AN: Have only good things to say about this episode. It will go down as a favorite of mine. Very moving! Enjoyed every minute. And now on with the tags, I do hope you enjoy them. I've missed bringing them to you the past few weeks.
Ziva: I promise you Ray is a good man.
"Promise is a strong word."
It took Ziva a moment to realize what he was referring to. Somehow she was not surprised. "I am well aware of how strong it is."
"Are you?"
"What is that supposed to mean?"
"I'm just sayin'." He threw his hands out at his sides. "Takes a long time to get to know a person…some are married for years before their true colors shine through."
"And you would know this how?"
He put his hands over his heart. "Words can hurt you know."
"I am well aware of that also."
"Look, I'm not saying he's not a good guy…just that some people pretend to be one thing when they're really another."
"You know this first hand yes?"
"I think we both do." He responded quickly and a moment of silence passed.
It was during that moment Ziva began to gather her things. "Good night Tony."
He stood up in response and stepped towards her desk. "I'm happy for you."
"You are a terrible liar."
They were inches from each other now and neither said another word until Ziva stepped past him. "See you in the morning, Tony."
He stood there for a few moments contemplating his next words, but they never came.
He may be a terrible liar, but that's not all he was.
He was a good man.
Who suddenly wanted to become better. ..