For L2 desperately hoping (maybe not with all my heart but close to it) that the team retains it's balance and heart next year. For L3 for the title. And for anyone with an empty spot at their Christmas table. Held in our memories they will not be forgotten.
BREATHE.
"Abby what's wrong?"
She looks up from the computer she's been staring at without truly seeing for the past hour to find Tony beside her desk frowning with concern.
"Nothing. Ya know I love this time of year. It should be renamed Abbymass" she declares with a smile that doesn't quite reach her eyes.
"Abs, come on. This is me you're talking to. Anthony D. DiNozzo, very special investigator. I know something is bothering you. What is it?"
"I do love the holidays. The time off work. Seeing friends and family especially Luka and my nephew but..."
"It also reminds you of those you've lost right? Your parents, Kate..."
She nods. "Of course I miss them every day but sometimes the holidays hit hard."
"I know." He nods.
"Your Mom."
"Yeah." He pulls her up from her chair and into a comforting hug as she starts to cry.
"Breathe Abs, just breathe. Let it all out." He strokes her hair and murmurs soothingly. "It'll be okay."
A few minutes later she steps back and wipes at her eyes. "Thanks DiNozzo."
"You're welcome my lady." He bows causing her to grin.
"What did you come down for anyway?"
"The Christmas party is starting to wind up and I noticed you'd slipped away."
"So?"
"McGee and Palmer have been drinking that 'special' egg nog I made just for them. Don't you want to see the result? I think the singing is about to start."
"Sure." They leave the lab arm in arm and head back to the party.
