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denyceMasterpost
Previous chs: 1, 2, 3
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Exiting the caverns, Max easily spotted Joshua and his men crowded around Ronon and as the crowd parted, John and the others. Max questioned, “What’s going on?”
John shrugged but didn’t take his eyes off of Joshua, “We have a slight problem.”
Alec automatically shifted closer to Joshua as he warily glanced at John and his men. “Yeah, like what?”
With a snarl, Joshua announced, “Joshua go with you.”
Alec shrugged and easily replied, “Yeah sure of course.”
Joshua raised his head, nodding with a bit of superiority. Although Joshua was silent his entire posture shouted out, ‘I told you so’ and threw it in John’s face.
John, on the other hand, stared gaping at the dogman then shook his head, sputtering out, “Whoa wait a minute, I can’t authorize that. I was just trying to tell your friend here as politely as possible …”
Max pointed out, “You’re the colonel; you’re in charge of this expedition.”
“That’s not… I mean, there are protocols, a General, brass…”
Max didn’t allow John to finish. “Joshua’s family, he’s coming.”
John looked over to his teammates for help, but no one offered any advice. Finally, Ronon shrugged. At the gesture John caved and expelled an exasperated sigh. Then John met Joshua’s gaze and nodded. “Fine, I’ll try to come up with some plausible explanation. Let’s just get back to the jumper.”
Triumphant, Joshua displayed a very toothy grin.
One that obviously John was taken aback by, but grudgingly, he offered a smile in return.
Alec clapped Joshua on the back, biting back his own smirk. “You heard the man, now let’s get the hell out of here and go see Logan.”
“What about them?” Ronon asked pointing at White’s men, still tied up.
Joshua answered, “Mole will wait for Zack then release them.”
Max blinked a bit, startled to hear that Zack was on his way. “Zack’s coming here? When did you talk to Zack?”
Joshua met Max’s gaze and replied, “Joshua talks to Zack every day when he’s not with Joshua.”
“What? Since when?”
Joshua glanced at Alec then back to Max. “A year, since Joshua and Zack started gettin’ busy.”
Alec cleared his throat and avoided Max’s heated glance. “Yeah, sorry about that, guess I kinda forgot to mention about their budding romance.”
On impulse Max smacked Alec’s shoulder. “You forgot?”
“Aw come on Max, I kinda had other things on my mind than thinking about those two.”
Max smacked Alec again then grabbed his arm and clung to him while they continued to walk. Turning to Joshua, she said, “So big fella, you and Zack?”
In answer, Joshua sniffed the air enthusiastically and offered a low bark.
Max could only chuckle and shake her head trying to dismiss the thought of Zack and Joshua together or as Joshua put it, ‘gettin busy’.
---
After borrowing one of the trucks that was left behind it didn’t take them long to get back to puddlejumper.
Max didn’t bother to warn Alec or Joshua that the puddlejumper was cloaked. Instead she wanted them to see for themselves that John and his group were not ordinary. Alec took it stride after he witnessed the gate activate firsthand and what had turned out to be Wraith entering through it. Joshua on the other hand, was leery to enter even after it was decloaked.
Surprisingly it was Ronon that put him at ease by clasping him on the shoulder as he passed and stated, “John’s a good pilot.” Then he changed the subject, “You hungry? It’s almost time for lunch.”
It seemed to do the trick as Joshua followed Ronon inside asking, “Do you have those yummy little hot dogs?”
“Dogs?” Rodney choked out.
Max couldn’t stop from laughing at Rodney’s expression. His eyes were wide in shock even swiveling his head back and forth from her to Joshua’s retreating back. Then Rodney frowned, stating exactly what he realized. “He’s not kidding, is he?”
No one bothered to answer Rodney instead John ushered everyone inside, the door closing behind them as John moved to sit in the cockpit.
Everyone took a seat, while Ronon took care of and catered to both Joshua and Rodney as he pulled out the bag of MRE’s. Whatever concerns she had regarding whether they’d accept Joshua faded as she watched Rodney and Joshua bicker like old friends and dig through the bag trying to find something that’d whet their appetite with Ronon playing referee. It was obvious the three had common ground, a shared love of food.
Max caught Evan’s gaze and they both smiled, knowing the other had similar thoughts.
A second later, Evan turned away as David demanded his attention and continued to fuss over him throughout their flight.
Not that Max blamed him as she squeezed Alec’s hand still amazed by the smooth skin. Alec inclined his head closer clasping her hand in his as he whispered, “It’s okay Max. I’m okay.”
Max met his eyes and only then realized she was trembling, remembering how close she came to really losing him.
Alec closed the distance and kissed her forehead. Although mindful of the others watching, Alec kept his body close against hers.
Max nodded absently, she couldn’t talk as her throat closed with emotion. But she didn’t need the words. Alec knew exactly what she was feeling, had felt and saw her fear when she told him about Logan then again in the cavern when she thought she had lost him.
Max shuddered, thankful Alec didn’t offer any platitudes. Instead he just held as she started to crash and dozed off.
---
Abruptly Max woke from a nightmare and found herself draped over Alec’s chest. Feeling the hard, compact muscles beneath her head Max closed and opened her eyes to make sure what she was feeling and seeing was real then smiled. Suddenly thankful it had only been a bad dream.
Keeping her position Max looked around to see the others were in equal states of relaxation. Although brief, she saw a surprised expression on Ronon’s face and turned to see John moving down the aisle toward her.
Jerkily she sat up, waking Alec in the process.
The worry on John’s face had her heart pounding out of control as she thought of Logan.
She must have made a sound as Alec choked out, “Is it Logan?”
John looked up, his eyes darting between them. “Huh?”
Abruptly behind John, Joshua growled.
“No, that’s not why… I mean I don’t think so. From what I gathered he’ll be fine.”
“Then why the hell are you trying to scare me? And tell me have we landed or do you have someone else flying this thing?”
Offended, John pouted, “Not a thing, a puddlejumper- she’s sensitive.”
“And you two try to tell me I have no tact. John just spit it out before she attacks you – at this point I might even help her.”
“Rodney!”
Ronon grunted his two cents and glared at John.
“Fine, you all want to know so badly: General O’Neill is off-world with Teal’c and Carter, something about having to recue Mitchell, Jackson, and Vala from being imprisoned. Point is, he left Woolsey in charge. Remember him? Former I.O.A bureaucrat who likes to stay close to proper regulations.”
Rodney prompted, “And?”
Thumbing toward Max, John stated. “And she gave Carson her blood with permission to have it analyzed.”
Rodney mumbled, “Oh yeah I forgot that.”
At the same time as Alec spit out, “Max you didn’t?”
“Like you wouldn’t? It was for Logan, I had to.”
Rubbing his neck, Alec answered, “Yeah okay I get that.” Not bothering to hide his suspicions Alec countered, “So why are you telling us?”
John released a frustrated sigh. “I might be going out on a limb here, but I’d place bets you might be familiar with the concept of covert government agencies. Or how they might be especially interested in… what did you tell Carson about your blood? Oh yeah that it was special. Listen…” John pursed his lips in thought; then his face and voice softened. “I just wanted to give you a chance to rethink about going in to see your friend. In there, I’m not in charge and have very limited control.”
Alec questioned John before she could, “And what happens to Logan?”
“Well apparently he was ordinary like us, but after the transfusion and what it did – they have Carson doing more tests. They might want to keep him for–”
Alec interrupted, and heatedly stated, “No! You’re not holding him prisoner.”
“Whoa, he’s not a prisoner!” Then under their combined glare John acknowledged, “but he’s not free to leave either, at least for the moment.”
Max clasped Alec’s hand hard, holding him back from decking John right then and there. Joshua and Ronon must have sensed Alec’s intent as each took a stand, Joshua edging closer to her and Alec while Ronon took a firm stand at John’s back.
Max faced John, her eyes narrowed for a moment as she ran through the possibilities. For all she knew John’s covert agency could have funded Sandeman’s projects. As quickly as she thought of it she dismissed the idea. If that had been the case they would have known who and what she was once they ran her blood. No, whatever this SGC is or who Woolsey is, she couldn’t leave Logan at their mercy. “Alec’s right. We’re not going to let Logan be a poked piñata in our stead.”
Alec squeezed her hand. Although she wanted to say different and have Alec safe, to go on without him, Max knew he’d never let her leave him behind just as he’d never leave Logan to unknown danger. “We’re going…” trailing off she glanced up and met Alec’s eyes, her only immediate concern was Joshua.
Alec understood and addressed John. “Think we can make a quick pit stop to drop–”
“No! Joshua not leave you!”
“Hey big fella, we don’t want you to leave either, but neither of us want to see you endangered.”
“Max is right big fella, if we drop you off, you can contact Zack and then wait for us.”
At the mention of Zack, Joshua faltered. Whatever had been going on between the two of them, Max realized it was more than just getting busy.
Max figured it made sense. Not only had they met through Alec, Zack was another X-5 from the orphanage, Manticore, who had shared the same dorm room with Alec and his twin Ben. Zack had been severely injured during the fire and had to endure reconstructive surgery fused with bio-technology. Once he was released, like Joshua, he lived isolated from the general public in order to hide his features.
Max took Joshua’s hand. “You have to stay behind, for Zack – the same reason why we have to go to Logan.”
She could see that Joshua wanted to protest, but as much as Joshua loved father, he wasn’t blind or stupid. Joshua saw the truth and remembered. Although he had been first, Sandeman’s first successful creation and lived in the house with privileges, ultimately Joshua had been father’s prisoner.
Reluctantly Joshua nodded his consent. Max crushed her body to his.
Alec asked, “So about this pit stop?”
John shrugged. “We’re already here; thought you might want to protect him.”
Ronon elbowed John’s back nudging him forward a few steps. “See, he’s a softie.”
Ronon’s grin got wider as Joshua turned toward John then shifted closer sniffing John’s hair. Nervously John put his hand up to ward Joshua off. It did no good as Joshua stated loudly, “Smells good, like flowers in spring.”
Rodney laughed even as John answered. “Thanks, I think.”
Joshua reiterated, “Like Logan.”
“I don’t mean to rush this, but I’ve been in contact so it won’t take long before they start to wonder where we are.”
Silently Max nodded. John opened the hatch. “I took the liberty to research your properties. Thought he could hide out at one of your estates. Over that ridge, he’ll find your cabin.”
Alec asked, “Which one?”
Glancing at the scenery before her Max supplied, “Colorado.”
Alec’s mouth dropped as he glanced at his watch.
Smirking, evidently proud John patted the wall. “She’s fast.”
Max ignored them and pulled out a thin wallet, searching the folder. Finally she found the card she wanted and thrust it into Joshua’s hand. “Here, take this. You walk right up to the front door and knock. If someone is there just show them this and they’ll take care of you. If no one answers then use the code on the back. It’ll disarm the alarm. Everything should be functional; Sketchy oversees everything and hires caretakers to make sure each estate is ready for occupancy in case of an emergency. Call Zack and have him meet you here. Then call the number on the bottom, and use the code next to it – they’ll get you anything you need no questions asked.”
Max paused and looked up to make sure Joshua understood everything. He looked lost and afraid however it had nothing to do with her instructions and more to do with being left behind.
Alec took Max’s place to clasp and pat Joshua’s shoulder in camaraderie. “Don’t worry, you’ll be fine; better than fine once Zack gets here.” Alec’s eyebrows danced and he licked his lips at the innuendo, but it fell flat as he held Joshua’s gaze. “We’ll be alright, remember we’re always alright.” Then he leaned in and pounded Joshua’s back before briskly letting go as he stepped back.
Joshua looked over their heads outside and started walking. At the hatch door he paused and looked at the others. First it was John then Evan and David, but it was with Rodney and Ronon that Joshua lingered to silently say good-bye. Locking eyes with Ronon, Joshua implored the man, “You make him bring them home to Joshua - all three of them, Max, Alec and Logan.”
Ronon never wavered as he held Joshua’s gaze then abruptly he stood taller and grunted his assent then added verbally, “I will.”
Joshua barked his own assent then ducked his head, stalking down the metallic ramp and making his way toward Max’s cabin.
John closed the hatch and somberly headed back to the cockpit. “Go take a seat; our next stop is the SGC.”
---
No one spoke the remainder of the way. Not that it was very far, less than ten minutes and they were suddenly landing again. On one hand she was overly anxious to get there and see for herself that Logan was okay but on the other Max couldn’t deny she was terrified. It was facing a hideous nightmare wondering if this SGC would imprison them, experiment on them, or use and want to play with their DNA like Sandeman did.
Worse she wasn’t in this alone. It had been her decision to let them take Logan, and now she was dragging Alec into the mix.
Alec must have felt her anxiety and whispered, “Don’t! Together we’re stronger. You have to remember that.”
Though she didn’t believe it, Max nodded and muttered his magical mantra for Alec’s ears only, “Always alright!” It got Alec to smile as he tugged her closer.
Once Ronon stood they knew John had landed.
John was suddenly standing by the hatch looking in their direction. “Ready?”
Her immediate, no and yes must have been clearly visible.
“Hey, it’s not the guillotine. They’re not going to hurt you.”
Max countered, “That’s not what you said.”
“No, I think I said or at least implied you might be detained. I wouldn’t have brought you here if I thought you’d be in any danger.” John jutted his chin out in thought. “Even Joshua wasn’t in danger per se, but with him there’d obviously be more questions and well, with Woolsey in charge it’s a higher potential for a hell of a lot of red tape. And with the General off-world I thought it’d be best to avoid that.”
Ronon snorted, moving toward the hatch. “What he learned after me and Teyla.” Stopping, he eyed her then Alec, glancing between them. “Like you I’m different and not from around here,” he paused for added effect, “your planet. Sometimes,” he glanced over their heads, “for them, when things are complicated it takes them time to have it all make sense.”
Ronon shrugged then moved down the ramp. Rodney was quick on his heels. “Wait a second, what did you mean by it takes time- that it took SGA, I.O.A, or Woolsey time? Or were you implying me? I’ll have you know…” Rodney’s voice faded over David’s “excuse us” as he held Evan around the waist and helped Evan hobble toward the hatch.
John grabbed Evan’s other arm and swung it over his shoulder. “Come on, I bet he’s just as anxious to see you as you are to see him.”
Max glanced at Alec. It was enough of a reminder that together they followed John.
At the bottom of the ramp, John and David paused as medics were there to take Evan and move him to a gurney. Max wanted to follow figuring they were taking Evan to their infirmary, the same place she expected Logan to be.
“I don’t believe it, Lady Guevera?”
At the address Max turned to find a thin, partially balding man with glasses smiling up at her. Apparently he knew of her reputation, but as he came closer Max recognized the look in his eyes. She had seen it before, in fact all of her life when people would trip over themselves in order to shake her hand, how they grew up reading about her life, her family fortune, the Guevera and Croft names, all of their holdings from around the world and in recent years, her father’s death. Within the financial and archeological world, her name was on a par with the Kennedys or Steve Jobs.
“This is such an honor to actually meet you, Lady Guevera.”
Smiling, Max fell into the role she had played all her life, and offered her hand. “A pleasure...?”
“Woolsey, Richard Woolsey.” He graciously took Max by the hand, leading her down the ramp leaving Alec to follow behind them.
“No, it’s our pleasure to have you here at Stargate Command. Talking earlier to your Mr. Cale, I was anticipating your arrival.”
At the mention of Logan, Max couldn’t wait and blurted out, “Logan? Is he alright? Can we see him?”
“Of course, Lady Guevera, he’s just as anxious to see you. If you’d come with me.”
Still on Woolsey’s arm, Max passed John, Ronon and Rodney watching with disbelief. John started muttering something about how he hadn’t seen that coming. At her back they each fell into step following with Alec close on her heels.
She wished it had been Alec’s arm guiding her down one corridor then another. Woolsey finally let her go as he waved her onto an elevator. Alec took that moment to re-establish his place at her side. However, he cordially offered his hand to the man, dazzling him with a perfect set of teeth.
Max grinned, and quickly introduced Alec to the man. “Mr. Woolsey, I’d like you to meet Alec McDowell, a very close and trusted friend.”
For a moment she thought Mr. Woolsey would have a problem relinquishing his place beside her. Instead he glanced between them then leaned in and whispered just loud enough for her to hear, “The same close personal friend of Mr. Cale’s?”
Alec and Max shared a look, before Max slowly nodded.
“It’s perfectly alright Lady Guevera. Mr. Cale explained and expressed your need for privacy.” In a louder voice so everyone in the elevator could easily hear, Mr. Woolsey added, “I’ve already sent out a mandated order regarding the four of you: Mr. Theodore, Mr. Cale, Mr. McDowell, and yourself Lady Guevera that your presence is to be wiped out from our records under Code 9, our highest security clearance. It’s no one’s business to know why or how you arrived here. I’ll personally make sure of it.”
Max didn’t know what to say and glancing at the others neither did they. Exhaling, Max turned and clasped Mr. Woolsey’s hand in hers “Thank you! And please, call me Max.”
Beaming under her praise, “Then please do me the honor, and call me Richard.”
It might have been over the top to kiss him, but within minutes of their arrival Mr. Woolsey had eased 90% of her anxiety that Max didn’t think twice and leaned in, her lips briefly brushing Richard’s cheek. “Thank you Richard.”
Richard blushed and looked away, though he did nothing to hide his smile.
Max felt Alec fidget beside her like he was about to do something stupid – thankfully fate intervened and the elevator doors opened. She had barely registered the screech of her name, but quickly relaxed when she realized it was Sketchy who had picked her up in a whirlwind hug.
Beside her, Alec eagerly clapped Sketchy on the back.
Max returned Sketchy’s hug. Then she tightened her grip enjoying his scent – it was familiar, a part of home and reminded her of everything about the man that screamed he was alive and well.
Finally Max pulled back and looked him in the face. Relieved, she started to hiccup. Sketchy cupped her face and nodded, yes; answering her silent question on whether it was true if Logan was alive and okay.
“What’s all the commotion out here?” Immediately recognizing the soft Scottish lilt, Max stepped around Sketchy to face the man she had entrusted Logan to. “Ah lass, it’s you, Evan mentioned you were here.”
“How is Lorne doc?” John inquired.
“He’ll be fine. David’s with him now. I’ll let you see him for a few minutes, but I want visiting hours over with. Alright go on and have your visit, so you all can leave.”
“Thanks Doc. Max we’ll catch up with you later okay?”
Max nodded, but turned to Richard as he spoke. “I should be getting back. It’s been a pleasure Lady – I mean Max. I’ll be available if you need me.”
“Thank you Richard.” The man turned away still beaming and if she wasn’t mistaken, he had a skip in his step.
Before they had gotten too far, Beckett called out to Rodney who was trailing after John and Ronon. “Rodney, make sure you take Radek with you when you leave. Both patients need their rest.”
Settling his hand within Max’s, Beckett stated, “I imagine you’ll be staying overnight.”
Max bobbed her head, yes. “And Alec, we’re together.” She squeezed Beckett’s hand with purpose as she answered, hoping he’d get her full meaning. “The three of us.”
Unfazed, he patted her hand and simply said, “No worries lass, the lad too.”
Behind her Sketchy pumped his fist, excitedly. “Yes! About damn time!”
“Son, although I appreciate the enthusiasm, let’s please keep a bit of decorum in my infirmary.”
Chuckling Alec added, “Yeah Calvin, one might think you didn’t know how to behave.”
Annoyed, Sketchy sounded off an rough harrumph, sending Max a heated glare at hearing Alec use his real name. “What? I didn’t tell him.”
To appease the man, Alec swung his arm over Sketchy’s shoulder, offering reassurance “Don’t sweat it Sketchy we’re family now remember?”
Sketchy met Alec’s eyes and his narrowed, but a moment later whatever he saw in Alec’s face had him nodding, breaking out into a wide grin. It was eerie to see Sketchy almost as giddy as Richard had been.
Beckett glanced between them. “If everything’s all right now?”
“Yeah Doc we’re good, or we will be once we see Logan.”
“Aye, I’m sure. Then if we can...” He swept his arm out directing them down a corridor. Over his shoulder he kept talking. “In fact now that you’re here maybe you can make him follow doctor’s orders and rest and put a stop to the constant outbursts in my infirmary.”
Dumbfounded, Max just stared at the man’s back wondering how that could even be possible. Clearly the surrealness of flying around the world twice in the last twenty-four hours, was a hell of a lot easier to comprehend compared to Logan already in recovery, conscious and moving around after such a complicated life-saving surgery.
Beckett looked back and saw her obvious shock. He stopped, his face softening with understanding. “Really he’s fine lass, he came through just fine. There was a bit of nerve damage, but miraculously he’s healing. The extra properties in your blood were a substantial benefit. Still, it’ll be awhile before he’s up and walking without any aid. That’s why he needs lots of bed rest. Although, in the short time that I’ve known him, I can see half the battle is making him follow orders. However, now that you’re here I expect you to make sure he does just that.”
Eagerly Alec stated, “We’ll make damn sure of it doc.”
Max heard and agreed with Alec’s resolve. Beckett nodded. “Good to know lad because even…
A loud bang erupted that was quickly followed by a string of muffled curses. However one voice she immediately recognized belonged to Logan.
Max, with Alec and Beckett on her heels, rushed to Logan’s side.
The door swished open, and she heard Logan swear. The tone was one she recognized, disappointment.
Logan stood leaning on a smaller man who had his arm around Logan’s waist holding him up. Max didn’t know what to expect upon seeing Logan, but seeing him half naked hobbling next to another man was definitely not an image she would have predicted.
Beckett was the only one who reacted as she and Alec stood there in shock. Max wasn’t sure about Alec, but she was trying to figure out what the metal contraption around Logan’s legs were. “Idiots! I told you two not to use it when I’m not here to supervise.”
The shorter man, mumbled something in another language; she suspected Czech. “Sorry Doc, it was my fault. Radek didn’t want to, but I insisted. I just can’t sit around…
Max snapped, “If it’s doctor’s orders, you’re damn well going to sit around!”
In shock, Logan only got out her name as she rushed forward, literally pushing the shorter man out of the way as she wrapped herself around him. After a brief moment Max didn’t bother with subtlety, her hands traveled over him, patting Logan down, feeling his entire body as she tried to erase the memory of him bleeding out.
Logan must have understood as he kept repeating, “Max, I’m alright, I’m…”
Max put her hand over his mouth, knowing he was going to repeat Alec’s mantra. “Don’t! I hate it when either of you say that and its not true.”
Alec stated, “Huh, I think I finally get that.”
Startled, Logan looked over Max’s head and excitedly exclaimed, “Alec, you’re here… when, how?”
“Before you all get comfortable, you’re going back into bed - without that damn thing on.” Beckett, with Max’s help, manhandled Logan into bed while Radek started to undo thin wire cables connected to padded electro probes running throughout the metal frame covering Logan’s legs.
“What is that thing?”
“Not a thing, but an exoskeleton. There was some temporary nerve damage, but these pads will enhance and pick up even faint impulses and relay them to the servomotors. Once the receptors download into the exoskeleton it allows me to walk. Over time it will enhance my speed, strength, with the ability to jump, lift and carry up to four times my weight and size.”
“Yet I told you, you needed to allow your body to rest and heal! Now that they’re here I expect you to follow my instructions to the letter. And that means bed rest for the next two days. No exoskeleton, no excuses!”
Radek started to mumble in Czech while he removed the left exoskeleton frame. Alec sidled up to take Logan’s left hand. “Temporary? Good.” Then he leaned down, silencing Logan with a very deep and thorough kiss.
Max sighed in relief, grateful to have the two men she loved kissing in front of her.
Reluctantly Alec pulled away and met her gaze. Logan’s breath hitched as he whimpered Alec’s name.
Abruptly Logan cleared his throat, his voice rough with emotion, his tone apologetic as he said her name. It was obvious Logan was confused by Alec’s intimate actions in front of her. Logan’s eyes darted between them trying to figure out what was going on. It didn’t take him long to figure out things had changed, that she had changed. Logan’s eyes settled on her, asking if he was reading her right.
Max could only smile and bob her head in an affirmative.
Behind them Sketchy erupted in laughter, as Radek removed the right exoskeleton frame.
“Right, then, let’s leave them alone, and take that contraption with you.”
At Beckett’s comment, Radek started mumbling again in Czech. Still Max couldn’t take her eyes off of Logan.
Over Radek’s voice, Sketchy added. “Alright we’re going. Max if you need me call – Logan will show you how.”
“Think we got it Sketchy.”
“Yes, I think you finally do.” Max heard the love and fondness in Sketchy’s voice and smiled wider at her two lovers, her family.
Suddenly John called out, “Oh there you are.”
“Rodney, John what is it? Problem with Evan?” Beckett asked.
Max didn’t turn around but saw Alec and Logan looking behind her. “No doc he’s right as rain under David’s care. No, just thought they’d like to know a series of storms hit Antarctica. Without a puddlejumper, no one is flying in or out of the area for at least a week. They’re stuck; we have time, at least a few days to figure out where they’re laying low.”
Rodney cleared his throat. “Also Max now that you know Logan’s okay, I’d like to get started on those questions as soon…”
Thankfully she didn’t have to worry as John stepped in. “Rodney, later.”
“But she said…”
“Yes, I know you made a deal, but they haven’t seen each other for a while.”
“So? She’s been with Alec and it’s more than obvious Logan is fine.”
Sketchy blurted out as he left, “The man’s obtuse!”
Radek gave a harrumph of agreement as he brushed past John and Rodney.
“Aye! Better take him out of here before he gets himself into trouble.”
“Come on Rodney, let’s go.”
“Wait a minute, we had a deal.”
John sighed, “And you still do. Right after she makes sure Logan’s okay.” Whatever was reflected on Rodney’s face, Max had to bite her lip to keep from laughing out loud at the murderous look from both Alec and Logan. Each directed at Rodney.
“And yeah we can see he is, but they need time. To make sure, the same way Ronon or I would, over you. Get it now?”
“Oh. OH! Okay then. I’ll come by after breakfast.”
“Rodney…”
“What? That should give her plenty of time, it’s not like they can really do anything. Can they Carson?”
“Rodney that’s none of your business. Now out with ya.” Beckett ushered them out of the room, but she could still hear John’s voice before the door shut, “…let’s go grab Ronon and do our own making sure…”
“Oh and what Rodney said, about doing anything, rigorous the answer is NO! Rest only, doctor’s orders.” With that, Beckett left and the door swished shut behind him.
“Max you made a deal? With Rodney McKay?”
“Probably no worse than what you said to Richard Woolsey.”
Somehow I don’t think so. What happened to the disc? Did you get it from White? What about Michael?”
“Right now I just want to bask in us. Listen to your steady heartbeat…”
“Max…” Logan pouted when she did nothing but climb up into the bed, settling with her ear pressed up against his chest.
“Alec?”
“Nope Max is right, we need this Logan.” And he climbed into bed on Logan’s other side, pressing up intimately.
In the middle Logan asked, “So it’s an us now?”
Suddenly worn out, Max yawned, nodding, “Always and forever.” Her head over his chest listening to his heart, as she clasped Alec’s hand and brought it up to her mouth, kissing his hand reverently.
“Yeah, what she said. Alec tugged and kissed Max’s hand. Still holding her hand, Alec leaned on his elbow propping himself up before he leaned down and kissed Logan once again.
Smiling, Max closed her eyes. Too exhausted to do anything else and apparently so were Alec and Logan as their kissing turned into nuzzling until they both settled. Max could hear their even shallow breathing until the hypnotic sounds lulled her to sleep. Max’s last thoughts before sleep claimed her were that they held her happiness, were her family, the loves of her life: they made her whole. This, what they had and were about to build together would be her always and forever.
Alec was right: together they were stronger, and with them at her side she’d always be alright.
Fin~
Previous chs: 1, 2, 3
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Exiting the caverns, Max easily spotted Joshua and his men crowded around Ronon and as the crowd parted, John and the others. Max questioned, “What’s going on?”
John shrugged but didn’t take his eyes off of Joshua, “We have a slight problem.”
Alec automatically shifted closer to Joshua as he warily glanced at John and his men. “Yeah, like what?”
With a snarl, Joshua announced, “Joshua go with you.”
Alec shrugged and easily replied, “Yeah sure of course.”
Joshua raised his head, nodding with a bit of superiority. Although Joshua was silent his entire posture shouted out, ‘I told you so’ and threw it in John’s face.
John, on the other hand, stared gaping at the dogman then shook his head, sputtering out, “Whoa wait a minute, I can’t authorize that. I was just trying to tell your friend here as politely as possible …”
Max pointed out, “You’re the colonel; you’re in charge of this expedition.”
“That’s not… I mean, there are protocols, a General, brass…”
Max didn’t allow John to finish. “Joshua’s family, he’s coming.”
John looked over to his teammates for help, but no one offered any advice. Finally, Ronon shrugged. At the gesture John caved and expelled an exasperated sigh. Then John met Joshua’s gaze and nodded. “Fine, I’ll try to come up with some plausible explanation. Let’s just get back to the jumper.”
Triumphant, Joshua displayed a very toothy grin.
One that obviously John was taken aback by, but grudgingly, he offered a smile in return.
Alec clapped Joshua on the back, biting back his own smirk. “You heard the man, now let’s get the hell out of here and go see Logan.”
“What about them?” Ronon asked pointing at White’s men, still tied up.
Joshua answered, “Mole will wait for Zack then release them.”
Max blinked a bit, startled to hear that Zack was on his way. “Zack’s coming here? When did you talk to Zack?”
Joshua met Max’s gaze and replied, “Joshua talks to Zack every day when he’s not with Joshua.”
“What? Since when?”
Joshua glanced at Alec then back to Max. “A year, since Joshua and Zack started gettin’ busy.”
Alec cleared his throat and avoided Max’s heated glance. “Yeah, sorry about that, guess I kinda forgot to mention about their budding romance.”
On impulse Max smacked Alec’s shoulder. “You forgot?”
“Aw come on Max, I kinda had other things on my mind than thinking about those two.”
Max smacked Alec again then grabbed his arm and clung to him while they continued to walk. Turning to Joshua, she said, “So big fella, you and Zack?”
In answer, Joshua sniffed the air enthusiastically and offered a low bark.
Max could only chuckle and shake her head trying to dismiss the thought of Zack and Joshua together or as Joshua put it, ‘gettin busy’.
---
After borrowing one of the trucks that was left behind it didn’t take them long to get back to puddlejumper.
Max didn’t bother to warn Alec or Joshua that the puddlejumper was cloaked. Instead she wanted them to see for themselves that John and his group were not ordinary. Alec took it stride after he witnessed the gate activate firsthand and what had turned out to be Wraith entering through it. Joshua on the other hand, was leery to enter even after it was decloaked.
Surprisingly it was Ronon that put him at ease by clasping him on the shoulder as he passed and stated, “John’s a good pilot.” Then he changed the subject, “You hungry? It’s almost time for lunch.”
It seemed to do the trick as Joshua followed Ronon inside asking, “Do you have those yummy little hot dogs?”
“Dogs?” Rodney choked out.
Max couldn’t stop from laughing at Rodney’s expression. His eyes were wide in shock even swiveling his head back and forth from her to Joshua’s retreating back. Then Rodney frowned, stating exactly what he realized. “He’s not kidding, is he?”
No one bothered to answer Rodney instead John ushered everyone inside, the door closing behind them as John moved to sit in the cockpit.
Everyone took a seat, while Ronon took care of and catered to both Joshua and Rodney as he pulled out the bag of MRE’s. Whatever concerns she had regarding whether they’d accept Joshua faded as she watched Rodney and Joshua bicker like old friends and dig through the bag trying to find something that’d whet their appetite with Ronon playing referee. It was obvious the three had common ground, a shared love of food.
Max caught Evan’s gaze and they both smiled, knowing the other had similar thoughts.
A second later, Evan turned away as David demanded his attention and continued to fuss over him throughout their flight.
Not that Max blamed him as she squeezed Alec’s hand still amazed by the smooth skin. Alec inclined his head closer clasping her hand in his as he whispered, “It’s okay Max. I’m okay.”
Max met his eyes and only then realized she was trembling, remembering how close she came to really losing him.
Alec closed the distance and kissed her forehead. Although mindful of the others watching, Alec kept his body close against hers.
Max nodded absently, she couldn’t talk as her throat closed with emotion. But she didn’t need the words. Alec knew exactly what she was feeling, had felt and saw her fear when she told him about Logan then again in the cavern when she thought she had lost him.
Max shuddered, thankful Alec didn’t offer any platitudes. Instead he just held as she started to crash and dozed off.
---
Abruptly Max woke from a nightmare and found herself draped over Alec’s chest. Feeling the hard, compact muscles beneath her head Max closed and opened her eyes to make sure what she was feeling and seeing was real then smiled. Suddenly thankful it had only been a bad dream.
Keeping her position Max looked around to see the others were in equal states of relaxation. Although brief, she saw a surprised expression on Ronon’s face and turned to see John moving down the aisle toward her.
Jerkily she sat up, waking Alec in the process.
The worry on John’s face had her heart pounding out of control as she thought of Logan.
She must have made a sound as Alec choked out, “Is it Logan?”
John looked up, his eyes darting between them. “Huh?”
Abruptly behind John, Joshua growled.
“No, that’s not why… I mean I don’t think so. From what I gathered he’ll be fine.”
“Then why the hell are you trying to scare me? And tell me have we landed or do you have someone else flying this thing?”
Offended, John pouted, “Not a thing, a puddlejumper- she’s sensitive.”
“And you two try to tell me I have no tact. John just spit it out before she attacks you – at this point I might even help her.”
“Rodney!”
Ronon grunted his two cents and glared at John.
“Fine, you all want to know so badly: General O’Neill is off-world with Teal’c and Carter, something about having to recue Mitchell, Jackson, and Vala from being imprisoned. Point is, he left Woolsey in charge. Remember him? Former I.O.A bureaucrat who likes to stay close to proper regulations.”
Rodney prompted, “And?”
Thumbing toward Max, John stated. “And she gave Carson her blood with permission to have it analyzed.”
Rodney mumbled, “Oh yeah I forgot that.”
At the same time as Alec spit out, “Max you didn’t?”
“Like you wouldn’t? It was for Logan, I had to.”
Rubbing his neck, Alec answered, “Yeah okay I get that.” Not bothering to hide his suspicions Alec countered, “So why are you telling us?”
John released a frustrated sigh. “I might be going out on a limb here, but I’d place bets you might be familiar with the concept of covert government agencies. Or how they might be especially interested in… what did you tell Carson about your blood? Oh yeah that it was special. Listen…” John pursed his lips in thought; then his face and voice softened. “I just wanted to give you a chance to rethink about going in to see your friend. In there, I’m not in charge and have very limited control.”
Alec questioned John before she could, “And what happens to Logan?”
“Well apparently he was ordinary like us, but after the transfusion and what it did – they have Carson doing more tests. They might want to keep him for–”
Alec interrupted, and heatedly stated, “No! You’re not holding him prisoner.”
“Whoa, he’s not a prisoner!” Then under their combined glare John acknowledged, “but he’s not free to leave either, at least for the moment.”
Max clasped Alec’s hand hard, holding him back from decking John right then and there. Joshua and Ronon must have sensed Alec’s intent as each took a stand, Joshua edging closer to her and Alec while Ronon took a firm stand at John’s back.
Max faced John, her eyes narrowed for a moment as she ran through the possibilities. For all she knew John’s covert agency could have funded Sandeman’s projects. As quickly as she thought of it she dismissed the idea. If that had been the case they would have known who and what she was once they ran her blood. No, whatever this SGC is or who Woolsey is, she couldn’t leave Logan at their mercy. “Alec’s right. We’re not going to let Logan be a poked piñata in our stead.”
Alec squeezed her hand. Although she wanted to say different and have Alec safe, to go on without him, Max knew he’d never let her leave him behind just as he’d never leave Logan to unknown danger. “We’re going…” trailing off she glanced up and met Alec’s eyes, her only immediate concern was Joshua.
Alec understood and addressed John. “Think we can make a quick pit stop to drop–”
“No! Joshua not leave you!”
“Hey big fella, we don’t want you to leave either, but neither of us want to see you endangered.”
“Max is right big fella, if we drop you off, you can contact Zack and then wait for us.”
At the mention of Zack, Joshua faltered. Whatever had been going on between the two of them, Max realized it was more than just getting busy.
Max figured it made sense. Not only had they met through Alec, Zack was another X-5 from the orphanage, Manticore, who had shared the same dorm room with Alec and his twin Ben. Zack had been severely injured during the fire and had to endure reconstructive surgery fused with bio-technology. Once he was released, like Joshua, he lived isolated from the general public in order to hide his features.
Max took Joshua’s hand. “You have to stay behind, for Zack – the same reason why we have to go to Logan.”
She could see that Joshua wanted to protest, but as much as Joshua loved father, he wasn’t blind or stupid. Joshua saw the truth and remembered. Although he had been first, Sandeman’s first successful creation and lived in the house with privileges, ultimately Joshua had been father’s prisoner.
Reluctantly Joshua nodded his consent. Max crushed her body to his.
Alec asked, “So about this pit stop?”
John shrugged. “We’re already here; thought you might want to protect him.”
Ronon elbowed John’s back nudging him forward a few steps. “See, he’s a softie.”
Ronon’s grin got wider as Joshua turned toward John then shifted closer sniffing John’s hair. Nervously John put his hand up to ward Joshua off. It did no good as Joshua stated loudly, “Smells good, like flowers in spring.”
Rodney laughed even as John answered. “Thanks, I think.”
Joshua reiterated, “Like Logan.”
“I don’t mean to rush this, but I’ve been in contact so it won’t take long before they start to wonder where we are.”
Silently Max nodded. John opened the hatch. “I took the liberty to research your properties. Thought he could hide out at one of your estates. Over that ridge, he’ll find your cabin.”
Alec asked, “Which one?”
Glancing at the scenery before her Max supplied, “Colorado.”
Alec’s mouth dropped as he glanced at his watch.
Smirking, evidently proud John patted the wall. “She’s fast.”
Max ignored them and pulled out a thin wallet, searching the folder. Finally she found the card she wanted and thrust it into Joshua’s hand. “Here, take this. You walk right up to the front door and knock. If someone is there just show them this and they’ll take care of you. If no one answers then use the code on the back. It’ll disarm the alarm. Everything should be functional; Sketchy oversees everything and hires caretakers to make sure each estate is ready for occupancy in case of an emergency. Call Zack and have him meet you here. Then call the number on the bottom, and use the code next to it – they’ll get you anything you need no questions asked.”
Max paused and looked up to make sure Joshua understood everything. He looked lost and afraid however it had nothing to do with her instructions and more to do with being left behind.
Alec took Max’s place to clasp and pat Joshua’s shoulder in camaraderie. “Don’t worry, you’ll be fine; better than fine once Zack gets here.” Alec’s eyebrows danced and he licked his lips at the innuendo, but it fell flat as he held Joshua’s gaze. “We’ll be alright, remember we’re always alright.” Then he leaned in and pounded Joshua’s back before briskly letting go as he stepped back.
Joshua looked over their heads outside and started walking. At the hatch door he paused and looked at the others. First it was John then Evan and David, but it was with Rodney and Ronon that Joshua lingered to silently say good-bye. Locking eyes with Ronon, Joshua implored the man, “You make him bring them home to Joshua - all three of them, Max, Alec and Logan.”
Ronon never wavered as he held Joshua’s gaze then abruptly he stood taller and grunted his assent then added verbally, “I will.”
Joshua barked his own assent then ducked his head, stalking down the metallic ramp and making his way toward Max’s cabin.
John closed the hatch and somberly headed back to the cockpit. “Go take a seat; our next stop is the SGC.”
---
No one spoke the remainder of the way. Not that it was very far, less than ten minutes and they were suddenly landing again. On one hand she was overly anxious to get there and see for herself that Logan was okay but on the other Max couldn’t deny she was terrified. It was facing a hideous nightmare wondering if this SGC would imprison them, experiment on them, or use and want to play with their DNA like Sandeman did.
Worse she wasn’t in this alone. It had been her decision to let them take Logan, and now she was dragging Alec into the mix.
Alec must have felt her anxiety and whispered, “Don’t! Together we’re stronger. You have to remember that.”
Though she didn’t believe it, Max nodded and muttered his magical mantra for Alec’s ears only, “Always alright!” It got Alec to smile as he tugged her closer.
Once Ronon stood they knew John had landed.
John was suddenly standing by the hatch looking in their direction. “Ready?”
Her immediate, no and yes must have been clearly visible.
“Hey, it’s not the guillotine. They’re not going to hurt you.”
Max countered, “That’s not what you said.”
“No, I think I said or at least implied you might be detained. I wouldn’t have brought you here if I thought you’d be in any danger.” John jutted his chin out in thought. “Even Joshua wasn’t in danger per se, but with him there’d obviously be more questions and well, with Woolsey in charge it’s a higher potential for a hell of a lot of red tape. And with the General off-world I thought it’d be best to avoid that.”
Ronon snorted, moving toward the hatch. “What he learned after me and Teyla.” Stopping, he eyed her then Alec, glancing between them. “Like you I’m different and not from around here,” he paused for added effect, “your planet. Sometimes,” he glanced over their heads, “for them, when things are complicated it takes them time to have it all make sense.”
Ronon shrugged then moved down the ramp. Rodney was quick on his heels. “Wait a second, what did you mean by it takes time- that it took SGA, I.O.A, or Woolsey time? Or were you implying me? I’ll have you know…” Rodney’s voice faded over David’s “excuse us” as he held Evan around the waist and helped Evan hobble toward the hatch.
John grabbed Evan’s other arm and swung it over his shoulder. “Come on, I bet he’s just as anxious to see you as you are to see him.”
Max glanced at Alec. It was enough of a reminder that together they followed John.
At the bottom of the ramp, John and David paused as medics were there to take Evan and move him to a gurney. Max wanted to follow figuring they were taking Evan to their infirmary, the same place she expected Logan to be.
“I don’t believe it, Lady Guevera?”
At the address Max turned to find a thin, partially balding man with glasses smiling up at her. Apparently he knew of her reputation, but as he came closer Max recognized the look in his eyes. She had seen it before, in fact all of her life when people would trip over themselves in order to shake her hand, how they grew up reading about her life, her family fortune, the Guevera and Croft names, all of their holdings from around the world and in recent years, her father’s death. Within the financial and archeological world, her name was on a par with the Kennedys or Steve Jobs.
“This is such an honor to actually meet you, Lady Guevera.”
Smiling, Max fell into the role she had played all her life, and offered her hand. “A pleasure...?”
“Woolsey, Richard Woolsey.” He graciously took Max by the hand, leading her down the ramp leaving Alec to follow behind them.
“No, it’s our pleasure to have you here at Stargate Command. Talking earlier to your Mr. Cale, I was anticipating your arrival.”
At the mention of Logan, Max couldn’t wait and blurted out, “Logan? Is he alright? Can we see him?”
“Of course, Lady Guevera, he’s just as anxious to see you. If you’d come with me.”
Still on Woolsey’s arm, Max passed John, Ronon and Rodney watching with disbelief. John started muttering something about how he hadn’t seen that coming. At her back they each fell into step following with Alec close on her heels.
She wished it had been Alec’s arm guiding her down one corridor then another. Woolsey finally let her go as he waved her onto an elevator. Alec took that moment to re-establish his place at her side. However, he cordially offered his hand to the man, dazzling him with a perfect set of teeth.
Max grinned, and quickly introduced Alec to the man. “Mr. Woolsey, I’d like you to meet Alec McDowell, a very close and trusted friend.”
For a moment she thought Mr. Woolsey would have a problem relinquishing his place beside her. Instead he glanced between them then leaned in and whispered just loud enough for her to hear, “The same close personal friend of Mr. Cale’s?”
Alec and Max shared a look, before Max slowly nodded.
“It’s perfectly alright Lady Guevera. Mr. Cale explained and expressed your need for privacy.” In a louder voice so everyone in the elevator could easily hear, Mr. Woolsey added, “I’ve already sent out a mandated order regarding the four of you: Mr. Theodore, Mr. Cale, Mr. McDowell, and yourself Lady Guevera that your presence is to be wiped out from our records under Code 9, our highest security clearance. It’s no one’s business to know why or how you arrived here. I’ll personally make sure of it.”
Max didn’t know what to say and glancing at the others neither did they. Exhaling, Max turned and clasped Mr. Woolsey’s hand in hers “Thank you! And please, call me Max.”
Beaming under her praise, “Then please do me the honor, and call me Richard.”
It might have been over the top to kiss him, but within minutes of their arrival Mr. Woolsey had eased 90% of her anxiety that Max didn’t think twice and leaned in, her lips briefly brushing Richard’s cheek. “Thank you Richard.”
Richard blushed and looked away, though he did nothing to hide his smile.
Max felt Alec fidget beside her like he was about to do something stupid – thankfully fate intervened and the elevator doors opened. She had barely registered the screech of her name, but quickly relaxed when she realized it was Sketchy who had picked her up in a whirlwind hug.
Beside her, Alec eagerly clapped Sketchy on the back.
Max returned Sketchy’s hug. Then she tightened her grip enjoying his scent – it was familiar, a part of home and reminded her of everything about the man that screamed he was alive and well.
Finally Max pulled back and looked him in the face. Relieved, she started to hiccup. Sketchy cupped her face and nodded, yes; answering her silent question on whether it was true if Logan was alive and okay.
“What’s all the commotion out here?” Immediately recognizing the soft Scottish lilt, Max stepped around Sketchy to face the man she had entrusted Logan to. “Ah lass, it’s you, Evan mentioned you were here.”
“How is Lorne doc?” John inquired.
“He’ll be fine. David’s with him now. I’ll let you see him for a few minutes, but I want visiting hours over with. Alright go on and have your visit, so you all can leave.”
“Thanks Doc. Max we’ll catch up with you later okay?”
Max nodded, but turned to Richard as he spoke. “I should be getting back. It’s been a pleasure Lady – I mean Max. I’ll be available if you need me.”
“Thank you Richard.” The man turned away still beaming and if she wasn’t mistaken, he had a skip in his step.
Before they had gotten too far, Beckett called out to Rodney who was trailing after John and Ronon. “Rodney, make sure you take Radek with you when you leave. Both patients need their rest.”
Settling his hand within Max’s, Beckett stated, “I imagine you’ll be staying overnight.”
Max bobbed her head, yes. “And Alec, we’re together.” She squeezed Beckett’s hand with purpose as she answered, hoping he’d get her full meaning. “The three of us.”
Unfazed, he patted her hand and simply said, “No worries lass, the lad too.”
Behind her Sketchy pumped his fist, excitedly. “Yes! About damn time!”
“Son, although I appreciate the enthusiasm, let’s please keep a bit of decorum in my infirmary.”
Chuckling Alec added, “Yeah Calvin, one might think you didn’t know how to behave.”
Annoyed, Sketchy sounded off an rough harrumph, sending Max a heated glare at hearing Alec use his real name. “What? I didn’t tell him.”
To appease the man, Alec swung his arm over Sketchy’s shoulder, offering reassurance “Don’t sweat it Sketchy we’re family now remember?”
Sketchy met Alec’s eyes and his narrowed, but a moment later whatever he saw in Alec’s face had him nodding, breaking out into a wide grin. It was eerie to see Sketchy almost as giddy as Richard had been.
Beckett glanced between them. “If everything’s all right now?”
“Yeah Doc we’re good, or we will be once we see Logan.”
“Aye, I’m sure. Then if we can...” He swept his arm out directing them down a corridor. Over his shoulder he kept talking. “In fact now that you’re here maybe you can make him follow doctor’s orders and rest and put a stop to the constant outbursts in my infirmary.”
Dumbfounded, Max just stared at the man’s back wondering how that could even be possible. Clearly the surrealness of flying around the world twice in the last twenty-four hours, was a hell of a lot easier to comprehend compared to Logan already in recovery, conscious and moving around after such a complicated life-saving surgery.
Beckett looked back and saw her obvious shock. He stopped, his face softening with understanding. “Really he’s fine lass, he came through just fine. There was a bit of nerve damage, but miraculously he’s healing. The extra properties in your blood were a substantial benefit. Still, it’ll be awhile before he’s up and walking without any aid. That’s why he needs lots of bed rest. Although, in the short time that I’ve known him, I can see half the battle is making him follow orders. However, now that you’re here I expect you to make sure he does just that.”
Eagerly Alec stated, “We’ll make damn sure of it doc.”
Max heard and agreed with Alec’s resolve. Beckett nodded. “Good to know lad because even…
A loud bang erupted that was quickly followed by a string of muffled curses. However one voice she immediately recognized belonged to Logan.
Max, with Alec and Beckett on her heels, rushed to Logan’s side.
The door swished open, and she heard Logan swear. The tone was one she recognized, disappointment.
Logan stood leaning on a smaller man who had his arm around Logan’s waist holding him up. Max didn’t know what to expect upon seeing Logan, but seeing him half naked hobbling next to another man was definitely not an image she would have predicted.
Beckett was the only one who reacted as she and Alec stood there in shock. Max wasn’t sure about Alec, but she was trying to figure out what the metal contraption around Logan’s legs were. “Idiots! I told you two not to use it when I’m not here to supervise.”
The shorter man, mumbled something in another language; she suspected Czech. “Sorry Doc, it was my fault. Radek didn’t want to, but I insisted. I just can’t sit around…
Max snapped, “If it’s doctor’s orders, you’re damn well going to sit around!”
In shock, Logan only got out her name as she rushed forward, literally pushing the shorter man out of the way as she wrapped herself around him. After a brief moment Max didn’t bother with subtlety, her hands traveled over him, patting Logan down, feeling his entire body as she tried to erase the memory of him bleeding out.
Logan must have understood as he kept repeating, “Max, I’m alright, I’m…”
Max put her hand over his mouth, knowing he was going to repeat Alec’s mantra. “Don’t! I hate it when either of you say that and its not true.”
Alec stated, “Huh, I think I finally get that.”
Startled, Logan looked over Max’s head and excitedly exclaimed, “Alec, you’re here… when, how?”
“Before you all get comfortable, you’re going back into bed - without that damn thing on.” Beckett, with Max’s help, manhandled Logan into bed while Radek started to undo thin wire cables connected to padded electro probes running throughout the metal frame covering Logan’s legs.
“What is that thing?”
“Not a thing, but an exoskeleton. There was some temporary nerve damage, but these pads will enhance and pick up even faint impulses and relay them to the servomotors. Once the receptors download into the exoskeleton it allows me to walk. Over time it will enhance my speed, strength, with the ability to jump, lift and carry up to four times my weight and size.”
“Yet I told you, you needed to allow your body to rest and heal! Now that they’re here I expect you to follow my instructions to the letter. And that means bed rest for the next two days. No exoskeleton, no excuses!”
Radek started to mumble in Czech while he removed the left exoskeleton frame. Alec sidled up to take Logan’s left hand. “Temporary? Good.” Then he leaned down, silencing Logan with a very deep and thorough kiss.
Max sighed in relief, grateful to have the two men she loved kissing in front of her.
Reluctantly Alec pulled away and met her gaze. Logan’s breath hitched as he whimpered Alec’s name.
Abruptly Logan cleared his throat, his voice rough with emotion, his tone apologetic as he said her name. It was obvious Logan was confused by Alec’s intimate actions in front of her. Logan’s eyes darted between them trying to figure out what was going on. It didn’t take him long to figure out things had changed, that she had changed. Logan’s eyes settled on her, asking if he was reading her right.
Max could only smile and bob her head in an affirmative.
Behind them Sketchy erupted in laughter, as Radek removed the right exoskeleton frame.
“Right, then, let’s leave them alone, and take that contraption with you.”
At Beckett’s comment, Radek started mumbling again in Czech. Still Max couldn’t take her eyes off of Logan.
Over Radek’s voice, Sketchy added. “Alright we’re going. Max if you need me call – Logan will show you how.”
“Think we got it Sketchy.”
“Yes, I think you finally do.” Max heard the love and fondness in Sketchy’s voice and smiled wider at her two lovers, her family.
Suddenly John called out, “Oh there you are.”
“Rodney, John what is it? Problem with Evan?” Beckett asked.
Max didn’t turn around but saw Alec and Logan looking behind her. “No doc he’s right as rain under David’s care. No, just thought they’d like to know a series of storms hit Antarctica. Without a puddlejumper, no one is flying in or out of the area for at least a week. They’re stuck; we have time, at least a few days to figure out where they’re laying low.”
Rodney cleared his throat. “Also Max now that you know Logan’s okay, I’d like to get started on those questions as soon…”
Thankfully she didn’t have to worry as John stepped in. “Rodney, later.”
“But she said…”
“Yes, I know you made a deal, but they haven’t seen each other for a while.”
“So? She’s been with Alec and it’s more than obvious Logan is fine.”
Sketchy blurted out as he left, “The man’s obtuse!”
Radek gave a harrumph of agreement as he brushed past John and Rodney.
“Aye! Better take him out of here before he gets himself into trouble.”
“Come on Rodney, let’s go.”
“Wait a minute, we had a deal.”
John sighed, “And you still do. Right after she makes sure Logan’s okay.” Whatever was reflected on Rodney’s face, Max had to bite her lip to keep from laughing out loud at the murderous look from both Alec and Logan. Each directed at Rodney.
“And yeah we can see he is, but they need time. To make sure, the same way Ronon or I would, over you. Get it now?”
“Oh. OH! Okay then. I’ll come by after breakfast.”
“Rodney…”
“What? That should give her plenty of time, it’s not like they can really do anything. Can they Carson?”
“Rodney that’s none of your business. Now out with ya.” Beckett ushered them out of the room, but she could still hear John’s voice before the door shut, “…let’s go grab Ronon and do our own making sure…”
“Oh and what Rodney said, about doing anything, rigorous the answer is NO! Rest only, doctor’s orders.” With that, Beckett left and the door swished shut behind him.
“Max you made a deal? With Rodney McKay?”
“Probably no worse than what you said to Richard Woolsey.”
Somehow I don’t think so. What happened to the disc? Did you get it from White? What about Michael?”
“Right now I just want to bask in us. Listen to your steady heartbeat…”
“Max…” Logan pouted when she did nothing but climb up into the bed, settling with her ear pressed up against his chest.
“Alec?”
“Nope Max is right, we need this Logan.” And he climbed into bed on Logan’s other side, pressing up intimately.
In the middle Logan asked, “So it’s an us now?”
Suddenly worn out, Max yawned, nodding, “Always and forever.” Her head over his chest listening to his heart, as she clasped Alec’s hand and brought it up to her mouth, kissing his hand reverently.
“Yeah, what she said. Alec tugged and kissed Max’s hand. Still holding her hand, Alec leaned on his elbow propping himself up before he leaned down and kissed Logan once again.
Smiling, Max closed her eyes. Too exhausted to do anything else and apparently so were Alec and Logan as their kissing turned into nuzzling until they both settled. Max could hear their even shallow breathing until the hypnotic sounds lulled her to sleep. Max’s last thoughts before sleep claimed her were that they held her happiness, were her family, the loves of her life: they made her whole. This, what they had and were about to build together would be her always and forever.
Alec was right: together they were stronger, and with them at her side she’d always be alright.
Fin~