Off to the Ball

 

 

Author: Ava E-mail: mmmThatAJ@yahoo.com Rating:  PG-13 Disclaimer: JAG and all its characters belong to Belisarius Productions, Paramount, CBS, Viacom, and probably endless others. Summary: AJ goes to the ball stag, but he doesn’t leave that way.  Does he ever? Author's comments:  Characters' speaking parts are in double quotes ("text"); characters' thoughts are in single quotes ('text').

 

 

 

 

1845 EDT
Chegwidden Residence
McLean, Virginia

 

Sergeant Miller stood on the bottom step at the front door as he addressed the Admiral.  “Admiral, whenever you’re ready, Sir.”  It was obvious the Admiral wasn’t ready.  He had his pants and shoes on but was still in his undershirt.

 

“I’ll be out in 10, Sergeant,” AJ Chegwidden replied.  AJ went back to his bedroom and grabbed the aspirin bottle from his dresser drawer.  Taking two tablets from the bottle, he went to the bathroom and washed them down with a glass of water.  “Damn, I wish I didn’t have to go tonight.  This headache is getting worse every minute,” he mumbled to himself. 

 

Back in the bedroom, he slipped into the jacket of his dress white uniform and buttoned it.  “Wouldn’t be so bad if I had a date,” he complained to his reflection in the mirror.  ‘You could’ve asked any number of women, Chegwidden.  It’s your own fault that you’re stag for yet another Naval Ball,’ he thought.  “Probably won’t leave that way, though.  Never do,” he grinned.  ‘Yea, but it would be nice not to have to hit on someone for a change...just have her be there, waiting for me.’  “Dream on, you old fool, but get the lead out,” he commented as he looked at the clock on the bedside table. 

 

AJ quickly picked up the articles he’d thrown around the bedroom, then he collected the towels from the bathroom and put them in the laundry hamper.  He pulled new towels out of the closet and hung them neatly on the bars.  Heading out to the living room, he cast a quick glance over the room to be sure everything was in order.  “All set.  Place looks fine…” ‘…just in case we end up back here instead of her place…’  He grabbed his cover and headed for the limo.

 

 

1930 EDT
Ritz Carlton Hotel
Arlington, Virginia

 

As Admiral Chegwidden entered the hotel lobby, he removed his cover and tucked it under his arm.  He took the stairs two at a time, going up to the ballroom.

 

“Good evening, Sir.  May I check your hat?” a perky little brunette asked from behind a counter.

 

AJ handed her his cover, but held on to it as she tried to take it from him.  He leaned over and whispered with a smile, “We call them ‘covers’ in the military, not ‘hats’.”

 

“Oh, my!  No wonder everyone’s been giving me dirty looks,” she said quietly.  “No one told me.”

 

AJ chuckled.  “Don’t worry about it, …Ellen,” he said glancing at her nametag.  “Have a good evening.”

 

“A good evening?  Checking hats? …er, covers?  Right.  You have the good evening, Sir,” she laughed as he left her counter and entered the ballroom.  ‘God, is he gorgeous!’ she thought.  “Mmm…” she sighed dreamily.

 

AJ stopped in the doorway and looked around.  He spied his JAG Ops team off to the right, so he headed their way.  He greeted many officers as he passed other tables, but he refused all their offers to join them for dinner.  He finally reached the JAG table, as he termed it.  “Good evening, everyone,” he said.  “Lieutenant, is this seat taken?” he asked as he stood to her right.

 

Lieutenant Harriett Sims beamed a smile up at the Admiral and said, “It is now, Sir.  Please.”

 

“Thank you, Harriett.”  AJ had hardly been in his seat for 10 seconds when Alan and Jackie Mattoni arrived.  AJ quickly stood as Alan seated his wife, then AJ sat, again.  AJ looked around the table.  Everyone seemed so stiff.  ‘I wonder what’s wrong with everyone tonight?  They aren’t usually so reserved.  Only Harriett seems to be enjoying herself.’

 

“AJ!  I see you’re in good company tonight.  Don’t get enough of these people at the office, do you?  Have to socialize with them at the ball, too?” laughed Admiral Morris, as he slapped AJ on the back.

 

AJ stood and the two talked for a while until AJ turned to Harriett and the others, “Excuse me.  I should go speak to a few people.”  They all nodded to him, and AJ and Admiral Morris walked away.  “Don’t know what’s gotten into them tonight; they’re usually a pretty lively bunch,” AJ commented.

 

“You’re sitting with them, AJ.  That’s why they’re so reserved.  You don’t usually sit at their table.  Why are you tonight?”

 

“We had a pretty good time at the Surface Warfare Ball last year when we all sat together.  I guess I hoped it would be the same, again, tonight.  Should have known better.  Sydney was at that one with me.  She probably loosened everybody up,” he said dryly as they reached Morris’ table.

 

“So, you came stag, again, AJ?  I have never understood why you do that.  Of course, you never leave alone,” laughed Morris.

 

“Won’t you come dance with me, AJ?” asked Vanessa Morris, as she slapped her husband gently on the arm.  “Stop teasing him,” she chided quietly.

 

“I’d be delighted, Vanessa,” AJ agreed.  “With your permission?” he asked of Morris.

 

“Of course.”

 

AJ led Vanessa to the dance floor and took her in his arms.  As they waltzed around the room, they chatted amiably.  AJ glanced over to the JAG table.  ‘Hmm, maybe Morris is right.  They all seem to be talking and having a good time now.’

 

“I can’t imagine why he’s sitting with us tonight!  He never has before.  He always sits with other Admirals,” commented Alan Mattoni.

 

“We did all sit together at the Surface Warfare Ball last year.  Maybe…” Mac began.

 

“That was different, Mac.  He was the guest of honor.  And we were his guests,” explained Harm.

 

Harriett finally spoke up.  “I invited him.”

 

Bud turned startled eyes to his wife.  “You what?”

 

“I invited him.  I asked him this afternoon who he was bringing with him tonight, and he said ‘no one’.  He said it so sadly, like he was expecting to have a miserable time tonight.  So I invited him to sit with us,” Harriett explained.

 

“Harriett, he’s our CO.  Admirals don’t sit with junior officers at the Naval Ball; it just isn’t done,” Bud said.

 

“Well, it is this time.  He seemed very pleased when I asked him, Bud, and I’m glad I did.  And I think you all need to lighten up and enjoy yourselves and him. He’s a wonderful man, not an ogre,” Harriett said, choking up on her last words.  She couldn’t believe she had just said all that to superior officers.  She could be in some real trouble now.  But as she looked around the table, she saw that they weren’t angry with her.

 

Bud put his arm around her shoulders and pulled her closer to him.  “It’s okay, Honey.  We were all just a little surprised when he sat here.  It’s not a problem.  We’ll have a wonderful evening,” he assured her.  He looked around the table, and the others nodded their agreement. They all loved Harriett; they wouldn’t do anything to hurt her feelings if they could avoid it.

 

“Harriett, you don’t need to fuss over the Admiral.  He never has a miserable time at a Naval Ball.  He always comes stag.  But, he never leaves alone,” Mattoni offered.

 

“That’s right.  I’ve never seen him leave one of these things alone,” agreed Harm.  “He’s a virtual babe magnet,” he muttered.

 

“What was that, Harm?” asked Mac with a quirky little grin on her face.  “A babe magnet?  Sounds like the Commander is just a tad jealous!” she laughed.

 

“Jealous of whom, Colonel?” AJ’s voice broke into their fun. 

 

“Admiral!  Sir!” Mac stuttered.

 

AJ just laughed.  “Looks like you all are having quite a lively discussion.  Sorry I interrupted.  Harriett, may I have the privilege of a dance with you?  With your permission, of course, Lieutenant?” he turned to Bud. 

 

“Sir!  Of course, Sir.  That is, I mean, if Harriett…Lieutenant Sims…wants…” Bud stammered.

 

“I’d be delighted, Admiral.  Thank you,” Harriett bubbled.  AJ held out his hand, which Harriett accepted, and they walked to the dance floor. 

 

“Harriett, you look lovely this evening.  That color becomes you,” AJ said.  Harriett smiled her thanks.  As they waltzed around the room, AJ said, “Doesn’t this band know anything but waltzes?”

 

Harriett glanced up at him.  “I’m glad it’s a waltz, Sir.  I’m actually not a very good dancer, but I can waltz.”

 

“Harriett, you dance beautifully.  So, tell me...  Who is Harm jealous of tonight?” AJ asked in a conspiratorial tone.

 

Harriett laughed as she looked up at him.  “You!”

 

AJ was startled.  “Me?!” he said, stopping mid-stride.  Harriett couldn’t read his expression.  They started dancing, again, but she kept watching his face.  “Me?  He’s jealous of me?  He’s here with one of the two loveliest women in the room, and he’s jealous of me?  What’s wrong with that man?” AJ mumbled.

 

“Yes, Sir, the Colonel is especially beautiful tonight, isn’t she,” Harriett agreed.

 

AJ pulled his thoughts together and looked down at Harriett.  “No more than you are, Harriett,” he said with a warm smile.  “Thank you for inviting me to join your table this evening.”

 

“I’m glad you accepted, Sir.  I only learned a few minutes ago that it was inappropriate for me to extend the invitation.  I do apologize for putting you on the spot like that, Admiral,” she said softly.

 

“Inappropriate?  I disagree.  I consider you all part of my family.  I guess that’s the SeAL in me.  Once a SeAL, always a SeAL.  And what’s wrong with enjoying the company of family?”

 

“Nothing at all, Sir,” Harriett beamed. 

 

When the music stopped, AJ walked Harriett back to the table and held her chair for her to sit.  Before he had the chance to sit down, Admiral and Mrs. Pennyman waved him over to their table.

 

“Harriett, you were wonderful on the dance floor just now,” said Bud.  “I wish I could dance like that.  I have two left feet,” he explained to Jackie Mattoni. 

 

They heard AJ’s booming voice in laughter and looked up to see him escorting a beautiful young woman to the dance floor.  “Who is she?” Jackie asked.

 

“Admiral Pennyman’s niece,” answered Harm.  “She’s only 25; a little young for him, don’t you think?”

 

“Harm!  You are jealous!” Mac laughed.  “Come on, Flyboy; I want to dance,” Mac said as she pulled him out of his chair.

 

AJ noticed as Harm and Mac made their way to the dance floor.  So did Linda Pennyman.  When she noticed that the Admiral looked their way, too, she said in a dreamy voice, “Mmm, who is that?”

 

AJ smiled indulgently.  “That, Miss Pennyman, is Commander Harmon Rabb.  He’s dancing with Lieutenant Colonel Sarah MacKenzie.  They’re both on my staff.” 

 

“Married?” she asked.  AJ shook his head.  “Engaged?  Involved?”  she probed. 

 

“No, just partners and best of friends.  At least, that’s what they tell me,” he added.  AJ whirled Linda around the room, again, forcing her eyes back on him.  ‘Ah, go on, Chegwidden.  She’s too young for you anyway.’  “Would you like to meet him?” he finally asked.

 

“Oh, yes, I would.  Thank you, Admiral,” she purred.

 

AJ took her arm and walked over to Harm and Mac, who stopped dancing as their CO approached.  “Colonel; Commander.  May I present Miss Linda Pennyman?  Miss Pennyman, please meet Lt. Colonel Sarah MacKenzie and Commander Harmon Rabb,” AJ said formally.

 

“Pleased to meet you both,” Linda said, but she was gazing up at Harm.  AJ glanced over at Mac and saw her bemused expression. 

 

“Sarah, may I have the pleasure of a dance with you?” he asked.  “That is, assuming Miss Pennyman doesn’t mind completing this dance with the Commander?” he finished, looking at Linda.

 

“No, I don’t mind at all,” she said.

 

“I’d be honored, Admiral,” Mac returned.

 

AJ and Harm switched dancing partners just as the song ended.  But another began immediately.  This time, a slow, intimate ballad.  ‘Great!  Now they play something other than a waltz!’  AJ gently eased Mac into his arms and held her closely as they danced slowly, hardly moving out of a 4-foot section of the floor.  “Sarah, you are absolutely stunning this evening,” AJ whispered to her as they danced.

 

“Thank you, AJ,” she whispered back, only realizing she called him ‘AJ’ after the words were already out.  Her mind was reeling, and her body was, too.  He had her pressed so closely to him, she could feel the muscles in his chest and thighs.

 

‘She called me “AJ”.’  He thrilled to the sound of his name coming from her lips.  How long had he wanted her?  God, since the day he met her.  But it wasn’t meant to be.  ‘Get a grip, old man, or you’re going to lose it.’

 

When the song ended, AJ eased Mac away from him, and brought her hand to his lips for a kiss.  “Thank you, Sarah,” he said softly.  Then he turned and walked her back to their table and held her chair as she sat.

 

‘Oh my God!  All he’d have to do now is say “let’s go,” and I’d be in his bed in a minute!  He is so romantic!’ Mac’s thoughts were whirling.  She had danced with the Admiral before, but never like that.  Never so close.  Never so slow.  Never so…  ‘Stop it!’ she chided herself.  ‘He’s your CO, for crying out loud.  You will not make that mistake, again, Sarah MacKenzie!!’

 

“If you’ll all excuse me, again?” AJ said after he seated Mac.  “I’m afraid the evening wouldn’t be complete without speaking to the SecNav.”  He winked at Jackie before heading off in the direction of his least favorite person.

 

Harm returned to the table and sat next to Mac.  “I didn’t expect you back so soon,” she teased.

 

“Mac, don’t start on me.  Linda Pennyman is pretty, but she’s phony.  I’ve had enough of ‘phony’ to last me a lifetime,” Harm replied.

 

“You couldn’t be referring to the Video Princess?” she purred.

 

“Mac, you want me to start on Burpee?”

 

Jackie looked from one to the other.  “The Video Princess and Burpee?  Do tell.”

 

Alan explained, “Renee and Brumby, dear.”

 

“What time do we eat?  I’m starving!” said Mac.

 

“You and your stomach,” Harm joked.

 

“I believe dinner is served at 2100, Ma’am…Mac,” Harriett offered, correcting herself.

 

“Good, it’s almost that now,” Jackie said.

 

“2048 and 27 seconds,” Mac agreed as she watched the Admiral lead Mrs. Nelson to the dance floor.  ‘He is such a gentleman.  So gallant.  So sexy!  God, why am I torturing myself?  I wonder if Harriett thinks about him like this?’

 

 

 

2115 EDT
Grand Ballroom, Ritz Carlton Hotel
Arlington, Virginia

 

AJ returned Mrs. Nelson to her husband’s table and excused himself saying that dinner was being served and he should join his people.  As he reached his table, he noticed that everyone else had already eaten their soup and were now working on salads, but his place and the one next to him were still empty.  ‘Now’s my chance to leave; this headache isn’t getting any better, and I’m certainly not “in the mood for love” with throbbing temples.’

 

“It’s been nice sharing a table with you all, what little I’ve been here.  I’m leaving now.  Headache.  I’ll see you all on Monday morning.  Goodnight,” AJ said quickly.  He turned and left before anyone had a chance to reply.

 

AJ retrieved his cover and left the hotel.

 

 

 

2120 EDT
Outside the Ritz Carlton Hotel
Arlington, Virginia

 

“Call my driver, please.  Admiral Chegwidden.”

 

“Yes, Sir,” the porter said.  Speaking into his walkie-talkie, he said, “Send Admiral Chegwidden’s car up.  He’s ready to leave.”

 

“Chegwidden.  Will do,” the speaker crackled. 

 

AJ stood and waited.  He turned to look back at the hotel and noticed a woman sitting on a bench next to the entrance.  She was wearing an evening gown and her red hair was piled on top of her head in a French chignon, tendrils falling down about her face.  ‘God, she’s beautiful!’ AJ mused.

 

The speaker crackled, again.  “Hey, Dave.  You sure it’s Chegwidden?  His driver says the old man never leaves this early.”

 

Dave started to answer, but AJ grabbed his hand and took the walkie-talkie.  “Tell Miller to get my damned car up here NOW,” he barked into it and handed it back to Dave.

 

“Yes, Sir!” the speaker crackled.

 

AJ turned and looked back at the woman.  She was still sitting there.  He spoke quietly to the porter.  “What is she doing sitting out here?”

 

“Waiting for a cab, Admiral.”

 

“A cab?  Why the hell is she waiting for a cab?  Where’s her escort?”

 

“I don’t know, Sir.  She came outside and asked me to call a cab for her.”

 

“Well, where the hell is the cab?  Aren’t they usually lined up here for fares?”

 

“They’re very busy tonight, Sir.  There are several large receptions just letting out in the area, and the cabs are all there.  One is on the way, though.  I just checked,” Dave finished as AJ walked toward the woman. 

 

“Excuse me, Ma’am.  I understand you’ve been waiting for a cab?” AJ stood in front of her.

 

She looked up at him with big, green eyes.  “Yes, I am. Is it here?” she stood and looked past AJ.  “I don’t see it.”

 

“No, it isn’t here yet.  You were here for the Naval Ball, were you not?” he asked.

 

“Yes, that’s right.”

 

“And you’re taking a cab home?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Where is your escort?”  It was very obvious that she was not Navy.  He was, after all, a two-star Admiral; if she were in any branch of the military, she’d be addressing him as such or at least as ‘Sir’.

 

“Inside,” she answered.  “I got tired and decided to go home.”

 

“You got tired.  Pardon me, but you don’t look tired.  You look annoyed, perhaps, but not tired.”

 

She smiled.  “Sorry.  I didn’t think it showed.  Yes, I am annoyed.  My date decided he’d rather spend his time with someone else and a bottle of beer, or rather, lots of bottles of beer.  I got tired of sitting by myself, so I told him goodbye and I left.  I didn’t realize it would be so difficult to get a cab home.”

 

“How long have you been waiting here?” AJ asked.

 

“20 minutes.”

 

“20 minutes?” he bellowed.  “That’s obscene!  Come on; come with me,” AJ ordered.  “I’ll take you home.”  He held his hand out to her, but she didn’t move.

 

“I can’t just go with you.  I don’t know you,” she replied as she sat back down.

 

“Damn,” he muttered.  “Of course you don’t.  My apologies, Ma’am.  I’m Admiral AJ Chegwidden, Judge Advocate General for the US Navy.”  When he said ‘Admiral’, she stood back up immediately.  “My limo will be here shortly,” AJ turned to look at the driveway, “actually, that’s my car now.  Please, allow me to escort you home.”

 

“Admiral, I couldn’t possibly.  Thank you for offering, but I couldn’t take up your time that way.  I’ll just wait...”

 

“Nonsense.  Why pay cab fare when there’s a perfectly good limo waiting for you?  If you’d feel more comfortable without me along, my driver can take you home and come back for me.”

 

“Gracious, no!  I couldn’t possibly.”

 

“You said that already,” he smiled.  “Where do you need to go?”

 

“Pimmit Hills.”

 

“Right on my way.  I’m in McLean.”

 

“Are you sure, Admiral?  I wouldn’t want to be a bother,” she said.

 

“A bother?  Ma’am, a woman as beautiful as you are could never be a bother,” he said smoothly.  He reached his hand out and slipped it around her waist, steering her toward the waiting limo. 

 

Sergeant Miller opened the rear door for the Admiral.  AJ took the woman by the hand and helped her inside, then he followed her.  Miller closed the car door and took his place behind the wheel.  He headed for McLean.

 

“How long were you here this evening,” AJ asked his lovely companion.

 

“Two and a half hours, two of which I spent waiting for Jake to come back,” she answered.

 

“Jake?”

 

“Lieutenant Jacob Belk.  He works at Bethesda Naval Hospital.”

 

“Humph,” AJ grunted.

 

“Where do you work, Admiral?”

 

“Falls Church.”  He didn’t want the subject to be him, so he diverted it back to her.  “How long have you been seeing Belk?”

 

“Only about a month.  We met in a grocery store, of all places.  He helped me with my bags and called me that night to ask me out.”

 

“You gave him your number?”

 

“No.  He got it from my license tag.  It’s amazing what kind of information you can get on the Internet these days.  I had no idea that was available,” she said.

 

“It’s not.  Not without clearance.  Which he had no business using for personal reasons,” AJ said disgustedly.

 

“Oh!  I had no idea.”

 

“So you went out?”

 

“Yes, the next evening.  Then he didn’t call me for two weeks; I figured the age difference was the problem.  But when I did hear from him, again, he asked me to come to the Naval Ball with him.”  AJ nodded.  “That was like a dream come true for me.  I mean, I grew up in Edgewater, so close to the Academy.  Growing up, I always hoped one day I’d meet a Cadet and he’d sweep me off my feet and take me to a ball.  I’d be like Cinderella.  Well, that never happened, obviously.  The only reason I accepted Jake’s invitation for tonight was because of the dream.  Oh well.  So much for dreams,” she lamented.

 

“So what is the age difference?” he questioned.

 

“He thought I was younger.  I thought he was older.  He’s only 31.  I’m, well…over 40,” she hedged.

 

“Impossible.  You don’t look a day over 32,” he returned.

 

“Funny, that’s what Jake thought, too,” she sighed.

 

They sat in companionable silence for a couple of minutes, AJ’s thoughts whirling.  Finally, he decided to go for it.

 

“I have a suggestion,” he started.  “I went to the ball stag tonight...”

 

“I wondered about that,” she interrupted.

 

He smiled, and continued, “You’ve always wanted to go to a ball, you’re dressed for a ball…and I might add, beautifully dressed…I’m available, and the ball is going on until 0300.  It’s only 2145.  What do you say we go back, and go to the ball together?”

 

“Together?  You and me?” she asked incredulously.

 

“Together.  You and me,” he repeated.

 

“Why would you want to do that?” she asked.

 

“Why would I want to spend the evening with a beautiful woman?  Hmm, that’s a tough one…” he said, putting his finger to his temple…which he realized, no longer hurt.  ‘Wonderful!  No more headache!’

 

She laughed, and agreed.  “I’d love to.  Thank you!”

 

AJ punched the intercom button for the driver.  “Sergeant, turn us around.  We’re going back to the ball.”

 

“Aye, Sir.  ETA is five minutes, Sir.”

 

“Five?  We’ve been on the road for a lot longer than that,” she mentioned.

 

“Ah, but we haven’t been moving much.  Traffic.  We’re not even out of Pentagon City yet,” AJ responded.

 

 

 

2150 EDT
Outside the Ritz Carlton Hotel
Arlington, Virginia

 

Sergeant Miller pulled into the driveway of the hotel, got out and ran around to open the Admiral’s door.  AJ stepped out and turned to give…her…his hand.  “You know, I don’t even know your name,” AJ said as she climbed out of the limo. 

 

“Rachel.  Rachel Cooper,” she said with a bright smile.

 

“Rachel…what a lovely name.  I don’t believe that I’ve ever personally known anyone named Rachel before,” AJ commented.

 

“Well then, it’s my pleasure to be your first Rachel.”

 

AJ looked down at her face.  ‘She doesn’t mean it that way, old man.  Get your mind out of the gutter.’   He looked up at the Sergeant who had a smirk on his face; AJ could tell he was thinking along the very same lines.  AJ glared at him, and Miller wiped the smirk off his face but fast.

 

 

 

2155 EDT
Grand Ballroom, Ritz Carlton Hotel
Arlington, Virginia

 

AJ took Rachel by the arm and led her back inside.  Once again, he checked his cover, and headed to the ballroom.  “Did you eat while you were here?” he asked her. 

 

“No, they hadn’t started serving when I went outside,” she explained.  “But I don’t need anything.”

 

“Well I do.  I didn’t eat yet, either.”  AJ headed back to the JAG table.  His seat and the one next to him were still vacant, and everyone was still eating their dinner.  The main course had just been served, in fact. 

 

“Admiral!  You came back, Sir?” Harm asked as he saw AJ approaching.

 

“That I did, Commander.  And I have a guest with me.  Ladies and gentlemen, please meet Rachel Cooper,” AJ said as he held the chair out for Rachel to sit.  The men all stood quickly.  “Rachel, to your right is Commander Alan Mattoni, his wife Jackie, Lieutenant Alfred Aldridge, Lieutenant Lauren Singer, Commander Harmon Rabb, Lieutenant Colonel Sarah MacKenzie, Lieutenant Bud Roberts, and his wife, Lieutenant Harriet Sims.”  Then he whispered in her ear, “There will be a test later,” and she laughed as she turned to look at him.

 

“I don’t remember there being a Lt. Colonel rank in the Navy,” Rachel said addressing Mac.

 

“There isn’t.  I’m a Marine,” she said proudly.

 

AJ caught the attention of their waiter and instructed him to bring two more meals, from the beginning.  He also ordered two bottles of wine and one of sparkling cider for the table.  “Shall we take a turn about the floor while we wait for our food, Rachel?” he suggested.

 

“That would be lovely, thank you.”

 

AJ extended his hand and Rachel placed hers in it.  They made their way to the dance floor and AJ took her in his arms.  The band was playing another waltz.  “Admiral, I was wondering…” she started.

 

“AJ,” he interrupted.  “You’re my date for the evening, Rachel.  Don’t you think it would be better to call me by my name?” he chuckled.

 

“I’d like that.  I just didn’t want to presume,” she said.

 

“Presume all you like,” he said softly.  ‘Ah, the lady blushes!’  “What were you wondering?”

 

“Why you were here alone,” she said.

 

“I always come alone,” he answered.  She looked startled by his statement.  “In truth, I should tell you that although I always come alone, I never leave alone.”  She jerked her head up to look at him, fear obvious in her face.  “Until tonight,” he continued.  “I left alone tonight, and that’s how I found you.”

 

Rachel knew she was in over her head.  ‘My God, Rachel!  Do you have any idea what you’re doing here?  This is a two-star Admiral you’re with!  A man who, by his own admission, can pick up a woman anytime he wants one.  And you…you’re a little nobody.  A little nobody that he intends to bed tonight, no doubt.  Well, he’s in for a rude awakening.  He’ll react the same as Jake did.  He’ll bolt.  Just watch.’   “AJ, I’ve never been married.  I’ve also never been with a man before.”

 

AJ didn’t miss a step.  He kept her waltzing around the room holding tightly to her hand and her waist.  He looked down at her in amazement and knew what the fear was he’d seen in her eyes.  “You have nothing to worry about, Rachel.  I would never force myself on any woman.”

 

“Why don’t I just leave now?  I can still get a cab…”

 

“Why do you want to leave?  I thought we were going to spend the evening together here at the ball…Cinderella,” he whispered to her with a crooked smile playing on his lips.

 

“You still want to spend the evening with me?” she asked disbelievingly.

 

“Most definitely,” he assured her.  “More now than ever.”

 

“AJ, I won’t let you…”

 

“You’re perfectly safe with me, Rachel.”

 

“All right.  Thank you,” she said as the music stopped.  AJ led her back to their table, and they ate their meal.  The waiter held off serving coffee and dessert to the others until Rachel and AJ were ready, too. 

 

“So, Rachel, how did you and the Admiral meet?” asked Lauren Singer.

 

“I was waiting for a cab, and he offered me a ride,” Rachel answered.  No reason to tell her that only just happened two hours ago!

 

“Lauren, I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure of dancing with you yet this evening.  May I?” the Admiral asked.

 

“Absolutely, Sir,” Lauren answered and immediately stood.

 

“Rachel, how about you and I dancing this one?” asked Harm.  Harm really wanted to know where Rachel came from.  He knew the Admiral hadn’t asked anyone to the ball, so how did he end up coming back with this gorgeous woman?

 

“That would be lovely, Harm, if Sarah doesn’t mind,” Rachel said.

 

“Oh!  I have nothing to say about who Harm dances with, Rachel.  He’s my partner at work, not life,” Mac replied.

 

“Oops.  My mistake.  Sorry.”  Rachel stood and took Harm’s offered hand.  When the dance was almost over, someone tapped Harm on the shoulder to cut in.  “Jake!” Rachel exclaimed.

 

“Rachel.  What are you doing here?  You told me you were leaving…two hours ago.  What’d you do, find another poor sucker so you could waste his time, too?” Jake said cruelly.  “Well, if you’re going to stay, you’re staying with me.  And you’re staying all night with me, too!  I’ll be damned if I’ll waste another night taking a cold shower because of you!”  Jake grabbed Rachel’s wrist and tried to pull her from Harm’s grasp.

 

AJ saw what was happening from across the dance floor.  “I beg your pardon, Lauren.  I believe I need to break that up before it gets out of hand.  I’m sorry,” he said as he headed over to Harm, Rachel, and Jake. 

 

“Jake, you’re hurting me; stop it!” Rachel pleaded. 

 

“You heard the lady, Lieutenant.  Let her go.  I think you need to go dry out,” Harm said.

 

“I’m not going anywhere without my sweet old Rachel girl,” Jake declared.  “She’s my date, and I’m taking her out of here.  We’re gonna go make whoopee…”

 

“Lieutenant Belk!” AJ bellowed as he approached them.  When Harm came to attention stance at that voice, Belk did, too.  “As you were, Commander.  Mister Belk, let me clarify something for you.  Miss Cooper bid you good night over two hours ago.  She left this hotel, and waited outside for a cab for almost half an hour, while you entertained the company of another woman and got yourself drunk, to boot!  Miss Cooper is now my guest for the evening.  Do you have a problem with that?!” he yelled.

 

“Sir!  No, Sir!” Belk yelped.  All eyes were on the scene in the middle of the dance floor.  Even the band had stopped playing.

 

AJ continued his tirade.  “You have no claim to her or to her time anymore.  And I don’t want ever to hear that you so much as called Miss Cooper on the telephone after tonight.  Do I make myself perfectly clear, Lieutenant?”

 

“Sir!  Yes, Sir!  Perfectly clear, Sir!” Belk answered.

 

“Good.  Now get your sorry ass out of this hotel and back to Bethesda.  Dismissed!” AJ said disgustedly.

 

“Aye, aye, Sir!”  Belk turned on his heel and headed out the door. 

 

AJ turned to Rachel.  “I’m sorry, Rachel,” he said as he took her hands in his and lifted them to his mouth, kissing her palms gently.  “That should not have happened.  Certainly not here.  Are you all right?”

 

Rachel was floating on the proverbial Cloud Nine.  ‘He stood up for me.  Someone he’s not even known for three hours.  And he kissed my hands the way Papa used to kiss Mama.  Oh dear God!  Is he truly my Prince Charming?  After all these years of kissing toads, have I finally found him?’ 

 

AJ saw Rachel began to shake.  “Rachel, come and let’s sit down.”  He put his hand on the small of her back to lead her away.

 

“No, please, AJ.  Dance with me.  Hold me,” she begged.

 

“Of course, Darlin’.”  AJ took her in his arms and they began dancing very slowly, without music.  The band quickly started up with a slow love song, matching their steps and tempo perfectly.  “Are you sure you’re okay?” he whispered in her ear.

 

She nodded slightly; “I’m perfect.”

 

“Yes, you are,” he agreed.

 

“Well, now we know where he found her,” Lauren said to no one in particular.

 

 

 

2359 EDT
Grand Ballroom, Ritz Carlton Hotel
Arlington, Virginia

 

“Are you ready to leave, AJ?  Because if you are, please say so.  We can leave anytime,” Rachel offered as he whirled her around the dance floor, again.

 

“Do you turn into a pumpkin at midnight, Cinderella?” he joked.

 

“No, silly; I turn into a ragamuffin.  The limo turns into the pumpkin!”

 

“I stand corrected,” he laughed.

 

“I mean it, though, AJ.  You were ready to head out of here hours ago, and you came back only because…”

 

“I came back because I wanted to, Rachel.  Because I wanted to spend the evening with you.”

 

The clock in the grand foyer played its chimes and stroked the hour of midnight.  AJ held Rachel away from him and watched her.  As the final stroke of the clock sounded, he shook his head and said, “Nope.  You didn’t turn into a ragamuffin or a pumpkin.  You’re still Cinderella at the ball.”

 

“And you’re Prince Charming,” she smiled and moved back into his arms.  AJ lowered his face to hers and kissed her lightly.  They danced for another hour before sitting one out.  AJ didn’t want to take his arms from around her; she felt so good in them.  Neither did she want to be without his arms around her.  ‘I feel so safe with him.’

 

 

 

0235 EDT
Chegwidden Limousine
EnRoute to Pimmit Hills, Virginia

 

“Thank you for a wonderful evening, AJ.  I can’t tell you when I’ve had a better time,” Rachel said.

 

“It was my pleasure, believe me,” AJ replied.  “Rachel, I’d like to see you, again.  That is, if you think you can stand my company, again.”

 

“I’d love to see you, again, AJ.  And again.  And again,” she laughed.

 

“When?”

 

“How about now?” she asked in all seriousness.

 

“So, this date is over and you want to start another one now?” he asked.

 

“Yes.  Is that okay?”

 

“Sure.  But why?  I don’t get it,” AJ queried.

 

Rachel leaned over closer to AJ and placed her hand on his face.  “I never make out on a first date.”  Then she moved her lips to cover his.

 

“Rachel,” AJ drawled as he pushed her away from him.  “I’m sorry, but I can’t do this,” he said.

 

“I don’t understand,” she said, tears welling up in her eyes.

 

“I made you a promise, Rachel.  I don’t break my promises.”

 

“You promised that I’d be safe with you.  I am safe, AJ.  Perfectly safe.”  Rachel wiggled back into his arms and he folded them around her, lowering his lips to hers. 

 

AJ reached over and pressed the button to raise the black shields between the driver and passenger area and the passenger windows.  ‘No point in giving everyone a free show.’

 

He started to move his hand back to Rachel’s back, but she caught it in her hand and brought it to her breast.  When she released it, she placed her hand on his thigh.  “Oooh,” she moaned as he rubbed his hand across the fabric of her bodice.

 

AJ felt her hand on his thigh.  He wished it was just a little bit higher, but he wasn’t about to move it or rush her.  He was already as hard as a rock; he wondered if she knew.

 

“AJ,” she whispered.  “Does it hurt much?”

 

Her question caught AJ off guard.  “Does what hurt much, Darlin’?”

 

“Sex,” she said so softly he almost didn’t hear her.

 

“A little at first, but I’m told it’s a good hurt.”  AJ ran his fingers through the tendrils of hair falling about her face. 

 

“Take me home with you, AJ.  You made one dream come true tonight.  Make my other one come true, too.”

 

“I know what your first dream was, but you haven’t mentioned a second one.  What’s the dream?” AJ asked, wanting to be absolutely sure what she was asking of him.

 

“The most handsome man in the world carries me through his house, lays me on his bed, and makes mad, passionate love to me…all night,” she said with a hint of embarrassment.

 

“And you want that to be tonight?” he asked.  “You want me to make love to you?”  Rachel nodded her head.  “Rachel, are you sure?  You said you’ve never…” 

 

She nodded, again, and said, “I want you to do it, AJ.  I want you to make love to me.  I want to see you, touch you, feel you.  I want you.  Please, AJ?  Let me truly be your first Rachel.”

 

AJ reached over her and pressed the intercom button.  “Home, Sergeant.”

 

“Aye, Sir.”

 

 

The End.   (continue to After the Ball)