AN: I know two episodes in a row, crazy right? :) I'm trying... needless to say there will be a couple with the premise of Gibbs confronting Tony, cuz I cant wait to see it on screen. Thanks for reading and enjoy!
Ziva: What are you going to do when Gibbs finds out?
It wasn't long after they were done processing the scene at the bar that Gibbs ordered everyone to go home. "And be careful." Were his last words as they turned towards their respective cars. Anthony DiNozzo had just pulled out his keys when a shadow cast itself behind him.
"You scared me boss." He breathed out a laugh.
"Expecting Agent Barrett?"
Tony's gaze shifted to the ground before he opened his mouth to respond. "I was gonna tell you."
"No you weren't."
"I was waiting for the right time."
"Oh yeah? No such thing." His stare didn't relent.
"It just happened, boss."
"Then make it un-happen."
"Not that easy."
Gibbs stopped their rapid conversation by putting his hand up. "When you break rules, there are consequences."
Tony hid his anxiety with a laugh. "Gonna send me to my room boss?"
Gibbs disregarded his sarcasm. "You're playing with fire DiNozzo…"
"She's really not that bad…you just gotta give her a chance."
"Not with you."
It went silent for a moment as Tony absorbed the statement.
He responded softly. "Maybe I'll get burned…maybe I won't. But with all due respect boss, it's my choice to make."
Gibbs nodded slowly. "Always was…"
Tony watched him start to walk away and called back. "And thanks…ya know…for caring."
Gibbs didn't respond. But he didn't have to. It was times likes this that reminded him why he'd chosen to stay all those years ago. Gibbs needed him. And more importantly, he needed Gibbs.