Title: Eyes Wide Shut (Part 4 of the Movie Series)

Author: Malinne

Email: malinne@sbcglobal.net

Status: Complete

Rating: NC-17 graphic sex

Summary: Jacob Carter is a prisoner of Ba'al. SG-1 is sent to rescue him. Jack is forced to make a difficult choice and live with the consequences.

Spoilers: Reference to events in Abyss

Classification: Sam & Jack. H/C, romance

Archive: SJ-NC17, SJD- yes

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 story are the property of the author. This story may not be posted elsewhere without the consent of the author.

Notes: Part of the "Movie Series". Reading the following is recommended, but not required to understand events in this story: "Booty Call", "Risky Business", "Body Heat". The fifth and final chapter, "The Astronaut's Wife" is still being written.

The klaxon sounded and the announcement rang out through all levels of the SGC "Unscheduled off-world activation". Hunched over her laptop in her lab, Sam stood and headed for the Control Room. Colonel O'Neill and Teal'c were already there when she arrived. General Hammond smiled at her. "It's the Tok'ra IDC Major. Maybe Jacob's come for a visit." She smiled and anxiously watched, she hadn't seen her father in two months. As a figure broke the surface of the event horizon, the Colonel noted the faint flicker of disappointment on her face when she saw it was not her father. The General and SG-1 turned to descend the stairs and meet the Tok'ra representative. When Sam didn't move, Jack touched her gently on the arm. She glanced up in surprise, brought back from her distant thoughts by the jolt of electricity his touch had sent through her. He gestured for her to walk ahead of him down the stairs. With a slightly embarrassed smile, she moved off to join the group.

"I am Sauk of the Tok'ra. It is a pleasure to meet you General Hammond and the members of SG-1. I have come to report a matter of grave concern to Major Carter and to ask for your assistance General." Sam pushed her way to the front of the group. "Major, I must tell you that your father was captured while on a covert mission. It has been two weeks since we last heard from him. We have just learned that he is a prisoner of Lord Ba'al." Daniel's arm immediately went around Sam. Closing her eyes and moaning, "Oh god, no!" she leaned into his shoulder. An icy cold shiver ran through Jack as memories he had never spoken of to anyone were dredged to the surface. General Hammond spoke up, "Let's move this to the briefing room, people. We'll get the details and put together a plan. Major, you know the SGC will do everything it can to see Jacob safely recovered."

Jack took his seat beside Sam. He reached out and placed a hand on her arm to give his support. Their relationship was still a secret from all their friends. They never allowed themselves any physical contact while on base. But this was different. After all, he was allowed to console and comfort a friend and teammate, right?

Sauk began the details of his report. Selmac was sent on a mission to one of the planets under Ba'al's control. He was sent to rescue Vosh, a high-ranking Tok'ra, who had been taken prisoner by Ba'al. Our spies learned that Vosh's host died at the hands of Ba'al, but the symbiote lived on and was being kept alive in a stasis chamber. Unfortunately, when Selmac tried to retrieve the stasis chamber he was apprehended by Ba'al's Jaffa. Jacob and Selmac have been tortured, but both were alive at the time of our last report. We ask your assistance in recovering Ambassador Vosh and in rescuing Jacob Carter and Selmac. I have the schematics of Ba'al's fortress and our operative on the inside will assist once a plan is formulated. But we must act quickly or our efforts may be futile."

"General, please," pleaded Sam. "No need to worry Major, Jacob's one of us…and I've grown to like Selmac too. Colonel, get with your team and formulate a plan. The full resources of the SGC are at your disposal." Getting no response from him the General spoke again. "Colonel, Colonel O'Neill!" Sam looked at him. He was blankly staring into space. His brow furrowed with perspiration beaded across it. His knuckles were white where he gripped the arms of his chair. She laid a hand on his arm. "Colonel…Jack." Her whispered use of his first name brought him out of his trance with a jerk.

"Uh…dismissed. Major would please show our guest to the VIP lounge? Sauk, let us make some arrangements and my teams will meet with you in about an hour to coordinate our efforts."

As Jack pushed back his chair to leave, General Hammond spoke, "Colonel O'Neill would you please remain for a few minutes?"

As the others left the room, the General shut the door and returned to the table taking a seat next to Jack. "Colonel, are you going to be okay with this? No one really knows what you went through at the hands of Ba'al, but from what little you did tell us, I know it was pure Hell. Its obvious the effect its having on you even now. I can give this assignment to someone else. I don't want to put you or your team in a position where you can't function to your full capability."

"General, I am leading this mission. I have to. Jacob's my friend and Major Carter's father. Hell, if I said the idea of going back in there didn't scare me a little I'd be lying. But I'll deal with my… I'll deal with it. I was just off guard. I'll have my game face on and be ready to kick that snake-head's ass."

"Jack, are you sure? Son, no one will think less of you if you can't put yourself in that situation again."

"I'm sure General. After all--this time I'm going in there with my eyes wide open--not being dragged into it by a Tok'ra snake in my head." He couldn't tell the General, but he had to do this for Sam. If he didn't go, and Jacob died…He just had to be the one to lead the team. He would march through Hell for her and those she cared about. And as far as he was concerned—that's just what he was preparing to do!

After a few moments silence, "Fine then Colonel. Report back to me when you have a plan. Dismissed."

They met and a plan was formulated. SG teams 7 and 12 were the only teams available and both would accompany them. SG-12 wasn't due back from off-world until 1700hrs today. So the teams would leave at 0800 hours the next morning after a debriefing at 0700hrs. The General dismissed them as the planning meeting concluded. "I want everyone to go home and get a good night's rest tonight. The base has too much noise and activity. I want everyone in tip-top shape tomorrow."

Sam met Jack at the elevators after changing into civilian clothing. "Colonel, I'd like to come by and discuss the details of our mission if I may. I could pick up Chinese. We both have to eat and this way we can work too." She leaned forward and whispered to him, "I just can't stand to go home alone." Truth of the matter was she was almost living at his house anyway, spending more time at his house than her own. She still kept her house and occasionally the team would get together there to keep up appearances.

"That would be fine Major." Jack had a couple of stops to make on the way home—fill his gas tank, pay a bill, and pick up dinner. When he arrived home and raised his garage door, Sam's Volvo was already parked inside. He entered the house and tossed his keys on the washer in the utility room and went to look for Sam. He found her sitting on the couch with her knees pulled up to her chest, crying. Sitting beside her he opened his arms. "C'mere." She melted onto his chest and gave in to the heavy sobs she'd been trying to suppress. Her tears soaked his shirt as she clung to him.

After several minutes she began to quiet again. "I'm sorry. Some officer I am!"

"Sam, you're a daughter first. A daughter who loves her father very much."

"Yeah." She scooted around to sit on his lap with her head on his shoulder. " I can't believe that we get along so well now after the way things were between us. But even though the relationship is better, I get to see so little of him. Selmac made him a better parent, but took him away from me. I'm scared for him Jack…I'm scared for me. What if we're too late?"

"You have to believe that we won't be. Both Jacob and Selmac are pretty stubborn old cusses. I gotta believe they're hanging in there." He kissed her forehead and sat for several minutes just holding her. "Come on. You need to eat before the food gets cold. I want you well fed and rested tomorrow." Sam slipped off his lap then leaned down to kiss him gently on the lips. "Thanks Jack. I don't know what I'd do if I didn't have you."

After dinner they sat together and watched the Simpson's. Neither spoke much. At nine Jack turned the TV off. "What do you say we make it an early night?" She nodded and headed over the check the door to be sure it was locked. Glancing over her shoulder she said, "I guess you know I'm staying the night."

"Yeah, kind of guessed that when I saw your duffle in the utility room. I'm gonna put coffee on the timer for morning. I'll be up in a minute."

When he entered the bedroom Sam was already in bed. The lights were off except for the bathroom. Jack took off his clothes and dropped them on top of the hamper; then, he walked in the bathroom to brush his teeth. When he re-entered the bedroom, he could hear her quiet sobs. She was lying with her back turned toward him. He slipped under the covers and leaned over kissing her on the shoulder. "Sam, honey. It'll be okay. You know I'll do everything I can to bring him back to you."

"I know Jack. Just hold me tonight…I'm really not up to anything else… if you don't mind. I just need you to hold me."

With that, he lay down on his back and she rolled to him, placing her head on his chest under his chin and wrapping her leg over his. She lifted her head and moved back slightly to speak. "Jack, I love you so much." He looked down into her eyes and kissed her on the forehead. "I love you too Sam."

***

Sam was awakened by Jack's thrashing about in bed. He was mumbling and moaning in his sleep—obviously having a nightmare. She reached out to comfort him, but he reacted violently, shoving her away. "Jack." She shouted. "Jack, its Sam. Jack its okay." She turned on the light and reached for him again. This time he woke. His body was drenched in cold sweat. His short gray hair was plastered to his scalp and his eyes were wild like an animal trapped by a predator with no escape. He was trembling…his breathing was rapid and harsh. Jumping from the bed, he ran into the bathroom. Sam followed. He was standing at the sink staring into the mirror after having splashed cold water in his face. "Leave me alone!" He shouted at her. "Get out! Just get the hell out!" He yelled as he slammed the bathroom door in her face.

Sam retreated to the bed and propped up against the headboard waiting for him to return. She looked at the clock—0200hrs. It was almost 20 minutes before he opened the door. Pale, but more composed than before, he looked at her. "God, I'm sorry Sam. I didn't mean to treat you like that."

"It's okay Jack." She tried to assure him. "No, No its not, Sam. Not you of all people." He lay across the bed with his head beside Sam's legs.

"We all have our demons Jack. Unfortunately you have more than most of us. I knew that. And I knew they were bound to rear their heads sooner or later. You had a bad dream. Tell me about it. I used to tell my mom about my dreams and it made it seem much less real."

"I can't. It won't help."

She began sliding her fingers through his damp hair. "You'll never know if you don't try."

"It can't make them seem less real…because they are real."

"You were dreaming about your time with Ba'al, weren't you?"

Realizing just how well she knew him, he just nodded.

"Honey, it might help to talk. You've never told anyone much about that…at least none of the team has talked with you, and it wasn't in your official report."

He was quiet for a moment. "Daniel knows."

"Daniel? How could Daniel know? He was ascended when that happened."

"He did his glowy thing; then appeared to me in my cell." He said nothing else. Sam felt a shiver run through him. "Tell me about it Jack." He laid with his head in her lap and his arm wrapped across her outstretched legs while she caressed his head and arm. "I can't."

"Then just tell me about Daniel. Can you do that?"

He shook from head to toe and Sam felt a warm tear trickle down the inside of her thigh. "I…I asked him…I…" He shuddered again and Sam heard a soft sob. What had happened there to bring this strong man to this state?

"Sam, I …I asked him—Daniel, to help me end it. I just couldn't go through it again. The torture, the pain…dying. Death…death was so… welcome each time it came, but each time I awoke from my release to find myself alive inside that damned sarcophagus. Daniel was there to try to help me to ascend, but all I wanted to do was fucking die. Damn him—even glowy he was still Daniel with all his goddamn infuriating attitudes." He took a shuddering breath. "I hated him for not helping me die." With that confession the sobs came full force. His tears soaked between her legs and her own tears silently ran down her cheeks and dripped to join his as she leaned forward to rest her head on his shoulder.

"So…" she said after a few minutes. "Tell me the rest."

He lay silently with his head in her lap. He kissed her thigh and nuzzled between her knees, using his head to spread her thighs as he slipped his hand up to stroke her through her panties. His stubbly beard scratched the tender skin of her inner thigh. Under other circumstances she would have found it very sensual.

"Jack, please I'm really not in the mood for this tonight."

He ignored her and continued kissing and biting his way up her thighs— his touch becoming steadily more needy and demanding. He slid over her leg so he was lying between her knees. Reaching up, he grasped the waistband of her panties and pulled them down over her hips.

She protested, "Jack."

"Need you", was all he said as he pulled them down her legs and tossed them into the floor. He was breathing hard as he pulled Sam from her sitting position and buried his face in her sex. She whimpered as he bit a little too hard on her sensitive bud. His hands smoothed on up her body and pushed her tank top up over her breasts. Covering them with his large hands, he kneaded them. He then pinched one nipple while lifting his head to pull the other into his mouth. She couldn't prevent her body from responding. Moments later he slid his body up hers. He was trying to avoid her face by keeping his face in her neck, but she grasped his head pulling his face to hers. What she saw there scared her…an emptiness, a fear, a dark need like she had never seen in him. "Its okay Jack." She spoke softly. "I'm here."

He averted his eyes again. She felt the broad head of his erection brush against her as he reached for her knees and pushed them up and out to give him access. She cried out when he entered her in one strong thrust. Her muscles tensed, she hadn't been ready for that. He allowed her no time to adjust, but began thrusting wildly into her. Grunting like an animal driven by a primal urge to mate. She bit her lip to keep from crying out again as he slammed his hardened length into her over and over again. He came, filling her with his hot fluid; then collapsing onto her. After a few seconds he rolled off, careful to keep his arm over his face so that she couldn't see him.

Sam lay there in silence waiting for something…hoping he would say something—because she sure as hell didn't know what to say. Then she realized he was crying and reached out to touch his arm. He didn't move it from his face. "Oh, God Sam I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I…I can't believe I did that to you. You said no. I…I practically raped you."

"No, Jack. I gave you permission. Although that's was a bit rougher than I like it. Just tell me what you were thinking. Why?"

He lay quietly for a moment. "Back at Ba'al's, I…I wanted to die. I just couldn't take it anymore. Tortured…killed…revived in a sarcophagus…over and over again. I just…I wanted to die—once and for all. But I realized that I couldn't… a part of me wasn't willing to let go. I had something very important and very unfinished that I would regret for everyday my soul was haunted in Hell." He paused for a minute and took a deep breath. "I had to tell you—show you that I love you. That's what kept me sane. Each time I died…it was cold … dark…black…no light…everything shut down…black silence…cold —so cold… coldness of death. And then I felt warmth from you--your body. Like being buried deep inside you. I know we'd never really done anything… you know, that was before we…but I was there…inside you…and I was warm…and I was safe. Daniel offered to save my soul by helping me ascend, but you saved my life and my soul by offering me your body. I can't explain it any better than that."

"I think I understand part of it." She rolled to lie beside him and gently lifted his arm from his face, meeting little resistance. "Dad's imprisonment brought all that back to you, and you sought refuge in my body again."

"God Sam, I am so sorry. I have no excuse."

"Jack I'm fine. I'm probably going to be a little sore tomorrow, but I'm all right, and so are you. Babe, I'm here for you now and forever." She leaned in and kissed him gently first on the forehead, moving on to each eyelid, and finally to a soft lingering kiss on his lips.

"Sam, I love you so much. I don't deserve you."

"Well deserve or not—you're stuck with me. I love you and all your strange little quirks. And I can help you deal with whatever demons if you'll just let me." She pulled the covers over them and snuggled in close to him. Soon both were fast asleep.

Sam woke before Jack. As she tried to crawl from the bed without waking him, the discomfort in her upper thighs and pelvic muscles was very evident. Fortunately, the hot water of the shower helped relieve some of it. She poured coffee for both of them; then, woke Jack giving him a quick kiss before heading out. She wanted to arrive at the SGC ahead of him—keeping up appearances you know.

***

Eyes Wide Shut Part 2 – The Rescue

The mission briefing was succinct. The three teams would gate to Ba'al's planet. SG-7 would remain at the gate and secure the area. SG- 12 would proceed to the stronghold with SG-1. Once the two sentries were incapacitated, SG-12 would maintain the outside perimeter of the stronghold. SG-1 would enter the sub level of the fortress and recover Jacob and Vosh; then escape with them.

At 0800 the three teams were kitted out and standing at the foot of the gate. General Hammond looked out over the group. "Colonel, you have a go. Bring `em all home safe Colonel."

"Yes Sir." Jack made a half salute and turned to face the gate. "Let's go kiddies. There's snake butt to kick and family to find." He winked at his 2IC, as he put is hand on her back and guided her toward the gate.

The gate was unguarded on the other side. Evidently Ba'al thought no one would have the audacity to gate to his world unbidden. SG-7 took up their defensive positions in rocky outcropping that surrounded the gate, as the two remaining teams left the clearing for the forest cover that led up the hill to the fortress. The narrow line of trees opened up to surround the fortress. In a larger area of the clearing sat a tel'tac. After careful recon, it was found to be unattended, and the two teams continued to the fortress. The two guards at the entrance were quickly dispensed. Two members of SG-12 donned their armor and the remaining members took cover behind a low wall at the entrance. SG-1 entered the fortress. Using hand signals, the Colonel directed their movements down the main corridor; then off to the right in the direction of the transport rings that led to the lower levels. SG-1 stepped into the circle and Teal'c joined them after activating the rings. As the rings deposited them on the lower level they quickly scanned the area and found no Jaffa guard. The dimly lit ornate golden hallway was about 50 meters long. A small chamber, which if intel was correct, held Vosh, was at the far end of the hall, and Jacob should be in one of the cells at the end of a corridor which led off the main hall. Jack signaled for Teal'c and Daniel to retrieve Vosh. He and Carter would go after her father.

As O'Neill and Carter neared the turn in the corridor, the familiar clank of Jaffa armor was heard, but from the sound it was only a lone sentry. Jack slipped the small telescoping mirror from his pocket and sliding it around the corner, confirmed what their ears had already told them; only one guard was in the cellblock. Signaling `you go low and I'll go high', the pair swung around the corner and zatted the guard before he had time to react. Sam called out quietly, "Dad? It's Sam. We're here. Which cell are you in?" No response came and they began to quickly check each cell. "Here." She heard from the Colonel. Then, "Oh god, Sam…its not good." She raced to the cell and was totally unprepared for what lay before her. Jacob, her father, was a battered, torn and bloody mess. Dried blood was caked in his thin hair and down the side of his face, there were wounds that looked like chemical burns through his clothing and deep into his skin, and numerous other blood-soaked tears in his clothing that hinted at what lie beneath.

Sam dropped to her knees beside him and caressed his cheek while trying to assess his injuries. "Dad, Dad…Can you hear me?" His eyes fluttered and she heard a whispered "Sammie". Jack touched her shoulder. "Let's get him out of here first; then, we can see what we can do to help him." She nodded agreement and the two of them managed to pull him up between them—each wrapping an arm around their shoulders. At the transporter rings, they met the rest of their team. Daniel was carrying Vosh in a fluid filled container.

"Carter, let me support Jacob. You ring up to the next level with Daniel and Teal'c to secure the area before I bring your Dad and Vosh up. I don't want to ring in with them in the middle of a firefight. Once you're up, radio SG-7 and 12 and make sure they're secure." They nodded understanding and stepping into the rings, which Jack activated from the wall panel. As he turned he caught movement from his right. The Jaffa they had zatted early was on his knees and trying to lift his staff. Jack brought his zat around and fired, striking him in the chest, but not before he was able to fire his weapon. Jumping away from the blast, Jack pulled Jacob with him, but not fast enough—the staff blast struck him in the right thigh. Jack quickly checked him over. Jacob was unconscious. Jack noticed the stasis chamber holding Vosh had been knocked over. Righting the chamber, he noted the fluid level had dropped. Reaching for the radio, "Carter…" Static was all he heard. "Carter, This is O'Neill. Come in." After a slight pause, "Yes sir, we're here. We had a bit of a problem. A Jaffa was in the corridor and fired on us, but we managed to get him before he alerted anyone else."

"Yeah, had a similar problem here. You're Dad's been hit by a staff blast. We've got to evac now. Ah, shit! Vosh's container has been damaged." Jack said as noticed a crack in the glass and slow leak of the fluid sustaining Vosh. "Give me a minute to get us all on the ring platform…okay. Beam us up Scotty."

"Uh Sir." Jack recognized the tone in her voice and knew he wasn't going to like whatever she said next. "We got a big problem…the Jaffa up here damaged the ring controls. This platform won't work."

"Carter…Sam. We've got to get your dad out of here now."

"I know sir…wait a minute. What about the tel'tac outside the fortress? It has ring capabilities."

"Good idea. Take Teal'c and Daniel with you. Pull out SG-7 too and send them back to the gate. You're in charge Major. Get us out of here."

"Yes sir. I'll contact you again when we are ready to transport."

Jack moved Jacob and Vosh into position inside the rings to wait for transport. 20 minutes passed with no communication from Carter. Then Jack heard his radio click. "Colonel O'Neill. This is Carter sir. We're in a firefight. Jaffa patrol was coming out of the woods as we exited to fortress to head for the tel'tac. SG-7 is with us, and I've ordered SG-12 to hold the gate."

"Copy that Major. Do you need to send for reinforcements?"

"Already done that sir. SG-9 was on standby. They should be geared up and here any time now. Sir…how's my dad?"

Jack glanced over at the unresponsive Jacob Carter. "Not good Sam…not good. Better end this fast."

"Yes sir. I'll keep you advised."

As the radio clicked into silence, Jacob's eyelids fluttered open. "Jack, I'm…not going to make it…neither is Selmac. I'm too…too severely injured to support him while he heals and he's too injured to help me. Vosh is dying too. Crack in the glass…causing too much fluid to leak. He's uninjured, but he'll die in a very short time like this."

"Hang in there Jacob. Sam is working on getting us back to the SGC. Just hang on a little longer."

"Sorry Jack. Can't …do that. Tell Sam…take care of…" He drifted back into unconsciousness.

Jack put his hand on Jacob's shoulder. His eyes opened slightly. "Jacob?"

"No Colonel."

"Oh, Selmac…hang in there."

"No time…we are dying. But there is a way…I will have Jacob speak for us." "Jack…"

"Yeah Jacob…What's this plan?"

"You… won't like it Jack. Its dangerous, and we may die anyway…but as things are… you're going to be the only one who'll be leaving this room alive if we don't try something."

"Ah come on Jacob…"

"Cut the crap Jack. You know it's the truth. And the only way out…is going to cost you big time, son."

"Okay Jacob. Tell me."

"Jack you are uninjured. If Selmac were to move to your body, he could rest there and heal. You could help him…he will probably survive."

Jack's body went rigid and he shuddered at the thought of a snake in his head again. "But what about you Jacob? Sam will kick my ass if I take Selmac and leave you to die?"

"You won't be Jack. After Selmac transfers to you, I'll take Vosh as my symbiote. He is strong and will heal me. Later after we are well and back at the Tok'ra base, Vosh can be transferred to his new host and Selmac returned to me…we don't want to be separated. Make a pretty good team you know."

"For cryin out loud, Jacob. There's gotta be another way. Hang on…Sam will come through for us."

"Jack there is no more time. I know what Kanan did to you, and how you feel about the Tok'ra overall, but this will be Selmac. You know Selmac."

They sat in silence… Jack saying nothing, just blankly staring up at the transport device as if willing it to activate and remove him from this situation. "Jack, its okay. We understand. Tell Sam…I'm proud of her…and I love her. Jack, she's gonna need someone, but she won't want any one to know she needs help..?"

"Oh shit Jacob…shut up. I'll do it. At least I'm going into it this time with my eyes wide open!"

"Are you sure Jack? Because if you are it has to be now." Jack nodded. "Then sit down here by me and lean over like you're giving me mouth-to-mouth. When we're finished, take the lid off Vosh's container and hold my head over it."

Jack swallowed hard. His throat was dry and his heart pounding as he leaned down to Jacob and opened his mouth. In a flash he felt a sharp pain in his throat and then dizziness. He fell back on his butt and waited for his head to clear. Faintly he heard a voice. [Colonel, it is Selmac. You must act quickly to blend Vosh with Jacob. I do not wish to lose him.] Jack slid the canister holding Vosh to his side and removed the lid. Reaching for Jacob, he realized he was no longer breathing. He pulled him quickly over to the container and grasped his chin to pull his mouth open. He closed his eyes as he saw Vosh leap from the fluid in the container. A moment later it was over. Jacob's eyes flashed faintly and he was breathing shallowly.

[Colonel, he is all right, but he will require much rest, as will I. I shall not speak again until I am recovered. I thank you for all of us.]

"Colonel…Colonel O'Neill. Come in. Colonel…"

"Here Carter…I'm…we're here."

"We're in the tel'tac and ready to activate the rings on your order sir."

"Then ring away Major…by all means."

And with that came a bright flash of light as the rings descended and engulfed Jack and Jacob."

***

"Report Major!"

"Welcome aboard sir. SG teams 7, 9 and 12 have retreated to the gate and will hold their position until we join them. This ship appears to be the only one currently on this planet, so we appear to be safe from air attack."

Sam raised her head. "What about Vosh sir?"

"Long story. I'll explain it all later." He dropped down and leaned against the bulkhead looking exhausted. "Major, contact the other teams and tell them to hold the gate…we're on our way."

After relaying orders to the other SG teams, Sam helped settle her dad in on a pallet she had made in one corner of the cargo bay. She had brought the healing device and used it to treat the worst wounds; then, put field bandages on the wounds she could, and medicated him for pain. Standing, she stretched her arms up over her head and leaned first to one side, then the other. Her muscles ached—more from tension than anything else. She walked toward Jack who was sitting on a crate with his elbows propped on his knees and his head in his hands. She glanced at Teal'c and Daniel who were at the helm. Walking up behind them she whispered, "I'm going to close the bulkhead so they can rest. I'll be back there if you need me." Daniel nodded agreement and Teal'c inclined his head in the usual manner.

She closed the doors and walked back to Jacob. He was sleeping quietly, his breathing smooth and even. Taking advantage of the privacy, Sam slipped up behind Jack. "Was afraid for both of you back there," she said as she slipped her arms around him from behind.

"Uh…Major. I thought that on missions or base…?"

I know…I just need a second." Suddenly she stiffened and quickly stepped away from him. Crossing the room she picks up her P90 and aimed it at Jack. Jack turned to see the weapon aimed directly at him.

"Sam?"

"Who the hell are you?"

"Sam, its me. You're sensing the Tok'ra symbiote. That's what I was getting ready to tell you." He stepped toward her and waved for her to put the gun down.

She held the gun on him and backed to the control panel opening the divider between the helm and cargo bay. "Daniel, Teal'c the Colonel has been taken as a host. I sense a presence." Teal'c was immediately at her side. "I sense a symbiote as well Major Carter."

"Oh for cryin out loud…that's what I'm trying to tell you. It's Tok'ra. It was the only way."

"Major Carter, given Colonel O'Neill's previous experiences and his feelings toward becoming a host, I do not believe that he would voluntarily become a host again."

"Would you please listen to me? No, I don't like the idea of a snake in my head, but it was the only way. This snake…I kinda…sorta…trust… it's Selmac."

"Selmac?" questioned Sam. "Then who's in Dad?"

"Vosh." Replied Jack and then recounted the story of what had occurred and of Jacob's solution to saving them all.

Teal'c raised one eyebrow. "Major Carter, while this story sounds most reasonable. We have no method of proving or disproving what he has stated."

Jack's eyes flashed as Selmac took control. "Major Carter, I am very weak, but perhaps I can assuage your concerns in some manner, by assuring you that the Colonel speaks the truth."

Sam thought for a moment. "Selmac, can you answer a question for me? Something that only you and my father would know?" He nodded agreement. "When my father first met you and you were deciding whether or not to accept him as host, you asked him a question. Can you tell me what question you asked?"

Selmac smiled. "Of course Major. I asked him if he was a good man."

"And how did he answer?" asked Sam. " He laughed and asked me what difference it made because if we didn't blend, we would both die."

She lowered her gun. "It's him," smiled Sam. "I have no doubt."

Jack's head nodded and it was Jack that spoke this time. "Major, if your not gonna shoot me then…I think I'll try to get some rest."

"Yes sir. I'll call you when we get to the gate."

Part 3 The Return

"Colonel…Sir…we're approaching the gate. The other teams report the area is clear at the moment."

Landing a short distance from the gate as one of the other teams dialed home, they made a hasty exit from the vessel and through the gate. General Hammond had emergency medical support waiting. Jacob was whisked away to the infirmary. Teal'c and Daniel were dismissed to the showers and post-mission physicals. The general asked for a brief meeting with the Colonel and Major to recap the events of their portion of the mission. They brought the general up to speed, informing him of the situation with Jacob, Jack and the two symbiotes.

"I have to admit Colonel, I am very surprised that you would agree to this given events of the past."

"Yes Sir, so am I guess, but this wasn't just any ol snake...this was Selmac. And besides, the Major would have hunted my six all the way to hell if I'd let anything happen to Jacob."

Everyone laughed and the Major punched her commander in the arm. "Sir, see what I mean? She'll even strike a superior officer in your presence."

The general laughed again. "Jack, I think I'd leave well enough alone. Everyone around here has wanted to punch you at one time or another. Now dismissed. Hit the shower and get your med exam."

As they exited the office Sam stopped him. "I'd like to check on Dad again. So if it's alright with you I'll get my physical while you shower first." He waggled his eyebrows suggestively as if to say `or we could share'; then he nodded agreement and they went their separate ways down the hall.

Sam checked on her Dad and talked with Janet about his condition while her physical was done. Reassured that he was stable and doing well, she headed for the showers. The "Men's" sign was still on the door. She knocked and heard no one. Opening the door, she called again, but the room was silent. Reaching back outside she flipped the sign over to indicate it was now the women's room.

She went to her locker to gather her lavender shampoo and body wash when she noticed Jack's locker still open. She closed it and took off her clothes, wrapping a towel around her body and heading for the shower. When she entered the water was still on in one of the stalls. Walking toward it, she saw a foot sticking out beyond the wall-- Jack's foot. She sprang around the wall getting soaked before she could shut off the water. Jack had collapsed and slid down the wall.

"Colonel…Jack…Jack!" She cried out as she knelt beside him. He had a pulse and he was breathing. She ran back to the locker room to the intercom. "Medical emergency shower room. Attention: Medical emergency shower room, " she shouted loudly; then, ran back to Jack. As she passed the rack, she pulled his towel down off the wall and tossed it across his lap to cover him. Dr. Warner and a team entered the room with a gurney, followed closely by the General and by Dr. Frazier who had been on her way out for the evening. They carried the Colonel to the gurney and after a quick assessment, wheeled him toward the infirmary with Sam close by his side.

When the arrived, Janet pulled Sam behind the curtain of one of the cubicles. "Wait here and I'll be right back."

"Janet, I want to stay with him until I know he's alright!"

"Fine Sam. But let me get you some clothes…you're practically naked." Suddenly Sam was aware of why she had been getting so many looks on the way to the infirmary. "Okay…okay. Get me something."

"There are towels in that cabinet to dry off. I'll bring you a pair of scrubs to put on. Then, I'll check on the Colonel while you change. No buts…Sam. Stay out of Warner's way and let him do his job."

Reluctantly she agreed. After changing she opened the curtain, but stayed where she was and waited for Janet to return.

"He is fine," said Janet. "Selmac is just requiring much of his energy to heal severe injuries. He may be unconscious for a couple of days. You could use the healing device on him like you did your father if you're up to it. It might speed things along."

"Okay, I'll get it out of my lab and be right back. Will you wait with me?"

"Sure."

***

Sam returned in a few minutes and used the device to heal some of Selmac's injuries. Her hands were shaking when she finished. Janet put an arm around her. "Come home with me and spend the night with Cassie and me."

"I can't Janet. I have to be here for both of them. What if they wake up and I'm not here?"

"They aren't going to awaken tonight and I'm due back on base at 0700hrs tomorrow. You can come back with me and be here to sit with them before debriefing. It's been set for 0900hrs. I can make it an order from your CMO…"

"Okay…okay. Let me get my stuff from my locker."

"I'll walk with you."

***

Jack's sleep was restless. He saw himself in a large dimly lit room. Ba'al stood at the center of the room dressed in a long black hooded robe. Nine red robed figures walked slowly in a circle around him as he drummed a scepter on the floor. The nine turned to face him and knelt down swaying as if intoxicated by Ba'al's power.

Soon Jacks memories faded into the blackness of oblivion. Somewhere in it all he heard Selmac speak. [Colonel these are my memories—mine and Jacob's—I will attempt to block them from you so you may rest more peacefully. I have learned much. Tomorrow we must speak. But for now sleep.]

***

At 0700hrs Sam was in the infirmary sitting beside the beds of the two men in her life. Jacob was the first to awaken. "Hi Sammie…how you doin kiddo?"

"Dad, please. Don't call me that. I'm not a kid. And the question is, how are you doing?"

"I'm good. You and Vosh have healed my injuries. How's Selmac?"

"I don't know Dad. I'm concerned. Jac…the Colonel collapsed after we got back yesterday and has been unconscious ever since. I'm worried about him."

"Selmac was severely injured by the hand device. He's probably pretty much zapping Jack's energy reserve. But they will be okay. It may just take a little longer."

"Dad, I can't believe you talked him into this. You know how he feels about the Tok'ra—he just doesn't trust them. And after what Kanan did to him…."

"But he trusts me and he trusts Selmac. And he was afraid of what you'd do to him if he said no and I died." Jacob laughed.

"I've got to get to the debriefing. Are you up to going to fill in the pieces for us?"

"If you'll get me some clothes. I'm not going through these halls in a backless gown with a southern exposure." Jacob smiled and laughed. Sam was reassured. Her father was back.

"I get some BDU's from the locker room and be right back."

***

Samantha Carter took her place at the briefing table. "General Hammond, my father was awake and I've asked him to join us, with your permission, so that he can fill in the pieces that Colonel O'Neill can't tell us."

"Thank you, Major. That's a good idea. At least we can get all the details from Jacob's perspective while we wait for Jack to come around."

The debriefing went smoothly. Jacob was able to supply the missing pieces of information. Soon all were dismissed. Jacob and Sam remained behind to speak with the General.

"So Jacob. How long is this going to take? How long until you can give up Vosh and take Selmac back from the Colonel?" "George, my guess is about a week. I should be able to give up Vosh in a few days—once he has recovered from healing me. Selmac was near death. He may not be strong enough to switch hosts for longer than that. This switching thing has its hazards and takes its toll on both host and symbiote. But he will remain on Earth until we are ready to switch. That has already been agreed upon."

"General, Sir. If you'd excuse me, I'd like to check on the Colonel again."

"Of course, Major."

Jack had been moved into the isolation room—not out of medical necessity, but to allow him a quieter place to rest. Sam entered and shut the door behind her. Pulling a chair up beside his bed she leaned over and caressed his cheek, kissing it lightly before sitting down. She placed her hand on his arm and stroked gently without saying a word.

Deep in his subconscious, Selmac began a conversation. [Colonel, Samantha has great love for you.]

`Selmac. She is my 2IC command and a very important member of my team.'

[Ah, yes. But she is so much more than that to you. Remember O'Neill; I now share your memories. I know of your first time together, and of the days spent in Jamaica two weeks ago. All the memories of your life are now mine too.]

`That's kind of embarrassing…some of our memories are pretty personal.'

[I assure you Colonel I am very nonjudgmental. If you will recall the Tok'ra are much more comfortable with their sexuality than are the Tauri. Although, I must say, for humans you and Samantha Carter are both most creative and uninhibited in your lovemaking.]

`Geez, Selmac. Can we talk about something else.'

[Actually, I think I am sufficiently recovered that we should rejoin the conscious world and you should comfort your lover.]

Jack was feeling very anxious. `Selmac, about Sam and I...our relationship is a secret. No one knows that we are…well you know. Sam and I would both be in serious trouble—our careers would be over if anyone finds out about us. You have to be very cautious in making sure you say nothing to anyone—including Jacob about our relationship.'

[Colonel, I will not speak of your relationship with Samantha Carter. It seems such a pity to keep such a beautiful thing from others who care about you both. We do however have a problem with keeping Jacob unaware.]

`Crap, Selmac. Just keep your mouth shut and don't tell him! I'm serious. We'll both be in deep shit with the military—and Jacob will probably kill me if he finds out I'm having sex with his daughter.'

[Jacob is aware of the attraction between the two of you. And while you might not be his first choice for her mate, he does like you Colonel. Jack, others are aware of the feelings between you and Samantha. Jacob and General Hammond have of spoken of it and anticipate a time when it must be addressed.]

`Shit, shit, shit! Well just don't tell Jacob it's more than attraction. Okay?'

[Colonel, I'm afraid that is impossible. Once we are blended again, he will have access to your feelings and memories, just as you now have access to his memories and feelings through me. Have you not already experienced a flashback of our torture at the hands of Ba'al?]

`Oh for cryin out loud! Can't you block him? I mean…I know Sam is not going to be happy if Jacob has vivid technicolor memories of our lovemaking!'

[I am sorry. I could block them, but Jacob would be aware that I was hiding something from him, and would that would make him endeavor even harder to breakdown the barrier. He would eventually succeed. I suggest that you prepare him before we are re-blended. Or better yet, speak to him immediately afterwards. Then I will be able to block the memories while you explain. And I may be able to temper his initial reaction. We have at least a week to consider options. In the meantime, shall we awaken?]

Jack squirmed on the bed and opened his eyes to find the most beautiful aquamarine eyes staring right back into his. "Hi."

"Hi to you too," Sam whispered as she brushed her lips against his. "You feeling better?"

"Yeah, Selmac is on the mend. We need to talk about this blending as soon as possible."

"Okay, but I better tell Janet you're awake now or she'll nail my hide to the wall." She planted a light, but lingering kiss on his lips and turned to open the door and find Janet.

After being checked over and thoroughly prodded by Janet, Jack was deemed fit. The General had visited him in the infirmary. "Colonel, Jacob filled us in on what happened while you were trapped underground. I've got a copy of the report in this folder. If you would take it home tonight and read it over. If you have nothing to add or amend—just sign off on it and I won't expect a separate report from you."

"Thank you Sir. That's very considerate…you know how much I love writing reports." A typical Jack O'Neill `oh yeah I'm being sarcastic' grin was plastered across his face.

"Colonel, I've got the say that you never cease to amaze me. Given your history with the Tok'ra you were the last person who I thought would ever agree to become host, but once again you have risen to answer the call. I'm proud of you Jack."

"A shucks…General." Jack feigned modest and embarrassment. "Jack, Your dismissed. Go home, son. Take tomorrow off. Relax…that is assuming Doctor Frazier has no objections. Doc?"

"No General. Just a couple of stipulations."

"Ah Janet, come on." Jack whined and did his sad puppy-dog impression.

"I don't want him to drive and I don't want him home alone. Selmac was in pretty serious shape when they arrived here. I want to be sure nothing unforeseen happens. And remember Colonel, I can keep you here with my big long needles if you don't comply." Janet winked and smiled at the last comment.

"Sadist doctor." Moaned Jack.

Sam jumped into the conversation. "Sir, I could take care of you…that is if you don't mind me bunking at your house in the spare room. Maybe the guys could come over for a team night too."

Janet interjected, "Sam, I think I'd forgo the team night. Just the two of you would be better. He needs to rest."

"You heard her," replied Jack with an evil grin. "Doctor's orders. I need my rest."

General Hammond stepped back. "Very well, I don't want to see the two of you in this place until day after tomorrow. Dismissed."

***

They took Jack's truck when they left the mountain. Sam really didn't like to drive it, but he insisted. It was like sitting at the helm of a big Dodge version of a tel'tac, but it didn't handle nearly as well. She pulled it into his garage and they headed into the house. As Jack passed the fridge he stopped and opened the door. "I'm grabbing a beer. Want one? Then we need to talk—now."

She nodded that yes she did want a beer and looked quizzically at is insistence about a talk. Jack O'Neill never wants to talk. She took her beer, kicked off her shoes and plopped on the couch with her feet pulled under her. "Okay, so what's lit a fire under you mister?"

"Selmac knows," was all he said.

"Selmac knows what?" She came back as she took a long slow draw from her beer bottle.

"About us! That we're uh…you know…how we feel…lovers."

"Oh…that. Of course, now that I think about it. Selmac has all your thoughts and memories now, just as you have his…and my father's." She turned around and slid down far enough on the couch that she could prop her feet up on the coffee table and took another long drink of beer.

"Major Carter." The tone and inflection suggested it was now Selmac who was speaking. "I must apologize for putting the two of you in this difficult position. But I must add that I am most pleased with this development in your relationship. Your father and I have spoken of this possibility a number of times in the past, and while he likes Jack, he has expressed concerns about what you call `frat regs' and the impact a relationship would have on your career. However, his greatest concern is that you find happiness."

"I'm sorry Selmac, but I can't believe that my father would ever consider that my happiness is more important than my military career."

"Major, I assure you it is the truth. The Colonel can verify this by accessing our shared memories. Please Colonel, take a moment to verify this."

Jack blinked and looked up at Sam. "Okay…here goes." He closed his eyes and images shot through his mind. He saw a beautiful blond haired blue eyed little girl about 3 years old sitting on her father's lap; then, Sam as a teenager—in tears, storming into her room and slamming the door behind while Jacob stood helplessly and watched. Finally, he found Jacob and Selmac talking with George Hammond about the developing relationship and ways that they might be able to deal with it and keep SG-1 together. "My God, Sam. They're way ahead of us. So, Selmac…how's Jacob really gonna take this?"

With a nod Selmac assumed control. "He will threaten to `kick the Colonel's ass' for messing with his daughter. He will not make it easy on either of you, but once you have convinced him of the depth of your commitment to one-and-other, he will relent and support you. Especially once we have blended together and he is able to feel what the two of you have shared on an intimate level."

Sam's head jerked up to stare into his eyes. "Whoa…whoa...whoa here… hold on let's back up a minute. What do you mean once he is able to see what we have shared on an intimate level?!"

"Major, please do not feel embarrassed, but I now share Jack's memory of every intimate word and caress between the two of you. Jacob will gain those memories once we are blended again."

Jack raised his head and looked at her. "I'm sorry Sam. I'm so sorry. This was something I never thought about. Selmac has already explained that there is no way to block it."

She blushed and buried her face in her hands and moaned. "I guess I knew that sooner or later Dad would know we were a couple, but I sure as hell didn't expect him to have intimate knowledge of what we do together in bed."

Selmac spoke again. "Major, you have nothing of which to be ashamed. I was quite intrigued by your ingenuity."

"Shit Selmac. If you you're intrigued…my Dad is going to be appalled! This is like my worst nightmare come true. Sometimes life really can be a bitch!"

Jack put his arm around her and she buried her face in the crook of his neck. "Selmac has already suggested that we wait until they are re-blended to tell your dad so that he can temper his initial response to all this. I think he's right."

Sam just nodded. "I'm going to bed. Suddenly I feel very tired."

Jack pulled her back tight against him. "Sam, you haven't had any dinner…"

"Can't eat now anyway," she interrupted. "Goodnight."

Jack had some dinner, watched the end of a hockey game and then the Simpson's before turning in for the night. Sam was asleep in his bed. He quietly got undressed and slipped into bed beside her, kissing her lightly on the cheek. "Goodnight." She muttered. "Goodnight love," came his response as he snuggled in and wrapped an arm around her waist.

***

Jack found himself back in the room with Ba'al and the nine robed figures. As before they knelt in a circle around the Goa'uld. Ba'al approached one of the figures and rapped his scepter on the floor. They rose slowly and shrugged the red hood and robe from their head and shoulders. It pooled around the feet of a dark haired nude woman. She turned and stepped down from the dais they were on, walking to a table strewn with various knives, vials, etc. Jack watched from his point of imprisonment at the end of the room. He was held spread- eagle to the gravity grate. Ba'al slammed the scepter against the floor again. Jack could feel the hollow echo through his heart and soul. The woman selected a knife and threw it a Jack. It sank deep in the flesh of his right upper chest. Ba'al moved on to the next figure, which did the same as the first—this one choosing a vial of acid. The torture continued as Ba'al moved on around the circle, from one red robed figure to the next. Suddenly with Jack near death, a nude, blonde woman appeared between Ba'al and Jack. She stepped up onto the dais before Ba'al and spoke. "I am here to redeem this man. I alone have claim on his heart and soul." The scene faded into cold blackness.

Jack sat up bolt straight in bed and cried out. Sam was immediately beside him. "Jack, honey it's okay. I'm right here. You're home, you're okay."

He turned and looked at her with a haunted, vacant stare. "It was Ba'al. I died. So cold and so black…alone…so cold." He grabbed her and embraced her tightly, like a child who has just awakened from a horrible nightmare. Sam cradled his head to her chest. His skin was damp and clammy… his color so pale. She rocked him and shushed him reassuring him that he was safe at home. Slowly he began to still. Then she felt his lips hot on her throat as he pushed her back on the bed and gripped her thigh tightly, sliding her nightgown up.

"Jack, no. Jack, stop." But he ignored her and continued on his quest. "Need you", was all he said. Finally, she put her hands on both sides of his head and pulled his face up to look into his eyes. "Jack, stop it now!" He opened his eyes and stared at her for a moment, then sat up in the bed with his arms resting on his chest.

"Sam, it's the dreams. I need you."

"I know honey…I know, but…I'm sorry Jack. I'll hold you and comfort you, but I just can't have sex with you—not as long as Selmac is in there. It feels like I have an audience…like my parents are watching. My Dad might as well be sitting on the foot of the bed." Jack's head dropped to his arms. In a moment it lifted again. It was obvious by the calm expression that Selmac had taken control. "Major, I assure you, I will not be embarrassed by your actions—nor should you. He needs you now. Please do not allow my presence to prevent you from sharing yourself with Jack." "Selmac, I just can't. It's bad enough that you will witness it, but whatever we do—my Dad will eventually witness too. It's just too weird. It just doesn't seem right. I…I just can't." "Major…Samantha…it is possible for me to enter a deep meditative state for approximately two hours. During that time I am only minimally aware of what transpires with my host. I would be willing to do this and allow you and the Colonel a private moment." "You can do that…you really won't be aware of what is said or done." "I will not be witness to your intimacy. The Colonel will know when I am in deep meditation. I will remain there for two hours if that will be sufficient time." "Thank you. That's really so sweet." She leaned in and kissed Jack lightly on the cheek. "That one was for you, Selmac." Selmac smiled and lay back on the bed, closing his eyes. In a moment, Jack's breathing changed and he reached for Sam. "Come here, you." He pulled her down on top of him and started dropping kisses along her neck and jaw line. She slipped a leg on either side of his hips and sat up. His hands caressed her thighs, sliding easily on the slippery silk fabric of her gown. Slowly he slid it up her thighs; then slid his bare hands back down to her knees and caressed the same path again, but this time, his finger were sliding over her bare silky skin.

Reaching down, she grabbed the hem of her gown and pulled it over her head, tossing it behind her. Jack lay quiet and looked at her. He was always amazed by the perfection of her naked body. His hands traced a path from her waist to her chest and took a firm warm mound in each hand, kneading them gently. He felt the pebbly buttons rub the palms of his hands as they hardened. Leaning forward, she supported herself with a hand on the bed on each side of his head and offered her breasts to his waiting mouth. He licked her right nipple; then blew cool air across it as he rolled the nipple of her left breast between his fingers. She arched and moaned, "Oh Jack" as she rotated her hips against his beginning erection. He pulled the breast into his mouth and rolled his tongue across the nipple as he sucked greedily. She shivered as a tantalizing wave of pleasure shot from her breast to her hot core. She rubbed herself unashamedly on his erection as she felt the wet heat spill from her body onto his. Then he gave the other breast the same attention, eliciting tiny whimpers from the woman above him.

Sam sat back and scooted down his legs, again brushing over his erection. "You got too many clothes on mister. Time to even the playing field and see how long you last with a little skin-to-skin contact." She reached down and slipped her fingers inside the waistband of his briefs and slid them down. As they slid over his erection, it bobbed and bounced to freedom. "My…looks like somebody is eager." It was then that Jack realized what an evil grin she sometimes had.

Jack quickly rose to a sitting position; then, laid her onto her back with her head at the foot of the bed. Rising to his knees he began to trace his fingers around her navel, and then lower. His mouth came to her navel and he dipped his tongue inside and swirled it around like he had done when they were doing body shots at that bar in Jamaica. When they had begun their relationship she hadn't liked this, but now she didn't object. Leaving her navel, he ran his hot wet tongue down the center of her lower abdomen following the path his fingers had taken to her hot wet folds.

A fire was igniting deep in Sam's belly. A fire that she knew would burn away his darkness and leave them both breathless and spent in its aftermath. She welcomed it…wanted it…needed it as much as he did.

Before Jack knew she had even moved, he was being flipped on the bed. He found himself pinned to the bed with her lying across his chest. She slowly slid her body up his, purposely causing as much friction as she possibly could, grinding her pelvis against his hardened penis. Their lips met and parted allowing eager tongues entry into mouths. Each receiving as much as they were giving.

She slid down, kissing and biting along his jaw. She rubbed her nose through the hair of his chest, and finding a hard nipple, circled it with her tongue before sucking it between her lips. Her hand trailed on down his body to trace patterns in the pubic hair at the base of his penis. Jack moaned and grabbed her head. She lifted herself on all fours and grinned at him. "Samantha Carter you are pure evil. Don't stop…."

She swung her body around and threw a leg across his chest; then lay down on him. He could feel her hard nipples rubbing on his lower abdomen, and it excited him even more. His heart pounded at the apex of his thighs and a fire burned through his veins. His engorged penis throbbed and bounced with every heartbeat. Some day he thought…she just might kill him in bed. She reached forward and cupped him in her hands, running one finger from base to head of his hard shaft; then back again. Caressing slowly as if fascinated by the incredible silky smoothness of the skin in contrast with the hardness. Leaning forward, she kissed the purple head and sucked it into her mouth, savoring the salty flavor that was Jack. He bucked wildly almost throwing her off him. After regaining her balance, she slid her body back toward his head, offering herself to him.

He breathed in the heady scent of her arousal. Reaching for her, he traced the outlines of her hot wet core with one finger. Sliding the finger inside he held her still with his other arm. Slowly he stroked searching for that most sensitive spot. He added a second finger. Then his mouth joined in, and his tongue replaced his fingers. `God!' she thought, `He's got the most incredible tongue.'

Sam felt the spirals begin to spread out through her abdomen and thighs. She whimpered softly. Jack knew he was achieving his goal. She released her grip on him when his fingers began to massage her clit while his tongue continued to thrust into her hot channel. His free arm snaked around her upper thigh and buttock to hold her firmly against his mouth as she began to buck wildly against him. She could contain it no more. "Jack…oh god…so good…sooooo!" Jack held on tight and continued his assault until her tremors subsided and she collapsed on his chest.

He slid her off his chest so she lay beside him on her stomach. Slipping a pillow under her pelvis as he moved to a kneeling position between her knees he opened the drawer of the bedside table and pulled out a bottle of massage oil. He poured a generous amount into one palm and warmed it in his hands before allowing it to spill through onto her back. Then he began to massage her back and shoulders. "Ah…. god…there's another reason I love you." She sighed. He said nothing, just kissed her on the shoulder and continued his massage. He moved in rhythmic circles down to her low back; then continued to her buttocks and eventually on down the backs of her thighs.

Jack moved and slid his hands the length of her body, from knee to shoulder, and as he did so he lowered his weight onto her back. He kissed her on the back of the neck. Raising himself up a bit to part her thighs further, she lifted her head to glance over her shoulder. "Jack…what are you doing?"

"It'll be okay. You'll see. Do you trust me?"

"With my life…yes. With my bum…that remains to be seen…"

Laughing, he lowered himself onto her, entering her vagina from behind. She shuddered at the exquisite pleasure of being stretched and filled by him. "See. I told you not to worry. I'd never go there."

She closed her eyes enjoying each moment as he sank deeper and deeper inside her, filling her so perfectly. Each inch she accepted brought waves of new sensation. Then, he lay quiet on top of her. She could feel his heart beat where his chest rested on her back. It beat in unison with the throbbing heat now buried deep within her. "Mmmm. This is nice." She purred as he slid his arms down hers and intertwined their fingers. The contact was different and interesting. The pillow gave her hips just the right angle. He began to rock against her. She raised her hips to meet each thrust.

Soon their breathing was heavy and ragged. Sighs, moans and whispers were the only sounds uttered by either of them. Sam could feel the pressure building again in the pit of her belly. And she could tell by Jack's groans that he was getting close too.

Barely able to speak, she asked, "Jack…please…I want to see you…your eyes when we come." He stopped his thrusting and withdrew from her, sitting back on his knees between her legs. She rolled, pulling her legs up to slip one back on either side of him as she turned to her back. He smiled and leaned forward as she reached for him, sliding back home and resuming where he had left off. They matched each other stroke for stroke. Their damp bodies stuck together and made tiny noises as wet skin slapped against wet skin. Jack leaned his head down and licked the sweat from her throat. She raised her knees higher allowing him the deepest penetration. He moaned as he sank to the hilt. She lifted his head and kissed him deeply before pulling his face back from hers. She stared into the deep mahogany pools as he stared back into blue. Suddenly, as if the irises had coalesced, they were both there…locked together and flying through a vortex that could easily have matched the wormhole. They held tightly to each other, shivering and jerking in one spasm of ecstasy after another, until they were finally thrown free on the other side. They collapsed into each other's arms, neither able to speak.

After several minutes Jack started to move, but Sam stopped him. "Stay, I want to sleep with you inside me."

Jack settled back down. "Was it my imagination, or did that kind of feel like the first time you went through the gate?"

"It was definitely different, but a wonderful and wild ride. We may have trouble topping that one." She adjusted her position a little below him.

"I'm too heavy for you." He said starting to move, but she held him tight. "Do you think that had anything to do with Selmac being blended with me right now? Speaking of Selmac…our two hours is just about up. If you don't want to create a new memory for Jacob, I better pull out."

"I don't know if it had anything to do with the symbiote…I hope not. God, I'd like to think the two of us could do that again…by ourselves. And as for creating new memories for Dad…I just decided I really don't care. He's going to see the old ones anyway. We're both consenting adults. And he has to realize I'm a normal healthy woman with a healthy sexual appetite. So, sorry Dad, but this is who I am."

"Ooo, I like you when you're naughty."

"Jack, I'm going to sleep now. If you're quiet and let me rest, maybe I'll be naughty again later." She grinned at him.

"Okay…I'm quiet right now!" He moved his hand as if zipping his mouth shut.

***

They awoke to the sound of someone calling out their names from the living room. Both jumped to their feet.

"It's Janet." Sam said recognizing the voice. "She must have come by to check on you on the way to work. Get back in bed and pretend you're asleep. I'll cover."

Jack got back in bed pulling his shorts on under the covers. Sam darted across the hall to the main bathroom and quickly turned the shower on and dipped her head under the spray just enough to wet her hair. Letting the water run from her hair down her body to wet it, she put on Jack's robe and grabbed a towel to dry her hair and left the bathroom. As she stepped out she met Janet just outside the door.

"Sam, I've been calling didn't you hear me?"

"Sorry, Janet I was in the shower. And the Colonel was up late watching TV. I don't know what time he finally went to bed. He's probably still exhausted. (No lie to that part.) Let's go get some coffee.

As they turned the corner to descend the stairs Janet noticed the bed in the guestroom was neatly made up. "Hmmm, doesn't look like its been slept in..." She raised and eyebrow and smiled a sly smile at Sam. "Care to fess up to anything?"

"Jan…come on. He's my CO. You know me better than that. I made my bed when I got up. You know I always do."

"I also know from our discussion a few months ago that you are pretty frustrated with not getting any, and…I know from a zatarc test how you feel about a certain Colonel."

"Janet, when there is something to know, you'll be the first person I tell."

"Pinky promise?" Sam locked her little finger with Janet's. "Pinky promise."

They sat drinking coffee on the deck when Jack walked out to join them in pajama bottoms and a T-shirt. "So, there's my bathrobe…Care to explain yourself Major."

She grinned. "Sorry, sir. When Janet arrived I was in the shower and didn't take time to dress. I can take it off now if you like."

"No Major. I think that would fit into the category of `too much information'. Finish your coffee." They all laughed. After coffee Janet left, reassured that Jack was doing fine.

***

The next morning they reported back to the SGC. Sam was temporarily assigned to SG-3 to take a look at a piece of technology the found of PZ4-880. It was too big to bring back, and everyone was clueless as to what it even did. She would be off-world for the next three days.

Jack returned to work on the base, but the General had told him that he would not be going off-world until Selmac had been returned to Jacob. The day for Sam to return had come. Plans were also made for Jacob to return with a Tok'ra escort to oversee the transfer of Vosh to his new host and Selmac re-blending with Jacob.

SG-3 gated home only moments after the Tok'ra had arrived. Her father who was still in the area of the gate room greeted her. After a big hug she asked, "Dad please stay and have dinner at my house tonight. Please…you can't say no."

"How can I refuse an invitation like that? Oh course I'll stay." He kissed her on the cheek. "Come on. Everyone's in the infirmary ready to do this exchange."

Jack stood back as Vosh was transferred from Jacob to his new host. `Selmac?'

[Yes, Colonel.]

`Remember our deal. We're having dinner at Sam's house tonight to talk with Jacob. We need your support.'

[You have my word.]

Rasa, the Tok'ra escort turned to Jacob. "I must warn you Jacob. This transfer will carry the greatest risk of complications for you and for Selmac. More so for you, since you are human. Blending is always a dangerous and risky process. But to have so many transfers and blending occur in such a short time, may take its toll on your body. Selmac may be weakened for several days, but you could fall severely ill or even perish. If this does occur; then, Selmac will most likely perish as well. Are you both willing to accept this risk?"

"Selmac is like my conscience and my constant companion. I would really miss having him in my head."

Selmac took control of Jack. "As I would miss Jacob. We shall proceed."

Soon the process was complete. Janet was monitoring Jacob. "His BP is a little low, but other wise he looks good. I'd like to check him out again tomorrow."

Sam spoke up. "Jan, he's coming home with me tonight for a family dinner. I'll keep and eye on him and get him back to you in the morning."

"Good enough, Sam. Only one thing…no alcohol tonight for Jacob."

`Oh Janet,' thought Sam, `You have no idea how much he's gonna need a drink after Jack and I have our little talk with him.'

***

After dinner they took their coffee and moved into the living room. Sam was the first to speak. "Dad, the Colonel and I need to talk with you about something. This past week has been a learning experience for all of us. While blended, Jack had access to Selmac's memories… and to your memories as well. Now, with you and Selmac re-blended you will have access to all of Jack's memories."

"Yeah…are you worried about me revealing some of your old black-ops secrets or something Jack?"

"No sir, to be honest…I hadn't even thought about that." Jack swallowed hard. "Jacob, I know from Selmac that you are aware that there has been a growing attraction between Sam and me. Well, with all due respect sir, I'm here to tell you that I'm very much in love with your daughter."

Sam sat nervously at his side, surprised that he was actually able to speak those words (especially to her father) without spitting and sputtering. She moved to rest her hand on his arm for support. She tried to gauge her father's reaction, but nothing was visible on his face.

"You love my daughter?" Turning from Jack, he looked into Sam's eyes. "And I suppose you're gonna tell me you feel the same way about him?" He didn't wait for any response. "I don't have to tell either of you about the frat regs. Sam you know that things will have to change for this relationship to develop. Please tell me you haven't done any thing stupid enough to get you court martialed." Suddenly, Jacob's face changed and grew red with an expression that was unmistakably anger. Sam and Jack looked at each other, both aware that he had just accessed Selmac's memories.

"You son-of-a-bitch! YOU did that to my little girl! You screwed the regs…you screwed her…and you screwed her career! You sick bastard!"

Sam looked like she was going to loose it. And then she blew in a vehement torrent like those for which a certain colonel is well known. "Goddamn it Dad…that's enough! How dare you speak to him like that? I'm not a seventeen-year-old girl sneaking around to sleep with her boyfriend…I'm an adult…and in this I was a consenting adult. I went to Jack. He didn't seduce me and trick me into bed with him. What gives you the right to judge him…or me? You know what Dad…if you can't accept this—I don't give a flying fuck."

She was red faced and shaking. Her fists in white-knuckled balls and she stared at Jacob. Jack put an arm on her shoulder to calm her. Her expression changed and softened—the anger eased, but didn't leave. "Dad…I'm sorry if it doesn't meet your approval. Yes, I screwed the regs, I screwed—no, I'm screwing Jack, and I may have screwed my own career; but you know what? I'd still do it all over again…Dad, it's not just about sex. I need him Dad—and he needs me. It's like we're both halves of the same soul. Dad…that's how I feel with him—how I've felt since that day seven years ago when I walked into that briefing room and looked into his eyes for the first time."

Jacob relaxed his shoulders a bit and Sam continued. "I remember when I was ten and Mom talked to me about the birds and the bees. We talked about sex for procreation and recreation, but mostly she talked about sex as sharing your soul with a man you love so deeply that you can't separate your life from his. She talked about her relationship with you Dad. Do you have any idea how much Mom loved you? She said her greatest hope was that I would find that someday. Well, its taken me a long time, but I have. Dad, I love Jack more than I ever thought it was possible to love anyone. And I'm willing to do whatever is necessary to be with him. Can't you remember Dad… can't you understand?" J

acob raised his head, but it was Selmac who spoke. "Major, it is best that your father be left alone for a while to sort his thoughts. I am going to take him for a walk in park across the street and speak with him. We will return shortly. Please…Samantha understand, he is only reacting this way because of his love for you." Selmac left the room heading toward the patio doors.

Jack stepped up behind Sam and wrapped his arms around her kissing her on the back of the head. "You okay? I don't think I've ever seen you that out of control of your emotions."

She just nodded. Closing her eyes and sighing deeply, she dropped her head back on his shoulder. They stood there for several minutes. She said nothing. Jack held her close. Feeling a warm tear fall onto his arm, he turned her to face him. As she looked up into his eyes, a sob escaped. "Oh honey…" Jack said as he pulled her into a tight embrace and swayed her gently. "Please don't let this upset you this much."

"Jack, I don't know what to do. For once Samantha Carter doesn't have all the answers. I love my Dad. But I'm not his little girl anymore. In some ways he's right. I am like that seventeen year old sneaking around to sleep with you. I didn't want anyone to know about us because we're breaking the rules…because of the consequences. But I want Dad to know how I feel about you…that I'm truly happy for the first time in my adult life. But I didn't want him to really know about our relationship. My emotions are a mess. I'm happy because I'm with you. I'm happy he knows I've got someone. I'm upset that he knows and will probably tell. I embarrassed that he knows the intimate details of our sex life. I'm relieved that one way or another it will probably soon be out in the open. I'm terrified of what the military may do to us…I…I…" She broke down in heavy sobs.

Jack held her tight. He looked up when he saw Jacob approaching them from the patio door where he had been standing and listening. He reached out and laid a hand on his daughter's arm. "Sam…I'm sorry sweetie…I had no right."

She stilled on Jack's shoulder, but didn't move. Jack pivoted his body, turning her so that she faced her father. Seeing his face, she sobbed again. "Oh Dad…" She slid from Jack's arms into her father's.

"Sam…I'm sorry. Humor and old man who felt like he was loosing the person he loved to someone else. Honey, I knew this was coming. I've seen it in your eyes—and in Jack's for a long time. I'll admit I had some concerns about Jack and all the baggage he drags around with him. But Selmac showed me how Jack feels about you." Jacob laughed. "Granted, Selmac showed me a whole lot more about your relationship than any father should know, but he also shared memories, impressions, thoughts of Jack's that were gained in the blending. If you are happy—then I'm not gonna stand in your way. I'm happy for you."

Jacob looked over at Jack. "I've always thought you were a damn good soldier and CO, and I knew you cared about Sam, but I also thought you were part of that lunatic fringe. Your black-ops, and your jaded past made me a little skeptical of you. But now—thanks to Selmac, I really do know you and what drives you. I know you love her and would do anything for her. I really am pleased for you both." With that he reached out to shake Jack's hand. Jack was still entwined in Sam's arms. Freeing his right hand, he shook Jacob's offered hand. Then Jacob pulled them both into an embrace.

Jacob spent the night in Sam's room. Sam went back to Jack's for the night at her father's insistence. Before she left she asked, "Dad, what about us? We are in violation of the regs. What are we going to do?"

"Don't worry about it Sammie. Things have a way of working themselves out." He hugged her tightly and kissed her on the end of the nose. "I'll see you on base in the morning. I have to head back about 0900 hours."

***

The next morning when Sam and Jack arrived on base, Jacob was in General Hammond's office. They headed to the control room to wait for Jacob. A few minutes later, he and the General came in laughing. Jack and Sam looked at each other expecting something to happen.

"Sergeant, dial up the address Jacob gave you," said Hammond.

Jacob turned to Sam and Jack. "You two, walk me to the gate." They followed quietly, entering the gate room as the wormhole engaged. Jacob turned and looked at them. "Selmac wants you both to understand that he did keep his word. He was in deep meditation for two hours, but you should also know that once he was alert again, he was flooded with Jack's memories and emotions of what had occurred during those two hours."

Jack's shoes had suddenly become very interesting as he stared at them and shuffled his feet. Sam's face was flushed with embarrassment.

Jacob was grinning from ear-to-ear. "You're really enjoying this aren't you?" asked Jack.

He leaned forward and whispered, "I have to make you suffer – at least some Jack." Starting up the ramp, he stopped and turned back to them. "Oh, and Selmac asked me to tell you both that the presence of a symbiote had nothing to do with the…'wormhole effect' you experienced. That's a special effect that's only you two can engage." He winked at them and Sam dropped her face into her hands consumed by the embarrassment.

Jacob turned and stepped through the shimmering pool. Jack was sure he heard him laugh out loud as he stepped through.

***

Later that night, Jack and Sam were sitting in the floor of her family room watching TV. He sat leaned back against the couch with Sam sitting on the floor between his legs, reclining on his chest.

Jack kissed her on the side of the neck in that special place that drives her crazy. "You know…I guess we were really lucky. Each step of the way, I kept thinking we were walking into the situation with our eyes wide open. Each time…something blind-sided us…really more like `eyes wide shut.' Damn, we were lucky!"

"Yeah, I think we take it for granted sometimes. But how long can it last. Sometimes I think I'm ready to take a step in another direction. It scares the hell out of me. You are my anchor in all of this. I can deal with anything as long as I have you with me."

He pulled her tight against him as he wrapped his arms around her middle, slipping a hand under her sweater and rubbing the bare skin of her stomach. "You think too much. Don't over analyze or try to extrapolate the outcome of a dozen different scenarios. Just enjoy the moment and don't dwell on the dark what ifs."

She leaned back more so she could turn and look at his face. "Excuse me, who are you and what did you do with Jack O'Neill." She asked with a laugh.

"I'm Dr. Jonathan, philosopher, explorer, adventurer extraordinaire, astronomer, lover of women…well actually only one woman, but don't tell its bad for my reputation, and I am also the world's foremost expert on wormhole technology." He laughed and picked her up to sit on his lap. "In fact, I have a little experiment in wormhole physics to conduct right now. Care to join me in the bedroom and see if we can get the chevrons engaged and establish a wormhole?"

She giggled and stood up, reaching back a hand to pull him to his feet. "Certainly Dr., but you realize that we will have to make multiple attempts to validate that the results have statistical value and are not just random occurrences."

He waggled his eyebrows. "Oh Major…I'm counting on that!"

****

"The Astronaut's Wife" Part 5 of the Movie Series coming soon.