Title: Reverse Psychology

Category: Best Jag Story and Vignette

Rating: PG

Disclaimer: These characters belong to DPB, not me.

Author: Astrid

Feedback: astridz55@earthlink.net

Modern Drunkard Magazine is actually a real magazine.  I found out about it when I saw an article in the news about it.

“Colonel, have a look at this file,” Creswell said as he handed Mac a file.  He waited for her response that he knew would come soon.

“Disorderly conduct. Is that all? What about conduct unbecoming an officer?” she asked incredulously. 

“That can be included, the charges aren’t finalized yet. Do you see anything that could be a problem with this?”

“Drunk in public, first offense, he wasn’t on duty and it doesn’t look like there was any warrant to go into his quarters to find these magazines. I still don’t think it should be too difficult to prosecute this one.”

“I was hoping that you would want to be involved with this one but you will be defending Captain Donahue, not prosecuting.”

“Defending?  General, this guy was drunk in public in Afghanistan then they found several copies of Modern Drunkard Magazine in his quarters.  Muslims don’t drink, I’m sure they found this terrible offensive.”

“Yes, Colonel, I know they don’t drink and yes they did find this offensive.  That is why Donahue is being brought up on charges.”

“Why do you want me to defend him, Sir?”

“Because I think that you will do a good job.  Do you disagree?”

“Well, no, Sir.  It’s just that…” she paused, not sure if she wanted to reveal her alcoholism to him at this point.

“Maybe, I’ll give this to Rabb after all.  He said that you wouldn’t be able to handle it,” Creswell said while reaching out to take back the file.

“Excuse me?” she asked surprised.  “Rabb said I couldn’t ‘handle’ this?”  She snatched back the file.  “I’ll make sure that this Captain gets the best possible defense, Sir.”

“I expected you would,” he said.

“I will also suggest to the convening authority that Captain Donahue’s FitReps be reviewed carefully. And that he be transferred to a new location so as to not offend anyone with his drunkenness. Maybe Iceland,” she said.

“Good. Dismissed,” he said.  He waited until she had shut the door before he smiled.