Disclaimer: I do not own NCIS or any of these characters.

This story is set in an AU where Ari did shoot Kate, but the bullet only grazed her head and she is in a coma throughout season three. And, since this is my story and I can do whatever I want, I've made it Kibbs.

After 'Kill Ari' Parts 1 and 2

"Oh, Caitlin," Ducky sighed. "If only you were awake. We need you." The last few days had been hard on them all. Tony had been sullen, McGee had been edgy, and Abby had been quiet. Indeed, everything had seemed backwards since Kate had been shot and ended up here in the hospital, with tubes sticking out of her mouth and nose and wrists. "Jethro misses you, I know he does." The old man paused, and it seemed almost as if he were listening to a reply. "No, he hasn't come to see you, but you must forgive him that. He doesn't know what to do. He doesn't like feeling helpless." Ducky chuckled sadly. "Nobody does."