He stepped from the elevator dressed in his usual clothes, an expensive designer suit, shirt, pants, tie and shoes. He strolled casually to his desk and smiled across at Ziva. She flashed a quick smile back before going back to her work.

“Morning,” McGee said as he walked in.

“Morning McGee,” Tony and Ziva said in chorus.

“Going down to see Abby,” Tony said as he jumped up and headed to the elevator. When he got down he saw Gibbs standing with Abby and a smile spread across his face.

“Hey,” he said as he approached them. They turned and a smile crept onto Gibbs’ face.

“Hey yourself,” he replied.

“Hey Tony,” Abby said as she walked to her computer.

“I’ll be back later to see what you got,” Gibbs said to Abby as he headed for the elevator.

“Bye Abby,” Tony said as he quickly followed Gibbs. When they got in Tony’s smile grew wider.

“You’re happy today,” Gibbs said as he took in Tony.

“I just haven’t seen you in a while,” he said as he played with his tie. Gibbs flicked the elevator off.

“You see me every day,” he laughed.

“I meant personal time,” Tony said as he smile faded a fraction.

“I know, I’m sorry,” Gibbs said as he brushed his fingertips against Tony’s cheek.

“I guess there’s just been too much work,” Tony replied. His smile was fading faster and Gibbs could see that he needed to cheer Tony up.

“How about you come around tonight, I’ll cook dinner,” he suggested. Tony looked into those mysterious blue eyes and smiled.

“I’d love that,” he said as he leant across in front of Gibbs and flicked the elevator back on. Gibbs smiled as he pulled Tony close and quickly pecked him on the lips before the doors opened and they stepped out.

“We found the car,” Ziva said as they walked to their desks.

“Let’s go,” Gibbs said as he grabbed his gun from his desk. Everybody was hot on his heels.
When they arrived at the unfilled caravan park they saw the blue Chevy that the suspect had stolen. They approached it with caution to find nothing.

“Check the caravans,” Gibbs ordered. They checked each caravan to find not even a tiny bit of evidence. They gathered back at the car.

“Nothing, absolutely nothing,” Tony said as he kicked at the ground.

“Why would he leave the truck here?” Ziva wondered aloud.

“Because he’s in the trees over there,” McGee said as he pulled out his gun. The other followed suit and were quickly running into the trees. Shots were fired from all directions.

“He’s got Kristen,” Gibbs yelled. A man in a black hoddie, dark jeans and sunglasses was running, dragging a fragile looking blonde behind him. He disappeared out of their sight but they kept running in hope of finding him. Gibbs motioned for them to keep going straight as he ran around into some thicker growth.

After a running pursuit they stopped. Everything went silent and they looked about frantically. Gibbs still hadn’t appeared. A gunshot echoed around them and they drew their weapons up. They heard footsteps and aimed in the direction they were coming from. Gibbs appeared supporting the blonde. They put their weapons away and rushed to help them both out. Ziva and McGee took the girl while Tony held back with Gibbs.

“Nice work boss,” he said as they headed back through the trees.

“Just doing what I do,” Gibbs said as they stepped out of the trees. Tony smiled as they approached Ziva and McGee. They headed back to NCIS and when they got there went straight to Abby’s lab.

“What you got Abby?” Gibbs asked as he neared her. She smiled and pointed to the screen.

“I found traces of arsenic on the cuffs of his jacket and on his sandwich,” she said as she pointed to the table which held the two items.

“That’s original,” Tony said.

“So somebody was trying to kill him, but who?” McGee said as he walked up to Abby.

“Good work Abs,” Gibbs said as he left. The team followed him. The blonde was walking towards him.

“Thank you Agent Gibbs,” she flirted. He grabbed her arm and cuffed her.

“Tony, her rights,” Gibbs ordered. Tony spoke out her rights as he followed Gibbs who was taking her to interrogation.

After 10 minutes she finally confessed to putting the arsenic on the suspect’s food. Gibbs pleased with his job, left interrogation. He sat at his desk and placed his gun in the draw and locking it.

The rest of the day seemed to pass slowly. Everybody was sick of writing up reports. Gibbs looked around, he saw McGee listening to something on his IPod, Ziva reading a GSM magazine and when he looked at Tony he was looking right back at him.

Tony smiled and in return Gibbs smiled back. They sat there for a few minutes just looking into each other’s eyes. By this time Ziva and McGee were watching them.

“Heck lets head home,” Gibbs said suddenly. They all jumped up and headed for the elevator. They stepped in to see Abby, Ducky and Jimmy in there as well.

“Heading home?” Ducky asked. Gibbs nodded.

“Yes, I think we all deserve a break,” Ducky said as he looked from Tony to Gibbs and back again. They got to ground floor and stepped out of the elevator. Everybody said their goodnights and headed for their cars.

“Boss,” Tony called out. Gibbs turned around to see Tony right behind him.

“Dinner still on?” he asked as he shifted feet.

“Sure is,” Gibbs said. Tony followed Gibbs back to his house. When he got out of the car he basically ran to the front door and inside. Without a words Gibbs pulled him close and kissed him tenderly.

“I’ll get dinner, “he said as walked for the kitchen. Tony went into the living room and sat himself on the couch. He took his shoes off and looked around aimlessly. Gibbs came and sat next to him, putting his arm around his shoulders.

“What’s for dinner?” Tony asked as he let himself relax into the warm embrace.

“Ravioli,” Gibbs said as he ran his fingers through Tony’s hair.

“Did you pre-make it or something?” Tony said as he smiled.

“Nope, out of a packet,” Gibbs answered him. Tony laughed as he laced his fingers with Gibbs’ other hand. They sat there for a few minutes before Gibbs stood up. Tony stood as well.

“Stay, we can eat in here,” he said as he left. Tony sat back down and waited for Gibbs’ return. He came back in with two dishes full of ravioli.

“Thanks,” Tony said as Gibbs handed him a dish and fork before he started eating his food like it was his last meal. After a few minutes of silence Tony placed his plate on the coffee table. He looked over to Gibbs who was still eating. When he finished he took the dishes into the kitchen then quickly returned. He seated himself close to Tony who smiled at the close proximity.

“Anything on TV you wanna watch?” Gibbs asked as he picked up the remote.

“Not really,” Tony replied. Gibbs flicked the TV on before turning so his back was against the arm rest. Tony was quick to lie between his legs; resting his head on the older man’s lower stomach. Gibbs ran his finger through Tony’s hair. Tony let out a small sigh and Gibbs dropped his hand to Tony’s shoulder.

“You ok?” he asked as he gave Tony’s shoulder a slight squeeze.

“Yeah, just missed this,” he said as he reached up to put his hand on Gibbs’ hand.

“Me too,” Gibbs agreed, and he had missed it, he had missed it a lot. Gibbs bought his other hand up to run his fingers through Tony’s hair again. Tony grabbed the remote and turned on the movie channel. He wasn’t interested in the movie tonight; he just wanted to enjoy his lovers company.
Several hours passed and Tony had fallen asleep.

Quietly Gibbs wriggled from underneath Tony and went into the bedroom to pull the covers back. He walked back into the living room where Tony was now sitting up rubbing his eyes.

“Let’s go to bed,” Gibbs said as he took Tony’s hand and led him to the bedroom. They got into bed and Tony cuddled into Gibbs’ warm embrace. Soon he was back asleep and Gibbs’ wasn’t far behind him.

When Tony woke light was trickling in through the curtain. He sat up sleepily and looked around. His face fell as he saw that Gibbs was not in his presence. He swung his legs off the bed and headed down the hall. As he neared the kitchen he smelt bacon and eggs. He walked in to see Gibbs dressed and cooking.

“Morning,” he said as he went and wrapped his arms around Gibbs’ waist.

“Morning, sleep well?” he asked. Tony nodded and rested his head on Gibbs’ back. He dished Tony out a plate of bacon and eggs and set it on the table.

“Thanks,” Tony said before he sat down and attacked his food. A few minutes later he was finished and lounging in his chair. Gibbs walked out of the kitchen and Tony sat upright. He returned seconds later with clothes in his hands.

“Get dressed, you’ll be late,” Gibbs said as he handed Tony the clothes.

“Jethro, I don’t think I’ll look good in your clothes,” Tony said as he placed them on the table.

“They’re yours, Tony, I went around to your place and got some clothes for you,” Gibbs said as he left the kitchen. Tony smiled and ran into the bathroom, quickly getting changed he ran back out into the bedroom.

“Ready to go?”

Tony jumped at the voice. He looked to see Gibbs sitting on the bed.

“Yeah,” he said in a subdued manner. They left the house and drove to NCIS in their own cars even though Tony had tried to convince Gibbs they should go in the same car. When they pulled up they walked into the building silently.

“We should go up separately,” Gibbs suggested. Tony let out a small laugh and shook his head.

“Everybody knows that we’ve been seeing each other Jethro,” Tony said as the elevator doors slid open. He got in and had to drag Gibbs in after him.

“Well, when you put it like that,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony on the cheek. Tony stepped closer to Gibbs and put his arms around Gibbs’ waist.

“You ok?” he asked as he rubbed Tony’s back.

“Yep,” Tony mumbled into Gibbs’ chest. The elevator stopped and they hastily pulled apart. Stepping from the elevator they went and seated themselves at their desks.

“Morning,” Ziva and McGee said as they appeared.

“Late?” Gibbs questioned them.

“No, you are,” Ziva said as she tapped her watch. Gibbs looked at his watch and shook his head.

“Going for coffee,” he said as he jumped up and left. Ziva got up and walked over to Tony’s desk closely followed by McGee.

“Don’t you two have work to do?” Tony asked as he kept his head down.

“No,” Ziva said plainly. Tony gave in and looked up at the two of them.

“You...... Gibbs........ Relationship,” Ziva said as she tapped her fingers on the desk.

“Yes?” Tony answered simply.

“Would Gibbs have broken a rule?” Ziva questioned.

“He made them, he can break them,” Tony said as he looked at McGee who looked behind him then walked away. Gibbs’ phone rang and Tony stood, ready to answer it, when Gibbs walked back in.

“Gibbs,” he answered.

“We’ll be right down,” he said then slammed the phone down.

“Abby’s lab,” he said before he took off for the elevator. The others promptly followed him. When they got down to Abby’s lab there was no one there.

“Abby,” Gibbs called out.

“In here,” came a small voice. They walked around the corner to see Abby clutching her knees to her chest.

“Abby, what’s wrong?” Gibbs said as he went and sat next to her and looking at the black slacks and white shirt that anybody expected her to be wearing.

“The director is making where other clothes, just like Jenny did,” she said as she leant her head on his shoulder.

“I’ll fix it again,” he said as he kissed her cheek and stood up. Walking to her desk he grabbed her other clothes.

“Put em’ back on Abs,” he said. Abby stood and took the clothes then hugged him.

“Thanks Gibbs,” she said as they all left Abby’s lab. When they got back to their desks they started writing out reports again. Gibbs left without a word.

Half an hour later Tony stood and looked around. His heart sunk a little as he noticed Gibbs still wasn’t back. He started walking away.

“Where are you going?” Ziva asked as she watched him curiously.

“Isn’t a man allowed to go to the toilet without permission?” he said in a tone which was supposed to be sarcastic but came out a little harshly. Ziva immediately cast her eyes back down to her work.
Tony walked to the toilets and looked at himself in the mirror.

Why is he taking so long? Is he with someone else? Would he really do that?

“Don’t be stupid,” he said out loud to his reflection. Tony mentally kicked himself for going with his gut.

“That’s Gibbs thing,” he said to himself through clenched teeth. He couldn’t help but let the thought rise from the pit of his stomach.

What if.

He held back the tears and walked out only to run into McGee.

“Sorry Probie,” he said. McGee looked at him in a concerned way. Tony walked off back to his desk quickly scanning the room, but he saw no sign of Gibbs.

“Ziva,” Tony said as he looked to her desk. She looked up and into his eyes.

“I’m sorry about earlier,” he said as he dropped his head.

“It is ok Tony,” she said before dropping her head and going back to what she was doing.

Tony put his head on the desk and let the tears form in his eyes but he refused to let them fall. The day passed and to Tony’s hurt Gibbs still hadn’t returned.

“Tony,” came McGee’s voice in his ear. He looked up and saw McGee and Ziva standing at his desk.

“We’re going home, it’s seven,” McGee said as he looked at Ziva.

“Oh,” was all he managed to get out. He picked up his bag and followed them to the elevator. As the doors slid open they saw Abby, Ducky and Jimmy in there again.

“Tony, what’s wrong?” Abby asked as she gave him a hug.

“Oh, nothing, I’m ok, just tired,” he said as he felt a sickly feeling rise in his stomach.

“If you say so,” Abby said as she gave him another hug before the doors opened and they all filed out. Tony walked speedily to his car to notice Gibbs’ car still sitting next to his. He wished so desperately that the windows weren’t tinted so he could look inside, hoping to see Gibbs there smiling at him. He got into his own car and sped to his house. He sat in the driveway for some ten minutes before thrusting the key back into the ignition and driving to Gibbs’ house. The lights were on when he pulled up and he jumped out and ran to the front door.

He feverishly knocked on the door and heard the sound of footsteps. The door opened to reveal Gibbs. Tony’s face lit up and he wanted to jump upon the older man and kiss every inch of his body, instead he stood where he was.

“Tony,” Gibbs said as he looked at the younger man.

“Hey, can I come in?” Tony asked as he stepped closer.

“Umm, I was just off to bed,” Gibbs said as he held his ground.

“Oh, ok, well...I’ll just go,” Tony said half-heartedly.

“Tony,” Gibbs said as he watched him walk down the steps. Tony looked around at him.

“Goodnight,” Gibbs said as he started to close the door.

“Yeah, night,” Tony said as he walked to his car. He heard the door close as he got into his car.
He drove home in silence, not a thought ran through his mind. When he arrived home and went straight inside and into bed. There he hugged his knees to his chest and cried. He felt stupid about it but the only thing running through his mind was a horrible thought.

He’s cheating.

It repeated itself over and over again. Tony cried himself to sleep.

So sorry i haven't updated for a while..........hope you all like it....
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“Tony,” whispered a voice. He looked around to see Gibbs smiling at him.

“I love you,” Gibbs said in his hushed voice. Tony let a small smile appear on his face. Then he stepped towards Gibbs. He reached out for Gibbs’ hand but caught nothing. His smile faded and tears formed in his eyes.

He looked up to see his lover fading into the background. He ran, trying to catch the disappearing love of his. He stopped, he couldn’t see him anywhere. His heart was beating louder and louder in his ears.

Tony woke with a scream. He sat up and put his head in his hands.

“Tony,” he heard his name been yelled. He groaned as he got out of bed and walked to the door. He opened it to see McGee standing there and Ziva behind him on the phone.

“Tony, you ok?” McGee asked as he stepped inside. Tony nodded as Ziva stepped in and closed the door.

“Why aren’t you at work?” Ziva asked as she looked for his room.

“I just woke up,” he said as he scratched his head.

“Well your late, Gibbs sent us over,” Ziva said as she found his room and walked to his wardrobe and pulling out some clothes. They were the words Tony was dreading to hear. He took the clothes and changed before he followed them outside. He silently went to his own car and drove to NCIS.

Why didn’t he come to get me?

The same question played over in his mind and it cut deeper each time he thought about it. When he pulled up and got into the elevator McGee turned to him.

“Abby wants to see you in her lab,” he said as the doors slid open. Tony stayed in and went down to see Abby. When he walked in Abby ran up to him and flung her arms around him.

“Are you ok?” she asked as she pulled him to a chair.

“Yeah, why?” he said as he sat down.

“You were late, you’re never late,” she said as she pulled up a chair herself. They sat in silence for a moment before Abby spoke again.

“It’s Gibbs, isn’t it?”

Tony looked at her and knew that she would get it out of him one way or another. He played with his shirt before looking up.

“Yes,” he said quietly. Abby moved herself closer and gave him another hug.

“You need to talk to him,” she said before getting up and walking to one of her computers. Tony sat there staring at the floor thinking about what he should say to Gibbs when he confronted him.

“You need to talk to him now,” Abby said. Tony nodded once then left, leaving Abby to worry about him and Gibbs. He walked to his desk and looked around, nobody was in sight. He went to stand up when he saw a note on his desk. He opened it up; his heart sank just a little.

Tony, the camera has evidence pictures on it and Ducky has some stuff for Abby. Please take care of it.....and take care of yourself.
Ziva and McGee.

Tony shook his head. A note, they couldn’t call him?
It’s the thought that counts

He thought to himself as he took the memory card from the camera and headed back down to Abby’s lab. He walked in and Abby turned then placed her hands on her hips.

“You haven’t spoken to him, go,” she demanded.

“I need you to take a look at these,” he said as he handed her the memory card. She took it and started working, Tony left in silence. He headed down to autopsy.

“I’m glad you’re here young Anthony, I have some evidence,” Ducky said as he walked in.

“How’d he die?” Tony asked, trying to be enthusiastic or as enthusiastic as a murder could be.

“At first glance somebody would say blunt force trauma to the head, but when I looked closer I found that he had extremely high levels of morphine in his system,” Ducky said.

“Well he was on drugs,” Tony pointed out.

“Yes, but this much would have been his death wish, see these markings around his wrists?” Ducky said as he pointed. Tony nodded as a signal that he noticed and for Ducky to continue.

“Somebody bound his hands together then administered the drug, and then most likely, they beat him with a blunt object,” Ducky concluded.

“Thanks Ducky,” Tony said as he went to leave.

“Tony, will you take this to Abby please,” Ducky said as he handed Tony a jar with a flesh sample in it. Tony nodded then left. When he reached Abby’s lab he could hear her music and was somewhat relieved that the noise was there instead of an awkward silence.

“Ducky wants you to run tests on these, thanks Ab’s,” he said before quickly handing over the sample then leaving. He heard her yell something and wasn’t sure what to make of it, so he brushed it off.

When he got back to his desk he glanced at Gibbs’ desk and smiled widely when Gibbs was sitting there looking awkwardly at his computer screen. Tony forgot the feeling of been cheated on and walked to the desk.

“Hi there,” Tony said as he looked Gibbs over.

Perfect like always.

Tony thought happily. Gibbs turned to look at him.

“Hey, what’s this mean?” he asked Tony. Tony walked around and stood behind Gibbs and scanned the screen.

“No idea, ask McGee,” he said before placing his hands on the back of the chair. Gibbs nodded once then swung the chair around, making Tony lift his hands quickly. Tony’s face became saddened again and he went and seated himself at his own desk.

Tony wanted so badly to ask Gibbs what the hell was going on but he remained seated.

After work.

He thought as he watched Gibbs intently. Gibbs looked up and met Tony’s gaze. They sat there staring at each other for some time before Gibbs looked back to his desk. Tony’s eyes fell to his desk and he sat there impatiently waiting for something to be said, but nothing was. An hour passed, Ziva and McGee returned.

“The FBI was there before us,” Ziva said sourly. Gibbs looked up at her.

“You let them take our suspect?” he asked.

“Well, you see, they...” Ziva started and stopped just as quickly when she saw the look on Gibbs’ face. Gibbs walked off without a word.

“He’s pissed off,” McGee said stating the obvious. Ziva went to her desk and started writing up a report. McGee looked at Tony who was working.

“Tony, you ok?” he asked. Tony looked up and gave a fake smile.

“I’ll get there Probie,” he said before putting his head back down. McGee fidgeted a little before starting work again.



“It’s nice to finally see some work getting done,” everyone looked up to see the director standing there watching them.

“Can we help you Director Vance?” Ziva asked as she put down the pen she was holding.

“Yes, you can all go home,” he said. Everybody raised their eyebrows.

“It’s 8.00, you’re probably tired,” he said as he pointed out the window to the darkness.

“I guess you’re right,” McGee said as he stood. Ziva followed McGee to the elevator before halting and turning.

“Tony,” Ziva said loud enough for him to hear. Tony looked up from his desk.

“I have to go see Abby,” he said. The elevator doors slid open and Ziva stepped in as she nodded in response to Tony. McGee gave a quick wave to Tony before the doors slid shut. Tony looked around, everything was quiet.

“Tony, did you talk to him?” came Abby’s voice. Tony looked around to see Abby standing near him.

“Soon Abs,” he said as he stood up.

“Please work things out, I hate seeing you two angry with each other,” she said before giving him a hug and leaving. Tony grabbed his things and proceeded to the parking lot. He got in his car then turned his head to see Gibbs’ car still sitting there. Tony contemplated his options then jumped into the back seat. He lay on the floor and waited. Half an hour passed before he heard Gibbs get into his car and reverse out.

Tony was quick to jump into the front and start the car up. Cautiously he followed Gibbs. When Gibbs pulled into his driveway he held back until Gibbs got out and went inside. He pulled up and ran to Gibbs’ front door. He knocked quickly and waited for Gibbs. Tony counted the seconds in his mind.

One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine...

The door swung open and Gibbs stood there.

“Tony,” he said. Tony smiled a little.

“Jethro, we need to talk,” Tony said as he stepped closer.

“Can we talk tomorrow?” Gibbs asked as he stood in the same position.

“No, we need to talk now,” Tony said in a slightly demanding voice.

“Tony, I think if we talked tomorrow it would be better,” Gibbs said in a defensive tone.

“No, Jethro, we talk now,” Tony said in a harsh voice. Gibbs was slightly shocked at his tone. Gibbs shook his head. Tony stepped closer then pushed his way into the house.

“Tony,” Gibbs said as he ran after him. Tony walked into the living room and seated himself on the couch.

“You can’t stay,” Gibbs said as he stood in the door way.

“Why?” Tony asked as he turned around to look at Gibbs.

“You just can’t,” he said.

“Why, is there somebody here?” Tony asked in a bleak voice.

“What?” Gibbs said in a shocked tone.

“Is there a beautiful red haired woman in your bed right now?” Tony said in a cynical voice.

“How could you think that?” Gibbs said as the pain from the knife like words cut into his heart.

“Is she waiting for you to go and make the sweetest love to her?” Tony said in his cynical voice once again.

“Tony,” Gibbs said his name in protest.

“I bet she is so beautiful, with honey eyes and lush lips and don’t forget the red hair that flows around her face and chest,” Tony said as tears fixed across his eyes.

“That’s not true,” Gibbs yelled. The words had torn his heart open, letting the horrible emotion seep out of the wounds. Gibbs felt himself cripple with an appalling pain that Tony thought he was cheating.

“Don’t lie to me Jethro,” Tony whispered as the tears fell down his cheeks.

“Tony, I would never cheat on you, how could I?” Gibbs said as he walked over and sat next to Tony.

“Quite easily,” Tony answered the rhetorical question.

“Tony, you are the most beautiful person, I thought I’d never find another person that I could love so much, please, don’t think that I’m cheating,” Gibbs said as he took Tony’s hand.

“How can I not think it Jethro? You’re been so secretive, leaving and not coming back for hours, giving me short answers, not looking at me like you love me, not saying that you love me,” Tony said in a pained voice.

“Tony, there is a reason, believe me there is, but please just be patient,” Gibbs said as he wiped away tears from Tony’s eyes. Tony shook his head.

“I swear Tony, it will be worth it,” Gibbs said as his heart started beating faster.

“Jethro I...” Gibbs placed a finger on Tony’s lips then replaced his finger with his lips. Tony wanted to pull away from Gibbs but he wanted more at the same time. Gibbs pulled his head back and looked Tony in the eyes.

“It’s your birthday tomorrow,” Gibbs said as he caressed Tony’s face.

“It is too,” Tony realised. He had been so caught up in Gibbs’ secrets that he forgot his own birthday. Tony yawned and a smile appeared on Gibbs’ face.

“What?” Tony asked as he looked questioningly at Gibbs.

“Your yawn is cute,” Gibbs said. Tony raised an eyebrow.

“My yawn is cute,” Tony said as he stared at Gibbs.

“You’re tried, let’s get to bed,” Gibbs said as he stood up. Tony nodded and followed Gibbs to the bedroom. Gibbs went to his drawers and pulled out a pair of sweat pants.

“There yours, you left them here a while back,” Gibbs said as he threw them to Tony. Tony smiled then started unbuttoning his shirt. Gibbs turned and stared; watching each of Tony’s movements. He turned away, scared that if he kept watching things might get out of hand. He heard Tony pull the covers back and get into bed. Gibbs walked into the bathroom and got changed then hurried back to the bedroom. He climbed into bed and Tony moved closer, cuddling into his side.

“Tony... I love you,” Gibbs said as he kissed his cheek and put his arm around him.

“I know,” Tony said softly. Gibbs ran his hand up and down Tony’s arm. Soon Tony was asleep, breathing gently against Gibbs’ chest. Gibbs didn’t want to sleep, too afraid that he might lose his lover if he closed his eyes, but the sleep took over like a disease.

Light seeped through the curtains and Gibbs’ eyes fluttered open. He looked to see Tony still snuggled at his side and he smiled. He quickly but silently removed himself from the bed. He grabbed a piece of paper and a pen and jotted down a note before taking a quick shower. Once he ate breakfast he quickly he headed out.

Tony woke to an alarm ringing. He rolled over and searched for the snooze button, finding it he slammed his hand on it. He opened his eyes to find himself in an empty bed. He sat up and shook his head. He slammed his fists onto the mattress and felt something underneath his left hand. He looked down to see a piece of paper folded in half. He picked it up and opened it; smiling widely when he saw Gibbs’ handwriting.

Happy birthday Tony... breakfast is in the oven, clothes on the chair in the corner of the bedroom and your keys are on the table.
I know it’s a Saturday, and your birthday, but please come to work.... Love Jethro xoxoxo

Tony smiled as he read the note. He quickly jumped up and got dressed before he ran to the kitchen and pulled out the bacon and eggs in the oven. He scoffed his food down, acting like a child when they get to play after they have done all the right things. He snatched his keys up and ran to his car. Jumping into the front seat he saw a note stuck to the steering wheel.

When you get to work go down to Abby’s lab, drive slowly and don’t cause any accidents because your inner child has gotten excited...
Love Jethro xoxoxo

Tony smile was so wide he thought it might just fall off his face. He tried to keep his speed low but the brick of excitement on his foot wouldn’t let him. He arrived at NCIS and ran like a gazelle to the elevator. He got down to Abby’s lab which was quiet.

“Abby,” he called, but there was no response. He turned to leave when he spied a piece of paper tapped to the door. He quickly tore it off and opened it. He saw Abby’s handwriting.

Hey Tony, can you grab Bert the hippo and bring him down to autopsy...
xo Abby

Tony’s expression became puzzled as he walked over and picked up Bert.

Does Ducky want to perform an autopsy on Bert?

Tony laughed as he headed down to autopsy. When he entered Ducky and Jimmy weren’t there. He put Bert on Ducky’s desk and looked around. He ran to the far wall and peeled a note off, discovering Ducky’s handwriting.

Anthony, would you be so kind as to find Ziva for me and tell her I need to see her at 11.00. I’m in a meeting right now.
Ducky.

Tony’s expression became more puzzled. He went up to the bullpen and to Ziva’s desk, where she obviously wasn’t.

Time to investigate.

He thought to himself. He searched Ziva’s desk but found nothing. He moved onto McGee’s desk then Gibbs’ desk to find nothing. He sat down at his desk and sighed.

“What the hell is going on?” he said out loud to himself. Out of the corner of his eye he saw something on his computer screen. There was another note, so he ripped it off and opened it. He smiled when he saw Gibbs’ handwriting again.

I think my jacket is in your car, can you grab it for me...
Love Jethro xoxoxo

Tony jumped up and ran to his car. He opened it and scanned the front seat and saw Gibbs’ jacket.

That wasn’t in here this morning, was it? How the hell did he get into my car...? Ha, that’s Jethro for me...

Tony thought happily. He picked up the jacket to see a note folded underneath. He opened it up.

I’ve gone home, come back so we can have some alone time.
Love Jethro xoxoxo


Tony looked to his right to see Gibbs’ car wasn’t there. He smiled when he remembered alone time. He quickly drove back to Gibbs’ house only to see a whole heap of cars parked in front in the house. He glared at each car as he realised who’s they were.

“So much for alone time,” Tony said bitterly before getting out. He walked to the front door and swung it open when something on the door fell off. He looked down to see another note; he shook his head as he picked it up.

Ok, so we have some guests, but there is plenty of time for alone time... I’m down in the basement...
Love Jethro xoxoxo

Tony closed the door and headed downstairs to the basement. When he got to the bottom step he looked around and was somewhat shocked to see that there was no boat. He walked aimlessly around the bare spot before searching for another note, he soon found one.

I have a surprise for you, come into the living room...
Love Jethro xoxoxo


Tony became excited and ran up the stairs and into the living room. He saw Gibbs seated on the sofa and smiled.

“Hey,” he said but didn’t walk any closer.

“Hi,” Gibbs said without turning. Tony stood there waiting.

“I don’t have a disease, Tony,” Gibbs said. Tony walked over and sat next to him.

“Were the clues easy?” Gibbs asked.

“Yeah, what was that all about?” Tony asked as he moved closer.

“Tony, I love you, you know that, right?” Gibbs said as he looked into Tony’s eyes.

“Of course I know that,” Tony said, forgetting about yesterday’s feelings.

“You know that I never want to hurt you?” Gibbs asked.

“Yes, I know,” Tony said.

“Will you always love me?” Gibbs asked as he laced his fingers with Tony’s.

“Yes, I will always love you Jethro... How could I not?” Tony said as he felt a strong feeling of love run through his veins.

“Tony, I will always love you and whatever suspicions you had forget them because I will always be here for you, nothing will tear us apart,” Gibbs said.

“Jethro, I...” Tony cut himself short when Gibbs stood up. Tony stood and looked at him.

“Tony, I know we’ve only been seeing each other for a short time,” Gibbs said as he held Tony’s hands.

“4 months, 16 days and about 12 hours,” Tony chimed happily. Gibbs smiled.

“Ok, well, I know we have only been seeing each other for 4 months, 16 days and 12 hours but...” he stopped and took a breath.

“But...” Tony said as he looked into his lover’s eyes. Gibbs mobile rang and he ignored it.

“Phone,” Tony stated. Gibbs shook his head. The ringing stopped and he prepared to continue.

“Tony, I love you...” Gibbs stopped at the sound of his phone again. He ripped it out of his pocket and flipped it open.

“Gibbs,” he said in a pissed off tone.

“I’ll be back,” Gibbs whispered to Tony then walked out of the room. Tony stood there with disappointment plastered across his face. He couldn’t wait for what Gibbs had to say to him. A few minutes later Gibbs walked back in with a saddened and horrifed look on his face.

“Jethro, what’s wrong” Tony asked in an alarmed voice.

“I’m sorry Tony,” Gibbs said as he brushed Tony’s cheek with his fingertips.

“Why, what’s wrong?” Tony asked as he held Gibbs hands tightly.

“I have to go to Massachusetts on an assignment,” Gibbs said. Tony’s face fell and he didn’t know what to do or think.

“How long?” he asked. Gibbs sighed.

“A week, Tony I’m so sorry,” Gibbs apologised. Tony tried to smile a little but he couldn’t make it happen.

“It’s ok,” he said weakly. Gibbs pulled him close and held him tightly.

“When do you have to leave?” Tony asked sadly.

“In an hour,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony’s forehead.

“I’m sorry; this was supposed to be a perfect birthday for you,” Gibbs said in a pained voice.

“It’s ok,” Tony lied.

“No its not,” Gibbs said as he held Tony closer. Tony pulled away from Gibbs.

“You better get packed,” he said as he walked for the bedroom. Gibbs knew that Tony was hurt, but he also knew that if he didn’t do this Tony might be worse off.

“Tony,” Gibbs said as he walked into the bedroom to see Tony packing his bag for him.

“You don’t want to be late,” Tony said as he packed more clothes. Gibbs felt frustrated with himself for letting Tony, his lover, his best friend, get upset like this.

“Tony stop,” Gibbs said as he grabbed Tony’s arm.

“You’ll be late,” Tony said as he tried to get out of the older man’s grip.

“Tony, stop, you’re upset,” Gibbs said. Tony stopped struggling and Gibbs wrapped his arms around him.

Tony held onto Gibbs tightly and let the tears fill his eyes. His heart felt like it was been stabbed with a thousand knives. He tried to hold the tears back, not let them fall and seem weak in front of his lover but as hard as he tried the tears would not stay back. He couldn’t stand it anymore; he let the tears go, let them flood onto the older man’s shirt.

Gibbs’s heart broke when he felt Tony’s tears of pain fall onto his shirt and soak through, touching his skin. He rubbed the younger mans back, whispering soothing words in his ear. He didn’t want to let go of Tony until he was ok. They stood in the embrace for a long time.

“I’m sorry,” Tony struggled to whisper.

“You don’t have to be sorry for anything, you’re allowed to cry,” Gibbs said as Tony pulled away and looked Gibbs in the eye.

“It’s been an hour,” Tony said through a slightly shaky voice. Gibbs nodded and picked up his bag.

“I’ll drive you to the airport,” Tony said as he walked out of the bedroom. Gibbs wanted to ring Vance back and tell him to put the assignment where the sun doesn’t shine but he knew that if anyone should be on this assignment he would be the one to do it.

“Jethro,” Tony yelled from the hallway. Gibbs walked into the hallway and gave Tony an apologetic smile.

The drive to the airport was speechless. The only noises to be heard were the tyres on the road and cars speeding past them. They pulled up and sat there in silence for a few minutes. Tony got out of the car and waited for Gibbs. Gibbs came around and took Tony’s hand. They walked into the terminal.

“Well, I guess I’ll see you in a week,” Tony said as he tried to keep his voice at a normal tone.

“Yeah, no longer than a week, but certainly less,” Gibbs said as he looked into Tony’s hazel eyes.

“I’ll miss you,” Tony whispered almost inaudibly, almost but not quite.

“I’ll miss you too,” Gibbs said as he saw Tony’s eyes fill with those tears again.

“You don’t want to miss your flight, now go,” Tony ordered even though his heart screamed at him to say stay forever, never leave my side.

“I love you,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony’s lips quickly before turning and leaving.

Tony’s tears overflowed and he stood there watching his lover walk away on his birthday.

There is a reason.

Tony thought as Gibbs stepped out of his sight. He turned his back and walked to his car. When he got in he slammed his fists on the steering wheel. He put the key in the ignition and drove to NCIS. He swiped the tears off his face and walked to the elevator, once inside he hit himself up the back of the head but he really wished that it was Gibbs’ hand slapping him up the back of the head. The elevator stopped and the doors slid open, he walked to his desk.

“Agent DiNozzo, I’m glad you’re here,” Vance said as Tony stood up.

“Director, how can I help you,” Tony asked.

“You can lead Gibb’s team until he gets back,” Vance said then walked off.

“Great, here we go again,” Tony mumbled to himself. He felt a little better about been leader this time. He knew that when Gibbs came back in a week he would still have his memory. He knew Gibbs would still remember him and love him. He knew Gibbs wouldn’t have scary facial hair.
Tony headed down to Abby’s lab but stopped just before the door when he heard voices.

“Maybe somebody should stay with him,” Abby said.

“Yes, we should take turns,” Ziva responded.

“I agree, even though young Anthony can take care of himself it is better to be safe than sorry,” Ducky said as he looked at each of them.

“I’ll stay with him tonight,” Ziva said as she looked at McGee.

“I’ve got the camera’s set up around his apartment, we will be able to see who comes and goes,” McGee informed them.

“Good work McGee,” Abby praised.

“Even though they are in Massachusetts they can easily catch a flight here,” Ziva said as she looked around.

“Ziva, McGee, promise me that you won’t let them hurt Tony,” Abby pleaded.

“Abby I promise you, if anyone touches a hair on Tony they will be dead,” Ziva said as she walked over to Abby.

Tony stood near the door highly confused. He had no idea why McGee would set camera’s up around his apartment, why everybody wanted to stay with him and who were they?

“So it’s settled, everything’s in place,” Ziva said. Everything went silent and Tony thought now was the time to walk in. He entered and everybody turned to see him.

“Hey Tony,” Abby said happily as she walked to one of her computers.

“Hey everyone, is this a conference I should have been informed of?” Tony said as he did circles around the group.

“Ah, no, we just all came down here, no reason,” Ziva said. Tony knew that there was a reason but let it slip for the moment.

“So who’s boss now that Gibbs is away,” McGee said even though he knew the answer.

“I am, Probie,” Tony said and the mention of Gibbs’ name cut a little because Tony knew he wouldn’t be there to hold him tonight, or tell him he loved him.

“Does anyone know why Gibbs was assigned to that particular assignment?” Tony asked, trying to receive at least a little knowledge.

“No, nobody was told,” Ziva said. Tony glanced over at McGee to see his ears starting to flush red.

“Ok,” Tony said before stalking out of the lab and into the elevator. He felt alone, lost, empty without anybody with him. He was somewhat pleased that Ziva was going to stay with him the night, even if it wasn’t the most loving company.

Tony seated himself at his desk then stared at his phone which he placed down.

He will ring, won’t he?

Tony thought to himself. He knew that Gibbs would ring no second guessing. He glanced over at Gibbs’ desk and wanted so badly for him to be sitting there, smiling back at him.
Ziva and McGee came back and seated themselves at their desks. Not a word was said between the three. Tony knew that something strange was going on and he wanted to know what it was.

XXXXXXXXXX
Gibbs sat staring out the window, watching the clouds closely, he’s been doing it for the past several hours .His mind wasn’t registering the sights he saw; instead his mind was fixed on Tony.

He remembered that hurt look on his face when he told him that he had to leave. The tears that filled his pretty hazel eyes and then flowed over onto his cheeks; glistening from the light shining down. It hurt him to think Tony was there without him, that he wasn’t able to tell him he loved him, or have him snuggle into his side at night.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please fasten your seatbelts, we are about to make our decent,” the flight attendant called through the speaker.

Gibbs buckled his seatbelt and closed his eyes; he’d done this so many times that it got boring. When his eyes shut he pictured Tony, standing there with that beautiful smile plastered across his face. He imagined Tony’s reaction to his surprise, jumping, smiling, laughing, and kissing and a little bit of crying; crying with happiness.

The plane landed and everybody was boarded off. When he entered the terminal he quickly looked for his bag and when he spotted it he swiped it up and headed to find a taxi. He was driven to the motel and booked in. He threw his bag on the floor kicked his shoes off. He reached into his pocket and retrieved his phone, quickly turning it on. He dialled Tony’s number and waited.
XXXXXXXXXX

Tony’s phone rang and he quickly flipped it open, knowing he didn’t have to look at caller ID.

“How long have you been off the flight?” he asked feverishly. There was a small chuckle on the other end of the line.

“Just got into my room,” Gibbs said. Tony imagined the smile Gibbs was wearing on the other end of the line. Ziva and McGee looked up at Tony who was smiling widely. Tony glanced at each of them before trotting off to the elevator.

“I miss you,” Tony said as the doors slid open and he hoped in.

“I miss you too,” Gibbs said. Tony reached ground floor and walked around aimlessly.

“You ok?” Gibbs asked.

“Yeah,” Tony said, although part of him wasn’t ok.

“So, got any cases?” Gibbs asked, trying to make conversation.

“Nope, not yet,” Tony said.

“Tony...” Tony cut Gibbs off.

“Can I ask you something?’ he asked.

“Sure, anything,” Gibbs said.

“Why is Ziva staying with me tonight?” Tony asked, silence was on the other end of the line for a moment.

“I didn’t know she was,” Gibbs said in a normal voice.

“Why is Abby worried about me?” Tony questioned.

“I don’t know why, she shouldn’t be,” Gibbs replied.

“Why did McGee set camera’s up around my apartment?” Tony said, his voice hinting agitation.

“Ahh, well, I asked him too,” Gibbs said, only the slightest touch of embarrassment caressed his voice.

“Why?” Tony asked, thinking of some petty reasons.

“I can’t really say,” Gibbs said, although his heart wanted to tell Tony everything.

“Why not?” Tony asked. Gibbs groaned into the line and Tony could imagine him getting the frustrated look on his face that Tony loved.

“Ok, listen, you have to understand that you’re not supposed to know, Vance was planning on telling you if the time came,” Gibbs said.

“If the time came?” Tony questioned.

“There are people who knew Ari Haswari, not well, but well enough, we think that they are planning an attack, starting with my agents,” Gibbs said. Tony’s heart skipped a beat.

XXX..flashback...XXX
He looked to see Kate lying on the ground and his head screamed NO! He ran to her with Gibbs. Gibbs rolled her over and unzipped her jacket. He was filled with relief that she was, like always, wearing a bullet proof vest. They pulled her up as a smile spread across his face and Gibbs’. Kate let a grin appear and the mood seemed somewhat lightened.
It happened so fast. Barely a noise, so sudden, no warning, a warm liquid sprayed across his face. Next came the silently deafening thud of Kate falling to the ground. He looked down to see a pool of crimson surrounding her.
XXX...end flashback...XXX

“Tony, you ok?” Gibbs asked, a little concerned.

“Yeah, fine,” Tony said, still trying to shake off the flashback.

“You can’t tell anyone I told you, god, not even my agents are allowed to know, who thought of that stupid rule!” Gibbs fumed.

“So you’re telling me that someone wants to kill me?” Tony asked.

“Yes,” Gibbs said, his voice tainted with hurt.

“I’ve had people try to kill me before, I never get hurt, much,” Tony said. Gibbs didn’t respond.

“Jethro, you are worrying about people trying to kill me when it’s happened before and will happen again, as long as I am working at NCIS it will continue to happen,” Tony said and he knew it was the truth which scared him just a little but knowing Gibbs would never let anything happen to him.

“Tony, I’ve got to go,” Gibbs said urgently.

“Oh, ok, I love you,” Tony said, just a little disappointed.

“I love you too,” Gibbs said before snapping his phone shut. Tony closed his phone and headed back up to his desk.

Sorry I haven't updated in a while... Suggestions for the story are welcome as I am planing to finish it up... Now onto the story...
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Tony seated himself at his desk and looked around. Ziva and McGee had their heads down doing work. Tony looked at his watch and groaned.

It’s only 3.00!!

He screamed in his mind. Ziva looked up with a questioning look.

“Are you ok?” she asked.

“Yeah, the day’s dragging out, that’s all,” he said. She nodded then went back to doing her work. Tony searched through his desk for something to do but found nothing that would keep him occupied. He shrugged then threw his feet up on his desk and leant back in his chair, putting his
hands behind his head and closing his eyes.

He could imagine Gibbs boarding off the plane and coming through the terminal. He would run up and hug him and not let go. He would kiss him so much that they would need hours to recover their breath; at least he would like to think that. His smile would be so wide that he would turn into Barbie if he smiled any wider.

Tony drifted into a sleep full of dreams about his one and only.

“Tony,” Tony jumped at the whisper of his name in his ear. He opened his eyes to see Ziva standing next to him.

“Yeah?” he asked as he rubbed his neck.

“We’re going home,” she said. Tony nodded and Ziva headed for the elevator.

“Just let yourself in,” Tony yelled. Ziva stepped out of the elevator and gave him and odd look.

“What are you talking about?” she said in a “confused” manner.

“I know you’re staying with me tonight,” he said as he stood.

“Oh,” she said.

“It’s ok, let’s go,” Tony said before heading for the elevator and getting in. Ziva quickly followed.

“How did you know?” she asked him.

“I heard you earlier, and I know what’s going on,” Tony said. From then til they got back to his apartment it was silent between the two of them. Ziva followed Tony up the stairs to his apartment. They walked in and Tony looked around and smiled when he found what he wanted.

“Hey Probie,” he smiled and waved at a small camera in a corner of the roof. He walked into his bedroom to find Ziva propped up against the headboard.

“Ahh, I’ll sleep on the couch,” Tony said as he went and pulled his old sweatpants from under the pillows on his bed then went into the bathroom.

“Going for a shower,” he yelled before closing the door.

In the bedroom Ziva smiled to herself.

Tony undressed and ran the water. He got in and let the water run over his body, relaxing his muscles and letting his mind flow into thoughts of Gibbs.

“Ooh,” Tony quietly said to himself. Images of Gibbs soaked to the toe, his shirt clinging to his chest, pants looking like they’re about to slid off of him jumped into his head. He rubbed his hand along his chest as more images popped into his mind.

“Tony, you ok?” Ziva yelled as she bashed on the door. Tony rolled his eyes.

“Yes, fine, exiting the shower right.....now,” Tony said as he stepped from the shower. He dried quickly then pulled on his sweat pants and exited the bathroom. Ziva walked in and closed the door as Tony set himself on the couch and flicked the TV on. He flicked through the channels, not taking any notice of what was on.

He heard his phone ring from the bedroom and sprinted in, diving onto the bed, snatching it from his jacket and flipping it open.

“Hello,” he answered happily.

“Hey, how you doing?” came Gibbs voice through the line.

“Good now, how are you?” Tony answered as he rolled onto his back.

“I’m doin’ all right,” Gibbs said.

“Ziva’s here,” Tony said, trying to make conversation.

“Yeah... Tony check the top drawer,” Gibbs said.
“Umm, ok,” Tony replied as he got off the bed and walked to his dresser and opened the top drawer.
“What exactly am I looking for?” he asked as he stared at his socks and boxers.

“Check at the bottom of the drawer,” Gibbs prompted.

“Ok,” Tony said and obediently checked. He found an envelope and pulled it out.

“Found an envelope,” Tony said as he walked back to the bed and sat himself down.

“Open it,” Gibbs said happily.

“Opening it,” Tony said as he slid his finger under the sealed section and ripped it open. He pulled out two tickets and scanned them.

“Oh my god, Jethro are you serious!” he yelled excitedly.

“Yeah, I am Tony,” Gibbs replied with a smile though the line.

“Ha ha Hawaii here we come,” Tony smiled widely.

“Wait, what’s in Hawaii?” Tony asked, still immensely excited.

“You’ll find out when we get there,” Gibbs said happily.

“Ok, I can’t wait,” Tony said, still excited about this surprise.

“Well, I better go,” Gibbs said, although he wanted to stay.

“Ok, I love you,” Tony said before making a kissing noise.

“I love you too,” Gibbs said with a chuckle before hanging up. Tony closed his phone and headed back to the living room, a wide grin plastered on his face.

“I’ll sleep on the couch Tony,” Ziva said as she came up behind him. Tony turned around to face her.

“Ok, are you sure?” he asked.

“Yes, night,” Ziva said as she fixed herself up on the couch.

“Night,” Tony said before he turned and left for his room. He got into bed and settled in, wishing he could cuddle up to Gibbs.

When Tony opened his eyes he heard the shower running. He got up and ate what was left of the cereal then waited for Ziva to finish in the bathroom.

“Good morning,” she said as she walked into the kitchen.
“Morning,” he said before going into the bathroom and taking a shower then getting dressed for work. When he was ready he walked into the living room.

“Ready to go?” he asked Ziva.

“Yep,” she replied before they left and headed for NCIS. When they arrived they headed straight up to the bullpen. Tony seated himself at his desk and looked to McGee’s desk to see no McGee.

“Yes...I know... No! Listen you can’t...” McGee said with a tone of anger into his phone before snapping it shut.

“You’re late,” Tony said as he tapped his watch.

“Ahh, yeah, sorry,” McGee said as he seated himself.

It’s gonna be a long day.

Tony groaned in his mind. He looked around aimlessly when his eyes fell on Abby trotting happily towards him.

“Heyya Tony,” she said in her cheery voice.

“Hey Abby,” he said.

“Did you get it?” she whispered in his ear.

“I think so,” Tony said, not sure if he was entirely sure what it was but pretty sure he knew.

“Good, bye” Abby said as she departed.

The day passed quicker than Tony expected, maybe because most of the day he was annoying Ziva and McGee by throwing pieces of paper at them in creative ways. By 6.30 they were all bored and decided to head home. Ziva stayed with Tony again and it was pretty much like déjà vu except this time Tony didn’t get a surprise. Gibbs rung him and they stayed on the phone for quite some time.

The days passed and Tony was pleased when Thursday afternoon came around and he headed home. McGee was staying with him tonight but went home to get his things first. Tony toddled into his apartment and did his daily wave to the camera in the corner of the roof. He through his jacket onto the back of the couch and walked into the kitchen to cheek the fridge supply. He shrugged and assumed he had what he needed then shut the fridge.

His phone rang and he knew it would be Gibbs. He happily ran to the living room and grabbed his phone.

“Hi,” he said as he seated himself on the couch.

“Hey Tony, what are you doing?” Gibbs asked.

“Just sitting on the couch answering your question,” Tony replied with a cheeky tone.

“Well you better get off your butt, get your keys and come pick me up,” Gibbs said happily.

“Your home!” Tony yelled into the phone excitedly as he jumped up.

“Yep,” Gibbs said.

“See you in 10,” Tony said before closing his phone and racing to his car. He jumped in and started his drive to the airport. His phone started ringing and he reached into his pocket.

“Hello,” he said while trying to keep his tone to a normal level instead of a hype of excitement which would probably send him into fits of happiness.

“Hey Tony, I might be a while, I’ve got a flat,” McGee spoke into the line.

“Don’t worry about it, Gibbs is home, I’m on my way to pick him up,” Tony said and the excitement began bubbling from his voice with every word about Gibbs.

“Ok, that’s great, see ya Tony,” McGee said.

“Yeah, see ya Probie,” he said before flipping his phone shut and pulling into the parking lot. He ran from his car into the terminal and looked around, anxious to see the face he wanted to see.

As he did his 3rd sweep of the terminal Tony spotted those gleaming blue eyes and smile. He weaved his way through crowds of people and finally burst through a group of teens to see his beloved standing there looking around and when he saw Tony Gibbs’ smiled became bigger.
Tony ran up to Gibbs and threw himself onto him and hugged him tightly, not letting go, like he had imagined it would be.

“I missed you, I missed this,” Gibbs whispered the words into Tony’s ear.

“I miss you too and I miss this as well,” Tony whispered back. Gibbs pulled away from the hug and replaced it by kissing Tony gently before pulling back and smiling at him.

“Let’s go home,” Gibbs smiled. Tony nodded in feverish agreement and they headed home.

Tonight home was at Gibbs’ place. Gibbs unpacked while Tony sat on the bed watching him intently.

“I’m going for a shower,” Gibbs said to Tony.

“Ok,” Tony replied as he felt heat rising to form a blush about his thoughts. Gibbs turned and left for the bathroom. A few minutes passed and Tony launched himself off the bed and to the bathroom door. He stood there contemplating if he should do this or not... Do. He crept into the bathroom and quickly shed his clothes before getting into the shower with Gibbs.

“Tony,” Gibbs said as he watched water droplets skate down Tony’s face... chest... stomach... Gibbs drew his eyes back up quickly.

“I’ve missed you too much,” Tony said as he closed the small space between them, wrapping his arms around the older man’s neck and kissing him tenderly.

“You don’t know how long it’s seemed,” Gibbs said as he put his arms around Tony’s waist and pulled them as close together as he could. Tony thrust his hips and Gibbs let out a moan.

“Like that?” Tony asked in a seductive voice.

“Yes,” Gibbs said in moaning way. Tony thrust his hips again and Gibbs moaned again before thrusting his hips back towards Tony. Tony let out a gasp before kissing his way down Gibbs’ chest, bitting gently as he went.

“Tony... Bedroom,” Gibbs said as he unwillingly pulled away to turn the shower off. Tony stepped out and wrapped a towel around his waist. He took in every inch of Gibbs as he stepped from the shower and wrapped a towel around his waist.

Tony stepped in and kissed Gibbs then hastily started pulling him towards the bedroom. Gibbs stopped halfway and slammed Tony against the wall almost painfully, almost, but not quiet. He ripped the towel from Tony’s waist and rubbed his hands up and down the younger man’s sides.

Tony, in return, removed Gibbs’ towel and laid his hands on his shoulders. Gibbs started licking and biting Tony’s neck, slowly making his way down to his chest. Gibbs licked a trail down Tony’s stomach then across to his hip and stopped. He looked up at Tony with love and lust in his eyes. Tony looked down and smiled then slightly bucked his hips forward.

“More?” Gibbs said in a teasing manner. Tony moaned in response. Gibbs stood and trailed into the bedroom. Tony grunted and followed Gibbs quickly. Tony looked to see Gibbs wasn’t in the room then he heard the door squeak and he was pushed onto the bed.

“Didn’t expect that, did you?” Gibbs asked in a way that made Tony harder than he already was. Tony shook his head and pulled Gibbs in for a breathtaking kiss. Gibbs’ hand found their way down Tony’s body and ran along the inside of his thighs. Tony squirmed underneath Gibbs for more contact but Gibbs drew his hands away from Tony.

“Play fair,” Tony whined. Gibbs kissed his way back down the younger man, making sure he got every inch. Tony felt like he was in heaven and as Gibbs kissed, licked and bit all the right places he moaned.

Suddenly Tony and Gibbs snapped their heads towards the door as they heard someone yelling for them.

“Gibbs! Tony! Open up!” Gibbs gave an agitated groan before getting up and pulling on a pair of sweatpants, Tony followed suit. Gibbs walked to the door, unlocked it and flung it open. Abby was standing there smiling widely.

“Hey bossman,” she said before letting herself in and walking into the living room. Gibbs, even though he loved Abby, was slightly pissed off at her arrival and somewhat bad timing. He walked into the living room as Tony entered.

“Hey Abbs,” Tony said as he sat on the sofa.

“Hey Tony, busy?” she asked, quiet oblivious to the situation.

“Ahh, not anymore,” he said, trying not to let the disappointment show. Gibbs sat down next to Tony and put his arm around his shoulder. They both hoped Abby would notice their hard-on’s.

“So, I know that you two are off to Hawaii and I thought you might need some little presents to make the trip a bit more enjoyable, not that it wouldn’t be enjoyable anyway,” she said as she pulled out two boxes wrapped in black paper with red hibiscus flowers.

“Abby, you didn’t have to bring us presents,” Gibbs said as she handed a box to each of them.

“I know,” she said as she stood.

“Thanks Abbs,” Tony said as he shook the box roughly.

“No problem, have fun,” she said with a smirk before leaving.

“Wonder what’s in here,” Tony said as he ripped the paper off the box and discarded it on the floor. Tony looked at the box before turning to Gibbs.

“Open yours,” he said eagerly. Gibbs pulled the wrapping off and ripped the box open. His mouth fell agape at the contents of the box.

“What is it?” Tony asked as he looked at Gibbs.

“Open the box,” Gibbs ordered and like a good man he opened the box and he didn’t know how to express his feelings for what was inside.

“Well, Abby certainly made the trip a bit more interesting,” Tony commented.

“Tony, I hope you like been all tied up,” Gibbs said as he pulled a pair of leather restraints with a silk lining inside. Tony looked at the restraints and smiled wickedly.

“I’m going to bed,” Tony said trying to keep the smirk off his face.

“I won’t be far behind,” Gibbs said as he examined the rest of the contents of the box. Tony lay on the bed and waited impatiently, desperately wanting Gibbs to put the restraints on him and fuck him.

“I’m glad you’re not asleep,” came Gibbs voice from the door ringing with a seductive tone. Tony smiled and propped himself up on his elbows. Gibbs came over and sat on the bed, taking the restraints from the box and placing them near Tony then he leant over and took him into a passionate kiss.

When they came up for air Tony got the restraints and pushed them towards Gibbs.

“You sure?” Gibbs asked as he picked them up.

“Positive,” Tony replied before lying down. Gibbs kissed up both Tony’s arms and wrists before securing the restraints and Tony’s hands to the bed. He bent down and nipped at Tony’s shoulder, licking immediately after. Licking a trail down to the top of Tony’s sweat pants he kept his eyes locked with Tony’s.

He slipped his finger under the waistband and pulled down the sweatpants, revealing Tony’s hardening cock. After discarding the pants on the floor he licked Tony’s cock. Tony moaned at the hot, wet contact. Gibbs took Tony’s length into his mouth starting a slow rhythm.

“Oh god,” Tony gasped before he moaned loudly. Gibbs kept at his motion. As the older man worked his pace up Tony cursed and swore in pleasure. He kicked his feet a little, pulled at the restraints, bucked his hips up; he tried desperately to get more contact. Soon after Tony reached his climax and Gibbs slowed his pace as Tony came into his mouth, he then swallowed the warm liquid and crawled up to Tony’s side. He undid the restraints and Tony immediately kissed him, tasting himself on Gibbs’ lips.

“I love you,” Tony said as he pulled away.

“I love you too,” Gibbs said as he pulled Tony closed. Soon the two had fallen asleep.


“Tony, babe wake up,” Gibbs whispered. Tony opened his eyes and sat upright.

“Get dressed,” Gibbs said before walking out of the bedroom. Tony grinned.

He called me babe.

Tony thought happily to himself as he got up and headed into the bathroom. He took a shower and quickly got dressed. He walked into the kitchen to find Gibbs handing him a plate of omelettes. He smiled thanks before sitting down and eating. Gibbs leant against the fridge and contently watched Tony eating away.

“This wis weally gwood,” Tony said with a mouthful. Gibbs laughed then replied,

“Thanks, glad you like it,”

Tony finished his breakfast and slipped his plate into the sink before turning to Gibbs.

“So, I think we are late for work,” Tony said as he wrapped his arms around Gibbs waist.

“Nope, not going to work,” Gibbs said as he held Tony.

“We aren’t,” he said as his face lit up.

“Nope, we’re going to Hawaii,” Gibbs smiled as he pulled the plane tickets from his pocket. Tony’s grin became wider. Gibbs leant in and kissed Tony before putting the tickets back in his pocket.

“I need to pack,” Tony said as he headed for the door.

“Done,” Gibbs said as he followed him.

“What if you packed stuff I don’t like?” Tony questioned as he stood in the hallway.

“I found your list,” Gibbs chuckled as he handed the piece of paper to Tony.

“Oh, that list,” Tony said as he walked into the bedroom and found his suitcase sitting on the floor next to the bed. He picked his up as Gibbs picked his up.

“Let’s go,” Gibbs said as Tony became more excited. They walked out of the house to see Abby and McGee standing there smiling.

“Do you have everything,” Abby smiled as they reached her.

“Yep,” Gibbs smiled back.

“Oh, no we don’t, the presents,” Tony said as he dropped his bag and put his hand out for the keys from Gibbs.

“I got the presents,” Gibbs said as he tossed Abby the house keys.

“Gibbs you never lock your house,” Abby said as she stared at the keys.

“Tony,” Gibbs said before he got into the front seat. McGee got in and started the car up, Abby and Tony quickly hopped into the back seat. A few minutes into the drive Abby leant over to Tony.

“Tony,” she whispered just loud enough for only him to hear.

“Yeah,” he said. Gibbs looked back at Tony.

“Excited are you?” Gibbs asked with a chuckle. Tony raised an eyebrow.

“Keep your voice down,” Abby whispered to Tony. He leant in a bit and nodded.

“You make sure he does it,” she whispered with a hint of pressure in it.

“What is it Abby?” Tony whispered back the question.

“I can’t say, but you will know when he starts to say, no... Do, no... I don’t know how he is going to do it, but just make sure he does it,” she whispered in a rushed manner.

“Umm, ok,” Tony whispered before sitting back up and looking out the window. His mind trying so hard to figure out what his lover was going to ask, tell, or do to him.

The car stopped and they all jumped out of the car. Walking to the terminal Tony grabbed Gibbs hand and held it firmly. Gibbs’ face lit up with a small grin which was only just covering the massive grin with all of his might.

“Ok, you two have fun,” Abby said as she hugged them both.

“Yeah, have fun, don’t worry about the team,” McGee said as he smiled at them.

“And don’t ring,” Abby and McGee said simultaneously.

“Ok, I’ve got all of the instructions,” Gibbs said as he smiled at them both once more before he
and Tony left to board the plane.

“Why are you smiling so widely?” McGee asked Abby.

“Just happy for them,” she said before they turned and left.

Tony and Gibbs boarded the plane; Tony shot gunned the window seat. At the beginning of the flight Tony was excited and very talkative. As the trip went on he became quieter and soon he was asleep, his head resting on Gibbs’ shoulder. Gibbs rested his head on Tony’s and put his arm around the younger man’s shoulders and also fell asleep.


“Ladies and gentlemen, please fasten your seatbelts, your flight will soon be descending,” came a voice through the speakers. Tony opened his eyes slowly and groaned a little.

“Buckle up,” Gibbs whispered in his ear.

“Yes sir,” Tony said with a smile in his voice. Gibbs kissed Tony’s cheek as the plane started to descend. After the plane landed and they boarded off into the terminal Tony turned to Gibbs.

“So, where are we?” Tony asked.

“In Hawaii?” Gibbs said as he grinned, knowing that wasn’t the answer Tony wanted.

“Ha ha, what city?” Tony said as he picked up his suitcase from the luggage belt.

“Kekaha,” Gibbs said as he collected his suitcase. They walked out into the street.

“Ahh, taxi?” Tony asked Gibbs as he looked around.

“I think we should walk, it’s not that far,” Gibbs suggested.

“Ok, if you want,” Tony said. They began walking, hand in hand, along the side of the road, smiling happily. After 10 minutes Tony stopped and looked around.

“Where was this place again?” he asked.

“Ahh, not far,” Gibbs replied before he too looked around.

“Jethro, we have been walking for a while, let’s sit and wait for someone to come along.

“Umm, ok, if you want,” Gibbs said, he didn’t care if they stopped or not, as long as he was with Tony he would be happy. Several minutes passed before they heard a car, sick sounding but still running. Tony jumped up and started waving; the driver pulled over and hopped out of the car.

“Hi, I was wondering if you could give us a ride,” Tony asked the darker man.

“Of course, as long as you don’t mind riding in the back, where too?’ he asked, his voice sounding Jamaican.

“Kekaha resort,” Gibbs said as he came forward.

“We were on our way there too,” he said as he looked back at the car to the passenger seat.

“I’m Kahmal,” he said as he held out his hand. Gibbs and Tony shook his hand before getting into the car.

“This is James,” Kahmal said as he gestured toward the passenger seat.

“Jethro and Tony,” Gibbs introduced.

“Nice to meet you both,” James said as they began their trip. Soon they arrived at the resort.

Tony and Gibbs thanked Kahmal and James before heading into reception.

“Hello, welcome to the Kekaha Resort,” the woman at the desk said happily.

“Hi, I booked a room,” Gibbs said as he sat his suitcase down.

“Name please,” the woman asked as she pulled out a book.

“Jethro Gibbs,” he said as he waited for her to flick through several pages before finding the right one.

“Yes, the luxury room, no departure date,” the woman said as she scanned the page.

“Yep, that’s the one,” Gibbs said as he waited for her to fill out page in the book.

A few moments later she handed Gibbs a key.

“Top floor, room 3a, have a pleasant stay,” she said with a smile.

“Thank you,” Gibbs said as he and Tony headed for the room.

“Stairs?” Tony asked as they started to climb.

“Yep,” Gibbs said. When they got to the room they walked in. Tony inhaled deeply, he could smell the sea air that filled the room quickly as Gibbs pulled open the sliding doors. Tony sat on the couch in the middle of the room.

“So, do you like it so far?” Gibbs asked Tony as he sat next to him.

“Yes, I love it...wait, so far?” Tony said as she turned to face Gibbs.

“Yep, there’s more,” Gibbs said, a smile creping onto his face quickly.

“Well, I’m not complaining, if it involves you then I’m happy,” Tony said as he lay down and put his head in Gibbs’ lap.

“Yeah, I’m not complaining either, not now, not ever,” Gibbs said as he lent down and kissed Tony. Tony reached up to run his fingers through the older man’s hair, deepening the kiss at the same time. After several minutes they pulled away from their kiss. Tony turned his head to look out the open doors. He smiled as he sat up and walked out onto the balcony.

“It’s beautiful,” Tony said as he took in the start of the sunset. The sun was just starting to disappear beyond the horizon making the sky begin glowing with a gold tinge. The sea sparkled under the sun’s brightness.

“Yeah,” Gibb said as he came up behind Tony and wrapped his arms around his waist, leaning his head on Tony’s back, enjoying every second that passed.

As the sun set Tony and Gibbs walked down to a local fisherman who gave them prawns and oysters. When they got back to their room they cooked them up and took them out onto the balcony to eat.

“Want a few?” Gibbs asked Tony as he picked the plate of oysters up.

“Ahh, no thanks,” Tony said as he pulled a face to show his dislike.

“Have you tried them before?” Gibbs asked him.

“No, but they remind me of...” Tony stopped before finishing the sentence; he’d still like to eat the prawns and not lose his appetite beforehand.

“Do it like this,” Gibbs said as he picked an oyster up then quickly emptied it from the shell, swallowing and sitting the shell down.

“It’s easy and they don’t taste that bad, they don’t taste at all,” Gibb said as he pushed one towards Tony.

“Umm... Fine,” Tony said. He picked it up and watched it slide around the shell. He gulped at the air before tilting his head slightly and brining the shell to his lips. He was stalling and he knew it. He threw it into his mouth and swallowed.

“Well,” Gibbs said as Tony put the shell on the table.

“Actually, they’re not too bad,” Tony said as he stabbed a prawn with his fork.

“See, you just have to try some things to know if they are good or not,” Gibbs said as he took another oyster.

“Yeah, guess so,” Tony said as he looked out at what was left of the light.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back at NCIS

“You have to tell us,” Ziva said as she circled Abby’s lab again.

“I can’t,” Abby said even though she was itching to tell them.

“Abs why can’t you tell us?” McGee said as he sat down.

“I told you, I promised Gibbs,” she said before sitting down herself.

“Come on Abby, what about a hint?” Ziva pleaded.

“A hint for what?” asked Ducky from the door.

“Hey Ducky, Gibbs told Abby something and made her promise that she wouldn’t tell anybody and now she is craving to tell everyone,” McGee said as Ducky came in and sat down.

“Oh, “Ducky said as he looked around.

“You know as well!” Ziva yelled as she looked at Ducky.

“Well... Ok, yes I know,” Ducky said as he looked at Abby who looked like she was about to jump out of her skin.

“Why didn’t Gibbs tell us, can he not trust us?” Ziva fumed.

“No, Ziva, he trusts you... but...” Abby didn’t know how to finish her sentence.

“Gibbs isn’t here, he won’t know if you tell us,” Ziva said as she sat down with everybody.

“Please Abby,” McGee said as he waited.

“No,” Abby said with a definite closure. Then she looked at Ziva and McGee.

“Fine, I’ll tell,” she said as she saw the pleading looks on their faces.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back in Hawaii

“I love you,” Tony said breathlessly.

“I love you too,” Gibbs said as his breathing started to slow from its rapid pace. Tony rested his head on Gibbs’ bare chest and took in the smell of the salt air mixing with the hot, sweaty sex smell.

They both drifted off to sleep. When they awoke they were still holding each other tightly. They smiled when they saw each other’s face.

“So, what’s on the agenda for today?” Tony asked as he got out of bed, still naked from the previous night.

“Whatever you want to be on it,” Gibbs said as he tried not to stare at Tony’s body.

“Ok,” he said before going into the bathroom and taking a shower. Gibbs got out of bed and pulled on his boxers. He walked into the kitchen and pulled out a bowl of fruit they had bought the previous day. He cut it up and put equal amounts into two bowls just as Tony walked in, only sporting a towel around his waist.

“Breakfast,” Gibbs smiled as he handed Tony a bowl.

“Thanks,” Tony said as he sat on the couch and started eating. Gibbs did the same. After they finished Gibbs went for a shower and Tony cleaned up. He walked into the bedroom and got dressed. When he walked out onto the balcony he imagined himself and Gibbs walking along the pearl white sand hand in hand. He lost track of time because when Gibbs came up and grabbed his hips he jumped.

“Wanna go for a walk?” Gibbs asked as he looked at the picturesque scene.

“Sure,” Tony said. They walked down into the lobby. The woman behind the desk looked up and smiled.

“Good morning,” she said as they walked to the door.

“Morning,” Gibbs said. Tony smiled his greeting. They walked to the beach which was just across the road. Hand in hand they strolled along the beach. Talking causally, smiling and laughing, everything seemed perfect. If they could stop time and capture the moment for just a while longer they would certainly do it.

The days passed a little too quickly for their liking, time does fly when you’re having fun. Not one day went by when they didn’t smile, laugh and talk. Each morning they woke, still holding each other, whether they were naked or clothed.

They had been at the resort for 6 days now. The evening was washing over Kekaha, sun fading into the horizon, water sparkling, and sky golden. Gibbs and Tony were walking along the beach again. Hand in hand their smiles as wide as they could possibly could be. They stopped and sat down on the warm sand. Words didn’t have to be said between them and they both liked the silence. Gibbs stood up soon to be followed by Tony.

“Wait here,” Gibbs order before running off.

“Where are you going?” Tony yelled after him.

“Just wait there!” Gibbs yelled before disappearing into some trees. Tony sat back down and smiled to himself. A few minutes later he saw Gibbs reappear.

“Where did you go?” Tony asked as he stood up and took a few steps to close the gap between them.

“Just over there,” Gibbs said as he pointed to the trees. Tony rolled his eyes in a playful manner.

“Tony, how ready for commitment are you?” Gibbs asked as he took Tony’s hands into a firm embrace.

“Well I’ve been in this relationship for a while so I’d say I’m already committed,” he answered as he smiled lovingly.

“Alright, if that’s the way you feel,” Gibbs said. The next few moments seemed to play in slow motion for Tony.

Gibbs knelt down on one knee, still holding Tony’s hands firmly. He took a breath before continuing. Tony thought he was dreaming.

“Tony, I love you so much, there are so many ways to express my love, I want to be with you forever,” Gibbs paused to take another breath.

This is what Abby was talking about. Tony though in realization, suddenly he everything clicked, it all fitted together like a jigsaw.

“Anthony DiNozzo... Will you marry me?”

Tony looked down at Gibbs.

Anthony DiNozzo...Will you... Marry... Me? the words rolled in his mind. He smiled as the reality of it hit him like a bucket of water. Gibbs wanted to marry him.

Gibbs stood up looking a little concerned. Had he crossed the line, gone too far? Should he have waited longer or was Tony just thinking it over?

“Yes!” Tony exclaimed before launching himself onto Gibbs and kissing him. This was one of those moments when they both wanted to freeze time and capture it in their minds, carve it in so it would never be forgotten.

They pulled away from their kiss gasping for air. They stood there looking into each other’s eyes.

“Yaaaay!”

Before they knew it they had been bowled onto the sand.

“Abby?” Tony said with a surprised look on his face.

“You two are going to be perfect,” she said before giving them both a hug. She stood back up and waited for them to return to a vertical position. When Tony looked ahead of him he saw 4 all but too familiar figures walking towards them.

“Wait, Jethro, did you invite everyone?” Tony asked. Gibbs didn’t answer, he didn’t get a chance.

“Congratulations to the both of you,” Ducky said as he gave them both a hug.

“Tony’s getting married,” Ziva said as she hugged him.

“Congrats,” McGee said as did Jimmy. They all sat down and started talking and laughing.

“So, have you thought of a wedding date?” Abby asked enthusiastically.

“Abbs we only just got engaged... That sounds kind of odd... Anyway... We have plenty of time to think about it,” Tony said as he smiled at Gibbs.

“Sorry, just excited,” she said. She looked up and down the beach before squinting slightly and cocking her head to one side. As she stood up everybody followed her gaze.

“James? Kahmal?” she yelled.

“Abby?” they yelled back. She smiled before running to them and giving them a hug. Abby walked back to the other with the two men.

“James, Kahmal, this is Tony and Gibbs,” she introduced. They gave a small chuckle.

“We know, we met them about a week ago, gave them a lift to the resort,” Kahmal said still slightly chuckling.

“Oh, well that’s good, guess what,” Abby said to them.

“Your nun’s won again?” James guessed.

“Yes, but apart from that,” she said.

“I don’t know, what?” James said as he moved closer to Kahmal.

“Tony and Gibbs got engaged,” she said as if she were a proud mother bragging.

“That’s great, congratulations,” Kahmal said.

“Yeah, congratulations,” James said.

“How about you guys stay for a while,” Abby suggested.

“If that’s ok,” they said.

“Sure is,” Gibbs said before sitting down. Tony sitting right next to him, making sure their knees touched and their hands in a tight grip with one another. Kahmal and James sat down with Abby and the conversations started again.

As the night grew on and the moon got higher in the sky, lighting the beach, everyone became tired but didn’t want to go back to the resort. Tony laid his head on Gibbs’ shoulder inhaling his scent. Tony was slightly taken back when James laid his head in Kahmal’s lap. Tony closed his eyes slightly, thinking he would open them right away but he didn’t.

“Come on, let’s go back,” Gibbs whispered in his ear. He nodded slightly before standing up and wrapping himself around Gibbs.

“Night everyone,” Gibbs said before they headed back to the resort. Tony slid into his pj’s and straight into bed. Gibbs was quick behind him and was holding Tony who fell asleep instantaneously as his head hit the pillow. Gibbs lay awake for a few minutes before slipping into a peaceful sleep.

1 week later

“Welcome back,” Ziva greeted Tony and Gibbs as they walked into the bullpen.

“Only checking up, not back yet,” Gibbs said as he walked to his desk. Tony sat at his desk and looked around before slouching in his chair. Gibbs looked over to Tony, his face became worried.

“You sick?” he asked as he walked over and knelt near Tony.

“Probably just a bit of jet-lag,” Tony said before giving a small smile. Gibbs gave a concerned nod before going back to his desk. After he checked his emails Gibbs got up and walked over to Tony who had his head on the desk.

“Let’s go home,” he whispered in his ear.

“Ok,” Tony said in a small voice.

They walked to the elevator, Gibbs supporting Tony just in case.

“Maybe we should go down and see Ducky, just to be safe,” Gibbs suggested.

“No, I’m fine, just jet-lag,” Tony said as they go into the elevator. They walked out to the car and drove back to Gibbs’ house. When they got inside Tony started down the hallway for the kitchen when he quickly double over, letting out a pained groan. Gibbs was quick to run to his side.

“Tony, what’s wrong?” he asked, panic flooding his voice.

“My stomach,” Tony groaned as he tried to stand upright.

“Come on,” Gibbs said as he helped Tony into the bedroom. He laid him on the bed only for Tony to bring his knees to his chest.

“It hurts, like somebody’s stabbing me with a knife,” Tony moaned.

“I’m taking you to the doctors,” Gibbs said as he looked at Tony curled up on the bed in pain.

“No, let’s wait a day,” he said.

“We’ll see,” Gibbs said as he sat on the edge of the bed.

“I’ll get you a glass of water,” Gibbs said as he got up and left for the kitchen. Tony lay still for a moment before launching himself off the bed and running to the bathroom.

Gibbs heard Tony and quickly dropped the glass into the sink, running into the bathroom he saw Tony leaning over the toilet.

“You don’t just have a case of jet-lag, hospital it is,” Gibbs said as he rubbed Tony’s back.

“No,” Tony protested but couldn’t do anything when he was in the car and heading for the hospital. Gibbs placed his hand on Tony’s forehead and moaned as he felt Tony building up a temperature. When they pulled into the parking lot at the hospital Gibbs was quick to help Tony into the building. He sat Tony on the hard cushioned chair and went to the reception desk.

“Hi, how can I help you today?” the girl behind the desk smiled.

“Hi, I need a doctor, my fiancé is ill,” Gibbs said urgently.

“Sure, I just need you to give me a quick description of the symptoms,” the girl said before dialling a number.

“Sharp stomach pains, throwing up, temperature,” he said quickly as he looked over his shoulder to Tony.

“Ok, the doctor is on his way,” the girl said. Seconds later a doctor appeared from around the corner. The girl pointed to Gibbs.

“Doctor Sanz,” the doctor introduced himself.

“Jethro, my fiancé isn’t well,” he said.

“Ok, where is you fiancé,” Dr Sanz said as he looked around. It was fairly quiet at the hospital and Tony was the only in in the waiting room.

“There,” Gibbs said as he pointed to Tony and started walking towards him.

“Oh, ok,” the doctor said.

“His name?” the doctor asked Gibbs.

“Tony,” Gibbs replied quickly. When they reached Tony he was panicking.

“Jethro, help me, I can’t feel my right hand,” he said as he reached out for Gibbs. Gibbs took Tony’s left hand and held it tightly.

“Tony, I’m Doctor Sanz, when did you start to lose feeling in your hand?” he asked.

“On the way to the hospital, but it wasn’t bothering me, I didn’t notice it,” Tony said, fear attacking his voice as he spoke.

“Ok, we are going to take you into a room and do some tests,” the doctor said as he yelled out to the girl behind the desk to get a room and bed. A few minutes later Tony was been taken into a room for tests. Gibbs sat in the waiting room worrying to the core. He could hear the clock ticking and the silence only made it louder.

“Jethro,” the doctor said as he sat next to him.

“Is he going to be ok?” Gibbs asked urgently.

“It depends, has he consumed any seafood over the past week?” the doctor asked.

“Yes, why?” Gibbs asked.

“We think that Tony may have Tetrodotoxin poisoning, caused by reef fish such as puffer fish,” the doctor said. Gibbs knew what that meant and was horrified.

“Oh,” was all he could manage to get out, the shock hitting him hard.

“I must warn you, these cases are often fatal,” the doctor concluded.

“Can I see him?” Gibbs asked, keeping his voice steady.

“Yes, we have him on pain relief,” the doctor said before he left.

“Room 8,” the girl behind the desk said as Gibbs walked passed. He nodded once before heading to room 8. When he walked in it broke his heart to see Tony lying there on that hard hospital bed, his face pale and when Tony looked up to Gibbs with tear glazed eyes he couldn’t help but cripple beneath the hurt.

“So, here we are once again, me in a life threatening situation,” Tony said with a slight smile.

“Yeah, guess we are,” Gibbs said as he took Tony’s hand.

“Maybe I won’t be so lucky this time,” Tony thought out loud.

“Don’t you dare say that Tony, not now or ever again, you got me?” Gibbs said sternly.

“Sorry, not saying it again,” Tony apologised. Gibbs slapped Tony on the head lightly.

“Don’t think it either,” Gibbs said. Tony nodded as he looked around pointlessly.

“You should ring the others and tell them,” Tony said after a few minutes.

“Guess I should, I won’t be a minute,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony’s cheek and walked into the corridor. Pulling out his phone he dialled Abby’s lab number.

“Hey Bossman, what’s up?” Abby said cheerily through the line.

“Abby, Tony’s sick,” he said as he put his back against the wall.

“Oh god, what happened? Is he going to be ok?” she said worriedly through the line. He heard her music stop and footsteps. He told her where they were, Abby didn’t hang up, and she was still trying to get information out of Gibbs.

“Abby, I’ll tell you when you get here,” Gibbs said. He heard a beeping noise and looked around to see Doctor Sanz and two nurses running towards him. His heart skipped a beat as they ran into Tony’s room. He hung up without another word and stood in the door way.

“Mr Gibbs you’re going to have to leave,” one of the nurses said as she closed the door. Gibbs walked into the waiting room and sat down, burying his face into his hands.

He looked up to see Abby and the others walking towards him.

“Gibbs,” Abby said as she sat next to him.

“I don’t know Abbs,” he said as she hugged him. Everybody sat there in silence. The time passed by, worried glances and comforting smiles were passed around the group.

“Mr Gibbs,” Doctor Sanz said. Gibbs stood up immediately.

“We have done all we can for now, because there is no known antidote for Tetrodotoxin poisoning it will be difficult, we currently have him on life support and under sedation,” the doctor informed Gibbs. He blinked away the tears.

“I’m sorry but he has little chance,” the doctor said as he looked apologetically at Gibbs.

“You can see him,” he said before leaving. Gibbs walked back to the others.

“No,” Abby gasped before hugging Gibbs tightly.

“I’m going to see him,” Gibbs said quietly as he walked off. When he walked into Tony’s room he let the tears fill his eyes. Seeing Tony hooked to the machines almost killed Gibbs.

“God, what have I done, this is my fault,” Gibbs said to the unresponsive Tony. He sat there holding Tony’s hand and talking to him.

“Gibbs,” Abby whispered from the door.

“Yeah,” he said as he turned to face her.

“You’ve been in here for 2 hours, let’s go home,” she said as she looked at him with sorrow in her eyes.

“No, I’ll stay,” he said as he turned back to Tony.

“Gibbs, there isn’t anything you can do for him right now, how about you get some rest,” she said as she walked over to him. Gibbs sat there staring at Tony, he didn’t want to leave. What if something happened? What if he couldn’t get back in time? He mentally kicked himself for thinking like that. Nothing was going to happen to him, at least he hoped not. Gibbs stood up and found a way around all the needles, cords and tubes to kiss Tony on the forehead.

“I love you,” he whispered in Tony’s ear. He wanted so desperately to see Tony smile and say the words right back to him. Gibbs turned and left and it hurt him to walk away from Tony.

“He’ll be ok,” Abby told Gibbs as they walked down the corridor. Gibbs nodded; he knew he’d be ok. He drove home and refused to let anybody stay with him. He walked in the front door and threw his keys on the side table. He went straight into the bedroom and got into bed. He didn’t bother changing out of his clothes. He lay there for some 20 minutes trying to sleep but couldn’t.

He groaned when he remembered that he’d finished his boat and given it to Mike Franks. He walked into the kitchen and pulled out the bottle of bourbon that sat on the top of the cupboard. He poured himself a glass before going into the living room and sitting on the couch, slowly sipping at his drink. After another two drinks he drifted to sleep on the couch.

The days passed by and the situation was the same every night and day. Gibbs would stay at the hospital with an unresponsive Tony for hours on end. When he went home, after been told by somebody, he would sit on the couch and drink bourbon then fall asleep. He counted the days that Tony was in hospital. One, two, three, four, five.
_____________
Tony could feel pain in his muscles, stiff from the hard bed and not been able to turn because he’d been out of it and all the cords, needles and tubes. He was aware he was like a pin cushion. When he slowly opened his eyes he knew he was in hospital. Suddenly he started to panic, there was something down his throat, he felt trapped, and he wanted it out. Soon enough the doctor was in his room removing the tube from his throat. When he looked around he saw that Gibbs wasn’t in the room.

“Tony, how do you feel” the doctor asked.

“Sore, stiff, thirsty,”” Tony said hoarsely.

“Ok, do you feel nauseated?” the doc questioned.

“No,” he replied simply.

“No numbness or headaches?”

“Nope,” Tony said.

“Ok, you seem to have had luck on your side,” the doctor commented before leaving. A nurse came back in with a glass of water. Tony began guzzling it down only for the nurse to pull it away from him.

“You will make yourself sick it you drink like that,” she smiled.

“Sorry,” Tony said before looking towards the door.

“He hasn’t come in yet, would you like me to call him?” the nurse asked.

“No, it’s ok,” Tony said the disappointment obvious in his eyes.

“Ok, if you need anything just press the buzzer, I’m right outside,” she said before she left. Tony lay there in silence before pressing the buzzer. The nurse walked back in.

“Can I sit up nurse?” he asked. She smiled slightly.

“Course you can, and call me Cassie,” she said as she propped Tony up.

“Ok... Cassie, do you think you could ring Jethro for me?” he asked her.

“Sure,” she smiled before leaving. A few minutes later she came back in.

“He’s on his way,” she said as she walked through the door.

“Thank you,” Tony said. Tony and Cassie started to talk; they were getting along really well. Their feelings for each other weren’t going to turn them into lovers, but more like a brother and sister. Half an hour later Gibbs walked through the door.

“Tony, thank god you’re ok,” Gibbs said as he rushed to his side and kissed his cheek. As Gibbs fused and kissed Tony, apologising for everything, Cassie got up and left without a word.

Gibbs phoned the others and told them that Tony was going to be fine. After another week in hospital Tony was ready to be discharged.

“And sign here then you’re all done,” Cassie said as Tony stood at the reception desk and signed away.

“Done, now you’re free to go home,” she said as she smiled at Tony.

“Thanks Cassie, for everything,” Tony said as he took Gibbs hand and they left. When they got back to Gibbs’ place Abby’s hearse was parked out the front. As soon as the door opened Abby could be heard coming up the hallway.

“Tony, Tony, Tony, your home, I knew you’d be home soon,” she said finally coming to a stop in front of him. She hugged him gently as she smiled.

“Well, I’ll leave you two too it,” she said before leaving. Tony turned to Gibbs and smiled.

“I love you, did I already mention that?” he said, a cheeky grin appearing on his face.

“Yeah, I love you too,” Gibbs replied before kissing Tony tenderly.

For a week Gibbs ordered Tony to stay at home to fully recover. Saturday morning rolled around and found Tony sitting on the couch in his sweat pants eating a bowl of coco pops. He was partly disappointed that Gibbs had to go back to work. Munching away he heard a knock on the door.

“Ahh,” Tony groaned as he sat his bowl on the coffee table and walked to the front door. He opened the door and was surprised to see Jackson Gibbs standing there.

“Tony,” Jackson smiled.

“Jack, come in,” Tony said happily. Jackson walked in and followed Tony to the living room.

“So, what brings you here?” Tony asked as he picked his coco pops up.

“You actually,” Jackson said as he sat down.

“Oh, ok,” Tony said as he started eating again.

“Leroy rang me,” Jackson said as he looked around the place.

“Did he?” Tony asked, wondering when he had rung.

“As long as you make my boy happy that’s all that matters,” Jackson said as he smiled at Tony.

“So he told you about...” Tony trailed off.

“Yes, set a date yet?” he asked.

“Ahh, no,” Tony replied as he finished off his coco pops.

“That’s ok, just make sure that he doesn’t rush into it,” Jackson said.

“I’ll show you around the house,” Tony offered.

“That’d be nice,” Jackson said as he stood up. They walked into the kitchen and Tony put his plate in the sink.

“So, the kitchen,” Tony pointed out the obvious. Jackson laughed a little.

“And the bathroom,” Tony said as he opened the door.

“Jethro’s bedroom,” Tony said as they walked in.

“Your,” Jackson said as he looked around.

“Sorry?” Tony asked.

“Call it your bedroom; you both use it, don’t you?” Jackson asked.

“Umm, yeah, ok our bedroom,” Tony corrected.

“And the guest room,” Tony said as they walked into the next room.

“You are staying aren’t you?” Tony asked with a pleading look on his face.

“You think I drove all the way down here just to say hi then leave again? Of course I’m staying, if it’s ok with you,” Jackson said as they headed back into the living room.

“Yes, stay as long as you like,” Tony offered.

“I’ll just go for a shower, is that ok?” he asked.
“You don’t have to get permission son,” Jackson said. Tony smiled and walked off into the bathroom.



Gibbs walked from the building and to his car. He got in and drove home. He noticed a car in front of the house, not familiar with it he got out and cautiously snuck inside.

“Leroy, is that you?” came an all too familiar voice.

“Dad,” Gibbs asked as he walked up the hallway.

“Well, who else calls you Leroy?” Jackson said. Gibbs walked into the living room and smiled.

“How you been son?” Jackson asked as he stood up.

“Alright,” Gibbs said as he gave Jackson a hug.

“Tony’s just gone for a shower,” Jackson said as Gibbs looked around the room.

“Oh, ok, you want something to eat, drink?” Gibbs asked.

“I’m right thanks,” Jackson said. It went silent for a few minutes. They heard Tony open the bathroom door and walk into the bedroom a few seconds later there was a crash.

“Oh shit!” Tony yelled. Gibbs got up and ran into the bedroom to see Tony on the floor, a heap of clothes on top of him.

“What happened?” Gibbs asked as he bent down.

“I opened the cupboard, pulled a shirt off the hanger and the whole rack fell down, along with a shelf,” Tony said as he propped up on his elbows.

“Oh,” Gibbs said as he started pulling shirts off Tony.

“Looks like you’re going to have to fix it,” Tony said as he stood up and noticing he’d lost his towel in the mean time. Gibbs looked up at him and smiled wickedly. Tony shook his head, knowing what Gibbs was thinking.

“You two ok?” Jackson asked, coming up the hallway. Tony quickly found his towel and wrapped it around his waist.

“Yeah, Tony just broke the wardrobe,” Gibbs said as he laughed. Jackson walked into the room and laughed at the pile of shirts on the ground.

“Pass me that shirt please,” Tony said as he pointed to a blue short sleeved button up. Gibbs passed him the shirt and Tony grabbed a pair of jeans before going back into the bathroom.

“I’m going to see the lovely ladies at NCIS,” Jackson said as he walked from the room.

“Want me to take you?” Gibbs asked.

“No thanks Leroy,” Jackson said before leaving. Gibbs put the pile of shirts on the bed and started to try and fix the wardrobe when Tony came back in.

“Where’s Jack?” he asked.

“Gone to see Abby and Ziva,” Gibbs replied before stepping towards Tony. Tony grinned before locking his lips with Gibbs. He pushed the older man towards the wall and deepened the kiss. When Gibbs turned the tables and pushed Tony against the wall the younger man knew that he was getting hard.

“Let’s save it for tonight,” Gibbs said as he pulled away from Tony.

“But Jack will be here,” Tony said.

“I know, but I’m still working,” Gibbs said as they walked into the living room.

“Fine, tonight it is,” Tony said as he sat on the couch.

“I better get back, I love you,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony.

“I love you too,” Tony said before Gibbs walked out the door. He sat there staring at the black television.

I need something to do. Tony thought to himself as he stood up and walked around the house looking for something to keep him occupied. He walked back into the living room and flicked the TV on. As he changed channels an ad caught his eye.

“These children need your support, so why not donate now,” the advertisement woman said. A picture of a little Indian girl appeared on the screen, she only look about 4. Another picture appeared on the screen, this time a baby only 8 months old.

“Rani and her baby brother Kaushal need your help,” the woman said as their pictures reappeared. Tony zoned out and sat staring at the pictures. He heard the number the woman read out.

“No,” Tony said in a small voice. He turned the TV off and walked out of the living room and into the bathroom where he splashed water over his face. Looking into the mirror he couldn’t help but think about those children. A few hours passed and Tony found himself sitting back on the couch staring at the TV again.

“Hey, you ok?” Gibbs’ voice came from the door way.

“Huh, oh yeah, I’m fine,” Tony said, partly true, partly a lie.

“There’s something wrong,” Gibbs said as he sat down with Tony.

“I... I just saw... Never mind,” he said. How could he tell Gibbs how he felt about those two children? They weren’t even married yet why was he thinking about children?

“You saw what?” Gibbs asked as he rubbed Tony’s knee.

“It doesn’t matter,” Tony said as he put his hand on Gibbs’ hand.

“Tony, babe, please tell me what’s upsetting you,” Gibbs said as he put his arm around Tony’s shoulder.

“There’s nothing wrong, I’m not upset,” Tony said as he leant into Gibbs’ hold.

“You’re lying,” Gibbs pressed.

“No I’m not, just leave it, please, just stop,” Tony said as he got up and walked out the back.

Gibbs sat there knowing that Tony was not “ok” like he said he was.

Gibbs walked out the back to see Tony sitting on the lawn. He walked over and sat next to him.

“Look, I’m sorry for nagging like that, I was just worried,” Gibbs said as he took Tony’s hand.

“I know, I’m sorry I snapped,” Tony apologised. After a while Gibbs went back to NCIS and Tony went back and sat on the couch.

“Tony,” Jackson said from the door way. When Tony looked at his watch he noticed he’d been sitting there for another few hours.

“Hey, Jack,” Tony said as he stood up and walked over to him.
“I’m going to stay with someone else tonight,” he said.

“Oh,” Tony said as he wondered who.

“Well, Tim, Abby and Ziva are taking me with them to one of Tim’s book convention things, then we are going bowling with Nuns,” Jackson explained.

“Ok, so when are you going?” Tony asked.

“At 5... Well about now,” he said as he looked at his watch.

“Oh, ok, have fun,” Tony said as Jackson left. Only a few moments later and Gibbs walked back through the door.

“Hey you,” he said as he walked past the living room door where Tony was still standing and into the kitchen.

“Hey,” Tony said as he followed him.

“Just us tonight,” Gibbs said as he turned to Tony.

“Yeah,” Tony said; his mind somewhere in another universe. Gibbs didn’t bother pressing knowing it would only make Tony snap again. Six o’clock rolled around and had Tony and Gibbs eating dinner. By 7 they had washed up and were on the couch watching TV.

“I think I’m gonna go to bed,” Tony said as he kissed Gibbs before heading off without giving Gibbs a chance to say anything. Gibbs shook his head and got up following Tony into the bedroom.

“You ok?” he asked again.

“Just tired,” Tony lied. Gibbs got changed and hopped into bed with Tony.

“I hate seeing you upset or hurt, please tell me what’s wrong, maybe I can help?” Gibbs said as he pulled Tony closer.

“I...” Tony couldn’t get it out.

“I’m ready for it, it can’t be that bad,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony’s cheek.

“It’s bad, I bet you’d get mad,” Tony said as he sighed.

“Ok, bet you 5 dollars I don’t,” Gibbs said as he smiled.

“Fine” Tony said softly.

“Now, spit it out,” Gibbs said a little more sternly. Tony thought to himself for a moment... What’s the worst that can happen?

“I was watching TV and I saw this ad came on about these little Indian children, Rani’s 4 and Kaushal’s 8 months old, I think their mother died from disease and their father doesn’t want them,” Tony said as he waited for a reaction from Gibbs.

“So you feel sorry for them, a lot of people do,” Gibbs said, even he felt sorry for them.

“I want to help them,” Tony said as he cringed at the silence that came afterwards.

“Why now? You never wanted kids, did you?” Gibbs asked.

“Maybe I’ve changed with this whole commitment thing, maybe I want kids,” Tony said as he sat up.

“Tony we aren’t even married yet,” Gibbs said calmly.

“Jethro, she’s four, he’s 8 months, how can I just leave them like that?” Tony said as he started getting flustered.

“Tony, let’s just get some sleep and talk about it in the morning,” Gibbs suggested.

“Fine,” Tony sniffed. They fell asleep holding each other again. When Tony woke he found Gibbs wasn’t in bed. As he walked down the hall he heard voices. He stopped just before the kitchen and listened.

“So let me get this straight, Tony wants to adopt two little Indian kids,” McGee said.

“At least I think he does,” Gibbs said in a voice which was filled with confusion.

“Maybe it would be a good thing Gibbs,” Abby said as she paced the room.

“We aren’t even married,” Gibbs pointed out, obviously. Tony walked into the kitchen and everybody went silent.

“Morning everyone,” Tony said as he tried to look like he hadn’t been eavesdropping.

“Morning,” Gibbs said as he watched Tony for signs he might start about the kids.

“Ok, well I’m going for a shower,” he said as he left. Gibbs watched him leave.

“I’m off, see you later,” Ziva said as she left.

“Yeah us too,” Abby and McGee said.

“I’m with them,” Jackson said as followed them.

“You don’t have to go dad,” Gibbs said as he stood in the door way.

“Leroy, you and Tony need to sort things out, I’ll come back when you have,” Jackson said as he left. Gibbs walked into the bedroom and waited for Tony to get out of the shower. 10 minutes later Tony walked in with the towel concealing his waist.

“We need to talk,” Gibbs said as he watched Tony.

“Yeah, I need to get dressed,” Tony replied sarcastically as he opened the wardrobe.

“I’m been serious Tony,” Gibbs said as he stood up.

“Ok, I’ll get dressed and we’ll talk in the living room," Tony replied.

“Ok,” Gibbs said as he got up and walked into the living room. A few seconds later Tony was sitting on the couch opposite Gibbs.

“Let’s talk,” Tony said as he looked at Gibbs.

“Come sit over here,” Gibbs said as he looked pleadingly at Tony. Tony got up and walked over to Gibbs, sitting almost on top of him.

“I know that you desperately want to help those children,” Gibbs said as he put his arms around Tony.

“Yeah,” Tony said as his thoughts trailed off.

“But maybe, could we just wait until we’re married,” Gibbs suggested.

“Umm... Yeah... Ok,” Tony said even though inside he wanted to scream no.

“You sure you’re ok?” Gibbs asked knowing the answer.

“Yeah,” Tony lied again.

“I promise you that we will have children,” Gibbs said. Tony smiled as he leant his head on Gibbs’ shoulder.

“I know,” he whispered. They sat there in silence for some time before Gibbs kissed Tony’s cheek. Tony smiled at the gentle touch of Gibbs’ lips. The day passed by and by 5 o’clock Gibbs couldn’t stand the urge anymore.

“I love you,” Gibbs whispered into ear.

“I love you too,” Tony said as he kissed Gibbs’ lips. Quickly but gently Gibbs pushed Tony back onto the couch without breaking the kiss. He slipped his hands under Tony’s shirt, running his fingers along his well toned body. He put his knees on either side of Tony’s waist to get more comfortable before rubbing his fingers around Tony’s nipples, receiving a muffled moan from his touching efforts.

Gibbs started to unbutton Tony’s shirt, he could clearly feel Tony’s erection rubbing against his own through the material as he threw the shirt away. Tony pulled away for air as he ripped Gibbs’ shirt from his chest discarding it carelessly.

“Oh God,” Tony gasped as Gibbs thrust down on Tony, making his cock throb. Gibbs was quick to slip his fingers under the waist bands of Tony’s jean and pull them off, along with his boxer briefs, in one swift movement. Tony in return promptly pulled Gibbs’ pants and underwear down and off. Gibbs quickly jumped up and ran into the bedroom, leaving Tony confused. When he returned he had one of the boxes Abby’s presents had been in.

“Peach, mango or chocolate?” Gibbs asked, his voice ringing with seduction.

“Mango,” Tony said, his eyes widening with pleasure at the sudden thought that appeared in his mind.

“Mango it is,” Gibbs said as he pulled out a bottle of Mango flavoured lube. Tony grinned wickedly. Gibbs went back to his former position before taking Tony’s lips in a battle of domination. He ran his hands along Tony’s legs. Tony wanted more than just kissing and nakedness so he thrust his hips up, his cock rubbing against Gibbs’ now throbbing cock.

“Fuck me,” Tony said breathlessly. Gibbs kissed a trailed down to Tony’s cock before he licked it once, then applying lube to his fingers. He slowly pushed a finger into Tony. The sudden contact made Tony’s length start leaking with pre-cum. He moaned and tried to make more contact with Gibbs.

“More,” he managed although it came out strangled. Carefully Gibbs inserted another finger and started a slow rhythm. Tony moaned and grasped the couch slightly.

“Fuck me now Jethro,” Tony said, urged on by the throbbing of his leaking cock. Gibbs pulled his fingers out and slipped a condom on before rubbing lube around Tony’s stretched hole. Gibbs teased Tony a little, seeing how it made him react.

“God, Jethro... Just bloody fuck me already,” Tony said impatiently. Gibbs grinned before pushing into Tony. Tony moaned in pleasure and relief at the fullness he felt inside of him. Gibbs started a slow rhythm as he softly skimmed his finger’s over Tony’s cock.

“God,” Tony said as he pushed Gibbs’ hand away, taking it into his own and rubbing it.

“No,” Gibbs said as he pinned Tony’s hands to the couch above his head. He sped his pace up, getting faster every so often.

“Harder Jethro,” Tony groaned. Gibbs pushed in harder making Tony moan louder.

“Yes, Jethro more,” Tony said as he thrust about trying to get more contact. Gibbs moaned as he felt his climax increasing.

“Fuck,” Gibbs swore into Tony’s chest which he was now licking. Gibbs took Tony’s cock into his hand and started rubbing up and down the length.

“Oh... Yeah, God, fuck yes,” Tony said, his voice thick with moans. Gibbs thrust into Tony several more time before his climax hit him like electricity. He kept working Tony’s cock as he came.

“Come for me Tony,” he said as his climax started to fade slowly. He rubbed harder and faster at Tony’s cock until Tony was coming into his hand. He slid up and kissed Tony, savouring the moment.

Tony sat up and kissed Gibbs again, smiling as he pulled away. Gibbs lay down on the couch pulling Tony down on top of him. They laid there holding each other for a moment.

“Fucking hell!” cursed someone at the living room door. Tony and Gibbs quickly reached for their clothes, only to find they hard discarded them on the other side of the room, meaning they would have to retrieve them and whoever was at the door would see them.

“Tim, what’s...?” Abby trailed off as she looked over the back of the couch, her eyes wide.

“Abbs,” Tony and Gibbs said defensively. Abby backed away to the door.

“Will you two give us a moment,” Gibbs said, his voice hinting the annoyance. When they were sure Abby and McGee had left their presence they quickly got up and dressed themselves.

“I’ll take the stuff back to the room,” Gibbs whispered in Tony’s ear as he walked out of the room with the box of supplies. Tony walked into the kitchen to find Abby and McGee sitting at the table. Abby smiled widely while McGee wore an odd expression on his face.

“You got a problem with us Probie?” Tony asked him in a worried manner.

“No, I don’t, I just don’t like interrupting special moments,” he said.

“Ok,” Tony said as Gibbs walked in. There was an awkward silence for a moment.

“Well... We just came around to tell you that Jackson is staying with Ziva tonight,” McGee said.

“Oh, ok,’ Tony said.

“Alright, we’ll be off,” McGee said as he got up. As Abby walked passed Tony and Gibbs she gave them a wink.

“That was... Awkward,” Gibbs said as he went to the fridge and pulled out two beers. Handing one to Tony they walked into the living room.

“Still smells like sex,” Tony said as he sniffed at the air.

“Yeah,” Gibbs said as he watched Tony look out the window.

“Watcha thinking about?” Gibbs asked after a few moments.

“Nothing,” Tony said as he sat down. He grabbed the remote and turned the TV on.

“Wanna watch anything in particular?” he asked Gibbs as he started flicking through the channels.

“Nah,” Gibbs said as he pulled Tony close. Tony was more than happy to cuddle into Gibbs’ side and flick through channels. Soon after Tony cooked up some dinner and they sat in silence eating. When they had finished eating they went back into the living room with another beer resting contently in their hands.

“You two made up?” Jackson said from the door way.

“Yeah,” Tony smiled.

“Good,” Jackson smiled as he sat down.

Could this get any better? Gibbs thought to himself as he smiled contently.

“Well, I’m off to bed,” Jackson said as he got up.

“But it’s... Oh, we’ve been sitting here for an hour doing nothing,” Tony said as he looked at his watch.

“Night,” Jackson said.

“Night Jack,” Tony replied.

“Night Dad,” Gibbs said. Jackson walked out of the room and left Tony and Gibbs to finish their beers and their cuddling. Not long after Gibbs got up and threw the beer bottle out before going into the bedroom where Tony was lying on the bed.

“You got in here quick,” Gibbs said as he changed into a pair of sweat pants.

“Yeah, sure did,” Tony said as he watched Gibbs every move. They drifted to sleep, holding each other like every single night.

5 Days passed and saw Tony back at work. Jackson had gone back to Stillwater after a very nice holiday with his son and soon to be son-in-law, as well as everybody else at NCIS. And so life continued as normal for Gibbs and Tony. They continued to solve cases with the help of their fellow co-workers and friends. The days which passed soon turned into weeks which, just a fast, turned into months.

JULY: Tony and Gibbs happy to be together, loving every second.

AUGUST: Saw Tony and Gibbs as the happily engaged couple they are.

SEPTEMBER: Both still happy, also celebrated Gibbs birthday which he was not happy about
because Tony threw him a party and invited everyone.

OCTOBER: Still look lovingly into each other’s eyes like they first met.

NOVEMBER: Same love been radiated through looks, kisses, hugs and sex.

DECEMBER: Their first Christmas together as a couple, and loving it.

JANUARY: Staring the New Year.

FEBRUARY: In love, like always.

MARCH: Spring had begun and Tony’s getting uneasy.

APRIL
“You ready?” Gibbs yelled from the door way.

“Alright, alright,” Tony yelled back as he walked from the bathroom. In January Tony had paid the last of his rent and moved in with Gibbs.

“We’re gonna be late,” Gibbs said as he closed the door.

“You were getting extra coffee,” Tony suggested an excuse.

“Or they think we were having sex in the car again,” Gibbs said as they got into Tony’s car and started their drive to NCIS.

“That was your fault,” Tony said as he glared out the windscreen.


“My fault, you were the one who jumped on me,” Gibbs smiled as he put his hand on Tony’s thigh.

“That is exactly how it started,” Tony said as he pointed to Gibbs’ hand.

“Wasn’t my fault that you couldn’t control yourself,” Gibbs laughed. Tony couldn’t hold the glare and smiled.

“True,” Tony said. They pulled into the parking lot and walked into the building. As they walked into the bullpen they saw Abby and Ziva huddled around McGee’s desk.

“It’s not nice to gossip about people,” Tony said as he sat at his desk.

“Tony, I would never gossip about you,” Abby said as she smiled.

“I know,” he said as he walked over to McGee’s desk trying to look what was on the computer but failing.

“Probie, what’s on the screen?” Tony asked.

“Nothing,” McGee replied.

“Probie...” he started but stopped when Abby put her hand over his mouth.

“Just wait,” she said as she pushed him back to his desk.

“Fine,” Tony said as he sat back down and started to flick through paper’s he had to finish.

Everything went silent except whispers between McGee, Abby and Ziva and as hard as Tony tried he couldn’t hear what they were saying.

“You three, back to work,” Gibbs said sternly after a few minutes.

“But Bossman,” Abby pleaded, going to Gibbs’ desk.

“No, back to work,” he said.

“But we don’t have any work,” she said as she walked back to McGee’s desk. Gibbs’ phone rung once before he swiftly picked it up.

“Gibbs,” he said. He put the phone down before getting his gun out.

“Let’s go,” he said as he headed for the elevator.

“Where are we going?” Ziva asked.

“Out the front,” Gibbs answered. They walked out to the parking lot to see a black SUV randomly placed in the centre.

“We are looking at a... Oh my,” Ziva said as they opened the door to find a body inside.

“Get Ducky,” Gibbs ordered. McGee was off in a flash.

“How do you think he died?” Ziva asked. Her view was obstructed so she inspected the vehicle.

“I’m sure I will know Miss David,” Ducky said as he approached the SUV.

“Let’s take a look,” he said as he stepped to the door.

“Oh my, you poor fellow,” he said to the corpse.

“How’d he die Duck,” Gibbs said, even though he had a rough idea.

“See this dagger in his stomach,” Ducky said. Everybody looked at the ebony handle, curved slightly.

“That is how he died, at least from first looks,” Ducky said.

“Mr Palmer, the gurney,” Ducky said.

“The odd thing is,” Ducky started.

“Wait until we are in autopsy,” Gibbs said.

“DiNozzo, sketches, Ziva evidence, McGee, find out who he is,” Gibbs ordered as he followed Ducky and Jimmy back to autopsy.

“So, what were you up to this morning?” Tony asked Ziva as he walked around the SUV snapping away with the camera.

“Nothing,” Ziva said quickly.

“If it was nothing why were you at Probie’s desk?”

“We were just talking,”

“Ha ha, nice try,” Tony said as he waved his finger in her face.

“If I told you I’d have to kill you,” she said as she pushed his hand away.

“You wouldn’t kill me, would you?” Tony said as he stood there.

“Just try me,” Ziva warned with a look Tony couldn’t decipher.

“Right, back to work,” Tony said warily. After another 10 minutes they had the vehicle in the evidence garage and were heading to autopsy.

“Yes, so why I said it was odd... I’m glad you’re here,” Ducky said as Ziva and Tony walked in.

“As I was saying, the dagger that I retrieved from our young man over here is native in Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Southern Thailand and the southern Philippines,” Ducky said as he held the dagger up.


“Which may give us a lead in some way because Seaman Chad Wong was born in Southern Thailand, lived there until he was 22 before he moved over here to join the Navy,” McGee said as he walked in.

“How long was he in the Navy?” Gibbs asked.

“3 years,” McGee answered promptly.

“Ok, I want a list of people who might have motive to kill him,” Gibbs said as he left autopsy. All three agents followed swiftly.

“DiNozzo, go back and see if Ducky has anything else,” Gibb said. Tony gave an odd look and stepped back out of the elevator, returning to Ducky. The doors closed and a few seconds later Gibbs flicked the elevator off.

“What were you doing this morning,” Gibbs asked Ziva and McGee.

“Nothing,” Ziva said.

“Don’t play with me, tell me,” Gibbs ordered, his voice hinting his annoyance.

“Well...,” McGee said. Gibbs hit his hand on the wall.

“Tell me McGee,” he said.

“Ok, we all know Tony wants to help those kids, we hacked into his emails and found that he’d been checking up on them, keeping tabs of what they’re doing,” McGee said before drawing breathe.

“You hacked into his emails?” Gibbs asked.

“Yeah,” McGee said cautiously.

“So he’s been keeping an eye on these two kids?” Gibbs asked, one eyebrow raised.

“Yeah, that’s the way it looks,” McGee answer as he looked to Ziva. Gibbs flicked the elevator back on.

“Shit,” he mumbled under his breath. They left the elevator in silence. After a while Tony came back up.

“Well, Ducky confirmed that the dagger killed him, also confirmed he can tell a lot of stories,” Tony said as he sat at his desk. Gibbs nodded and Tony started to look through a list of people who might be suspects.

“Boss, got something,” McGee said as he stood up.

“Eric Stevenson, he wrote a letter to Wong telling him, quote “if you touch my girlfriend again I will cut your fingers off,”” McGee said as he put a photo of a guy on the plasma.

“Find him, bring him in,” Gibbs ordered. McGee got to work right away.

“Got someone else, Daniel Tracey, he and Wong got into a fight, he threatened Wong, told him he would kill him,” Ziva said.

“Good,” Gibbs said as he read over files.

“Found Stevenson, Boss,” McGee said as he stood up.

“Go get him McGee, DiNozzo with him” Gibbs said. McGee and Tony quickly got up and left.

“Daniel Tracey is in prison,” Ziva said as she looked over to Gibbs.

“He could have had an accomplice,” Gibbs said as he looked though more files.

“He’s had no contact from anybody, no visitors, seems his family dislike him,” Ziva said as she read the file.

“Keep looking,” Gibbs said. 10 minutes passed, Tony and McGee returned with Eric Stevenson.

“Boss,” McGee said.

“Interrogation,” Gibbs said as he stood up and followed McGee. McGee seated Stevenson in the interrogation room before leaving and going into watch from behind the glass. Gibbs walked in and seated himself opposite the suspect.

“You know him?” Gibbs said as he put a picture of Chad Wong in front of him.

“Yes,” he answered.

“How well?” Gibbs questioned.

“We aren’t friends but I knew certain stuff,” he answered again.

“Would you say well enough to know that he’d touched your girlfriend,” Gibbs said as he watched his eyes.

“Yes, I’d seen him touch her on several occasions,” he admitted.

“And so you decided to threaten him,” Gibbs said as he showed him his own letter.

“Yes, but I wouldn’t really cut his finger’s off, it was just an old expression my mother used,” he said as he looked at the letter.

“Tell me about this girlfriend of yours,” Gibbs said as he put the picture and letter back into the folder.

“We broke up,” he said.

“Why?” Gibbs asked. If this guy is lying he is one god actor... I'd know if he was. Gibbs thought to himself.

“She found somebody else,” he answered without a hint of hurt from the past.

“Was this someone else Seaman Wong?” Gibbs asked.

“No, her name is Melissa Crawford,” he said.

“Do you know of any connection between this Melissa and Wong?” Gibbs asked.

“Not that I know of,” he said.

“Ok,” Gibbs finished as he got up and left. McGee, Ziva and Tony, who had gone in to watch, came out.

“Was he lying?’ Tony asked.

“No, he’s telling the truth,” Gibbs said as they headed back to the bullpen.

“I’ll look up this Melissa Crawford, see what I can get,” Tony said as he went to his desk.

“I’ll see if Wong knew her,” Ziva said.

“I think I’ll go and see if Abby has anything,” McGee said as he left. Gibbs sat down and looked around. He took a moment to think about how great his team worked together.

“Agent Gibbs, I’d like to speak with you,” Director Vance said.

“Sure,” Gibbs said as he followed Vance up the stairs.

“Wong more than just knew her, he was married to her,” Ziva said as he eyes widened.

“They eloped 4 weeks ago,” she continued.

“So, Stevenson’s girlfriend, what’s her name?” Tony said as he sat up in his chair.

“Ahh... Christina,” Ziva answered him.

“So, Christina breaks up with Stevenson to become a lesbian with Melissa, then Melissa goes and gets married to Wong who then turns up dead at NCIS, interesting,” Tony said as he thought about it.

“If Christina found out there would be motive,” Ziva said as she looked up.

“Then go get her,” Gibbs said from the stairs. Ziva and Tony left as Gibbs walked to his desk.

“Abby hasn’t found anything,” McGee said as he returned.

“Alright,” Gibbs said, turning to his computer and checking his emails.

“Where’s Tony and Ziva,” McGee asked.

“Gone to get a suspect,” Gibbs replied, his mind not actually registering what he said because of the email’s he was reading. He shook his head before exiting the emails.

Half an hour later Tony and Ziva returned with a brunette dressed looking like a hooker. Ziva took her straight to interrogation. When Gibbs walked in she battered her eyes. He laid the pictures of Wong on the table. She flinched at them and looked away.

“So you know him,” Gibbs said as he waited.

“No, it’s just that it’s gross, he’s got blood everywhere,” she said.

“What about him,” Gibbs said as he laid a picture down of Stevenson.

“Never seen him,” she said as she looked at the picture. Behind the glass Tony, Ziva and McGee smirked to themselves, knowing just what she was in for.

“How about her,” Gibbs said as he put down a picture of Melissa.

“I...” she started but Gibbs cut her off.

“You know her,” he said.

“Ok, I’ve seen her about,” she said.

“Wrong,” he said as he tapped a finger.

“So we’re friends,” she said as she shifted in her seat.

“Wrong again, you wanna try again or will I just...” he started and she soon opened her mouth to
speak.

“Ok, I know her, we’re dating,” she said, her face flushing.

“And,” he urged her on.

“And... I know she’s seeing someone else,” she said as she played with her nails.

“Who is he?” Gibbs asked. He could see the answer a mile off but wanted to make sure.

“I don’t know,” she said, making sure not to make eye contact with Gibbs.

“Yes you do,” he said.

“No I don’t,” she said.

“Yes... You... Do,” he said a bit more harshly.

“No I don’t!” she yelled. He sat there staring at her for some time.

“Who,” he said.

“Him! Ok, are you happy?” she said angrily, shoving the picture of Wong at him.

“Did you kill him?” he asked.

“No,” she said once more.

“Ok,” he said as he got up and left without another word.

“Gibbs?” Ziva asked as they walked back to their desks.

“Let her go,” Gibbs said.

“Ahh, ok,” Ziva said as she went and got her. When Christina had left Gibbs got his gun out.

“Come on,” he said as he headed for the elevator.

“Where are we going?” Ziva asked.

“To catch that bitch,” he said.

“McGee can you do your little car follower thingy while we drive?” Gibbs asked as they got in the car.

“Yeah,” he said. Gibbs followed directions from McGee until they made a stop at an abandoned looking warehouse.

“You sure her car went here,” Gibbs checked.

“Yes,” McGee said as they got out of the car.

“Ok, Tony, McGee, take the front,” he said.

“Ziva, with me,” they headed for the back of the first warehouse. Bursting through the door they found nothing. They tried the second and third to find nothing.

“Ok, McGee take that small shed,” Gibbs said as he pointed.

“Ziva, Tony, that last warehouse,” he said.

“I’ll check out that shipping container,” Gibbs said as he pointed in the direction.

“Got it,” Tony said. Gibbs snuck towards his destination.

“Ready,” Ziva whispered. Tony nodded and they burst through the door.

“NCIS,” Tony yelled.

“Drop the weapon,” Ziva yelled.

“Where’s Agent Gibbs?” Christian asked, still firmly gripping a knife.

“Not here, now drop it,” Tony said firmly.

“I want to see Agent Gibbs, and then I let the weapon go,” she said.

“Now!” she yelled.

“No,” Ziva said as he held steady.

“Then he dies,” she said as she pointed to Stevenson who was tied to a chair.

“No, he doesn’t,” Gibbs said from the door way. Christina walked over to Stevenson and softly ran the blade along his arm.

“Your agents are to leave, your weapon to be taken as well,” she demanded.

“Go,” Gibbs said as he passed Tony his gun. Unwillingly Tony and Ziva left.

“Good, now let me check,” she said as she frisked Gibbs.

“Now, get over there with him,” she said as she pointed to Stevenson. Gibbs walked to him backwards, not taking his eye off her for one second.

“Let’s see, who do I kill first?” she said as she walked about.

“You,” Gibbs said.

“We have a volunteer,” she smirked. She stepped towards Gibbs just as Ziva, McGee and Tony burst in again. This time she dropped the knife and ran out the back door.

“Don’t kill her,” Gibbs yelled after them. He started to untie Stevenson when he felt somebody behind him. Caught slightly off guard and without his gun he spun around to see Melissa. She chuckled under her breath. Gibbs glanced down and saw that the knife Christina had dropped was lying within reaching distance. He rushed down to get it only to be kicked in the side by
Melissa, losing his balance for a second he stumbled. This only led to her advantage.

Again she kicked him in the side knocking him down this time. A few more kicks and he heard a rib or two snap. She went to kick again, this time Gibbs swiped his hand out and grabbed her ankle pulling her down. She hit the concrete ground and kicked her way out of his grip.

“Give up,” Gibbs said as he jumped to his feet, wincing slightly at the pain in his side.

“Never,” she said as she got back. Swiftly he seized the knife from the ground. He started towards her, keeping eye contact.

“Back off,” she warned but he kept edging to her.

“I said back off,” she said again, her voice she her obvious anger.

“I’ve got the knife,” Gibbs said holding it up. She chuckled under breathe again before stepping towards him, her hands outstretched.

“Arrest me,” she smirked. Gibbs pulled out a pair of cuffs with one hand, steadily holding the knife in the other. He stepped towards her.

“Gibbs,” Ziva yelled as they snuck in through the door. Gibbs didn’t reply just went to cuff Melissa. He didn’t know what really happened next, why she caught him off guard so suddenly he didn’t know.

It went slowly. He was on the ground, something warm soaking into his shirt. Did she stab herself? Then he felt it, a piercing pain and something hard and sharp; the knife.

“Jethro!” he heard Tony yell. The knife was gone then suddenly back; gone and back. He groaned in pain then it was gone. He clutched at his stomach and felt the blood on his hands. A gun shot and everything went silent.

“Jethro, god,” Tony said as he quickly tore his jacket off and pressured it to his stomach.

“Tony,” Gibbs said but Tony placed his finger over his lips. He cradled Gibbs’ head in his lap as Ziva called an ambulance.

“The paramedics will be here soon,” Ziva said as she ducked outside. Gibbs could feel the pain searing through him and soon an unfamiliar lethargy appear.

“Jethro,” he heard Tony say, although he sounded a million miles away.

“Tony,” he whispered back as his eyes shut.

“No, no, no, Jethro open your eyes,” Tony said, his voice crammed with panic. Gibbs didn’t reply nor did he open his eyes and Tony could feel the slight wetness of blood starting to soak through his jacket. He was a tiny bit relieved when the paramedic took Gibbs even though he wanted to go with him Ziva said it would be best to let them call.

After having a quick clean up of himself Tony went down to Abby’s lab. He walked in and Abby instantly knew something was wrong.

“It’s Jethro,” he said almost a whisper.

“Oh god,” Abby said as she hugged him.

“Have you been to the hospital?” Abby asked.

“No, I’m gonna go now,” Tony replied as they walked to the elevator.

“Ziva’s gonna tell Ducky,” he informed her. They left for the hospital and the whole drive Tony couldn’t help but blame himself for what had happened. They walked in and waited for the girl behind the desk to get off the phone.

“Hi,” she said as she hung the phone up.

“We’re looking for Special Agent Gibbs, he was injured... Umm... How did he end up here?’ Abby asked Tony.

“Stabbed,” Tony said as he winced at the memory.

“Oh god, where, how bad?... Oh, umm, yes, so he was stabbed... Can we see him? Is he ok?” Abby said, flinging her arms around in worry.

“He’s resting but I’m sure he won’t mind and he’s also been asking for a “Tony”,” the woman said.

“Room 34,” she said. They quickly rushed off to room 34. When they walked in Abby went over and kissed Gibbs’ cheek.

“Do you want me to stay?” Abby said as she walked over to Tony who was standing in the corner.

“It’s up to you,” he said staring at Gibbs.

“I’ll go, ring me if anything changes or you need me,” Abby said as she gave Tony another hug
before leaving. Tony pulled the hard cushioned seat over next to the bed and sat there. He took Gibbs hand and wished he would wake up.

“This is not your fault,” Gibbs said hoarsely.

“Jethro, oh god, you’re awake, are you ok?” Tony asked.

“Yeah, I’m ok,” Gibbs said.

“No, you can’t be ok, you’ve got...” Tony paused as he walked to the end of the bed and looked at the report.

“You’ve got 2 broken ribs, multiple stab wounds which... nicked a main vein,” Tony read.

“How can you be ok?” Tony asked as he sat back down.

“I’m an ex-marine,” Gibbs smiled. Tony gently kissed him on the lips.

“You know when I’m getting out?” Gibbs asked.

“No, but I wouldn’t think any time soon,” Tony said.

“Help me up would you, I need to walk around,” Gibbs said as he tried to get up.

“Let’s just ask someone first,” Tony said as he rang the buzzer. Not long after a nurse came in.

“Is everything ok?” she asked.

“Can I go for a walk?” Gibbs asked, more like demanded.

“Let’s see,” she said as she walked to the end of the bed and picked up his file.

“Not until the doctor has checked you over again, he wants to make sure that the vein isn’t damaged more than it already is... He’s in surgery right now so you might have to wait til tomorrow,” the nurse said as she put the file back.

“Thank you,” Tony said, giving the nurse a chance to escape Gibbs’ oncoming slaughter of angry comments. She left and Tony turned back to him. He could clearly see the annoyance of been stuck in bed plastered across Gibbs’ face.

“Well if you sleep the time will pass quicker,” Tony said as he smiled.

“How can I sleep if I’m not tired?” Gibbs asked.

“Read a book?” Tony suggested, smiling even wider at the pout that was starting to form on Gibbs’ face.

“No, I want to build a boat,” Gibbs said.

“Well sure Jethro, I’ll just bring in all the stuff you need, I’m sure they’ll let you build it in the hospital room,” Tony said sarcastically.

“Will you go and get me some coffee?” he asked with a sort of pleading look in his eyes.

“Alright,” Tony said as he kissed Gibbs before leaving. He walked to the nurse’s desk.

“Hi, can Jethro have some coffee?” Tony said as he pointed to the door he’d come from.

“Ahh... Jethro Gibbs is it?” she asked.

“Yep,” Tony confirmed.

“No, he can only have water at the moment,” she said.

“Oh geez,” Tony said.

How the hell do I survive him without coffee? I guess it can’t be that bad... right? Tony thought.

“Sorry,” the girl apologized.

“Thanks,” Tony said as he walked into the cafeteria and got two bottles of water from the vending machine. He went back to Gibbs’ room, ready for the ear bashing he was going to get.

“Where’s the coffee?” Gibbs asked just as Tony opened the door.

“You can only have water,” Tony said as he handed him a bottle.

“Why did you ask? You should have just gotten me some,” Gibbs said as he basically threw the bottle into the draw next to the bed.

“Have you ever thought there might be a very good reason,” Tony said.

“I don’t care what the doctor says, if coffee’s going to kill me then I’ll be damned,” Gibbs said as he started squirm around in bed.

“Just don’t think about it,” Tony said as he kissed Gibbs again.

“Fine,” Gibbs huffed.

“Come on, cheer up,” Tony said as he brushed his fingers across Gibbs’ face.

“I’ve got you, that’s one thing I can have,” Gibbs said as he leant into Tony’s touch, the pout disappearing and a smile taking it place.

“I better call everyone and tell them that you’re ok,” Tony said as he got up.

“Don’t be long,” Gibbs said as Tony left. He pulled out his phone and dialled Abby’s lab number.

“Tony, is everything ok?” Abby said.

“Yes, Jethro’s ok,” he said.

“Good, when will you be coming back?” Ziva asked.

“Soon, just need to make sure he’s going to stay in...” Tony trailed off as he saw Gibbs walking towards him.

“What the hell are you doing?” he asked.

“Going for a walk,” Gibbs said.

“No you’re not, get back to bed,” Tony ordered.

“Come on Tony, just let me stand here for a few minutes,” Gibbs said.

“No, you’re not supposed to be out of bed,” Tony said as he frowned.

“Tony!”

He looked around but didn’t see anyone, then he remembered he was on the phone.

“Sorry Abbs,” Tony said as he bought the phone back to his ear.

“Is everything ok?” she asked worriedly.

“Yeah, Gibbs’ just been stubborn, like always,” he said.

“He is never stubborn, just... Independent” Abby said.

“Ok, well I’m gonna get him back to bed, see ya,” Tony said.

“Bye,” Abby said as she hung up. Gibbs gave a groan, trying to hide it but failing.

“What’s wrong?” Tony said as he took his wait as Gibbs doubled over slightly.

“Just a bit tender,” he said. Tony took him back to his room and sat his pillows up so he didn’t have to lie down.

“Do you want something to help the pain?” Tony asked, the look on Gibbs’ face said it all.

“No, I’m... Ow,” Gibbs said.

“Jethro you never say ow,” Tony said as he rang the buzzer.

“I don’t need anything, you’d be a bit tender if you’d just been stabbed as well,” Gibbs said as he moved around and tried to get comfortable.

“I just have to check on a patient,” a female voice said before the door opened.

“Yes........ Tony,” the nurse said.

“Cassie... Hi,” Tony said.

“Listen, Jethro’s in some pain, could you give him something for it?” he asked. Cassie picked up his file and read through it before putting it back.

“Can you tell me where and how bad the pain is Jethro?” Cassie asked as she walked over to the bed.

“Where I got stabbed and no the pain is not that bad,” he said. He tried to protest but she gave him a threatening look.

“Let me check out your stomach,” she said as she revealed the bandaged skin. Carefully she removed the bandages and Tony gasped at the horribly bruised skin and stitched up lacerations.

“Oh,’ Cassie said before she bandaged the wounds up again.

“What is it,” Tony asked.

“I have to get the doctor,” she said as she walked out.

“Don’t worry, I bet it’s nothing,” Gibbs said as he saw the look on Tony’s face.

“Oh can’t mean anything good,” Tony said as he walked over to Gibbs.

“Maybe it does,” Gibbs said as he rubbed his fingers along Tony’s cheek.

“Tony,” Cassie said as the doctor walked in.

“Can’t I stay?” Tony asked.

“No, come on,” Cassie said as she tugged at his elbow. They walked into the waiting room and sat down.

“What’s wrong with him?” he asked immediately.

“He has internal bleeding, the vein has burst again,” Cassie informed Tony.

“Can they stop it?” he asked the panic streaking across his face.

“Yes, if we’ve caught it in time,” she said as she gave a sympathetic look.

“Mr DiNozzo,” the doctor said. Tony looked up as the doctor walked over and Cassie left.

“Mr Gibbs, will have to go in for surgery for us to fully repair the vein,” the doctor said.

“Yes, fine, just as long as he’s ok,” Tony said.

“I’ve spoken to him and he’s due to go into surgery in about 15 minutes,” the doctor said.

“Ok, good,” Tony said.

“You can go and see him quickly,” the doctor said before leaving. Tony was up and in Gibbs’ room within seconds.

“Hey, don’t look so worried,” Gibbs said as Tony ran to him.

“How can I not be worried?” Tony asked as he sat on the edge of the bed.

“What happens if...” Gibbs placed his hand over Tony’s mouth.

“Nothing is going to happen,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony. The doctor walked in just as they broke apart.

“Now get your arse back to NCIS and finish the case,” Gibbs ordered.

“Yes sir,” Tony said softly. He walked out the door and saw Cassie coming towards him.

“He’ll be ok,” she told Tony as she rubbed his arm.

“I know,” he said forcing a smile. He went back to NCIS to be greeted by a worried Abby in the elevator.

“Ok, let’s finish this case,” Tony said as he looked around.

“Tony, we’ve finished it,” Ziva said.

“You have?” he asked.

“Yeah,” McGee said.

“Ok, well... Thanks,” Tony said. He sat staring into space, his mind racing with emptiness.

“I’m gonna go out and get some Chinese, the usual?” McGee asked. Everybody nodded and he left.

“Tony... I know,” Ziva said as she sat on his desk.

“Know what?” he asked.

“I want kids as well, you may find that difficult to believe but I do,” she said. Tony looked at her, his eyes suddenly curious.

“We know that you have been watching those kids,” she said in a tone that Tony found somewhat comforting.

“You do?” he asked.

“Yes,” she said simply.

“How?’ he asked as he shifted in his seat.

“Ahh... Well,” Ziva didn’t want to tell him outright that they’d just hacked into his email account to see what he was up to.

“We...” she couldn’t find the right way to word it.

“We hacked into your email account,” McGee said as he walked to his desk.

“McGee,” Ziva said defensively.

“Oh... You could have just asked,” Tony said as he took his food and started eating.

“I told you it would be easier to ask him,” Abby said as she walked around the corner. They all sat there eating in silence for a few minutes.

“Has anyone been to see Agent Gibbs?” the director asked as he seemed to just appear from nowhere.

“I’ve been with him most of the day, he’s in surgery right now,” Tony said as he wondered where Vance came from.

“Ok... Why are you all having dinner here, I thought you’d finished that case,” he said as he cocked and eyebrow.

“We just are,” Ziva said.

“Ohk,” Vance said as he walked away.

“Where did he come from?” Tony said as soon as he was sure that Vance was out of earshot.

“No idea, but it was weird,” Ziva commented. It was 8.00pm when Tony looked at his watch. He’d still been thinking about Gibbs’ but he’d also been laughing and smiling instead of biting his nails worrying about Gibbs.

“I might head home,” he said as he stood up.

“Yeah, I think we all should,” McGee said. They walked towards the elevator when Tony’s phone rang. He pulled it out of his pocket and flipped it open.

“Hello,” he said.

“Tony, its Cassie,”

“Cassie is everything ok?” he asked, something he couldn’t quiet describe attacking his insides.

“Yes, Jethro’s out of surgery, everything went great,” she said.

“Good, thanks for ringing me,” he said.

“No problem,” she said. Tony shoved his phone back in his pocket.

“He’s out of surgery, everything went fine,” Tony said as they got in the elevator.

“I’m gonna go see him,” Tony said as they walked into the car park.

‘Night Tony,” Abby yelled from across the car park.

“Night Abby,” he yelled back and had to do a double take when he watched her get into Jimmy’s car with him.

“Weird,” he murmured to himself before driving to the hospital. When he walked in Cassie was just coming from Gibbs’ room.

“Hey Tony, he’s awake,” she said.

“Ok... Cassie... Thanks,” he said as he smiled.

“No problem,” she said as she left. When Tony walked in Gibbs’ face lit up.

“Hey,” Tony said as he went and sat next to him.

“Hey,” Gibbs said back.

“How are you?” Tony asked.

“Tender,” Gibbs said.

“Did you get something for the pain?” Tony asked, ready to ring the buzzer.

“Yes, and it’s not pain, it’s just tenderness,” Gibbs said.

“If that’s what you say,” Tony said.

“You tired?” Gibbs asked him.

“Sorta,” Tony said as he smiled.

“Go home, get some rest,” Gibbs said.

“Yeah, ok,” Tony said although he would have preferred he stayed with Gibbs. They kissed goodnight, so it was more like a difficult make out session.

“I love you,” Tony said as he opened the door.

“I love you too,” Gibbs said. Tony drove home and checked the phone for messages; none. He took a quick shower to freshen up then he went to bed. He tried to get to sleep but wanted Gibbs next to him. An hour later he finally fell asleep.

When Tony awoke it was to Gibbs’ permanently set alarm, not that Gibbs’ needed it. He dragged himself out of bed and into the kitchen to eat breakfast. He had a shower to wake himself up then left for NCIS.

“Morning,” he said to Ziva, Abby and McGee who were again huddled around McGee’s desk.

“I haven’t checked on the kids,” Tony informed them.

“Oh we know,” Ziva said. The day was quiet and by lunch everyone was so bored they were down in Abby’s lab playing charades.

“Ok, this is boring now,” Tony said.

“I’m going to go see Jeth... Gibbs,” Tony corrected himself.

“Ok, bye,” they all said just a little too eagerly. Tony didn’t think another thing of it.

“Hey, finally come to see me,” Gibbs said as Tony walked in.

“Sorry, it’s just that Ziva, McGee and Abby are acting weird,” he said as he frowned.

“What do you mean?” Gibbs asked.

“They were huddled around McGee’s computer again and they were all too eager to see me come and visit you,” Tony said.

“I’m sure it’s for a good reason,” Gibbs comforted as he smiled. Tony bent down and kissed Gibbs. He pulled away only to be pulled back into a kiss by Gibbs.

“Come on, you’re in hospital, we can’t exactly get it on just here,” Tony said even though he would have loved to.

“I suppose you’ve got a point,” Gibbs said.

“Jethro, do you know what the three musketeers are up too?” Tony asked. He had a feeling that
someone other than the three of them knew.

“No,” Gibbs said finishing the talk.

He knows and I’m gonna get it out of him. Tony thought to himself, he knew more than one way to get it out of Gibbs.

“Well, I might head off, I’ll come back later,” Tony said.

“Ok,” Gibbs said, even though it wasn’t really ok. He just wanted to get out of this hard bed, get out of the god damn hospital.

“Love you,” Tony said as he gave him a kiss.

“I love you too,” Gibbs said. Then Tony was gone and he felt rather alone.

Tony walked out of the elevator doors and saw Ziva quickly shove something in her pocket. Now he was really suspicious. He strolled over casually.

“Miss me?” he asked as he seated himself around McGee’s desk like the rest of them.

“Of course we did Tony,” Abby smiled.

“Did we get a case?” he asked, trying to work something out of them.

“You could say that,” McGee said.

“What we got?’ Tony asked, knowing it wouldn’t be an actual case.

“Nothing that concern’s you,” McGee said as he pushed Tony away. Tony looked at McGee wide eyed before going back to his desk and playing the unauthorised game on his computer.

I will figure it out. He wasn’t sure if he would get it out of the three musketeers, but he would get it out of Gibbs, of that he was sure. His plan was already bubbling in his mind.

He could hear that they were whispering about him; hearing his name was a dead giveaway. He got more interested when Gibbs’ name appeared in the conversation a few time. He was annoyed that he could only hear short snippets of the conversation.

After a while they went quiet and the only other conversation was between McGee’s fingers and the keyboard. Tony felt like he was going crazy just sitting there not squeezing every little word of information from them, but he really wanted Gibbs to tell him what he knew.

That may be a little more difficult than I thought. Tony thought as he revised his plan.

With broken ribs and wounds, he’d still be sore... “Tender” as he says. Maybe I should think of a backup. Thinking it over twice didn’t seem necessary at the time of the first idea, now it did.

“Hello... Earth to Tony,” Ziva said as she waved her hand in front of his face.

“Wah,” he said as he jumped back.

“Deep in thought were we?” Ziva asked.

“Ahh, yeah,” he replied. The minutes seemed to tick by as he went back into deep thought. The phone on his desk rang and he jumped back into reality.

“DiNozzo,” he said.

“Hey there,” Gibbs said.

“Hey, everything ok?” he asked.

“Yep, just wanted to talk,” Gibbs said, even though he would prefer it if Tony was there in person.

“I’ll come back,” Tony said.

“Ok, see you soon,” Gibbs said before hanging up. Tony leapt up and headed for the elevator only to be followed by Ziva, Abby and McGee.

“Hospital?” Ziva asked as the doors slid shut.

“Yep,’ Tony said.

Now why the hell would they want to come? He thought to himself. He shrugged it off, maybe they just wanted to see Gibbs. They drove to the hospital in a line, looking like follow the leader, bar Ziva. They walked into Gibbs room.

Gibbs smiled as the door opened and was slightly bemused to see everyone pile in.

“Bossman, how are you feeling?” Abby asked as she gave him a soft hug.

“Alright,” he said.

“That’s good,” she said as she sat on the end of the bed. For the next hour the hospital room was filled with laughs and smiles. Tony had pushed the three musketeers secret to the back of his mind along with the plan to get it from Gibbs.

“I feel like pizza,” Gibbs randomly said. Everybody started laughing.

“I’m serious,” he said in a tone which made everybody stop laughing.

“Ok, I’ll get you some,” Tony said as he got up.

“Anybody coming?” he asked. Nobody got up so he left, knowing that they were most likely going to keep talking about their little scheme, whatever that may be. He drove to the pizza parlour and ordered. He sat in his car and waited in silence.

“And your listening to the 6 o’clock report,” the female news reporter said.

“Boring,” Tony said out loud as he turned the radio off. He got out and walked into the pizza parlour.

“Pizza’s for DiNozzo,” a guy called out. Tony walked up to the bench and the pizza’s were basically thrown at him. He rolled his eyes and headed out the door when his breath hitched. He did a double take at the person he saw on the other side of the road.

No. He thought in shock. He shook his head and kept walking to his car. He drove back to the hospital, a sickening feeling in the pit of his stomach.

When he walked back into the hospital room with the pizza’s Gibbs instantly knew something was bugging Tony.

“What’s wrong?” he asked. Of course it wasn’t half obvious since Tony’s face threw the others an idea that something had gotten to him.

“Nothing,” Tony lied. Gibbs gave him a look and Tony shook his head. They all started eating without another word.

“God, this is better than that crap they call food here,” Gibbs said before taking another slice. Tony smiled, he should tell Gibbs what he thought he saw but it would have to wait til everybody left.

“Ah crap,” McGee said as he looked at the time.

“What?” Abby asked.

“I’m late for a book convention,” McGee said before realising he’d said it out loud.

“Wrote another book did we?” Tony asked, one eyebrow raised.

“No, but someone else did,” McGee said before leaving. Abby’s phone rang.

“Hello,” she said.

“Really?”

“Ok, I’ll be there in 10,” she said before hanging up.

“Me and my nun’s just got a spot in the bowling tournament, someone else dropped out, see ya,” Abby said as she left. Tony thought this was working perfectly, now he just needed Ziva to leave.

“Well, now what?” Ziva asked.

“Ducky came to see me,” Gibbs said.

“Oh yeah,” Tony said.

I bet Ducky’s in on this as well. Tony thought bitterly.

“I need to get some air,” Tony said as he walked to the door.

“You alright?” Gibbs asked.

“Yep,” Tony said as he left. He walked outside and paced around the footpath. He groaned and looked up. It was getting darker by the second. He followed the paths which lead to the hospital courtyard and garden. He went to push the gate open and noticed it was locked. He sighed and jumped it. Walking into the garden he couldn’t help but think about that face.

“No,” he said out loud in frustration.

“No what?” Ziva asked.

“Oh, hi, nothing,” Tony said as he sat on the bench.

“Gibbs is worried about you,” she said as she sat with him.

“He doesn’t need to be,” Tony replied.

“And I’m worried about you,” Ziva said as she looked around.

“Ziva,” he said.

“Tony, you came back looking like you saw a goat... Ghost, sorry,” she said.

“I...” he couldn’t think of anything to say.

“Go talk to Gibbs, oh and get some sleep, we have a surprise for you,” Ziva said as she walked off. Tony’s expression became puzzled.

A surprise? He thought as he walked back inside and into Gibbs’ room.

“Come here,” Gibbs said as Tony walked in.

“Jethro, I need to talk,” Tony said, his chest pounding.

“Ok,” Gibbs said as he patted the bed. Tony sat on the bed.

“When I went to get the pizza’s...” he didn’t want to ruin his relationship with Gibbs, should he tell him?

“Yeah,” Gibbs urged him on.

“Well, I saw...” his hands started to shake slightly. This wasn’t right, he shouldn’t be affected like this.

“Tony, breathe,” Gibbs said. Tony snapped back and took a breath.

There must be something really wrong, he forgot to breathe. Gibbs thought to himself, alarmed that he had to tell Tony to breathe.

“I saw...” and again he couldn’t say what he saw.

“It’s ok,” Gibbs comforted and pulled Tony down. Tony held onto Gibbs and sighed. How much longer could he keep it bottled up before he let it out? Gibbs ran his fingers through Tony’s hair.

“Go home, get some sleep,” Gibbs said after a while.

“I... Ok,” Tony said reluctantly getting up from the bed.

“I love you,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony.

“I love you too,” Tony said. He went home and everything seemed quiet, too quiet. He turned the radio on low and went to bed. Remarkably he fell asleep without any worries.

Again he woke to Gibbs’ alarm. And again he dragged himself to the kitchen to eat breakfast. He went and relaxed in the shower before going to work. When he walked in he was shocked to see Gibbs sitting behind his desk.

“Jethro, what are you doing here? Did you escape?” Tony asked as he bent down next to Gibbs.

“I didn’t escape from prison, I got discharged,” he said, a slight laugh in his words.

“Oh, why didn’t you ring me?” Tony asked.

“Surprise number one,” Ziva said as she smiled. Tony turned to see Ziva standing behind him.

“There’s more?’ Tony asked.

“Sure is,” Gibbs said as he went to get up, only he sat back down.

“Help me up,” he said unwillingly, a pout on his face. Tony helped him up and the pout faded from Gibbs’ face.

“Autopsy,” Gibbs said. They headed down to find Ducky and Jimmy waiting in autopsy.

“On the 5th of May,” Gibbs started. Tony nodded for Gibbs to continue.

“Will you marry me?” Gibbs asked.

“Yes,” Tony said unconsciously. Gibbs smiled.

“Wait here,” Gibbs ordered. He and Ziva left, leaving Tony, Ducky and Jimmy behind in autopsy.

“Why are you smiling like that?’ Tony questioned Jimmy and Ducky.

“Well,” Ducky began only yob r interrupted by the phone.

“Autopsy,” he answered. He put the phone down and walked back to Tony.

“My dear boy, to Abby’s lab,” Ducky said. They headed to Abby’s lab. When they walked in Tony noticed Gibbs wasn’t there, nor was Abby. Ziva and McGee were smiling, soon joined by Ducky and Jimmy.

“He hasn’t gone anywhere,” McGee said answering Tony’s silent question.

“Tony,” Gibbs said from the door way. Tony looked around and smiled. A gleam of happiness shone in Gibbs’ eyes. He went to speak but Gibbs silenced him.

“Tony DiNozzo...” he started. Tony started to fidget. Gibbs stepped back out into the hallway.

“Go say hi to your dad,” Gibbs said. Tony’s heart jumped and couldn’t believe what he was hearing. A chocolate haired girl shyly walked in followed by Gibbs who was holding a baby.

“Daddy,” the little girl said sweetly. Tony’s eyes glazed over with tears as she came over to him. He picked her up and she clung to him.

“So, you like the surprise?” Gibbs asked as he walked over to Tony.

“I love it,” Tony said as he put his head on Gibbs’ shoulder. He rubbed Tony’s back as he let the tears flow. After a few minutes Tony lifted his head and turned to the others.

“Thank you,” he said as he hugged each of them.

“Let’s go home,” Gibbs suggested.

“Here, take Kaushal,” Gibbs said as he handed Tony the little boy who was smiling. Tony took him and smiled when he reach up to touch his face. Gibbs picked up Rani and they all headed for the elevator. As they walked into the car park Director Vance was walking towards them.

“Going somewhere Special Agents Gibbs and DiNozzo?” he asked.

“Home,” Gibbs answered blatantly.

“Why?’ Vance asked.

“To spend time with my family,” he replied.

“And if a case comes along?” Vance questioned.

“Then Abby, Ducky and Jimmy can baby sit,” Tony answered. Everyone smiled.

“Our children will not be staying here when we have nothing better to do than sit around and twiddle our thumbs,” Gibbs said sternly.

“I’m your boss, I’ll tell you what you can and can’t do Special Agent Gibbs,” Vance said, standing up to Gibbs.

“We’re leaving,” Gibbs said as he turned on his heels. Vance said nothing, just walked off.

“Go Bossman,” Abby said. He smiled at her before turning to Tony.

“Let’s go home,” he said, a smile in his eye and on his face.

“Yeah,” Tony said happily. They drove home both with smiles plastered on their faces.

“Come on sweetie,” Gibbs said as he took Rani’s hand. They walked into the house.

“Jethro, the kids need rooms,” Tony said as he started to feel a panicky feeling.

“Done,” Gibbs smiled. They walked to the guest room and Tony found that it was now half pink, half blue.

“Wow,” Tony said as they walked in. He put Kaushal on the floor next to a toy box and started playing with him. Gibbs smiled as he watched Tony play with the little boy who laughed happily every time he tickled him. He smiled wider as he watched the little girl brushing a dolls hair. He walked out the door; Tony needed time with his kids.

“Dad, where are you going?” Rani asked from the door way.

“I was going to go and build a boat,” Gibbs told her.

“Can I help?” she asked sweetly.

“Sure, but let’s get you one of my old t-shirts so you don’t ruin your dress,” he said as he picked her up. He slid the shirt over her dress; since the shirt was obviously too big she had trouble walking. They went down into the basement and he helped her sand the boat off.

Xxx...Flashback...xxX
He put his hands over her small hands and helped her sand the side of the boat. She laughed happily.

“Daddy, I’m doing it,” she yelled excitedly.

“Soon, you’ll be able to do it all by yourself,” he told her.

“What if I ruin in?” she asked innocently.

“You won’t,” he reassured her. He looked to the stairs to see his wife, standing there smiling as she watched them sand the boat together.

Xxx...End Flashback...xxX

“Look Daddy, I’m doing it,” Rani smiled with happiness.

“Yeah, you are,” Gibbs smiled.

“Soon, you will be able to sand the boat on your own,” he said knowing what he next lines would be.

“But what if I ruin it?” she asked.

“You won’t,” he said then instinctively turned his head to the stairs. He saw Tony standing there with Kaushal, he was smiling as he watched them. He gave Tony a smile before he took Rani’s hand and they went upstairs.

The rest of the day passed. The house was filled with laughter and happiness. They had their first dinner together as a family. At 8.00 they took the kids to their room.

“Daddy, can you read us a story?” Rani asked as Tony kissed her forehead.

“Ok, what would you like me to read?” he asked as he sat on the chair near the bookcase.

“Alice in Wonderland,” she said as she smiled.

“Ok, Alice in Wonderland it is,” Tony said as he pulled out the shortened version. He started ready and soon both he and Gibbs were reading a page each.

“The end,” Tony said.

“Thank you Daddy,” she said as Tony kissed her again.

“I love you princess,” he said as he walked to the baby boy who was fast asleep.

“I love you too Daddy,” she said before he left. Gibbs walked over to Rani and kissed her before going to the little boy and tucking him in.

“Good night sweetie,” he said at the doorway.

“Goodnight Daddy,” she said. Gibbs walked into the bedroom and got into bed with Tony.

“I saw the way you were looking at Rani down in the basement,” Tony said.

“She’ll be building boats in no time,” Gibbs smiled.

“Shannon and Kelly would be proud of you,” Tony said as he laid his head on Gibbs’ chest.

“I know,” Gibbs said quietly. They fell asleep, smiles on faces, love in their veins.

“Dad, Daddy, wake up, wake up,”

Tony groaned and slowly opened his eyes to see Rani jumping on him.

“What is it sweetie?” Tony asked as he sat her down.

“Aunty Abby’s here,” she said excitedly.

“She is?” Tony asked.

“Yes,” Rani replied before jumping on Gibbs.

“Daaaad, wake up,” she said as she snuggled into him.

“Dad’s awake,” Gibbs said as he sat upright.

“Abby’s here,” Tony informed Gibbs. They walked into the living room to see Abby on the floor playing with Kaushal.

“Hey you two,” she smiled.

“Hey Abbs,” Gibbs said as he sat on the couch.

“You sleep well?” she asked.

“Yep,” Tony said.

“Good, because I took your alarm off,” she smirked.

“Abby, now Vance will have a reason to be cranky,” Tony said as he jumped up.

“I told him you were taking a week off,” Abby said. Tony looked at her wide eyed.

“It’s ok, McGee and Ziva have two Probie’s with them,” Abby said as she tickled Rani.

“But...” Tony said but Gibbs shoved his hand over his mouth.

“Make the most of the time with your children,” Gibbs said as he watched Abby play with the kids.

“Well, I’m off, we got a case,” Abby said as she stood up.

“Ok, see ya Abby,” Tony said.

“Bye Aunty Abby,” Rain waved.

“Bye Rani,” Abby waved back before leaving.

“Come on sweets, let’s get some breakfast,” Tony said as he held out his hand. Rani placed her hand in his and they went into the kitchen. Gibbs was placing Kaushal in his highchair.

“What’s for breakfast?” Tony asked as he sat Rani on a chair.

“Pancakes,” Gibbs said as he walked to the cupboard. Tony went and sat next to Rani and pulled Kaushal’s highchair closer to the table.

“Daddy, what are we doing today?” Rani asked.

“Whatever you’d like to do sweetheart,” Tony smiled. There was a knock at the door and Tony looked up.

“Daddy can I answer the door? It might be Uncle Tim,” Rani said excitedly.

“Sure,” Tony said as she ran to the door.

“We have plenty of babysitters,” Gibbs laughed as he started to cook up pancakes.

“Dad, someone’s here to see you,” Rani said as she walked in. Gibbs turned around.

“I’ll get it,” Tony said as he kissed Gibbs on the cheek.

“Thanks sweetie,” Tony said as he walked into the hallway. He opened the door and caught his breathe in his throat. He stood there staring, how could this happen? Not at this time, not when everything was so perfect.

“Tony,” she said.

“What... You... This...” Tony fumbled the words around his mouth. He didn’t know what to say. His heart felt like it was been ripped open.

“Jeanne,” Tony whispered. His face was now pale, heart pounding in his chest.

“Daddy, Daddy, breakfast is ready,” Rani said as she ran up the hall way.

“Sorry,” he whispered before closing the door without another word. They walked into the kitchen and Gibbs could see the hurt on Tony’s face. They ate breakfast, Tony eating slower while he fed Kaushal. When they’d finished Rani eagerly ran into her room followed by Gibbs with Kaushal. Tony went into the living room and sat on the couch.

This isn’t fair, why me? Why now? This can’t be! Tony screamed in his mind.

“Hey, you ok?” Gibbs asked as he came up behind the couch and wrapped his arms around Tony.

“Yeah,” Tony said as he leant back.

“Ha ha, stop lying,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony’s cheek.

“Can we talk when the kids aren’t here?” Tony asked.

“Ok,” Gibbs said as he pulled Tony up.

“I’ll get dressed,” Tony said as he walked into the bedroom. Gibbs went back into the children’s room.

“Dad, can we go visit Aunty Abby?” Rani asked as she hugged Gibbs’ leg.

“Sure, but if they’re working we have to come home,” Gibbs said as he picked Kaushal up.

“Daddy, we’re going to see Aunty Abby,” Rani informed Tony. He smiled and took her hand. As they walked out to the car Tony was relieved that the street was empty. When they got to NCIS they went to Abby’s lab first and found everybody was down there.

“Hey, you’re supposed to be home,” Abby scolded.

“Rani wanted to see you,” Gibbs smiled. Rani ran up to Abby and hugged her legs.

“Are you busy?” Gibbs asked as he passed Kaushal to Ziva.

“No, just finished the case,” McGee said as watched Ziva play with Kaushal. Everybody smiled; maybe Ziva did want children after all.

“I’ll go get us some coffee; Abby you want a Caf-Pow?” Tony asked.

“Yeah please,” Abby said. Tony gave Gibbs a slight smiled before he left. He drove to starbucks thinking about how this day started.

“6 coffees, take away, please,” Tony said to the young girl behind the counter, she gave him an odd look before starting to make the coffees. Tony went and sat at a spare seat and looked out the window.

Why? He though angrily. Then there she was, standing across the road looking at Tony a look on her face he couldn’t decipher. Then that gut wrenching feeling that tore at his heart. Was he falling for the woman who’d so viscously broke his heart? He snapped his head back to the counter and saw the girl placing the coffees on the counter in the cardboard holders.

“Keep the change,” Tony said as he handed the girl some notes. He took the coffees and walked out of starbucks with his head down. He put the coffee in the car and quickly went to get a Caf-Pow and orange juices for the kids before getting in the car and slamming the door. He drove back to NCIS and proceeded back to Abby’s lab.

“Daddy’s back,” Rani smiled happily as she hugged his legs. He passed out the drinks and sat on the floor with the kids.

“We’re going to the park for lunch,” Gibbs told Tony.

“Ok, that’ll be good,” he replied. Lunchtime whirled around and everyone was down at the park. Tony had the urge to look up and regretted doing so.

“I’m gonna go over to that ice-cream stall and get the kids one each, they ate all their lunch and I did promise them one,” Tony said as he got up.

“Alright,” Gibbs said. As Tony started to walked for the ice-cream stall he listened to his friends, lover and children.

“Dad, Dad, we have to catch Uncle Tim,” Rani squealed. He could hear everybody running around and smiled.

“Hi, I’ll have a strawberry ice-cream cone and a chocolate ice-cream cup,” Tony said to the guy.

“Can you hold them here for a minute?” Tony asked.

“Sure,” the guy said happily. Tony walked towards a park bench. He knew this was the wrong thing to do; it would only reopen old wounds. It wasn’t worth it, yet he still did it. He sat on the bench and waited for a response.

“Who’s the lucky lady?” she asked.

“No one,” he replied calmly.

“Oh, so you’re a single parent?” she asked.

“No, Jethro and I are two very loving parents,” Tony responded.

“Jeanne what are you doing here? Why did you show up at home today?” Tony asked.

“I’m back in town, I wanted to see you, I wanted to apologise,” she said as she looked at Tony.

“I’ve moved on Jeanne, I’m getting married soon, I’ve got two beautiful children, life’s never been better,” Tony said, the last words coming out a bit more harshly than meant.

“I’m sorry Tony,” Jeanne said before standing up. Tony stood and walked back to the ice-cream stall.

“Here you go sir,” the guy said. Tony handed him the cash and took the ice-cream back. He gave the kids their ice-cream; he smiled as Ziva fed Kaushal. Gibbs looked at Tony who returned the look with a smile. After another hour at the park McGee got a phone call.

“Yeah ok, listen Katie, no you need to tell them...” McGee pulled the phone away from his ear and took a breath.
“Katie shut up! Tell them I’ll be there!” he said angrily into the phone before snapping it shut and shoving it in his pocket.

“We got a case,” he said as he stood up. Ziva jumped up and they said goodbye before leaving. Soon after, everybody else left and Gibbs, Tony, Rani and Kaushal went home.

The afternoon passed. They sat on the couch and watched the Spongebob Squarepants Movie with Rani before playing with Kaushal. Dinner came and went and again at 8.00 the kids were in bed with Tony and Gibbs reading them a story. Rani was asleep as soon as Gibbs flicked the light off.

“Tony, what’s wrong?” Gibbs asked as he sat on the bed.

“Nothing,” Tony lied.

“Don’t lie to me,” Gibbs said as he lay down. Tony lay next to him and sighed.

“In the morning,” Tony said. Gibbs got on top of Tony and straddled his hips.

“Tell me... Now,” Gibbs said, authority in his voice.

“Later,” Tony said, trying to get out from under Gibbs.

“So this is the way it’s gonna be, well, I’ll just have to punish you,” Gibbs said as a smirked splashed across his face.

“How?’ Tony asked, his eyes growing curious.

Gibbs nipped at Tony’s neck before licking over the light mark.

“Come on, tell me,” he said.

“Ok, I’ll tell you,” Tony said as he wormed around. Gibbs slid off Tony and sat against the headboard.

“This morning when I went to the door... She... Jeanne was there,” Tony said. Gibbs pulled him close.

“You ok?” Gibbs asked as he searched Tony’s eyes.

“Yeah, I just... It was just a shock,” Tony said as he leant his head on Gibbs’ shoulder.

“That’s who I thought I saw the other day,” Tony told him.

“Well as long as you’re ok,” Gibb said.

“Yep, now that it’s out,” Tony said as he lay down.

“We’d have sex but I just wanna sleep tonight,” Tony said, which was unusual.

“Ok,” Gibbs said as he cuddled up with Tony. They fell asleep in each other’s arms.
Gibbs awoke and noticed it was still dark. He groaned and looked at the alarm clock only to see black.

A blackout, just great. He thought. He slid out of bed and walked into the kitchen to get a drink. He moaned as he leant back onto the wall. He put his glass in the sink and searched for the matches. After finding them he went into the bathroom and searched the cupboard for a few candles. He lit them and looked at his watch.

God, only 2.30.

He undressed and ran a cold shower. He got in and tried not to think of the dream he’d had but it didn’t work, his cock still ached for Tony’s arse. He started to rub the length, taking a slight ache off.

Tony woke up and noticed Gibbs wasn’t in bed. When he walked past the bathroom he heard the shower running. He snuck in and saw candles lit. He undressed quickly and peaked through the shower curtain to see Gibbs, stroking himself, head tilted back slightly. He stepped in and kiss him. Gibbs stopped and opened his eyes.

“So this is what you’re up to,” Tony whispered as he licked at Gibbs’ collarbone. Gibbs moaned and rubbed Tony’s arse.

“I think I’ve had enough sleep,” Tony said as he started licking his way down Gibbs’ body. Gibbs gasped in pleasure as Tony started to lick his hard member. Tony didn’t waste any time in taking the throbbing cock into his mouth and starting a slow motion. Gibbs moaned as Tony started to suck. After another few minutes Gibbs pulled Tony back up and pushed him against the wall.

“Ah, shit,” Gibbs groaned as he kissed Tony’s neck. Tony leant out of the shower and opened a drawer before leaning back in.

What the hell, when did he put them in there? Gibbs thought as Tony handed him a condom. Gibbs was quick to slip it on and push a finger into Tony’s arse.

“Skip it, just fuck me,” Tony said as he took his own cock and started to pump it. Gibbs pulled his finger out of Tony’s arse and replaced it with his leaking cock. Tony moaned at the slight pain which soon turned into pleasure. Gibbs started to thrust into Tony receiving moans.

“Holy fuck,” Tony said as he tried to grip onto the wall.

“Got the right spot?” Gibbs asked as he kissed at Tony’s neck.

“Yeah... Oh yeah,” Tony replied as he pushed back onto Gibbs. He picked up his pace. He pulled Tony’s hand away from his cock and pinned his hands to the wall.

“You can’t come yet,” Gibbs whispered breathlessly. Tony moaned in protest. Another few minutes of thrusting and Gibbs moaned loudly into Tony’s neck.

“Come Jethro, come,” Tony said as he pushed back onto Gibbs. Gibbs came and quickly wrapped his hand around Tony’s cock. As he rode through his climax he started to rub at Tony’s cock. Tony moaned into the wall as he reached back and held onto Gibbs’ hips. He came onto Gibbs’ hand and the wall, moaning loudly as he rode it out. Gibbs pulled out of Tony and they stood there in a tight embrace for a while before they shut the water off and wrapped towels around their waists and sneaking back into the bedroom.

“Shit, the candles,” Tony said as he got back up and went back into the bathroom. He blew the candles out and ran back into bed.

“Power’s back on,” Tony said as he looked at the digital clock.

“You think we woke the kids?” Tony asked as Gibbs wrapped his arms around his waist.

“Nah,” Gibbs said as they settled down into bed. When Gibbs’ awoke it was 7.30.

Latest I’ve ever slept in. He thought to himself. He got up and looked into the kid’s room to see Rani sitting up in bed.

“Good morning Dad,” she said as she saw him.

“Good morning sweetie,” he said as he went and picked her up.

“Would you like some breakfast?” he asked.

“Yes please,” she answered as he picked Kaushal up and placed him on the other hip. He walked into the kitchen and placed Rani on a chair before seating Kaushal in his highchair.

“What would you like?” he asked her. She sat in thought for some time.

“How about bacon and eggs?” Gibbs asked.

“Yeah,” she smiled happily. Gibbs smiled back and began cooking. After a bit Gibbs looked over to Rani

“Go wake your Daddy,” he told her. She nodded happily and ran into the bedroom. She crept up to the bed and pounced on Tony.

“Wake up Daddy,” she said happily. Tony rolled over and opened his eyes, a smile appearing on his face as he looked at his beautiful daughter.

“Breakfast,” she said as she got off the bed and held out her hand.

“Ok,” he replied before getting out of bed and taking her hand. They walked into the kitchen just as Gibbs was placing the plates on the table.

“Bacon and eggs, sounds good to me,” Tony smiled as he started eating. They ate in silence; the only sound was the rain on the roof.

“Can you get the kids dressed?” Gibbs asked Tony when they finished.

“Sure,” Tony said as he took them into their room. Gibbs stood in the kitchen thinking about Tony.

Why the hell did she come back? Does she want him back? Will he go back to her if she does want him back? Gibbs thought then mentally slapped the back of his head for thinking so stupidly.

“You gonna get dressed or stand there thinking all day?’ Tony asked from the doorway. Gibbs looked up and smiled.

“The kids wanna go see Abby again,” Tony said.

“Ok, take em’ down and I’ll come down in a bit,” Gibbs said as he walked over and gave Tony a quick kiss on the lips.

“Alright, see you there,” Tony said as he left with the kids. Gibbs walked into the bedroom and sat on the edge of the bed. Sighing, he put his head in his hands. He sat like that for a few minutes before getting dressed.

Better get to NCIS. He thought as he grabbed his car keys. Just as he put his hand on the door handle someone knocked. He pulled the door open.

“Agent Gibbs,”

Gibbs stared back but didn’t say anything.

“Is Tony here,” he gave a slight glare.

“No, Jeanne, Tony is not here,” he replied as he stepped out of the house and closed the door.

“Do you know where he is?’ she asked as he walked to his car.

“Yes... And no I am not telling you,” he said icily before driving off. He sped, angry that she had the hide to turn up and seek out Tony when she’d hurt him so much.

Xxx...Flashback...xxX

Working on his boat he could just tell that somebody was at his door. If it was another one of those sales people trying to sell him another stupid products he may just shoot them. But when there was no knocking he got worried so he went upstairs. He opened the door to see a very distraught Tony DiNozzo standing there, a bottle of alcohol in his hand.

“DiNozzo?” he asked, concerned about his agent.

“Hey Boss,” Tony said, his words slurred.

“What the hell happened?” he asked as Tony stumbled inside.

“Well... You might wanna sit down, it’s a long one,” Tony babbled. Gibbs took him into the living room and sat him on the couch.

“Well... One day Queen Shepard told Knight DiNozzo to” fall in love” with bad guy La Grenouille’s daughter Princess Jeanne. Unfortunately for Knight DiNozzo he really did fall in love and when bad guy died Princess blamed Knight and broke his stupid fucking heart,” Tony said. Gibbs sat there looking at Tony for a few moments before taking the bottle from Tony’s hands and placing it on the coffee table. Then he took Tony into his arms and let him cry.

Xxx...End Flashback...xxX

He pulled into the parking lot and slammed his hands on the steering wheel.
“I’ll be damned if she ruins everything we have,” Gibbs said to himself.

He walked into the bullpen to be greeted by Ziva and McGee.

“Hey Boss,” McGee said as he smiled.

“Are they down with Abby?” Gibbs asked.

“Yep,” Ziva said as she turned around to watch the two Probie’s working away. Gibbs looked uncertainly at his desk.

“It’s ok Boss, I’m working at your desk,” McGee said as he looked at Gibbs.

“Alright,” Gibbs said before going down to Abby’s lab. He walked in and Rani ran to him.

“Dad, look what Aunty Abby gave me,” she said as she held out her wrist, a bangle with a bat on it hung on her too small wrist.

“Did you say thank you?” Gibbs asked her as he picked her up. She nodded as he walked towards Abby. He scanned the lab and a concerned look washed across his face.

“What’s wrong?” Abby asked as Gibbs put Rani down.

“Play with your brother,” he told her. He pulled Abby towards him so he didn’t have to talk as loud.

“Where’s Tony?” he asked her.

“I dunno, he asked if I could look after the kids for a while,” Abby told Gibbs.

“How long was he here before he left,” he asked.

“He didn’t stay, just dropped the kids off,” Abby said as she looked back at the two children playing happily.

“Ok,” Gibbs said before walking over to the kids.

“Hey, will you stay here with Abby?” he asked Rani.

“Yes Dad, we like it here,” she replied sweetly.

“Ok, be a good girl and watch out for your brother,” he said before kissing her forehead lightly and giving Kaushal a kiss. He stood back up and walked over to Abby.

“Hopefully I won’t be too long,” he said as he turned to leave only to turn back around and kiss her on the cheek. He left without another word. As he walked out into the rain and to his car he couldn’t help but feel a gut wrenching feeling boil in his stomach.
He sped back home only to be disappointed with Tony not been there. He drove around looking for Tony and failing. After a while he pulled up at the park and turned the car off. Listening to the rain battering down on the car he looked out the window.

This can’t be happening. He thought to himself. When those images popped into his head and played horrible tricks on him it hurt so much that he didn’t have the energy to try and block them out. He scanned the park, why he thought Tony would be out there in the pouring rain he had no idea himself. Then something caught his eye. It was a familiar walk, a walk he knew all too well. His heart pounded in his chest, this couldn’t be. He started the car up and pulled into a different space, far enough not to be noticed but close enough so he could see what was going on.

He watched in horror as it registered what was happening. Tony was pacing up and down the small sheltered area where a few seats were. He was waiting for someone and Gibbs didn’t like it. He was determined to get out of the car and ask Tony what he was doing, but Gibbs held himself in the car and waited impatiently. He didn’t have to wait long for something to happen.
He watched as Tony ran out into the rain, halfway across the grass he pulled his jacket off to shelter both him and Jeanne form the rain. Gibbs almost went through the roof.

“This can’t be happening,” Gibbs said to himself, fury beginning to seep through his skin. He watched intently as they ran back under the shelter, laughing. They sat down and started talking, this just making Gibbs more angry. He sat there watching for sometime before he got so angry he started the car. He sped back to NCIS really pissed off. He got into the elevator and tried to calm down; he couldn’t let the kids see him upset and angry. When he walked into Abby’s lab there was nobody there so he went back up to the bullpen only to find nobody there either. With only one other place they could be he went down to autopsy and sure enough everybody was there.

“Dad,” Rani said excitedly as she ran to Gibbs. He picked her up and walked over to the others. He put her back down with Kaushal and gave a smile to the others.

“I think I will take the children up to get something to eat, they’ve been very good,” Ducky said as he bent down with the kids.

“Would you like to get something to eat?” he asked them.

“Yes please Ducky,” Rani said as she stood up.

“I’ll come,” McGee said as he took Rani’s hand.

“Where’s Palmer?” Gibbs asked as he looked around.

“Out,” Ziva said as she stepped closer to him.

“What happened Gibbs?” Abby asked as she too stepped closer.

“Nothing,” he said as he watched them both.

“Then why are you angry?” Ziva asked as again they stepped closer.

“I’m not,” he lied.

“Yes you are,” Abby said, this time Gibbs stepped back.

“Gibbs, we wanna help if something’s wrong,” Abby said as she took one more step towards him.

“Nothing is wrong, so you don’t have to help,” Gibbs said as he watched the both of them as they looked at each other.

“Please, Gibbs, don’t make this any harder for yourself,” Ziva said as she went and sat up on one of the cold, hard autopsy tables.

“Gibbs, you’ve helped us so much, like when I had people after me, and when Tim’s sister was in trouble,” Abby said as she looked at him, a pleading look across her face.

“And when I was framed, just let us help you this time,” Ziva said. Gibbs stood there, now looking at the floor, and thought.

“I...” Gibbs started.

“Ok, what happened?” Abby said as she and Ziva walked towards him.

“I was...” he didn’t get a chance to finish.

“Did you and Tony have a fight?” Abby asked quickly.

“No, but...” he got cut off again.

“Does he have old feet?” Ziva asked.

“Ahh, its cold feet and no I don’t think so,” Gibbs said as he let out a small chuckle at Ziva’s mistake.

“Then what’s wrong?” Abby asked.

“Old flame, I guess,” Gibbs said as he shifted.

“Which one?” Ziva asked.

“Not me,” Gibbs said. Abby and Ziva stood there for a moment before realising who he was talking about.

“What is she doing here?” Ziva hissed.

“I don’t know,” Gibbs said as he ran his hands through his hair.

“If anything happens to you two I will rip her throat out,” Ziva said as she ran her fingers along the knife at her waist.

“I’ll help, don’t forget I’m one of the few people in the world that can murder someone and leave
no forensic evidence,” Abby said. Gibbs stood there staring at them; he couldn’t believe how compassionate they were on making sure that Jeanne didn’t ruin anything.

“So where’s Tony?” Ziva asked.

“At the park, with her,” Gibbs said dreading hearing himself say that.

“Take the kids home, calm down, spend some time with them, everything will work out just fine,”
Abby said and on that Ducky and McGee came back in with the kids.

“Dad can we go home?” Rani asked.

“Yes sweetie,” Gibbs said as he took Kaushal.

“What’s in you backpack?” he asked Rani.

“Uncle Tim bought us some DVDs,” she said as she pointed to McGee.

“What ones?” Gibbs asked.

“Toy Story and Chicken Little, so don’t worry,” McGee answered. Gibbs nodded and gave everyone a small smile before he left. As soon as Gibbs was in the elevator Abby turned to everyone.

“Ok, Jeanne’s back and we don’t know why,” Abby said.

“She is?” McGee asked, the anger clear in his eyes.

“Yes, and we plan on making sure nothing happens to Gibbs and Tony,” Ziva said as she walked around.

“So, me and Ziva will call Tony,” Abby said as she walked over to Ziva.

“This will be very interesting,” Ducky said as he walked to his desk.

Abby and Ziva went back up to the bullpen and dialled Tony’s number, putting it on speakerphone.

“Show time,” Abby smirked as the phone started to ring.

“Hey Tony, put your phone on speaker,” Abby said into the phone as he answered.

“Hello Jeanne,” Ziva said, a smirk plastered on her face.

“Hi,” Jeanne said cautiously as she watched Abby and Ziva sit down.

“Gibbs took the kids home,” Ziva informed Tony.

“Oh, ok,” Tony said as he gave them both a weak smile.

“Well we’re off, oh and Tim wanted to see you,” Abby said before promptly hanging up.

Something is wrong; they never call him Tim unless something is wrong. Tony thought to himself. He jumped at the warm, gentle hand that fell upon his shoulder.

“You ok?” she asked.

“Ahh, yeah,” Tony smiled. He stood up and pulled Jeanne to her feet.

“I better go,” he smiled.

“Yeah, I’ve got to get back to the hospital,” she said.

“So, maybe lunch tomorrow?” he asked her.

“Sure, I’d like that,” Jeanne said.

“Great I’ll see you then,” he said as he stepped in and embraced her in a hug.

Gibbs slammed his fists on the steering wheel and glared out the windscreen. Now he was really pissed off, he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Once again he started the car and sped off.

Tony turned and thought he’d seen Gibbs car but shook it off. He was at home with the kids and he wouldn’t leave them home alone. He gave Jeanne a small wave before getting into his own car and driving back to NCIS to see McGee.
He walked into the bullpen and was dragged back into the elevator by McGee. Nothing was said as they walked into Abby’s lab and the door slammed shut behind them.

“What’s going on?” Tony asked as he was pushed into a chair.

“You know exactly what’s going on Tony,” Ziva said icily.

“Ok, so I ran into her,” Tony said.

“Yes, the other day, today you were having a social visit in the park,” Ziva said as she circled the lab.

“Ziva...” Abby put her hand over his mouth.

“No, Tony... this is hurting Gibbs,” Abby said as she sat down.

“The past is the past, you need to leave her,” Abby said.

“We were just catching up,” Tony said, a pleading look in his eyes.

“Tony, please, not just for us but for Gibbs and the kids... And yourself, please, stop seeing her,” Abby said as she stood in front of him.

“Abby, we are...” he stopped and looked at each of them. It hurt him to see the hurt looks on their faces.

“You’re just reopening old wounds Tony, don’t you remember how much she hurt you, it took you months to get over her,” McGee said as he placed his hand on Abby’s shoulder. Abby turned around and hugged him.

“I... Ok,” Tony said, his voice thick with defeat. Without another words said from anyone Tony got up and walked to the door. He could hear soft sobs coming from Abby, he knew he’d really hurt all of them. Deep down he knew that they were right, that he was reopening old wounds and hurting everyone, but he couldn’t bring himself to face that. So he walked away silently leaving his friends without any explanation.

He drove home in silence, listening to the rain attacking his car. When he pulled into the driveway he shut the car off and sat there thinking. What would he say to Gibbs, his friend, his lover. How would his children be affected by this?

He snuck inside knowing Gibbs would know he was home. He could hear the kids laughing and when he peeked into the living room he saw the smiling. Gibbs’ smile was wider than ever as he played with them. Tony yearned to be in there with them but didn’t want to ruin their fun, so he went off into the kitchen and sifted through the cupboard and fridge until he found what they would have for dinner.

Gibbs could hear Tony in the kitchen but wasn’t about to go and talk to him. After an hour Tony came to the living room door.

“Dinner’s ready,” he said, making sure he didn’t make eye contact with Gibbs.

“Daddy,” Rani said as she ran up to him. He picked her up and carried her into the kitchen, he sat her in front of a plate and she started eating. Gibbs came in with Kaushal and placed him in his highchair before sitting down and feeding him.

“You want me to do that, your dinner will get cold,” Tony said softly.

“No, it’s fine,” Gibbs said as he continued to feed Kaushal. Tony didn’t say anything else. When Gibbs finished feeding Kaushal and ate his dinner Tony took the plates and washed up. Gibbs took the kids to their room and continued playing with them. Once again bedtime rolled around and Gibbs put the kids in bed. He read them a story minus Tony this time. He walked into his room and noticed Tony wasn’t in there but he didn’t take much notice, just got changed and went downstairs to work on his boat.

Tony sat in the living room and heard Gibbs go downstairs. He knew he had to go and face him sooner or later but didn’t know if he would be able to keep himself together. He forced himself off the couch and to the stairs.

No, talk to him when he’s in a better mood. He thought to himself. It was like an internal battle of himself. Without thinking again he walked down the stairs and waited at the bottom. Gibbs didn’t take his eye off the boat or say anything. Tony knew he was really pissed off.

“Jethro,” he said softly. Again Gibbs kept working on his boat.

“I... Jethro I...” he didn’t know what to say. Gibbs stopped sanding the boat and turned to Tony.

“You what Tony?” Gibbs asked, his voice like a thousand icicles and when the words hit Tony they stung.

“I... I’m sorry,” Tony said as he sat on the bottom step.

“You’re sorry?” Gibbs asked mockingly.

“Yes,” Tony said, he could feel himself breaking.

“You think you can just keep seeing her? You think I’m ok with that?” Gibbs asked, his voice full of anger.

“Jethro, please just...” Gibbs stopped Tony.

“No Tony, I have had it up to here with you reopening old wounds because sooner or later she’s gonna have you wrapped around her little finger then she’s gonna do it all over again, you’re gonna come crying to me and your friends, it’s gonna be like déjà vu but this time we have kids,” Gibbs said coldly.

“Jethro, I’m not going to...” Gibbs cut him off again.

“No, we are getting married in 2 weeks and you think you can spend all your time with her? Please, tell me now if you want to be with her so I can cancel the plans because I don’t want to pay for something that won’t happen,” Gibbs said, his voice getting louder as he spoke.

“Jethro, we will get married, we aren’t going to break up,” Tony said quickly.

“Do you know how much this is hurting me Tony?” Gibbs asked as he threw the sandpaper at the wall.

“Yes, I know and I’m sorry,” Tony said as he stood up.

“No, I don’t think you do because seeing you two there laughing, smiling with each other I think maybe you are stupid enough to get back with her and maybe, just maybe you are only staying with me because of the kids,” Gibbs said as he sat on the stool.

“Jethro, I love you, please don’t think that,” Tony said, not quite game enough to move closer towards Gibbs.

“Do you Tony? Because right now it sure as hell doesn’t feel like it,” Gibbs raged as he stood up.

“Jethro, don’t be like that, please just let me explain,” Tony pleaded.

“I don’t wanna hear what you two have been doing because I’m fed up with it,” Gibbs said harshly.

“Jethro, I just want to sort things out,” Tony said, again his voice thick with a pleading tone.

“Until she is well and truly gone from your life the wedding is postponed,” Gibbs said angrily before running past Tony and upstairs. Tony stood there in horror, he couldn’t believe what he had heard.

He walked upstairs and snatched the keys from the table near the door. He drove, he knew that Abby and everyone was angry at him but right now he felt like they could comfort him. He pulled up at Abby’s to realise that she wasn’t there. So his next thought was McGee’s and when he pulled up he noticed everyone’s cars parked in front of the apartment building. He ran up the stairs to McGee’s apartment. He took a few deep breaths before knocking on the door. By now the words had really sunk in and he was crying, he didn’t want things to be like this.

“Tony,” Abby said slightly alarmed when she opened the door.

“I’m sorry Abbs,” he said hoarsely through sobs.

“I just want you to know that the wedding’s off,” he said. All he wanted was someone to hug him, but he knew he wouldn’t get that.

“What? When did that happen?” she said astonished.

“Not long ago,” he said before walking back towards the stairs.

“Tony wait,” Abby yelled as she ran after him. He stopped and she spun him around.

“Tony...” she said before wrapping her arms around him and holding him tight.

“This isn’t right,” she whispered.

“I better go,” Tony said as he pulled away.

“I guess the couch is better than nothing,” Abby said as she tried to give Tony the smile he needed.

“Oh, I’m not going home, I’m staying at a motel for as long as needed,” he said.

“No, you’re going home to work things out,” Abby demanded.

“No I’m not,” he replied.

“Yes you are,” Ziva said as she walked out into the hallway with them. McGee, Ducky and Jimmy filed out into the hallway as well.

“But... He hates me, I can’t blame him,” Tony said as he looked away from their looks.

“He’s just hurt,” Abby said as she went over to Tony and pulled him back out to his car.

“Drive,” she ordered as she got into the passenger seat. Tony drove back home and had to be dragged inside by Abby. She dragged him into the living room and sat him on the couch.

“Wait here,” she whispered. She walked into the bedroom to see Gibbs asleep in bed. She snuck over and gently shook him.

“Abby?” he asked. Then thoughts came flooding into his mind and he suddenly felt sick.

“Is Tony ok?” he asked as he sat up suddenly frightened that something had happened to Tony.

“No, he’s not; he hates himself, you two need to sort things out,” she said as she pulled him out of bed. He let himself be dragged into the living room where Tony was sitting. Gibbs looked at Tony who had his head in his hands.

“You two need to sort things out, if I come back in the morning and you two are still fighting I’ll murder you both,” she said with a warning look before leaving. Gibbs sat on the couch, still annoyed with Tony, and waited. Tony didn’t say anything; he knew Gibbs was pissed at him. 15 minutes passed and Tony sighed, he vigilantly looked at Gibbs and saw that hard line set on his face, his blue eyes like piercing ice knives.

“Jethro,” he whispered, afraid that if he spoke he would awaken the raging bear inside of Gibbs and his head would ripped from his neck, not the way he’d like to die.

“Tony,” Gibbs said although he didn’t look at him.

“I’m sorry Jethro, I know that I’ve hurt everyone but I know I’ve hurt you the most,” Tony whispered again as he inched closer.

“Yes Tony, you have hurt me... A lot,” Gibbs said as he dropped his head.

“I’m sorry,” Tony whispered. He was and he hated himself more as each silent second passed.

“I really hope that you are sorry,” Gibbs said as he looked up at Tony. Tony didn’t know what else to say and he really wished that he could think of something.

“Please, promise me that you won’t see her again,” Gibbs said as he moved closer to Tony.

“I... Jethro I promise you that I won’t see Jeanne again,” Tony said. Gibbs gave a small smile and leant his head against Tony’s.

“I hope to god you stay by that,” Gibbs whispered.

“I will,” Tony whispered back. Gibbs leant in and kissed Tony softly.

“I hope this never happens again... Ever,” Gibbs said as he looked into Tony’s eyes.

“It won’t,” Tony said. Gibbs stood up.

“I’m gonna go back to bed, care to join me?” he asked.

“Sure would,” Tony said as he stood up and took Gibbs’ hand. As they walked into the bedroom Gibbs wacked Tony over the back of the head, Tony winced and looked at Gibbs.

“What was that for?” he asked.

“For being a complete idiot,” Gibbs replied before getting into bed.

“Guess I deserved that one,” Tony said as he got in and cuddled up next to Gibbs.

“You deserve all of them,” Gibbs said as he held Tony.

“I do?” Tony asked. Gibbs just smiled as he kissed Tony’s cheek. Tony could live with that. They both fell asleep smiling.




“Do you think the weeding will be back on?”

Gibbs knew that McGee, Abby and Ziva were in their room but he didn’t open his eyes.

“Of course it will be,” Abby said. He saw a flash and knew that someone was taking pictures of them.

“Do that again and I’ll smash the camera,” he warned with his eyes still closed.

“You would never break my camera,” Abby said as she sat on the edge of the bed. Gibbs opened
his eyes and held onto the camera, Abby pulled defensively.

“Wanna bet?” he said as he let it go.

“No,” Abby said before walking back to the wall.

“What time is it?” Gibbs asked.

“8.00,” Ziva said. Gibbs nodded and smiled at them.

“The answer is yes,” Gibbs said.

“Huh?” McGee said.

“Yes, the wedding is back on, we are still getting married,” Gibbs said. Tony wriggled around under the sheets and groaned.

“Jethro, will you just shut up for another half hour, please,” Tony said as he snuggled into Gibbs’ side.

“Sure,” Gibbs said as he kissed Tony’s lips before jumping out of bed.

“I said be quiet not get out of bed,” Tony whined. Gibbs laughed as he walked out, followed by McGee, Ziva and Abby, into the living room.

“Where are the kids?” Gibbs asked.

“Ducky and Jimmy have them,” Abby smiled.

“Good, and what are you all doing here?” Gibbs asked with raised eyebrows.

“Today you get to go tux shopping,” Abby said excitedly.

“But we still have nearly two weeks,” Gibbs protested.

“Better to be safe than sorry,” Abby said as she smiled.

“Fine, I’ll go and get changed, get this over and done with,” he said as he walked back into the bedroom.

“Where’re you going?” Tony asked as he sat up.

“Tux shopping with Abby,” Gibbs said as he rolled his eyes.

“Oh, ok, well have fun,” Tony said as he lay back down.

“You have to go as well,” Gibbs smirked.

“I what?” Tony said as he sat back up. Gibbs chuckled and walked out the door. Tony groaned and put a pillow over his head, he never did like shopping for formal clothes.

“Stop your groaning,” Ziva said as she walked in.

“Maybe I like groaning,” Tony answered.

“Just get up so we can go, the sooner it’s done the sooner you can come home,” Ziva said as she walked back out. Tony got up and walked to the wardrobe. He had a shower and got dressed to then be dragged along to a tux store by Ziva and McGee.

“Hi, do you need any help?” a over cheery woman asked.

“No, we’re fine thanks,” McGee said as they walked towards a rack.

“Go on, they won’t bite,” Ziva said as she pushed Tony towards the rack. Tony rolled his eyes and started to look at the tuxes.

“What about this one?” he asked as he held up a plain black and white tux.

“Your choice,” McGee said. Tony pushed it back on the rack and looked through some more. As the seconds passed they soon turned to minutes, the minutes becoming a few hours before Tony decided on his suit.

“Finally,” Ziva rolled her eyes as they walked out the door.

“Well it’s not like you two were helping,” Tony said as they got into the car. McGee’s phone rung and he quickly flipped it open.

“McGee,” he answered, rolling his eyes right after.

“That’s a cold case, you don’t need to look into it again,” he said.

“What do you mean?” his voice becoming concerned.

“Right,” he said finally before hanging up.

“We gotta go,” he said to Ziva.

“Just drop me here, I’ll call Jethro,” Tony said. Ziva pulled over and Tony got out.

“Thanks for coming, see you later,” he said before they drove off. He started walking home.

Get some fresh air into that thick skull of yours Tony. He thought to himself. The rain had stopped but it was still overcast, threatening to rain down on him when he least expected it. He shrugged and couldn’t care less if he got wet. He’d been walking for some time and didn’t realise that it was that far away from home.

“Tony!”

He looked around to see Jeanne running towards him. He shook his head as he remembered telling her they would have lunch.

“Hey, you busy?” she asked as she caught up with him.

“Ahh, sorry, I forgot,” he said as he cursed himself for what he was about to do.

“So is lunch still on?” she asked.

Wonder what’s taking him so long? Gibbs thought to himself as he watched the kids play together in the living room. He bent down with the kids and smiled.

“Let’s go see if we can find Daddy,” he said as he picked Kaushal up and took Rani’s hand. He put the kids in the car and started to drive. His first thought was that Tony had gone back with McGee and Ziva but then wondered why he’d do that. He decided to drive to the tux shop Abby had said he’d be at. He searched but couldn’t see Tony along this side walk. . A little while later he did a double take.

Why!?!? He screamed in his mind as he spotted Tony, with Jeanne. He kept his anger under control since he had the kids with him. He turned around and sped to NCIS, Abby was going to have to look after the kids whether they had a case or not. He quickly took them into the building while thinking up excuses.

“Hey Abbs, think you could look after the kids for a while?” he asked.

“Sure, but we...” Gibbs cut her off.

“Great, me and Tony want some personal time,” he said as he kissed the kids then Abby.

“Don’t make this a habit,” she called after him. He quickly ran back to his car and sped back to where he saw Tony. He drove up and sure enough Tony was still walking along with Jeanne. He pulled over and got out of the car. Now this was getting serious, Gibbs was pissed to the bone. He walked up behind them reaching out and seized Tony’s arm roughly.

“Jethro,” he said in alarm as Gibbs pushed him behind him as if protecting him from Jeanne. He gave the deadliest stare to Jeanne Tony had ever seen, if looks could kill Jeanne’s ghost would die.

“Get in the car now Tony,” he said harshly, not taking his eyes off of Jeanne.

“No, I was just saying goodbye, that’s not a crime,” Tony said as he pulled away from Gibbs.

“You promised you wouldn’t see her again,” Gibbs said as he felt a piercing feeling in his chest.

“I... Jethro, please,” Tony tried to reason.

“Get in the car now,” Gibbs said, his voice holding the uttermost authority in it. Tony stood there angrily.

“Get in the fucking car Tony, I’m not playing anymore games,” Gibbs yelled as he pushed Tony towards the car. Tony stumbled and was frightened that Gibbs was like he was. He got in the car and let the tears fill his eyes, he’d never seen Gibbs this angry.

“You are to leave and never see Tony again,” he said to Jeanne, something in his voice that made her cringe away from him.

“Yes sir,” she said before quickly walking away without another word. Gibbs got into the car and brought along with him a ridged ambiance.

“Promise my arse,” he muttered as he started the car.

“I’m sorry,” Tony said weakly.

“Heard that before,” Gibbs muttered again, to pissed off to talk. It was quiet the rest of the drive home. As soon as Gibbs pulled up Tony bolted from the car and inside.

“Tony,” Gibbs said his voice still angry.

“What?” Tony yelled from the bedroom. Gibbs walked in to see Tony furiously throwing pillows around the room.

“Tony, stop,” Gibbs said more softly this time after realising just how angry he must have sounded to Tony when he didn’t mean too.

“No, I’m sick of you trying to control my god damn life, maybe if I were a hard arse ex-marine who drinks bourbon and coffee, and builds boats all the time the tone of your voice wouldn’t have...” Tony stopped hurling the pillows at the walls and fell to his knees.

“Maybe it wouldn’t have affected me like it did,” Tony sobbed. Gibbs walked over to Tony and put his arms around him only to be pushed away. Tony stood up and walked to the door. Gibbs grabbed his arm gently and pulled him into an embrace only to be pushed away by Tony. Gibbs let me walk away and knew he’d really done it this time.

Should have just talked to her quietly, but no I had to go and make a scene. I just had to yell at him like I did and push him like I did. Gibbs thought angrily. He went and sat on the edge of the bed and listened as the rain started to attack the house. The phone started ringing and pulled Gibbs back from his thoughts. He walked to the phone and picked it up.

“Hello,” he said, his voice giving away that something was wrong.

“Gibbs, what happened?” came Abby’s worried voice through the line.

“Nothing, are the kids right to stay there for a bit longer?” he asked.

“I’ll ask,” Abby said. He heard her walk to the kids and ask. He smiled when he heard Rani say yes excitedly.

“Yeah, they’re fine to stay,” Abby replied.

“Ok, thanks Abbs,” he said before hanging up. He went into the living room and wondered where Tony was. Maybe the bathroom, or the kids room but not the basement. He only went down there when Gibbs was down there and he liked to give Gibbs the basement for personal space.

Gibbs sat there for some time before deciding he would try and talk to Tony. He walked into the bedroom but Tony hadn’t gone back in there. He checked the kid’s room and bathroom but didn’t find Tony. He was starting to wonder if he’d gone down to the basement after all. Gibbs checked the kitchen as he headed for the basement. The basement door was closed and Gibbs didn’t like that. He slowly opened it standing there for a moment.

“Tony,” he said after think for a bit. No answer. Gibbs had an extremely bad feeling in his gut and he wanted it to go away. He stepped down into the basement and saw Tony’s legs.

So he was down here. Gibbs thought to himself as he walked to the edge of the boat.

“Tony,” he said again as he rounded the corner. He froze in place, his stomach filling with dread and horror.

“Tony,” Gibbs said his name with a pleading tone.

“What?’ Tony asked in an annoyed manner. Gibbs stood there staring.

Tony held his gun steadily in his hands, flicking the safety lock on before running his fingers over the trigger then flicking the safety lock off, his fingers again running over the trigger before starting the process again.

Gibbs heart pounded in his chest. He wanted to tell Tony not to do anything stupid and put the gun down. His hands had a slight shake starting to take over, he was scared.

“Tony, give me the gun,” Gibbs said as he stepped closer.

“Why?” Tony asked his face holding only hurt.

“What do you plan on doing with it?” Gibbs asked him.

“I was thinking, maybe, that you can handle the kids on your own, you’ve got the others,” Tony replied, not making eye contact with Gibbs. Gibbs knew what Tony had in mind, so he walked to the other end if the basement and sat on the stool.

“And,” Gibbs said as he folded his arms to try and hide his shaking.

“I’d bring the gun up to here,” Tony said as he pointed to his temple. Gibbs heart almost jumped into his throat.

“And then... Bang,” Tony said as he pointed to the gun. Gibbs steadied himself as he looked at Tony.

I hope to god this works. Gibbs thought to himself as he reran over what he would say exactly, he wasn’t sure if these were the right words but if they weren’t he would never live with killing his own lover.

“Then why don’t you?” Gibbs asked. He suddenly wanted to rewind time and stop himself from saying that, how stupid was he? Tony looked up at him, shock covering his face. Then the hurt came back and he looked back down to the gun in his hands.

Tony flicked the safety lock off and skimmed his fingers along the trigger before shaky hands bought the gun to his temple. So many thoughts ran through his head but the one that kept burning into his mind was does he not care if I die? And with the he took a deep breath.

He felt the cold metal of the gun press against his temple and started to shake. Now he was scared, he wished that Gibbs would tackle him and take the gun. He put his finger on the trigger and his breathing became rapid.

Gibbs sat there and wondered in horror if Tony was actually going to pull the trigger. He watched as Tony began to shake and his breath became faster. He knew he had to run to Tony and take the gun, hold him tight and reassure him everything was ok but something held him back.

Tony closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

“Jethro... God Jethro take the... Take the fucking gun off me,” Tony yelled shakily. Gibbs was up and ran the few steps to Tony, seizing the gun and throwing it across the room. He held Tony tightly to his chest. Tony clung to Gibbs and let the tears fall down his cheeks. He had been so close to pulling the trigger and now regretted even thinking so idiotically.

“Shhh, it’s ok,” Gibbs whispered in his ear. Tony shook as he cried, scared more than anything.

“It’s not ok,” he managed to get out. Gibbs knew that Tony was right, that it wasn’t “ok” so he didn’t say anything else just held his scared, hurt lover. This wasn’t fair, why did all these horrible things have to keep happening? They sat in the basement for a long time and soon noticed that it was getting dark. Abby would bring the kids around any time now and Gibbs knew that he couldn’t let them see Tony in the state he was in. Sure enough, a few minutes later, Abby could be heard bringing the kids inside.

“Gibbs, Tony,” she yelled out. Gibbs wanted to yell back and tell her they were in the basement but he couldn’t find his voice and Tony was still upset. He heard Abby coming down the basement stairs then stop.

“Gibbs,” she said.

“Over here Abbs,” he said quietly, but loud enough for her to hear. She walked around the boat and stopped in her tracks. She turned back around and walked to the stairs.

“Go up to your room, I’ll be up soon,” Abby said. Gibbs guessed that the kids had come down with her. He heard the quiet footsteps of Rani going up and heard Abby take Kaushal up before coming back down. She stood in front of them, shock on her face, she had a few theories about the situation but wasn’t sure.

“What happened?” she whispered. Gibbs just shook his head and stood up, pulling a fragile Tony up with him. He walked Tony upstairs and when they walked past the kids room it pulled at Gibbs heart strings knowing that the kids would see their Daddy in a mess. He walked Tony into the bedroom and carefully laid him on the bed. He kissed Tony gently and sitting with him until he fell asleep which didn’t take very long. Gibbs walked into the kid’s room and Rani ran to him.

“Dad, why is Daddy upset?” she asked. Gibbs picked her up and sat on her bed.

“Daddy is upset because...” Gibbs couldn’t think of what to say, she was too young to understand what had happened today.

“Is it my fault Daddy’s upset?” she asked innocently. Gibbs’ heart ached with pain at the words.

“Sweetie no, Daddy will never be upset because of you, please don’t ever think it’s your fault,” he said as he looked over to Kaushal who had fallen asleep on the floor. Maybe he could explain why Tony was upset, maybe she would understand, she’s brighter than everyone thinks.

“Make sure Daddy is ok,” she said before crawling into bed. Gibbs kissed her goodnight before putting Kaushal into bed and turning the light off, tonight he closed the door, something he never did. He walked into the living room where Abby was waiting for him.

“What happened Gibbs?” she asked in almost a whisper.

“Tony was seeing Jeanne again, but I can’t blame him for this,” Gibbs said as he sat down. He waited for Abby to reply but didn’t say anything so he continued.

“That’s why I took the kids to you, then I went back. I grabbed him and told... Yelled at him to get in the car, then I told her never to see him again,” Gibbs stopped. This was hurting him to replay the events but he guessed he deserved all the punishment he could get.
“Gibbs, you ok?” Abby asked even though she knew the answer.

“When we got home he was really angry, he looked like he could kill, then he disappeared, I assumed he was crying out his anger in the bedroom or somewhere like that...” Gibbs paused as he remembered walking down into the basement and seeing Tony with the gun.

“When I looked for him he was in the basement, with his gun... He wanted to shoot himself, I thought it was going to kill me Abbs, I really did,” Gibbs said. All he wanted to do was go in and hold Tony, to try and make up for what he’d done.

“Gibbs,” Abby said in alarm. She hugged him and when he pulled back to look at her he saw tears in her eyes.

“Go back to him,” Abby said as she stood up. She let herself out and Gibbs went into the bedroom where he saw Tony sleeping. He got into bed and held Tony and felt some comfort. He fell asleep and hoped that he wouldn’t dream of today’s events.

“Go back into your room, I’m coming now,” Gibbs heard Tony whisper and he smiled on the inside. Tony sounded like himself, like nothing had happened yesterday and hoped that he wasn’t going to bottle it up. Tony kissed his cheek before he got up and Gibbs smiled.

When the bedroom door closed Gibbs opened his eyes and thought to himself for a while. He knew that he wasn’t going to be perfectly ok for some time and he was mentally a lot stronger than Tony. So he wondered if Tony was actually coping with this or if he was just hiding it, scared that if he let his emotions out too much he’d be considered weak.

After a while Gibbs got up and dressed before following the laughs into the living room. He smiled as he watched Tony carrying Kaushal around the living room chasing Rani.

“Dad, save me,” she squealed playfully. Gibbs picked her up and playfully shielded her from Tony’s playful attack. They ran around the house been chased by Tony who was carrying Kaushal. Finally Gibbs ran to the table near the door and grabbed the car keys. He ran to the car and put Rani in before driving to NCIS. He raced into the building with Rani, a grin wide across his face. When Ziva and McGee saw Gibbs rush out of the elevator they jumped to their feet in a panic.

“Gibbs,” Ziva said worried something had happened to Tony.

“Aunty Ziva,” Rani smiled as Gibbs put her down. She ran to Ziva who picked her up. She and Tim walked over to Gibbs.

“Where’s Tony?” McGee asked.

“I can see you Rani,” Tony smiled from the elevator before walking towards them with Kaushal.

“Daddy no more tickling,” Rani warned.

“Ok, no more tickling,” Tony promised as he stood next to Gibbs.

“You two are very happy,” McGee pointed out.

“Well yeah, we’re getting married soon,” Tony smiled happily. Everybody smiled at the thought of the upcoming wedding.

“Sir,” said one of the fill in agents.

“Yes?” McGee asked as he turned to look at her.

“There’s someone here to see you,” she said. McGee nodded and followed the agent.

“Does McGee have a girlfriend Ziva?” Tony asked. Ziva looked at Tony then shrugged.

“We better get home, got some final arrangement to do,” Gibbs said as he took Kaushal.

“Ok,” Tony smiled as he picked up Rani and they left. When they returned home they made sure the kids were happy to play by themselves for a while before they walked into the living room. Gibbs sat on the couch followed by Tony.

“So, what’s left to plan?” Tony asked curiously.

“Nothing,” Gibbs said as he took Tony’s hands.

“Then why did you say...” Gibbs placed a finger on Tony’s lips.

“Are you ok?” Gibbs asked knowing Tony knew what he was talking about.

“Yes,” Tony said and he was, he knew that what he did was stupid but he knew that it was best to put it in the past and that is what he did.

“I don’t want you to say that then let all of your emotions out and do something really stupid, worse than before,” Gibbs said.

“Jethro, it will never happen again, I promise,” Tony said as he looked into Gibbs’ eyes.

“I know,” Gibbs said before he leant in and kissed Tony.

“Ewwwww,” Tony and Gibbs looked up to see Rani in the door way pulling a face. They smiled as she walked over to them.

“Where’s your brother?” Gibbs asked her as he sat her on his knee.

“There,” she pointed to the doorway where Kaushal was crawling in. Tony ran to him and picked him up, playfully bringing him to the couch.

The days seemed to fly by. Days that were filled with happiness and love and now the past was truly in the past. Suddenly a week had disappeared. Tony hadn’t slept perfectly last night. He’d slept alone on the pull out couch at Ziva’s.

Gibbs didn’t sleep perfectly either. He’d slept in his own bed, alone as well. Abby had stayed and watched his every move, thinking he’d try and sneak away to see Tony. When he awoke he saw Rani and Kaushal sitting on the end of his bed.

“Good morning Dad,” Rani said as she grinned widely.

“Good morning beautiful,” Gibbs said as he sat up.

“Yay you’re up,” Abby said excitedly as she walked into the bedroom.

“You can lounge around until 2.00, and then we have to get ready,” Abby smiled.

“Yes Ma’am,” Gibbs said before he got up and went into the bathroom to take a shower.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

“Argh!” Tony jumped from where he was sleeping when he felt someone grab his sides and squeeze.

“The bogeyman get you Tony?” McGee said from the doorway. Tony turned to see Ziva sitting near his bed.

“Very funny Zee-vah,” Tony said before walking into the bathroom to freshen up.

“Oh, by the way we have to get ready at 2.00,” Ziva yelled to Tony.

“ Ok,” Tony yelled back.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

Gibbs got out of the shower and wrapped a towel around his waist. He went into the bedroom and got changed. Sitting on the bed he smiled widely at the thought of marrying the one person he’d loved for so long.

XxxxxxxxxxxX
Tony got dressed and let Ziva and McGee watch him smile. He wasn’t nervous, should he be? He only had forever and he’d take that if he could be with his lover for that whole time.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

The hours ticked by and had both Gibbs and Tony sitting around twiddling their thumbs. Abby
had taken the kids to see Tony for a while and when she returned Gibbs started to get nervous.

“Time to get ready,” she said with a smile.

“It’s two already?” Gibbs asked in surprise.

“2.15, so we’re running late,” Abby fused as she ushered him into the bedroom.

“Abbs I only have to put a suit on,” Gibbs said.

“And that takes time Gibbs,” she said before giving him a final push into the bedroom.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

“Ziva, ouch,” Tony said as Ziva poked at him.

“I just want to make sure everything is ok,” she said as she stood him in front of her and smiled like a proud parent would smile when the child got an award.

“Don’t you two have to get dressed?” Tony asked.

“I better go,” McGee said. Ziva went into her room and started to get dressed.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

“Abby it’s 2.45,” Gibbs called out. Abby walked from the bathroom, a black silk dress flowed neatly around her body. Her hair hung over her shoulders. Gibbs couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen Abby with her hair down.

“You look...” Gibbs didn’t know what to say.

“I look?” Abby asked.

“Beautiful,” Gibbs finished. She did, and when she walked into the kids’ bedroom and brought
them out they looked just as beautiful.

“Do you like my dress Dad?” Rani asked as she whirled around in her pink dress. Kaushal laughed playfully as Abby handed him to Gibbs.

“Look at you,” Gibbs smiled as he patted down his son’s little suit.

“Let’s go,” Abby said as she took Rani’s hand.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

“Wow,” Tony and McGee said together as Ziva walked from the bedroom. Her pale blue dress sat on her body like a butterfly sitting on a rose. Her hair was done up and McGee and Tony thought they’d lost their voices.

“I’m the one who should be saying wow, you’re getting married,” she said to Tony. Tony gave a wide smile before they left.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

“Jethro, my dear friend, I haven’t seen you this happy, ever,” Ducky smiled as he patted Gibbs arm.

“I guess it is a very happy day,” Gibbs smiled. He had a good feeling about today, he knew not one thing, or person, could ruin their special moment.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

“Oh Tony, you look perfect,” Abby smiled as Tony walked up to her.

“Rani, sweetie, you look gorgeous,” Tony smiled as he picked her up.

“Thank you Daddy,” she said as she kissed his cheek.

“Time to go,” Abby smiled. She picked up Kaushal and ushered Tony and Rani to the little patch of grass that they were know calling the isle.
Gibbs looked up and smiled as he saw Tony, a tear came to his eye but he pushed it back. Not yet. Tony put Rani down and took her hand. She walked with Tony up to Gibbs followed by Abby carrying Kaushal.

“Are we ready to start?” the woman Gibbs had asked to do the ceremony. asked as Tony smiled widely at Gibbs. He nodded quickly then looked around. Yep everything was perfect, he was sure that nothing would ruin it.

“Then let’s begin,” she smiled. Gibbs looked at Tony and couldn’t help but smile this was the widest he’d smiled, since... Shannon. Tony’s grin was also wide, he hadn’t smiled this big ever.

The ceremony proceeded and by half way through Abby and Ziva were tearing up, dabbing at their tears so their makeup didn’t run. Ducky placed his hand on Abby’s shoulder and smiled. McGee held Ziva’s hand as she wiped at her tears. Jimmy smiled at Vance who had just turned up.

“You may now kiss... Each other,” the woman said. Everybody smiled before Gibbs lashed onto Tony’s mouth and embraced him.

“Aww you guys,” Abby said as she walked over and hugged the two newlyweds. They pulled apart and smiled.

“Thanks Abbs,” Tony smiled as he hugged her. They walked into the canopy that had been set up earlier.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

From the path she watched as they placed the wedding bands on each other’s fingers and as they kissed her heart filled with a longing. She knew that they were happy together and so she stayed where she was. As she watched them walk into the canopy she let herself go, her tears falling like rain knowing that Tony was happy with Gibbs. Knowing that she had blown her chance with Tony, the man she’d loved so much and she hoped that Tim would hand Tony the letter.

He's gone Jeanne. she thought before turning and leaving.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

Inside Tony and Gibbs were sitting, smiling at each other. This was perfect, they were together forever. The day continued into the night and before long Ziva was taking the kids back to her apartment with McGee.

“Well, you two have a very pleasant night,” Ducky said as he headed off. Tony smiled and Gibbs’ grin just grew. They headed back home and as soon as the door closed Tony pushed Gibbs against the wall in a passionate kiss.

“I’ll love you,” he said as he pulled away.

“I love you too,” Gibbs replied before turning Tony so his back was against the wall and taking him into another kiss.

They woke to each other’s smiling faces, still feeling the love and sweat of last night’s events. They got up and showered together, like they do. They ate breakfast smiling, not even a tornado could wipe the smiles off their faces. At 9 Ziva and Abby brought the kids back around.

“Daddy,” Rani smiled as she hugged Tony’s legs. Gibbs held Kaushal and as they stood there together they looked like a perfect family.

XxxxxxxxxxxX

3 Months later.

Gibbs walked through the door and placed the car keys on the tabled near the door. He smiled as he kicked his shoes off. He’d done the grocery shopping so he was a little late tonight. As he walked into the kitchen and placed the bags on the bench he stretched.

“Jethro,” Tony yelled from the living room. Gibbs’ heart filled with panic, Tony’s voice wasn’t right.

“What?” Jethro asked in a worried tone as he ran into the living room. Tony looked up with a tear in his eye.

“What’s wrong?” Gibbs asked as he held Tony.

“He said “Daddy”, he said his first word,” Tony said proudly. Gibbs smiled and kissed Tony’s cheek before going over to Kaushal and kissing him.

“Dad I want a kiss,” Rani smiled from up on the couch.

“Of course, how could I forget you sweetie?” Gibbs said as he sat on the couch and kissed her. She smiled before hugging him.

“Wanna help me get dinner ready?” Gibbs asked her.

“Yes please Dad,” she said sweetly before they headed into the kitchen.

“Daddy,” Kaushal said smiled as he crawled over to Tony. Tony’s face lit up and he thought about how perfect life was. A while after Tony was playing with Kaushal, Gibbs called for them to come and get dinner. About halfway through there was a knock at the door. Tony put down his knife and fork.

“I’ll get it,” he said as he jumped up. He walked to the door and opened it to see McGee.

“Hey Tony,” he said.

“Hey Probie,” Tony said.

“Ahh, I was supposed to give you this on your wedding day but I couldn’t bring myself to do it, it would probably be best if you read it alone, I’m really sorry,” McGee said before he forced a smile and patted Tony’s shoulder. Tony looked at the envelope in his hands and when he looked up McGee was gone. He shook his head and walked inside, tucking the envelope into his pocket before entering the kitchen to finish his meal.

“Who was it?” Gibbs asked.

“McGee, wanted to give me back a disk I’d lent him,” Tony lied. He knew Gibbs would figure it out but took Tim’s advice anyway.

When they’d all finished dinner and cleaned up they went and played with the kids in the living room for a while. When bedtime for the kids rolled around they read them a story like every other night. When Gibbs was going to bed Tony stayed up and went into the living room. He pulled the envelope from his pocket and pulled out a letter. He began reading.

Dear Tony,
First of all let me say congratulations, Jethro is one lucky man, and so are your children. I have decided to go back to Africa; I don’t think I will ever return to America.

I know that we had a lot of good time. I love you, I always will, no matter what has been said. Please tell Jethro that I never meant for this to go so pear shaped. Take care Tony.
Love Jeanne. Xoxo

Tony folded the letter and pushed it back into the envelope when he felt something else inside it. He put his hand in the envelope and pulled out a photo. It was when they’d gone bowling. He remembers deleting the photos off of his phone. He smiled at the photo before putting it back. This wasn’t fair, he didn’t want this to happen, but it did. He went to bed without a second thought.

When Gibbs woke he slid into the living room and looked around, Tony wasn’t right, he was hiding something. He found an envelope on the end table near the lamp and picked it up. Tony was written on the front. He opened it to find a letter. As he read it pieced together. She had obviously given the letter to McGee, who had then given it to Tony. He finished the letter and pulled out the photo. He quickly put it back, he hated seeing her face.

“You found it,” Tony said from the door way. Gibbs turned to look at him.

“Jethro, McGee waited three months to give that to me, he didn’t want to ruin our special day,” Tony said. Gibbs nodded before walking over to him.

“It’s ok,” he said before he kissed Tony. They went back to bed, it was a Saturday and they liked to lie together and talk, some times that led to more than just talking.

So this is life. Tony thought as he sat at his desk. He liked this life, he’d already gotten used to it. It was an easy life, no complications, well complications that stuck to a minimum. He thought back to the best day of his life, his wedding day. It was perfect, well actually it wasn’t 100% perfect, more like 99% perfect.

He wished that Jackson had been there for his son’s special day. He really liked him and they got along like a house on fire. Tony was happy to hear that he was coming down this weekend. So when Friday afternoon came Tony was over the moon. He rushed home and told the kids.

“Grandpa is coming today,” he smiled and with that the kids were over the moon as well.
Saturday morning flew in and Tony was up at seven. He showered and ate breakfast before anyone else was up. Gibbs was in a habit of sleeping in, thanks to his husband. Tony fussed around the house, making sure everything was in place, for some reason he wanted to make sure everything was just right, not that Jackson would judge him on it, at least he hoped not.

10 o’clock came around and Tony was in the kitchen trying to cook up some cupcakes, although they weren’t working properly. There was a knock at the door and Tony’s face lit up. He ran and opened the door smiling widely when he saw Jackson.

“Mr Gibbs,” Jackson smiled. Tony blushed; he still wasn’t used to the name.

“Jackson,” he said as he received a hug. He took Jackson into the living room and they got
chatting. After a while Tony remembered.

“Rani, Kaushal, come see Grandpa,” Tony yelled out. Rani walked into the living room closely followed by a crawling Kaushal.

“Hello Grandpa,” Rani smiled as she sat on his lap.

“How’s my beautiful granddaughter?” he asked.

“Good,” she said.

“And what about my grandson?” he asked as Kaushal smiled.

“Daddy,” Kaushal laughed as he pointed to Jackson.

“That’s Grandpa, silly” Tony smiled as he picked Kaushal up.

“Daddy,” Kaushal said again, everyone laughed.

“Tony, Abbs want to know if you want to go out for drinks... Oh and McGee said he’d send you that picture on your side hit thingy... Oh and I booked the kids in for swimming lessons today, since you forgot... Oh and one more thing...” Crash.

“Jethro?” Tony said as he walked into the hallway. The table was now knelling on its side.

“What happened?” Tony asked.

“It’s doing a dance Tony, what do you think?” Gibbs snapped.

“Sorry... Dad’s been a Mr Grumpy Pants today,” Tony smiled at Kaushal who laughed.

“Jethro,” Gibbs cut Tony off.

“I know, I know, the kids don’t wanna see me angry,” Gibbs said as he picked the scattered items into a pile next to the table.

“Actually I was going to say your father’s here,” Tony said.

“Oh, shit, I forgot he was coming today, bloody hell,” Gibbs cursed.

“Jethro, stop swearing in front of your children,” Jackson scolded as he walked into the hallway with Rani.

“Sorry Dad,” Gibbs smiled as he hugged Jackson.

“So you should be, your children don’t need to hear you going on like that, they deserve better words to their ears,” Jackson said as he walked back into the living room.

Later that night.

“I really wish that Jackson was at the wedding,” Tony said. Gibbs stood at the living room door and listened. He knew Tony was on the phone and was surprised to hear Abby’s voice, he must have had it on loud speaker.

“I know, have you told Gibbs?”

“No, not yet, I think I’ll wait,” Tony said. Gibbs’ face had a confused look on it.

“You know that Jackson wanted to be there,” Abby said.

“Of course I do, but he couldn’t help it, it’s not his fault,” Tony replied.

“I hope that the tests come back negative,” Abby said, something in her voice pained Gibbs.

“Me too Abbs, me too,” Tony said, his voice had the same tone ringing in it.

“He has to see Rani and Kaushal grow up,” Abby said.

“He will, let’s think positive, let’s just think that the tests have come back and they are negative,”
Tony sighed.

“Ok, I better go,” Abby said.

“Yeah, same here, Jethro will be up soon looking for me,” Tony said.

“Goodnight Tony,” she said.

“Night Abby,” Tony said before he hung up. Tony stood up and thought he heard something then shook it off. He went back to a sleeping Gibbs, or so he thought.

A few days past and Gibbs was getting fidgety with thoughts. Today was the day he was going to confront Tony about the conversation he’d had the other night. It was a good time to do it now, they had no cases and Jackson was down in Abby’s lab with the kids. Gibbs looked over to Tony who had his head down, working. As he got up Tony’s phone rang.

After a few yes’s, yep’s and ok’s Tony hung up. He jumped up and smiled at the still standing Gibbs.

“I’m just going out,” Tony said.

“Where?” Gibbs asked as Tony headed for the elevator.

“Out,” Tony yelled back as he got in. Gibbs stood there with an odd expression on his face.

“Maybe he’s planning to take you on the honeymoon you never had,” Ziva chuckled, she knew he didn’t like that topic.

“I don’t need to go on a honeymoon,” Gibbs said as he sat back down.

“Maybe you need one Boss,” McGee said as he threw a glance at Ziva.

“I don’t,” Gibbs said as he checked his emails, for the 5th time.

“But maybe that’s what you need, you might find it... refreshing for your soul,” Ziva smiled. Gibbs glared at her then McGee and they shut up right away.
Half an hour later Tony returned only to be pushed back into the elevator by Gibbs. He fiercely flicked the elevator off and stared at Tony.

“What is wrong with my Dad?” he demanded. Tony shied away from his look.

“Tony... What is wrong?” Gibbs asked.

“Nothing,” Tony said.

“Don’t lie,” Gibbs said angrily as he hit the wall.

“Jethro, I’m not lying the tests came back negative,” Tony said as he put his hand on Gibbs’ shoulder.

“What were the tests for?” Gibbs asked.

“Cancer,” Tony whispered. Gibbs looked at Tony in shock.

“That’s why he wasn’t at the wedding; he only lied and said he had the flu because he didn’t want to worry you,” Tony said as he kissed Gibbs’ cheek.

“He should have come to me... You should have come to me,” Gibbs said as he pushed back some tears.

“Jethro, he’s fine, that’s all that matters,” Tony forced a smile. Gibbs let a smile be forced onto his lips before Tony kissed him.

“Let’s go give Jackson the good news,” Tony smiled. Gibbs agreed. As they left the elevator at Abby’s lab Gibbs stopped Tony just before the door.

“Since you kept that from me I think I’ll have to punish you,” Gibbs whispered in a devilish tone. Tony smirked and hoped to god his pants would hide his now growing erection. He couldn’t help that Gibbs sent him off like that.