Tony: You know boss, we all have plans this holiday season.
Gibbs: Cancel them.
--
"You're really bothered by this huh?"
Tim nodded. "I was really looking forward to it. It's been a while since I've seen her."
"Duty calls Probie."
"Yeah yeah…"
"Something you want to share Tim?" Gibbs entered at just the right moment, as usual.
Tony tried to think of a response to save his friend when something unexpected happened.
"Actually boss. I do. I'm tired of us having to miss being with our families on the holidays…well for me anyway…it's not fair, but more importantly, it's not right."
Gibbs stopped mid stride and landed at the front of Tim's desk. "That how you really feel?"
"Yes boss," he swallowed hard before sitting up straight. "That's how I feel."
"Then go."
"I didn't say that so we could leave."
"Then why did you?"
Tim hesistated. "I just wanted to see her boss. That's all."
"And you will McGee…but after we catch this killer. I'm sure there's a marine's family wishing they could be with him tonight." Gibbs noticed his change in expression.
"Point taken."
Tony watched Gibbs leave before placing himself in front of his partner. "That took some guts Probie…I'm proud of ya." He patted him on the shoulder. "My little McGoogle is all grown up."
Tim didn't appease him. "You're welcome."
"For what?"
"For saying what you couldn't." He managed a small smile.
"You saying I'm afraid to stick up to the boss?"
"Relax Tony…I'm pretty sure his mail man's scared to confront him. But sometimes things have to be said…even if there's no means to an end."
"Well I'm glad you said it…maybe on Christmas he'll remember it."
It was then the two of them exchanged grins and replied in unison. "Nah!"