1 comments/  18922 views/  3 favorites

Chasing Love Ch. 01

By: AshiraDatya



"There's nothing to talk about," Claire said, not looking up from her charts.

"What do you mean there's nothing to talk about? You're pregnant with my baby. We have to talk about this," Cal growled.

"No Cal, we don't. I don't expect anything from you," Claire said, closing the last chart.

"Damn it Claire!" Cal shouted, slamming his hands on the desk. Claire looked up, surprised at his out burst. 

"I won't leave you to go through this alone," Cal said, his voice softer.

"I don't need help Cal," Claire said, standing up and walking away.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Jess, are you here?" Craig asked, walking into the mess. Jessica poked her head out of the kitchen door.

"What's up?" Jessica asked.

"I need to get out of the house," Craig said, sitting in one of the chairs. 

Jessica laughed. "Having trouble adjusting to having a baby in the house?" Jessica asked. Craig nodded.

"Danielle's cute and all, but she makes a lot of noise," Craig complained. Jessica laughed and sighed. "I'm sorry, I keep forgetting that you should have your own brand new noise maker," Craig said.

"It's okay," Jessica said, punching down the dough before tossing it out of the bowl and on to the floured counter. 

Craig watched as Jessica kneaded the dough before rolling it out and using a large round cookie cutter to cut out biscuits. "How are classes going?" Jessica asked.

"Boring, but not too bad. The guys stopped making fun of me for taking cooking classes since they saw Caitlin," Craig said laughing. Jessica chuckled and placed the biscuits on a cookie sheet.

They both looked up when Claire walked in, slamming the door of the mess behind her.

"What's wrong?" Jessica asked. Claire looked at Craig who grinned.

"I'll go see if Caitlin needs help with Danielle," he offered. Jessica laughed and shook her head.

"Claire, what's wrong?" Jessica asked again.

"I'm pregnant," Claire answered. Jessica didn't really look all that surprised.

"What's the problem?" Jessica asked gently.

"I'm not supposed to be able to get pregnant," Claire admitted. Jessica stared at Claire in surprise and Claire sat down on the stool that Craig had vacated. "My ex husband and I tried for years and when we couldn't, we went to a fertility specialist. I was told that I wasn't able to get pregnant," Claire said with a sigh.

"But you are," Jessica said. 

Claire nodded. "What does Cal think?" Jessica wanted to know.

"All we've done since the test came back is fight," Claire admitted.

"What kind of fighting?" Jessica asked.

"At first, he yelled at me for not using birth control even if I had been told I couldn't get pregnant, but now, he wants to help," Claire said, her eyes burning with unshed tears.

"I never thought Cal would be the father type," Jessica said dryly. Claire nodded and laughed a little.

"Do you want the baby?" Jessica asked gently.

"I don't know," Claire admitted. Jessica looked up as Cal walked past the mess, yelling for Claire. "I don't want to talk to him right now," Claire said, looking panicked. 

Jessica sighed and handed Claire the key to her house. "Go to my place, get some rest. I'll deal with Cal," Jessica offered.

"Thanks," Claire said, taking the keys and slipping out the back door. 

Jessica looked up a few minutes later when Cal stalked into the mess and into the kitchen.

"Where is she?" Cal asked.

"Where's who?" Jessica asked.

"Claire."

"I haven't seen her since breakfast," Jessica answered, popping the tray of biscuits in the oven. Cal sank onto the stool . "What's wrong?" Jessica asked.

"She's pregnant," Cal said, still unable to really wrap his head around it.

"Lucky," Jessica said softly. 

Cal looked up and sighed.

"Sorry," Cal said sheepishly.

"It's okay," Jessica assured him. "What are you going to do?" Jessica wanted to know.

"I don't know. Claire's being pretty stubborn; she said she doesn't want my help," Cal answered.

"Well, then maybe you should wait for her to come to you," Jessica suggested as Jake, Caitlin and Danielle walked into the mess. "Hey!" Jessica exclaimed, washing off her hands and reaching for the baby. Caitlin passed Danielle over eagerly. 

"She hasn't slept for more than two hours at a time," Jake complained. Jessica laughed.

"Note to self, don't send you on any missions for awhile," Cal said with a grin. Jessica giggled and Jake grinned sheepishly.

"You're loving every minute of being a father," Jessica accused. Jake nodded.

"She's just too damn cute," Jake agreed. 

Jessica smiled and cradled the little girl carefully.

"Any word on Danny?" Caitlin asked quietly. Cal shook his head and glanced at Jessica who sighed. The timer dinged before Jessica could say anything so she passed Danielle over to Jake and grabbed a oven mitt and pulled the biscuits out of the oven.

"Those look pretty good," Jake said, reaching out for one. Jessica slapped his hand.

"Wait for lunch," she scolded. Caitlin chuckled and took her daughter from her boyfriend.

"Hurry up will you?" Jake grumbled with a good natured grin. Jessica laughed and put the biscuits into a wicker basket. 

"Go eat and get outta my hair," Jessica teased. Jake led Caitlin to a table and grabbed her a bowl of soup and a biscuit to go with it. Jessica turned to Cal. "I need to go into town and get some supplies, can you watch Will and Kylie please?" she asked. Cal had a ton of work to do, especially if he was going to get Claire to talk to him but he nodded. 

Jessica gave Cal a kiss on the cheek and headed to her house to grab her coat and purse. "Claire, come to town with me," Jessica said. Claire sighed but followed Jessica to her car and said little on the drive to town.

"Where are we going?" Claire wanted to know.

"I need to get some steaks for dinner tonight," Jessica answered. "I'm making a stir fry," she added. Jessica led Claire past a baby boutique and had to hide a smile when her friend stared at the teddy bear in the window. "Do you want to go in?" Jessica asked gently. Claire glanced at Jessica and nodded. Jessica followed Claire into the shop and watched her friend look closely at the clothes.

"You okay?" Jessica asked Claire gently.

"I'm fine, just confused," Claire admitted. Jessica smiled.

"You should talk to Cal," Jessica said.

"I know, but what if he doesn't want the baby," Claire whispered.

"Do  you  want the baby?" Jessica asked.

"Yes," Claire admitted.

Jessica grinned. "Then worry about what Cal wants later. You can do this," Jessica said. Claire smiled and ran her finger over a soft, white lion. "He's cute. Let me buy him for you; consider it a gift for the baby," Jessica said softly. Claire grinned.

"I'm not going to say no to a gift," Claire told her friend. Jessica laughed and grabbed the lion from her friend and took it to the counter.

After they left the shop, they walked into the butcher shop where Jessica picked ten pounds of beautiful boneless New York strip steaks while Claire grabbed the broccoli, peppers and onions from the farmer's market. "So any morning sickness?" Jessica asked as they began driving back to the base. 

"Jess look out!" Claire exclaimed. Jessica slammed on the breaks and barely missed hitting a man who had staggered across the road. Jessica put the car in park and hurried to the man's side.

"Are you okay?" Jessica asked, worriedly. 

The man turned and looked at Jessica and tried to speak. Deep brown eyes looked up at her. "Danny?!" Jessica gasped.

"So sorry," he managed before losing consciousness. 

Claire had climbed out of the van and had her phone out. "Cal, it's me. We don't have time for this argument. We found Danny and he's hurt pretty bad. We're about ten minutes from the base," Claire said. She looked at Jessica who's eyes were wide with fear. 

"Hang in there Danny," Jessica pleaded.

Chasing Love Ch. 02



"Jessica!" Jake shouted as he ran towards her. Jessica allowed Jake to give her a hug. 

"How is he?" Jake wanted to know.

"Pretty bad," Jessica admitted. "Claire actually threw up when she saw him." Jake's eyes widened. "Of course, that could have something to do with her being pregnant," Jessica added. 

Jake chuckled. "When will we know anything?" Jake asked.

"I don't know, but I hope soon," Jessica whispered. "Who's with Will and Kylie?" Jessica wanted to know.

"Craig and Caitlin," Jake answered, squeezing Jessica's hand. He waited with Jessica until Cal came into the waiting area. "What's the word?" Jake asked.

"He's still in surgery, but according to Claire, it's looking good," Cal said. 

Jessica gave a watery smile and looked up as Claire walked into the waiting area.

"Doctor Armstrong is in finishing up the surgery, but he's going to pull through," Claire said, giving Jessica a broad smile. Jessica's smile widened a little but she still wouldn't believe it until she was able to talk to Danny.

"Claire, we need to talk," Cal said, slipping into Claire's office.

"Cal, I'm exhausted, can't it wait?" Claire asked, rubbing her eyes. Cal sat down next to Claire and reached for her hand.

"Five minutes Claire. I just want to know what you want to do about the baby," Cal said softly. Claire sighed. "I've always wanted children Cal." She pulled the small stuffed lion out of her desk. "Jess bought this for the baby. I'm going to have this baby Cal, no matter what you say or do," Claire said. Cal smiled. "What?" Claire asked. Before Cal could answer, there was a knock on the door. "Hey Jess, come on in," Claire said giving her friend a smile.

"I figured you were both hungry," Jessica said, setting two plates of beef stir fry.

"You didn't have to make dinner tonight," Cal told Jessica.

"I know, but the guys begged me to cook so they didn't have to suffer through Paul's cooking," Jessica said with a grin. Cal laughed.

"It was pretty awful," he agreed. "How's Danny?" he asked.

"He's still out. Jake's sitting with him now," Jessica answered. "Speaking of, I need to get back. Go easy on each other," she added before walking out the door.

"It looks good," Cal said softly as Claire took a bite of vegetables.

"It is good," Claire agreed.

"Claire, I don't want to cause you more stress," Cal began.

"You don't want the baby," Claire said, her voice unusually soft.

"I don't know," Cal admitted. He took a bite of beef and sighed. "Look Claire, you know I love kids and I care about you, but I never thought about getting married and having children," Cal said.

"I know that. I'm not asking for marriage, and I'm not even asking for you to help. But with or without your help, I'm going to have this baby and I'm going to keep it," Claire said, her voice determined. 

Cal smiled slightly. "I won't let you go through this alone, but I don't know if I want to be part of the baby's life any more than I am in Will's or Kylie's lives. I may just want to be thought of as the cool uncle," Cal admitted.

"If that's what you want, then that's what you should do," Claire said. 

Cal opened his mouth to say something when Claire stood up and pushed past him on her way to the bathroom.

Cal looked out the window and saw Jessica sitting next to Danny's bed, holding his hand in hers; her head resting on the bed next to his. Cal looked up as Claire walked back into the room. "You okay?" Cal asked, holding his hand out to her. Claire took his hand and stared out the window at her friends.

"Just a little morning sickness; I'll be fine," Claire said, resting her head on Cal's shoulder. Neither of them said anything as they watched Jessica sleeping next to Danny. 

"We should finish eating," Cal suggested softly. Claire pulled away and nodded.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Any change?" Jake asked. Jessica looked up and shook her head. 

"He's still in a coma. Claire said if he doesn't wake up soon, he might not ever ..." Jessica couldn't finish the sentence. 

It had been three days since Jessica had nearly run Danny over and not much had changed in his condition. Jake and Jessica looked when they heard Cal yelling. They looked at each other and ran into Claire's office. "What's wrong?" Jessica asked, suppressing a small smile when she saw Claire throwing up in the trash can.

"She won't eat breakfast," Cal growled.

"The dumb ass brought me eggs," Claire said, looking up before throwing up again. Jessica and Jake chuckled as Jake led Cal and the plate of eggs out of the office.

"Feeling better?" Jessica asked gently, handing Claire some napkins.

"I never want to see eggs ever again," Claire moaned. Jessica laughed and handed Claire some lightly buttered toast. 

"It'll help, just eat it slowly. And if Jake is smart, he'll send Cal back in here with 7 up," Jessica said. Claire grinned. "I scared the shit out of Cal didn't I?" Claire asked.

"He'll get over it," Jessica said with laugh. Movement from the infirmary caught her eye and Jessica looked up. "Claire, look," Jessica murmured. Claire followed Jessica's gaze and both women hurried into the infirmary. 

"Danny, can you hear me?" Claire asked, using a mini flash light to check Danny's eyes.

"Knock it off," Danny grumbled, pushing the flash light away. Jessica grinned. "Where's Jess?" Danny asked.

"I'm right here," Jessica assured him. 

"Danny, just relax. Let me make sure you don't have any brain damage and then you can spend some time with Jess," Claire said, keeping her voice gentle.

"If you'd let me be with my wife, it would prove I don't have brain damage," Danny growled. Jessica blushed and Claire laughed.

"That just proves you haven't had sex in months," Claire teased.

Danny opened his mouth to protest but Jessica told him to shut up. Cal and Jake walked back in with bagels and 7 up.

"When did he wake up?" Jake asked, grabbing Jessica's arm.

"Just a few minutes ago," Jessica answered. Jake gave her a hug.

"Get your arms off of my wife and go back to yours," Danny teased. 

Jake laughed. "Caitlin and I aren't married yet. We were waiting for you to get your sorry ass back so you can be my best man," Jake said.

Cal and Claire stood in her office and watched Danny visit with the kids. "Claire, I'm sorry about the eggs this morning," Cal said.

"It's okay. You're new to this," Claire said, shrugging it off.

"Feeling better?" Cal asked.

"Yeah, the 7 up helped," Claire answered.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"What's up with Cal and Claire? They seemed very tense," Danny asked after Jake and Caitlin took Will and Kylie home.

"She's pregnant," Jessica said with a grin.

"Wow, it only took him how long?" Danny asked. Jessica laughed. "Jess, I'm sorry about taking off. I was just so angry. Not at you, I know I blamed you, but, I didn't mean it," Danny murmured. 

Jessica sighed. "I wish I could say I forgive you, but I'm still hurt that you thought that," Jessica said softly.

"I never thought it was because of you cooking for the guys. I was just venting. I love you Jess," Danny said, desperation in his voice.

"I love you too Danny, for better for worse, right?" Jessica told him, a small smile on her lips.



Chasing Love Ch. 03-04



CHAPTER THREE

"Claire, what's wrong?" Cal asked, leaning down next to Claire.

"I'm fine," Claire said, pulling her knees to her chest and trying to hide her tears.

"Bull shit. What's wrong?" Cal wanted to know. "Are you okay? Is something wrong with the baby?" Cal asked.

"The baby and I are fine. I just got a call from my ex husband if you must know," Claire said.

"What did he want?" Cal asked, feeling possessive.

"To meet me for lunch," Claire answered.

"Hell no!" Cal exclaimed.

"It isn't your decision Cal, it's mine," Claire snapped.

"But that's my child you're carrying," Cal argued.

"One you aren't even sure if you want!" Claire pointed out. 

Cal sighed and before he could say anything else, Jessica walked into the office.

"I hate to break up this lover's spat, but Danny's in the weight room and he's trying to over do it," Jessica said. Cal swore under his breath and followed Jessica; stopping in the doorway.

"Don't leave until we've had a chance to talk," Cal ordered, before leaving the office.

-2 hours later-

"Cal relax, she had a doctor's appointment," Jessica said while she stirred the batter for the cake. It was Craig's thirteenth birthday and she had volunteered to make the birthday cake.

"Her ex called her, asking to meet with her," Cal told Jessica. Jessica looked up sharply.

"I'm sure she's fine. Why do you care so much if you aren't sure if you even want the baby?" Jessica asked.

"Because I care for Claire," Cal said. Jessica hid a smile.

"I think you want the baby but you're too scared to admit it," Jessica said softly.

"I don't know what I want," Cal sighed, looking up as Claire walked into the mess.

"Hey, how'd it go?" Jessica asked.

"Good," Claire said with a smile. "The ultrasound revealed that I'm almost three months pregnant," Claire added. Jessica smiled back at her friend. "Ohh chocolate," Claire said. Jessica laughed.

"Did you meet with Owen?" Cal wanted to know.

"Yes," Claire answered. Cal looked furious. "I met his fiancee," Claire added. "He wanted to tell me that he was sorry for blaming me for not getting pregnant; that it turns out it's his fault," Claire said. 

Jessica grinned.

"You still should have waited for me to be there," Cal growled.

"I'm a grown woman Cal, and meeting with my ex-husband has nothing to do with you!" Claire shouted.

"You're pregnant with my baby! So what you do has everything to do with me!" Cal exclaimed. Jessica sighed. "Stop it both of you! You're both acting like children!" Jessica yelled, stepping between her friends. Claire sighed and sat in a chair. Jessica handed Claire a blueberry muffin.

"Thanks," Claire said softly. 

Jessica smiled. "Cal, why don't you go talk to Jake and Danny," Jessica suggested, the look in her eyes left no room for argument. Cal sighed but left the mess. "Claire, even if he isn't sure if he wants the baby, he has some say in what happens to it," Jessica said gently.

"Yes, but me visiting with my ex has nothing to do with him," Claire argued.

"So he really just wanted to tell you he was wrong?" Jessica asked. Claire nodded.

"I was surprised too. His fiancee seems nice, but a bit flaky," Claire said. Jessica laughed.

"How long were you and Owen married for?" Jessica wanted to know.

"Five years. We got married right out of high school," Claire answered.

"Aww. What made you guys get a divorce?" Jessica wanted to know.

"You're awfully nosy," Claire teased. "The stress of not being able to get pregnant," Claire said.

"That would do it," Jessica agreed. 

"So in addition to Craig's birthday cake, what are you making?" Claire wanted to know.

"Danny's favorites. Meat loaf, mashed potatoes and corn on the cob," Jessica answered. 

"Yum; I just hope I can keep it down," Claire commented. Jessica laughed.

"I remember the feeling. And after losing the baby, I miss it," Jessica said with a sigh. 

Claire gave Jessica a hug. "Now that Danny's back, I have a feeling it won't be long," Claire said with a grin. Jessica laughed. "Of course, I'd let him get some rest first," Claire advised. 

Jessica laughed again. "Yeah, he looks pretty pathetic," Jessica agreed, pouring the cake batter into the pans and popping them in the oven.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"C'mon Cal, give Claire a break," Danny said, propping himself up on his elbow.

"She's pregnant with my child and she met another man; a man I told her not to go meet without me," Cal said.

"Oh for crying out loud, Cal, you told her you don't even know if you want the baby, so get off her back," Jake said, siding with Claire and Danny.

"Talking about me?" Claire asked from the doorway.

"Hey, how are you feeling?" Danny asked. Claire chuckled.

"I should be asking you that. I am your doctor after all," Claire said.

"I'm feeling better. How's the morning sickness?" Danny asked.

"Awful," Claire said laughing. 

"And Cal tried to give her eggs for breakfast this morning," Jessica said. Danny and Jake groaned.

"The meal of death," Jake joked. 

"When can I get outta here?" Danny asked, giving Jessica a meaningful look. Jessica blushed and looked away.

"It's going to be a few more days. And it will take even longer before I give you the okay to have sex," Claire said. Jessica blushed redder and Jake started laughing.

"You have two kids and you're blushing over discussion of your sex life?" he joked.

"Just because I know you all know doesn't mean I want it discussed," Jessica said with a grin.

Danny still looked awful; his eyes were black and he had bruises all over his body. The lash marks on his back had become infected but they were clearing up nicely.

"Jess, I need to talk to Danny about what happened and I don't know if you should stay," Cal said gently. 

"I want to be here," Jessica said but Danny shook his head.

"Jake, take Jess out of here, please. I don't want her to hear any of this," Danny pleaded with his friend. Jake nodded and started to pull Jessica out of the infirmary. Jessica gave Danny a kiss and followed Jake back to the mess.

CHAPTER FOUR

"It's official! I hate men!" Claire shouted, walking into the mess while Jessica was putting the things for breakfast in the warmers.

"What'd Cal do now?" Jessica wanted to know.

"Restricted me to base and is bringing in a full time doctor to replace me," Claire growled. Jessica sighed and had to hide her smile.

"Claire, have you ever considered that he loves you and wants to keep you safe?" Jessica asked.

"He's being an overbearing jackass!" Claire shouted.

"Jackass!" Will repeated as Caitlin came in with Jake, Craig, Will and Kylie. Jessica suppressed a laugh. 

"Thanks Claire," she said sarcastically. "Will, sweetie, don't say that again," Jessica said gently. 

"Mama!" Will squirmed to get away from Caitlin and once she let go of his hand ran to Jessica who lifted him into her arms. 

"Now what did Cal do?" Jake asked.

"He's forbidden me from leaving the base AND he's hired another doctor to come and take over," Claire growled. 

"Oh lord," Jake groaned. 

Everyone looked up as Danny walked in, supported by Cal.

"It's good to see you up and around," Jessica said with a smile.

"You shouldn't be up yet," Claire said gently.

"Doctor Jensen said I'm okay to move around as long as I don't go too far," Danny said. "Besides, I needed to get out of bed, I was going stir crazy," he added. 

Claire opened her mouth to yell at Cal again but Jessica shoved a biscuit into her mouth.

"Take it outside Claire or I swear to God I'll start a pan of eggs," Jessica threatened. Danny and Jake chuckled and Claire gave Jessica a dirty look.

"Dada!" Kylie gurgled. Danny grinned and sat into a chair and Jake deposited Kylie in Danny's lap.

"I've missed that," Danny said. Jessica smiled. "I've missed you too," Danny told her. Jessica sighed and turned back to the pancakes. Claire grabbed another biscuit and pushed Cal out of the mess hall. Jessica and Caitlin winced as Claire started yelling at Cal about him being a pain in the ass. 

"This should be interesting," Danny said with a laugh.

"I almost feel sorry for Cal," Caitlin commented.

"He brought this on himself. Pregnant doesn't mean unable to do anything," Jessica pointed out.

"He's afraid she'll miscarry if she takes on too much," Jake said.

"If he's using me as an example, I'll kick his ass," Jessica growled. Danny sighed. "Cooking for everyone didn't cause me to lose the baby Danny and you know it," Jessica said grumpily. 

"I know," Danny sighed. 

"Wow what happened in here?" Jeff asked.

"Nothing," Caitlin said. Jeff walked up and patted Danny on the shoulder.

"It's good to see you back," Jeff said with a grin.

"Thanks man," Danny said, returning the grin. 

Everyone looked up as Cal showed a young man in.

"Everyone, this is Matt Jensen, he'll be helping Claire out for awhile," Cal said. Jeff looked surprised.

"Why would Claire need help? She's like a machine," Jeff wanted to know. Claire gave Cal a triumphant look.

"Well, it's going to get out anyway, but Claire's pregnant," Cal answered. Jeff grinned.

"You mean you're finally going to settle down?" he teased.

"He didn't say that at all," Claire said. "And I don't need any help," she added, giving Matt a hostile look.

"Woah, Claire, hold up. I'm not here to stop you from working, I'm just here to give you extra help if you need it," Matt said, holding up his hands.

"I don't need help, at least not now," Claire said. 

"You threw up when you saw Danny," Cal commented with a sigh.

"He was a mess," Claire argued.

"Stop it, all of you!" Jessica exclaimed. "Cal, there is nothing wrong with bringing in help for Claire if she ASKS for it. Claire, you may not need help now, but you will. Trust me, it's no fun having one of these rough and tumble guys watching your new born while you're doing something for another one of them," Jessica said. "Now if you're just going to argue, go somewhere else and do it!" she shouted, fed up with the bickering. Jessica noticed the grin Danny was giving her. "And don't even look at me like that Danny Storm, I'm still very angry with you," she growled before adding more pancakes to the warmer. Jessica took Kylie from Danny and took Will's hand and stalked out of the mess hall.

"Wow," Caitlin said, grabbing a plate of pancakes and turkey bacon. "Danny, I'm sure she'll forgive you," she said softly. 

Danny shook his head. "I left when she needed me, if I were her, I wouldn't forgive me," Danny muttered, standing up and grabbing a bagel. 

"Danny, give her time. Talk to her, she'll forgive you," Claire said, giving Danny a gentle smile.

"Yeah, sure, time," Danny said before leaving the mess.

"Wow," Caitlin said again.

"You said it," Jake agreed.

-2 weeks later-

"Jess?" Danny asked, coming out to the back yard.

"Hey," Jessica said with a wide smile. "How are you feeling?" Jessica asked.

"Better. How are you?" Danny answered, feeling a little awkward.

"I'm fine. I'm so glad you're back," Jessica murmured. Danny pulled Jessica in for a hug and kissed her gently. 

"I love you Jess," Danny rumbled. 

"I love you too," Jessica said. "The kids are with Cal and Claire," Jessica added, grinning.

"Really now," Danny said, raising an eyebrow.

"Make love to me," Jessica whispered. Danny grinned and let Jessica lead him to the bedroom where she pulled off her jacket, revealing nothing under it but bare skin. 

"I like the way you think," Danny said with a grin, pulling his jeans and boxers off, purposefully leaving on his tee-shirt. Danny gently pushed Jessica back onto the bed and slid two fingers into her making her moan.

"Danny, it's been six months, stop teasing me," Jessica pleaded. Danny chuckled, removed his hands and thrust into her hard and fast. Jessica met him thrust for thrust and gasped when he hit her g-spot. "Oh God," Jessica moaned, her eyes closed and her finger nails digging into his shoulder blades. Danny fought the urge to wince as Jessica's nails hit one of the welts left by the whip.

Danny thrust deeper. "C'mon Jess, cum," he pleaded, reach a hand up and tweaking her nipple. Jessica let out a shaky scream as her orgasm hit her hard and strong. Danny let out a half moan half roar as he shot his seed deep inside the love of his life. 

"Hi," Jessica said, laughing a little.

"I missed you," Danny panted. "And I definitely missed this," he added, nuzzling Jessica's neck. "I love you so much Jess and I'm sorry for ..." Jessica kissed Danny gently.

"We can talk about that at another time, but please, don't spoil this," Jessica pleaded. Danny chuckled and pulled Jessica closer.

"I don't want to leave you again," Danny murmured.

"I'm not going anywhere," Jessica told him, with a sniffle. Danny pulled out of her and sat up.

"Why the tears love?" Danny asked, wiping them away.

"I didn't think I would ever see you again," Jessica whispered.

"Oh Jess," Danny murmured, pulling her in for a hug. Danny held her as Jessica finally broke down.

"I'm sorry," Jessica said as the tears finally stopped.

"Don't be sorry. I never should have left. I was such an idiot. You needed me and I ran away to let you deal with everything on your own," Danny murmured. He gave Jessica a gentle kiss.

"Feel like a shower?" Jessica asked. Danny laughed.

"What's the matter, don't you like being all sticky?" he asked with a wicked smile. Jessica blushed.

"It isn't that, but I want to show you something," Jessica said.

"We'll shower after," Danny decided, pulling on his boxers and jeans before looking for a pair of panties and a dress for Jessica. "Where are we going?" Danny asked nervously as Jessica led him towards the woods. 

"Here," Jessica answered, kneeling down besides a small granite marker. Danny knelt down next to her and read Justin Charles Storm on the marker. 

"I should have been here," Danny said with a sigh.

"Don't dwell on that, just be here now," Jessica murmured, giving Danny a kiss. Danny wrapped his arms around Jessica and gave her a gentle hug. They stayed like that, kneeling on the ground, wrapped in each other's arms until Jake came jogging up to them.

"I hate to interrupt, but Cal and Claire are at war with each other," Jake said grimly. Jessica sighed but stood up and started running towards the compound.



Chasing Love Ch. 05



CHAPTER FIVE

"What is going on here?" Danny wanted to know.

"Cal is being a pig headed jack ass!" Claire shouted. 

"And Claire is acting like being pregnant doesn't change anything!" Cal exclaimed, the vein in his shoulder pulsing; his anger coursing through him.

"Of course it changes things, but I can still have a career!" Claire said, her voice shrill.

"You should be resting and taking care of yourself!" Cal said.

"This is insane! Jessica worked for YOU during the majority of all of your pregnancies!" Claire exclaimed.

"Yeah, and she nearly miscarried with Kylie and had a stillborn!" Cal shouted. 

Jessica sighed and Danny reached for her hand and squeezed it gently. Jessica looked at Danny and saw her pain in his eyes.

"Don't make this about me, Cal Hawkins," Jessica warned, her voice quiet, but steady.

"The near miscarriage had nothing to do with her working for you. It had everything to do with me being on a mission in the fucking jungle!" Danny hissed. 

He cared deeply for Cal; Cal and Jake were like brothers to Danny, but using his and Jessica's loss to prove a point was going too far.

"And the still birth had nothing to do with working either." Claire looked at Jessica who nodded. "It had everything to do with the fact that his lungs and heart hadn't formed properly. He wouldn't have survived without a transplant and even that wouldn't guarantee his survival," Claire said. Danny's heart clenched; he hadn't know the reason for his son's death, only that he and Jessica had lost him before they were ready.

"That's beside the point," Cal said stubbornly.

"That's exactly the point!" Claire exclaimed. "Besides, why the fuck do you care? You don't even want the baby!" 

Cal took the two steps required to stand directly in front of Claire and pushed her back against the van. "I said I don't know if I want the baby, but I sure as hell want you," he growled.

"Let me go," Claire said, her eyes wide with fear and anger. "Cal, you're hurting me, let go!" she repeated. She had seen Cal lose his temper before, and she had seen him angry, but she had never seen him this angry and out of control; especially with her.

"Cal, let her go," Danny said, his voice firm and threatening. Cal let go of Claire's wrists and Jake and Danny pulled Cal away from the girls and into the compound to help cool his temper. Danny looked back at Jessica who gave a small smile before closing the door behind him.

"What's going on?" Caitlin asked, hurrying towards them. "And where are Will and Kylie?"

"They're with Paul and Jeff," Jessica said. "Is Craig okay with Danielle?" Caitlin nodded. "Good. We're going to town," Jessica said, grabbing her keys from the hook on the side of the garage. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I can't believe Cal's being such an ass," Caitlin said as they sat in a diner eating slices of dutch apple pie.

"I know. He's always been a hard ass, but never like this," Claire agreed.

"But you love him anyway," Jessica said softly. Claire nodded and wiped away a stray tear.

"Right now, I just want to kill him. I feel like he's acting like my master and I'm his slave," Claire whispered. Jessica sighed. "I'm not going back. Not until he realizes that I won't be hurt by working," Claire said.

"What?" Jessica and Caitlin asked together, exchanging looks of shock.

"I received a job offer in Ann Arbor. I'm going to take it," Claire answered. 

"Are you sure?" Jessica asked gently.

"Very. Cal needs time to think, and he can't do that with me around," Claire said. Jessica sighed.

"Okay, if you're hell bent on doing this, you'll need some help. Here's what we're going to do," Jessica told them.

-2 hours later-

"What do you mean you and Claire are going away?" Cal asked, crossing his arms over his chest.

"Claire needs to be able to relax. The constant stress caused by your fights isn't going to help anyone, and it certainly isn't good for the baby. I haven't had a vacation in years, so Claire and I are going to take a small vacation. Danny's still recovering, but with Jake and Caitlin, I'm sure he'll be fine and he needs to bond with the kids anyway," Jessica said, leaving no room for argument.

"I forbid you from going," Cal told Claire who raised an eye brow.

"You forbid me!?" Claire exclaimed.

"That's enough Cal," Jake said gently.

"Danny, tell your wife ..."

"Danny doesn't command anything from me. I'm his wife not his slave, and Claire is your girlfriend, or was until you made that stupid comment about forbidding her to leave for a VACATION! Now Cal, you may not be sure on if you want to be a father, BUT I know you care for Claire which is why you're being such a pig headed son of a bitch! And if you care about Claire as much as I think you do, you will not stop her from going on a much needed vacation!" Jessica shouted, having had enough of Cal's stupidity. 

Cal turned to Jake and to Danny.

"We both agree with Jess," Jake said. Cal sighed but nodded.

"Have a good time. I'll see you when you get back," Cal told Claire before storming off to his office.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"How long have I been sleeping?" Claire asked, rubbing her eyes.

"About five hours. We're almost there," Jessica answered. 

"Are you and Danny okay?" Claire asked. Jessica nodded, unable to get their conversation out of her mind.

 flashback

"Jess, how long are you going to be gone for?" Danny asked as he watched his wife pack, unable to keep the pain out of his face.

"Just for a week or so. Claire needs this Danny. Cal has become so overbearing. Claire is going to lose her mind and she needs to talk to someone and I need some time to think," Jessica said. She stuffed two more tee-shirts into her bag before putting her tooth brush, hair brush and shampoo into the side pocket. Jessica gave Danny a gentle smile and brushed her fingers by his cheek. "I will come back," she promised. Danny wrapped his arms around Jessica and gave her a gentle, loving hug before sliding her panties down her legs. "Danny," Jessica moaned as he pushed his pants and boxers down. Danny lifted Jessica into his arms and plunged hard and fast inside of her. "I love you," she cried as her climax hit her hard and fast, Danny's followed right behind and he exploded inside her.

"Don't go," Danny pleaded, his brown eyes full of love and sadness.

"Danny, Claire needs a friend and needs to get away from Cal for a little while. I will be back, and I'll call you when we get to the hotel," Jessica said as Danny set her back down on her feet. Danny watched as Jessica pulled her panties back on and righted her appearance.

"I love you too," Danny said as he watched Jessica walk away.

end flashback 

'Why didn't you wake me sooner?" Claire wanted to know.

"You needed the sleep," Jessica answered, pulling into a small hotel. 

"Wow, we're here already?" Claire asked in surprise.

"Yeah, I found a short cut," Jessica said, parking. "One room or two?" Jessica wanted to know.

"One room with two double beds will work," Claire answered. Jessica nodded and walked into the hotel.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Danny was waiting in the driveway with Cal when Jessica pulled into the driveway of the compound. The minute Jessica stepped out of the car, Danny had his arms around her, kissing her and hugging her. "Danny, I can't breathe," Jessica said with a laugh. Danny loosened his grip but continued to hold her.

"Where's Claire?" Cal wanted to know, looking at Jessica in concern.

"She decided to stay for a little while. She needed some more time. She's fine and has asked me not to tell you where she is," Jessica answered. Cal walked over and pulled Jessica from Danny's arms.

"Where is she?" he asked, his voice low, his anger mounting. 

"Cal, that's enough," Danny said. Cal let Jessica go and stalked away. "You okay?" Danny asked.

"Fine," Jessica said, rubbing her arms where Cal had grabbed her.

"Let's go home," Danny murmured, leading Jessica towards the path that would take them home.



Chasing Love Ch. 06



CHAPTER SIX

"Happy Birthday Danny!" Jessica exclaimed as Jake led Danny into the mess hall. Danny grinned as he saw the feast in front of him. 

"How long have you been working on this?" Danny asked in awe.

"The party, three months, the food, two days," Jessica answered laughing at his reaction. Danny kissed her in front of everyone causing some of the newer men to let out cat calls and whistles.

"What, haven't you ever seen a man kiss his wife before?" Jake asked, laughing loudly as Danny pulled away. Jessica blushed. 

"What are you waiting for, everyone eat!" Jake added. Jessica stood back and watched the men dig in to slices of tender brisket, potatoes, carrots and salad before turning to watch Danny play with Will and Kylie. At three, Will's hair and darkened and was now chestnut brown and his eyes were a cross between gray and green. Kylie, at just under two had Jessica's reddish blond hair and amber eyes. Danny looked up and saw Jessica watching him and smiled. Jessica smiled back before turning her head when the door slammed open and shut. Danny followed Jessica's gaze and both of their smiles faded when they saw Cal standing in the room.

Call looked awful; his clothes were rumpled like he'd slept in them and his eyes were blood shot.

"Happy birthday Danny," Cal said after a moment.

"Thanks," Danny smiled.

"Jessica," Cal said curtly.

"Cal, I'm sorry," Jessica murmured softly. Cal looked at Jessica for several moments and nodded with a small smile.

"I know," Cal said. "I realize that I've been a complete pain the ass, not to mention overbearing. I love Claire, and I wanted to protect her," he added.

"We know," Jake said, putting a hand on his friend's shoulder. "God Cal, you reek," Jake commented, wrinkling his nose.

Cal laughed. "I'm going to take a shower, then come back for a plate of food," Cal promised before leaving the mess.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Danny stood in the doorway of the bathroom watching Jessica, unsure of what she was looking at. "Jess?" Danny asked softly. Jessica jumped and placed whatever was in her hands on the counter before turning around. "What are you doing?" Danny wanted to know.

"I'm late Danny," Jessica said with a sigh.

"Late for what?" Danny asked in typical male fashion. Jessica rolled her eyes and pointed to the drawer that she kept her pads and tampons in and Danny's eyes widened. "Are we pregnant?" Danny asked carefully.

"Not according to the test," Jessica sighed. Danny walked over to the counter and looked at the test. 

"Damn, that would have been one hell of a birthday present," Danny said with a small grin. Jessica laughed and sighed.

"I'm sorry Danny," Jessica said softly. 

Danny pulled Jessica to him and gave her a kiss.

"It's okay. I have you and Will and Kylie so I have all I need. Plus, with your cooking and the incredible sex, what else could a guy want?" Danny said with a teasing smile. Jessica laughed and moaned when he slid his pants up her skirt and into her. "What, no panties?" Danny asked, raising his eyebrow. Jessica giggled and moaned again as Danny picked her up and carried her into the bedroom. Danny set Jessica onto the bed before lying on top of her and sliding hard and fast into her heat. He didn't hold back, thrusting deeper into her each time. Jessica moaned loudly as the tip of his engorged cock started bumping against her g-spot. "Danny!" she gasped weakly as he brought a hand up to play with her nipple.

"Don't hold back," Danny groaned into her ear as the thrust as deeply and as hard as he could. Jessica screamed loudly as she came. Danny chuckled and slid partially out of her, still painfully hard. 

"Danny, what about you?" Jessica asked, panting. Danny chuckled and waited until he felt more in control before starting his thrusts again, this time slow and caring, increasing the speed and pace with each thrust. When Jessica came again, crying out loudly, Danny let go and spurted his hot seed deep inside her, groaning loudly. They lay together, arms and legs entwined as they waited for their breathing to return to normal.

-Meanwhile-

"Hello?" Cal answered his phone, nibbling on a piece of bread left over from dinner.

"Hey Cal," Claire's voice sounded nervous.

"Claire! Are you okay? How are you feeling? How's the baby?" Cal asked, rambling questions like a mad man. Claire laughed uneasily.

"I'm fine; not as tired. The morning sickness is gone, thankfully; and the baby is doing fine," Claire answered.

"How far along are you now?" Cal asked, not knowing what else to say.

"A little over seven months," Claire answered.

"Where are you? I need to see you," Cal wanted to know. There was a knock on his door and he put his hand over the mouthpiece. "Come back later!" Cal called. He was just about to say something else to Claire when the knocking began again.

"Just answer the door," Claire said with a laugh. Swearing under his breath, Cal walked to his office door and pulled it open. As it opened, Cal heard the call disconnect and gasped as he saw Claire standing in the doorway. Claire's once blond hair was brown and her blue eyes were rimmed with dark circles. She hadn't slept well the last few weeks; she missed Cal too much. Her slim figure was hadn't changed much, but her abdomen was round and large, showing just how pregnant she was.

"You look beautiful," Cal breathed, drinking her in. Claire shook her head.

"I'm not," she grumbled. Cal chuckled and let her into the office. "I'm sorry for taking off like that," Claire apologized.

"It's okay, I understand why you did," Cal said. "And I'm sorry for being such an ass," he added. "Can I hug you?" Cal asked. Claire nodded and Cal engulfed her in a tight but gentle hug.

"Cal?" Claire murmured.

"Hm?"

"I'm hungry, could we maybe go to the mess?" Claire asked. Cal pulled away and nodded.

"Jess had one hell of a feast tonight for Danny's birthday, I'm sure she has some leftovers," Cal said, leading Claire to the mess hall. "Why don't you go to my quarters and I'll make you up a plate," he added. Claire nodded.

"That sounds great," she agreed. Cal watched as Claire left the mess before heating up a plate of brisket, potatoes and carrots.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"So where did you go and what did you do?" Cal asked.

"I stayed in a B&B in Ann Arbor and filled in for a doctor in a private practice while she was out of the country. She got back a few weeks ago and I used those weeks to think about if I wanted to stay in Ann Arbor or to come back," Claire answered before taking a bite of brisket. "Oh heaven on a plate," she moaned. Cal laughed.

"Jess is a really good cook," he agreed. They talked little while Claire was eating, giving Cal plenty of time to study her carefully.

"What?" Claire asked nervously.

"You look so beautiful," Cal murmured. 

"Liar," Claire said with a smile. Cal reached for her hand and pulled her away from the table and over to the bed. "Cal?" Claire asked uncertainly. Cal smiled and quickly shed his clothing before pulling Claire's shirt over her head and pushing her jeans and panties to the floor. Before Claire could say anything or protest, Cal pushed himself gently inside her warm, wet center. Claire moaned and met Cal thrust for thrust. 

"Tell me if I hurt you," Cal managed to say as he thrust in as far as he could. Claire moaned loudly and arched into him. Claire could feel her climax building as Cal pushed himself in and out of hers. 

Claire cried out loudly as she was pushed over the edge; Cal closed his eyes and followed her over the cliff, moaning loudly as he came. 

Cal pulled out of Claire quickly and lay down next to her. "Did I hurt you?" Cal asked worriedly.

"We're fine," Claire assured him. Cal rested his hands on Claire's abdomen and looked up in surprise as something hit his hand. "That's your daughter saying hello," Claire said softly.

"A girl?" Cal asked. Claire nodded.

"I saw with my own two eyes," Claire told him. She studied him carefully. "Does this mean that you want the baby?" Claire asked.

"I'm scared to death, but yes, I want you and our daughter," Cal answered. 

Tears sprang to Claire's eyes and she wrapped her arms around Cal's neck. Cal held Claire until there was a knock at the door. Cal stood up and wrapped his robe around him before opening the door. "What is it?" Cal growled.

"There's a phone call for you sir, it's urgent," the messenger said. Cal swore under his breath. 

"I'll take it in here," Cal told him. 

"Line three," the messenger said before walking away. Cal walked over to his desk/table, picked up the phone and pushed a button.

"This is Cal." Cal listened carefully to the caller and sighed. "Very good sir," Cal said before hanging up. 

He turned to Claire. "We have a mole."



Chasing Love Ch. 07



CHAPTER SEVEN

"Hey Jess." Jessica turned around and grinned when she saw Claire standing in the doorway.

"Welcome back!" Jessica exclaimed.

"Thanks. How are the kids?" Claire wanted to know, resting her hands on her belly.

"Growing like weeds. We're working on the ABCs with Will already," Jessica answered, mixing the rest of the ingredients into her waffle batter.

"You're up way too early," Danny grumbled, walking into the kitchen.

"I know, but Jake called while you were checking on the kids. He's having an emergency meeting in forty-five minutes and I couldn't get back to sleep so I decided to test a new recipe," Jessica said, pouring him a cup of coffee. "I'd offer you some Claire, but it isn't decaf," she added.

"At 3:30 in the morning, I would hope not," Claire said laughing. "I'm gonna keep Jess and the kids company while you, Jake and Caitlin are at the briefing," Claire added. Danny shrugged.

"Do whatever you want," he said.

"Finally, a man who knows how to charm a lady," Claire said winking at Jessica as Danny left the house.

"How are you feeling?" Jessica asked.

"Pretty good. But I'm so ready to have this baby," Claire said with a groan as she rubbed the small of her back. Jessica laughed.

"I remember the feeling," Jessica told Claire as she plugged in the waffle iron.

"I can't believe you're testing a waffle recipe at 3:30 in the morning," Claire said.

"When I can't sleep, I cook. Thank God for the dishwasher or I'd never have a clean kitchen," Jessica said with a laugh. Claire grinned and poured herself a glass of orange juice.

"Hey Jess," Caitlin said softly as she, Jake and Craig walked into the kitchen. Caitlin was holding a very cranky Danielle.

"Someone didn't like Uncle Cal's early morning wakeup call," Jessica observed with a wry grin. Jake and Caitlin raised their hands.

"Guilty," they said with a grin on each of their faces. 

Caitlin handed the cranky baby to Claire. "We'll be back when Cal stops being so anal," Jake promised. Claire laughed and watched her friends leave the house.

"Craig, I think Kylie's pack and play is set up in the game room, why don't you put Danielle in it and then go upstairs to the guest room to sleep," Jessica suggested. Craig nodded and took his sister from Claire and headed out of the kitchen as Jessica took the waffle out of the waffle iron and set it on a wire cooling wrack. She caught Claire looking at her in confusion. "If I like the way they turn out, I can wrap them in saran wrap and freeze them and then if the kids want a waffle, I just pop it into the toaster and they heat back up," Jessica explained. Claire nodded.

"Cool trick," she said, watching Jessica caught the waffle in fourths. Jessica offered a quarter of the waffle to Claire.

"Taste test time," Jessica said with a grin. She poured a dab of syrup on one of the mini waffles before handing the bottle to Claire. 

"They're really good Jess, what'd you put in them?" Claire asked.

"Some cinnamon and apple puree," Jessica said, savoring her bite of waffle.

"I want this recipe," Claire said. 

Jessica laughed. "Why? You don't have a place to cook at," she teased.

"I have a griddle and waffle iron in my office. Well, it was my office," Claire said with a sigh. Jessica laughed and finished making the waffles. 

"Are you sure you're okay?" Jessica asked. Claire nodded.

"I know the reason for the meeting. Cal got a call from his boss. There's a mole," Claire told her friend, a grave look on her face.

"Again?" Jessica asked in surprise. Claire nodded.

"I know, but Cal wouldn't let Devon back in; no matter what his reasoning, he still betrayed us," Claire murmured. Jessica nodded.

"I feel so bad for Devon. He risked so much to save Melly," Jessica said.

"Yeah, and they'd done so much to her that she ended up dying of infection," Claire added. She shook her head. "I still can't believe you traded yourself for Melly. It was damn brave of you," Claire told her friend.

"I can't believe it either," Jessica admitted. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jake and Danny glanced at each other when Cal told everyone there was another mole. "How the hell did another one get past us? I thought we tightened security after Devon," Danny said.

"We did. I don't know how it happened," Cal said wearily. None of them wanted to be up as early as they were, however, Cal felt it important to get the information out as soon as possible. "As a precaution, nobody goes anywhere alone and the phones will be off limits without permission," Cal added. "I will be confiscating all cell phones," Cal told them. 

Every groaned.

"That isn't fair Cal," Paul complained.

"Be that as it may, that's what the General has ordered and we will follow those orders," Cal said, giving Paul an icy stare.

"What about Claire? Are you going to make her give up her cell phone with the baby on the way?" Jeff asked. Jake and Danny looked at each other and had to hide their grins; Cal's face turned bright red at the question. 

"Claire won't be anywhere alone either, so a phone won't be necessary," Cal growled. Before anything else could be said, the fire alarm went off sending them into action. 

"Find the fire!" Danny called to Paul and Jeff while he and Jake went off in different directions.



Chasing Love Ch. 08



"Cal has been tipped off about me. He is taking away all cell phones. I had to pull the fire alarm just to contact you. All outgoing calls must be routed through the switchboard. I will hide this cell phone where Cal and his men cannot find it. You cannot call me, I must call you," he said quietly into his cellular phone. "I'll be in touch," he added before hanging up the phone.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Is everyone okay?" Cal asked as his men and women fanned out outside the compound.

"Everyone's fine, and there's no fire. Someone pulled the alarm," Jake called back.

"The briefing is over, you can all go back to bed," Cal told them after he finished the headcount. It didn't take him long, there were only about thirty people in his corp. Jake, Cal, Caitlin and Danny talked all the way back to Danny and Jessica's house and when finally got to the house, they found Claire asleep on the couch and Danielle asleep in the pack and play. "Where's Jess and the others?" Jake asked softly.

"Probably upstairs asleep. You three go back to your place and come back in a few hours and I'm sure Jess will make everyone breakfast. It's her day off after all," Danny suggested. Cal and Jake nodded and followed Caitlin out the door.

When Cal, Caitlin and Jake returned to Danny's house, Jessica was making a fresh batch of waffles, pancakes and turkey bacon. "What are you going to do about the mole?" Danny asked. Cal glanced at Jessica.

"It isn't me Cal, I promise," Jessica said, rolling her eyes.

"I don't think it is, but we really shouldn't discuss it in front of you," Cal muttered. Jessica rolled her eyes again before turning her attention to Will who was throwing his waffle onto the floor.

"We need a dog," Danny said laughing.

"It isn't funny Danny," Jessica sighed. "Will, you can't throw your food on the floor, you have to eat it," Jessica scolded gently, picking up the discarded waffles.

"Who do you think it is?" Caitlin asked, giving Danielle a bottle and letting her gnaw on a large piece of waffle.

"I don't know. I was surprised as hell to find out we had another mole," Cal said, rubbing his eyes as Jessica slid a plate of food in front of him. "Thanks Jess," he murmured, digging in.

Danny stood up and pushed Jessica into a chair. "Eat," he commanded, as Claire placed a plate of waffles in front of her. Jessica opened her mouth to protest, but Danny gave her a stern look. "Jess, you've lost weight recently, a lot of it, you need to eat," Danny growled. Claire studied Jessica carefully and noticed how thin her friend really was.

"How much weight have you lost?" Claire asked Jessica.

"About fifteen pounds," Jessica admitted. Claire nibbled her lower lip thoughtfully. "I still weigh over a hundred pounds, I'm fine," she added. Danny growled slightly and Jessica took a bite of waffle.

"You've lost too much weight," Danny said stubbornly.

"Oh Danny for heaven's sake!" Jessica exclaimed, putting her fork down to take a sip of her orange juice.

"She's fine Danny, for now at least," Claire said laughing. She reached for her cup of coffee and just about had it to her lips when Cal pulled it out of her hands.

"No caffeine," Cal ordered.

"First of all, which one of us has a medical degree?" Claire snarled. 

"You," Cal said.

"Second of all, it's a hybrid; half decaf and half regular so give me my damn coffee!" Claire had a no-nonsense look on her face, one that made Cal pause.

"Don't hurt him," Caitlin said with a grin.

"If he gives me back my coffee, I won't," Claire answered, her voice low and serious. Cal set the cup of coffee back down on the table and watched Claire snatch it up and take a long drink. "Heaven," she moaned. Jake and Danny exchanged grins. By this point, they both knew not to take anything away from the girls, especially when their hormones were insane.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-6 weeks later-

"May I help you?" Dr. Jensen asked as Claire walked into the infirmary.

"You're in my office," Claire said.

"And you are?" Dr. Jensen looked at Claire as if he didn't recognize her.

"I'm Dr. Claire Sanders. This is my office," Claire answered.

"I'm sorry, Cal hired me," Dr. Jensen said.

"I'm aware of that; he hired you because he didn't feel a pregnant woman could work as a doctor," Claire growled.

"I'm sorry miss, but I'm going to have to ask you to leave," Dr. Jensen said.

"This is my office dumb ass! I don't have to go anywhere!" Claire snapped.

"Listen to me you little bitch, I was hired by Cal to take care of these men and women that have been working so hard to protect their country. So before you make me call security on your pregnant ass, I suggest turning around and walking out the fucking door!" Before either of them could say anything else, Jake came into the infirmary.

"What is going on in here?" Jake asked

"I'm glad you're here. Get this bitch out of here and charge her for trespassing," Dr. Jensen said, his eyes glowing with anger.

"Matt, this is Claire, she's the doctor you were brought in to replace," Jake said.

"Then she has no business being in here," Matt told Jake.

"This is my office!" Claire exclaimed.

"Enough! Matt, I was there when Cal cleared Claire for light duty. She can treat minor injuries and assist with majors until she feels unable to perform them anymore," Jake said, placing himself between Claire and Matt.

"I don't take orders from you and I work alone," Matt said, his voice low.

"Then you can leave because I can do all of this work on my own!" Claire exclaimed.

"That is enough of this nonsense. Matt, you will stay here and allow Claire to assist you on majors, and you will let Claire handle minor injuries and paperwork," Cal said from the doorway.

Matt looked surprised. "I never thought that you of all people would fall for a whore," Matt said to Cal. Cal crossed the room in five steps.

"She's carrying my child," Cal growled. Matt put his hands up and apologized quickly.

"I'll be more than happy to offer Claire any assistance she needs around here," Matt promised.

"Good," Cal said before turning to leave. "Jake, we have a briefing," he added as he exited the room. Jake gave one more glance Claire's way before following his boss to the briefing room.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"What in the hell happened to you?" Cal asked when he saw Danny's face.

"Jess and I had a huge blow out," Danny said, running his hands through his hair. Jake's eyes widened when he saw the hand print on Danny's cheek. 

"What about?" Jake wanted to know. Danny thrust a letter at Jake who read it and whistled as he handed it to Cal.

"Who ordered this?" Danny asked.

"I don't know, but I'll find out. In the mean time, would you like me to talk to Jess?" Cal asked.

"No, it won't do any good, she's too stubborn," Danny said with a sigh.

"Whoa! Jessica, what is going on?" Caitlin asked.

"Why aren't you at the briefing?" Jessica countered.

"Danielle has the flu," Caitlin answered. "Do you want to tell me what's eating you?" Caitlin asked softly.

"Danny never left when his contract was up, and since he didn't resign or renew, it was automatically renewed," Jessica said, punching down on the bread dough so hard that her hand went through the door and hit the counter.

"So, he can apply for his contract to be terminated," Caitlin told her friend.

"He did. It was denied."

"So why are you mad at Danny?" Caitlin wanted to know.

"He should have resigned when it was up," Jessica said, dumping the dough into the bread pan.

"Jess, he was a little preoccupied from what I understand," Caitlin said.

"What do you mean by that?" Jessica asked sharply.

"Well, he got hurt, nearly killed saving your ass and then you ran off, and he needed the resources available to him only through this organization," Caitlin answered. Jessica sighed.

"That was Jake's fault," Jessica said grumpily.

"Oh grow up," Claire said from the doorway. Jessica looked up.

"Here for lunch?" Jessica asked.

"Please," Claire groaned. Jessica laughed and slid a hot turkey sandwich in front of her. "Jess, you should be worshiped as a Goddess," Claire moaned after taking a bite.

"Idolater," Jessica teased with a grin.

"That smells wonderful," Matt said from the doorway. Jessica looked at Claire when her friend let out a low growl.

"Would you like one?" Jessica asked politely.

"Yes please," Matt answered. Jessica fixed him a sandwich and wrapped it in some wax paper and slid it into a paper bag with a small container of roasted potatoes and a bottle of soda. Matt turned to Claire. "Would it be possible to meet after lunch and get a few things out in the air?" Matt asked Claire.

"Sure," Claire murmured, not looking up. Matt nodded and headed back to the infirmary.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Claire?" Matt asked, walking into the infirmary.

"Matt, what is this doing here?" Claire wanted to know, holding up Matt's cell phone.

"It's in case my sister needs to get a hold of me. She's going through a divorce, and her ex is a bit abusive," Matt answered. Claire studied Matt carefully before they both looked up to see Danny carrying a crying Will into the infirmary.

"What happened?" Matt asked. Claire sat down in the chair behind the desk as she watched the newer doctor look at the young boy.

"Cal, it's Claire. Matt has a cell phone," Claire said, looking up to make sure Matt wasn't done with Will.

"What?" Cal asked in surprise. "I told everyone to hand over their cell phones," Cal murmured.

"He said it's because his sister is getting out of a bad relationship," Claire added.

"Get out of there Claire," Cal said, his heart racing. 

"You don't think that Matt is ..."

"Just get out of the-"

Claire looked up and gasped. "Matt, hey," she said uneasily.

"Who were you talking to?" Matt wanted to know, taking the receiver from Claire's hand and smiled when he heard the dial tone.

"Just checking in with Cal. I have to call him every hour or so; he worries," Claire answered.

"You didn't mention the cell phone did you?" Matt asked.

"Why would I?" Claire murmured, rubbing her back.

"Because you're nosy," Matt answered. He shook his head. "I wish I didn't have to do this Claire," Matt said with a sigh as he trained a gun on her.

"Matt, you don't have to do this," Claire said, her eyes widened. 

"Yes, I do," Matt said, regret visible in his eyes. "Let's go," he added, motioning towards the back door.



Chasing Love Ch. 09



"Matt, why are you doing this?" Claire wanted to know as Matt looked for the keys to his jeep. 

"Because you know too much and I can't risk you exposing anything else," Matt answered.

"All I know is that you have a cell phone," Claire protested

"And you told Cal. He'll have people swarming the infirmary," Matt said, finding the keys and pushing Claire into the car. Matt got into the driver's seat and sped from the compound.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Claire isn't in the infirmary," Jake said into his radio.

"Where the fuck is she?" Cal growled, trying to keep his anger and fear at bay. 

"We'll find her," Danny promised.

"Where are you taking me?" Claire demanded to know.

"I won't hurt you as long as you don't make me," Matt promised.

"I won't say anything to Cal, just let me go," Claire murmured, rubbing her belly. Matt looked over nervously.

"You're not about to go into labor are you?" Matt asked.

"I could," Claire admitted. "I only have two weeks left," she added.

"Keep your legs shut," Matt commanded.

"You of all people should know it doesn't work that way," Claire scolded.

"Shut up," Matt said, pulling out his cell phone and answering it. "This is Matt. I have a hostage. Yes, I understand. Twenty minutes." Matt hung up the phone and set it in the cup holder between the seats.

"You're never going to let me go are you?" Claire asked. "You're going to kill me." Matt pulled the car over to the side.

"Keep quiet and I won't," Matt threatened, pulling the car back on the road again. 

The farther away from the compound they got, the more uneasy Claire became. The cell phone rang again and Matt lifted it to his ear. "I don't like it, but I'll do it," he promised before hanging up the phone again. Claire watched as Matt picked up his gun again. "I'm sorry Claire," Matt murmured, cocking the gun with his thumb. Claire reached over and grabbed the steering wheel. Matt swore under his breath but he couldn't get the jeep back under control and the vehicle rolled over and over before coming to rest at the bottom of a tree.

"She isn't here!" Cal exclaimed when he met up with Danny and Jake.

"Where the hell could she be?" Danny wanted to know.

"There's a jeep missing from the garage," Jeff said as he hurried over to them.

"He's taken her," Cal said, his voice grim. He no longer tried to keep his anger hidden and both Danny and Jake took a step back; Jeff's eyes widened when he realized just how pissed his boss was.

"Cal, Jake and I will go get a jeep and go in different directions until we find her," Danny said.

"I can't let you do that." They all turned around to see Paul holding a gun to Cal's head and a regretful Jeff holding one to Jake and Danny's.

"What the fuck is going on?" Cal asked.

"What are you guys doing?" Danny wanted to know.

"You can't go after him," Paul said.

"And you think you're going to stop us?" Jake asked, his eyes flashing with anger.

"We're sorry it's come to this," Jeff added.

"Why?" Cal wanted to know.

"Money and lots of it," Paul answered. 

"This isn't right," Jake growled.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Claire shook her head slowly, willing her dizziness to go away. "Are you okay?" Matt asked.

"I think so," Claire murmured, touching her forehead. "My head's bleeding," she added. Matt sat up with a groan and looked at Claire's head.

"It's not too bad," Matt told her. 

"You look bad," Claire said.

"My leg is broken and so are a few of my ribs." Despite the pain, Matt began feeling Claire's arms and legs. "How's your breathing?" Matt asked Claire in concern. 

"It hurts," Claire admitted.

"You probably have a few bruised ribs. Has the baby kicked?" Matt asked.

"Yes," Claire managed. "We need to get out of the car," Claire added, fighting with her seat belt. "Matt?" Claire asked, when he didn't answer. Claire looked over and found Matt's eyes closed. Claire knew that with her injuries, she couldn't save Matt so she concentrated on getting herself out of the car in one piece. Claire had no sooner slid out of the car when she let out a groan of pain and a gush of fluid ran down her legs. "Ah shit," she grumbled.

Jake looked up as Jeff and Paul went down and grinned when he saw Caitlin standing in front of him, a taser in her hand. "I hate moles," she grumbled. Jake chuckled.

"C'mon, we have to find Claire," Cal said after securing Jeff's and Paul's hands.

-30 minutes later-

"Cal, look!" Caitlin exclaimed. Cal pulled over next to the wrecked jeep and they all jumped out of the expedition. "Matt's still inside!" she added. Danny crawled into the wreckage and felt for a pulse.

"He's dead," Danny called. "How's Claire?" he wanted to know, pulling Matt out of the car.

"What took you so long?" Claire gasped.

"Are you alright?" Cal asked gently. Caitlin pushed Cal out of her way and ran her hands over Claire's arms and legs. "Field medic?" Cal asked.

"I have some first aid training," Caitlin said softly.

"I have some bruised or broken ribs, but my water broke and I think the baby is crowning," Claire managed.

"Claire, you have a lot of cuts and you've lost a lot of blood," Caitlin said softly. "Cal, help me get her pants off," she added, handing Cal an exacto knife. Cal carefully slid the blade down the seam of the pants on both sides. "You're right Claire, the baby is crowning. We aren't going to make it back to base," Caitlin said gently. Claire moaned. "Jake, I need some water from the truck, Danny, see if there are any towels," Caitlin instructed. Danny and Jake hurried to do as they were told.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Danny, how is she!?" Jessica wanted to know as she waited anxiously with some of the other men in the company.

"Unconscious," Danny answered, getting out of the truck. Jake handed over a bundle before helping Cal get Claire out of the truck and into the infirmary. 

"Boy or girl?" Jessica wanted to know.

"Girl," Danny said with a smile. Jessica followed Danny into the infirmary. 

"I'll help you clean her up and then I'll go find some of Kylie's old clothes," Jessica murmured. Danny nodded and set the crying baby on an exam table while Jessica filled a plastic basin with lukewarm water and grabbed a wash cloth and some mild soap. "Hi sweetie," Jessica cooed, dipping the washcloth into the water and wiping the baby down gently. The baby stopped crying when she heard the gentle tone of Jessica's voice. "Your mommy is just going to love you," Jessica promised. Danny smiled at Jessica before turning to look at Cal and Claire. "I see they got Carl to come back in," Jessica said softly. Danny nodded as he watched Jessica dry off the baby and put her into a diaper. "Keep her warm," Jessica murmured before hurrying out of the infirmary. 

"How's Claire?" Jessica wanted to know when she returned with a small onesie and a warming blanket. 

"According to Mac, she's in a coma," Jake said softly. 

"If Matt hadn't been killed in that crash, I'd kill him myself," Caitlin grumbled.

"You'd go to jail and then where would we be at?" Jake reminded her gently. Cal walked over to them and Jessica had to smile at the sight of Cal cradling the tiny baby in his arms.

"Have you thought of a name?" Jessica asked.

"Claire and I thought about names and actually talked about it a few weeks ago. We're going to name her Kira Lee," Cal answered. Jessica smiled.

"That's pretty. Ready to get her dressed?" Jessica murmured. Cal nodded and slid the baby onto the bed and watched Jessica slip the onesie onto the tiny infant. "She's beautiful," Jessica said with a smile.

"I know," Cal agreed, glancing back at Claire. He turned back to the baby and Jessica when the baby started crying. "What's wrong?" Cal asked. 

Jessica smiled and stroked the baby's cheek; Kira turned her face towards Jessica's finger. "She's hungry," Jessica answered.

"How is she going to eat with Claire in a coma?" Cal asked. Jessica looked at Jake who grinned and pulled an unopened can of formula out of a cupboard.

"How much Jess?" Jake asked.

"Start with two ounces. She has a little tummy," Jessica murmured, looking over at Cal who was looking anxious. "Settle down Cal, babies can pick up on our emotions," Jessica told him. She took the bottle from Jake and shook it a few times before slipping the silicone nipple to Kira's mouth. Kira opened her mouth and began sucking ont he nipple greedily. "See? Just hungry," Jessica said with a small smile. "Sit down," Jessica added. Cal sat down and Jessica slid the baby and the bottle into Cal's arms. Cal grinned as he watched his new daughter drain her bottle, Kira's bright green eyes locked with Cal's. "I have to get back to the kids," Jessica murmured before leaving the infirmary.

"Any change?" Jessica asked, setting a plate of food in front of Cal.

"No," Cal answered, not looking at the plate. "What'd you bring?"

"Comfort food. Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and broccoli," Jessica answered. "You need to eat Cal. Claire is going to need you strong when she wakes up and Kira needs you now," Jessica added. Cal gave a sheepish smile and started eating the food on his plate. 

In the three days since Kira's birth, Cal had thrown himself into being a father, even if he was worried about Claire who remained in the coma. "Danny needs to talk to you, something about a Major Collins," Jessica murmured. Cal's eyes widened and he nearly choked on his broccoli. "You've been given until tomorrow morning at 9:30," she added before leaving the infirmary.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"How was your day?" Danny asked as Jessica slipped into bed.

"Not too bad. The kids behaved for the most part and I stopped at the clinic on my way home from the office," Jessica said, pulling the sheet up over her.

"Are you okay?" Danny wanted to know. Jessica smiled and nodded.

"I'm great," Jessica answered, reaching into the drawer and pulled out a slip of paper and handed it to Danny.

"What's this?" Danny asked. 

"Flip it over," Jessica said with a smile. Danny flipped the paper over to reveal a blurry picture.

"Jess, is this what I think it is?" Danny looked a little confused. Jessica grinned and nodded, shrieking as Danny grabbed her and pulled her in for a kiss. "Is everything okay?" Danny asked.

"Everything's perfect," Jessica assured him. Danny opened his mouth to say something else when the phone rang. "Ignore it," Jessica murmured.

"I can't," Danny grumbled, reaching over for the phone. "This is Storm," Danny said. "We'll be right there." Danny hung up and looked at Jessica who was staring at him with curiosity. "Claire's awake," Danny told her. 

"You go ahead, I'll get the kids and ..."

"Jake and Caitlin are sending Craig over with Danielle," Danny added.

"I'll get dressed," Jessica said, getting out of bed with a sigh.

"Hey!" Jessica exclaimed as she and Danny walked into the infirmary.

"Hey yourself," Claire said with a grin. "I hear you guys are giving Cal daddy lessons," she added.

"Well, he kind of needed them," Jessica said with a laugh. Claire grinned again. "How are you feeling?" Jessica wanted to know.

"Better. Mac said that my coma was trauma based, but there wasn't any brain damage or a major head injury, just shock," Claire answered.

"I'm glad you're awake. Have you been given a clean bill of health?" Jessica asked.

"Yeah, with the exception of some bruised ribs, I'm good," Claire answered, looking up as Cal slid Kira into her arms. "So how are you?" Claire asked. 

"We're good. Will is going to be four next month and Kylie is going on two and a half," Jessica answered.

"How the hell did that happen?" Cal asked. Jessica laughed.

"I have no idea," she said, glancing over at Danny who was talking animatedly with Caitlin and Jake. She heard Caitlin squeal and watched her give Danny a hug.

"What's that about?" Claire wanted to know. Jessica gave her friend a grin. 

"I'm pregnant," Jessica said softly.

"Congrats!" Claire exclaimed softly. Kira cooed and Cal gave Jessica a gentle hug.

"That reminds me, I need a few minutes of yours and the major's time," Danny said, walking over to them. Cal nodded and followed Danny to the major's make shift office.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"What was that about?" Jessica asked later.

"I've asked for an appeal over the issue of my contract," Danny answered.

"Why? You love what you do," Jessica murmured, no longer angry.

"I want to be able to spend time with you and the kids and not have to have you worry on if I'll come back from a mission," Danny said.

"I love you," Jessica said softly.

"I love you too," Danny murmured.



Chasing Love Ch. 10



 I'm nearing the end of Cal's story, I just wanted to thank everyone who's read the stories I have posted and to thank you all for your comments and criticism.




Claire looked up as Cal walked into her office and gave him a bright smile. "Back to work already?" Cal asked.

"Without a full time doctor, this facility is practically useless," Claire told him.

"Are you sure you're up to working?" Cal asked.

"I'm fine Cal," Claire assured him.

"And how is miss Kira?" Cal asked, peeking in the bassinet in the corner.

"Sleeping finally," Claire answered with a grin. Cal smiled and turned back to Claire.

"I was thinking that maybe we could get out for a few hours tonight, maybe go see a movie," Cal suggested.

"I'm not sure that's such a good idea. Kira's only a couple of weeks old," Claire murmured.

"Jess or Caitlin could watch Kira," Cal told Claire.

"They both have their own families to worry about," Claire reminded Cal. 

Before he could open his mouth to speak again, Caitlin ran into the infirmary, her cheeks flushed and her eyes sparkling. "What's up?" Claire asked.

"Is everyone okay?" Cal wanted to know.

"Everyone's fine. Claire, I need your help," Caitlin said.

"What's going on?" Claire asked.

"Jake finally proposed," Caitlin answered. Claire's eyes lit up and she gave her friend a hug.

"Congratulations!" Claire exclaimed.

"C'mon, I'm meeting Jess in the mess and we're going shopping," Caitlin said excitedly.

"Hold that thought Cait," Cal recommended. The girls looked up to see Danny carrying Jessica into the infirmary.

"What happened?" Claire asked, grabbing her stethoscope. 

"I'm fine," Jessica grumbled as Danny set her down in a chair.

"What happened?" Claire asked again, kneeling down in front of Jessica.

"I got a little dizzy," Jessica answered.

"Have you been feeling okay?" Claire murmured, taking Jessica's pulse.

"Fine except for morning sickness," Jessica said. Claire looked at Jessica and they both grinned.

"She's fine Danny. As long as Jess doesn't over due it and hit her head if she gets dizzy, she'll be okay." Claire turned back to Jessica. "Make sure you try to eat and keep things in your stomach, that'll help with the dizziness, but you know that already," Claire instructed. Jessica nodded.

"Are we going shopping or not?" Jessica asked.

"Not. You're going back to bed," Danny inserted his opinion and earned a glare from Jessica.

"I'm fine Danny. I think I can handle dress shopping with Caitlin as long as you have the munchkins," Jessica told him. Danny held his hands up in surrender and left the infirmary grumbling about women and their stubbornness.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"That took longer than I thought it would," Caitlin said with a groan as they waited for the waitress to bring them their food.

"Yeah, tell me about it," Jessica grumbled as her stomach rumbled loudly.

"Sorry, but I wanted the perfect dress," Caitlin murmured with a blush.

"And you found it, nearly seven hours later," Claire teased. Caitlin giggled.

"Sorry," Caitlin murmured. 

"It's okay, we all want the perfect dress," Jessica said with a laugh. "God that looks good," Jessica said as the waitress set plates of food in front of them. Claire laughed.

"French toast is pretty easy on the stomach," she agreed.

"And so tasty," Jessica said with a grin. 

By the time they returned to the compound, Danny and Cal were driving each other crazy. "What the hell took you so long?" Cal wanted to know.

"Sorry, I couldn't find the right dress at first," Caitlin said sheepishly.

"Have you heard of a cell phone?" Cal asked sarcastically.

"We called Jake," Caitlin answered, getting her dress out of the back of the SUV. "Jess, will you hold on to my dress for me? I don't want Jake to see it before the wedding," she wanted to know. Jessica nodded.

"No problem," Jessica assured her friend. 

"Have you eaten?" Danny asked.

"Yes. We stopped at the diner on our way back. And don't ask where your food is, I left several pots of soups and stews and salad in the mess for everyone to eat," Jessica answered. Danny stuck his tongue out at Jessica who laughed and led Caitlin and Claire to the house.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Jess, you didn't have to make all of this," Caitlin said, looking around the mess in awe.

"I know, I wanted to. You and Jake are keeping it small, and most of the guys are going to be on leave, but you deserve to have a special dinner," Jessica said with a grin. Caitlin shook her head.

"You're insane," Caitlin teased.

"I know, but you guys love me," Jessica said with a laugh.

"This is amazing," Danny murmured into Jessica's ear as they watched their friends exchange their vows. 

"They've done so much to help us," Jessica whispered. Danny nodded and they turned their attention back to the ceremony.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I have some announcements to make," Cal said, his voice grim as he addressed his men and women. Caitlin forced herself to look away from Jake and give her full attention to Cal. "First, the Major has ordered me to get any civilians living at the compound, out of the compound." Jake and Caitlin looked at each other, stunned. "Claire's position as our doctor is going to be given to a former field medic, and we will once again be responsible for cooking our own meals," Cal said. Danny's eyes narrowed.  

"The next thing is, the Major has taken the liberty of extending all of our contracts. There are no exceptions and they will not over ride this. The CIA has received some intelligence that there will be some terrorist attacks against the United States sometime soon. When the threat is deemed to be over, then anyone whose contract was supposed to expire, will be released from their service if that is what he or she desires," Cal continued, ignoring the glare from Danny. 

Cal finished up the briefing and released them to go about their business. "Danny, Jake, Cait, I need to speak with you in private," Cal said. They followed Cal to the court yard. "The compound is bugged. I have some concerns about the Major; something isn't sitting right. He's let four moles through his screening process. I can't get into it too much here, but we need to meet somewhere. Danny, the Major didn't make the call to remove Jess and the kids from base, that was me. I know you like having them around, but I don't want them to be able to be used as bait," Cal added. "Jake, Cait, that goes for the kids too. It's too dangerous," Cal said. Danny, Jake and Caitlin exchanged looks.

"What do you have in mind?" Danny asked finally.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I don't want to leave you Jess, but it's for your safety," Danny said.

"I can't do this alone Danny," Jessica told him, crossing her arms over her chest. "Not again." 

"You won't be alone. I'll be able to come visit," Danny told her.

"Yeah, one weekend a month. What happened to trying to get out of your contract?" Jessica demanded to know.

"The major has refused to even consider it until the CIA feels the threat is behind us," Danny answered.

"This is bullshit Danny!" Jessica shouted.

"Jess, I'm sorry," Danny said, glancing up at Jake who had come up behind her.

"Jessica, take it easy," Jake suggested.

"Don't tell me to take it easy," Jessica warned, her eyes flashing with anger.

"I have to leave too," Claire said, as she and Cal walked into the kitchen. Jessica took a deep breath as she watched Cal cradle his daughter. At only two months old, Kira was the apple of Cal's eye and it was clear to anyone that knew him well, that it would be a cold day in hell before any man that wasn't considered as family got anywhere near her.

"We'll talk about this somewhere else," Cal said.

"Where are we?" Jessica asked.

"My Uncle's house. He left it to me in his will. It's been swept for bugs, we can talk here," Cal answered. 

"You call this a house?" Jessica snorted. 

"Well, technically, it's a mansion, but eh," Cal grinned. 

"This is unbelievable," Caitlin breathed as Cal gave them a tour.

"So, here's the deal. I think the major is up to something and I need Jake's, Danny's and Caitlin's help figuring it out," Cal began. He showed Jessica into a large room. "This is the room that you and Danny when he's here will be sharing. Cal finished showing everyone the house before settling down on the back terrace to talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"So you think the major is allowing moles in knowingly?" Jessica asked.

"It's not a good possibility, but it is a possibility," Cal answered.

"What do you plan to do?" Jessica wanted to know.

"I can't go into details on that. We've moved you, Claire and the kids here to keep you safe," Cal told her.

"I don't like it," Jessica grumbled.

"Neither do I. If it were up to me, none of this would be happening. I trust all of you, and I know how badly this sucks. Jess, I promise, I'll keep Danny safe," Cal said. 

Jessica looked from Danny to Cal before pushing her plate of food away and standing up.

"I don't like this. I've gone through two pregnancies practically by myself and I refuse to do it again. You have six months or I'm done," Jessica said before walking inside.

"Cal, do something," Danny hissed.

"I can't release you from your contract Danny. If I could, I really would," Cal said wearily.

"Would you? You've said more than once that I'm one of your best agents," Danny growled.

"Danny, you are one of my best agents, however, I know how important your family is to you and I would never ask you to choose between the two," Cal told Danny.

"Hey," Cal said, walking into the kitchen where Claire was pouring herself a drink of iced tea.

"You missed one hell of an argument," Claire told him without looking up.

"Oh?" Cal wanted to know. "Kira went down easily by the way," he added.

"Good. Jess gave Danny the six month ultimatum again," Claire said.

"Oh for crying out loud," Cal grumbled. "What happened?" he wanted to know.

"Danny told her that he couldn't guarantee that it would take six months or less, but that he loves her," Claire answered.

"And that solved it?" Cal asked.

"Nope. They screamed and yelled at each other for over an hour. I don't know if they came to an agreement or not, but he carried her upstairs and into the bedroom and I haven't seen them in over two hours," Claire said with a grin.

"Who's with the kids?" Cal asked.

"They're right here," Jake said, walking into the kitchen. Cal tickled Kylie's stomach making her giggle while Claire handed Will a juice box.

"Juice!" Kylie exclaimed. Claire pulled out another juice box and handed it to Kylie. Jake set Kylie down onto a chair and watched Caitlin with Danielle.

"I swear these girls will never be allowed to date," Cal said with a grin. Jake nodded and laughed when he saw Caitlin and Claire roll their eyes. "How's Jess?" Cal asked seeing Danny walk into the kitchen.

"Asleep," Danny answered with a grin. 

"After two hours, I would hope so," Cal chuckled.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Cal, Claire's on the phone," Jake said.

"Claire, what's wrong?" Cal asked.

"We got a strange package, addressed to you. Jessica told me not to open it," Claire answered.

"We're on our way," Cal said, hanging up.

"They know we know," Danny said when the contents of the box were revealed.

"Son of a bitch," Cal seethed. 

"We can't show the girls," Jake said grimly.

"Show us what?" All three of them jumped but relaxed when they noticed it was Caitlin and not Claire or Jessica.

"You don't want to see this," Cal said.

"Commander, I'm not a little girl who gets squeamish at a funky package," Caitlin reminded Cal. Cal and Jake looked at each other and reluctantly, they moved aside. Caitlin gasped when she saw what was in side the box. "Who would do this?" she whispered, disgusted by what she saw. 

Inside the box was a decapitated doll with the words, "Don't fuck with me" written on a note card propped up by the doll's arm.

"Just be thankful it isn't a real baby," Cal said grimly. Everyone nodded. "Meet me down stairs in two hours," he added, taking the box and heading to the basement.



Chasing Love Ch. 11



CHAPTER ELEVEN: THE FINAL CHAPTER

-3 months later-

"Are you sure this will work?" Caitlin asked. 

"No, but it's the only chance we've got," Cal answered. He glanced at Danny and Jake who had mirrored expressions of concern on their faces. "Do you know what you're supposed to do?" Cal asked. Danny and Jake nodded. "Ten minutes," Cal told them before heading to his office.

"Be careful," Jake told Caitlin.

"You too," Caitlin said. "Danny," she called as Danny started to head to his post. 

Danny stopped and turned around. "Jessica said to tell you to hurry home," Caitlin told him. Danny grinned and nodded before hurrying away.

"Doctor Fletcher?" Caitlin asked, walking into the infirmary.

"What is it Caitlin?" Doctor Fletcher wanted to know, stepping out of his office.

"I've been having some severe stomach cramps the last few hours," Caitlin said, wincing.

"Up on the table." Caitlin shuddered as she did as she was told while she watched the medic gather supplies. Before he could turn back around, Caitlin stuck a small device on the underside of the exam table. "Is there any chance you're pregnant?" he asked.

"Small chance," Caitlin answered.

"Hmm," Doctor Fletcher said as he gently pressed down on Caitlin's abdomen. 

"Excuse me Doctor, I need a word with you." Doctor Fletcher looked up and stood up as straight as he could.

"Major Jones, please wait in my office, I'll be right with you," Doctor Fletcher told the man. The major nodded and walked into the office at the back of the infirmary. 

Caitlin waited for the doctor to finish his physical exam. Finally, the doctor looked at Caitlin. "I don't think you're pregnant, I think it's just severe menstrual cramps," he said finally.

"I'm not due for my period for another few weeks," Caitlin argued. Before anyone could say anything else, a messenger knocked on the door.

"Excuse me Caitlin, but there is a woman named Claire on the phone," the messenger said.

"Take it in my office," doctor Fletcher told her. Caitlin nodded and followed the doctor into his office. She waited for the doctor and major to return to the infirmary before picking up the phone.

"Claire?" Caitlin asked.

"I got the word. Let the games begin," Claire said.

"How's Jess?" Caitlin wanted to know.

"Worried. Tell Danny to hurry but be careful," Claire answered.

"Got it," Caitlin said. She pretended to talk on the phone while she carefully unscrewed the bottom part of the receiver. "What an idiot, putting in an old rotary phone," she thought as she placed the bug inside the receiver. 

"Is everything okay?" doctor Fletcher asked as Caitlin returned to the exam room.

"No. Have you seen Danny Storm? His wife isn't feeling well and may need to be hospitalized," Caitlin answered.

"I'll have him paged," doctor Fletcher promised. Caitlin nodded and turned to leave. As she reached the door, she gasped and hunched over. "Where does it hurt?" doctor Fletcher wanted to know. Caitlin didn't answer; her eyes were closed and she let him think that she had passed out. "Major, I could use some help," doctor Fletcher said. Together, they moved Caitlin to a exam table and laid her down on it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Sir, we're ready to go with the coke." The major turned around.

"Good. I'll meet you out back in half an hour," the major said. 

When the major finally made his way to the storage shed in the back of the compound, Danny, Cal, Jake and Caitlin were waiting for him. "What is the meaning of this?" the major asked, outraged.

"You're under arrest major, for a great number of crimes, the most minor being distributing drugs," Cal said, a look of glee on his face. The major paled more and more as Cal listed off his crimes.

"How did you know?" the major stammered. Caitlin played back the tape from the infirmary. "You of all people should know that we are world class actors," Caitlin said calmly with a grin.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Is it over?" Claire asked as Cal sank down onto the grass next to her. Cal nodded and reached for Claire's hand and held it tightly as they watched Kira trying to crawl; Will and Kylie chased each other around the yard while Jessica sat with Craig and Danielle. "Where's Danny, Caitlin and Jake?" Claire wanted to know, turning her head when she felt a hand on her shoulder. "It's good to see you guys. We were getting worried," Claire said with a small smile. She and Cal watched Danny walk to where Jessica sat. Jessica looked up as Danny crouched in front of her and her eyes filled with tears as Danny wrapped his arms around her and pulled Jessica to him.

It had been nearly a month since they had taken the major down and questions from congress and the president had made it impossible for them to go home. Craig lifted Danielle off of the blanket she had been sitting on and headed to where Caitlin and Jake stood waiting. 

Caitlin held Danielle close before she, Jake and Craig headed inside the house, Cal and Claire following close behind.

"Is it over?" Jessica wanted to know. 

"I'm here to stay," Danny promised, pressing a gentle kiss to her lips. Danny rested his hands on Jessica's slightly swollen abdomen. "I'm not leaving again," he added.

"Daddy!" Kylie shouted, finally looking up and seeing her father. Will and Kylie ran to their parents and Danny hugged them both tightly. 

"We missed you daddy," Will said, his voice less baby-ish then it had when Danny had left for the mission.

"I missed you too champ," Danny said, his voice clogged with emotion.

"Don't go away again," Kylie pleaded.

"I won't," Danny promised.

-20 years later-

Danny and Jessica stood hand in hand as they watched Will and Kira say their vows. Jessica glanced at Claire who smiled through her tears as she watched her only daughter get married. Kylie stood next to her parents and glanced over at David, Jake's and Caitlin's youngest son when she thought nobody was looking. Danny saw it and grinned at his friend over his daughter's head. When the minister pronounced Will and Kira man and wife, Danny glanced over at Jessica and smiled as he wiped a tear away. 

Their days as governmental police were over. The corruption from the major's office had sealed the fate of the entire team. Danny kept his promise to never leave his family again, and with the exception of surprising Jessica with a second honey moon, he kept that promise. Danny and Jessica's youngest child, Cory was constantly making fun of Danielle for being a gymnast, and everyone felt that it was just a matter of time before Cory started hitting on Danielle, despite the fact that Danielle was older.  

"Congratulations," Jake said, giving Will and Kira a hug.

"Thanks," Will told his father's oldest friend. Kira smiled and looked around nervously.

"What is going on with you? You're married, there's no need to look so nervous, unless of course you're pregnant, in which case, Will should start running now," Jake said with a grin. Danny rolled his eyes and smacked Jake playfully on the back of the head.

"Cal wouldn't kill Will now," Danny said and Jessica laughed. 

"Kira, are you pregnant?" Jessica asked quietly. Claire and Caitlin who had been standing within hearing range stopped talking and joined the small group. Claire watched Cal out of the corner of her eye giving Cory a lecture and sighed when Kira answered that she was in fact pregnant. Claire relaxed when she learned that Kira had only found out a few days before the wedding; which had been planned nearly six months in advance.

"Now what do we do?" Claire asked Cal when everyone had gone. Cal looked at Claire and shrugged.

"How about a world wide cruise?" Cal suggested. Claire smiled.

"I've always wanted to see the world," she agreed.

"Then pack your bags," Cal said with a grin.

 Thanks for sticking with me guys, I know my writing can be a bit frustrating. I hope you enjoyed Cal and Claire's story.

~Ashira