Stranded (part 1)

Title: Stranded (part 1)

Author: Suz W.

Feedback: I would love to hear from you!

Spoilers: After The Fifth Man, Red Sky, and Rite Of Passage (episode tag)

Rating: PG-13, S/J Action/Adventure, Romance, and Friendship.

Summary: The team suddenly finds themselves on an unexpected adventure, one that definitely has its ups and downs.

Disclaimer: All publicity recognizable characters and places are the property of MGM, World Gekko Corp and Double Secret Productions. This piece of fan fiction was created for entertainment not monetary purposes and no infringement on copyrights or trademarks was intended.

Copyright: The original characters, situations, and story are the property of the author. Copyrighted on July 26, 2004, by Suzanne R. Whitmarsh.

Author’s Notes: This story follows “The Waking Truth”. Thanks for your continued patience with my hectic life right now. I apologize that this story took so long to get out to you, but I just didn’t have the time to write it in the last three weeks. My hope is that won’t happen too often from now on. I hope that you are continuing to enjoy my series, and as always, any feedback you’d like to send my way would be greatly appreciated!!

Dedication: I would like to dedicate this story to one of my newest friends/fan….Sam, this one’s for you! Thanks for your wonderful support to my stories. I hope you only continue to enjoy each adventure I take our favorite couple on. Happy reading!!

“It’s your move, Sam,” Cassie said, staring at her Chess partner with a knowing grin on her face.

Sam glanced up at the clock on the wall. 1830 hours. She and Cassie had been at this all day, and if she didn’t make a move soon, there wouldn’t be an end in sight. Not that she minded. She loved playing this game with Cassie. Ever since she had introduced Cassie to Chess, Sam had watched with happy enthusiasm as her young opponent continued to gain in skill and in the number of wins against her. It was nice to have someone to challenge her.

And right now, it was a challenge. Sam had been staring at the chessboard for the last ten minutes, desperately trying to find the best move to make to clinch the win. She willingly admitted that there had been many times in the past when she had “accidentally” missed a move, allowing Cassie the win. But today Cassie had been really on her game, and Sam actually found herself backed into a corner, and with no way out that she could see. But as stuck as she was, she had never backed down on a challenge in her life.

Sam looked up briefly at Cassie in her hospital bed and smiled. It was so good to see her healthy again, especially after what she had just been through. They had almost lost her, thanks to the retrovirus Nirrti had genetically engineered and placed inside Cassie four years ago. Sam could have killed Nirrti with her bare hands for doing what she had done to Cassie. Though Janet was really her mother now, Sam had always felt a special bond to this young girl. It had been hell just to stand by and watch her suffer. Yet ironically, the one person who had done this to her was the only one who was able to save her. As much as she despised Nirrti, she was grateful that the Goa’uld had been able to spare Cassie’s life.

Sighing contently, Sam looked back down at the chessboard and spoke. “You know, your mom is going to be taking you home soon. Maybe we should just put the game on hold for now. I could maybe come over tomorrow and finish it with you?”

Cassie laughed, her 13 year-old face lighting up like a star. “Oh no you don’t, Sam. I’m about to win this game. You’re stuck! It’s too bad really, since I know exactly what move you could make to take the win away from me.”

Sam looked up, astonished. “Cassandra Fraiser! Since when did you become such a mean chess player?”

Cassie gave her another innocent smile. “I learned from the best! So move already!”

“Yeah, move already!” Jack’s voice filled the infirmary, sending happy chills up Sam’s spine at his approach. She could feel his body heat beside her before she looked up at him and gave him a smile. His eyes held a warmth that she could have wrapped herself in, and she suddenly realized how much she had missed him all day.

Jack met Sam’s eyes and gave her a smile. He had been going nuts all day waiting for Sam to call, telling him she was finished with her chess game. He understood her need to spend time with Cassie, and Jack knew how important she was to Sam. But he had plans for them tonight, and when 1745 rolled around and still no call, he decided it was time to rescue Sam from herself and the base infirmary.

Jack broke his gaze with Sam and looked over at Cassie and then down at the chessboard. “So, who’s winning?”

Cassie promptly answered him. “Well, it’s a close game, but I’m going to win. Of course, that all depends on whenever Sam here decides to move her piece. She won’t admit it, but she’s actually stuck and just won’t give in to defeat.”

Jack put his hand playfully on Sam’s shoulder. “Carter? Is this true? Am I actually going to witness you failing at something? She just turned 13 you know. How hard can it be? An Astrophysicist against a teenager! What are the odds?!”

Sam smirked up at him. “Very funny, Sir. I’m sorry to disappoint both of you, but I’m not giving up that easily. I’ll figure out my strategy, even if it takes all night. It’s just been a long week, that’s all.”

Cassie sighed and Jack groaned quietly to himself. He knew her. She wasn’t going to walk away from this. But she was just going to have to. He hadn’t spent all day planning this evening just to sit and watch her stare at a chessboard. Looking at the game, he suddenly saw her salvation. He might regret it later, but he was going to help her out all the same.

Bending down to Sam’s level, he cupped his hand around her ear and whispered quietly. “Knight to H-3.”

Sam, startled to hear his suggestion, squinted at the chessboard and discovered the move she should have seen in her sleep. Looking up at him in surprise, she was only greeted with the grin that was plastered to his face. Focusing back at the board, she made the move suggested to her, consenting his help. “Knight to H-3. Checkmate.”

Cassie’s jaw dropped and she looked up and swatted at Jack, who quickly moved away, a smile still on his face. “Not fair, Jack! You’re not supposed to help her. The game’s forfeit.”

Jack just shrugged. “Cassie, I don’t know what you’re talking about. Maybe I was simply telling Carter here that duty was calling. Maybe knowing she was going to have to end the game forced the answer into her brain.”

Cassie flopped back on her pillow, crossing her arms over her chest. “Whatever, Jack. I know you helped her out. I’ve always said you’re smarter than you pretend to be.” Looking over at Sam, Cassie simply shrugged. “Fine. Have it your way. But the next time we play, I’m going to so kick your butt. And there won’t be any Colonel around to come to your rescue.”

Sam held up her hands, smiling. “Okay, kiddo, you’ve got it.”

Just then, Janet walked in, her heels clicking on the cement floor beneath her shoes. “Did I hear you say Sam won? That has to be one of your longer games.”

Cassie looked up at Janet. “Mom, that’s not exactly a win I’d put in the record books. Jack stepped in and told Sam what move to make. It’s not fair.”

Jack put his hands in his pockets, his eyebrows rising in defense. “Hey! You can’t prove that!”

Cassie rolled her eyes. “Oh please. I’m not dumb you know.”

Jack smiled and shook his head. “No, you’re not.” Bringing his hands together and rubbing them lightly, he looked at Sam. “Ready?”

Sam turned and looked at him, surprise on her face. “Ready? For what…Sir?”

Jack suddenly realized that Cassie was in the dark to their relationship, not to mention that they were still on the base. Clearing his throat to his audience, he continued. “Ready…to go over those mission reports. Hammond’s banging down my door for them.”

Sam gave him a funny face and then smiled. “Okay,” she answered hesitantly.

Cassie sat up in bed and looked at him. “Jack, please tell me you don’t spend all your Saturday nights at the base? I know you have to have more to do than go through boring paperwork.” Pausing for only a moment, Cassie suddenly got an excited tone to her voice. “Hey, I know! Mom, why don’t we have Sam and Jack come over for dinner and a movie? It would be like a miniature welcome home party. Please?”

Janet smiled down at Cassie and then shrugged. “Well, I don’t…”. Just then, she caught Jack’s quick throat-cutting signal out of the corner of her eye. Looking over at him, she could see he had other things in mind. Smiling, she looked back at her daughter. “I don’t think it’s such a good idea tonight. You need your rest. I promise we’ll do it one night soon.” Looking back at Jack, she winked.

Jack gave Janet a quick thank you smile and then looked at Cassie, trying to look resigned. “You’re Mom’s right, Cassie. You probably could use the rest.”

Sam reached out and took Cassie’s hand. “Don’t worry, Cass. We’ll do it really soon. Okay?”

Cassie sighed and gave her mom a defeated look. “Okay, I guess, but we have to do it soon, like maybe tomorrow.”

Janet laughed. “We’ll see. In the meantime, let’s get you dressed and take you home. A good night’s sleep in your own bed will do you wonders.”

Sam stood up and collected the chess pieces and put the game away in it’s carrying case. Reaching down, she gave Cassie a hug. “I’m so glad you’re feeling better. I’ll see you soon. Love you.”

Cassie squeezed Sam in her embrace. “Love you too, Sam.” Releasing her, she looked over at Jack. “Bye, Jack!” The playful irritation was definitely evident in her voice.

Jack pretended to look hurt. “What? No love for me? Geez! What’s a guy to do?”

Cassie caught his puppy dog look and laughed. “Alright, I forgive you.” Opening her arms, she waited for Jack to come over and embrace her. Hugging him tight, she looked over his shoulder at Sam and winked. “Love you too. Thanks for helping me through all of this.” Releasing Jack, she looked over at Sam and Janet, now standing side by side. That goes for the two of you as well. Especially you, Mom.”

Sam and Jack could sense the tender moment coming on between mother and daughter. They both looked at each other and nodded, quietly walking out of the room, glancing back to find Janet and Cassie in a tearful embrace.

Exiting the infirmary, they walked quietly side by side to the elevators. Waiting for the doors to open, Sam looked over at Jack and smiled. “Sir, I must say, I’m impressed. I didn’t know you could play Chess. That was a perfect move. I can’t believe I didn’t see it sooner.”

Jack watched her and smiled. “Oh, come on, Carter. Don’t be so hard on yourself. You would have figured it out. You’ve just been really busy lately. Everyone’s brain has a limit, even yours.”

Sam shook her head as she downcast her eyes, only to bring them up moments later, her cheeks blushing at his comment. “Thank you, Sir.”

Jack nodded and smiled, satisfied that he had actually been able to give her an idea. “You’re welcome. But don’t let my secret out. I’m trying to keep a low profile on the whole brainiac thing.”

Sam laughed quietly as the elevator doors opened. Stepping on, she looked ahead of her until the doors closed. Once they sealed shut and the elevator started ascending, she suddenly turned to Jack, shoving him against the wall and kissed him hard, her lips devouring every inch of his. Her hands gripped the sides of his face, her fingers digging into his head with gentle pressure as she pressed her body against his. When she stepped away, she smiled as she watched Jack’s stunned expression.

Jack could have sworn the elevator car was flying and spinning at the same time. It was amazing the kind of effect this woman had on him. Gripping the rails on the wall, he opened his eyes and then slightly opened his lips to speak. “Wow! I think I’m going to have to help you out on Chess more often.”

Sam moved forward and ran her hands lightly down his arms and found his hands. Gripping them, she tugged them off the rail and moved his arms around her as she embraced him. Looking into his eyes, her head tilted back slightly, she spoke quietly. “I love you, Jack O’Neill.” Moving up, her lips met his in a gentle kiss, the warmth of his skin sending spiraling heat down to her toes.

Jack continued to kiss her, loving the feel of her lips against his. But as he sensed the elevator reaching its destination, he drew back and dropped his arms from around her, bringing his hand up to cup her chin. Looking into her bright blue eyes, he kissed the top of her nose. “And I love you.”

Just then, the elevator slowed down even more and then stopped. Moving away from each other, they waiting for the doors to open, releasing them onto the surface. As they stepped out, Sam groaned. “I forgot to go by my lab for my keys and coat. I guess I’ll just see you later?” As she said this, she gave him a quick wink.

Jack could see disaster written all over this one if he let her go back down to her lab. Thinking quickly, he spoke up as casually as he could. “Wait a minute. Why don’t I save you the trip? I’ll go get your coat and keys. You can sign us out. If I let you go back down there, you’ll never have a Saturday night. And even if you don’t have anything planned, I’m not going to let you trap yourself in that lab. Be right back.”

Hopping on the elevator, he pushed the button that would take him to Level 19. As she started to protest, he held up his finger. “Aah! No arguments. Just consider me rescuing you again for the second time tonight.” He barely got his last words out before the doors closed, separating them as the elevator began its decent.

Five minutes later, he was back on the surface and found Sam waiting for him at the entrance to the base. “Here you go, Major. One coat and one set of keys. See? And you didn’t even have to wait that long.” Knowing the airmen nearby were within earshot, he quickly continued. “Now you can go home and do whatever it is that you…do on a Saturday night.”

Sam gave him a knowing smile. “Thank you, Sir.”

Jack zipped up his coat, bringing the collar up around his neck. “Don’t mention it.” Opening the door for her, he followed her out into the cold January night. It was hard to believe that the month was already over with. They had been spending so much time at the base and on missions, there hadn’t been time for anything else. But tonight he hoped to make up for that.

Walking beside her, he bent his head slightly against the biting cold wind that was trying to find its way beneath his coat collar. It was another snowy evening, they ground covered in a thick layer of white. The snow crunched beneath their boots as they made their way through the parking lot to their cars. Snow and ice glinted off the hood of the scattered vehicles, reflecting the light from the lampposts that illuminated their way. The surrounding mountains loomed above them, their peaks glowing in the night from the thick white snowcaps that they wore. And through the whistling of the gentle wind, a coyote could be heard, it’s call echoing all around them, sending an ominous sad song out into the night.

When they reached Jack’s truck, Jack promptly stopped, blocking her path to her car.

Sam halted in front of him, a curious smile on her face. “What? More rescuing? Jack, I’m perfectly capable of driving in the snow, though I do appreciate the sentiment.”

Jack just shook his head. “Oh no, you’re not getting out of my reach. I’ve waited all day for you to finish that game, and now you’re mine. I’m not taking any chances that something more interesting might come along. I’m taking you with me.”

Sam raised her eyebrow. “Oh? And where are you taking me?”

Jack walked over and unlocked the passenger door, holding it open for her. As she climbed up into the truck, he looked at her as she settled herself in the seat. “To my house. You’ll see.” Smiling with satisfaction, he closed her door and moved to the other side of the truck, opening his door and jumping in.

As he put the keys in the ignition and started up the truck, Sam looked over at him and touched his hand. “By the way, there is nothing that would hold more interest for me then to spend the night with you.”

Jack took her hand and squeezed it. “That’s the answer I was hoping for.” With that, he pulled out of the parking spot and out of the lot, heading for home.

“Jack, where are you leading me?” Sam’s cheeks were warm with the smile she held on her face. Her hands were gripped on Jack’s arms since his hands were over her eyes. He was behind her, guiding her through his house to what she sensed was the living room.

Suddenly, Jack stopped moving, forcing her to stop. He voice then filled her ears. “Okay, I’m going to removed my hands from your eyes, but no peeking! Just give me one minute.” Releasing her, Jack moved in front of her and waved his hand in front of her beautiful face. “No peeking, promise?”

Sam, her eyes squeezed shut, laughed. “Okay, just hurry up. The suspense is killing me.” She could hear Jack moving around the room, loading what sounded like a CD.

Just when she didn’t think she could take it anymore, Jack finally spoke up again. “Okay, open your eyes.” Just as she did, Bing Crosby’s voice suddenly could be heard, the opening lyrics to “White Christmas” filling the air around her. As she focused, she found herself in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, its ornaments glittering beside the strands of multi-colored twinkle lights that hung from the branches of the tree. But the sight that really made her smile was Jack, standing beside the tree, wearing a white beard and a bright red velvet Santa hat.

“Ho-ho-ho, little lady, and a belated Merry Christmas to you.” Jack grinned at her as he watched the smile on her face light up the whole room. That alone was worth all the trouble he’d gone through in trying to find a tree at the end of January, not to mention decorating it.

Sam eyes sparkled with tears as she approached the tree, her fingers reaching out to touch the branches so delicately, one would have thought she was touching crystal. As she ran her eyes over the whole tree, she turned to face Jack, just in time for him to find a single tear running down her cheek. As she wiped at it, she moved forward and threw herself into his waiting arms, his fake beard tickling her the skin of her neck as she nuzzled against him.

Her voice was a whisper when it finally came. “Jack, this is amazing! How did you do it? When?”

Jack kissed the side of her head, happy to see that she liked the surprise. “Well,” he said, pulling back enough to look into her eyes, “I just happen to know a guy who was getting rid of this tree, and well, since we didn’t really get to have any kind of holiday, I thought, what the hay.”

Sam smiled and touched his white mustache, smoothing it out before she placed a kiss on his lips. Drawing back, she touched his cheek with her hand. “Thank you for doing this. I can’t believe how lucky I am.” Pausing to absorb the moment of being in his arms, beside the most beautiful tree she’d ever seen, Sam then released him and looked at the tree, laughter tickling her throat as the giddiness took over. “This is so…wow!”

Jack’s arms came around her from behind and he held her close. “It’s the least I can do. I didn’t want you to think Santa had forgotten you.”

Sam leaned her head back against his shoulder. “Well…Santa, thanks for remembering me.”

Jack released her and took her hand, guiding her over to the recliner that was close to the tree. Sitting, he pulled her down onto his lap. “Well, before Santa has to go, what would you like for Christmas little girl?”

Sam smiled down at him, her face glowing. “I’ve already got the one thing I’ve always wanted….the most amazing man in the world.” Pulling his beard down off his face, she sunk into him, her lips finding his in a passion that only love could produce. As Jack’s arms came around her, she allowed herself to be cradled in his arms as she sat on his lap. The sweetness of his lips played across her face and neck as her lips found one of his earlobes and began to gently devour it.

Jack groaned softly and pulled away, kissing her forehead as he did. “Careful now, or we’ll never get to the rest of your surprise.”

Sam gave him a stunned look. “There’s more? You have been busy today.”

Jack helped her off his lap and then accepted her hand as she pulled him up to her. Taking off his Santa hat, he placed it on her head and smiled. “Now, Mrs. Claus, if I could get your help, there’s one more thing that this tree needs.” Moving over to the box that had held the ornaments, Jack reached in and pulled something out. Turning towards her, his face now held a softer, more intense look. “I thought you could help me hang Charlie’s star, just like we did last year.”

Memories floated quickly to the previous year’s festivities and their efforts in making sure that each of them had a happy Christmas. After Jack had struggled with the tree and collapsed into it, they had managed to decorate it, hanging together the star ornament Charlie had made for Jack in school one year. It was hard to believe that they were only friends then, struggling to hide their feelings from one another. That had been a great Christmas. This one was even better.

Sam blinked and returned to the present, her vision focusing on the beautiful ornament that held so much sentiment, now for both of them. Moving over to him, she placed her hand over his and looked up at him, new tears forming. “I’d be honored. Thanks for waiting for me to hang it with you.” They moved together over to the tree and hung Charlie’s star on the front of it, the glitter sparkling in the firelight that was coming from the fireplace. As they stood back admiring the sight, Sam rested her head against Jack’s shoulder as he wrapped his arms around her. “Silent Night” played softly on the CD player as snow gently fell from the sky outside of the window, illuminated by the lights coming from the Christmas tree. For them, it didn’t matter that it was the end of January, because at that moment, it was Christmas, and nothing or no one else existed in the world.

After a few minutes of enjoying the peace, Jack kissed the top of Sam’s head and squeezed her gently. As he spoke up, his voice was husky with emotion. “I’m sorry for hurting you like I did, and I’m sorry for trying to push you away. I can’t imagine experiencing moments like this ever again without you to share them with. I love you, Sam. I hope you know that.”

Sam turned in his arms and looked up at him. “Are you kidding me? How could I not know that you love me? No one has ever done anything like this for me before.” Smiling, she kissed him with all her heart. As she pulled back, she continued to smile at him. “Of course, I hope you’ve learned your lesson. You can’t get rid of me very easily.”

Jack put a finger under her chin. “Well, it’s a good thing you’ve got that stubborn streak. I may curse it sometimes, but it does come in handy.” Clearing his throat, he tried to shake off the intensity of the moment so he could give her the last part of her surprise. “Now, are you ready for the next celebration?”

Sam gave him a curious grin. “What else do you have up your sleeve?” Playfully frisking him, Jack moved away and grabbed onto her hand, pulling her towards the door that led out onto the deck.

Jack planted her in front of it. “Wait here.” Quickly, he moved back to the front door and grabbed their coats and a bag that had been sitting by it. Giving Sam her coat, they put them on. Not saying a word, he led Sam outside, their boots disappearing in the snow that lined the deck. As they trudged their way to the railing, Jack put the sack down and pulled out two New Year Eve party hats, putting one on Sam, replacing the Santa hat she still wore. Then he put the other one on himself.

Sam was astonished. He’d thought of everything. She laughed as he pulled out a noisemaker and a handful of confetti. Blowing the noisemaker, Jack threw the confetti high up in the air and they both watched as it came back down all around them, sparkling wildly in the light that came pouring out from the house.

“Happy New Year!” Jack said, watching with a smile as the confetti collected in Sam’s blond hair, along with the white snowflakes. As she looked up to the sky and closed her eyes, a smile on her face, her cheeks a rosy pink from the cold and her hair sparkling, she put her arms out to her side. Jack knew he would never forget this moment. It was the first time he had truly seen her at peace.

When Sam opened her eyes, she looked back down at him and brought her hands to his face, kissing his lips once more, warming them with her own. “Thank you so much. You really have outdone yourself.”

Jack felt like a little kid. “Well, that’s not all. In my bag of magic tricks, I just happen to have...” Jack reached in and pulled out several long objects. “Fireworks!” Jack set some aside and handed her some sparklers. “Now, since I’m not looking to piss my neighbors off, we may save the big fireworks for later.” Pulling her close, he lowered his voice. “I guess I was kind of hoping we could create some of our own.”

Sam grinned seductively at him, her hand wandering to confirm what she wanted. “I don’t think that will be a problem.”

Coughing slightly, Jack found it really hard not to just put down the sparklers and get on with the “show”. But he wanted to see his plan through. “Well, then why don’t we warm things up with these little guys here and then we can go get…warm.” Smiling with her, Jack lit her sparklers and then used hers to light his own.

For the next few minutes, they danced around each other, laughing and just had fun, writing each other’s names, along with other “suggestive” messages. When the last of the sparklers went out, Jack captured her in his arms and held her tight, kissing her with an incredible desire that warmed her all the way through.

Moving together to the door leading back into the house, they barely released each other long enough to get their boots and coats off, gradually leaving a trail of clothing to where they eventually made love in front of the fireplace.

Hours later, they were wrapped together in a blanket and cushioned by multiple pillows. Jack stroked Sam’s hair mindlessly as he held her in his arms, the light from the slowing dying fire dancing in endless patterns all around them. It was close to midnight, and they had managed to make love several times, each time holding more passion than the last. Content, Jack could feel himself drifting off to sleep as the even rhythm of Sam’s shallow breaths soothed him into peaceful dreams. It had been a great night, perfect by some standards, but none of it would have been worth it without her. As Jack went to sleep, he subconsciously tightened his grip around her, suddenly realizing how much apart of him she now was.

The next morning, light from the rising sun kissed Sam’s face, and she groaned and rolled over, cuddling deeper into Jack’s bare chest. Jack moved slightly, his arm closing in around her again, holding her close under the blanket. But just as Sam was about to drift back into dreamland, a phone near her head started ringing. Trying to make sense of what a phone was doing by the fireplace, she finally realized it was a cell phone.

Assuming it was hers, she tugged on the nearby pants, pulling them to her reach and then preceded to blindly fish for the phone out of one of the pockets, it’s cold metal finally finding the palm of her hand.

“Don’t answer it. It’s a Sunday morning for cryin’ out loud.” Jack’s sleepy voice met her ears as he turned over towards her, his eyes still closed. But with the phone already in hand, Sam sighed, cleared her throat, and flipped open the cover, putting it to her ear.

“Carter.” Sam had her eyes closed as she waited for the caller to respond.

“Major Carter? This is General Hammond. Did I call the wrong number? I thought I was calling Colonel O’Neill’s cell phone.” Sam’s eyes shot open as her body sat straight up, throwing the covers off them.

The cold of the air met their naked bodies and made Jack grumble as he turned over. “Hey! It’s cold!”

Sam quickly turned and put a hand over his mouth as she responded, her brain thinking desperately for any excuses as to why she would have Jack’s phone. She should have looked at it before answering. “General Hammond, uhm, good morning, Sir.”

Jack’s struggling to get her hand off his mouth stopped and he opened up his eyes, only to find Sam had answered his phone by mistake. He watched in desperation as Sam ran her hand through her hair, looking for any excuse to give the general.

General Hammond responded. “Good Morning to you, Major. Is this your phone?”

Sam could swear her voice was shaking. “Uhm, no Sir, this is Colonel O’Neill’s.” Looking over at Jack, she exchanged a “what now” look with him. “You see, Sir…the colonel and I accidentally switched phones yesterday when we were visiting Cassie. I was…I was just on my way to his house to exchange it with him.” Holding her breath, she waited to see if he bought her pathetic excuse. She could feel Jack’s hand on her own, applying gentle pressure.

General Hammond paused briefly before answering. “I see. Well, no problem. Perhaps you can give him a message for me when you see him. I was just about to call you with the same one.”

Sam began to breath again. “Of course, Sir.”

General Hammond continued. “I need the two of you back at the base in one hour. Something’s come up and I need SG-1 on it. I’ve already contacted Teal’c and Dr. Jackson. I know it’s a Sunday, but I’m going to need your understanding on this one.”

Sam scrunched her brow at the cryptic message. “Yes, Sir, I understand. I’ll give Colonel O’Neill the message and we’ll be there ASAP.” Sam said goodbye and hung up the phone, falling back onto the pillows and tossing the cell phone away from her. Dragging her hands over her face, she groaned. “Oh, God, I almost screwed up. I can’t believe I answered your phone. I could have sworn it was mine.”

Jack placed a hand lightly over her arm. “Don’t worry too much about it. I’m sure Hammond bought your story. You were a lot slicker at it then I would have been.” Deciding to try and lighten the moment, Jack reached out and playfully slapped her on the arm. “Besides, that’s what you get for answering a phone so early in the morning.” Only getting a half smile from her, he went on. “So, what are we reporting to the base for? It better be something damned important!”

Sam looked up at him. “I don’t know what it’s about. All General Hammond would tell me was that something had come up and he needed SG-1 on it. He wants us there within the hour.”

Jack groaned and rolled on his back. “And I had this whole breakfast thing planned out too…”

Sam looked at him. “Really?”

Jack looked over at her and smiled briefly. “Yup. Elaborate entrees like cereal and waffles, coffee and juice. You know, stuff only Chef Jack could prepare.”

Sam laughed, trying to shake off the last of her nerves. “Well, Chef Jack will just have to put that gourmet meal on hold. We’d better get going if we’re going to get to the briefing room on time.” Getting up, she reached out a hand and helped Jack up.

The cold of the room put a chill on their bare skin, so Jack picked up the blanket and wrapped it around them. “Well,” Jack said, pulling her close, “I guess we’ll have to share the shower again.”

Sam smiled, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him lightly. “I think I can handle that.” As Jack started to move off, Sam stopped him and looked into his eyes. “Jack, thanks for last night. Those were the best holiday celebrations I can remember.”

Jack smiled and kissed her back, his gray and black speckled hair standing on end from the night’s sleep, but still looking sexy as always. “It was definitely the best for me. We’re getting good at them.”

With that, they headed off to the shower, disappointed that they wouldn’t have the whole day to spend privately together, but happy nonetheless because they had woken up in each other’s arms.

“I’m sorry, General, could you repeat that? I don’t think I heard you right.” Jack sat stone still in his chair, his hands clinched into fists as his gaze focused on General Hammond. He was in the briefing room, along with Sam, Teal’c and Daniel, each of whom had an equally disbelieving looks on their faces.

General Hammond sighed. “I know it’s not your idea of fun, but the President is requesting that you go.”

Jack brought his hand up and ran it through his hair, frustrated at the news they had just been told. “Oh, come on, General. Kinsey? Do you honestly think anyone in this room really wants to attend some party he’s throwing?”

Sam cleared her throat and spoke up. “I have to agree with Colonel O’Neill, General. I really don’t see the point in us going. Isn’t there any way to decline the invitation? I have a lot going on in my lab right now, and…”

General Hammond held up his hand. “I realize that, Major, but this is upon the President’s request. I can’t very well tell him my number one team has better things to do.”

Daniel adjusted his glasses before speaking. “Yeah, but why this party? Why now? And what does it have to do with us?”

Jack threw up his hands and flopped back in his chair. “Oh, come on, Daniel! Is it only obvious to me that this party is politically motivated? We all know that Kinsey has always had an eye on the Oval Office.”

General Hammond nodded. “I agree with you, Jack. Senator Kinsey has invited about every powerful person with connections in Washington to attend. The fact that it’s a week long event only gives him more time to make his stance known.”

Jack snorted. “You mean kiss some ass.” General Hammond gave him a look and Jack shrugged. “Sorry, General, but that’s what this is. So tell me again why we have to go? It’s no mystery that Kinsey hates us and wants to shut this whole place down.”

Daniel looked over at Jack and answered for General Hammond. “That’s true, Jack. But if I had to guess, I would say that Kinsey is in a round about way trying to use us because he’s trying to win the government connections that do support us.”

Sam nodded. “Right. And by inviting us and playing nice, he’ll be able to do just that.”

Teal’c turned his attention to the general. “General Hammond. Since I am not from this world, would it not be better if I stayed behind?”

Jack moved forward in his chair. “Oh no, not so fast, Teal’c. You’re apart of this team, rather you’re from Earth or not. And besides, you probably hold the most interest for Kinsey than any of us.”

General Hammond sighed. “I’m afraid Colonel O’Neill’s right, Teal’c. I’m going to need you on this one.”

Jack began making circles with his pen on the paper in front of him. “So just where is this week long event of wasting our time suppose to take place?”

General Hammond smiled. “Well, that’s the good news. You may actually get a small vacation out of this, Jack. Senator Kinsey has booked up a resort in Hawaii.”

Jack’s hand stopped abruptly and he looked over at the general in shock. “I’m sorry…did you say, Hawaii?”

The general nodded. “I did. The island of Oahu to be exact. And not only that, but Kinsey’s arranged a private jet to fly you out there. You leave at 1700 hours, today.”

Jack threw down his pen. “Oh, come on, General,” he whined. “As much as I’d like to spend time in Hawaii, do we really have to….” Just then, an airman came in with a message for the General.

As General Hammond looked away, Sam reached under the table and placed her hand on Jack’s knee, moving in close enough to whisper in his ear. “Jack, this might not be so bad. If you go, I may even put on a black bikini for you.”

Jack felt his face flush at the thought of Sam in a two-piece swimsuit. As she moved away, Jack suddenly felt his mood improving. As General Hammond turned his attention back Jack’s way to address his latest protest, Jack shrugged, his tone more carefree. “You know, General, maybe you’re right. A week in a tropical paradise might not be so bad. I may even be able to tolerate Kinsey.”

Jack felt the stunned expressions of the general and Daniel focused on his face. Not liking the uncomfortable moment, Jack sat back in his chair and gave a sly smile. “What? Can’t a guy change his mind?” When they didn’t seem convinced, he continued, his voice becoming a little more defensive. “I’m tired of arguing about it, okay? And don’t give me that look, Daniel. You’re not going to be miserable. I’m sure you’ll find some dig site to go play in.”

General Hammond nodded. “That’s fine, Colonel, but remember, you are required to attend some of the functions Kinsey is having.” Hesitating, he looked up and smiled. “I have authorized two other passengers to hitch a ride with you. Dr. Fraiser and Cassie will be going with you, but not to the party. I have given Dr. Fraiser a two-week leave in order to spend some quality time with Cassie. When I received the news of the party, Dr. Fraiser thought it would be a great place to show Cassie. You’ll be going your separate ways once you reach Oahu.”

Jack looked over at Sam and gave her a brief smile. Sam knew what he was thinking…more time for a rematch of Chess. Jack looked back at the general and nodded. “That’s sounds great, General. Now all we’ll be missing is you.”

General Hammond smiled and bowed his head, a small laugh escaping his throat. “Yes, well, as much as I’d like to go with you, someone has to stay here and run the base.” Looking at each of the people around the table, General Hammond sat up straighter in his chair. “Enjoy this time off, people. You’re plane leaves in less than 8 hours. I suggest you go home and pack. Dismissed.”

Everyone stood up as General Hammond got up and left, retreating to his office. As they all relaxed their stances, Jack collected his scribbled notepad and looked up at Daniel, who was still frowning slightly. Smiling, he spoke up. “Don’t worry, Daniel. It’ll be fun. I’m sure you’ll find lots of…artifacts to keep you company.”

Daniel rolled his eyes. “Oh, come on, Jack. You were just as miserable at the thought of going just a few minutes ago. Why are you so suddenly happy about this little trip?”

Jack just shrugged as he turned around, his gaze brushing Sam’s face as he went. “Oh, Daniel, let’s just say I have my reasons and leave it at that. See you at the airport.” And with that, he walked out of the room, a lighter step in his walk.

Sam quietly smiled at his exit and made a mental note to ream herself later. Now she was going to have to go home and pray she had a black bikini in her drawers. The idea of wearing one scared her to death, but she didn’t want to disappoint Jack. Even if she had to buy it on the island, she would, and she suddenly found herself praying that he wouldn’t be disappointed in what he would see. She hadn’t been in a bathing suit in ages.

Saying her farewells to Daniel and Teal’c, she quickly decided she’d have to stop by and see Janet on her way out. She was going to need some major female advice on how to get through this one.

It was dark and everything seemed to be shaking, forcing his body to move back and forth in a violent manner. Teal’c squeezed his eyes even tighter and then forced them open, finding everything spinning around him. Reaching up, he pressed on the sides of his head and tried to force himself to focus. Where was he? Looking down, he found a belt of some kind fastened across his lap, securing him to a cushioned chair. What light there was around him was blinking wildly, and he felt a force pushing against him.

Trying his best to clear his thoughts, he suddenly remembered the plane that he and his friends had boarded hours ago. Looking around, he found Daniel seated next to him, unconscious. And then it hit him. That unmistakable high-pitched noise, the gravitational force pushing against him, the uncontrollable shaking. Looking out of the window beside him, he squinted to see out, but only found his reflection blinking back at him in the light coming from the cabin.

Teal’c didn’t need to be in a death glider to recognize that the plane was going down. Looking down at the strap across his lap, he unbuckled the belt and grabbed onto the seat in front of him, doing his best to steady his movements as he made his way to his feet. When he did, he looked around him and discovered everyone else shared the same fate. Colonel O’Neill and Major Carter sat beside each other, in front of Cassandra and Dr. Fraiser. All were unconscious.

Desperate to do something, Teal’c moved a hand down on Daniel’s arm and shook him hard. “Daniel Jackson! Wake up!” When he didn’t get a response, he decided to try one of the others. Just as he moved around Daniel, the plane jumped even harder, sending Teal’c face first against the opposing wall as he fell to the ground. Running his hands along the wall, he pushed his way back up, ignoring the pain in his chest.

Moving forward carefully, holding onto whatever he could find, he shouted above the growing whine of the plane as it increased its decent. “Major Carter, O’Neill, can you hear me!? Wake up!!” Again getting no response, he moved past them to the bridge, or what O’Neill had called the cockpit. The small door swung ominously on its hinges, revealing an empty space. No one was at the controls. The pilots were nowhere to be seen.

Stepping forward, Teal’c did his best to look over all the dials and buttons, not knowing what was what. This design was similar yet different than the Air Force jets he’d been in. Surging forward with the force of the plane, he grabbed onto the stick. Pulling strength from the bottom of his soul, he pulled back as hard as he could, his muscles shaking as violently as the plane. But nothing was happening. There were alarms going off and buttons flashing, none of which made sense to him. His only hope was to wake one of the others.

Using more of his strength, he did his best to move quickly back to them, pulling against the force of the descent as he went. Reaching Colonel O’Neill first, Teal’c grabbed onto his shoulders and shook him hard. “Colonel O’Neill!! Wake up! You must wake up! Do you hear me?”

As he continued to shake him, he suddenly saw O’Neill’s lips move and Teal’c then heard a faint but distinct moan.

Jack felt like his head was going to explode. He was so tired, but someone was trying to wake him up. They were shaking him, or rather he was shaking. Moving his head back and forth, he started to open his eyes just as Teal’c’s voice began registering in his brain. “Colonel O’Neill! Wake up! There is little time!!”

The desperation he heard in his friend’s voice forced some of the cobwebs from his mind and instinct finally took over. Something was wrong. Opening his eyes more quickly, Jack squinted against the blinking overhead lights as he tried to focus his vision on Teal’c who was in front of him. “Teal’c?” His voice sounded groggy and shallow, and he was doing his best to remember where he was. Moving his hand, he brushed against someone’s arm. Looking over, he found himself looking at Sam. She was sitting beside him, unconscious.

Adrenaline surged through his body, forcing him to become completely alert. “Sam…Carter!” Realizing Teal’c was standing in front of him, he turned away briefly from Sam and gripped the edge of his armrest. “Teal’c? What happened?”

Teal’c gripped onto the wall beside him as the plane lurched again. “I do not know, O’Neill. But the pilots are missing and the plane is going down. I cannot stop it. I do not know how to fly it.”

Jack looked over at Sam. Grabbing her by the arm, he shook her. “Carter! Wake up!”

Teal’c shouted over the increasing noise. “I have already tried to wake her, O’Neill. The others are also still unconscious. You are the only one I was able to wake.”

Jack gave Sam one more look before unbuckling his seatbelt and then stood with Teal’c’s help. “Well, let’s go see if we can’t get this bird flying again!” Jack could barely hear his own voice. As they made their way to the cockpit, the plane continued to shake wildly. It was a miracle that they even still had electricity. Jack stepped into the cockpit, his ears registering the alarms immediately.

Looking at the panel in front of him, he located the autopilot and found that it had been activated. A million thoughts raced through his mind as to why it was on, but now was not the time to deal with them. Taking the pilot’s chair, he deactivated the autopilot and pulled back on the stick. Teal’c took the seat beside him.

Finding his horizon, he could see that they were horribly low. Adjusting his flaps, he drew off some of the power to the engines and looked at Teal’c. “Teal’c, you’ll have to pull back with me. It’s going to take both of us to get this plane to level off, if that’s even possible. I’ve powered down the engines until we get some updraft. Then I’ll bring them back online and we’ll hopefully pull up. On 3…1,2,3!”

Pulling with everything they had, Jack and Teal’s worked on trying to pull the plane out of the nosedive. Everything was black in front of them. Jack didn’t know where they were, but his best guess was that they were over the Pacific somewhere. Not knowing how close they were to the surface of the water, his adrenaline went into overdrive, his body working to fight for everyone onboard.

After five dreadfully long seconds, the plane began to pull up slightly. Feeling the change, they both found renewed energy to keep going. But then the elevation reading caught Jack’s eye and he knew they didn’t have enough time. Praying they were over water and not land, Jack pulled some more and then applied as much flap as he could to slow them down. Feeling a lessening on the gravitational pull, Jack locked in the autopilot again. Precious seconds remained.

Jack got up and yelled. “Teal’c! Move!” Together, they ran back to the cabin. Taking their seats, the only thing they could do was to buckle themselves back in and wait for impact. Jack put one arm around Sam’s back and pushed her forward, bending with her while holding onto her neck as securely as he could.

And then he felt it. The plane, now in a horizontal descent, hit the surface of the water and bounced off, the force sending them up against their seatbelts, forcing pain across Jack’s legs. After a few more seconds, it hit the water again, but this time the plane began to spin off the water. Jack was hoping the plane would stay level and slow down before it truly hit the water.

He could feel the spinning slowing, but the force was too great. Gravity eventually won out. The plane tipped and one of the wings clipped the surface. Before Jack knew it, they were back in the air, the body of the plane flipping skyward. Jack’s only thought was that he was glad Sam wasn’t awake. He didn’t want to have to endure seeing her face full of the terror he knew his held.

As the plane arched back down, the nose of the plane went vertical, and they suddenly impacted the water with an incredible force. All Jack heard was the bending and crunching of metal as sparks flew all around them. The flashing lights finally went out and then all was black as the plane made it’s decent to the ocean floor below.

To be continued….

Next Story---> "Stranded (part 2)"

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