DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN NCIS OR ANY OF ITS CHARACTERS.

Just love writing about them!

Chapter Nine

After the dishes were done I asked Shannon to accompany me to the garage. There was another hour of daylight to do some work on a new passion of mine. Well, it had been a dream of Leroy's that I was tinker ing with, but soon found, every now and then, working on the Dodge not only was relaxing, but provided a small connection to him as well.

Ever thankful that the few conversations we shared before he left centered on all the things he planned to do to rebuild the Charger. I worked diligently on the details. I suppose I foolishly believe once the car's complete he'll magically return. If he doesn't come back for even 20 years or more, I'll have this car waiting to prove I always kept him in my life.

"Don't tell him I'm working on this," I conspired with Shannon. "He'd just assume I'm doing it all 'my' way. This car had really been important to him. I felt bad when I had to move most of the store shelving out here. He's probably never forgiven me." Shaking my head, I wondered if he ever would.

"It's a beautiful car. I can see why Gibbs would be drawn to it. Bet he wants it to have a lot of power," she laughed.

"Yep. It will too, once I'm done with it," I vowed.

She nodded running her hand along the side of the car. With her eyes closed she looked like she was trying to sense Leroy's presence. The smile playing at her lips made me think she actually could.

"I wonder where he is right now," she pondered. She glanced at the garage door. I suspect she expected to see him there.

I chuckled, "He always could show up at the darnedest times, but I think even Leroy would have a tough time appearing from overseas. Doubt even more that he would show up here."

Hearing the sadness that I tried to dampen in my voice, Shannon was quick to offer a hug and comforting words, "You'll see him again. Yeah, he's stubborn, but one day he'll get 'it'. You're family and that means everything."

"Glad you think so. I won't ever give up hope. Just won't hold my breath turning blue waiting."

Finishing up the little work I actually accomplished, I cleaned up the tools and escorted my future daughter-in-law back into the house.

"Are you planning to stay here tonight? The guest room is ready if you'd like to." I invited.

"That would be nice, Jack. I'll just go get my bag from the car." She headed out while I made some coffee and started a fire. She took her bag upstairs and then joined me in the living room.

"This really was a nice visit. I'm more certain than ever I did the right thing in coming and sharing the news with you," she sipped at her coffee.

"I do appreciate it, more than you may ever know," I confided. "Leroy would've married you and never would've said a word. I always hoped he'd see what a fine woman you are. You'll be good for him. I hope you get back what you deserve in return."

Smiling she told me, "I get more from him than you may realize. He has a big heart."

I wasn't shocked, but it had been a long time since I had seen him anything but angry. That's why I knew she was the right woman for him. I patted her hand and took her empty mug to the kitchen.

We said good night and I prayed that Leroy and Shannon would have a lifetime of happiness. And if I was extraordinarily lucky, I would get to share some of it with them.