Part 7

06:55

Monday, Christmas Day

25 December 2006

Mac’s House

San Diego, California

She came awake slowly and stretched languorously like a cat before the fire. As she arched her back away, a pair of firm strong arms pulled her determinedly back into the warmth of his side. She smiled in that twilight place that rests between wakeful consciousness and dream-induced slumber. She didn’t want to open her eyes, what if it all turned out to be just a fantasy? It was Christmas after all, sugarplums fairies and such.

Testing the reality of her senses, she opened her hand and lightly ran her fingertips up the soft t-shirt clad wall of chest that served as her pillow. Smiling at the reassurance of the tactile sensation, she mused that Santa must have been kind to her this year. After a decade of wishing, and bargaining, and pleading, he’d finally brought her a flyboy…and oh, what a magnificent specimen at that. She tilted her head back and cracked open an eye…the visual confirmation was even more satisfying. Oh yes, she must have been a very good girl this year.

Sliding a leg between his, she wrapped her arm over his chest and nuzzled her face more deeply into his neck. This was definitely as close to heaven as you could come on earth; she closed her eyes and allowed her mind to wander back over the events of the glorious eve.

“…to lose control…to live with abandon…to love to insanity,” she smiled in her daydreams; when her sailor finally decided to let go, he really let go. Next thing she knew, she was tightly folded into his arms’ embrace; it felt like coming home. She couldn’t remember when she’d ever felt so safe and secure. Her world seemed to right itself with that one simple act.

They had danced in the moonlight, accompanied by the orchestra of ocean waves and the music of the wind. Neither one wanted to break the magical spell of the holiday eve. She wouldn’t have been the least bit surprised to spy Santa and his reindeer circling overhead, beckoned by the glittering fairy dust sprinkled from the hand of a mischievous elf called Evie. For the first time ever, she believed in the magic of Christmas. Seems miracles didn’t just happen for children on this special night.

Molly sat watching from her perch on the deck, tilting her head from side-to-side, as though listening to the holiday greeting from the retreating St. Nick. She wasn’t quite sure whether to attack or bark for joy. Her master was surrounded by a tall handsome stranger, but she’d never sensed her more calm and serene. Sniffing once into the air, she howled with the wind, adding voice to the lovers’ symphony of sounds.

Harm’s lips grazed her temple in a contented grin, as arms drew her more securely into the circle of his embrace. She pulled back slightly to study the emotions on his face. Even in the dim light of the moon, she could see the mirth reflected in his eyes. Reaching up to run the back of her fingers over his cheek, she asked, “What’s so funny?”

He broke into a full flyboy grin, “Even Molly can feel the magic tonight.” Growing serious, he whispered, “I love you, Sarah MacKenzie,” then leaned in to lay a gentle kiss upon her waiting lips.

Breathless, she whispered back, “I love you too, my shining knight,” returning the caress to that inviting mouth.

After several more minutes, she shivered in the cool night air. He briskly rubbed his large hands up and down her back, “You’re freezing…let’s go back inside.”

She reached for his hand, tugging him up the beach toward the house. Molly trotted dutifully behind, collapsing with a satisfied sigh before the warm flames lapping in the fireplace. Guard duty accomplished, it was time to enjoy the people comforts of the night.

Harm laughed at the dog’s antics, “I’m surprised you got another four-legged friend. I figured after you gave up the last one to Chloe…you wouldn’t have wanted another?”

She took his dress coat and hung it in the closet, “I don’t know…I guess I just wanted some company. Besides I don’t have to travel quite as much now…you know, no investigations and the like.”

He nodded and placed his suit coat over a dining room chair. “I know what you mean…I don’t know what I would have done without Mattie. She was the only thing that kept me sane.”

She gestured toward the kitchen, “Would you like some coffee or tea?”

He tried valiantly to suppress a yawn, “Sure, coffee would be great. I’m back on London time…jet lag’s gonna be a bear.”

She frowned, “Maybe you should go home and get some rest?”

He threw her a sly grin and waggled his brows, “Not a chance, marine…besides, who’s going to protect you from Santa’s elves and all?”

She laughed, “I appreciate your concern for my safety, but don’t you think you’d be better off going home and getting a good night’s sleep?”

He sobered and stared into the fire, “I wouldn’t be able to sleep even if I was home. I seldom do.”

She walked over to him and placed a hand on his back, “I know what you mean…it’s been….” She shrugged her shoulders in weary resignation.

He pulled her into his arms, “Yes, it has…but I think things are looking up now.” He sighed in contentment at the contact and leaned over to rub his cheek against her hair.

The coffee maker emitted a loud gush signaling completion of its task. She pulled back to retrieve their beverage, and he followed on her heels, unwilling to be too far from her side. She arranged a plate with an assortment of holiday cookies and grabbed for the decorative Christmas mugs.

He reached for the carafe of the aromatic liquid and inhaled deeply, “This smells great…what kind is it?”

She handed him the mugs, “It’s a holiday blend I picked up…hazelnut praline I think?”

He placed the mugs on a large tray, and she added some plates, the cookies and napkins. He hefted the edible goodie laden tray into his hands and motioned for her to lead the way.

She started to sit in a chair in the dining room, but he continued on to the living room, sitting down on the floor before the fire. When she raised a brow in question, he shrugged with a smile…he’d be darned if he was going to let her sit that far away. He wanted to be able to touch her and hold her. She acquiesced and followed suit.

Molly raised her head and sighed at the commotion, people were such peculiar animals…she eyed the cookies, but decided it would require too much effort to move. Lying back down, she returned to her dream world of Santa Dog, squeak toys and gingerbread treats dancing around in her head.

Harm toed off his shoes and removed his tie. She handed him a cup of coffee and a plate of cookies. He took a bite of the decorated sweet and a large gulp of the flavorful brew. Closing his eyes in pleasure, he hummed a loud ‘mmmm’ at the enjoyable tastes. Mumbling with mouth still full, he asked, “You made theses?”

She nodded, “Yeah, I’ve been working on my cooking skills of late.” She smiled, “Evie’s given me some tips,” the smile grew larger, “…and recipes.”

His eyes shot open, “Not for the roasted vegetable salad? ‘Cuz she refuses to even talk to me about that recipe.”

She shook her head and laughed, “No, not your salad…she said she might leave it to US in her will, but not before. She did, however, give me a fabulous recipe for stuffed French toast for breakfast.”

“Breakfast, huh?” His eyes twinkled in delight.

She blushed, “I huh…I didn’t mean to imply,” she looked away.

He reached for her hand and squeezed, “I figure we have a lot to talk about, so breakfast will probably be in order.” He winked and grinned at her embarrassment. Taking another sip of coffee, he pointed to the trinkets on the floor, “What’s all this?”

She blushed again at the sight of her hope chest and secret treasures. “Oh nothing, I’ll just put this stuff away.” She scurried to rise from the floor and clear the mementos.

He reached out and tugged on her arm, pulling her off balance. She fell backwards, landing between his legs. Eyes huge, she blushed again. He laughed and pulled her into his arms, placing a kiss on the back of her neck, “That’s much better…you were too far away.”

She pointed at the trinkets, “But I just want to put those away.”

He reached past her and picked up the pen, “What’s this? I remember losing it after our first case…and I distinctly remember you telling me, you hadn’t seen it?”

She reached for the pen, but his reach was longer, “No, no…spill, marine.”

She crossed her arms and huffed, “I, ah…I just wanted a….”

He handed it back to her, “A memento of our first case together?” She nodded in response. He pulled her back against his chest and whispered in her ear, “It’s OK, I have a few mementos of my own that used to belong to you.”

She looked back puzzled, “Like what? I’m not missing anything that I know of.”

He smiled slyly, “That’s my secret.”

She sighed back, “But that’s not fair, you know mine.”

His smile grew with his sing-songy response, “It’s for me to know and you to find out.”

She leaned into his ear and whispered, “I have my ways.”

He kissed her nose, “I was counting on that,” he waggled his eyebrows, “…and looking forward to your powers of persuasion.” She ducked her face into his shoulder. He laughed in response, “Since when are you so shy?”

She shrugged, “Since I’m afraid….”

He hugged her tight, “Never again, Mac. I promise…you never have to be afraid again. I’ll always be here, no matter what.” She nodded in acceptance, and he tipped her face to his and kissed her lips. Pulling her back into his arms, he pointed to the trinkets again, “You don’t have to tell me right now, if you don’t want to…but someday, I’d like to know.”

Subconsciously she reached into the pocket of her jeans and withdrew the nickel. Rubbing her thumb over the smooth surface for support, she screwed up her courage and proceeded to tell him the meaning of the old cigar box and each of the treasures inside. He listened intently to each tale, fighting the urge once again, to throttle the miserable bastards that inflicted such pain on a vulnerable little girl. By the time she was finished, he had to add himself to the list of those individuals who had inflicted pain on his Sarah…and he vowed with everything in his power to avoid that hurt again.

When she was finally finished relating her memories, he pulled her to his chest and ran his hands down her arms. Bringing her left hand to his lips, he placed a kiss on the palm, but as he attempted to duplicate the action with her right, he found her hand fisted. Leaning his head over her shoulder, he took her right hand into his and gently pried open her fingers. Finding the nickel inside, he pointed with his index finger to the tarnished coin, “What’s this?”

She ran her thumb over the lucky five-piece, “It’s my nickel of fate,” she shrugged her shoulders, “…you, know three chances for a nickel.” When he creased his brow in question, she continued to explain, “When I was a little girl, my grandmother gave me the coin. We used to play a game…she gave three chances to accomplish any task.” She turned the coin over in her hand, “Grandma always made sure I got it right by the third chance…I never had to give up my nickel…until tonight.” She grew quiet as she closed her hand back into a fist.

He closed his hand around hers and held on, “What was different about tonight?” She looked away as tears appeared in her eyes. He placed a finger under her chin and pulled her face back to him, “Sweetheart, you can tell me. What was different about tonight?”

She swallowed hard, “I was going to throw it in the ocean,” she wiped away the first tear to fall, “…because I used up all my chances.”

He ran a finger down her cheek, “Tell me how, please?”

Her lip quivered, “One in Sydney…one at McMurphy’s,” she drew in a shuddering breath, “…and the last one tonight at your mother’s party.”

He drew her head to his shoulder and placed his lips upon her forehead, “They were the chances for an us?” She barely nodded her head. “The times you laid it all on the line to let me know how you felt?” She turned into his side and buried her face in his neck. He could feel the dampness of tears on his skin. He hugged her tightly, “I’m so sorry, Sarah.” He rocked her in his arms until her body stopped shaking with silent cries. When she’d visibly calmed, he pulled her away to look in her eyes, “But sweetheart, the thing is…you didn’t fail. You succeeded on your third try.”

She shook her head puzzled at his reply. He nodded affirmation, “You may have left the party tonight thinking you’d failed…but actually, we finally worked it out. At least, I think we did?” He gazed at her for assurance. She took his hand and smiled in return. He released a sigh of relief, “OK…and although, I’m on London time…I’m pretty sure you were in my arms before midnight?”

She smiled back, “I was.”

He leaned in to kiss her, “Soooo…since it was still the same night, you didn’t fail…you succeeded on your third chance.” He closed her fingers over the coin, “The nickel is still yours…you beat fate.”

She laughed at his machinations, “It’s a little convoluted, but I’ll take it. We need all the luck we can get.”

He chewed on his bottom lip, “Actually, we have more luck than that.” She wrinkled her brow and stared back. He raised an index finger to request patience and then reached into his back pocket, withdrawing his wallet. Opening the worn leather, he pulled out a small square of heavy cream paper. Setting the wallet aside, he placed the paper in her palm, “Open it.”

She turned the square over and noticed the folds, “What is it?”

He leaned over her shoulder to watch, “You’ll see…just open it.” She carefully unwrapped the old paper to reveal a dime. She placed the paper aside and held the coin up to light. He sighed, “It’s my dime of fate.”

She turned around to look at his face, “Your what?”

He shrugged, “Grandmas everywhere must think alike. My Grandma Sarah tried the nickel thing with me too. Problem was I rarely accomplished the goal with three chances.” She chuckled at his embarrassed rosy glow. He cleared his throat, “You called it right. You once told me I make simple things complicated. My Grams would probably agree with that assessment. I was always trying to find the faster…the better…the unique way to accomplish a task. I always took more tries…and a longer time…than conventional wisdom held. But,” he held up a finger, “…I will say, my ways were often times better in the end.”

She rolled her eyes and snickered back, “Uh huh, whatever you say.”

He grinned in response, “You know I’m usually right.” She rolled her eyes again. “Anyway, when I lost most every nickel, Grams decided to give me ten chance for a dime. You can be assured I never had to give away my dime.”

She rested her face in her hands and laughed, “Harm, I swear…if our kids end up like you….” She grew quiet and paled as soon as the words were out of her mouth.

He pulled her back close, “Hey now, don’t you give up on me. One way or another, I promise we’ll make that dream come true.”

“But….”

“Sarah, I promise.”

They sat quietly for several minutes just holding on tight to one another. Finally Harm pushed her away enough to see her face, “There’s one more thing I promise.”

She looked up nervously, “What?”

He held up a finger, “Just give me one minute to explain…and don’t say anything until I’m through.” She nodded back in response. “Okay,” he sighed and held her hands out in front of him and opened them supine, “…I need to explain my lost chances with you.”

She shook her head, “But you don’t have to.”

“Yes, I do…I want you to understand what I really meant all those times.” He touched the tip of his index finger to hers, “First, there was the deal to have a baby…I didn’t just want a back-up plan; I wanted it all…marriage, kids, home.”

He touched her next finger, “In Sydney, I didn’t say ‘no’…I said ‘not yet.’ I want to make it clear that I wanted you, but I thought I needed to work some things out in my life before I could fully commit.”

Touching the next finger, “At your engagement party, when I said you would always have someone who loves you…I meant me.”

Moving to the fourth finger, “When I followed you to the Guadal Canal and you asked if I would give up Renee…I said ‘yes,’ but you’d already left the room. Banking on a future note…you need to give me a moment to articulate the answer in my head, before I can say it out loud.”

He moved to her thumb, “During the Singer trial, I should have leveled with you about my suspicions with Loren and Sergei. I know, I hurt you by closing you out.”

He exhaled loudly as he moved to her other hand. Pointing to the first finger, he continued, “In Paraguay, looking back…I should have clearly stated my intentions. I expected you to interpret my actions, without all the facts, and while we were both under physical and emotional duress. You asked me why I did it…it was because I loved you…and I wouldn’t have survived if I didn’t do everything in my power to keep you alive.”

Pointing at the next finger, “That last night at McMurphy’s before our transfers…I need you to understand why I walked away.” He felt her shrink against him, but held tightly to her hand. “The reason I left was because I didn’t think you should have to give up the marines to take on Mattie and me. I needed to stay in the military, to ensure that Mattie got the appropriate medical care. I didn’t think I could guarantee that to Mattie if I gave up my insurance or the income associated with my career. I was afraid if I let you resign…you would ultimately resent me for the loss of your career…especially if we couldn’t have children. I’m sorry Mac, but I just couldn’t take everything away from you. I thought you’d be happier without me.”

She turned back to look in his eyes, “But you didn’t ask me what I wanted. You took away my right to choose…and guess what, I was prepared to choose you…all you had to do was give me the chance.”

He leaned his forehead against hers and closed his eyes, “I know that now…my Mom told me the same thing, but at the time…I just couldn’t ask you to make that sacrifice. I didn’t want you to have to give up anything for me.”

She cupped his cheek with her hand, “News flash sailor, that’s what love is all about. You want the best for the person you love, just like you resigning your commission to come rescue me. I didn’t want you to give up the Navy for me, but it was something you felt you had to do. I would have done…and still will…do the same for you. Love and family are more important than a career, than where we live, than how much money we have…than everything.” She leaned in to kiss his lips, “Got that?”

He kissed her back, “I do now, and I promise to discuss the big decisions together…from now on.” He turned her back around and opened her hand again and pointed to the third finger, “This Christmas…I should have asked questions before I made assumptions. I almost blew our last chance to get this thing right. I’m sorry for how I treated you and made you feel. I love you and I want to spend the rest of our lives showing you just how much.”

She leaned back against his chest, “I love you, too…and I plan to spend the rest of my life telling you…and showing you just how much.” She looked into his eyes, “And Harm, for each of those missed chances of yours, I played a part in most all of them as well. From now on, we need to be honest and upfront about what we mean…and I will try to give you the time you need to express yourself…if you’ll try to speak in more than 4 or 5 word sentences.”

He smiled back, “I promise to try…no more, ‘you know the reason’ or ‘I think you know why’.”

He reached out and placed both coins in her hand. Picking up the nickel, he wrapped the coin in the cream paper and placed in into his wallet, “Mac, I promise to try with all that is in me…to accomplish my tasks with a minimum of chances.” He turned her face to his, “I promise to never use up my three chances again. You keep the dime…and I’ll keep the nickel. From now on, the three chances of your nickel will always trump the ten chances of my dime in the fate of our life. No more 8 and 10 chances to get it right…we do it the first time.” He gave her a sly smile, “Or on a rare occasion the second or third.”

They spent several more hours openly and honestly discussing the misunderstanding of their past, before falling asleep together in the early hours of Christmas morn. She stretched again and opened her eyes wallowing in the pleasure of sleeping beside her sailor. They were both going to be sore, their bodies paying the price for sleeping on the floor. The fire was still burning warmly, thank goodness for gas logs, and the Christmas tree lights and ornaments sparkled in the dim light of the rising sun.

Molly popped open an eye looking for the first stirring of her master. At Mac’s quiet shush, the dog stretched long and returned to sleep.

Mac took the opportunity to study her flyboy in slumbered repose. Pulling away slightly, she raised her head and rested it onto her palm. She mused that she’d never had the uninhibited chance to look her fill at his beautiful face. She smiled as she extended a finger to trace the lines on his forehead. The last year and half had been rough on both of them. The lines of worry had deepened to frame his handsome face. Even in sleep, he didn’t completely relax. She traced his eyelids to his temple and into his hair. He had just the hint of gray beginning to peek through. She ran her finger up and through the cowlick that stood at attention and marveled at the softness of the short locks. Trailing the finger down to his ear, she ran the tip around the shell of the crocked wonder that had provided hours of entertainment in the quiet musing of her dreams. She leaned in to place a kiss on one of the rare peculiarities that kept her sailor from pure perfection. She leaned in further to touch her lips to the fullness of his. He responded in his sleep and leaned into the caress.

Pulling back away, she ran a hand down his chest and over his sides. He was thinner again, almost like when they first met. The nickname ‘stickboy’ echoed through her mind, clearly their separation had affected more than just sleep. She smiled in scheme; maybe…just maybe she could talk Evie into that recipe yet. Her sailor needed to replace a few pounds to his lean physique. Reaching for his hand, she placed a kiss upon each finger before interlocking their grasp and settling back onto his chest.

She felt the mass vibrate under her cheek as he inhaled deeply. She was startled from her morning activity by a light carefree voice, “When is it my turn to investigate the wonder that is you?”

She blushed at being caught, “I thought you were still asleep.”

He cracked open a eye, “So that gives you permission to have your way with me?”

Her face contorted in shock, “I wasn’t having….”

He laughed at her ardent defense, “My back is going to scream at me for this, but what a wonderful way to wake-up.” He pulled her more tightly into his arms, dragging her onto his chest; he kissed her soundly to quiet her arguments. Blinking both eyes in the morning light, he asked, “What time is it anyways.”

She looked into his eyes, perplexed, “I don’t know exactly.”

He raised a brow amused, “You don’t know what time it is?” She shook her head as she ducked her face into his neck. “Is this a permanent thing or a temporary annoyance?”

She mumbled into in his neck, “Temporary…it will wear off as soon as….”

He held her close and rolled them over, tucking her beneath his large frame. Peering down into her face, “As soon as what?”

She blushed, “As soon as you stop kissing me. You tend to throw of my internal clock.”

His smile grew in proportion to his ego at that declaration, “How long has this gone on?”

She frowned back, perturbed at revealing her weakness, “Since the first time you kissed me on the docks of Norfolk.”

He arched his head back and laughed aloud, “You never told me.”

She sighed in defeat, “Why would I tell you about your,” she rolled her eyes, “…extraordinary powers of persuasion?”

He leaned in and bumped her nose with his, “To even the score…you constantly keep me off kilter.”

She smiled back, “Oh yeah.” He leaned down to take her lips once more. Pulling back, his brow rose in challenge, “This could work to my advantage…I can make both of us late for work.”

Her mouth hung agape, “You wouldn’t.”

He grinned mischievously, “Oh but I would…think of the possibilities.” He pulled back slightly and ran his fingers through her hair, brushing it away from her face. “You cut your hair?”

“Yeah, it took too much time to fix it when it was long. Plus it’s warmer here, the shorter cut is cooler.” She tipped her head to the side, “Why? Did you like it better long?”

He ran his fingers through the soft shiny strands, “Nope, this is actually my favorite haircut on you. You wore it like this when we were in Afghanistan, right?”

Her eyes widened in shock, “You noticed how I wore my hair back then?”

He shook his head at the absurdity of the question, “Mac, I noticed everything about you back then. I was quite serious…you were never my sister,” he leaned in for a quick peck to her lips, “…and I always thought of you as a desirable woman.”

She reached up to caress his cheek, “So you like the shorter hair? I thought guys liked long hair on a woman?”

He studied her face with an expression of appreciation, “Nope, I always liked it short…like this, off your face. I want to see all of your beautiful features. Besides,” he leered back,”…it exposes one of my favorite places.” She raised a brow in question, he laughed and dove in to nuzzle and kiss her neck below her ear.

She giggled and scrunched up her shoulders. He bested her maneuver and moved in to feast some more. She sighed in contentment and ran her fingers through his hair, holding his head in place. Oh yes, Santa truly granted her every wish this year, she snickered once more at the thought.

He pulled back, rolling them onto their sides, “What’s so funny?”

She reached up to run the back of her fingers over his cheek, “Nothing really, I was just thinking that Santa was very good to me this year.”

His eyes grew wide, “Today’s Christmas…I have strict instruction to bring you home for the festivities!”

She laughed at his expression, “And what if you hadn’t won me over?”

He shivered at the thought, “I don’t even want to think about it. The idea of facing the female trio again,” he touched a finger to his ear.

She noticed for the first time that it was mildly red. Reaching up to caress the earlobe, she asked, “Why’s your ear all red?”

He shook his head, “Don’t mess with Evie. She may look fragile and small, but she strong as an ox. Add her to Mom and Mattie, and let’s just say that last night was not particularly pleasant. Frank was the only one to bail me out…but I had to promise to bring you home with me this morning.”

He slipped his fingers under the bottom edge of her shirt and slid them over the soft skin of her back. He counted the ribs as he ascended. She’d lost weight in the last year. He was going to have to work on that predicament. As if challenged to action, her stomach growled in protest of last night’s meager repast. She blushed in response, “Sorry, I haven’t eaten all that much lately.”

He nudged her face back to his view, “I can tell…you’ve lost weight. We need to remedy that…at least a little.”

She ran her own fingers under his t-shirt and up his side, “I could say the same for you.” He nodded in agreement. “Well then, we need to start taking better care of each other.” She lightly pinched his skin, “How about some breakfast? You can take a quick shower, while I get started. I don’t suppose you have any clothes with you?”

He stood to his feet and pulled her up to his side, “Actually I do; I never took my suitcase out of the rental car.”

She pointed him in the direction of the bedroom, “The bathroom is that way…I’ll get started on the French toast.”

As she collected the ingredients for breakfast, he ran out to the car. He reappeared a minute later with suitcase in hand and wandered back toward the bedroom. She looked up from the kitchen and called, “Harm, I think my dress is on the bed. I’ll be in a minute to move things out of the way.”

He yelled back, “Don’t worry about it…I hung your dress up last night.”

She frowned, “When was that? I don’t remember you leaving my side.”

He stuck his head around the door and answered sheepishly, “I ah…kind of came in looking for you when I first got here. You weren’t around, but the back door was unlocked. I ah…let myself in.”

She shook her head and giggled, “I wasn’t here so you cleaned up my room?”

He ducked his head and laughed, “No, not exactly. I was just…admiring your dress and hung it up on the door so it wouldn’t get wrinkled.”

She smiled at his embarrassment, “OK, I guess I’ll have to keep you around. It’s hard to find a guy who likes to hang up his own clothes, much less mine.”

He motioned toward the bathroom, “Ah, I’m gonna take that shower now.” She nodded with a smile and went back to work. He stuck his head back around the door, “Oh by the way, we’re going dancing for New Year’s Eve…and you are definitely going to wear that dress again.”

She tipped her head and smiled with glee, “So, you liked the dress?”

He winked back, “In case you didn’t notice my response at the party…oh yeah, loved the dress. You’ll wear for me for New Year’s Eve?”

She nodded back with a laugh, “I’ll wear the dress just for you. Now, how about that shower so we can eat breakfast.” He winked again and ducked back into the bedroom.

She pumped her fist and whispered a soft, “Yeesss,” under her breath. As she was scurrying around the kitchen, the phone rang. She grabbed the headset and continued to work. “MacKenzie residence.”

“Sarah darling, it’s Trish. I just wanted to check-up on you and make sure you’re OK.”

Mac ran a hand mixer through the cream cheese filling. “Merry Christmas, Trish. I’m just fine this morning…in fact I couldn’t be better. Santa left me an incredible present under the tree.”

Trish laughed, “I see, should I guess what that might be?”

Mac set aside the mixer and moved on to slice the French bread, “Oh, I don’t know…it was really unusual; although, I’ve been requesting it for years.”

“Well, the reason I called was to see if you’ve seen my son…and to ask if he’s still alive? We seem to have misplaced him.”

Mac giggled, “Actually, I have seen him…and last I noticed he was very much alive.”

“Alive is a good thing…how about injured? Is he still in one piece or should I head to the nearest hospital?”

Mac laid the slices of bread on the counter and began making the maple sauce for the French toast, “Well, Molly did growl and bare her teeth, but I don’t think she removed any skin from his hide. I did notice a red earlobe, but I promise I didn’t lay a hand on himmm…ah, his earlobe.”

Trish laughed aloud, “I’m sorry to hear that. I think Evie is the party responsible for the bruised lobe. She was umm…leading him to the woodshed.”

Mac howled through the phone, “I would have paid money to see that. The image of a 4ft-10 gray-haired grandmother dragging a 6ft-4 muscled sailor through the house…I definitely left the party too soon.”

“So, is my son around or should I send out the National Guard?”

Mac poured the remaining ingredients into the saucepan with the maple syrup. “Actually Trish, he’s in the shower right now. I can have him call you back.”

Trish clicked her tongue, “I see…in the shower…alone?”

Mac rolled her eyes, “Yes, alone. We spent most of the night talking and clearing the air. We fell asleep on the floor in front of the fireplace, and he’s moving a little slow this morning. I’m not sure either of our backs with be the same ever again.”

“I’m glad the two of you are working things out. I hope to see both of you for our Christmas dinner today…say about 2 o’clock?”

Mac looked up to see Harm entering the room dressed in a casual shirt and jeans, “Actually Trish, Harm just walked into the room…let me give you to him, while I finish making breakfast.” She handed off the phone to Harm and watched while he blushed brightly at his mother’s conversation.

She was just flipping the French toast when he came up behind her and placed his arms around her waist, “That looks good…what did you say it was?”

She scooped up a dollop of the cream cheese mixture and extended her finger. He grabbed her hand and engulfed the finger with his mouth, licking it clean. Releasing her finger, he leaned in to place kiss on her neck, “That tastes great. How about we forget the toast part and I’ll just eat the filling and you?”

She captured his lips with hers, and then pulling away, pointed with the spatula, “Go sit down, it’s almost ready.”

He wrinkled his nose, “Spoil sport.” Stepping away, he asked, “Do you need any help?”

She pointed toward the back counter, “If you want…you can pour the coffee and juice. The cups are already on the table.”

He grabbed the beverages and started toward the dining area. She filled two plates with large helpings of French toast and fresh fruit, and followed close behind.”

With the first bite his eyes glazed over, “Mmmm, what’s in this…it’s amazing?”

She swallowed her bite and smiled at his obvious rapturous enjoyment. “Evie gave me the recipe. The toast is stuffed with a cream cheese mixture and fresh strawberries then dunked in an orange custard.”

He loaded up another forkful, “This isn’t regular maple syrup?”

“No, it’s maple sauce. You start with maple syrup and spruce it up with heavy whipping cream among other things.”

His eyes widened, “When you said you were going to fatten me back up, you weren’t kidding. I may have a coronary just looking at this stuff. I hope you have plans for us to work off the calories,” his eyes twinkled with delight.

She shook her head and pointed at his plate, “It’s not like we eat this everyday. Now be quiet and eat your breakfast.”

He ducked his head and chuckled, “Yes, ma’am…although, if you don’t have any ideas for exercise; I can think of a few.” He stole a quick glance in her direction.

She laughed at his antics, “Are you going to be like this from now on?”

He crossed his arms in challenge, “Hey, you’re the one that wanted me to let go. This is Harmon Rabb…wild and crazy.” He reached for her hand and placed a kiss on her palm, “And in love, so you better get used to it.”

They ate in comfortable silence for several minutes before he asked, “So what’s on the docket for today? I know Mom wants us there by 14:00 for dinner. I figure we can spend the afternoon and evening with Mom, Dad, Mattie and Evie.”

“I need to get cleaned up then I thought we could spend a quiet morning together. Maybe take a walk on the beach, listen to Christmas music…open presents,” she placed a large gift box on the table.

He deflated, “Oh Mac, I didn’t know…I didn’t expect…”

She reached for his hand, “It’s OK, don’t worry about it. I understand that you didn’t think you’d see me this Christmas.” She smiled, “Open your present.”

He sighed, upset that he didn’t have anything for her, “Mac, maybe we could wait…I can pick something up tomorrow?”

She pushed the gift box toward him, “I already got my present from Santa,” she kissed his hand, “now open yours.”

He carefully removed the ornate paper and lifted the lid. Inside was a beautiful soft blue cashmere sweater. He ran his hands over the luxurious knit, “Mac, it’s beautiful…thank you, I love it.” She reached out to place a second smaller box on the table. He shook his head, “No Mac…I feel bad enough; I can’t accept a second gift.”

She chewed on her lip, “I um…I wasn’t sure where we’d…how we would be.” She exhaled a shaky breath, “I bought two gifts, because I wasn’t sure which would be more appropriate to give you. The sweater was for a close friend. This one is for…the man I love.”

He picked up the box and rotated it in his hands, “Mac, I…”

“Please, I want you to have it.”

He began to unwrap the gift and looked up to see her nervously chew on her fingernail. Wondering what could possibly make her so uneasy, he threw aside the wrapping paper and opened the box. Inside he found an expensive gold watch with a leather band. He removed the watch from the mounting and studied it closely. The back was engraved with the inscription, ‘Love for all ETERNITY, Sarah.’ “Mac, this is amazing…I wish you hadn’t,” he saw her face fall at his verbal response. He reached for her hand, “Sweetheart, I love the watch…I just wish I had something for you. I mean…I had no idea we’d see each other…and last year, we weren’t even.” He scrubbed his fingers through his hair, “I…the last time I bought you a gift was…two years ago,” his eyes brightened as he jumped from the table.

She looked up confused, “Harm, where are going?”

He hurried to his luggage on the living room floor. Throwing his leather satchel on the couch, he tore it open and pulled out his shaving kit, “Just a minute, Mac…I forgot.” He rummaged through the bag filled with toiletry items and pulled out his dog tags. Walking back to the table, he squatted down beside her chair and extended the chain, “I do have a gift for you. I bought it two Christmases ago.”

She stared back puzzled, “You want me to have your dog tags?”

He shook his head and held the chain closer, “No, look closer…your gift is on the chain with the dog tags. I’ve been carrying it with me, ever since….”

She reached out her hand and pushed the tags aside with her finger. Buried between the tags, was a sparkling diamond solitaire engagement ring. Her eyes widened, “When did you get this?”

He shrugged, “I bought it two years ago, right after your…accident. I thought…I hoped we were moving in that direction, but then things kind of fell apart…Mattie’s accident…our transfers.” He shrugged again, “All the things we talked about last night.”

She pulled her hand back, “Harm, I can’t…”

She watched him deflate and shrink away. She kneeled on the floor before him and took his chin in her hand, “No, no…that’s not what I meant. Sweetheart, listen to me.” She pulled his face up to hers, so she could meet his eyes. Rubbing her thumb over his cheek, “Harm, what I meant to say is…I’m not ready to rush into wearing a ring. I did that once before, and once people see that ring…they take over your life.” She reached down and took the ring, with the chain still attached, and held it up in his sight. “Harm, this is where I want…where I expect, this thing between us to go. But I want us to enjoy being an ‘us’, first. I want us to talk about and make decisions between ourselves, before other people butt into our lives and force us to make plans and decisions that we’re not ready for. I’m not saying no. I want this to happen; I just don’t want to make it so public, so quickly. Does that make sense?” When he didn’t answer, she pulled him into her arms, “Harm, I love you and I don’t want to lose you, again.” She kissed his cheek, “If this is what you want right now then I’ll wear the ring…but whether I wear it on my finger or not, I want you to know that I’m yours and I always will be.”

He wrapped his arms around her body and held her tight, allowing his thoughts and emotions to calm and coalesce. When he was settled enough to speak, he pulled back slightly from her embrace. Taking the ring from her hand, he held it up, “I think I understand what you said. You love me and you want us to work toward marriage.” She nodded her head in agreement. “You just want to take the time to make appropriate decisions for our life together, before,” he grinned, “…say my Mother and Evie take over?”

She sighed with relief and threw herself back into his arms, “Yes, that’s it exactly. Harm, they are a force to be reckoned with. I love them both, but I don’t feel like I have any control over my life once they start planning.” She pulled back to gage his reaction, “And don’t even get me started on Mattie…she’s even more,” she held up her hands, searching for the right non-derogatory word.

He smiled at her attempts to be diplomatic, “Pushy…manipulative…conniving…teenagerish. Mac, I understand…I’ve been living with her for three years. When she decides something is in my best interest, nothing…and I mean nothing, stands in her way…even me.” He sat down on the floor and pulled her into his lap, “I was thinking…maybe you could wear the ring inconspicuously,” he reached up and tugged at the gold chain around her neck. “I’ve worn the weight of that ring around my neck for two years. And to be honest, weight is the right word. That small trinket of jewelry was like a millstone around my neck, especially once we were separated by over five thousand miles.”

She pulled his hand into hers and played with his fingers, “Five thousand four hundred….”

He squeezed back, “and eighty nine miles of disappointment, failure and longing.” He removed the engagement ring from his chain and held it up, “So what do you say, maybe you can wear it for a while?” He reached behind her neck and unfastened her necklace, sliding the ring onto the chain. He lifted the chain back to her neck.

She leaned forward and nodded for him to fasten the clasp. Once he was done, she looped her arms around his neck and whispered in his ear, “I don’t think it’s heavy at all…I think it feels just right.” She kissed his ear, “I love you, and I can’t wait for us to figure all this out, so we can get married. I don’t want to be separated from you for any longer than is necessary.”

He placed his lips lightly against hers, “Soon, I promise it will be soon.”