her body now aflame with desire, finally stepped free of the dress.
He took his fill of her beautiful body, clad only in a pair of brief lace panties. Sam stood, all embarrassment gone. The love and desire in his eyes made her stand proud.
Suddenly a look of consternation flashed over Jack's face.
"Jack, what is it?"
"Er, Sam - when do we have to vacate the room?"
She relaxed, chuckling as she pulled him to her.
"Don't worry, the room's actually booked until tomorrow. There's a flight tonight at 1900 or tomorrow at 1430, we just have to confirm which one we want by this afternoon."
"Hm, now that's going to be a real tough decision" Jack said, his hand cupped her breast and his fingers played over her erect nipple. She gasped in pleasure. "But it seems to me" he paused as he turned his attention to the other breast "that it would be a damn shame to waste a room that's been paid for."
"Jack - shut up" she proceeded to kiss him fiercely as they tumbled on the bed. The bags of swimwear were soon kicked onto the floor as more insistent desires and actions over rode all previous thoughts of a swim.
*************************
Afterwards they lay entwined, Sam's head resting on his chest, his hands gently roving over her back.
"Sam?"
"Mm?"
"I have something to say. It's important."
She lifted her head and raised herself on one elbow so that she was looking directly at him.
"What is it?"
"I love you."
She smiled and kissed him briefly.
"I love you too."
"But, when we get back to the SGC, back to our real lives, I may not often get the chance to show you how much."
"Jack I understand, honestly I do."
"Yeah but sometimes it's easier to understand something with your head, not so easy with your heart. What I mean to say is ..Don't ever forget what we have here, no matter how harsh or unfeeling I may appear to you in the future. I'm your CO and sometimes I'll have to do things that'll be hard on you."
He pulled her down to him, holding her tightly "So promise me you'll remember today, and hold that memory close to your heart."
"I'll never forget this Jack, I promise."
They kissed, finally breaking apart with a sigh.
"Hey, what time is it?" Jack eventually asked.
"1130, why?"
"Still fancy that swim, we've still time before lunch?"
"Sure, why not" Sam stood up and stretched languorously, quite unashamed of her nakedness. She glanced down at jack, who was watching her with an adoring expression. Sam chuckled.
"Better get your fill flyboy, because I don't think you'll be seeing me like this on our next mission."
Jack let out his pent up breath in a huge sigh "No, more's the pity, for you are so beautiful."
He reached out to pull her back onto the bed but she slipped out of his reach.
"Ah,ah" she wagged a finger at him "swim first, then lunch - and if you're very good - dessert." She giggled, picking up the discarded bag and tossing it to Jack.
She took out the black bikini. "Jack how did you know my size?"
"Oh I checked your underwear while you were asleep."
"Jack!"
"I'm sorry, but I wanted to surprise you, aw c'mon you're not really mad at me are you?"
She couldn't help but smile "No, I guess not." She put on the bikini and twirled around "So how do I look?"
"Like dessert!" They both laughed.
"Come on, hurry up"
Jack quickly pulled on his swim shorts and Sam her wrap and they made their way down to the pool.
There were several of Sam's school friends sitting on the pool terrace, or lying on sun beds. Quite a few of them looked up as they arrived. Sam wondered how many of them believed Jessica's gossip.
Jack fetched towels from the pool attendant and found them a couple of loungers. Sam took off her wrap and held out her hands to Jack.
"Shall we?"
He smiled at her, a long slow smile, his eyes like pools of dark chocolate. Taking her proffered hand he drew her into his arms and held her gently, caressing her cheek with his fingers. It was a simple but intimate gesture that told all of those watching that this man loved this woman. There was no pretence at all.
The End