Folding a Map by Nanda

[triciabyrne1978.livejournal.com]

Rec Category: Sam/Jack
Pairing: Sam/Jack
Category: Het
Warning: Het, adult situations
Author on LJ: nandamai
Author's Website: Nanada's Lament
Link: Folding a Map

Why This Must be Read:
This is a great and realistic look at how the Sam/Jack relationship progressed after season 8. It brings out the plans that they've made, why and how their jobs have changed, and how they deal with it. Again, I have to say that the greatness of the fic is not just the plot and how it's executed but the fact that nandamai has a great way of bringing out the Sam/Jack dynamic while sticking with cannon.

Excerpt:
“With all due respect, Mr. President,” Jack says, “I thought I made it pretty clear I didn’t want to be disturbed.”

Hayes answers in his affable way. “Jack, Jack, diplomacy knows no schedule.”

“I didn’t ask to be a diplomat, sir.”

Behind him, Carter whispers, “Jack!”

But Hayes merely laughs. It’s a tight laugh, but it’s still a laugh. “I know you didn’t, Jack. You’re just a good sport. But I need you on this.”

Jack grinds his knuckles into his forehead and sighs. “Yes, sir.”

“Colonel Carter’s a fine officer, Jack,” Hayes says, lowering his voice. Jack hears a smirk. “The best we’ve got. She’ll understand.”

She will, and that makes it worse. She expects to have half a relationship. “If you don’t mind, sir, I’d rather not discuss —”

“Of course, of course. I’m sorry I brought it up.” That damn smirk is still in the President’s voice, though, and Jack reminds himself that his personal life is now a matter of public record. Among the public that has high enough clearance, anyway.