A/N: This story picks up just at the end of To Retire or Not Retire. I just couldn't leave these two standing on the beach with that important question unanswered. I hope you enjoy this epilogue of sorts. Happy New Year everyone!
Living the Dream
"Jethro, will you marry me?"
"Yes."
A shake of the head and then, "Wait, what did you say."
He had answered before the question fully registered in his brain. He was willing to do anything for Holly. Anything that made her happy. Anything that gave her a reason to keep loving him. Anything that kept them together. So, as soon as he heard 'will you' he said yes and now he wasn't exactly, one hundred percent sure what he'd just agreed to. He thought he knew and he was okay with it. But he wanted to hear it again.
Holly could barely keep from laughing. The look on Jethro's face was priceless. She knew he had said yes before he really and truly knew what she was asking. Now it was slowly dawning on him what she'd asked him and what his response had been.
Instead of repeating her question she kissed him. She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned in to him and kissed him slow and deep and for a long time. She let her hands wander into his hair and down his back. Jethro had his hands buried in her hair holding her exactly where he wanted her. Well, maybe not exactly but as close as he could get in a public place.
At least two people walking by them on the beach hollered good naturedly at them to get a room. Eventually Jethro thought that was a really good idea so he began pulling back from the kiss. Holly was reluctant to let him go but she did really needed a breath. She leaned her head back just enough to let them each catch their breath but she never took her eyes off his face. For a long time Jethro didn't open his eyes. He was savoring the kiss and the feel of this lovely woman in his arms and the idea that she wanted to be with him forever.
When he opened his eyes Holly was grinning at him and her eyes were sparkling. She had her arms around his chest and her legs were right up against his. If she leaned into him any further they were going to fall over backwards.
"Do you want me to repeat the question?" Her voice was full of mischief and lust; quite a combination.
"Yes, please."
"Jethro, will you marry me?"
He didn't answer for about ten seconds. Those might have been the longest ten seconds of her life.
"I thought you didn't want to get married."
"That's not an answer."
Again he was silent. He was running his hands up and down her back. He kissed her on the forehead.
"You don't have to do this."
"Again, not an answer."
Jethro looked deep in her eyes and he knew she was serious and sincere and really wanted this. Once he convinced himself she really wanted to get married he was ready to answer her. And of course there was only one answer he could give.
"Yes. I will marry you."
Now those sparkles in her eyes turned to tears and Jethro kissed them away. Holly laid her head on his shoulder and hugged him so tight it almost hurt. Holly couldn't have explained why those ten words; her question and his answer, made so much difference to her but they did. She and Jethro had been together for over two years now and had come through some difficult times to say the least. They had told each other many times they loved each other and wanted to spend their lives together. But this, this was different somehow.
"Let's go in the house. We need to talk and I probably need to get you in bed pretty soon or we're going to get arrested out here."
"Okay."
They picked up their chairs and Jethro grabbed the umbrella and they made the short trek to the small house they were renting on the beach. After dropping their chairs on the deck and rinsing off their feet at the outdoor faucet they went inside. Jethro was very curious about the reasons for Holly's proposal and he couldn't decide if he wanted to talk about that now or later. As often happened in their relationship, Holly made the decision for him when she walked toward the bedroom, pulling off her top on the way. Nothing to debate now.
By the time Jethro got to the bedroom Holly was stepping out of her shorts. He closed the bedroom door and walked over to the bed pulling off his shirt and depositing it on the floor.
"I know you have questions and you want to talk about us getting married but can that wait?"
"Yes."
He was unzipping his shorts and reaching for her when he answered. As his shorts hit the floor Holly looked down and then grinned up at him. She loved living at the beach with Jethro because it meant he was most often going commando.
He waggled his eyebrows at her and said, "Thought we might go swimming when I went to find you."
"Do you want to go back?"
His response was to pick her up and deposit her in the middle of the bed.
"Does that answer your question?"
"Perfectly."
Jethro settled in next to her leaning over to kiss her softly. Holly laid her hands on his chest, gently caressing the long scar there; a vivid reminder of what they had almost lost. She kissed him there and let her hands wander down his side and then down and over to gently stroke his erection. Holly had always very much enjoyed their intimate physical relationship and ever since Jethro had been shot and almost died, she was determined to never take what they had together for granted. She knew how lucky she was to have him here healthy and safe and loving her. They had come within a fraction of an inch of losing everything and only the consummate skill of a brilliant surgeon had given Jethro back to her.
Having Holly's hands roaming all over his bare skin, and her soft, supple body pressed against him was having the predictable effect on Jethro. He moved over on top of her and soon they found their familiar rhythm. The room was cool and semi-dark and as far as the two lovers knew there was nothing else happening in the world outside this cozy little bedroom.
Holly had never had any complaints about Jethro as a lover; he always seemed to know exactly what she wanted and needed and he was generous in making sure she got it. By the same token, she took great pleasure in making Jethro happy in bed and elsewhere for that matter. Today was certainly no exception to their usual care and love for one another. They took their time with each other and by the time Jethro collapsed beside her Holly was as thoroughly and happily exhausted as she had ever been.
"Wow, that was. . . I don't know what exactly but really, really good doesn't begin to describe it. Where have you been keeping all that?"
"Just want my fiancée to be happy."
"Well, sir she definitely is. I love you Jethro."
Holly rolled up on her side and propped her head on her hand so she could look Jethro in the eye. Her free hand traced random patterns on his chest. He didn't say anything; he just smiled and closed his eyes enjoying the bliss that comes from making love to a woman you are very much in love with.
"Do you want to talk about my proposal?"
He didn't open his eyes. He just moved his head back and forth to show her he didn't. He was still smiling and she could feel his heart still pounding. Holly began stroking her fingernails very delicately through his chest hair and kept her eyes on his handsome face. She could look at him for hours and she was pretty comfortable where she was so she didn't mind him taking some time to collect himself. Eventually she leaned down and kissed him softly on the mouth then laid her head on his shoulder and let him wrap himself around her. They fell asleep like that and didn't move for over an hour.
Earlier in the day they had had disagreement and Holly walked out of the house leaving Jethro to go to his doctor's appointment alone. She regretted it almost immediately but still, she didn't go back to the house until she knew he would have left. Jethro's recovery from being shot in Iraq had been difficult to say the least. It had been just about ten weeks since he was shot and Holly knew he was still in pain a good deal of the time even though he denied it most of the time. He had worked hard to get back in shape and as far as she knew he was well on his way to a full recovery.
In addition to his physical recovery, Jethro was dealing with the emotions of a near death experience on top of the difficult emotions of retiring from a job he loved. Holly knew she was at least a small part of the reason Jethro had decided months ago he was ready to retire and his difficulty in fully accepting his retirement had been a concern for her. As he often did Jethro had begun to withdraw when his emotions became too difficult to manage and he had been particularly unpleasant over the past couple of weeks. Today's disagreement had been the predictable result of his bad mood colliding with Holly's determination to help him cope with what was happening to him.
Apart for a couple of hours earlier in the day, they had each come to the conclusion they wanted and needed each other no matter how difficult it might be at the moment. Hence, Holly's impromptu proposal. Jethro drifted off to sleep with Holly in his arms thankful she was there when he got home and determined to do whatever it took to make sure she always was. Even it that meant getting married…..again.
Jethro woke up first and as much as he wanted to stay wrapped around Holly, two glasses of tea at lunch and then two beers on the beach meant he needed to visit the bathroom sooner rather than later. He eased away from Holly trying not to wake her but of course it didn't work.
"Sorry."
"It's okay. I need to get up too."
Holly picked up her shorts and tee shirt and went to the other bathroom while Jethro took care of his business. When she came out Jethro was sitting at the kitchen bar waiting for her.
"Wanna walk and talk or just sit outside?"
"Let's walk."
Jethro held out his hand and Holly laced her fingers with his and pulled him out the door. They walked back to the beach and headed toward the pier where they often sat to watch the sunset. Neither of them spoke for a while but pretty soon Jethro couldn't stand it any longer.
"I thought you said a long time ago you didn't want to get married."
"I think I said I didn't need to be married to you to stay with you. And I don't. But, now I want to marry you."
"Can you explain why?"
Holly stopped and looked up at him.
"I can try."
Jethro looked around and spied a quiet spot away from the water and the other people strolling on the beach. He spread out the beach towels they had with them and motioned for Holly to sit. He managed to get comfortable beside her and settled in to hear what had brought on this seemingly sudden proposal.
Holly suddenly realized she hadn't asked about his checkup.
"Before we get into the whole marriage proposal thing, what happened with Dr. Franklin?"
"Actually Taft was there. He said he was down here to see an old friend but I suspect he was here checking up on me."
"Maybe you're the friend he came to see."
"Maybe. Anyway, he just observed mostly. Dr. Franklin said everything looks fine. He's sending his report to Leon and I'll be cleared for active duty as soon as it's processed."
"Then what?"
Jethro brushed some hair out of her face and tucked it behind her ear. His fingertips caressed her face and he leaned in and kissed her.
"Then I'll sign the retirement papers and I'll be all yours."
"Is that what you want, Jethro?"
"Yes."
"I want you to be sure. I don't want you to regret this decision."
"Holly listen to me. I am sure. I want to retire. Yes, I've struggled with the fact that I won't be an agent anymore but I want to spend my time with you, not chasing dirt bags and terrorists the rest of my life. Besides, I'm not sure Taft would sign off on my return to duty if he thought I was actually going back to work."
"Why not? I thought you said everything was fine."
"I told Dr. Franklin I was good. I don't think Cyril believed me. I caught him looking at me with that look he has when I told Franklin I didn't have any pain and I was feeling good."
"That's not true is it? Dr. Franklin isn't the only one you lied to about that is he?"
"No."
Jethro was looking out at the water now because he found it difficult to look at the woman he loved and admit he had been lying to her for weeks. Holly just leaned into him and wrapped her arms around him. She had known all along that Jethro was hurting a good deal of the time. She could read it in his face and the way he moved and in the restlessness of his sleep. She knew him well enough to understand that confronting him wouldn't help so she let him think he was fooling her.
"You knew didn't you?"
"Yes, Jethro, I knew. Do you have any idea how much I watch you and pay attention to the smallest things you do? I have spent two years memorizing your handsome face and the way you move and the way you sleep and the way you do just about everything. Of course I've noticed you're hurting."
"Why didn't you call me out when I said I was fine?"
"Because I knew you'd tell me when you were ready. You try to protect me Jethro. You still have trouble letting me take care of you sometimes."
"I need to work on that."
"Yes you do. Will you tell me, starting today, when you're in pain?"
"Yes. I trust you Holly. I want you to believe that. I know I haven't demonstrated that to you lately but I do trust you. I've just spent so many years covering up and doing everything for myself, by myself, that it's still hard for me to let someone else in. Even someone I love as much as I love you."
"I understand. We'll work it out as we go along. I know you trust me."
Jethro had the feeling she was stalling the marriage discussion. He was okay with that. After all they had all the time in the world. He laid back and relaxed in the soft sand. The sound of the gentle waves on the beach, the squawking of the gulls and the warm sun all made him want to stay exactly where he was for as long as possible. His conversation with Dr. Taft over lunch had been the final tipping point in his acceptance of what the future should be for him. He knew he shouldn't and really couldn't go back to fulltime field work and he certainly had no desire to be a desk-bound agent. He was ready to step away from NCIS and embrace his life with Holly. The whole marriage idea was a surprise but he wasn't opposed to it. In fact the more he thought about it the more he liked the idea.
Holly was sitting with her knees drawn up and her arms wrapped around them, her chin resting on her knees. She was staring out at the water letting the unending movement hypnotize her. Her mind was wandering through various wedding scenarios. Now that she had decided she wanted to get married her thoughts about a ceremony, who to invite, where to have the ceremony and a thousand other things were competing for space in her head. First things first though; she and the future groom needed to have a talk about the whole idea. She was stalling and she knew Jethro knew it. She also knew he didn't mind her stalling because even though they talked to one another a lot, she knew he didn't look forward to serious, life changing conversations.
Just as she was about to start the conversation, Jethro tugged at her elbow pulling her down next to him. Talking could wait she decided. She settled down next to Jethro and he reached for her hand. She heard him sigh and he squeezed her fingers.
"I love you Holly Snow. I need you in my life and I'm never going to let you go."
Holly was glad they were lying side by side and Jethro couldn't see the tears in her eyes. He hated it when she cried. She swallowed and forced the tears away.
"I'm very glad to hear that. I feel the same."
That was it for conversation for the next thirty minutes or so. As far as the two of them knew they were the only people on the beach and the world was a wonderful place.
Eventually the fact that Holly had not eaten lunch became evident when her stomach started growling. Jethro sat up and looked down at her with a grin on his face.
"Forget to eat lunch did you?"
"I wasn't hungry at the time."
"Well it sounds like you are now. Come on, I'll fix you some lunch and you can tell me why you all of a sudden want to marry me."
Holly laughed and held her hands out so Jethro could help her up. She gathered their towels and the two of them headed for their temporary home on the beach.
While Jethro set about making Holly a big salad, she poured them each a glass of iced tea. Jethro and salads were not two things most people would think of in the same sentence but the truth of the matter was he was an excellent salad maker. Holly was the reason for that of course. Over the course of the last two years she had taught him a lot and had had a big hand in improving his diet and hence his skills in the kitchen. Before they got together, Jethro was strictly a meat and potatoes guy unless he was eating take out. He still grilled a mean steak but now he also threw veggies on the grill at the same time. Holly sat at the kitchen bar and watched him cut up peppers and tomatoes and throw it all in a big bowl for her.
"Aren't you eating anything?"
"I had a big lunch at the Officer's Club with Cyril. Cheeseburger and fries. I think I'm good until supper."
"How is Dr. Taft?"
"Good I guess. We talked mostly about me of course but he seemed fine. He asked about you. Thought you'd be there with me."
"I'm sorry about that."
"No, I didn't say that to make you feel bad. Just wanted you to know he asked about you. Actually, it was probably better you weren't there. Gave us a chance to talk."
"Anything you care to share?"
"You're stalling."
"I know. But I do want to know what you guys talked about unless it's not for me to know."
"Nothing like that. He asked how I really was; didn't believe what I told Dr. Franklin. We talked about the retirement thing. He said me going back to work wasn't all that good an idea. Then I said I didn't know who I was if I wasn't an NCIS agent."
Jethro paused there and turned around to give Holly her salad. He got the dressing out of the fridge and passed it to her. Then he leaned back against the counter and watched her for a moment. He loved watching her do even the simplest thing like putting dressing on her salad.
"What did he say to that?"
"He laughed and said that was easy. He said I was lucky bastard who got Holly Snow to fall in love with him."
Holly stopped with her fork halfway to her mouth. She lowered it back to the bowl and looked up at him.
"I see. And what did you say to that?"
"I'm not sure. I think I just sat there for a while and thought about it. I'd have to agree with him though; I am one lucky bastard that's for sure."
"I wish you wouldn't refer to yourself like that."
"Don't you think I deserve it?"
"Once in a while but in general, no I do not."
"Okay. I'll stop saying it then. Look, babe if you want to rewind to when I came home and unask your question it's okay."
"Is that what you want me to do?"
"No. But I don't want you to feel stuck with something you said off the cuff or in the heat of the moment or whatever it was. You seem to be having a hard time with the follow up."
"That's because you distracted me with sex."
She was smiling at him and laughing with her eyes while she devoured her salad.
"I do not want to rewind. I want to marry you. And as soon as I finish this salad I'm going to tell you why."
She took two more bites and handed the empty bowl and her fork to Jethro to put in the sink.
"You want dessert?"
"No thank you."
Jethro opened the freezer and took out an ice cream bar. As he threw the wrapper in the trash he rounded the bar and sat next to Holly.
"I'm all ears."
"While you were taking to Dr. Taft I was on the phone with Ducky. I knew I'd messed up by not coming back before you left and I felt badly. I needed his advice on what to do. And, I needed his advice on you."
"What about me?"
"You know, about your mood lately and how I might help. I have been so worried about us, Jethro that I didn't know what to say to you or what to do to make things better."
"Hold on a minute. You and I, us, we have always been okay. It's been me that's not right lately. It was never about you, Holly, or about us."
"Jethro when you're not okay it is about me. To an extent anyway. I've been worried that you were unhappy with retiring and in my worried state I imagined you would resent me for my part in that decision. But, look I know all that's not the issue and I'm very clear that you love me and I love you."
"Good. Now what did Duck have to say?"
"He simply reminded me of what I already knew and that is that every woman you have loved has left you. You have no frame of reference for what you and I are doing and for the idea that I will be here forever. I just got so caught up in worrying about us that I failed to see the obvious. I think as much as you want to believe me, as much as you trust me, you still can't accept the idea that I won't leave you someday."
Jethro was playing with the stick from the ice cream bar and not looking at her. It hurt him to hear that she felt like she still had something to prove to him but he understood why she did. If he was brutally honest with himself he would have to admit that in the very back of his mind sometimes he still expected to come home someday and find Holly gone. He knew he needed to say something but he didn't want to hurt her.
"Jethro, it's okay. I understand."
She had read his mind again. He reached for her hand and looked up to meet her eyes. His voice was quiet and just a little bit shaky.
"There is a place in the very back of my mind that was almost closed up until I got shot. Then, when things were so bad and I hurt all the time it was easier for me to imagine you leaving. I didn't want to but I couldn't fight that fear and the pain and all the rest that was going on all at the same time. I don't mean to say I don't believe you because I do. It's all on me, Holly. It's nothing you have ever done that makes me so afraid of losing you. I want you to know that and believe it."
"I do, Jethro. You have been disappointed and rejected so many times it's what you think is bound to happen. There is no way to prove that idea wrong except through the passage of time. But, I want you to have some tangible proof that our reality is going to be different. That's why I want to marry you. The last two years have been the happiest of my life Jethro and I want the next thirty or forty or whatever we have to be just as happy. I know our life has changed, and not exactly in the way we planned. We will have some challenges in the future but we can make it together. I have no doubt about that.
Jethro, I want to stand up in front of all our friends and promise you, and them, that I will love you until I die. I want all of them to know we're in this together and we always will be. It's sort of like when you decide to quit smoking or lose weight; the more people you tell the more accountable you are to following through. The other part of that is it gives you people who can help you when you're tempted to give up on your resolution. I may need help sometimes to hang in there and so will you. I know you understandably don't have much, if any, faith in the idea that a marriage ceremony makes a difference but I do. As things stand now, if we had a terrible falling out and I got so angry with you I wanted to quit I could just walk away and no one would really be any the wiser or pay much attention. At least not for a while. And, I could just pack up and go. If I promise in front of God and all our friends to stay with you and love you and put up with you forever, I'm not going to just walk away someday. That's just not how I'm made. Does that make sense to you?"
"It makes sense. You're right, I haven't found marriage to be any guarantee of any sort. But, I know you are not anything like those three women. Obviously. I like the idea of telling everyone we're going to make it. I bet some of them don't believe it and we can prove them wrong. I believe in us, Holly. So, again, yes I will marry you. The sooner the better as far as I'm concerned."
"Okay, the idea is still new so let's take our time and have a plan. You know I have to have a plan for something as important as our wedding."
"Whatever you want you will have. Come on, let's go sit on the porch and enjoy the afternoon."
"By the way, I invited Ducky for Thanksgiving. He said he'd love to come."
"That's great. Maybe he'll stay a few days extra and have a real break. He never takes any time off."
"You're one to talk. You never took a day off that I know of."
"True."
Two Weeks Later at Holly's office
"Hello Gibbs. You are looking good my man."
"Thanks Jackie. Is Holly in her office?"
"She is. Go on back."
"Thanks."
Jackie hit a button under the counter where she worked as the receptionist for the Women and Children's Shelter and the door leading to the offices unlocked. As Gibbs disappeared down the hall, Jackie smiled to herself. He was one good looking man and she was sure glad he was still with them after such a close call.
Jethro knocked on Holly's door and stuck his head in to see if she was ready to go. They were picking Ducky up at the airport this evening then the Thanksgiving Holiday would officially begin. Holly motioned for him to come in so Jethro stepped in and walked over to look out the window. Not much of a view; in fact no view at all unless you considered a neighboring parking lot a view. The office was small and sparse but Holly claimed she wasn't in there much anyway so she didn't need more room. He knew there were larger offices in the building but she had taken a smaller one on purpose. She wanted the larger offices available for the counselors and whoever would be the permanent director when she left at the end of her year. Secretly Jethro was wishing her yearlong commitment was up sooner rather than later but he wouldn't tell her that. He wanted to go home to their house especially now that they had decided to get married. He just felt like Florida was very temporary and it was, and he wanted to be someplace permanent once they were married. He couldn't really explain it; just a gut feeling he had and he very rarely ignored his gut. For now though they were committed to being in Tampa for a few more months and he would live with that to support what Holly needed to do.
Finally Holly managed to end the call and she smiled up at him.
"Hello handsome."
"Hi beautiful. Ready to go?"
"Yes, just let me give Susan a quick call to let her know I'm leaving."
Jethro sat down because he had never heard Holly have a "quick call". She smirked at him and he just shook his head at her.
"Hey, Susan I'm heading out in a few minutes. Everything all set for the next few days?"
Jethro watched her listening and nodding and then she gave a couple of suggestions about something and listened some more. Finally she wished her assistant a Happy Thanksgiving and hung up.
"Wow, less than five minutes. That's a record!"
"Very funny. Come on let's get out of here before the phone rings again. It's been a crazy day. Always is just before a holiday."
As she came from behind her desk, Jethro pulled her to him and gave her a quick kiss. He framed her face with his big hands and looked her in the eyes.
"You drive me crazy you know that? In a good way I mean. I love you."
Holly wrapped her arms around his waist and said, "I love you, Jethro. I didn't know it could be this good."
"Me either. Come on, let's go or Ducky will be standing at the curb waiting for us."
When they finally arrived at the airport Jethro was reminded why he refused to travel on holidays. Ducky was indeed standing at the curb but he was engaged in conversation with an attractive woman so Jethro was pretty sure he wasn't bothered by the short wait. As Jethro pulled up, the lady gave Ducky a kiss on the cheek and turned to walk away.
"He's still got it," Jethro remarked as Holly opened her door to get out and greet their friend.
Jethro opened the trunk and after giving Ducky a hug, put his bag in and closed the lid. Holly got in the back seat and Ducky slid into the passenger seat.
"Make a new friend did ya Duck?"
"Yes as a matter of fact I did. Alexis is a recently retired Navy Captain. Very interesting woman. She lives in Norfolk but is considering moving to the DC area. I was giving her some information on the housing market."
"I bet you were. And the best restaurants too."
"Yes, of course. Anyway, we arranged to meet for dinner sometime when she's in town. Lovely woman."
Jethro looked over at his oldest friend and chuckled and shook his head in dismay.
From the backseat Holly was enjoying seeing her two favorite men together. She knew Jethro missed having Ducky to talk to; the phone just wasn't the same as seeing someone and having a conversation, especially for Jethro.
"Ducky we are so glad to have you for a visit. How is everything at home?"
"Cold when I left. I am delighted to be here with you two and in your warm weather. You are looking well Jethro. How are you feeling?"
"Pretty good. How's the team?" Jethro didn't really want to talk about his recovery until they were at home and he and Ducky could have a face-to-face talk.
"They seem to be doing well. Tony is a good leader. You taught him well, Jethro. Timothy is taking on more decision making and Eleanor seems to be finding her way nicely. Abigail misses you of course. We all do but we're all happy you are doing well and happy. I assume you are happy."
"Yes, I am. The lady in the backseat has a lot to do with that. Everything in fact."
Jethro made eye contact with her in the mirror and Holly blew him a kiss.
"Ducky how are Jimmy and Breena doing with their baby?"
"Oh my dear they are doing just fine. The baby is a beauty and growing quickly of course. Mr. Palmer seems to be taking fatherhood in stride."
Later that evening after they had enjoyed a late supper and were sitting on the porch Holly reached for Jethro's hand and he gave her a squeeze signaling it was time to give Ducky their news.
"Ducky, Jethro and I have something we'd like to share with you."
Ducky gave them his full attention. He had been wondering what was going on because they both seemed just a bit on edge. He fervently hoped this was good news and not the announcement of a break-up. He looked from one to the other and waited for Holly to continue.
Holly took a breath and let out their secret.
"We're getting married."
Ducky took a moment to make sure he'd heard correctly then said, "What wonderful news. Congratulations to you both."
"Not what you were expecting huh, Duck?"
"Honestly, no. But I am thrilled for you."
Holly told him the story of the proposal.
"You should have seen his face, Ducky. He had no idea what he'd agreed to for a moment and the expression on his face was priceless."
"I was a little surprised that's for sure. But I think I made a nice recovery."
"Yes, you did."
"When is this happy occasion to be?"
"We don't know for sure. After the first of the year we think. You're the only one who knows so if you could keep our secret we'd appreciate it."
"Of course."
The next morning after a light breakfast, Holly kicked the men out of the house so she could get started on preparing Thanksgiving dinner. Jethro and Ducky didn't argue long before they took their coffee and tea and went to take a walk on the beach.
"How lovely to be able to walk barefoot in the sand in late November. I understand why you enjoy it here so much Jethro."
"It's nice but honestly Duck, I'm ready to be home."
"You are? So how much longer will you stay here?"
"Holly has about five months left in her year long commitment. We'll stay until that's over and then be home."
"Five months isn't very long I suppose. Does Holly know you want to go home?"
"No. It's something I've just recently realized myself. Since we decided to get married really. I just want to be in our own home to start our life together; not here in a temporary home. Nothing to be done though. Holly's happy here and she won't break her deal with the shelter. I wouldn't want her to do that anyway."
"I understand you wanting to be home, Jethro. You have just done so much work on the house and it is just sitting there waiting for you. And, you left under difficult circumstances. Unplanned to say the least."
"Yeah. Coming here to recover was the right decision I believe but now, I'm ready to go home. Just have to wait it out though."
"Let's talk about your recovery. How are you feeling?"
"Pretty good most days. Dr. Taft was down here about two weeks ago and sat in on my check-up with Dr. Franklin. Franklin signed my paperwork to be returned to duty so now I'm actually on annual leave for about two more weeks or so. Then the retirement packet will have to be filed. I'm planning to be in DC to take care of that the middle of next month."
"Back to the recovery. Are you still having pain?"
"Yes. I've actually cut back on the exercising I was doing before my check-up. I was swimming five days a week and doing some light weight work but I've cut back to swimming and lifting only three days a week. I'm feeling better since I did that. I'm learned the recuperative powers of doing nothing."
"I'd say you were a bit too ambitious my friend. Your body needs time to heal completely and while I agree with some exercise to be sure, I agree you were overdoing it. Is the pain less now?"
"It is. The leg is pretty good. Very little soreness or swelling. I wasn't prepared for the pain to last this long. I've never had that happen before."
"You've never been in such bad shape before, Jethro. Dr. Taft showed me the x-rays they took on the ship. It's a miracle you're still here, my friend."
"Tell me about them. He wouldn't show them to me on the ship and I didn't ask again when we got back to the States."
"Well, the leg of course was broken just above the knee. A clean break by some miracle, but still a broken tibia is nothing to scoff at. The bullets were essentially little bombs that went off in your body. The shot to the chest sent tiny fragments throughout your chest and abdominal cavities and very nearly into your heart. My guess is if Dr. Taft had not been there you would not have survived the surgery. Even a very good surgeon would have been hard pressed to keep you alive. Cyril is, fortunately for you, an exceptional surgeon but even he was challenged. He told me he was just a little bit surprised you made it. Said you were one tough bastard."
Jethro didn't say anything for a long time. He looked out at the water and said a silent prayer of thanks. Now he understood a little bit better why he hurt all the time. After all, it hadn't been all that long ago that he was shot. Maybe, he thought, he'd been in too big a hurry to recover.
"Guess I'm lucky to be here."
"Yes, you are. But you did a lot of the work yourself. The patient's will to live cannot be discounted in a situation like yours. You fought Jethro, and that, as much as Dr. Taft's skill is what brought you through. I suspect Holly had something to do with that."
"She did. I didn't want you to deliver that letter."
"Yes, I was afraid for a day or two I would have to. I was very thankful to know you were going to recover. Did you ever give her the letter?"
"Yeah, as a matter of fact I did. The day she proposed actually."
Jethro told Ducky about coming home from the doctor's appointment that afternoon and giving Holly the letter. He told him what Dr. Taft had said and his realization that he needed to make sure he didn't lose Holly.
"I guess it was a good letter. She proposed pretty quick after she read it."
"I must say Jethro, even though I know you love her, I'm surprised you want to get married again. I thought you were content with your arrangement as it is."
"I was. I am. But, what the hell was I going to say? The woman asked me to marry her. I couldn't very well say no."
Jethro laughed and threw up his hands.
"I would do anything to make her happy, Duck. Including getting married. The more I think about it the more I like the idea. Believe me I know it's no guarantee of things working but things with Holly and I are going to work anyway."
"I'd say the lady has you just exactly where she wants you my friend."
"If you mean wrapped tightly around her pretty little finger, then yes, she certainly does."
"I can't tell you how happy that makes me Jethro. It's been such a long time coming. Please enjoy it."
"Oh, I'm enjoying it alright!"
The rest of the day was spent eating, relaxing and simply enjoying being with people they loved. They all took a nap after a wonderful midday feast and that night they had turkey sandwiches and leftover pie.
"I think the sandwich is almost as good as the turkey dinner itself."
"Maybe next year I'll just fix sandwiches."
"I said almost. It was delicious, babe."
"Yes, my dear it certainly was. I shall have to take two walks tomorrow."
"Thank you both. Is there anything particular you would like to do while you're here, Ducky?"
"No, I don't think so. I would enjoy sitting on the beach and soaking up some vitamin D. I have not taken time to simply relax and do nothing for a very long time. I think I should take my own advice and do that."
"I'll tell you Ducky, Jethro and I are becoming experts at sitting on the beach and doing nothing. Occasionally we talk to one another but often we just sit and listen to the water and the birds and as you say, soak up the sun. You'll be amazed at how long Jethro can lounge around."
"It's the best medicine for him right now. That and having you in his life, of course."
"Funny, I feel the same way about him. He is looking good don't you think. I mean he seems back to himself finally."
"Hey, I'm right here you know. Of course I'm myself and of course I look good. I have to or some beach boy will come along and steal you away."
"Ha, not very likely. I prefer my men experienced and just a bit rough around the edges."
"Then I'd say you have just the right one, my dear."
"Again, I'm right here!"
They laughed together and Ducky was struck by how very happy the two of them seemed to be.
For the next two days they did very little except relax, visit and enjoy each other's company. Jethro watched some football and took long walks with Ducky. They talked about the old days and in the evenings, sitting on the porch enjoying a drink they told Holly some funny stories about their first years together. They avoided talk about Europe as the subject of Jenny was still somewhat painful for both of them. Holly knew about Jenny of course and didn't mind that they skirted that time in Jethro's career.
Ducky was scheduled to fly home Sunday afternoon so he and Jethro took a last walk on the beach early that morning.
"Are you still planning to retire next year, Duck?"
"Yes. I want Mr. Palmer to have another year under his belt. I believe he will be a first rate medical examiner but he's just not quite there yet."
"I agree. He's come along way under your guidance."
They were quiet for a while then Ducky stopped and put his hand on Jethro's arm.
"Jethro, this has been a wonderful few days for me and I thank you for your hospitality. I have been worried about you but seeing you with Holly I know you are happy and in good hands. I understand your struggle with the idea of retirement; I am already having my own in that regard. Believe me, you have made the right decision. In all the years I have known you I have never seen you so content with your life and so obviously happy."
"You're right, I am finally at peace with life and despite the difficulties of the past few months, I know things are going in the right direction. I am happy. I never really expected to be you know. Especially after Jenny died. At that point I figured my chances were pretty well shot. Just goes to show, you never know what's around the corner. Luckily for me, this time, it was Holly."
While the men were out walking that morning Holly got a call from Lauren, the woman who was running the shelter in DC while Holly was in Florida. Lauren had some very unexpected news for Holly; news that had Holly concerned and excited at the same time. It could mean going back to DC sooner than they had planned and she wasn't sure how Jethro would feel about that. She wanted to go home but she didn't know he did. She was sitting on the porch waiting for Jethro and Ducky to return and trying to figure out how this was all going to work.
When they got back Ducky insisted on fixing breakfast for everyone so Jethro went to take a shower. Holly sat at the kitchen bar and visited with Ducky. After they had eaten, Ducky went to shower and pack and soon it was time to leave for the airport. Jethro wondered what was going on with Holly; she seemed distracted and awfully quiet.
When they got to the airport, Jethro went around to get Ducky's bag out of the trunk. Ducky hugged Holly goodbye and whispered to her, "Whatever it is that has you out of sorts today, just tell him. He can hear anything you need to say. He loves you completely."
Holly looked at him and shook her head. She was surrounded by a couple of mind readers. Ducky gave her a quick kiss and wink and then he hugged Jethro goodbye.
"I'll see you in about three weeks when I'm there to do the paperwork and clean out my desk."
"You two behave. Thank you for a wonderful holiday."
They were barely off the airport grounds when Jethro reached for Holly's hand and said, "What's the matter, babe?"
Holly squeezed his fingers and replied, "I want to go home, Jethro."
"We're on our way. Won't you tell me what's got you so distracted?"
"No, I mean I want to go home to DC. Lauren called this morning while you and Ducky were out walking. Her husband has been offered a professorship at the University of Tampa beginning in January. Naturally, they will be moving. Jethro, she would be perfect as the director here. The search committee hasn't found anyone they are even remotely interested in but I know they will love Lauren and with my recommendation I'm sure they would offer her the job. That would mean she could come down and work with me for a few weeks and then take over. And, I could go back to running things in DC. We could be home for Christmas and stay there. What do you think? I know you love it here but Jethro, I really miss our house and I want to live there with you sooner rather than later. What do you say?"
Jethro had never heard Holly so happily excited about anything and had never heard her say so much so quickly. He almost laughed at her almost desperate pleading of her case.
"That sounds perfect to me. I'm ready to go home and live in our house with my future wife. We've never really had a chance to do that and I'm ready."
"Really? You don't mind going back early? You don't mind leaving the beach and going back to DC in the middle of the winter?"
"Yes, no and no. Yes, I'm really ready to go home too. I don't mind going earlier than we expected and actually, I look forward to being stuck in the house with you and a fireplace and nothing particular to do and no where to go."
"Oh god that sounds fabulous! Okay I'm going to get to work on this right away. Today in fact. Oh Jethro, I'm so happy! Wait, how long have you felt this way?"
"Not too long. Just since we decided to get married really. I just feel like being at home is permanent and being here is temporary. I'm more into permanent these days."
"Yes, me too. I love you so much it's impossible to tell you how much."
"Likewise. Listen, before you get all caught up in phone calls and texts and all that, I need some adult time. I loved having Ducky here but I have missed you. Catch my drift?"
"Oh let's see. . . You want to go home and have sex because it's been four whole nights since we last did the deed. Is that what you're saying?"
"Exactly."
"You know Jethro I suspect Ducky knows we sleep together and have sex and all that stuff."
"Of course he does but that doesn't mean I want him to hear us and that house is way too small and you are way too loud, hence the last four nights of abstinence."
"I'm too loud? What about you mister?"
"Sometimes I might be a little loud I guess but it's your fault."
"I don't mind taking the blame. And yes, phone calls and texts can wait."
The phone calls had to wait a little longer than expected because by the time they got finished making up for the last four nights, they were both exhausted and fell asleep tangled up in each other and the sheets. They slept for almost two hours and the only reason Jethro woke up then was that Holly was rubbing one foot up and down his leg and one hand up and down his side while she kissed him on the neck. What a delicious way to wake up, he thought.
When he finally opened his eyes and wrapped his arms around her, Holly looked at him and grinned.
"I love waking up with you. I want to do it every single day for the rest of my life."
"Well, that's the plan. Anything else you want to do?"
"Hmmm, yes I can think of a few things but how about you tell me what you'd like."
Jethro closed his eyes and didn't move for a long few moments. Then he gently took one of her hands and moved it from his chest down south several inches. Holly didn't need any further instruction.
"How lucky; you like the same thing I like."
Jethro just sighed, closed his eyes, and let her have her way with him.
The next time Jethro woke up it was because he was hungry and he needed to pee. He reached for Holly but the bed beside him was empty. And cold. She'd been gone a while he realized. A quick shower later he went out and found Holly on the phone in the living room, her laptop open on the table in front of her. She was in full executive mode. Jethro watched her operate for a few minutes then went in search of food.
The cupboards were bare and the refrigerator had little to offer so he settled for some cheese and crackers and a beer. He saw empty granola bar wrappers and a bottle of water on the table next to the computer and realized they were either going out for dinner or ordering delivery or going to the grocery store. He voted for the delivery option.
About ten minutes later Holly put down her phone and looked at him with a very smug smile on her beautiful face.
"It's practically a done deal."
"Really? Already?"
"Yes. I talked to Lauren to be sure she was interested in the job and she is. Then I called the head of the search committee and told her my idea. She was thrilled so I gave her Lauren's phone number. They've already talked and Lauren is coming down on Tuesday to meet everyone and have an interview. They want to be here before Christmas, Jethro! This is happening so fast I can't believe it."
"Sure is. Seems pretty quick to turn everything over to a new director. You sure it's a good idea to move so fast?"
"If it was anyone else I'd say no but Lauren knows what she's doing. The program here is almost identical to what we do in DC. I'll work with her for a couple of weeks and then she'll be ready to take over. I wouldn't leave it I didn't think she could handle it."
"I know that. I'm not suggesting you would. Hey, I'm glad this is all working out. On a more pressing issue; we have no food here and for some reason I'm starving. Got any suggestions?"
"Yes, I'd love a pizza. That okay with you?"
"Sure. I'll call and order. What else have you been doing out here besides organizing Lauren's next job?"
"Well, I got online while I was between calls and found a wedding invitation I like. And I found a place for us to get married. Only if you approve of course. Of both things."
"Whatever you want is good with me. How big are you thinking?"
"Not big at all. Just your team and some people from my work. Mutual friends. I was thinking maybe we could get married at the chapel on the Navy Yard. What do you think?"
"Could probably make that happen. I'll make a call tomorrow. You have a date in mind?"
"How does January ninth sound to you? That's a Saturday. I'm thinking ceremony late morning then a party at our house afterward. That's one reason to keep it small."
"You've been very busy thinking about this haven't you. That all sounds great to me. Any particular reason you chose that date?"
"It's my mother's birthday."
"Then it's perfect. I'll see what I can do about securing the chapel. Now, let me have your phone and I'll order the pizza."
While the waited for the pizza, Holly showed Jethro the invitation she liked. It was simple and elegant and looked exactly like something she would choose. He liked it a lot. Holly started looking for a caterer she vaguely remembered and Jethro called Ducky who should have arrived home just about an hour earlier.
"Ah Jethro, missing me already?"
"Course I do. Hey, Duck is Chaplain Burke still at the Navy Yard?"
"Yes, she is. In fact I saw her just last week and she asked how you were doing."
"Good. Holly wants to get married in the Chapel. I'll call tomorrow and see if we can set it up. By the way, keep January ninth open, my friend."
"Certainly. Anything I can do to help just let me know."
"Holly is in full planning mode at the moment so I'll keep you apprised. By the way, we'll be home for good in about three weeks or so. Some things have changed today."
"Wonderful! I suspected your lovely fiancée had something on her mind this morning. I take it that is what you are referring to."
"Yes, she's found a replacement for herself here so we'll be home sooner than we thought. We're both very happy about this turn of events."
"As am I. I look forward to having you home, Jethro. Let me know if you don't find Chaplain Burke and I'll track her down."
"Thanks Duck. See you soon."
By the end of the week Lauren had been offered the job and accepted and Holly had arranged for Lauren and her husband to take up the rent on the beach cottage until they found a place of their own. Jethro had arranged the use of the chapel for the wedding and Chaplain Burke had happily agreed to perform the ceremony. Invitations were ordered, clothes packed and sent home and Jethro had been busy doing little odd jobs around the cottage that he had expected to have several months to complete.
Lauren came down the first week of December to work with Holly and by the fifteenth of the month everything was settled and Jethro and Holly were ready to move back home. Lauren's husband, David arrived on the twelfth and Jethro helped him move their belongings into a small storage unit. The four of them were crowded in the beach house for a couple of days before Jethro and Holly flew home.
On their last day at the beach Jethro and Holly took a long walk in the morning before their afternoon flight home. It was a cool day, the sun just beginning to show and the beach was deserted. The walked hand-in-hand, not talking, just soaking in the sounds and smells of the place they both loved but were happy to leave in order to be in their own home together.
"I can't believe this has all come together so quickly and we are going home today."
"Are you comfortable with leaving the shelter in Lauren's hands?"
"Yes, of course. She has some great ideas and she'll do a good job here. I'm thrilled with the way things have worked out. Are you ready to be home?"
"Very much so. I want to get the house ready for winter, get some firewood in, maybe start a project for the winter. Oh and get married."
"Yes, let's not forget that important event. I'm very excited about marrying you, Jethro. It's not just a formality for me."
"I know. Not for me either. I admit, at first I didn't see the point but the more I think about it the more I want to make that formal, public commitment to you."
That brought tears to her eyes and she had to stop. Jethro wrapped her in his arms and kissed her. They stood in the sand holding onto one another and looking out over the water and Jethro felt like the luckiest guy in the world.
Their flight home was uneventful and after gathering their luggage and getting a cab they were finally on the last leg of their trip. When they pulled into their driveway Jethro was surprised to see lights on in the house. He saw a note taped to the front door and realized Ducky had probably been by earlier. They got their bags to the porch and Holly pulled down the note.
Do not be alarmed by the lights on in the house. I came by to make sure everything was in order and dropped off some basic food necessities. Welcome home! Ducky.
"What a wonderful friend! I'm so glad you have Ducky for a friend so I can share him."
"He's the best that's for sure."
Jethro got them inside and took their bags upstairs. The house was nice and warm which felt good after the change in temperatures from the beach to DC. Jethro noticed a fire was laid and thanked Ducky again. Holly went to the kitchen and started a pot of coffee. The fridge was stocked with not only the necessities but also a beautiful ham. She took that out and started some sandwiches for them both since they hadn't eaten anything since breakfast.
Jethro came down dressed in sweat pants and long sleeved shirt; something he hadn't worn in a while. He stepped up behind Holly and wrapped his arms around her. She gave him a bite of ham which he hungrily accepted.
"You should call Ducky and tell him we're home and thank him for the sandwich you are about to eat."
"I will. Why don't you go up and change and I'll finish in here. And by the way, welcome home."
Holly went up to put on some comfy, warm clothes and Jethro finished getting sandwiches, chips and coffee together and on a tray in the living room. He lit the fire and picked up the phone to call Ducky.
"Hey Duck. We're home and about to enjoy a ham sandwich in front of the fire. Thank you. You are a prince."
"You're welcome my friend. I trust everything is in order."
"Everything looks great. Thanks for turning the heat up. Feels good. I'll be in the office sometime soon and I'll come see you."
"Wonderful. Give Holly my love. Oh and don't turn on the microwave before looking inside. Good night Jethro and welcome home."
Knowing something good was hidden in the microwave, Jethro took a look and found a beautiful cherry pie. Ducky knew him too well. He checked the freezer and sure enough there was vanilla ice cream. Perfect! Jethro settled on the couch and waited for Holly before eating. She came down wearing some warm pajamas and slippers.
"I can't believe I'm so cold. I really need some time to adjust to this weather I guess."
"Yeah and it's not even really cold yet. Lucky you have me to keep you warm."
"I will depend on it. And the fireplace."
After making quick work of their sandwiches Jethro took the plates to the kitchen and soon returned with a big piece of pie smothered in ice cream.
"Oh my gosh. Where did you find all that?"
"Microwave and freezer."
Jethro handed her a spoon and they shared the delicious treat.
"I really love Ducky right now. In fact I'm calling him to tell him so."
Holly picked up her phone and called immediately.
"Hello."
"Ducky if I wasn't engaged to this wonderful man beside me I think I'd propose to you. Thank you so much for the ham but especially for the pie and ice cream."
"You are very welcome my dear. I'm glad you enjoyed it."
"We certainly did. Good night Ducky and thanks again."
TBC