A Perfect Age - Part 2
Author: Ava
E-mail: mmmThatAJ@yahoo.comRating: PG-13
Classification: Romance, as alwaysDisclaimer: JAG and all its characters belong to Belisarius Productions, Paramount, CBS, Viacom, and probably endless others.
Summary: How old is "too old"? When is a man "robbing the cradle"? Doesn't it really depend on how the couple feel about each other and not the difference in their ages? Tracy and Mac both think so, and they convince Tom and AJ.
Author's comments: Characters' speaking parts are in double quotes ("text"); characters' thoughts are in single quotes ('text').
Wednesday, 22 January 2003
1120 EST
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church, Virginia"So, tell me about your date, Tracy," prompted Mac from one of the stalls in the ladies' room.
"Oh, yes! Do tell!" Harriett piped up from a second.
Tracy, in the third stall, giggled, "It was absolutely the best! I can't remember ever having a better first date. I can't remember ever having a better ANY date!" she giggled again. "Tom was such a gentleman. And God, he was dressed to kill! He wore a gray suit with a black shirt and tie. He was so gorgeous! It was absolutely perfect. He was absolutely perfect!" she gushed.
Mac, now at the sink, turned on the faucet and spoke above the running water. "Where'd he take you?"
"It's a little place in Arlington. Chef John's. the food was excellent, and the atmosphere... 'intimately romantic' would describe it best," she purred. "Almost all of the tables are tables for two. And they have a lovely little dance floor..."
Mac thought to herself, 'How big a coincidence is that? Chef John's? And Admiral Boone just asked Harm about that on Monday... and his name is Tom... Hmm, I wonder...'
Before Mac could probe any further, Harriett approached another sink and asked, "What about after dinner?"
Tracy sighed, "He took me home... and he wouldn't come in."
"And did you want him to?" giggled Harriett, forgetting for a moment that she was addressing a senior officer. Tracy exited her stall and blushed furiously at Harriett's inference. She turned on the faucet at a third sink.
Mac joined in Harriett's laughter, and finally Tracy did, too. She said, "Actually, I'd sort of promised my godfather that I wouldn't invite Tom into my bed last night. So I guess it's good that he didn't come in. I know I wouldn't have let him leave until morning."
"But he did leave?" Mac confirmed.
Tracy nodded. "Yeah, he did. But not before we made a date for Friday night. We're going to see a play at the Kennedy Center."
"Oooh, a learned man, eh?" teased Mac. "And a Naval officer? Gosh, how rare is that!?"
Harriett swatted her friend on the arm. "Hey!"
Mac giggled, "Okay, okay. I suppose there are one or two around. Let me think. Bud. Yes, I'd have to say he's a learned man. And the Admiral. Yes, he's definitely a learned man." Mac put her finger to her temple as though to think. "Hmm, but you know? That's all I can come up with. Just those two."
Harriett and Tracy laughed. "Don't let Commander Rabb know you said that!" teased Harriett.
"Must be three, then," Tracy said at the same time. "Unless, of course, you meant my Admiral."
"Your Admiral?" giggled Harried. "What do you mean 'your' Admiral?"
"Tom is an Admiral," admitted Tracy. "He works at the Pentagon. He's retiring in a few weeks."
Mac was sure now. Tracy's Admiral was Tom Boone. Had to be. Oh, God! Wait until Harm finds out!'
Harriett asked, "Does he know your rank?"
Tracy nodded. "I told him last night. He said it doesn't matter. I think he was more concerned about the difference in our ages than our rank, anyway."
"How old is he?" Harriett pressed.
"I don't know exactly, he never said. But I'd guess... probably 54 or 55."
"And that doesn't bother you?"
Tracy shook her head. "Not at all. I think men that age are incredibly sexy. I mean, look at Admiral Chegwidden! He's the sexiest man in this entire building!"
"Tracy!" exclaimed Mac in surprise, although she certainly agreed with her.
"Well, it's true, Mac," agreed Harriett. "And don't you dare tell Bud I said that!" she giggled as the 3 women left the ladies' room and headed back to the bullpen.
AJ stood up and walked around to the front of his desk, perching himself on the edge. "No problem at all, Tom," he assured his friend. "I got those tickets months ago, when I was still seeing Meredith. I have no desire to go alone, and there's no one I can take right now. You're welcome to them.""Thanks, AJ," Tom replied. "I was really hoping you hadn't found someone to hand them off to yet."
"Who are you taking? Or should I mind my own business?" AJ chuckled.
Tom grinned, "New girlfriend."
"How long have you been seeing her?" AJ prodded.
"Met her on Monday," Tom replied. "Early Monday morning, in fact. She looked like a helpless teenager in that big car." AJ looked at him questioningly. "She had car trouble on the highway. I stopped and gave her a ride home."
"Did you now?"
Tom grinned. "Yeah. And by the time we got to her apartment, I found out that the next day was her birthday. She was 32 yesterday." AJ's ears started to get hot. He was recognizing this scenario, only too well. "I took her out for dinner last night to celebrate. She said she doesn't have that many friends around here yet. Can't imagine why..." his thoughts trailed off.
AJ nodded. "Nice dinner?"
"Chef John's in Arlington. Great place. Harm recommended it."
"And afterward?" AJ prodded.
Tom grinned, "Now, AJ. What kind of man kisses and tells?" At AJ's chuckle, Tom said, "No, actually, I went home... left her at the door. I didn't dare go inside her apartment or I wouldn't have left." He sighed, "AJ, do you think she's too young for me? I mean, I'm 23 years older than she is."
"What do you think?"
"I thought so... at first. I even decided that's how I was going to play it last night. But, man! When I saw the dress she had herself poured into... God, that was all it took. She is no child!"
"No, I'm sure she's not," AJ agreed.
Tom almost sighed. "And it was very obvious that she didn't think I was too old. God, it felt good to have her in my arms on that dance floor." Tom grew serious. "But you know, AJ, she was more than that. She was fun, sure. But she was easy to talk to. Hell, we talked about our childhoods! When have I ever talked about my childhood on a date? Never!"
"She have a name?" AJ already knew her name, he was sure. But maybe... just maybe he was wrong.
"Tracy," Tom replied softly, as though he were caressing her name. "You'd like her, AJ. She's a lawyer. And in the Navy, too. A Lieutenant Commander she told me."
"How'd she like the flowers?" AJ asked.
"How'd you know I sent her flowers?" Tom asked.
"What kind of man wouldn't send a woman flowers on her birthday if he was taking her out for dinner that night?" AJ retorted, standing up and walking to the door. He knew that Tracy usually left the office right about now for lunch. She was the only person in his office who took a lunch break at the same time every day... well, except when she skipped it all together. And he really wanted to see the interaction between these two when they saw each other. 'Evil, AJ... you're just plain evil,' he knew.
AJ and Tom walked out into the bullpen just as Harm exited his office. "Admiral Boone!"
"Commander Rabb," Tom said formally.
"How'd you enjoy Chef John's, Sir?" Harm asked.
Tom grinned. "The restaurant was very nice. Thanks for the recommendation."
While Harm and Tom were talking, AJ noticed that Tracy's office was empty. 'Damn. She's not there.' Then he heard laughter down the hall. Female laughter. He watched as his 3 female officers walked toward the bullpen, obviously coming from the ladies' room. 'Here it comes!' AJ grinned to himself.
Mac looked up and saw Tom standing between AJ and Harm. 'Oh, my God! Here we go!'
The Marine guard opened the door to the bullpen when he saw the officers approaching. The women walked into the bullpen just as the men looked up. Tracy saw Tom at the same moment he saw her. But before either had the chance to say a word, Harm spoke up. "Admiral Boone, I don't believe you've met the newest member of the JAG staff. This is Lieutenant Commander Tracy Manetti. Commander, Admiral Thomas Boone."
"Soon to be retired," Tom added as though he'd never met her before.
She was startled, but hid it well. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance... Admiral."
"Likewise, Commander. Don't let Hammer's son give you any wooden nickels now," he said cryptically. At least it was cryptic to the others; Tracy knew exactly what he meant. Harmon Rabb was the son that Tom's best friend, Hammer, left behind when he went MIA. And her co-workers were obviously the friends of his who are lawyers.
"I'll be very careful about that, Sir. Thank you for the advice," Tracy acknowledged.
AJ and Mac were dumbfounded. Why on earth were they acting like they'd never met before? They were both convinced they had them dead to rights. After a brief conversation, AJ nodded to Harriett and Tracy, letting them know that they were dismissed and didn't need to stand there any longer. Tracy returned to her office.
Not 3 minutes later, Tom knocked on her doorframe. She looked up and smiled. "What can I do for you, Admiral?"
Tom stepped inside and kicked the door shut. "Come here, you," he growled. Tracy quickly moved from behind her desk, and Tom took her in his arms. Their heads moved together and their kiss grew in intensity until they were devouring each other.
"I was so surprised to see you," she whispered.
"Good surprised?" he asked as he nibbled on her ear.
"Very... good... surprised," she panted as he backed her up against her desk.
"Nice flowers," he commented.
"Did I tell you how much I love tulips?" she mumbled as he kissed her again.
Just when he began to hike her skirt up, they heard AJ bellow, "Hey, Tom! Close the blinds!"
They jerked apart and turned to see the entire office staff watching them, their mouths gaping open. Only AJ and Mac stood with huge smiles on their faces.
Tracy blushed profusely, but Tom just grabbed her coat and said, "Come on; let's go to lunch." She nodded, retrieved her purse from her desk drawer, and they headed out.
As they passed through the bullpen, AJ slapped Tom on the back. "Way to go, old man!" he whispered.
Harm stared after them. "But... but... They just met!"
"Obviously, he's got what it takes, Harm!" Mac teased. "Age, power, and sex appeal." She and Harriett giggled, and Mac headed for her office humming.
AJ turned back to his own office, thinking, 'Age? Mac prefers an older man, too? And what's that song she's humming? I should recognize that...'
Wednesday, 22 January 2003
1545 EST
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church, VirginiaHarm knocked on Mac's door. "Did you hear the latest? Ted Lindsey is taking the Iceland JAG position!"
Mac looked up. "Is he?" She didn't want to let Harm know that she all ready knew that.
"Yeah. I just heard it from Tiner. The SecNav's secretary called him. Sheffield had the Admiral cut his orders yesterday. Can you believe it?"
"Well, I guess it's true then," Mac said, shuffling her paper around on her desk. She did not want to discuss this. She was trying to get things cleaned up so she could hand off all of her cases and close out the paperwork on the completed ones.
"Mac, what are you doing?" Harm finally asked.
"Trying to catch up on some paperwork, Harm. Is that so incredible?" she said shortly.
"Geez, don't bite my head off," he complained. "I was just asking. You feeling okay? You don't look so good, Mac."
She scooted back in her chair and moved to her file cabinet so that her back was to Harm. "I'm fine, Harm," she lied. "I'm just really busy."
"Okay, I'll leave you alone. Hey, you want to grab some dinner later?" he asked.
She shook her head. "I don't think so. Not tonight, anyway. But thanks." She felt bad taking out her anxiety on Harm. He was, after all, her best friend.
"Another time, then," Harm said as he left her office. "Hey, Bud! Did you hear about Ted Lindsey?"
Mac could hear their conversation... and more and more people talking about it. Mac closed her office door, but it didn't help. Oh, it helped drown out the scuttlebutt, but it didn't drown out her thoughts... and the knowledge that she was leaving JAG in another week. She felt the tears as they began to well in her eyes.
"Mac?" AJ knocked as he opened her door and called to her.
Mac turned to face him, willing the tears away instantly. "Yes, Sir?"
"Why don't you pack up and go on home, Mac." He said it... it was an order, she knew. He dropped the volume of his voice. "Get some rest tonight. We'll make the announcement first thing in the morning so you don't have to..." he hesitated, "hide. I know this is hard on you."
"Thank you, Sir."
"By the way, Mac... you seemed not to be surprised by Tracy and Tom. Did she tell you?"
Mac genuinely smiled. "No, Sir. I figured it out just a couple of minutes before. We were in the ladies' room, and she was telling Harriett and me about their date. A few of the things she said... well, I just figured it out. Since I know Admiral Boone, it was obvious."
AJ grinned. "That's how I knew. Tom had just confided a few things to me, too... and well, because I know Tracy, it was obvious, as you said." AJ turned to leave her office. "I just hope her family is okay with the age difference," he commented.
"I don't see why people are so hung up about age," Mac replied. "So he's older than her. What does that matter if they care for each other? What difference does it make if he's 2 years older than her? Or 5? Or 16?" AJ's breath caught in his chest. "Or 23?" she finished.
'Does she know that we are 16 years apart? Is that why she said 16?' he wondered. "Let's hope her family shares that view, Mac. Good night. See you tomorrow." AJ opened the door and returned to his own office, allowing Mac to pack up and leave for the day.
Wednesday, 22 January 2003
2355 EST
Tracy Manetti's Apartment
Oakton, VirginiaTracy laid on her bed cradling the phone at her ear. "No, Admiral Chegwidden didn't say a word to me about it, Tom. He grinned at me a few times this afternoon, but he didn't say a word."
"He grinned, huh?" Tom asked over the wire.
"Yeah, he did. What'd you tell him, anyway?" she asked.
"Well he knows I didn't stay last night..." Tom said. Then he remembered, "Oh! He was probably thinking of your dress."
"My dress?"
Tom chuckled. "Yeah. I told him that it... um..." he hesitated.
"What, Tom?" she prodded.
"I told him that it fit really well," Tom ground out. Remembering her body in the form-fitting dress was having a distinct reaction on him.
Tracy giggled. "I rather hoped you liked the way it fit."
"Oh, I did... Believe me!" Tom breathed. "I can still remember how well it clung... in all the right places."
Tracy purred, "I have another one very similar to it. I thought I'd wear it on Friday night. You think that would be appropriate?"
Tom gulped. "At the Kennedy Center? Tracy, I think something a little more..." he couldn't bring himself to say it.
"Conservative?" she supplied.
"Damn. Yes, that would probably be better for Friday night. Unless you'd rather not go the play. We can certainly..."
"Oh, no! The play sounds wonderful. And I can always wear the dress another time," she insisted.
"Okay."
"What are you planning to wear Friday night? That'll help me to know what to choose for myself," she requested.
"I'll probably just wear a sweater and slacks," he said.
"Okay, that helps. Thanks.
"Tracy, I hate to say this, but I'm going to have to hang up my end now. I have an early meeting in the morning, which means I have to be up by 0430. And I need to get a little sleep."
"Oh definitely, Tom. You need to rest up. Because if I have my way, you won't get any sleep on Friday night," she promised.
Tom groaned audibly, "Oooh, Tracy..." He could feel the blood rush south.
"Just thought I'd leave you with that thought as you go to sleep. Good night, Tom!" she teased, hanging up her end.
Thursday, 23 January 2003
0900 EST
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church, VirginiaPetty Officer Tiner called for everyone's attention. "At ease," AJ told them. "I'm sure you've all heard by now that Commander Ted Lindsey has been assigned to the JAG posting in Iceland. He will be in charge of the legal affairs for that entire region for the foreseeable future. With Commander Lindsey's departure, that opens up the position of Legal Counsel to the Secretary of the Navy... a very important position. And the SecNav expects it to be even more high profile in the very near future." He thought to himself, 'Which is another reason he wanted to get rid of Lindsey!'
AJ continued, "Secretary Sheffield was very specific in his choice of replacement for Commander Lindsey. He wants someone who excels not only in the courtroom, but also in day-to-day legal affairs. He wants someone others, not only in the military but also in government, will recognize as knowledgeable and dependable. He wants someone he can trust completely." AJ looked directly at Mac and said, "He wants Lieutenant Colonel Sarah MacKenzie."
AJ paused as he heard several gasps around the room. Then he continued. "She begins her new assignment on 1 February. I know you'll all wish her well." He turned back to face Mac. "You will be missed, Colonel. Sorely missed." He turned back to the crowd. "That'll be all." AJ returned to his office and closed the door.
Throughout the day, people approached Mac and wished her well as the Admiral said. Harm finally got Mac alone just about lunch time. "Mac, let me take you to lunch."
Mac smiled. "Not today, Harm. I'm just not in the mood. I'm sorry."
"Mac, don't shut me out. You're my best friend. I don't want to lose that. Just because you're going to be at the Pentagon..."
"I don't want to lose it either, Harm. I just really don't feel like discussing my new job with anyone right now. Please."
"We don't have to discuss..."
"Harm, I know you say that. But I also know that's exactly what we'll end up talking about. And I really need a break from thinking about it. Please understand." Harm looked truly offended. "How about dinner tonight instead?" she offered.
Harm brightened. "You mean it?" She nodded. "Okay! I'll pick you up about 1800?"
"Perfect," she replied. Harm started to leave, but Mac said, "And Harm?" He turned back to face her. "Thank you."
As Harm walked out of Mac's office, Tracy walked in. "You free for lunch, Colonel?"
Mac looked up. "Depends. We going to talk about my new job or your new boyfriend?"
"I kinda thought... my new boyfriend?" she almost giggled.
Mac grinned. "Let's go!"
They returned to the office 72 minutes later, and Mac was laughing and smiling again. Harm was delighted to see the change in her... as was AJ. "Guess I won't have quite so much cheering up to do tonight. That's good," Harm said as they watched the two women go to their respective offices.
"Tonight?" queried AJ.
"I'm taking Mac out for dinner tonight, Sir," Harm explained.
"Oh, I see." AJ turned back to his office. 'Well, I guess it was just a fluke that she called out our difference in age yesterday. She's obviously still interested in Harm. Just as well, I suppose...'
Thursday, 23 January 2003
2110 EST
Sarah MacKenzie's Apartment
Georgetown, Washington, DCMac and Harm sat on the sofa in her living room, Harm's arm around her shoulders. "Mac, I meant what I said earlier. Just because you'll be at the Pentagon now doesn't mean we have to lose what we have together."
Mac smiled, "I know that, Harm. We'll just have to work at it a little harder, I guess. It's easy to let a friendship lapse when you don't see each other every day."
"We can still talk every day, though. Either on the phone or online."
"That's true, I suppose," she replied thoughtfully. "Do me a favor, Harm?"
"Of course. Name it."
"Pay a little more attention to Tracy when I'm gone."
"Tracy? Mac, she's dating Tom Boone!"
Mac chuckled. "I don't mean that kind of attention, Harm. I mean at the office. Ask her to lunch once in a while... the way you always did me. Be sure she joins everyone at McMurphy's or Benzinger's after work. I think she still feels like an outsider."
"Really? Gosh, I never thought..."
Mac nodded. "I think a lot of it is my fault. I never really accepted her... her first case at JAG, she was on the opposing side, and I never got past her believing my client was guilty. I think I was predisposed not to like her." Harm grinned. "But I've gotten to know her this past week, and she's delightful! I really wish we had more time to work together."
"I'll do my best, Mac. She'll feel at home in no time," Harm promised.
Mac reached over and kissed Harm on the cheek. "Thanks, Flyboy. I knew I could count on you."
"Mac?" Harm looked at her longingly. "I know I've been an idiot a few times when you... well..."
Mac smiled indulgently. "It's too late, Harm. I think you know that."
He nodded. "Yeah, I know. It's a shame, too. We could have been really good together, I think."
"I wish you'd thought that several years ago."
"So do I, Mac," he sighed. "So do I."
"It's getting late," she commented, knowing it wasn't even 2130 yet.
Harm stood, and agreed, "I should be going. I'll see you tomorrow, Mac." Harm picked up his coat and shrugged into it.
She showed him to the door. "Thanks, again, for dinner, Harm. I enjoyed it. Good night."
Friday, 24 January 2003
0925 EST
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church, VirginiaHarm stepped off the elevator just as AJ came out of the men's room. "Nice of you to join us this morning, Commander," AJ said crisply. He did not like it when his people were late coming in to the office. Especially not his officers. It did not set a good example for the enlisted personnel.
"Sorry I'm late, Admiral. Had a rather late night," Harm replied, thinking of all he'd accomplished on his latest case after he got home from having dinner with Mac.
AJ turned to see if Harm had a grin on his face. He didn't. 'Odd. I'd have a grin on my face if I'd been with Mac last night,' he thought to himself. 'Stuff it, Chegwidden!' he scolded himself.
Harm headed for his office and AJ, the bookshelf just outside the break room. Tiner hadn't been able to locate the book AJ wanted, but there it was... right in plain sight. AJ picked up the reference book and opened it, scanning the Table of Contents for the right chapter. He heard Mac, Tracy, and Harriett inside the break room, obviously gathered around the Friday morning donuts. He couldn't help but overhear their conversation.
Mac said, "These chocolate-glazed ones are SOOOO good!"
Harriett asked, "So, Tracy, have you seen Admiral Boone since Wednesday?"
Tracy shook her head, "No, but we've talked on the phone every night."
Harriett giggled, "I remember those phone calls. Bud used to call me every night while we were going out. God, the things that man could come up with to do to each other over the phone!"
"Harriett!" Mac sounded appalled, until she burst into giggles herself... joined by Tracy.
"So, has he taken it that far yet?" asked Mac.
Tracy shook her head, "No, not yet. He doesn't really sound comfortable on the phone. I don't think he's used to them for personal calls. The first time he called me, he was so... almost business-like. And he hung up after like 3 minutes!"
Mac smiled, "I'm sure he's just not used to it. A lot of men aren't. And he's probably spent more time on a carrier and in the air than he has on dry land!"
"Oh, you're so right! Older men are really uncomfortable on the phone. My dad is that way," offered Harriett. Tracy frowned. She didn't care to be reminded yet again that Tom was so much older than she.
"I don't think it's just older men, Harriett," Mac countered, seeing Tracy's expression. "Lots of men have that problem." She turned to Tracy, "But I'll just bet you can fix that in no time!"
Tracy grinned, "We're getting there. I got him good last night. Well, actually, the last two nights!"
"How so?" asked Mac.
"Let's put it this way... he didn't have any blood left in his brain when we hung up," Tracy said in a sexy voice. AJ almost dropped the book he was holding.
Harriett and Mac laughed. "But when are you going to see him again?" asked Harriett.
"We're going to the Kennedy Center tonight. And then... who knows?" she smiled.
"Oh, is that tonight?" asked Mac. Tracy nodded. "I know you'll enjoy the play. It's hysterical."
Harriett giggled, "And if I don't miss my guess, you'll have company in the morning, hmm?"
"One can hope!" Tracy replied.
"Oh, you are bad, Girl!" teased Mac.
AJ decided it was time to make himself known. He set the book back on the shelf and rounded the corner, saying, "You should talk, Mac."
Mac blushed and sputtered, "What do you mean, Sir?"
He picked up a chocolate-glazed donut... the kind he heard Mac comment on. "Rabb just got in. Said he had quite a late night." AJ raised his eyebrow, "And I believe the two of you had a dinner date last night." He let the insinuation hang in the air as he filled a mug with hot coffee.
Mac looked puzzled. "He left my place at 2124, Admiral. I don't know why he had such a late night, but I assure you, I had nothing whatsoever to do with it."
AJ fixed his gaze on her. Harriett and Tracy chose that moment to scoot away unnoticed. 'God, she's so beautiful... Focus, Chegwidden!' "He left that early after a date with you?" he asked incredulously. Mac nodded. "Stupid man," AJ muttered under his breath.
"Admiral," Mac said quietly. "Harm and I were not on a date... not an actual date, I mean. We're friends. Not..." she hesitated. "We're not..." She tried again, "We aren't dating, Sir. We aren't involved in that way..."
AJ raised his hand and shook his head, interrupting her. "Won't matter now anyway, Mac, with your leaving. I won't have to make any special provisions... There's nothing to keep you two apart now," he sighed as he turned and left the room.
Mac thought to herself, 'But there is, AJ. There's you.'
Friday, 24 January 2003
2155 EST
The Kennedy Center
Washington, DCAs the lights came up in the theatre for intermission, Tom and Tracy rose from their seats. "Are you enjoying it?" Tom asked her.
She smiled, "Very much. You?" She thought it had to be obvious that she was enjoying the play; she was laughing almost constantly. But Tom had only laughed twice so far. She wasn't at all sure that he was enjoying himself.
Tom picked up her hand and raised it to his lips. He whispered, "I'm enjoying watching you enjoy the play." Tracy blushed lightly. "Would you like something to drink?" he asked.
Tracy nodded, "A glass of wine, maybe?"
"What's your pleasure?" He slipped her hand into his and escorted her out to the foyer.
"White Zinfandel?" she proposed.
Tom approached the small bar and ordered, "White Zinfandel. Two."
Their glasses in hand, they turned and walked toward the balcony. It was far too cold to go outside, but the lights were making a fabulous display, so they went to enjoy the view from the windows.
"Tom?" a voice called. "Tom Boone?"
Tom turned around to see the former captain of the Seahawk. "Skipper!" Tom said enthusiastically. The two men grasped hands in greeting.
"Tom, it's great to see you. It's been... what... 5 years?"
Tom nodded, "About that, Jake." He suddenly remembered Tracy at his side. "Oh, pardon me," he said, turning to Tracy. He put his arm around her and said, "Tracy, this is the former captain of the Seahawk, retired Admiral Jacob Evans. Skipper, meet Tracy Manetti."
"A pleasure to meet you, Sir," Tracy said demurely, offering her hand in greeting.
Evans reached for her hand and lifted it to his lips, kissing it lightly. "The pleasure is all mine, I assure you, Miss Manetti." He released her hand and looked back at Tom, raising his eyebrows in question.
"Actually, Jake, Tracy is a Lieutenant Commander. She's a lawyer... at JAG," Tom told him.
Evans smiled his approval. "Working for AJ Chegwidden, hmm?" Tracy nodded. "Rabb and MacKenzie still there, too?" he asked.
"Yes, Sir, they are. Well, until the first. Lieutenant Colonel MacKenzie has been the Admiral's Chief of Staff for several years," Tracy informed him. "But the Secretary of the Navy has requested her as his Legal Counsel now."
"Colonel?! Wow, she has done well for herself. Going to Sheffield's office, eh? Must be smarter than he looks." Evans turned to Boone and grinned, "You ever forgive MacKenzie for wanting to slap a sexual harassment charge on you, Tom?"
Tom laughed. "Yeah. She's okay."
Tracy was shocked. "Sexual harassment? You?"
Both men laughed. "Nothing came of it, Tracy," Tom assured her. "It wasn't a valid charge, and Mac figured that out before she actually filed any charges. I'll tell you about it sometime if you want to know. But it's nothing to worry about." Tracy sighed her relief.
"So, have Rabb and MacKenzie ever gotten together? They married yet?" Evans asked.
Tom chuckled, "No, Rabb is kinda slow there. And if he doesn't get his 'six' in gear, she's going to find someone else."
Tracy offered, "I believe he's already lost his chance, actually. They're best of friends, but that's all. And that's all Mac intends it ever to be."
Tom was surprised. "Really? I didn't realize that. Shame. They make a nice looking couple."
Tracy held her tongue. She didn't actually think they did; she thought Admiral Chegwidden and Mac made a much finer looking couple. But of course, that would never come to pass.
Evans kept looking at Tracy... almost staring sometimes. Finally he asked, "Manetti, did you say?" Tom and Tracy nodded. "Any relation to Antonio Manetti?" he asked.
Tracy nodded. "My father is Tony Manetti, yes." Then she turned to Tom, "I really need to visit the ladies' room, Tom. I'll be right back."
"Oh, here, I'll..."
"No, no... you stay and visit with the Admiral. I'll be right back," she insisted. Tom nodded his agreement.
When she was out of hearing distance, Evans said, "Better watch your step with this one, Tom. Her father could destroy you with the snap of his fingers." Tom raised his eyebrow at such a statement. "You don't know who he is?" Tom shook his head. "He's money, Tom. Big money. Tobacco money. And there's been speculation that there's also Italian mob money in there, too."
Tom said, "I'm not dating her father, Jake. I'm dating Tracy."
"How'd you happen to get lucky with such a young thing, anyway?" Evans asked.
Tom grinned, "Haven't yet. This is only our second date."
"Second? You're slipping, Tom!"
The two men laughed. When Tom looked in the direction of the restrooms, he saw Tracy talking to another man. "Who's that?" he asked, not meaning to speak aloud.
Evans turned and saw them. "No idea. Looks vaguely familiar, though. They do look rather... friendly," he observed.
"Not the word I'd have chosen," Tom said jealously as Tracy reached up and hugged the man's neck. But when the man leaned down and kissed her, Tom said, "Excuse me, Jake." He made his way over to them and said, "Tracy?"
"Tom!" she exclaimed. "I'm so glad you came over," she gushed. "I want you to meet someone." She looked at Tom and was surprised to see something strange in his eyes... he looked angry... no, something else... but what? She'd have to ponder that later. But for now, she introduced the two men. "Admiral Thomas Boone, may I present my oldest brother, Justice Michaelo Manetti. Mike, this is Tom."
Tom tried hard not to show his shock. 'My God! Her brother is the new Supreme Court Justice!?'
Mike stretched his arm out to Tom. "Good to meet you, Tom."
Tom shook the man's hand and replied, "And you, Sir."
"Oh, please, call me Mike. After all, you're Tracy's... um..." He snorted, "'Boyfriend' hardly seems the appropriate word, now does it? I mean you're far from being a 'boy'. In fact, don't you think you're a little old for my baby sister, Admiral?"
"Michaelo!" exclaimed Tracy in mortification.
Tom surprised them both by answering, "Yes, actually, I do." Then he smiled at Tracy and pulled her to his side. "But lucky for me, Tracy doesn't think so. And I was taught to always give a lady what she wants. And I can assure you, Mike... your sister may be the youngest in the family, but she is not a baby."
Tracy giggled and said, "Why, thank you, Tom!"
Mike grinned and slapped him on the back. "Couldn't have said it better myself!" Tom looked surprised. "Thought I was gonna give you a hard time, eh?" Tom nodded. "Nah. You take care of my sister, Admiral," Mike told Tom as he leaned in to kiss Tracy on the cheek. "And you be careful, Girl Babe," he whispered.
The house lights blinked, indicating that the second half was ready to begin. Tom and Tracy moved back inside and took their seats. "Girl Babe?" Tom said as they sat down.
Tracy nodded. "Family nickname. Daddy says 'Girl Baby', but everyone else says 'Girl Babe'. Started when I was born... and it stuck."
Tom draped his arm across Tracy's shoulders and pulled her to him. She snuggled closely against his side and laid her hand on his thigh, running it up and down. She chanced a glance up at his face and his eyes were closed. He wasn't even watching the play... he was totally consumed by what she was doing to him. She liked that. She liked that a lot.
When the play concluded, Tracy whispered in his ear, "Let's skip the reception and go home."
Tom grinned, "Gladly!" He led her quickly out of the building and through the parking lot. When they reached his car, Tracy slipped her arms up and around Tom's neck and pulled him down to her level. She kissed him soundly, running her tongue along the seam of his lips until he parted them. She heard him groan, "Tracy, you're killing me here."
Finally on the road, Tom brought up the subject of Tracy's brother. "You know, it never connected until I met him tonight."
"What never connected?" asked Tracy.
"Your brother. The latest appointment to the Supreme Court." Tom shook his head. "I never put the two together."
Tracy smiled. "That's okay. I don't think anyone at JAG has yet either. Well, except Admiral Chegwidden, of course. He gave me the afternoon off so I could go to the swearing in ceremony earlier this month."
"How old is your brother?" Tom asked. "He sure doesn't look old enough to be a Justice."
Tracy laughed lightly. "He's 44. Older than Justice Thomas was when he was sworn in." Tom turned questioning eyes to her. "Really! Thomas was only 43."
The rest of the ride to Tracy's apartment was a fairly quiet one; each of them was lost in their own thoughts and desires for the way this night would end.
Friday, 24 January 2003
2325 EST
Tracy Manetti's Apartment
Oakland, VirginiaWhen they arrived at her apartment, Tom unlocked the door and pushed it open, stepping aside to allow Tracy to enter first. He helped her out of her heavy coat, and she took it from him to hang in the coat closet. Tom shrugged out of his own coat, and Tracy hung it up, as well.
"Would you like some..." she started to say, but her words were cut short when Tom turned her around quickly and took possession of her lips. His tongue delved deep into the recesses of her mouth. Tracy threw her arms around his neck and returned the kiss fervently. When they finally came up for air, she finished her question... "Coffee?"
Tom chuckled, "No, thank you."
"Tea?"
He shook his head. "Nope."
"How about me?" she purred, leaning into his tall frame.
"Oh, yeah. Now that I definitely want some of."
Tracy smiled sexily. "I'm so glad." Tom leaned down and covered her mouth with his, sliding his hands underneath her cardigan and up her back. She stiffened slightly at his touch.
He looked into her eyes, "Is this okay?" he mumbled in her mouth as he pulled her with him to the sofa and sat down. He kicked off his shoes, and Tracy followed suit with hers.
She smiled and nodded, "Your hands are cold." She thought to herself, 'Well, they are!' But she knew that wasn't why she'd reacted that way. Tracy wasn't used to men touching her intimately... she wanted it, they just didn't seem to want her. Not after they found out who her family was, anyway. But Tom already knew that. He didn't strike her as the kind of man who was going to run off... not even if her father showed up. 'But if Daddy does that to me again, I'll... I'll...' She remembered the last time she dared to have a man take her to bed. Her father had walked in on them and threw the man out the front door... naked as a jaybird! Then he threw the man's clothes out the window. She never heard from Bill again. She clenched her fists and hit the sofa.
Tom looked up, surprised. "Tracy, is something wrong?"
Tracy shook her head and pulled his head back to hers. This time, she participated fully in the kiss, opening her mouth to his tongue and delving her own inside his mouth. When they came up for air, Tom said, "Tracy, what is it? Are you having second thoughts about this? About us?"
Tracy looked almost hurt by his words. "No!" she said quickly. Then very quietly, "Are you?"
Tom shook his head and reached for the buttons on her sweater. As he unbuttoned the top one, he kissed her on her forehead. "No, I'm past the second thoughts, Tracy." He unbuttoned the next one and kissed her on her nose. "I'm on fifth and sixth thoughts..." The next button came with a kiss on her left cheek, "And the answer is always the same." Another button, and the right cheek, "I..." Another button, and the right side of her neck, "...want..." The last button, and the left side of her neck, "...you." Tom looked into Tracy's misty eyes as he spread the sweater apart.
Her lips parted as he moved his hands on her arms, pulling the sweater down and off of her. She sighed audibly and shivered in anticipation. "Oh, Tom... I want you, too," she whispered.
Tom looked down now at Tracy's body. Her tiny bra covered her breasts. Tom moved his hands down to Tracy's waist. He unzipped and unbuttoned her pants, and slid them down her legs. Tracy shivered again. "Is this okay?" he asked quietly. "Are my hands still cold?" he teased. She nodded mutely.
Tom reached for his belt buckle and had it undone and his trousers off in less than 3 seconds. Tom laid over her and kissed her, then said, "I just had my exit physical two weeks ago. They did a complete blood work-up, including STD; I'm clean."
Tracy smiled. "I never expected anything different." She kissed him passionately. "I was tested before coming to JAG last fall... and I haven't been with anyone since. I'm clean, too."
"Do I need to use anything for birth control?" he asked.
She nodded. "I quit taking the pill a few years ago... and I haven't needed it..." she began to explain. "I'm sorry," she whispered.
"Shhh," Tom breathed into her ear. "Don't be sorry, Tracy." He licked her ear and then kissed it, moving his mouth along her jaw line as he spoke, "I'll get the box of condoms from my..." Tom stopped mid-sentence... and mid-kiss. "Damn," he swore, rolling off of her.
"What? What is it?" she asked, surprised at his action.
"My bag. It's in the trunk of the car." He shook his head. "I didn't bring it inside yet." Tracy smiled as he continued, "I didn't want to seem too... pushy."
"Well, I suggest you put some clothes back on and go get your bag, Admiral," Tracy giggled.
Tom pulled his pants on and drew his sweater over his head. He slipped his shoes back on and grabbed his coat and keys. "I'll be right back! Save my place," he teased, kissing her on the nose. He tested the front door to be sure it was unlocked and he'd be able to get back inside without her having to come to the door practically naked.
As Tom let himself out, Tracy picked up her clothes and ran to the master bathroom. She tossed the clothes in the hamper and was going to turn the bedcovers down on her bed when she heard the front door open and slam shut... and a familiar voice call, "Girl Baby? Are you okay?"
Tracy grabbed her chenille robe from the hook in the bathroom. "Just a minute, Daddy!" she called. She walked out into the living room to find her father standing there, his arms crossed over his chest. "Daddy! What ever are you doing here at this hour?"
His eyebrows raised at the sight of his daughter in her bathrobe. "Checking on you, of course. Michaelo called from the Kennedy Center a couple of hours ago and said you were there."
"So you drove all the way over here? Daddy, there is such a thing as a telephone, you know," she scolded. There was a light knock on the door. 'Oh, God!' Tracy breathed. 'Please let him have seen Daddy and not have his bag with him!' Tracy moved to the door and opened it.
Tom stood there, empty handed. "Tracy," he nodded. Then he looked over at her father. 'Looks just like his picture,' Tom realized. 'Good thing I recognized him, as dark as it is out there with just the path lights.' "I saw him come inside; just wanted to be sure everything is okay before I left."
Tracy smiled brightly at him. "Yes, everything's fine. Actually," she drawled, pulling Tom back in the apartment, "I'd like you to meet my father. Admiral Thomas Boone, this is Antonio Manetti. Daddy, this is Tom."
"You're the guy I passed on the pathway just now?" Tony Manetti confirmed.
Tom nodded. "That's right, Sir. I was on my way to my car." Tom didn't lie; he was on his way to his car. Granted, he was coming back... but her father didn't need to know that. Tom looked at Tracy then and winked, "You sure changed clothes fast; I just left!"
"It's late. I was going to bed," she said. Tracy didn't lie either; she was going to bed. Granted, she expected to be going to bed with Tom... but her father didn't need to know that either.
Tony walked up to Tom. "Pleasure to meet you, Tom," he extended his hand in greeting.
Tom shook it, "Likewise, Sir."
"Call me Tony," the older man ordered.
"Thank you. Tony," Tom replied. He turned to Tracy, "I should go now, Tracy. I just wanted to be sure everything was okay."
"I'm fine, Tom. Thank you," she said sweetly.
Tony patted Tom on the back. "And I thank you, too, Tom... for coming back to check on my baby. Tells me just what kind of man you are," he nodded his approval then turned to Tracy. "I'll just go put on a pot of coffee while you two say good night again."
"Thank you, Daddy," she smiled. Tracy turned back to Tom, and he pulled her into his embrace. She buried her face in his chest and whispered, "I'm so sorry, Tom."
He lifted her chin and said, "Don't be. I left the box on the bathroom counter at home."
Tracy giggled as Tom lowered his mouth to hers and all but swallowed her tongue. "Good night, Tracy. I'll call you tomorrow."
Saturday, 25 January 2003
0915 EST
Tracy Manetti's Apartment
Oakland, VirginiaTracy and her father sat at the kitchen table eating breakfast when the phone rang. He grabbed it and answered, "Hello?"
"Lieutenant Commander Manetti, please?" the male voice said over the line.
"Who's calling?"
"Daddy, it's my apartment. Give me the phone!" Tracy ordered, grabbing it from his ear. "Hello?" she said.
"Commander Manetti, Ma'am?" the young man said.
"Speaking. Tiner, is that you?" she asked.
"Yes, Ma'am. Admiral Chegwidden asked that I call you. There's been an incident, and he wants you and Commander Turner to head out to Yuma right away. Your transport leaves Andrews at 1130, Ma'am."
Tracy repeated the orders back, and Tiner confirmed them. "Okay, Tiner. Thanks." She hung up the phone and stood. "Well, I'm off to Arizona, Daddy," she sighed. She leaned over and kissed the top of his head. "Give my love to Mama."
"What about your new boyfriend?"
"Duty calls," Tracy replied. "Tom's an Admiral, Daddy. He understands about my work." Tracy went to her bedroom and packed her bag. Then she showered and dressed. "You going to take me to Andrews?" she asked, when her father was still there.
"If you'd like," he replied.
"That would be nice," she said. "I just want to call Tom before we leave and let him know where I'll be." Tracy picked up the phone and dialed Tom's home. He didn't answer, but his machine did, so Tracy left a message. "Hey, it's me," she said softly. "I'm headed out to Yuma. Tiner just called. I don't know how long I'll be gone, but I'll have my cell with me. Call me if you can. And Tom... thanks again for last night. I had a lovely time." She hung up and they headed out the door.
Monday, 27 January 2003
0845 EST
JAG Headquarters
Falls Church, VirginiaMac and Harriett were in the break room filling their coffee mugs and talking about their weekends. "I wonder how Tracy's date went on Friday night?" Harriett said at last.
Mac shook her head, "Haven't a clue. I haven't talked to her since that afternoon. And she got called to Yuma early Saturday morning."
"Oh, what a shame... to have their weekend interrupted like that," Harriett replied. "And Tracy had such hopes for..."
Tiner walked in with his empty coffee mug and heard their conversation. "Oh, no, Ma'am. When I called the Commander's apartment on Saturday morning, her father answered the phone."
AJ was right behind him. "Her father, Tiner?" he chuckled. "You sure you'd know Tom Boone's voice in the morning after a night of..." he stopped and raised his eyebrow at Tiner. He did not want to finish that statement with the women present.
"Well, Sir, I did hear her say... and I quote, 'Daddy, it's my apartment. Give me the phone!' I wouldn't think she would call Admiral Boone 'Daddy'... at least, not yet," he added with a smirk.
Mac and Harriett giggled, but AJ replied, "No, I'm sure she doesn't call him 'Daddy'. Not as sensitive as he is about their age difference."
"I wondered about that, Sir. It's a pretty big one, isn't it?" asked Tiner.
He nodded. "23 years."
Harriett piped up, "But if they really care for each other, what does it matter?"
Mac agreed, "I still say that men make more of an issue out of age than women do."
AJ looked at the two female officers. "You don't count, Harriett, because you're already married... to a man very close to your own age, by the way," he said. "But, Mac... you mean to tell me that you'd consider dating someone 23 years older than you?"
"That would make him 61 this year," she figured in her head as AJ nodded. She thought for a moment and then looked back at AJ. "He'd have to be someone very special. But yes, Admiral, I would."
Tiner gulped. "You would? 61? Wow, Ma'am... that's old!" AJ frowned at Tiner, and the younger man scurried back to his desk.
Mac continued, "I've dated men a lot younger than I am, too, Sir. I guess I just don't think about age when I'm looking at a man. I look at their maturity level." Then she added under her breath, "Which, I suppose, is why Harm and I never worked."
AJ tried to hide his grin; he knew she didn't intend for him to hear that last. But he was glad he had. Very glad, indeed. Maybe what she said before was really true. They're not involved, and Mac doesn't plan ever to be involved with the cocky flyer.
Bud rounded the corner saying, "Colonel? You have a call on Line 2, Ma'am. It's Commander Turner calling from Yuma."
"Thanks, Bud," Mac replied, heading for her office.
AJ returned to his office, mug in hand. "Tiner, get me Admiral Boone."
When Mac finished providing Sturgis with the information he required, she said, "Is Tracy there?"
Sturgis chuckled, "I'm sure she is, Mac, but she's in her own room. It's not quite 0700 here, you know."
"Oh," Mac laughed. "Sorry about that, Sturgis."
"Not a problem, Mac. You want me to try and transfer you in there?" he asked.
"If you can, that'd be great," Mac replied.
"Okay, hold on. If I lose you, she's in the BOQ Room 5. I'm in 7," he told her.
Mac knew the transfer was successful when she heard Tracy's sleepy voice. "Good morning, Sunshine!" Mac laughed.
"Mac?" Tracy asked.
"Did I wake you?"
"No, no... I'm awake... I'm just not up yet. Is something wrong?"
"No, Harriett and I were just wondering how your date went Friday night," she said. "I know... I'm just being nosey, and you don't have to tell me... but I was..."
Tracy laughed. "Okay, okay! The play was good... funny. I enjoyed it... well, most of it."
"Most of it? Not all of it? Did something happen?" Mac pressed.
"Weeeell," Tracy drawled, "the last hour or so, I didn't really concentrate on the stage. Tom and I kind of... well... enjoyed each other more than the play," she confessed.
"Oooo! Sounds interesting!" Mac purred. "What about after?"
"We went back to my apartment."
"Tracy..." Mac pleaded. "Come on... give!"
Tracy giggled then. "Things got a little hot and heavy..."
"Even better," Mac added, knowing that Tracy was hesitating. "You don't have to tell me any more, Tracy. Really. I'm just being nosey... and it's none of my business."
Tracy continued, "Well, I wish I could tell you that something happened... or that something did happen so I could tell you to mind your own business," she laughed, "but actually... nothing did happen. I mean, not really. We were ready to... but..." Tracy sighed heavily. She didn't really want to tell Mac that Tom forgot the condoms... that would make him look foolish. "My father showed up."
Mac gasped. "Your father? At your apartment? Oh, my God, how awful!"
"Yeah, it's not the first time he's done this to me, either. My oldest brother was at the Kennedy Center and saw us there. So he called Daddy and told him. Daddy, in turn, drove all the way up from Front Royal to check us out... and be sure Tom wasn't staying the night."
"Oh, Tracy..." Mac said sympathetically.
"Well, needless to say, Tom didn't stay. Daddy did. And then Tiner called me the next morning, and I've been out here since," Tracy explained.
"Have you talked to him?" Mac asked. "Was he angry?"
"Yes, I have. He's called several times since I left. And no, he's not angry. Tom is a very patient man." Tracy sighed happily.
Meanwhile, in AJ's office... "Damn, AJ, her father showed up! Her father! Hell, if I hadn't forgotten the damned condoms, he'd have walked in on us making love on the sofa!" Tom complained into the receiver.AJ laughed, "So, did you pass muster with her father?"
"I guess so. Met her brother Mike, too... the oldest one..."
"The new Justice?" AJ confirmed.
"That's him," Tom agreed. "He seemed to think I was okay."
"Wait until they get to know you!" AJ joked.
"When are you going to let my woman come home, AJ?" Tom asked.
AJ chuckled. "As soon as they wrap up their investigation, Tom. Probably Thursday."
"Good!" Tom replied. "I want her back in my arms again... and soon! Before she decides I'm too old for her," he muttered this last to himself. But AJ heard him.
"I don't think she's going to decide that, Tom," he told his friend. "To hear the women talk around this office lately, they all seem to prefer men who are older than them. Considerably older, in fact."
"How've you happened to hear those conversations, AJ?" Tom asked.
"Break room chats. And I happened to walk in on a couple of them."
"Mac?" Tom said the name quietly. He'd wondered at one time if he dared ask Mac for a date. But then he decided against it; Harm was always in the picture... and Mac never seemed interested in anyone else. Maybe now she was.
"Yeah. Said this morning that she'd consider dating someone 23 years her senior. That would make him 61," AJ said with a hint of hope in his voice.
"Tracy mentioned that she's given up on Harm," Tom told him.
"That's what she says," AJ agreed.
"You thinking what I think you're thinking, AJ?" asked Tom cautiously.
AJ sighed, "Can't do it, Tom. Sure, she's going to be out of my chain of command come Saturday, but still... it would look suspicious. And someone would be bound to file a grievance."
"Give it some time then... let her be out of your command for a year or so. Then make your move," Tom suggested.
"A year," AJ repeated. "And what makes you think she'll still be alone in a year?"
"Then don't wait. Call her on Saturday."
"I'll think about it," AJ answered. They hung up and AJ said aloud to himself, "You might think about it, Chegwidden, but you'll never do it."
Wednesday, 29 January 2003
0730 EST
The Pentagon
Washington, DCTom sat in his office, the telephone receiver at his ear, listening as his call connected across the country. Ring. Ring. And finally a sleepy male voice answered, "Hello?"
Tom was startled. A man? What the hell is a man doing in Tracy's room at this hour? He hung up quickly. 'And here I thought she was so special... so...' "Damn!" he swore, slamming his fist on his desk. Then he thought... could that have been her father? Or one of her brothers? But no, she's in Yuma! Surely they wouldn't have flown all the way out there to check up on her. "This guy is probably why I couldn't reach her last night!" he realized.
'What do you really know about her? Nothing! You picked her up on the side of the road, for God's sake. Sure, she comes from an important family... but doesn't that usually spell disaster in relationships, you idiot?' he told himself. "Damn!" he swore again, this time kicking the garbage can over and sending it flying across the room. "You are an old fool, Boone!"
Christa knocked on her CO's door. "Admiral? Are you all right, Sir?" she called through the locked door. He didn't answer. "Admiral?!"
Tom barked, "I'm fine, Petty Officer!"
"Sir, I heard a loud bang... are you sure..."
"Come in, Christa," he relented.
She quickly unlocked the door and opened it. She saw her CO, a very odd look on his face. It wasn't one she'd ever seen before. He wasn't angry. He wasn't exhausted. Was he... hurt? "Are you sure you're all right, Admiral? You look..."
Tom turned to look out the window. "I'm fine, Christa. Just had a... disappointment, that's all."
'Oh, no!' she thought. 'What's happened? He's been so happy for the last week. Surely he and Commander Manetti haven't already parted ways?' She saw the trail of litter from his desk to where the garbage can now lay on its side by the file cabinet. "I'm sorry, Sir. I forgot to move the trash can to the hall last night," she said, bending over and retrieving the can. Then she picked up each piece of trash and put it back in the can. "I'll just dump this and be right back, Sir."
Christa returned a moment later with the empty can. "Can I get you anything, Admiral? Coffee? A donut? Bagel?" He didn't answer; he didn't even move. It was like he didn't hear her. She walked up behind him and whispered, "Sir?"
Tom turned his head slightly. "Coffee would be perfect, Christa. Thank you," he answered.
At 0945, Tom was doing his best to concentrate on the file in front of him, but he wasn't having much luck. Christa knocked on his doorframe. "Excuse me, Sir. You have a call on Line 1." Tom moved his hand to the phone set, until Christa continued, "It's Lieutenant Commander Manetti."
Tom didn't even look up. He moved his hand back to the file and said, "I'm busy, Petty Officer. Take a message."
"Sir?" she asked, surprised.
"You heard me; I'm busy," he said without emotion.
Christa nodded, "Of course, Admiral."
As she turned away, Tom called out, "No more interruptions, Petty Officer. And close the hatch!" Christa reached back and pulled the door closed. As it latched, Tom closed his eyes and rested his head in his hands. "Tracy... Oh, Tracy..."
