"Morning, guys."

Jack O'Neill only grunted. Daniel Jackson set down his breakfast tray and took a seat opposite of Jack. Amused blue eyes flickered over the contents of Jack's tray. Jack already knew what would come next.

"Fruit loops again, is it?"

Oh no, this didn't help his mood. He pointedly brought the spoon to his lips and started to slurp the mixture of cereal and milk noisily. Daniel grimaced slightly. Looking up, Jack noticed Teal'c's raised eyebrow. Oh yeah, Teal'c knew all right what the reason for Jack's foul mood was. Jack felt his irritation reach another level.

Every time his alarm clock sounded these days he suffered an instant urge to just throw it against the wall and turn his back on another day of frustration and vain hope. Going through the time loop for the first few cycles had been fun actually. He had been thrilled at knowing exactly what was going to happen next. Being in control of everything. No surprises waiting for him thanks to a jumpy archaeologist. Knowing already what the solution to the problem Carter was trying to solve would be. He had felt elated at having one up on his brilliant scientists. Hell, he had even had his fun racing a bike through the aisles of the SGC and putting a golf ball through the Stargate.

And then it had started to become boring. Especially since Teal'c and he hadn't been able to figure out a way to stop this damn loop or to make the others realize they were in it at all.

"Jack, everything okay?" Daniel was eyeing him quizzically. "Did you sleep all right?"

Jack didn't even bother to answer.

Daniel turned questioning eyes towards Teal'c. The Jaffa's solemn gaze held Jack's eyes for a moment.

"Remember what we talked about yesterday, O'Neill?"

Jack winced slightly. They had come to the conclusion that they were not able to solve this on their own and had decided to put all efforts into making their teammates realize they were actually living over the same day again and again. They were the ones with the brilliant ideas after all. Maybe they would be able to figure a way out. Had to convince them first though. Yeah, well. Could as well start doing that now.

He had spent the entire previous time loop trying to coax as much information out of Daniel and Carter as he could. He'd convince them he knew a lot of things they hadn't volunteered so far. The whole thing was at least worth a shot.

"So, Daniel. Have you had sweet dreams?" he asked lightly. "Maybe something with tropical islands, rainforests, waterfalls?"

Daniel's head snapped up. A slight blush was spreading across his features. So it was true. Nice start there. Even though Jack had had a hard time having Daniel tell him what he had dreamed about. Well, he'd be embarrassed, too, about a sappy fantasy dream of an island in the sun.

Especially since Jack had sensed that there was someone else involved in that dream. Damn, Daniel would have to be more specific than that if Jack wanted to convince him he knew what Daniel had been dreaming about.

"Come on, Danny, tell me. We've all had this sort of dream. Who were you with?" Daniel wouldn't even look him in the eye. Jesus, that man had restrictions all right.

"Sha're," he had finally conceded when Jack wouldn't let it go. Right, might as well have guessed that, Dannyboy.

Jack focused on the here and now again. He noticed Daniel shifting uncomfortably in his chair. Carter's amused grin caught his attention. Well, he had one up on her, too.

"Don't spill it, Carter. I'd have woken up my usual bright self, too, if I had dreamed about riding a Harley down Route 66. You know, wind in my hair, all guns blazing." Sam Carter choked on her buttered toast.

"You didn't," Daniel said, lips twichting.

"Well, yeah. I did." She glared at Daniel, then turned to Jack again, eyes narrowing.

"Sir, are you sure you're okay? Not suffering from some aliens tampering with your mind again? Maybe you should go and see Dr. Fraiser on that." Obviously he had hit the goal here. Jack felt a surge of hope.

"Nope, Carter. This time it's a time loop we're in. Except that Teal'c and I remember what has happened in the previous loop and the rest of you don't." Both Daniel and Sam had turned wary eyes on him.

"That's how I come to know that you dreamed about that little motorbike trip. And that Daniel has dreamed about spending some quality time with Sha're in a nice tropical pool at sunset." Jack was slightly amused at that himself. Daniel was frowning and stared at him thoughtfully.

"Jack, I didn't dream about Sha're," he carefully pointed out.

"What?" said Jack.

He looked up sharply. Sam and Daniel exchanged glances. Damn, they looked as if they wanted to bring up the infirmary again. Why was he loosing it here?

"I didn't dream about Sha're." Daniel repeated. He blinked. Jack felt a surge of anger rush over him. What had gone wrong this time?

"So who did you dream about then?" he snarled across the table at his favourite civilian, who had to ruin this again. Daniel's face flushed.

"That's none of your business," he said defiantly.

Jack stared at the cold blue eyes and the drawn mouth. Right, this was it. He was definitely fed up with this time loop business.

"Whatever," he grunted, getting up and turning to leave the commissary for good. He might as well spend this loop in his office over some stupid paperwork. At least there would be no snarky archaeologist getting the better of him there.

Jack stared at the stack of paper lying on his desk. He couldn't bring himself to fill out forms he knew would be blank again the next day. Cursing inwardly he stretched his arms and reached for a book on the nearest shelf.

This had actually been Teal'c's idea. Once they had realized that everything they wrote down would be gone by the next loop Teal'c had figured that the only way they would be able to keep track of the number of loops would be by somehow keeping track of time in their minds. They would have to keep their minds busy anyway in order not to go insane, with the mountain being closed down with quarantine following the return of SG-9 from a planet where an unknown virus had been spreading rapidly. With lots of time on their hands and nowhere else to go Teal'c had figured that while he was fine with the soothing qualities of kel'no'reem, Jack had better put his mind to something useful. So Jack had ended up going through Daniel's extensive library trying to find something remotely interesting.

Learning a language might do the trick. And maybe come in handy one day, who knew. He had come up with coursebooks of fourteen dead languages. He had looked at Daniel astounded. Who else would be crazy enough to learn fourteen dead languages.

"Don't you have some coursebook in let's say French or Norwegian or something?" he had demanded.

Daniel had stared back challengingly. "No, I keep those at home. These are the ones I tend to need on our trips through the Stargate."

Jack had to admit the guy had a point there. When contacting descendants of cultures long dead on Earth, Daniel tended to need ancient Egyptian more frequently than modern French. Jack had finally settled on a course in Latin. He really didn't need to learn new alphabets or hieroglyphs, thank you very much. Anyway, his limited knowledge of Italian might even come in useful here. He had handed the other books back to Daniel, who eyed him suspiciously.

"What do you want with that, anyway?"

Jack had tried to look hurt. "Hey, can't a guy do something for his little grey cells once in a while?" Daniel hadn't believed him but had let it go at that.

Well, that must have been nearly two months ago, according to the number of exercises he had already gone through. Jack had nearly reached the end of that coursebook by now. And they still didn't have a clue how to overcome the time loop. He cursed again under his breath.

A knock on the door interrupted his reverie. "Come in!" he called, grateful for the distraction. Teal'c's bulk appeared in the doorway.

"O'Neill," the Jaffa demanded. "Why are you not in Daniel Jackson's or Major Carter's lab convincing them of our situation."

Jack shrugged. "You saw how it went this morning. I thought I really had them with this dream thing, then Daniel pulls off one of his stunts and I'm almost off to the infirmary again."

Teal'c came to a halt in front of Jack's desk. "You were right about Major Carter's dream and she will be somewhat unsettled by now. As for Daniel Jackson, either the time loop has indeed changed this time — which I am reluctant to believe on its fifty-sixth occurrence — or, Daniel Jackson has not been telling the truth."

Jack looked up startled. "Oh, he has said the truth this morning all right. The boy's a lousy liar." Teal'c considered this.

"Then he has not been telling the truth in the previous time loop," he stated unmoving.

Jack had to admit that that sounded even possible. After all Daniel hadn't been able to look at him when he had claimed he had dreamed about Sha're. Wadda ya know about that. The little spacemonkey had tricked him on that one!

"Right!" Jack rose to his feet determinedly. "Let's have another go then."

On their way to Carter's lab they passed Daniel's office. Daniel's phone was ringing inside. Jack glanced at his watch. 1016. He remembered hearing this call a few loops back. Teal'c turned towards him, a questioning look on his face. Jack shrugged. The call went unanswered. By now Jack knew that Daniel and Sam would be in the major's lab puzzling over a round, flat technical device SG-9 had brought back from the alien planet. He turned into the doorway of Carter's lab.

"But just how is this thing powered? I mean, obviously it can't be connected to electrical circuits, electromagnetic fields don't work either and there is no switch to simply turn it on on its own." Obviously his 2IC was in full scientific mode by now. Okay, so he could actually do something about that.

"I hate to break it to you guys, but you won't be able to do anything with this thingee without the remote." Oh, the clever scientists had a slightly annoyed look on their faces now.

"By the way, the remote's that thing over there, which looks kinda like a rubber frog. But as Carter pointed out to me yesterday, it's made up of a mixture of polyethylene and poly- something or other, I didn't really get the hang of that, I'm afraid."

"Wait, I told you that?" Carter interrupted him, incredulous eyes turned towards him. "No offence intended, sir, but I only saw this object lying on my desk this morning." Jack sighed with exasperation.

"Look, I told you we were in a time loop," he started to explain once more. "By yesterday evening, which to you was today, only you don't know it, you had figured this thing out and showed me how it works. Now I admit I probably didn't get all you told me about this fantastic alien computer — that's what it apparently is — but I've seen you turn it on already by pressing the wee frog's head and pointing it to this thing here."

They'd better buy that now, because Jack wasn't sure he would be able to explain it any better. Carter's excited explanations had surely given him a headache yesterday. Oh boy, that woman was nuts about everything slightly technical and definitely alien.

Sam and Daniel exchanged a look, then Daniel shrugged. "You can as well try what he suggests."

"Thank you," Jack remarked icily. Did they really think he was that dumb?

Sam reached for the remote, and pointing it towards the round object, pressed the little knob on top. The alien computer started to emit a slight humming noise and numbers suddenly appeared on parts of the surface.

Jack smiled, satisfied. "See? Told ya."

Daniel was apparently in the process of making up his mind about something. Blue eyes lingered on Jack for a moment.

"Jack, if Sam already managed to get this arithmetic device working yesterday, what did I do during that time?" Yep, had them almost there. Jack grinned.

"You translated a piece of parchment we brought back from our last mission. First you thought it was a dialect of Abydonian now extinct you hadn't come across yet, sort of like a major linguistic issue. But after five hours, yes Danny, five hours you figured out that it was just plain Abydonian encoded by substituting every second glyph or letter or whatever with the following one of the alphabet."

Jack grinned. Daniel had been pretty crushed. The parchment had turned out to contain nasty expressions and obscene references. Well, they had found it on the equivalent of an alien washroom, what would you expect. But Daniel had obviously hoped this might contain top secret information or revelations of some sort. He'd better not bring that up right now however, or Carter and Daniel might drag him off to the infirmary for good.

"Major Carter, Daniel Jackson," Teal'c turned in on the conversation. "We have been reliving this day for fifty-six times now. We would really appreciate your help in finding out how to end this soon." Sam looked slightly aghast. Daniel swallowed visibly.

"Teal'c, if what you're saying is true — and Jack's performance was rather convincing I have to admit — then why do you both remember what has happened and we don't?" he asked, blinking.

Jack stiffened. Performance? Rather — convincing? You just wait till I tell you what's in that parchment!

"This I do not know," he heard Teal'c's steady voice continuing. "I might be protected by my symbiote, but I cannot speak for Colonel O'Neill. We have tried to find out what started the time loop in the first place and we think it is connected to something which happened to SG-9 on P4X305. However, all members of SG-9 are still unconscious in the infirmary and we were not able to activate the Stargate to return to the planet they came from. This is where we need your help."

"All right, got that." Sam eyed them curiously. "But just what have you been doing the other, what was it, fifty times?" Jack tried to put on an innocent look, but knew he failed.

"Just trying to figure out the Stargate, basically," he muttered uncomfortably.

You know, Carter, let the guys have a little fun in a while. Oh, and I actually kissed you. Wasn't bad, you know. Had wanted to do that for some time now. I mean, you're an attractive woman. I'm only human here. Yeah, I know. Regulations. That's why I resigned first. Hey, this is one chance in a million! I can try whatever I want and you won't even remember. The whole thing was actually nice, you know. Veery nice. Not earth-shattering, but nice. Well, thank God it wasn't earth-shattering. Don't know what I'd do then as a matter of fact, with regulations and all. Wait, wait a minute. Just where is this leading? Ah, I'm not very convincing, am I. Now she'll think I've had her coupla times. Oh right, she's blushing. And Daniel's blushing, too. Now why is Daniel blushing?

"I had to prevent Colonel O'Neill from behaving unreasonably on several occasions, but apart from that we have been working hard," Teal'c cut in.

"Hey!" Jack protested.

"I bet!" Sam glanced at him a little uneasily, but slightly amused now. Daniel was staring at the desk in front of him.

"Okay, guys. Just tell me what you have found out so far." Sam sounded determined now. Jack almost sighed with relief. Finally this was heading in the right direction. There was even a chance this would be their last loop, thank God.

Eight hours later Jack's head was buzzing with fatigue. He downed the rest of his nth cup of coffee. Carter was sitting with her back to him hunched over the gateroom computer, frowning at the screen in front of her. Obviously, what she saw didn't make sense to her any more than it did to him. And they were running out of time. She turned towards him.

"How much longer do we have, sir?"

"Just over an hour, Carter." Jack knew he sounded tired. Sam's shoulders sagged.

"I'm sorry, sir, but I don't think we'll be able to make it today. I'll write down what we have so far and we'll start from there tomorrow."

Jack cursed inwardly. Sorry, Major. This doesn't work the way you or I want it to work. He'd have to explain a few things here.

"Listen, Carter. Every goddamn sheet you fill out will be blank by tomorrow morning. I'm sorry, but you'll have to tell me and Teal'c what you have so far. Let's just hope we'll make sense to you tomorrow." After convincing you of the time loop business in the first place. He didn't dare think about that again.

"Teal'c, Daniel!" he called out.

Teal'c appeared on the stairway. "Daniel Jackson is in his office, O'Neill. I do not think his presence will be of any use right now. But I'm ready to listen to your explanations, Major Carter."

Jack closed his eyes for a moment. He'd have to concentrate here.

Half an hour later Jack was heading to his on base sleeping quarters. Unfamiliar terminology was whirling around in his mind, and frankly he wasn't sure he would be able to remember any of it tomorrow. And he already dreaded what the next day might bring.

As he passed the anthropology lab he noticed there was still light in Daniel's office. Was that boy ever going to stop working? He didn't bother to knock, but opened the door and entered the familiar room. Daniel was sitting at his desk, writing arduously in a little encased book.

"Hi Jack!" he announced without raising his head. "I'm glad you stopped by. I want you to take my notes with you and hand them back to me tomorrow. I've made some really interesting observations." Oh boy, he'd have to disappoint someone again. Jack was so not happy about that time loop thing.

"Daniel," he began carefully. "I'm sorry, but those sheets will be blank by tomorrow, whether I keep your book or you do. This is something we found out quite early in the time loop."

Daniel's face fell. "Oh!"

Jack cringed inwardly. "I'd offer to memorize some of it." He rubbed his eyes, then turned to look at Daniel's hunched form again.

"But I already have to try to keep in mind what Carter found out with the gateroom computer, and that's quite some challenge for me already. I hate to admit it, but my mind's not half as brilliant as yours."

"No, that's okay, really." Daniel remarked defensively, stubbornness creeping into his shoulders, but Jack could tell he was disappointed.

"By the way, you were right about the papyrus from P3X019. The writing was encoded Abydonian, and there wasn't anything really interesting on it apart from the usual stuff." Daniel noticed Jack glancing at him curiously.

"Well, that's nothing new. On the Orkney Islands north of Scotland they found a prehistoric site some Vikings had used as a shelter during a storm. The rune inscriptions on the walls were pretty much on the same level as these writings. These people were not really different from you and me, Jack. They had the same feelings and worries we have." Didn't really convince Jack.

"It's just that all the earlier times you seemed to be pretty upset that those sheets didn't contain the wisdom of Lost Atlantis or whatever," he said. Daniel smiled.

"You have to take into account that according to you I spent five hours trying to figure out the language all the other times. I imagine I felt kind of betrayed after putting such an effort into it. Not this time, thanks to you." Daniel's smile deepened.

"Yeah, well. You'd still better call it a day and go to bed," Jack muttered. "We'll have lots of work on our hands tomorrow." Daniel blinked.

"Oh, I'm fine. The couch in my office is quite comfortable." Jack eyed him suspiciously.

"Honest, Jack. That's where I woke up this morning. I guess I've been sleeping here in all the time loops. Didn't you know that?"

Jack was genuinely surprised by this. He remembered he had met Daniel in the commissary for breakfast every morning and had simply assumed that the guy had slept in the regular sleeping quarters like everyone else. But then Daniel had always liked to have more privacy than the average Air Force soldier was treated to. Obviously he had slept in this room for the last two months. And this was the couch were he had had that dream every single night of lying in rock pools in tropical settings, not alone mind you. Oh no, he was not going there.

Jack redirected his gaze at Daniel's face. The guy looked like an innocent lamb again. Just how did he do that. "But you did take a shower in the locker room this morning, right?" he asked on a sudden impulse. Daniel's face flushed.

"Of course I did. I just go to the locker room later than most of you guys, so it's usually nearly empty. Was this morning at least." Jack felt a little embarrassed. He shifted his gaze to the bookshelves surrounding Daniel's desk.

"Ah yes, there was one thing I wanted to ask you. Can you recommend any of those Latin books you keep over there? Nothing too fancy, though." Daniel stared at him open-mouthed.

"What on Earth would you want with a book in Latin, Jack? I mean—"

And Daniel had called him condescending? "Hey, hey, hey. I've been inside this mountain for fifty-six days now. Everyone tells me the same story everyday. I had to find a way to keep my mind busy, so I figured I'd try learning Latin. Helps me keep track of time, too. It's just that I'm about finished with your coursebook, and since we may not be able to stop this thing any time soon..."

Jack trailed off. Hell, he wasn't really used to asking people for fancy books. However, a new level of respect shone out of Daniel's eyes.

"Are you the same Jack O'Neill I've been talking to yesterday? No, wait, obviously you're not. I keep forgetting yesterday for me was two months ago for you."

Jack relaxed slightly. Yeah, that was true. He was surprised he felt a little proud of himself. He had been able to impress Daniel with his knowledge. That was a new experience. And quite a nice one actually. Usually he felt left out when Daniel started his scientific ramblings. Inferior to such intelligence, truth be told. That was why he usually cut him off short. He didn't feel inferior now. Being on the same level with Daniel felt good actually.

"Ah, for recommendations. Depends on what you're interested in, Jack. If you're into politics, there's Cicero or Seneca, although Seneca tends to be more of a philosopher. No, I guess you're not really into politics. If you want to study Roman military, maybe Caesar's De bello gallico wouldn't be a bad choice, his syntax is a bit trying though." Right. Almost on the same level.

"Hey, what about poetry!" Daniel suggested.

Jack raised an eyebrow sceptically. If poetry wasn't fancy, then what was.

"No, Jack!" Daniel sounded almost excited now. "Poems are short, well, usually. You don't have to know much about cultural backgrounds since poetry mostly deals with what people felt like back then. And human nature doesn't really change in two thousand years. So this is something you will be able to relate to, too."

Okay, he was halfway convinced. At least the short thing was pretty much what he wanted. He wasn't so sure about the feelings thing, but maybe he was asking too much here.

Daniel watched the changing expressions on Jack's face amusedly. "Why don't you just come by tomorrow. Third shelf from the top. Choose anything you like." Jack felt relieved. He could live with that.

"And Jack, it's nice talking to you like this. Why don't you stop by again tomorrow night. You can tell me what you think of Roman literature. I'll be surprised as hell." Daniel laughed softly.

His eyes met Jack's for a moment, teasing. Daniel was having a good time. That was nice. The boy radiated an innocent joy that warmed Jack's heart. He suddenly felt protective about his archaeologist. He swore he would do what he could to bring back that glow on Daniel's face tomorrow again. He suddenly remembered one unfinished task. The last one for today.

"Daniel," he began carefully. "Who did you really dream about last night?" Daniel closed his eyes, which was not a good sign.

"I can't tell you, I'm sorry, Jack," he said softly, but firmly. His eyes fluttered open again.

Jack hesitated. "I'm not going to pry any further." Right now, he thought. "But I need to somehow convince you of the existence of the time loop." Daniel chuckled lightly.

"Oh, believe me. Learning that you know what I dreamed about is pretty unsettling."

That kind of dream, Jack could almost hear it.

"A few more details would be good though, might come in handy," he insisted. Daniel seemed to consider it.

"Right," he said, an unreadable expression on his face. "Just tell me that I was naked, and that the other person was naked, too. And that I was having a pretty good time." Daniel had evaded his gaze again at that last bit, colour rising to his cheeks. Jack had guessed so much already, but he wasn't sure he wanted to hear this either. He flinched slightly.

"That'll do, I guess. Now get the hell to bed." He felt overwhelmingly tired himself. Rising from his chair he patted Daniel on the shoulder. "See you in the morning."

He felt Daniel's eyes following him on his way towards the door. Looking up, he met Daniel's gaze. A curious smile was playing on the younger man's lips.

Loop no. 57

The cold blast of water hit his face with the intended result. Jack forced himself to stay under the icy spray for a moment, before turning the temperature to a more agreeable warmth. Over the years this had become part of his morning showering routine. He had found that it left him more awake than a cup of strong coffee ever would. And since he liked to meet his days prepared, the routine had become a necessity.

Jack shook his head and started mentally mapping out his day. He was rather satisfied with the progress they were making in overcoming the time loop. Today all his efforts would have to be directed towards convincing Daniel and Carter of its existence again, the sooner the better, allowing for more time to solve the actual riddle itself. He began to cleanse himself, soapy fingers gliding meticulously over wet skin. He suddenly became aware of his body, the marred skin of his torso and upper arms tokens of a life of military operations. He knew he was in pretty good shape for his age, but sometimes he felt old and scarred, and this proved to be one of those moments.

Get a grip, O'Neill, he told himself grimly. Not the time to start going over the edge. There were more immediate matters to take care of. He considered his options. If he was able to convince Daniel first thing he and Teal'c would have an ally in convincing Sam. The three of them together should be able to do this in no time at all, so first objective would be Daniel-baiting. And the first chance to talk to Daniel today was right here, since Daniel was due to the locker room showers soon, as Jack now knew. Which left him time to linger some more under the warm jets of water proving to do wonders to the aching muscles on his back. Jack sighed contentedly.

Out of the corner of his eyes he noticed a certain archaeologist stepping under one of the adjacent showers. Daniel was still sleepily rubbing his face, a stubble of hair standing up in all directions. He seemed to be totally oblivious of what was going on around him. Jack chuckled at the sight before his eyes.

Face turned upwards, Daniel turned on the stream of water, leaning into the warm spray hitting his body. The locker room was now nearly empty, as most of the other guys were ready to head off towards breakfast by now. Jack admired the sight of a naked, wet Daniel through the mist hovering over the white tiles. A few years of military operations had had a positive effect on Daniel's body. He had developed more muscles; still, only few scars marked immaculate cream-coloured skin. He reminded Jack of marble statues they sometimes came across on planets whose inhabitants were of ancient Greek origin. No wonder the women on base seemed to pay attention to Daniel's every whim. Not that Daniel was aware of that, apparently. Daniel was Daniel, head filled with mighty theories most of the time, meaning of life stuff the rest of the time. Jack stepped out of the shower area, grabbing a towel.

He had already put on boxers and fatigues and was just reaching for his shirt when Daniel joined him in the locker area, a towel wrapped around the lower part of his body. Jack stilled his movements, considering. He decided to take advantage of the situation at hand. Daniel, as he knew, was not entirely comfortable in these surroundings until fully dressed once more.

"Morning Daniel," Jack drawled out. Daniel turned around.

"Oh, hi Jack. I hadn't noticed you were still here." He turned away again and started to dry himself with a second towel.

"So, have you had nice dreams?" Jack began, amusement colouring his voice. Oh yes, he greatly enjoyed this part, the making Daniel uncomfortable part. And it worked again. The towelling movements stilled for a moment, before Daniel moved again.

"Ah, they were okay. No nightmares, no Goa'uld, no bugs," he said casually.

Jack grinned. "Trees, there must have been trees at least, I mean we meet them on a daily basis. Maybe a tropical rainforest. Would work in a romantic dream, wouldn't it? A rainforest, a nice pool, nice sunset."

The movements had stilled again. Daniel was trembling slightly. This was getting better and better.

"Hey, Danny. You could at least turn around when I'm talking to you. Not that you don't have a nice backside, but..." he trailed off.

His words must have hit a spot, though. Daniel snapped to life again. He turned slowly towards Jack, clinging desperately to the towel he was holding with both hands. His cheeks were glowing and his eyes had a slightly desperate edge. Whoa, the kid looked as if he were about to panic.

"What's it this time, Jack. Have you become telepathic or something?" Daniel was trying to keep his voice even. His eyes took in Jack's still bare chest and he swallowed visibly. This was Jack's cue. He bent forward and tried to hold Daniel's gaze.

"Danny, you have to listen to me. I'm not crazy, neither are you. We are in a time loop and we're reliving the same day over and over again. Of all the base only Teal'c and I remember what has happened in the previous loop. Now you told me about your dream yesterday. That's how I know."

Jack noticed Daniel had become more and more uncomfortable. His eyes were darting left and right, avoiding Jack's gaze.

"Daniel, you have to believe me," Jack said intently. "You told me you were not alone, and you were having a pretty good time." Daniel had closed his eyes and was leaning backwards until his head touched the locker behind him.

He had a beautiful face, Jack noticed with a pang. Straight jawline, symmetric features and soft, spotless skin. Focus, Jack told himself, not entirely sure if he was comfortable with admiring a guy's, Daniel's face that way.

"I didn't tell you who I was dreaming of, right?" Daniel asked. Jack hesitated slightly, but thought it better to settle for the truth.

"No," he admitted. Daniel's eyelides flew open, revealing bright, skyblue eyes.

"Good. I believe you." His gaze held Jack's for a moment, and Jack wasn't sure what it was those eyes were trying to convey.

Suddenly, the door to the locker room flew open. Jack started. Major Louis Ferretti appeared in the doorway, taking in the only two men left in the locker room.

"Colonel, Dr. Jackson." Ferretti entered the room. "Have you seen my watch? Must have lost it somewhere. Damn band broke again probably." He moved around peering into corners.

"No, we haven't," Jack snapped.

"It's okay, Jack." Daniel's face had flushed again, but his voice did not betray any emotion he might have felt. "We'll talk about it over breakfast. Now if you guys don't mind. I'd like to get dressed in here."

Jack caught Ferretti's amused grin. Civilians, he was saying. Jack agreed. He put on the neglected shirt and started to move for the door.

"See you," he said to Daniel without turning back, and headed out.

The corridors of the SGC were humming with the usual morning activity. Jack was on his way back from the science lab, where with the help of Teal'c and Daniel he had been able to finally convince Sam of the existence of the time loop. Any doubts she had still harboured had evaporated the minute Jack had switched on the alien computer. Jack wasn't sure if he should be proud of that or if he should feel hurt because his team obviously considered him to be pretty dumb. Well, compared to Carter and Daniel most people were pretty dumb anyway. But he had accomplished the important part of today's work. Sam was now working on the time loop thing and Daniel had also stayed behind, fascinated by an assembly of symbols the computer was emitting now and then.

Daniel's office was two doors ahead and Jack hesitated slightly, remembering the conversation he had had with Daniel the previous night. What the hell, he thought, won't hurt to at least take a look. He entered Daniel's office with its familiar layout of artefacts and books. He stepped up to the shelf containing the Latin books and started to look for something potentially interesting.

A thin, tiny volume caught his eye, which looked a little worn out already. He didn't know if that was a good sign, but thin was all right. Jack took the book off the shelf. CATULLUS it said in capital letters on the front. He skimmed through the pages. It was poetry, very short poems mostly. In fact, it looked okay to Jack, considering his current options. He noticed a dedication on the front page.

Vivamus atque amemus... Harvard 1985, Jamie, it read.

Daniel had been to Harvard, Jack remembered, after he had finished his degree at UCLA. Now what did that Latin stuff mean? Let us live and let us love or something like that. Huh, were these love poems? Oh great. This was probably what one geek gave another geek as an anniversary present. Jack shook his head, amazed. What a weird way to live. But the book would probably serve his purposes, too.

Snapping the book shut, he noticed something tucked between the last pages. It was a photograph, showing three kids in their early twenties, laughing at each other. The guy in the middle was obviously Daniel, a very young Daniel at that. On his left was another guy with black hair and brown eyes who was just reaching out to pat Daniel's head affectionately. On Daniel's other side a young woman stood, hands in the pockets of her jacket. She was leaning towards the other two, obviously chiding them, her long brown hair flowing behind her in a gust of wind. Jack flipped the picture over. Me, Kim and Jamie, 1985, it read on the back, in Daniel's neat handwriting.

Jamie. So this must have been Daniel's girlfriend at university. Jack studied her closely. She was pretty, very pretty. Didn't really look like a geek. How come all the pretty girls were always attracted to Daniel, anyway. Jack snorted. His little boy lost act probably brought out their mother instincts. And he was good looking, Jack had to admit, remembering Daniel in the shower this morning.

The sound of approaching footsteps interrupted his musings. Jack hid the volume behind his back. It was too late to dart out of Daniel's office unnoticed. The door opened and Daniel stepped inside. Noticing Jack, he came to a halt.

"Jack? What are you doing in my office?" Daniel eyed him suspiciously.

Jack tried to look unperturbed. "I wanted to ask you something, which came to my mind after I had left. Something concerning that computer thingee and those symbols." He tried to come up with something convincing. "Figured I'd find you here."

Just as Daniel opened his mouth to reply — no doubt that he didn't believe him — the phone started ringing. Phew, the 1016 phone call. The one Daniel hadn't been able to get previously. That would probably save him.

Jack started towards the door, but Daniel gestured him with an outstretched hand to stay. He picked up the ringing phone.

"Jackson. Who? Yeah, I'll take it."

Daniel smiled at him. Now Jack was curious who had managed to change Daniel's mood in an instant. He'd have to thank that person. He moved towards the door, indicating to Daniel that he'd come back later. Daniel nodded absentmindedly. Jack paused before closing the door behind him, listening to what Daniel would say next.

"Hi Jamie."

Jack thought he hadn't heard right. Was that Daniel talking? He'd never heard him use this tone of voice before. Low, teasing.

"It's been what, ten years?" Daniel chuckled.

Dammit, he was flirting with that woman on the other end of the line, who was — Jamie. Right. The geek Jamie with the Latin dedication, the pretty Jamie with the flowing hair. Daniel's ex-girlfriend. Had to be her. Who else? Daniel hadn't been seeing anyone lately, Jack was pretty sure about that.

He closed the door silently. Maybe a woman this side of the event horizon wouldn't be so bad for Daniel right now. And she seemed to be nice. Jack smiled.

The commissary was crammed with people around noon. Jack picked up his tray and made it over to the table Carter had been able to snatch from Ferretti right under his nose. Ferretti had gone off, pissed. Teal'c and Daniel had already taken seats at Sam's side. Jack was last and slipped in beside her. He winced. God, they called that food?

"And it doesn't get better the fifty-seventh time," he predicted miserably.

Teal'c raised an eyebrow and Daniel smiled at him apologetically. "You know, Jack, I'm really sorry it's you and not me who's able to remember everything. I could carry out anthropological experiments on base personnel and they wouldn't even know it. What a waste." Jack rolled his eyes.

"Trust me. After the tenth time it starts to get boring," he muttered. "By loop thirty things start to suck. By loop fifty... I'm not sure but I might be going a little insane here."

Sam chuckled. "I can imagine, Colonel." Her tone became serious once more. "We're working on the solution. Won't take too long anymore. Trust me." Well yeah, looked like he had to.

"Sir, shouldn't we inform General Hammond about the current situation?" She had turned questioning eyes towards him again. Now how to best answer that question.

"It's easier this way, Carter," he explained. "That whole convincing thing takes up pretty much time. The less people involved the better. And let's just say our buddies at the Pentagon have not been exactly forthcoming the few times we did inform General Hammond." Understatement of the century, but what the hell.

Sam nodded, turning her attention to Daniel instead. "So, what have you been up to after you left the science lab, Daniel?"

Daniel looked slightly embarrassed. "Sam, I'm working on the symbols, believe me." He beamed.

"But I've received a really exciting phone call from one of my former colleagues who's now at MIT, Dr. James Walton. He was actually one of the few people who didn't think I had gone raving mad when I came up with my theories about the ancient Egyptians."

Whoa! Wait a minute!

Jack's fork came to a halt in mid air. His ears must be playing tricks on him.

"Dr. James Walton?" he inquired carefully. Daniel didn't seem to notice the emphasis.

"Yeah. Oh, right. You were actually there when I got the call. You never told me what you wanted, Jack."

But he had already turned to Sam and Teal'c again. "Jamie and I met at Harvard when I was studying for my first PhD in linguistics."

Jamie. A guy?

"We were really close and I haven't seen him in years." Really close, you bet.

Very slowly, the truth started to dawn on Jack. Love poems, from Jamie. Let us love and let us live, Jamie 1985. Dammit, but Daniel wasn't... Was he? Daniel had been married, for crying out loud. Sam's voice drifted into his mind.

"I know, Daniel. You promise to stay in touch with all your friends when you leave university. But then everyone is scattered all over the country and somehow you end up hearing less and less about each other. It's actually rather sad. It's nice that he called you after all those years."

But Jack wasn't really listening to what she was saying. He was desperately trying to process what he had just heard. After all, over the last years Daniel had become one of his closest friends. Daniel had been married, had been very happy with Sha're, as far as Jack could tell. He had been mourning for her for quite some time. Hadn't been seeing anyone ever since, actually. Sure, there must have been someone or several someones before Sha're, he had never doubted that. But now it looked like that someone had been a guy. Jesus. That meant that Daniel was, well, bisexual would probably be the right term. And from the way Daniel had been talking to this Jamie on the phone it hadn't been just a college thing, he was still attracted to the other guy. Jack groaned.

"Colonel? Are you okay?" He became aware that Sam and Daniel were looking at him quizzically.

"I'm fine," he croaked, not daring to meet Daniel's eyes. They were not really convinced, but they took up their conversation again.

Jack closed his eyes. He was perfectly aware that these things happened in the military too, but he preferred not to know about them. What he didn't know, he didn't have to report. He didn't really have any issues against homosexuals, it just hadn't happened so close to home before. Apparently Daniel was gay, bisexual, whatever. Daniel was his friend. And Daniel was civilian, so he could pretty much do as he liked, provided that he kept it off base. He'd just somehow have to get used to the notion of Daniel with another guy. Which would take some time. Suddenly he remembered something else.

"Daniel, who's Kim?" he interjected the ongoing conversation. Daniel looked at him, not getting where Jack was heading.

"You know, Kim as in you, Jamie and Kim."

Daniel smiled. "Oh." He shot Jack a curious glance.

"Something you mentioned a coupla days ago," Jack added hastily. Don't let the boy get the wrong idea.

"Kim, Dr. Kim Jeffreys, is assistant professor somewhere on the East Coast. New York State, I think. In our time at Harvard Kim, Jamie and I were quite some team." He chuckled. "The lecturers would always sigh with exasperation when all three of us signed up for one of their classes."

Sam laughed. "Oh, Daniel. I can almost picture that. Three of your kind! We'd all run screaming, wouldn't we, Colonel?" Jack grinned ruefully.

"Now look at that!" Sam shook her head. Daniel was pouting. "Isn't he too cute for words?"

This time, Jack's smile was painful, and he knew it. Yep, he'd definitely need time to get used to this newfound knowledge about Daniel.

One hour later Jack was in his office, pacing up and down the small space left between his desk and the adjacent wall. He had been thinking. At one point he had figured that his head must start fuming any minute now. But there was no way round it. And he had finally come to a conclusion. Jack wasn't prepared to lose a friend, or a member of his team just because he had a problem with their way of living. The four of them were one hell of a team. It would take some time, but he'd get round it. And he'd better start doing that now, before anyone noticed what was up.

Suddenly an image flared up before his eyes. The dream conversation. Daniel not daring to meet his eyes when he told Jack he had dreamed about Sha're. Daniel meeting his gaze the second time, determined. "I can't tell you. I'm sorry, Jack," he had said. An idea formed in his head. Daniel couldn't tell Jack he had been dreaming about a guy. Jamie. That must be it. Definitely a reason not to tell Jack, to lie to Jack about the true nature of his dream.

Daniel with a guy in a tropical pool. Jack shook his head in amazement. Now he wasn't sure how to feel about that. The phone on his desk started to ring in outrage. At least that was the way Jack perceived it right now. Maybe not only was military personnel homophobic, but also their equipment. He picked up the receiver.

"O'Neill," he barked.

"Colonel, could you get Daniel down to my office?" Carter's voice sounded somewhat flustered. "I'd like to show him something. I've tried to reach him, but his line's busy. And I'm in the middle of an experiment, so I can't leave myself. Damn." Something was beeping in the background.

"He's getting an awful lot of phone calls lately. You think he's talking to this Jamie again?" She sounded disapproving. Probably thought Daniel didn't put enough effort into solving the time loop thing. Jack sighed.

"The stuff he translated in all the other loops was of no help whatsoever, Carter," he assured her. "But I'll go get him."

"Thank you, sir. I appreciate that." She sounded relieved. The current situation was obviously getting to her, too.

He found Daniel in a far corner of his office, kneeling in front of a table and squinting through his glasses at broken pieces of pottery; or were they rocks?

"Daniel, Carter wants to show you something." Jack had stopped in front of the table, hands in his pockets. Daniel didn't look up.

"I'll be right there. But I have to fix this first. In a minute, Jack."

Jack raised his eyebrows. This was Daniel in archaeologist mode. Except for maybe with a staff weapon or a zat gun, there was no way of getting through to him now. On-world or off-world.

A high-pitched sound made Daniel jump, disturbing his concentration. He almost dropped the pieces he was assembling. The phone on his desk was ringing. What's it with these phones today, Jack wondered. Daniel sighed in exasperation. He looked at Jack pleadingly.

"Jack, could you get it for me? I'm sort of inconvenient right now." Jack rolled his eyes. He stepped over to the desk and reached for the phone.

"Hello," he called out carefully.

"Hello?" a male voice answered his inquiry. "I thought this was Dr. Jackson's extension. Maybe I dialled the wrong number. Who am I speaking to?" The man had an agreeable baritone voice, almost musical.

"Colonel Jack O'Neill." Jack said, mind reeling. This couldn't be... "Dr. Jackson's kinda busy right now. Can you call again later?"

Daniel's voice interrupted him. "Who is it, Jack?" The other man must have heard him in the background. He chuckled.

"Sorry," he said. "Dr. James Walton, old friend of Daniel's." Yeah, I sorta wasn't prepared to have this conversation so soon. Jack winced.

"Listen, Colonel O'Neill," the other man carried on. Nope, not used to talking to military, was he. "I'm at the airport and I'm boarding my plane in ten minutes. I just remembered that there's one thing I forgot to tell Daniel earlier on."

"Right," said Jack. "Daniel," he called out.

"It's your old friend Jamie and he's at the airport. He can't call you back, so you'd better leave those rocks right now and come over here and talk to him." The man on the other end of the line, Jamie, chuckled.

"Jack, I can't. I've been working on this forever. And it's artefacts, not rocks. What does Jamie want?" This time, the laughter at the other end of the line was unmistakeable. Despite himself, Jack thought he started to like this guy.

"God, does he still do that? Let me guess. He's staring at you reproachfully because you don't treat those old pieces of whatever they are with the respect they apparently deserve." Jack grinned. Definitely started to like this guy.

"How d'you know?" he asked.

"Oh boy," Jamie answered. "You'd be surprised." Bet I would.

"All right," Jamie said. "I guess there is no other way." Jack silently agreed. "I don't know how much you know about me and Daniel," more than both of you probably imagine, "but I have just invited Daniel to my wedding an hour ago."

What?

"What?" Jack said. "You're getting married?"

Had he got it all wrong then? But what was it with those love poems, with Daniel talking to this guy in a husky, low voice. Did he start to imagine things now? Time loop's turning you insane after loop fifty-five. Some of his incredulousness must have shown in his expressions. He caught Daniel's amused smile.

"Something more about the wedding? I told him I'd have to check first whether I'll be able to make it."

He seemed to be unperturbed. Daniel, this is your ex-boyfriend getting married, something inside Jack wanted to scream. Aren't you a little upset? But Jamie must have caught onto something, too.

"Ah, so you do know. I wouldn't have thought he'd trust the military with this. But maybe you're more than just — military." Jack was getting more confused by the minute.

Jamie sighed. "Brian, that's my boyfriend, and I just wanted to tell Daniel that he'll have to let us know if he's going to make it within the next four weeks. We have our hands full with the wedding preparations over in Denmark and all. Brian's Danish, that's how we're able to get married. And tell him, he should tell us in advance if he's going to bring someone. Is he seeing anyone right now?"

Jack's mind was reeling. He had been right after all. He grabbed Daniel's chair and fell into it with a thud, groaning.

"Sorry," he said to Jamie. "It's just a bit much to take in at once."

On the other end, Jamie laughed. "I know. Listen, I have a plane to catch. It was nice talking to you, Colonel O'Neill. I'd like to meet you in person one day."

He sounded amused, teasing. A lump had developed in Jack's throat. Was this guy flirting with him?

"Anyway, take care of Daniel, will you?" Jamie carried on in a casual tone. "I'm still rather fond of him. Hell, give him my love. And tell him Brian says hi, too, my future husband." Pride was evident in his voice. Jack cleared his throat.

"Right, I'll do that. Have a nice trip," he said. The line went dead.

Jack stared at the desk in front of him for a few moments before noticing Daniel's questioning gaze.

"Okay," he said carefully. "Jamie says you should tell him in the next four weeks if you're going to make it to the wedding and if you intend to bring someone." He didn't meet Daniel's eyes.

"He says hi and so does Brian, his future husband." Shit, he shouldn't have said that. Daniel wasn't supposed to know that Jack knew that he was... Well, at least not until Jack had had more time to get used to the situation. Too late now.

The room had become uncomfortably quiet. Jack cast a glance in Daniel's direction. The archaeologist sat at his table, mouth open, red spots had formed on his cheeks. He looked panic-stricken. Jack wasn't too comfortable either. Suddenly Daniel's mouth clamped shut and he lost his grip on the pieces of artefacts before him. They went to the floor with a loud clutter.

"Oh Daniel," Jack opted for a lighter mood. "Now all my efforts have come to nothing." But Daniel wasn't paying attention to what was going on. He was staring at Jack wide-eyed.

"What has he told you?" he pressed out between tight lips. Jack rolled his eyes.

"Jamie hasn't told me anything I hadn't figured out myself by now. Except for the Brian part maybe." The words didn't seem to have an effect on Daniel.

"Look, I can't say I'm exactly thrilled at the notion of you and, and Jamie. But you'll just have to give me some time to get used to it. You. I mean the guy thing. I'll get round it, I know. But it might take a while."

He looked up. Daniel had dropped his gaze. His shoulders had sagged and he was fiddling nervously with a neglected piece of — artefact. Oh Danny, Jack thought exasperated, you've got to cut me some slack here. I haven't lost it and I'm even trying to be helpful. I know it's not much, but it's all I have to offer right now.

At least Daniel was looking at him now. "You're telling me you're okay with my being bisexual, right? And you won't tell on me." Jack shook his head.

"Daniel, you're civilian. You can pretty much do what you want. Even if they found out. But I'm not gonna tell them, no." Daniel laughed, a bitter laugh.

"Pretty much do what I want. What would you know," he muttered. Jack wasn't even sure he had heard right. But Daniel had turned his eyes towards him again.

"Jack, I appreciate it, thanks. I guess we'll both have to get used to this new situation." And this time Jack knew that he meant it.

"Damn."

Sam Carter kicked the table she was sitting at, frustrated. They were in the gate room again, and she had been trying to fix the gate room computer for the last couple of hours. Jack was too tired to be amused by his 2IC's lack of appropriate behaviour.

"It's not the table's fault," he pointed out. A last attempt at a joke. Sam shot him a glance.

"So?" he said.

"So." Sam's mouth was a thin line. "We won't get a working wormhole today. And as far as I can tell, we won't get one tomorrow either. There's more damage to the software than I figured in the beginning." She looked at Jack apologetically.

"It'll take at least two days to fix it. Sorry, sir, but the good news is, it can be fixed. I just need more time." Jack nodded. Good enough for him.

"You just do your best, Major. What's one day more or less at this point anyway." He got up from his chair. A little praise couldn't go amiss.

"It's good to have you on my team, Carter. You just finish what you're doing and I'll go check on Daniel once more."

She smiled at him. They were okay. They were a team. And they were going to overcome the time loop. He smiled back and headed down the stairs.

When Jack opened the door to Daniel's office he found the younger man going through the books on a shelf, yeah, third from the top; the Latin books.

"Hi Jack. It's got to be here somewhere." Jack winced.

"I probably borrowed the book you're looking for," he said. Daniel cast him an incredulous glance.

"The Catull," he stated, obviously not believing Jack.

"I think that's what it said on the cover."

"What would you want with that?" Daniel probably still thought he was joking. Then Daniel's eyes narrowed. "So that's how you knew about me and Jamie." Suddenly he blushed. Blue eyes seemed to be assessing Jack.

Whoa, what did go on in that mind which worked quicker than lightning. He couldn't be thinking that Jack... Wait, wait, no. Jack didn't think he had said anything which might convey to Daniel that he was in any way...

"Daniel," Jack croaked, hoping the damage was not done already. "I have been learning Latin to keep my mind from going crazy. And for measuring the number of time loops we're going through. I just chose the Catull because it was one of the thinnest books on that shelf and it didn't look too difficult. I haven't actually looked at any poems yet." A belated thought crossed his mind.

"Oh God, it's not some sort of classical gay porn, right?" His face must have shown his panic, because Daniel's features had softened and a wide grin was spreading across his face.

"No, Jack," he reassured him. "The poems are love poems. Some of them are addressed to a woman, some of them to a man. They're passionate, but not pornographic."

Okay, no gay porn. But this Catull guy had a thing for men and women, too, like Daniel, a small voice inside his head insisted. Jack chose to ignore it. He noticed that Daniel eyed him with — admiration, or something like that. Jack felt proud and uncomfortable at the same time. Jesus, was he going to be invited to join the geek club next? But Daniel obviously liked a Jack O'Neill who read Latin on a regular basis. Jack guessed he could live with the geek club then. He cleared his throat.

"Carter says she won't be able to get us a wormhole until the day after tomorrow. So no chance of stopping the time loop before that, I guess."

Daniel smiled at him. They both knew what lay ahead. By next morning Jack would still know that Daniel liked guys now and then, but Daniel wouldn't know that Jack was aware of that. The tension between them evident several hours ago had somehow evaporated. Right now, they seemed to have reached a level of understanding both could live with.

"I guess I should remind you to get the 1016 phone call tomorrow," Jack stated neutrally.

"I'd appreciate that." Daniel smiled. "I'm really glad Jamie's found someone. He's nice, Jack." That had been Jack's impression, too.

"Are you going to tell me that you know I'm bisexual?" Daniel asked conversationally. Jack thought about that for a moment.

"I think I'll talk to you after we have finished this time loop business. I'm not exactly looking forward to it." He paused as an expression of pain flittered across Daniel's face.

"Hey, that's got nothing to do with you personally. Actually it's more about me. I'm not really good at these kinds of conversations and I don't like them one bit. And there is no way I'm going to have them here, when you will have forgotten everything twenty-four hours later." Jack tried to smile reassuringly.

"Hey, Danny, you're still my friend. That doesn't change."

He was overwhelmed by the reaction his words had on Daniel. The kid seemed to glow. Daniel reminded him of his neighbour's cat bathing in the sun on a warm spot of the veranda. Well, Daniel hadn't had many friends in his life, so maybe he was really grateful that his friendship with Jack could sustain a revelation as big as this one. Jack felt flattered. Their friendship obviously meant a lot to Daniel. Now Daniel's smile seemed to grow even wider.

"You never cease to amaze me, Jack O'Neill," he said quietly.

His eyes held all sorts of emotions. Teasing, laughter, affection. Jack noticed he didn't feel intimidated by any of them. Which was surprising actually, considering that Jack O'Neill usually tried to avoid any situation which had 'potentially emotional' written all over in capital letters. They stood facing each other in silence for another moment. Then Jack turned towards the door.

"Time to go to bed, Dannyboy," he announced.

Daniel chuckled. Jack paused for a moment, hand already on the door knob, considering to ask something. Then he decided to go for it. He looked back over his shoulder to where Daniel was still leaning against the bookshelf.

"That dream," he said. "With the pool. Your were dreaming about Jamie, right?" Daniel hesitated for a moment before answering. He looked at Jack levelly.

"Yes, I was. Now good night and have some nice dreams yourself, Jack."

Something like pain seemed to flicker across his eyes, but it was gone in an instant and Jack couldn't tell if the light hadn't played tricks on Daniel's eyes. He smiled back, curiosity finally satisfied, and went off to his own bed on base.

Loop no. 58

Jack woke with a start. Squinting one eye open he found that his alarm clock had not gone off yet. His heart was beating fast and somehow the blanket had got entangled with his feet during the night. He started to sort out the mess of limbs and sheets and tried to remember what had woken him so abruptly. He had had a dream. Oh yeah, there it was. Fleeting images. Trees, definitely trees. And Daniel, running among the trees. Come on, Jack, he had called. This is fun. Then he had started taking off his clothes, still running. It had been hard for Jack to follow. He hadn't known Daniel could run this fast.

By the time Jack reached the last line of trees, Daniel had already been inside the body of water which stretched along the treeline. And there he had met the other guy. Jack wasn't able to make out his face. He could only make out strong muscular shoulders. The other guy was kissing Daniel now and touching him. Jack had wanted to call out to Daniel, but somehow no sound was leaving his throat. Daniel had started to moan. Jack could make out his flushed face, eyes closed, mouth half open. Most beautiful thing I've ever seen, he had thought. Somehow he should not be thinking about Daniel that way, but he couldn't remember why. Daniel had squeezed his eyes shut and then he had started to call out Jack's name. What had been moans soon became desperate calls for help, and Jack had realized that the other guy must be hurting Daniel. I'm coming, Daniel, he wanted to call, but again no sound left his throat. He tried to step forward, towards Daniel, but he had been standing for too long under the last trees, and roots had started to grow around his feet and legs, trapping him. Daniel's calls were desperate now. And the roots wouldn't give away Jack's legs. Jack had started to panic. Daniel needed him. No, nooo, he had wanted to call out, but his voice had failed him. That was when he awoke, panting and his heart beating fast.

Geez, what a weird dream. Jack rubbed his face with both hands, groaning. The time loop, Daniel's dreams and yesterday's revelations must be really getting to him. It was definitely time things turned back to normal again. Carter had said they might be able to fix the time loop tomorrow. Well they better had to, because Jack feared he might be really going insane before long, if they didn't succeed.

Half an hour later Jack was sitting in the locker room waiting for Daniel to finish his shower. He was already fully dressed, thinking about how to address the dream business this time. And there he was, towel securely fastened around his waist, stepping up to his locker. The skin on his bare chest and arms was glistening wet and his face was slightly flushed from the warm water of the shower.

Jack suddenly remembered the Daniel of his dream, head thrown back, droplets of water shining on perfect skin, face flushed like now, calling out Jack's name in passionate heat. The image sent a jolt straight to his groin. Whoa, Jack thought. He's the bisexual one, not you. Think about bugs, big ugly bugs. And snakes. Yep, everything under control. Daniel had put on his briefs and T-shirt by now and was just stepping into his fatigues. Time to bring up time loops again.

"Morning, Daniel," he began carefully. Daniel flashed him a smile.

"Good morning, Jack," he called back cheerfully.

Now how come Daniel was wide awake and already sounding annoyingly superior once he was fully dressed? Damn, he should have got to him while the guy was still half-naked. Just what had he been thinking.

"How are you, anyway?" Daniel asked, tying his shoes.

"Peachy," Jack growled.

"Doesn't really sound like it." Daniel looked up. "Sleep well?"

Jack put his arms across his chest. "Not really. Kept having those weird dreams." Dreams, at least got onto the subject now. "Looks like trees get to me lately." He fixed Daniel, determined now. "But I figure not everyone can have your kind of dream. Rainforests, pools, sunsets."

Jack noticed Daniel was shifting uncomfortably. Time to up the ante. "Especially when you're having the time of your life in those pools." Daniel had paled, his eyes narrowing.

"What's that supposed to mean, Jack?"

Yeah, try to fool me. I know you're scared shitless I might really know what you dreamed about. Well, sorry, but this time I do. Jack sighed.

"Daniel, we're in a time loop. I've been reliving this day endlessly now. Sadly enough, you don't remember, but you told me what you dreamed about only yesterday. Now you'd better start believing this, then we can move on or there's no way this is going to be over anytime soon." Daniel looked definitely unsettled.

That's it, Dannyboy. Right where I want to have you. And then Jack couldn't contain himself. Too rare a chance to be missed it.

"I even know who you were dreaming about," he said meaningfully. Right. Now what? Oh, come on. Suddenly Daniel had snapped back into his former self, eyeing Jack warily.

"Somehow I don't think I would have told you that, Jack." But Jack knew what he was talking about. He grinned at Daniel.

"What, tell me it was a guy?" Daniel swallowed visibly.

"Come on, Danny! First letter J?" This had to convince him, dammit.

The locker room door flew open with a pang. Ferretti, your timing sucks.

"Your watch is not here, Ferretti," Jack called out, not even looking at the open door. "Go look for it somewhere else."

Ferretti had stopped in the doorway. "Colonel? How d'you know I miss my watch?"

Jack rolled his eyes, opening his mouth for a retort. A movement stopped him. Daniel had risen to his feet and was silently communicating with Ferretti.

"I think," he said carefully, "we should get Jack to the infirmary. Something's definitely not okay here."

Oh, for cryin' out loud! Both men were slowly advancing on Jack. He held up his hands in retreat. Plan B then.

"Hey guys, can't you take a joke?" He tried to sound hurt.

"Some joke," Daniel muttered.

"Just in case I sound a little unfazed, attribute it to the low blood sugar." He was so not going to the infirmary. At least this seemed to be enough for Daniel and Ferretti.

"Right," said Daniel, "the commissary then."

Jack followed the two men out of the locker room, shaking his head. Maybe Daniel would listen to Teal'c.

"It is true, Daniel Jackson."

Teal'c was eating half a grapefruit with what looked like the utmost contempt. Jack had to admit the whole thing just sounded more convincing the way Teal'c had put it. Daniel was looking back from Jack to Teal'c, frowning.

"But Teal'c, Jack was behaving really weird this morning."

Not going there. "Daniel," Jack interrupted him. "Just listen, willya." Daniel eyed him warily.

"At 1016 this morning you will receive a phone call from Dr. James Walton, old college buddy, who's going to invite you to his wedding." Daniel snorted.

"See?" he said. "He's doing it again." He turned to Jack. "I don't know how you would know about Jamie, but there's no way he's getting married."

Jack tried his most dazzling smile. "Oh yes there is, Danny."

"Isn't." Daniel was adamant.

"Is," Jack said smugly.

"Isn't."

"Okay, guys," Sam intervened, "we get the message." She had turned pleading eyes to Teal'c, but the Jaffa remained silent.

"I have to admit the colonel's description of my dream was pretty accurate, and it's theoretically possible that we have somehow stepped out of the time-space continuum." She seemed to consider the options. "Why don't we all meet in Daniel's lab at 1010 and see for ourselves." She rose from the table. "In the meantime I'm doing a little research into quantum physics, just in case."

Jack met her gaze. "That's highly appreciated, Major," he said grimly.

When Jack entered Daniel's office at 1010 he noticed with relief that the rest of his team was already there. So they were taking this seriously, that was at least something. Daniel was sitting at his desk, eyes fixed on the phone in front of him, while Sam sat on a chair near the table with the pieces of pottery. Teal'c was leaning against one of the bookshelves.

Jack came to a halt in front of Daniel's desk, hands in the pockets of his fatigues. He was not going to miss one bit of this spectacle. Daniel ignored him completely. The silence seemed to stretch endlessly. Jack kept checking his watch. And — yes. The phone started to ring at exactly 1016. Daniel jumped. For the first time he turned his eyes towards Jack, who tried not to look too smug. Daniel picked up the receiver.

"Hello?" he asked carefully. Then a wide grin spread across his features. "Jamie! Yes, it's me, Daniel. Wow, it's been what, ten years."

His agitation had not been lost on his team mates. Sam was leaning forward in her chair while Teal'c had raised one eyebrow in amusement. Daniel's eyes were sparkling. Jack tried to hold his gaze. Tell him, Jamie, come on. Invite him already.

"Ah, Jamie, I don't know what to say." Daniel chuckled softly, blushing. "Congratulations, I guess."

Jack looked at his 2IC, who looked fairly unperturbed. He flashed her a triumphant smile. Clever girl had probably guessed all along that they were right. If it hadn't been for Daniel's stubbornness... But Daniel's words caught his attention again.

"Listen, Jamie, I just want to make sure that everything's all right with some of my friends here." Just where was he heading?

"Have you been talking to a Colonel O'Neill lately?" Daniel paused. "Right, he might not have told you his name."

Daniel's eyes flickered over Jack's face. Jack groaned.

"Jamie, I'll activate the loudspeaker so you can talk to him. Just remember I'm working for the military these days." Good point, Daniel. Let's hope he got that hint.

"Hello Dr. Walton," Jack called out. "My voice sound familiar to you?"

"No, I don't think I've been talking to you before," the familiar baritone answered, crackling slightly over the loudspeaker. "No, Daniel, I'm positive I've never talked to this guy before. Is this your colonel?"

His tone was teasing. Daniel had noticed it, too. A rosy hue had spread over his face.

"Est pulcher videndum?" Amusement was colouring Jamie's voice.

What? That had been Latin, right? Someone is, is someone, what? Is someone good looking? Who someone. The colonel? Jack opened his mouth. Daniel had blushed to an even brighter shade of red. Is he good looking. That's what Jamie must have asked. In Latin. Clever little git.

"Ah, actually he is, Jamie." Daniel's voice faltered. Jack's mind was reeling. Daniel thought he was good looking? This was getting better and better.

"Listen, can you maybe call me back in an hour or so? I could arrange for a more private conversation then." Jack took a step forward. Just a little payback, Jamie.

"Hey Jamie, say hi to Brian, willya," Jack called out. "And congratulations." Daniel stared at him, wide-eyed.

"Daniel, who was that?" Jamie sounded genuinely puzzled. "And what does he know about Brian? Is there something I should know?" Oh, this was too good to be true.

"It's the good looking colonel," Jack said smugly. "And I'm sure Daniel will explain everything to you later." But Daniel had almost dropped the receiver. He was staring at Jack, shocked into speechlessness.

"You have colonels over there who speak Latin, Daniel?" Jamie sounded amazed. "What exactly are you working on these days?" Daniel was still trying to find his voice. Jack grinned.

"Our Danny's a little out of it right now," he informed Jamie. "And he's not really allowed to tell you what he's working on. But it was a pleasure talking to you, Dr. Walton." The man at the other end of the line chuckled.

"Pleasure's all mine, Colonel. Tell Daniel I'll call him back in one hour. He owes me an explanation for all this, though." The line went dead.

"Earth to Daniel?" Jack said casually.

He couldn't suppress the grin that was spreading across his face. Daniel's mouth snapped shut. Oh my, deer-in-the-headlights look.

"Right," said Jack, directing his attention to the rest of his team. Sam's face wore a puzzled frown. Her eyes were darting from Daniel to Jack and back again.

"Carter!" Jack warned her. Can't stop a scientist's mind in overdrive. But he feared she might get the wrong impression here.

"Since you're now convinced that we're really in a time loop, you should direct your efforts to the gate room computer next," he stated. "We need a working wormhole in order to sort out this mess." Sam looked at him, still puzzled.

"Teal'c," Jack motioned to the silent fourth member of his team. "Just show her what she's found out so far. I'll sort out this little mess with Daniel here." Sam rose from her chair and followed Teal'c out of the office. Jack closed the door behind them, satisfied.

"Now, Daniel," he said, turning to face the archaeologist again. But the expression on Daniel's face made him stop in his tracks. Daniel seemed to have overcome his previous state of shock.

He looked... dammit, he looked as if he had just figured out something important. Jack shook his head, trying to sort out what had triggered the sudden change in Daniel's behaviour.

"So what's the subtext here, Jack?" Daniel's voice was dangerously quiet. His gaze held Jack's. Jack swallowed.

"No subtext, Daniel," he said lightly. Daniel snorted.

He rose slowly to his feet and started to advance on Jack. Suddenly Jack wasn't so sure who was the deer and who the hunter in this little game.

"You obviously know about Brian and Jamie, so you probably also know about me and Jamie." Daniel stopped, eyes questioning.

"Yeah," Jack conceded, not sure if it was the right thing to do. Daniel smiled dangerously.

"You understand Latin, you even use it for a little intellectual flirt with Jamie, a guy, if I may point out." Jack had opened his mouth in protest at this accusation. He had definitely not been flirting!

But Daniel's smile had grown even wider. He stopped inches in front of Jack, eyes sparkling with recklessness and something else. Something Jack wasn't sure he wanted to find out what it was. He could feel the heat Daniel's body was emitting.

"And best of all, you not only know who I've been dreaming about." There it was again, the low, husky tone Daniel had used on the phone with Jamie the other day.

Jack shivered. Oh no, this couldn't be going where he thought it might be going. This was Daniel, for crying out loud.

He stepped back against the door, raising his hands, trying to put some distance between himself and Daniel again.

"Hey Danny, slow down a bit, willya," he called out to the other man, but Daniel only lauged.

"You could have fooled me this morning, Jack, but not now. You tell me you're okay with my dreams about you. I'd call that an invitation."

What? Those dreams had been about Jamie, not about... Jack! Right? Right!

But there it was again, that blaze in Daniel's eyes, and now Jack couldn't mistake it for what it was. Lust. The rainforest, Daniel in the pool with another guy, with him? Jack was stunned.

And then Daniel had somehow crossed the distance between them and suddenly Daniel's lips were on his mouth, kissing him hard, and a jolt of electricity poured down straight to his groin. When his mind finally kicked in again, he tried to pull away. Daniel's eyes were glazed over with desire. Jack stared at him, horrified.

"Hey, Daniel. This is some kind of stupid misunderstanding."

But Daniel pushed his body back up against him. "Oh, I don't think so," he murmured, rubbing his groin against Jack's.

Jack couldn't help but notice the state of arousal Daniel was in. The feeling of Daniel's erection pressing against his groin sent another jolt through his body, his dick which had already started with that first kiss hardening still. Now that wasn't supposed to happen!

Jack opened his mouth in protest and fumbled to get a grip on Daniel's shoulders to shove him away. But Daniel seized the opportunity to push his tongue into Jack's mouth and started hungrily roaming his mouth. The assault knocked breath and strength out of Jack, before the fury set in. This was definitely it. He pushed Daniel away roughly, who stumbled to stay on his feet.

"Dammit, Daniel. Stop it, willya?" Jack yelled at the other man, who was staring at him, face flushed, blazing eyes daring Jack to deny this had aroused Jack as much as it had aroused him.

"I didn't know those dreams were about me," Jack carried on, still furious. "I thought you were dreaming about Jamie."

The implications of Jack's words seemed to finally get through to Daniel. The rosy hue had left his face and his eyes widened in horror.

"Oh my God," he groaned, turning away from Jack. "I've just made a complete fool of myself, right?" He slumped into a chair.

"Yeah, well. You're obviously not the only one," Jack muttered uncomfortably. Daniel didn't look up.

"So what are you going to do?" Daniel asked. He sounded exhausted. "Throw me out of the team?"

Jack's head snapped up. No, that thought had not crossed his mind. "No, you're too valuable, you know." Daniel snorted.

"Daniel, I wouldn't have teased you like that if I had known you were in love with me." He was definitely not comfortable with the situation, but Jack thought he owed his friend at least that much reassurance. But Daniel only shook his head.

"Just leave me alone, Jack."

Jack looked at him for another moment, slumped at his desk, head bent. Then he turned around and left the archaeologist to his own demons.

It wasn't until he was halfway down the corridor that the fury set in again. Dammit, what right did Daniel have to throw himself at Jack like that. He should have kept his feelings to himself. Had he ever considered what effect this revelation might have on the team dynamics? And how was Jack supposed to maintain the best buddy act now? At least Daniel had insisted to have the security camera removed from his office months ago. The whole base might have been witnessing their actions otherwise.

Finally in his office Jack slammed the door shut and dropped into a chair, groaning. He pounded the desk with his fist, before covering his face with both hands.

Problem was, Daniel's kiss had aroused him as hell. Daniel's kiss had in fact been what Carter's had not; earth-shattering. Jack shook his head. But heck, he was straight, right? Straight guys didn't get a hard-on when their best friend planted one on them. Their best friend who happened to be desperately in love with them. Jesus, what a mess. No wonder Daniel had been so adamant about not telling who he had been dreaming about. Jack groaned again.

But that was Daniel, and this was him. And what exactly did this encounter reveal about him? Thirty years in the military and all it took was one archaeologist cum linguist sticking his tongue down Jack's throat to make him realize kissing a guy could be mind-blowing. This particular guy's kiss had in fact been one of the most arousing kisses he had ever been treated to in his life. Oh way to go, Jack O'Neill. That's what you get when you start getting the better of people during a time loop. And you thought you had everything neatly under control.

Jack sat back, noticing the slight tremor in his hands. Reaching into his desk cabinet he retrieved a half empty bottle of whiskey, reserved for emergencies and special occasions. Well, this was surely an emergency. He poured himself a shot and gulped it down.

A knock on the door had him snap up his head. He tightened his grip on the whiskey glass. Sam Carter's lean figure emerged in the doorway. She took in the bottle on Jack's desk.

"Sir, everything okay?" she asked carefully. Jack winced.

"It's just this time loop thing getting to me finally," he conceded. "The sooner we end it the better." Fortunately Sam seemed to buy it.

"That's what I'm here about," she said, shifting uncomfortably. "Sir, Teal'c and I had to inform General Hammond about the time loop. He insisted he had to know what was so important that I couldn't work on anything else except the gateroom computer. So we told him." She cast him an apologetic glance. Great, Jack thought. Why does all the bad stuff always have to happen at once.

"I think he took it rather well," she carried on, "but he has ordered a briefing of all members of SG-1 in ten minutes." Jack sighed.

"Okay, Carter, I'll be there." The smile she gave him before closing the door behind her was probably meant to be reassuring. Jack shook his head.

Well, he still had one advantage. They would not be able to stop the time loop today, so he'd just have to get this loop over with, and Daniel wouldn't remember what had happened tomorrow. As for himself, he'd have enough time to deal with that kiss. Ah, crap. There was nothing to be dealt with. He was straight, always had been, and his body had probably only reacted that way because it had been some time since he had been getting any. Yeah, that was it. So Daniel would still have a crush on him tomorrow, but if he didn't encourage the boy, he'd get over that in time, too. So there was nothing left to worry about.

Jack rose to his feet, ready to face the world and an angry General Hammond in the briefing room.

Carter and Teal'c were already there when he arrived. Sam Carter was nervously tapping the table surface, looking up and meeting Jack's gaze when he entered the room. The general and Daniel were still missing. Teal'c was watching the blond major sitting across the table with what was probably amusement.

Jack chose the seat next to him and slumped into his chair. With mild anxiety he realized that Daniel would be sitting directly opposite him. He kicked himself mentally for not arriving earlier and planning seating orders in advance. The sound of footsteps brought his attention to the present situation again. Daniel and the general had finally arrived, taking their respective places around the huge, solid table.

Daniel, Jack noticed, did not look too well. His skin seemed to be even more pale than normally. His shoulders drooping slightly, he was avoiding eye-contact with anyone else and was staring at his hands instead. Jack caught Sam's questioning gaze and shrugged. General Hammond's words caught his attention.

"Colonel O'Neill, as I understand from Major Carter's explanations we are currently reliving the same day over and over again." The general paused, waiting for his affirmation.

"Yes, sir," Jack said.

"Then I'd like to know why I haven't been informed about this extraordinary situation earlier." The general was not amused. Jack decided that the truth would probably be his best option.

"I told you a couple of times before," he started out carefully. "But all the explaining and proving stuff took up pretty much time, and at one time you tried to convince the President and Joint Chiefs of Staff of the existence of a time loop which sort of backlashed, because they figured you had gone insane and tried to bring in a replacement." Jack winced. At least Hammond's stern gaze had softened somewhat.

"I take it they didn't succeed?" he inquired drily.

"No, sir." And that was that.

The general sighed. Oh yes, he was as uncomfortable with the time loop thing as Jack was. He turned his attention to Carter. "What have you been able to find out so far, Major?"

Sam Carter leaned forward in her chair, eager to explain what had brought about the current situation. Jack prepared for tuning out, in case scientific ramblings were about to ensue. But the general, probably sensing what was coming too, held up his hand.

"Only solutions, Major. Right now I'm only interested in solutions."

Sam smiled. "The time loop started after SG-9's return from P4X305, which is why we think it's got something to do with that planet, sir. All members of SG-9 are still unconscious in the infirmary and the gate is not able to dial out. We think we have to get back to that planet in order to stop the time loop, so we're working on fixing the gate software right now." Jack nodded. So far he agreed.

But suddenly Sam's gaze settled on him, her eyes narrowing. "Colonel, what objects did SG-9 bring back with them from their mission?"

Of course there was that computer thingee in Carter's lab, but had SG-9 brought back more stuff? Jack didn't think so.

"Only this flat, round alien computer or whatever it is, plus the remote, as far as I know. You've seen it, it's in your lab."

She was shaking her head impatiently. "I've noticed it, but I haven't had time to take a look at it, yet." She paused slightly, considering. "Sir, what exactly happened to it in all the other loops?"

Jack still didn't get where she was heading. "Well, you know yourself. By 1800 at the latest you had figured out how to turn it on and were able to tell me what it presumably was. And that happened in every loop so far." Planning on getting Carter away from playing with new alien toys? Forget it.

"Except for the times I turned it on to convince you that we were really in a time loop." He smiled. "You know me and computers. I wouldn't have been able to do it if you hadn't shown me earlier."

Sam nodded, satisfied. "See? Now forget about the whacked software for a moment. Maybe it's this object from P4X305 which is causing the slip in the time-space continuum." She was looking at them expectantly.

So, what was the point. "And?" Jack glared.

He didn't like this scientist routine she and Daniel were pulling off time and again one bit. Rubbing in to the rest of the world how clever they were was all there was to it in his eyes. Managed to drive home that they were way smarter than he was every damn time.

"She means we simply don't activate it in this loop and see what happens tomorrow." Daniel had finally decided to join the discussion, too. Jack stared at the two scientists on the opposite side of the table, horrified.

"You mean there may be a chance to end this thing today?" Oh no, not going there. Two sets of blue eyes were returning his gaze.

"But Carter," Jack tried again, panicking. "You said you'd need at least another day to fix the — oh, you wouldn't need to fix the gate first then." But if this actually was the last of loops then everyone would remember what had happened today, including...

With a sinking heart Jack realized that Daniel had worked out what exactly it was Jack was so afraid of the same instance as he had himself. The archaeologist's eyes had widened before he had dropped his gaze, the tight grip on his ballpoint pen causing the plastic object to snap audibly. But Jack had seen the hurt in those blue eyes. Shit, this was exactly why the goddamn time loop had to occur one more time. No chance he and Daniel would be getting along well anytime soon otherwise.

The awkward exchange seemed to have gone unnoticed by anyone else. The general had shifted his attention back to the other half of his whiz kids.

"Major Carter, I order you to return to your office and see to it that no one sets off this object willingly or by chance. You may return to your efforts with the gate software tomorrow, if this measure has proven ineffective." He took in his flagship team once more. "SG-1, dismissed."

Sam smiled at them and followed the general out of the briefing room. Neither Daniel nor Teal'c made any move to follow Sam suit. Jack shifted uncomfortably in his chair. Glancing across the table he noticed that Daniel had pressed his lips together, fingers trembling slightly.

"What are you waiting for, Jack?" he hissed. "Run after her and turn on the damn thing. You remember how to do that, right?" His eyes had turned cold. Daniel seemed to have pulled up an invisible wall around him.

"At least that way I won't remember any of this soon," he muttered bitterly.

"Daniel, that's not what this is about." Jack said. Yeah, well. Who was he trying to convince?

"Oh, it's not?" Daniel flared. "I'm not the one who is panicking about what other people will remember about today. I know, it could all have been so neat." He snorted.

"With Daniel never knowing that he has given himself away. Oh, the poor guy will come to terms with it. Maybe he'll wonder why Jack has grown so distant lately, but he'll get round it in time surely. That's how you had planned it, isn't it?" He got to his feet angrily.

"Daniel," Jack called out. Daniel glared at him.

"Come to think of it, it's not me you should be concerned about, Jack. I've been living like this for quite some time. I'm actually more concerned about you." Resting his arms on the table once more he leaned towards Jack.

"We both know that you were not exactly disgusted with our little encounter today," he carried on in a lower tone. "I distinctly remember certain signs of arousal on your part. You just can't admit that you enjoyed it."

Jack was clenching his fists, face flushed. Anger had welled up inside him. One more word, Danny, and you won't be saying much for a couple of days.

Daniel had straightened and turned to move out of the room. He stopped in his tracks, eyeing Jack once more over his shoulder.

"I won't be the poor bastard who's in denial. That'll be you, Jack. Now do whatever you want." With that he left.

Jack had thought he would go off like a cruise missile at any more of Daniel's self-righteous ramblings. But somehow Daniel's last words seemed to have aborted the countdown. Daniel had uttered the exact same thoughts that had been racing through Jack's mind earlier on. Only he had simply locked them away again. What his body had given away pointed to the obvious. But the obvious could not be true. Now courtesy of Daniel the thoughts were all fresh in his mind again. He's right, a voice inside his head insisted. You know he's always right.

"What has transpired between you and Daniel Jackson?" a deep voice suddenly inquired.

"Jesus," Jack started.

"I am not Jesus," the Jaffa noted.

"Teal'c," Jack shook his head. "I know that. You just gave me the creeps. I had forgotten you were still here." One raised eyebrow acknowledged that.

"You had," Teal'c conceded.

Jack sighed. "Teal'c, this isn't something we can discuss in here."

The Jaffa's gaze was unwavering. "Then we will discuss it elsewhere." Jack winced, then decided to play along.

"Okay, I guess you won't let it go, huh? Off to your quarters then, big boy."

"You are avoiding my questions, O'Neill."

Jack was pacing up and down the far side of Teal'c's permanent base quarters. The Jaffa had made himself at home in the spartan military surroundings, fine cloth from Chulak and the array of candles necessary for kel'no'reem lending the room a solemn atmosphere.

"If you are not willing to tell me, I will see Daniel Jackson himself on the matter," Teal'c observed.

Jack stopped, and turned to face him. "No, Teal'c. That's not necessary." Teal'c's stern eyes met his gaze.

"Your disagreement will obviously be affecting the whole team. I cannot allow that. Among the Jaffa we have a reconciliation ritual. I could perform that for you and Daniel Jackson."

Jack had resumed his former stride. "That's appreciated, but no, I don't think so."

The ensuing silence seemed to stretch endlessly. Finally Jack could bear it no more.

"Okay, so he kissed me," he admitted, eyeing Teal'c warily. "You know, kiss as in..." What exactly was he trying to illustrate with his right hand? Stupid, really.

"I know what a kiss is," Teal'c remarked unnerved. Now that stoic warrior thing was really annoying, too, at times.

"On Earth guys don't usually kiss," Jack explained sharply, "at least not in the military."

"That has come to my attention," Teal'c stated. "Another strange Tau'ri custom." Jack stared at him. Had he heard right?

"Another what? Don't tell me Jaffa warriors are encouraged to..." Jack didn't even know how to finish this sentence. Gay aliens, geez.

"They are encouraged to form strong emotional bonds. It is the most natural thing in the universe."

"Fine. But we're on Earth, remember? And Daniel seems to be in love with me."

Teal'c still looked unperturbed. "I have known that for a while, O'Neill."

Jack turned to him, incredulous. "You have what? Oh come on, why didn't you tell me? Might have saved me a lot of trouble." But Teal'c shook his head.

"You would not have been comfortable with that information. And neither would have been Daniel Jackson. He has been concealing it quite well so far."

Damn, if only Teal'c hadn't been so stubborn. Jack pounded the wall with his fist, then noticed that Teal'c was watching him with what looked like amusement.

"What are your feelings towards Daniel Jackson?" he inquired. Well, that was exactly what Jack was not here to discuss.

"He's under my command. I keep him outa trouble as best I can." Jack shrugged.

"So you did not enjoy this kiss?"

Time to try his best poker face. "Well, you know," he said nonchalantly.

"Daniel Jackson seemed to claim otherwise." Where on Earth had Teal'c learnt this interrogation technique? Okay, not on Earth.

"So what if I did like it?" No, that came too close to the truth.

"So what indeed." Teal'c did not appear to be surprised.

"Hey, I didn't say I did like him, that way," Jack protested.

"You did not?" This time the eyebrow was definitely trying to reach the non-existing hairline.

"Come on, Teal'c. You're worse than Daniel right now." It was surely getting creepy.

"O'Neill, what are you afraid of? He is returning your feelings." And wasn't that just the problem?

"Oh for crying out loud, Teal'c. I've never been attracted to a guy before in my entire life. Doesn't that tell you something?" Nope, it didn't convince Teal'c.

"Maybe this possibility simply did not occur to you before?" he suggested. Thus speaks your Jaffa psychologist. Just great.

"You of all people of the Tau'ri should know that there are more things under this or any other sun than most people imagine. Hasn't SG-1 time and again proven that nothing is impossible, that in fact the possibilities in this universe are endless?" Not that quantum babble again, please.

"You shouldn't spend so much time with Carter," Jack muttered.

"You should spend more time with Daniel Jackson," Teal'c said gravely. "He is one of the most benevolent beings I have ever encountered. It is no shame to love such a person."

"Hey, I didn't say I love him, right?" But you probably do, a part of Jack insisted. Yeesh, looked like Teal'c had been driving home his point successfully.

"Fine. Say, maybe I am attracted to Daniel. What do I do?" Was there a triumphant gleam in Teal'c's eyes?

"Hey, I said maybe." Why do I get this feeling I'm making a complete fool of myself?

"You simply tell him so," Teal'c advised.

"Ah, I'm not sure he's willing to listen to me right now." But Teal'c shook his head.

"Do not underestimate Daniel Jackson. Tell him about your feelings and he will listen."

Tell him about your feelings. Jack had never been good at that, never ever. Not with Sarah, not with, yeah maybe with Charlie. Charlie, that name still held bittersweet memories, tugging at his heart every time he thought of him. Charlie had been his world. He had never again been so happy and never so devastated. Charlie's death caused by his gun. But Daniel had managed to make him see something worth living for again, that first time on Abydos. Daniel had never given up on him.

And that look in Daniel's eyes in the debriefing room, all that hurt and disappointment, he had seen that look before, in Charlie's eyes. When Jack had done or said something that had betrayed Charlie's utter trust in his Dad. Jack had always been able to earn that trust back, to make things all right between them. Except for that final time. Maybe he did love Daniel, maybe he could make things all right between them again. He sure as hell wanted to do that, earn Daniel's trust again, make him happy.

"I still can't say I'm comfortable with this guy on guy thing, Teal'c," he muttered.

"I did not expect that to happen over night, O'Neill," Teal'c said. "I am certain neither does Daniel Jackson."

Jack eyed him quizzically. "Very subtle. You trying to get rid of me now?"

He straightened his back. Jack O'Neill had been in worse situations, right? "It's okay I'm already on my way. See you tomorrow, Teal'c."

So, there he was. Jack took a deep breath, steeling himself. A knock on the door, Daniel's answering call and off into his office. Daniel was sitting at his desk, flipping a pen through his fingers. He looked up as Jack entered, his face closed.

"What do you want?" Okay, he probably deserved that.

"I'm not gonna turn on the time machine," Jack announced, coming to a halt in front of Daniel's desk. He put his hands in his pockets.

"Ah," Daniel said, turning his attention to the report he was writing once more. The little bugger. Jack kept staring at him, willing him to look up again. "Anything else?"

He had to give Daniel credit for pulling off such a cool act after all that had occurred between them. Jack shook his head.

"Whatever happened to hot-headed Dr. I-don't-have-a-problem-you're-in-denial?" he asked. Daniel tensed, sending him an angry glare.

Then he sighed. "Look, can't we just forget all of that ever happened?"

Jack swallowed. There it was, the way out, and Daniel was the one presenting it. They could simply turn back to being friends again, saving the world together, Friday nights with hockey, pizza and beer...

"No," said Jack.

"No?" Daniel sounded confused.

"You know, I guess I'm okay with it," Jack said, picking up a piece of rock and squinting at it. Daniel blinked.

"Okay with what?" he asked carefully. Well what were they talking about?

"With your feelings for me." Jack set down the invaluable artefact, risking a glance at Daniel's face. But Daniel was shaking his head.

"Jack, I appreciate that you're trying not to hurt my feelings, but this isn't the right time or the right place for this kind of conversation." So Daniel was rambling again. But he wouldn't get away with it this time.

"Daniel, it's not your feelings I'm talking about," Jack snapped. Damn, nobody had told him it was going to be that hard.

Daniel was staring at him, brilliant mind reeling, mouth half open. Jack's gaze was drawn to those full lips. He remembered how they had felt against his mouth, and caught himself wondering at how they would feel on other parts of his anatomy. He shivered. If it hadn't been obvious to him before, there was no denying it now. He wanted Daniel, wanted to touch that smooth skin, take that gorgeous guy and put him against the wall behind them, pressing his body against Daniel's. Jack shook his head, dazed.

"Jack, are you trying to tell me something here?" Daniel was eyeing him warily.

Jack hesitated. "Daniel, how about some repeat performance of what you've done earlier," he suggested. Daniel stared at him.

"Why?" he asked tentatively. Jack returned his gaze.

"Because I'm a little — confused?" Stop with the reasoning already, Dr. Jackson, and get with the program before this old colonel here changes his mind.

Some of that must have got across to Daniel because he had put down his glasses and was moving around the desk to where Jack stood.

"Okay," he said, flashing Jack a quick smile.

This time Jack was prepared for a warm body pressing up against his own, unfamiliar with its hardness and weird edges, and Daniel's lips on his own once more, opening slightly, welcoming him inside. What he wasn't prepared for was Daniel's gasp when he took what was offered, pushing his tongue inside; Daniel's moans when he grazed his tongue against Daniel's and explored his mouth. Jack could feel Daniel's arousal pressing up against his own semi-hard dick; and then it was Daniel's tongue exploring his mouth, sending tiny sparks along his spine, and he felt Daniel's arms tighten around him, reminding him that he was kissing a guy who was virtually as strong as he was. Oddly enough, this only added to his arousal and he kissed him back, groaning.

And then Daniel broke off the kiss, panting and suddenly he was at the office door, taking a look outside and then turning the lock. Jack felt lightheaded. Talk about being hit by a lorry; Goa'uld mothership more like.

"Daniel, what are you doing?"

Daniel turned round. "Jack, listen to me. This is a chance we'll never get ever again. So I'm gonna take advantage of it." Okay, so much excitement was usually only reserved for stuff hundreds of years old.

"Here's the deal. You just go with the flow. So far I think you've liked it." Jack opened his mouth, but Daniel held up his hand, clearly not wanting to be interrupted before he had had his say.

"I get the chance to have Jack O'Neill once in my life, even if I won't remember it later. If you feel like this should never have happened you can go to Sam's lab and activate the looping device once more." Jack found he couldn't turn his eyes from Daniel's face. He stared into cerulean blue, mesmerized.

"Deal?" Daniel's voice cut through the haze.

"Deal," Jack croaked.

Daniel flashed him a brilliant smile, stepping up to him once more. "So let's move things to that couch over there, Jack," he said in a husky voice.

Later Jack couldn't remember how they had made it across the room and how they had got rid of their clothes. But he'd never forget what Daniel had looked like, standing in front of him in only his briefs, flushed and with a shy smile on his face.

Then Daniel had put his hand inside Jack's boxers and had started to work his dick. Jack had gasped and Daniel's smile had deepened. "Whatever you want, Jack," he had purred against his ear.

The gush of air along with the possibilities those words opened up had sent another jolt down his spine, and he simply had to nuzzle that inviting neck inches from his face. Daniel had quivered. "Do you want me to suck you off?" he had asked.

Jack had groaned. Oh Danny, what kind of question is that? His dick had twitched and Daniel had chuckled. "I take it that's a yes."

And then he had gone down on him, pulling off the remaining underwear and moments later his dick had been engulfed by wet heat; Jack had had to look and what he saw almost sent him over the edge there and then. He had groaned and squeezed his eyes shut, and Daniel had chuckled again and the vibrations had sent his dick quivering.

And then Daniel had started to work him in earnest and all he could do was hold on to Daniel's head and the world had narrowed to his dick and Daniel's mouth, and then he had not been able to hold it back any longer. He had tried to give Daniel a warning, but Daniel had refused to let go and had swallowed it all, sucking him dry until he was all spent. And that was how he had come by one of the hottest blowjobs he had ever been treated to, courtesy of Dr. Daniel Jackson, resident archaeologist, babe of the universe and formerly best friend.

He had fallen back onto the couch, panting, and Daniel had been all over him, eyes blazing, kissing him hard, and he had tasted his own come in Daniel's mouth. Daniel's erection stabbing into his stomach had reminded him that he should probably reciprocate in some way, and he had grabbed his dick and started to jerk him off.

"That okay?" he had asked, but Daniel had only groaned into his mouth. Jack had taken that as an encouragement and it hadn't actually felt that weird jerking another guy off.

And the noises Daniel had been making were amazing. He was loosing himself in Jack's touch, and Jack realized he had never seen Daniel let go like that. And he was the one doing this to Daniel. Daniel's gasps had turned into moans and then he had tensed, calling out Jack's name and coming all over Jack's stomach. He had started to shiver and Jack had pulled him in tight and had put Daniel's head on his shoulder. Wetness had splashed onto his skin, and Jack had realized horrified that Daniel must be crying.

"Oh, Danny," he had said. "I'm not going anywhere."

He had started to gently rub his back, and Daniel had shaken his head, stubborn little bastard. "I'm sorry, Jack. I'm sorry."

And then Jack had dried them off and had pulled a blanket around them, which he had found neatly stacked behind the couch, and he had held onto Daniel until he had fallen asleep.

It took a moment for him to realize where he was when he woke up next. His arms and legs were cramped and his back hurt, and someone was lying snuggled up against him. He squinted one eye open, but all he could make out in the dim light seeping through the crack of a door at the other end of the room was the back of a head and a bare shoulder. Daniel.

And this was Daniel's office, and they were lying on Daniel's couch butt naked. The digital clock on Daniel's desk said it was 0730. The events of the previous night started to come back to him. He had had sex with Daniel, and what was more, he had loved it.

But now he wasn't sure if they hadn't actually made a huge mistake. Because frankly, he couldn't picture the Jack O'Neill he knew with another guy. No, it didn't fit. Maybe he should try to sneak out of Daniel's office without waking him and deal with the repercussions later.

Jack tried to disentangle himself from Daniel, pulling his arm out from under Daniel's head. Daniel stirred. He tried to move backwards, but Daniel followed suit. Great. Of all the worst case scenarios in the universe he had never envisioned that one. Now his morning erection was pressing up against Daniel's ass in a way the guy was bound to notice once he woke up.

Daniel took a deep breath. "You're still here," he said sleepily. Uh-huh, but not for long if I can help it.

"Time loop has stopped apparently," Jack said.

"Good," said Daniel, "then we're all on the same page again."

He turned around, reaching across Jack for the switch of the reading lamp beside the couch. Jack blinked in the bright light. When his eyes had adjusted he found Daniel looking at him with a curious smile on his lips.

"Morning," said Daniel. "Any regrets?"

He had wanted to avoid that one. "Not really," Jack said. Daniel reached between them and got hold of Jack's dick.

"I'm not sure that's a good idea," Jack said, panicking.

"Why?" Now Daniel had aligned his dick with Jack's and was working them both with the same hand. "You're up for it."

Why? There were a million reasons why. The military, the team dynamics, the minor fact that Jack had lived his previous forty-something years the straight path of heterosexuality, including marriage and the whole package. Yeah well, that hadn't really worked out. If what Daniel was doing now just didn't feel so damn good, then maybe he could work up an argument why this was definitely not a good idea, but dammit, Daniel was good at this, like he was good at everything he set his mind to, and then there was suddenly no reason why this should have ever been a bad idea. Go with the flow, Daniel had said, and when it came down to it Daniel always turned out to be right, and now Daniel was calling out his name, like he had called out his name in that vision years ago, when they had all thought he had died in those flames, like he had called out his name last night. God he had thought he couldn't go on living without him.

Just like that other time when he had thought he had lost him on Apophis' ship, and then he had stepped from behind those SFs in the gateroom and Jack simply had to hug him there and then, and now he couldn't get close enough to Daniel, and then there was an explosion of light, and everything was wet and sticky and Daniel was holding him tight and was murmuring sweet nothings in his ear and his cheeks were wet and dammit whose tears were that, surely it wasn't possible that a special ops trained USAF colonel could be reduced to tears by a geeky archaeologist cum linguist who happened to be the most gorgeous guy in the galaxy and with whom Jack happened to be desperately in love, only he hadn't known that until now.

"Better?" Daniel was still talking to him, but now he seemed to be expecting a coherent answer.

Jack slowly surfaced from the land of milk and honey or wherever that place was he had been spending some quality time at. Daniel was frowning and yeah, he should be concerned about something too, come to think of it, now what was that again?

"What about regulations?" He managed to recall that one.

"Since when have you cared squat about regulations." Okay, that was true.

"But what about the team dynamics? Those regulations are there for a reason."

Daniel rolled his eyes. "In case you haven't noticed, I've had a special status on that team right from the start. And since I'm the only civilian on SG-1 you have always paid special attention to my security." True.

"Not that that has made much difference," Jack pointed out.

Daniel lightly punched his shoulder. Then he turned serious again. "Not your fault, Jack."

Damn, busted. Daniel knew him better than he had figured. But they had been through a lot together in the last years. Which led him to the trickiest issue.

"Daniel, you know my track record doesn't exactly include guys." Daniel flashed him a smile.

"Not until now," he said. He sounded almost proud, and Jack was at a loss at what to say.

"Not a problem for me," Daniel announced. "Is it one for you?" looking at Jack from under his eyelashes, blinking nervously. How could you possibly turn down that guy.

"I'm not sure," Jack stated truthfully. "But I might be willing to give the whole thing a try." There, that had to be enough. And apparently it was.

"Good," Daniel said. "Good."

He leaned closer and brought his lips to Jack's mouth again. For a moment Jack felt an urge of the old panic, but then sensation threatened to overwhelm him, and he pulled Daniel tight, hands roaming over his back down to his glorious ass and he dug his fingers into the tight muscles.

Daniel broke away with an evil grin. "That ass is going to be yours tonight."

Jack groaned, squeezing his eyes shut, and to his embarrassment he felt all his blood rushing to his dick again. Which hadn't gone unnoticed by Daniel. He chuckled and Jack had the distinct impression that that had been exactly what Daniel had intended.

"Somehow I think you are going to be quite a handful, Dr. Jackson," he growled, but Daniel only laughed and playfully bit his neck, sending another shiver down Jack's spine.

"God, Danny." Jack opened bleary eyes. There was a radiant smile on Daniel's face. Damn, he hadn't seen Daniel so happy in a long time.

All of a sudden Daniel lowered his eyes again, blushing. "What?" asked Jack.

"Love you," Daniel mumbled.

Jack groaned and pulled him in for a tight hug. "Likewise," he muttered against Daniel's ear. He could feel Daniel's answering smile against his shoulder.

A knock on the door had him tensed up again. "It's okay, let me handle this," Daniel whispered, pulling out of Jack's embrace.

"Yeah?" he called sleepily, followed by an especially loud yawn. Jack relaxed. Daniel could pull off almost any act if he wanted to.

"Sorry, Daniel. I didn't want to wake you."

It was Carter. And God bless her, she sounded truly sorry. Jack couldn't help the grin that was spreading across his face. This might even be fun. Daniel glared at him warningly.

"Just wanted to tell you that it looks like the time loop is really over."

Daniel got up, stretching long limbs. "Yeah, noticed that, too."

Jack shook his head. Maybe Daniel was overdoing it somewhat with the show.

"So you also remember what happened yesterday?" Sam asked.

Daniel turned round, noticing Jack watching him. Or maybe he had known all along and the show had actually been for Jack and not for Carter.

"Every single minute," he said with a wide grin, holding Jack's gaze. Jack rolled his eyes, but he couldn't help feeling immensely flattered. God, Daniel obviously had it bad.

"Daniel, you okay?" Carter sounded slightly worried.

"I'm fine." Daniel looked as if butter wouldn't melt in his mouth.

Then he winked at Jack. "Think Jack and Teal'c will have survived the last loop?" Bastard, Jack mouthed. Love you too, Daniel mouthed back.

"I guess we'll know soon enough," came the not so enthusiastic reply. Haha, very funny. I'll remember that, kids. You better watch out next time we're off base.

"'kay, Daniel. See you for breakfast." At least Carter would be off now.

"Yeah, thanks Sam. See ya."

Jack waited till Carter was at a safe distance, then he started to advance on his wayward archaeologist. "You," he growled.

"Yeah? What is it?" Daniel was in innocent mode again, but Jack noticed that his breath was coming faster. He decided to change his tactics, shrugging casually.

"Nothing. Figured I might take a shower and then grab something to eat in the commissary. See how Teal'c's doing." Out of the corner of his eyes he noticed Daniel's shoulders sagging. Gotcha.

"But then again maybe Hammond will give us some downtime once we're through with the debriefing, and I know this nice, quiet place in Northern Minnesota with a lake where the fish are that big." Daniel's head jerked up and Jack couldn't help noticing the hope that flared up suddenly in Daniel's eyes. Sometimes you're so easy to read, kid.

"And you know what? I happen to have a nice little cabin there—"

"With a nice big bed?"

Oh, for crying out loud! Linguists. You couldn't keep a handle on them. But then maybe he didn't even want to. Not on this one anyway. He took a step towards Daniel.

"And this time you are coming with me, Daniel! No appendicitis, no playin' with reactors is my idea of fun—" Shit, that had been Carter. Daniel had taken a step away from him. Damn, now he was pouting.

"Ah, come on, Danny!" Jack called out. "You know I didn't mean it like that. You and me and a lake full of fish, watcha say?"

Daniel didn't look convinced. "I never said I wouldn't come with you. But you'd better leave Sam out of this from now on." Yeah, point taken. He pulled Daniel into a searing kiss.

"Northern Minnesota," he said when they came up for air.

Daniel's smile was blinding. "Northern Minnesota," he agreed.

Woohee! Minnesota here we come!

The End

Disclaimer: Stargate SG-1 and its characters are the property of Showtime/Viacom, the Sci Fi Channel, MGM/UA, Double Secret Productions, Gekko Productions, and probably a whole bunch of other people. I do not own the characters and indeed am only playing with them for a little while. I am not making any money from this and I'm still paying for everything I own so there's very little point in suing me. No copyright infringement whatsoever is intended. The story is for entertainment purposes only. At least I hope it's entertaining. The original characters, situations and story are mine. Please check with me first if you want to archive or link to this story.

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