A/Ramble: Because I still have birthdays on my mind :) I wondered what would be the perfect gift for Jack, and I think I've found a worthy contender. Shippiness enclosed. Mistakes are mine. Enjoy!

~ Perfect Nothings ~

An errant thought emerged in Jack's mind as he continued to type his latest mission report. His birthday was never a big thing to him, although the fact that this was his fiftieth made the date more prominent. He wasn't counting the days leading up to it; he didn't tell anyone it was today, nor did he intend to. Heaven forbid someone would throw a party for him or drag him out to dinner to mark the occasion. That would add insult to injury.

And the gifts. God, have mercy. Even the little ones looked like an effort had been made to remind him that he was getting older.

Jack silently let out a sigh and quickly finished his report. He hated these dry spells between missions when paper-pushing was his only form of entertainment. Contrary to popular - mostly encouraged by Jack himself - he not only knew that he had an office, but also where it was located. He just liked to be enigmatic. The enigmatic Colonel Jack O'Neill.

"Hi, Sir."

Jack lifted his eyes to the door and was actually surprised to find it was Carter cheerily greeting him. She never left her lab unless she needed something. Except for sleep and food. A superwoman like Carter shuns the basic needs of mere mortals.

"Carter."

She came bearing cake. And coffee. It's strange that he finished his last cup only moments ago. He's taught her well, though he wonders why.

She doesn't say anything as she sweetly offers him the plate of vanilla cake and the steaming - Oh, yum - coffee. He's not an idiot: Jack happily accepted them. The smile on her face is one of someone who knows something and he instantly realised that his unnaturally brainy and physically blessed Major knows that it's his birthday.

It occurs to Jack that it isn't really the cake that she is presenting as a gift. It's the friendly consideration and the fact that she's been paying enough attention to know that he likes cake. It's kind of touching, but he'll never admit that he's a sap. As always, he enjoyed the special little smile she bestowed upon him that says everything they dare not actually verbalize before she leaves. He thanks her with one of his own. Once she's gone, he takes a sip of the very hot beverage.

She's been paying attention to how he makes his coffee too.

He likes that.

For once, he doesn't feel bombarded or burdened. She didn't say the words to remind him of his age or throw him a party. But she knows. He's glad she also knew not to make a big deal out of it. There will be no going out for dinner with her tonight and he's satisfied with that. For now.

Jack gently smiled at the perfectly cut slice of cake on his desk and took a spoonful.

Definitely perfect.

~ SJ ~

For those who don't make a big deal about their birthday. Hope you enjoyed. Merry Christmas everyone! Stay safe and peace.