Time to let go
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Disclaimer: the characters used in this story (with the
exception of Cathy) are property of Belisarius Production. “Someone like you”
is property of its author. Chapter 1
1900 ZULU (1400 EST) JAG Headquarters Falls Church, Virginia “Commander Rabb?” Lt. j.g. Harriet Roberts was
standing at the door of Harm’s office. “What is it Harriet?” asked Harm, pointing at the
box she was holding. “It just came in for you.” Answered Harriet, holding
the box out to him. “Just put it over there on the chair, “instructed
Harm from behind a pile of folders. 0030 ZULU (1930 EST) JAG Headquarters Falls Church, Virginia “Finished!” Harm exclaimed. He had finally managed to
get through all the files. Just then, he looked over to the chair and saw the
box that Harriet had brought him earlier that day. Harm wondered what it could be. He took the box, sat
back in his chair and started to unwrap it. All the wrapping paper gone, he
found himself with a children’s book in his hands: *The Gold Stone* by Catherine J. Parker. “Cathy…” whispered Harm and flipped the book open.
There was a dedication: To my
best friend, who never let me down, and helped me realise my dream. Love,
Cathy Harm was sitting there with a boyish grin on his
face and daydreaming. He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t even
notice Major Sarah “Mac” Mackenzie standing at his door. “Earth to Rabb…do you read me?” she teased him. Harm was now looking up at her like a kid caught
with his hands in the cookie jar. “Uh, hi Mac, what’s up?” “You tell me flyboy,” answered Mac pointing to the
kid’s book in his hands. “Oh, this?” he asked. “It’s a book a friend of mine
sent me.” “And she sent a children’s book to you because…?”
Mac kept on teasing him. Just
then, the doors of the elevator opened and Commander Mic Brumby walked in and
for once Harm was happy to see him. “Hey, look who’s here,” said Harm pointing to Mic
and hiding the book in his desk drawer. “Saved by the bell, eh? Well, see you tomorrow,”
remarked Mac and the rejoined Cmdr. Brumby. “See you.” Harm said. After
the couple left, Harm got ready to go home. He took Cathy’s book out of the
drawer and made a mental note to call her and thank her. Then the phone rang.
Harm wondered who the heck would be calling this late. “Rabb,” he growled in the phone. “Harm?” asked the woman’s voice on the other
end. “Yes, who’s this?” asked the puzzled man. “It’s me Cathy.” It took Harm a few seconds to process who it was.
“Cathy!” he exclaimed. “I was just thinking about you!” “Liar,” came the teasing answer from Cathy. “Hey, you know that my mom taught me never to tell
any lies,” Harm replied, grinning into the receiver. “Anyway, congratulations
on your book. I haven’t read it yet, but I’m sure it’s great.” “Thanks, but you know it would have been almost
impossible without your help,” she answered. “You still can’t take compliments,” Harm observed.
“You deserve them. You’re talented and it was about time the world
acknowledged that.” “You sure know how to flatter a woman, Harm,”
Cathy said. “Anyway, I was calling you because I’ll be in Washington for a
couple of weeks, you know, promo tour and stuff and I thought it would be nice
if we could meet somewhere and catch up a little.” “Sounds great to me! Just tell me when and where you
arrive and I’ll pick you up – and before you say anything, I won’t take no
for an answer!” replied Harm. “Okay,” Cathy agreed. “My plane arrives at
Dulles Airport on Friday at “Okay then, I’ll see you on Friday,” Harm said as he
jotted down the information on his desk blotter. “Good night Harm, and thanks.” “Good night Cathy,” Harm responded. He stayed there
with the phone in his hand a few more moments after they’d disconnected. Harm
shook his head in disbelief as he gathered up his briefcase and cover and
headed for home. Chapter 2
1430 ZULU (0930 EST) Dulles International Airport Washington, D.C. Cathy’s plane hadn’t landed yet but Harm was already
pacing around the arrival area, and this since 9.00. Harm shook his head – he wondered why he was so
nervous. It was just Cathy and they’d known each other since they were kids.
Actually they hadn’t seen each other for quite some time after he had to
abandon his career as a pilot… Well, now was not the time to dwell on it.
They had kept in touch with letters and over the phone but… Before his mind could wander off again, there she
was, walking through customs, as beautiful as he remembered, but in a
way…different, much more confident. She was wearing a blue skirt, with a
light blue strap shirt and a matching blouse. Her brown hair was resting on
her shoulders and her blue eyes were sparkling. “Cathy!” he called her. “Cathy, over here!” She smiled broadly at the man now standing in front
of her and fell in his arms. “Good to see you Harm,” she said before pulling away
from their embrace. “I almost missed you,” Cathy said, teasing once again. “Good to see you too. You look great!” Harm returned
the sentiment. “Thanks, you’re not that bad either!” Cathy
exclaimed and laughed. “Dress withes and golden wings. Harm, are you planning
to pick up some other girl later?” “I’m all yours,” he answered, flashing her one of those
flyboy smiles of his. “Oh no, the flyboy smile! Ok, spit it out, what do
you need?” “Well, I took the day off, but I’ll need to pop by
at the office to pick up some files,” he said with a charming voice. “Great! So I’ll finally get to meet your friends
then. That is, if you’re not too ashamed of me to introduce me to them?” “Are you kidding?! My best friend is a famous writer
and a beautiful woman – what is there to be ashamed of?” he answered with a
devilish smile. 1530 ZULU (1030 EST) JAG Headquarters Falls Church, Virginia When Harm and Cathy entered the bullpen, the SECNAV
was just coming out of Admiral A. J. Chegwidden’s office – much to the
admiral’s relief in fact. “Commander Rabb, I thought you took the day off,”
said the admiral when he spotted Harm. “I did, Sir,” answered Harm. “I just wanted to pick
up the Madison file.” “Doing some homework, Commander?” asked Chegwidden
with a slightly amused tone. Harm was at loss of words, which was unusual for
him. “Eh, Admiral, may I introduce you to Miss Catherine Parker. She’s an old
friend of mine,” Harm remembered his manners. “Cathy, this is Admiral A. J.
Chegwidden, my CO.” “Nice to meet you Admiral,” Cathy and the admiral
exchanged a handshake. “My pleasure, Ma’m.” Just then, Tiner arrived and told the admiral that
the SECNAV was on the phone. “I guess it’s better not to keep him waiting. Miss
Parker, Commander,” he said and headed off to his office. Cathy and Harm finally got to his office. While he
was looking for the file that was supposed to be on his desk, Cathy had a
look at his friend’s office. “It’s a great picture, you know,” she said sadly,
holding the picture of Harm’s father. “You’re still looking up to him, aren’t
you?” she asked, her voice almost a whisper. He didn’t need to voice his answer. Cathy had always
known what was going on with him. “Hey, you’d better look for your file or we’re never
gonna get out of here,” Cathy changed the subject. “It’s not that I don’t
like it here, but after a long flight, I need some fresh air. “I’m sure it was here,” Harm scratched his head as
he looked around. Just then, Harriet arrived carrying a pile of files,
which for a woman in her 8th month of pregnancy wasn’t so easy. “Oh, Commander Rabb. I didn’t know you were here,”
said Harriet, suddenly realising he wasn’t alone in the office. “Harriet, let me take those files,” Harm reached for
the folders in Harriet’s arms. “You shouldn’t be doing this, you know. I just
wanted to take the Madison file, but I can’t find it.” He set the pile of
folders on the corner of his desk. “Sir, you asked me to do some background research on
the file and bring it back to you, and that’s exactly what I was going to
do,” replied Harriet handing him the file. “Oh, thanks Harriet,” Harm said taking the file in
question. “Oh, Cathy, this is Lt. j.g. Harriet Roberts. She looks after us as
you can see. Harriet, this is Catherine Parker.” “Nice to meet you Ma’m,” said Harriet, who was now
very curious about the woman standing in the commander’s office. “Nice to meet you Harriet. You have all my sympathy,
it’s surely not easy to handle Harm,” answered Cathy who was now grinning at
Harm. “I’d better go hand out these files,” replied
Harriet heading for the door. “Ah, Commander, before I forget, we’re having a
surprise birthday party tomorrow for Bud. That’s my husband, Ma’m, and I
thought it would be nice if you could come. And you too, Ma’m, if you’d
like.” “It will be a pleasure, Harriet, and just call me
Cathy please.” “Great, I’ll see you tomorrow around 12.00 then.
Ma’m…Cathy, Sir,” Harriet said and then left. “I hope you don’t mind I accepter her invitation?”
Cathy asked suddenly. “No, not at all. Actually, since you’re here,
there’s something I wanted to ask you,” he said in a serious tone. “Would you
mind helping me choose a present for Bud?” “You
mean you haven’t bought one yet? What would you do without me?” she asked
with a huge grin on her face. “Come on, let’s go.” Chapter 3
2330 ZULU (1830 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. Harm and Cathy had been out looking for Bud’s
present all morning. After that, since Cathy hadn’t been in Washington for a
long time, Harm had taken her on a sightseeing tour. They had only stopped
once during the whole day for lunch and they both couldn’t wait to finally
sit down and rest. “Here we are, welcome to my humble apartment,” said
Harm as he invited Cathy in. “Wow! You sure did a great job with this place.” “Hey, I’d told you!” came Harm’s offended reply from
the kitchen. “Don’t be so touchy,” teased back Cathy. “You know I’ve missed this,” he answered with a soft
voice. “”You’re not becoming sentimental, are you?” she
asked. “Naaa, no way!” answered Harm, now grinning. “Are
you gonna help me prepare dinner or what?” he asked and threw her an apron. “Ok, Trish warned me not to leave a Rabb man alone
in the kitchen, one never knows what could happen!” “Touché. Mom put me under house arrest for over a
month after that little “accident” happened.” “Accident?! You were using her favourite plates like
they were Frisbees!” Cathy exclaimed. “Come on, let’s get this pasta ready because I’m
starving!” he replied changing subject. They managed to fix dinner without any problems and
finally ate. Just as they finished Cathy’s cell phone rang. “I’m sorry, I thought I had switched it off,” she
said. “Yeah, right. It’s just so that you don’t have to
help do the washing up,” he teased her. “Oh, shut up Harm!” she replied and answered the
phone. “Hello?…Hi Mike, how is it going? … What? You must be kidding! Where
am I supposed to be staying until Monday? … I’m sorry, I know it’s not your
fault, I’ll find something…. Ok, I’ll see you on Monday. Bye.” Cathy sighed
as she flipped her cell phone closed. “Problems?” asked Harm worried. “They screwed up my hotel reservation. Since my
promo tour doesn’t start until Monday, they booked the hotel room just from
Monday on,” she explained. “Do you know if there’s an hotel around here where
I could still find a room at this time?” she asked him. “No way. You’re not gonna stay in a hotel when
there’s enough room for the two of us here,” Harm exclaimed. “No Harm, I don’t want to bother you more than I
already have…” she started. “Just say yes, ok?” he replied with this boyish
smile on his face. “Are you sure?” Harm nodded. “Ok, thanks. What would
I do without you?” she asked, now grinning again. “You’d simply be lost! Why don’t you put some music
on while I do the washing up,” he proposed. “Yes, sir!” she saluted and headed off. 0115 ZULU (2015 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. Harm managed to get the washing up done in record
time as Neneh Cherry’s “Woman” started to fill the room. Cathy was
standing in the living room, her eyes closed, hugging herself. It looked like
she was in another world. Harm came closer and put his hands on her shoulders.
“Are you alright?” he asked, a little concerned. “I’m fine. I just get a little nostalgic when I hear
this song,” she replied almost in a whisper. “Yeah, I know the feeling. You look tired, Cathy,
why don’t we get your bed ready so you can get some sleep,” Harm suggested
when the song was over. “You read my mind as usual,” she replied. Harm was heading for his bedroom, carrying her
suitcase, when Cathy stopped him. “Where are you going Harm? I’m going to sleep
here,” she said pointing to the couch. “Come on, don’t be so difficult and come over here.
You know how bad I’d look if people came to know that I let my guests sleep
on the couch?!” he answered and dragged her to the bedroom. Harm, with Navy efficiency, changed the sheets on
his bed as Cathy readied for bed in his bathroom. He tucked her in and kissed her on the forehead.
“I’m going to work a while longer, so if you need anything just ask, ok?” “Thanks. Good night, Harm,” she answered and placed
a soft kiss on his cheek. “Good night, sis.” Chapter 4
1530 ZULU (1030 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. It took Harm a moment to realise where he was and
why. One by one his senses awakened. He opened his eyes and saw Cathy in the
kitchen. “Mmm, good morning,” he said, smelling the wonderful flavour of
Italian style coffee. “Good morning sleepyhead,” she replied walking over
to him and kissing him on the cheek. “You know I could get used to waking up like that,”
he said, flashing her a wide smile. “Stop dreaming, Harm, I just thought I could do
something nice in exchange for your kind hospitality,” she answered, walking
back to the kitchen. “Why don’t you take a shower so that I can finish
setting the table and then we can have breakfast?” “Yes, Ma’m,” he said and walked towards the
bathroom. He had worked on the Madison file ‘til late the evening before and
a shower would certainly do him good. When he came back, Cathy had finished setting the
table: there were pancakes, fresh fruits, coffee and orange juice. “Wow, I should ask you over more often, you know.” “You should thank Grandma. She used to tell me that
it’s easy to catch a man, but to keep one it’s good to know how to spoil
him,” she answered laughing. “Sounds like Grandma,” he replied. They finished breakfast and got ready to go. 1600 ZULU (1100 EST) Roberts’ apartment Rosslyn, Virginia Harm and Cathy were now standing in front of Bud and
Harriet’s apartment. “I shouldn’t be here Harm,” said Cathy suddenly
worried. “What are you talking about?” asked a puzzled Harm. “I don’t know… I hardly know anyone and…” Cathy
started but was interrupted by Harm, who was now standing in front of her. “Cathy, stop being so worried. You’ll see, they’ll
love you. And anyway, you’ve already met Harriet and the admiral, who’s
probably the…” “I am what Commander?” asked Admiral Chegwidden in
mock sternness. Startled, Harm looked past Cathy to see his
commanding officer. “Oh, Sir…” and before Harm could do any worse, the
admiral shook hands with Cathy. “How are you Miss Parker?” “Admiral, good to see you again, and please call me
Cathy,” she replied. “In that case it’s A. J.” “Uh, we’d better go in before Bud shows up,”
suggested Harm. Bud had been assigned a case out of town and was
coming back at any moment. Harriet greeted A. J., Harm and Cathy: “Please
come in. Bud just called me from the airport, which gives us some more time
to get everything ready and introduce Cathy to everyone, that is, if you
don’t mind, Sir.” “Don’t ask me Harriet. She’s a grown woman,” he
answered. “Show me the way Harriet,” replied Cathy flashing a
devilish look at Harm. Harriet introduced Cathy to the Mattonis, Commander
Imes, Lieutenant Singer, Petty Officer Tiner and their respective dates. “We’re almost done Cathy, don’t worry,” Harriet
reassured her. “Major, may I introduce you to Miss Catherine Parker? Cathy,
this is Major Sarah Mackenzie and Commander Mic Brumby.” “Nice to meet you, and call me Mic,” answered
Brumby. “My friends usually call me Mac,” added the major. “Nice to meet you, and just call me Cathy, ok?” she
replied shaking hands with the two of them. “Parker…” wondered Mac aloud. “Parker, as in the
friend Harm received the kids book from?” she asked. Mic and Harriet
exchanged puzzled looks. “Guilty as charged, Ma’m,” answered Cathy smiling. “Wait a moment!” A light dawned on Harriet, who walked over to the bookshelf and
finally returned with a copy of The Gold Stone. “Is this the book
you’re talking about?” asked Harriet showing the book to Cathy, who nodded.
“My mom sent it to me as a present for the baby. It’s a wonderful book!” said
Harriet enthusiastically. “Thanks Harriet,” replied Cathy. “Lieutenant Roberts is here!” exclaimed Tiner, who
was keeping an eye on the parking lot. “Ok, people, you know what to do!” ordered the
admiral and everyone hid. They heard Bud fumbling with the door and when he
finally managed to get in… “SURPRISE!!” Bud stood there in shock fro a few seconds. Then Harriet
approached and hugged him. “Happy Birthday, Bud,” she said lovingly. “Oh my…Harriet….it’s wonderful!” replied Bud, still
a little in shock. 1900 ZULU (1400 EST) Roberts’ apartment Rosslyn, Virginia Everybody was sitting at the table, empty plates in
front of them. They had all enjoyed Harriet’s fabulous lunch. It was now time
for the cake. Harriet and Cathy, who had disappeared in the kitchen a few
minutes earlier, came up from behind Bud gesturing the others to sing, while
they carried the cake with the lightened candles. “HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY
BIRTHDAY DEAR BUD, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!” “This is wonderful…” managed to say Bud. “Come on, Bud, make a wish,” said Mac. Bud looked at Harriet and then blew the candles out.
Everybody cheered, except for Bud and Harriet, who fell in each other’s arms,
unaware of everything and everyone around them. “They look so happy…” whispered Cathy to Harm. “They truly are,” replied Harm. “Don’t worry, you’ll
find someone that deserves you…” and then added grinning, “And if you don’t,
I could sacrifice myself and take you!” “Very funny, Harm!” she answered, elbowing him
playfully. “I wonder why you’re still single…” When everyone had their piece of cake, Bud started
to open the presents. When he got to Harm and Cathy’s present, he shook the
box tentatively, as to guess its content. “You won’t hear a thing, Bud, just open it,” Harm
encouraged. Bud unwrapped the box and found himself with one of
those do-it-yourself models of a Stearman in his hands. “Wow! Commander, this is great!” he exclaimed. “Hey, look, you missed this,” said Harriet handing
him an envelope that had fallen out of the box. Bud opened it and found a
blank flight sheet. He looked at Harm, puzzled. “Well, when you’re finished with that one you might
want to take a ride on a real one,” explained Harm referring to his own
biplane, “Sarah”. “Great! I don’t know how to thank you, all of you. I
couldn’t be more happy!” said Bud, moved. 2300 ZULU (1800 EST) Robert’s apartment Rosslyn, Virginia Almost everyone had left. Harriet and Cathy were in
the kitchen cleaning up the mess, while Bud and Harm were trying to figure
out how to put the pieces of the Stearman model together. “They are like kids, give them a toy to play with
and they’re happy,” said Cathy pointing to the men sitting on the living room
floor. “Oh yes, I couldn’t agree more!” said Harriet as
they both started giggling. “How long have you known Commander Rabb, I mean
Harm?” “That’s a long time ago! We grew up together. My
parents moved in the house beside the Rabbs when I was five and he was seven.
We became friends pretty fast. I was new in town so he showed me around and
always made sure that the other kids wouldn’t pick on me,” explained Cathy. “That sounds like the Commander,” replied Harriet,
smiling. “Yeah, always out saving the world and protecting
the weak ones,” said Cathy. “How long have you and Bud been married?” “It’s a little bit over a year. And now little A. J.
is coming…” replied Harriet, her hands on her belly. “You’ll be a good mom,” said Cathy, “and Bud a great
daddy!” “Have you ever been married?” asked Harriet. “Uh, no,” answered Cathy, who was still staring at
the two men. “I haven’t found the right one yet.” Looking back at Harriet,
Cathy blushed. Just then, Bud showed up at the kitchen door. “Do
you need any help?” he asked innocently. “Nice of you to ask, but we’re done!” answered
Harriet, putting the last plate away. “I think we’d better go,” said Harm. “You had a long
day and I bet you want to spend some time alone.” “It was really a nice party Harriet. Thanks for
inviting me,” added Cathy. “Thank you for coming,” said Bud. “Drive safely,” Harriet added. “Drive safely? An ex tomcat pilot? I’d better
drive!” exclaimed Cathy taking the keys out of Harm’s hands. After they’d left Harriet said, “They make a nice
couple, don’t they?” “HARRIET!!!” replied Bud. Chapter 5
0030 ZULU (1930 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. “The Stearman idea was great, Cathy,” said Harm while
getting them something to drink. “Yeah, I saw you enjoyed it as much as Bud,”
answered Cathy joining him in the kitchen. “Hey! I had to show him how to do it!” he exclaimed
and handed her a glass of wine. She flashed him a sceptical look. “You hungry?”
asked Harm. “Are you kidding? With all we ate at the party?” she
answered, rolling her eyes and heading for the living room. “You’re probably right, maybe later?” “Maybe…” replied Cathy, who was now looking at the
books in Harm’s living room. She finally chose one. “What are you looking at?” asked Harm from the
couch. “Your high school yearbook,” she answered and sat
down next to him. “I’ve always wondered what Jerry had written under our
picture of the graduating ball.” Although Harm was one year ahead, Cathy had
been his date for the ball. “Nothing special…no need to look for it…”said Harm,
trying to get the book from Cathy. “Take your hands off it, Commander!” she ordered
him. “Ah, here it is.” She had found it. The picture showed a 19-year-old
Harm, wearing a black tuxedo, holding 18-year-old Cathy in his arms. Under
the picture, in their friend’s handwriting: Harm & Cathy, would make a
great couple if they’d stop considering themselves like brother and sister.
“That’s Jerry. Always trying to play matchmaker,” said Cathy smiling. Just then Harm’s stomach rumbled loudly and all Harm
could do was to look up at her with an apologising look. “I have an idea,” she said smiling. “There’s still
some pasta left from last night; let’s add some fresh vegetables, my secret
salad dressing and have dinner before you starve,” she said putting the
yearbook back on the shelf. “You sure,” asked Harm. “No problem, I don’t mind having something to eat
either,” she replied, heading for the kitchen. “Well then, just tell me what you need for your
special dressing…” he started to say, walking over to her. “Nice try, brother,” she said, smiling at him. “If
it’s called secret dressing there’s probably a reason to it. Grandma
was categorical about that!” exclaimed Cathy who knew her way around Harm’s
kitchen after their culinary exploit the evening before. “And what about the “spoiling-your-man” part then?”
he asked, flashing her one of his smiles. “Well, that’s pretty easy,” she answered
matter-of-factly. “If you tell them the trick, they won’t need you anymore,
so why don’t you do your part while I do mine.” “Had to give it a try, you know,” replied Harm. It didn’t take them long to get everything ready,
and as far as Harm was concerned, not much longer to empty his plate. “How do you do that?” asked Cathy amazed. “Do what?” “Well, it looks like you haven’t had anything to eat
for days!” she exclaimed. “Hey! You know if you keep that tone up, little
lady, you’ll do all the washing up by yourself!” replied Harm in his best
parent voice, which made them both burst out laughing. 0245 ZULU (2145 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. “It was nice to meet your colleagues, you all seem
to get along pretty good,” said Cathy snuggling up next to Harm. “Yeah, they’re all nice people,” he replied. “Especially Mac…” said Cathy curious. “She’s a good friend and we make a good team at
work,” he answered simply. “I see…good partners, eh? Like Kate?” she teased
referring to Lieutenant Caitlin “Kate” Pike. “Oh, come on Cathy! You of all people should know
that it’s possible for a man and a woman to be friends without ever becoming
an item…and anyway, she’s been dating the Australian commander lately,” he
replied. “If you say so…” said Cathy grinning. “Oh, stop it!” exclaimed Harm and threw her one of
the pillows he’d grabbed from the couch, hitting her right in the face. “Hey!! If it’s war you want, you’re gonna get it!!”
replied Cathy throwing the pillow back at him, just before he started to
tickle her. “Oh no, please stop it!!” she managed to say between
laughs before they both landed next to each other on the floor. “Why do I always end up acting like a teeny when
you’re around?” asked Cathy still trying to catch her breath. “Because it’s fun! I missed you, you know,” replied
Harm. She rolled closer to Harm, her hand across his
chest: “I missed you too flyboy.” They stayed like that a while, enjoying the
closeness, and no words needed. Harm’s
mind started wandering…thinking about all the two of them had gone through
together… Chapter 6 La Jolla California Seven years earlier Harm
was standing in front of Cathy’s apartment, not sure if he should knock. They
had spent a lot of time together after he came back from active duty…after
the crash that had killed his RIO… She had
managed to help him get a hold of his life when he didn’t know where to start
from. Working on the biplane had been her idea and he had to admit that it
had worked, at least partly because he still hadn’t figured out what he
should do with his career in the Navy. He
hoper her boyfriend, Jack, wouldn’t be there. He’d always been a jealous
person and Jack didn’t like him particularly, he’d always had a hard time
accepting the bond Harm and Cathy shared. *I wonder what Cathy finds in him,*
he thought. Finally
he knocked at his friend’s door. At first it seemed no one was home.
*Strange…I thought I’d seen Cathy’s car,* he thought. He was about to go when
he heard something fall crashing on the floor. He tried to open the door. It
wasn’t locked. It took
his eyes a moment to get used to the lack of light. All the blinds were
closed. He made his way through the corridor and when he got to the living
room he saw her. Cathy
was lying on the floor, close to the couch. A vase with flowers had fallen on
the floor. “Cathy…” he whispered and rushed to her. He
kneeled beside her and saw that her t-shirt was ripped. He moved her hair out
of her face… “Oh my God, Cathy…” Her face was full of bruises, her upper lip
broken and she seemed to have several other haematomas on her arms. He called
her again. “Mmm…Harm…what
are you…where is Jack?” she asked, her voice almost inaudible. “Don’t
worry. You’ll be ok. I’ll drive you to the hospital and they’ll take care of
you,” he said with a broken voice. *Who did this to you Cathy?* he thought. Thornton Hospital La Jolla California When
they arrived at the hospital they didn’t have to wait long until a doctor
came. “Miss
Parker, I’m Dr. Joyce. If you follow me, we’ll take care of you, ok?” he
said. “Sir, I’m sorry but you can’t come in,” the doctor told Harm, who
wanted to argue but was interrupted by Cathy. “Harm
please,…”tried to reassure him Cathy. He wasn’t convinced, but if she didn’t
want him in there he wouldn’t argue. Half an
hour later the doctor came out and told Harm that Cathy wanted to see him.
“Doctor, how is she doing?” he enquired. “She
has a couple of broken ribs and several bruises but she’ll survive it,” the
doctor replied. “Thanks.” He
opened the door of the room to find Cathy sitting on the bed struggling to
put her jacket back on. “Wait,
let me help you,” he said shortening the distance between them. She seemed so
fragile. While he helped her with the jacket, Cathy avoided his look. When
she was finally wearing the jacket he took her face in his hands making her
look at him. “I’ll
take you to Grandma’s ok?” making it more a statement than a question. Cathy
just nodded in response. Sarah Rabb’s residence La Jolla, California During
the ride home Cathy had fallen asleep. Harm had called Grandma from the
hospital, so that when they arrived there was a room ready for Cathy. He took
her in his arms, carried her up and put her to bed. “Have a good sleep,” he
whispered to her and kissed her on the forehead. He closed the door and
joined Grandma in the kitchen. “What
happened Harm?” Sarah asked him. “I
really don’t know Grandma. When I got to her place I found her like that,” he
replied. “I
can’t believe he could go that far…” she said. “Who?”
asked Harm puzzled. “Well…the
one who hit her…” replied Sarah nervously. “You
know who did this to her?” “Harm
please…” “Grandma…” “You
should talk to Cathy tomorrow when she gets up. Good night Harm,” she said
leaving him wondering what this was all about. Sarah Rabb’s residence La Jolla, California When
Harm got up the following day, Sarah had already left, leaving him a note in
the kitchen saying that she wouldn’t be home all day. He decided to prepare a
nice breakfast for him and Cathy, just in case she woke up before lunchtime. He was
so concentrated setting the table that he didn’t notice Cathy at the
kitchen’s door, wearing the grey sweaters Grandma had left for her. “Good
morning,” she said. He turned around and joined her kissing her on the cheek. “Good
morning.” *Ok Harm, now think. How are you doing is not the appropriate
question*. “How did you sleep?” *Oh please, is this the best you can do?* “Like a
baby. Where is Grandma?” she asked noticing that Harm was setting the table. “She
left a note that she won’t be home before dinner time,” he answered. “Are you
hungry?” “I’m
starving!” she replied smiling. “Ouch!” she said bringing her fingers to her
lips. “Remind me not to smile too much ok?” “Why
don’t you sit down and have some coffee?” he proposed. “Sounds
great,” she replied. Later
that morning, after Harm had finished cleaning the kitchen and Cathy had
taken a restoring shower they went for a walk. There
was a little pond not too far from Grandma’s house where Cathy and Harm used
to play as kids. It was a quiet spot with a huge tree and a wooden bench next
to it. Cathy sat down while Harm leaned to the tree. It was
the same place where Harm had finally opened up to Cathy about his crash and,
long before, had told her about his plan to go to Vietnam looking for his
father. He
waited for her to talk. It took her some time to get it out, but once she
started she told him everything about how Jack had started to drink and then
to hit her. Harm
couldn’t believe what he was hearing. *How could I not notice anything in her
letters?* he thought. *Not only am I night blind, but also so stupid to let
this happen to Cathy!* Cathy
had sensed what Harm was going through in his mind. “Nobody knew about it
Harm. He took care never to hit me on the face so that no one would notice
and…he was always sorry when he sobered up… I didn’t tell anyone…” she said. “But
Grandma knew about it,” he replied. “Just
before you came back she noticed some bruises on my forearm, and she made me
tell her everything.” Harm was
now standing next to her. “Why didn’t she tell me?” he asked not looking at
her. “Because
I asked her not to,” Cathy had managed to say, tears running down her cheeks. Harm
turned around, kneeled in front of her and took her hands in his. She wiped
her tears away with one hand while the other was still resting in Harm’s
hands. She could see the question in his eyes. “I
wanted to tell you, but when Trish told me about your crash I thought that
the last thing you needed was to worry about me. What I didn’t expect was
that helping you would give me the strength to face Jack.” “What
do you mean?” he asked puzzled. “In the
last weeks I spent a lot of time with you and Jack…well, he didn’t appreciate
too much. You know, he’s always been jealous of our relationship. Anyways,
last night I told him I needed some time alone to think about us…about
everything and that I would leave. Then he started to say that he wouldn’t
let me go without fighting…I’d never seen him like that…” she explained her
eyes watering. “You
should tell the police,” he said, unable to say anything more. *How did he
dare?* “I
don’t know Harm…” “It’s
the only way to make sure he won’t hurt you or anyone else anymore. I
couldn’t help you before but I won’t let you down this time, we’ll get through
this together.” And
Harm did keep his promise. He helped Cathy during the trial that followed and
put Jack in jail, and he encouraged her to make a career of what she liked
the most, writing. At the same time he decided what to do of his life and
became a lawyer. 0300 ZULU (2200 EST) Harm’s apartment Present day Harm
hadn’t noticed that Cathy had fallen asleep. He carefully sat up, slipped his
arm around her and carried her to bed. *She
looks so peaceful* he thought. “Sweet dreams,” he whispered, covered her with
the blanked and kissed her goodnight. 0405 ZULU (2305 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. Harm
was still wide awake when he heard noises coming from the bedroom. He
recognised Cathy’s voice. *She’s probably talking in her sleep,* he thought
right before he heard her call his name. He got up as fast as he could and
headed for the bedroom. “Harm!”
she screamed. When he
got to her she was awake, trembling and breathing hard. Tears were starting
to make their way down her cheeks. “Shh, it’s
okay,” said Harm holding her tight. “…Jack…he
was hurting me…”, Cathy managed to say in between sobs. “It was
just a nightmare, you’re safe here,” Harm said trying to soothe her by
caressing her back. He held her like that until she’d stopped trembling and
her tears dried out. He was just about to part from their embrace when Cathy
spoke. “Please
stay with me, don’t go,” she whispered. “I’m
not going anywhere, don’t’ worry,” he answered and lay down, holding her
close to him. A couple
of minutes later, Cathy fell asleep reassured by her friend’s presence. Not
long after, it was Harm’s turn to give in to sleep. Chapter 7 1500 ZULU (1000 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. The
shower was running when Cathy finally woke up. She looked at her watch to see
that it was already ten o’clock; she’d really needed the long sleep and still
didn’t want to get up. A few
minutes later she heard the water stop running and not long after Harm showed
up, wearing only a towel around his waist, his hair still wet from the
shower. “I…sorry…I
didn’t know you were awake…” he mumbled, seemingly embarrassed. “Don’t
worry about me, I have seen you wearing less than you are now before,” she
replied coolly, as the fact that he was standing half-naked in the bedroom
wasn’t affecting her…yeah, right! He might be like a brother to her, but he
is a very attractive man, and whatever they said about dress whites…there was
no comparison with this! “I’ll
just take some clothes and I’ll be gone,” said Harm rushing to the closet. “Whatever…I’ll
just lay here some more.” That said, she rolled on the other side of the bed
cuddling the pillow. She heard him fumbling with the drawers and then he
disappeared in the bathroom again. When he
returned several minutes later, he was fully clothed and freshly shaved.
Cathy, on the other hand, was half asleep again. “Hey,
sleepyhead, wake up,” he whispered in Cathy’s ear. “Mmm,
what took you so long?” asked Cathy grinning at him. “I always thought boys
would need less time in the bathroom.” “You
know, I was gonna take you out for a picnic, but now…” he answered,
pretending to be offended by her remark. “No,
please! I promise to be a good girl…” replied Cathy “Well…ok,
but just for this one time lady!” said Harm heading for the kitchen. “Why
don’t you get ready while I prepare our picnic?” “I’ll
try to be quick!” said Cathy before disappearing in the bathroom. 1700 ZULU (1200 EST) Glover Park Georgetown It was
a warm and sunny day, perfect for a picnic in the park. They had managed to
find a quiet spot and Harm was setting a blanket on the grass while Cathy
unpacked the lunch. “Mmm,
strawberries! I love them!” she exclaimed. “Yeah,
I know, but it’s not time for dessert yet,” replied Harm taking the box out
of her hands. “Ok,
what’s on the menu then?” asked Cathy. “Well
Ma’m, today we have grilled chicken with rice, Greek salad and pita bread,”
he answered. “Oh my!
How did you manage to do all this in…” she started to say, but stopped when
she saw the grin on her friend’s face. “Ok, I’ll surrender, girls do need
some time to get ready!” While
having lunch, the two of them had a little small talk, but they both
carefully avoided Cathy’s nightmare of the night before. But at one moment
Cathy spoke up. “You didn’t ask.” “Asked
what” “You
know what I’m talking about. Last night, the nightmare,” replied Cathy. “Oh,
that. I thought you would talk about it when you felt ready,” he said simply. “I
thought I’d gotten over it. I mean worrying about Jack and everything, even
the nightmares,” she started to say, avoiding Harm’s look. “I don’t
know…maybe it’s all this promo tour thing and having to appear in public…You
probably I think I’m paranoid, he?” She finally met Harm’s gaze. “Cathy,
after what you’ve been through with Jack, its’ no wonder you feel a little
nervous about the tour,” he replied. “But look what you’ve become after he
got out of your life: you’re a successful writer, you like what you do and
people who know you can’t help but loving you.” “Thanks,”
she said simply. “Anytime,”
he replied with a smile. He stayed quite for a while and Cathy gave him an
enquiring look. “You
know I had to give up my pilot career because I couldn’t see at night…” he
started. She nodded encouraging him to continue. “Well, I went to see this eye
specialist…and he told me that I don’t really have night blindness.” “Wow,
that’s news. Wait a sec’, what about the first diagnosis?” she asked puzzled. “They
made a mistake. Dr. Mitchell says that a simple laser surgery could fix the
problem.” “You’re
going to undergo that surgery to go back flying, aren’t you?” It was more of
a statement than a question. “I
don’t know, it’s not 100% sure it will work, but…I have to give it a try. I
mean…being a pilot is what I trained for all my life…” “Except
the years studying law and those you spent at JAG,” replied Cathy more
harshly than she intended to be. “Cathy…” “I’m
sorry Harm. I shouldn’t have said that. I have no right to judge your
decision. I know how much flying meant…means to you. So if it’s what you want
you should go for it.” “Thanks
Cathy,” he replied and hugged her. “It is important to me. Chapter 8 1215 ZULU (0715 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. When
Harm woke up he found a note from Cathy in the kitchen: Had to get
up early to go to my publisher. Thanks for everything. Love, Cathy PS: I’ll
call you tonight ok? “Good
luck,” he said putting the note back on the counter and getting ready for
work. 1600 ZULU (1100 EST) JAG Headquarters Falls Church, Virginia “Hey Harm,”
said Mac walking into the kitchen. “Hi
Mac, coffee?” he asked pointing to the coffee mug she was holding, to which
she nodded affirmatively. “How is
Cathy doing?” she asked casually. “Good,
I think. Haven’t seen her today. Her promo tour started this morning and she
left early,” he replied. “Oh,
she’s staying at your place?” “Uh…yeah,
she had a problem with her hotel reservation but now it’s fixed,” he answered
walking back to his office. “She
seems a nice person.” “She
really is and she’s a good friend.” “So,
you two are just friends?” she asked. “You
know, you two should really have a talk because you ask the same things,” he
replied leaving a puzzled Mac behind. By the
time she followed him in his office he was already on the phone. She’ll have
to get back to him later. “Can
you just wait a moment?” he said and walked over to the door to close it.
“Please, go ahead…Yes, that’s great. I didn’t know you could do that so
soon…I’ll meet you next week then…Thank you Dr. Mitchell,” he said and hung
up. 0100 ZULU (2000 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. Harm
was fixing dinner as the phone rang. “Rabb.” “Hi
Harm, it’s Cathy.” “Cathy,
how are you doing?” he asked happy to hear from her. “Not
bad, it was a long day though.” “Yeah, I
can imagine. Did all work out fine with the promo and your room?” he
enquired. “I
had a great time at the kid’s library today, they were all so cute!” she
said amazed. “As for the room…I love it! Not that I didn’t like it at your
place, but you have no whirlpool in your bathroom,” she teased him. *That’s
the noise in the background, the whirlpool,* he thought. “I see…since you’re
enjoying your bath that much I’ll better hang up,” he said. “Well,
I would invite you over to share, but you know…the tub isn’t big enough…” she
replied leaving Harm startled for a moment. “Anyway, I don’t mind
talking to you while soaking in the bubbles here,” she said smiling at the
phone. “By the way, did you hear from your doctor?” she changed subject. *What
did she say about the bubbles?* he thought. “Uh…yes, he called me this
morning and he arranged the surgery for Wednesday morning in one week.” “That’s
great Harm. Would you mind if I come with you?” she asked. “No,
not at all. Well, I’ll leave you to your bath now. I still have a little work
to do and I haven’t had dinner yet,” he said. “Ok,
don’t work too hard. Good night.” “Good
night.” Chapter 9 0015 ZULU (2015 EST) North of Union Station Washington, D.C. Harm
had invited Cathy over for dinner. Dr. Mitchell had called him earlier to
confirm that the surgery had worked out fine, his eyes were fixed and they
had to celebrate it. “What
are you going to do now?” she asked taking place next to him. “I have
to ask the Admiral to reassign me to active duty, then I’ll have to undergo
some tests and wait to see if they want me back in the air.” “Did
you tell Mac yet?” The guilty look on his face needed no further explanation.
“Harm, she’s your partner…and your friend. She should know. “I…I
wanted to see if the surgery worked out fine before telling anybody, I guess
I can’t postpone it anymore,” he replied. The
music was playing in the background. When a new song started Cathy got up and
asked Harm to dance. He joined her and took her in his arms. They started to
move to the rhythm of the music, slowly, lost in each other’s company. I’ve
been searching a long time For
someone exactly like you I’ll
been travelling all around the world Waiting
for you to come through Someone
like you You
make it all worthwhile Someone
like you Cathy’s
head was resting on Harm’s chin, her hand on his chest. “When
are you leaving” asked Harm. “Monday.
We’ll head for New York and then to Chicago,” she said in a whisper. I’ve
been doing some soul searching To find
out where you were I’ve
been up and down the highway In all
kinds of foreign land Someone
like you You
make it all worthwhile Someone
like you “How
come every time we get together it’s never for long?” Cathy’s face was now
buried in Harm’s neck. “I
guess it’s bad timing,” she answered. “I was
getting used to have you around.” “I’ll
miss you,” she said and he held her tighter. But
just lately I’ve realised Baby,
the best is yet to come Someone
like you You
make it all worthwhile Someone
like you Someone
exactly like you When the
music went off they held each other a while longer. It was Cathy who broke
apart their embrace. “I’d
better go…it’s been a very long day…” “Yeah…you’re
right. Should I give you a ride home?” “No
need, I have the car,” she answered looking for her handbag. “Uh,
right. Well…then…goodnight,” he replied walking her to the door. “Good
night Harm,” she said and he closed the door. “Very bad timing…” Chapter 10 2300 ZULU (1800 EST) JAG Headquarters Falls Church, Virginia “Cathy!”
Harriet greeted her as she walked in the bullpen. “Hi
Harriet, how are you doing?” she asked. “Not
bad, but I think I’m going to explode if this kid gets any bigger?” she
answered her hands resting on her belly. “Are you looking for the Commander?” “Yes,
he’s supposed to give me a ride to the airport?” “You’re
already leaving?” Harriet asked surprised. “Yeah,
with every book it’s the same,” she replied. “I bet
the Commander is going to miss you.” “It was
fun to have him around…anyway have you seen him?” “He
went to see the admiral but it shouldn’t be too long. Why don’t you wait in
his office?” she proposed. “Thank
you Harriet.” “No
problem. I wish you good luck and I hope we’ll see you soon,” she said. “I’d
love too. I’d really like to meet your little baby,” answered Cathy and then
Harriet left. Just as
she was looking for something to busy herself with while waiting for Harm he
came through the door. “Hey,
are you ready to go Cathy?” he asked as he gathered up his briefcase. “Sure,
let’s go,” she said. 0030 ZULU (1930 EST) Dulles International Airport Washington, D.C. “Passengers
to New York, please board at gate “That’s
my flight, I’d better get going,” said Cathy. “I wish
you good luck for the tour and I hope we won’t let pass that much time
again,” he replied trying to smile without success, avoiding her gaze. “Hey,
don’t…you are going to go back flying, you should be happy Harm,” she replied
cupping his face with her hands and making him look at her. “I really hope
you’ll find your way and that you won’t forget about your friends here on the
ground.” “I
won’t, you know that. I’ll miss you Cathy…” he said as she hugged him. “I’ll
miss you too,” she whispered. “Last
call for passengers to New York, please board at gate Cathy
pulled away from their embrace, her eyes filled with tears. “I really have to
go now, bye…” she said and headed for the gate. “Bye…”
he whispered. Someone
like you Keeps
me satisfied Someone
exactly like you ~*~*~*~*~* |
|