Summary: Admiral Chegwidden is reacquainted with a fellow SeAL who’s accepted a position at the State Department. After a glance, Harm sees her again and at the most unexpected convenient place he never thought possible, learning who she is leaves him reeling from shock.

“The Admiral will see you now,” the Yeoman said as she sat reading her book.

“Thank you” standing up and straightening her uniform.

“This way.” Ushering her towards the office, stopping outside briefly he opened the door for her. “Lt Chegwidden for you Sir,” trying to work out if she was any relation to him.

“Thank you Tiner.” watching him shut the door before he said anything to his visitor, “how about giving your uncle a hug” getting up from behind his desk to meet her in the middle of the room.

“I thought you would never ask” holding him tight.

“The uniform suits you” holding her at arms length as he admired the view, knowing it would be dangerous leaving her in the office too long on her own, “you have certainly grown since the last time I saw you.”

“Not really,” blushing at his offhanded compliment “I just have muscles where I did not have them before.”

Hugging her again “So what brings you to Washington?”

“Work” taking his hand and swinging out of nervous habit as she did when she was a kid, “and the chance to see my favourite uncle.”

“Flattery will get you everywhere” smiling.

“It always has with you.”

“So where are you taking me for dinner?”

“You decide, since you have lived here for a while and I have no clue where anything is yet” and adding under her breath “including my apartment.”

“Please do not tell me that you have bought an apartment without viewing it first?”

“Yes I did,” watching AJ shake his head in disbelief, “I know a Real Estate Agent who owed me a favour, got him to do the legwork checking around on places that needed some work on them.”

“You are bored again” with a sigh, remembering the last time she was bored, she stripped his washing machine, and decided that she needed to study leaving it in pieces in the basement for over a week.

“Anyway,” trying to ignore the remark, “since I am going to be based here I need something to keep me busy,” knowing the look he gave her “it is a sound investment,” trying to convince him as she sat on the edge of his desk.

“So you are staying?” sitting in the chair placed in front of his desk, “for how long?”

“Until the Navy decides to send me somewhere else.”

“What department are you going to be in?” confused as he generally knew where people were going to be transferred to before they did.

“State” grimacing as she waited for him to explode as her father had.

“I see you finished your SeAL training,” smiling proudly and wondering if that was why Webb had chose her, promising to drag him over the carpet later, especially if he found out that he was using her to make him look good on one of his botch cases. Giving her a wink, just to let her know he knew exactly what she had been up to over the last few years and that her SeAL training had actually finished years before.

“Just following in your foot steps” smiling proudly at the man she idolised.

“What does my brother think about this?” shifting in the chair and realising how uncomfortable it was.

“Well you know how happy he was when I learnt to fly in Burbank” she had arranged that she would clean out the aircraft in exchange for lessons after school.

“That was an understatement” remembering very well how he had to stick up for her on more than one occasion.

“Well” sighing “when he found out that I had enlisted in the Navy and had been selected for SeAL training after basic he told me that he would disown me.”

“I take it he has disowned you,” feeling sad that his brother treated her like an object.

“Yes” meekly as she continued “he said that unless I joined his law practice by the end of December I should forget that I have a father, and no offence AJ but I couldn’t bare being a lawyer for the rest of my life, I would get too bored sitting in an office all day.”

“No offence taken,” knowing the answer to his question before he asked it “So why did you study law?”

“To keep him quiet why I decided what I wanted to do with my life,” watching him nod, “AJ why is dad so uptight?”

“I honestly do not know Dea.” Adm. Chegwidden always called her Dea, never by her full name, Deanna, unless of course she had stepped over the line and needed to be put back over the other side of it. “And I guess we will never know,” getting out of the chair and hugging her “at least you know that I will be here for you.”

“At least one member of my family has faith in me, ”getting off his desk as she changed the subject, “so what time do you wish to go to dinner Admiral?” giving him a wink.

“Meet me here at 18.30,” shuffling the papers on his desk.

“One problem, you have my Mustang,” not wanting to take a cab out to his place.

“Ah!” trying to remember where he had left his Jeep keys. “Here." He found them in his coat pocket. “Take my Jeep, go pick up your car and pick me up later. We can go to a restaurant somewhere close to my place, and Dea?” as she headed towards the door, “I had the Mustang serviced for you last week, and before you say that you are going to pay me back it is an early Christmas present,” winking at her.

“Are you sure?” knowing that it would not be wise to argue with him.

“Yes, now scat, some people have work to do. Oh, the spare key to the house is in the usual place, and your father has sent some of your stuff over a couple of weeks ago, you will find it in the spare bedroom.”

“Thanks AJ” smiling at him, “I do not know what I would do without you at times.”

“Someone has to keep and eye on you” picking up his pen and starting to write, “Dea, if you wreck my Jeep leave town” teasing.

Shaking her head she left him to his work knowing that he would never let it go about her beaching his Sedan on a curb the last time she borrowed a car. Heading towards the elevator she noticed a CDR taking a second look as he stepped off the elevator, pretending that she had not noticed, she got in the elevator waiting briefly for the doors to close. ‘Nice view.’ Dea chuckled to herself. Glad that she had moved to Washington, if this is where they were keeping all the hottest men.

****

Opening the garage door, Dea stood looking at her baby, the car she had re-built while she was at Law School, the car to her that meant independence from something she hated doing. Running her hands lightly over the paintwork she noticed that AJ had kept her polished, smiling as she looked inside she noticed that it had been kept free from dust. ‘You old softy AJ, I owe you more than dinner’ as she got in and started the car up smiling as it roared into life, ‘high baby I am home’ rubbing the steering wheel affectionately. Carefully driving her out of the garage, she replaced it with AJ’s Jeep.

****

AJ had not told her how many boxes he had stored in his spare room, as she opened the door her jaw fell open. “Thanks dad” she shouted angrily, he had only sent the entire contents of her old room. “I guess this means that you meant it.” Sadly picking up a box and heading down the stairs to her car. After a couple of trips up and down the stairs, she squeezed one more in before she locked up. One more car full would be the lot, her whole life. Sitting in the car, she looked at the map the Real Estate Agent gave her and started to drive back into the city. Finding the building she parked outside not quiet sure where her space was. Locking the car and taking one of the boxes with her she headed inside tingling with excitement, her first place all hers. The apartment was on the ground floor, hesitating outside number two before she unlocked the door she walked in, ‘Wow’ as she put the box down inside the door, her brain suddenly running into over drive with visions of how the place could look. She couldn’t wait to start, propping the door open with the box she started unpacking the car, on her second trip in a voice made her jump.

“Here let me help you with that Lt.”

Turning around to see who had volunteered, “It is okay I can handle it” trying to work out where she had seen him before. “Hello again CDR,” as it dawned on her where she had seen him before, “playing hooky are you?” letting him take the box as she picked another one out of the car.

“No,” as he followed her inside, "Harmon Rabb,” juggling the box as he tried to shake her hand.

“Deanna Chegwidden.”

“Any relation to the Admiral?” he asked with a raised eyebrow.

“His niece.” She answered leading him inside.

“Needs a bit of work” putting the box down remembering how his apartment had looked before he had renovated it.

“Enough to keep me busy for a while.” smiling at him.

“So, you must be transferring to JAG.” Harm assumed.

“No.” She did not want to give any further details except for a wry grin.

“Leaving the Navy?”

“No” Dea was enjoying this guessing game with him.

“Well I can see you are a SeAL” following her back to the car, “So unless you are getting a court martial against you, which probably is not on the cards,” looking her in the eyes trying to work her out, “then you are working for someone else.”

“Obviously Sherlock.” laughing at him stumbling on his words. “On Monday I start work for State.” watching for any reaction.

“Really?” He took the last box from her as she locked up her car.

She was not sure if he was shocked or interested. “I take it you are a lawyer, flyboy” smirking, “because your too damn nosy if you are not.”

“Yes I am and your Uncle is my boss.” Stating the obvious.

“I feel sorry for you.” She laughed walking back inside. “I would offer you a coffee to say thanks for your help but I have not been grocery shopping yet.” Checking out his behind as he hurried to hold the door open for her. “I am ashamed to say that I haven’t even got a cup.” kicking herself for not picking up the crockery box.

“I can always lend you a cup.” He suggested trying not to seem too eager to spend more time around her.

“Thanks, can I take you up on that later?” wanting desperately to get out of her uniform, “I really have got some shopping to do first,” not sounding too enthusiastic about the prospect.

“Sure I am on the next floor.” hovering by the door, “Come up when you are ready.”

“Thanks.” Dea was trying to close the door. “I will.” She was wondering if she would have to shove him out forcibly, now that could be fun, as she looked into those incredible eyes that made her legs melt. “Bye.” She managed to shut the door without shutting him in it. Leaning against the door to catch her breath, she could not believe that she lived in the same building as a member of her uncle’s staff. What rotten luck, knowing that her uncle would suddenly find the time to visit her on a regular basis or send one of his trusted spies. Along with a few warnings or two along the way for Harm, poor guy. Damn you AJ you had better not scare this one off, favourite uncle or no favourite uncle. She knew that she could be playing with fire this was just the distraction she needed.

####

Later as she put her grocery shopping away she could not help smiling to herself as she thought of him upstairs, a smile that could knock you off your feet and probably before you knew it into his bed if he could get away with it. Shaking her head she noted the time, if she was going to get that coffee she would have to hurry, throwing her clothes in the corner of the bathroom as she jumped in the shower, “shit” she shouted after she screamed, “that’s cold” remembering that she had not started the boiler and jumped out just as quick. Just as she was wrapping a towel around her, she heard banging at her front door,

“Deanna? Are you okay in there?”

“Hang on a minute” smirking to herself as she went to the door, “sorry if I scared you.” She startled Harm opening the door just a crack, “Forgot to start the boiler.” smiling apologetically at her knight in shining armour.

“I thought you might have found a spider or something” as he found himself staring at her half naked body.

Starting to shake from the cold, “No, just a freezing cold shower.”

“Want to warm up in mine?” with a devious look that Dea knew meant something else entirely.

“No thanks, but I will take you up on that coffee.”

“Sure, you go and get dressed and I will start your boiler for you.” smirking he added “Don’t worry you are safe,” winking as he murmured to himself “for now.”

Ignoring the last comment she hurried back into the bathroom to get dressed, which was hard considering how violently she was now shivering, finishing up she went back into the main part of the apartment and noticed that he had gone after starting the boiler for her. ‘So the games begin’ picking up her keys and heading upstairs, he had left his door ajar for her, “Harm?” waiting outside.

“Coffee” handing her a cup as he opened the door to her.

“Thank you” looking around as she stepped inside, “very nice,” she commented watching him smile.

“Glad you like it,” offering her a seat at the counter, brushing her arm with his as he sat next to her. Jumping slightly from the electricity that passed between them, Dea shifted her weight to sit at a slightly different angle to him, god those eyes, realizing that she wasn’t listening to what he was saying.

“Deanna?” hearing her name broke her thoughts.

“Sorry, I was miles away.”

Pretending to look hurt, Harm asked “Bored with my conversation already?”

“No, just thinking about a family problem.” Lying through her back teeth, hoping that she would not blush.

“Anything I can help you with?” leaning towards Dea, making her arms tingle at Harm’s closeness.

“No thanks, it will sort itself eventually,” ‘hopefully sooner rather than later’ not letting her face betray her thoughts.

Finishing her coffee, she thanked him and headed down to her car feeling a strange sadness as she left him. Shaking her head, she scolded herself, knowing the feeling too well, she could not let herself get too attached that quick.

####

Dea sat waiting outside JAG Headquarters, watching people scurry around in the rain waiting for AJ to appear. Looking at her watch for what seemed the hundredth time wondering what was keeping him so long. Just as she reached for her cell phone, he headed out of the building. Dea opened the door for him, and laughed at the drowned Admiral getting into her car.

“Thanks.” Closing the door, as he smiled apologetically as he asked if she had been waiting long.

“About five minutes” watching him briefly as she joined the slow moving traffic. “Think we had better take you home Admiral” smirking and voicing her next thought so he could hear if had that radar of his working as usual “or you will be catching a cold wanting me too tuck you into bed with your teddy bear.”

“Admirals do not have teddy bear’s.” laughing as he changed the subject. “There is plenty of food in the fridge, I am sure I can knock something up.” Remembering how Dea loved his omelettes as he watched the traffic.

“Thank you for keeping my car clean.” Dea said wondering what was bothering AJ.

“Anytime” looking at Dea he gave he a weak smile, “did you find your apartment okay?” avoiding contact with her eyes.

“Yes I did and I found a certain CDR Rabb.” aware she cringed in her seat as she waited his response.

“What do you mean by found?” AJ gave Dea a puzzled look as they headed up his driveway.

“Harm lives in the same building.” parking the car as close as she could to his porch. Turning off the ignition she undone her seat belt and turned in the seat to face him, “I am a big girl AJ, I know what men I have to watch and which ones are not even worth a second look.” grinning in the dark.

“Watch him Dea, I do not want you getting hurt again.” Picking up his briefcase and opening the car door, running up the steps to the front door he waited for her to lock the car before going in.

Hanging their wet coats in the hall to dry, Dea followed AJ into the kitchen. “AJ I know I have to watch Harm, he can be a very smooth talking flyboy when he wants too.” winking at her uncle who could not believe his niece at times. “It’s the Dress Whites and Gold Wings” putting the kettle on for a hot drink, “they win me over every time” laughing at her uncles face.

“Still a sucker after all this time” shacking his head in disbelief, “can’t you find someone out of the Navy?” giving Dea a grin knowing that there would be no chance she would ever go outside the Navy, to Dea it would be defeat, that her father had won a small victory over her.

####

Dea was busy stripping the paint off the window the next morning when the doorbell rang interrupting her singing to herself, “Just a minute.” getting off the ladder expecting the delivery truck. Opening the door she found Harm instead, “Morning” trying not to show any disappointment.

“Morning, I hope I am not disturbing you?” He asked as he held two cups of coffee in one hand.

“Never if you come bearing gifts like that.” Smiling as she let him in; “thought you might have been the delivery guys.” Wondering why he was not at work as she took the coffee Harm handed her “Thanks.”

“Thought you might need it.” He grinned at her dishevelled state as he removed a fleck of paint from her hair. “You have been at it since seven so I thought you might need a break.” He commented looking around and noticing how much she had done already.

“Sorry did I wake you?” Dea asked horrified that she had woken him. “I didn’t realise that I had been that noisy.” She was wondering if he had heard her singing.

“No” smirking in a devious way “heard you singing when I jogged past the window.”

Dea was embarrassed and turning bright red.

Harm saw the slight embarrassment wash over her face. “You have a good voice.” He watched her drink her coffee, patiently waiting for a comment.

“Oh cut it out, cats can sing better than me,” Dea wondered how red she could possibly get before she burst into flames.

“I am being serious” watching Dea out of the corner of his eye as he walked away from her with a wry grin, “you have certainly worked hard in here since yesterday.”

“Is that an offer to help?” trying to turn the tables to her advantage.

“Where would you like me to start?” trying to give her a serious look but failing miserably when he turned around to see her already holding out a paint scraper to him.

“The other window Sir,” wondering why he was not at work and gave him a mocking grin wondering if he would pick up on what she had said.

“Cut the Sir out, I am not in uniform,” wondering what just flicked through those brown eyes of hers as he spoke taking the scraper from her slightly trembling hand.

####

They worked in silence until lunchtime, Dea from time to time found herself sneaking a look, ashamed at herself for doing so. Finishing the doorframe, she started sweeping the floor, deliberately trying to sweep him up.

“Hey” he exclaimed, “Cut that out.” Harm tried to grab the broom from her. “There was no need for that.” chasing her around the apartment.

“Yes there was” holding him at arms length with the broom, “I was getting bored” grinning at him “and …” hearing someone knock on the door, “truce” Dea said as she headed to the door. “Hello?” she called as she opened the door slightly to the delivery guys, “Oh,” opening the door fully. “Please, come in,” watching them struggle. “By the bay window will be fine,” wondering if they ever spoke. Raising her eyebrows at Harm, he shrugged his shoulders obviously wondering the same as he looked in her fridge. Creeping up behind him she leant her chin on his arm, “What are you looking for?”

“Something to eat.” handing her a can of soda while taking one for himself, “The work force is hungry.” Grinning as he shut the fridge.

“What would you like?” Regretting what she had asked as soon as she finished saying it, “Not on the menu!” Dea stepped away from him slightly as she saw the glint in his eye.

“Then pizza will have to do for now,” winking, noticing how nervous Dea was near him.

“Here.” Dea handed Harm some money. “Can’t have you fainting from hunger on me now can I?” giving one of the delivery guys a filthy look as he dropped the end of the sofa heavily on the floor, “Watch the furniture.” Dea scolded as she went over to check if any damage had been done. Noticing out of the corner of her eye that Harm left her to it, smirking Dea signed for the delivery, giving them a dime she ushered them out the door before anything was damaged.

####

When Harm returned with a pizza he heard Dea laughing hysterically. “Are you okay?” he asked setting the pizza down in the kitchen.

“Fine, could use a bit of help though.” Dea's voice came out from underneath a mattress that was stuck in the bedroom door, giggling again.

“Where are you?” Harm asked frowning as he tried to move the mattress out of the way.

“Under the mattress.” Looking up at Harm as he moved it, “Thanks” rolling out of the way before it landed on her again as Harm chuckled.

“Does this happen often?” He asked pushing the mattress out of the way and up against the wall. “Because if you two want to be alone …” smirking at Dea.

“Shut it smart ass” giving him a sly smile, “just lead me to the pizza.” Giving Harm a playful slap on the arm as she passed him.

####

Leaning up against the kitchen counter Dea grinned, “So, can I exploit your services further?”

“As long as it is not lifting boxes.” Harm grumbled as he rubbed his full stomach. “Wish you didn’t talk me into having that bowl of ice cream.” giving her a teasing grin.

“So is that a yes?” Dea helped Harm to his feet.

“Lead the way.” rubbing his stomach again to emphasis the fact that he was full, “Just go easy on me.” winking as he followed Dea into her bedroom.

Dea got Harm to help her build her bed, grinning as she saw his eyes light expectantly. “Down boy.” She commented as she took a wrench from his hand. Dea jumped again as she felt the electricity pass through her veins. Looking at him out of the corner of her eye, she knew he felt it too. ‘Damn him,’ she thought ‘he is enjoying this’ shaking her head as she tightened the last bolt.

“You can certainly handle a wrench.” Harm commented taking the wrench off Dea before she did some damage.

“Years of practice.” Dea said as she stood up and stretched her back.

Harm stood up and started to massage her shoulders. “Tell me more.” He almost whispered, breathing on her neck and making her shiver.

“I built my Mustang while I was studying law.” Dea closed her eyes enjoying the feeling of his strong hands rubbing her neck. “It kept me sane.”

“You like engines?” Harm asked with surprise in his voice.

“Cars, planes, I have even been known to strip washing machines to fix them.” Dea continued enjoying the moment as she leant into his hands.

“A bit of a tom boy then.” Harm grinned as he felt her relax.

“Anything to annoy my father.” Dea said sadly as she put her hand on his to stop him.

“Why?” He turned Dea around to face him.

“Long story…” stepping away from Harm to unwrap the mattress. “One I am not prepared to tell.” almost angrily, “Could you help me put this on the bed?” She watched Harm giggle as he remembered her last encounter with the mattress. “Ha-ha” Dea said smirking.

“Sure.” Harm said as he grabbed the other end as he graciously changed the subject. “How about you come flying with me one day?” Asking as the put the mattress down.

“I am not a very good passenger.” Dea grinned.

“Her name is Sarah, she is an old Stearman that I rebuilt when I needed to take my mind off things.” He was hoping that Dea would accept.

“Really?” Dea was surprised “In that case I would love too, as long as I can have a turn at flying?” Laughing deviously as she moved around to the other side of the bed.

Harm was grinning. “What are you laughing about?” He edged his way around to where she was standing. “If you don’t tell me I am going to tickle you.” He was getting closer as he watched her looking for a quick escape.

“Don’t try it CDR.” She warned Harm as Dea grinned mischievously wondering if she could hop over the bed quickly enough, realizing it was too late as he grabbed her sides. Before Harm knew it, Dea had grabbed his wrist and turned into his body quickly flipping him onto the bed, quickly sitting on top of him, “I warned you Harm.”

“That you did Lt.” Harm said grinning as he lay underneath her on the bed. “So are you going to tell me what you were laughing at?”

Blushing Dea looked down at Harm, “I was going to suggest trying the bed.” watching his expression change to glee, “and I then thought better of it knowing what that would mean to a certain Naval Lawyer, and going by that look I was right.” shifting her weight slightly.

Taking advantage of Dea moving Harm rolled her over until he was sitting on top of her. “You are in more of a dangerous position now than you were before.” His eyes alight, gleaming dangerously as he pinned her arms to the bed.

“At least the bed is still standing.” Dea said as she tried to wiggle out of his grasp, “and Harm” looking into his eyes, “I can get out of this situation very easily if I want to.”

“I know you can.” He leaned to whisper in her ear. “I know you don’t want too.”

Feeling the hot breath on her cheek Dea whispered back, “And you do not want me too either.” She felt her heart rate rise as he trapped her beneath him.

“No.” He kissed Dea gently on the lips. “But I have the feeling that by not pushing you would reap better rewards.” kissing her again before he got up and pulled her with him.

Dea’s mind reeling, slightly confused she looked at him before she commented; “Now you have me thinking you are the perfect gentleman.”

“Good,” Harm replied with a satisfied look on his face gave Dea a kiss on the cheek. “I am glad I am giving the right impression,” noticing that she was now very confused and loving every minute of it.

Dea totally bemused, looked at her watch, “I have had enough furniture moving for the day. ” She was still trying to work Harm out and desperately needing a distraction. “I think I am going to go for a jog.” She watched as he walked to the door. “Thanks again for your help.”

“Anytime.” Harm said ginning, shutting the door behind him.

####

The hot shower sprayed welcomingly on her body, Dea let herself enjoy its warmth easing her tired muscles as she stood there for what seemed like an eternity. Eventually stepping out she dried herself off, wrapping the towel around her, and padded barefoot into the lounge. Looking around Dea was pleased how it was shaping up as she noticed a note that had been pushed under the door. Picking it up Dea unfolded it and read ‘dinner tonight at my place, no excuses, come up when you are ready’ smiling Dea went to get dressed.

####

“Come in if you are good looking.” Harm called when Dea knocked on his door, grinning to herself she waited momentarily before knocking again, “I said come in.” His voice getting slightly irritated, as she heard his footfalls come close to the door.

Sticking the bottle of wine around the door first before Dea's head followed she grinned. “Considering I do not count myself as good looking, I thought I had better wait.” grinning as she caught the dishcloth he threw to her while shaking his head.

“Women!” Pulling Dea all the way into his apartment. “Can’t live with them, can’t live without them.” giving her a wink as he shut the door. “It is nothing much,” taking Dea’s hand and leading her over to the counter. “Just salad and gilled chicken” removing the bottle from her tight grip.

“That sounds better than take out again” grinning, “need any help?”

“No it is all under control.” He gently pushed Dea down on a stool, “Enjoy your jog?” sitting beside her as he poured them a glass of wine. Nodding as she took a piece of cucumber out of the salad bowl. “Hey,” slapping Dea’s hand playfully away like a child, “stop picking, you’ll spoil your appetite.”

“Chance would be a fine thing.” grinning mischievously, desperate to feel Harm’s lips on hers again.

Dea enjoyed his company over dinner, laughing, not really talking about anything in particular, at times Dea found herself flirting outrageously with Harm trying to get a reaction. Grinning to himself as he put the dishes in the sink Harm took the bottle of wine and his glass and indicated for Dea to follow him to the sofa, sitting next to her he pulled her into the crook of his arm. “When do you start working for State?” leaning his cheek against her hair.

“Monday.” Dea answered sipping her wine feeling comfortable in Harm’s arms. “When are you supposed to be in the office next?” grinning as she looked up at him.

“Tomorrow” placing his glass on the floor and taking hers, “to tell you the truth I wish I wasn’t.” Trailing his finger up the side of Dea’s cheek, “but I do not think your uncle would appreciate it if I asked for more time off.” Harm leaned closer to her.

Dea held her breath, finding herself completely under his spell as she looked into his gorgeous eyes that were looking at her intently. Moving his hand around to the back of her neck Harm gently pulled Dea towards him until their lips met, warm and soft but getting increasingly more passionate the closer their bodies became. Dea’s head swam as she came up for air looking into Harm’s eyes again as she touched his face unable to speak. “Are you okay?” Harm asked. Seeing the answer in her eyes he lowered her gently back onto the sofa gently settling himself on top of her.

“Perhaps we can stop flirting with each other.” Harm whispered as he nuzzled her neck, making Dea moan as she arched herself towards him. “And see where this leads us.” looking into her eyes again watching a flicker of amusement pass through Dea’s eyes. “You are a tease.” running his hand down the side of her body to her waist as he unbuckled her belt on her jeans.

“Take’s one to know one.” She murmured pulling Harm back down to her lips, running her hands gently down his back.

Jumping like startled school kids they sat up quickly when they heard the doorbell, Dea looked at Harm with eyes as black as coal, asking him without words was he expecting anyone. “No” he answered kissing her on the mouth apologetically, “I had better answer it or they won’t go away.” Just as the doorbell rang again, running his fingers through his hair Harm pointed to her belt, which Dea quickly did up looking around quickly for something to read.

‘If this had something to do with AJ I am going to kill him.’ Dea said to herself annoyed, getting into that situation once in a day was bad enough, but twice that was just damned unfair watching Harm open the door as she thought about having a quick cold shower.

“Sir, sorry to disturb you, but the Admiral asked me to bring this file by on my way home.” A familiar voice said on the other side of the door.

Getting up Dea headed over to Harm and leant on his arm. “If that is you Bud?” looking around Harm, seeing that it was, “then you can tell the Admiral to stop sending his spies to check on me.”

Bud grinned recognizing who was standing next to his friend. “Deanna?” Bud’s eyes lit up like a Christmas tree. “What are you doing here?” his blushing gave it away that her uncle had indeed sent him around to check on her.

Dea laughed at Harm’s bemused face. “Don’t worry about telling the Admiral, I will see to him myself.” She enjoyed seeing Bud squirm as he handed the file to Harm making a hasty retreat towards the stairs.

“See you in the morning.” Ham said as he watched Bud scuttle down the hall. Turning his attention to Dea as he pulled her back inside the door. “Care to explain?” Harm was seemingly annoyed that the moment had passed, again, and not by his choice this time.

####

“Admiral?” Tiner queried as he buzzed through to the Admiral’s office, “Your niece is on line one, would you like to speak to her before the Commander and the Colonel arrive?”

“Put her through.” Adm. Chegwidden ordered knowing that he was about to get an earful. “Please send them through when they arrive.” cringing as he picked up the phone. “Good morning?”

“AJ, I love you, but I have to make my own mistakes.” Dea said trying to by angry with him.

“Sorry you feel that way.” AJ replied apologetically as he signalled to Harm and Mac to come into his office. “But Dea” rolling his eyes making Harm grin at the sound of Dea’s name and Mac look at Admiral in disbelief. “He really did need the file for this morning.”

“Don’t believe you AJ” knowing the tone of his voice, “I know it could have waited until today, so don’t do it again.” Dea smiled fondly.

“No Ma'am.” AJ replied smirking as he watched his officers squirm in front of him. “Would you like to talk to him?” knowing that she wouldn’t.

“AJ!” Dea suddenly had the urge to throttle him.

“I’ll take that as a no,” looking again at Harm who was getting more uncomfortable under the watchful eye of Mac.

“Just go Admiral before I have to come down there and kick your six.” Dea laughed as she hung up on him, relieved that she could get away with giving her uncle some grief, glad she managed to get in the last word.

“Well Commander it looks like I owe you an apology.” giving Harm a devious grin. “It seems that I have inadvertently upset my niece and spoiled your dinner plans last night.” Grinning as he enjoyed the embarrassed and confused looks on his officer’s faces.

“No need Sir.” Harm replied fiddling with the file in his hand as he glanced at Mac who was giving him a questioning look.

AJ continued in a more formal approach, “Did you get a chance to look at the file?” opening the copy he already had on his desk.

“Yes Sir.” they both replied.

“So, without having to spell it out, you both realise how delicate this matter is.”

“Yes Sir,” they both replied again this time standing to attention.

“Dismissed.” AJ closed the file firmly acknowledging their salutes, “Commander,” watching Harm turn to face him again while he waited for Mac to exit the door, “treat her with respect.”

“Always Sir,” wondering why the Admiral felt he had to warn him.

“Then phone Dea, and tell her you are going away for a few days.” handing Harm a piece of paper with Dea’s numbers on it.

“I would anyway Sir.” walking out of the Admiral’s office and headed towards his.

“So flyboy, what is going on with you and the Admiral’s niece?” Mac asked as she pulled him into her office shutting the door behind them.

“Nothing that concerns you,” putting his hand on the doorknob.

“Come on Harm, you took a personal day yesterday without giving any explanation, why?” Mac put her hand on the door to stop him opening it. “You look like a cat in heat, the Admiral is apologising to you about spoiling dinner plans and to top it all it has something to do with his niece.” Mac paused. “Come on Harm, I am your friend, you know you can tell me anything.” She pleaded with Harm leaving the door and walking to her desk.

“Mac don’t push me.” He looked at her straight in the eyes. “When I am ready.” opening the door, “I will collect you in five hours at your place.” He changed the subject with a glare as he headed out of her office with no explanation.

####

“Dea?” Harm called as he hammered on her door, “It’s me Harm” hoping that he had not missed her.

“What are you doing here flyboy?” Dea smirked walking towards him juggling a couple of grocery bags while searching for her keys.

“Let me take that.” Harm offered grabbing a bag while evading the question until he got inside.

Watching him place an overnight bag by the door, Dea’s face fell. “Looks like you are going away for a couple of days.” placing the groceries on the counter.

“That’s why I am here.” He took her hand. “I did not want to leave you a message for you on your service.” pulling Dea gently towards him, “I have three and a half hours before I go to pick up my partner.” looking at her hungrily wondering how she got under his skin so quickly.

“Do you want anything to eat?” Dea asked pulling away from Harm and continued unpacking the groceries.

Harm cocked his head. “Just you.” As he watched her tense slightly as he took the ice cream out of her hands before she dropped it.

“The ice box.” Dea indicated to the ice cream, her voice trembling slightly, “Now?” swallowing hard, surprised as Harms directness.

He took Dea’s hand leading her towards the bedroom. “Now.” He softly answered.

“So now you take charge?” smirking at him “You are as bad as my shower, running hot and cold,” squealing as Harm picked her up and put her over his shoulder.

“So when did you turn into a caveman?” Dea asked as he set her back on the floor at the bottom of the bed.

“Don’t you ever shut up?” Harm grinned as his hands deftly travelled her waist undoing her jeans pushing them down, as he urgently pulled her t-shirt over her head.

“No,” looking into Harm’s eyes as she kicked off her trainers and stepped out of her jeans, “but I know what will.” She put one hand around Harm’s neck pulling him to meet her slightly open lips, welcoming his warm tongue.

While she deftly undone the buttons on his uniform. Dea continued kissing him slowly down his neck and chest as she pushed his shirt off his shoulders and arms letting it fall to the floor, as she reached down to his belt buckle and zip, a moan escaped Harm’s throat as she lightly touched his entrapped erection as Dea undid the zipper. Smirking Dea continued to take off his pants, pushing them down with her feet as she gently freed him, feeling him remove his shoes, stepping out of his pants as Dea squeezed him gently.

Gently taking Dea’s hand and away with a warning look Harm started kissing her neck as he walked around her trailing his hands across her waist and hips just above her panty line.

Taking a sudden intake of breath Dea closed her eyes and rolled her neck gently as he continued kissing her.

Harm’s hands slid up her body, cupping her breasts, pinching and rubbing her nipples gently through the cotton material of her bra, making her arch her back away from Harm giving him the chance to slip off her bra. Tuning her slightly Harm scooped Dea up in his arms gently placed her on the bed. “Do you want me to continue?” he whispered as he lay beside her slipping his fingers underneath her panties feeling the soft wet mound aching for him.

“You better had flyboy.” Dea answered hoarsely, giving Harm a look that he understood she would probably kill him if he stopped.

Grinning Harm pulled off Dea’s panties tossing them across the room rolling on top of her in what seemed one move. “I am glad. “ Harm whispered as Dea kissed his neck, “because I cannot take you teasing me any longer.” parting her legs with his knees and pressing his swollen penis against Dea’s wet slit, gently guiding himself in with his hand.

Gasping Dea raised her knees, lifting her hips helping him get further in. Pulling Harm back to her engorged lips, she parted his urgently with her tongue, feeling him push harder and harder into her. “Don’t you dare stop,” she urgently whispered arching herself increasingly to his rhythm.

Feeling himself getting close as she squeezed him tighter and tighter with the walls of her vagina, he groaned as he erupted in her. “My god,” gasping, he looked into Dea’s wide dilated eyes, “you feel so good.” Gently lowering himself on her as he withdrew kissing her gently on her lips.

Rolling Harm over she sat on top of him trailing her hands down his chest, still not able to say a word as she gave him a satisfied smile.

Harm noticed her looking at the clock as he followed her gaze. “Can I borrow you’re shower?” sitting up with Dea still on his lap.

“Sure, through there.” Dea said nodding her head as he kissed her again.

“Join me?” Harm asked hopefully.

“Not this time, or you will not get out the door in one piece.” She gave Harm a devious grin as she got off him and watched him head to the bathroom. Pulling on her robe she padded into the kitchen after she picked up his uniform. Giving it a quick press as she made coffee. Dea hung it up on the back of her bedroom door for him with a smile.

####

“I will call you.” Harm said sadly standing in the hallway, pulling Dea towards him for a kiss as he put his hand inside her robe squeezing her breast.

“You had better flyboy,” gently pushing him away, “go before you are late.” Dea blew him a kiss watching him walk down the hallway and out the door.

Continue to Hearts and Missiles