Title: Stepping Over The Line

Rating: PG-13 just to be on the safe side.

Disclaimer: I don't own the characters of JAG nor am I making any money off this.

Spoilers: Definitely Jen's story "Hide and Seek" as well as any episodes leading up to the summer Virtual Season.

I'd like to give a big thanks to Lisa for the beta read as well as for helping with those pesky plot points. Also, a huge shout out to Jen for organizing this, Bree for hosting the website, Cathleen for the wonderful graphics, and all the other VS authors who are going to make the summer hiatus bearable. Finally, to Selena, thanks for everything.

This story will be archived at the VS website and if you haven't been there yet, I strongly recommend it. The graphics alone are worth the trip.

And now on to the story....

0055 Local Time

50 Miles South of Nasiriyah, Iraq

A loud explosion rocked through the campsite sending Marines running for cover. In the chaos, a lone corporal ducked inside a tent, his eyes immediately searching the dark interior as he whispered, "Robertson, Jakes, are you in here?"

Hearing no response, the young man quickly exited the tent and ran back out into the night. "Robertson, Jakes, where are you?" he called out. He hadn't gotten very far when another explosion ripped through the night. Dropping to the ground, he scanned the area for his friends.

Seeing a dark figure running along the edge of the camp, the corporal got to his feet and began chasing after him, certain that this was the culprit launching grenades at them. He would have to find Robertson and Jakes later.

As an eerie calm settled over the campsite, two young men hid in the shadows behind a row of tents. "What are you doing?" hissed the first voice.

"Settling a score," came the reply.

"Over my dead body," the first voice replied.

"If that's the way you want it."

"Have you lost your mind?"

Meanwhile...

"Sergeant Meadows, give me a status report now," the marine major ordered as he took cover behind a jeep.

"Two incoming grenades, Sir," Sergeant Meadows replied. "No casualties or injuries reported, Sir."

"Have we pinpointed the source?"

"We believe they were thrown from the south end of the camp, Sir."

"I want a team moving in that direction ASAP."

"Already in place, Sir," the sergeant replied.

"Good. Hold your position here for now. I'm going to go check..." The rest of his sentence was drowned out by another explosion, this one coming from one of the weapons tents.

Major Stevens could do nothing but watch as fire engulfed the tent, even as several men worked to contain it. Over the noise, he heard a call of, "We've got the bomber."

He turned to see one of his own men being marched to the center of camp and he shook his head in disbelief. He quickly ordered two of his sergeants to keep watch over the suspect and he moved to evaluate the state of their camp.

It was several long minutes later before the fire was under control and order was restored to the camp. The two sergeants were still standing guard over the young corporal who had tossed the grenades, while others tended to those wounded.

"Major Stevens," a voice called out. "You need to see this."

The major made his way to the last row of tents where a body was lying in a puddle of blood. "Go get the medic," he ordered.

"Sir, he's dead," came the reply.

Major Stevens dropped to his knees and felt for a pulse, confirming for himself that one of his men was dead before turning the young man's face to identify him. "Corporal Robertson," he muttered.

Major Stevens leaned back on his heels with a heavy sigh and looked back to where Corporal Jakes was being detained. What on earth had happened here?

JAG Theme

0830 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

Mac bypassed the unusually empty desk outside the Admiral's office and stopped at his door. "You wanted to see me, Sir?"

"Come in, Colonel," he replied. "Have a seat."

As Mac made her way to the empty chair, she noticed that Sturgis was already present. She nodded a greeting to him, which he returned with a smile and a brief, "Colonel."

"It's good to have you back, Colonel," the Admiral began.

"Thank you, Sir," she replied. "It's good to be back."

"I'm sure you're aware by now that we're running a little short-handed around here."

"Yes, Sir," Mac replied evenly. "And I truly regret that I'm at least partly to blame for that."

Admiral Chegwidden looked over his glasses at her with a slight smirk. "Colonel, I wouldn't hold you any more responsible for the Commander's actions than I would Lieutenant Sims."

"Yes, Sir."

"Moving along," he continued. "Corporal David Jakes is accused of injuring four marines when he tossed a grenade into a weapons tent. After the chaos that followed, Corporal Mark Robertson was found stabbed to death. While the investigators have been unable to find anything to link the two events, I don't like the 'coincidence' theory."

Sturgis took the folder the Admiral offered him and he opened it as the Admiral continued, "Commander, you'll be prosecuting. Colonel, you'll be defending this one."

"Aye, Sir," they both agreed.

Admiral Chegwidden leaned back in his chair and added, "The media is going to be all over this one. Corporal Jakes gave a statement the night of the incident admitting his sorrow for causing harm to the men in his unit. He has since then recanted his statement and is claiming a set-up. I'm expecting you two to handle this with tact and diplomacy as well as dealing with just the facts. Understood?"

"Aye, Sir," they both chimed in again.

"Good. That will be all for now. Dismissed."

They both stood and came to attention with an "Aye, aye, Sir" before turning and making their way out of his office.

0900 EST

CIA

Langley, Virginia

Harm looked up from the pile of paperwork sitting in front of him when he heard a decidedly feminine laugh coming from the doorway. "Catherine," he greeted her with a smile.

"I'm sorry," she stated as she walked fully into the room. "It's just that it's rather amusing to see you here buried in paperwork."

"Who would've thought there was this much paperwork involved in being hired by the CIA?" he muttered.

"Ah, the joys of intelligence work," she said as she pulled out a chair across from him. "So how are things going?"

"Well, I've filled out approximately two inches worth of forms," Harm said as he surveyed the paperwork in front of him. "I'd say another ten hours and I'll be finished with the rest."

"Not too shabby for your first day," she teased him.

"This is worse than what would have been waiting for me back at JAG," he commented.

"You're not having second thoughts, are you?" she asked him.

"No," he replied immediately. "I'd do it again in a heartbeat."

"I wasn't referring to rescuing Colonel MacKenzie," she clarified.

Harm looked down at the pen in his hand for a moment before he responded, "Since my resignation and subsequent so-called rescue of Colonel MacKenzie are dependent upon each other, I don't think there's any other way to answer your question."

"So-called rescue?"

"I don't think crashing a plane into a jungle qualifies as a legitimate rescue."

"I'm sure there's a rule somewhere about not becoming a victim yourself, but I don't think that counts in this case. From what I hear, if you hadn't shown up when you did, Colonel MacKenzie might be in a room down the hall from Clayton Webb."

"How is Webb anyway?" Harm asked, glad for the change of subject.

"The transport back to Washington was pretty draining on him, but he's slowly regaining his strength," Catherine replied. "The report I heard yesterday was that he'd already scared off two of his nurses, so he must be feeling better."

"What about the infection? Have they pinpointed it yet?"

"No, but the antibiotics have apparently started working because his blood work is almost back to normal."

"That's good to hear."

Catherine watched him in silence for a minute before she spoke again. "Why do I get the feeling that you don't exactly like Clay?"

"I have no idea what you're talking about," Harm replied. "I don't dislike him."

"You would just prefer not having to be involved with him?" she prodded.

"No," he replied. "I would prefer that people who are important to me didn't have to be involved with him. I don't mind so much when it's me."

Catherine smiled then as understanding finally set in. "I think I get it now. And I'm not positive, but I think that as your wife, I should be jealous."

"And I think I should get back to my paperwork," Harm replied, briefly wondering why his relationship -- or lack thereof -- with Mac suddenly seemed to be the hottest topic of interest. First the Admiral, then Clay, and now Catherine. Everybody except the one person he wanted to be having this particular conversation with...Mac.

With a teasing smile still in place, Catherine got up and headed towards the door. "Don't worry, Harm. Your secret is safe with me. Have fun with the paperwork."

"Thanks," he replied. Once she was gone, Harm looked back down at the papers in front of him and sighed. He really wasn't having second thoughts about what he'd done, because finding Mac had been his priority. However, he had to admit that he really hated not being able to look out of his office and see her whenever he wanted to. Especially when his emotions were still in turmoil over almost losing her. Running a frustrated hand through his hair, he made a mental note to find an excuse to see her as soon as possible.

1100 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

Bud knocked on Mac's door and waited for her call of "Enter" before he walked into her office.

"The evidence in the Jakes investigation just arrived, Ma'am," Bud stated. "It's in the conference room."

"Thanks, Bud," Mac replied as she closed the file she was working on. "How do you feel about going over a few reports with me this afternoon?"

"Anything I can do to help, Ma'am," Bud replied.

"Good. I'm going to go take a look at what we've got as far as evidence goes and then we'll meet up after lunch to walk through the reports."

"Yes, Ma'am," he replied. Bud turned to leave, but stopped when he reached the door and hesitantly turned back to face her.

"Was there something else, Bud?" Mac asked.

"Well, Ma'am, I was just wondering..." his voice trailed off and he shook his head. "Never mind, Ma'am."

"What is it, Bud?" she prompted.

"Well, Ma'am," he began again. "I was just wondering how Commander Rabb is doing. We haven't seen him since before, well you know."

"Since before he quit," Mac supplied.

"Yes, Ma'am," Bud replied. "I don't know how he did it, just up and left everything like that. Of course, I suppose if it had been Harriet missing, I would have done the same thing, it's just weird...him not being around and..." his voice trailed off again when he saw the look on Mac's face and realized exactly what he'd implied about the Commander's feelings concerning her.

"And?" Mac said.

"And I should probably get back to work, Ma'am," he replied.

Mac smiled then, catching Bud off guard. "It's okay, Bud. You're not the only one who realizes how strange it is for him not to be here."

"Yes, Ma'am."

"And the last time I talked to him, he was doing fine. In fact, I believe he's starting his new job today."

"No offense, Ma'am, but I have a hard time picturing the Commander as a spook."

"I'm with you there, Bud. However, you know Harm...once he decides to do something, he throws himself completely into it."

Bud thought back to the "wedding" he'd recently performed and smiled slightly. "That he does, Ma'am. I know he wasn't going to let anything stand his way when it came to finding you."

Mac raised her eyebrows slightly at that comment and decided to pump him for a little information. "Is that how he ended up so chummy with Catherine Gayle?"

"Excuse me, Ma'am?" Bud replied, playing innocent. 'Oh god,' he thought. 'Commander Rabb ordered me not to talk about anything related to Catherine Gayle and Colonel MacKenzie is going to know that I'm hiding something from her.'

"I saw them talking while we were at the hospital waiting to see Webb," Mac continued. "I assumed she was somehow involved in getting him the information on our whereabouts."

"I'm afraid you'll have to ask the Commander that one," Bud lied, praying his eyes wouldn't give him away. "I haven't seen him since he handed the Admiral his resignation."

Mac narrowed her eyes as she looked at him, trying to decide how much of what he was telling her was the truth. Before she could question him more, Harriet stuck her head in the doorway. "Excuse me, Ma'am."

"What is it, Harriet?" Mac asked.

"You have a call on line three, Ma'am."

"Thank you, Harriet."

"If that will be all for now, Ma'am?" Bud asked, hoping to use the diversion to escape from this particular line of questioning.

"Dismissed, Bud."

Bud quickly made his way out of her office and headed straight for his. Harriet followed him in and closed his door. "That was pretty close, Bud."

"Thank you for rescuing me," he replied as he walked over to his desk and sat down. "I know she knows I wasn't being completely honest."

"Relax, Bud. This is Commander Rabb's mess, not yours."

"I know," Bud replied. After taking a couple of deep, calming breaths, he met his wife's gaze. "Do you ever wonder about those two?"

"The Commander and the Colonel?" she asked. At his nod, she replied, "All the time. But you know the policy as well as I do, Bud. Don't ask, don't tell."

"And do your best to stay out of the line of fire?" he clarified.

Harriet laughed at that. "Probably a good idea," she agreed.

<< Insert your favorite McDonalds commercial here. Of course, the commercial should now have a disclaimer at the end of it stating that eating nothing but fast food is not healthy for a person. >>

1425 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

"According to the report, Corporal Robertson was found dead behind a row of tents that served as sleeping quarters," Bud said as he looked up from the file he was reading. "The murder weapon was never found."

"How detailed was the search for it?" Mac asked as she looked up from her own file.

"According to the report, they checked every person in the unit. All standard issue knives were present and accounted for except Corporal Robertson's."

"Killed with his own weapon?" Mac asked. "So where did the killer stash the knife?"

"Do you really think this is somehow related to Corporal Jakes' bombing incident, Ma'am?"

"I haven't ruled it out yet, Bud. Something about it just doesn't feel right."

Bud nodded in understanding. "Do you think it's possible that Jakes saw the murderer and that's why he started launching grenades?"

"I considered that, since all the reports indicate Jakes and Robertson were bunkmates and pretty good friends. However, I have two problems with that theory. First off, why wouldn't Jakes have just told someone about the murder? He's still maintaining that he knows nothing about it."

"If the murderer was someone from his unit, he might be afraid to talk," Bud suggested. "It's possible that he thinks nobody will believe him. Especially if it comes down to a matter of his word against the murderer's."

"Maybe," Mac conceded. "But that brings me to my second problem. Why throw a grenade into the weapons tent? If he was merely trying to get someone's attention, why not throw it outside of the campsite?"

Bud thought about that for a minute before he replied, "How sure are we that Jakes is the grenade tosser?"

"His fingerprints were found on the grenade pin, Bud. Add to that the fact that three different marines saw him running from the place the grenade pin in question was found and the Corporal's own admission that he didn't intend for anyone to get hurt and it's a pretty solid case for the prosecution."

"What about the other two pins, Ma'am? Didn't the report say there were three different explosions?"

"They never found the other two pins," Mac replied.

"So where does that leave us?" Bud asked.

"In need of a coffee break," Mac replied.

1600 EST

CIA Headquarters

Langley, Virginia

"Are you Rabb?" a man asked as he walked into Harm's office.

"Yeah," Harm replied as he looked up.

"Brad Tomkins," the man said as he held out his hand.

Harm returned the man's handshake. "I hear I'm supposed to be teaming up with you."

"Yeah," Brad replied as he sat down across from him. "I thought I'd give you a brief rundown of what we're doing before you took off today."

Harm sat aside what he'd been working on and leaned back in his chair. "Fire away."

"We're going in on an intel gathering mission tomorrow. You'll be going undercover as a new employee at a place called Innovated Technologies."

"The software design company?" Harm clarified.

"You're familiar with them?" Brad asked.

"Not really," Harm replied. "I just heard they were one of the largest companies in the state when it came to video games."

"Well, we have reason to believe that the company's CEO isn't just dealing with video game software, so we're going in to snoop around a bit."

"What exactly am I looking for?" Harm asked.

"Financial records," Brad replied. "But we'll go over all that tomorrow morning. Meet me here at 7, and wear jeans. You're going in as a mail courier."

Harm nodded his agreement. "See you then."

1625 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

Bud knocked on Mac's open office door and stuck his head inside. "Ma'am, I just got off the phone with the Navy Yard Brig. They will have Corporal Jakes in the interview room at 0800 tomorrow morning."

"Thanks, Bud," Mac replied. "I don't suppose you were able to come up with anything else from those files."

"No, Ma'am," he replied. "I have requested the service records for both Jakes and Robertson though, and they should be here by the end of day."

"Good, when they get here, look through them and see if there's any connection between these two before being assigned to the same unit heading into Iraq."

"Yes, Ma'am," Bud said. "Is there anything else you need me to do?"

"I think that's all for now, Bud."

"Yes, Ma'am," Bud replied before exiting her office.

Mac looked down at the file on her desk and absent-mindedly started tapping her pencil against it. Something about this case didn't feel right and she couldn't seem to put her finger on it. Hopefully, her interview with Corporal Jakes would shed some light on things. If not, she was afraid her best defense for the corporal was going to be to plead guilty and beg for mercy.

1730 EST

Mac's Apartment

As soon as Mac turned onto her street, she noticed Harm's SUV parked outside her building. It wasn't until she actually pulled into her parking spot that she realized he was casually leaning on the front bumper, apparently waiting for her.

"How was your first day as a spook?" she asked as she got out of her car.

He smiled as he watched her gather her briefcase and cover. "If I'd had to organize your office, I think I would have handled less paperwork than I did today."

"That much fun, huh?" she teased as she walked around her car.

"Loads of it," he replied as he straightened up. "How about you? How was your first day back?"

"It was good to be back," she replied. "It was a little weird seeing your office empty again, though."

"If you think that's bad, you should try being the new guy at the CIA," Harm replied with a laugh.

"You're not stirring up trouble already, are you?"

Harm placed his hand over his heart with a dramatic sigh. "You wound me, Mac. I'm not always the one stirring up trouble."

"True," she agreed. "Just most of the time."

"Hey, I was just doing my part to make sure you had something to keep you busy."

"Believe me, there were days when keeping you out of trouble was a full time job," she replied.

"Well, since I've been on my best behavior for most of the week, how about we go grab something to eat."

"Sure," Mac agreed. "As long as I can go change first."

Harm nodded his agreement. "I'll wait."

"Good," she replied. "I'll be back in ten."

"Make it five," he called to her retreating form. "I'm hungry."

In response, she merely smiled over her shoulder at him before disappearing into her building.

<< Definitely an M & M's commercial this time. My personal favorite is the one where the guy is talking through the movie and annoying everyone around him, including his date. Then out of nowhere, the m & m soars through the air and knocks him out cold. >>

0700 EST

CIA Headquarters

Langley, Virginia

Harm parked his SUV and strolled into the building with a smile on his face. Dinner with Mac the night before had been wonderful. They'd spent the evening laughing and talking and basically just enjoying each other's company. It had almost felt like their relationship was back to the place it had been before he'd left JAG the first time, and for the first time in a long time, he felt like things were on the right track.

"That grin reminds me somewhat of the cat who ate the canary," Brad Tomkins said as Harm walked down the hall.

"Just enjoying a beautiful morning," Harm replied.

"What's her name?" Brad asked.

"Sorry, but that's on a need to know basis," Harm stated.

Brad smiled at that. "I see you're settling in just fine. Why don't you join me in my office and I'll explain what we're doing."

Harm followed Brad into his office and settled himself in one of the empty chairs across from his desk. Brad closed the door and then moved around behind his desk and pulled a file out of a drawer. He opened it and handed a stack of pictures to Harm.

"The man in the first photo is Tom Isley. He's the CEO of Innovated Technologies, and the man we believe is involved in something more than computer software."

"He can't be more than twenty-five," Harm stated.

"Close," Brad agreed. "He's actually twenty-seven. He started Innovated Technologies five years ago as part of a class project at Georgetown. As you can see, it's taken on a life of its own."

"So what do we think he's involved in?" Harm asked as he looked up from the picture.

"We're not entirely sure, but we think he's using his company as a front for selling technology."

"Why?" Harm asked.

"Why does anyone decide to sell secrets, Harm?" Brad replied.

"I meant why do we suspect him?" Harm clarified.

"Apparently, Tom's accountant contacted us with a problem on the books. There was a lot of money he couldn't explain and Tom didn't seem to want to discuss it."

"Who is the accountant?" Harm asked.

Brad chuckled at that. "Isaac Crockett, but you have to stop thinking like a lawyer for a minute. None of that really matters for what we're doing. All I want you to do today is go to work, carry Tom Isley's mail to his office, give it to his secretary and then wait until she's distracted and sneak into his office."

"Won't he be in his office?" Harm asked.

"No, he's at a meeting with a couple of our agents under the pretense of a possible merger with our small software company."

"What do I do once I'm in?" Harm asked.

"Investigate," Brad replied, handing him a sheet of paper. "These are the passwords for his computer. Pull up his financial records and see what jumps out at you."

"And then?"

"Then call me," Brad replied. "My cell number is on the bottom of the paper."

0800 EST

Naval Yard Brig

Mac walked into the interview room and Corporal Jakes immediately jumped to attention. "At ease, Corporal," she said. "Have a seat. I'm Lieutenant Colonel Sarah MacKenzie and I've been assigned as your defense counsel."

"Corporal David Jakes, Ma'am," he replied.

"Why don't you tell me what happened the night of the bombing," Mac said as she sat down across from him.

"I don't really recall, Ma'am," Jakes replied. "One minute I'm in my tent asleep and the next there's an explosion. I ran outside to see what was going on, and then I found myself in handcuffs, under arrest."

"Then would you care to explain the statement you made?" Mac asked. "The one where you said, 'I never meant for anyone to get hurt'."

"I don't recall making any such statement, Ma'am," Jakes replied.

Mac took a deep breath and shook her head. "Are you aware that your fingerprints were found on a grenade pin?"

"We were in a war zone, Ma'am. Anyone could have planted that pin."

"Why would they?" Mac asked, trying not to let her frustration show.

"With all due respect, Ma'am," Jakes replied. "Isn't that your job to find out?"

Mac narrowed her eyes and leaned across the table. "Let me explain something to you, Corporal. You are looking at a court martial and up to twenty-five years in Leavenworth. The case against you isn't based on circumstantial evidence. You were seen running from the sight where a grenade pin with your fingerprints on it was found. Your bunkmate was found murdered just a few yards away from where the incident took place, and you gave a statement that you didn't intend for anyone to get hurt. Now, if you have reason to believe you're being set-up, I suggest you start talking. Otherwise, you might want to start praying that the prosecution offers you a good deal."

With that, Mac got up and left the interview room, leaving Corporal Jakes alone in the room to think about his future.

1025 EST

Innovated Technologies

Office of Tom Isley

Harm booted up the computer and entered the password he'd been given. For some reason, he hadn't really expected it to be this easy to get into the CEO's office. Perhaps he'd spent too much time working on Webb's missions to expect things to actually go according to plan.

Once the system was running, he opened the file marked "Financials" and began browsing through it. Although Harm wasn't entirely sure what he was looking for, Brad seemed confident that he would know when he saw it.

"Wait a second," Harm muttered to himself. "What is that?" Clicking on a file to open it, he quickly scanned the information. "Looks like you were right, Brad," he said. "I guess I will know it when I see it."

Pulling a disc out of his pocket, he quickly downloaded the file and shut the computer down. He made sure everything was exactly as he found it and then he pulled out his cell phone.

"Tomkins," the voice on the other end stated.

"I think I've got it," Harm replied.

"Meet me out front in ten minutes," Brad replied.

Harm closed his phone and checked the hall to make sure the coast was clear before sneaking out of the office and down the stairwell.

1200 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

Sturgis knocked on Mac's door. "Do you have a minute?"

Mac nodded and motioned in the direction of a chair. "Have a seat if you can find one."

Sturgis carefully moved a stack of folders off the chair and balanced them on the corner of her desk before sitting down. "I came to offer you a deal in the Jakes case."

"I'm listening," Mac replied, knowing full well that if this case went to trial, they didn't stand a chance.

"Dishonorable discharge and fifteen years confinement," Sturgis said.

"Fifteen years is a little harsh, isn't it?" Mac asked. "After all, there were only minor injuries."

"He attacked his own unit, Mac," Sturgis argued. "If this goes to trial, he could be looking at treason."

Mac thought it over for a moment and then looked back up at Sturgis. "I'll take it to him, but I doubt if he'll deal. He's not the most cooperative defendant I've ever had."

"The offer's only good until 1700 tomorrow. After that, we go to trial."

"Understood," Mac replied as he stood to leave. Before he made it out of her office, Mac stopped him, "Sturgis?"

"Yeah?"

"I don't suppose you've talked to Harm today?"

Sturgis shook his head. "No, why?"

"No reason," she replied. "I'll get back to you on the deal."

Mac watched as Sturgis made his way across the bullpen before looking back at the case report on her desk. Bud had been unable to find anything that linked Jakes and Robertson together before being assigned to the same unit, and she was beginning to think perhaps Robertson's murder was truly just a coincidence. Something was still bothering her, though, and she couldn't put her finger on it.

<< Coming soon to DVD, the second season of "Hot Guy Nick" surrounded by supporting cast...uh, probably more commonly known as CSI. >>

1500 EST

CIA Headquarters

Langley, Virginia

Harm sat in his new office and stared at the computer in front of him. He and Brad had found enough information on the disc he'd downloaded to get a warrant for Isley's arrest. However, something about the whole situation was bugging him. He tried to mark it up to the fact that he'd spent so much time as a lawyer looking for loopholes that it was a hard pattern to break, but he couldn't quite convince himself of that.

So while Brad was down in the interrogation room questioning Tom Isley, he was sitting in his office going over the information again. The only truly suspicious findings in the amount of money paid to the company over the years all appeared to come from the same source...a company by the name of Midnight Miracles. While it seemed a bit odd they were being charged more for the same software designs, it didn't appear as if Isley was going out of his way to hide the transactions. For Harm, it didn't make sense that a man who had built such a large company wouldn't hide his tracks better if he was participating in illegal activities.

Feeling frustrated by what he was looking at, Harm decided to call Bud and see what he knew about the companies.

Same Time

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

Bud finished setting Corporal Robertson's personal belongings on the conference room table and placed the box on the floor. He was supposed to be looking for a connection between Robertson and Jakes that could have provided a motive for murder. He wasn't entirely sure where Mac had concocted her latest theory, but he knew better than to ask. In fact, he knew better than to even remind her they were supposed to be defending Jakes, not trying to prove him guilty. And they definitely weren't supposed to be trying to pin a murder on him.

With a sigh, Bud began sorting through the items one by one. He had just picked up what appeared to be some sort of lock box when Coates opened the door. "Lieutenant Roberts, you have a call on line one."

"Thanks, Jen," Bud replied as he moved over to the phone.

"Lieutenant Roberts," Bud said.

"Bud, how are you?"

"Commander Rabb! It's good to hear from you, Sir."

"Bud, I'm not in the Navy anymore. I think it would be okay for you to drop the 'sir' and just call me Harm."

"Yes, Sir," Bud agreed, pulling out a chair to sit in.

Harm couldn't help but to laugh. "Are you busy right now?"

"A little," Bud admitted. "But I'm sure Colonel MacKenzie wouldn't mind if I took a minute to talk to you."

"I was wondering what you could tell me about a company called Innovated Technologies," Harm asked.

"One of, if not the largest software companies in the area. Owned and operated by Tom Isley, who is the youngest CEO of a Fortune 500 company."

"Are you familiar with any of their software?" Harm asked.

"Anyone who plays video games is familiar with their software, Sir," Bud replied. "They have a hand in just about everything."

"What can you tell me that I couldn't read about in the Wall Street Journal?"

"Well, Sir, there was talk on the internet a couple of weeks ago about a possible merger. Apparently, an inside source at Innovated Technologies let it leak."

"Was it just talk?"

"Apparently," Bud replied. "Either that or once the public got wind of it, the deal was called off."

"Is that common practice?" Harm asked.

"Occasionally. After all, if word got out about a possible merger between two software companies, it could wreak havoc on the stock market."

Harm was silent for a minute before he spoke again. "Thanks, Bud."

"You're welcome, Sir. But I'm not sure what for."

"It's a long story, Bud. So how are things going there?"

"Busy, Sir," Bud replied as he pivoted in his chair to put the box back on the table.

"I can imagine."

A large crash sounded in the room, causing Bud to jump to his feet. The box he'd been holding hadn't quite made it completely onto the table and it was now lying broken on his feet. Seeing the items that were spilling out of it, he swallowed hard. "I'm sorry, Sir, I'm going to have to go."

"Is everything okay?" Harm asked.

"I'm not sure, Sir," Bud replied before quickly disconnecting the phone. Hitting the intercom button, he called into Mac's office. "Colonel MacKenzie?"

"What is it, Bud?" came her reply.

"Ma'am, I think you and Commander Turner should join me in the conference room. It's rather important."

"We'll be right there, Bud."

Bud placed the receiver back on its cradle and looked back to the floor where a blood stained knife was clearly visible now.

Same Time

CIA Headquarters

Langley, Virginia

Harm logged onto the internet and began a search on Innovated Technologies and Midnight Miracles. It didn't take long for him to link the two companies together, but it did confirm his suspicions that there was more to this case than met the eye. Deciding to follow his gut instinct, he logged off his computer and made his way to Brad's office. Finding it unlocked, he let himself in and walked over to his desk. Not quite sure what he was looking for, he began searching through desk drawers. When he found a file marked 'Innovated Technologies', he pulled it out and began to read.

Harm shook his head as he read the file. No wonder it had been so easy to get in and out of Innovated Technologies that morning. The entire thing was a set-up. Isaac Crockett was trying to help orchestrate a takeover of Innovated Technologies and from what he could tell, Brad was helping set Isley up in order to make the takeover possible. In exchange, Crockett had sold Innovated Technologies stock to Brad, which would be worth a small fortune once the takeover, took place.

Tucking the file inside his shirt, Harm quietly opened the door. After making sure the hall was empty, he stepped out of the office and headed for Catherine's office.

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1545 EST

CIA Headquarters

Langley, Virginia

"Let me get this straight," Catherine said as she paced around her office. "You broke into Brad Tomkins' office, went through his desk, and stole a file."

Harm looked down at where his hands were crossed in his lap. "Look, I didn't say I was proud of what I did. I'm telling you what I found. Brad is in this up to his ears."

"Harm, that's not the point," she said. "Just because you work for the CIA doesn't mean you can break into someone's office and search his or her desk whenever the mood strikes you."

"I was following a hunch," he argued.

"Then follow your hunch through proper channels," she argued back.

Harm took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. "Look, you're right, I was wrong in how I went about this. But I wasn't thinking about that, I was just going after the truth."

"At what cost?" she asked as she stopped in front of him.

"At all cost," he replied.

In spite of her anger at the situation, Catherine had to smile. "There is just no middle ground with you, is there?"

"What do you mean?" he asked.

"I mean it's all or nothing...all the time."

"Usually," he replied.

Catherine shook her head. "So tell me what you found out."

"Robert Johnson owns the company that was supposedly buying technology. I did a little research on Mr. Johnson and when I discovered that he once worked for the Defense Department, I decided to dig a little deeper. What I found was that he was once engaged to a woman named Sylvia Harrison. I couldn't find details as to why it happened, but their breakup made the society page. As did Ms. Harrison's marriage to Shawn Isley and the birth their son, Tom."

"Let me guess, Tom is really Robert Johnson's son."

"I haven't found anything to back that up, but it would make sense, wouldn't it?" Harm stated. "I mean, Midnight Miracles put up five thousand dollars when Tom Isley first presented his idea while he was in college. Since then, Midnight Miracles has been making investments in the form of purchasing software every year. At quite a substantial increase over market value, I might add. It looks to me like a father trying to atone for missing out on his son's life."

"Okay," Catherine said with a soft sigh. "I'll take it to Kershaw."

"Thanks," Harm said as he stood up.

"What are you going to do now?"

"I think I'm going to go have a beer and think about a few things," Harm replied. "I'm not sure I like not being able to trust the people I work with. It's a strange feeling."

2000 EST

Webb's Hospital Room

Webb smiled as Mac entered the room and walked over to his beside. "Sarah, it's good to see you."

"I'm sorry it took me so long to get by here," she said as she pulled a chair over. "It's been a busy week."

"I heard you drew the Jakes case," he replied. "How's it going?"

"Strangely enough, Corporal Jakes decided to plead guilty and accept whatever confinement was handed down in exchange for Sturgis taking the death penalty out of play," Mac replied.

"The death penalty?" Webb asked. "I thought all of the injuries were minor."

"From the bombing, yes," Mac agreed. "However, when Bud was going through Corporal Robertson's personal belongings today, he dropped what appeared to be a lock box. When it broke open, tucked inside were two grenade pins and one bloody knife, all bearing Corporal Jakes fingerprints."

"He killed his bunkmate?" Webb asked.

"Yes," Mac replied. "Would you care to guess his motive?"

Webb met her troubled gaze and raised an eyebrow. "A woman?"

"You guessed it," Mac replied. "It's a long, sordid story, but what it came down to was that Jakes thought he owed it to this woman to repay Robertson for his unfaithfulness."

"And the grenades?" Webb asked.

"A diversion," Mac replied. "And it probably would have worked if Bud hadn't knocked that box off the table."

Webb chuckled slightly at that. "You and Rabb have the most incredible luck sometimes."

"Why do you say that?"

"I guess he cracked open a case today, too," Webb replied. "I spoke to Deputy Director Kershaw earlier and he was singing Harm's praise."

"Speaking of Harm, you haven't talked to him by any chance, have you?" Mac asked casually.

"Not since you two left the Embassy," Webb replied. "Why?"

"I've been trying to get in touch with him and he isn't home and he isn't answering his cell phone," she replied.

"And you're worried about him," Webb surmised.

"Not really worried," Mac replied. "Just a little concerned is all."

"I'm sure he's fine."

"How about you?" Mac asked. "When are you getting out of here?"

"The doctor says another twenty-four hours and I'm a free man," Webb replied.

"I'm glad to hear that," Mac replied. "I really hate hospitals."

"You and me both," Webb agreed.

2220 EST

Mac's Apartment

Georgetown

Mac listened to the ringing on the other end of the phone and gave a frustrated sigh. "Where are you, Harm?" she muttered. Not bothering to leave another message, she hung up the phone. After making sure the door was locked, she turned off the lights and headed for her bedroom. A nice, long soak in the tub and then she was going to call it a night. She would have to catch up with Harm tomorrow, because tonight, she was exhausted.

0135 EST

Mac's Apartment

Georgetown

Mac sat up in her bed, instinctively reaching for her service weapon as her heart raced. Trying to get her bearings, she held her breath as she listened for what had interrupted the first peaceful sleep she'd had in weeks. The loud banging continued and she hurried from her bedroom to the apartment door, clicking the safety off as she went. Checking the peephole, she let out a silent curse and hurried to unlock the door.

A very rumpled Harm stood on the other side of her door, his fist poised to knock again. "Get in here before you wake the neighbors," Mac hissed, practically dragging him inside the door.

"I'm sorry, Mac," he began. "I needed to talk to you."

"Did you forget how to use the phone?" she asked, her irritation apparent as the adrenaline slowly began to fade.

He heard the click of the safety and turned to face her, only then realizing that she had her gun in her hand. "I wasn't thinking, Mac. I'm sorry I scared you."

She let out an exasperated sigh and shook her head. "It's okay, Harm. It's not like it's the first time you've scared me."

Hoping to diffuse her anger completely, he smiled and said, "It's not even the first time you've pulled a gun on me."

She smiled in spite of herself and pointed to the couch. "Make yourself comfortable. I'm going to go put this away and grab my robe."

He wagged his eyebrows suggestively and replied, "You don't have to cover up on my account."

"Have you been drinking?" she asked as she headed to her bedroom.

"One beer," he called as he settled on the couch. "But that was about four hours ago."

Mac returned her gun to the drawer in her night table and reached for her robe. She was glad she'd opted for boxers and a t-shirt instead of the silk nightgown when she'd gotten ready for bed. Of course, with the way Harm had been acting all week, she wasn't sure he wouldn't have appreciated the silk nightgown more. Forcing those thoughts from her mind, she made her way back to the living room, turning on the small lamp before settling beside Harm on the couch.

"Okay, Harm, talk."

Harm turned sideways on the couch and reached for her hand before he began. "First off, I really am sorry for waking you. I wasn't thinking clearly and when I decided I wanted to talk to you, I didn't even consider the time. Or the fact that you've had a long week and still have to get up and go to work in the morning."

Mac squeezed his hand and smiled softly. "Apology accepted, Harm. Now, what's on your mind?"

"I can't do this, Mac."

"Can't do what exactly?"

"This whole spy thing," he replied as he stood up and started pacing. "I'm just not cut out for it."

"What makes you say that?" she asked. "From what I've heard, Deputy Director Kershaw has nothing but good things to say about you."

"It's a little complicated to explain."

"Try."

He took a deep breath and stopped pacing, his shoulders slumped ever so slightly as he leaned a hand on her mantle and stared into the darkness of her fireplace. "My first assignment was supposed to be an easy intel gathering mission. You know, kind of get my feet wet, learn how things are done, something simple."

"Right. So what happened?"

Harm let out a sarcastic chuckle and turned to face her. "I started gathering intel."

"And what did you find?" she prompted.

"I found that the desire to find the truth is a little hard to ignore," he replied.

"Harm, your desire for truth at all costs is part of what makes you such a great lawyer," she replied. "It's your nature. Why would it surprise you to find that it's instinctual for you to chase the truth?"

"Because that wasn't the mission, Mac. The mission was to find dirt on the suspect, not the truth. We were looking for proof of involvement, regardless of how miniscule or innocent said involvement was. It wasn't about the truth."

Mac nodded as she finally realized what had driven him to her door in the middle of the night. Harm's sense of duty and his integrity had collided in mid-stride. She had no doubt which had won out, but she knew he needed to reach his own conclusion. "So what happened?"

"I'm not entirely sure, Mac. In my quest to find out what was really going on, I broke all the rules. Illegal search and seizure, breaking and entering, all of it. It's like I turned around and saw the line I just crossed and had no idea how to get back over it."

"Is that why you're here?" she asked.

"Do you think I've lost my mind?" he asked as he slowly made his way back to the couch.

"Do you?"

"You're not helping," he replied with a smile.

"Is that what you want?" she asked. "Do you want me to tell you that it's okay to ignore your own conscience and just do the job?"

"No," he replied firmly. "I didn't come here looking for justification for my actions."

"Why did you come then?" she asked again. "Do you want me to tell you that it's okay to change your mind?"

"No," he repeated. "I didn't come here for that either."

"Are you going to make me ask you again?" she teased.

He reached for her hand and squeezed it gently before his eyes met hers. There was nothing but seriousness on his face as he replied, "I needed to remind myself of what was important in life."

Her only response was a raised eyebrow and he smiled slightly as he got to his feet. "I should go so you can get back to bed."

She followed him to the door and was only slightly surprised when he stopped in the open doorway and turned back to face her. Her breath caught in her throat when he reached up to gently cup her cheek. "Thank you."

"For what?" she whispered, her eyes locked on his.

"For opening the door, for listening to me ramble, for keeping me grounded...for being you."

Before she could respond, he whispered, "Good night, Mac."

"Good night, Harm," she managed to get out before he turned and disappeared through the door. It took a moment before she thought to close the door behind him and it was with a smile firmly in place that she headed back to bed.

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0900 EST

JAG Headquarters

Falls Church, Virginia

Mac rolled her neck in an effort to relax her muscles as she made her way to the break area. Offering Harriet a brief smile, she silently got out a mug and poured herself a cup of coffee.

"Rough night, Ma'am?" Harriet asked.

Mac turned around and leaned against the counter with a sigh. "It's been a rough couple of weeks, Harriet."

"A word of advice, Ma'am?" Harriet asked.

"Sure, Harriet."

"You might want to stay out of the Admiral's path this morning," Harriet offered.

Mac raised an inquisitive eyebrow. "That bad?"

"Let's just say that since Tiner left for OCS, things haven't run as efficiently as the Admiral likes them."

"I thought you were showing Petty Officer Coates how things are done," Mac replied.

"I am, Ma'am," Harriet assured her. "And Jen is a quick study. She just doesn't know all the little details yet, and for some reason, the Admiral has been a little on edge this week."

"Harriet, I think it's safe to say that we've all been a little on edge this week," Mac replied. "I know I have. Besides, I'm sure the Admiral just has a lot on his mind with his engagement and being short-handed and all."

Harriet tried to hide her smile as she casually asked, "So how is Commander Rabb doing anyway?"

Mac's thoughts drifted back to the tender kiss he'd given her before leaving her apartment in the middle of the night, and she had to force herself to keep from reacting to the memory. Instead, she merely shrugged and pushed herself away from the counter. "I'm afraid you're going to have to ask Harm that one, Harriet."

"You don't really expect me to believe that you haven't had any contact with him, do you?" Harriet asked. At Mac's stunned expression, she quickly added, "Ma'am."

Mac couldn't help but chuckle at the guilty look on Harriet's face. "What makes you so sure he's been in contact with me, Harriet?"

"With all due respect, Ma'am, the man gave up everything to bring you home," Harriet began.

"I don't recall asking him to do that," Mac replied, even though her thoughts once again betrayed her as a long ago conversation drifted back to her memory.

Harriet's voice quickly brought her back to the present. "Ma'am, I honestly don't think it would have mattered if you had specifically told him *not* to come after you, he still would have."

"Why do you think that is, Harriet?" Mac asked thoughtfully.

"I don't think it really matters what I think, Ma'am," Harriet replied softly. "I think it really only matters what you think."

"I suppose you're right, Harriet," Mac replied as she started out of the break area. "If I talk to him, I'll tell you asked about him."

"Thank you, Ma'am," Harriet replied.

Mac slowly made her way back to her office and had barely stepped inside when her phone rang. Pushing her door closed behind her, she walked around her desk and picked up the handset.

"Colonel MacKenzie."

"Good morning, Mac."

Mac couldn't help the smile that spread across her face as she settled into her chair. "Well, speak of the devil."

"Don't tell me you've been gossiping about me already this morning," Harm teased her.

"Don't flatter yourself," she replied coolly. "Harriet was just asking me how you were doing." After a brief pause, she added, "So how are you doing?"

"Much better, thank you. In fact, that's part of why I called. I was wondering if you'd like to meet me at my place for dinner tonight."

"Are you asking me out on a date?" she inquired.

"I was hoping we could call it that," he replied.

"How about we just call it dinner between friends?" she suggested.

"Really good friends," he amended.

"What time?"

"I have a meeting with Secretary Sheffield at 1630, so how about 1800?"

"Does that mean you've made a decision?" she asked.

"I actually made the decision several hours ago," Harm replied. "I just had to wait for someone to get in the office so I could make the appointment. Now I guess I go plead my case and hope for the best."

"I'll send you happy thoughts."

"I appreciate that. So, does 1800 work for you?"

"I'll be there."

"Good. See you then."

"Good luck, Harm."

"Thanks, Mac."

1030 EST

Deputy Director Kershaw's Office

Langley, Virginia

The Deputy Director looked up with a smile as his secretary escorted Harm into the room. "Harm, it's good to see you. I've been hearing some good things about you."

"Thank you, Sir," Harm replied.

"Please have a seat," Kershaw offered. He waited until Harm had settled into the chair before he continued, "What's on your mind?"

"The future, Sir," Harm replied.

"I'd say your future is looking pretty bright, Harm," Kershaw said. The smile on his face slowly faded as he noticed the expression on Harm's. "Why do I get the feeling that I'm not going to enjoy this discussion?"

Harm met his gaze across the large oak desk. "Sir, while I truly appreciate the opportunity you've given me, I simply cannot continue to work for you in this capacity."

Kershaw nodded slowly and leaned back in his chair with a sigh. "I see. Do you mind if I ask why?"

"With all due respect, Sir, it's simply not something I'm cut out for. My entire adult life has consisted of rules, chains of command, and the pursuit of truth. While I understand and support the job that goes on here, I'm not the man for it. I have spent too much of my life dealing with black and white to suddenly start living in the shades of gray."

Kershaw smiled as he shook his head. "So Webb was right about you?"

Harm's eyes narrowed at the mention of Webb's name. "In what way?"

"He told me that you were about as straight and by the book as they come and that you would have problems with certain...aspects of the job. After what you went through to find him and Colonel MacKenzie, I thought he might have been wrong about you."

"I think it's safe to mark my little trip to South America up under 'extenuating circumstances', Sir," Harm replied.

"I think I'm beginning to get the picture," Kershaw stated. "She must be some woman, your Colonel MacKenzie."

Harm couldn't help but smile at his choice of words. He had no doubt that Mac would have quickly put the man in his place for referring to her as "his." Instead of pointing that fact out to the Deputy Director, Harm nodded his agreement. "You have no idea, Sir."

"So what are your plans, Harm?"

"I guess that depends on how my meeting with the SECNAV goes later today," Harm replied.

"If there's anything I can do to help smooth things over, let me know," Kershaw offered.

"Thank you, Sir." Harm replied as he got to his feet.

"If you change your mind, you know where to find me," Kershaw stated as he stood and held out his hand.

Harm accepted the handshake with a curt nod. "I appreciate that, Sir."

"I wish you the best, Commander."

Harm straightened to his full height with a wry grin on his face. "That title doesn't belong to me right now, Sir, but thank you anyway." With that, he turned and walked out his office, feeling as if a great burden had suddenly been lifted from his shoulders.

1630 EST

Office of The Secretary of The Navy

"Mr. Rabb, Secretary Sheffield will see you now."

Harm smiled at the young lady who stood to escort him into the office. "Thank you," he said softly before she turned and left, closing the door behind her. He immediately snapped to attention, in spite of the fact that he was wearing civilian attire and no longer in the Navy.

Secretary Sheffield smiled as he motioned to an empty chair. "Some habits are hard to break, aren't they? Please have a seat, Mr. Rabb."

"Thank you, Sir," Harm replied, moving to the indicated chair.

"I don't suppose you requested this meeting because you're rethinking your resignation," Sheffield said as he stood up and walked around his desk.

"Actually, Sir, that is exactly why I requested this meeting," Harm replied.

"I see," Sheffield replied, reaching behind him to pick up a thick folder. "You know, when your paperwork crossed my desk, I immediately thought there must have been a mistake. However, Admiral Chegwidden assured me there was no mistake. If that was the case, then perhaps you would care to enlighten me as to why we're having this conversation today."

"Yes, Sir," Harm replied. Taking a deep breath, he launched into his story. "Sir, the morning Admiral Chegwidden informed me of Colonel MacKenzie's disappearance, he also informed me that I would not be allowed to go TDY to search for her. When I requested emergency leave, it was also denied. Since my only other options were to either go UA or resign my commission, I took what I thought was the most prudent course of action."

"And now you regret that decision?" Sheffield prompted.

"No, Sir," Harm replied.

"Excuse me?"

"I don't regret choosing to go find Colonel MacKenzie," Harm clarified. "If I hadn't gotten there when I did, she would undoubtedly be dead now. As much as I love the Navy and would willingly give my life for my country, I couldn't sit by idly and do nothing when there was a chance I could save her."

Secretary Sheffield was silent as he looked through the folder he held. "You have quite an impressive service record, Mr. Rabb."

"Thank you, Sir," Harm replied. "But as you can see, it isn't spotless."

"No, it isn't," Sheffield agreed as he closed the folder and placed it back on his desk. "I understand you've been working for the CIA since your return from South America."

"Yes, Sir."

"So why would you want to throw that away to return to the Navy?"

"Let's just say that I like knowing where my boundaries are, Sir. Even if I do occasionally try to blur those lines, I like knowing they're there," Harm replied.

"Like when you and Colonel MacKenzie both stayed with Lieutenant Roberts after his mishap?"

"Yes, Sir."

Sheffield smiled slightly at that before he continued, "Mr. Rabb, if I reinstate you into the Navy, what guarantee do I have that you won't resign again the next time something doesn't go your way?"

"None, Sir," Harm replied.

"And if one of your co-workers is missing or injured again?" Sheffield prompted.

"The only guarantee I can give you is that I will do whatever is within my power to find and protect them, Sir," Harm answered.

"I appreciate your honesty, Mr. Rabb." Sheffield said as he straightened up and walked back around his desk. "The truth is that I half expected you to come in here and spout off words you thought I wanted to hear in order to get what you wanted. I'm glad that's not the case."

"No, Sir," Harm replied. "I place too much value on the truth to try to use it for my own agenda."

"I'm glad to hear that," Sheffield replied. He sat down in his chair and reached for Harm's service record again. Opening it, he pulled out the letter of resignation from the top. "The truth is that the Navy lost a damn fine officer when you resigned, Commander, and it would be a great dis-service for me to honor a resignation that was given in what was apparently a time of great personal distress. Your orders will be in Admiral Chegwidden's hands before the end of the day. You will report to JAG Headquarters at 0800 tomorrow morning."

"Thank you, Sir," Harm replied.

"Don't make me regret this decision, Commander," Secretary Sheffield stated.

"Yes, Sir."

"Dismissed."

Harm stood and came to attention with a crisp "Aye, Sir," before turning on his heel and exiting the office. It wasn't until he was in the elevator that he allowed the smile he was fighting to finally break through.

1810 EST

Harm's Apartment

Harm pulled into his parking spot and smiled when he saw Mac leaning on her car waiting for him. He turned off the ignition and got out, an apology already on his lips. "I'm sorry I'm late."

Mac merely shrugged as she waited for him to grab the bag of groceries out of the backseat. "How did it go with the SECNAV?"

"Surprisingly well," he replied as he closed the door and waited for her to proceed him into the building. "I figured he would at the very least make me beg, but he didn't. He told me the Navy had lost a fine officer when I resigned my commission and while he understood my reasons for doing so, he was glad I had reconsidered."

"What reasons did you give him?" Mac prompted as they reached the elevator. "The same line about hating having to break in new partners?"

Harm waited until the doors closed before he met her gaze. "Actually, I told him there was no way on earth I was going to leave you down there, even if it meant giving up my career in the Navy. Not when there was a chance you were still alive."

"Thank you for that,"she replied softly. "I hate to think what would have happened to us if you and Gunny hadn't gotten there when you did."

Their eyes locked in silent communication for a brief moment before Mac looked away with a nervous laugh. "So what are you making for dinner tonight?"

"It's a surprise," he replied as the elevator doors opened on his floor.

"You've been just full of those lately," she commented as they started down the hall towards his door.

Seeing a figure move out of the shadows, Harm stepped in front of Mac, using his body to shield her from the possible danger. "Harm, what are you..." Mac's question trailed off when she realized they weren't the only ones in the hallway.

"Catherine?" Harm asked as the figure stepped farther into the light.

"I'm sorry, Harm. I didn't mean to startle you," she replied.

"What are you doing here?" he asked.

"I need a favor," she replied.

Mac stepped from behind Harm, the movement jarring him into action. "Catherine, you remember Mac, don't you?"

Catherine held her hand out to Mac. "Colonel MacKenzie, it's good to see you again."

"Miss Gayle," Mac replied, taking the offered hand.

"Let me get the door," Harm suggested, while he tried to come up with a way to get rid of Catherine without making Mac too suspicious.

He quickly unlocked the door and waited until both Catherine and Mac had entered before he followed them in. As if sensing his uneasiness, Mac reached for the bag of groceries with a smile. "Harm, why don't I go put these in the kitchen and you and Catherine can talk."

Harm didn't miss the emphasis she put on Catherine's first name, and he knew he was going to have some serious explaining to do before the night was over. With a small sigh, he turned back to Catherine. "I'm sorry, Catherine. You said something about needing a favor?'

"Look, this is obviously a bad time. I should've called first."

"It's okay," he replied. "What do you need?"

"My mom has been asking about you," she said. "I told her that you were busy with a case, but she's not buying it anymore. I know I have no right to ask this of you, but you were such a good sport with the wedding that I thought you might stop in one night, just for a quick visit. She says she misses her son-in-law."

"Excuse me?" Mac said from behind Harm. "Did you just say son-in-law?"

Catherine gave Harm a questioning look and he turned around to look at Mac. Seeing the anger flare in her eyes, he turned back to Catherine with a mumbled, "Oh boy."

The End