Scuffing both hands through his hair and then pulling it upwards into spikes, DiNozzo grinned manically at his reflection in the bathroom mirror and then frowned. “Since when did Gibbs go clubbing?” he asked out loud. “I thought it was a case of the older you get, the less inclined you are to wanna be crushed five deep at the bar, music so loud you think your eardrums will burst and the only way to have a conversation is by shouting at each other.” He blew himself a kiss and pulled off the towel at his waist, letting it drop to the floor beside the shower stall. Stepping into the bedroom, he pursed his lips in thought for a second and then headed for the stairs, thumping down them two at a time until he was standing in front of Gibbs who was obviously only interested in his newspaper.

When Gibbs didn’t even look up, Tony swatted the top of the broadsheet with a hand. “Answer me something,” he demanded loudly. Gibbs folded down the paper, taking his time as he perused the very beautiful, still slightly damp Adonis standing before him, hands on hips and looking all the world like being nekkid in front of the Boss was all in a days work. With a sigh, he lifted his startlingly blue eyes to his lover’s green ones and smiled. “What?” Gibbs drawled.

“Since when do you go clubbing?” Tony challenged, eyes narrowing.

“Since forever,” came the reply and Tony could have sworn he just saw a twinkle in the other man’s eye but it was gone in a flash.

“You holding out on me?” Tony pouted, folding his arms.

“No, Tony,” Gibbs said, tossing the paper to one side and rising from his comfy position to stretch his arms above his head and yawning expansively. “I am not holding out on you – but then – maybe I am.”

“Meaning?” Tony watched him walk across the room to the kitchen and followed him through the door. “Are you or aren’t you?”

Gibbs poured himself a mug of coffee, turning briefly to flash a white smile at the younger man and then replaced the jug on the hot plate. “You don’t trust me? Think I’m taking you to one of those old ‘Nam Vets dives?”

“No! At least,” Tony scowled. “Give me a clue?”

Gibbs captured his gaze and held it for a long moment but the look on his face told Tony he was weighing something up – coming to some kind of decision. “Come with me,” he said softly, placing his mug on the counter, leaving a very puzzled Tony staring after him.

Back in the bedroom, Gibbs threw a fresh towel at his young lover and paced to his walk in closet, pawing through the overstuffed drawers until he hissed a victory when he found what he’d been looking for. “Close your eyes and hold out your hands.” He said with a tone that had Tony’s cock twitching beneath the towel. He did as he was bid and waited. “Now,” he whispered. “What do you think that is?”

Tony’s hands closed around the item in his hands, and he opened his eyes slowly as he held up the collar, a flush staining his cheeks. “It’s one of Abby’s collars?”

“Wrong.” Gibbs shook his head. “It might look like one of hers, and yes, she gave me the idea just last week – and I think it’s time I introduced you to – shall we say – another side of me?”

“Other side?” Tony swallowed, suddenly feeling nervous and not understanding why. “Don’t go cryptic on me, Jethro – you know that drives me nuts!” He looked down at the collar again. It was a simple one-inch wide strip of leather – plain, black with a buckle and clasp and a silver ring set dead centre. “Oh – ah – you mean – “

“I think you’re getting it.” Gibbs smiled, sensing Tony’s tension at this new revelation.

“You’re into – the same kind of thing Abby’s into?”

“You could say that – don’t look so surprised. I’ve cuffed you wrist and ankle to the bed haven’t I?” Gibbs was moving closer as he spoke. “I’ve blindfolded you – I’ve never gagged you – couldn’t do that to you – couldn’t deprive myself of – this,” he reached out and tipped Tony’s chin up until he caught his gaze once more, leaning in and kissing him softly on the mouth. With his other hand, he eased the collar from Tony’s grasp as the kiss deepened as he felt him melt against him, moaning quietly as he returned the kiss.

“You want me to wear it?”

“Where we’re going, it’ll mark you as mine,” Gibbs said, turning Tony to face the long mirror on the other side of the bedroom. “You’ll be safe from – predators. Besides, it looks good on you.”

Tony said nothing as Gibbs fastened it carefully and as he stared back at himself in the mirror, he realised his towel was tenting big time.

Gibbs hooked a finger at his waist and the towel fell to the floor as his arms snaked around Tony’s chest and abs, pulling him closer as he nuzzled his neck making him groan aloud as his head fell back onto Gibbs’ shoulder as a wave of desire shot through his body straight to his cock.

That cock was now being stroked, gently but firmly as Gibbs nipped and lapped his way from his earlobe, down the side of his neck to pause for a moment of his jugular suckling the skin briefly before continuing to his shoulder.

Tony’s breathing sped up as he felt Gibbs’ own solid shaft grinding into the crack of his ass – relentless in its intensity and he pushed back against it, smiling as Gibbs growled in his ear.

“Want to play do you?”

“Uh-huh – what the hell do you think?” Tony breathed, eyes closed and a smile on his face.

“But I’ve a table booked for eight – what did you have in mind?” Gibbs answered as Tony’s own hand reached behind him to squeeze his lover’s own burgeoning length.

“No idea – but you’re overdressed – why don’t you just strip and ravish me?” Tony turned in his arms, cupping his face in his hands and plundering his mouth.

Gibbs took control almost instantly. He slowly turned Tony ninety degrees and began backing him towards the bed. Once they could move no further, Gibbs released him, leaving him bereft and wanting, to step back as he folded his arms. “On your knees!” Tony obeyed immediately, clasping his hands at the small of his back, his gaze lowered to the floor. Gibbs chuckled, sending a thrill through the younger man making him sigh heavily as he carded the spikes of his hair. “You wear my collar – you are mine and mine alone, Tony – do you understand that?”

“Yes, Jethro – I – “ He closed his mouth as Gibbs signalled for silence. Inside, Tony was suddenly excited – nervous as hell about what might happen next – and his cock thrummed – twitching in anticipation. He found he could not look directly at Gibbs right at that moment – it seemed – wrong. Wrong? What in blue blazes did that mean? Not that Tony was dumb – he’d seen this kind of thing before – but when it’s on a cinema screen, when you read the words as the scene plays out in a book – you’re detached from it – merely a spectator – but was he right in thinking that as of this moment – he was playing the sub? Abby’d been good enough to regale him with tales of her conquests, he’d been caught daydreaming about Kate some days – Kate in a basque, thigh high boots, cracking a whip at him – until she slapped him upside the head and told him to stop staring at her! He’d often promised himself never to even contemplate trying it – giving over control to someone else? Nah – he’d never do that – he viewed it as debasing himself – Tony DiNozzo was all that and more but he just didn’t – couldn’t – wouldn’t – would he? Hell, it’s only Gibbs – it’s only the Boss – what’s he gonna do to you that’s so bad? He’s shafted you enough times, given you blow jobs to die for – and now he’s got me collared and nodding instead of speaking – if it is that bad – why the fuck do I want this? I could leave right now – just walk out the door – but I don’t want to – do I? That little voice in the back of his head chuckled. “Just go with it, DiNozzo,” it said. “Who knows – you might actually enjoy it”

“A simple nod is all I need, Tony. Now – do you understand?” Tony opened his mouth, closed it again, nodding. “A few rules about tonight – and don’t worry, these won’t apply until we’re inside the club. You belong to me, you talk to no one else unless I say it’s okay, you will drink what I say you can drink and you will eat what I tell you to eat. Clear so far?” Again - a simple nod. “Good, Tony. You’re doing really well with this – so, to continue. There are two sections to where we’re going – the bar and restaurant and the reserved area – the reserved area is strictly out of bounds for you tonight – until you are more established in your role – then we can treat that as a surprise and believe me, you will enjoy it.” He gazed down at the bowed head and a smile tugged the corner of his mouth. “Look at me, Tony.” As Tony raised his eyes, Gibbs signalled for him to rise and embraced him warmly before capturing his mouth again until they were both breathless.

Was that it? Tony thought to himself as his tongue snaked out to moisten suddenly dry lips. On his knees for two seconds? Hell, if that’s all there is to this – what’s the freakin’ point?

Gibbs could see the confusion clouding those beautiful green eyes and he snickered as he turned away to walk towards the bathroom. “It’s all right, DiNozzo – I’m breaking you in slowly. Why don’t you go check out the folder on my desk in the den – it’ll give you an idea of what to expect.” He called over his shoulder.

“Den? Folder?” Tony stuttered. “Is this some kinda freaky place?”

“It’s been called worse,” Gibbs shouted back. “Just get yourself ready and go check it out – the car’ll be here in about twenty minutes.”

“Car?” Tony sounded puzzled.

Gibbs stuck his head around the door and grinned. “Yes, a car – I’m a platinum member – they send an unmarked limo to collect you and then take you home again – very discreet.”

“Discreet,” Tony echoed, his eyebrows arching. “Why would it be – “

“Can it, Tony. Twenty minutes!”

Tony was ready in record time and Gibbs wandered past the door to the den to see him hitched on the edge of his desk, the folder held loosely in one hand as he turned the pages with the other – his jaw was slack and his eyes were wide – but he looked excited as opposed to looking dumbstruck at the words and images jumping out at him.

“So?” Gibbs said as he closed the space between them. “How does it sound?”

Tony closed the folder, placing it down beside him. “Um – interesting.”

“But not as interesting as you Tony,” Gibbs purred. He stood straight and stepped back, looking Tony up and down with a more than a lustful look on his face. “Good enough to eat,” he complimented. And he was right.

Tony wore black boots, a pair of black jeans that skimmed over his legs, cupping his bulge and gliding over his taut butt. He also wore a tight fitting black v-necked t-shirt, leaving no one in any doubt he belonged this night to just one man as the silver ring fastened around his neck glinted in the lamplight and over the shirt, a black leather jacket. As Gibbs gave him the once over – he did the same.

Gibbs was dressed in what Tony had selected in a frantic series of phone calls to his favourite tailors – for tailor read Armani and Gucci. Gibbs had only been gone ten minutes to MTAC – the bullpen had been empty and so he’d seized his chance with a series of hurried, whispered conversations to various stores – and finished just in time to hear Gibbs yelling his name and demanding an update from the top of the stairs.
A brown leather jacket, a beige shirt beneath and dark brown pants showed off Gibbs’ assets but kept them understated – this was Tony’s way of controlling his controller – and this was as far as he would go. Gibbs had taken his time before finally accepting the gifts – demanding to see the receipts so he might reciprocate in kind – but Tony had conveniently mislaid them which left Gibbs silently fuming but he made a mental note to maybe have Abby check out the cost later – much later.

Reaching out, Gibbs hooked a finger into the ring at Tony’s throat, making the other man gasp in surprise at this unexpected, but very welcoming, show of ownership and tugged him closer before cupping the back of Tony’s head with a hand as their mouths met, tongues warring – Tony didn’t embrace Gibbs immediately, he lost himself briefly in the kiss and then, hesitantly, his hands pulled him closer until their semi hard cocks ground together beneath nearly tenting cloth. Sensing he was definitely not going to get a swat upside the head for misbehaving, Tony moaned softly and allowed Gibbs total control.

“I’d leash you for your first outing,” Gibbs breathed in his ear as he nibbled the lobe. “But I don’t think you’d like it – takes getting used to.”

“Leashed? As in leashed?” Tony whispered back, his hands kneading Gibb’s butt hard.

“As in been there and done that?” Gibbs chuckled again.

“As in maybe I’d like being leashed!” Tony grinned, and then grimaced as Gibbs slapped him on the back of the head. “What I do?”

“You’re enjoying yourself too much already!”

The sound of a horn outside and Gibbs was practically running to the door with Tony close on his heels. “Oh,” Gibbs stopped and turned around, a hand on Tony’s chest to stop them colliding. “One more thing – the driver is very – discreet – can’t see us and there are two routes – one takes all of ten minutes and the other one takes – well – let’s just say – I’d prefer it if you arrived looking somewhat – dishevelled?”

Tony looked at him, surprised. “Then what in hell are we waiting for!”

Gibbs stared at him for a long moment and then nodded. “Good, you’re really getting the hang of this – a fast learner!”

“That’s why you hired me isn’t it?”

*******

“Oh shit! Oh shit! Oh shit! JE-SU-S!! GIBBS!” Tony cried as his third orgasm erupted, his body arching off the seat as he shot his load down Gibbs’ willing throat. He slumped back, chest heaving, eyes closed, chin on his chest as his whole being shuddered with post orgasm spasms until he was practically beginning to doze off.

“Keep him awake for ten minutes,” Gibbs murmured as he quickly eased Tony’s now flaccid cock back inside his jeans and zipped him up. “Tony!” Gibbs said sharply, tapping his cheek. “Stay with me, boy. Don’t fall asleep!”

Tony’s bleary eyes opened and gazed at the man still kneeling between his legs. “Sleep? Good idea – yeah – good – “

“DiNozzo! Front and centre – NOW!” Gibbs yelled, slapping the side of his head quickly

Tony’s eyes opened instantly and he sat up straight. “Sorry Boss! Won’t happen again!” But he didn’t succeed in hiding the yawn and after a short glance at the older man before him, he yawned anyway.

“My fault – I shouldn’t have – “ Gibbs began as he sat down on the seat opposite. “Just got a little greedy I guess.”

“So what’s a little greed amongst friends – you want it – you got it – you know that.” Tony grinned at him. “And I’ll return the favour later.” He settled back into his seat, sighing contentedly as he folded his arms.

“I know you will,” Gibbs growled, sending a shudder down Tony’s spine. “I guarantee it.”

The smile on Tony’s face melted away, leaving him staring at Gibbs with a look that set the older man’s cock twitching and Gibbs had to admit – when Tony looked at him like that – it reduced his insides to jello. So wanton, so open and yet so pure. Tony was beautiful even though every time Gibbs told him so, he was reduced to blushing and smiling bashfully. He could have any woman – or man – he chooses – yet he chose me. Gibbs thought to himself. And I thank God every day that we were drawn to each other – I really am blessed to have him in my life.

Any further conversation was halted when the car drew to a stop and the driver stepped out to open the passenger door. Gibbs reached into a back pocket and rolled off a fifty from a wad of notes, handing it to the driver who accepted it with a smile and a nod of thanks.

“Enjoy your night,” he said before climbing back into the car and driving it slowly away.

“Fifty for a tip?” Tony asked with astonishment.

“Yeah – you want the best – you have to pay for it.”

“Then I need an ATM and a pay rise!” Tony pouted as he pulled out his own wallet and quickly counted a measly seventy-five bucks.

“Hey, put that away,” Gibbs slapped his hands down. “You won’t need that tonight – remember – I’ve got an account here – you just concentrate of having a good time.”

“How can I have a good time when you’ve got everything covered with your rules?”

“Watching you trying to obey and remember is half the fun, DiNozzo – as for me? I’ll just be racking up the punishment points for later.” He granted Tony a half smile and walked towards the elevator.

“Punishment? You – didn’t say anything about – punishment to me earlier.” Tony sounded cautious.

“Didn’t I?” Gibbs smirked as Tony stepped into the elevator beside him. “Must have slipped my mind. Don’t worry about it.”

“Oh,” Tony flapped a hand at him. “I’m not – just wondering if you mean a good spanking or you break in that new paddle you brought just two days ago.”

As the elevator doors slid closed, Gibbs rounded on Tony and pushed him against the wall, capturing his mouth quickly as his hands slid up inside Tony’s t-shirt to card the furred chest before pinching and rolling the already aching nubs, a feeling that had Tony moaning as the kiss deepened. Gibbs pressed his body the length of Tony’s to grind his hips over the other man’s tenting bulge and it was his turn to groan as their almost solids shafts slid over each other. “As of now,” Gibbs whispered as he ran his tongue around the edge of Tony’s ear. “The rules begin – and remember – I’ll be watching and listening.” His right hand fisted Tony’s hair as his other hand slid in a southerly direction to cup a thrumming cock and balls. “This belongs to me now,” Gibbs hissed.

“Oh God,” Tony groaned as his balls were squeezed a little too hard. “Feels so good – so damn good.” He arched his hips as his eyes closed, his half open mouth seeking that of Gibbs and he was rewarded with a light kiss before he felt teeth at his throat and neck. He let out a soft cry of pleasure as his skin was nipped – the small hurt soon lapped away. “Gibbs – don’t – stop – don’t – “

“Perfect,” Gibbs chuckled, stepping back and smiling at Tony’s confusion. “Look at you – you want it so bad don’t you? So bad you’d beg me for it.”

Tony’s face was flushed slightly, his eyes heavy lidded but full of lust for the man standing there, lips puffy from so many delicious kisses and he mewled softly. “Gibbs – please – don’t leave me hanging!” he pleaded.

Gibbs leaned in and lapped at his lower lip, pulling it into his mouth before releasing it. “I’ll leave you hanging,” he whispered. “Hanging tied and gagged to the end of my bed if you like – you can watch me bring myself off all night – there is a time for begging Tony – and now is not it!”

“I – I’m sorry.” Tony lowered his gaze to the floor and swallowed audibly.

“I know you are – “ Gibbs said, stroking his cheek gently. “It takes getting used to, and I’ll be sure to correct you should the need arise.”

The elevator pinged and they stepped out into a plush hallway – understated and very tasteful. Red carpet, plain walls hung with pictures of naked men in varying positions, some at the point of coitus, others in the act of lovemaking and others – that took Tony’s breath away – various scenes of the BDSM type – some of them graphic to the point of being horrifying and others – not so. As he followed Gibbs towards the club entrance, he found his eyes constantly drawn towards the more – striking – images and found he could not understand why a thrill ran through him to settle at his groin.

“Jethro!” A voice greeted them at the door. “Good to see you again and this – “ the younger man smiled. “Has to be Tony DiNozzo?”

Tony turned at the sound of his name and found himself looking into the bluest eyes – bluer even than Gibbs’. This new guy was tall – over 6 feet easily, muscular without being muscle bound, his light brown hair hung to his shoulders shaggily. He wore a pair of black leather pants that left nothing to the imagination in the bulge department and a sky blue tee that fitted him like a second skin. Pushing a hand through his mussed mane, he held out a hand to Tony and they shook hands.

“Nicky – this is Tony. Tony – Nicky.”

“Nicky,” Tony acknowledged.

“He owns this place – along with his brothers,” Jethro explained. “Who’s in tonight?”

“It’s quiet right now,” Nicky answered. “So you can hear yourself think – but once the late crowd get here. As for who’s here, all the action is in the back room right now – so we won’t see any of them for a while.” He signalled for the two to precede him through the main door and led them to the bar. Vaulting the bar top, Nicky looked from Gibbs to Tony and back. “So – drink?”

“Beer – thanks. Two.”

All the action is in the back room right now? Am I missing out on something here? Tony thought to himself, his eyes wandering towards the double doors at the far end of the room. Damn – if it’s all kicking off in there, what in hell are we doing out here?

“Something on your mind, Tony?” Gibbs’ sudden question startled him and he nodded quickly. “Go ahead.”

“Nicky – the back room – what goes on in there?”

“Ah, for a first timer like yourself – it’s best not to know just now,” Nicky replied in all seriousness. “You’ll get to find out in time – I’m sure.”

“Put it this way,” Gibbs said with a wry grin. “Those pictures in the hall?”

It was then the penny dropped and Tony mouthed a silent oh, nodding understanding as he sipped his beer. Gibbs excused himself and made his way across the vast bar to the bathroom leaving Tony alone – and Tony guessed correctly it was deliberate.

“He’ll look after you,” Nicky said softly.

“Huh?”

“Gibbs – he did the right thing with your collar tonight – and we’ll be watching out for you too – so you’re covered.”

“Meaning?” Tony leaned on the bar, capturing Nicky’s gaze immediately.

“I’m assuming you know what goes on here?”

“Yeah – Gibbs showed me the brochure.”

“Good – it’s just we do get some – problem clientele now and again – but wearing his insignia – no one will touch you.”

“You make this place sound like a – “

Nicky smiled again. “Sorry – I didn’t mean to scare you, Tony – I’m guessing this is your first time as a sub?”

“First time out as one, yeah, I guess it is.”

“Well, I’m just telling you to chill out, relax and enjoy yourself – it’s all on the house for you both tonight.”

“That’s very generous Nicky – thanks.”

“My pleasure – Gibbs is always welcome here – as are you anytime.”

“Hey baby.” A woman’s voice said and Tony turned to see a tall, willowy brunette with the biggest, brownest eyes settle herself onto a stool to lean across the bar to kiss Nicky hungrily while carding his hair with a hand. “Hi.” She beamed a smile at Tony and he could not help but smile back – she was gorgeous. “Amanda – and you are?”

“Tony – Tony DiNozzo.” They shook hands while Tony’s eyes wandered over her lithe body quickly – storing notes for later. She wore a tiny black leather mini, thigh high black stiletto boots and a black leather halter-top baring her midriff. Around her neck a thin collar with a single silver ring, her only other adornment was a single silver thumb ring on her right hand.

“Where’d Inara go?” Nicky asked as he set a beer bottle before her.

“She was right behind me – no doubt found some poor man to pester.”

“’Mand – be nice.” Nicky warned. She pulled a face at him before turning her attention fully to Tony. “So, Tony DiNozzo – I’ve not seen you here before. And did you know that looking like that is likely to get you arrested – you honey, are way too cute!”

Tony flushed, but he grinned broadly at the compliment. “Ah – just something I threw together.”

She was staring at the top of his head. “And what’s the deal with your hair – I love it! Nicky – maybe you should get a haircut like Tony’s,” She paused as Nicky frowned at her. “On second thoughts – don’t.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it, hon.”

“Tony?” Amanda said sweetly. “Do me a favour?”

“Depends,” Tony glanced at Nicky who just rolled his eyes, shaking his head.

“Oh, it’s nothing bad. Just – could you stand up and turn around for me?”

“Just stand up and turn around?” He echoed as she nodded her head eagerly.

“’Mand – you are too much!” Nicky said with a laugh. “Tony – you don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

“No – I’ll humour the lady – after all – I’ve never refused before and don’t intend to start now.” He did as she asked, turning his back to her – and burst out laughing when he felt the back of his jacket being lifted upwards and outwards and heard a low whistle from Amanda.

“Oh boy – rear of the year, Nicky – you have to add that one to the hall of fame – I want it blown up to a 6 foot by 4 foot and it goes here – right over the bar.”

Tony turned back and resumed his seat, but he was grinning broadly.

“Sorry about that,” Nicky explained. “She’s got a thing for men’s butts – you ain’t the first and you’re not the last.”

“It’s just a butt,” Tony chuckled.

“No – it’s tight, peachy and very edible.” Amanda informed him matter of factly. “But he’s right – I do enjoy a nice rounded ass – and, of course, the front is just as important.”

“Some might say more so,” Gibbs leaned in to whisper in her ear.

“Jethro!” She nearly squealed in delight as the two hugged each other. “Where have you been? I’ve not seen you in ages you old goat! What have you been up to?”

“Less of the old goat,” Nicky chided.

Jethro released Amanda with a light kiss on the cheek. “It’s okay – I left the horns and hooves at home tonight. Oh, Tony – meet Inara.” He eased the woman beside him forward with a hand at her lower back.

Tony slid off his stool and took her hand, grazing her knuckles with his lips before straightening up and nodding to her. She was tiny, maybe just grazing five feet – but perfectly formed and he instantly fell in love with the cascade of blond curls framing her beautiful, almost serene face.

“And where’s Jethro been hiding you?” She purred, reaching up to stroke his face. “You are perfection personified.” She turned to Jethro, scowling up at him. “And you’ve been holding out on me – haven’t you? Why didn’t you tell me you had someone like Tony – you cannot keep someone who looks like that all to yourself, Jethro – it’s just not fair!”

“Well, you ain’t having him, that’s for sure.” Gibbs chuckled. “I dread to think what I’d get back when you’d finished with him.”

“He’d be in one piece – a few days rest and he’d be as good as new.”

Tony stood listening to this exchange with a look of astonishment until Nicky got his attention, signalling for him to move with him a little way away.

“Inara’s sound, she’s a good person and a great friend.” he said quietly. “She’s into kink in a big way – she may look like a tiny china doll – but man, when she’s got you restrained and gagged – she is incredible.”

“Ah.” Tony nodded sagely. “Good thing I’m not into kink per se.”

“Huh? Tony – you’re here aren’t you?” Nicky reminded him.

“Yeah – but that doesn’t mean – I mean – but – “

“It’s okay – if she asks – just say no – and she’ll be fine.”

“Asks me what?”

“Don’t pretend to be dense Tony, it doesn’t suit you.” Nicky clapped a hand on his shoulder and eased him back towards where the others were still talking.

“Damn,” Inara pouted as she walked across to where Tony now sat, reaching up and fingering the ring at his throat. “Out of bounds are you?”

“Inara,” Gibbs growled quietly.

“I know – I know! Back off!” She stepped away, hands raised to her shoulders in a gesture of surrender. But her attention was soon diverted as another man approached the group – Tony did a double take and realised this had to be one of the brothers, he was the double of Nicky, except the hair was a little shorter and he hugged Gibbs like a long lost friend, holding out a hand to welcome Tony and Tony instantly realised he liked this guy – he liked Nicky and ‘Mand and even Inara but there was something about this guy who called himself Alex that reached out and hit him squarely in the chest – a good feeling, a good wholesome feeling that made him smile.

Gibbs made his way to Tony’s side, easing him away from the main group towards a group of tables. “Okay – what I said about rules?”

“Yeah – how many’d I break already?” Tony sighed.

“None – because the board just got wiped clean.” Gibbs replied with a wink.

“Why?” Tony’s brow furrowed as relief flooded through him.

“I can’t see you being able to keep one let alone all of them – so go with it. These people are my friends and I want you to get to know them as such but the collar stays – you are mine.” And as a final signature on a spoken deal, Gibbs and Tony kissed – briefly – but long enough for the people standing at the bar to get the picture, and not one of them batted an eyelid as they rejoined the group – and Tony’s initiation began.

The two NCIS agents were now seated at a table on the far side of the room, Inara now settled herself at the bar with Amanda leaning in behind her to watch Gibb’s new lover with more than a glint of lust in her eyes.

“He’s just gorgeous,” whispered Amanda.

“Those eyes are amazing – and that smile – is he screaming fuck me or what?”

“Gods, just the thought of those two getting it on – kinda makes me wanna - ” Amanda giggled just as Nicky stood beside her.

“Down girls,” he said softly. “And ‘Mand – you’re mine – and mine alone – don’t forget that!”

“As if I could,” Amanda patted his hand where it rested on the bar top. “Now – the idea of a threesome – you with Gibbs and Tony – I would give a years pay to see that!”

“Okay – I’ll come back when you’re done drooling – and those glasses over there won’t wash themselves.” Nicky shook his head, chuckling to himself.

“They can wait – we’re not busy. are we?” Amanda reached up and kissed his cheek. “As to the idea of a threesome – you didn’t say no – so I’m thinking you’d entertain the idea?” She smiled up at him sweetly.

“Nympho!” Nicky said, kissing her mouth quickly.

“A threesome sounds good,” Inara nodded dreamily. “Although I’m seeing Tony – on his knees, collared and cuffed – his training would be exquisite – absolutely exquisite.”

“Hell yeah!” Amanda clapped her hands together. “He would make the perfect sub.”

“Fine,” Nicky groaned. “Obviously, I’m surplus to requirements – so I’ll go back to what I was doing, shall I?”

“Sure honey – whatever – “ Amanda flapped a hand at him, her chin resting on her other upraised hand.

“D’you think Jethro’s told him about his own kink?” Inara wondered out loud.

“Duh!” Amanda laughed. “He’s wearing a collar isn’t he?”

“That? That’s nothing! Last time I checked out Jethro’s toy box – it still had dust on the lid – he’s not played in a while.” Inara pointed out. “And he does love to play.”

********

“We’re being watched,” Tony said quietly before taking a long drink of beer, saluting the girls with his glass.


“They want you – but I have you.” Gibbs answered softly, leaning in to wrap a hand around the back of Tony’s neck and pulling him in for a kiss. Tony’s hand came up and held Gibb’s own neck as the kiss deepened – leaving both men breathless when they came up for air. “One more thing,” Gibbs smiled. “What goes on in here – stays in here – I could have you up against the wall if I so choose later – no one would mind.”

“Anything goes?” Tony asked, sounding surprised.

“It sure as hell does,” Gibbs affirmed. “Every single night of the week – you’ll see when it gets busier”. Tony looked as though he was about to speak further when his breath caught in his throat as he looked over Gibb’s right shoulder towards the door.

Another brother? Again – absolutely identical except his hair was slightly longer than Nicky’s and he had a very wicked glint in his shining blue eyes, looking like he was totally in charge - and not just of Inara and a sighing Amanda who gazed at him with puppy dog eyes as he approached the bar. The quiet chatter around the room ceased – all eyes – male and female followed his progress – women sighing, men just staring at the sheer masculine beauty of the man as he confidently sauntered passed. He took his time, letting everyone know he’d arrived – pausing every now and then to greet a few fortunate ladies with a bone melting kiss, not looking at all fazed as he sought out a few of the men as well – leaving them breathless. He just exuded sex appeal – so much so even Tony found himself licking his lips in anticipation being greeted in such a manner! He wore tight fitting stonewashed jeans – ripped at the knee on one leg and across the thigh on the other and a white fitted shirt hanging buttoned but loose, the sleeves folded to about half way to his elbow.

Gibbs turned and nodded understanding. “Ah – that’s Rick,” he explained. “He founded the club – and one thing you should know from the outset Tony – he’s the Uber Dom – a night with him would cost you a month’s pay – and believe me – it’s money well spent.”

“He’s mastered you?” Tony asked sounding surprised, staring at Gibbs expectantly.

“Yes, he has – he’s damn good too.” Gibbs smiled at his lover. “Who knows – maybe one day – “

“Hey – I thought you were breaking me in slowly – don’t want to start running before I can walk.”

“He who what?” Rick asked, turning around at Inara’s insistence and clocking Tony instantly. “Who in hell is that with Jethro?”

“Ah! Look but don’t touch hon,” Inara placed a hand on his arm. “He’s with Gibbs – his first outing and he’s our guest for the night.”

“Day-uhm.” Rick hissed. “How does Gibbs do it? Where in hell does he find such cute guys?”

“It’s not nice to pry, Ricky.” Inara said with a hand on his arm. “He’s with Jethro and he’s wearing a collar – Jethro’s collar – so he’s off limits to all of us – which is just too bad.”

Rick lifted his head, and narrowed his eyes – staring directly at Tony who was whispering something in Jethro’s ear before sitting back and smiling broadly – the smile gone in an instant when he realised who was watching him. Something stirred in Tony’s pants as he stared back – there was intensity in those sapphire blue eyes – an almost feral commanding nature – untamed dominance. Rick lifted his chin, flashing his white smile as he continued to hold Tony’s attention and then Tony lowered his eyes – almost wanting to sink to his knees before him and then Rick blinked, turning to kiss Inara softly leaving Tony bereft.

“Gods!” Tony breathed. “He’s hot!”

“He’s teasing you,” Gibbs whispered, leaning forward and resting a hand on Tony’s thigh and squeezing gently. “He knows exactly which buttons to press – looks like he read you the minute he set eyes on you. Come on, I’ll introduce you.” Gibbs rose from his chair, waiting for Tony to collect himself together. “You okay?”

“Yeah – just – tenting right now?” Tony smiled up at the older man.

“Do you need to – “

“No!” Tony got up slowly. “Joke Jethro – “ he held his jacket open to prove it.

“Damn.” Gibbs made to slap Tony across the head but instead he pulled him closer for a soft, gentle kiss. “Remember who you belong to, My Own – no one else – just me.”

Tony looked at him, slightly puzzled as a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “My Own? That sounds nice – I like that.”

Gibbs just looked at him, kissing him again before breaking away and walking towards where Rick was sitting at the bar, beer in hand and regaling Nicky and Inara with some story that had them laughing out loud.

Introductions over, beers replenished – the talk was one of soft ball, the last Nicks game that past weekend when Amanda appeared, menus in hand.

“No worries babes,” Rick said as he took the menus from her. “I’ll take over here, Nicky’s looking like he’s getting busy.”

“Sure thing honey,” Amanda said brightly, and took a tray from the bar top to collect the growing number of empty glasses accumulating there.

“So, Jethro – it’s been a while,” Rick said as they climbed the steps to the upper level. “They make you Director yet?”

Gibbs laughed at that, shaking his head. “The day they do that – I walk.”

“Aw, Jethro – come on – you go – I get your job – stands to reason.” Tony chuckled. “Besides, I’ve earned it.”

“Not quite enough gold stars on your record yet, Tony. With you in charge – there’ll be mutiny!” Gibbs answered in all seriousness.

“So Kate goes – and that’s a bad thing?” Tony leaned on the table, linking his fingers together trying to stare Gibbs out. “Or are you including McGee and Abs – and Ducky?”

“See?” Gibbs pulled a face at Rick who sat with them. “This is what I have to put up with – back chat! And the fact that when I’m not there – he develops a caffeine addiction, walks around the place glaring at people, pretending to be me!”

“Do not!”

“Do!”

“Kate has video of you doing just that on her phone,” Gibbs grinned wickedly, Rick laughed.

Tony looked from one to the other in consternation. “She does not!” he breathed.

“Believe me,” Rick nodded. “She does, I’ve seen it.”

“So why – “ Tony ground out between clenched teeth. “Yet again – am I the last to know?”

“You know now,” Gibbs sniggered. “You could always delete it.”

“Yes, I could couldn’t I?” Tony said almost triumphantly. “Except last time I was rooting around in her purse – she caught me.” He looked at Rick and then Gibbs who regarded him with disapproving looks. “What? Her cell was ringing off the damn hook and driving me nuts – and – I – wanted – needed to see who was calling her – “

“He’s exactly what you said he was, Jethro.” Rick said with a smile. “Glad I’m not disappointed.” He turned to Tony. “I think you and I are going to get along just great.”

Tony smiled back, praying his cock would stop twitching at the way Rick pushed both hands through his mussed mane and shook his head. He could not help but watch as Rick tipped his head back again, exposing his throat and neck as he shook out his long sun kissed shaggy hair. Tony’s tongue snaked out to lick suddenly dry lips as he imagined himself planting butterfly kisses over every inch of that throat and neck, he closed his eyes for a second or two until Gibbs’s hand took his own and he opened his eyes to find Rick gone and Gibbs gazing at him with a soft smile.

“Where’d you go My Own?” he whispered.

“Nowhere,” Tony could feel himself flush which made Gibbs chuckle again.

“I think – you like Rick.” It was a statement of fact.

“He’s okay.” Tony shrugged, hardly daring to look at the man across the table. Damn! Had he done the wrong thing entirely? He could feel his face burning as he remembered his words at the first sight of the Uber Dom – and he told Gibbs he thought Rick was hot! “I – I’m sorry – sir – I didn’t mean it to sound like it – sounded. Please – forgive me?” Tony still wouldn’t look at his Master, instead he stared down at the table to hide the fear in his eyes.

“Just so you know,” Gibbs leaned closer, brushing the back of Tony’s hand with his lips, delighting in the soft groan his touch elicited. “Had we been playing by the rules – reacting to Rick as you have done – would be enough for a thorough spanking and no relief tonight.”

Tony nodded understanding.

“But – I did say the board is clean,” Gibbs squeezed the hand he still held. “It’s okay My Own – you are still learning.” He paused. “Look at me.”

Tony lifted his gaze, relief flooding through him when he saw the love in those stormy blue eyes across the table and he reached out with his other hand to stroke the side of Gibbs’ face. “I am sorry – it won’t happen again.”

“Yes it will, My Own – all part of the learning curve,” Gibbs replied. “But for now – tonight is all about watch and learn.”

“Meaning?”

“Up here,” Gibbs inclined his head to the lower level. “You can see everything that goes on – I want you to observe – especially the subs.”

“Like him over there?” Tony pointed to a rather handsome young man kneeling beside an equally gorgeous leather clad woman, pressing himself against her leg as she gently stroked his hair as she talked with another woman sitting at the same table. Tony could see the man was bound – wrists cuffed at the small of his back and he wore a thin dark collar with a leash clipped to a silver ring dead centre. He sat back in his chair, wishing his cock would quit twitching – now – more than ever – he wanted – needed to be able to just – feel – sink into subspace and let Gibbs look after him. It was one thing to be loved – but to let someone else take over, let someone else know your needs – to give yourself up completely and trust that person to watch over you – all you had to do just be – and you would be rewarded – with more love than anyone could imagine. Something inside Tony began to awaken – it had been niggling him for a while – a long while – it had eluded him almost cruelly – but as he watched the couple below – he suddenly knew exactly what it was he’d been seeking all this time – and Gibbs was the man to give it to him – unconditionally, without question – what Tony craved above all else was to be loved – to be loved and made to feel safe.

He smiled at Gibbs who was still watching the activity in the bar beneath and nodded to himself. All this time – he’d been looking for – something – and it had taken his Boss to make him realise what had been missing – and in that instant – he knew – he had given himself over – mind, body and soul to a man he loved and adored more than life itself.

To Be Continued…..soon…

Dinner was a long drawn out affair – the two men so engrossed in each other they could have been out in the middle of the street for all the attention they paid their surroundings right now. Gibbs had ordered the food – almost having to slap Tony upside the head when he kept demanding burger/pizza/steak or steak/burger/pizza but Gibbs was having none of it. Instead he ordered some simple appetisers designed to be eaten with the fingers – steering well clear of garlic – kissing a garlic reeking Tony was something he didn’t want to repeat – ever!

Amanda and Inara delivered the food with bright smiles, and Tony took the time to share a joke or three with them before they disappeared back down the stairs towards the bar again. Gibbs watched his interaction closely, he enjoyed seeing this side of his lover – the goofball. It never ceased to amaze him how easily Tony managed to make people smile, he had a confidence about him – something he thought long gone in this day and age – but – goofball or not – Tony had an easy charm about him – you couldn’t help but like him. Okay – that said – he drove Kate insane – but Gibbs knew she secretly enjoyed the banter – it was like watching brother bating sister and vice versa, that said – Tony’s treatment of McGee at times was borderline abusive – but he knew Tony only had McGee’s interests at heart – if he could take on DiNozzo at full throttle – then he’d be able to take on a hell of a lot more than a busted computer or whatever else NCIS might throw his way. Hell – he’d been as bad with Tony when he’d started hadn’t he? And look at him now – a first class agent – expert in his field – scratch that – fields sounded better – and Gibbs silently congratulated himself that he had almost managed to at least curb some of the nights Tony spent at the office – pretending to leave when everyone else did – and heading back to his desk and not leaving till gone midnight – yeah – one hell of an agent. He’ll be taking my place before I know it, Gibbs thought with a wry smile.

“What?” Tony’s eyes were wide, hamster cheeked he chewed and swallowed before sitting back and sighing, a hand rubbing his belly.

“Nothing – just – thinking.”

“’Bout what?” Tony collected up another rib, stripping it of meat in record time and wiping his fingers on a napkin.

“Whether I should just order you a trough?”

“Hey, I can’t help it if this is delicious, can I?” Tony pretended to look hurt as he reached for another rib.

Gibbs shrugged, matching Tony’s almost accusing gaze. Damn – he thought – I wish to hell he wouldn’t pout like that – turns me to jello.

A while later, the plates collected and taken away, Gibbs leaned forward, reaching for Tony’s hand and brushed his lips over the knuckles, chuckling when he heard the soft groan his touch elicited. “Tenting already, My Own?” he breathed over the heated skin.

“Hell yeah,” Tony whispered back before leaning in to lap at his lover’s lips, tongue begging entry. Gibbs moaned softly into Tony’s mouth, allowing the younger man to have some control over the kiss for a moment and then plundering the moist cavern, his own tongue swirling over teeth, tongue and gums and leaving Tony breathless as he pulled back – the half smile in place. “Damn, Jethro – why’d you do that?”

“Do what?”

“We could’ve gone another five minutes there!” Tony said quietly. “Fuck – I’m rock hard!” He glanced down and groaned as he pulled his jacket open. “Look what you did!” His face was serious – but his eyes were laughing.

“Not a problem!” Gibbs laughed, rising to his feet and holding out a hand. Tony linked fingers with him as Gibbs guided him over to one of several darker areas set around the walls of the upper level – a large roomy sofa set in a corner with large screens set around it – tasteful and discreet.

Gibbs pulled Tony with him and once hidden from view, he eased the jacket from Tony’s shoulders and let it sink to the floor with a soft thud. Hooking a finger into the ring at Tony’s throat, he leaned in once again and the two were soon kissing passionately, arms wrapped around each other, Tony groaning – almost mewling deep in his throat – as Gibbs lapped and nipped his way from one side of his neck to the other. “I’ve a surprise for you, My Own,” Gibbs breathed as he suckled briefly on an earlobe. “But I need you to be still for me – can you do that, Pet?”

“Uh-huh.” Tony managed to find his voice briefly and he was smiling. His eyes were closed, head tipped back as Gibbs kissed a row of tiny kisses along his jaw and upwards towards his mouth, capturing it almost brutally before releasing Tony once more.

Tony watched the other man move around the small space, opening a drawer at a small table set near the sofa, then a soft arc of lamplight lit what looked like a curtain hanging on the nearby wall. “Jethro?” he pleaded.

“Ssh – be still Pet. This won’t take long.” Gibbs murmured as he moved behind Tony and gently took one wrist, easing it behind the younger man’s back and securing it with a leather cuff. “Your other wrist, please.”

Tony felt a thrill run through him as the other cuff snicked closed and he tested his bonds subtley – he was held firm. His cock twitched in his pants and he let out a small whimper as a bolt of electric fire speared through him to pulse at his groin.

“Good boy – such a reaction is just what I expected – more so even.” Gibbs said as he suckled Tony’s lower lip. “Is this a foretaste of what I get when I finally bring out the toy box?” His voice was like molten steel lined with velvet and it set Tony’s heart thudding in his chest. Tony’s knees were shaking with the effort to stay still as Gibbs moved behind him briefly, circling him and then moving to the curtain once more. With a flick of his wrist, the curtain was a heap on the floor and Tony’s eyes widened, his lips parted in surprise when he saw his reflection in a large ornate full-length mirror. “Any idea what this is for, My Own?”

Tony looked to Gibbs and back to the mirror, shaking his head slowly.

“Oh come on, you must have some idea,” Gibbs teased walking slowly towards him and moving behind him again, resting his chin on his shoulder as one arm slid around his chest, the other heading south to ease the zipper down over Tony’s burgeoning, leaking shaft.

As a hand encircled his thrumming cock, Tony let his head fall back and he whimpered again – teeth bared as he fought to bring himself under some semblence of control – he was on fire – his whole body shaking with need – with desire for the man holding him up, he knew for sure if Gibbs were to step back now – he’d be on his knees begging for release.

“Jethro?” he mewled. “Please – please – “

“Look at yourself!” Gibbs hissed. “Do not look away from the mirror.”

Tony managed to somehow lift his head and stared at his reflection. He swallowed audibly and closed his eyes briefly before opening them again.

“Are you with me, My Own?” Gibbs breathed in his ear.

“Yes – sir – please – let me – “

“Have you ever seen yourself cum, Pet? Believe me, it is exquisite – whether it’s my hand bringing you off – or you bringing yourself off – my fucking your ass – watching you cum is something to behold. You are beautiful, Pet – even more so once spent and sated – and I just thought I would share this with you – I would let you see what pleases me.”

“Thank you,” Tony gasped, resisting the urge to hump himself into Gibbs’ fist. “I – God! Gibbs!” His hands fisting at his back, Tony’s back arched almost painfully as he tried to overcome the overwhelming need to cum there and then and nearly cried out in shock as the grip around the base of his shaft tightened to an almost painful level

“All in good time, My Own,” Gibbs whispered as his hand began to slide up and down the thrumming flesh slick with precum and aiding the journey back and fore. “Look at yourself baby – so open to me,” Gibbs continued, still with a strong arm supporting the man before him. “So giving of yourself – I’ll bet you didn’t even think about refusing this did you?”

Tony swallowed again, shaking his head. He could hear Gibbs speaking, his breath warm across the side of his face – but he could not – for the life of him – understand what in hell he was saying. He groaned again, tugging at the cuffs at his wrists – all he wanted was to cum – and that simple desire was being denied him – but being denied in such a commanding manner – Gibbs could have told him to drop and do fifty – he’d do that – without question – hell – he’d do it in the bullpen naked if Gibbs asked him to!! He felt boneless right at that moment – the only thing that mattered was the hand wrapped around his cock, the breath against his heated flesh and the soft voice in his ear – was this how he’d want to see out his final moments? To die in the arms of a man he worshipped, a man like no other he’d ever known, a man who had taken time out to get to know Tony as Tony and not the Special Agent? The man who held him as they slept, the man who kissed him when he woke? The man he wanted to announce to the world as his lover by standing in the middle of the bullpen and screaming to the whole building he loved Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs!!

“Pet, back with me or this stops!” Gibbs’ voice sounded harsh.

Tony nodded, hardly trusting himself to open his mouth – he’d only say something totally incoherent anyway. He let his heavy lidded eyes rest on the reflection before him, and floated as Gibbs’s hand sped up and as light exploded behind his eyelids, Tony’s whole body arched backwards as he pumped his precious load, and he screamed his release to the skies!

Gibbs held onto him for an age – waiting quietly for the breathing to settle, until he could feel Tony was able to take his own weight once more as he removed the cuffs. He held him a little while longer, tucking his now soft shaft back into his jeans and then guided him to the sofa.

Gibbs sat first and then Tony sat beside him – but not for long. He lay down the length of the sofa, his head on Gibb’s lap, sighing contentedly as Gibbs’s hand carded his hair and after just a few seconds, his eyelids closed and he dozed.

******

“How long was I out?” Tony asked, sitting up slowly, stretching his arms above his head, a lazy smile in place.

“Twenty max – you okay?” Gibbs looked concerned for a moment and then reached to another small table at his end of the sofa and collected up a bottle of water, tossing it to Tony.

“Me? I’m fantastic as were you, Boss!” Tony twisted off the top of the bottle and downed nearly half the contents. “Where in hell did you learn to do that?”

“Just something I picked up along the way – and you looked like you were enjoying it.” Gibbs got to his feet, smiling down at an expectant looking younger man. “And no – I’m not doing it again – yet.”

“Aw, spoilsport!” Tony huffed, pulling a face.

“Look – I need you awake – at least for the foreseeable future – how else are you going to have a good time?” Gibbs chuckled.

“Good time? Twenty minutes ago I was having a good time! We could just stay here and you bring me off like that again – except this time – make it an all nighter.” Tony rose to his feet, kissing Gibbs quickly.

“You really are a slut, My Own,” Gibbs purred as he took Tony’s hand in his, linking fingers as they left their hideaway and headed back down to the main bar area.

The place was buzzing now – a glance at the clock above the bar told them it was only 10.30pm – the night was still young. As they eased their way through the crowded bar, Tony was turning one way and then the other as he watched one couple practically making out on a long low sofa, another couple – a kneeling sub being handfed by his Mistress, a very definite Master with his sub at his side blindfolded and gagged. Masters and Mistresses abounded – wall-to-wall leather, rubber, latex, all manner of restraints in use – the most common being the leash.

“Focus on me, My Own.” Gibbs purred in his ear as they finally reached Nicky who topped two bottles of beer and set them down as they arrived.

“Sure – “ Tony nodded. “Although – “

Gibbs released his hand and held up his beer. “Although?”

“I – um – need the head?” Gibbs didn’t reply immediately, he merely stared into Tony’s green eyes for more than a minute. Tony stared back – suddenly realising what Gibbs was thinking. “No, I don’t need that, but I really need to take a – “

“Go!” Gibbs said, jerking a thumb over his shoulder. “Don’t get distracted.”

Tony nodded and grinned quickly, easing his way past Gibbs to the main door. Gibbs took a swig of beer and glanced at Nicky, nodding once. Nicky winked back, calling Amanda across to him.

“I’m on Tony watch, babe,” he said watching Tony’s head as he disappeared through the door. “I’ll be back asap – okay?”

“Why can’t I be on Tony watch?” Amanda leered up at him. “I think we’ll cope without you for five minutes – look after him.”

“Haven’t lost one yet,” Nicky took her hand and dropped the towel he held onto it. “And don’t intend to start now.” With that, he stalked to the end of the bar, rounding it swiftly and disappeared into the crowd.

“So, Gibbs,” Amanda leaned on the bar top, her ample cleavage in plain sight as Gibbs turned to face her.

“’Mand – “ he growled. “Don’t even think it.”

“What? I was only going to ask when you’re going to give me another of your infamous long hard shags – it’s been too long since the last one.” She pouted prettily.

“I’m kinda pre-occupied with DiNozzo now,” he said with a quick smirk.

“Can you let me play with him – just ten minutes?” Her eyes lit up, as did the smile on her face. “Oh, Jethro – just ten minutes – please? Pretty please?”

“And all I get back is a husk!” Gibbs shook his head. “No, Amanda – you and Inara are not getting your hands on him – your games are too – intense – you’d kill him!”

“As if!” She pouted again. “Anyway – the last time you and I played – fine – yes, I’ll agree you wouldn’t let me near you for a week!”

“For the record,” Gibbs placed his bottle down and leaned forward until they were nose to nose, his voice low and his eyes sparkling. “I ached in places I didn’t know could ache for damn near a fortnight.”

“And whose idea was it to try out the new straps and other goodies?” she shot back, sounding triumphant.

“Hey, when I said try them out, I meant on you!”

“So why don’t I recall hearing you say no – at any time?” she narrowed her eyes, daring him to answer.

“Bit difficult with a ball gag in your mouth.”

“You could’ve walked out anytime!”

“Not when my ankles are fastened to a spreader bar!”

“Oh yes – you looked so purrty all trussed up for me,” Amanda smiled at the memory, and then kissed Gibbs lightly. “We just have to do it again sometime – you owe me.”

“What the hell for?” Gibbs kissed her back.

“The last time – that delicious spanking I gave you – no paddle, no strap – just my bare hand baby – your butt was red for days and you did say you would return the favour one day.” She straightened up, cupping the side of his face. “And I never miss a collect.”

“You’re just dirty,” Gibbs teased. “But so good at it.”

“So – “ she ventured. “Can I play with Tony?”

Gibbs rolled his eyes and lowered his head, shaking it slowly. “Why do I bother? Why in hell do I bother?” He lifted his head and gazed into Amanda’s dark eyes. “I’ll think about it.”

“Yessss!”

“I said – I’ll think about it – that’s all.”

*****

The club was a rabbit warren of corridors – signs pointing to the bathrooms – “cocks” and “hens” – signs announcing this way “to the rumpus room”, “to serenity”, “to tranquility”.

After a good five minutes – Tony finally found a bathroom that didn’t have a queue out the door and went inside. Whistling in astonishment, he found himself surrounded by marble and dark wood, soft lighting and soothing music playing over the com.

“Good evening sir,” said a voice to his left. He turned to see a tall, well built man dressed in nothing but a tight pair of leather pants with a thick leather collar around his neck, and around each bicep another band of leather – he was also barefoot – all in all – very pleasing on the eye.

“Hey,” Tony said with a smile.

“Is sir having a good time?”

“Oh – yeah – thanks.” Tony replied as he made his way to a stall and locked the door behind him.

The valet watched the door for a moment and could not help but smile at the groan of relief coming from within. “Mm,” he thought to himself. “With those looks – of course he’s having a good time – I’ll wager he looks quite stunning naked too.”

Ablutions over, Tony busied himself re-spiking his hair and checking himself in the mirror. “’Scuse me,” he said to the valet who was busy dusting off a particularly showy bust of Greek or Roman origin across the room.

“Yes, sir?”

“No – not sir – Tony. Call me Tony. And you are?”

“Marcel, Tony – what can I do for you?” Marcel’s dark eyes raked over Tony’s face and chest and he smiled.

“Gel – need some gel?” Tony pointed to his hair.

“Of course, one second.” Marcel squatted down beneath the vast row of sinks and opened a cupboard. “Let me guess – designer gel – so how about we go with – this one?” He held out the tube and Tony took it, eyebrows raised.

“Why d’you say designer?” he asked as he squeezed gel into his hand and began rubbing his hands together.

“Because you are veritable clothes horse, Tony. Boots – Paul Smith, jeans – have to be Armani, t-shirt – again Armani – but could be Dolce & Gabbana. That jacket – which is just gorgeous on you by the way - has to be Versace.”

“Nearly all right, Marcel,” Tony said, rinsing his hands under the tap. “Except the shirt – Hugo Boss.” He flipped off the water to find a soft warm hand towel being held out to him and he smiled his thanks as he dried off.

Mindful of the tip Gibbs had left the driver earlier in the evening, Tony reached into his back pocket and pulled out his wallet. He handed Marcel a twenty which brought a smile to the other man’s face. “Thanks,” he said as he walked to the door.

“You – honey – are welcome back anytime,” Marcel winked at him.

“Yeah – “ Tony winked back. “I kinda guessed as much.” He said to himself as the door swung to behind him. “Right – which way now?”

*****

Nicky pushed himself off the wall, pulled his hands from his pockets and sauntered after Tony – it wouldn’t do to let him know he was being followed, it was enough to know people were watching his back tonight, but Gibbs had insisted every angle be taken care of and if that meant watching the other man’s every move outside the bar – then so be it.

He could see Tony could certainly handle himself – there was no shortage of admirers stopping to say hi, and turning to watch him as he moved on up the corridor and out of sight. Each one politely acknowledged, wandering hands were eased away or dodged carefully – leaving no one in doubt at the sight of the insignia at his throat that this rather handsome young man was someone’s property – and any infringement of the unspoken rule of look but don’t touch – Gibbs would be informed and then – well – to say all hell would break loose – was an understatement.

Nicky continued on his way – keeping a good distance between them until he was distracted by a man and woman arguing loudly in an alcove and it was when the man raised his arm as if to strike at the woman, Nicky was in behind him – an arm around his throat and his hand yanking the offending arm high up the back of the protesting clubber.

“Gillon,” he hissed in his ear. “What have I told you?”

“Let me go!” Gillon growled, struggling futilely in Nicky’s iron grip.

“Not until you apologise to the lady,” Nicky tightened his grip.

“Nicky – it’s okay – he’s drunk.” The blond said as she adjusted her top. “Don’t know why he always seeks me out when he’s here – it’s not like I even – like – him!”

“I’m waiting, Gillon!” Nicky whispered. “Or have you pissed your manners up the wall tonight as well as all your money?”

“She hit on me!” Gillon managed to gasp.

“I did not!”

“Beth – just go – go see ‘Mand – have drink on the house,” Nicky looked at her sternly. “Now!”

Beth collected up her purse and hurried away.

“Oh – now that’s what I call an ass!” Gillon said with a smile.

“If there’s an ass around here, it’s you!” Nicky said releasing him. “You are treading a very fine line here – you step out of line once more – and you’re history!”

“Consider me gone then,” Gillon shot back. “There are other places I can go – better than here!”

“I doubt it,” Nicky grabbed him, spun him round and took a handful of shirt, holding the other man up until he was almost walking on his toes. “And just to show you I mean business, I’ll show you the door myself shall I? I’ll have Alex escort you off the premises and if I ever see you here again – I will come down on you so hard you’ll wonder what in hell hit you – capishe??” Gillon was stunned into silence as he was dragged across the main hall and out of the door.

As Nicky turned back, there was a ripple of applause and – Nicky being Nicky – smiled at the faces around him, bowed low, with a stupid smile plastered on his face – which vanished instantly –

Damn! Tony!

He finally located Tony – he was sitting in the same alcove where Gillon had been just moments before – elbows on knees, head bowed.

“Tony?” Nicky said softly as he approached. “You okay?”

Tony let out a long sigh and sat back, shaking his head while keeping his eyes to the floor.

“What? Something happen?” Nicky sounded concerned and tugged the other chair nearer.

“I fucked up big time,” Tony breathed, finally raising his eyes to Nicky’s.

“Huh? What’s that supposed to mean – you just went to the head.”

“Yeah – and Gibb’s last words to me?”

“Don’t get distracted?” Nicky said nodding. “What of it?”

“With Gibbs – that was a direct order.”

“And?” Nicky squeezed his shoulder reassuringly.

“I got distracted – took a wrong turn.”

“Ah – you mean – “

“Yeah – the place is out of bounds to me tonight – and for the foreseeable future – Gibbs was insistent on that.” Tony sighed again, rubbing both hands over his face. “He’s gonna ask what took me so long – and I can’t lie to him.”

“No, you can’t,” Nicky shook his head. “But he’ll see it was an honest mistake – won’t he?”

“We were supposed to be playing by his rules tonight – but he wiped the board clean – I don’t think he meant that walking into the Rumpus Room was also wiped.” Tony rose fluidly to his feet, steeling himself mentally.

“Look,” Nicky rose with him. “I should’ve been looking out for you – I got distracted.”

“Nicky,” Tony turned him to face him. “It’s okay – I only said I fucked up because I’d been gearing myself up to ask Gibbs – to ask him – “ he looked to the floor before speaking again. “I need release – but not that kind of release – “

“Say no more – I understand you perfectly,” Nicky smiled at him.

“I need time alone with him – one to one – “ Tony went on. “I need to be mastered tonight – not tomorrow – not sometime soon – I’ve seen enough here tonight to know it’s exactly what I want and I don't want to wait any longer.”

“Hey,” Nicky leaned in and kissed Tony softly on the mouth. “No worries. I’m sure we can find you a suite upstairs – and you can both take as long as you want – until noon tomorrow – your release is on the house.”

An arm around Tony’s shoulders, Nicky guided him back to the main bar – and once there – the look on Gibbs’s face told Tony he was indeed in big trouble – and his punishment would be exquisite ….

To be continued – very very soon!!

Nicky watched the two men leave the bar aware that Rick was standing beside him also watching them go.

“What happened?” Rick asked softly. “I sense all is not well.”

“It’s something they’ll have to sort out themselves, Rick. I wouldn’t worry about it.” Nicky replied before heading behind the bar once more. Rick watched him for a moment, his brow furrowed and he walked across, reached down behind the bar and pulled up a bottle of water.

“The look on Tony’s face was something to worry about,” he said as he twisted the top off . “Again, Bro, what happened?” Nicky filled him in quickly and also gave scant details of his own conversation with Tony earlier, leaving Rick with a knowing smile as he nodded his head.

“Don’t tell me – you know what’s coming?” Nicky flashed him a smile.

“If I know Gibbs as well as I think I do – yeah – I know.”

Nicky sighed, collecting up a tray of empty glasses and storing it behind him. “Just as well I gave Gibbs the key to Suite 104 then, isn’t it?”

“104?” Rick chuckled. “Man, we won’t see those two till tomorrow afternoon then – and I did want to get to know Tony better too.” He sounded almost wistful as he took a drink of water.

“Oh no – he’s just getting his feet wet Rick!” Nicky said quickly, shaking his head. “No point tossing him in the middle of the ocean and telling him to swim before hand – Inara wants him, Amanda’s salivating over him and now you?”

“Why not?” Rick looked at his brother with a lopsided grin. “Don’t tell me that was just a pickle in your pocket when you first saw him!”

“I won’t deny it – he’s very cute,” Nicky flushed. “But he’s taken – and even you wouldn’t go over Gibbs’s head and try anything!”

“Who said anything about head – although – the idea of Tony giving head – “ He left the sentence unanswered and shuddered, a low moan escaping his lips. “But, I’ll have my chance some time – I will master him!”

“Yada, yada, yada,” Nicky chuckled as he collected up the glasses and began stacking them in the sink. “Go mingle or something!”

******

The key to Suite 104 also allowed access to a private elevator. The doors closed, the elevator moved upward about an inch and Gibbs hit the stop button.

He stood toe to toe with Tony, fixing him with a “don’t fuck with me” glare until Tony could no longer bear to see the anger behind those eyes and he dropped his own gaze to the floor between his feet.

“Nicky told me what happened,” Gibbs said suddenly, startling the younger man. “Is what he said true?”

“I don’t know what he told you – “ Tony began and then closed his mouth, cursing to himself mentally. “I’m sorry – that didn’t come out the way it should’ve.”

“Then how should it have come out?” Gibbs growled.

Tony chanced a glance at him and immediately looked away again – wanting to step away – to put some distance between them but if he did that, he’d have been against the wall with nowhere to run. “I didn’t know he was following me – I went to the head – and got lost – ended up – “ he swallowed, taking a deep breath. “I ended up where you told me was out of bounds tonight – and – “

“I’m waiting Tony,” Gibbs slapped him upside the head.

“Okay – I – instead of walking away – I stayed a while.” There. He’d said it and now all he could do was wait.

“You stayed a while?” Gibbs echoed. Tony nodded. “How long a while?”

“About five minutes – maybe longer.” Tony whispered, his heart thudding in his chest.

“You see,” Gibbs said softly, stepping closer. “I don’t understand your thinking here, My Own. I told you not to get distracted – and yet – you got distracted.”

“You said the board was clean,” Tony lowered his eyes again. “I did the wrong thing?” Gibbs nodded, pushing both hands into his pockets.

“Did you do it deliberately? Did you intentionally set out to find it? Hell, you asked directions?”

“No!” Tony’s head snapped up. “I didn’t do anything – I got lost – I just – got – “

“I don’t think so, My Own. I think you wanted to find the Rumpus Room – you knew it was out of bounds to you – you acted out knowing full well what I would do if I found out, didn’t you?” Gibbs breathed, glaring at him.

“No, I didn’t!” Tony whispered, still unable to look at his lover. “I just – “ he gasped in surprise as Gibbs took a handful of hair and tugged his head back, arching his neck painfully to lean in close. Tony’s cock thrummed at the sensations pulsing through him – how in hell was it possible to be turned on by a pissed Gibbs? He groaned aloud as Gibbs tugged on his hair again, pulling him forward and round from the wall and holding him close to his body with one arm.

“Don’t lie to me, Tony – tell me you wanted to find it – tell me what I want to hear!” Another tug and another groan, louder this time.

“I went looking for the Rumpus Room!” Tony ground out between clenched teeth.

“Why?” Gibbs hissed, the hand tightening its hold in his hair.

“Because – I want – “ Tony’s eyes were clamped shut against the pain but he knew better than to struggle.

“Want what?” Gibbs demanded, shoving Tony forward against the wall again, pinning him there with a hand at his back as he tugged out a pair of cuffs from his pocket.

Nothing was said for a moment or two as Gibbs snapped first one steel cuff and then the other onto Tony’s wrists, holding them at his back. He then spun the younger man around and pulled another item from another pocket, holding it up for Tony to see.

Tony whimpered softly, his adams apple bobbing in his throat as he tried to swallow, but his mouth was dry – suddenly so dry and he mewled softly as the leash was clipped to his collar. Gibbs took his time rolling the soft black leather around his hand until his fist was at Tony’s throat.

“You want this?” Gibbs teased. “You want me to do with you what ever comes to mind? Do you want to be left kneeling, bound and gagged before me – do you want to feel the kiss of the lash across your ass – across your back? How about across your cock and balls?”

Tony’s eyes rolled into his head and he nearly cried out as his needy shaft jumped in his pants again – if Gibbs didn’t stop talking he’d be cumming any second – he tried to twist out of the iron grip but failed miserably, instead relaxing back against the wall and groaning again as Gibb’s hand cupped his bulge and squeezed hard.

“Fuck!” Tony gasped.

“Fuck?” Gibbs smiled at him, his eyes shining with lust. “I am going to fuck you so damned hard, Pet – you will fuck and be fucked – butt fucked, face fucked, hand fucked – sometimes I might deny you release – other times, you will cum on command – and then, I might let you jerk yourself off.”

“Fuck, oh fuck – fuck!” Tony breathed as Gibbs’s hand moved to encircle his throat, as his lips captured his own.

“You’re a natural, My Own,” Gibbs purred. “Your reactions are so - intense – I don’t think I’ve seen anything quite so beautiful – I will have fun watching you – fucking you – feeding you – bathing you.”

Tony was beside himself with need – he squirmed against the wall – only too well aware of Gibbs’s own erection pressing against his thigh and he mewled deep in his throat – just as the elevator pinged.

“Ah, we’re here.” Gibbs said lightly as the doors opened. “Pull yourself together, My Own – our rooms are at the end of the corridor.” He waited for Tony to get himself together, smiling as the younger man pulled himself to his full height, his face now perfectly set and he squared his shoulders. “Good boy,” Gibbs whispered. Tony’s eyes closed briefly and he took in a deep calming breath. There was something in the way Gibbs said those words – words he was always wanting to hear – knowing Gibbs was proud of him – his cock shuddered but did not begin to lose hardness – if anything – it was plain for anyone to see he had a raging hard on – but for now – he didn’t care – all that mattered was he was being led to a place – somewhere safe – somewhere private – and he could give himself once and for all to this man before him – the man he would willingly die for – the man he loved, worshipped and adored – the man he wanted to master him.

“Chin up, back straight and eyes to the ground, My Own.” Gibbs said softly. “Do that for me and I will reward you.”

A tug on the leash and Tony obeyed – perfectly.

Gibbs smiled.

The walk along the corridor felt like the longest Tony had ever taken – and he was loving every single second. As instructed, he kept his eyes to the floor, holding his head high – giving him an aloofness that had passers by stopping and staring, muttering to themselves and he could have sworn he heard gasps of admiration in his wake, as the onlookers wished and wondered what it might be like to have such a prize all to themselves.

“Focus, Pet.” Gibbs commanded without stopping. “You’re doing really well.”

Gibbs kept his voice deliberately low; to almost a growl which left Tony rock hard and aching. Biting down a groan, he pulled in long, deep calming breaths as he concentrated on keeping his eyes lowered. That was more difficult than he’d imagined – it was just too tempting to sneak a peek ahead but he knew if he did look up – he would have disobeyed a direct order and Gibbs didn’t take disobedience lightly – Gibbs would know if he so much as twitched – even if he wasn’t looking directly at him – so Tony continued to stare at the floor.

He tested his cuffs, pulling his wrists apart to find he was well and truly fastened – and that thought alone had him fighting back another groan as the movement of his bound hands against his butt sent his burgeoning cock thrumming within the confines of the jeans.

Gods!! Why was Gibbs taking so long? Was this his idea of torture? Had to be – no one else would be so cruel as to leave Tony with the hard on from hell – and make him walk a corridor that seemed to go on for eternity! If Gibbs didn’t hurry up, he would be likely to fall to his knees and cum where he knelt! He gritted his teeth against another salvo of pleasure/pain pulsed through his body to rest heatedly in his groin – and this time – a near howl escaped his lips.

Gibbs stopped and turned, wrapping the leash around his fist again as he stalked the short distance between them in a nano-second. “Problem, My Own?” he said, his fist under Tony’s chin, forcing his head up and capturing his gaze.

Tony blinked at him, not daring to look away this time – he could tell he was in big trouble, and if he didn’t say anything in the next few moments – Gibbs might very well carry out his threat and leave him aching and wanting. Chained - collared and gagged - to the end of the bed all night was something he wanted to experience at some time in the future – but not tonight.

“I – I – “

“Do you think you are actually capable of putting a coherent sentence together, My Own – or will I have to beat it out of you?” Gibbs hissed in his ear, as his hand cupped Tony’s bulge and squeezed hard. “Remember, this belongs to me – you cum on command or – not at all!”

“I can’t – I need to cum – now – please!” Tony nearly sobbed as Gibbs crushed his balls again

“So all it takes is cuffs and a leash and you’re this close to shattering?” Gibbs spurred with a smile, releasing Tony slowly. “God - to see how you react when I bring out the toy box – something to look forward to, Pet.” Without another word, he turned away and tugged hard on the leash, causing Tony to almost stumble behind him until finally they reached the door to Suite 104.

The main room was large and very masculine – with dark wood furniture and neutral decoration, the focal point being the oversized four-poster opposite the door.

Gibbs pulled Tony to the centre of the room and instructed him to stand still and wait. As Gibbs exited into a room to the left of the bed, Tony swallowed audibly wanting more than anything to relieve the very real ache in his pants. He glanced around the room – trying hard to take his mind off his thrumming shaft but failed when he found himself drawn to the artwork dominating three of the walls – the same artwork as was in the club foyer – only blown up to at least three times the size – and he was gasping once more with exquisite pleasure/pain as his cock twitched and jumped in response to the images.

Gibbs returned, having changed into a pair of black pants, black t-shirt and boots. His face set like stone as he approached his lover, holding up a key by way of explanation as he moved behind Tony and unlocked the cuffs. “Strip,” he demanded softly, stepping around to face the younger man to unclip the leash and tossed it aside. “Clothes folded neatly on that dresser.”

Tony swallowed again and shrugged off the jacket slowly, toeing off his boots as he proceeded to tug off his t-shirt, folding both as instructed.

“Quickly, My Own – no points for performance!” Gibbs sounded almost annoyed.

Tony murmured an apology, and even he didn’t miss the expression on Gibb’s face when his cock bobbed free as he eased his pants down his legs. He collected up the jeans, folded them and placed them with his other clothes and returned to the centre of the room.

Gibbs nodded approvingly, raking his eyes over Tony’s trembling form as a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “Very nice, Pet,” he said softly. “The way you hold yourself – very striking.” He walked nearer, cupping Tony’s leaking shaft in his hand before bending down and planting a light kiss on the tip which had Tony whimpering aloud as his hips canted forward. “Oh no,” Gibbs chuckled. “Not yet, My Own.” He reached into a pocket and pulled out a silver ring, holding it up briefly for Tony to see and then, without looking down, he snapped the cock ring closed at the base of the throbbing flesh in his hand, securing the aching sacs at the same time.

“No – “ Tony pleaded, his eyes shining with tears. “Don’t – I need – “

“Sssh, Pet. There are times I know what you need – and there are times you can tell me what you need to help you enjoy the experience – and at the moment, I think you need help with staying silent – do you agree?” Gibbs cupped his chin in his hand, forcing him to look into his stormy blue eyes.

Tony didn’t answer, he was too busy trying to bite down the scream of frustration that was building in his throat – his heart was thudding in his ears – sounding so loud he thought he would explode at any second - but eventually, he managed a weak nod.

“Good boy – kneel upright for me,” Gibbs stepped back, watching as Tony sank obediently to his knees, pulling his back straight and clasping his hands behind his back, groaning softly as his cock slapped against his abs leaving a sticky trail. He could hear the other man moving around the room, opening drawers and closing them again and then he was aware of items being dropped beside him – just out of his line of sight.

Gibbs remained still, watching Tony closely – testing the younger man’s resolve on purpose. His eyes wandered over the olive skin of his back, muscles rippling as he shifted his weight from one knee to the other before settling again, those beautiful long fingers wrapped around each wrist as Tony began to sink towards his subspace. His breathing slowing and levelling out as he relaxed.

Gibbs took time to gaze at those perfect glutes – knowing full well that by the time he was finished, Tony’s ass would be marked – with bright red welts from the lash – and bite marks. Gibbs then took up a pair of soft leather cuffs and fastened them around each wrist before fastening a solid steel chain of three links between them.

“Open your mouth, Pet.” Gibbs commanded quietly, smiling as Tony obeyed instantly. The medium sized ball gag was positioned and Gibbs fastened it at the back of his head. “Comfy?”

Tony nodded, sighing gently as Gibbs nibbled at his lips stretched wide around the gag. “So beautiful, My Own,” he whispered, kissing the tip of Tony’s nose, before bending once more to lap the precum pooling at the slit of Tony’s shaft making Tony roar into the rubber filling his mouth. “Gods, what you do to me, Pet.” Gibbs smiled softly. “And this is just the beginning.”

Tony whimpered as Gibbs moved around behind him again. Within seconds he was back, holding up something Tony didn’t recognise at first until Gibbs placed the two ends of the object together.

“A training collar, My Own. One of Rick’s prized possessions, you should feel honoured that he’s allowing you to wear it.”

The collar fitted snugly around Tony’s throat and neck, flaring out on his shoulders, dipping slightly over his sternum and upper back for support. It rose to just under his ears and beneath his chin which rested on a padded lip, a single silver ring from the edge of the lip – allowing the wearer to be leashed – should the need arise. Gibbs fastened the third and final buckle at the back, pausing briefly to lap at Tony’s shoulder, nipping the skin before kissing the small hurt away.

Stepping away from Tony, Gibbs watched him struggle against the collar briefly before relaxing into it and letting it support him as it was supposed to.

Tony was beside himself – his eyes rolled into his head as he realised he was now completely helpless before Gibbs – helpless, aching with need for this man to give him what he craved – to make him shatter – a million times over. Mewling into the gag, he begged with his eyes – begged Gibbs to take him now! Pleading to feel Gibbs’s strong arms around him, those calloused hands ghosting over his heated flesh, to feel the sting of those hands against his ass. He wanted to feel Gibbs inside him, tight and hot – fucking him senseless – literally!!

Tony struggled in his bondage, his eyes filling with tears – tears not of anger or frustration – but tears of gratitude – Gibbs had always told him he knew what he wanted, he knew what was best for him. Tony had been sceptical that Gibbs would ever deliver on that front – and even when Gibbs had described what he had in mind – all those weeks ago – Tony didn’t believe it – but now? Now, everything Gibbs had said was true – he would never – in all his thirty two years – have believed anyone could feel so loved, so protected and so safe all at the same time – and then it dawned on him – for the first time ever – Tony realised there was something else – a new level had just been breached – he had placed his entire mind, body and soul with one man – with an unspoken trust he had never felt and probably never would in the future – Leroy Jethro Gibbs had taught him to trust – finally.


More very soon indeed

Tony was on his feet now, shuddering as Gibbs walked around him, his fingers trailing abstract circles on the naked flesh and he smiled to himself as he felt rather than saw the play of muscles under the skin. Then he was standing in front of the bound man again, stroking the side of his face gently.

Tony mewled softly, desperate to lean into the caress but prevented from doing so by the high, stiff collar surrounding his throat and neck. His hands bunched into fists at his back as yet another surge of pleasure/pain coursed through him to settle at his trapped cock and balls and he moaned around the gag filling his mouth.

“All in good time, My Own,” Gibbs soothed. “But we have to get the inevitable out of the way first – a clean slate, so to speak. Then I can concentrate on the real reason we’re here.” Tony looked at him questioningly; not quite understanding what he meant which made Gibbs smile all the more. “You need this, My Own. You have given yourself to me because I am the one who knows what you want – and I am honoured that you have allowed me the privilege to help you find what you so desperately crave. No more ifs and buts – never again – this is all about you, My Own – I will break you – and put you back together.” He carded a hand through Tony’s hair before bending slightly to suckle an already hard nipple and Tony arched into the touch, growling low in his throat and then yelping as Gibbs’ fingers pinched its twin until it pebbled, as his other hand moved down and around to knead an ass cheek. Tony’s back arched again as the fingers dug deep into his skin, forcing his hips forward to press his own aching length against the older man’s thigh. “Gods,” Gibbs breathed. “I have never seen such a response – My Own – are you sure you’ve never done this before?” He straightened up, narrowing his eyes as he studied Tony for any clue but Tony was too far-gone – his eyes were closed, his breath coming in ragged gasps – bondage suited him so well.

“My Own,” Gibbs whispered, cupping Tony’s leaking shaft and squeezing just a little too hard, until Tony’s eyes snapped open full of apprehension. “I need you to concentrate one hundred percent on me, do you understand?”

Tony had no way of answering, collared and gagged as he was, and he just stared at Gibbs until any sign of his initial fears melted away and he blinked – once.

“Good boy,” Gibbs purred. “Do you understand why I have to do what I am about to do?” He asked, his hands ghosting over Tony’s body as he spoke. “You defied me – but I am not a man who bears a grudge,” Gibbs moved around behind him, cupping his ass cheeks and digging his fingers into the skin until Tony let out a cry against the pain. Gibbs leaned his chin on his shoulder, his breath hot against Tony’s ear. “You and I both know that defiance is not to be tolerated – and I am going to help you remember that, Pet. I have to do this – and once done –we will not speak of it again – unless – sometime in the future – you forget. But who knows – until I have you strapped down and held still – it might be that you actually enjoy being corrected.” He felt a shudder thrum through his lover as he wrapped his arms around him, holding him close until he finally stilled.

Tony’s mind was a whirl. He was frightened yet so curious too. He swallowed, relishing the pull of the leather at his throat as he found himself wondering exactly what Gibbs had in store. But any coherence he’d managed to muster simply vanished as Gibbs’s hand suddenly connected with his butt. Not a simple tap, but a full on hard slap leaving the flesh reddened and stinging.

“Enough talk,” Gibbs was facing him again and hooking a finger into the ring hanging beneath Tony’s chin. “You will learn obedience Pet!” He tugged the younger man after him towards the door he had entered earlier and stopped at the threshold, turning slightly to gauge Tony’s reaction at his first sight of the play room.

Tony stood completely still, his eyes wandering around the walls hung with paddles, whips and other props of pleasure/pain, a bondage bench stood in the middle of the room, ropes and straps neatly arranged waiting to immobilize a willing sub, a spanking stool stood to the right of the bench and opposite that a large 3D rectangular steel frame with multiple steel D-rings running around the inside edges – with leather cuffs hanging at what Tony thought to be impossible angles – and he immediately decided he didn’t want to even think what that frame was used for and hoped Gibbs wasn’t about to show him! In a far corner, almost hidden from view, he could see what appeared to be a wire dog cage – big enough for maybe an Alsatian – but not a person – surely?

Any further thoughts were instantly forgotten as Gibbs guided him towards the spanking stool. Tony stared at it for a second or two until he felt Gibbs’s hand on his arm and he obediently leaned over, resting his torso on the thickly padded leather as his shoulders just overlapped the edge.

Gibbs worked quietly and efficiently. First, he took a slim silver chain and clipped it to the links between Tony’s cuffs, easing the kinks free as he clipped the other end to a D-ring high on the back of the collar Tony wore – effectively, pulling his wrists higher up his back – out of the way of any risk of injury.

Then he made light work of spreading Tony’s legs apart and strapping them to the legs of the stool – but not just at the ankles. He needed Tony absolutely immobile – and the straps at the knees and thighs would be sure to allow for no movement during his punishment.

The younger man took full advantage of the heavy silence as he was fastened securely in place to sink towards subspace. Gibbs had been careful to take time with him – explaining what it meant and why it was necessary, training him until Tony could space on command. To fully appreciate true bondage, all a sub had to do was feel. Thought, reason, logic – all these things and more had to be abandoned whilst playing out a scene, leaving only awareness – awareness of the now – aware of the unconditional love and attention being bestowed upon you at that moment of time. How had Gibbs once put it? “You’re on your knees with my cock down your throat – and the last thing you need to be thinking about is whether you left the damn cooker on!”

Tony pulled in a few calming breaths, closed his eyes and began to spiral downward – towards that space – that precious place in his head where nothing and no one could touch him. His breathing levelled out again and his heart slowed in his chest as he sank deeper – his eyelids fluttering briefly before closing a final time and he sighed contentedly.

Gibbs lifted the wide leather strap over Tony’s back and buckled it tightly on the opposite side, a finger between leather and skin told him it was sufficiently fastened and he stepped back to admire the view – Tony’s bare ass was his for the taking.

Finally, he squatted down, looking up at Tony’s face briefly before clipping another chain to the ring at his chin and clipping the other end to a crossbar between the stool legs – now Tony had no chance of shifting even a centimetre – he was held fast.

He ran his hands over the warm skin of that delicious butt, letting his fingers tease the crack for a few seconds as Tony purred beneath his touch, his hands fisting as he tried desperately to push back against Gibbs and he cried out in frustration – but Gibbs soothed him gently, rubbing his tensed back muscles until he could feel the fight melt away and he smiled, standing beside the stool now – one hand on Tony’s lower back as he raised the other and brought it down hard and fast against the skin and Tony’s eyes opened instantly but he didn’t make a sound. Another three slaps in quick succession and Tony’s eyes were watering, his skin was on fire – but still not a sound. Gibbs frowned – glancing towards the bound man’s head for a moment and then he slapped him again – four times in as many seconds and then a flurry of slaps as Gibbs marvelled at the way Tony was taking the blows for him – there was something about using your bare hand – it made the punishment that much more personal.

He knew he was close, Tony was whimpering quietly as a final barrage of blows descended onto the now fiery red skin. Gibbs’s own hand was stinging when he finally stopped, shaking it briefly before reaching out and collecting up a wooden paddle, covered with a thin layer padded leather covering the surface - not too harsh - but harsh enough for this first outing. He held it up briefly, nodding to himself – a few hard swats with this and Tony would be cleansed – renewed.

Gibbs reached down and the cock ring was snapped open - tossed aside. He had just had a thought - and putting it to the test might enhance the experience for Tony - would he cum from simply pain alone?

One slap with the paddle and Tony was screaming around the gag – tears streaming down his face as the paddle connected again – the pain slamming through him – made all the worse because his ass was already aflame from the initial beating. Gibbs leaned into the next few blows as Tony screamed again – and again – his whole body tensing and shuddering as Gibbs struck him relentlessly before ceasing entirely, the paddle dropping to the floor as Gibbs struggled to catch his breath. Then, quite unexpectantly, it happened. Tony's entire body stiffened, his gasps for breath had him jerking so heavily and then he stiffened again as blinding white light exploded behind his eyelids, his face grimacing as he shot his load! But not with a roar, he was sobbing – long heart wrenching sobs – and Gibbs worked quickly to release him from his bonds – removing the cuffs, collar and gag first and then releasing his lover from the stool.

He helped Tony to his feet, holding him firmly in his arms as Tony snuggled his tear streaked face into Gibbs’s shoulder, his own shoulders still shaking, the sobs replaced with an occasional hiccough now as Gibbs guided him towards the bedroom once more.

“On the bed, My Own.” Gibbs said softly. “Face down.” Tony wiped his face quickly with the back of his hand and winced as he felt something cool being applied to his bruised and aching ass – and as Gibbs’s hands massaged the healing gel into the skin – Tony began to purr which had Gibbs grinning broadly. “Stay there and don’t move, Pet.” Gibbs whispered. “Give the gel time to absorb.”

“Jethro?” Tony’s voice sounded hoarse as he lifted himself onto one arm, watching as Gibbs pulled off his t-shirt and then stepped out of his pants.

“Tony?” Gibbs smiled warmly.

“Are you as exhausted as I am?”

“More so – you are one tough cookie to crack!” Gibbs climbed onto the bed, resting against the headboard as Tony scooted closer, resting his head on his chest with an arm draped lazily across Gibbs’s waist.

“D’you think I’m nuts?” Tony asked, his voice sounding heavy with sleep now.

“Why would I think you’re nuts?” Gibbs kissed the top of his head, pulling him closer into his arms.

“It’s just – what just happened – “

“You enjoyed it – in a hinky kinda way?” Gibbs replied with a smile as Tony snuggled in with a contented growl.

“Yeah – I – did –“ A loud yawn and then Gibbs felt Tony relax completely as sleep finally overtook him.

“Gotta be a record,” Gibbs murmured to himself. “He’s never fallen asleep that quickly before.”

*****

An hour later, there was soft tap on the door.

Gibbs angled himself from beneath a still sleeping Tony and padded across the room, snatching up a pair of boxers and pulling them on quickly.

“Hey,” he whispered, greeting Rick and opening the door wide.

“How’d it go?” Rick asked softly, looking over to where Tony lay sprawled across the mattress, the sheets pooled at his knees, ass in full view.

“Good – he was so good.”

“Looks like it,” Rick grinned, leaning in to kiss Gibbs softly on the mouth. “On to stage two?”

“Sure – stage two – he deserves it after his performance tonight – besides, it’ll be a nice surprise for him.”

“Yes, I will won’t I?” Rick chuckled as he pulled off his shirt, tossing it to one side. “Could you – um – do the business?”

“Yeah – won’t take a second.” Gibbs padded back to the bed and sat down, swinging his legs up and leaning down over Tony. “Hey – sleepyhead – I’m over here.” Instinctively, Tony mumbled something incoherent and pulled himself across to where Gibbs now lay, he mumbled again and cuddled closer as a now naked Rick climbed into bed behind him, his arm snaked around Tony’s waist and Tony moved closer, spooning against the Uber Dom’s chest and thighs, his own fingers linking with Rick’s. Gibbs lay facing Tony – his own arm around Tony’s upper thigh and butt – and after kissing the younger man softly – he closed his eyes and sleep soon overcame him – in a few hours – they’d be at it again – and Gibbs needed all the sleep he could get – Tony was one hell of a sub!!

Tony lay sprawled cross most of Rick’s body as the two continued to sleep. Wrapped within strong arms, the soothing thud-thud of the Uber Dom’s heart sent Tony deeper into restful and rejuvenating slumber. Mumbling softly, words tumbling over one another, Tony snuggled closer to the big man who, to all intents and purposes seemed to be fast asleep himself – but Gibbs knew better – Rick was no more asleep than he was – but whereas Gibb’s need to visit the head was all encompassing, for Rick it was all about Tony – and keeping him safe.

Moments later, ablutions over – Gibbs was about to snap off the bathroom light but thought better of it – instead he pulled the door to behind him and watched the tableau playing out on the bed on the other side of the room.

Rick captured his gaze instantly, a lazy smile tugging at the corner of his mouth as he shifted about carefully – not wanting to wake Tony right at that moment, as he let his right hand ghost over the younger man’s skin, moving lower, his left arm still wrapped around Tony’s shoulders protectively. The sheet was already pooled at their knees, revealing Tony’s bare ass – criss crossed with angry red welts and darker hand shaped bruises. Gibbs made to say something but Rick silenced him with a dark look – albeit a brief one – but enough to tell Gibbs that to speak now would be a big mistake, so Gibbs made his way to a nearby armchair and threw himself into it with a wry smile and settled down to watch.

Rick’s hand hovered over the bruised flesh beneath and within a nano second, a pale blue light began to shimmer around the hand – emanating from the palm – and almost immediately the welts and bruising began to fade to leave no clue as to the beating Tony had received only hours before.

Gibbs smiled again – this was nothing new. Rick had done the same for him – time and again during their own somewhat – harsher – encounters – but each time – Gibbs had been made to beg for his own respite. He was never refused – made to wait, yes – sometimes for hours – on his knees, bound and gagged until Rick deigned to offer him relief.

What this Uber Dom could give out – he could also take away just as easily. He knew – he had always known exactly what it took to break Gibbs – he would make him shatter into a million pieces – leaving him gasping and sobbing in writhing agony – but he would always heal him.

For Gibbs – it was all about the burn – his back and ass would be cut to ribbons with the lash and the cat, rivulets of blood mingling with the sharp sting of sweat as he hung in his bonds – and then – at some point – Gibbs could never quite remember so lost was he in just feeling – those magical hands would be there – cooling, numbing, taking away the worst of the injuries but leaving enough of an edge to remind Gibbs for days afterwards why he ached, why when he sat down he had to bow his head to hide the wince as the flesh of his ass stung briefly before becoming just a dull ache once more. Rick always liked to keep Gibbs in mind of the pleasure/pain he craved – to keep him mindful of what lay ahead should Gibbs decide he might just want more – just a little more – and Rick was always more than happy to push the boundaries that little bit further – and Gibbs was more than happy to let him.

Their eyes met again and Gibbs lifted an eyebrow in question.

“Time?” Rick asked.

“Sure – although – maybe you should – “ Gibbs began before being silenced with a shake of the head from Rick.

“He needs to go through this,” he explained softly. “Besides, I’m looking forward to seeing his reaction – do you want to stay there or what?”

“I’ll stay right here,” Gibbs affirmed, glancing briefly to Tony. “He could sleep through a stampede of horses, a tsunami and world war three going off – he’ll be confused.”

“I’ve sent him deep – you could jump on his head and he’d not feel a thing.” Rick smiled. “If you’ve trained him as well as you claim you have, Jethro – what he does in the next thirty seconds will prove he is worthy of you.”

“Hey!” Gibbs snorted. “He doesn’t need to prove anything to me – “

“But you still came seeking my approval didn’t you?” Rick said softly. “You want me to be proud for you – don’t you?” Gibbs was somewhat taken aback by the question, not expecting the truth to have been so easily readable – but the other man was right – why else would Gibbs have brought Tony to Heaven’s Gate that night except to seek Rick’s own endorsement that he, his most willing sub, could play the master and play it so well. “Jethro, glaring at me like that isn’t going to work – it might on Tony and your team.”

Gibbs smiled an apology and shrugged.

“I don’t know why I brought him here, Rick – “

“Stop digging yourself deeper, Jethro,” Rick chuckled. “Just promise me something?”

“Anything – as always.”

“Look after him.”

“I always do,” Gibbs replied, shaking his head lightly.

“No, Jethro – look at me.” It was a command, not a suggestion and Gibbs found himself caught once more in that so blue gaze. “Tony is beautiful – inside and out – you and I both know he’s had to fight to get where he is today – he may tell you he was born with the silver spoon and all that crap.”

“Rick – don’t – I know this already.” Gibbs raised a hand.

“No, you don’t – that’s the point. You only know what he’s chosen to tell you – what’s in his personnel file – there is a lot more to Anthony DiNozzo than you could imagine – I need you to,” Rick paused. “No, that came out all wrong – all I will say is – be there for him. Be there to listen – be strong for him – he needs you now more than you can ever know. It was fate that brought the two of you together – “

“And I always thought it was Ducky.” Gibbs said jokingly, the smile disappearing almost immediately at the look on Rick’s face.

“Jethro – I’m being deadly serious,” he paused again. “There is no easy way to say this but sometime in the very very near future – you will come very close to losing him – it’s imperative you watch his six.”

Gibbs slowly got to his feet, approaching the bed carefully.

“And just what in hell is that supposed to mean?” he growled.

“I don’t know,” Rick shrugged. “I’m just – going with my gut here – not as infamous as yours I know – but trust me on this.”

Gibbs stared at him for a moment and then nodded. “I trust you with my life, Rick – you wanna fill me in?”

*****

Rick didn’t have time to elaborate – the man in his arms began to stir and with a shake of his head, he told Gibbs silently that this conversation would have to be taken up at a later date. Letting out a long sigh, Gibbs resumed his seat – his expression relaxed but inside his stomach was in knots.

Tony yawned quietly, growling deep in his chest as he snuggled closer to his bedmate, smiling sleepily as the hug was returned. Opening his eyes slowly, he yawned again as he spied Gibbs at the end of the bed – watching him. His brow furrowed, Tony stared back at him for what seemed like an eternity and as realisation dawned he suddenly pushed himself away from the larger man beside him, pulling himself up into a sitting position as his eyes flashed from Gibbs to Rick and back again – alarm and confusion all over his face.

“I didn’t know – I – how – Jethro – “ he stammered, his eyes suddenly moist with tears. “Have I – “ he swallowed audibly, lowering his gaze to the sheets. “I failed you again didn’t I?” His voice was low, almost panic-stricken and he flinched away from Rick’s reassuring hand reaching for his. “No!”

“It’s okay, Pet,” Jethro murmured quietly, walking around the bed and sitting behind Tony, running a hand over the younger man’s back in an effort to soothe him. “I thought you might like to wake up – “

“I only want to wake up with you, Jethro – just you – not – “ Tony found he could not look at Rick and he shifted away, leaning into Gibb’s embrace – suddenly safe feeling the other man at his back. “Not – someone else. Just you and me.”

“Then that’s how it’ll be, Pet. Just you and me – “ Gibbs breathed in his ear, sending a shudder through his lover. “Sorry Rick – “

Rick raised a hand, flashing them both a quick smile. “It’s all right. Tony – I’m sorry – it was – presumptuous of both of us. It won’t happen again, next time – I’ll be sure to – “ he paused to climb out of bed. “We’ll be sure to find out exactly what it is you – need.”

Tony had turned around, his face buried in Gibb’s shoulder, he was visibly shaking – whether with fear or some other unspoken emotion it was hard to tell but Rick knew instinctively that he should leave right now – without another word. He snatched up his pants from the floor and paced slowly to the door, turning briefly before opening it and stepping out into the corridor.

Only when the door snicked closed did Tony move – to curl up in a foetal position on his side – his back to Gibbs.

“Baby, what’s wrong,” Gibbs asked quietly, finding it hard not to reach out and touch the younger man. “I’m sorry, Pet. If I’d known you would have reacted like this – “

“Just you and me – Jethro.” Tony murmured. “I don’t want anyone else involved.”

“Then no one else will be involved,” Gibbs whispered back. “Just us.”

Tony half turned, craning his neck to look at his lover – his green eyes looking so sad. “I know you only wanted to surprise me – but when I saw you staring at me – it was like – it was like – you were taunting me – teasing me.”

“No, babe,” Gibbs judged it safe to move closer, spooning up beside Tony now, pulling him closer. “I would never do that – ever. I just figured you deserved a reward – you’ve been so good all night – on your best behaviour – “

“So, I’m nothing more than a puppy to you?” Tony huffed. “Is that it? I’ve been a good boy so here’s your bone – “

“My Own – stop this.” Gibbs breathed. “Now you’re talking crap. We shouldn’t have done what we did – Rick’s apologised, and I am more than willing to do the same a thousand times over – tonight has been your first as a sub – and you’ve done well – and – only if you’re willing – there is more to come.” Gibbs’s hand was ghosting over Tony’s abs before descending further to cup his already thrumming cock and squeezing gently – eliciting a groan from Tony as his back arched, pressing his butt against Gibbs’s own burgeoning shaft.

“Did you want me to fuck him?” Tony’s words sounded harsh, leaving Gibbs somewhat slack jawed. “Is that why you were sitting there and watching? Is that what you wanted? Huh?” He turned onto his back and sidled away from Gibbs. “Wanted me to give him some almighty head? Wanted me to butt fuck him? No! Of course – how could I be so stupid – you wanted him fucking me – you watch me getting shafted while you jerk off!”

“Tony!” Gibbs cried as the other man clambered off the bed and paced to the bathroom – slamming the door behind him. Gibbs cursed under his breath – teeth grinding as he thudded a fist into the pillow at his side and then threw it across the room. “Damn! Shit! You dumb bastard, Jethro – you stupid – idiotic – bastard.” He murmured as he tried the bathroom door only to find it locked. “Tony – let me in.”

“Fuck off!”

“Look – whatever’s going on in that head of yours right now – you’ve got it all wrong – all so wrong!” Gibbs rested his forehead on the wood and pulled in a breath. “Please – just open the door – let me explain.”

“What’s to explain – you wanted a threesome – well – get this – I DON’T DO FUCKING THREESOMES!”

“Tony – please – just listen to me!”

“Shut the fuck up!” Tony shouted back.

Gibbs pressed his lips together in a tight line and stepped back from the door, nodding to himself. If that was the way Tony wanted to play it – fine. He took up position to the left of the door, leaning back and folding his arms. He could wait – for as long as necessary – but he would make Tony understand that he had had no intention of humiliating him, he had genuinely thought – as had Rick – that Tony would have appreciated their gesture – how fucking wrong can you get – he asked himself over and over.

Tony sat on the edge of the vast marble bath, glaring at the door – willing Gibbs to leave the room and let him sneak out – sneak out and get back to his own place – a place he knew – a place that was familiar.

How DARE Gibbs even contemplate letting Rick get his hands on him – admittedly – there was an attraction – he did find himself wondering what would happen if he’d given himself to Rick – but it didn’t seem right – not now – Gibbs was his world. He’d gone into this eyes open – and he was sure he’d made it crystal clear from the outset that anything – hinky – that went on between them was between them alone – but now everything just seemed so seedy and sordid. The visuals in his head had him clamping his eyes shut and he cursed aloud – his hands fisting and unfisting as he let the anger all but consume him.

But within seconds – the bathroom door crashed open and Gibbs stepped through – his face inscrutable as he grabbed Tony’s upper left arm and hauled him back into the bedroom. – steering him towards the bed one more time.

“On your back and not a fucking word!” Gibbs growled. “Hands above your head – NOW!” Tony thought about disobeying but the look on Gibbs’s face told him to do exactly as he was told. “I have had just about enough of you and your attitude,” Gibbs spat as he cuffed first one wrist then the other to the bedhead. “You will learn to listen to me, DiNozzo.” The sound of his name had Tony’s cock rock hard instantly – Gibbs only called him by that when he was seriously pissed and now that he was his prisoner – there was no telling what the older man had in mind. “So, you want privacy – you got privacy!”

Gibbs strode to the main door, twisted the key in the lock before tossing it over his shoulder. He then grabbed a high backed chair and wedged it beneath the handle of the door – before turning and facing his lover sprawled on the bed.

“Insolence will not be tolerated, DiNozzo – do you understand that?” He growled from the end of the bed. “I will not tolerate it.” Gibbs began to crawl up Tony’s body – hand over hand until he was straddling his hips, rubbing the crack of his ass against Tony’s solid shaft.

“Gods!” Tony groaned. “Gibbs!” He tugged at his cuffs in some vain attempt to get free – but not really wanting to. His words were silenced as Gibbs’s mouth descended on his – making him moan softly as Gibbs’s tongue and teeth worked their magic.

“I – will – fuck you – senseless – Pet – and then – I will have to beat you again – “ Gibbs murmured around a torrent of laps and kisses.

“Fuck me!” Tony breathed – his eyes closed, mouth half open as he sought Gibbs’s once more.

“Gods – “ Gibbs whispered around another assault of butterfly nips. “Look at you – so drunk on lust – you would do anything for me – wouldn’t you?”

“Fuck Gibbs – name it!”

“Mm,” Gibbs chuckled. “So not mad at me anymore?”

“Who said I was – mad?” Tony sighed as Gibbs nibbled a line from his shoulder to his earlobe.

“Pet – shut the hell up – I’m concentrating!”

TBC

Rick closed the office door quietly behind him and made his way across the vast, well appointed room to the fireplace – collecting up a small gilt frame with an old sepia coloured photograph within. He let his thumb stroke the cool metal as a smile spread across his face.

“Why don’t you ever give me the full story, Grandfather – always half a clue,” he whispered. An inscrutable face peered back at him – a weather worn, deeply wrinkled face with shining dark eyes framed with wild, long grey hair – eyes that had seen nearly 100 winters some four generations before, his tribe migrating yearly across the vastness of the prairies in search of buffalo – White Wolf had been the medicine man of the Hopi tribe but he was no ordinary medicine man. His mother had soon realised her son was – different - to the other newborns born that same year when she had left him alone for only a few minutes and returned to find him toying with a dead rattle snake – gurgling happily to himself as he tossed the carcass from his cot and fixed his fear stricken mother with a knowing stare. Her cries brought others running and the shaman had simply stopped in the doorway of the tent – regarding White Wolf with a small smile, nodding to himself. “The White Buffalo foretold this,” he had said as he scooped the baby into his arms. “A new dawn has begun.” And so it was – White Wolf was schooled almost exclusively by the shaman – who nurtured him, taught him the ways of the spirits and gently guided him on the road to manhood. It was the shaman who soon realised the potential within this young man – as his abilities began to surface – the gift of healing, of empathy with others, to connect with his spirit guides and see great distances, see the future – he was protected, kept safe until the time came when the shaman died and White Wolf stepped expertly into his moccasins as if they had been made for him.

White Wolf’s legacy was still alive – within Rick, Alex and Nicky – the brothers all nearly three quarters Native American. Only a select few knew of their capabilities – they were deliberate in who they chose to take into their confidence – in this day and age it didn’t pay to broadcast the fact they were – somewhat different.

The sound of the door snicking shut had Rick half turn to see Alex approaching him with a concerned expression. Rick reached up to place the frame back on the mantel only for Alex to take it from him as he placed an arm around his brother’s shoulders.

“Good old gramps,” he said with a small smile.

“Hey, a little respect!” Rick chided, snatching back the photograph and placing it back where it belonged.

“Gramps doesn’t mind,” Alex grinned. “He’s still messing with your mind isn’t he?”

Between the three men, their “gifts” also included a measure of telepathy – what one was thinking, feeling or doing – he could - if he so chose share it with the remaining two and vice versa – and on the rare occasions “Gramps” came through – all three were instantly aware.

“Where’s Nicky?” Rick asked as he folded his lean frame onto a nearby sofa.

“Busy – where else would he be?” Alex hitched a hip on the desk and folded his arms, regarding Rick carefully. “I’ll go get him?”

“Nah – no hurry – but I do need you to do something for me,” Rick began, stretching his arms above his head and yawning loudly.

“Aside from wrapping Tony in cotton wool – there’s not a lot more I can do,” shrugged Alex. “I can tighten up security – and with the three of us on alert – not a lot can happen here – they’re safe enough upstairs.”

“Maybe.”

Alex sighed before pulling himself to his full height and tugging his shirt straight. “Did you get a time line? Anything that says we might need to get Tony and Jethro out of here pronto?”

Rick shook his head. “Not a thing – as usual – vague is as vague does and it drives me nuts! Anyway – just stay sharp.” He paused, watching as his brother walked across to the door. “Anything going on out there I should know about?”

“Not a lot – found two guys doing skunk in the bathroom, both forcibly ejected into the hands of a passing patrol car – Amanda’s sulking because Nicky won’t let her go find Tony – Inara’s dealing with her first client of the night – oh – and Gillon’s going to sue us for defamation of character – or some such crap.”

“Oh good – a quiet night then.” Rick grinned quickly.

Alex inclined his head, a hand on the door knob as he turned back. “Hey,” he said, waiting until Rick looked at him before continuing. “What happened with Tony – I was half expecting it – this is all too new to him.”

“A big mistake, Bro – a big fucking mistake.”

Alex shook his head. “No – I don’t think so – give him time. Besides, I saw the way he was looking at you when he arrived – he’s up for it – just don’t – rush things.”

Rick raised both hands in a gesture of surrender. “Far be it from me to come between a Dom and his sub.”

“Huh? You were sharing their damn bed for crying out loud,” Alex chuckled. “Nothing could get between either of you!”

“Don’t you have some security issues to deal with?” Rick threw a cushion across the room, only to have Alex slap it down to the floor where it landed with a soft thunk. “Oh – and send Amanda in – I think I need to take her mind off Tony for the moment.”

“Don’t you mean “your” mind?”

“Alex – do me a favour?” Rick’s eyes narrowed as he got to his feet.

“Sure – name it.”

“Go play in the traffic? Please?”

“He’s hot – and you know it.” Alex taunted with a grin.

“Out! Now!”

No sooner had Alex ducked out of the room than the door opened to admit Nicky who was looking troubled. Rick rounded the desk and sat down, resting his chin in an upraised hand.

“Don’t tell me,” he began. “Amanda’s withdrawn your privileges ‘cause you won’t let her play with Tony?”

“Funny ha ha – not!” Nicky growled throwing himself onto the sofa. “She’s just granted me a knee trembler in the store room – but that’s not why I’m here – what gives with Gibbs and Tony?”

Rick closed his eyes briefly and shrugged before sitting back in his chair. “How in hell should I know?” he nearly shouted. “Sorry – I mean – I have no idea – no clue – you saw and heard what I saw and heard and if you can find any clues in there then feel free to share.”

“I know one thing,” Nicky pushed a hand through his hair. “Whatever it is – it’s happening in the next couple of hours.” He glanced up at his brother briefly and shook his head quickly. “And no – I have no idea why I know that – something’s been bugging me since they arrived.”

“Elaborate.”

“I can’t Rick – but when you told Gibbs what – what you saw – something just hit me in the chest – my gut is telling me we have to get the two of them to safety and here is not it!”

“So – what do we do? Go upstairs and grab the two of them coitus interruptus, throw them in the back of a limo and head into the night?” Rick leaned forward, his blue eyes wide and full of concern.

“If need be,” Nicky nodded.

“Fine – go ahead – “ Rick snapped. “Gibbs’ll want to know what’s going on and we can’t tell him anything because we don’t know anything – we’re acting on a hunch here!”

“And since when did Grandfather’s hunches be proved wrong? He spoke to us tonight for a reason – and I’ve learned you don’t ignore his messages.” Nicky replied quietly. “You know that and I know that.”

“Look – right now I need to be alone,” Rick said softly. “I need to meditate – if Grandfather has anything else to add – I’ll see what I can pick up.”

“You want me to go? Wouldn’t you stand a better chance if the three of us – “

“No, thanks Bro – but I can do this alone.” He rose to his feet fluidly and made for the door, holding it open. “And don’t worry – you’ll be the first to know if he gives me anything to go on.”

“Yeah – well – you know where I am if you need me,” Nicky offered as he headed into the corridor. “Just – be careful.”

“As always.”

TBC

Rick closed the office door quietly behind him and made his way across the vast, well appointed room to the fireplace – collecting up a small gilt frame with an old sepia coloured photograph within. He let his thumb stroke the cool metal as a smile spread across his face.

“Why don’t you ever give me the full story, Grandfather – always half a clue,” he whispered. An inscrutable face peered back at him – a weather worn, deeply wrinkled face with shining dark eyes framed with wild, long grey hair – eyes that had seen nearly 100 winters some four generations before, his tribe migrating yearly across the vastness of the prairies in search of buffalo – White Wolf had been the medicine man of the Hopi tribe but he was no ordinary medicine man. His mother had soon realised her son was – different - to the other newborns born that same year when she had left him alone for only a few minutes and returned to find him toying with a dead rattle snake – gurgling happily to himself as he tossed the carcass from his cot and fixed his fear stricken mother with a knowing stare. Her cries brought others running and the shaman had simply stopped in the doorway of the tent – regarding White Wolf with a small smile, nodding to himself. “The White Buffalo foretold this,” he had said as he scooped the baby into his arms. “A new dawn has begun.” And so it was – White Wolf was schooled almost exclusively by the shaman – who nurtured him, taught him the ways of the spirits and gently guided him on the road to manhood. It was the shaman who soon realised the potential within this young man – as his abilities began to surface – the gift of healing, of empathy with others, to connect with his spirit guides and see great distances, see the future – he was protected, kept safe until the time came when the shaman died and White Wolf stepped expertly into his moccasins as if they had been made for him.

White Wolf’s legacy was still alive – within Rick, Alex and Nicky – the brothers all nearly three quarters Native American. Only a select few knew of their capabilities – they were deliberate in who they chose to take into their confidence – in this day and age it didn’t pay to broadcast the fact they were – somewhat different.

The sound of the door snicking shut had Rick half turn to see Alex approaching him with a concerned expression. Rick reached up to place the frame back on the mantel only for Alex to take it from him as he placed an arm around his brother’s shoulders.

“Good old gramps,” he said with a small smile.

“Hey, a little respect!” Rick chided, snatching back the photograph and placing it back where it belonged.

“Gramps doesn’t mind,” Alex grinned. “He’s still messing with your mind isn’t he?”

Between the three men, their “gifts” also included a measure of telepathy – what one was thinking, feeling or doing – he could - if he so chose share it with the remaining two and vice versa – and on the rare occasions “Gramps” came through – all three were instantly aware.

“Where’s Nicky?” Rick asked as he folded his lean frame onto a nearby sofa.

“Busy – where else would he be?” Alex hitched a hip on the desk and folded his arms, regarding Rick carefully. “I’ll go get him?”

“Nah – no hurry – but I do need you to do something for me,” Rick began, stretching his arms above his head and yawning loudly.

“Aside from wrapping Tony in cotton wool – there’s not a lot more I can do,” shrugged Alex. “I can tighten up security – and with the three of us on alert – not a lot can happen here – they’re safe enough upstairs.”

“Maybe.”

Alex sighed before pulling himself to his full height and tugging his shirt straight. “Did you get a time line? Anything that says we might need to get Tony and Jethro out of here pronto?”

Rick shook his head. “Not a thing – as usual – vague is as vague does and it drives me nuts! Anyway – just stay sharp.” He paused, watching as his brother walked across to the door. “Anything going on out there I should know about?”

“Not a lot – found two guys doing skunk in the bathroom, both forcibly ejected into the hands of a passing patrol car – Amanda’s sulking because Nicky won’t let her go find Tony – Inara’s dealing with her first client of the night – oh – and Gillon’s going to sue us for defamation of character – or some such crap.”

“Oh good – a quiet night then.” Rick grinned quickly.

Alex inclined his head, a hand on the door knob as he turned back. “Hey,” he said, waiting until Rick looked at him before continuing. “What happened with Tony – I was half expecting it – this is all too new to him.”

“A big mistake, Bro – a big fucking mistake.”

Alex shook his head. “No – I don’t think so – give him time. Besides, I saw the way he was looking at you when he arrived – he’s up for it – just don’t – rush things.”

Rick raised both hands in a gesture of surrender. “Far be it from me to come between a Dom and his sub.”

“Huh? You were sharing their damn bed for crying out loud,” Alex chuckled. “Nothing could get between either of you!”

“Don’t you have some security issues to deal with?” Rick threw a cushion across the room, only to have Alex slap it down to the floor where it landed with a soft thunk. “Oh – and send Amanda in – I think I need to take her mind off Tony for the moment.”

“Don’t you mean “your” mind?”

“Alex – do me a favour?” Rick’s eyes narrowed as he got to his feet.

“Sure – name it.”

“Go play in the traffic? Please?”

“He’s hot – and you know it.” Alex taunted with a grin.

“Out! Now!”

No sooner had Alex ducked out of the room than the door opened to admit Nicky who was looking troubled. Rick rounded the desk and sat down, resting his chin in an upraised hand.

“Don’t tell me,” he began. “Amanda’s withdrawn your privileges ‘cause you won’t let her play with Tony?”

“Funny ha ha – not!” Nicky growled throwing himself onto the sofa. “She’s just granted me a knee trembler in the store room – but that’s not why I’m here – what gives with Gibbs and Tony?”

Rick closed his eyes briefly and shrugged before sitting back in his chair. “How in hell should I know?” he nearly shouted. “Sorry – I mean – I have no idea – no clue – you saw and heard what I saw and heard and if you can find any clues in there then feel free to share.”

“I know one thing,” Nicky pushed a hand through his hair. “Whatever it is – it’s happening in the next couple of hours.” He glanced up at his brother briefly and shook his head quickly. “And no – I have no idea why I know that – something’s been bugging me since they arrived.”

“Elaborate.”

“I can’t Rick – but when you told Gibbs what – what you saw – something just hit me in the chest – my gut is telling me we have to get the two of them to safety and here is not it!”

“So – what do we do? Go upstairs and grab the two of them coitus interruptus, throw them in the back of a limo and head into the night?” Rick leaned forward, his blue eyes wide and full of concern.

“If need be,” Nicky nodded.

“Fine – go ahead – “ Rick snapped. “Gibbs’ll want to know what’s going on and we can’t tell him anything because we don’t know anything – we’re acting on a hunch here!”

“And since when did Grandfather’s hunches be proved wrong? He spoke to us tonight for a reason – and I’ve learned you don’t ignore his messages.” Nicky replied quietly. “You know that and I know that.”

“Look – right now I need to be alone,” Rick said softly. “I need to meditate – if Grandfather has anything else to add – I’ll see what I can pick up.”

“You want me to go? Wouldn’t you stand a better chance if the three of us – “

“No, thanks Bro – but I can do this alone.” He rose to his feet fluidly and made for the door, holding it open. “And don’t worry – you’ll be the first to know if he gives me anything to go on.”

“Yeah – well – you know where I am if you need me,” Nicky offered as he headed into the corridor. “Just – be careful.”

“As always.”

TBC

Rick closed the office door quietly behind him and made his way across the vast, well appointed room to the fireplace – collecting up a small gilt frame with an old sepia coloured photograph within. He let his thumb stroke the cool metal as a smile spread across his face.

“Why don’t you ever give me the full story, Grandfather – always half a clue,” he whispered. An inscrutable face peered back at him – a weather worn, deeply wrinkled face with shining dark eyes framed with wild, long grey hair – eyes that had seen nearly 100 winters some four generations before, his tribe migrating yearly across the vastness of the prairies in search of buffalo – White Wolf had been the medicine man of the Hopi tribe but he was no ordinary medicine man. His mother had soon realised her son was – different - to the other newborns born that same year when she had left him alone for only a few minutes and returned to find him toying with a dead rattle snake – gurgling happily to himself as he tossed the carcass from his cot and fixed his fear stricken mother with a knowing stare. Her cries brought others running and the shaman had simply stopped in the doorway of the tent – regarding White Wolf with a small smile, nodding to himself. “The White Buffalo foretold this,” he had said as he scooped the baby into his arms. “A new dawn has begun.” And so it was – White Wolf was schooled almost exclusively by the shaman – who nurtured him, taught him the ways of the spirits and gently guided him on the road to manhood. It was the shaman who soon realised the potential within this young man – as his abilities began to surface – the gift of healing, of empathy with others, to connect with his spirit guides and see great distances, see the future – he was protected, kept safe until the time came when the shaman died and White Wolf stepped expertly into his moccasins as if they had been made for him.

White Wolf’s legacy was still alive – within Rick, Alex and Nicky – the brothers all nearly three quarters Native American. Only a select few knew of their capabilities – they were deliberate in who they chose to take into their confidence – in this day and age it didn’t pay to broadcast the fact they were – somewhat different.

The sound of the door snicking shut had Rick half turn to see Alex approaching him with a concerned expression. Rick reached up to place the frame back on the mantel only for Alex to take it from him as he placed an arm around his brother’s shoulders.

“Good old gramps,” he said with a small smile.

“Hey, a little respect!” Rick chided, snatching back the photograph and placing it back where it belonged.

“Gramps doesn’t mind,” Alex grinned. “He’s still messing with your mind isn’t he?”

Between the three men, their “gifts” also included a measure of telepathy – what one was thinking, feeling or doing – he could - if he so chose share it with the remaining two and vice versa – and on the rare occasions “Gramps” came through – all three were instantly aware.

“Where’s Nicky?” Rick asked as he folded his lean frame onto a nearby sofa.

“Busy – where else would he be?” Alex hitched a hip on the desk and folded his arms, regarding Rick carefully. “I’ll go get him?”

“Nah – no hurry – but I do need you to do something for me,” Rick began, stretching his arms above his head and yawning loudly.

“Aside from wrapping Tony in cotton wool – there’s not a lot more I can do,” shrugged Alex. “I can tighten up security – and with the three of us on alert – not a lot can happen here – they’re safe enough upstairs.”

“Maybe.”

Alex sighed before pulling himself to his full height and tugging his shirt straight. “Did you get a time line? Anything that says we might need to get Tony and Jethro out of here pronto?”

Rick shook his head. “Not a thing – as usual – vague is as vague does and it drives me nuts! Anyway – just stay sharp.” He paused, watching as his brother walked across to the door. “Anything going on out there I should know about?”

“Not a lot – found two guys doing skunk in the bathroom, both forcibly ejected into the hands of a passing patrol car – Amanda’s sulking because Nicky won’t let her go find Tony – Inara’s dealing with her first client of the night – oh – and Gillon’s going to sue us for defamation of character – or some such crap.”

“Oh good – a quiet night then.” Rick grinned quickly.

Alex inclined his head, a hand on the door knob as he turned back. “Hey,” he said, waiting until Rick looked at him before continuing. “What happened with Tony – I was half expecting it – this is all too new to him.”

“A big mistake, Bro – a big fucking mistake.”

Alex shook his head. “No – I don’t think so – give him time. Besides, I saw the way he was looking at you when he arrived – he’s up for it – just don’t – rush things.”

Rick raised both hands in a gesture of surrender. “Far be it from me to come between a Dom and his sub.”

“Huh? You were sharing their damn bed for crying out loud,” Alex chuckled. “Nothing could get between either of you!”

“Don’t you have some security issues to deal with?” Rick threw a cushion across the room, only to have Alex slap it down to the floor where it landed with a soft thunk. “Oh – and send Amanda in – I think I need to take her mind off Tony for the moment.”

“Don’t you mean “your” mind?”

“Alex – do me a favour?” Rick’s eyes narrowed as he got to his feet.

“Sure – name it.”

“Go play in the traffic? Please?”

“He’s hot – and you know it.” Alex taunted with a grin.

“Out! Now!”

No sooner had Alex ducked out of the room than the door opened to admit Nicky who was looking troubled. Rick rounded the desk and sat down, resting his chin in an upraised hand.

“Don’t tell me,” he began. “Amanda’s withdrawn your privileges ‘cause you won’t let her play with Tony?”

“Funny ha ha – not!” Nicky growled throwing himself onto the sofa. “She’s just granted me a knee trembler in the store room – but that’s not why I’m here – what gives with Gibbs and Tony?”

Rick closed his eyes briefly and shrugged before sitting back in his chair. “How in hell should I know?” he nearly shouted. “Sorry – I mean – I have no idea – no clue – you saw and heard what I saw and heard and if you can find any clues in there then feel free to share.”

“I know one thing,” Nicky pushed a hand through his hair. “Whatever it is – it’s happening in the next couple of hours.” He glanced up at his brother briefly and shook his head quickly. “And no – I have no idea why I know that – something’s been bugging me since they arrived.”

“Elaborate.”

“I can’t Rick – but when you told Gibbs what – what you saw – something just hit me in the chest – my gut is telling me we have to get the two of them to safety and here is not it!”

“So – what do we do? Go upstairs and grab the two of them coitus interruptus, throw them in the back of a limo and head into the night?” Rick leaned forward, his blue eyes wide and full of concern.

“If need be,” Nicky nodded.

“Fine – go ahead – “ Rick snapped. “Gibbs’ll want to know what’s going on and we can’t tell him anything because we don’t know anything – we’re acting on a hunch here!”

“And since when did Grandfather’s hunches be proved wrong? He spoke to us tonight for a reason – and I’ve learned you don’t ignore his messages.” Nicky replied quietly. “You know that and I know that.”

“Look – right now I need to be alone,” Rick said softly. “I need to meditate – if Grandfather has anything else to add – I’ll see what I can pick up.”

“You want me to go? Wouldn’t you stand a better chance if the three of us – “

“No, thanks Bro – but I can do this alone.” He rose to his feet fluidly and made for the door, holding it open. “And don’t worry – you’ll be the first to know if he gives me anything to go on.”

“Yeah – well – you know where I am if you need me,” Nicky offered as he headed into the corridor. “Just – be careful.”

“As always.”

TBC

Gibbs released Tony’s softening cock, swiping his tongue over the head before releasing him completely – leaving the younger man shuddering in the afterglow of orgasm as his chest heaved for air, his cuffed hands fisting and unfisting above his head as he writhed beneath his lover.

Gibbs watched him, his eyes never leaving that beautiful face as Tony calmed – only to arch upwards as he rubbed his ass against the already hardening shaft beneath him – the only sound a quiet whimper as Tony fought to free himself from his bonds.

“Stop struggling, My Own,” Gibbs breathed, rimming those delicious full lips with his tongue. “I want to see how much control you have.”

“Jethro – “ Tony gasped, his eyes clamped shut and his teeth bared as his head pressed into the pillows.

“Ssh, Pet. Relax – and enjoy.”

“You’re killing me!” Tony protested. “I need you – I need to – “

Gibbs frowned, straightening his elbows and raising himself up to glare at Tony. “You don’t know what you need, Pet. Only I know what you need – and only I will give it to you – should I choose to.”

“Fuck! Don’t do this to me!” Tony pleaded as Gibbs began rubbing his ass against a now rock hard cock nestled in his crack. “Please Jethro – I’m begging you – I need you – inside me!”

“There’s that word again – need – “ Gibbs shook his head slowly. “Are you actually listening to anything I say, Pet?” He bent his head, lapping an already peaking nipple before pulling it into his mouth and nipping a little too hard.

“Christ!” Tony cried out, his eyes suddenly wide open, his back arching painfully as Gibbs continued his assault, his left hand rolling the other nipple between long fingers.

Then the lips, teeth and hands were gone, leaving Tony bereft. “No,” Gibbs murmured to himself. “This isn’t working – you – Pet – are way too talkative!”

As Gibbs clambered off the bed, Tony lifted his head and watched him disappear into the bondage room with a look of astonishment which soon dissolved into one of trepidation – now what in hell was going on? He let his head drop back and groaned as his leaking cock slapped against his taut abs leaving a sticky trail. It was already beginning to soften again – and the young agent cursed under his breath. Only Gibbs would bring him to the edge and then walk away – and that was too much like torture! And if that was true – why the fuck was he here? Why the hell was he letting Gibbs use him like this? And why – for the hundredth time that night – did the idea of a pissed Gibbs turn him on so much? The feel of those fingers tugging his hair, the fastening of the cuffs a little too tight, the beating he’d taken.

“Back with me, My Own!” Gibbs barked as he reappeared, brandishing something in his hand, holding it up briefly before straddling Tony again. “Where did you go this time?”

“Nowhere,” Tony whispered, swallowing nervously. “I – “

“Open your mouth!” Gibbs growled. Tony obeyed instinctively with a quiet moan as Gibbs fastened the ball gag in place once again. “You talk too much, Pet – you have to understand that I want you concentrating on me – and me alone,” he stroked the side of Tony’s face, flashing a brilliant white smile as Tony’s eyes closed as he leaned into the caress. “Gods – what I could do with you, Pet – so many things – who knows, maybe one day – I might even parade you downstairs.” Tony’s eyes flashed to his fearfully and he started to shake his head. “No Pet, not today – you’re not ready – but one day – I will cuff, collar and gag you, lead you naked behind me - let others see what is mine.” He made quiet shushing sounds as Tony began to stiffen and then chuckled. “It’s okay, My Own – I won’t rush you – no one will rush you. But I do think that – eventually – you will come round to my way of thinking. I want people to be proud of you - I want to be proud of you, Pet – and I know you will make me proud. As Rick was with me when it was my first time on display.” Tony’s eyes went wide again and he stared at the older man leaning in above him. “Don’t believe me?” Gibbs purred. “I’ll have Rick tell you the story some time,” he leaned in closer, lapping at Tony’s lips stretched around the gag. “But for now – imagine had it just been you and Rick here earlier and I hadn’t been here. You were so close to seriously pissing him off – you got away lightly this time – shall I tell you about the time I pissed him off big time?”

Tony just stared, the visuals in his head right now – Gibbs leashed, bound and naked and presented to the masses? His cock thrummed, sending pulses of electricity through his entire being and he whimpered softly.

“Imagine,” Gibbs breathed in his ear. “Tied to the end of this very bed – unable to move or look away – unable to speak. Imagine – Rick fastened to the bed head – his legs spread wide – chained at the ankles as Inara kneels before him – ass in the air – her mouth full of Rick’s hot, leaking cock – imagine it, Pet – all that action going on and you’re forced to watch and there isn’t a damn fucking thing you can do about it!” Tony lifted his hips from the bed, grinding himself against the tight ass pressing against his length – growling in frustration as Gibbs continued with his tale. “Only – you didn’t know Nicky was standing right behind you – his hands begin ghosting all over your body, leaving your trapped cock aching with need as the two on the bed begin to soar towards orgasm – imagine it – his breath against heated flesh while his fingers stretch your hungry hole – and he’s in – balls deep – slamming against your prostate over and over – you find you can’t take your eyes from Rick – he’s watching you watching him – his fingers twisting in Inara’s hair as he pulls her closer – his own pulsing shaft rammed down her throat!” He paused, smiling softly as Tony whimpered, desperate for Gibbs to fuck him – and fuck him hard. He pulled in long breaths through his nose, eyes clamped shut as he fought down the roar of frustration building in his chest. “Rick kept me like that for nearly three hours, My Own – kept me walking the edge for three long hours. One day – I might just do the same to you.” Tony’s eyes snapped open, Gibbs immediately reading the trepidation within them and he reached forward – but this time it wasn’t to soothe and calm the man beneath him – he grabbed a handful of hair again, leaning forward and Tony’s neck arched painfully. “I’ll keep you aching for an eternity, Pet. I’ll have you sobbing – you’ll be begging me for release over and over – I will torment you, I will break you – I might also pretend you’re not even there – I’ll bind you into position so tight you won’t be able to move a muscle – I might even blindfold you – ear plugs can be such a delicious addition – leaving you quite alone, kneeling for hours – leaving you to search within yourself, leave you alone with your thoughts – I find a brief, forced introspective of oneself can be – cleansing.”

He released Tony and clambered off the bed once more but this time Tony didn’t even look at him – he was too far gone even at this early stage to notice what Gibbs was doing and before he knew it, he was suddenly aware of leather cuffs around each ankle and a slim but strong chain was tugged tight around – first – the left bedpost and then the right. He lifted his head briefly and then relaxed back with a contented groan. This was what he’d wanted – now he was completely at the mercy of Gibbs – he carefully tested the bonds at his ankles and found he was held fast – and if he had not been gagged – when Gibbs crawled hand over hand up the bed again – he would have been leering at him. Instead, Tony made quiet sounds as Gibbs nuzzled his chest and aching nubs, his own cock pressed between their meeting abs, crushed against Gibb’s burgeoning length as Gibbs nibbled way up and across Tony’s collarbone to his shoulder, biting down hard which had Tony arching upwards.

“So, Pet.” Gibbs breathed in his ear. “Are you ready for me?”

In answer, Tony’s back arched again – in a strained effort to show what it was he was expecting but Gibbs shook his head – leaving a confused Tony gazing back at him.

“No, My Own – you’ve had your fun – now it’s my turn.” Gibbs eased himself down Tony’s body until he was poised over Tony’s bobbing cock, stroking the length of the heated flesh in his hand in long firm swipes – leaving Tony whimpering in ecstasy, lifting his body off the bed until only his head and ankles were touching the rumpled sheets. “We really should do this more often,” Gibbs murmured, retaking his place at Tony’s waist.

Tony was breathless – he was so close to cumming! His mind was a mess – but through the haze of pure lust – love – something reminded him – Gibbs had challenged him – challenged him to show how much self control he had. The fact his balls felt like they were about to explode any fucking second told him he’d already failed – but he wouldn’t – not again! He couldn’t!

“Breathe for me baby,” Gibbs whispered. “Holding your breath isn’t a good idea.”

Tony shook his head furiously, unwilling to give in to his body’s demand for release.
“You’re defying me?” Again, Tony shook his head, his eyes fearful. Reaching somewhere above Tony’s head, Gibbs retrieved a silver ring, holding it up as he pulled it apart on one side. “This should help then,” Gibbs snapped the ring around the base of Tony’s cock, trapping his balls. “Don’t worry,” he chuckled at the murderous look on his young lover’s face. “I’ll whip it off when the time – cums – “

Tony growled into the gag filling his mouth and looked away – until Gibb’s hand twisted in his hair, forcing him to look at the older man. “Petulance isn’t something I admire in anyone , My Own. But then, I think you’re doing this on purpose – you want to be punished, don’t you?” Tony stopped struggling instantly – caught in Gibbs’s gaze like a rabbit caught in headlights. “I think you just answered my question Pet – you want it rough – I can give you rough but I’m saving that for later.”

A thrill of excitement surged through the younger agent, his eyes rolling into his head as Gibbs lapped and nipped a trail over his pecs, moving lower to swipe his tongue into and around Tony’s navel and suddenly, Gibbs was back at Tony’s head reaching round quickly and unstrapping the gag – easing it way carefully before tossing it aside.

“What are you - ?” Tony began, his voice a little hoarse – his mouth dry.

Gibbs hushed him with a probing kiss and shuffled down the bed, leaning in again and resuming his assault on the right nipple, Tony watched the top of his head, desperate to touch him, desperate to hold him, to embrace him…. HELL he wanted to fuck him and be fucked!!

He writhed under Gibb’s expert hands, lips and tongue. As his cock brushed his lover’s furred chest, he nearly cried out, instead he let out a whimper, his eyes closed at the bliss that was engulfing his whole being.

He was aware of Gibbs moving again and slowly opened his eyes, a roar erupting from the depths of his softly furred chest as Gibbs took him into his mouth, not all the way but enough to let him know what was to come, what was awaiting him…what he was so desperate for. Gibbs suckled, lapping the precum, laving his tongue around the thrumming girth, pulling back and then lapping the bobbing tip.

He could feel beads of sweat breaking out on his forehead as his eyes closed again when Gibbs retuned to the other aching nipple, this time his fingers brushing against Tony’s shaft, sending him arching off the bed.

“GODS!! Please, Jethro!!” he bellowed. “Give me what I want!!”

“Not yet.” Gibbs hissed, laving his way over Tony’s sternum, his hand now holding his cock gently but firmly, stroking it slowly, deliberately.

“JETHRO!!”

“Sssh, relax and enjoy this baby.”

“I can’t…” Tony whimpered as Gibbs continued his exploration of his lover’s abs, back to his chest and up to his collarbone. “Please, Jethro….”

“Sssh Pet, you’ve told me what you want and I will give it to you.” Jethro brought himself up again to look at Tony. “I promise, the journey isn’t too long, soon. Soon you’ll be flying.”

“Jethro?” Tony’s eyes filled with tears, his whole face alive with longing, with need, with want. “Please?”

“Sssh,” Gibbs stroked the side of his face again, Tony pressed into the touch and whimpered. “I promise, not long now.”

He moved back down the bed, leaving Tony heaving for air as he began lapping and laving his hot, tanned skin, over his abs, into and around his belly button and lower.

Tony writhed, bucking under Gibb’s touch. Crying out for him now, not caring who heard him, not caring if anyone else existed. His whole being centred on the man between his legs, the man bringing him closer and closer to release.

Just when he thought the moment had come, he yelled out his rage, his frustration as Gibbs began his ministrations not on his aching, throbbing cock but his groin and the top of his thighs,

As Gibb’s stubble brushed his burgeoning sacs, he screamed, thrashing from side to side, hands fisting tightly as he fought against the chains at his ankles.

“Noooo!!” he screamed, eyes clamped shut, teeth bared as his body arched again. Each time he arched, Gibbs rode with him, a hand stroking his flank as his tongue and lips sent a million volts of electricity to his hot, pulsing shaft - the lightest touch sending him nearer the edge, closer to orgasm, he screamed again, panting hard, writhing.

Gibb’s attention was now totally focussed. He pulled back for a split second glancing up at Tony and then back to the object of his exploratory mission over Tony’s body.

Tony was still thrashing, still moaning, the moan rising to a bellow of triumph as Gibbs took him whole in one swift swallow.

He resisted the urge to thrust for all of 10 seconds, but Gibbs could sense his intent and held himself rigid, lips locked about the hot shaft in his mouth, riding each thrust expertly. One hand moving to his own solid cock and he began to pump in time with each increasingly quickening thrust of Tony’s hips.

The bed was creaking as the two men brought themselves ever nearer their goal. Tony thrusting so hard only his head and ankles remained on the bed at the height of each one.

Gibbs moaned around the flesh filling his mouth, opening his throat to allow Tony all the room needed to satisfy, to ram his shaft full length into the moist warmth.

Then Tony went stiff. As he emptied his load down Gibbs’s throat, he shuddered, still shuddering until one final thrust and he was sated.

Gibbs groaned around Tony’s cock, his own orgasm sending him crashing over the edge and upward into the white, blinding white light of completion. Gibbs finally released him and rolled onto his back, panting hard, eyes closed, licking the last of Tony’s slightly salty, slightly bitter cum from his lips – waiting patiently as his own body fought to regain some semblance of normal. He didn’t need to look to know Tony had passed out from the sheer pleasure he’d received. He quietly padded to the bathroom and returned with a warm wash cloth and began cleaning Tony before throwing the cloth back towards the bathroom.

As he did so, he heard a gentle intake of breath from the bed and looked down to see Tony – still bound – smiling up at him sleepily.

“Okay?”

Tony nodded, sighing contentedly – stiffening a little when Gibbs reached up to untie his hands from the bed head. “No – Jethro – not just yet – I - I like it. Just a little longer?”

“And I like seeing you like this, My Own – get some rest – I promised you rough – and rough is what’s up next – you’ll need your strength.” Gibbs couldn’t help but chuckle when – before he’d even finished speaking – Tony was already asleep.

TBC

INITIATING DINOZZO Part 9

By

mrsdinozzo




Meanwhile – back in the Club….

“Hey babes,” Nicky acknowledged as he closed the door to the staff room behind him and tugged off his beer soaked t-shirt, tossing it into a nearby bin.

“Yeah – hi,” Amanda barely looked up, intent as she was on her cell phone.

Nicky frowned. This was unusual – no smutty comments about his bared torso – no mention of a suggestion to remove his pants and show ‘Mand what he was made of – she didn’t even give the expected low whistle as he turned and bent down to pull out a clean t-shirt from his locker. He paced across to where she sat, helped her to her feet as he sat down and pulled her into his lap, wrapping his arms around her. “Wassa matter?”

“Nothing,” she smiled half-heartedly.

“That’s a lie,” Nicky hugged her to him. “Something’s bugging you.” At that point, the cell phone rang – making Amanda jump. She glanced at the screen and cursed under her breath, throwing the phone across the room where it connected with the wall, falling to the floor as the cover came apart. “Was that really necessary?” He asked quietly.

“Made me feel better,” Amanda pouted, folding her arms and resting her head on Nicky’s shoulder.

“Who was it?”

“Who it always is – that class one a-hole of a cousin of yours – Taylor.”

Nicky pulled in a deep breath, closing his eyes briefly. “What did he want?”

“Nicky!” Amanda nearly shrieked. “I’ve told you enough times – he just doesn’t get it! I dumped him a year ago – and he’s still pestering me!”

“Which explains why you keep destroying cell phones,” Nicky observed wryly. “How’s he keep getting your numbers?”

“I sure as hell ain’t telling him – I’m sure his people have ways of finding them – he’s doing this just to get a kick out of it!” She got to her feet and checked her appearance in the long mirror opposite. “Are you sure there’s nothing you guys can do?”

Nicky stepped up behind her, his arms around her waist, his chin on the top of her head as he shrugged. “You told me not to tell Rick or Alex – and I haven’t – and my guess is that Rick, in particular, will be pretty upset you held out on him!”

“I hate it when he yells,” Amanda shuddered.

“If it was any regular guy – he’d be concerned you’ve been putting up with this kind of crap – but since when is Taylor a regular guy?” Nicky frowned again and released her, pushing both hands through his hair and letting them rest on the back of his neck.

“He’s a pig!” Amanda spat. “Had me sucked in right from the start – until you got me away from him.”

“Ah – but you came kicking and screaming didn’t you? Had a hell of time getting you to see him for what he is.” Nicky pointed out.

“I had to leave my shoe collection behind!” Amanda said with a smile. “Not to mention use of a private jet, personal driver, masseuse and all the rest – you’d be kicking and screaming too honey.”

Nicky folded his arms, gazing down at her with a smile. “Yep, you left all that for a job in a kinky bar, a suite of rooms in a hilltop mansion where I – and I’m not one to blow my own trumpet – get to shag you senseless day and night as well as seeing to your every whim – I’ll admit – it’s a come down for you – with Taylor you had a 20 roomed mansion with twelve bathrooms but moving in with us – to an 18 bedroom, 10 bathroom hovel – it must have been hard for you. Just keep reminding yourself – with us – everything is legal – with Taylor – he got to where he is on other people’s misery.”

“The bastard should be behind bars,” Amanda glowered.

“They don’t call him the Teflon King for nothing, babes. Nothing sticks – he’s always one step ahead.” Nicky made to head to the door before turning back. “What did he say in his last call?”

“The usual – hi hon, it’s me – Captain Gorgeous – missing you. No idea what else because by the time he’s said that – I’ve hung up.” She walked level with him, linking her fingers in his.

“You have a spare cell?” Nicky asked, his eyes narrowed in question.

“Sure.” She collected up her purse and scrabbled around for a moment before pulling another phone out and handing it to her lover.

“Good – leave it with me, he won’t be bothering you again.” He tucked it away in a pocket. “And – before Rick finds out from someone else – go tell him Taylor’s been bothering you.”

“I can’t,” Amanda squirmed. “He’ll shout at me.”

“So he’ll shout – just do that thing you do with your eyes, pout a bit and he’ll be putty in your hands.” Nicky chuckled, slapping her ass as she stepped through the door. “If he yells at me – I’ll blame you!”

“Oh good – does that mean I get a spank later?”

“You,” Amanda purred, plastering herself against him and pulling him in for a long wet kiss. “You get whatever you want, honey. And I mean – whatever – the toy box is yours.”

“Man,” Nicky whispered in her ear. “Ms Dominatrix becomes my own personal sub?”

“She does, baby – she does.” Amanda whispered back. “One final question,” she added before her hand snaked in a southerly direction, cupping Nicky’s bulge and squeezing gently.

“Name it,” Nicky breathed, grinding his hips forward into her palm.

“What room’s Tony in?”

“Hah,” Nicky pulled back from her grasp, smiling as he pointed a finger at her. “Not a hope in hell!” His face was stern but his eyes were smiling. “No way!”

“Aww,” Amanda pouted as she sashayed past. “I’ll find out – I always do!”

“You can try, Missy.” Nicky caught up with her, scooping her into his arms and over his shoulder as she shrieked in delight, cupping his butt cheeks firmly. “You can try but you won’t win.”

“Who cares about winning – just keep working that ass of yours, boy!” A few well aimed slaps with the flat of her hand had Nicky’s cock hard and he turned tail, heading back to the staff room where he slammed the door shut behind him, locked the door before pacing across to a large roomy sofa and tossing Amanda down onto it.

“Win, huh?” He growled, standing over her as he unzipped his jeans. “Something tells me I’m about to win this round.”

Amanda’s eyes went wide as Nicky’s length sprang free of its denim prison. “Best of three?” She giggled as he moved closer.

“Thirty three – a hundred and three – who’s counting – now shut up and let me do this!”

*****

Fresh from the shower, Gibbs smiled to himself as he pulled on a pair of black pants and zipped them up quickly, reaching for a leather belt rolled up on a nearby chair. He snatched up a black t-shirt from the back of the chair and pulled it over his head and down over his chest, smoothing it over his abs before tucking it into the pants.

He collected up the still damp towels from the floor and tossed them towards the bathroom before re-entering the bedroom – and the sight before him had him hard almost instantly.

The shower was – of course – all for Tony’s benefit. He’d woken slowly – his face showing disappointment when he realised that at some point while he’d been asleep Gibbs had released him from his bonds, leaving him spread-eagled across the bed – the sheets purposefully arranged to leave his body wide open to Gibbs’s gaze – and gaze Gibbs did. He enjoyed watching Tony sleep – the murmurings, the flashes of emotion crossing the handsome face as he slid deeper into sleep, the way he moved – the way the younger agent’s own burgeoning length sometimes hardened and then softened – the way Tony’s long fingers wrapped themselves around the heated flesh occasionally wringing a soft mumbled incoherent something from those perfect lips.

He had finally opened his eyes to see Gibbs staring down at him, a bottle of water in hand and he accepted it gratefully, drinking half the contents in one go.

“So,” Gibbs said, sitting on the edge of the bed. “How are you doing?”

“I’m good,” Tony smiled. “You?”

“Oh, I’ve never been better. Are you ready to go on?”

Tony’s so green eyes searched Gibbs’s face for a moment before he nodded. “A get out clause?”

Gibbs grinned and nodded, lowering his head to the bed. “Kind of. If you don’t want to go on – then – it stops now. Choice is yours, My Own.”

Tony placed the water bottle on the stand next to the bed and leaned back and Gibbs was secretly pleased to see that, instead of folding his arms, Tony let his rest lightly on his thighs and he lowered his gaze. “You know my answer, Jethro – I want this.”

Gibbs was silent for a long while until he got to his feet, leaning in to kiss Tony gently on the mouth. “Then, in order to progress – I’ll need something from you – I’ll need a safe word from you.”

“I thought I’d already given it.” Tony answered softly, not lifting his eyes from his lap.

“If you did, I’ve forgotten it Pet,” Gibbs explained. “I need a word as a signal if it gets too much for you – one word – something simple but memorable.”

“Pizza.”

“I kind of figured it would be food related.” Gibbs snickered. “Had to be – which reminds me – we need to shower – and then – we eat. How’s that sound?”

“Sounds like a really good idea.” He made to get up from the bed, only for Gibbs to hold him in place with a hand on his shoulder. “And this shower will be one you will never forget My Own – ever.”

Nothing more was said and Tony watched him walk away towards the bathroom and close the door behind him.

Tony stood solidly in the middle of the large compartment, the water pounding against their hot naked bodies as Gibbs brought him to the edge so many times and then held him there, making him wait, making him beg for release – and once he came down Gibbs’s throat for the third time – he was incoherent. He could barely hold himself upright and finally relented to his body’s demands to lean back against the stark white tiles of the cubicle to sink down onto his knees, sobbing his heart out, and as Gibbs knelt with him, his strong arms enveloping the weeping man, he snuggled close – and the two remained that way for some time – Gibbs stroking the back of his head and whispering soothing words as Tony’s sobs finally began to dissipate and he was left almost hiccoughing and then – once more – he was still.

Gibbs was the first to speak; he pulled back and stared into the eyes of the man with him. “I’ll ask you once and once only My Own – do you wish me to end this now?”

“No,” Tony managed to whisper. “No – I need this.”

“Good – “ Gibbs helped him up, again a hand around his bicep as Tony collected himself. “Okay?” He just nodded.

He guided his lover to the bedroom, stopping at the end of the large bed. . “Lie on the bed, My Own – face down.”

Tony did as he was bid – and sighed in contentment – then he could feel Gibbs mounting the bed behind him. Tony was smiling into the sheets – he knew what was coming next but he waited patiently – it wouldn’t do to anger the older man at this moment in time.

“Pet, on your knees – and rest on your arms.”

Tony groaned as first one well lubed finger - then two - were pressed gently into his hungry hole and he pushed back, lowering his head against the torrent of emotion that swept through him. Gibbs inched his fingers out – lubed them up again and then pressed them home once more – then in went the third finger – stretching Tony gently – and even as Tony pushed back, Gibbs’s own cock was hard and leaking – aching to penetrate the man kneeling so readily before him.

He pulled his fingers back and then pressed the head of his own engorged cock against Tony’s hole – and in one swift thrust – he penetrated that so perfect ass to his balls.

He waited, relishing the tightness – the twitching muscles around this solid intruder sending Gibbs into waves of bliss. Both hands at Tony’s hips, he pulled away until he was nearly all the way out and then thrust back in – slowly, grinding his own hips against the flesh beneath.

Tony was groaning, his head lowered between his arms and soon the two men had a rhythm going – as Gibbs thrust himself forward, Tony pushed back – thus allowing the heated flesh buried in his body to brush his prostrate – behind tightly closed eyes, all he could see was flashing white lights – increasing in intensity as their lovemaking moved to another level – quickly surpassing one to another. The action began to speed up – the thrusting, twisting took on an almost surreal appearance – and the whimpering, keening as both men could feel orgasm closing in – began to reach almost deafening proportions – then they came – fabulously.

Gibbs draped himself over Tony’s back until his breathing levelled out, wincing slightly as his cock slid free and he rolled to one side, panting hard.

“Fuck Gibbs!” Tony whispered as he stretched his arms above his head and yawned loudly.

“Don’t even think about falling asleep on me, Pet. Nicky’s bringing up a snack or three in a few minutes – and I need you – prepared.” Gibbs sat up slowly, leaning back against the headboard with an almost evil smile in place.

“Meaning?” Tony swallowed quickly – as if he had to ask.

“Meaning – out comes the toy box, My Own.”

TBC…..

Gibbs closed the door to the bondage room, smiling as he felt his cock jump at the sight of the younger man kneeling a few feet from the end of the bed. As yet unbound, Gibbs could not help but imagine what might be going through his mind right at this moment. He recalled, briefly, how he himself had felt the night Rick had told him of his plans to present him to the club’s patrons – terrified yet elated, curious too and once the deed had been done – Gibbs felt nothing but freedom – of sorts – bound, kneeling, cuffed and gagged as he was at Rick’s side. The fact he was naked didn’t faze him as admiring club goers stroked and petted him before congratulating Rick on such a find – and such a well behaved find – his Master had been only too happy to show his gratitude later in ways which – at that time – Gibbs could only have imagined.

He shook himself mentally and approached Tony slowly, staring down at the top of the bent head before bending slightly, a finger under Tony’s chin and easing his head up. “Do you need to use the bathroom?” he asked softly, kissing the tip of Tony’s nose before capturing those full lips, rimming them with his tongue. Tony stared at him for a second or two and then nodded. “Good – food is on its way up – and I figure you might want to have some – privacy while it’s delivered?” He searched those green eyes, his own hooded in question. Gibbs felt rather than saw the flood of relief from his young lover and straightened up, stepping back to allow Tony to rise.

“Thank you,” Tony said with a nod. “I – “ Gibbs silenced him with a finger to his lips.

“Sssh,” he smiled, cupping Tony’s thrumming cock in his hand, delighting in the reaction on his lover’s face. “More of this to – cum?” The other man merely groaned softly, nodding fervently. “Then go – and wait until I tell you come back in here.”

Waiting until the bathroom door snicked shut, Gibbs moved to the main door of the suite, opening it and peering around the corner to the elevator at the far end. Sure enough, it pinged twice and opened to allow Rick to step out – wine cooler in one hand, the other holding up a large covered plate held level with his shoulder.

But it wasn’t what he was carrying that had Gibbs suddenly breathless – it was what he was wearing. Sleek black leather pants, jack boots and a long black leather duster – the way the man swaggered towards him, tossing his hair back from his face with a unconscious twist of his head and a half smile on his lips – he knew he had Gibbs’s full attention – exactly the response he wanted.

“Damn it, Rick!” Gibbs said in a whisper. “If I didn’t have Tony coming to the boil – man – I’d take you right now!” The other man merely grinned broadly before pressing the wine cooler to Gibb’s chest until the older man held it and skirting around him through the door.

“So, you like what you see huh?” Rick teased, placing the plate on a nearby small table. “Where’s Tony?” He asked looking around the room.

“Safe from you,” Gibbs replied with a wry grin. “Fuck – I don’t think I’ve seen you looking so – so damn – “ He raked his eyes over Rick’s form, resting briefly at the bulge between his legs before lifting his gaze once more.

“And you call Tony a slut?” Rick chuckled. “Pot kettle black, I think.” As he spoke, he closed the space between them, cupping Gibbs’s chin in his hand before leaning in and devouring his mouth with his own. Gibbs returned the kiss before pulling back slowly with a small smile. “And on that note – “ Rick reached for the door handle.

“You shit – you kiss me like that and leave me with the hard on from hell!” Gibbs tried to look angry but a flash of brilliant white teeth soon had him smiling.

“It’s up to you what you do with it, Jethro,” Rick winked at him. “I’d love to stay but needs must and all that crap. Enjoy him.”

*****

A half hour later – Gibbs made sure Tony knew exactly what was coming next and that he was happy to continue – a single nod from his young lover was all he needed. He wanted rough and rough was what he was about to get – if – at any point Tony wanted to end it – all he had to do was use his safe word.

“Kneel up straight, My Own, knees wide apart. I want to see my property – all of it.” Gibbs commanded, his voice silk lined with steel. Tony did as he was bid, butterflies taking flight in his stomach as he knelt once more. “Good boy – so eager to please – I like that.”

Tony swallowed and held himself still, hands clasped at the small of his back as Gibbs walked around him, nodding appreciatively.

“You are beautiful,” he purred as his fingers carded Tony’s hair gently. “So unsullied – so ready for the taking – would you have me take you?” His hand snapped into a fist, pulling Tony’s head back and making his neck ache with pain as he was held solidly. “Look at me, my own, you may answer.” Tony swallowed again, closed his eyes for a moment and opened them again, taken aback to see the anger emanating from those above. His first mistake. Gibbs tightened his hold on Tony’s hair and pulled back sharply, making him cry out in pain. “There is plenty more where that came from, my own. I asked you a question and I don’t like being kept waiting – answer me now!”

“Yes, I want you to take me – do with me what you will.”

“Finally,” Gibbs released his hold, tapping Tony hard on the back of his head – hard enough to hurt. Tony’s cock was solid, leaking with precum, slapping his abs and sending bolts of sheer electricity through him. “On your feet – quickly!”

Gibbs moved to stand in front of him, his left thumb swiping over the engorged cock that bobbed between them, he lifted his hand and looked at Tony questioningly. Tony nodded, barely perceptibly, but he nodded and his mouth opened to admit the slickened thumb and he groaned as his taste exploded on his tongue, eyes rolling into his head as his hips canted forward, silently begging for more.

He was rewarded with more – each time – he fought desperately against moving – his knees were shaking with the effort, his nails dug into the skin as he tried so hard not to release his grip – he groaned softly.

“Such self control, Pet. You truly are a specimen of self-control – would you have me break you? Mm? I can do that – I’ve broken lesser men than you.” Gibbs lowered his hand once more and Tony’s eyes went wide as his cock was grasped – so tightly and that single tug had him flying. Gibbs squeezed harder, as his nails raked over the sensitive sacs – Tony moaned out loud, but he didn’t move – he didn’t step away – he didn’t push at the hand with his own – he stood there, stoic in the face of such an onslaught and let the pleasure/pain wash over him – taking him even closer to the edge. His eyes snapped open as Gibbs growled. His second mistake! He’d been asked a direct question and failed to answer. Nothing was said as his burgeoning member was released and he sank to his knees, pressing his face to the floor in total subservience.

“So – you said you’d fight back and you have! Just as I expected.”

Gibbs squatted just behind him, reaching out a hand and taking hold of his Pet’s hair once again, pulling his head up and back painfully. “You’ve given me the perfect excuse – you will stay exactly where you are – you will not deviate from this position – I am going to leave you for a short while – leave you to think on what just happened and why I am going to have to punish you – nod if you understand.”

Tony was grimacing as the hold on his hair tightened but he managed to nod – just – there would not be a third mistake. Oh yes there fucking well will!!

“And remember,” Gibbs growled as he released his hold finally. “I’ll be listening – you have been warned.”

Then there was a slam of the door – and Tony was alone.

****

After what seemed an interminable length of time – in reality no more than fifteen minutes had passed – the man kneeling on the floor was breathing slowly and evenly – his heartbeat thudding in his ears – steady and strong as he awaited his fate.

He had been quick to learn how to send himself spiralling down to the safe place – the place he could shelter – the dark corner where he could leave his whole mindset – the space he could safely stow Tony and become just the slave.

He closed his eyes and sent himself deeper – and prepared himself mentally for what lay ahead. His Master had taken control so commandingly – so masterful in his words and actions – and Tony’s cock thrummed with anticipation as he patiently waited.

He knew that to move so much as a muscle would displease his Master – his Master would know instinctively if he so much as twitched and so he remained still.

He had already guessed he was due a beating – and that thought alone had him whimpering softly. That would his chance to let go – to scream to the skies as he released all the raw emotion as heaving sobs wracked his entire body – and he knew he would be feeling so much better for it – the release was what he craved right now – he needed it – his emotional baggage would be torn from him, wrenched from him and he knew he would be able to face whatever fate threw at him with renewed vigour.

He pulled in a deep cleansing breath through his nose and released it through his mouth and relaxed.

The door behind him snicked open and Gibbs returned. His eyes immediately drawn to the muscular, tawny skinned butt facing him and he smiled to himself. His eyes shone with pride, with longing as he dropped the leather bag to the floor and didn’t move – he remained still for a long moment – testing his pet. When no sound was heard, he nodded. Good – he’s behaving himself – for now.

He bent and unzipped the bag carefully, watching the slave for any sign of movement at the unfamiliar sound. Reaching in, he pulled out the first toy.

Approaching the man on the floor, he reached down and pulled him to an upright by his hair again. “Stay,” he commanded quietly. “Chin up.” He released his hold and walked round to stand in front of Tony, his face passive as he held up the object for his slave to see. Immediately, Tony’s eyes snapped to his and he made to say something but thought better of it – instead he shook his head, swallowing hard. His tumescent shaft throbbed at the sight of the all enveloping neck corset, allowing no movement of the head – no sound from the wearer. Tony dropped his eyes to the floor again, fisting his hands behind his back in an effort to bring back control – some semblance of control at least.

“No?” Gibbs prompted with a sneer. “My Own, whether or not you agree – you will wear this – I will force it on you if I have to – do you understand?” Tony lifted his eyes to the man before him and shuddered at the scowl he saw there.

“Yes,” the answer was whispered, but immediate.

“So – you see, I have an idea of what you really want – and in order to do that, you will wear this. It’s either that – or you get nothing!! Makes absolutely no odds to me, My Own.” Gibbs spread his hands and Tony’s gaze followed the corset to the left and back to the centre again – totally entranced. “You will be restrained and unable to do anything about the raging need within you – you won’t even be able to bring yourself off. But you will be able to watch me pleasuring myself – is that what you want?”

“No.”

“Of course not – now – on your feet. Once this is in place, such a simple act would be – ungainly – to say the least.” Tony rose slowly, and immediately assumed the position once more. Gibbs leaned in, lapping his lips – wringing a groan of desire from him. “Try not to look as though you’re enjoying this – and don’t worry, I’m sure you will be able to utter your safe word whilst wearing this. “ He lowered his head, if only to hide the smirk. Lifting his head once more, he unsnapped the buckles on the corset and placed it carefully against Tony’s throat, one hand holding it in place as the other reached round and pressed the Velcro strip together.

Tony’s eyes rolled into his head and he whimpered quietly as he inhaled the scent of leather. His throat, chin and the lower half of his face were now covered. It swept back just beneath his ears to rise slightly behind his head, cupping the base of his skull.

He could feel Gibbs tightening the buckles and he groaned again as he swallowed nervously, relishing the pull of the leather against his throat. He was fastened – and immobile. Gibbs moved briefly to stand before him again, watching and waiting for any sign of distress – happy to see none was forthcoming, he moved out of sight once more and fastened Tony’s wrists together gently with slim velvet lined silver cuffs.

Reaching into a pocket, he pulled out a fine silver chain and attached one end to the cuffs and the other to a ring high on the back of the corset, effectively pulling Tony’s arms up and forcing his chest out.

Tony’s eyes followed him as he moved across the room, dropping the toy bag onto the bed and rummaging around inside it briefly.

Grunting in satisfaction, Gibbs turned to face him again, holding up a hand closed in a fist. “Three guesses what’s next?” He teased. “Mm?” He flicked up a brow in question. “No idea My Own?” He pushed himself up from the end of the bed and sauntered across to his slave, opening his fist – watching Tony’s eyes intently. “Call me cruel – but let’s just say a cock ring will delay the inevitable – until you beg me to remove it – how’s that sound?” Gibbs then dipped to the floor, leaving Tony bereft and then the slave’s eyes went wide as he felt Gibbs’s tongue swipe over the head of his rock hard shaft and then he felt warm fingers lift his cock and balls up and away from his body and the cold steel ring was snapped into place. A final tongue swipe had Tony screaming into the leather surrounding his face as his hips canted forward, his trapped shaft bobbing, stabbing the air as his balls tried desperately to recede – and failed. Gibbs reappeared, smiling. “Oh and I thought you were the strong silent type, pet.”

Tony was beside himself – the wave of emotions leaving his breathless – so much so – he somehow managed to calm himself enough to remember to breath through his nose – his chest heaving with the effort. When he finally opened his eyes – Gibbs nowhere to be seen. Panic set in – Tony’s eyes moved around the room frantically, whimpering. And then he heard it – a soft laugh from behind him to his left.

Relief flooded through him, causing him to shift his weight from one foot to the other. He froze! Another mistake!

“Fine!” Gibbs growled. “I was going to make it quick – but now – I’m going to draw it out – you are going to wish you listened to orders.” From nowhere, a blindfold was brutally tied around his eyes, cinching close and shutting out all light.

He heard Gibbs moving about again and then felt fingers at the ring beneath his chin and a snapping noise told him he was leashed!

A tug told him to move – and he stepped shakily forward to begin with – the corset removing the finer senses of balance – and being blinded made it all the more difficult. But he managed to follow his Master – safe in the knowledge that he would be there should he fall or stumble. Gibbs did help – telling him to move left or right.. The walk ended abruptly after an agonising few minutes and Tony heard a door snick closed. His heart began to pound in his chest, a thin sheen of perspiration shone on his forehead.

Still no words were said as Gibbs led him forward and then had him stop.

The leash was removed and he was led by a strong hand around one bicep and told not to move.

So – he waited.

A moment later, he felt hands at his ankles and then familiar feel of the softest leather being placed around each one, warm hands held onto his calf and then each leg in turn was eased back a few centimetres and he could feel steel at his heels – he did not need to see to know he was being attached to a spreader bar, his feet now shoulder width apart.

Tony used this time to spiral downward towards his special place, his eyes closed as his breathing levelled out and he inhaled deeply of the leather surrounding his face and neck and he felt relaxed – safe – and loved.

Gibbs too used this time to good effect. Staying silent and letting his pet live in the moment – letting him do nothing but feel – he prepared his lover for his punishment.

He released Tony’s wrists and eased first one arm and then the other upward and out, attaching each wrist to a new cuff hanging from a fixed spreader bar attached to the ceiling. Now Tony was held taut – just outside what would rate as comfortable – and he growled as his muscles protested at the unfamiliar stretch. But he wallowed in the burn – if he thought he was uncomfortable now – it was nothing compared to what lay ahead.

Tony jumped a little when suddenly he felt his right nipple being lapped and then pinched until it pebbled, he moaned at the pinching became more harsh and then he was hissing at the sudden pain as the tiny teeth of the nipple clamp bit into his flesh – Gibbs stopped, he had no way of telling if Tony found this intolerable but he gave the clamp a final twist and the groan rose to a roar – yes – tight enough.

Tony was shaking in his bondage as the second clamp was affixed – then both were twisted one more time, wrenching an almost sob from him but he succeeded in biting it down and went silent once more.

Fingers at his cock had him standing completely still – his first thought was a final clamp would be attached to his thrumming shaft and he tried to draw away from the hand encircling the heated flesh but failed miserably. Instead, he was aware of something not unlike another cock ring being snapped just behind the head of his shaft and then, the hands were gone. Seconds later, they were back – this time, Tony could not make out what was going on – but as a tug on the clamps had him nearly screaming again, he knew his cock was now trapped and held in place.….

“My Own, you’ve been very tolerant – most of the time. Are you ready to see where you are?” Gibbs’s voice was soft against his ear and he tried to nod – forgetting for that split second he could not, instead he blinked – once. “Good – I’m looking forward to seeing your reaction.”

The blindfold was removed and Tony took his time to open his eyes against the glare of the light and his eyes went wide at the sight before him.

He was standing in front of a mirrored wall – he was staring at himself bound, spread-eagled, gagged and his cock bobbed in its own bondage, attached to the nipple clamps with a slim silver chain.

His shaft throbbed and his loins strained relentlessly – as his hips canted forward – again and again.

Gibbs stood beside him, an arm around his waist, his other hand resting on his own hip. “Patience My Own – although I am interested in your reaction – seeing yourself bound thusly makes you want to cum?” Tony thrust with his hips – over and over – his eyes clamped shut as he screamed into the corset. “Okay – “ Gibbs unsnapped the cock ring and Tony came – his milky load spurting with each muscle crunching spasm – “Seems a shame to waste such bounty.” Gibbs murmured and holding the still pumping flesh still in one hand, he suckled the head of Tony’s cock with relish, lapping the slit with his tongue. As Tony began to come down from his ecstasy, he opened his eyes and groaned at the sight that now played out before him – Gibbs on his knees, his head bobbing as he brought Tony to hardness once more.

“Punishment can wait,” he thought briefly before chowing down with gusto. “After all – we’ve still got all night…”

TBC – very shortly indeed – oink oink

A/N: Here be serious kink now – if you don’t like heavy BDSM – then please don’t read any further – but for those of you who do read on – enjoy…


Tony hung in his bonds, eyes closed – his chest heaving for air as yet another orgasm ended. Hands that were fisted tightly, uncurled and were still as his knees buckled under him and he went limp.

Gibbs straightened up and watched him closely for a moment, and then gently reached out to ease up an eyelid. He frowned. He hadn’t banked on Tony passing out on him – but he had – and he bristled briefly and then walked around his pet and unbuckled the corset, easing it away carefully, letting Tony’s head fall forward slowly until his chin was on his chest.

Tony’s eyes fluttered open as Gibbs nibbled his lips, a finger crooked under his chin. “You okay, My Own?” Tony didn’t trust himself to speak and merely nodded, and let his head fall forward again. Gibbs lifted his head one more time and smiled at him, kissing him briefly – his tongue begging entry into that delicious mouth.

Tony whimpered into his mouth as he returned the kiss – a kiss that became more intense by the second and when Gibbs pulled back, he smiled again at the beautiful face staring back at him. Lips puffy from his onslaught, pupils dilated and those lovely eyes heavy lidded, he could just look at Tony all day – Tony could not match his stare and looked to the ground – finding it hard right now to keep his chin up. He didn’t want to anger his Master any more than he already had.

Gibbs felt his discomfiture, and with soothing words, he disappeared behind Tony, only to return with yet another toy in his hands. It was a high collar – black padded leather that would fit the length of the neck but would not impede the movement of his jaw.

As he fastened it, the keening noise from his lover had him rock hard. “Perfect, pet. You really should wear this type of collar a lot more often – you look incredible – very sexy.”

Only now did Tony allow himself a smile, and he raised his eyes to Gibbs’s thanking him with a hoarse whisper.

“I only speak the truth, pet.” Gibbs leaned in and captured his mouth, but this time, letting Tony at least attempt to control it as he stepped closer, both hands snaking to Tony’s nether regions, one hand cupping the burgeoning sacs while the other one stroked that already hardening shaft with firm swift strokes.

Tony broke the kiss and he let out a long wavering groan, shaking his head from side to side but unable to release himself from Gibbs’s grip – and he knew he was about to cum again – and then Gibbs was gone and he was left hanging -

Tony’s eyes snapped open and he twisted either side in his bonds in a vain attempt to locate the other man – and was disappointed.

“Eyes front, My Own – be still.” Gibbs growled from close behind him. “Now – you have experienced the pleasure – want to tell me what comes next?” Tony struggled to calm himself, hardly daring to move from fear of a worse beating. He was rewarded with a swat across his bare ass from a riding crop – and he was instantly hard and leaking. He groaned aloud as another swipe struck his flesh followed swiftly by another one – then another.

Then, he could feel the tip of the crop marking lazy circles on his back as it journeyed over his flesh, making his shiver in anticipation of the next swat – his butt stung – and it was all he could do not to cry out when Gibbs ran his hands over the reddened welts and then slapped him hard twice.

“Mmm – something not quite right here,” Gibbs said almost to himself but loud enough for Tony to hear him. His booted feet crossing the wooden floor and the sound of a squeaky hinge told the bound man Gibbs had to be selecting more toys and his stomach rolled.

He found himself drawn to the reflection in the mirror before him and he just stared – is this truly what he looked like as a sub? His gaze swept up and down his body, noting his throbbing shaft – bound once more with a silver ring and chain to the clamps at his aching nubs – he could just as easily be watching what Gibbs was doing – but he could not take his eyes off himself – the way the muscles of his arms and legs – and his tight abs – stood out – light accenting the deep golden tone of his flesh – is this how Gibbs would look if he did indeed decide to, one day, turn switch?

He closed his eyes, his tongue snaking out to wet suddenly dry lips, as his mind teased him with groan inducing visuals of Gibbs at his mercy.

“Pet – no thinking – just feel.” Gibbs slapped his already bruised ass one more time before standing before him again. “Open that delicious mouth – now!”

The gag wasn’t the norm Tony had expected. Instead, it was a mouth filling three inch long replica of Gibbs’s own cock, the final three inches of the real thing – and Tony swallowed around it – Gods – it even tastes of him!! The girth was the same, lip achingly wide.

“I would use the life size length on you – but I would hate to have you gagging,” Gibbs breathed in his ear. “Besides, you’ll get the real thing down your throat soon enough – and I know you can take that!”

Tony’s eyes snapped to his and then to the floor once more.

His hands fisted tightly a couple of times and he readied himself for whatever Gibbs had planned next. And he didn’t have to wait long.

The long narrow paddle connected with his butt, wrenching a yelp of surprise from him and he swayed with the blow. Gibbs held the paddle back and leaned into the next stroke and was rewarded with a howl of pain. He gave no quarter – within 10 strokes of the toy – Tony was bellowing in agony as his heated flesh throbbed and stung. He would be bruised for days – but he didn’t care – not now – the paddle landed again. Tears pricked at his eyes, not tears of pain – but of ectasy. He blinked the tears away – forcing himself to watch as the paddle landed again and again across his butt – his cock was leaking with precum – standing to attention and bobbing with each blow. His skin glowed with sweat as he took his punishment – hair slick on his forehead, running in rivulets down the skin of his face and dripping to his chest from his chin. He had lost track of time completely, the punishment seemed to go on, long after he thought it would end. He now hung in his bondage, limp and exhausted and when the paddle fell for the last time, he sobbed – tears now free to fall – he pulled in breath and let it out – all the anguish, the stress, the emotion left him in a long wavering howl and then he was silent.

Gibbs stepped back, tossing the paddle aside and stood staring at the reflection of his lover, his own chest heaving as he brought himself under control quickly.

Saying nothing, he glanced briefly at the bruised and reddened ass and collected a tube of healing gel from his pocket and sank to his knees at Tony’s back. Squeezing the gel onto his fingers, he massaged it well into the stinging flesh, smiling to himself as Tony keened with pleasure at this delicious new sensation.

Then, the hands were gone from his ass and Gibbs was facing him again. “How do you feel?” he asked slowly, gauging Tony’s face for any sign of wanting to end the game as he undid the gag and eased from his mouth tossing it aside.

“I feel – cleansed.” Tony whispered back. “Thank you.”

Gibbs stroked the side of his face, purring deep in his chest as the bound man leaned into the caress, rubbing his head against the open hand. “Pet, I need you to work with me – I’m going to release you – can you stand unaided if I undo the cuffs?” Tony nodded and straightened up as much as he could. “I’ll remove the collar first and then your wrists – understand?”

“Please – leave the collar.” Tony said, staring directly at the man before him, his stormy blue eyes shining. “For the moment, please?”

“As you wish My Own,” Gibbs shrugged. “As I said – you should wear one more often – it gives you an air of – vulnerability and who knows when I might get the urge to leash you – you look so good on the end of a leash – but you already knew that – didn’t you?”

Tony felt a flush rise over his chest and throat and his cheeks burned. “I do,” he smiled. “Thank you.”

“My pleasure – after all, this night is about you and your needs.” He reached up and released first one wrist and then the other, bringing both around to Tony’s front and clipped them together. “Because now – you will shower – I will wash and dry you – you will just – feel – is that all right?”

Tony was confused – why was Gibbs asking him these questions? He didn’t have to ask how he was feeling at any given moment – but he took the time to check – and for that – Tony was grateful.

“I’m going to remove the clamps now – it will hurt – but the pain will be gone soon enough – are you ready?” Gibbs took a gentle hold of one of the clamps, and began to untwist it.

Tony closed his eyes and swallowed, and then he screamed aloud as the blood rushed back to his abused nubs, and then he felt Gibbs lapping at the deeply reddened pebbled nipple soothing the hurt away with his tongue as a hand removed the other – and Tony merely groaned as the burn sent his cock rock hard – as he bit down the roar threatening to erupt.

“My Own – let go – let it go!” Gibbs breathed in his ear, warm air across his heated flesh sending Tony flying. And he screamed.

His solid member was released from the cock ring and the ring, his thrumming flesh suckled briefly before the ring behind the leaking head was unclipped and tossed to join the gag.

He was shaking as Gibbs turned his attention to his ankles and released them. Then a hand wrapped around his bicep as Gibbs gave him time to get his balance and then clipped a leash to the silver ring in the centre front panel of his collar and tugged him forward.

“And now – we shower – and I’ve an idea what you might like before we sleep.” Gibbs wrapped the leash around his hand, pulling Tony closer until they were close enough to kiss and he ravished Tony’s mouth with his tongue – lapping and nipped, to finally suckle on his lower lip before releasing him with a languorous smile. “You taste divine, My Own – divine.”

“May I ask a question?” Tony ventured. Gibbs stared at him for a moment and then nodded. “You’ve – you’ve done all the work tonight – will you let me show you how much I appreciate that?” He wouldn’t look at Gibbs, looking at a point on the wall over his lover’s left shoulder.

“Do you feel you’re up to it?” Gibbs breathed. Tony just nodded, worrying his lower lip as he searched Gibbs’s face. “Then, yes. But the second I sense you’re tiring – we stop.”

Tony closed the space between them and reached out a hand around the back of Gibbs’s neck, tilting his head as their lips met – nipping and lapping at each other. His other hand he placed at the side of Gibbs’s neck, stroking his jaw with his thumb as the kiss deepened. It was Gibbs’s turn to moan into Tony’s mouth as his arms slid around him, pulling him closer, a hand moving up and gently grasping the hair at the back of Tony’s head – giving him no leeway – and he vaguely wished they could stay like this forever.

Silken steel brushed silken steel as their cocks grew and stiffened, crushed together against taut abs. The moans and whimpers growing in intensity as their foreplay took them to another level altogether, lingering a moment and moving on upward.

Moments later, they were on the extra large bed, Gibbs on his back beneath Tony as he let him cover his body with his own.

Pressing his head back into the pillow as Tony worked his way from one ear, down his now very accessible neck to his collarbone and then upward – suckling at his adam’s apple – which sent Gibbs ever more towards the edge, his hands fisting the sheets as Tony moved across to the other collarbone, and up to the ear once again.

“Gods!” Gibbs breathed. “Tony – you sure as hell know how to bring it!”

Teeth nipped his shoulder – a warning to stay quiet and the small hurt was soon lapped away as their lips met once more.

Tony then parted his legs, easing his body to a more central position and Gibbs threw his head back, arching his back as Tony rolled his own hips against those of the man trapped beneath him, he rested his hands either side of Gibbs and lifted his torso up slightly but kept Gibbs’s mouth busy with his own and ground down even harder.

Gibbs gaped up at him, a sheen of sweat dotting his brow, astounded at the feelings Tony was arousing in him – he had never thought just the mere act of touching each other like this would have him fighting the urge to cum – he could feel his heart thumping in his chest, his lungs working so hard to pull in enough air to allow him to vent his emotions as he threw his head back once more and let out a roar – a roar of sheer bliss.

Tony silenced him almost immediately with a kiss – his tongue begging entry and he smiled around the kiss as Gibbs’s lips parted to admit him, their tongues warred for a moment as Tony speeded up his relentless attack on Gibbs’s nether regions –

Gibbs’s eyes rolled back in his head and he let out a long, wavering moan as his entire body stiffened beneath his lover and all at once, his face contorted, teeth bared as his back arched again and again as he climaxed – over and over – his milky juices coating his thighs – Tony’s thighs and stomach – and Tony came – equally spectacularly, their cries bounced off the walls until dying away to leave two exhausted men embracing each other, panting hard as their pounding hearts finally began to slow –

Tony rolled off Gibbs, and quickly spooned up behind him, one arm over Gibbs’s hip, his hand gently clasping a now flaccid cock - and they slept….

It was coming on for nearly 4am, the room lit with a single lamp near the door as the two lovers basked in each other –neither speaking – just content to be together.

Tony sat between Gibbs’s bent legs with his back against the chest of the older man. One arm wrapped around Gibbs’s left thigh, the palm of his hand stroking the calf gently, the other hand held onto an almost empty bottle of water.

Gibbs held Tony close, one elbow resting on his shoulder and that hand on the opposite shoulder. His other arm rested on his upraised knee and he smiled to himself as Tony let go of his bottle and linked fingers with his.

“This is just so good,” Tony said softly, staring at his feet. “It’s a shame we can’t just stay here and forget about all the crap going on out there.”

“Wishful thinking,” Gibbs agreed. “But be honest – you and I both know if we did stay here and do that – we’d end up driving each other nuts. We live for the crap – thrive on it.”

“Yeah,” Tony sounded wistful. “We do – but time out is something to be cherished – especially like this.” He let his fingers squeeze Gibbs’s and smiled as the squeeze was returned.

“Look – I have to ask this – but why’d you freak out earlier – with Rick?” Gibbs kept his tone light – not wanting Tony to suddenly go on the defensive and deny he had a problem – he’d try and deny it – of course he would. When no answer was immediately forthcoming, Gibbs smiled to himself. “You were amazing tonight – for your first time I am so proud of you Tony,” he kissed the top of his lover’s head gently. “And I never even said thanks, did I?” Gibbs released him and leaned back as Tony turned round to face him, reaching for a fresh bottle of water. He pulled the top off and took a long drink and Gibbs found himself watching as those throat muscles worked, pulling on the liquid and he suddenly found himself imagining his already twitching cock being swallowed down that lovely long throat again. He felt himself redden slightly and tore his gaze away, letting his head fall back for a moment, pulling in a deep calming breath. “If you don’t want to talk about it right now – that’s fine – “ Gibbs began.

“No – no, now’s as good a time as any I guess.”

“You sound like you’re not sure.”

“I am sure – more sure than anything. It’s just – realising I do have – a kink – it’s kind of – “

“Embarrassing?”

“Not exactly.”

“Look – there are people – lots of people in all walks of life – who also have what you call a kink. Yours and mine just happens to be leather and bondage, others get off on clothing, shoes, and other stuff to enhance the experience – you’re not weird, you’re not a pervert – you just enjoy being tied up, gagged and all that goes with it – and I like dishing it – but I also like to take it as well.”

“Yeah – so you say – I’d like to see that – sometime – you’re what they call a switch?” Tony looked at him curiously.

“See? How did you know that when you tell me you’ve only just realised you have this – other side to you?” Gibbs was smiling broadly. “Yes, I am a switch, it gives you a good perspective on what pleases either your own Master or Slave.”

“Admittedly, I don’t think I’d like being a Dom.” Tony answered. “No, that came out wrong. I mean I prefer to take whatever who I’m with is willing to do but I do have limits.”

Gibbs settled himself cross-legged and waited. They had had this conversation so many times recently, and each time Tony let slip something more about himself. .

Tony couldn’t look at him. He was mentally listing what he considered over the line – even at this early stage. He would not allow himself to be filmed – even if it was for personal use – he refused to be humiliated. His stomach rolled when he recalled when Gibbs explained just what dark and vile levels some people could sink to – and there was no way in hell he would stoop that low. He was happy being bound, gagged, butt fucked, face fucked, flogged, whipped, and even more – he had enjoyed himself tonight – immensely.

“Tony – look at me,” Gibbs said with a hint of sharpness, making Tony lift his gaze instantly. “This is about you. And now I have a clearer idea of what does it for you – I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you see what else I’ve got in store.”

”Just promise me one thing?” Tony shifted about until he was comfortable again.

“This will stay between you and me – and Rick – he’s one man I would trust with my life. As I said at the beginning of the night – no one outside these walls will know. Ever.” Gibbs’s face was serious, his eyes locked with the stormy green ones gazing back at him. “When I make a promise – I keep it.”

“I know,” Tony replied, relief flooding through him. “I just needed to hear you say it.”

Gibbs climbed off the bed, a hand reaching out indicating Tony should join him. Tony pulled himself up and the two men just looked at each other before embracing. A bear hug of an embrace, both men growling.

Gibbs pulled back first, his hand stroking the side of Tony’s face. “I love you so much.” He whispered, reaching forward and kissing Tony’s mouth, biting on his lower lip gently as he stepped back.

“It was fate – “ Tony’s fingers ghosted over the side of Gibbs’s face, making Gibbs purr like a wildcat. “I can’t imagine life without you – it would - kill me.”

This statement was sealed with a passionate kiss, both men holding each other close as their tongues warred. Tony moaning into Gibbs’s mouth as their hips ground together, turgid cocks bracing themselves for more action in the not too distant future.

“You know something?” Gibbs offered as they walked towards the bathroom, hand in hand. Tony said nothing – he had a feeling he knew what was going through the other man’s mind – so he waited. “You looked spectacular on your knees and I am so going enjoy playing with you - often”

Tony smiled to himself as a warm glow filled his stomach to blossom outward over his whole being – leaving him goose pimpled. He could not wait to see what Gibbs had in mind – and knew there and then – that this was just what he needed this night – stress relief – at the hands of a man he loved more than life itself.

******

Gibbs left Tony alone to shower but as he rinsed the last of the soap from his body and hair, eyes closed, brushing off lather a hand snaked around his waist as soft lips brushed his back and shoulders.

“Hi,” Gibbs breathed.

Tony merely groaned in response as he turn to face the other man, his own mouth open and waiting. Gibbs suckled the lower lip gently, pulling it into his own mouth before releasing it. Tony sensed his own arousal, Gibbs’s already hard cock brushing against his as though teasing the throbbing flesh. Gibbs’s plundered Tony’s mouth as he eased him back against the wall, eliciting a whimper from him as he nuzzled his throat with tiny kisses and laps – every single one sending fire through Tony to settle at his already burgeoning shaft. Gibbs’s hands snaked around to Tony’s butt, fingers kneading those perfect glutes, slowly easing his way across and brushing Tony’s crack with long expert fingers.

Tony moaned aloud, arching his back, his cock bobbing as Gibbs captured his mouth again, tongues warring. Gibbs slid the side of his hand into the valley of Tony’s ass and began to ease it up and down slowly – pressing harder with each pass. Tony’s eyes snapped open and he let out a howl – soon hushed as Gibbs’s smothered his mouth with his own again, his tongue probing, exploring the moist cavern.

“Jethro,” Tony hissed as Gibbs caressed his neck again with kisses, laving the length of his neck with his tongue. “Don’t tease me – please,” he implored.

“Why not?” Gibbs whispered back. “What do you want?”

“You know what I want.” Tony was beside himself as he fought to keep himself upright against the onslaught – ending with another louder howl as Gibbs took his cock in his hand, kneading the flesh almost brutally.

“I’m waiting,” Gibbs teased.

“Need – you – inside me – now!” Tony breathed, letting his head fall back against the white tiles of the shower.

“As you wish.”

Seconds later, Tony was facing the wall, fighting back the urge to cum – it was all he could do not to! Gibbs’s hands slipped around him quickly, collecting up his thrumming member and balls clicking a cock ring around the base of both.

Tony moaned at the feel of those hands, whimpering when they left him suddenly bereft and he rested his head against the tiles, arms crossed above his head – his rounded ass ready for Gibbs’s ministrations.

Gibbs took the lube from a recess above them both and quickly squirted his hands with the clear gel and resumed play with his most beautiful lover. He let his cock play against Tony’s ass mindful that the younger man’s knees were trembling as he slammed himself into the tight heat and pulled out again – no need for finger fucking now – Tony was relaxed and ready and he intended making every use of this delicious hungry hole. Settling himself balls deep, Gibbs didn’t move for a moment – prolonging the inevitable that little bit longer and then he began to move – slowly – painfully slowly – taking care not to set up too much of a predictable rhythm just yet – let Tony try and anticipate each thrust – and each time he got it wrong – the sensations that slammed through him left him breathless, growling deep in his chest as frustration began to take hold.

“Fuck Gibbs! What the hell are you – “ his words drowning in a sea of contentment as a series of three or four thrusts forward sent him flying towards white out bliss. Then nothing for a few seconds and then – one thrust – or was that two? Gibbs teased him relentlessly, pulling out nearly all the way at times – making him wait – making him walk the edge a few moments more. Tony’s protests dissolved into nothing but wordless whimpers as he pushed back against Gibbs’, clenching around the other man’s hot cock until Gibbs began to settle into a rhythm.

Tony pushing back hard against Gibbs’s hips, his own cock bobbing as it stabbed the air. Gibbs groaned aloud at the feel of Tony’s ass squeezing his own burgeoning length out of shape! It felt so warm – so moist – so tight – yet – so welcoming!

“Let me cum,” Tony pleaded. “Please let me cum!”

Gibbs reached around and flipped off the cock ring as Tony roared his completion – closely followed by Gibbs cumming deep inside Tony.

Gibbs withdrew himself slowly, his chest heaving as he watched him slide down the shower wall to his knees. Gibbs knelt before him, cradling him in his arms, rocking the two of them back and fore slowly. “That was incredible!” He said, kissing Tony softly on the mouth.

“I don’t want this night to end.” Tony whispered back with a smile.

“We’re here for as long as we like – within reason.” Gibbs replied as they got to their feet.

“Indeed?” Tony nodded knowingly. “I don’t know about you – but I’m all set for round 110!”

TBC …..

Gibbs smiled at Tony's reflection in the bathroom mirror before bending to rinse his face, scuffing it dry quickly with a towel. Dropping the towel to the floor, he reached up and back with one hand, stroking the back of his lover's head, Tony's arms sliding around his waist as he lapped his way from Gibbs's shoulder to his earlobe, suckling the soft flesh before nipping it - sending a thrill through the man in his arms.

"Tony - "

"Sssh - " Tony soothed, turning the other man around, plundering his mouth with his own until Gibbs was breathless.

With a wicked smirk and a wink, Tony sank to his knees, his hands resting lightly on the back of Gibbs’s thighs and with no warning, he took Gibbs in one mouthful, swallowing hard around the throbbing shaft, laving the underside with his tongue, grazing the sensitive skin with his teeth.

Gibbs gasped then groaned, leaning back heavily against the sink unit, his hands fisting Tony’s hair as the younger man feasted.

Tony swallowed twice, three times - the sensation sending Gibbs writhing, thrusting forward - forcing himself deeper and deeper down Tony’s eager throat.

A stray hand cupped his balls, crushing them together, kneading them hard and Gibbs cried out in ecstasy as wave after wave of pleasure coursed through him. He released his hold on Tony’s hair, both hands supporting himself against the cool marble at his back, eyes clamped shut, teeth bared as he arched into Tony’s willing mouth.

Tony bit down gently, pulling back to release Gibbs halfway, his teeth grazing the skin again as Gibbs screamed out loud - thrashing his head from side to side as he arched again.

Tony then released him completely, his hand gently cupping the moist member and tonguing the foreskin and easing his tongue into the slit. Planting a kiss on the tip, he turned his attention to Gibbs’s sacs…pulling one then both into his mouth - the weeping cock brushing his cheek as he suckled.

Both hands rested on Gibbs’s butt, nimble fingers easing their way towards his pucker.

“Tony!” Gibbs hissed..

Tony released Gibbs for a moment and glanced up at him.

"You want me to use lube?" he asked in all seriousness.

"Hell no!! I like the - I like - the burn - do it!!"

Gibbs laughed in spite of himself briefly - his attention snatched back as Tony’s finger found its goal, he growled easing himself back gently onto the two fingers sliding inside.

Nothing more was said, as Tony engulfed him again to the balls and suckled hard, pumping his ass, easing two out, leaving Gibbs bereft for only a few seconds and then he slid three fingers inside.

Gibbs was flying. No foreplay - no nothing - just pure, plain and dirty - just how he liked it - sometimes. His heart was thudding in his chest, his breathing ragged as Tony sent him closer to completion

“I’m gonna cum," he rasped, fighting for air. "I’m…”

Tony chuckled around his girth, sending vibrations up the sensitive shaft making Gibbs roar out loud once more. Shifting round, Tony press his fingers further even further, brushing his prostate relentlessly…

With his other hand, he took hold of Gibbs’s sacs and pulled them up and away, denying him immediate release, he would hold him at the edge until he decided to let him fly.

Gibbs guessed his intent, but barely able to support himself let alone move an inch, he whimpered his frustration - trying and failing to free himself from Tony’s grasp - but they both knew his attempts were merely for show.

Tony’s answer was to take him deeper and deeper - he swallowed hard easing the throbbing member further down his throat, closing his eyes in sheer pleasure as the muscle jumped and twitched in its moist, warm prison - again, he bit down a little harder this time and Gibbs roared.

As he gasped and panted, he looked down and the sight of Tony’s bobbing head between his legs sent a thrill through him - a shudder that Tony felt - an unspoken signal to send Gibbs shattering into the blinding white light of orgasm.

Tony released his balls, leaving Gibbs almost hyperventilating as he pumped his precious load down Tony’s throat.

Both men came with shuddering breaths, their bodies tensed for what seemed an age until Gibbs relaxed back against the sink - unable to speak - unable to move he watched as Tony got to his feet, a trickle of cum running down his chin.

Gibbs instinctively leaned in, lapping the creamy trail only to find his mouth being plundered, Gibbs moaned into Tony’s mouth at the taste of himself. Tony wasn't greedy, he'd saved some of his lover's essence, Gibbs's tongue seeking out every last drop as his tongue cleaned Tony’s mouth.

****

Linking his fingers with Tony's, Gibbs pulled him after him into the bedroom and instructed him to get on the bed and lie still. Automatically, Tony's hands went to the bed head and he waited to be cuffed again.

"No, not this time, Tony. Call it - au natrelle - just lie still and enjoy." Gibbs breathed, leaning up to capture Tony's mouth in a passionate kiss, and Tony whimpered softly as his cock began to harden once more.

Gibbs pulled back, dropping his gaze to Tony's abs and thighs still slick with cum and he bent his head, his tongue sliding out to lap at the slightly salty, slightly bitter bounty. His nose tickling Tony's heated flesh as he savoured the taste of his lover, leaving Tony hissing in pleasure as Gibbs's hair brushed his burgeoning length. Gibbs deliberately ignored the leaking shaft, nudging it out of the way as his moist, warm tongue sent waves of bliss through the writhing younger man beneath him. Arching his neck, Tony growled as his eyes slid closed - losing himself in the feelings that enveloped his entire being - not even aware his hands were fisting the sheets either side of him. His tongue swiped around his own lips and he purred contentedly - he could still taste Gibbs and he knew he would taste more before this night was over.

Suddenly, Tony stiffened as his eyes snapped open. Gibbs surprised him with a sucking motion around the head of his tumescence, suckling just as one might an ice cream - pulling the head into his mouth using his lips as a vacuum - holding it and then releasing it with a soft popping sound.

Gibbs sat back briefly, watching as a single pearl of precum pooled at the slit and slid over the edge. He followed it with his stormy blue eyes and at the last minute before it disappeared, he scooped it up with his tongue - it was Tony's turn to cum!

****

Spooned together, Gibbs held his lover close as the two talked in quiet tones.

"You have been incredible," Gibbs complimented. "I had wondered how you would take to - tonight - but you've exceeded even my expectations," he kissed Tony's shoulder.

"I had - reservations," Tony admitted with a slight shrug as his fingers linked with Gibbs at his stomach. "It's been - enlightening - but I screwed up."

"How so?" Gibbs's gut knotted instantly, concern in his voice.

"Rick," Tony murmured. "I - I just didn't think - I wasn't thinking straight. I shouldn't have reacted the way I did - and I feel bad about that. He's your friend and I made the two of you look like idiots!"

"Hey," Gibbs chided, another kiss on the shoulder. "It's over - done with - Rick's okay - he understands."

"No he doesn't - how can he?" Tony sighed. "He's known me a couple of hours - that's all - I screwed up and I'm sorry I let you down, Jethro."

"I understand what you're saying, Tony." Gibbs released him, allowing him to turn onto his back, an arm across his eyes, his other arm stretched out beside him. "But please don't beat yourself up about it - "

"I can't help it," Tony replied, lifting his arm from his face. "I have to apologise to him - until I do, I won't be able to - "

"To what - live with yourself?" Gibbs sat up, taking Tony's hand in his, lifting it to his lips and kissing the back softly.

"I want to come back here - I want to get to know the guys downstairs - and I can't do that knowing I pissed Rick off!" Tony pulled in a deep breath and let it out slowly.

"You want to come here again?" Gibbs laughed, shaking his head.

"Yeah - got a problem with that?" Tony glared up at him.

"No - not me - but I'm thinking - your salary, you might just get you a couple of beers."

"So obviously, I won't be here every night of the week - " Tony huffed.

"Just kidding," Gibbs held up his hands in surrender. "But I'm glad that you want to get to know them - they're a good bunch."

"And you haven't told me how you all met either - I mean - Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs - second "b" for bastard - biggest, badass Special Agent NCIS ever had - meets up with - " Gibbs looked down at Tony, one eyebrow lifted in question - closely followed by "that look". It didn't faze Tony as a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. "To be blunt - " he began. The look hardened. "I mean - " He swallowed nervously. "You know what I mean."

"That chat we had earlier? About kink not being perverse or weird? Remember that?"

"Yeah - why."

"I'll let you into a secret here - and believe me - I'll know if you tell anyone else - and then I'll be forced to kill you," Gibbs flashed him a quick smile. "You'd be surprised who else can count themselves into the Platinum Club - and we're not talking John Doe."

Tony studied Gibbs's face carefully, his mind racing. "Pentagon? Hell, White House?" Tony's interest was piqued, he sat up quickly, eyes shining. "NCIS? FBI? ATF?"

"Stop - now!"

"Aw, come on Jethro - you cannot leave it like that!"

"I can and I will - and if you so much as think about it - I will be forced to silence you - painfully."

"Day-um!" Tony pulled a face. He knew it was useless trying to get anything out of Gibbs if the man didn't want to share - there wasn't even the luxury of Gibbs talking in his sleep. He suddenly realised Gibbs was pulling on his pants, easing up the zipper and snapping the buttons closed. "What are you doing?"

"What I always do about this time, situation permitting of course" Gibbs said matter of factly. "Head downstairs to the kitchen and chow down with Nicky and the others."

"But aren't they busy?"

"It starts winding down about now," Gibbs explained as he pulled on a t-shirt "then the staff all get fed, they then tidy up the place which opens again at 9pm tonight - and while the place is being straightened, the brothers take it in turns to produce some culinary masterpiece and tonight it's Nicky's turn - which means - unfortunately - a mean extra cheese, sausage and pepperoni pizza," He nearly laughed at the look on Tony's face - which was one of delight. "But as you're obviously not interested - I'd just lie back and get some shut eye."

"No," Tony leapt off the end of the bed with a goofy smile. "Pizza sounds good to me - although - any particular reason why it's extra cheese, sausage and pepperoni?"

"Shut the hell up and get dressed - "

*****

TBC

Alex took a lungful of fresh air as he stepped out through the street level doors of the club, grinning cheerfully at Steve the bouncer as the other man pulled on a cigarette with a look of contentment. "All quiet?"

"As it can be at this hour, Boss." Steve nodded his blond head, dropping the cigarette butt at his feet, grinding it into the pavement with the heel of his shoe. "All in all, it's been a quiet night all together."

"Maybe, but it doesn't pay to get complacent," Alex remarked carefully. "We're looking after some real reputations here - don't forget that."

Steve looked suitably admonished at the veiled warning and nodded, his grey eyes shining in the lamplight. "Sorry, Boss."

"Hey, don't take what I just said the wrong way," Alex said, a hand on Steve's shoulder. "Expect the unexpected." He dropped his hand away, shoving both into the pockets of his pants, glancing up and down the street. "You're right - it is quiet tonight."

"Embrace it," Steve chuckled. "Tomorrow's Saturday - it'll be hell!"

Alex laughed at that and then nodded. "Too right - although - I really believe we have the best job in the world."

"Yeah - nothing like throwing out undesirables to get the adrenalin pumping." Steve grinned, nudging Alex with his elbow. "You remember last winter in all those blizzards - didn't we beat our record for the most drunken snow angels on this very sidewalk?"

"I do - and you won by a head - literally! You staying here?"

Steve nodded. "A few more heading our way," he jerked his chin in the general direction of a group of people crossing the street and immediately moved into bouncer mode as he pulled himself to his full height, spread his feet apart and folded his hands before him - fixing the newcomers with a welcoming smile.

"If they want food - they'll be unlucky - Nicky just closed the kitchen."

"Just now?" Steve looked crestfallen. "He promised me burger and fries!"

"To punters - not staff - when's your break?"

"Half an hour - don't fail me, Alex."

"Have I ever?"

"There was that time - or was that when you - no - it was when you decided - " Steve glanced to his boss quickly and winked. "Kidding Boss, just kidding."

"I'm outta here!" Alex shot back as he headed inside, spying Rick as he was about to open his office door. "Hey, bro," he called, skirting a few patrons and following Rick into the room. "What's up?"

"Up? Why should anything be up?" Rick flopped down onto the sofa wearily and sighed as he scuffed a hand over his face.

"Because you've got a face like a bulldog chewing a bee," Alex leaned against the desk, arms folded across his chest. "Something's up."

Rick closed his eyes and let his head fall back, opening them to stare at the ceiling before letting out a growl of frustration. "Gramps is what's up - he gave me nothing! Nothing to go on!"

"Niet?"

"Except," Rick paused. "I was aware of an odd smell - nothing I recognised."

"Perfume?"

"No - definitely not perfume. More chemical than that - not like anything I've ever come across before." He heaved himself to his feet and walked across to the bar on the far side of the room, pouring himself two fingers of malt whisky. Alex shook his head at the offer of a drink, frowning as Rick swallowed the contents down in one, grimacing as the liquor burned a trail to his stomach.

"No visuals?" Alex queried, eyes narrowed in thought.

"No, just a real nasty sense of - I don't know what - the only word that fits is - trepidation?"

Alex threw himself into a nearby armchair, drumming his fingers on the arm briefly, brow furrowed in thought. "As I see it," he glanced at his watch. "We're closing in little less than an hour - those that are staying are already safe upstairs - including Jethro and Tony. Entrances and exits will be secured, cameras all over the place - nothing will be able to get in - so I'd downgrade to a code yellow?"

Rick nodded in agreement, placing his empty glass on the desk. "Who's patrolling tonight?" He lifted a hand to the back of his neck and rolled his head around, groaning softly as the tension there melted away.

"Matt, Pete and Simon - I can have Steve stay on too - if you'd like? And - for the record - you look done in."

"Thanks," Rick let his head drop forward. "Steve's done long shifts twice this week," He pointed out with a smile as he lifted his eyes to his brother. "Let him go home - his wife's forgotten what he looks like!"

"Always the nicest boss," Alex teased rising to his feet. "Have you thought about what you're going to say to Jethro about - things?"

"He's already aware something is going on," Rick yawned, stretching his arms above his head. "But we got interrupted when Tony woke up." The clock on the wall behind Alex showed 5.10am and Rick yawned again - noisily. "And I've a feeling I'll have the chance for a word with them both - you know Gibbs and routine - when I allow it."

"Just make sure you don't leave anything out," Alex warned as he made for the door.

"What's to leave out?" Rick shot back. "All I've got is a gut feeling!"

"You know Gibbs - gut is good!"

"Most of the time," Rick murmured to himself. "I just hope to hell Gramps isn't fucking with me - if he is - he dies - again!"

*****

"Hold it right there," Gibbs held up a hand, stopping Tony in his tracks. "Haven't you forgotten something?"

Tony looked back at him expectantly and then slapped his hands to the pockets of his jeans, collected up his jacket and checked those pockets before shrugging on the butter soft black leather, tugging it straight. "No, don't think so."

Gibbs held up the thin collar he'd been wearing when they'd arrived, stepping behind his young lover and fastening it in place. "Much better," he whispered, heated breath against Tony's flesh had the younger agent tenting instantly. "Down boy - playtime later."

Tony gaped at him for a second as Gibbs unlocked and opened the door to the corridor. "I can't just - lose it on command!" Gibbs stared at the bulge visible in Tony's jeans and tilted his head, nodding approval. "Will you quit that?" Instinctively, he drew the sides of the jacket across his middle in the hope that it would cover him until he had a chance to - recover - but much to his annoyance, he realised just thinking about it made his cock hardened all the more. "Day-um!" He swore under his breath. "You know what this means, don't you?" he goaded, fixing Gibbs with his most lecherous smirk.

"I do." Gibbs sauntered across the room at a measured pace. "You have a hard on - and I'm hungry - which means - you will have to put up and shut up - deal with it - later if you have to." As if on cue, someone's stomach rumbled loudly which kind of ruined the moment - and after a staring match - and a few more tummy rumbles - Gibbs couldn't help himself and began laughing, Tony tried not to - and failed - both men wiping tears from their eyes as they tumbled through the door and made their way to the elevator - both still sniggering and both silently grateful for the respite from the intensity they'd shared only hours and minutes before.

"How's your ass?" Gibbs asked as the elevator doors hissed closed, glancing at his lover briefly.

"It's been better - but whatever's in that gel - it's done the job - I think I'll be able to sit without wincing." Tony's hand moved to his butt, pressing his fingers gently against the denim clad flesh and he could not help but let out a quiet grunt.

"You're in pain," Gibbs stated flatly. "If you can't sit down - we don't have to - "

"No," Tony held up a hand. "I'm all right - really." He smiled at the concerned look on Gibbs's face. "Honestly - Jethro - it's okay. Besides - what was it you said earlier? About liking the burn?" Gibbs made to say something but thought better of it, instead choosing to slap Tony upside the head before turning to face the elevator doors again.

"What was that for?" Tony grimaced, rubbing the back of his head.

"Just checking you're awake."

*****

The two men sauntered across the vast hall towards the bar area once again, Gibbs raising a hand in greeting to Nicky who acknowledged them with a bright smile as he poured two large mugs of coffee, placing them on the bar before him. As Tony reached for his, Nicky snatched it away, apologising quickly as he tossed the hot liquid into the sink beneath. Grateful he was able to remain standing and not have to sit on one of the tall stools, Tony looked to Nicky in question - brow furrowed.

"Hazelnut and three sugars," he grinned. "Getting sloppy in my old age."

"Nicky, Gibbs style is fine." Tony held up his hands.

"No it isn't." Nicky shook his head as he busied himself preparing another tall mug. "There you go. Enjoy." He watched the two as he continued to dry glasses with a soft cloth and then put the now shining goblet on a shelf above the cash register, throwing the cloth over his shoulder. "So how's your night been?"

Tony looked to Gibbs but Gibbs was too busy enjoying every last drop of his favourite beverage. He cupped his mug with a hand either side and leaned forward with a soft smile on his face. "It's been - an amazing journey," he nodded contentedly. "I have had the time of my life."

"Trust Jethro to push all the right buttons," Nicky smirked. "So you think you'll be back here then?"

"Try and stop me!"

Gibbs lowered his own mug, leaning forward also. "Who knows Nick - he might even start enjoying himself."

"The look on his face when you two came in here just now - said it all. Contentment written all over it." Nicky affirmed.

"I aim to please," Gibbs affirmed with a nod. "And pleasing Tony is a pleasure - and also an honour." He saluted his young lover with his mug. Tony felt himself flush at that final statement. Okay - the boss wasn't too big on handing out compliments, letting his Senior Field Agent know he'd done good - throwing out some sarcastic comment or praising some other team member instead - most of the time within Tony's hearing - but to hear Gibbs say what he just said made him feel so damned good and the smile broadened.

"So - guys." Tony turned to see Rick standing behind them and he could not help but stiffen slightly, lowering his gaze - praying he wouldn't say or do anything foolish. "You two all right?"

"Never better," Gibbs grinned. "We're doing okay."

Rick stared at Tony for a moment worrying his lower lip. "Tony?"

Tony raised his head, letting a small smile tug at the corner of his mouth. "Sorry Rick - it's just - " Rick placed a hand on his shoulder, and before Tony knew it he was being guided towards a quiet area of the bar waiting for Rick to sit before taking his own seat - carefully. Damn! His butt ached.

"What's on your mind?" Rick coaxed softly, leaning forward as he linking his fingers on the table top. Tony couldn't look directly at him, he looked at the wall behind him, the ceiling, Rick's left shoulder. Why in hell was he reacting like this - the guy was only human but Tony found himself - for some strange reason - completely in awe of him, and he knew he'd lose the power of speech if he looked into the concerned blue eyes across from him. He heaved a sigh - not so much in mild embarrassment but he could feel something stirring in his pants - again!! "Tony, look at me - it's okay."

Rick could sense the other man's uneasiness - seeping from every single fibre of his being as he tried to find the words - Tony's mouth opened, closed and opened again then he shook his head. "I - " As he finally found the courage to look Rick in the eye, he felt something - something unseen - yet so weighted lift from his shoulders, melting away as the Uber Dom graced him with a dazzling smile. Gods - he was hypnotic - Tony could feel himself almost drowning in those azure blue eyes - vaguely - somewhere he could hear Rick speaking. Swallowing nervously, he pulled in a sharp breath, relaxed his shoulders and centred himself mentally.

"Talk to me Tony - no one else is listening," Rick almost hissed, pushing both hands through his hair. "But I have to say - you are the first to react in such a - pleasing - manner - I find it incredibly sexy."

"It's the way I reacted," Tony blurted, his eyes suddenly wide. "Earlier - it was stupid - childish even - I was a brat!"

"When you woke up in my arms?" Rick asked, leaning back in his chair. "You reacted that way because of unspoken fears - a lack of understanding. You have questions - you felt guilt, you felt ashamed, you felt embarrassed," Rick smiled at him briefly. "But you know now that you're - just a normal guy who - has certain tastes."

Tony blinked at him.

"Tony, this isn't the only club of its kind," Rick explained patiently. "There are four similar clubs in Washington alone - we host at least five hundred people a night - more even - just because you like - what you've just found out you like - is no reason to feel you have to look over your shoulder because people might find out - people will only find out if you choose to tell them and I'm sure as hell telling no one."

"But how does word get out about these places anyway?" Tony asked suddenly curious.

"Word of mouth," Rick shrugged. "Internet - that kind of thing. We don't advertise - we just - are - we're here for anyone who might like to join us. We see to their needs and wants and they repay us by recommending us - and spending wads of cash too - we don't lose out and neither do our punters.

"But does anyone outside these walls know about you and your - kink?"

"To say no - would be a lie," Rick admitted. "There are certain - circles for want of a better word - let's just say - it pays to stay quiet."

"Gibbs hinted at that - something about reputations?"

"Don't even go there, Tony - just remember - you might not want word getting out about you - others feel the same way. Never question."

"I'm sorry - but earlier - Gibbs and I were talking and I just - " Tony sighed softly, linking his fingers on the table. "I told him I would like to get to know you guys better, I 'd like to come back here sometime."

"Just say the word - you're welcome anytime." Rick's eyes shone as the smile reappeared.

"But in order to do that - I just wanted to apologise unreservedly about my behaviour earlier - you're a friend of Gibbs's and I let him down - I made the two of you look like idiots."

"In that case," Rick inclined his head. "If that is what it will take - apology accepted and I want you to forget about earlier. It's over - done with - and we can move on - and you made no one look like an idiot." Rick got to his feet, holding out a hand until Tony rose also and they shook but not before Rick pulled Tony in for a brief manly hug. "And let's hear no more about it - right?"

"Man," Tony breathed, sniffing the air. "I smell pizza!"

TBC

"Tell me about Rick," Tony asked as Gibbs settled in the seat beside him, both hands around his refilled mug. Gibbs studied his lover's profile briefly, noting his eyes were following Rick's every move as the man helped Nicky tidy up the bar. Occasionally, the Uber Dom would glance in their direction and Tony's gut tightened as his skin goose pimpled all over.

"You got it bad, Dinozzo," Gibbs wrapped a hand around the back of Tony's neck affectionately, squeezing gently. "You're not the first and you certainly won't be the last."

"How does he do it?" Tony shook his head in near disbelief. "He's just so - "

"His ancestry has a lot to do with it," Gibbs offered. "Native American - direct descendent of a shaman He's playing you - and winning."

"So how come you're cool with it?" Tony turned quickly, his eyes accusing.

Gibbs stared back, his own eyes shining in amusement. "Because, you are responding to him exactly the way I did when I first saw him."

"But he said he'd never had anyone react the way I did." Tony breathed, twisting to face the bar again - his breath catching in his throat as Rick shrugged off the leather duster, flexing his tanned, toned body briefly before catching a t-shirt thrown across to him by Nicky.

He pulled it on quickly, knowing full well the young NCIS agent was watching him intently as he flipped his hair free from the collar of the shirt, shaking his head and letting his mane fall free to his shoulders again.
"I've never had anyone respond as you have tonight, Tony. You are - unique. And I'm willing to bet your pulse rate probably shot the damn roof the minute you two sat down earlier." Gibbs replied with a shrug. "I remember I had trouble breathing at my first encounter - but you get used to it - eventually."

"What if I don't want to?" Tony countered. "The guy's just oozing testosterone and sex - he's only human for crying out loud - so why do I just want to go over there -throw him on the ground and - "

"He is human - but he also has certain attributes," Gibbs glanced at his lover, smiling at the obvious confusion on the other man's face. "The three of them - together - are a lethal combination - especially in the bedroom"

"Nicky? He's a regular guy - isn't he?" Tony frowned slightly.

"Rick, Nicky and Alex are identical, Tony. But they each have their roles - Rick the Dom - Nicky the joker - comedian - although admittedly we've not seen much of that side tonight - it's been busy. Alex is the grounding force of the three - he's the - " Gibbs pursed his lips in thought for a moment. "Nah, sensible isn't the right word. He's the quiet one - watches out for the other two, he's the level headed one."

"But I don't understand - if they can all - do what Rick is doing - why don't I get that when I'm talking to Nicky?" Tony's brow knitted in question. "Does he just turn it on and off or what?"

"Will you quit with the questions, DiNozzo! Just get to know them for crying out loud - believe me - you will be pleasantly surprised, and if Nicky wanted you as bad as Rick does - he'd be turning on the - charm - and then you'd get both barrels - and not a lot of people would be able to take it."

"Rick? Wants me?" Tony gaped at him.

Gibbs nodded sagely. "The minute he saw you - the girls had to hold him back. The only thing stopping him is because you're wearing my collar - he can't touch you without my say so."

"And if I went over there now - what would happen?"

"I'd have you back upstairs so fast you wouldn't know what day of the week it was." Gibbs paused, fixing Tony with that stare. "Remember what I said about binding you to the end of the bed?"

Tony flushed, swallowing the anxiety before letting out a sharp breath. "Maybe I'll just sit here then."

"Good boy," Gibbs smirked to himself as Tony continued to watch the men at the bar.

Alex sauntered in, perching himself on a bar stool and accepting a mug of coffee from Nicky with a nod of thanks. "How long's this been going on?" He jerked his chin to Rick before swivelling round to look over to Tony and Gibbs.

"I am actually here," Rick growled, collecting up a tray of glasses and heading towards the kitchen.

"Yeah - I think Tony's got the idea - if I wasn't such a gent - I'd call you a 'ho!" Nicky chuckled. "Why don't you just strip and take him over the table?"

"I'd love to, soon." Rick shot back. "At least I've got his attention."

"He's right," Alex observed. "If you don't stop, we'll have a sea of drool in no time!"

"He's loving it!" Rick countered. He paused, lifting his head and sniffing the air curiously. "Is it just me or do I smell burning?"

"Damn!" Nick threw down the damp towel in his hands and barrelled his way past Rick to the kitchen door, shouldering his way through it and cursing loudly. "Okay!" His voice sailed back into the bar. "Pizza's off! Shit! That's hot!"

Alex slid off his stool, rounding the end of the bar and easing open the door. "Nick?" he called with a wink to Gibbs and Tony who were now standing nearby - coffee mugs in hand.

"What?" An indignant Nicky shouted back. "Ow! Fucking bastard oven - ow!"

"Need any help?" Alex peered around the door to see Nicky with his hand to his mouth, lowering it to inspect the extent of the burn from the grill.

"I'll help you in a minute!" Nicky grunted. "I'm in pain!"

"No you're not, you wuss!" Alex sighed, approaching him and grabbing his hand a little too tightly.

"Ow!"

"Nothing to see," Alex affirmed dropping said hand with a look of distaste. "So - no pizza - now what?"

"How about I slap you upside the head," Nicky growled.

"I'll slap you back - and then you'll slap me - seriously - Steve said something about burger and fries."

"Fine," Nicky spread his hands, his face set in near anger. "There's the deep frier - burgers are in the freezer - it's all yours!"

"Nick!" Alex sounded surprised, nearly stumbling as Nicky pushed past him and out of the door. "Hey, come on big guy - I'm sorry!"

He shoved open the swing door, to find four amused faces staring back at him.

"Had you going there," Nicky balled a fist in triumph.

"Yeah, very funny." Alex fumed. "I hate it when you do that!"

"And every time I do it - you always fall for it!"

"And I think this has to be the lamest one yet. But I'll be ready for the next time!"

The boys didn't take much persuading and were more than happy to leave the cooking to their guests. Gibbs had insisted they just relax - after all they'd been up all night - and then - as an after thought he realised both he and Tony had been up all night also - in the true biblical sense of course and that thought alone had him smiling to himself until his cheeks ached.

Tony had divested himself of his jacket, draping it over a chair as he bent to check on the burgers sizzling under the grill - his butt had Rick leaning forward onto the steel work surface across the room, tilting his head from side to side - the smile widening.

"Slut!" Alex hissed.

"Come on," Rick shoved a hand through his hair. "Out of ten?"

"Gotta be a nine," Nicky whispered.

"Nine point nine," Alex shrugged.

"High, tight and peachy - that's a ten."

Gibbs placed a cooling tray next to the grill and leaned in close. "They're rating your ass, Tony."

The younger man straightened up, his hands moving to his butt immediately - his cheeks flushing slightly. "No way!"

"Way," Gibbs nodded. "You should be flattered."

"I am - in a way," Tony answered. "What would you rate it?"

"Me?" Gibbs's eyebrows arched.

"Ziva gave it an eight!"

"Well, Ziva hasn't played with it as much as I have has she - she has no idea! I'd give it a nine!"

"Nine?"

"And the state it's in right now? Perfect round ten!"

Tony bent to the burgers again briefly, rising once more to face Gibbs, tongs in hand. "Just confirm something for me?"

"Sure." Gibbs turned and leaned against the work surface, arms folded across his chest.

"My butt isn't hairy is it?"

"No, Dinozzo - and given the opportunities I have had to examine said butt - I can confirm your ass is completely one hundred percent hair free."

"Thank you Boss - I will be able to sleep easy in my bed from now on."

"Not if I have anything to do with it!" Gibbs shook his head smiling.

"I meant - sleep and - all the other stuff that goes on - " Tony narrowed his eyes at Gibbs and waggled his eyebrows.

"Stop." Gibbs stated flatly.

"Shit!" Tony yanked out the grill tray as smoke alerted him to the fact his burgers were burning. "Now look what you made me do!"

"Ask you to take out a terrorist from 50 paces - not a problem," Gibbs mused. "Cook something as simple as this - and you fall at the first hurdle."

TBC….

Rick was furious! He shoved open the door from the bar to the kitchen so hard it slammed back against a steel trolley sending plates and cutlery scattering to the floor.
Stalking to where the four men were still sitting around a central workstation, he leaned both hands on the metal top and bent until his nose was inches from Nicky's.

"Why the fuck didn't you tell me Taylor was still after 'Mand?" The words grinding from between clenched teeth.

"Because she told me she could handle him - and I believed her," Nicky responded calmly, looking into his brother's eyes. "Amanda can look after herself pretty well - so I had no problem with it."

Rick sniggered but it was more a just controlled growl deep in his chest. "You had no problem?" he echoed. "That's all right then, isn't it? Nicky thinks there isn't a problem! Only - the problem is a bastard deranged hoodlum who thinks he can take what he wants when he wants it and to hell with anyone who gets in the way." Rick straightened up, shaking his head as he scuffed a hand over his face. "How long have you known?"

"Coupla months," Nicky replied with a shrug.

"A couple of months? Geez-uz Nicky - when would you have told me something was up? When she's snatched from under your fucking nose - gone in sixty seconds as Taylor steps over your damn corpse - bled out on the fucking sidewalk?"

"Come on, Rick - that's crap and you know it!" Alex was on his feet, a hand on Nicky's shoulder. "He hasn't got her - he isn't going to have her - she's still here isn't she?" The look on Rick's face was murderous as he thudded a fist onto the steel surface. "You're over-reacting bro - nothing's happened and nothing is going to happen - not now - not ever." Alex thought for a second or two. "Best plan right now is we all need to get some sleep - I'll have Jimmy run the girls home and he'll stay with them until we get there - " Rick made to say something but Alex stopped him with a raised hand inches from his face. "And if it makes you happy - they'll have the rest of the week off - and I'll arrange some more muscle to hang out with them - give it seventy two hours and Taylor'll back off - he always does."

"What does," Rick's eyes narrowed. "He always does - mean exactly?"

Nicky rolled his eyes in frustration. "Great Alex - now look what you did!" He pointed to Rick before leaning forward and covering his face with his hands.

Alex placed both hands low on his hips and shifted his weight from one foot to the other, eyes downcast briefly. "I didn't want you getting - worried," he slowly lifted his head. "But Taylor's been making - threats!"

"Oh - it's all coming out now isn't it?" Rick whispered. "What kind of threats?"

"Nothing too dramatic," Alex answered, taking his seat again.

"Maybe now would be a good time to visit the head?" Tony whispered to Gibbs. Gibbs glanced at him quickly and nodded.

"Go ahead," he said pulling his mouth down in a frown. "I'm curious to know more about this guy."

"There's nothing to know, Jethro." Nicky sat back, lifting his hands to link his fingers behind his head. "Taylor's a shmuck - and unfortunately - he's a cousin of ours - he makes a living making money in some rather dubious ways."

"Such as?"

"Extortion, drug trafficking, prostitution, kidnapping, money-laundering, attempted murder - and it just goes on." Alex counted the list off on his fingers, lifting a brow at Gibbs's thoughtful nod.

"He ever been caught?"

"He's been up before a ton of judges - but he always gets off,"

"And he's based where?" Tony asked, looking from Alex to Rick - relieved to see Rick was finally starting to calm down.

"Washington, LA, Maine and some crappy little island slap bang in the middle of the Caribbean." Nicky pushed a hand through his hair and sighed heavily. "His lawyers are so in his pocket - they're terrified of him - even more so now - he was this close to doing time for murder." He held up his thumb and forefinger, the gap between them minute. "But somehow - and to this day I still haven't figured it out - his brief managed to pull some poor guy from the street and stitched him right up - he's in Alabama state penitentiary doing life."

"Like you said," Gibbs said with an edge to his voice. "Sounds like a shmuck - and a very nasty one too - could be he needs his wings clipped?"

"Yeah," Rick snorted. "Many have tried - it's impossible."

"Maybe - but he hasn't played me yet," Gibbs leaned forward, hands around his now cold coffee mug. "I can put out feelers for you - we could nail the bastard - so hard he wouldn't know what hit him."

"Huh, Boss?" Tony gaped at him. "No - no - don't get involved - we've got our own assholes to bring in - one more is just going to - "

Gibbs turned his head - fixing Tony with the infamous stare one more time. "I didn't mean NCIS, DiNozzo - I have a word with Jen - she then puts out the word to Fornell, the CIA, FBI hell - Interpol!"

"Boss," Tony shook his head in consternation. "Don't you think that's been tried?" He looked up to see Alex and Rick shake their heads.

"He's not heavy enough for them - unless he robs a bank or something - they aren't interested in small fry." Alex slid off his stool and collected up a jug with freshly brewed coffee, pouring refills for everyone.

"He's got a list against him as long as your arm and no one is interested?" Gibbs snorted derisively. "Then you have to make them interested!"

"Jethro," Rick held up his hands. "It's good to know that you're with us on this a hundred percent - and I would like to talk to you about it some more - but it's late - we're all bushed - the delivery guys will be here soon - let's get that over and done with and hit the sack. I'll arrange to have dinner laid on down here - say - 3pm?"

Tony nodded, lifting his mug and draining it in one swallow. "Sounds like a plan."

"You're right," Gibbs stretched his arms above his head, yawning expansively. "I am bushed - "

"Hey, Jethro?" Tony slapped Gibbs lightly on the arm. "Today's - Saturday?"

"Last time I looked - why?"

"No reason - except it is now officially the weekend - we are not on call until mid week next week - which means - I can finally chill out, hang out and pass out - although not necessarily in that order." Tony chuckled. "And the more I think about it," he pursed his lips, his green eyes narrowing. "I really don't like this Taylor guy."

"I thought you didn't want to get involved," Gibbs sneered, folding his arms.

"Ah, you know me - fickle is as fickle does - maybe I'll win him over with my charm." He gave Gibbs a big goofy grin, nudging him with his elbow. "Hell, that's how I got you, Boss."

Gibbs laughed out loud at that, the three other men watching this exchange curiously.
"You - charm?" he sighed. "I don't think so - as I recall - I caught you watching my ass when I left the bullpen - following it all the way up the stairs - hell - I had a feeling you'd be following me into MTAC - the fact the Secretary of State was online wouldn't have stopped you!"

"You're right there," Tony pouted. "I could have asked her cover her eyes and her ears."

The conversation ended abruptly as the phone in Nicky's pants started to ring. He tugged it free and flipped it open, groaning when he saw the caller ID.

"Is that him?" Rick demanded, pointing to the apparatus. "Is that him?"

"Yep - you can take it - I don't think I can trust myself," Nicky handed it over, wincing as Rick snatched it from him, pressing it to his ear.

"What?" he snapped. He listened. "No, Taylor - she is not here! Get with the fucking programme - stop making out all you want is 'Mand - you're up to something." He listened again as he began to pace back and forth between the cooking range and work station. "What part of no don't you understand?" A long pause. "Taylor - name calling is so childish! Huh? Me? Okay - shithead - I am going to find you - I am going to hunt you down and I am going to remove very sensitive parts of your anatomy and I am then going to ram them so far down your throat - you won't be able to - " Another pause. "You wanna meet?" Rick glanced at the anxious faces across the room. "Sure - where and when - although - not right now - we've just closed up." Gibbs was nodding assurance as Tony helped himself to Alex's phone and began texting Abby - Abby wouldn't ask awkward questions - and anyway - she was as much into what he and Gibbs were into - he knew he could trust Abs - implicitly and without question. Okay - it was only 6am - ish - but he was sure she'd be up - hopefully. "Midnight tonight? Fine - where?" Rick couldn't help but smile. "The zoological park? First choice too - how fitting a-hole. I'll be there!" He snapped the phone shut and threw it back to Nicky.

"Did you find out anything?" Alex asked as he lowered his coffee mug.

"Apart from him reminding me that he definitely is one sandwich short of a picnic and he still can't say a sentence without swearing - not a lot. He did say something about a proposition - "

"Uh-oh," Nicky shook his head. "Not good."

"It is - in a way," Rick shrugged. "He didn't once mention 'Mand after the first few minutes."

TBC……

Tony's visit to the head was brief and as he washed up, he regarded his reflection in the vast mirror above the sink and frowned. He looked like a guy who'd been up all night - and up to no good! Hair sticking up in all directions, a smattering of stubble and bleary eyes stared back at him. He stuck out his tongue at himself and exited the bathroom whistling tunelessly between his teeth.

The deliveries had been unloaded, checked and signed for and with his and Gibbs's help - stored away in record time. Alex and Nicky took their leave of the three remaining men - Nicky to fetch Amanda and see her home safely with Jimmy - he'd be riding shotgun - just in case and Alex to meet up with his security guys for one last briefing before heading home himself.

Pushing open the door to the kitchen, Tony stepped through - his eyes scanning the room for any sign of life.

"Gibbs? Rick?" he called out. "Come on guys - now is not the time to start messing around!"

"Hey Tony," Rick raised a hand in welcome, closing the freezer door behind him as the younger man walked to the nearest stool and sat down, leaning forward onto the steel work surface. "Jethro's headed upstairs - I'm almost done here - you look like you need some shuteye."

Tony just smiled. His brain was telling him to open his mouth and say something but his throat tightened - suddenly dry as he raked his eyes over Rick's butt while the other man bent to stow away a couple of meat pans. This was getting stupid - not an hour ago he'd been fine - Gibbs at his side and there was no sign of nervousness, no inability to actually put a sentence together - no nothing and now he'd been reduced to feeling like a dumb school kid with a crush on the unreachable, the untouchable - except he already knew - all he had to do was ask - Rick wanted him - and from what he'd learned over the last couple of hours - Rick usually got.

"Look, Tony. I'm sorry about earlier - "

"Mm?"

"Me coming in here and shouting the odds to Nicky - about - Taylor. It's just - "

"No problem," Tony silently thanked the heavens as the power of speech was once again granted - although quite why his voice had shot up an octave or three left him feeling a tad ridiculous. "Family - " he coughed more to get a grip on himself. "Family - can be a burden." Yay! Now he sounded like Tony! "Most people have a skeleton hidden - hell - I should know!" Why the hell had he said that? He pushed a hand over his face, as he did so he suddenly felt a pair of massive hands - one on each shoulder - as they began a slow, steady massage leaving Tony groaning as the tension simply melted away, he let his head drop back and closed his eyes - not saying a word as Rick worked on the deep seated kinks within his upper back and neck.

As Rick's thumbs ran in rhythmic loops over his lower neck, the touch of skin on skin sent a bolt of molten fire through Tony - making him growl deep in his chest as a smile broadened across his face - his upper body swaying in time with Rick's massage.

"Good," Rick said soothingly. "You're finally starting to relax."

"Am I ever!" Tony murmured almost to himself. "You're good at this."

"Thanks."

A feeling of peace began to seep through the young agent - a calmness that began at his head - his mind beginning to settle - uneasiness slid away, taking with it that slight panic that had been threatening to overcome him. He'd faced guns - bombs - he'd been ko'd, poisoned, punched and everything else that went with a being a field agent - but nothing in the world could have prepared him for what he felt when he had first set eyes on the man still at his back - and five minutes ago he would never have imagined he'd be sitting here with - he still could not find the words to describe Rick - maybe he never would - did he care? Did he heck anymore!

"Back with me?" Rick whispered softly.

"Uh-huh."

"Tony, I need to take off the collar - I can't work with it in place - may I remove it?" He felt Tony stiffen slightly under his hands and smiled to himself. "It's okay - it'll be off for five minutes - no more."

"I don't think Gibbs'd be happy, Rick. He asked me to wear it for a reason and for you to take it off - it'd be - wrong." Tony swallowed heavily, his fingers clasping the silver ring at his throat. "I've defied him enough tonight - and besides - I can't lie to him - he'd know you'd unbuckled it - even if you did put it back."

"Does he frighten you?" Rick continued his ministrations, his voice taking on a silken steel tone.

"Sometimes," Tony admitted.

"I mean - tonight - last night." Rick pressed. "Was there a time when you wanted it all to just stop - and just fall asleep?"

Tony closed his eyes as images began flashing across his mind - brief visuals - summaries of what had passed between the two lovers. He pulled in a deep breath and shook his head. "No," he said firmly. "Not for a nano second. It was - weird in a way."

"How so?"

"It was as though Jethro knew just how far to push me - he knows exactly what my limits are - he knows when to push but he also knows when to call time out, if that makes sense?" Tony stretched his neck from side to side, suppressing a yawn behind his hand.

"A good Dom can read his sub like a book," Rick nodded. "I understand you didn't safe word on him once - and for a first time out - that is an achievement." Tony leaned forward again, away from Rick's hands as he linked his own fingers on the work surface. Rick sat down opposite him, a look of concern on his face as he lifted Tony's chin with a finger. "What's wrong?"

"I - what you just said - Jethro told you about the safe word?"

"Yes, he did. I didn't ask, he volunteered it." That old chestnut was beginning to bubble up inside Tony. He wanted privacy - he didn't want Gibbs discussing what went on - not yet anyway - not to anyone. He cursed himself silently, remembering the conversation he'd had with his lover earlier - he wasn't a pervert - he was just a guy who had a kink. "He told me because he is very, very proud of you - and that's all he said - you didn't safe word on him although there were many times he really thought you would - but you hung in there, Tony - you took your pleasure and punishment with the same degree of composure and confidence."

"So the fact I was crapping myself - "

"Doesn't come into it," Rick snickered, shaking his head. "That's allowed - a degree of fear is to be expected - you faced him head on - you had ample chance to leave but you chose to stay."

"I couldn't walk out on Jethro - he - we've been planning this for weeks." Tony lifted tired eyes to Rick's azure gaze. "I can't and will never - let him down. I owe him too much to do that to him, Rick - and right now - I can't imagine life without him."

"I don't think he can either," Rick offered.

Tony's fingers were back at the ring at his throat. "I belong to him - I want to belong to him," he whispered. "I've gone through some - stuff - last night - and I want it all again - this soon!! Is that greedy?"

"No," Rick slid off his stool, pacing the short distance to the nearest fridge, pulling open the door and collecting up two bottles of water. "It's the adrenalin rush - once you're back in his arms, spooned together - you'll be out like a light, trust me - been there done that."

Tony yawned again, stretching his arms above head and rolling his head around. He pulled the water bottle close and twisted off the lid. "Man - I so need my bed."

"Me too," Rick saluted him with his own bottle. "Just need to take out the trash and we're done. Wanna give me a hand?"

"Sure thing - lead the way."

*****

The area out back was deserted except for an SUV and a couple of other cars belonging to the security patrol guys. These were all facing a high brick wall opposite the kitchen entrance. To the right, through a wire fence, the car park of the small office block next door and to the left a further wall flanked a wide alley leading to the street. The huge red trash dumpsters were up against the wire fence, lids down.

"Watch the door, Tony." Rick warned as he collected up two bags in each hand. "Don't let it slam shut - it'll jam."

"Got it." Tony nodded, grabbing two bags himself.

"Remind me to remind Alex to fix the damn thing!" Rick called over his shoulder. A cursory glance up at the camera fixed high on the wall facing the doors had the Uber Dom groaning, the red light wasn't flashing. "And also fix that damn lens!"

"Gonna be a beautiful day," Tony said, standing still for a moment to enjoy the warmth of the sun on his face, eyes narrowed against the glare. "Shame I'm going to be otherwise engaged."

"You and me both," Rick commented as he passed the young agent on his way back inside.

Tony turned with him with a look of curiosity - surely he didn't mean - could he? Nah! Now he really was daydreaming.

"No," Rick smiled as he reappeared with more trash bags. "Accountants."

Tony's cheeks flushed slightly and he lowered his head for a second to cover his embarrassment. How did Rick do that? He shook his head and paced across to toss his bags into the dumpster, slapping his hands together briefly as he followed Rick for the last load.

Shouldering his way through the exit door a final time, Rick held it open for Tony who nodded thanks as he edged past him, bags in hand. He stood on the threshold for a moment, his mind - once again - rating Tony's ass - Nicky was right - he so was a 'ho. His smile broadened only to vanish instantly as he inadvertently kicked the door closed - concentrate on the job in hand - not that peachy butt - he told himself. "Damn!" he cursed, quickly getting rid of the last of the garbage and returning to the door. He punched in the code and twisted the knob - nothing. He tried again - cancelled the last code - punched in the code - nothing! Of course, Rick could have opened the door without a problem - but with Tony at his back, he didn't particularly want to freak him out by just waving his hand over the metal buttons and letting the door open of its own accord - in that context - the young man was under probation for the foreseeable future.

"Couldn't we - use the front door?" Tony suggested, pushing the buttons on the code lock himself as Rick told him the numbers.

"We'll have to," Rick reached around to his back pocket and swore loudly. "Damn keys are in the kitchen." He checked again and sighed. "I should tell you - Alex is keeping a tally of how many times this happens to me - and each time - he gets worse."

They took their time. At this time of day, the alleyway was flooded with sunlight - it was cool but without a cloud in the sky the promise of a warm day lay ahead.

"Might even do some barbecuing tonight," Rick stated thoughtfully.

"Out back?"

"No - roof." Rick pointed upwards. "We have a roof garden and terrace - Nicky wanted to turn the space into a swimming pool, hot tub and Jacuzzi - until I showed him some quotes - he soon changed his mind."

"Is there anything you guys haven't thought of?"

"Plenty," Rick chuckled. "We are thinking of setting up satellite clubs in other cities - maybe another here in DC - different themes of course - this place isn't to everyone's taste."

"To each his own," Tony smiled, glancing at Rick's strong profile as they neared the street. Cars could be seen passing, a couple of people also - on their way to work or the gym and in the far distance the faint sound of police sirens. This end of the alley was covered with a tarred roof that leaked when it rained but no sunlight could penetrate.

"You only have to ask," Rick said softly, stopping in his tracks and turning to face Tony.

"Ask? What?" Tony stared into the handsome face trying to read something there but Rick remained passive, the hint of a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. Damn! His stomach rolled as the hairs on the back of his neck tickled. This man is just so perfect - he's - he's -

Any further thoughts were instantly gone as Rick leaned in close, lapping Tony's lips gently - almost tentatively - as though testing him. As his tongue begged entry, Rick snickered quietly at the sounds Tony made at the back of his throat - a plaintive mewling sound that had Rick rock hard.

Dear God in Heaven! Tony's entire being thrummed as the kiss deepened, he brought up a hand to cup the back of Rick's head while his other hand rested on the side of Rick's neck, his thumb stroking the other man's jaw as they explored each other's mouths, tongues warring as Rick wrapped strong arms around Tony, pulling him close.

Tony was boneless - he'd known intense, passionate kisses but this was something else! There was a fire within the man in his arms - an aura that lit up his whole persona - and Tony was feeding off it - he felt guilt too - but only briefly - as that reassuring calmness began flowing through him again - leaving him breathless as Rick finally released him.

All Tony could do was whimper in response and after an agonizing few seconds, Rick captured his mouth once more.

Suddenly, Rick's body jerked slightly and he stiffened in Tony's arms as a low moan escaped his lips before he slumped to the ground unconscious! Tony was on his knees beside him instantly, grimacing at the sight of the small feathered dart sticking out of the side of Rick's neck. He checked for eye reflex - breathing a sigh of relief as the pupils reacted. He turned quickly, scanning what he could see of the street - the dart had to have come from there - somewhere! He turned back to check on Rick one more time, totally oblivious to the sound of a car engine slowing down and nearing footsteps, when something hit him on the back of the head - something hit him so hard and he collapsed onto his side, rolling onto his back with a soft sigh. Greyness clouded the edges of his vision - he was aware of voices, strong hands grabbing him - he made a token gesture of a struggle but a punch to the gut soon put paid to that.

"What about this one?" said a deep voice to his left.

He was aware of a hand cupping his chin, moving his head from side to side but all he could see - all he could remember was a pair of very large sunglasses.

"Mm," said Sunglasses. "Pretty boy isn't he? Must be Rick's latest conquest - bring him too!"

A final blow to the head and Tony was manhandled into the back of an unmarked black van at the end of the alley, Rick thrown in beside him as the van doors were slammed shut - the stench of burnt rubber the only sign of the van ever having been there.


TBC…..

As the black van sped past the doors of the club, Matt the security guy glanced through the smoked glass from his seat behind the front desk, shaking his head at the noise of the tyres and the repeated blows on the horn. "Damn motorists, I am so glad I use public transport."

"Talking to yourself again, Matty - sign of madness," Pete waggled a finger at him.

"At lease I'm sure of a sensible conversation," Matt replied, looking smug. "Where's Boss Man?"

"Which one?" Pete goaded with a grin. "Rick was in the kitchen last I saw him - Alex is in there." Pete jabbed a finger across the hall to Rick's office. "Nicky headed home for the night with 'Mand."

"In which case, I may as well get him to sign these," Matt held up a wad of invoices. "He won't like it - but it's gotta be done."

"I thought you could forge his moniker."

"And got a slap on the wrist for it - damn accountants - too observant for their own good. And it isn't forgery when you "pp" a sig - got it?"

"Woah," Pete stepped back as Matt rounded the desk. "Sorry."

"Yeah - well - just watch it." Matt made to slap Pete upside the head when they both heard what sounded like something heavy hitting the floor. "What in hell was that?"

"Came from the office." Pete put a finger to his lips as he slid his Sig from its holster - signalling for Matt to take up position to the right of the door. Holding up a hand, Matt counted down from three and the door was shoved open as both men went low, guns ready.

A cursory glance showed nothing out of place, until Pete spotted an outstretched arm on the floor behind the desk.

"We're clear in here," Pete said lowering his weapon as he made his way across the room. "Call 911," he demanded as he bent to turn an unconscious Alex onto his back, easing hair from his face. "He's breathing!"

"What the fuck happened?" Matt asked with wide eyes as he waited impatiently for the operator to pick up.

"Looks like he just fainted or something," Pete lifted Alex's left eyelid and peered closely as the pupil reacted. "I think he may just have banged his head - "

"Not 911 - m'okay," Alex mumbled as he struggled to raise himself onto his elbows. "Matt - don't." The phone was placed back on its rest.

"Boss - are you sure you're okay - you look kinda - "

"Where's Rick?" Alex demanded, a hand moving to the back of his head and he winced as he brushed a bump that felt the size of a goose egg.

"Kitchen." Pete helped him up as Matt moved the desk chair closer and Alex sat down, head in hands.

"How long ago?"

"A half hour - maybe longer," Pete shrugged.

"Pete - Matt." Alex lifted his now throbbing head and looked from one to the other and back again. "I need you to think - I need you to be precise - how long ago did you last see Rick?"

Pete and Matt exchanged looks of concern until Pete spoke up. "I did my prelim check at 6.45 - which means I'd have reached the kitchen approximately 6.55 and I definitely remember hearing Rick in there - he was with that new guy - Tony."

"And after that?" Alex accepted a glass of brandy with smile of thanks. "I need to know where Rick went - if anywhere."

"He did say something about taking out the trash, Boss. If he said anything else - I didn't get it - sorry." Pete shrugged.

"No, don't be - don't be. Get me Nicky - tell him - " Alex rose to his feet, a little unsteady at first and finally decided it might be better to sit down - for now. "No, leave that to me - where's Tony?"

"Haven't seen him," Matt stated with a frown. "Is there something you're not telling us Boss?"

"I can't tell you anything - yet. Not until I have facts - but right now I have a very difficult task ahead - checking on Jethro without waking him."

"You won't have to," Jethro said from the doorway, holding a cell phone to his ear. "Jimmy - calm down - I'll put Alex on." The cell flew through the air, Alex catching it deftly.

"Jim - Alex - talk to me!"

As the older man stepped further into the room, Matt walked level to look him straight in the eye. Gibbs stared back - and Matt dropped his gaze after a full ten seconds.

"Something on your mind?" Gibbs asked with a wry smile, his eyes tracking Alex who was pacing up and down, whispering into the cell

"What's going on?" Pete asked for Matt.

"Why should I know what's going on?" Gibbs shrugged. "He's the Boss - not me."

"You two - out. I'll fill you in shortly. Jethro - please - take a seat." Alex ushered the two guards out into the hallway and closed the door - leaning on it as though his life depended on it.

"You look like crap," Gibbs observed with a furrowed brow. "What's up?"

Alex pulled in a deep breath and lowered his head to his chest - lifting it slowly as he returned to the chair behind the desk. "Jimmy's at the house - for some reason - Nicky and I both passed out at the same time - Rick isn't in the building - in any shape or form - " Gibbs understood immediately what Alex meant by that and simply nodded.

"But you are both okay?"

"Yeah - I am, Amanda's with Nicky - he took quite a clout to the head but he's been checked out and he'll be fine."

"Maybe Rick's just gone for a walk or something?" Gibbs offered after a heavy silence.

"No, Jethro." Alex shook his head, leaning back in his chair wearily. "It's not that simple - what I mean is." He paused, letting his head fall back and then stretched his neck from side to side. "Rick's - nowhere - I'm getting nothing up here." He tapped the side of his head. "Neither is Nicky - when I - when we passed out - we both felt exactly the same thing."

"I don't think I'm going to want to hear this," Gibbs said warily.

"It's not a bullet if that's what you mean - we both said the same word at the same time - tranquiliser dart."

"Which means he was taken against his will which is - in effect - kidnapping so why in hell aren't you on the damn phone to the police right now?" Gibbs was on his feet, leaning on the desktop with his nose inches from Alex's.

"Because we have a good idea whose got him." Alex answered, matching Gibbs's stare.

"Go on - don't keep me in suspense!" Gibbs growled.

"Has to be Taylor. He's the only one dumb enough to take Rick out in broad daylight - his goons aren't exactly college types - but to do that - Rick had to have let his guard down. He must have been distracted."

"Must he?"

Alex sat back, weighing up in his mind whether he could actually tell Gibbs just what a distraction it had been - Rick had been kind enough to send the merest hint of what he and Tony were up to in the alley - before he was cut off. Despite a throbbing head, common sense prevailed and Alex only admitted to the two men being together on their way back from dumping the trash when the attack had happened.

Gibbs's gut rolled - and kept rolling. He straightened up, running both hands over his face before staring at Alex in disbelief. "He's got Tony too?"

"Come with me!" Alex was on his feet and pacing to the door, snatching up the large bunch of keys as he passed them on the small table nearby. "You two," He barked at Pete and Matt at the front desk. "I want someone round here now to fix the code lock on the back door - and when Bill gets in - I want the camera in the car park fixed - I don't care how much, how long - just get it done ASAP, I want them all checked and double checked - and when you're done - check them again!!"

"On it Boss!" They chorused, which made Gibbs smile - for a tenth of a second.

******

Gibbs squatted down near the ground, at the edge of the alley. "Can't see a fucking thing - got a torch?" Alex tossed one to him and he shone the beam into the gravel and weeds at the base of the wall. Turning slowly, facing into the alley he stared hard at something for a second and then reached out carefully and picked up a feathered dart and peered at it closely.

"There's the MO, nasty." He dropped it into Alex's hand.

"And here's proof the shit did take Tony," Alex handed Gibbs a single silver ring - the three link chain still attached. "From the look of it - it was wrenched off."

"And there are certain parts of your dear cousin I intend wrenching off - without the aid of anaesthetic." Gibbs spat.

"Join the queue, Jethro - it gets longer by the hour."

"Ya think, Alex?" Gibbs sneered, facing up the younger man. "Hell, I'll just elbow my way to the front - if the bastard so much as touches a hair on Tony's head - I will kill him - very slowly and very painfully - I won't leave very much for anyone else."

"Didn't think you would," Alex rested a hand on Gibbs's shoulder. "But we have a job to do and threats of retribution right now won't help. Nicky's on his way over so we'll be able to come up with some kind of plan."

"I have a plan," Gibbs said as the two made their way back inside. "We drive up to his front door - we don't bother knocking - we take out his goons - find those two - slap Taylor around a bit before handing him over to the authorities and we're done. Then I get onto Madam Director - and she'll see to it that Taylor is stitched up so fucking tight he'll be doing time until the day he rots!"

"Jethro, I know you're upset but - " Alex closed the office door behind him once more.

"But what Alex?" Gibbs asked, his eyes mocking. "The best thing that ever happened to me has been snatched from me - he's in the hands of a psychotic slime ball who might just stop at nothing to get what he fucking wants and you think I'm upset - ask me again when I've got the bastard in my sights!"

"You love him a lot don't you?" Alex asked calmly, pulling Gibbs to him in a manly hug.

"I don't think I've ever loved anyone this much - he's my life Alex, he's the reason I have for my very existence. I really didn't understand what it meant when they say your heart is full to bursting - but I do now - I love DiNozzo more than life itself, Alex. If anything happened to him - "

"Look at it like this then," Alex guided him back to his armchair. "If this was a case - would you be thinking what you just said?"

"I do every time."

"And he's gotten himself into some pretty nasty situations before now hasn't he?"

"Yeah,"

"So, this is another case and as always - yes - you'll worry - you'll be concerned - you'll be flying off the handle every now and again - but you have to do what you always do when he's on his own."

"And what's that?" Gibbs sounded flippant but Alex knew deep down he didn't mean it - it was just Gibbs's way. "Believe that he's coming back - he's surprised you enough in the past - we will find him - and we will find my brother."

Then it hit Gibbs - like a fist to the gut. "Alex - I am so sorry. I was so wrapped up in my own - problem - I never even thought to ask - "

"Fortunately," Alex smiled at him warmly. "We know who we're dealing with - and if I were to say - Rick and DiNozzo are somewhat alike."

"Alike? Those two?" Gibbs chuckled to himself.

"Fine - look at it this way - imagine the bullpen when Tony's on one of his attention seeking drives - " He raised his eyebrows as Gibbs groaned, rolling his eyes and nodding.

"I usually fix that by sending him to do a ton of filing - not forgetting the slap upside the head."

"Right," Alex was smiling. "Keep that in mind and imagine twice the pain - Tony and Rick - in stereo. Taylor will be only too glad to hand them over!"

As their laughter died down, Gibbs was grateful to Alex - man - the guy was just too sensible for his own good but he'd done good - again.

*****

"And who the fuck is this guy anyway?" Taylor stared down at Tony's still form on the floor in the middle of a large basement cell - Rick lying beside him.

"From the look of these - he is most certainly Rickie Boy's new slut." Taylor snatched the photographs from his henchman and peered at them closely. "Could be anyone - night time lenses are not the most proficient.

"Maybe not, but a bit of cleaning up on a computer and you get these." Another stack of pictures was handed over - only this time - they were crystal clear.

"Oh - now that is just perfect. You took his prints?" He pressed a booted foot into Tony's side, making the unconscious man moan softly. Taylor worried his lower lip for a second before turning to face the smaller man at his side.

He towered over him - grazing just over six foot two, long dark wavy hair hanging down to beneath his shoulder blades, his deep blue eyes flashed fire as his mouth twisted into some semblance of a smile, white teeth flashing as a hand quickly rose - as though to strike the little man but instead the fingers ran around the so neatly trimmed black moustache and goatee. Dressed impeccably - as always - in black leather pants and boots, a skin skimming t-shirt of deep amethyst under a long leather duster - he was an impressive sight but where his cousins were muscular without being muscle bound - Taylor worked out - hard - it didn't matter where - the gym or the bedroom - gym three times a day - sex five times a day - whenever and wherever!

"I did - and - let's just say - I'll hand you the result and leave while you read it." The weasel faced, balding man suggested, his grey eyes fearful

"Why on earth would you want to do that? You'll stay right there and tell me who he is. - and if I feel the need to snap your neck - so be it." He shrugged.

"It would be better if you read, sir. Honestly."

"Fuck off then," Taylor barked. "And send Lane and Morgan down here - they've got some work to do!"

"Yes, sir. Immediately sir"

Taylor didn't hear him - instead he glanced up briefly and then positioned himself beneath the single light bulb hanging from a piece of purple flex in the ceiling and held up the paper.

He read. He re-read it and then balled the paper into his fist, trying hard not to kick out at Tony's head in his rage and frustration.

"I have a Federal Agent in my hands - I have a fucking Fed - a fucking CSI! What the blind buggery is SICN anyway?" This last question directed at Tony as he pulled his foot back, smiling at the sound of cracking bone, as the boot connected with Tony's ribs.

He fumed silently for a second or two and then exited the cell. He stood completely still for a further few moments - before throwing his head back.

"DISAPPOINTED!!" He yelled as he stomped back up the steps, slamming the door behind him. "I WANT BLOOD!"

Morgan shuddered at the sound of Taylor's voice just around the corner. He caught Lane's arm and leaned in close. "He wants blood - if I give him a knife, think he'd slash his own throat?"

"Don't fucking tempt me, Morgan." Lane hissed back. "Although, I'll hold him down and you can do the honours."

"Okay - thug mode Lane, we have work to do."

"Thug mode it is, Morgan. I love this job!"

TBC……

Rick's eyes cracked open slowly, a low groan escaping his lips as his right hand explored his face for damage - not that he was expecting any but it didn't hurt to check anyway. His mouth was dry, his head pounded and he ached like hell!

He forced himself to remain calm even though every fibre of his being was screaming at him that this was all wrong! Where in hell was he? Why in blue blazes had he suddenly woken up from what he already knew was a drug induced slumber - the after effects still thumping around his system - leaving him heavy headed and unable to even put one coherent thought in front of the other. One minute he'd been - he frowned, resting both hands over his face as he tried to recall where he'd been - and as his hands fell away to rest on his stomach - he paled, swallowing audibly as it all came rushing back.

He'd been - kissing Tony - he thudded a fist into the mattress beneath him, cursing under his breath as his eyes slammed shut as the extent of how his - curiosity - had gotten the better of him - and placed an innocent person in serious danger. So lost had he been - they had both been - in those first precious moments as they tentatively explored each other's mouths. He recalled flashing a little of the scene to Alex - and then - nothing! He'd promised himself he would never do it - he never had - although in the past temptation had been there - but for that one split second - the second he knew he had to know what it really would be like to taste Tony - he'd let his guard down - immersing himself in Tony's unique scent, the feel of their bodies pressed so close together, burgeoning lengths twitching in tenting pants - the warmth of Tony's hands at the back of his head, the side of his neck. He remembered breaking the kiss - leaving Tony bereft and - oh so wanting - that tiny sound the young agent made - a mewled plea for more - and Rick - being Rick - had to go back for seconds didn't he - yeah - didn't he!

Almost without realising it, the fingers of his left hand were ghosting over the skin of his throat. He was aware of a mild stinging sensation - not a bee sting - not even an insect bite - and he soon found a tiny raised area and his fears were confirmed. He'd been darted! He closed his eyes again - berating himself at being so - being so - fucking dumb!

He was staring at a stark white ceiling, daylight flooding the room from a small window high above his head in the wall to his right - immediately above him as he lay on the bunk shoved tight against the whitewashed brickwork. His abs crunched as he lifted his upper body from the bunk to sit completely still as the dizziness slowly dissipated, leaving him somewhat breathless as his heart thudded in his chest, the pain in his head now settling right behind his eyes.

It was only now he realised something else was wrong - very wrong and cold tendrils of apprehension began to blossoming from the centre of his gut, causing him to catch his breath against a panic threatening to overwhelm him. Something very familiar was missing - something so integral to his being, he barely noticed it a lot of the time - like a piece of the jigsaw was missing.

Centering himself quickly - pushing away all other emotions and sensations still washing over him - he reached out - with his mind. Sending thoughts away into the ether - breathing in through his nose and out through pouting lips - he traversed that which only he - and his brothers - could. All dimensions - yet only one dimension - a myriad dimensions of time and space - all at the same time - he sought out only a connection with Alex and Nicky. A connection so familiar to him he could do it blindfold - a gesture so second nature to all three - so automatic and yet - now - as he
negotiated the all too familiar paths towards his goal - it dawned on him what he was missing.

Rick had joked about it with Alex one day - comparing their ties a little simply - but it did provide an adequate description. He knew his brothers were around even if he couldn't see them or hear them - he could feel them. It was like a tickle at the base of his skull - inside the skull not an annoyance - more a reassurance, a comforting reminder to all three of them of their ancestry - of their uniqueness - of their togetherness.

And now - even that was gone!

"Fuck! You are one stupid son of a bitch!" he hissed to himself as further memories slammed into his mind, leaving him reeling. "It's not just about you - you were with - oh shit! If I screw this up - " Not daring to even utter Tony's name - he turned quickly to scan the room and a wave of relief shuddered through him when he spied the younger man lying prone on a similar bunk against the back wall. "Don't be dead - don't be fucking dead, Tony! Don't you dare do this to me!"

He eased himself to his feet, trying desperately to ignore the renewed dizziness that sent him to his knees and forward onto his hands, his head lowered as the throb behind his eyes doubled - leaving him gasping in agony.

Once he'd regained some semblance of control, he lifted his head once more and began to crawl - hand over hand - towards Tony not knowing what might have happened to him - praying to whoever or whatever might be listening that he would be all right. Sweat beaded his brow, glistening on his upper lip as his tongue swiped around his dry lips - moistening them briefly before another stab of pain left him trembling in the middle of the room. "Don't fail him, Rick!" he growled. "You got him into this - you have to get him out!" His vision began to blur, black and white merging into a greying vista but he continued crawling. "Have to - don't - " Those last words left his lips in a soft whisper as blackness slipped inward, spiralling Rick downward - and he collapsed - the fingers of his left hand twitching for a second as though trying to will his still body to continue trying to reach Tony and then - as his eyelids fluttered closed - even they stilled.

****

As his right arm fell off the edge of the bunk Tony jerked to full wakefulness and wished he hadn't. Pain blossomed behind his eyelids as the fire in his side redoubled its effort to kill him as he pulled himself onto his side - a cry of agony told him that was the wrong side and he slumped back onto the mattress - his chest heaving for air - even if all he could manage were short sharp pants right now.

Somehow - he had no idea how he did it - but he was now on his knees - bent double with both arms wrapped around his torso, head forward over his knees nearly touching the floor as his ribs protested with renewed vigour. He lifted his head slowly, staring at the collapsed Uber Dom in front of him.

"Rick?" Tony hissed sharply, wincing against the agony in his side. "Rick - for fuck's sake!" He was at Rick's side, deciding against even attempting to lift the larger man or even turn him onto his side, settling instead to shuffle round and just sit beside him, a hand carding the fallen man's hair from his face. "What happened to us?" he whispered, not that he could forget - he'd been conscious until that last blow to his head but he just needed to hear a voice - any voice right now - even if it was his own, occasionally interspersed with incoherent mutterings from Rick. "I don't understand what the hell is going on Rick, but I do know I need you awake!" Tony pleaded softly of the room in general. He reached out, pressing two fingers to Rick's carotid in his neck - a sigh of relief escaping him briefly, the simple movement leaving him grimacing until his ribs settled again. "And while we're at it," he smiled down at the prone figure. "When you finally decided to open your eyes - I don't want you blaming yourself because I'm here - what happened, happened. We're in this together and we are going to have to depend on each other to get out of this - somehow - and I can't do this alone Rick," he reached out a hand and wrapped it around the back of Rick's neck to knead the flesh gently - in the vain hope it might just rouse him.

Despite his air of general confusion, and deliberately keeping his back to the single camera he had spied high on the wall just to the left of the door - Tony was listening - keenly - for any sound. He judged the room to be at least fifteen foot square - and maybe just as high. Painted a stark white with little detail except two army issue bunks, the window to his right was too high even for him to get a peek outside - not that he could have if he'd tried. The main door was an unsympathetic metallic grey affair with a single lock and a flap at the centre of the bottom ten inches - possibly to admit food and water.

"What did they hit you with?" he mused as he wrapped both arms around his torso again and struggling to sit upright in such away that put less strain on his aching side. "How did they know how to take you out, Rick? Why would they want to take you out? If it is Taylor behind all this - " But even as he was whispering out loud - in his head - one image kept recurring - Gibbs - and that stare - but this time - not accusing, not angry - just so disappointed!

Shit! Gibbs! Tony's stomach knotted almost painfully. What the fuck was he going to tell Gibbs? How in hell do you tell someone you got snatched because you were caught kissing the fucking target right outside the very club he'd been so eager to introduce you to in the first place?

He swiped a hand across his forehead - surprised to find he was sweating despite the cool of the air in their white prison - he wiped the hand dry on the leg of his jeans and sighed heavily, a hand scuffing Rick's hair. And it was then that Tony knew Rick was slowly coming to.

His breathing changed - just a little - slightly faster and the fingers of his left hand twitched as it balled into a fist.

"Hey," Tony pressed a hand to his back, preventing the bigger man from moving too quickly. "Don't rush it, Rick. You took quite a battering."

"Don't you think I know that?" Rick replied, managing to raise his torso onto his elbows. "You okay?" He hung his head, groaning quietly until the room stopped spinning.

"I'll live - a couple of cracked ribs - I think."

"I'm sorry I got you into this," Rick was on his knees now, both hands at the back of his neck as he rolled his head in one direction, then the other, squinting at Tony as he did so. "You look like shit."

"So you've not looked in a mirror recently, then." Tony retorted as he clumsily got to his feet, a hand stretched out to the man kneeling before him. The grip was firm as Rick rose - a little unsteadily - but grateful for the shoulder as Tony guided him over to the bunk he'd only recently vacated.

"Did you see anything?" Rick said as he shuffled back on the mattress until his back was against the wall.

"All I remember is you going down - then something hit me on the back of the head - I saw stars." Tony spread his hands and shrugged. "And a huge pair of sunglasses."

"Navigators?"

"Bigger - they looked ridiculous!"

Rick snorted, nodding to himself. "So you've met Taylor then - "

"Only for a couple of seconds - it all went black."

"Count yourself lucky." Rick mused. "It all goes downhill from here and Gibbs is going to be so pissed off with me too - all in all a good day."

Tony twisted his head around. "Gibbs? Yeah - " He held a hand up at chest level, palm down and waggled it. "Like a comet leaves a crater - but I'm as much to blame."

"No," Rick shook his head. "I should've known better than to - unspoken rule Tony - never mess with another Dom's sub - no matter how much you want to."

"What about if the sub was just as curious - and kind of initiated - what happened anyway." Tony lifted a brow in question. "What if I wanted it to happen?"

Rick stared at him for a second. "You wanted it to happen?" he echoed carefully. "Tony, Gibbs told me he'd instilled all the rules and sub rules before you began this exploration of your - other side - last night - weeks ago, like his marine rules - he had you counting them off on your fingers." Rick sat up straighter, arms folded across his chest. "The fact that you didn't stop yourself is tantamount to - "

"Tantamount to nothing Rick," Tony licked his lips as he considered carefully what he wanted to say next. A cursory glance at the man beside him more than made up his mind. "Look," he ventured. "I'll just come right out and say this - and then it's said - you can hit me - shout - thump me - whatever - but I need you to hear this." Rick blinked back at him slowly, a smile creasing the corners of his lips. "Okay?"

"Okay," Rick shrugged.

"When I saw you last night - in the bar - that first time - do you know the effect you were having on me?" Tony fixed him with a stare a la Gibbs.

"I might, but I'll let you tell me." Rick affirmed.

"I really don't think I have ever seen such a - such a dominating, arousing, beautiful man - the way you just swaggered into the room - but what really did it for me - you were at the bar - and the way you looked at me, Rick - I felt like I was drowning."

Rick said nothing, only the smile broadened.

"And then - something really strange happened." Tony paused, wondering if it was really all right to continue - but he needed to say this - to try and understand what the hell had been going on. "You made me feel like a school kid - I lost the power of speech - thought - I was like some - "

"Like a guy on his first outing as a sub - and what didn't help was Gibbs introducing me to you as the Uber Dom - you've known Gibbs as your Dom all this time - but believe me - I am no better than Jethro - I am not some Greek God tempting all and sundry - the whole setting, the club - it's all there to add to the experience for the patrons - except it's run by three guys who happen to be brothers - who are all into - kink - per se - and the Dom role kinda fell to me. I learned from the best, Tony. I don't pretend I am the best - I enjoy what I do and I am learning all the time - it's a little science, psychology - that kind of thing - but please - take me off that pedestal you've got me on - we're equals."

"But - "

"Tony - ssh," Rick silenced him with a finger to his lips. "Although - once we're outta here - I'm going to have to see if Jethro is willing to part with you - for a night - at least."

Tony bit down an immediate response as his stomach knotted at that last statement and smiled. "Jethro told me - he trusts you with his life," he said. "And I think I would too."

"Jethro's a good man - in many, many ways Tony. You - are a very lucky man to have him as a lover and friend." Rick reached out and squeezed Tony's shoulder lightly. "And don't worry - we will get out of this - I promise you."

"I know, Rick. I know."

TBC…..

"How are you holding out?" Rick asked as Tony carefully shifted around on the bunk until he too was sitting with his back to the wall.

"I've had better days," Tony managed to raise a smile but the speed with which it vanished had Rick's mind made up.

"I'm sure you have," he chuckled. "Lie down and let me check you out."

"Rick - no - I'm all right - really." Tony tried to protest as Rick slid off the mattress, pulling himself to his full height - an "oh yeah?" expression on his face. "Fine!" Tony lay down - albeit carefully as Rick knelt beside him.

"Not the best patient are you?" Rick grinned. "Does this hurt?"

"Holy fuck - no!" Tony hissed between clenched teeth, his breathing erratic as renewed pain slammed through him. "Didn't feel a thing!"

Rick shushed him with a shake of his head as he gently prodded and poked his way over Tony's side. "At a guess - three ribs - cracked but not broken."

"And that's supposed to make me feel better?" Tony sounded sarcastic, but Rick knew it was only his way of hiding the real pain he was surely in.

"No, just stating a fact." Rick shifted about briefly before lifting his fingers to his lips and blowing on them gently. Tony watched him curiously, brows knitted together.

"What are you doing?" he asked tentatively.

"Not a lot - just lie still and this won't take long," Rick offered as he placed his hands onto Tony's side wincing with the younger man at his touch. "You're braver than you're making out, DiNozzo." He noted with a quick glance at Tony. "If it had been me I'd have been screaming for morphine by now."

"All part of my job," Tony chuckled and then groaned. "I've taken my fair share of shit - "

"I'm serious," Rick growled. "So shut up and let me do this."

Moments later, Tony was staring at the Uber Dom as though he was some kind of alien - his mouth opened, then closed and opened again. "What the hell did you do?" he breathed.

"Fixed you," Rick smiled warmly. "Ribs as good as new."

Tony sat up - ready for the pain - but when none was forthcoming, he lifted his head and stared into Rick's eyes - searching them for some kind of answer as his own grew hooded with uncertainty. "How did you do that?"

"A knack," Rick slapped Tony's legs off the bunk and sat down, elbows on knees staring at a spot on the floor about three inches in front of him. "Seriously - did Jethro tell you about our - ancestry?"

Tony snapped out of his reverie and glanced sideways at the other man. "Yeah - something about - native American?"

"Direct descendant from - " Rick's reply was cut short at the sound of a key turning in the lock of the metal door. Rick cursed under his breath - dammit to hell!! Why now? He'd left it way too late to brief his companion on how to handle his deranged cousin - instead of in depth - it was going to have to short and sharp. "Tony - listen to me," he hissed. "Taylor isn't quite all there - "

"I gathered that," Tony shrugged as the door began to swing open.

"Just follow my lead - and you should be all right."

"I can do that." Tony affirmed.

"And if he offers you a Gummi Bear - don't take one."

"Why not?"

"They're not too good for your health? Get my drift?"

There was no time for further pointers, the door swung open fully to admit two huge brutes - one dark - the other blond - both holding guns up at chest height as they progressed into the room.

"Ah - yeah - " Rick leaned in to whisper in Tony's ear. "Not bullets - tranquiliser darts - no sudden movements."

"I'm not moving a muscle," Tony shot back.

"Oh here we go," Rick drawled, sitting back on the mattress, folding his arms across his chest. "The ego has landed."

"And good morning to you, Ricky - Ricky - Rick Rick - Ricardo - Dick - can I call you Dick?"

"You can call me Susan if it makes you happy, Taylor - what the fuck are you up to this time?" Rick sounded and looked bored - something - Tony noticed - that seemed to bristle Taylor as he continued to pick his teeth with a pick.

"Come on, Dickie - " Taylor spat the toothpick to the floor and spread his arms. "What do I have to do to get to spend quality time with my dear cousin? Huh? I figured you wouldn't come if I asked you really nicely - and you know me and violence." He paced the floor in front of the two men for a few moments and then quickly spun round to face them, hands behind his back as he bent forward at the waist. "I love it! A little gratuitous slap around first thing really gets the adrenalin pumping - especially when you're involved."

"I only wish I'd known you were coming - I'd have baked a fucking cake." Rick was now examining his fingernails minutely. "Get to the bastard point and we'll say thanks but no thanks - that way - you're still pissed off but in one piece - and we're not as pissed off but sorry we had to leave you in one piece."

Tony closed his mouth and gaped at Rick. "What the hell do you think you're doing?" he whispered, his eyes wide.

"Dealing with this little shit the only way there is to deal with him."

"Um - Rick - as much as I love family re-unions - this is one I would actually like to avoid - I'm very attached to my head!"

"S'okay," Rick said before yawning expansively. "Potato head here will get to the point in about - ten minutes - just be patient."

"And who the fuck asked you to say anything, sweet cheeks?" Taylor glared at Tony.

"Leave him out of it, Taylor." Rick rose to his feet fluidly, mindful of the dart guns still pointing at him - and Tony. "It's me you want - again - let Tony go - he's nothing to do with this."

"Hah!" Tony rolled his eyes. "No way - "

"Shut the fuck up, pretty boy!" Taylor spat, approaching his cousin slowly as he flipped hair from his face. "He's with you - which makes him a viable commodity, Dickie - Dickster - who is he anyway?" He pushed his face into Rick's - slightly put out that Rick wasn't backing off. "Your latest fuck toy?"

"For the record, calling me Dick - it isn't big and sure as hell isn't funny." Rick sighed, shaking his head. "My name is Rick - R - I - C -K - and no - Tony is not my fuck toy - he is a friend who, unfortunately, was in the wrong place at the wrong time - "

"Um - " Taylor snickered nastily. "From what I saw - the two of you were very much in the right place at the right time - cuz!"

"Taylor," Rick rested a hand on his shoulder. "Please - can we just skip the bravado - the gesturing and just get to the point which is - what the fuck do you want?"

Taylor shook off the hand and paced backwards, pointing an accusing finger at his cousin. "I have enough on you now!" he said, his voice nearly trembling with excitement. "The two of you - "

"Me?" Tony pointed to himself. "What I do?"

"From the look of it - " Taylor snatched a buff folder from under the arm of the dark brute. "Quite a lot - " he tugged out a collection of photos and waved them under Rick's nose - his eyes shining in triumph. "Taken this morning - you two - practically sucking each other's faces off - I think the Post will want to see this - don't you?"

Rick took hold of the photos and studied them - one by one. "Nice stills," he commented with a wry smile. "Tony - take a look at these - they're really good."

Tony gauged it safe to join Rick at his side, taking the proffered photos and smiling as he too studied them.

"Taylor," Rick asked, holding two photos to his chest and regarding his cousin as one would a complete imbecile. "You have a lot of buff folders in your shiny new office don't you?"

"Don't fucking start - " Taylor growled - irked that this was not the reaction he'd been after.

"It's just - that new PA you hired - you know - the one who can't get out of bed she's so worn out with you shagging her?"

"Rick - "

"How can I put this - " he held up the photos. "If you have to take photos of Harriet your pet Great Dane - please don't dress her up in Halloween costumes? She's an animal not a shop dummy."

Taylor's face hardened, he snatched the photos from his cousin, shoving them back into the folder as Rick and Tony retook their place on the bunk.

"See what I mean?" Rick whispered, gesturing to Taylor with a hand.

"Oh yeah," Tony nodded. "Certifiable."

"And this is just the beginning."



TBC - - - - - - -

Hours earlier:

Rick chuckled. "Just promise me something?"

"Anything – as always."

"Look after him."

"I always do," Gibbs replied, shaking his head lightly.

"No, Jethro – look at me." It was a command, not a suggestion and Gibbs found himself caught once more in that so blue gaze. "Tony is beautiful – inside and out – you and I both know he's had to fight to get where he is today – he may tell you he was born with the silver spoon and all that crap."

"Rick – don't – I know this already." Gibbs raised a hand.

"No – that's the point. You only know what he's chosen to tell you – what's in his personnel file – there is a lot more to Anthony DiNozzo than you could imagine – I need you to," Rick paused. "No, that came out all wrong – all I will say is – be there for him. Be there to listen – be strong for him – he needs you now more than you can ever know. It was fate that brought the two of you together – "

"And I always thought it was Ducky." Gibbs said jokingly, the smile disappearing almost immediately at the look on Rick's face.

"Jethro – I'm being deadly serious," he paused again. "There is no easy way to say this but sometime in the very very near future – you will come very close to losing him – it's imperative you watch his six."

Gibbs slowly got to his feet, approaching the bed carefully.

"And just what in hell is that supposed to mean?" he growled.

"I don't know," Rick shrugged. "I'm just – going with my gut here – not as infamous as yours I know – but trust me on this."

Gibbs stared at him for a moment and then nodded. "I trust you with my life, Rick – you wanna fill me in?"

********

7.30am

Gibbs replayed the conversation from earlier in his head - time and again - and each time, the sense of foreboding became stronger - more enveloping. Watch DiNozzo's six? How in hell was he supposed to that now? Tony was no longer in the building - he was no longer close by - out of reach by cell or radio - in the hands of some presumed psycho who - apparently - was a sandwich short of a picnic.

He lifted his head wearily and gazed out over the rooftops of Washington, a hand scuffing over his face as his stomach knotted in trepidation. He was standing in the roof top garden - surrounded by large terracotta pots filled with a myriad colourful blooms set out in a symmetrical diamond pattern on dark wood decking. To his left, a large barbecue area set on a tiled floor and to the right - a long picnic table and three benches either side, matching the dark colour of the decking, that could easily have seated at least twenty guests.

But right now - he was alone - and being alone in this situation didn't sit easily with him. He felt helpless - he felt vulnerable and, for the first time in a long time, he slowly realised he had no control. It would have been easy enough - back at the Navy Yard - he'd have nailed Taylor within an hour, safe in the knowledge that Tony and Rick would be snatched back - hopefully without a shot being fired - and Taylor would be soon be on his way to an appointment with the local penitentiary - for life. As it was - he had no idea where Tony was - he had no idea what Taylor was capable of - and he had no way of knowing if either man was actually still alive.

He knew one of them, at least, had been taken out with a dart - possibly the two of them - not that he'd have heard any shots if guns had been used. Tony would have fought back and Gibbs could only guess at what means had been employed to subdue the younger man quickly and efficiently - and above all silently.

Dammit to freaking hell! He cursed under his breath, staring up into the sky as though an answer would drop from the heavens and end the turmoil of emotions coursing through him right now. He's lost Tony on assignments before - but on those occasions, he could keep his mind occupied with sourcing leads - demanding answers from his team - leaving no stone unturned - he drew strength from his fellow agents - knowing they would not rest until the case was solved and Tony was back with them - whatever state he might have been in.

The lack of action from Alex was frustrating to say the least. He didn't seem perturbed at this turn of events - and that bugged Gibbs. Okay - his brother was missing - but Alex was either a damned good actor or he was waiting for the counsel of his other brother Nicky - then again - it could be that was just Alex's way. That thought did not sit well with Gibbs - if Taylor was nuts - as all three triplets seemed agreed on - and Taylor was a loose cannon - capable of doing unspeakable things - he was in charge of security for crying out loud - and how secure do you have to be to make it so damn easy for a brother and a lover to be snatched in broad daylight?

He made his way across the decking, down three steps and stopped at the waist high wall around the edge of the roof. Leaning forward, he lowered his head again - shutting his eyes against the images playing in his mind - instead concentrating - one more time - on Rick's words as they had waited for Tony to wake up.

"How the fuck could Rick get it wrong?" he asked himself, linking his fingers together and squeezing hard. "Did he get it wrong? Maybe I misheard - but he did say Tony's safety would be down to me - not him." Raising his head again, he pulled in a deep breath, thudding his fist onto the top of the wall. "Damn it all to hell!" he cursed under his breath. "But - " he pinched the bridge of his nose between thumb and forefinger in a vain attempt to banish the tiredness he felt. "Why the hell didn't you ask Rick any more? You knew he knew something yet you chose not to - " He pressed the flat of his hands onto the concrete wall and leaned heavily on them. "Rick had given you a warning, Gibbs - " he muttered, shaking his head slowly. "But you thought it more important to concentrate on Tony - you ignored what was tantamount to a veiled threat against the most important thing in your life - the one man that means more to me than - if I lose him," he paused, blinking back tears as the sky line before him began to blur, brushing tears from his cheeks almost angrily. "If I lose him - I don't think I'll - "

Suddenly, he was aware of someone behind him but he remained where he was - not wanting Alex to see him like this. He leaned his forearms onto the wall and looked away to the left as Alex stepped up to his right. Insinuating an arm between Gibbs's two, Alex smiled softly as Gibbs allowed him to link fingers with his - squeezing gently.

"Nothing is going to happen to Tony, Jethro. He will be fine - I promise." Alex sounded reassuring but Gibbs wasn't convinced. "Nicky should be here shortly, he and I will work something out - you need to rest."

"Ya think?" Gibbs snorted almost derisively. "I want answers - I want Tony back - I want him in one piece - and it strikes me that you're being particularly evasive when it comes to telling me where this scumbag cousin of yours is!"

Gibbs snatched his hand away, stalking back up the steps and across the decking to the main doors.

"Jethro!" Alex called after him, wincing as he heard the door slam to. "Damn it!" He trotted after the older man, pushing open the door to find Gibbs with his cell pressed to his ear, pacing up and down at the top of the stairs.

"Abs - no! I need you here now - hold on." He covered the cell with his hand, his eyes snapping to Alex. "What kinda doowacka computer system d'you have here?"

"Just the normal kind - why?"

Gibbs ignored him, speaking into the cell once again. "No Abs - this is strictly off the record - I need you here." He paused again, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Down girl," he admonished. "No one is to know what's going on." Another pause. "No, not even McGee - how soon can you get here? And bring the wireless doodah whatsit with you - laptop - schmaptop - whatever!" Snapping the phone shut and shoving it into his pocket, he closed the space between himself and Alex, staring into those blue eyes for what seemed like an eternity. "As of now, I'm taking control of this situation, Alex. Any information leading to my wrapping my hands around the throat of the shit who's snatched Tony would be helpful - but then, I don't think a lot of information is going to be forthcoming - is it?"

"Jethro - listen to yourself," Alex began. "I can't tell you anything because I don't know anything - anything concrete that is. Taylor could be anywhere out there - he has a dozen safe houses - he has a small army of very large, very violent men at his beck and call," Alex closed his mouth, tilting his head quizzically. "Why's Abi on her way over?"

"Because I need her, here - anything else on your mind?" Gibbs snapped back.

"Hey," Alex caught his arm as he turned to make his way back downstairs. "Enough!!"

"Not yet," Gibbs retorted, pulling his arm free. He spun round and paced back towards the other man until he was nose to nose. "Here's how I see it - word gets out that an NCIS agent has been kidnapped along with the major Dom in Washington - from this club - questions are going to be asked, Alex. Questions I really don't want to answer - there is just too much at stake - for you - and myself and Tony. I am not ordering you - I'm not demanding anything of you - but I do need your help to bring this bastard in - it needs to be done quietly and I can't do this alone."

"So you're only interested in saving your own skin?" Alex replied curtly, folding his arms.

"Yeah," Gibbs nodded. "My skin, your brother's skin, Tony's - and this club. You've said it enough times in the past, Alex. There are too many reputations that could be shattered if word of this - problem - gets out."

"Then we'd best hope to fuck Taylor doesn't find out Tony's a Fed - "

"If he does?"

"If he does - god alone knows what will happen," Alex closed his eyes briefly, stifling a yawn behind his hand.

Gibbs took Alex by the arm, leading him back out onto the roof and waited until he was seated at the picnic table before sitting himself. "Rick knew something was going to happen," he began.

"I know," Alex nodded. "But none of us had any idea exactly what."

"No - I mean - he warned me last night. He told me to watch Tony's back - that he'd need me to be there for him - that he would need me more than ever," Gibbs' tone faded to a whisper as he pinched the bridge of his nose again. "Rick told me - he said I would come very close to losing him."

"And Rick misread the warning - and didn't realise it wasn't you - but himself." Alex lowered his head into his hands, yawning loudly. "Why didn't you tell me this earlier?"

"You just said Rick told you."

"Only the bare bones, Jethro. He doesn't share - everything - with us." Fucking liar! Alex berated himself - he was already holding out on Gibbs wasn't he - and just as well for the moment - he sure as hell wasn't ready to tell him what Rick had shared - and Gibbs sure as hell wasn't ready to hear it.

TBC ….

Gibbs closed the door to Suite 104 behind him and leaned back against the dark wood briefly, letting his head drop back as he closed his eyes. Damn! He was so fucking tired. Alex had been right though - he'd be no use to anyone falling asleep right now - he needed rest - just an hour or so to recharge the batteries but how could he sleep? He'd had no choice as he was led from the bar to the elevator - Alex staying with him until the doors hissed closed, but not before Alex pressed one button - and one button only - and twisted a key into a small keyhole at the base of the elevator display. Gibbs didn't have the energy to even protest vocally. "Straight up - and no diversions." Alex had warned him with a wink. "Bed - shower and I'll come get you in a couple of hours."

How did anyone just expect him to crash out knowing Tony was out there - somewhere - maybe hurt, maybe cold and scared, maybe - even -

"Get a fucking grip, Gunny!" Gibbs muttered, pushing himself off the door as he glanced around the room. The place was a mess - the bed rumpled - two pillows on the floor - clothes lay where they'd been thrown - but even Gibbs had to smile when he realised cuffs, collars and other toys were still strewn around the place.

He pulled in a deep calming breath - he knew one way to keep himself occupied right now - and that would be a brief but refreshing shower and a tidy up. He nearly laughed out loud - tidy up? Something so alien to Tony - why bother tidying up when you would only find you needed whatever you tidied away later anyway - better to leave stuff out - and that way you didn't waste time looking for it in the first place.

"He got a maid." Gibbs snickered. "Poor woman," he thought for a minute. "But hey, I'm sure he's paying her well enough - and she does make fantastic chicken soup." He bent to scoop up a pair of jeans and a t-shirt - but as he draped the shirt over his shoulder before bending to collect up another - the scent on the soft cotton wafted towards his nostrils and Gibbs groaned.

He eased the shirt from his shoulder, crumpling it into one hand and pressing the cloth to his face as he inhaled deeply. The hint of musk, mixed with an undertone of Tony's unique aftershave - the horrendously expensive aftershave he'd bragged about for a whole day - until Gibbs banned him from wearing it to work - making him settle instead for a bottle of ye old faithful - Old Spice. Needless to say - Tony didn't wear anything for a week. It took a whole 24 hours before Gibbs finally cracked and, one night as the two lay spooned together in bed after a long, languorous round of lovemaking, did he finally instruct his Senior Field Agent that - should he not show up for work on Monday without his stupidly priced aftershave - Gibbs was going to have him helping out the filing clerks from 6am to 6pm for the next month - and no - he would not be entitled to join the team for Gibbs' monthly treat when he bought them all lunch.

His arms now full of clothes, he approached the bed and dropped the entire load to the floor before falling face first onto the mattress with a loud, satisfied growl. He bounced once and twisted onto his back, linking his fingers behind his head and staring up the midnight blue canopy above.

"I'll find you, DiNozzo," he said softly, fresh tears pricking his eyes as he swallowed audibly. "I won't let anything happen to you - I promise."

He brushed away the single tear that slid from the corner of his eye and eased himself off the welcoming mattress - not yet ready to succumb to what his body was crying out for - not that he'd be able to sleep on that bed anyway - Tony's scent was all over it - a stark reminder that Tony wasn't within reach - wasn't there to tell Gibbs he was okay - not there for Gibbs to slap him upside the head just for the hell of it - not there to -

Gibbs shoved open the bathroom door, letting it slam back against the wall as he stepped through - again - the place was practically a shrine to his young lover. Damp towels pooled on the floor, Tony's last pair of boxers hung precariously from one of the bath taps, a bottle of some overindulgent shampoo leaked its contents onto the floor of the shower stall.

Reaching out, Gibbs could not help but smile as he held up a tube of toothpaste - squeezed from the middle and not the bottom - its screw top missing somewhere leaving a sticky white mound in the middle of the steel shelf beneath the mirror above the sink. Another reminder that Tony only listened when it suited him - and if he knew Gibbs was watching him - only then did he make a great play of squeezing from the bottom - commenting as always - why wasn't Gibbs this fussy when it came to a tube of lube. He placed the toothpaste tube back into the chrome mug standing to one side and leaned on the sink, staring at his reflection - and he didn't like what he saw. He looked done in, eyes bleary and heavy lidded with dark shadows beneath them, a stubbly jaw and his hair sticking up in all directions. He splashed his face with cold water and made light work of cleaning his teeth, only one thing on his mind - he'd waited long enough - and he finally gave in as he rinsed his mouth. He needed sleep - no matter what! Alex and Nicky would come get him - all he needed was a half hour - maybe a little longer.

Ablutions over, he worked quickly and efficiently and had the bathroom back into some semblance of normality in minutes. A last look round and he turned his attention to the bedroom once more, pacing the short distance to the adjoining room and pulling that door to.

He stepped out of his sweat pants and tugged his t-shirt over his head before padding to the bed. He paused and walked to the end of the mattress where the clothes were still in a pile, he bent down and selected another shirt, one of Tony's black t-shirts. Gods - how could one man smell so - so gorgeous? He pulled it over his head, smoothing it over his rock hard abs, snatching a clean pair of sweats from his holdall shoved under the bed, easing them up over his long muscular legs and clambered onto the mattress - settling himself on Tony's side - he curled into a foetal position, a pillow in his arms - a Tony scented pillow - hair gel and musk - and he was asleep in a matter of seconds.

******

No more than an hour later - a gentle hand shook his shoulder and Gibbs was wide awake staring up at a familiar face looking down at him - concern in those azure eyes.

"Rick? You're okay?" Gibbs gasped, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "Where's Tony? Is he downstairs? Is he - "

"Ssh, Jethro, it's Nicky. How are you doing?"

"Huh? But - " Gibbs struggled to sit up, looking around the room briefly before sitting back against the headboard. "Nicky - sorry. You look like crap."

"Thanks," Nicky chuckled as he set a small tray on a nearby table. "You're not exactly looking good either - you want me to go?"

"No," Gibbs padded across to where the younger man stood, accepting an extra large mug of coffee and downing half the contents in one swallow. "I mean - it's just - I thought you were Rick - "

"Easy mistake, Jethro. Look, you eat, shower and meet us downstairs in the office -twenty minutes? We've got a ton of shit to sort out." Nicky collected up a slice of warm buttered toast from a pile on the tray and took a bite."

"Ya think?" Gibbs chuckled. "I'll be there in ten - have you heard anything from Taylor?"

"Nope, nothing." Nicky shrugged, shoving a hand through his mussed mane. "I think it might be up to us to try and set something up."

"Yeah," Gibbs mumbled around a mouthful of toast. "If it involves him, a firing range and me with an endless round of ammo - count me in."

"And on that happy note," Nicky reached out and squeezed Gibbs' shoulder. "See ya in ten."

The door closed and Gibbs was alone once more. He shoved a whole half slice of toast into his mouth, gulped down more coffee and quickly refilled his mug - lifting it to his lips as there was a knock on the door.

"Forgot something Nicky?" he grinned.

"Gibbs, it's me!"

"Abs!" He slammed down his mug, wiping the liquid from his hand onto his shirt and was across to the door in a nano second, wrenching it open and finding himself being thrown backwards as Abby launched herself at him, plastering herself against the length of his body as her arms wrapped themselves around his neck.

"Gibbs! I am so sorry! Have you heard anything? Nicky told me what happened! I knew something hinky would happen - I always have this feeling when Tony's involved - but then you know that because every time you send Tony out alone - I always get that hinky feeling - you know what I mean - the feeling I have when I've only had 18 red bulls - and not the 10 I usually tell myself I will have - that stuff is addictive - who's got him? How'd they get Ricky too? Are you okay? I haven't told anyone - McGee knows something's up but I didn't tell him - I made him swear never to ask me about this - ever! How was Tony's first night with you? Did he behave? Was he a brat? Did he squeal? Did he make you squeal? Oh God, Gibbs - we have to find Tony! The team's not a team without Tony - I mean it is - because you're the boss and no team should be without a boss but we're all like brothers and sisters - or dads in your case of course - but you know what I mean - we need him back - you need him back - you need him period!"

"Abs - stop!" Gibbs held her from him, before pulling her to him in a bear hug. "It is so good to see you - and yes - we will get Tony back - Rick too - but not without your help - did you bring the whatsit - doodah?"

"I brought one of each - you and your doodah's and doowackas - "

As she steepled her fingers together, swaying from side to side with that lovely smile plastered on her face, Gibbs suddenly realised what she was wearing. He flipped up an eyebrow and looked her up and down appreciatively.

She wore a tight fitting all in one leather catsuit, a pair of thigh length black leather boots with four inch steel stilettos and around her waist, emphasising how tiny she really was - a simple black basque laced up the back.

"Abby, forgetting what kind of place we're in for the moment - the gravity of the situation - and the fact the club doesn't open for another couple of hours - the Dominatrix gear - a bit heavy?"

"I came straight from a gig, Gibbs - breaking in a new sub is an all-nighter - you should know that! And yes, I've brought a change of clothes." It was then that her attention was drawn to the still open toy box and other items littering the floor. "And it looks like I wasn't the only one," she collected up a pair of cuffs, a ball gag and a cock ring - the smile turning almost lecherous. "You or Tony?"

"Who do you think?" Gibbs took the objects from her quickly. "But as you ask - Tony has the makings of a great sub."

"See?" She sounded triumphant. "I told you he was going to be good for you - and you for him - so he makes a good sub?" She paused, expectancy all over her face. "And? Come on Gibbs - you cannot leave it there! I want details!"

"Oh no, Abby - " Gibbs chuckled. "No way - he made me promise."

"Oh," she looked deflated. "Okay - tell me one thing then."

"Abs - you're pushing it."

"You're in Suite 104 Gibbs - the heavy stuff goes down in here - so tell me did he like being spanked?"

TBC….

"And Matt?" Alex called after his Chief Security Officer as the blond man made for the door.

"Yeah, Boss?"

"I don't want a gnat's bollock getting in here without my knowing about it - you see or hear anything suspicious - and I mean - anything - we need to know immediately."

"Sure thing - Taylor's old news - but we'll be ready for him." Matt flashed Alex a reassuring grin and pulled the door to as he exited.

"I don't like this," Nicky observed from where he lay sprawled on the sofa, cold slice of toast in one hand, his other hand reaching down to the floor for his coffee mug.

"And you think I do?" Alex snapped, retaking his seat behind the desk and leaning forward. "And despite all the crap that's going on - there's one job I am not looking forward to - but - "

"What job?" Nicky bit into his toast, pulling a face as he tossed the remains into a nearby trash can.

"Telling Jethro just - why - Rick and Tony were taken so easily."

Nicky pulled himself upright and swivelled round to stare at his brother as his stomach plummeted uneasily. "You wouldn't!"

"I have to."

"No - Alex - you don't." Nicky got to his feet and approached the desk, keeping his voice deliberately low as he leaned in on his hands. "Jethro doesn't need to know why - just that they were taken is enough - "

"I can't not tell him, bro. He needs to know - better he finds out now than later." Alex sighed heavily, shoving both hands through his hair before spreading them with a shrug. "You didn't see him earlier - he's in bits already - and the only thing holding him together is - "

"That's crap," Nicky snorted. "When did you ever see Jethro in bits? The only reason you thought that is because you've never known him not to be in control - he has no clue what the hell is going on - this is a whole new scenario to him. He's not in the bullpen now - he doesn't have his team behind him - all he's got is us Alex, just you and me and we're being economical with the truth as it is!!"

"Economical? Nicky, the man is hurting - he deserves to know what happened - he needs to know they had no chance - what happened happened because Rick - "

"Rick nothing!!" Nicky nearly yelled. "I don't know what fucking planet you are on, Alex!" Nicky threw his arms up in the air as he turned away and kicked the leg of the coffee table. "We have enough to deal with right now - don't you think you owe it to Jethro to at least let him gain some comfort in the fact we're doing our damndest to find the two of them?" He turned again, leaning on the desk once more. "You tell him what you know - go ahead - but I'll tell you this much - you tell him and that's a friendship shot to blazes!"

"Finished?" Alex rose fluidly and rounded the desk. "I hear where you're coming from - but - don't think I haven't thought about not telling him - it's all I've thought about." He hitched a hip on the dark wood and folded his arms. "Put yourself in his position for a second. He's NCIS, he has a nose for trouble - his - his - " Alex glanced around the room quickly before looking to his doppelganger pacing the floor. "I mean - he's here with - Tony - and I mean - here - Heaven's Gate and everyone in the City knows what goes on here from - the White House down. He - they - spend the night - for free - which says a lot about just where we rank Jethro in our clientele - and the next day - our brother and Tony are snatched in broad daylight from right outside - right outside here - for one reason - and one reason only - our dear fucking brother got horny and took advantage of an inexperienced - " Nicky opened his mouth to protest, his eyes blazing. "Hear me out." Alex barked with a raised hand. Nicky closed his mouth, cursing under his breath. "You saw the reaction Tony had to Rick - there was no way - no way this side of the fucking moon Tony was going to back off!! Hell, if Rick came on to me the way he did to Tony - I'd have been more than happy to jump in the sack with him!"

"You make Tony sound like an idiot - and you make it sound like it was all Rick's fault!"

"No, I'm not Nicky. Tony is still learning - he's still growing - as far as I'm aware - this was his first time out as a sub - he doesn't yet understand all the rules - or when to bring those he does know into play. He's with Rick, they're alone, Rick offers himself on a fucking plate - and you think Tony's gonna say no - and it could've been you and me taking out the trash - "

"Yeah?" Nicky sat down hard on the sofa, elbows resting on knees, head bowed. "I certainly wouldn't want to get caught kissing you bro - that's just - hinky." Slowly he raised his head. ""But you're saying the reason we're in this mess now is all because of Rick?"

Alex pressed his lips into a firm line and nodded. "You know him, he had his sights set on Tony then minute the guy came in - and you know how it goes - what Rick wants - Rick gets - no matter what."

"So, Taylor's goons had to have been watching them - watching the club," Nicky said - almost to himself. "How else would they have known where they were?"

"Which is why," Alex suppressed a yawn behind a hand. "Matt is on his way to the bars across the street for their CCTV footage."

"Oh God - not Smithy's?" Nicky sighed as he sat back on the sofa, letting his head fall to his chest.

"Among others, why?"

"Smithy - you've not offered him or the others a night here?"

"No!" Alex stated flatly, gazing at Nicky with wide eyes. "None of them passed the entrance exam when we first opened - "

"Oh - yeah - forgot."

"Smithy is a good guy," Alex smiled. "But his tastes are - a little too - subversive for our establishment - besides - he skulks off to the west side for his kicks. But we digress - "

"No we don't," Nicky rolled his head from one side to the other and back, groaning softly. "Jethro will be here any second now - and I need a clear head to think - "

"No need to leave on my account," Gibbs growled as he closed the door behind him - a little too hard. Nicky rose to his feet only to obey instantly when Gibbs signalled him to sit back down.

"Jethro - you okay?" Alex asked carefully - studying the older man's face intently.

"I could be," Gibbs said, settling himself in the chair opposite. "It's just - my ears were burning as I crossed the hall out there - so I figured I'd just listen in for a couple of seconds to you two.

"Jethro - "

"No - Nicky. Not a word from you - I hear one single squeak - after all - I don't think Alex needs prompting - do you Alex?." Gibbs continued to stare at the younger man who - if anything - seemed to sink lower in his own chair. "What is it Nicky doesn't want you to tell me?" He let a small smile play on his lips for a moment or two and then lowered his gaze briefly. "I mean - I have an idea what it might be - but you know how it is when you're left guessing - you come up with the most bizarre kinda ideas - each one more unrealistic than the last."

"This isn't easy - " Alex began.

"Easy?" Gibbs echoed. "Right now - nothing is very easy is it? And with you two holding out on me - it's not going to get any easier anytime soon as far as I can see."

"We're not holding out - " Nicky started.

"I thought I asked you to stay quiet," Gibbs stated over his shoulder.

"Fine!" Nicky spat as he got to his feet. "Okay Jethro - you're not Special Agent LJ Gibbs - you're not at the Navy Yard and you are sure as hell in no position to - "

"Nicky - get out!" Alex barked, glaring at his brother. Nicky gaped at him, looking from Gibbs to Alex and back again. "Get out - go help Abs or something."

"Huh?" Nicky looked confused.

"I can handle this myself - you're more use somewhere else - not here."

Nicky didn't move for a few moments and then he approached Gibbs' chair and leaned forward - one hand on the back of the chair and the other on the desk. "Just remember we're trying to help you here," he whispered. "You won't like what Alex has to tell you - and I don't need you going in like a bull at a fucking gate shouting the odds - what happened in the alley - happened - "

"Sounds like a veiled threat in there somewhere," Gibbs smirked. "Is he threatening me?"

Alex closed his eyes and took a deep breath - grateful to see Nicky finally relented and paced to the door - slamming it hard behind him. "No one is threatening anyone, Jethro - Nicky's a class one a-hole at times - he'll be fine when he calms down."

"Small talk, Alex - not a big fan of it myself - just get to the fucking point."

"Rick,"

"Rick what?"

"He came onto Tony - and Tony - "

"Tony what?"

"The reason they were taken so easily - Rick flashed both myself and Nicky a brief idea - he and Tony were too pre-occupied with each other to notice the danger until it was too late."

"Rick flashed you what, Alex - you're not making any sense." Gibbs kept his voice level - already knowing full well exactly what Alex meant - but he needed to hear him say it. Gibbs knew Rick of old - and he had expected something like this - he hadn't planned on it - but he had been aware that Rick would try something - at some point - hell - he'd done it before! But in the past, he'd always owned up - and that was the part Gibbs enjoyed - Rick owning up - on his knees - head bowed - submissive and so ready for correction at the hands of his own private Master - Gibbs - the only man Rick would allow to master him - the only man he could trust implicitly. But all thoughts of those wonderful nights spent together disappeared in a flash - replaced by one enduring image - his beloved Tony wrapped in Rick's arms - the two men so lost in each other - so lost - and then it was too late. "So which brain was Rick thinking with?" Gibbs asked almost lightly.

"Don't do this Jethro - please. We feel bad enough it turned out this way already - "

"Bad enough?" Gibbs sat back, brushing some imagined fluff from the arm of his jacket. "Hell - you two don't know the meaning of the words - Rick thinking with his fucking dick again - and now Tony is up to his neck in shit with some demented half breed! You'll be feeling even worse when I get my hands on Taylor - and don't even begin to think I'm letting Rick off lightly either - "

"All I can say is - "

"Don't Alex - just - don't." Gibbs scuffed a hand over his face. "And when Taylor finds he's got a Fed on his hands?"

"Hopefully, he won't - Rick will be watching his six."

"Like he did in the alley? With his tongue all the way down his fucking throat." Gibbs let out a derisive chuckle, shaking his head slowly. "And I said Tony was in deep shit? If any of this gets out - half the damn city will be up to its neck in the brown stuff - from the White House, Pentagon - and down."

"Don't you think I know that?" Alex snapped. "Fuck Jethro - I've said I'm sorry - but now isn't the time for mud slinging - what!!" Alex rolled his eyes at the knock on the office door and groaned aloud as Nicky came back in with a blue folder in his hand.

"I'll keep it short - since I'm clearly in the way," he said by way of explanation as he handed the folder to Gibbs. "All we have on Taylor - from birth to a week ago - it doesn't make pretty reading but I figure you should know what you're dealing with."
Gibbs looked at the file in Nicky's hand and took it slowly, tossing it down onto the desk before him. "Aren't you going to read it?"

"Nope," Gibbs settled back in his chair. "I want you two to arrange a meet - in two hours. Just Taylor and me - no goons - no weapons - nothing. Think you can just about manage that?" The brothers looked at each other and then back to Gibbs who met their puzzled faces with a half smile. "Good. I'll be in the bar with Abs - you come get me when you're done." With that, Gibbs got to his feet and strode out of the open door leaving the two men slightly non-plussed.

"He took it well then?" Nicky breathed.

"Uh - no - he didn't." Alex answered. "You just met Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs - the second b is for bastard."

TBC……

Rick stepped from the shower with a satisfied groan of contentment, towelling his hair dry quickly before dropping the towel to the floor, an amused look on his face at Tony's discomfiture at this previously unforeseen scenario.

Tony felt himself redden, he cleared his throat and grinned nervously at Rick who had not moved from his stance in the middle of the bathroom.

"I - um -"

"What?" Rick purred, letting a small smile settle on his lips. "It's not like you've not done this before."

Tony lowered his head, remembering his times with Leroy Jethro Gibbs and a wave of pleasure coursed through him, settling in his loins. He knew, without looking that he was tenting big time - and with a nekkid, still damp Rick standing before him - he sure as hell didn't want to be tenting any more!

"Tony, it's not a dirty word, it's just natural." He said softly, padding across the bathroom and standing before him. "Why are you so nervous?"

"It's not that…it's just…this doesn't feel right." Tony looked into Rick's cerulean blue eyes, and wished he could drown in them. "You and me. I - don't get me wrong - but I'm just having trouble thinking straight - "

"You are thinking straight Tony…you can blame Taylor for this."

"Blame him?"

Rick chuckled, shaking his head, pushing a hand through his hair.

"Look, he's kind of thrown us together - we didn't have a choice - but we're safe enough here - he's leaving us to think things through - we have a couple of hours at most. He knows we want nothing more than to slap him around a bit and then get the hell out - but I can think of other ways of getting rid of pent up frustration, Tony - and I'm sure you can too."

"Is it that obvious?"

Rick nodded.

"And right now, I can see a way of releasing that frustration - that no one - " he leaned in and kissed Tony lightly, his tongue probing forward - "need ever - " he kissed him again - "know - about." As he leant forward again, Tony's mouth opened and their tongues warred gently, teasingly

Rick's hands rested on the back of Tony's neck, his thumbs nestled against that strong jaw and he positioned himself deliberately to brush Tony's throbbing but clothed member with his own drooling cock.

Tony moaned into his mouth, sighing as Rick nibbled his way along his jaw and suckled his earlobe.

"So you and Jethro, huh?" Rick purred around lapping Tony's neck. "Oh to be a fly on the wall with you two"

Tony pulled back, staring into his eyes, frowning.

"I'm a Dom, Tony…and when I want to know something…I don't always have to ask out loud." Rick smiled. "Body language says it all - "

"Rick - please - " Tony clamped his mouth shut, leaning back against the sink, his long fingers easing the bangs off Rick's forehead. "If Jethro finds out - "

"Who's going to tell him? I sure as hell won't."

******

Under the spray of the shower, Tony stood with his back to Rick, both hands against the wall, his forehead resting on the tiled surface and with Rick's own throbbing, solid erection hard up against the crack of his ass. He wasn't sure how long he'd be able to stop himself from cumming as he threw his head back and hissed as Rick's nimble fingers caressed and stroked him, as his other hand reached round, cupped his balls and kneaded them together hard.

"You both have a penchant for bondage - and plenty of toys." Rick whispered around tiny kisses along Tony's shoulder and neck to his earlobe. "Do you realise what you do to Jethro when you allow him to restrain you? When he gags you? When he cuffs and collars you? Do you, Tony?"

"Rick -" Tony's eyes were clamped shut, teeth bared as he willed himself not to cum, willing himself not to think about Gibbs - not to think about kneeling before him - bound in place.

"Ssh…." Rick hissed, slowly turning Tony round to face him. "Would you like to know exactly how he feels?"

Tony leaned heavily against the wall as Rick's assault on his wet, muscular shoulder began again in earnest. He couldn't think straight, let alone concentrate on anything else except those lips igniting a fire in every nerve ending of his body - those teeth nipping his skin - and that tongue lapping away the hurt so gently.

Rick's head dipped and he suckled an already peaking nipple, his hand once again grasping hold of Tony's cock.

"Rick!!" Tony hissed, arching off the wall. "Don't make me wait - please!!"

"Patience Tony - " Rick murmured, laving his way across the broad, furred chest and teasing the other nipple erect with his tongue. "And you've still not answered my question -" he straightened and fisted Tony's hair, pulling him close for a passionate, open mouthed kiss.

"Do you want to experience what he feels?" Rick whispered as he pulled back - Tony stared at him, his chest heaving, and then he nodded.

"Yes," he said breathlessly. "I want you to show me - "

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Rick shut the water off and stepped back, smiling at Tony who regarded him steadily, with more than lust in his eyes.

"So, what now?" Rick whispered his hand taking Tony's solid shaft again, making Tony growl deep in his throat.

Rick went down on his knees, his hands resting lightly on the back of Tony's thighs and with no warning, he took Tony in one mouthful, swallowing hard around the throbbing shaft, laving the underside with his tongue, grazing the sensitive skin with his teeth.

"What the fuck!!" Tony gasped then groaned, leaning back heavily against the wall. His hands fisting Rick's hair as Rick feasted.

Rick swallowed twice, three times - the sensations sending Tony writhing, thrusting forward….forcing himself deeper and deeper down Rick's eager throat.

A stray hand cupped his balls, crushing them together, kneading them hard. Tony cried out in ecstasy as wave after wave of pleasure coursed through him. He released his hold on Rick's hair, both hands now flat against the wall, his head back, teeth bared as he arched into Rick's willing mouth.

Rick bit down gently, pulling back to release Tony halfway, his teeth grazing the skin again - Tony screamed out loud - thrashing his head from side to side as he arched again.

Rick then released him completely, his hand gently cupping the moist member and tonguing the foreskin and easing his tongue into the slit. Planting a kiss on the tip, he turned his attention to Tony's sacs - pulling one then both into his mouth - the weeping cock brushing his cheek as he suckled.

Both hands rested on Tony's butt, nimble fingers easing their way towards his pucker.

"Rick!" Tony hissed, in mild alarm.

Rick released Tony for a moment and glanced up at him.

"It's okay - just relax -." He ran his tongue over Tony's hard abs, over to one hip, nibbling and nipping. "If it - " Kiss, lav. "Makes it easier - imagine I'm Gibbs."

Tony laughed in spite of himself briefly - his attention snatched back as Rick's finger found its goal - he growled, easing himself back gently onto the digit - gasping aloud again as a second then a third finger was added - stretching him carefully..

Tony was flying! His heart was thudding in chest, his breathing ragged as Rick sent him closer to the edge….

"I'm gonna cum - I'm - "

Rick chuckled around his girth, sending vibrations up the sensitive shaft making Tony scream aloud once more. The Uber Dom shifted round, pressing his fingers further inside Tony, brushing his prostate relentlessly. With his other hand, he took hold of Tony's sacs and pulled them up and away, denying him immediate release - he would hold him at the edge until he decided to let him fly.

Tony guessed his intent, but barely able to support himself let alone move an inch, he whimpered his frustration - trying and failing to free himself from Rick's grasp.

Rick's answer was to take him deeper - and deeper - he swallowed hard easing the throbbing member further down his throat, closing his eyes in sheer pleasure as the muscle jumped and twitched in its moist, warm prison - again, he bit down a little harder this time and Tony screamed - and screamed -

As he gasped and panted, he looked down and the sight of Rick's bobbing head between his legs sent a thrill through him - a shudder that Rick felt - an unspoken signal to give him blessed release.

As Rick released his balls - Tony screamed his relief and his precious load spurted down Rick's throat - every last drop suckled and relished.

Both men came with shuddering breaths, their bodies tensed for what seemed an age until Tony relaxed back against the wall of the shower - unable to speak, unable to move he watched as Rick got to his feet, a trickle of cum running down his chin.

Tony instinctively leaned in, lapping the creamy trail only to find his mouth being plundered as Rick allowed the cum he'd saved pass across - Tony moaned into Rick's mouth at the taste of himself - swallowing every last drop as his tongue cleaned Rick's mouth.

******

Rick lay on his back as Tony straddled his waist, laving a peaking nipple with slow deliberate strokes of his tongue, his ass tight up against Rick's bobbing, weeping cock. The sensations had Rick purring with pleasure - his eyes closed with a dreamy smile on his lips as Tony nibbled his way from one bulging pec to the other, leaving a moist trail between them with his tongue. Suckling briefly, making Rick arch into his mouth, Tony lapped his way up and over the nipple, and onwards towards the collarbone, his teeth grazing the skin before lapping it briefly. He worked his way agonisingly slowly along the collarbone to the base of Rick's throat, planting row upon row of butterfly kisses on his way to the other collarbone…and upwards, over the shoulder, up the neck to suckle and nip an earlobe.

"Tony. that's so good." Rick purred, lifting his head back and lengthening his neck as Tony lapped his way across and down again and up the other side.

"Say nothing - just enjoy." Tony purred in his ear before nibbling the lobe again.

Rick groaned, still smiling, both hands above his head - one already heading towards the bed rail.

"Mm," was all he said as Tony pulled back. "Mm?" his eyes opened wide at the loss.

"More?" Tony asked with a smile. "Okay - "

Rick settled back again with a contented purr as Tony concentrated on his abs.

Not a centimetre was lost to Tony, each tiny kiss, little nip had groans and whimpers of pleasure emanating from Rick, as he writhed gently beneath him.

As Tony's stubble brushed his hot skin, Rick was groaning all the more, and as it brushed his pubes and groin, he cried out at the sensation, both hands now grasping the bedrails…

"Tony!!" he hissed.

"Sssh - I said no talking." Tony smiled to himself and lowered his head to the task in hand. "I see you're ready for me then?" he purred as he laved the side of Rick's drooling member. "Are you ready for me?"

"Tony!!" Rick's eyes were wide and pleading.

"I guess you are - in a while."

Tony's hands slid beneath Rick's butt, kneading his glutes and in effect, lifting him slightly off the bed.

Rick let out a hiss of frustration but said nothing….a glance at his partner showed Tony hovering over his bobbing shaft, kissing the tip and then he dipped his head and Rick roared his annoyance as Tony suckled both balls…hard…his tongue flicked over the highly sensitive skin, and his teeth had Rick arching off the bed. And this time roaring in ecstasy!!

"Oh yeah - you like that huh?" Tony whispered releasing him slowly. He kissed the velvety sacs and leant back on his haunches. "And where to now?" he said with a puzzled expression. One hand was stroking himself and the other Rick, running his thumb over the tip of both, precum drooling over his fingers.

As Tony slicked precum up and down Rick's shaft, Rick was writhing beneath him, thrashing his head from side to side, arching into Tony's hand.

"Do it, damn you!" Rick yelled. "Please!"

Tony chuckled, the sound only serving to send Rick higher and higher as the grasp around his slick cock tightened, a thumb pressing into the slit…then he felt warm breath and then a moist mouth closing around his tip. He instinctively arched up, forcing himself all the way down Tony's throat!!

Rick arched again and again into Tony's welcoming cavern…face fucking for all he was worth - he sensed nothing except tongue, teeth and lips sending him closer to the edge…

His head back, eyes closed, teeth bared - he thrust and thrust again - until suddenly - Tony was gone - leaving Rick a writhing whimpering mess.

Moments later, he looked down to see Tony crawling up the bed towards him, smiling - he whimpered again, hands now fisting the bedclothes beneath him. His chest was heaving as Tony maintained eye contact, a smile on his lips.

Tony stopped at his waist and held out a cum covered hand…and with a feral gleam in his eye, Rick lapped the hand clean suckling each finger for a long while…whimpering at the loss before being presented with another slick digit.

Tony sat back again, cleaned his other hand quickly and leaned forward until he was nose to nose with Rick.

"And so it ends." he purred as he linked his fingers with Rick, holding his hands above his head and raised himself up - and impaled himself of Rick's burgeoning cock.

Rick screamed aloud….Tony roared as he rode his willing bed partner…leaning forward to plunder Rick's mouth, laving his neck and throat as they fucked….

"BY THE GODS!!" Rick screamed. "Tony - I never dreamed - "

Tony was incapable of speech, lost in the moment - as orgasm neared for both of them - the bed was creaking - two men - as one - heading for the blinding light of release - and when it came - both men screamed - Rick arching - his whole body shuddering as he emptied his load. Tony's head thrown back as his own seed spurted over his abs and Rick's, shining on the hot, sleek skin.

Tony leaned forward, sliding off Rick's softening cock - bending in close to kiss him gently as his partner gasped for breath.

He fell to one side, on his back - panting hard.

"Man," Rick managed between gulps. "You are something else!"

"So Gibbs keeps telling me."

Rick laughed out loud.

"Something tells me you two are gonna be all right."

******

Any further conversation was cut brutally short as the clang of a metal door hitting the wall had Tony wide awake - any memory of his dream gone in an instant. He sat up on his bunk and staring in horror at the sight before him.

"Wakey wakey sunshine - Boss wants a word with you." Lane chuckled, holding up a small tranquiliser gun - and firing immediately. He was hit in the chest - and the last thing he remembered - Lane laughing out loud as a huge hand reached for him and then - nothing -

TBC

Rick sat and waited, tracking Taylor's movements with his eyes as the other man paced back and forth across the tastefully decorated room - hands clasped behind his back - head bowed in thought.

Stifling a yawn - Rick gingerly tested the cuffs fastening his hands behind him - the chain leading from the left one, snaking under and over a convenient wooden bar at the back of the chair and wrapped around the dark wood to the other end soldered to the right cuff - there was no give.

Still aware of the drugs in his system - he knew without even trying that he had no chance of banishing the growing fatigue and sheer exhaustion of the last few hours - hell - scratch that - he hadn't slept all night - grabbing an hour or three early the morning before and now - his unique powers practically depleted when he'd finished healing Tony's cracked ribs - he felt as weak as a kitten but knew instinctively not to show it - not in front of Taylor at least. His cousin would pick up on it and use to his advantage - and so Rick tried to maintain an air of disinterest with a smattering of mild boredom as he shrugged mentally and yawned - loud and long - smirking as the noise seemed to irk his cousin who stopped in his pacing and stalked to the chair across the table from Rick.

"Not keeping you up am I?" Taylor asked with a snide grin.

"No - not at all," Rick replied, tilting his head. "When d'you last check your nose hair?"

Taylor steepled his fingers as he leaned his elbows on the tabletop - tapping his chin briefly before pointing both index fingers at Rick. "You are really beginning to piss me off - d'you know that?"

"Aww - am I? And I wanted this to be a happy reunion."

"Me too," Taylor spread his hands. "But I changed my mind - "

"Where's Tony?" Rick asked; his face serious.

"Nowhere you can bother him - for now." Taylor leaned forward - an eyebrow raised in question. "He is such a pretty guy, Rick. I'll bet he's high maintenance - I mean - he looks very high maintenance - the jacket alone - Laurent?"

"I wouldn't know," Rick's eyes hardened. "He's his own guy - "

"But I'll bet he's great in the sack, isn't he?" Taylor taunted. "Come on, Cuz, a guy that hot and you're pretending you ain't interested?"

"If I'd known you were interested in him - "

"I might just be - haven't had any of that kind of action for a while."

"I can understand that - but then - the only men you'd attract would be have to be dead from the neck up and on a ton of Viagra."

"Rick - please - can we have an understanding here?" Taylor sounded pained - he hated it when Rick was like this - automatically gainsaying anything - always having to have the last laugh - well - not any more - this time - Taylor was going to win - hands down.

"What? You shut the fuck up - let us go and we just - like - leave? That would be a great understanding."

"But - " Taylor rose to his feet, rounding the table and pacing the short distance until he was standing level with Rick. "I have so much to talk about, Ricky - and - in the past - you've never been the greatest listener - "

"So, now I'm a captive audience, Taylor," Rick struggled against the cuffs, his mouth set in a firm line. "And seeing as I don't appear to be heading anywhere too soon - maybe you'll bore me to death instead - not the quickest exit, I'll grant you but it will have to do."

"I will share this with you," Taylor reached out a hand and began stroking the back of Rick's head - delighting in the way his cousin's entire body stiffened at his touch. "You are wondering why you're here - the explanation is a little long and convoluted - even for me but I will try and keep it simple - now here's the thing: if you say one more fucking word until I have finished - Morgan will have to gag you - I might even let him slap you around a little too - who knows - and if you are still not paying attention - then I'll let him loose on your boyfriend - and unfortunately - Morgan hasn't had any fun for nearly a month - and with such a fresh, virgin ass waiting for him - well - you get my drift." Rick said nothing - he merely nodded and then gazed up into his cousin's eyes. "What?" Taylor sighed.

"Nothing - except - any of you lay so much as a shadow on Tony - and I will kill you."

"Hardly in a position to bargin, Cuz."

"So you keep reminding me - look - Taylor - I'm a busy guy - you're a busy guy - would you just get to the fucking point and tell me what the fuck it is you want!"

Taylor said nothing - he rounded the table again and sat down slowly - a hand held out until Morgan slapped another file into his palm. "Thank you - " Taylor muttered. "Go help Lane - and give me ten minutes with Ricky here."

"You sure you'll be all right Boss?" Morgan's dark eyes looked concerned as he raked his gaze over Rick who - for his part - was staring at a point in the ceiling above his head.

"I'm sure Ricky doesn't want any trouble," Taylor sat back, folding his arms. "But then, insurance won't come amiss - gimme your Sig."

"A Sig?" Rick whistled low and pulled his mouth down in a frown. "I thought you'd only just mastered a water pistol."

"Want me to shut him up for you, Boss?" Morgan shifted his weight from one foot to the other - palming a fist as he did so.

"No, Morgan - although - if he doesn't play nice - you can have him later."

"I'll hold you to that - if he does anything - just holler."

"Oh, I'll be sure to - " Rick called after him, smiling to himself as the door slammed shut.

"Keep it up, Dickie - and you'll be wearing this Sig."

"Fuck that - what's in the folder?"

"This?" Taylor lifted the buff from the table and flipped it open - easing out a stack of photographs. "Just some - snaps - the first ones - you and sweet cheeks in the alley." If Taylor was watching for a reaction - he was disappointed but unperturbed, he pressed on. "See? You and him - and I have to say - the way you two are standing - I could have so much fun with photo manipulation - it could be you and - I don't know - pick a name from any federal agency - the CIA - FBI - I send these to the Post - and oh boy - someone's gonna come tumbling down."

"Papers get sent crap like that all the time - besides - do I look like I care?" Did Taylor know Tony was a Fed? Half of him said yes - the rest a resounding no - and he sure as hell wasn't about to sell Tony out - he'd have to bide his time - surely Taylor being - Taylor - he'd drop himself in it at some point.

"I'll leave you to think on that one then - but they are just the tip of the iceberg Rick - it's just getting better - " The next lot of pictures were spread out over the table and Rick's brow furrowed as he looked at each one. "Don't ring any bells?"

"No - " Rick replied carefully. "Should they?" They were standard head shots of a variety of different men - all of South American or Mexican descent. "Penpals of yours?"

Taylor chuckled, shaking his head slowly. He leaned forward again, a long finger pointing to a picture to the right of where Rick sat. "Alfonso DeSilva - 55 years old - Bolivian drug cartel owner - died last year - assassinated on the orders of the Head of the FBI - he leaves a wife and two kids - she has nothing left - all confiscated.. Next - this is - was - Paulo Juan Siloso - 35 years old - DeSilva's deputy - his most trusted confident - he too was assassinated - "

"Hold on," Rick shook his head. "Too bad they died and all that - but what the fuck does that have to do with me?"

"I haven't finished, Rick. Shut up and let me continue - and this one," Taylor lifted the picture from the table and held it up in front of Rick. A balding, gap toothed, weasel like man grinned back at him. " - ah - yes - funnily enough - his name was Tony too - he was becoming a nuisance - and maybe it was a blessing he took three bullets in the chest - it took two more to the head before he stopped twitching - he leaves a wife and several mistresses - and two of them are with child."

"No disrespect here - but who in hell would shag that?"

"Where he comes from - it's how much money you have - not what you look like - a woman can forget what he looks like - as long as he measures up in the wallet department - and he's hung like a donkey." Taylor dropped the picture and sighed, tilting his head as he studied Rick carefully. "Is it true what I hear? You're hung like a fucking elephant?"

"You try finding out and I'll rip your head off," Rick replied sweetly. "Capishe?"

"Oh - don't Rick - you know me and how I like a challenge."

"Yeah - every morning is a challenge for you - if you can get your sorry ass outta bed, tie your shoelaces and take a pee - you aren't proud are you - you're amazed!"

Taylor was shaking with fury - he could barely keep himself seated but somehow - he did - fisting his hands several times and pulling in deep calming breaths. After what seemed an eternity - he finally managed to find his voice again - and raised his eyes to Rick's laughing blue ones.

"These men," he pointed to the photos once more. "They were all on my payroll - we had a great little business going - coke- heroin - meth - you name it - they supplied it - with my help."

"Damn - is there a judge in the house?"

"Everything in the garden was rosy Rick - money rolling in - they were content - I was content - everything was fan - fucking - tastic!"

"Your point is?"

"Then - it happened - I call it - Black Friday - there we all were - a nice little earner adding to our already expanding pensions when every fucking Fed, police force from fuck knows where suddenly decided to pay a visit - they even bought a contingent of Marines with them to burn the crops and destroy the factories - I - we lost - we lost - nearly five million dollars." Taylor was staring at Rick curiously now - like a cat with a cornered mouse - leaving Rick slightly disconcerted.

"Too bad," Rick shrugged.

"It is, isn't it?" Taylor smiled wanly. "For you - anyway."

"Me? How?"

"Ah - now that would be telling - all in good time. But first - take a look at these." Another batch of pictures was spread out over the table - and this time - Rick's stomach lurched.

"Where did you get these?" he asked - staring at the images laid out before him.

"So you recognise the people - more importantly - the place?"

Rick's eyes snapped to Taylor's and he swallowed audibly. How in hell had Taylor managed it? He was looking at a series of pictures taken inside Heaven's Gate - not good quality pictures which had to mean hidden cameras - but it wasn't the club that worried him - it was the clientele in each picture - and if these ever got out! Rick closed his eyes for a second or two - trying to regain composure -

"You don't look too good, Cuz." Taylor observed.

"You're bluffing - these are fakes." Rick stated flatly - unable to look away from the photos. "This is smart - but too smart for you Taylor."

"Ouch - that stung, Ricky." Taylor collected up the pictures and pushed them back into the folder, letting it rest beside him. "Now - I don't think I need to spell out what's going to happen next - do I? But maybe I will - 'cause I like hearing the plan again - it's one of my better ones." Rick snorted derisively, lowering his head and closing his eyes briefly. "See - I know you - Rick. You have a very privileged position in the echelons of Washington's elite - you have contacts - you have hangers on - you have lots and lots of friends - and I won't reiterate the point that you have friends in very, very high places - you've seen the photos - and I'm sure they won't appreciate seeing themselves all over the Sunday editions will they - but I digress - you are - what is known as a mole - aren't you? You hear things, you see things at the Club - and some stupid, interfering shit of an official knew of your connection to me - and he asked you for a favour or three didn't he?"

"Bullshit!"

"Hah! No, Rick - he did - and you were only too happy to point the finger at me weren't you - you've been after me for years - ever since we were kids - you've always been jealous of me - of what I achieved - of what I am - ."

"You're deluded." Rick said sadly. "Totally deluded."

"Shut up!" Taylor bellowed. "Admit it - you tipped the Feds the wink - you destroyed what I had - innocent men were killed because of you - and - at the last count - you owe me five million dollars - with - I would guess maybe 3 years interest - so let's round it off to a cool ten million - and guess what? Today's payday!"

"Is it?" Rick replied with a sigh.

"At my last reckoning - the club is worth at least 3.5 million - your three townhouses - another - possibly - 4 million and the villa - has to be worth - 2.5 million."

"So - what this boils down to is - you want 10 million or those pictures get published."

"In a nutshell - oh - and I also want you three out of DC - personally - I want all three of you dead and buried - but you're family and I can't do that to family - no matter how much I hate them."

"Nicky and Alex have nothing to do with this - leave them out of it!" Rick barked. "They don't know anything - "

"Aha! So - you admit it then!"

"I'm admitting nothing - it's been a while since we last met Taylor - and you've had plenty of time to think up something - congratulations on the photos by the way - nice touch - but if this is your way of - "

"Rick - please - listen to yourself - you even sound guilty even though you say you aren't - you're a Fed snitch - and if you had to you would turn in your own siblings - and I don't think Alex and Nicky would want to hear that - do you?"

"Taylor - "

"On the other hand," Taylor grinned evilly. "If I were to count on my fingers how many fellow villains you've helped put away - I'd run out wouldn't I? But - if someone were to - I don't know - let slip the grass's true identity - you'd be dead inside a week!"

"You bastard."

"I know - so - you'll do as I ask?"

"No."

"Pity - I thought you'd say that - not to worry though - here's something to make you laugh." Taylor stalked to the other side of the room and collected up a remote control - holding it level with a huge LCD tv screen on the wall. As the picture flickered into view - Rick suddenly felt very sick.

"Damn - he's a handsome one Rick - you really should learn to share your playthings."

Rick didn't answer - his eyes fixed on the screen.

Tony was barely conscious as he was seated in a wooden chair - his ankles fastened to the legs and his wrists fastened to the arms. His head lolled on his chest until Lane grabbed a handful of hair and lifted his head until he was gazing unseeing into the camera nearby.

"How's he doing?" Taylor asked, a hand steadying the earwig in his left ear.

"Dopey - but pliable - " Lane replied with a nasty smirk. "Ready Boss?"

"Sure - " He spun round to face Rick - gazing at him expectantly for a moment. "Mm, Morgan, Lane - I don't think Rick is convinced of our intent here - could you - prod him a little for me?"

"My pleasure." Lane leered as he wrapped a hand around Tony's left wrist, lifting the index finger until it was almost vertical. "Now?"

"Now would be good, Lane - thank you."

Lane snapped his hand back - and Tony let out an agonising howl as his finger was broken - leaving him gasping in pain before he went limp once more.

"No!! Taylor don't do this!" Rick bellowed, struggling futilely to free himself.

"You see, Cuz," Taylor turned to him again. "He's got ten - sorry - nine good fingers and ten toes - each one will be broken until you agree to my request - and if - after that time you're still reticent - then it's ankle joints - knee joints - "

"You bastard!"

"Next finger, Lane!"

TBC……

"He will be all right won't he?" Abby asked, snuggling close to Gibbs on the sofa in Alex's office as the two brothers set up her laptop and other gadgets on the desk.

"If he isn't, he'll answer to me." Gibbs said with a half smile before kissing Abby's cheek as she gazed up at him with those dark doe eyes - suddenly ruining the moment by taking a noisy slurp of Caf Pow.

"But it's Tony," she began - around another slurp. "And if anything happens to him - I don't think I could imagine anyone taking his place - I'd turn his desk into a shrine - drape it in black velvet and satin - and put a fresh vase of black roses on it every day - and I'd demand that we all have a three minute - "

"Yeah," Gibbs sighed, shaking his head before pulling her closer to him. "He's just missing Abs - not dead - and he's not allowed to be dead."

"But - "

"Because he knows what I'll do to him if he was."

"What's your gut telling you then, Silver Fox?" She shifted about until she was sitting on his lap, head on his shoulder as her hands clasped her favourite beverage.

"Abs, I think we're done here - want to check it over?" Nicky stepped back from the desk and pushed both hands through his hair as he pulled in a deep breath.

"What's all this in aid of anyway?" Gibbs asked as he joined Abby on the other side of the room.

"Ah," Abby checked the connections between the main PC, her laptop and the speaker phone and fired them up. "If your darling psycho calls in - either via email, messenger or phone - all I need is a minute and I can get a fix on him and then you guys ride off to the rescue and get to do some serious ball crunching!

"If anyone's crunching anything - it'll be my boot upside Taylor's head," Gibbs murmured - leaving Abby looking slightly taken aback at the venom in his voice.

"And if he's jamming the signal?" Alex hitched a hip on the desk and glanced at Nicky wryly.

"Bro - it's Taylor - he likes the dramatic." Nicky tilted his head and smirked. "He won't think of things like that - as long as he gets to show off - he's a happy bunny."

"Why hasn't he called in?" Gibbs checked his watch. "It's been nearly three hours and nothing."

"He'll call when he's ready," Nicky shrugged. "He changes his cell daily - and we've already tried calling his place - line's dead."

"So why," Gibbs leaned forward with both hands on the desk. "Aren't we at his place right now - and looking for Tony?"

"Because the minute he smells a rat - Tony and Rick will be dead - we can't risk that," Alex explained, glancing at Abby then Gibbs. "It's how he operates - it's happened before. You'll find nothing - no trace of anything or anyone - Taylor has ways of making bodies disappear."

"Don't tell me," Gibbs growled. "Concrete overcoats holding up the highway?"

"You want to tell him or shall I?" Nicky looked pained and let his head fall back before stretching his neck from side to side.

"Nick - ladies present?" Alex indicated Abby and pulled her to him with a reassuring squeeze to her shoulder.

"If it's gore - I'm all ears - "

"She's cool," Gibbs affirmed with a quick smile. "She sleeps in a casket for crying out loud."

"Just tell me when you want me to stop," Nicky raised his hands in a gesture of surrender.

"How's Taylor dispose of unwanted items?" Gibbs prompted.

"Pigs," Nicky stated, his eyes narrowing as he gauged Abby's reaction. "He feeds them to pigs - "

"Whoa!" Abby grinned almost evilly. "That's just so - hinky - cool but hinky."

"Apparently, starve a pig for a day or two - then present it with the carefully cut up bits of said - item - flesh and bone - and the whole lot will be gone in twenty minutes flat - nothing left."

"And you know this - how?" Gibbs straightened up, fixing Nicky with that stare.

"He's related to us - and some people like to keep us up to speed on what he's doing."

"Yeah? Well - no one is feeding anyone to any damned pig while I'm still breathing," Gibbs growled. "Why in hell did you never deal with Taylor yourselves? Why's he still out there? What's it going to take to bring him in and put him behind bars?"

"Kidnapping a Federal Agent - for starters," Abby announced, bouncing up and down on her toes. "He won't stand a chance - and if he hurts my Tony - he won't just be facing a judge, Gibbs. It'll be me - then you - then McGee - and then - last but not least - we'll let Ziva loose on him - don't forget - she can kill with a paperclip - not to mention crush a man's balls in ways that make even my eyes water."

"Ziva?" Nicky's radar was suddenly alive and kicking. "Have I met her - yet?"

"She'll see you coming," Gibbs taunted good naturedly. "Believe me - she's not your type."

"She ties electrodes to men's - bits," Abby winked as she stared pointedly at Nicky's prominence in his pants.

"Not my type?" Nicky chuckled. "You jest, Jethro - she sounds like a lot of fun."

"You wouldn't say that if you - "

At that point - the room suddenly fell silent as the telephone beside Alex began to ring. He looked to Gibbs immediately for guidance and was answered with a slight shake of the head as a second then a third ring sounded.

Abby sat down at her laptop, her fingers flying over the keyboard and then she nodded to Gibbs who signalled Alex to answer.

"Yes?" He sighed in relief and then covered the mouthpiece. "It's him - he wants this on speaker."

"I'll bet he does," Gibbs snarled as he stabbed the button on the phone.

"So - how many am I talking to?" Taylor's voice barked. "Names!"

"Four of us," Nicky informed him tersely. "Where's Rick?"

"Safe enough - and set up your computer for a live feed - I hate talking to fresh air."

Alex scooted behind the desk and seated himself before the main console. "How'd I do that?"

Abby shoved his chair aside and wheeled her own across - and in seconds Taylor's face was beaming at them on the screen. "Ooh - now he's a hottie!" she beamed.

"Goth, huh?" Taylor peered closely at her. "Still - cute enough - "

"Hey!" Gibbs leaned in. "This isn't a fucking dating agency - where's Rick - and the man you took with him?"

"Man I took with Rick?" Taylor thought for a moment and then a smile slid across his features. "Oh - you mean - Tony?"

"Yes, Tony. Where is he?" Gibbs demanded.

"Such a cute guy - one might even say devastatingly handsome - " Taylor's voice took on a dreamlike quality. "The things I could do with him - to him - but he belongs to Rick - he's Ricky's little fuck toy of the moment - and as soon as Rick tires of him - I'll quite happily take him on - haven't had one as fresh as Tony for a long time."

"Show me they're all right!" Gibbs snapped.

"Oh - " Taylor let out a sharp breath as his shoulders sagged. "Manners aren't your forte are they - um - " his brow knitted as he gazed back at the angry blue eyes glaring at him. "And who the fuck are you?"

"Leroy Jethro Gibbs - like that matters - you have something we want and we're going to take them back - you can either stay out of the way - personally I'd prefer it if you were in my way - that way I get the great satisfaction of kicking your ass into the middle of eternity!"

"Something tells me you're a little pissed, Leroy - " Taylor taunted. "And what kinda hell name is Leroy Jethro - " Gibbs didn't need to see the nod from Abs but she nudged his foot with her own which told him she'd got a fix.

"I said - show me they are all right!" Gibbs repeated.

"Have you ever heard of the word - please Leroy?"

"So fucking help me - "

"Check your email, Alex - some interesting attachments - enjoy - and I'll be in touch!"

With that, the feed died but Abs was grinning like a Cheshire Cat as she pointed at her own screen. "We have got him cornered."

"Been there before Abby," Gibbs reminded her. "Petty Officer's laptop giving out a signal for three days - he'd been dead for four. What we got?" He turned to see Nicky collecting up paper from the printer and knew it wasn't good as Nicky's face paled, his jaw slack.

"I knew he was sick but this is just - " He dumbly handed the pictures to Gibbs who quickly scanned them.

"He's a dead man!" he breathed - holding them out of reach as Abby reached for them - handing them instead to Alex.

"Oh God," Alex shook his head in disbelief. "I am so sorry Jethro - I had no idea he was capable - "

"Yeah - I'm sure you didn't!"

The pictures were blatant - three shots from inside the club showing high ranking Government officials and three others - two of Tony - fastened to a chair - his head held up and back clearly unconscious. His nose bloody - a nasty gash on his right temple and a dark bruise on his other cheek, blood running copiously down his chin from a split lip and the other picture showed a long shot of Morgan pulling back Tony's left middle finger - although thankfully - it looked like Tony had already passed out, oblivious to his surroundings and the agony he surely would have felt if he'd been awake.

The third picture showed a full length shot of Rick - staring straight into the camera - he had been beaten too - although not as badly as Tony - but enough to have blood dripping onto his shirt from a deep cut on his right cheek - it was clear he was unable to defend himself - the straps at his ankles told them that much.

"What the fuck did Tony do to have Taylor do that to him?" Gibbs whispered, taking back to two pictures of his young lover and staring at them sadly.

"I've never seen anything that bad, Jethro." Alex squeezed his shoulder tightly. "I just hope it isn't because he knows Tony's a Fed."

"And if he does?" Gibbs placed the pictures face down - well out of Abby's reach and turned to face the two brothers. "What happens then?"

"He gets away with it - one more time." Alex breathed. "And we can't let it happen - again."

"What aren't you guys telling me?" Gibbs snapped - looking from one to the other. "He's done this to people you know before?"

"I didn't say that - " Alex turned away and walked to the small bar on the other side of the room.

"You didn't have to," Gibbs snorted - looking to Abby for reassurance and smiling at her as she remained silent through the exchange. "It's not just me he's hurting is it? Not just because he's got your brother - dammit to hell - guys!! Don't hold out on me now - whatever that bastard has done to you in the past - today is retribution day - tell me what the fuck else has been going on and maybe - just maybe - I can actually help you find the son of a bitch and take him out - permanently!"

"There isn't anything to tell, Jethro - honestly!" Alex protested and then he clammed up - hands on hips as he dropped his chin to his chest.

"Nothing huh - Abs - the address?" He held out his hand as she slapped a post it note into his palm. "I'm going to get Tony - and Rick - and I'm bringing them back here - with - or without your help - I'd prefer it with someone to watch my six but since you two seem kinda reticent about doing anything fucking positive - it's down to me - it's Ari Aswari all over again - except Ari wasn't a fucking nut job was he? Hell - I've taken on worse than that - "

"Gibbs!" Abby was on her feet - and hugging the silver haired man as though he might disappear in a puff of smoke. "Go get the bastard - and give him a stiff kicking from me - just - be careful!"

"I'll be back Abs - but I could be a while." He held her from him and kissed her lightly on the forehead. "If psycho calls back - keep him busy for me."

"Sure thing Sir."

"Don't call me Sir."

"Sorry, Ma'am."

"So?" Gibbs turned to Nicky and Alex. "I'm heading out - you have five minutes to join me - or I go alone - your choice."

TBC……

A couple of miles out of town, Alex in the driving seat with Gibbs beside him - the older man studying the blue file on Taylor - neither man spoke - intent on their own private thoughts right now - Gibbs on Tony and Alex on what the next few hours might hold.

"Why'd Nicky stay behind?" Gibbs asked suddenly, startling Alex.

"Because it's safer one of us stays with Abby - Matt, Pete and the boys are good security - "

"But not quite good enough?" Gibbs finished with a cynical smile.

"No - I didn't say that." Alex began - eyes fixed on the road ahead, his thumb tapping a silent tattoo on the wheel.

"Strikes me there's a lot you aren't saying," Gibbs glanced at him briefly. "But I can wait."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Alex asked, trying and failing to sound diffident.

"Whatever you want it to mean," Gibbs shrugged. "What did you two talk about just before we left?"

"When?"

"You and Nicky - at the elevator while I was getting the car?"

"Just told him to look after Abs - and we'd check in with him in an hour." Alex threw him a look. "Why don't you come out and say it Jethro - you think we're trying to screw with you or something?"

"Or something."

"Huh?" Alex pulled in to the roadside and hit the brakes, twisting in his seat to face the older man. "Look - I have no idea what is going on in your head Jethro - but I do know we are all scared - we're all running on empty - we are tired - hell - we're exhausted - and you trying to read crap into where there is none is not helping the situation - if you have something to say - then just fucking say it - alluding to whatever crazy ideas are rolling around in your mind isn't helping!"

"Making you nervous am I?"

"Hell yeah!"

"Good," Gibbs grinned at him and tossed the file onto the back seat. "Can we get moving?"

Alex started the car once more, cursing under his breath as he pulled out onto the empty road.

"If I hadn't turned up with Tony last night," Gibbs wondered out loud. "D'you think you'd be making this journey anyway?"

"No!" Alex snapped.

"You seem sure about that."

"I am!" Alex barked back. "Simply because Rick had done his research - last night was supposed to be his night off - then he heard you were bringing Tony with you - he has a source at FBI - and he fed Rick a photo."

"Night off? Since when did Rick take nights off?"

"Not for a long time - last night was the first in over a month."

"So Taylor was targeting Rick?"

"Um - let me think - " Alex sounded sarcastic. "Yeah!"

"No - okay - so - " Gibbs paused and reached back for the file again, tugging out Taylor's photo. "When did Rick decide he was going to show up?"

"It was late - around - five pm I'd guess."

"So - Taylor had hardly any time to prepare anything."

"Someone could have tipped off the bastard from inside - you saw the photos."

"Photos?" Gibbs chuckled. "Alex - I didn't see any photos - neither did you."

"Understood." Alex smiled to himself as he shook his head.

"It had to be a last minute plan." Gibbs slid the photo back inside the file. "They snatch a club owner and what - effectively - looks like his - yeah - well -let's not go there - they snatch Rick - and Tony's just a bonus."

"There is a possibility Taylor knows Tony's a Fed by now - "

"And if he does?"

Alex closed his eyes for a second - swallowing nervously. "Then he'll be just another statistic on a missing persons list, Jethro - you won't find him - "

"Taylor's not met me yet, Alex."

"No - true."

"And taking Rick gains him - what?" Gibbs looked thoughtful.

"Rick? Where'd you start?"

"The top?"

"Okay," Alex pulled in a deep breath. "Taylor has always had this - thing - about Rick. Always had to either equal or top him - in anything and everything - until Taylor dropped out of college."

"What was his major?"

"Law."

"Okay."

"He disappeared for about two years - no one heard anything - and then he just popped right back up - the Taylor we now know - he'd gone to Paraguay, on to Venezuela and ended up in Columbia - netted himself a fortune in gun running - drugs - all that shit."

"A guy has to have a hobby." Gibbs mused with a chuckle.
"Yeah - I guess he does - but when he found out how successful Rick had become without really having to work at it - he got greedy - "

"Jealousy huh?"

"Oh yeah - nasty - " Alex nodded. "What people don't realise is that we - that's Nicky, Rick and myself - we've had to contend with Taylor always being there - in the background - he kept needling - he kept threatening - "

"Threatening what?"

"He just wanted us to hand everything over to him - and we'd still get a share in the profits. Claimed his people could run things for us - all we had to do was sit back - "

"But you didn't."

"No - we didn't - " Alex affirmed.

"And?"

"And - not a lot more to tell - and here we are."

Alex killed the engine and pointed to a large wrought iron gate at the roadside - a speaker system attached to a tall post on the right hand side.

"Now we're here - you have a plan?" Alex asked, climbing out of the car and stretching his arms above his head with a satisfied groan.

"How about the front door?" Gibbs climbed out and shut his door - peering around the surrounding countryside for any sign of anyone.

"Not a good idea - two men at the top of the drive and maybe a dozen around the place - and with Rick and Tony possibly inside - chances are he's called in reinforcements."

"Okay - how about the back door?"

"Same as here - "

"Alex, please don't tell me this is a wasted journey."

"Would I do that to you?" Alex looked pained and then grinned broadly. "Follow me."

******

Nicky lounged on the sofa watching Abby at the laptop. "So - Abs - anything on the cctv?"

"No - not yet - gimme time, Nicky! And another Caf Pow won't hurt!"

"Yes, mistress - one Caf Pow coming up." He collected up the empty beaker and made for the door.

"Nicky?" Abby said softly as he turned to face her.
"Abby?"

"Are you a boxers man?"

"Why don't I leave you to guess honey," he flashed her a killer smile.

"In which case - you are definitely commando."

"Why so interested?" He couldn't help but snigger as she made little squealing noises at him.

"Because - your butt in those jeans is just too hot!"

"So I've been told on numerous occasions and for the record - " he turned his back to her, lowering the zipper on the pants and then his hands hooked into the waist of the snug denim, inching it down very slowly until half his ass was exposed.

"Oh - my." Abby sighed dreamily. "I was right - that is some butt!"

"Thanks," Nicky bowed his head. "One Caf Pow coming up - and please babe - concentrate on the tape?"

"Tape? What tape?"

Nicky returned a good ten minutes later - Caf Pow in one hand and a large slice of pizza in the other.

"Wanna see something else that's hot - although not as hot as your ass - but then - if I look at it again - I'll need a very cold shower - in fact - yes - a cold shower before I look at it again - and then one after - "

"Abs," Nicky handed her the plastic beaker. "Rambling - not good. What you got?"

"Oh now that would be telling - but swear you won't tell Gibbs you've seen this?" She gripped his forearm with both hands, her eyes wide as she looked up at him.

"I - won't tell - anyone anything - just - show me?"

"You swear?"

"I swear Abs."

"Then swear!"

"Fuck!"

"Okay - and promise me you won't - "

"Show me!" Nicky implored as her hands flew over the keyboard before gripping the mouse.

"Right - ignore the van - and Taylor - and look at this."

As they watched, the highlighted area to the left of the van - began to clear and lighten - revealing two dark figures. Abby moved in closer - and clicked and suddenly - as though standing in broad daylight - Rick and Tony - clearly with their minds on something far more important than the three men heading their way.

Clearly impressed with what she had found - Abby kept rewinding and playing the scene over and over.

"Is that not just too horny for words?" she breathed. "Tony's looking so fine!"

"Isn't he just - " Nicky murmured - closing his eyes and stepping back a little - pressing a hand to his tenting pants. "Can you get me a copy of that?"

"Sure thing - although I'll have to digitalise the faces."

"Aww, why?" Nicky smirked - the smirk vanishing as Abs spun round to face him. "Oh - yeah - sure. Now - play it again?"

TBC...

"What are you going to do?" Alex asked as he opened the trunk of the car and reached in for a large black leather holdall.

"About what?" Gibbs grunted in surprise as he was handed a Sig and two rounds of ammo. "Something else I should know about you?"

Alex shrugged, collecting up a back pack and unzipping it. "Just pays to be prepared, Jethro."

"You don't strike me as the Boy Scout type - you got a licence for these?" He pressed the clip home and shoved the gun into the back of his pants.

"All above board and legal - " Alex shut the trunk and locked it, shoving the keys into the back pocket of his jeans as he slung the pack over his shoulder. "What are you going to do about Rick - when all this is over?"

Gibbs stared at the other man for a moment and realised that - for the first time - Alex actually looked worried - scared even. But who for? Himself - or his brother? As for what he would do to Rick? He hadn't decided - but whatever he came up with - Rick wouldn't forget about it. He'd broken a cardinal rule - taking what wasn't his despite Tony marked as belonging to Gibbs - he'd been wearing his collar when the two had been brought down - and yet Rick chose to completely ignore it - maybe he'd been the one who'd wrenched it off. A possibility - given Rick's voracious habit of helping himself when no one was looking. "Do?" Gibbs answered softly. "Who said I was going to do anything - I have got a couple of options in mind - it's a toss up between take him apart bit by bit or just slap his wrist." He scuffed a hand over his face and sighed heavily. "I'll probably go with taking him apart - he'd enjoy being slapped too much."

"Jethro - he made a mistake," Alex handed him a cell phone. "You know what he's like!"

Gibbs turned and closed the space between them - staring into Alex's still fearful eyes. "Yeah - I do - and pardon me for sounding like a fucking stuck record - Tony's up to his neck in shit right now thanks to him. Believe me, Alex - but your brother isn't getting off lightly - by the time I'm finished with him I'll have bounced his ass from here to kingdom fucking come - he will never fuck with my property again." Gibbs continued to glare at Alex until the younger man stepped back a few paces as Gibbs held up the cell in his hand. "And this?"

"If we get separated - just hit one - it'll automatically connect to mine."

"Ring or vibrate?" Gibbs breathed, still holding Alex's gaze.

"Vibrate - ring might warn them we're coming."

"Ya think!" Alex looked uncertain. He closed his eyes, hitching the pack higher onto his shoulder.

"I know you're pissed Jethro - "

"Hey!" Gibbs barked. "Jesus, Alex - can we just get a bastard move on here - and quit telling me I'm pissed! Just understand that right now - I am tired, I'm hungry and the one thing - the only thing keeping me going is that I am going to blow the head off that megalomaniac who - for all we know - could have killed Tony by now - "

"He won't have - " Alex shot back - a little too quickly.

"Huh?"

"I mean - Taylor probably knows Tony's a Fed by now - he's stupid - but he's not that stupid."

Gibbs gazed off into the distance over Alex's left shoulder - suddenly deep in thought. "I don't know why - " he began finally. "But my gut is telling me something isn't quite right about all this."

"You said you were hungry," Alex smiled nervously. "Probably hunger pain." He turned away and checked the car was locked, setting the alarm before turning back to Gibbs. "You coming?"

Gibbs said nothing. Hunger pain - huh? He watched as Alex began walking slowly away from the car, over the grass verge to the high wall surrounding Taylor's compound. Yep - something's hinky and I'm damned if I can put my finger on it.

******

Thirty minutes later - the two men were now on higher ground surrounded with brush and trees with an excellent view down into the grounds of the vast estate below - even Gibbs had to admit - it was impressive. A large main building with large wings set east and west was surrounded by trees and ornate gardens - at the back of the house - a massive swimming pool and to the left of that - tennis courts and what looked like a large decking area topped with a blazing white marquee affair. But something was off - something was missing.

Alex handed a pair of binoculars to Gibbs and lifted his own to his face, scanning the area quickly before lowering them.

"How many rooms we talking about?" Gibbs asked - still taking in the place below.

"How long's a piece of string? You're looking at forty plus - maybe more."

"Basement?"

"A warren - wine cellars, games room - play room."

"A what?" Gibbs handed back the binoculars and linked his fingers behind his neck - frowning.

"Play room - as in - a play room?" Alex flicked up an eyebrow at Gibbs's questioning look. "Taylor's into kink too - "

"Okay - too much information already." Gibbs lowered his arms to his sides. "Did you notice what I noticed?"

"That depends - " Alex shrugged. "His hedges need a trim - "

"No," Gibbs folded his arms across his chest. "You said he'd have reinforcements - he'd have men all over the place - "

"So?"

"So - why didn't we see any just now - the place is deserted."

"Just because you can't see them - doesn't mean - "

"I'll tell you what it means, Alex." Gibbs rounded on him. "I think he's expecting us - he wants us in there."

At that moment, Alex's phone began to vibrate and he pulled it free from his jeans as he flipped it open to press it to his ear. "Talk to me - yeah - Nick. We're here now." Alex held up a hand to Gibbs. "No - I think we'll be all right - doesn't seem to be anyone around - it might be we can sneak in and sneak out - "

Gibbs suddenly snatched the phone from him and walked away a few paces. "Put Abs on Nick - now!" He glanced at Alex and then turned away again. "Abs - listen - that NASA guy - can you get a hold of him in the next ten minutes? Yes - I know it's a weekend - I need you to find him - and I need a satellite fix on - Abs - shut the hell up and listen - hold on! Alex? Where is this place?"

"Huh?"

"Just tell Abs the address and she'll do the rest - " he tossed the phone across and waited as Alex filled Abby in, snatching the phone back again as he finished. "No Abs - no time to explain - but I'm bringing Tony home if it's the last thing I do - you got five minutes - just do it!"

"Now what?" Alex leaned his back against a nearby tree and watched Gibbs pacing up and down.

"We wait - Abs'll come through for me - she always does."

"But why satellite?"

"Why not - ? We get a fix on this place - we can monitor who's coming and going - who's where - and if they decide to move - we've got them!" Gibbs explained, spreading his hands.

"Since when did satellites have x-ray vision?"

"Alex - you're not helping the situation - " Gibbs growled. "Shut up and let me think!"

Ten minutes went by - ten long tense minutes and then the phone in Gibbs's hand vibrated. "Abs!" He listened - as a smile began to appear. "Good girl - I knew you could do it - what we got?" He listened again and then snapped the phone shut. "We have a convoy gearing up out front - looks like I was right - they're moving out."

"We won't get there in time - "

"Doesn't matter - " Gibbs was beaming at the younger man now. "GPS - the cars they're using are Jeeps - and all Jeeps have GPS - Abs will be able to track them - "

"Jethro?" Alex tilted his head. "Why are we still standing here?"

"No idea - move out!"

******

Taylor snatched the pen from Rick's hand and stood back with a defiant almost manic grin as his cousin's wrists were refastened at his back. "Now that wasn't too hard was it?" he taunted.

Rick didn't look at him - he didn't trust himself to even speak despite having just signed over the club et al to the dark haired man standing proud and aloof before him. He grunted a protest as he was hauled to his feet - only too well aware of the gun barrel pressed to his side as he was led from the room.

Taylor tossed the pen over his shoulder and stared up at the ceiling - his mouth moving as he counted off the seconds and then he held up a hand and grimaced in anticipation - he was not disappointed. He strode to the door and peered around it - the smile firmly in place. As Rick had left the room - Morgan and Lane with a limp unconscious Tony between them - left the room next door.

"I did what you wanted, Taylor!" Rick bellowed, struggling to free himself from the iron grip around his right bicep. He managed to turn and face his cousin - his eyes blazing - his breath coming in ragged gasps as he tried to close the space between then and wipe that sanctimonious smirk off Taylor's face but the gun barrel pressed closer. "You said you'd leave him alone! You told me it was just the fingers - you didn't have to beat the living fucking daylights out of him! He's nothing to do with any of this - you should have let him go - I asked you to let him go - you said you were going to let him go!"

"So - I lied. As for the fingers - I'm still wondering why it took four of them before you signed over your life to me - or were you getting off on seeing him screaming in agony?" Taylor shrugged. "He's with you - therefore - he is fair game - if it had been another of your simpering, whimpering hangers on - they'd have been treated the same - only - " Taylor paused as though weighing something up, he made to speak and then shook his head. "What the hell," he said finally. "Just so you know - Ricky lad - I know what Tony is - and do you know what that means?"

"What?" Rick gaped at him. "What the fuck are you talking about now?"

Taylor sniggered to himself, his eyes to the floor for a moment until he took a few paces forward to stand nose to nose with the other man. "He's a Fed, Rick. Special Agent Anthony DiNozzo - and according to his resume - he's a good agent too - but - sadly - not good enough."

Rick's stomach lurched as his face suddenly paled - he swallowed slowly and gazed into Taylor's tormented eyes. "If he is - and if what you've done to him is anything to go by - you are in a shitload of trouble."

"Oh don't play me for a fool, Cuz." Taylor cuffed Rick lightly upside the head. "He's with NCIS - and has been for over three years - previously he was with Baltimore PD - he's thirty three years old - birth date July 8 - Daddy's stinking rich but a bastard - Tony fancies himself as a ladies man - and he is - but he has commitment issues - he digs old movies - watches crap like Jackass - drives a Mustang - he did drive a Corvette until that was trashed in a high speed car chase - and he enjoys pizza with pepperoni, sausage and extra cheese - need I go on?"

"He needs medical attention, Taylor - "

"And he'll get it - after you've washed up - your face is a mess and I don't appreciate you bleeding on my expensive Persian rugs." Taylor stepped back and signalled for the men holding Tony to move on as Rick was taken further along the corridor to the bathroom.

"I'll be coming in with you," said the man with him.

"Whatever - " Rick breathed. "But I can't do anything cuffed like this."

"Which is why I'm coming with you," his guard leered at him.

"Then maybe I can wait."

"I doubt it, I'm Carson by the way - and I have a very short fuse." Rick looked at him and then yawned loudly.

"I'm Rick and I'm more than a little pissed right now, Carson - but in light of the situation as it stands - I need the bathroom and I would like to clean up - if that's okay with you?"

"Fine - "

Rick was shoved through the door and held his hands up and back as Carson unlocked the cuffs, bringing them round and massaging his wrists carefully - watching the other man from the corner of his eye.

Ablutions over - and grateful Carson had chosen to turn his back and gaze out of the window as he relieved himself - Rick made light work of washing his face - grimacing at the bruises and tired eyes staring back at him in the mirror. "I look like shit," he murmured.

"Yeah - " Carson held up the cuffs. "Hands in front this time - "

Moments later, the metal door of the cell slammed shut behind Rick as he was pushed inside. He closed his eyes and leaned against the cool steel as he tried to refocus - tried to gain some semblance of - something - but it was as he opened his eyes he spied what he thought had been his worst nightmare - lying in a heap at the bottom of the left wall - Tony.

Rick was at his side and on his knees in a nano second, easing the deeply unconscious man onto his back. "Tony?" he whispered. "Tony? It's Rick - can you hear me?" Nothing - no reaction whatsoever. Bile rose in his throat as he took in just how badly Tony had been beaten - his face was a mess - bruised and cut - and his hand - his left hand -

"Oh God," Rick breathed. "What have I done? This wasn't supposed to happen - you shouldn't be here, Tony - you are here because I screwed up - I should have been watching out for you and instead - I got - distracted. It's not your fault - none of this is your fault but Taylor figures you're with me - and used you to get to me." He took a deep breath and let it out slowly as tears began to well in his eyes. "I failed you - you and Gibbs - Jethro will never forgive me for this - never. I should never have touched you - I shouldn't have checked you out - I should not have turned up last night in the first place - this is all my fault - all my fault - "

"Boss?" Barely a whisper but it was audible. Tony's eyelids were flickering as his head turned towards the man kneeling beside him. "Jethro?"

"No, Tony - it's Rick. Lie still - "

"Jethro."

"He's on his way - just lie still - don't speak - reserve your strength."

"No - want - Jethro - need - " Tony managed to lift his right arm, bending at the elbow to grab a hold of Rick's shirt - leaving Rick a little surprised at the strength the barely conscious man still had. "Rick - Rick - " Tony passed out again, his hand falling to his stomach as his head lolled to the side once more.

If Rick had anything more to say - he didn't stand a chance. The cell door opened and Taylor stepped through - flanked by Morgan and Lane.

"Move a muscle Rick - and you're dead!" Taylor barked. "Morgan - hold him still - Lane - if you would please?"

Rick didn't stand a chance - he was hauled to his feet by Morgan with a choke hold around his neck - and then something was pressed to his face - a soft cloth soaked in something - something sickly sweet - and as his eyes fluttered close - his hands falling away from Morgan's massive forearm holding him upright - the last thing he saw was Taylor looking at him - almost sadly - then - he was unconscious before he hit the floor.


TBC -

"They're on the move - " Alex panted as he caught up with Gibbs at the bottom of the incline. "It'll take them a good five minutes to get to the road - you drive and I'll try getting hold of Nicky - "

"Not Nicky!" Gibbs yelled over his shoulder as he trotted away towards the road. "Need Abby!"

"Not Nicky - Abby - got it!" Alex bent down, hands on his knees as he fought for breath. "Either Jethro's sniffing something or I'm outta shape - and I'm going with me outta shape." He pulled himself upright and scrolled down the numbers - hitting Nicky's immediately. "No time to explain," he said as Nicky answered. "Put Abby on! Hey little lady - " he paused - listening. "No - we're fine - Jethro's fine - look - listen to me can you hook up to my laptop - yeah - we need to see where Taylor's headed." He held the phone from his ear - grimacing as Abby began demanding to know what was going on. "Hey - Abs - HEY!! Listen - I'll fill you in once we're mobile - my addy - ask Nicky - laters!" Snapping the phone shut, Alex broke into a run - almost colliding with Gibbs who was waiting for him at the wall. "Want a leg up?" he asked with a grin.

Both men now back at roadside - they raced to the car - Gibbs in the driving seat as Alex quickly extracted his laptop from the trunk - plugging it into the cigar lighter.

"What are you doing?"

"Not sure yet - pull back out of sight - and let me get this thing up and running." Alex's fingers flew over the keys and he was soon scrolling down incoming emails - "And we have lift off - " He tugged out the webcam from the bag at his feet and set it atop the screen.

"Hey handsome!" Abby's voice came over - slightly crackly. "I see ya - where's Boss Man?"

"Right here, Abs." Gibbs grinned, gunning the car into reverse and twisting in his seat as he brought it back a good two hundred feet. "Got a fix?"

"I have - Ashton was SO game."

"What you promise him this time?"

"Gibbs!" Abby sounded shocked. "What kinda girl do you think I am?"

"Abs - " Gibbs chuckled - glancing across at the screen on Alex's lap.

"Just dinner - and some stuff - "

"Stuff?"

"Is this a private conversation or can I butt in here?" Alex asked cautiously - but he was smiling.

"You see them?"

"First car just left - and another - and now - a van."

"I see them - " Abby turned and began keying in to her own computer - Nicky over her shoulder - chewing gum noisily. "Oh my - we have a gross of cell phones here - and someone's got a pooter up and running too - "

"Can they trace us?" Gibbs pulled out into the road - not bothering to check behind.

"Not if you hang back far enough - I doubt they've got the tech we've got anyway - what's the plan Oh Great One?"

"We follow these scumbags - "

"And what if Tony and Rick aren't with them?"

"Then we double back to the house and get them out." Alex answered for Gibbs who was too busy trying not to put his foot to the floor.

"They're in that van!" Gibbs affirmed. "I know it!"

"That famous gut does it again - " Abby bounced up and down on her toes until Nicky wrapped his arms around her - preventing her from moving. "Nicky - " she purred. "Is that a pickle in your pocket or are you really pleased to see me?"

Nicky grinned at his brother and winked. "Guess I have the best job, huh, Alex?"

"As always - bro - as always. Holy crap!" Alex was flung hard against the passenger door - the laptop nearly sliding away as Gibbs took a corner a little too fast. "Jethro - for crying out loud - "

"Where are we headed?" Gibbs snapped. "Any idea?"

"Not until we hit the city limit - which is about three miles off yet - "

"Spare me the details - where in hell is he headed? I need locations - you said he had property in town - I need to know what kind!" Gibbs swore under his breath as he took another corner before straightening out - the van and cars still up ahead.

"Driving like this is likely to get us killed which is not going to help anyone - Jethro - slow down for Christ's sake!" Alex had both feet up on the dashboard now - bracing himself as they took another corner. "Don't tell me you've forgotten there are road works up ahead - "

"Fuck that - " Gibbs snarled. "Tony's in that van - "

"And you jumping the lights is gonna help?" Alex nearly shouted. "Jethro - "

"Alex - buckle up and shut the hell up!"

"Ooh - touchy," Abby's voice sounded. "Take a chill pill, Master - and the lead car just pulled off road - heading down a dirt track - "

"Where's it going?"

"Hold on - I'm just getting it - "

"Abs - do you fancy showing me how to do whatever it is you're doing?" Alex frowned. He had often thought of himself as a bit of a geek when it came to computers - but it never ceased to amaze him what could be achieved with a box of wires and circuit boards.

"Of course, Oh Gorgeous One - aha - gotchya! Gibbs - there's a farm up ahead - about another mile or so from you - its derelict - but still standing - just." She paused. "Oooh - I'm smelling hinky - big time Gibbs!"

"No time for hinky Abby - just keep me posted! Alex - hold on!"

Two hundreds yards down the track - and Alex was leaning out of the window - trying his hardest not to puke as the car bounced over ruts and potholes - the back tyres spewing up dirt as she sped after the lead car.

"Abby?" Gibbs yelled over the noise of the engine. "Can you get number of the other car and the van?"

"I can - like you have to ask."

"Put out a BOLO - "

"But Gibbs - GPS will tell us where it's going?"

"Not if GPS doowacka fails - which it will - BOLO - NOW!"

"BOLO it is."

"BOLO?" Alex looked at Gibbs puzzled.

"Be On Look Out for - "

"Oh."

"And now - the shit hits the fan - and I get to slap a few heads. I'll get out first - and I'll watch your six." Alex gazed out through the windshield, his stomach knotting in anticipation.

The lead car had pulled up - in front of the dilapidated porch of the farmhouse and two men climbed out either side - both large, muscular and mean looking. One bald, neatly dressed in a suit and tie - the other with dark, closely cropped hair and dressed in smart jeans and a lightweight shirt - guns very evident at their waists.

"How long do we hang back here?" Alex tugged out the binoculars and lifted them to his eyes.

"Until I see Tony - or Rick - then we move in."

"And if we don't?"

"We move in anyway and make sure those two end up spending the night behind bars." Gibbs settled back in his seat and closed his eyes briefly. "Man - I am so tired - "

"Gibbs - Gibbs - Gibbs!!"

"Abs - Abs - Abs - "

"BOLO done - you expect any hits?"

"No idea - "

"Jethro - " Alex sounded thoughtful. "As I see it - there is about - what - three hundred yards of open field between us - and them - I appreciate they can't see us behind all this brush - which was good thinking by the way - except I had to throw up out of the window when you took that turn - anyway - open field - them and us - they are armed - so what are the odds on it we don't make it?"

"Good point Alex - starting to think like an Agent already." Gibbs reached across and punched him lightly on the arm. "Give them another few minutes and - fuck!"

"What?" Abby sounded concerned.

"My gut was right - Abs - you know what to do - Alex - with me - and stay down."

"Gibbs!" Abby cried. "What's going on? You found Tony?"

"I think so - and I hope to hell that's not just a dead body they lifted out of the trunk!"

"Gibbs! Don't say that - I would know if Tony was dead - "

"It's Tony - " Alex handed across the binoculars. "And he's not looking good."

"Gibbs - "

"Abs - please - just do what I told you to do - alert Ducky - I'm bringing Tony in - my place - give us one hour!"

"But he might need a hospital!" Abby shot back.

"Maybe - but for now - there's too much shit flying about - and hospitals ask questions - and stay on the van!"

"No worries," Nicky grinned at the two men. "I've got that covered - Abby's on the phone to Ducky now - just go get them!"

"And there's Rick - " Gibbs offered - still watching as the two men were manhandled from the car into the house. "Fuck it - Alex - we're going in. Nicky - we'll be in touch as soon as we're done here."

"Just be careful."

"Laters - "

*******

"I think we're lost," Gibbs handed a well used map to Alex as they pulled up beside the farmhouse.

"I think you're right," Alex nodded - peering at the map closely. "We took a wrong turn."

"Wonder if these guys can help." Gibbs said as he opened his door and climbed out - just as the two men who had been carrying Tony and Rick stepped onto the porch from inside - staring at the newcomers curiously. "Hey - feel a bit foolish - but we're looking for - "

"I don't give a flying fuck what you're looking for - buster - so turn around and fuck off back where you came from," said the bald man.

"Aw - now see - Jethro - youth of today - no manners." Alex sighed, shaking his head.

"I know - sad isn't it?"

"Regrettable."

"You two just turn around like my friend says and we'll forget we ever saw you." The other man said menacingly, his hand already reaching for a weapon.

"We're being nice about this - " the bald man nodded, holding up his own gun. "But then again - if you two insist on being a nuisance - we're in the middle of nowhere - and we can arrange for you to remain in the middle of nowhere."

"The two men with you - where are they?" Gibbs suddenly demanded.

"Who wants to know?"

"No one - " Gibbs answered. "Just me and him - "

"Nosy too - huh?" Bald guy growled. "Okay - fine - " he lifted his weapon, pointing it directly at Gibbs and fired - but Gibbs saw it coming and ducked - firing his own Sig and catching the man in the centre of his forehead and he hit the ground hard as he fell forward over the railing to lie still - his partner joining him with a bullet to the side of his head as he'd tried to take out Alex.

"Thanks," Alex gasped as he straightened up from hiding behind the car door.

"No problem - you okay?"

"I'll live."

Both men were then up the few steps and into the house - when Gibbs stopped short in the door - unaware - unseeing as Alex hurried to Rick's side.

All Gibbs could see was Tony - his Tony - his lover - his friend - his team mate - lying so still.

He knelt down beside him, taking his right hand in his and brushing his lips over the knuckles as he stroked the least damaged side of Tony's face. "What the hell did they do to you, DiNozzo?" Tears flowed freely now - now that he had what he had been yearning for - Tony back safe - not so much sound - but safe - he gently lifted Tony until he was cradling him in his arms, kissing the top of his head gently as the two of them rocked back and fore. "You're safe, baby. No one is going to hurt you again - "

"Boss?" A murmur. Gibbs smiled through the tears.

"Yeah, it's me."

"Good - "

"Sssh, Tony."

"Shutting up - Boss - " the words were mumbled - sleepy even.

"You're safe now, and I'm going to slaughter the bastard that did this to you."

"Jethro?" Alex whispered as he squatted beside him. "Come on - let's get out of here."

"He's too heavy."

"It's okay - " Alex soothed. "Not a problem - you give Abby the good news and I'll bring them both out."

"Yeah - good idea - Alex - thanks."

"Looks like they were going to torch the place,"

"How d'you know that?" Gibbs glanced up at him quickly and then followed his gaze to the other side of the room - and his stomach somersaulted. There had to be at least ten petrol cans - large petrol cans - easily capable of carrying at least five gallons each.

"Like I said - " Gibbs kissed the top of Tony's head again. "They're both safe now."

TBC -

The journey back to Washington via the back roads took little less than a half hour and Alex used the time - seated in the rear as he was with Rick to his left and Tony to his right - to at least try and heal Tony's mangled left hand. The young agent was still deeply unconscious and barely made a sound as Alex took his hand between his own and closed his eyes - breathing in calmly through his nose and out through his mouth until he could visualise the tendons, muscle and bone - and he grimaced as an impression of the pain Tony surely must have felt flittered across his mind - the hurt soon forgotten as a warm glow began emanating from his own hands - surrounding the injured one he held gently.

Gibbs watched him briefly in the rear view mirror but said nothing - grateful at least that Tony might not have to actually see the damage that had been inflicted - a glance across told him Rick was still out cold - held upright with a seatbelt until he slid sideways - his head was resting on his brother's shoulder.

Before they had left the old farmhouse - and before loading Rick and Tony into the car - Alex had had the foresight to use the web cam to record the area for evidence - much to Abby's annoyance that he'd have to blank her out for a short while even though she was protesting she wanted to see for herself that Tony was okay. Gibbs soothed her - telling her Tony wouldn't appreciate her seeing him when he wasn't at his best - but she was welcome to join him at the house later and check then - along with Nicky - Alex had an idea that he and his other brother might be able to help Ducky if need be.

"How are they doing?" Gibbs asked as Alex finally opened his eyes and let out a long sigh - shaking his head to clear it. "Still breathing - " he pushed Rick upright and against the door. "And Tony's hand - is fine."

"Thanks." Gibbs paused and then fixed Alex with a stare in the mirror. "Ducky's on his way - we'll get these two settled and then figure out what the fuck to do next."

"Next? We find Taylor - "

"Not till I make a few calls, Alex. We'll need back up - can't do this alone." Gibbs pointed out wryly.

"Calls?"

"Calls."

The remainder of the journey was in silence and they were soon rolling up the drive and into the garage - the soft hum of the garage door the only noise as the car came to a stop.

"You get inside - I'll bring them in," Alex clambered over into the front seat and climbed out the driver's door as Gibbs opened Tony's door. "And get some coffee on!" He called as Gibbs disappeared through another door into the kitchen.

"On it!"

A half hour later - Ducky walked in through the front door, trilby in one hand - medical bag in the other. "Alex, dear boy - what brings you here?"

"Hey Duck - let me give you a hand." He took the bag and set it down on the coffee table as Ducky hung up his trilby and shrugged out of his coat. "Coffee?"

"Not just now, thank you," Ducky smiled. "Jethro has me very worried - where is he?"

"Where he's been since we got here - he won't leave Tony." Alex jerked a thumb over his shoulder to the stairs. "The man's beat, Duck - but he won't move."

"When I've finished with him - Jethro will most certainly move - and where is Rick?"

"Guest room - he's out of it but Tony is giving everyone cause for concern," Alex lifted the medical bag from the table and led the way up the stairs. "He's in a bad way - "

"I'll be the judge of that, dear boy - now then - let me - oh my." Ducky stood on the threshold of the main bedroom and just stared. "Anthony - what in heavens name happened to you?"

"If I told you he walked into a door?" Gibbs replied softly from where he sat in a chair, up tight against the mattress - both hands clasping Tony's right one, his eyes not leaving the sleeping man's face.

"I'd say it was more than a door - " Ducky began as Gibbs stood and moved the chair back so the ME could get a closer look at his patient. "This is terrible - who did this to him?"

"Long story, Duck." Gibbs sighed - suppressing a yawn behind his hand. "Can you do anything?"

"I can most certainly do something - mostly cuts and grazes but that gash to his temple - " He opened his bag and tugged out a pair of latex gloves - pulling them on quickly. "When did he last have a tetanus?"

"No idea - " Gibbs shrugged.

"No matter - no matter - I need to check him over - and I don't want to cause any more damage - do you think he'd mind if I cut the shirt off?" Ducky looked to Gibbs who - again - shrugged.

"I'll buy him a new one," Gibbs walked to the window to gaze out over the quiet street - smiling briefly when he saw the Labrador from a few doors down attempting to hump a rather fancy poodle - much to the disgust of the poodle's owner.

Alex walked level with the ME and took the scissors from him with a jerk of his head in Gibbs's direction, Ducky following his gaze and then nodded understanding. He approached Gibbs slowly, resting a hand on his shoulder. "You need to rest, Jethro - you'll be no use to anyone like this - get cleaned up and at least try and get some sleep - Tony will be sleeping for most of the day as it is - "

"No, Duck - I can't do that. I need to be here when he wakes up - he needs to know that no one is going to hurt him - he needs - "

"He needs sleep - time to recuperate - at a guess I would say he's probably concussed - and he will be disorientated when he wakes but he'll see where he is and know you're not far away," Ducky soothed. "But for the record - a cursory glance at his injuries - he needs a hospital."

"No!"

"I know," Ducky raised a hand. "He hates hospitals - but I would be happier if I could get an x-ray of his head - just to be safe."

"No!" Gibbs turned to face the older man. "No hospitals - not yet anyway - "

"Guys!" Alex finished easing off the rest of Tony's shirt, tossing it into a nearby waste bin. "No one needs a hospital - when Nicky gets here - he and I can - get together and see if we can't help Tony - "

"You know," Ducky looked up into the so blue eyes twinkling back at him. "I have yet to see just how you three do what you for myself - would you mind if I stayed with you and watched?"

"Duck?" Gibbs looked puzzled - man - he had to be tired - he'd only just realised Alex and Ducky seemed to know each other - and quite well too by the sound of things.

"Mm?"

"How come you - "

"Oh - I've known these three boys quite a while - it was Gerald's fault - he came home late one night after dinner with some friends - raving about some new restaurant - and insisted we try it that weekend - "

"Duck - " Gibbs began - trying to find the words. "You do know what kind of place it is - don't you?"

"Heaven's Gate?" Ducky smiled impishly. "I have a very broad mind, Jethro - although - not that broad. No, occasionally Gerald and I dine there - we enjoy the ambience, the good food and company - and the personal touch - although we draw the line at indulging in - whatever else goes on - "

"And you're welcome back anytime," Alex nodded with a grin. "But - aren't we forgetting the patient?"

"Oh my - of course."

*******

As soon as Alex had gotten Tony settled on Gibbs's bed, Gibbs had hustled him out - telling him to check on Rick - and set about cleaning his young lover up as best he could - and it worried him that Tony didn't let out any sound as Gibbs gently washed his face - trying hard not to hurt him anymore than he already was - congealed blood was a bastard - and Gibbs hated having to practically scrape it away - hoping and praying he wasn't making things worse. His left cheek bone was cracked - his left eye puffy with a darkening bruise blossoming beneath but it was that gash on his temple - it was deep and would probably need suturing. "You're gonna hate me for doing this and I apologise in advance Tony - but I know how you are about your teeth - just don't bite me." He slid his index finger into Tony's mouth and by feel alone he checked each and every tooth - and each and every tooth was still in place - none felt loose - nothing damaged. As he leant over him, Gibbs resisted the urge to plant a small kiss on his lips - kissing a split lip would hurt like hell and right now - Tony didn't need that.

"Gibbs?" A bare whisper - Tony's eyelids fluttered open and he gazed almost unseeing at the man leaning over him.

"Hey - yeah - it's me."

"Good - m'okay - " Gibbs could only smile as Tony let out a soft sigh as he succumbed to sleep again.

"Not from this angle babe." Gibbs whispered. "You're a mess."

*****

Ducky completed his exam of Tony, as Gibbs filled him in on what had been going on, with a small smile on his lips as he straightened up. "I think he's going to be just fine, Jethro. He'll look like he's done ten rounds Tyson for about a week - but the bruising will fade - the sutures might leave a scar too but that should fade in time - it might even be when Alex and Nicky take a look at him - they might be able to help further. But I am curious about what happened to his left hand - odd bruising there - "

"Alex did that - and it still amazes me how he did it. Taylor had his man break four fingers - before carte blanche to beat him senseless." Gibbs sat up straight - easing the kinks from his back carefully.

"In a way - I would deem it a pleasure to see this Taylor chap on my table, Jethro - sounds like a most disgruntled young man - and maybe I'd let Tony loose on him." Ducky closed his exam bag with a satisfied grunt.

"Not before me, Duck - not before me. Thanks - for everything."

"Not at all. Now I would like to check you over if I may."

"Not just now, please."

"Mm." Ducky stared at him.

"Mm?"

"You said please, Gibbs - I don't think I've ever heard you say please."

"Extenuating circumstances, Duck."

"Ah - good point."

The front door slammed shut and footsteps could be heard pounding up the stairs.

"Gibbs!" It was Abby.

"Ssh," Ducky said with a finger to his lips. "In here Abigail - "

"Gibbs! Is Tony - " She stood at the end of the bed and gaped at the stricken agent lying before her. "Gibbs - is he going to be all right?" Her voice seemed to crack as she continued to stare at Tony. "Tell me he's going to be all right?" As Ducky placed a comforting arm around her waist, she turned and snuggled into his shoulder for a long moment - as though gathering strength from the ME who patted her back softly.

"He'll be fine, Abs - " Gibbs breathed without even looking at her.

"Someone is going to die for doing this to Tony - and just you remember - I can commit first degree murder and not leave a shred of evidence - do we have a name for the son of a bitch?"

"We do - what about the van?"

"Van?" Abby snorted. "Don't you think Tony is more important than - "

"Abigail - retribution is a good thing - but at the moment - I think Tony might appreciate a little peace and quiet - Gibbs too - they've had a rough time of it - why don't you and I go downstairs and see about this van - besides, I would appreciate a little down time with young Alexander and Nicholas - "

"Young?" Abby giggled. "Those two? They're thirty if they're a day!"

"Young to me, Abi - young to me."

****

As he walked to the door to close it behind the departing pair - Gibbs suddenly realised just how exhausted he was and allowed a huge jaw breaking yawn to sound as he stretched his arms above his head before retaking his seat at Tony's side.

He thought about maybe taking the other half of the bed beside Tony but decided against it - hell - he could sleep standing up if he so chose - but a well padded chair - coffee to hand - he settled in - watching his young lover and trying to prevent more yawns escaping - and it was just as well he put the empty coffee mug on the side table - three more yawns later - and he was fast asleep - and snoring.

TBC

"Welcome back to the land of the living, Jethro." Ducky smiled at him as he checked Tony's pulse and eye reflexes.

"Yeah - whatever - how's he doing?" Gibbs leaned forward, taking Tony's hand again and bringing it to his lips. "He looks a lot more peaceful than he did earlier - how long was I asleep?"

"You've had a good two hours, Jethro - you need more."

"No - I need to find the bastard that did this to Tony, Duck - then - I think about getting some more sleep - until then - I'm running purely on adrenalin." He sounded determined - and Ducky nodded to himself - he was sounding like the old Gibbs again - and that had to be a good sign. "And Rick?"

"Rick is up and about - a little groggy - but he's fine - the chloroform he inhaled will leave him feeling a tad light headed - but that will pass soon enough." He bent and re-checked the sutures on Tony's forehead and straightened up, taking off his glasses and cleaning them with a handkerchief before putting them back on.

"Where is he?"

"Next door - " Ducky began as Gibbs rose to his feet and paced to the door. "Gibbs - Alex told me what happened - " he paused, looking into Gibbs's eyes surprised to find nothing but blatant anger behind them. "Go easy on him - "

"Like Taylor did on Tony?" Gibbs snorted. "Rearrange the following Duck - horse, door, bolted, stable - and make sure we're not disturbed - "

Ducky watched him leave and sighed heavily - he'd seen Gibbs like this too often - and it was never pleasant - and right now he wished Rick all the luck in the world - he was about to feel the wrath of a very pissed Gibbs and retreating was probably the ME's best option. A final check on Tony and he hurried out of the room and back downstairs to warn the others gathered in the kitchen.

Gibbs stuck his head around the guest room door just as Rick re-entered from the bathroom drying his face on a towel. As he lowered the towel - he spied the older man and stopped dead in his tracks.

Holding up his index finger, Gibbs made the "come here" sign. "Wanna show you something," was all he said and those four words sent Rick's stomach plummeting to his boots as he followed him across the landing to the master bedroom. "Get inside and don't say a fucking word," Gibbs growled as Rick stepped through the door - his stomach rolling as the older man locked the door and stood looking at him - just staring right into his eyes -

"Jethro - I don't know - "

"Look at him, Rick." Gibbs breathed. "Turn around and look at him - " Rick didn't move - like a startled rabbit caught in headlights - he could not look away from Gibbs. "I SAID TURN AROUND AND LOOK AT HIM!" Gibbs bellowed. "NOW!"

Rick turned, quickly glancing at Tony before fixing his gaze on the lamp on the far bedside locker.

"You see," Gibbs began - slowly walking across until he was standing behind Rick. "I don't understand - I just can't seem to get my head around why you did what you did - "

"I didn't do anything, Jethro - " Rick spun round and matched his gaze. "Okay - I might have come onto him - "

"No - no - it's not that I'm talking about - what I want to know is - why is it Tony lying there - why isn't it you?" Gibbs whispered, his hands fisting at his side. "And yes - Alex told me everything - you were not just taking out the trash which is what you were going to tell me - you lured him out there - you've coveted him since the second you set eyes on him - you even sent out to a FBI friend for a damned photo of Tony!" He paused. "It's the same old story - isn't it? What Rick wants - Rick gets - no matter who or what gets in the way."

"Jethro - don't - "

"Don't what?" Gibbs taunted, suddenly taking Rick totally by surprise as he twisted both hands into the younger man's shirt, spun him round and slammed him against the wall - leaning in until they were nose to nose. "You two were almost killed today - Taylor had it all planned - you were never going to be free - we found you both in a deserted farmhouse with enough gas fuel to blow up a city block! I nearly lost the most important thing in my life because of your greed," Gibbs spat - slamming Rick against the wall a second time. " - your arrogance - your unfeasible stupidity - "

"I - "

"You?" Gibbs chuckled darkly. "What about you? Huh? It's not you I'm worried about - " He still had hold of Rick's shirt and used it to propel him across the room until he collided with the mattress and fell forward - quickly twisting onto his side - hands spread out as he steadied himself. "What about Rick? Huh? It's not you I'm seeing lying there with a three inch gash in his head - it's not you who had his hand broken - it's not you who was beaten to a pulp is it? No - Ricky always comes up smelling of roses - falls in pig shit face first a lot of the time - but always comes up smelling of roses - and I'm having a hell of time trying to convince myself not to haul your ass into the Navy Yard for conspiracy in the attempted murder of a Federal Agent!"

"Gibbs!" Rick shouted - startling the older man who merely sneered at him.

"I could have lost Tony today - Taylor could have just killed him in the alley couldn't he? Or he could have let him go - but he took him with you - "

"Gibbs! Shut the fuck up and listen to me!" Rick was on his feet, tugging his shirt straight.

"Why? I don't want to hear any more lies - no more crap - "

"I've lost everything!" Rick yelled - spreading his hands wide.

"Oh - now that's a doozy!" Gibbs grinned quickly - the smile fading as he moved closer.

"No - it's the truth - you have to believe me."

"Get out." Gibbs said quietly - his jaw set firm.

"But - "

"I said - get out."

"Jethro - don't do this - please don't do this."

"I'm doing it - you know where the front door is - you got five seconds to get down those stairs - or my foot will be connecting with your ass and you'll be heading down them so fast you won't know what day it is." He blinked at the younger man and then made the "come here" sign again and as Rick came closer - he wrapped a hand around the back of the Uber Dom's neck and leaned in close. "And just remember this - you so much as think about messing with Tony again - I will personally remove your cock and balls - roast them in front of you and force feed them to you while you are on display in the Rumpus Room - do you understand?"

Rick stepped back a pace, then turned and walked to the door - unlocking it slowly.

"And Rick?"

The younger man turned back.

"I'd be very scared right now - who knows who is gonna be knocking on your door with a warrant - "

"You're talking shit, Gibbs - and you know it."

"Am I?" Gibbs sneered. "I don't think so - you and Taylor are in this - whatever - this - is - together - "

"Huh?"

"You're family aren't you? How do I know you're not as bad as he is? This whole thing could be one huge act - the Feds want him - but no one can touch him - maybe you're the reason they can't - "

"What are you saying?" Rick looked at him curiously.
"Me? Hell - you're the one with friends in high places - ass licking on the hill is a skill Rick - and that sounds like it's right up your street in more ways than one - maybe the reason he's never gone down is because you're asking people to look the other way?" Gibbs looked triumphant as Rick leaned against the door, head back against the dark wood.

"You're insane, Jethro."

"I said something was hinky about all this - and I think I'm starting to understand why - "

"If anything's hinky - it ain't me." Rick stated flatly. "Look - Taylor made me sign away the club - the town houses - everything - he made me sign everything away while he snapped Tony's fingers - once I'd signed - he slapped me around - and I didn't know Tony was getting the same treatment - not that I could have done anything about it - I was handcuffed to a fucking chair and forced to watch while Morgan - broke four fingers on Tony's left hand - "

"And you expect me to believe that?"

"You saw the state Tony was in when you found us - believe what you want - I know what happened."

"Why would Taylor make you - "

"No idea - some drivel about payback - but you don't want to know that - you got your precious fucking boyfriend back - I got nothing - " He raised a hand and looked the floor - lifting his head quickly with an ironic smile. "Oh - forgot - it's not just me is it - Alex and Nicky too - so wish me luck when I tell them the good news - I just know they're gonna love to hear it."

"I tell you - " Gibbs sniggered. "I've heard some stories in my time - but this one - "

"Is the truth - and if you're going with your famous fucking gut - this time Jethro - it's got it all wrong - " It was Rick's turn to look triumphant. "Hah - newsflash Washington - the gut got it wrong - don't believe the gut!"

If either man was going to speak further - they were interrupted by a cross looking Ducky who pushed open the door - ignoring them completely as he checked on Tony again.

"Duck?" Gibbs queried.

"Half the street can hear you, Gibbs - and all this noise isn't helping Tony at all - I would suggest a stiff brandy for both of you and - please - try and calm down." Duck sounded irritated and then looked up - glancing from one to the other. "Still here gentlemen?"

"And we intend staying here until we settle this," Gibbs answered gruffly.

"You may be - I'm outta here!" And Rick was gone, his feet pounding down the stairs two at a time.

"Duck?"

"Mm?"

"What the hell is going on here? Did I break a mirror or something?"

"Jethro," Ducky soothed as he rounded the end of the bed and rested a hand on Gibb's shoulder. "I know that right now everything seems slightly off kilter - somehow shrouded in mystery - and from what the boys have been telling me - there is a lot more going on here than anyone would care to let on - I am going to remove my ME's cap for the duration - except where - " he pointed to Tony briefly. "Except where young Anthony is concerned of course - and instead - don my "Columbo raincoat" - there are answers to be sought, Jethro - and with the plucky band of fellow investigators awaiting us downstairs - I think we stand a chance of solving this - "

"Sounds good Duck - but I need to speak to Jen - Fornell - I need to bring them up to speed on what's happening." Gibbs took his seat at Tony's bedside again, gazing at the younger man sadly.

"Admirable - indeed - but you have forgotten one very important element here -"

"Have I?"

"The small matter of how this all began in the first place? You can't talk to them and not mention the club - can you?"

"I don't have to - just the bare bones." Gibbs shrugged.

"But they'll find out anyway - bring them in at the end - after all - loose ends do get lost at times," Ducky patted his shoulder. "Not that I would know anything about that - of course."

"You, Duck? No - course not." Gibbs smiled quietly to himself. "How's this sound - hey Jen - sorry but Tony won't be in on Monday - or for the rest of the week - he got kidnapped round back of a kink club - he and his boss had spent most of Friday night Saturday morning shagging each other - "

"Too much information, Jethro." Ducky sniggered. "Now - I suggest we leave Anthony to rest - you get cleaned up and I'll get a pot of your most dangerous personal blend of coffee going and we start making plans."

"You're enjoying this - aren't you?" Gibbs smiled up at him.

"Beats trying to shampoo five corgies who don't want to be shampooed, Jethro - believe me."

"We'll make an Agent out of you yet - " Gibbs rose to his feet and made for the door. "Duck - ?"

"Jethro?"

"Thanks."

"For what?"

"Keeping me grounded?"


TBC…..

Gibbs and Ducky were in the kitchen talking in low voices, Gibbs pouring himself a third large mug of coffee before re-taking his seat at the table.

"I thought you were going to watch Nicky and Alex in action," Gibbs observed after taking a long pull at his favourite beverage.

"I am, Jethro - but I got the distinct impression my being there would somehow hinder them - but I trust them both," Ducky replied with a slight shrug. "And you still haven't told me what you said to Rick - the way he stormed out of the place - "

Gibbs chuckled to himself as both hands cupped his mug. "Ah - he zoned straight to brat mode - not that I'm surprised."

"Brat mode?"

"Brat mode," Gibbs nodded. "You've probably never witnessed it - but if he doesn't get his own way - he sulks like a pubescent teenager - I yelled at him - told him a few home truths along with some ideas I have brewing up here - " he tapped the side of his head with a finger. "He didn't like what he heard - and does what he always does - "

"Which would explain the squeal of tyres - "

"Exactly. He'll be back once he's calmed down - "

"I still don't understand why he had to sign everything over to his cousin though," Ducky mused. "But then - I don't know the triplets as well as you do - obviously some dark family secrets we are not privy to."

"Once I get my hands on Taylor - I'll find out - " Gibbs sat back in his chair, scuffing a hand over his face. "How long have they been up there?"

"About ten minutes - no more than that." Ducky rose from his seat, taking his mug with him out into the living room.

Abby was seated cross legged on the sofa - using one of the arms as a back rest. She looked up with a smile and Ducky sat down in a comfy armchair opposite.

"Hey Duckman."

"Abigail," Ducky saluted her with his mug. "Anything to report?"

"Nada - they're still in heavy traffic - don't seem to have moved for the last twenty minutes or so." She hit a few keys and pulled a face at the screen. "I wish I knew where they were headed."

"What you got for me Abs?" Gibbs strode across the room and bent to look over her shoulder - squinting at the pictures. "What am I looking at?"

"That's them," she pointed to a blinking red dot stuck on the main highway through the city.
"So - we're looking at maybe the industrial area - warehouses - that kinda thing?" Gibbs asked as he seated himself behind Abby. "What else?"

"It could be a red herring," Abby suggested. "Maybe they're taking this route to make sure they're not followed?"

"Just keep on it Abs," Gibbs rubbed her back affectionately.

"Gibbs?" Abby turned to look at him.

"Yeah?"

"Will you please go upstairs - you're like a spring ready to pop - go check on Tony."

"Ya think?"

"I think," she replied with a grin and a wink at Ducky. "Go!"

"I'm gone!" Gibbs set down his mug and headed for the stairs - taking them two at a time.

"Aw," Abby sighed. "I love re-unions - "

"As do I, my dear - " Ducky sniggered. "And I think this will be one re-union that could last all day."

"Ducky!" Abby leered at him, making the older man blush a little. "What do you mean?"

"Ah - thereby hangs a tale - " Ducky got to his feet and moved to sit at the other end of the sofa. "I remember once - Gerald had been gone on vacation for some weeks - tropical storms and such like prevented his plane leaving - "

"And suddenly - I need a Red Bull!" She was on her feet and out to the kitchen leaving Ducky staring into thin air - only to return with two cans of Red Bull - popping one for herself and handing the other to the ME. "Right - skip the plane delays and get right to the sex - Duckman - and don't leave anything out!" She settled herself back with the laptop, fixing him with him with a beaming smile.

******

"Hey, Jethro - good timing," Nicky took him to one side, leaving Alex with the young agent to double check he was indeed all right. "He should be coming round in a couple of minutes - might be a good idea if you were with him when he wakes up."

"I wouldn't have it any other way - " Gibbs turned to look at Tony still lying on the bed. "He looks like nothing happened - "

"He's young - strong - healing is made a lot easier when the subject is healthy - he'll be fine - but he might be a bit shaky to begin with - but that'll pass."
"And he is okay?"

"He's 100% Jethro," Alex nodded as he joined the two men. "And I took the liberty of dumbing down the worst of the experience - he will remember - but he won't mind remembering if you get my drift - which was made a lot easier because he's basically been out cold for most of it - but he won't remember having his hand broken - I've erased that altogether."

"Thanks - " Gibbs slapped Alex's upper arm as he walked past him to sit at Tony's side again. "And what about what started all this?"

Nicky frowned, approaching Gibbs to rest a hand on his shoulder. "It would hardly be fair to him if he didn't remember - "

"Understood."

"Don't let him rush things," Nicky advised as he and Alex exited the bedroom. "If he's still groggy after fifteen minutes - give me a call - "

"Will do," Gibbs lifted a hand in answer. "You did a good job with the sutures - nothing there - "

"All in a day's work, Jethro - "

The door snicked closed behind the brothers and that small sound was the cue - Tony's eyes flickered open and he swallowed a few times, a hand moving to his face as he let out a soft groan. "Man - I am beat!" he whispered, lowering his hand and turning to look at Gibbs.

"And what are looking so happy about? How long have I been asleep? And what are we are doing back at your place? Last thing I remember some bastard was playing punch bag with my face! Fuck Gibbs - how do I look - is it bad? I can't come into work looking like I've gone ten rounds - Ziva'd never let me live it down - not that she does anyway - Kate was easy to annoy - Ziva's a whole different ball game - man - I need a whiz and I need one like yesterday!" He heaved himself up onto his elbows and swung his legs off the bed. "Oh - boy - why is the room spinning?" A familiar slap to the back of his head had him sitting up to attention. "Thank you Boss - shutting up Boss - and you still haven't told me what the hell we're doing at your place! And another thing - where's my t-shirt? Oh - man! My jeans - they're ruined - that just sucks - these were my favourite!"

"Just mud, DiNozzo - just mud - "

"Mud?" Tony twisted around and instantly regretted it. "If I ask why I have mud on my jeans - will I want to hear the answer?"

"Later - yes," Gibbs slapped him again. "I thought you needed the bathroom?"

"Thanks - " Tony slowly got to his feet, staggering back only to find support at his back as Gibbs grabbed his arm to steady him. "I'll take it from here - "

"Suddenly shy, Tony?"

"No - "

Gibbs couldn't help but smile as the long drawn out groan from the bathroom signalled relief for his young lover. He threw open the closet doors and hooked out a clean t-shirt and jeans - tossing them onto the bed just as Tony re-appeared drying his hands on a fluffy towel. Gibbs smiled a welcome and turned to fish out a pair of boxers from a nearby drawer.

"Nah - commando's good enough, Boss." Tony leered at him.

"Hey - it's going to be a long day as it is - you'll put those on!" Gibbs pointed to the boxers lying atop the jeans.

"Mind if I grab a quick shower first?"

"Be my guest!"

"Wanna join me?"

"I'd love to, but Abby and Ducky are downstairs with Alex and Nicky - and I don't want us caught coitus interruptus!"

"Spoilsport!" Tony called from the bathroom.

Gibbs stared at the bathroom door and then followed his young lover inside - partly closing the door behind him. He found Tony staring at his reflection in the mirror above the sink - and he didn't recognise the expression on that beautiful face. Tony slowly turned round, eyes to the floor. "You okay?" he asked tentatively.

"Yeah - no - it's just - " Tony lifted his green eyes to meet blue ones. "I let you down, Jethro - this whole thing - I'm not sure what happened - but - Rick and I - we - I mean - "

"I know, Tony - I know what happened."

"And you're not angry?"

"If I said no - I'd be lying - Alex told me. I've spoken with Rick - and he knows what will happen if he does anything like that again."

"The blame wasn't entirely his - I didn't have to respond." Tony lowered his eyes once more.

"You couldn't help it, I told you - what Rick wants - he gets - no matter what."

"So you two had a fight?"

"Not so much a fight, Tony - no. We had - words and Rick understands the rules again - "

"You make it sound like he's done it before - " Tony undid the zipper of his jeans and pushed them down his legs, stepping out of them and kicking them to one side.

"He has - and he'll keep on doing it - he took advantage of you - " Gibbs raked his eyes up and down Tony's hard physique - an eyebrow arching as he noted the tenting boxers. "And I don't want to hear another word about it from you, Tony - understood?"

"But - "

"But nothing - " Gibbs closed the space between them leaning in to lap at Tony's lips - his tongue begging entry. "I missed you - so much."

Tony said nothing - moaning softly as Gibbs gently plundered his mouth before pulling back - eyes shining with that silly half smile on his lips. "It was good to be missed - " It was his turn to lean in and the two men took the opportunity to make up for lost time - both sensing the need for this re-union to be quiet - mindful of the guests downstairs - "Damn it - " Tony breathed as he came up for air. "Gibbs - this will have to wait - "

"Ya think!"

"Look - I don't know what's been going on for the last couple of hours - well - I do - but I don't - "

"Damn!"

"Huh?"

"We're not in the bastard office, DiNozzo - "

"No - I know - but I need you to fill me in - where's Rick? Where the fuck is psycho Taylor - how did I end up back here - I need answers and you've got them."

"Tony - "

"What was it you said to me once? Which brain is thinking now?"

"What?" Gibbs stared at him uncomprehendingly.

"Something big is going down Jethro - "

Gibbs pulled in a deep breath and lowered his head. "You're right - I'm sorry - priorities and all that crap - "

"Hey - never apologise!" Tony stabbed a finger at him.

"It's a sign of weakness - yeah - I know - just get showered." Gibbs answered, head slapping before leaving the bathroom.

"What was that for?" Tony called after him.

"Being right!"

TBC -

"What the hell did you say to Rick?" Nicky demanded as Gibbs and Tony came down the stairs and into the living room.

"Not a lot," Gibbs replied carefully. "Then again, why are you asking me - according to Ducky half the street could hear us. What did he tell you?"

"Apart from go to hell?" Nicky shot back. "He says you think he's implicated in whatever it is Taylor's up to! And yes, we heard the first initial shouting match but then you went quiet."

"Gibbs?" Alex glared at the older man from where he sat perched on the arm of the chair holding Ducky. "Is that true? Rick's involved?"

Gibbs looked from one to the other and back again. "Call it habit - but right now - the way it's looking - it's a safe bet. You got a problem with that? And anyway - didn't he kinda beam it to you or whatever it is you three do?"

"The minute you called him in to see Tony - the shutters came down - and they stayed down," Nicky growled. "He knows he's not supposed to do that - not without good reason -and right now is not good."

"Where's he gone, Nicky?" Gibbs's eyes narrowed.

"He drove off - "

"I know that - " Gibbs snapped back. "Where?"

"How the hell should I know - he could've gone anywhere - Washington's a big city."

"I'll throw this out to you then - he's in with Taylor - and he's on his way there."

"Taylor?" Alex stood up, hands in the back pockets of his jeans. "What are you saying, Jethro?"

"I don't know, Alex. What do you think I'm saying?" Gibbs squared up to the younger man, a small smile on his lips.

"I don't know - why don't you enlighten me - preferably in the next ten seconds - " Alex ground out between clenched teeth, his left hand fisting at his side.

"Or you'll do what?"

"Guys!" Tony interjected, stepping in front of Gibbs. "No fighting - come on - we have to pull together on this - don't we?"

"Tony - good to see you," Nicky stated. "You okay?"

"Hungry - hungry and - did I mention I was hungry?" Tony flashed him a grin. "And I am sensing a pizza with my name on it - you got pizza?" He looked to Gibbs who nodded although he was still staring at Alex. "In which case - if there's a pissing match about to start between you two - " he pointed to Gibbs and then Alex - "I'll be in the kitchen - yell when you're done." He strode across the room - inclining his head purposefully to Ducky who immediately understood and followed him muttering something about wanting to check him over.

Tony hadn't set foot over the threshold when he found his arms suddenly full of a squealing Abby as she launched herself at him. "Tony! You're okay?" She released him and stepped back - looking up at him with concern written all over her face. "You are okay, aren't you? Is he okay Ducky? Tell me you're okay!"

"I'm fine - just need food - a ton of food - preferably of the junk variety - "

"He'll be fine when I judge him to be fine," Ducky took his arm and guided him to the table motioning for him to sit on it. "Now - this won't take long - " Tony's stomach chose that moment to grumble loudly. "Can you please wait for five minutes - once I am satisfied - " Ducky grabbed Tony's wrist even as the younger man tried to free himself - holding him in an iron grip. "Stop fidgeting, Anthony - "

"I'll be classed as malnourished, Duck - come on - give a guy a break here - I haven't eaten in like eight hours - " But Ducky was having none of it as he checked Tony's pulse before tugging out his stethoscope.

With a sigh of hopelessness - Tony accepted the thermometer and settled for admiring Abby's ass as she bent to tug out a frozen pizza from the freezer compartment of the refrigerator - ripping his eyes away and staring at the far wall as she straightened and rounded on him - her eyes narrowed accusingly.

"Rating my butt again, DiNozzo?" she challenged.

Tony's eyes widened in fake innocence as he took the thermometer from his mouth. "As if Abs - I'm not that kinda guy - honest!"

"Really Tony? Your pulse rate just soared alarmingly." Ducky announced with a wicked glint in his eyes as he winked at Abby.

"I'm still in shock over what happened," Tony pulled his most beguiling expression. "My nerves are shot to pieces - that bump on the head - not to mention whatever Taylor pumped into me - it'll take time for me to recover - I need TLC - I need - pizza - coffee - and a ton of TLC - a foot massage - and maybe a all over body massage - Abs - you game?"

"You'll be game if you don't cut it out, Tony!"

"I can put him back to sleep if you'd prefer Abigail? In fact - that would be a blessing for all of us," Ducky snickered as he peered into Tony's eyes - and finally nodding to himself. "You are - young man - as you say - fine - but I don't want you overdoing it."

"Hell no Duck - we're on a case - and besides - I'm seeking revenge on this nut - "

"I think it might be best to leave to revenging to Gibbs, Tony." Duck waggled a finger at him. "You - have been through it."

"Not as much as Taylor'll be going through it when I get my hands on him!"

"Yada, yada, yada!" Abby said as she unwrapped the pizza and placed it into the oven. "But seriously, Tony - you had us all worried - really worried - Gibbs was beside himself."

"I'm his Senior Field Agent - of course he was worried about me," Tony was now opening and closing cupboards - crowing in delight as he fished out a packet of Oreos. "He wouldn't be able to cope without me at his side - watching his six - want one?"

He shoved two biscuits into his mouth as he collected up another two before Abby snatched the packet from him, helping herself.

"Not just his Senior Field Agent, Tony." Ducky said with a small smile. "But Abigail is right - I've never seen him like that before - I would venture he was genuinely terrified of losing you, my boy - "

"Nah - come on - it's Gibbs we're talking about - "

"Are you that dense, Tony? He loves you more than life itself - as I'm sure you do him," Abby cried. "It would kill him to lose you!"

Tony stopped chewing and swallowed the mouthful he still had as he sat heavily at the kitchen table - his face suddenly serious. It was as though he'd been kicked in the gut as the enormity of what had happened over the last few hours finally sank in - he lifted his eyes to Abby's dark ones and pulled in a deep breath. "Where's Rick?"

"He took off - " Abby answered insinuating herself onto his lap and hugging him hard. "Gibbs tore him to shreds - "

"What the hell for?"

"Something to do with the fact that you got caught up in all the crap Taylor's delivered - I don't know who he's more pissed at - Rick or Taylor."

"It wasn't Rick's fault Abs - it was six of one - "

"When Gibbs told me he found you - he was all choked up Tony - then when we got back here - he wouldn't leave your side - he wouldn't let anyone near you - except Ducky at first." She hugged him again and kissed his cheek lightly. "But - you're back with us now and together we are going to nail the punk that did this to you - "

"But it's not just me, Abs - Rick too - I guess - yes - what happened shouldn't have happened - but it did - hell - even now I'd say it was inevitable anyway - Taylor was targeting Rick - " He reached for another Oreo and shoved it whole into his mouth.

"Did Gibbs fill you in?"

Tony nodded - pointing to his mouth as he chewed. "Yeah - " he mumbled, spraying her with cookie crumbs. "Only vaguely though - the rest comes when we eat - hey - just what we need - a campfire!" He beamed at her as she climbed off his lap to check on the pizza.

"Not a campfire Tony - I hate those!"

"You only ever turned up for one!"

"Why'd you think that was?"

"It's a method of pooling ideas - bouncing stuff off each other, Abs - they work!" He glared at her as he shoved in yet another Oreo.

"No - they don't - they break concentration - and ten minutes sat around yapping when you could be on the phone - on email - or whatever - is wasted, Tony. Yelling across the bullpen is much easier - and you know where my lab is if you want to check on something - so - please - no more campfires."

"McGeek appreciated them," he mumbled and then found himself ducking a bag of salad leaves as Abby approached him wielding three large red peppers and a very sharp knife.

"Now get chopping."

******

"Ah," Alex gestured with his chin out of the main window and grimaced at Nicky.

"Oh boy," Nicky hissed. "Now the shit hits the fan."

"How so?" Gibbs stepped closer and saw Rick had pulled up in the drive but he was making no move to exit the car. "He's back then."

"It would seem so," Ducky observed. "Jethro - "

"Don't worry Duck - I'm not going to do anything rash - but he looks like he could use a coffee." He turned and made for the kitchen, Ducky following behind - until he stopped in his tracks, Ducky colliding with him.

"Sorry," Gibbs murmured as he watched the scene playing out in the kitchen - Ducky chuckling to himself as Tony closed in on Abby's back - with a handful of what looked like damp lettuce - he then quickly grabbed the top of her t-shirt and shoved the lettuce down before ducking away from the stream of whipped cream heading his way.

"I will get you for that, DiNozzo!" She squealed as he snatched the can from her and placed it high enough out of reach while collecting up more lettuce.

"Hah!" You so will not, Ms Sciuto - DiNozzo always wins!"

"Not today!"

"He's quite a resilient young man, Jethro - considering what he's been through today - looking at him now - you would never guess." Ducky observed quietly as Tony cornered Abs and proceeded to scrunch Oreo crumbs on the top of her head.

"He'll come down soon enough, Duck - " Gibbs said reflectively. "And I just have to be sure I'm there when he does - "

"You make it sound like it's not the first time." The ME glanced up at him.

"It's happened - maybe four times - first time - when he shot Jeffrey White - second - the y pestis."

"Ah - yes - that I would understand - he was technically dying then. And the third?"

"When Kate was murdered."

Ducky said nothing, he merely nodded as the two entered the kitchen.

"Hey!" Gibbs stood in the middle of the room and spread his arms wide. "Will you two quit already - this place is not some playground."

"Aw, Boss - come on - a bit of fun now and again - "

"Not now - and not again, Tony. By the way, Abs?"

"Gibbs?"

"You got an anchovy just here." He reached out and lifted off the offending item from where it was caught in her ponytail, only to flick it at Tony with his thumb and forefinger.

Ducky helped himself to a sliver of red pepper as he sat down - glancing briefly at the laptop set on the worktop against the left wall. "Abigail?" She flashed him a smile. "I think our mysterious van is on the move, my dear - and it's moving fast."

"Way to go, Duckman - thanks - now maybe we can get somewhere!" She studied the map quickly and stood straight again. "They're heading back into the centre of town, Gibbs. I guess they were checking they weren't being followed."

"Whatever Abs, keep an eye on it for me."

"Gibbs?" Nicky leaned in from the living room - "Look, me and Alex - we're heading back to the club - we can't do any more here - and Rick doesn't look like he's moving anytime soon either - "

"No," Gibbs said as he poured two large mugs of coffee before placing the jug back on the hotplate. "You two stay here - and leave Rick to me."

"What are you going to do?" Nicky asked cautiously.

"See if I can't get to the bottom of what in hell is going on around here." Gibbs answered simply he handed the mugs to Abby.

"Why me?"

"I just want to make sure Rick isn't going to do anything stupid and then you hand me the coffee?"

"Oh - that's all right then."

"Good - I'm glad."

*****

Gibbs leaned down to look in the passenger window. "Mind if I join you?"

"It's a free country." Rick said petulantly.

Gibbs opened the door and climbed in, reaching across to take the keys from the ignition and handing them to Abby as he took a mug of coffee.

"Fine," Rick sat back hard, staring out of the window. "Now what?"

Gibbs took the other coffee mug from Abs, mildly irritated that Rick hadn't even said thanks "It's up to you, I guess - but let's get something cleared up here shall we?"

Rick didn't respond - he simply sipped his coffee.

"First off - you start behaving like an adult and not some five year old snot nosed brat who's just had his candy ration cancelled. Secondly, you are going to tell me exactly what happened today - and this time - I want the truth - not what you want me to hear - " Gibbs paused, watching Rick's profile carefully. "Are you listening?"

"Do I have a choice?"

"So help me," Gibbs snarled. "But - I'm not rising to it, Rick. So after you left here - where'd you go?"

"I just drove."

"Just drove - where?"

"Hang on - let me think - oh yeah - I pulled out of the drive and took a left - then I took a right - headed away some 500 yards and took another left and carried straight on - " Rick stared at him defiantly.

"I need to know you haven't tried to meet with or contact Taylor, Rick. Yes or no?"

"No! Why in hell would I?"

Gibbs twisted in his seat and merely stared back into those wide blue eyes opposite for a long moment. "I believe you,"

"Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the fucking donkey, Jethro - finally!!"

"I am just about holding onto my temper, Rick - I want you to walk back into that house - you will sit down with your brothers and tell them what happened - that done - we decided on a plan and we execute it - do you understand?"

"I can't tell them - "

"No such word as can't - Rick - not in the Gibbs dictionary - and you will also apologise to Tony - for getting him into trouble in the first place."

"Gibbs!"

"Not another word - because I want you to think long and hard about this next question - I want you to tell me what hold Taylor has over you as opposed to Alex and Nick - they are both holding out on me about something - but with you - I sense something else - and it's a something I think is very important - and without it - we won't be able to nail the SOB."

"It's complicated." Rick turned in his seat.

"Then uncomplicate it," Gibbs answered quietly - inwardly surprised at the tone in Rick's voice - suddenly sombre.

"I - man - really shouldn't be telling you this - its classified intel."

"I work for NCIS - who the hell am I going to tell?"

"Your Director - for one?"

"No - I am saying nothing to anyone - just tell me - for crying out loud."

"I - I work for the FBI."

"Who for? Fornell?"

"Hah - " Rick sniggered. "He doesn't even know the Department exists - I work as a profiler and an empath, Jethro."

"Empath?" Gibbs echoed. "What the hell is an empath?"

"I work on special cases - highly classified cases - I sit in on interrogations - sometimes I go undercover - but mostly interrogations."

"And do what?"

"I can tell if the perp is lying - and if needs be - I get the truth without the aid of electrodes if you get my drift."

"You hypnotise them or something?" Gibbs could not believe what he was hearing but he was inwardly fascinated.

"Not exactly - but I can get the truth from them within - maybe ten minutes. Okay - you asked about the hold Taylor has over me?"

"Yeah."

"I don't know how he found out - but he's got the wrong idea about what I do - he thinks I'm a snitch - only - he knows that he goes public with my identity - there are a lot of very angry perps out there who would give their eye teeth to know who put them behind bars."

"But if you're interrogating them - "

"Gibbs, you don't understand - when I leave the room - they have no clue I was there - agent slaps on the cuffs - and they're wondering how in hell they admitted their guilt, it's like I never existed." Rick let his head fall back and he pulled in deep, calming breaths. "And I would ask you - "

"Nicky and Alex - they don't know about this?"

"No, Jethro - they don't."

"They'll hear nothing from me." Gibbs took a long swallow of coffee. "I guarantee it - but they will find out some day."

"Not from me, Jethro - not from me."

"So - you ready to come inside? Abs and Tony have knocked up some food - you're welcome to join us - while we formulate Taylor's down fall."

"Sure - I'm right behind you."

"And no more brat?"

"No more brat - I promise."

"Good - 'cause I was ready to head slap you - a lot."

TBC

Gibbs loaded up the dishwasher, pushing the door closed with a clunk and turned the dial to start it up. As he straightened, he could see Tony at the end of the yard lifting the lid of the garbage bin and dropping in a black plastic bag of trash. The lid fell back down and Tony wiped his hands on his jeans and started back towards the house.

"Damn - I am one lucky bastard," Gibbs whispered to himself as he turned on the tap and began filling the sink. "Sometimes - I have to pinch myself - just the way he walks has me tenting big time - not so much a walk - a swagger - and it's damn sexy." He leaned against the sink on both hands and watched as Tony skirted a fallen flower pot and trotted up the steps - then he paused and looked to his left - Gibbs frowned as Rick appeared, a hand on Tony's back as he led him back up the yard before stopping and turning to face him, hands in his pockets. "What the hell's he up to now - " the older man growled. "I tell him he's off limits and he does this."

"Does what?" Abby said as she brought in the remainder of the ketchup and mayo bottles, depositing them in the refrigerator before joining Gibbs at the window. "Oo - now there's a coupling I'd give my eye teeth to see!"

"Ya think?" Gibbs snorted.

"Look at them - two beautiful studs - they compliment each other perfectly," Abs enthused. "Rick is great in the sack - I wouldn't know about Tony of course - but a girl can dream - and with Rick's extensive repertoire when it comes to all things bedroom - I can so imagine him and Tony together."

"Abs - stop."

"Lighten up, grouchy one - " she thumped him lightly on the arm. "All you have to do is look at those two - kind of like the way I look at you and Tony sometimes - which reminds me," she turned to look up at him. "When will you let me just watch you two?"

"When hell freezes over?" Gibbs suggested with a half smile. "It took me long enough to get Tony this far - and I don't intend freaking him out by asking if he'd mind a spectator."

"He might go for it," Abby grinned impishly.

"Don't even think about it," Gibbs warned.

"I can see it now - you on top - Tony tied to the bedposts - gagged maybe," her eyes took on a dreamy faraway look. "Or even better - you tied to the bedposts - gagged and Tony deep throating you - "

"And now you're entering the realms of fantasy Abs - " he stepped behind her and positioned her in front of the sink. "It ain't gonna happen."

"You say that now - "

"Enough," he breathed in her ear before planting a kiss on her cheek. "You wash - I'll dry."

Tony sensed something off with Rick - the other man seemed on edge - nervous even. He recalled Rick's reluctance to be drawn into any conversation as the group had eaten earlier - except to maybe grunt or shrug - and he absolutely refused to even look in Tony's direction despite sitting opposite him and each time he looked to Gibbs - he seemed ready to bolt. Tony could see the other man's uneasiness but no one else seemed to have notice - or - if they did - they didn't say anything.

And now - Rick didn't seem to know what to do with his hands - he folded his arms, placed his hands on his hips, shoved them into the back pocket of his jeans - and finally settled on hooking his thumbs into the front jean pockets and it was as he raised his eyes to Tony - the young agent really began to see Rick - and he liked what he saw - a lot.

Eyes the colour of summer skies, a handsome face framed with a shaggy mane of hair a myriad shades of brown, copper and red falling to his shoulders and lower, a dimpled chin, a smile that could light up a room. Couple that with his impressive height of over six feet and beneath the tight fitting dark blue shirt, the open neck revealing a tantalising triangle of furred chest, a body hardened by regular trips to the gym, five mile runs - and many pleasurable hours doing what an Uber Dom does best - atop a taut flat abdomen, strong muscular legs encased in expensive ripped jeans.

Rick sensed he was being scrutinised and he coughed nervously before looking to the ground again. "Tony - "

"If you're going to apologise again for what happened, Rick - I might have to slap you. There is nothing to forgive - so forget it."

"Jethro and I - we had a talk in the car earlier - did he happen to mention what I told him to you?"

"Yes, he did Rick - why?"

"And you're okay with that?" Rick seemed genuinely surprised.

"Sure - " Tony shrugged - whatever else he was going to say was curtailed by a sharp tapping on the kitchen window. Gibbs pointed to Rick - and then jerked his thumb to the right a few times and with an index finger he signalled for Tony to come inside.

"Oh boy - he still doesn't trust me." Rick observed with a small smile to Tony before turning on his heel and heading out of the yard he had come.

"What's that supposed to - " Tony watched him leave with a frown and looked to Gibbs who signalled him again. "Mean. What is going on here?" He took the few steps up to the porch and ducked his head inside the kitchen door. "Something you're not telling me Boss?"

"Nope," Gibbs didn't look up from the sink - handing a wooden spoon to Abby. "Just don't want you hanging with Rick for a while - get some fresh coffee going for me?" He raised his head and looked out across the yard. "I want him to spend some quality time thinking about what could have happened."

Tony pulled a face at Abby who grinned manically back at him, tapping his butt with the spoon as he passed her to the coffee machine.

"We're heading back to the club in an hour Tony," Gibbs said, turning to him for a moment. "Get some gear together - I've a feeling it's going to be a long night."

"Oh yeah!" Tony hissed, fisting his hand and pulling it towards his hip. "Another night at - "

"No, Tony - " Gibbs snickered. "We are going to take Taylor down and take him down hard."

"Oh - " Tony sighed. He straightened up, spoon in one hand - coffee jar in the other. "Yeah - " He felt himself flush slightly at the look on Abby's face - one of curiosity.

"Did you like being spanked?" she demanded quickly.

"Um - I - hah - what?" Tony looked both embarrassed and mortified - immediately looking to Gibbs for an answer.

"Tell the truth, Pet." Gibbs instructed. "Go on - "

"Can't - " Tony stammered. "It's Abby."

Abby dropped the towel from her hand and closed the distance between them, reaching up and tweaking Tony's cheek. "Oh you are so cute when you blush Tony - did anyone ever tell you that?"

"No, not recently." Tony said, stepping back a pace as Gibbs dried his hands off quickly and leaned against the sink - his back to the yard.

"It's okay, DiNozzo - just one word - yes or no - "

Tony felt distinctly uncomfortable - the way Abi was looking at him - the way Gibbs was grinning. Was this some kind of test? His eyes snapped from one to the other and back to Gibbs as he pulled himself to his full height, gazing down into Abi's dark eyes. "Yes, Abs - I did. I enjoyed it immensely."

Gibbs nodded to himself, lowering his head to hide the smirk. "One step at a time, Tony - and that's the first hundred covered - how'd you feel?"

"Liberated?"

Abi launched herself at the younger man, legs around his waist - arms around his neck as she kissed his cheek. "Yay! Way to go Tony!" she shrieked. "And I cannot wait to get you all to myself some time soon! Whoops!" she worried her lower lip as he gently set her on the ground. "Thinking out loud - sorry." Tony couldn't help but smile down at her - although the idea of Abi - having him - did appeal somewhat - it wasn't something he envisaged happening - at all - but - he'd never let her know that - or Gibbs for that matter - although he had a feeling Gibbs already knew. He hugged her to him - looking to Gibbs over the top of her head and mouthing the words - no way! Gibbs nodded understanding and headed out into the living room.

Ducky sat on the sofa absorbing every tiny detail of Taylor's file as Nicky and Alex sat playing cards nearby.

"Hey - you two!" Gibbs barked as he paced to the stairs. "Rick's got something to tell you - he's out front - says it's important." The brothers looked up and as one they rose from their seats and out through the front door. "Oh man - to be a fly on the wall when they meet up."

"A complex and volatile young man," Ducky mused as he stared at the photo of Taylor.

"Yeah - Rick's a handful." Gibbs stated.

"No - not Rick - Taylor. I would enjoy analysing him on the couch, Jethro - to see what went wrong - to find out what he's hiding - what's made him the way he is."

"The only way you're analysing him is when he's dead on a slab in autopsy or from behind bars," Gibbs snickered as he joined Ducky and sat down beside him. "But, you're right - he's troubled - and I still don't think those three - " he jerked his chin to still open front door - "are being a hundred percent honest with us."

"Truth will out, Jethro - truth will out." Ducky patted his knee. "So - we head back to Heaven's Gate and do what?"

"Were you listening to anything we talked about over lunch, Duck?"

"I was - "

"We go back - we contact Taylor and arrange a meet - as far as he's concerned - Tony and Rick are no longer with us - I convince him to hand over the agreement, I then - "

"Agreement? What agreement?" Ducky asked setting the file on the coffee table.

"Sorry, I might have forgotten a few details - Duck. By agreement - I meant the one Rick claims to have signed handing over all their assets to Taylor."

"Oh dear - that's not good is it?"

"Apparently not," Gibbs agreed with shake of his head.

"And your gut is telling you what, Jethro?"

"That something is hinky about this whole set up - and I can guarantee tears before bedtime."

******

I don't care who's still downstairs," Tony purred, standing in front of Gibbs - taking both his hands and leading him back into the bedroom from the bathroom. "The door is locked - and wedged - I've covered the keyhole and you are going to promise me you won't make a sound."

"If what you have in mind, is what I think you have in mind - I won't be able to stay quiet DiNozzo - and I don't intend to start now." He squeezed Tony's hands - delighting in that familiar little squeaking noise Tony made as his grip tightened.

"And another thing - " Tony added, waggling his eyebrows and grinning at Gibbs almost inanely. "Do you realise it's been nearly eight hours since we last made whoopee? I don't know about you - but I sure could use a refill."

"And do you realise - only a couple of hours ago - I could have lost you?" Gibbs stared into his eyes, his own hooded - full of concern.

"Yeah - I know." Tony released Gibbs's hands and folded his arms. "But I don't to even think about what might have happened - I just want you, Jethro - I want you here and I want you now - and I will have my way this time."

"Why?" Gibbs tilted his head questioningly. "Tony - you could have died out there - you and Rick both - you can't have put the ifs and buts out of your head already?"

"It's a coping mechanism, Boss. It's the way I deal with crap - always has been - well - since becoming a cop in Baltimore - you kinda pick it up from the other guys - you try not to think about it and - believe me - it goes away eventually."

"Nah - " Gibbs shook his head. "I'm not buying that - look at the way you took Kate's death - between you and McGee - and me at the beginning - no-one was allowed near her desk - it was like having a shrine in the Squad Room - hell - Abs was all for draping it in black - black roses - black this - black that - no-one can say they got over that - and we probably won't."

"I miss her - " Tony said with a soft smile, looking to the floor briefly. "And I regret I didn't get the chance to apologise - "

"I'm sure she's heard your unspoken apologies a hundred times, Tony - and mine - and I know if she ever meets up with Ari - she'll be making his life hell for eternity."

"Think about it this way then - " Gibbs guided him to the bed and sat on the edge - staring up at his lover until he too sat. "The y pestis."

Tony raised his hands - shaking his head. "No Boss - I did the right thing coming back to work when I did - otherwise Kate and McGee would have been toast - you know that!" Gibbs head slapped him sharply. "Thanks Boss."

"What I am trying to say - is - " Gibbs looked around the room, searching for the right words - words that could sum up exactly how he'd felt the day Tony's opened the envelope - leaving it on his desk as he scuttled off to hit the showers - Gibbs not only alone in the Squad Room - but suddenly - seeing himself alone - without Tony - a life without Tony - and as he had stared across the bull pen at the cream coloured envelope - a fist of solid fear took hold of his gut and twisted - hard. And in that one second - he was suddenly very very close to losing Tony - and he was terrified!

"Jethro," Tony said softly. "I know what you want to say - and I know the words aren't there - but believe me when I tell you - I didn't stop thinking about you - I was crapping myself about how you were going to react when you found out about - well - me and Rick - in the alley and why we were there - but every moment I was conscious - the one thing that got me through was you - no-one else - just you - I knew you'd find me - don't ask me how - I just - knew."

Gibbs reached for his hand, lifting it to his lips brush them across the knuckles. "I don't know what I'd have done if I'd found you dead, Tony."

"You would have found my murderer and brought him to justice - "

"That's not what I meant!" Gibbs said sharply.

"You're thinking about Rule 12 again?"

Gibbs let his head fall back and he regarded the ceiling before answering. "Rule 12 is crap - it doesn't exist anymore - as from now."

"In the field or off - Boss we face threats every time we head out the door - it's always there in the back of our minds - one of us might not come back - and if my going missing today is eating you up inside like this all the time - maybe we should - "

Gibbs sat staring out of the window - his heart heavy in his chest as he mulled over what Tony was suggesting. "End this?"

"Seems it might be for the best?" Tony's stomach turned to ice - a solid lump of ice at the thought of finishing the relationship as tears pricked his eyes.

"Is that what you want?" Gibbs asked, not wanting to look at him - as his own eyes shone with tears.

"No!"

"Then why in hell are we having this conversation?" Relief flooding through him, Tony moved to the door - easing the chair from under the handle and unlocked it. "And where the fuck do you think you're going?"

"Just outside - I'll come back in and the whole two minutes that just happened - didn't happen - and won't happen - ever!"

"Sounds good to me - " Gibbs began and then held up a hand for silence - raised voices outside - angry raised voices. He hurried to the window and looked down - Rick standing before his brothers - as Alex laid into him with some choice words - Nicky trying to hold the two men apart as Alex grabbed Rick's shirt.

"I think they're going to need some help," Tony pondered peering over Gibbs's shoulder.

"Ya think?"

"Yeah - "

"One thing after another - again - I'm asking: did someone break a mirror recently?" Gibbs muttered as he made for the door closely followed by Tony.

TBC

Gibbs was out the front door with Tony close behind - just in time to clamp a hand around Alex's raised arm before he could land a punch on Rick pressed backwards over the bonnet of the car. "What the hell are you doing?" he demanded, pushing Alex back to give Rick time to compose himself as he straightened up.

"What I should have done when all this crap started," Alex growled - glaring at his brother. "What Nicky's been wanting to do too."

"Nothing to do with me," Nicky said - stepping back a pace - hands raised. "But then, it's not every day - "

"You two!" Gibbs barked, pointing to Alex and Nicky. "Get back to the club - and you - " he grabbed Rick's arm and propelled him forward towards the house. "Get inside - and wait for me - Tony go with him." Tony looked a little perplexed - one minute Gibbs didn't want him having anything to do with Rick - and now he was babysitting? "You deaf or something, DiNozzo?" Once the front door closed, Gibbs presented the two men with his stare - he didn't say a word - he just stared.

"Jethro - " Alex began.

"I don't want to hear it," Gibbs said, looking at Nicky. "But what I do want is to get to the bottom of this little mystery - now you two will head back into town - I want the club evacuated of all clientele in a calm, orderly manner. I want your Security briefed."

"Why?"

"Because - Alex - I think Taylor is going to move into the premises and maybe - you know - promote himself to manager - and I - for one - am not going to let him do that."

"Oh - right."

"Oh - right?" Gibbs glared at Alex scornfully. "Did you give Abi the camera doowacka shots of the crime scene?"

"No - not yet - I'll do it now." Alex made to pass Gibbs and go back inside but Gibbs stopped him with a hand on his arm.

"No need - she'll be able to do - whatever it is she needs to do to pull the pictures off the web thing. You just get your sorry ass out of here before you feel my boot - got it?"

"Why suddenly so hostile, Jethro?" Nicky asked with a frown.

"Hostile?" Gibbs smirked. "Me? Why do you think?"

"Leave it, Nick."

"Hey - we've just had the rug pulled from under our world - "

"My sympathies," Gibbs snorted. "Get going - NOW!!"

The two men climbed into their car - Alex gunning the pedal as they moved off the driveway onto the street - a brief pause - and then the squeal of burning rubber and they disappeared around the corner - lost from sight.

"I was wondering the same thing, Boss." Tony said from behind Gibbs. "Why so hostile."

"Because my gut is telling me something I really don't want to believe, Tony. And why in hell are you out here - where's Rick?"

"Ah - he's safe enough - Ducky's filling him in on his time in Med School - his eyes glazed over about thirty seconds in - he's going nowhere. And - what's your gut telling you?"

Gibbs turned and gazed into his lover's green eyes for a long moment. "That if I'm right - someone's world is about to fall apart."

******

"Van?" Gibbs moved in behind Abi - back on the sofa once more.

"Has gone back to base," she replied. "But check this out."

"Not here Abs - " he walked toward the empty kitchen - making it quite clear to Ducky, Rick and Tony that they were not to be disturbed. Although an odd move on Gibbs's part - both Tony and Ducky understood he wasn't holding out on them per se - he didn't want to chance Rick overhearing - just in case.

As he closed the door behind him, Abi set the laptop on the table and hit a few keys.

"See, I had a hunch - from the surveillance footage we managed to pull from the bars across the street at the time Rick and Tony were snatched - at least two of the gang were on their cells at the time - and one took at least three calls in four minutes - "

"What are you getting at Abs?"

"Patience Silver Fox," she smiled at him and winked. "You know I have to go around the houses before landing with the goldmine. I didn't think I'd get anything - but I thought this might be worth a shot - think about it. The camera at the back of the club monitoring the kitchen door wasn't working - the front doors are now locked - I sneaked a peek at the triplets cell numbers and look what I got."

"Uh-oh." Gibbs breathed as he stared at the computer screen.

"I know - " Abi sighed. "It's not good is it?"

"They had someone on the inside," Gibbs pulled in a breath. "And Nicky's on his way back with him right now - not a word to Rick - not yet!" He shoved a hand against the kitchen door - "Tony - with me. Duck - thanks for your time but we'll take it from here."

"You most certainly will not, Jethro." Ducky got to his feet, reaching for his coat. "I've come this far and I will see it to the end."

"It could get dangerous, Ducky." Abi warned as she packed away the laptop.

"Then my nickname isn't such a misnomer - when asked to duck - I will do so promptly."

"Jethro - what's going on now?" Rick asked, eyes wide.

"I just had an epiphany!" Gibbs called back over his shoulder. "Hey, Tony - you going to sit there all day? Come on!"

"On your six, Boss!"

*******

"And you two are supposed to be dead," Gibbs said as he took another corner at breakneck speed.

"So - we stay in the car?" Rick excused himself as he was flung against Abi.

"Until you get word from me - yes - "

"Uh - Boss - you think you can slow down? I'm really gonna puke!" Tony shouted above the screech of tyres."

"Just make sure you open a window, DiNozzo - or you're paying the valet bill!"

"And talking of dead, Jethro - " Ducky began. "The two bodies left where you found Tony and Rick?"

"Cross that bridge - when we get to it, Duck. I've a feeling Taylor will be checking on them himself - and he'll dispose of them in his own way."

"He's done it before," Rick affirmed. "Uh - Tony - you are not looking good."

"Thanks - "

Abi leaned forward and studied Tony for a second and nodded. "Here - you're going to throw up any second. Use this." She handed him a neatly folded plastic bag and he took it gratefully. "Only - if you could puke quietly? My stomach's not very strong when it comes to the noise?"

"I'll bear that in mind - 'scuse me." Tony got the bag open just in time and heaved until his stomach was empty -

"Oh God," Rick's face paled. "I'm not feeling too good - " Suddenly, the three passengers were thrown forward as Gibbs slammed on the brakes.

"Anyone else feel the need to vomit? If so - get out and be back in ten seconds"

Rick practically climbed over Tony - falling out of the car in a graceless heap before pulling himself to his feet and running for a nearby copse of trees about twenty yards from the road. Tony accepted a bottle of water from Abi gratefully and swallowed the contents without coming up for air.

"Is my driving really that bad?" Gibbs twisted around in his seat to look Ducky in the eye.

"Not to me, Jethro - I find speed invigorating - I remember a time when - "

"Here comes Rick - budge up, Tony." Abi pressed herself against the side door to let Tony shift across.

"No," he said as he reached for his seatbelt. I don't do middle - I just don't do middle - Abs - swap places?"

"No, why?"

"Abs - " Gibbs glanced at her in the rear view mirror. "Swap - or he'll puke again." Tony and Abi swapped places quickly as Rick climbed in, slamming the door shut.

"Can we please stop talking about - it!" Tony wailed.

"If you stop doing it, we'll stop talking about it," Gibbs offered.

"Then slow down?"

"Another ten minutes and we're there, DiNozzo - now buckle up!"

"Rick, my boy - you look peaky." Ducky observed. "Are you sure you are all right?"

"Fine - really - " Rick nodded with a sickly smile. He sniffed the air for a second and then retched again - "Tony - why is that bag on the floor - would you please - "

"Ah, sorry - yeah," he climbed out of the car, stepping round to the trunk as he raised his arm in the air, whirling the bag a few times before letting it go in the general direction of the trees where it landed out of sight.

"That's littering," Abi said with narrowed eyes.

"So fine me."

*******

"I have no idea what's up with Rick these days," Nicky mused as Alex braked at a red light. "It's like - he's - distracted."

"He's been closed to both of us for too long, Nick." Alex winked at a cute young brunette in the car beside him. "Too long - he's holding out on us - and I am damned if I know why."

"Like he's going to tell us anything now - especially now! But then, we know why he was holding out on us - you really think he and Taylor are in this together?"

"With Rick, anything's possible - and the more I think about it - the more I really do think he and Taylor planned all this."

"Not what Gibbs thinks," Nicky stretched his neck from side to side with a satisfied groan - "he thinks all three of us are involved."

"Then Gibbs is an idiot," Alex growled - his knuckles whitening on the steering wheel.

"Whoa, that's harsh bro - and why are we having this conversation anyway?"

"Because Gibbs is going to ask questions - and we have to be clear in our own minds - that Rick will be the one doing time - not us - we just slide into the shadows and we're away. Besides, Gibbs is only going by what his gut is telling him - he has no idea who's doing what to who, who's shafting and being shafted - he doesn't know half of it - and I sure as hell don't intend filling him in."

"You know something - I should be feeling really bad about we've done Al - but I don't - how about you?"

"Me? Bad? Nah - we sell up - move out - pool what we've got with Taylor - which adds up to how much?"

"Ah - at the last count?" Nicky closed his eyes as a smile began to spread across his face. "I think we were looking at a cool fifty million each - not forgetting the stocks from that heist in Maine last summer - pretty soon, we'll be lying on a beach and earning twenty percent!"

"No regrets?" Alex asked with a grin.

"None - me and 'Mand get to live the life we were born to live - one of unadulterated luxury."

"Sounds too good to be true, Nick - which - for you - and Amanda - is way too good to be true - "

"What in hell is that supposed to mean?"

"Nothing - except - I've been re-evaluating the situation - and I'd prefer it if you didn't figure."

"Alex?"

Nicky didn't stand a chance - the tranquiliser gun suddenly appeared in Alex's left hand and then Nicky was tugging out a dart from his upper arm - letting it fall from limp fingers - his eyes wide in question before he slumped back in his seat - unconscious.

Alex reached across and tugged him straight. "Sorry Nick - but I can't risk you getting killed - I'm ending this - and ending it today - with my bullet in Taylor's head!"

TBC

At the very moment Nicky felt the sting of the dart in his arm - Rick let out a sharp cry and pressed both hands against the top of the seat in front of him - slamming his eyes shut against the sudden shooting pain in his head.

"Rick?" Abi reached out and clasped the back of his left hand. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing - he lied. "Nothing - just a headache."

"More than nothing, Rick - " Gibbs stated as he took another corner but keeping his eyes on the rear view mirror and on Rick. "What's happened?"

"Stop the car!" Rick demanded. "Now!"

"We're nearly there!" Gibbs objected.

"Now! Godammit!" The brakes slammed the car to an immediate halt and Rick clambered out - bending at the waist, both hands on his knees.

Gibbs was out of the car with him - closely followed by a very concerned Ducky - Gibbs squatted down before Rick and peered up into his face. "Rick - I can't help you if you don't tell me what's wrong."

"Give me a second," Rick gasped as another pulse of agony pummelled his skull. "Something's happened - something's not right - this isn't right."

"What's happened?" Gibbs repeated. "Rick - "

Rick straightened up - the expression on his face shook both Ducky and Gibbs to the core - it was sheer gut churning sadness.

"Rick?" Gibbs snapped - nearly stamping his foot in frustration. "What in hell is going on?"

"Nicky," Rick breathed - staring off into the distance over Gibbs's left shoulder.

"What about Nicky?" Ducky coaxed gently - a hand on Rick's arm.

"I don't know - " Rick shook his head, glancing at Ducky and then Gibbs. "How in hell did he manage to get past my - I've been blocking them both for months almost and yet he managed to penetrate my defences."

"He's an empath," Gibbs offered by way of explanation to Ducky's questioning expression. "The three of them can - you know - telepath each other or something like that."

"Indeed?" Ducky sounded impressed. "I knew of your healing abilities, dear boy but I had no idea - "

"Duck?"

"Mm?"

"Not just now - get back in the car - give him some space - I'll deal with this," Gibbs said gently, jerking his chin towards the vehicle and then he winked. "It'll be okay - really."

"Of course, Jethro - of course."

Gibbs guided Rick some distance away and faced him. "What happened?"

Rick pulled in a deep breath and let it out slowly. "All I can tell you is that Nicky called for help - something about a double-cross - not to trust him - and then nothing."

"You think he's dead?"

"No!" Rick's eyes went wide in horror. "No - if he was - I'd know about it - no - he's in trouble - I'm guessing unconscious."

"Rick - he left with Alex - did you get anything from him?"

"Alex? Why?"

Gibbs's shoulders slumped and he lowered his head briefly before lifting it again and studying the handsome face for a moment. "Because - I believe Alex is the one responsible for you getting snatched yesterday - I think he and Taylor are working together to bring you down."

"No!" Rick snickered in disbelief. "No, no way Jethro - Alex? Why would Alex do that to me - to us?

"I'll remember to ask him that when we catch him."

"You're not serious are you?" Rick shook his head.

"Never been more serious Rick - I'm sorry I'm the one who had to tell you - "

"I don't understand," Rick began.

"No, not yet you don't - but I will get answers and when I get my hands on Taylor - it won't be so much TDI - as mild GBH - maybe with a gunshot wound thrown in."

"Oh hell!" Rick said suddenly. "If Nicky's with Alex - then Alex just - "

"Yeah - maybe Nicky got a little troublesome. Look - " Gibbs rested both hands on Rick's shoulders. "Can you do something for me?"

"Name it!"

"I need to know if you can sense Alex?"

"Not right now - my head's all screwed up - "

"Sure," Gibbs nodded understanding. "But I'm sure Abi'll be able to find him."

"Cell phone?"

"Cell phone - call him - but keep it light - don't let him know you know." He handed his cell over and watched as Rick tapped in the numbers with a shaking hand. "You're doing great - but hang on and let Abs get on the computer." Gibbs left Rick alone briefly and returned quickly with a nod "Might be an idea to disable caller ID," Rick did so and tapped in the numbers again - holding the cell to his ear. "Speaker?" Rick nodded and held the phone chest height and slightly to the left to let Gibbs see the numbers and they waited patiently.

"What!" Alex's voice came over loud and clear. Gibbs turned swiftly to see Abs give the thumbs up.

"Bro - it's Rick - what's your ETA?"

"Why? You in a rush or something?"

"No - but we need to be ready for Taylor."

"Get off the damned line Rick - I'm waiting on Matt to get back to me - you okay?"

"Sure - fine - Nicky with you?"

"Yeah - we should be with you in about a half hour - keep this line clear - laters!"

The phone went dead.

"Got him!" Abi called over. "He's over at North West Vine Street - and he's stationary."

"Keep on him Abs - what's over that way?" Gibbs said as he took his seat behind the wheel.

"Industrial - storage warehouses - a couple of factories - " Tony offered.

"Here's the plan," Gibbs said as he gunned the car into first and pulled away from the kerb. "We are heading to the club - but we're going to swing by and pick up Alex and Nick - and I've a feeling Alex won't want to join us - but - "

"You can be very persuasive, Boss." Tony grinned.

"Especially when I'm as pissed off as I am now!"

*******

Alex frowned as a car pulled up opposite his in the large deserted car park, high fences around the perimeter cut off any view from the street - the dilapidated buildings around him offered a lot of cover for snipers and his eyes automatically swept around the rooves as he alighted from the car - closing the door quietly as Taylor emerged from his vehicle. Alex tossed his mobile from his hand back into the car - noting it landed in Nicky's lap.

"How did it go?" Taylor called as he approached.

"You came alone - at least you kept that side of the bargain. It's gone belly up - how do you think?" Alex replied sullenly. "Your great plan of taking out Rick didn't happen - Gibbs shot your two guys."

"No matter - recompense will be extracted from this Gibbs bastard - besides, you'll take me to Rick and his bit of fluff - and I'll deal with them then. And Nicky?" Taylor bent to peer in the driver side window at the still unconscious man in the passenger seat.

"A non equation - "

"Really?" Taylor smiled evilly - raising an eyebrow. "Got a taste for being on the opposite side of the law finally - I knew you had it in you Alex - all these years and I knew one of you would see sense and turn. It would have been nice if it had been Rick - you know - Captain Sensible - Mr Nice Guy - but - you'll do nicely."

"I'm only wanting what's owed to me - and I'm out of town - gone - and you won't hear from me again, Taylor." Alex watched his cousin pace up and down and leaned lazily against the car door - arms folded. "See - I've had a lot of time to think - about - you know - stuff - and although I do find I enjoyed what I've done - I think now is the time to get out while I can."

"Afraid of prison, Alex?"

"No - but you know how I feel about taking orders."

"I don't know - " Taylor taunted. "Pretty boy like you - you'd have them queuing up to play with you - imagine - you are looking at least thirty five years right now - and just think of the pounding your ass will get every hour - every day - every month."

"Skip the dramatic crap, Taylor. You're expected at Heaven's Gate - so why don't we crack on and get there - I imagine you have great plans for the place."

"Oh," Taylor spun round and grinned. "I do - have - such great plans - but first I want to see Ricky - little Ricky - on his knees before me with the barrel of my gun in his mouth just before I blow his head off and hang it as a trophy over the bar."

"Yeah - " Alex yawned. "That's about your level."

"But I am disappointed to learn you don't want to stay around, Alex - but you've obviously made your decision." Taylor looked almost heartbroken. "But - once I've dealt with all the loose ends - you know - Rick and the rest - maybe we can just chill out over a few beers and I'll try and persuade you otherwise."

"Persuade away - Taylor," Alex shrugged. "It won't work - mind's already made up."

"But - we waste time - I have a club to claim - "

The two men walked to Taylor's car - leaving Nicky alone - still asleep. "And Nick?"

"What about him?" Taylor glanced at Alex as he turned the key in the ignition.

"We can't just leave him here, can we?"

"Is he dead?"

"No."

"Then he'll wake up at some point - wonder what in hell happened - and he'll flag someone down."

"Yeah," Alex snickered as he buckled himself in. "Guess you're right."

******

Just moments later - as Taylor's car sped out of sight around a bend - Gibbs's rolled down the road from the other end.

"We're on top of him - he's here somewhere," Abi purred. "Come out come out wherever you are - Alex."

"How close?" Tony peered out of the window, pushing his shades up his nose.

"He's within fifty feet - somewhere directly east of here - I mean somewhere on our left - keep going Gibbs - keep going - "

"Want us to get out and start looking?" Tony pulled his head back inside and glanced at the computer screen. "No need - he's behind this fence!"

The car emptied in record time.

"We got a car and Nicky," Tony shouted as the others hurried to join him. "He's out cold but I think he's okay," he said as he checked for a pulse and lifted one eyelid.

"Duck - check him over." Gibbs patted Ducky on the back as the older man scooted around the trunk of the car.

"Anything else?" Gibbs asked as Tony straightened, Alex's cell in his hand. "Damn!"

"He met with Taylor?"

"Must have," Gibbs scanned the area and cursed under his breath. "Duck - can you drive Nicky behind us back to Heaven's Gate?"

"I was just about to suggest such a course of action, Jethro - and I am reminded of the time - " He settled himself behind the wheel and looked out to find an empty parking lot. "Mm, well - Nicholas, my boy - looks like it's you and me for the foreseeable future - you just relax while I tell you the tale of when I pushed a French policeman off a cliff - though I might add - there was a lake below - "

The engine purred to life and Ducky drove carefully from the yard to find Gibbs waiting for him - somewhat surprised to see Gibbs now getting into the passenger seat and Tony into the driving seat.

"That's a relief," he murmured. "Following Gibbs the way he drives - just doesn't bear thinking about."


TBC

"Jethro," Tony said as he fished his cell out of a pocket and tossed it across to the older man sitting beside him. "Call Duck - warn him I'll be making some tricky moves."

"Why?"

Tony rolled his eyes and smiled gently. "Because I don't want him getting motion sickness with all the twists and turns we'll be making to get back to the club."

"Again - why?"

"Because if Taylor takes the regular route from here - he's going to get snarled up in traffic - it's five pm - I know how get around the city and I can shave at least ten or fifteen minutes off our route."

"I knew there was a reason I kept you around," Gibbs chuckled. "Do it."

With Ducky duly forewarned, the journey took almost no time at all - except they lost Ducky twice at a junction and then a tunnel - but as Tony braked behind Heaven's Gate - Ducky rolled his vehicle to a stop beside him and climbed out - looking a little concerned.

"Duck?" Gibbs asked glancing across the roof of the car. "Problem?"

"No - no problem - it's just Nicky's really not looking too good and I can't get him out of the car on my own - he's just too heavy."

"I got him," Rick said, handing the keys to the back door to Abi. "Done it before and will probably do it again." He hurried over and soon had Nicky in his arms, his brother's head resting on his shoulder as he crossed the car park to follow Tony then Gibbs inside.

"Get him into the office and let Ducky check him over - Abs - get some coffee brewing," Gibbs instantly taking charge. "Tony - I need Matt and the boys in here asap - and find out if upstairs has been cleared yet."

"On it Boss." Tony disappeared out of the kitchen - pausing to grab an apple on the way and biting into it with relish.

"Abs - " Gibbs called her closer with a finger. "This is going to get nasty - potentially," he said softly, resting his hands on her shoulders and looking into her eyes. "And I know you want revenge for what happened to Tony - "

"I'm not going anywhere, Gibbs," she gazed up at him challengingly. "Like Duckman said: we've come this far."

"Yeah - " he smiled back at her. "I knew that - just needed to sure - but the minute I tell you to duck - I tell you to leave - you - "

"Do as I'm told and just keep the coffee coming - which reminds me - is that a Caf Pow machine I spy over there?" Her own smile broadened as she approached and the squeal of delight when she discovered the machine was full had Gibbs sniggering to himself as he followed Tony into the club proper.

"Well?" He found Tony leaning on the desk in the foyer sharing a joke with Matt and Pete.

"No one's heard from Alex, Nicky or Rick - they were put on standby about Taylor, Boss - but nothing from any of them." Tony took a final bite of his apple - tossing it into a nearby trash bin.

"So - "

"Matt and Pete take the floors above - I'll check the rooms down here - "

"Take Abs with you - this place is a warren." Gibbs ordered, clapping a hand on Tony's back. "And be careful."

"Aren't I always?" Tony threw him a cheeky grin.

"Do I really have to answer that?"

"Laters." Tony paced to the kitchen door - holding it open as he called for Abi. She joined him with an excited look on her pretty face.

"Do I get a Sig too?" she asked, eyeing Tony's own gun lustfully.

"Not until you've passed your proficiency test, Abs - now get going - the two of you." Turning to the two men behind the desk, he looked from one to the other. "Which one's which?"

"I'm Matt, he's Pete."

"And it's just you two?"

"No - Simon's on corridor watch - you want me to bring him down?" Matt made to reach for his radio.

"Many guests stay over?"

"Most have gone - " Pete lifted a large clipboard from a drawer - handing it to Gibbs. "Looks like Rooms 101 and 107 are the only ones left - 107 should have been gone at least an hour ago - they're heading to Rome on vacation."

"And 101?"

"Is probably going to bust a blood vessel when we bring her out - she does not like to be disturbed." Matt flashed a nervous grin at Gibbs. "If you like - you can have the pleasure."

"Sure - I've gone through three wives, guys. Intimidation? I invented the word."

"Good luck, Jethro!" Pete called after him as he walked to the elevator.

"Won't need it!" Gibbs called back. "We got a name for 101?"

"Inara!"

"Oh hell!" he murmured. The tiny blond lady he'd introduced to Tony at the beginning of the night, of all the women in the world - the one he would never dare piss off - the one woman who could bring him to his knees with just a look - the one who - stop it Jethro - she'll throw a tantrum and probably a vase or three - nothing to be scared of - until the next time she's the one in control over you - oh yeah!

*****

Ducky finished his exam of Nicky who, by this time, was awake - slightly disorientated - but none the worse for his ordeal - but strangely mute. He regarded Ducky carefully - tracking him with his eyes as he sat up on the couch to lean forward head in hands.

"I should think a good night's sleep and tomorrow you'll be back to your old self." Ducky said - repacking his medical bag. "Although - I don't understand why you won't tell me what happened."

"Nothing to tell, Duck - " Nicky slowly got to his feet. "Nothing to tell - really."

"Alex darts you and leaves you in a car in an unused car lot? Why would he do that?"

"You'll have to ask him - where's Rick?" Nicky walked to the door and threw it open - nodding to Matt briefly. "Rick?"

Matt pointed above his head. "With Jethro - Tony and Abi are checking out this floor."

"Checking? Checking for what?"

"Just being careful, Nicky." Ducky said from behind him. "Aha - do I smell coffee?"

Nicky stood to one side as the ME made his way across the hall to the bar and into the kitchen. "Being careful about what Matt? What's going on?"

"Taylor's on his way here," Tony offered as he rounded the corner. "You're up finally - what's the deal with Alex?"

"Why is everyone suddenly concerned about Alex?" Nicky breathed. "Who gives a fuck about Alex - where's Jethro? Yeah - I remember - upstairs." He strode quickly to the elevator and hit the button - pacing up and down as he waited.

"Who threw him nuts?" Abi asked as she joined Tony - waving briefly at Pete who was smiling warmly at her.

Suddenly, there was a commotion at the elevator doors. They whisked open to reveal a very tiny - very very pissed off Inara being held over Rick's shoulder - her fists pounding his back as he stepped out and bent to set her on the ground - the air turning a vibrant shade of blue as she continued to curse men in general.

"Matty - cab for Inara - and for the tenth time this week - don't let her sneak back in here when she's been run home!"

"Sorry Boss."

"Just do it - chain her to a damn chair if you have to," Rick pressed a hand to her back and guided her towards the desk - thankful she wasn't going to create a further scene - her attention now fixed on Pete - elevator eyes roving his body to rest at his crotch.

"You two - conference room - now." Gibbs stepped back inside the elevator - Rick one side and Nicky the other. As the elevator lifted towards the first floor - he hit the stop button and the lights went down a third.

"What?" Nicky groused, leaning against the wall and folding his arms - strangely - looking everywhere but at Rick.

"What happened, Nick?" Rick pressed.

"When?"

"You said something about a double cross - don't trust him - which we now know means Alex - want to enlighten us?"

"It's all right, Rick - " Gibbs smiled wanly. "Don't know about you - but I've got all the time in the world - and if you have a broom cupboard and a copy of the Yellow Pages - I'm sure I could get Nick to tell me exactly what's been going on."

"But we know most of it, Jethro. Alex obviously has some plan that doesn't include me - although if it includes Nick - we've yet to find that out. But Alex is in with Taylor and knowing Taylor - it'll be money orientated - "

"Good points," Gibbs nodded appreciatively.

"I think - " Rick rested a hand on the cool metal above the control panel and regarded Nicky almost sadly. "See - I'm thinking I was forced to sign everything over to Taylor - and he and Alex were taking a share each - now - the question is - "

"Let me guess," Gibbs held up a hand. "We've got a dilemma here - because Nicky hasn't denied he might also be involved and he also hasn't said he is - so - "

"We could stay in here until Nicky does tell us one way or the other - " Rick shrugged.

"Or - we go with the fact he might be guilty as hell - but then - what I would really like to know right now is why Alex and Taylor - or is it Alex who thought up the idea and took it to Taylor - or did all three come up with it - whatever the case might be - what the fuck did you do in a past life to piss three guys off so badly, they'd see you on the street and destitute?"

"It wasn't like that!" Nicky spat. "Nothing like that!"

"Oh - now there's the nerve I was poking around for - " Gibbs threw a quick knowing look at Rick - as the cell in his pocket began to vibrate. He lifted it free and pressed it to his ear, listening for a few seconds before snapping it shut.

"He's here - just pulled up outside."

"Better late than never," Rick sighed as he flipped the switch and hit the button. "Let's bring it."

"Just make sure Ducky and Abs are safe," Gibbs hissed.

"Sure thing." Rick replied as the elevator doors slid open. Matt looked to the three men as they exited - and at a nod from the Uber Dom - he unlocked the main door.

TBC

By the time the main door was opened to admit Taylor and his three henchmen - two stayed outside on the top step while Morgan remained behind Taylor - Ducky had hurried Abi to the safety of the kitchen although she made it abundantly clear that right now her place was at Gibbs's side as he hustled her through the door.

"That the bastard?" Gibbs whispered to Rick, glancing round to catch him nod once. "How'd you want to play this? My hands are kinda itching to make an impact on that supercilious smile."

"Play it cool, Jethro - " Rick warned in his ear. "Taylor's handled with kid gloves - he'll be packing."

Gibbs nodded to himself - easing his own Sig from its holster. "I'm not going to use it," he lied. "Unless I am severely provoked - and I estimate that'll be when he opens his mouth and starts the megalomanic speech."

"Mine!" Taylor yelled, head back - arms spread out either side as he turned in a slow circle until he was facing Gibbs again. "And you killed two of my men - and for that - I'm afraid you forfeit your life - but not just now - I'm still debating whether it will be quick - or slow and drawn out," He paused for a second. "And I'm liking slow and drawn out - are you a screamer or a groaner? I'll go with groaner - you're a groaner - and pretty boy - "

"The name's Tony - I would shorten it to make it easier for you - but then I'd be T - although, I like the A Team - the women in that show - " he gazed off into space with a silly grin. "Big hair - big shoulder pads - and even bigger cahoolies - I'm no Mr T."

"Don't even think it," Rick's hand wrapped around Gibbs's wrist.

"Oh - so you can actually speak - that's surprises me, Anthony - a bone head like you actually having the power of speech - I thought you liked your fuck toys silent Ricky? And - you Ricky - you must have nine lives - because - technically - according to my grand scheme of things - you and your girlfriend over there - " he jerked his chin Tony's way. "Should have been roasting nicely - "

"Are you finished?" Gibbs barked - glaring at Taylor angrily.

"I haven't even started."

"Office - now!" Gibbs stabbed a finger at the half open door.

"And who are you again?" Taylor worried his lower lip. "Are you the one with the dumb name? What was it?"

"It's Gibbs."

"And who put you in charge?"

"You did - when you kidnapped Tony - and I'll also have you for attempted murder on two counts - " Gibbs stared at Taylor levelly. "Either way - you and your goons are looking at - maybe thirty years plus - and I'll make sure you never get parole - and with a track record like yours - you might never be out."

Taylor laughed to himself and shuddered. "So masterful aren't you - so he's with you?" He raked his eyes over Tony and then back to Gibbs. "Actually - you do make a cute couple - I can see the attraction."

Tony stepped back until he was able to hitch a hip on the front desk, twisting round and winking at Matt. "Is it me - or does he sound like he's not quite all there?"

"Taylor?" Matt queried - Tony nodding. "Road traffic accident when he was a kid - comatose for three weeks - woke up a totally different child - nasty. Uncontrollable so I heard - always in trouble drinking, stealing, shoplifting - smoked his first joint when he was just ten."

"Explains a lot," Tony mused. "And this situation is rapidly descending into a kindergarten playground - time I stepped in."

"No one else will - " Matt threw a disapproving look across to Nicky who was now leaning with his back against the wall - arms folded his across his chest.

"Something I should know about?" Tony asked quietly.

"Nah - it's just - "

"Just what?"

"No, Tony - forget I said anything."

"I can't do that can I?" Tony's eyes widened. "My interest is piqued."

"I can't - not just now - "

"Later then - " Tony pushed past an unusually silent Rick and threw an arm around Taylor's shoulders - lifting the gun briefly as he guided the other man towards the office. "See - I always find a campfire helps in cases like this," he grinned goofily, now signalling with the Sig for the others to follow him - leaving Matt and Pete at the desk both watching the bald man at the door carefully. "And just so you know - Gibbs has a very short fuse - and I mean very, very short - and if you don't do as he says - or don't answer with the truth straight away - then - I'm afraid he'll turn into Mr Hyde - now there's a great movie."

Taylor was speechless - trying desperately to figure out just what had happened here - and why was this jerk weed spouting off about Gibbs and fuses. He didn't protest as he was pushed down on the sofa as Gibbs took up position behind the desk, Tony pacing to it quickly and, again, hitching a hip on a corner.

"Jekyll and Hyde," Tony went on. "Made in 1931 - directed by Rouben Mamoulian - Frederick March in the lead role - saw that first when I was a kid - and it had me hiding behind the sofa - the 1941 version with Spencer Tracey in the lead - lacked drive and drama in my book - not that I read a lot of books - too busy having a good time - have you ever been to Panama City on Spring Break? No? Man - you have not lived! Sun, sea - sand and mile after mile of beautiful women - " A slap to the back of his head from Gibbs told him - maybe - enough was enough. "Shutting up, Boss."

The silence in the room was palpable - Rick and Nicky standing together at the fireplace - both looking extremely uncomfortable - almost ready to bolt until Gibbs - unable to take the tension - got to his feet and walked across to them - head slapping them both at the same time. "Something I should know?"

No answer.

"Fine - " Gibbs breathed. "Why don't you two just leave - you're no help to me like this!"

At that moment, the door opened once more to admit Alex. He took in the scene before him with wry smile, winking at Taylor as he snicked the door closed behind him. "Miss anything?" he asked as he perched on the arm of the sofa - regarding his brothers stonily.

"Apparently, Gibbs is Tony's boss - and I wonder what the Director at NCIS will say when he finds that out." Taylor said deliberately loudly.

"I knew that," Alex shrugged with a chuckle.

"You shit!" Rick yelled - tearing himself away from Gibbs's arm suddenly across his chest to prevent him from doing what he had been so desperate to do for an age. He hauled Alex to his feet by the shirt, spun him round and punched him squarely in the face.

Alex went down like a lead weight - his nose pouring with blood - his hands trying to push Rick off his chest as Rick's hand twisted in his hair - his hand bunching into another fist.

Another three blows landed - leaving Alex lying still in the middle of floor - as surprisingly - it took both Gibbs and Tony all their strength to pull Rick off him and shove him aside - until Tony pulled Rick's arm into a half nelson to pin him face first against the wall.

"Not a good idea, Rick." Tony hissed in his ear. "Try a stunt like that again - and I'll cuff you - got it?" He shoved Rick against the wall again - just to be sure he got the point - and when Rick finally nodded assent - he released him. "How is he?"

"Bruised but okay - he's waking up," Gibbs said from where he stood over the stricken man.

"Do I go get Ducky?"

"Nah - he doesn't deserve that," Gibbs growled. "Get him into that chair over there - Nicky - Nicky!"

"Where'd he go?" Tony looked around the room - Nicky had indeed disappeared - having sneaked out - no doubt - during the fight.

"For crying out loud!" Gibbs kicked the leg of the coffee table. "What in hell is going on around here! Rick - go find him!"

"Me? It's me he's pissed at - " The stare. "I'm going!"

"Proud of yourself, Taylor?" Gibbs snarled, mildly annoyed at the way the younger man relaxed on the sofa - arms resting along the back - legs outstretched and crossed a the ankles - stupid grin in place.

"I don't think I've had this much fun since - since - the last time I had some fun - which - if I recall was - "

"Please." Gibbs said softly. "Shut the fuck up - do us all a favour - and shut the fuck up."

"And something has just occurred to me - " Taylor grinned broadly - delighting in the reactions from Gibbs. "This is my property now - and you are trespassing - " He slowly rose to his feet - stretching his arms above his head with a satisfied growl.

"No law in this country will make this your place," Gibbs said - closing in until they were nose to nose. "I don't know what Rick signed - but he signed under duress - and you kidnapped him and my Senior Field Agent to do it - you had your man beat up on Tony to force Rick to comply - you then dope them and drive them out into the country to an old farm building which had enough of a gas supply to take out a bridge over the Potomac - oh no - Taylor - not this time - you're officially under arrest as of this moment - and involving NCIS - big mistake."

"Mom always said I'd make a good sailor."

"Under my command - you'd be cleaning the head - permanently - or I'd have you on rivet watch."

"You were a Marine weren't you?"

"Sniper - Gunnery Sergeant - " Gibbs nodded. "And if I gave you an hours lead - I'd still track you down - and take great pleasure in emptying my gun into your head."

"Uh - Boss - is this TBI?"

"Truth by interrogation?" Gibbs turned to look at Tony to see he was busy checking on Alex who was still trying to stem the flow of blood. "Nah - just your basic bragging, Tony - TBI comes later - once I get this a-hole on his own - which reminds me. Tony?"

"Yeah."

"The muscle at the front door - ask him to come in here for a second - unarmed?"

"What you got planned?"

"Just get him in here?"

Tony pulled a face but complied - opening the door quickly. "Hey, Tinkerbell - Boss wants a word - like - now! Leave the weapon at the front desk."

"Taylor?" Muscle called.

"Just do it!" Taylor answered.

"Okay."

Inside the room - Gibbs took up position to the right of the door - signalling for Tony to keep Taylor's back to the door and keep him covered with the Sig. Muscle stepped over the threshold - not seeing Gibbs initially - but realising he was there way too late as a large - and just heavy enough to cause some damage - vase connected with his head and he hit the floor without a sound.

Gibbs grabbed the fallen man's wrists and yanked him further into the room - just in case he was spotted by his two comrades outside - a quick glance in their direction told him they'd not heard anything - both seeming to be chatting to each other and not paying much attention to their surroundings.

Closing the door - Gibbs turned to Taylor as he hooked a pair of cuffs from his back pocket and snapped them on his wrists. "Just not your day, is it?"

"You think you're clever - " Taylor turned to see a smiling Tony wink at him. "He thinks he's clever."

"He is, Taylor - and so far - he's just been playing with you - isn't that right Boss?"

"Right as always, Tony. I want you to think of me as a Jack Russell Terrier - Taylor - I'm going to sink my teeth into your ass and not let go - until I get what I want - " His brow knitted as he gazed into Taylor's dark eyes for a brief moment. "I am your nemesis - you will go down - but not before you've gone a few rounds with me - and personally - I'm looking forward to it."

"Be afraid," Tony whispered in his ear - making Taylor jump. "Be very afraid - in Gibbs's world - no-one can hear you scream."


TBC….

Tony kicked the door shut behind him with a foot - his arms full of various implements - including paddles, whips and a nasty looking instrument which Gibbs immediately recognised as thumbscrews.

"Where in hell did you get those?" he asked as Tony dropped the pile beside him and grinned at Taylor who watched the two men with more than a little fear on his face.

"Rumpus Room, Boss - ah - " Tony worried his lower lips and looked at Gibbs - suddenly worried.

"I told you the Rumpus Room was off limits to you, Tony - " Gibbs scowled at him.

"Yeah - but this is a special case isn't it?" Tony shot back quickly. "As you don't have access to your trusty baseball bat - I thought these might be helpful."

Gibbs thumped a hand down on the desk - bunching it into a fist over Taylor's file and grinned at the man cuffed in front of him. "See? I trained him to anticipate and he knew I'd need something to knock the truth from you - and I don't like using my fists - not unless it's absolutely necessary - but - whether I use them is up to you Taylor - so - please - don't make me have to use them."

"You wouldn't fucking dare." Taylor hissed, lifting his chin defiantly and narrowing his eyes.

"Oh - " Tony said as he sat down beside Gibbs. "He would - so - if I were you - I'd do as you're told - and answer his questions." Reaching into a back pocket, Tony pulled out his mobile phone and began playing Tetris - humming quietly to himself.

"What is this - good cop and bad cop?" Taylor spat.

"We're Navy cops - and you are in a heap of trouble - but you already know that don't you?" Gibbs leaned forward, linking his fingers together. "So - first - I think an apology is in order - apologise to my Senior Field Agent and say you regret what happened."

"Fuck off," Taylor drawled, dropping his head back. "And how do I know you're Navy - "

"Because Rick told me you knew Tony was a Fed - and I'm Tony's Boss - and what you do to him - you do to me - so - let's start at the beginning. How long have you and Alex been working out this - whatever it is - what's Rick ever done to you?"

"He was born for starters."

"He's one of three," Tony pointed out - eyes to his phone. "He's the oldest by a matter of minutes - so why him out of the three?"

"Because I hate him?"

"And that's a good enough reason for you to kidnap and beat up on him - and Tony?" Gibbs asked, keeping his voice light. "Bit childish, don't you think?"

"Made me feel better."

Gibbs opened the file and spent a good two minutes reading the contents. "Where are the photographs you took inside the club?"

"What's that to you?" Taylor tugged on his cuffs briefly and then relaxed - realising he was going nowhere. "And what are Navy Feds doing in Heaven's Gate anyway - you two into kink too?"

"Rick is a friend of mine - and he's in trouble," Gibbs answered smoothly. "The photographs, Taylor - where are they?"

"On route to the Post - bike courier." Taylor glared at him - his upper lip lifting into a smirk - but that soon vanished as Gibbs gave him the full on stare and he dropped his eyes to the desk top.

"You're lying." Gibbs stated flatly. "Even you wouldn't be that stupid - you send them to the Post - they'll think they're manufactured - they won't be able to publish them."

"Why not? People have a right to know what their Politicians are up to in their spare time." Taylor shrugged. "I'm just doing my duty."

"The Post will be looking at billion dollar lawsuits, Taylor - and I'll say again - you are not that stupid." Gibbs leaned back - noting Taylor visibly deflating before his eyes. "Tell me more about Alex - how'd you hook him in?"

"He came to me - only - he didn't come alone."

"No?" Tony looked up from his game briefly. "Don't tell me - he bought the tooth fairy with him."

"Nicky," Gibbs said.

"Little brother Nicky." Taylor nodded. "He wasn't part of the plan - we just let him come along for the ride."

"And when you two were ready - what were you planning on doing with him - and Rick?"

"Nicky would be dead and Rick - out on the street - with nothing left - his whole world gone - it should have happened years ago - what goes around comes around - fate - that kinda thing," Taylor blinked at the blue eyes across from him. "I told him I would have my day - only you two kinda screwed that up for me - "

"It's our job," Gibbs affirmed. "You seem to think you're invincible, Taylor - and I'm here to tell you - that isn't so - you will be doing time - a lot of time - elaborate on what goes around comes around for me - I'd like to know."

"Yeah - " Taylor huffed. "I kinda thought you would - "

"Come on - " Tony whined. "You're killing me here - what did Rick do that was so bad?"

Taylor glanced from one to the other and back to Gibbs. "He killed my fiancée."

"It's in the file - it says ex-fiancee - she broke up with you - said you were too - controlling and yet you stalked her for three months."

"He stole her from me!" Taylor blustered. "He stole her from me - screwed her - and killed her - it may have been nearly five years ago - but it's with me every day!"

"It was never proved," Gibbs answered steadily. "The brake line was cut - but the investigating team kept coming up with blank leads - the case went cold - Rick spent six months in hospital because of you - "

"You can't pin it on me - no way!" Taylor yelled - struggling in his bonds.

"Oh - I think we can - see - Abby is an excellent forensic expert - and Ducky is - well - only the finest ME I know - when I get back to HQ - I'll reopen the inquiry." Gibbs closed the file and sat back again but not before pulling out a photograph of a pretty brunette with shining blue eyes.

"Um - Boss - NCIS can't get involved - no Navy personnel," Tony reminded him. "But I'm sure Fornell will be only too willing to check it over for us."

"Motive - MO - I think we've got it all covered - don't you DiNozzo?"

"Sounds good to me."

"You're nuts!" Taylor fumed. "I have lawyers - I have people who will - "

"You'll have a lawyer assigned to you, Taylor - one that won't take back handers - one that won't be cowed by your overbearing, arrogant personality. In fact - if we could find one just like you - but that's hardly fair is it?"

"Now - here's my next problem - " Gibbs scuffed a hand over his face. "Where is the document Rick signed?"

"Somewhere safe."

"And I'm thinking - it's not legal - it hasn't been signed by a witness - "

"I signed the fucking thing!" Taylor shouted - still worrying his cuffs.

"But you're not a witness - you are the asshole who forced Rick to sign it." Gibbs pointed out with a grin.

"Resorting to name calling, Boss - a bit early for you isn't it?" Tony pulled a face as he lost the second game on his cell.

"Yeah - well - this guy's really beginning to piss me off, Tony." Gibbs rounded on him.

"Then - name call away - just let me know when you want to start slapping him - I'll move out of the way and hand you a paddle or three." Tony shot back with a wink to Taylor. "Pissing Gibbs off?" he whispered. "Bad move, Taylor - very bad move."

"So - Rick signed - you signed which means - all you did was sign a worthless piece of paper - didn't you think to check with one of your honchos what was legal?"

"I was going to - and he was going to sign it too."

"Ah - bit late now though - " Tony snickered.

"No - it's on his desk as I speak."

"Gimme a name." Gibbs demanded.

"Fuck off."

"Fine - I'll ask Alex."

"He doesn't know!" he yelled loudly - as Tony looked at him quickly.

"Hah!" he held up a hand. "He looked down and to the left Boss - Alex knows."

"What does looking anywhere have to do with anything?" Taylor hissed.

"It means you're lying," Tony said with a broad grin. "I'll prove it - ask me a question - any question you like."

"Tony - stop." Gibbs raised a hand. "Go get laughing boy in here - and if he resists - you have my permission to hit him - very hard."

"Aw - " Tony grinned again, shoving his cell into a pocket. "So generous, Boss."

"I know - go get him and check on the two goons at the front door too - "

"You got it!"

Tony shut the door behind him - leaving Taylor feeling very worried as a smile ghosted over Gibbs's lips.

"So - all alone Taylor - let's just cut the crap and get to the truth here - shall we?"

******

"What?" Alex demanded as Tony threw open the office door and stood there - finger crooked at him.

"Boss wants a word - seems to think you can help the investigation." Tony shrugged.

"Does he - well - he can go to hell -I'm not moving from here." Alex leaned back in his chair and thunked booted feet onto the desk.

"Now - you see - petulance in a grown up is so - last season," Tony drawled as he closed the space between them - rounding the desk and hauling Alex to his feet. "I said - Gibbs wants to see you - and when he wants to see someone - it means he really wants to see them - it's up to you - I can either - drag you in there kicking and screaming - or I can pull you across the floor out cold and we wait till you wake up - do you understand what I'm saying or did I just speak French or something?"

"Whatever." Alex pushed at Tony's hand - but accepted the other hand as it clamped around his upper arm. "And quit pulling!"

"Shut the hell up," Tony barked over his shoulder as they made their way to the door. "And just so you know - Gibbs is really really pissed at you and Taylor - it's not going to be pretty."

"Then why warn me?"

"Because - whenever I see Gibbs in this mood - I'd prefer to be out of the country - but as it is, you two haven't exactly helped - I'm in this up to my neck as much as you two are - when he starts hitting out - I have to remember to duck."

"Man - I feel your pain," Alex snorted - his breath catching in his throat as Tony opened the other door. A shove in his back and Alex stumbled into the room - nearly into the desk - watching as Tony sat down.

"Do I get a seat?"

"Nope," Gibbs shook his head. "You won't be here for long enough. Who's his lawyer."

"Like I'd tell you!" Alex snapped.

"Oh boy," Gibbs sighed. "I had a feeling you'd say that - " Tony got to his feet again and hauled a pair of cuffs from the back of his pants and quickly snapped them onto Alex's wrists - hands in front. "Tony - take him to see Abby - and tell her not to be too hard on him - if she takes it to level two - that should be okay - but she clears it with me if she needs to go higher."

"Understood, Boss." Tony nodded. "Only - level two? You're sure? She's only gone level two once - and even you said you didn't want to see that again."

"Level two?" Alex asked - his stomach rolling.

"Yeah," Tony breathed in his ear. "Level one - causes only slight pain - you know - like when you have a bullclip fastened to the end of your nose - only for the end of your nose in level two - think - of your three best friends in your pants - and a couple of hundred volts - as The Mask was kinda fond of saying - "Smoking!!""

TBC

Gibbs rose to his feet - feeling slightly stifled in the small but functional room where he had been questioning Taylor. There was no window - just some chairs folded up against one wall - against them what looked to be an old street sign and - of all things - a traffic cone. Shoving his hands deep into his pockets - he paced left and then right - finally settling to lean back against the wall opposite the man still cuffed across the room.

Taylor had tracked him with his eyes as he had paced - not quite sure if Gibbs was serious about handing him over to the Feds - he swallowed thickly and lowered his dark gaze to the table top and blew out his cheeks. "How long you gonna keep this up?" he growled between clenched teeth.

"Me?" Gibbs flashed a grin. "Until Abs has finished with Alex - and then it's your turn - and be warned - Abby can be very persuasive when she wants to be."

"I thought you were the persuasive one - " Taylor snorted. "For an old man - you sure have some fancy ideas about getting rid of me."

"Just give me the name of your lawyer," Gibbs prompted - pushing himself off the wall and retaking his seat - but not before reaching down and collecting up a rather weighty paddle and examining it closely. "Ah - " he paused, dropping the paddle from in front of his face. "If I say - please - will you tell me the name of your lawyer."

"Not a hope in hell!"

"Ever felt one of these across your ass, Taylor?" Gibbs held up the leather padded instrument - stroking the smooth surface with a small smile on his lips. "It's quite - painful - but in the hands of an expert - it can do so much - the kiss of leather with the weight of a Dom behind it - it's actually quite liberating."

"You're a sub?"

"A switch, Taylor - big difference." Gibbs shrugged. "But you didn't answer the question - have you ever felt one across your butt?"

"And what in hell is a switch?"

"You have your Dom and you have your sub - I kinda slide between the two on occasion - "

"Okay - " Taylor's brows arched in shock. "Let's stop this conversation right now - "

"But I thought you liked dishing it too - " Gibbs teased. "In a way - your behaviour is quite Dominant - so really - there's not a lot of difference between me dealing punishment to a sub and you just - being a bastard in general."

"Shut up!"

"I could show you if you like," Gibbs leaned forward - the paddle flat on the table. "The Rumpus Room is just next door - and I'm sure Tony would be only too happy to help me fasten you to one of the frames - " Gibbs couldn't help but smile as he spied beads of sweat on Taylor's upper lip - the discomfiture on that suddenly not so proud face. "In fact - " Gibbs went on. "I think - tied face down - gagged and maybe blindfolded - your pants around your ankles and your little pink butt in the air - "

"I said shut the fuck up."

"Methinks he doth protest too much." Gibbs leered.

"You're nuts."

"You keep saying that," Gibbs shifted around in his seat until his left hand was spread out on the table top - his right elbow resting lightly on the back of the chair. "Where was I - oh - yes - so - there you are - all trussed up - and then I'd - well - it would hardly be fair to you if I'm honest about it - but I'm really having trouble trying to tell myself that to do that to you would be just - cruel."

"Do what?" Taylor's eyes went wide - and he blanched.

Reaching into his jacket pocket, Gibbs pulled out his wallet and fished out a card - holding it up for Taylor to read.

"You're bluffing!" he spat.

"No - I'm not," Gibbs said as he replaced the card and pushed his wallet back into his jacket. "Melinda Meadows - the anchor for the six o'clock news on ZNN - she'd be only to happy to head out here and film it - " Gibbs winked. "Imagine that, Taylor - you get the notoriety you want - and we all get a good laugh."

"Bastard!"

"And people keep telling me that too, Taylor." Gibbs nodded sadly. "Name's Gibbs - two b's - second one stands for bastard - and you're not looking too good right now - can I get you some water?"

"You can let me go this fucking minute!"

"Nope - can't."

"Shit!"

Gibbs got to his feet again and pulled out his cell.

"What are you doing?" Taylor asked curiously - but he already knew what was coming.

"Calling Melinda - "

"Liar!"

"Only way I'm going to not make the call - you tell me who your lawyer is." Gibbs rounded on him - fixing him with the stare - until he held up a hand for silence. "Yeah, hi - Melinda Meadows - " he said into his cell. "Yes - Special Agent Jethro Gibbs - NCIS - " A pause. "Sure - I'll hold." Another pause. "Melinda - hi - Jethro - look - I've got something you might be interested in - remember that small fry perp who's always managed to evade prison?" Gibbs nodded. "Taylor Garvey - yep - that's the guy - well - believe it or not - I'm looking at him right now - " Pause. "No - I am not yanking your chain - he's sitting here with me now - only he's not looking to happy about it - " Gibbs held out the cell. "Taylor - play nice and say hi to Melinda."

"FUCK OFF!"

"Whoops," Gibbs pulled a face as he pressed the phone to his ear again. "Yeah - he's a bit pissed - you'll head over? Great - see you in about an hour - we're at Heaven's Gate - west side." Gibbs flushed and smiled almost coyly - deliberately turning his back on Taylor. "I know you head over here occasionally Melinda - I bought you a drink last month - remember? Yeah - in an hour - look forward to it."

Gibbs sat down with a victorious smile and gazed off into space for a second or two. "So - lawyer? Who is he?"

"There was no one on the end of that call, Gibbs - you're bluffing still."

"Okay - well - " Gibbs leaned forward. "I'll just leave you here alone for a little while to think things over - either - your ass hits primetime news - or you name your lawyer and I hand you over to Fornell - your choice."

A final staring match - that Gibbs won hands down - and Taylor was hearing the key turning in the lock as the silver haired man went to check on progress with Alex.

******

Crossing the main hall - Gibbs lifted a hand in salute to Matt and Pete as he passed and made his way to the main door. He quickly undid the lock and pulled it open sharply. Both goons turned to look at him as though he was something on the bottom of their collective shoes, their menacing looks fading as Gibbs held up a hundred dollar bill he'd removed from Taylor's own wallet before locking him up. "Boss says - no worries - lunch is on him - "

"Where is he?" Goon One demanded.

"Finalising the deal - now go - before he changes his mind - " Gibbs watched both men head down the steps. "Hey!" They both turned. "He also said to tell you - beer's allowed - as much as you want."

"Nice!" Goon Two grinned.

"Assholes," Gibbs muttered as he locked the door again, turning to see Matt and Pete gaping at him. "What?"

"Good job - those guys were - big!" Matt stuttered.

"They've gone now - and we're opening in a couple of hours - you two wanna get busy - this place has to look like it's business as usual." Gibbs called over his shoulder as he made his way to the kitchen.

"But Jethro - surely - we'll just be an invitation for trouble if we open tonight?" Pete spread his hands. "Taylor's got more guys like that back home - and they only have to get a sniff something's wrong - and we're dead."

"Then make like there is nothing wrong," Gibbs suggested - eyes wide. "Geez - do I have to think of everything?"

He pushed open the kitchen door with the flat of his hand and looked around the place. From the look of things - and the number of Caf Pow cups beside the laptop - Abby was getting her third refill - Ducky was settled in a corner - dozing - and Alex and Tony where nowhere to be seen.

"Gibbs!" Abby greeted him brightly. "You look pleased with yourself."

"I am, Abs - "

"Care to share?"

"Let's just say - Taylor's going to make national TV in about an hour." He kissed her cheek. "How'd you get on with Alex?"

"Well," she said before taking a long slurp of her drink. "I really really told him off for getting involved in this whole thing and then Tony told me what you wanted me to do - and I figured it would hardly be fair to Alex for me not to show him a demonstration - and by the way - " she slapped his arm. "thanks for making me look like some psychotic bitch Dom - "

"I knew you'd understand," Gibbs smiled warmly at her.

"So - I suddenly remembered something I'd seen on UTubeXXX - and figured that would work - so I downloaded it and played it."

"And?"

"Alex went a weird shade of green - Tony couldn't look - and Duckman - well - he was too busy snoring - anyway - "

"What you show him Abs?"

"Wanna see?"

"Not really - just the bare details will be fine."

"Okay - it's this dungeon of this French or German man Dom - and his slave is only to happy to have things attached to his - bits - down there - " she lowered her eyes to Gibbs' crotch. "And then I gave Alex earphones - Tony ended up having to hold them on his head - he was not a happy bunny - and struggling to get loose - and after watching him for about two minutes - I figured he'd gotten the message - and he bolted from here with Tony in hot pursuit - and they're outside right now - Alex puked - just as he got out the door - so be careful - it's a bit slippery."

"Thanks, Abs. Good job."

"I know - I always come up with the goods, Gibbs."

Outside - Alex was leaning against the wall - eyes closed - hands clasped over his nether regions with Tony beside him - Sig in hand.

"You okay?" Gibbs asked - sidestepping a puddle of puke.

"You are one fucking bastard - " Alex hissed - sneering at him.

"He okay?" he asked Tony.

"Sure - just missed hitting me with that - " Tony jerked the Sig in the direction of the mess on the ground.

"Get what we wanted?" Gibbs asked - ignoring Alex who was trying to lever himself off the wall - until Gibbs's hand on his shoulder pinned him there.

"No - you?"

"Might have - called in a favour with Melinda," Gibbs sighed.

"No - what kinda favour?" Tony was curious now.

"You know the one - the - I got something you might be interested in - be here in an hour - and you'll see Taylor Garvey in a whole new light - but - "

"But?" Tony prompted.

"But - do I involve this shit too?" he took a handful of Alex's shirt - pulling him forward and then slamming him back against the wall.

"Why not?" Tony agreed. "Two shits together on TV - I'd watch it."

"You'd watch anything." Gibbs shot back.

"But Melinda's got a great stack, Gibbs. So - you going to enlighten me on what's gonna happen?"

"Sure," Gibbs nodded. "These two - bare assed - getting the whipping of their lives.!"

"You wouldn't!" Tony sounded genuinely horrified.

"I would, and I will - " Gibbs pulled Alex forward again. "Unless I get the name of their damn lawyer!!"

"No one ass whips me on TV, Gibbs!" Alex hissed.

"You'd make a fortune with that on the Internet, Boss."

"I know," Gibbs turned and made his way back inside - tugging Alex after him. "I'll get Abs working on a live doowacka - whatsit."

"That's live feed, Boss. Key word is feed." Tony rubbed his hands together, grinning goofily as he followed them back indoors. "That second B sure as hell stands for bastard."

TBC

Rick's stomach plummeted as he stepped out into the rooftop garden - immediately spying Nicky at a far bench - glass in one hand and a bottle of Jim Beam in the other. Nicky looked pale and apprehensive - his hand wrapped around the bottle as though fearing it might try and escape - and the sound of glass hitting glass as Nicky poured himself another over generous amount told Rick that maybe now would be a good time to try and prise the liquor from him.

"What the hell do you want?" Nicky grumbled - glancing quickly up into his brother's blue eyes before staring out over the skyline of Washington.

"I don't want to be here Nick - not with you in this state and especially because - " Rick began - not wanting to sit but resisting the urge to turn and leave. Hands shoved into the pockets of his jeans he watched the top of Nicky's bowed head for a moment. "What's happened to us?" he asked finally.

"Us?" Nicky snorted - downing his drink in one swallow. "Since when's there been us, Rick? Huh? The cracks were appearing months ago - years even - and it's taken today - this past weekend for it all to come out - and you still haven't told me why you're here - I thought you'd be stuck with your new playmates - "

"Gibbs wants you downstairs - he knows everything - he's questioning Taylor as I speak." Rick kept his voice level - meeting Nicky's slightly drunken gaze with a quick grin. "But - you stay here if you want - I'm sure he'll be only to happy to meet you up here later - "

"He can do what the hell he likes," Nicky waved his glass dismissively - grabbing the bottle and then pouring himself another shot.

"And you think that's helping?" Rick reached for the bottle only for Nicky to move it out of the way.

"It's helping - Rick - so why don't you just take your self centred, sanctimonious little ass back downstairs and leave me alone," Nicky growled - hiccoughing softly. "I've got enough to think about - and I don't need you preaching to me - just fuck off!"

"And you think I don't have enough on my plate?" Rick nearly shouted. "I've been double crossed - you've been - " he paused and narrowed his eyes. He didn't want to believe it - his head told him to stay quiet and not even think to ask - but his heart was screaming at him - he had to know. "Nick," he said as he finally took a seat opposite his brother.

"What?" Nick blinked at him.

"You and Alex - "

"Yeah?"

"When did you find out what he had planned?"

"When he told me - " Nicky sat back - pulling the bottle with him. "He just told me - and he also told me that the plan didn't include you - it was just us three, bro - you came nowhere!"

Rick made to say something but instead he linked his fingers together on the dark wood and dipped his head briefly. He could hear Nicky pouring another drink and without warning - he leaned forward so fast he caught his brother off guard and snatched the bottle from him - upturned it at arms length and allowed the contents to pour onto the still warm concrete.

"Oh - big man!" Nicky applauded. "No worries - " he bent sideways and collected up another bottle. "You forget, Rick - I've got the keys to the wine cellar - and if I want to drink myself into oblivion - I will - and you are not going to stop me - because if you try - I will have to hit you!"

"In your state - you'll miss," Rick observed as Nicky tried focussing on the man opposite him - finally having to close one eye because he could see two Ricks - and he could not quite work out which was real and which one wasn't.

"I'm fine - I just want to be alone right now."

"I appreciate that," Rick nodded. "But you do realise - I need you to understand - when Alex left you alone in the car - "

"What was the last thing I thought?" Nicky replied testily. "I knew that - the minute the bastard darted me - why'd you think I flashed you what I did? Huh?"

"I remember," Rick said softly. "It was actually painful - I had Gibbs stop the car."

"Then you know what I went through," Nicky spat back bitterly.

Rick sat back with a sigh. "Look - I need to know one thing here - and I want you to be honest - " he chuckled at his own irony. "Were you in this from the beginning - or did Alex just crook a finger and you went to him of your own accord?"

"What the fuck's that matter?" Nicky drawled.

"Because - I don't know - " Rick spread his hands - looking for the right words. "Because - maybe you won't get as tough a sentence - "

"I screwed you - we screwed you and you're hoping I get a lesser punishment?" Nicky gazed at him in confusion. "What is going on in your head, Rick? Huh? I'm as guilty as those other two - "

"Then why do it? What the fuck did I do to you two that was so freaking bad? I'm guessing Taylor's going with Mia's death - but you two?"

"Us two?" Nicky taunted with a grin. "Me and Alex? We got tired bro - that's all."

"Tired? What does that mean?"

"Look at us," Nicky held up the bottle and waved it around indicating their surroundings. "A two bit club in a two bit town - a nice house - granted - but there's more out there, Ricky boy - a whole world out there - I can't live like this anymore - I want to get out there - get myself a life - not sit in this fucking rat hole for the rest of my freaking days - I live and breathe this fucking place - and it's stifling me - and then one day - " Nicky shifted about a bit until he was more comfortable, hand nestled lightly around his bottle of Jim Beam. "See - Alex and I had a chat some time ago - maybe - a year ago or so - I'm not good on dates - "

Rick simply watched him - inside he was in bits - he'd never even imagined Nicky had been thinking like this - nor Alex for that matter - if they'd been feeling like this for so long - why hadn't they just talked to him - instead of bottling it all inside.

"I'll let you in on a little secret, shall I?" Nicky leaned forward - indicating with a finger for Rick to do the same. "Remember a bank heist - in Maine - securities stolen along with some Krugerands - but no cash? The police never did find the perps - case went dead?"

"Vaguely," Rick sounded puzzled and then as Nicky sat back again - realisation hit him and he searched his brothers face quickly. "Tell me it wasn't you three? Please tell me Nick - you can't actually believe you'll get away with it?"

"Already did - yep, me - and Alex - and Taylor."

"Fuck, Nick - what the hell have you done?"

"Don't worry about it - no one got hurt - the stash is safe enough."

"I don't give a flying fuck about the stash!! I don't give shit about Taylor - but you and Alex?" Rick was on his feet now - pacing up and down - staring at the ground. "What the fuck possessed you? Don't tell me - Taylor - so - you suddenly all become cosy and friendly - remembering of course - you both hated him since we were kids - me too - "

"Don't start with the bastard goody two shoes speech, Rick - I'm tired of hearing it - like I'm tired of DC - tired of Heaven's Gate - " He leaned forward - gazing up into his twin's eyes. "I have a chance to do what I want - when I want and how I want - I'll want for nothing ever again - 'Mand will have the chance to live the life she's always wanted - she deserves it after all the crap she's endured before she found me."

"'Mand? Please tell me she's completely unaware of what you've done?" Rick looked at him - his eyes filling with tears. "And Inara - tell me the girls aren't involved."

"No - they are blissfully unaware - although - the look on Amanda's face when I placed that rock on her finger - now that made me proud."

"No," Rick breathed - suddenly needing to sit down. "When did you get engaged?"

"A week ago - " Nicky sighed with a silly grin on his face.

"And when you go to prison - think Amanda'll still want you?"

"Course she will - " Nicky sounded confident and winked.

"Nick - I don't know what planet you're on - but it's not this one - she'll be crushed - you can't do this to her - she's had enough crap going on in her past - this'll kill her!"

"What are you - some kinda fucking drama queen?" Nicky bristled. "Leave Amanda to me - she'll be fine."

Rick said nothing - there was nothing to say. He leaned his elbows on the table top and dropped his head into his hands - wishing he had never even started this conversation - Taylor was one thing - but to be betrayed like this - by his own blood - his brothers - this was something that would stick with him for eternity. Slowly - he lifted his head - refusing to look at Nicky who had capped the bottle and pushed it to one side.

"But you're closed to me, now - both of you," Rick said sadly. "How did I not see any of this coming? How? I mean - we share everything, Nicky. We share the house, this club - everything - how is it I had no idea what you three were up to?"

"Because - you're so - so - involved with yourself Rick - you are the most important thing in your world - in this world," Nicky spread his arms wide. "As long as you are the centre of attention - everyone and everything focussed on you - to hell with anything and anyone - the only time you see people - you see me and Alex - Rick - is when you look down to see what it is you're stepping on!"

"No, Nicky." Rick was genuinely stung by the ferocity of those words. "That's not true - admittedly - I've - I've been involved with other stuff - other projects - but you make it sound as though I've - abandoned the two of you - "

"Abandoned?" Nicky echoed. "I'm not some fucking dog you dump on the side of the road - but yeah - that's kind of how it feels."

"Hey!" Rick snapped back. "You are not landing any of this mess on me - you're feeling sorry for yourself right now - because you've suddenly realised that you've just fucked up - and fucked up big time - you are a party to kidnapping, extortion, and blackmail - coercion." Rick paused briefly. "You're sitting up here all alone with a bottle in your hand - because you are going to do time, Nick. You, Alex and Taylor - and more than anything right now - you are wishing you could turn back time - wake up in the morning to find all this is just a dream - well - just so you know - this is reality - this is real time - and downstairs we have two federal agents who will stop at nothing to get the truth - " He slapped at Nicky's hand as he reached for his glass - removing it from reach - which left Nicky no other option than reopen and swig from the bottle. "Enjoy the view, bro - and the liquor - it'll be a few years before you see either of them again." Rick got to his feet slowly - giving him ample chance to deny or confirm what he'd just said but Nicky simply sat looking out over the rooftops.

"Rick - 'Mand called - wants to know what's going on - what do I tell her?" Rick turned from the threshold at the top of the steps and closed his eyes, hands on hips. Retracing his steps, he sat down - straddling the bench.

"The truth, Nick - tell her the truth -" he said finally. "It'd be better coming from you than a stranger."

"Not what I wanted to hear," Nicky admitted as he rested his chin on an upraised hand.

"Lie to her then - you've suddenly become very adept at that, bro - " Rick snatched the bottle from him and took a long swallow - grimacing as it burned a trail to his stomach before slamming it back down. "Why not finish the bottle - hope you fucking choke!"

*******

Tony unlocked the door of the room where Alex was being held and stood on the threshold - as Alex turned his head to look him up and down disdainfully. Taking a large bite out of the ham sandwich in his hand, Tony shoved the door closed and paced to the chair on the other side of the table and sat down - leaning back and taking another bite before swallowing the first.

"Oops," he said behind a spray of crumbs. "'Ab Mabbers - mauful - sowwy." He took his time swallowing slowly before clearing his throat. "You can put this on our tab - I would have waited before eating later - but I'm hungry now. So - " he flashed a manic grin. "How you doing?"

"Where's Gibbs?" Alex spat.

"Gibbs? Oh - he's in the head - he shouldn't be too long." There was a lengthy silence as Tony finished his sandwich. "I sympathise, Alex."

"Whoopdee fucking doo," the other man breathed. "Is there a reason I'm still cuffed?"

"Yeah - you're under arrest," Tony nodded.

"And why hasn't anyone read me my rights?"

"Haven't they? Man - remind me to do that later - " Tony folded his arms. "Anyway - as I say - I've been where you are - and I think I know what you're going through."

"What the fuck are you talking about?"

"See - I was framed once - a forensic dweeb - called Chip - "

"Do I want to hear this?" Alex drawled - rolling his eyes.

"I think you do - it'll give you an insight into how not to commit a crime." Tony grinned again. "He was good - very good - severed legs, my teeth marks on the thigh, a ripped glove - "

"Severed what?"

"Legs," Tony looked up to see Gibbs entering the room. "Hey Boss."

"Tony."

"I was just telling Alex about Chip and the legs," he moved his chair to the left as Gibbs lifted a chair from the corner of the room and settled it beside him.

"I'm sure we'll have plenty of time later to tell him the whole story, DiNozzo - but - right now - I'd like some answers - " Gibbs said as he sat back - his eyes never leaving Alex's.

"You going to stare me to death or what?" Alex snorted.

"Whatever it takes," Gibbs said with slight nod. "Tony - give Melinda a call - just to check she's on her way."

"Sure thing," Tony said as he took the proffered cell and stood up - moving towards the door but remaining inside the room. He scrolled down the numbers and hit the button.

"We can do this my way - or the painful way," Gibbs offered.

"Both equal I'm guessing?" Alex replied softly, worrying his cuffs at his back.

"Give me the name of Taylor's lawyer - I have a word with the DA and we cut a deal." Gibbs tilted his head. "I don't want to cause any more trouble than has already been done Alex - I don't want to even pretend I understand why you did what you did - all I need is a name."

"How do you expect me to tell you what I don't freaking know!" Alex shouted as he tugged his wrists apart. "What makes you think I know?"

"All you need to know is - that I know you know - and - if you like - we can sit here all night - you will tell me." He took back the phone from Tony.

"On her way?"

"On her way, Boss." Tony affirmed and settled back to play Tetris on his cell phone. "Word of advice, Alex. Don't piss him off - Taylor did that - and it wasn't pretty."

"He looked fine when I saw him," Alex said - sounding worried.

"Ah - but then you left - and I left - and well - it was after that." Tony shrugged. "The swelling should go down in a few days - but he'll be walking funny for a while."

"Aw, DiNozzo," Gibbs head slapped him quickly. "Don't give away my techniques - I wanted it to be surprise."

"Won't happen again, Boss - sorry."

"And don't apologise - " Gibbs raised his hand again.

"Sign of weakness," Tony finished with grimace - expecting another slap. "You going to hit me or what?"

"Not just now - " Gibbs chuckled. "So - Alex - name that lawyer - " Silence. "Don't you realise what you are doing by not telling me?"

"I'm sure you'll fill me in," Alex said with a yawn, flipping hair off his face with a twist of his head - his eyes hooded as he glared at the man opposite.

"By not telling me - it's not going to look good in front of the judge - it'll just show you up for what you really are - a lying, greedy bastard who was offered the chance to make a difference but chose not to."

"Either way - I'm up shit creek without the proverbial paddle." Alex shrugged again.

Suddenly - there was a knock on the door and Gibbs frowned - Tony looked worried.

"Yeah?" Gibbs called - surprised to see Rick's head appear around the door.

"Need a word - " Rick said quickly. "Like now?"

"Stay with him, Tony - and try not to bore him to death talking about movies?"

Gibbs rose from his chair and paced to the door - pulling it closed behind him.

"So - " Tony said with a satisfied sigh. "You do realise - he really will keep you in here until you tell him what he wants to hear don't you? No trips to the head - nothing to drink - nothing to eat - he'll grind you down, Alex - until you're pleading with him - and to this day - he's never given in once."

"Always a first time," Alex sneered letting his head drop back as his mind calculated exactly what the risks would be if he did name the lawyer. As he saw it - he was looking at fifty million - his share of the club and townhouses - three point three million - which when subtracted from fifty left forty six something - three million was a lot - but with the interest he'd be earning on the forty six - would - in actuality - more than make up for the lost three - but then - that wasn't really the point was it? The point had been to leave Ricky with nothing - which had been the plan all along - and then - he had to take a risk that neither Gibbs or Tony knew about the robbery - and when he thought about that - there was nothing Navy - no Navy involved - which meant if anyone was interested it would be FBI - but the case had gone cold - no new leads - and - more importantly - nothing to tie either himself, Nicky or Taylor to it - unless they knew about the accounts in Switzerland and the Caribbean - and - as he thought about that side of the coin - false names - meant no way could any of them be connected - so - he judged - things were safe in that department.

Or there was another way - a messy way - but a way indeed - and he shuddered slightly at the thought of having Rick taken out of the picture - permanently. To this day - he was still angry that Taylor hadn't done the job when he'd had the chance - he'd been foiled - foiled by Gibbs sticking his fucking nose in - which was why Alex had stuck to Gibbs like glue throughout that whole scenario. He wondered briefly why he himself hadn't taken out Gibbs when they'd returned to the farmhouse to collect Tony and Rick - he'd had his chance then - wide open and waiting - Gibbs at his most vulnerable - and even as he thought it - he knew the answer - Gibbs would have realised immediately what was going on - and Alex would have been lying there with a bullet through his own head just like the other two goons - Gibbs was no idiot - and Alex knew he would have been insane to even try anything.

So - here he was - cuffed to a chair with Tony sitting opposite him - intent on his game on his cell - whistling tunelessly between his teeth and then groaning as he lost another game.

"Can you please stop making that infernal noise?" Alex breathed.

"Huh?" Tony looked up and grinned goofily. "This?" he started whistling again.

"You're driving me nuts."

"That's kinda the idea," Tony's eyebrow arched.

And then the door opened - Gibbs fixed his gaze on Alex as he retook his seat.

"What's going on, Boss?" Tony asked as he flipped off his phone.

"Not a lot - Nicky's being brought down from the roof by Matt and Pete - he's been making friends with Jim Beam for the last couple of hours - the club's opening again in a little under two hours - and Melinda's just arrived - with a film crew."

"So - busy then?" Tony grinned again.

"I'd say so - " Gibbs folded his arms. "Lawyer - name - now."

"Bill Paisley - 1123 South Street - " Alex drawled lazily. "Now will you uncuff me?"

"Nope - " Gibbs shook his head. "You're staying put. DiNozzo - with me," he said gruffly as he pulled open the door.

"On your six - Boss!"

TBC…

The line about Melinda having just arrived was a lie - a blatant lie - set to send Alex - and Taylor worrying just what in hell was going to happen next. As Gibbs locked the door leaving Alex inside - he stowed the key in a pocket as Tony quickly checked on Taylor and did the same - stowing away the key.

"Now what?" Tony said as Gibbs sauntered across. "She's stuck in traffic - going to be probably another hour Jethro - and you are going to tell Rick what you've got planned aren't you?"

"Already gave him an outline, Tony." Gibbs clapped a hand on his shoulder - "and he's happy to be involved - advertising for free on ZNN - "

Tony paused as Gibbs guided him towards the elevator with a hand to his lower back. "This is going to work out, isn't it? Rick won't lose everything?" Tony's eyes looked nearly sad - a frown marring his handsome face.

"We'll do everything we can - can't do any more than that." Gibbs smiled gently at him. "Look - why don't you head upstairs - this place will be buzzing in a couple of hours - you're still looking pasty - get some rest."

"It's been one hell of ride this weekend," Tony yawned behind a hand. "Guess a half hour shuteye might be a good thing,"

"Then do it," Gibbs said pushing him gently towards the elevator. "Go on - go."

"Just you make sure you wake me!" he called over his shoulder - only too well aware Gibbs was watching his butt as he inserted the card into the slot.

"You behave yourself," Gibbs murmured. "And I'll do more than just wake you up." Dragging his eyes from his young lover's back and ass - he cringed inwardly at the sound of something throwing up in the office. "Jim Beam not such a good friend, Nicky?" and paced quickly to the kitchen, disappearing inside.

Abs looked up and beamed at him - he returned the smile with a wink. "Is Taylor still in one piece?" she demanded before slurping on another Caf Pow. "And the traitor, Alex? Did you slap them around Gibbs? Huh? Because if you didn't - can I watch when you do? Huh? Can I?"

"No one is slapping anyone around, Abs - at least not today." He looked around the kitchen quickly and spied Ducky returning from the head. "I need you to check something out for me."

"Name it Silver Fox - ask and it shall be yours!" Abby replied with a low bow.

"I need you to check on someone - a lawyer - Bill Paisley - "

"Bill Paisley?" Ducky echoed as he joined them. "Charming man - very knowledgeable in his field."

"And you know him how?" Gibbs asked with a brow raised.

"Oh - he's just an acquaintance, Jethro - we tend to bump into each other at Court every now and again," Ducky said as he sat down on a tall stool. "Enough to exchange some stories and the like - and his mother was nearly 101 when she died you know - a veritable beast of a woman apparently - reminds me of the time when my dear mother decided to - "

"Moving on," Gibbs interrupted quickly. "Abs - "

"Why do you need to find out about Bill?" Ducky asked carefully - looking up at Gibbs over the top of his spectacles.

"Because - allegedly - he's Taylor's lawyer."

"Mm," Ducky breathed. "What's the old saying - there's nowt as queer as folk - I am surprised to hear that, Jethro - very surprised - "

"Why?"

"I know Bill has a good track record - he's been the subject of awards and the like within his fraternity - and yet - he's employed to defend a mere scamp of a lad like Taylor?" He shook his head - eyes wide. "I suppose the money must be quite good for him to agree to work for such a disagreeable young man."

"Ya think?" Gibbs almost sneered - looking at Ducky in disbelief.

"Oh - no doubt about it, Jethro - no doubt at all."

"What do you want me to do?" Abs asked - her neck was starting to ache from having to look from one man to the other and back again.

"Find him - I know it's late on a Saturday - but I need to speak to him - "

"Impossible," Ducky shook his head. "You won't find him this weekend - at least not until late on Tuesday - he's in Maine - golfing. Uncontactable."

"He'll have a cell on him - I could text him," Abby suggested.

"He won't get them - hates cells at the best of times," Ducky answered with a shake of his head. "He carries one when he's working but at home or away - he won't."

"Damn!" Gibbs thudded a fist onto the steel worktop. "Fine - there's nothing we can do till Tuesday - " he looked at Abby and then Ducky - "and if Taylor or Alex ask - we - "

"Never had this conversation," Abby and the ME finished in unison.

"I trained you well," Gibbs acknowledged with a small smile.

He then proceeded to fill them in on what might possibly happen when Melinda arrived and Abby was delirious with excitement - demanding that she be able to watch from the sidelines - or even - add a few strokes of her own - only to be disappointed when Gibbs informed them that the punishment would go on behind closed doors - just Melinda and the film crew - no one else - except maybe Rick dishing out the beating - he hadn't quite decided on that yet.

Ducky had managed to listen as far as Gibbs explaining about tying Taylor down and decided he'd heard enough - moving away from the group to the kettle nearby to prepare a well earned mug of tea.

"One thing I will warn you both about," Gibbs said - raising his voice slightly so Ducky could hear above the whistling kettle. "When Melinda is here - she's already agreed to be discreet - but I'd prefer it if NCIS workers stayed out of sight - Jen is going to go nuts about this whole pile of crap anyway - and I don't need you guys adding to it."

"I hear and obey," Abby bowed again.

"I am discretion itself, Jethro." Ducky waved a hand as he poured water into a china teapot. "She will see and hear nothing from me."

"And let's keep it that way," Gibbs turned and left the two of them alone.

******

Gibbs spent another ten minutes downstairs with Rick - they'd met up in the office but when Nicky rolled onto his side on the sofa - pulling a bucket towards him and heaving himself dry - they decided it might be better to leave him to it - posting Matt to watch him as Nicky turned onto his back - both hands over his face - groaning to himself - muttering something about wanting to die.

"So you understand what you've got to do?" Gibbs asked as they crossed the hall to the main door - Rick opening it to admit some of the bar staff - stepping back to let them pass.

"Sure - and you really are serious about this, Jethro - ?"

"Yeah - just keep those two on their toes - they're expecting something - they think they know what's coming - letting them stew - and the prize will be all the sweeter." Gibbs took Rick to one side - glancing over his shoulder briefly as more staff arrived. "I need a guest list - and I need you to get on the phone to anyone - special - and tell them tonight's off - but you'll more than make up for it later in the week."

"I can't just call them up and tell them the place is - "

"I'm not talking every single one, Rick - anyone - Pentagon - White House - FBI - anyone high up who's planning on coming - they can't - I can't risk them or it!"
Gibbs hissed.

"And I lose business - " Rick began but immediately cursed himself and apologised quickly to his friend. "I'm sorry - that was selfish of me - Jethro - it just - slipped out."

"Yeah," Gibbs squeezed his shoulder. "You've been through some crap lately - don't let this get to you - we will get you out of it - it'll be okay - I promise."

"I haven't even thanked you Jethro - " Rick said with remorse. "You and Tony - Ducky and Abs - you're all putting your necks on the line to help - and I just want you to know - I appreciate it - and if there is anything I ever do for you in the future - just ask."

"Helping a friend is all - Rick - comes with the territory," Gibbs replied with a grin. "You'd do the same for any of us - "

"Yeah - you're right - I probably would."

"Just keep to the plan - and start calling people. I'm heading upstairs - you need me - you holler!"

******

"Hey, Mr DiNozzo - " a pretty young girl was pulling the door to their rooms closed and met him with a soft smile. "All done - and you'll find your clothes laundered and pressed on the bed - "

"Thanks - " he paused, leaning forward slightly to read her name badge. "Cassie - and let's not go with the Mr huh? It's Tony."

"Tony it is," she nodded as she fingered a lock of dark hair over her left ear. "If there's anything else I can get you - just call down to the front desk."

Tony reached into a back pocket and pulled out a fold of notes - peeling off a twenty and handing it across. "I'll be sure to Cassie, thanks."

"Have a nice evening - Tony." She flashed him another smile and turned on her heel - making her way to the other end of the corridor as Tony watched her ass for a few seconds. "Focus, DiNozzo - you're not here for the women this weekend - focus!" He Gibbs slapped himself as he unlocked the door and let swing open.

And any thoughts he had of letting Gibbs find him lying full stretch and naked on the bed - and Gibbs taking full advantage - vanished. He tugged off his t-shirt and unbuttoned his pants once the door was closed - stepping from them and leaving them where they fell as he approached the vast four poster.

Cassie was right - clothes were lying in neat piles down one side and he collected them up carefully to place them on the top of the dark wood dresser between the bathroom and toy room doors. Stifling another yawn - he scuffed both hands over his face and grinned manically as he walked around to the end of the bed - and fell forward. He bounced once and flipped onto his back as he scooted up towards the headboard - pulling pillows together into a pile and sighing contentedly as his head sank against the musk scented cotton. "Anyone could walk in here - " he whispered as he snuggled into a more comfortable position. And I'm lying here letting it all hang out - like I - don't - " his voice quieter now - and then another yawn. He was snoring.

****

Gibbs leaned his head against the door of their suite and chuckled. "Snoring like a hog on heat," he said to himself. "Soon put a stop to that - DiNozzo - "

He let the door close quietly behind him - his eyes instantly drawn to the body spread out across the mattress. Tony lay with one arm across his stomach - the other above his head - his legs were wide apart - his semi turgid cock and balls in full view and as Gibbs drew closer - making his way to the less occupied side - he could see Tony was smiling softly - his lips parted in a way that had Gibbs's own heated tumescence thrumming.

"Not now, Jethro," he said to himself as he divested himself of his own clothing. "Tony needs rest - if you need to - you bring yourself off in the bathroom." He climbed onto the bed - careful not to wake his young lover - but he found it so hard not to burst out laughing when - without even waking - as soon as Tony felt the dip in the mattress - he immediately moved onto his side and spooned up tight against Gibbs - murmuring softly as he did so and as Gibbs's hand draped across his hip - fingers automatically linked - Gibbs planted a light kiss on the back of Tony's exposed neck and settled down to doze.

Tony was still fast asleep in Gibbs's arms - lying on his back again with the back of his neck resting on Gibb's outstretched arm - the other arm resting lightly over his abs fingers brushing his flank - his beautiful face turned away as he mumbled every now again before groaning softly as he shifted about until he was comfortable once more to settle with a quiet sigh.

"Gonna have a hell of time waking him now - " Gibbs murmured. "He's too deep which means he'll be grouchy - and a grouchy DiNozzo I can do without." He could not help but smile as Tony rolled his head around - still not stirring - his lips pouting, tawny lashes brushing his cheeks as he continued to doze. "But then - I'm a devious bastard - and there are ways of rousing DiNozzo I haven't thought - until now."

As if on cue - Tony suddenly rolled onto his side - unconsciously pulling himself from Gibbs's embrace - making Gibbs wince as the feeling suddenly returned to his numb arm. He waited a few seconds until the pins and needles subsided and then gently eased Tony back to lie prone with gentle shushing sounds - keeping his touch on Tony's waist as light as possible but enough to make him move. It was then he noticed it - Tony was actually sucking his right thumb with his index and middle fingers curled up and around his nose. "Will you look at that," he whispered. "Cute as hell - cute as hell!" He'd never witnessed it before - thinking it might be a throwback to the young agent's childhood - maybe it was something he'd always done and Gibbs had either been too tired or too involved to spot before but what the heck - he needed to remove said thumb from between those full lips in case Tony bit himself when Gibbs surprised him as his own personal alarm clock.

"Babe," he breathed. "Babe - " That was all it took - along with Gibbs's hand stroking the side of his face - the thumb slipped out as Tony's hand fell to the pillow - the fingers lightly curled against the crisp white cotton.

"I don't think," Gibbs wondered to himself. "I have ever seen anyone able to fall asleep just about anywhere like Tony - at his desk - in the car - in MTAC - but hey - it's not every day I get to wake him up like this - is it?"

He moved down the bed and settled himself comfortably between Tony's legs - the object of his ministrations already starting to harden - Tony's cock twitched and jumped and Gibbs's hadn't even started!! He looked up the bed to Tony - just to confirm he was indeed not playacting and then turned his attention back to the heated flesh planting a chaste close lipped kiss just on the tip - and in a nano second Tony was rock hard!

Canting his hips upwards slightly - Tony moaned softly - a half smile ghosting across his lips as he gently rolled his head from side to side. Gibbs's tongue snaked out and lapped at the precum - allowing it only to whisper across the slit and swipe around the edge before taking the head into his mouth and sucking softly, then releasing the tumescence - turning his attention instead to Tony's balls. Cupping them in his hand - he kissed first one and then the other - and pulled them into his mouth - his tongue and teeth had Tony arching slightly - as his hands began creeping outward to grab crumpled sheets.

Gibbs sat up briefly - Tony whimpering quietly before him - and he narrowed his eyes curiously. "What's it going to take to get you to pay attention?" he asked of the still sleeping figure. He then chuckled quietly and dipped his head again - hands either side of Tony's hips. "Wakey wakey!"

Gibbs deep throated him - grazing the engorged member with his teeth as his tongue flickered against the thick vein running the length of the underside - his head bobbed up and down as he swallowed and released the flesh filling his mouth and sensed the very second Tony was suddenly wide awake.

"By the Gods Jethro - you're killing me here - " Tony brought himself up onto his elbows - eyes wide but still sleepy - but Gibbs continued his onslaught and Tony dropped back against the pillows - growling like a panther as he lifted his hips towards Gibbs - wanting more - needing more. "Oh - Jee-ZUZ, Gibbs - don't stop - just don't - oh fuck that feels - God - oh God - oh God - Oh yeah - oh yeah."

Orgasm came quickly for both of them - Gibbs into his own fist and Tony down his willing throat - not Gibbs' favourite way - fast and furious. He preferred a slow build up - reacquainting himself with every single nook and cranny of Tony's body - which - of course - had to be explored minutely with fingers, lips and tongue - several times over leaving Tony a mess of writhing need and want.

As for Tony - he only wished Gibbs would wake him up more like this - early morning hard on's would be a thing of the past when - the minute you opened your eyes - your cock was in his mouth - pumping its pearly load and knowing each and every drop would be savoured - none wasted.

****

"It's hard," Tony murmured as he took up his favourite position on the bed - sitting with his back resting against Gibbs's chest - letting his head fall back onto a shoulder as his own fingers trailed lazily over Gibbs' left knee and upper thigh.

"As much as I'd love to, Tony - we don't have time for more sex right now." Gibbs kissed his neck tenderly before nipping his earlobe - wrenching that so cute "rrowwrr" from the young agent.

"No - I didn't mean that," he began. "I mean - family. What's it all about - I mean - some people have great families - all Brady Bunch and stuff like that," he lifted a hand to Gibbs's own draped over his right knee - linking fingers with him. "Then - there's those who end up blown to smithereens - Mom and Dad fighting over custody of the goldfish - kids not knowing what in hell is going on - then you get the family I had."

"Stop this Tony." Gibbs said, squeezing his hand a little too hard."

"No," Tony shook his head. "I'm not going all dewy eyed - it's just I don't understand what it is that does it. Is it just a case of two people meet - and someone somewhere has a big book kinda thing and decides - yep - you two will do - spend your pension on a wedding - and 5 years and 3.6 kids later - you'll catch him screwing the neighbour - and yes - the judge will be very much in your favour because you've got a great stack of hoolies - here's half of everything he owns?"

"What in hell are you getting at?" Gibbs took a swig from a nearby bottle of water.

"I'm not explaining it too well I guess," Tony fell forward onto his hands and turned around to sit facing Gibbs. "Okay - put it this way then - you had three wives - now something must have been there in the beginning - and you went with it - but it wasn't to be with any of them was it?"

"Only happy to hear from me on alimony day," Gibbs snickered.

"So - for every wife you had - three men got married to their wives and they're still together - why is that?"

"Because they're not bastards?"

"Jethro - " Tony frowned. "Rick - Nicky and Alex - three brothers - three members of the same family - why has it now become two against one? I mean - three if you count Taylor. Is it that the brain or something is wired to go pop?" Tony paused, still frowning. "Why are some people so devious and calculating - knowing that what they're about to do - as with Nicky and co - they've hurt Rick - he's hurting like hell right now - he's confused, bewildered - "

"You were a Baltimore cop Tony - and you're asking me why?"

"It's something I've seen enough of, Jethro - but I'll never understand what drives people to do nasty things - to their own kin - their own flesh and blood - their life partners whatever - "

"Tony," Gibbs stretched his arms above his head. "If you and I knew the answer to those questions - we'd be in our own smart office and earning triple our salaries as psychologists - trust me - it's happened and it'll keep happening - nothing we can do about it."

"But we've got a chance now don't we?" Tony sounded eager. "Right now - we're watching a family falling apart - and yes - I know it's for all the wrong reasons - and it will all end in tears - but maybe we can kinda - "

"Don't, DiNozzo - "

"Don't what?" Tony asked wide eyed and questioning. "I'm just saying - we can try and fix this - at least get the three of them talking."

"Three? No Taylor?"

"I don't trust what Rick might do to him - besides - I don't like him very much." Tony followed Gibbs into the bathroom and sat on the edge of the bath as Gibbs rinsed his face. "Wish I'd had a brother - or a sister - it would have been good to have someone to share things with - I'd be the oldest of course." He lifted his head and smiled at his lover.

"Oh - of course you would, Tony." Gibbs said as he draped the towel he'd used to scuff his face dry over the edge of the bath beside Tony. "Stands to reason - which would explain the way you treat McGee sometimes."

"Hey - he's learning isn't he? He looks up to me." Tony looked puzzled as Gibbs sauntered back into the bedroom.

"In your reality, maybe." Gibbs shot back.

"He does so!"

"Okay."

"Only okay?" Tony stood in the doorway.

"He's a Special Agent now, Tony - not a Probie - and maybe it's about time you started treating him like a Special Agent." Gibbs snatched up a pair of clean pants from the dresser and pulled them on quickly.

"I am the Senior Field Agent - and he's my junior - it's my right!"

"And I'm your Boss!" Gibbs glared at him - "Soon to be Junior Field Agent."

"Hey!"

"Yeah - hey!" Gibbs threw a shirt and pants at him. "And we've been up here longer than I wanted to be - "

"Shit - now you're mad at me," Tony groused as he tugged the shirt on.

"Now why would I be mad at you - " Gibbs steppe closer - arms spread wide

"'cause you always pull that Junior Field Agent thing on me when you're pissed." Tony sulked as he fastened his pants.

"So - it I do this," he leaned in and kissed Tony softly on the mouth. "What's that tell you?"

"Ah - " Tony lifted a finger as a smile spread across his face. "I'm reading too much into stuff again - and I really should listen when you're telling me you're not pissed."

"Not as pissed as Nicky is right now - he won't be fit to be questioned for a couple of hours," Gibbs said over his shoulder as he made for the door.

"Pissed as in really pissed or pissed as in drunk." Tony joined him out in the corridor - as he shrugged into his butter soft leather jacket.

"A bottle and a half of Jim Beam - "

"Ouch." Tony grimaced.

"Yeah - ouch - but he's implicated in this whole mess - just be sure to have a mop and bucket handy." Gibbs locked the door following Tony to the elevator.

Once inside, Gibbs pulled his own jacket straight and raked his eyes over Tony. "You'll do, I guess."

"For what?"

"Melinda - she should be here by now," he replied as the elevator doors closed. "And - stand well back - the shit is going to be hitting the fan - very hard indeed."

TBC

Rick met Gibbs and Tony at the elevator door - pushing himself from against the button panel with a nod of acknowledgement. "You're looking pensive," Gibbs observed as they followed the lean club owner towards the bar. "What's up?"

"Take a seat," Rick indicated two stools and rounded the end of the bar - collecting up two tall coffee mugs and setting them beside the coffee machine. "As for what's up? I'm still trying to figure out what in hell I missed - everything has been going on around me - right under my freaking nose and I knew nothing!"

"But I thought you guys - you know - " Tony leaned forward, looking sympathetic at Rick's plight. "Could - well - talk to each other but not talk - if that makes sense?"

"No - I understand you perfectly," Rick said above the hiss of steam heating the milk in a steel jug. "But - like I told Nicky - both of them have been closed off to me for a while - I didn't question it, I just thought they were - "

"Were what?" Gibbs prompted.

"I don't know - maybe just taking time out - I mean - yes, we're connected to that level but we're not Siamese twins," Rick set the jug down and wiped his hands on a chequered cloth. "Admittedly - there are occasions when it's good to just be yourself and not have one or other of your brothers buzzing around in your head - sometimes it's actually quite enjoyable to be alone - in that sense anyway."

"Buzzing?" Tony echoed.

"Yeah - " Rick nodded with a quick smile. "Back here - right here," he turned and pointed to the base of his skull. "It's like a tickle almost - but not on the skin - it's sort of inside the head,"

"And it doesn't bother you?" Tony looked squeamish.

"Nah - used to it - haven't known anything else so after a while you just accept it - except until this past weekend - I didn't notice the sensation had gone till then." Rick pushed two coffees across and then pulled the one from in front of Gibbs. "Sorry," he chuckled. "Talking too much - " he replaced the frothy coffee with a plain black one and Gibbs nodded his thanks. "So - what now?"

"I think," Gibbs wrapped both hands around his mug. "Rick - we just carry on like this for a while - just hang out till Melinda gets here - you need a diversion and this is it. How's Nicky?"

"Out of it - I'd put an exclusion zone of at least fifty yards around him - and no naked flames either - he's reeking of booze - " Rick took a mouthful of coffee. "He is so going to regret it in the morning."

"He doesn't have that long," Gibbs stated flatly shaking his head. "I want him sober - or as sober as is possible in an hour - I need to question him too."

"I really don't think that's a good idea," Tony held up a hand and glanced from one to the other. "What if he - you know - hurls."

"I promise it will not be you cleaning up the mess," Gibbs snickered, arching a brow at Rick. "Made him do just that at work - getting too cocky one day - weren't you, DiNozzo?"

"I was merely pointing out that - " Tony began - frowning as Gibbs cut across him.

"He was being a smartass," Gibbs winked.

"Was not!" Tony shot back indignantly.

"Guys," said Rick with a sigh. "Can we go up onto the roof? I always feel I can think better up there - any objections?"

"None from me," Tony agreed - glancing at Gibbs who nodded once.

"How'd you do contacting the guests?"

"Fine," Rick nodded, raising his eyes from his mug. "Not a problem - the promise of a free night on the house had them eating out of my hand."

"I didn't mean for you to bankrupt yourself - " Gibbs started and then immediately apologised. "Bad choice of words - "

"It's the truth," Rick shrugged as they made their way to the elevators. "My last bid at being a generous host."

"Not if we've got anything to do with it," Tony jerked a thumb at Gibbs and then himself quickly.

"There's a way out of this, Rick - count on it," Gibbs slapped his arm lightly.

"Matt!" Rick called across the hall - holding up his cell. "You guys go home - the night shift will be here in ten minutes - "

"But, Boss - you sure - we're extra muscle if you need it," Matt spread his arms wide. Just say the word - "

"The word is - go home Matt - get some rest - and you can all look forward to a bonus in your next pay checks. Anyone wants us, we're on the roof and if Melinda arrives -"

"If she arrives," Tony breathed - looking to Gibbs with a worried frown.

"Which reminds me - if either 'Mand or Inara try sneaking in - send them straight home," then, lowering his voice, he addressed the two agents. "I don't want Amanda getting all upset over Nicky - admitting to her what he's done is going to be hard enough - there's going to be fall out - and it could turn very nasty." He lifted his head again to Matt. "Send Melinda straight up - " as he waved a retreat and hit the elevator button. "What?" He asked as Gibbs seemed a little perplexed. "So - they've done good today - didn't have to stay did they? But they did."

"Maybe I'm in the wrong job," Gibbs sighed. "Can't remember when I last got a bonus."

*****

The three men were now standing high above the street - the vista of Washington laid out before them - the dome of the White House glinting in the light of the slowly setting sun.

"Sort of makes you feel humbled," Gibbs breathed as his eyes swept east and west. "All this - built with blood, sweat and tears - "

"Whoa, Boss - that's deep." Tony applauded with a grin - only to earn himself a slap on the back of the head. "What was that for?"

"Not appreciating what past generations did for us," Gibbs stated with a sideways look to Rick who watched the two men with a thoughtful countenance. "Penny for them?"

"Who? Me? I was just wondering - what sort of day you two have at work - "

"Oh, that's easy," Tony lifted his chin as he shoved both hands in his pockets. "I always arrive first - then Gibbs arrives and we can usually tell what kinda mood he's in by the way he approaches his desk - it can vary between a growl as he passes me - hand clasped around his paper cup of coffee which usually means he didn't get the work done on his boat that he wanted - or there's the face like a bulldog chewing a wasp - which means he's either had a call from Fornell or the Director telling him something he didn't want to hear or want to do - "

"Enough." Gibbs raised a hand.

"But I was just getting started."

"Is he always like this?" Rick was sniggering now.

"Until he stops - yeah - and he will in a second or three."

"But the Boss I like best is the one that comes in fully rested after a night in Autopsy when we're working a case over night - I'm asleep at my desk - he kicks the front of the desk and I wake up thinking I'm having a coronary to see Boss man here with a slice of my cold pizza - which cost me sixteen bucks by the way - halfway down his throat and then he's spraying me with crumbs demanding to know why the Navy Officer he told me to call at two am didn't answer his phone - and here's a tip - never tell the Boss they didn't answer because they were asleep in bed - "

"Are you done?" Gibbs growled - fixing Tony with a steely stare.

"If you say I'm done - I'm done." Tony flashed a quick smile and turned to enjoy the rooftops of Washington once more.

"I wouldn't mind spending a day with you and the team sometime, Jethro." Rick said as he made his way to a nearby table and bench.

"Good idea." Gibbs nodded. "Give you some insight into what I," he jerked a thumb at Tony. "What I have to put up with."

"Are you done dissing me?" Tony pouted as he sat down.

"You start behaving yourself - I might just do that."

"I envy you two - you have such an easy calm about you," Rick sighed almost sadly. "It's something I've seen in too few relationships - you've been together - how long?"

"Two years - ten months - six days and - " Tony glanced at his watch. " three hours and forty six minutes."

"He's making it up," Gibbs chuckled.

"Am not - "

"And your co-workers? They have no idea - except for Abby and Ducky?"

"Only those two, Rick - no one else," Gibbs replied.

"If Ziva and McGee knew?" Tony whistled between his teeth. "I really don't want them to find out."

"They're not interested in this kind of scene?" Rick pressed.

"Oh boy - I hope not!" Tony was wincing at the very thought of Ziva confronting him.

"Put it this way," Gibbs leaned forward. "They don't ask - and neither do we - whatever they want to do - "

"Badda bim badda boom," Tony leered.

"What he said."

"Bill Paisley." Rick said the name out of the blue. "What are you going to do about him?"

"The lawyer who's uncontactable?" Gibbs asked.

"Yeah - I mean - what lawyer - any standing makes himself unavailable? Taylor's got to have some means of contacting him when he needs him - like now - over a weekend." Rick placed both hands flat on the table top and leaned back - easing the kinks from his lower back and spine.

"That's where Melinda comes in," Gibbs grinned evilly.

"Meaning?" Tony nudged him with an elbow.

"Meaning," Gibbs nudged him back. "I was initially going to ask Melinda to film Taylor naming his lawyer - but Alex told me what I needed to know - Ducky - apparently knows him sort of - well-ish - but I figured just what you said, Rick - Taylor will have a means of getting hold of him twenty four seven - and I intend to find out exactly what means that is - so - let's just pretend we're all completely clueless for a while - and Taylor is strung up ready for a neat little spanking - we roll the tape - and then sit back and watch - and wait - we get a number and an address - "

"And if the papers aren't at Paisley's place?" Tony didn't sound convinced.

"Then - Taylor gets a little more than he bargained for, doesn't he?" Gibbs sat back triumphantly. "If I have to - I will arrest Paisley and haul his ass back to DC tonight - those papers will be destroyed Rick - and then - I will spend as long as it takes to get the truth from our three guests downstairs - "

"What d'you mean you," Tony sulked. "We're here to help too - or did you forget that?"

"Yeah," Gibbs clasped his shoulder. "I know - my faithful St Bernard - and you Rick - you want to sit in?"

"Do I ever," the Uber Dom nodded enthusiastically. "I've my own questions I want answers to as well."

"I figured that might be the case," Gibbs laughed raising his mug and saluting the other two silently.

"Success," Rick and Tony clinked mugs.

"Bring it on!"

TBC -

"Hello, Taylor." Gibbs allowed the door behind to swing shut as he smiled warmly at the dark man still cuffed to his chair.

"Fuck off!"

"Big man," Gibbs glanced at Tony. "He thinks he's real big - using language like that - but deep down - he's really insecure don't you think?"

"Oh yeah - very insecure, Boss - all piss and wind when it comes down to it - I've met enough a-holes like him - and they're all the same." Tony moved to lean against the wall beside the door as Gibbs walked around the table. "Must be pretty crowded at the shallow end of the gene pool."

"And I'm wondering why someone didn't throw him back in," Gibbs now stood to Taylor's left, a hand on his shoulder as the other hand braced against the table.

"Sympathy?" Tony suggested helpfully.

"Nah - don't see it myself," Gibbs said - his voice barely a whisper. "But we've been in here - what? About three minutes and all he's managed is two words - and one of them was very impolite."

"Ya think he's scared of us, Boss?"

"I don't know - are you? Taylor? Huh? You scared right now? Huh?" Gibbs whispered again - leaning in close - his breath hot against Taylor's neck and ear. "I know I would be - in your position."

"Just say whatever it is you have to say and I'll forget about this whole thing," Taylor lifted his chin and stared defiantly at the opposite wall - his heart thudding in his chest as he did so - there was something about Gibbs - something - almost predatory and he found it intimidating. "Whatever you want - it's yours - money?"

"Like I'd want anything that you soiled, Taylor. No," Gibbs shook his head as he straightened up - holding a hand out to Tony. "Keys, DiNozzo."

"You letting me go?" Taylor flashed a grin as Tony tossed across the keys - Gibbs catching them and bending to undo the right cuff at Taylor's back.

"Like hell," Gibbs growled. "Hands in front and stay sitting." Without even thinking - Taylor did as he was told only to find that as soon as the cuffs were snapped home - Gibbs hauled him to his feet grabbing the front of his shirt and pulled him down until his head and torso were on the table top. "Stay!" Gibbs barked - a hand at Taylor's neck - holding him firm. "So - Tony - what do you reckon? How's that look?"

"What the fuck is going on?" Taylor bellowed - struggling futilely.

Tony sauntered across and lifted the back of the long leather duster Taylor wore, throwing it up and over the wearer before stepping back and tilting his head - lips pursed in thought for a second or two.

"Doesn't TV add a couple of pounds?" he asked curiously.

"Does it matter?" Gibbs snorted.

"Guess not," Tony agreed. "Yep - that's an ass just begging for a whipping."

"Let me go!" Taylor yelled again. "What the fuck is this all about?"

Gibbs held Taylor firm - slapping the top of his head sharply. "Quit shouting and I'll tell you - in fact - I'll repeat myself again for a final time and you will listen," Gibbs pressed on the other man's neck just a little too hard - wrenching a strangled squeak from him. "Tony - go get the other one - and see what condition Nicky's in too."

"On it Boss!" And the younger agent was gone.

****

Minutes later - Tony was back - with Alex.

"And this is supposed to frighten the crap outta me?" Alex drawled as Tony shoved him further into the room. Taylor was still pinned under Gibbs's iron grip as Tony suddenly pulled Alex forward and down until both prisoners were cheek to cheek. Alex gave a token attempt at a struggle but when he felt the barrel of Tony's sig running the length of his spine to settle at his carotid he stilled instantly.

"Rick?" Gibbs shouted. "Bring her in!"

"Nicky's looking like crap, Boss. He can't even focus - let alone speak - you'll have to be patient."

"Patience isn't one of my favourite words, DiNozzo - when we're done here - I want you shoving his head into a bucket of ice until he sobers up." Taylor tried freeing himself again and earned a harder head slap - which sent the air blue with wild curses.

"Hey - lady present - so watch your mouth - hey Melinda," Tony smiled a welcome.

"Tony - Jethro - and - who have we here?" Melinda was a blonde with startlingly wide eyes and an easy smile - she walked into the room gracefully - her heels clicking against the wooden floor.

"Jeans, Melinda?" Gibbs queried - looking her up and down briefly.

"I was at the Mall shopping when I got your call - I had the guys meet me here," she said with a wink. "I take it we can set up in the Rumpus Room?"

"Sure thing - just need your take on the angle - " Gibbs jerked his head towards Taylor's butt.

"Of course - you think like a professional Jethro - are you sure I can't convince you to jack in the day job - reporting is fun." She moved around the table to stand behind Taylor - a brow raised. "And to think - I've been reporting on this slime ball for nearly three years - even interviewed him briefly but I didn't think I'd ever be looking at him from this angle."

"Then don't?" Gibbs offered with a smirk.

"I don't understand this - " she began. "I know why you have a beef against Taylor - most of Metro have been trying to land him for years - but Alex too?"

"Long story, Mel." Gibbs answered - hauling Taylor to his feet and shoving him back down onto his chair where he sat quietly smouldering - his mind in a whirl.

"Tony - I'm going to count to ten - " Alex grunted. "And if you haven't released my but the time I hit two - I will kill you."

"Aha - hear that, Boss - threatening a Federal Agent - " He bent down until he was close to Alex's ear. "Carry on - keep it up - "

"Let me fucking go!"

Tony's answer was to lift Alex halfway from the table, slamming him back and making him gasp as the breath left his body at record speed. "I told you - lady present. Sorry Melinda - he's sorry - tell the nice lady you're sorry - Alex." When no reply was forthcoming - Alex was - again - slammed against the table. "Obviously overwhelmed by his current predicament," Tony shrugged. "I'll have him apologise later."

"Not a problem," Melinda raised a hand. "I've heard worse than that - " She studied the tableau before her briefly and turned on her heel. "We'll get set up and let you know when we're ready if that's okay?"

"Sure - be with you in two." Gibbs refastened Taylor to the chair as Tony did the same with Alex.

"Uh - Boss?" Tony straightened up from where he'd been squatting behind Alex as he snapped the cuffs closed.

"DiNozzo?"

"What about - never leave suspects together in the same room?"

"Suspects?" Gibbs chuckled. "I don't see suspects - I see two guys guilty as hell - both heading for the State Pen - why? What do you see?"

"You're not going through with this!" Taylor hissed. "You're bluffing - "

"Try me," Gibbs head slapped him again. "I never bluff."

"Taylor - shut the fuck up - just shut the fuck up!" Alex spat. "Before I shut you up."

"And you'll achieve that how?" Taylor spat back.

"I'll wrap my fucking hands around your fucking throat - "

"And just how you gonna do that with your hands behind your back?"

"Don't start looking for problems - I'll fucking kill you! It's your fault we're in this up to our bastard necks - "

"Blaming me?" Taylor sounded shocked - his eyes wide. "Hey - I don't recall hearing you say no - all I saw were dollar signs racking up in your mind - we had it all - "

"Had - Taylor - that's just it - it's what we had - and we're never seeing any of it now are we? Huh? No - thanks to you and your greed - you couldn't just leave well alone could you - huh?" Alex was furious.

"And who was it thought of leaving Rick penniless?" Taylor hissed.

"You are so not going to land that one on me - I just suggested maybe - "

"He killed Mia - he killed the one person - "

"You didn't love her, Taylor - don't ever utter her name again - don't drag her into this - you treated her like crap - no wonder she ended up with Rick! He saved her from you!"

"You bastard - you fucking bastard!" Taylor was beside himself with anger - his blazing in hatred. "Rick stole her from me - "

"And then there's Amanda - isn't there? How come you never chased her once Nicky had got her away from you? I didn't see you howling and sobbing over her - and Inara for that matter - how long would it have been when you're bored with them - huh? Only for them to end up the same way Mia did - is that what you had planned?" Alex paused - frowning. "What in hell am I saying - it's the way anyone you get fed up of ends up isn't it? Dead - either holding up a highway - or in the Potamac with a cement overcoat."

Gibbs and Tony stood looking from one man to the other as the insults shot across the room.

"Better than live TV, Boss."

"Yep - they're digging their own graves - no help from us - and here was me looking for a challenge."

"Get real, Alex!" Taylor shouted. "I'm not the fucking mafia - I have standards - besides - cement is just too obvious. Pigs are best - eat the lot - no mess left - no clues."

Gibbs nudged Tony gently - as he tugged out two objects from his back pockets. "Don't know about you, Tony - but I'm getting a headache." He held up the ball gags - allowing Tony to take one as he made his way across to Taylor - holding his head steady as he forced the ball gag into his mouth - tying it brutally at the back of his skill. Alex tried to avoid the gag for a moment or two but with a harsh head slap from Tony - he allowed himself to be silenced.

"Now - " Gibbs said as he walked to the door - turning as he opened it. "A little peace and quiet while you to reflect on what you've done - and I'll be back for you in a while - and I want to see you two making friends - after all - behind bars - you'll have to watch each other's sixes - all sorts of strange people end up sharing a cell - and I can so see you two in such compromising positions - " he let a smile tug at the corner of his mouth - and shut the door.

"You really are a bastard," Tony grinned.

"Tell me something I don't know."

TBC

"Gibbs, Gibbs, Gibbs!" Abi shrieked as she hurtled down the stairs and barrelled into him.

"Abs, Abs, Abs?" He gave her a quick hug and began looking around curiously. "Okay - what you do with DiNozzo?"

"What didn't I do," she grinned evilly. "You both need time out - and Tony agreed - and he's - um - waiting for you upstairs."

"Abi - I've got work to do - I've got a psycho and a - whatever you wanna call Alex and I can't just - leave them - "

"They're not going anywhere - besides - Matty and Petey will look after them for now - " she winked and began pushing him towards the stairs - deaf to his protests. "Just go - go on - go - and enjoy yourself - and that's and order Sir!" She saluted him quickly.

"Don't call me Sir!"

"That's an order - Ma'am - now vamoose!"

"Fine!" Gibbs relented - "I'll vamoose - but the first sign of trouble - "

"Do you want me to spank you - with a paddle?" She began turning from side to side. Me thinks the man doth protest too much."

"You are just asking for trouble, Abs - "

"GO!"

And without a final word of protest - Gibbs was trotting upstairs - his mind alive with every conceivable visual - and he was smiling - broadly.

********

Gibbs stood in the doorway of the bedroom - transfixed at the sight
before him - a smile ghosting across his face as he took measured
steps over the threshold - shrugging off his jacket and letting it
slide to the floor. "Why Pet?"

"I thought - " Tony stuttered - willing the butterflies in his
stomach to cease their flight as he continued to stare at the
floor - some two inches in front of him.

"Thinking is good, My Own." Gibbs purred - stepping closer - the
smile broadening as he sensed Tony's discomfiture. "Go on."

"I - wanted to suprise you - "

"Oh - " Gibbs chuckled. "Believe me, Pet - you have."

Naked - kneeling upright - head bowed - the play of candlelight
around the room only served to accent the golden glow of Tony's
skin - the ripple of muscle - the tiniest movement not lost on his
Alpha Dom. An aching, drooling cock bobbed as the younger man
shifted position only slightly - to slap against his abs and
leaving a sticky trail - Tony let himself sink deeper into that space - the space where he could really let go - not have to think - not have
to do anything - except what Gibbs asked of him - and - right now - he
would do anything.

Gibbs remained silent - the smile in place as he moved closer -
circling the kneeling man and nodding appreciatively when he spied
the cuffs fastened at his wrists - holding his hands at the small
of his back. "Who was here, Pet?"

"Here?" Tony echoed - hands fisting at the small of his back.

"Someone has been in here - with you - who?" A hand reached out,
carding Tony's hair gently. "I smell gunpowder - " he
whispered. "Who's been here?"

"Abby," Tony answered truthfully - shuddering slightly under
Gibbs's touch. "Only Abby."

"Only - Abby - " Gibbs nodded sagely. "And why was she here?"

"She - I - " Tony swallowed thickly, blinking rapidly in an effort
to still his thudding heart. "I asked her for help."

"Again - My Own - why?"

"I - I had a mind to - suprise you, Sir. Did I do wrong?"

Gibbs could hear the trepidation, the fear and his smile
broadened. He removed his hand - relishing the soft sigh from his young lover at the loss. "What do you think?" he asked - teasingly.

"I - "

"Ssh, Pet - you did good - but I need you to be absolutely honest
with me - "

"Always - Sir."

Gibbs moved around the still form until he was standing in front of
him - hooking a finger under Tony's chin and lifting his head
gently - only to let out a small quick breath. "Gods!" he breathed. "You look - "

"You don't like it?"

"No!" Gibbs hissed - "No - it's just - "

"I told her it was - "

"Ssh," Gibbs shook his head. "I like it - " The eyes that gazed
back at him so adoringly were - indeed - incredible. "I knew they
were green - but now - the green of summer meadows, Pet. My Own -
the Goth." Eyeliner - smudged beneath the lower lids - the upper
lids smothered in black shadow - only served to accent the colour -
and Gibbs's own cock jumped - leaving him shivering in anticipation
of what the night might hold. Gibbs bent at the waist to place a
closed mouth but chaste kiss on Tony's lips. "Did she touch you?"

The question was unexpected - almost accusing - and Tony lowered
his gaze to the floor once more. "Only to - "

"Fasten the cuffs?"

"Yes - sir - she touched me only at my wrists and face - nowhere
else."

"You are sure?"

"Yes - I told her - and she understood - "

Gibbs snickered quietly. "Because she knows what I would do had
she violated you - " Tony's eyes snapped to his, blinking in
question. "Why do I choose that word? Why violated?"

Tony didn't answer - he merely stared.

"Because - My Beautiful Own - you belong to no one but me -
absolutely no one - I should tell you - she's wanted to play with
you for some time - asking me almost daily if she could even watch
us together - " He shrugged non committedly. "But - I will only
ever let that happen if you ask me - I will not do anything to you
or for you or with you without your full consent, Pet - if you
aren't happy - then it doesn't happen - I would never do that to
you - I couldn't do that to you - your peace of mind is tantamount
in our relationship - your well being is all I care about - "
Gibbs paused, staring hard into the so green eyes gazing back up at
him. "But then - do I need to tell you that?"

"No," Tony breathed. "No - you don't - ever - I've always - sensed
it."

Gibbs kissed him again and stepped back a pace - "I know, My Own -
now - you collect yourself - I will grab a quick shower - and then -
well - let's just see how things pan out shall we?"

"I can't wait," Tony smiled briefly and retook his position -
patiently waiting for the night to begin - and the smile broadened.