Palmer: His Brain is missing

Ducky: No need to get so excited Mister Palmer

--

"I realize that I have not been the finest example for you Jimmy; but I feel this is an issue that must be addressed."

The two were sitting across from each other near Ducky's desk and Palmer couldn't help but get anxious. "What is it Doctor? Did I get lax on a procedure? "

"No, something much more serious…"

"Is it about me and Agent Lee? Cuz I thought we put that behind us?"

"No…"

"If it's about me getting us lost again last week, I'm really sorry about…I just really think we need to get a GPS installed in there. I mean all the other cars have it and…"

"Jimmy!" Ducky almost shouted as he interrupted him. "You must stop spending so much time around Abigail." He took a breath. "Now, if you would so kind as to be quiet, I will tell you what this is about." He watched the younger man nod before proceeding. "Now, I was disturbed yesterday when you made a few comments during the autopsy of the first victim."

Palmer swallowed. "Was it about the brain saw?"

"Not only that, but the demeanor in which it was delivered. I'm concerned you have developed a tough skin for this type of work much too quickly."

Jimmy took in a breath before responding. "How long did it take you?"

Ducky wasn't expecting the question so sat quietly for a moment. "I still haven't Mister Palmer…there are days I find our work to be quite devastating. While I have come to use humor as a masking agent, I still find myself troubled at times by the bodies that come across my table. That being said, I am concerned that this is not the case for you?"

"Um, it's not that it doesn't bother me; I guess I just try really hard to not let it."

"Yes well, do not try so hard Jimmy. It is important to feel as well as block out. There must be a balance."

He nodded. "I understand. I think…"

"I have no doubt you will find your balance along the way Mister Palmer; I am just here to make sure it doesn't tip too far in one direction." He patted him on the back a few times before standing up.

"Thanks Doctor."

"No thanks needed dear fellow…now go home and get some rest. It has been quite the day."

"Yeah," he started to follow Ducky out the door. "You can say that again."