Grace of an Angel

by JamJar98

Jethro Gibbs never thought he'd be a single parent to his baby girl Kelly. After a rough start he finally thought he knew what he was doing. His whole world gets turned upside down when a fiesty woman walks into their lives and change everything, maybe for the better. *Jibbs* AU. Complete.

10. An astronaut named Jack

Disclaimer: I don't own anything you recognize.

A/N: I apologize for the lack of an update, but this chapter was for some reason tough to write. It feels to me like a filler chapter of some sorts, I'll let you be the judge. Thank you for all your kind reviews, they always make me smile. To the new followers and favourites, thank you. Very big thanks to Loves Jack for the restroom idea, I had fun writing it and I hope you enjoy it too. Spelling and grammer is on me, mistakes slip through sometimes. If there's something that really should be fixed, let me know.

Warning: I borrowed dialogue rather shamelessly from the episode 'Heartland', it's one of my favourites. There's a spoiler for a season 14 episode (can't remember which one) but nothing revealing only a little info on Gibbs. I also used some dialogue from a very famous movie, if you can spot it I'll be very impressed, it's not the exact dialogue but if you know the film you'll spot it.

Enjoy*

---

The warm days of summer had slowly turned colder as September drew near. The whole city was in various shades of orange, red and brown; creating an almost picturesque environment. The view from the Navy Yard was breathtaking in the late afternoon sun. A strong gust of wind swept through the trees, shaking the leaves off the branches.

Jenny took a long drink from her coffee cup, welcoming the warmth that spread through her. She was aware of someone right behind her, watching her instead. A smiled curled her lips, she didn't have to turn around to know it was him. It didn't take long before he invaded her personal space.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" She wasn't expecting an answer from him and he didn't disappoint her, instead he placed a hand on her hip and drank from his own cup.

Things between them had been slightly tense after what had happened on Jethro's couch. They had tried to avoid each other as much as possible until they had bumped into each other in the elevator. They had agreed to actually try and take it slow, for once before they did something they might actually regret later on. They had patched things up and were back to the way they were.

Jenny peaked over Jethro's shoulder to see where every one was. It was rare for him to touch her or show any kind of affection towards her in front of his team, she knew he wasn't ashamed or embarrassed just extremely private. Pressing a chaste kiss to his cheek, she smiled up at him.

"Where is everyone?" The bullpen was almost deserted, only a few agents were still hanging around finishing up paperwork.

Jethro twisted around looking over the squad room, he pointed at nothing in particular, "Kelly's in the head gettin' dressed. Other's are hidin' in Abby's lab since Kelly chased them away."

Jenny laughed softly, already seeing the little curly haired girl silently sending them away the same way her father could, "She takes her dancing seriously."

Jethro smiled at her, trying to appear as excited as the rest of them. Kelly's pre-school had organised a concert with all the children performing different numbers, and his daughter was more than excited about the whole ordeal, something that surprised him. However, there was a sense of nostalgia surrounding him, and he suspected Joann as well.

Shannon had been on his mind a lot lately, ever since Kelly had come home and couldn't stop talking about her concert. She would have been in the front row, doing everything along with Kelly. He felt her absence more, now that something was happening that he wanted to share with her. It was the same feeling he had when Kelly had started walking and had said her first word.

Jethro blinked a few times, trying to push his thoughts to the back of his mind. Jenny shifted next to him, pulling her jacket a little tighter around herself. He raised his eyebrows at her almost sceptically, it was cold but not that cold.

"Don't look a me like that, I spent a year in the desert." Jenny snapped at him, pursing her lips and raising her own eyebrows at him.

Jethro leaned away from her slightly, trying to piece the puzzle together. He assumed that she had been with Ziva in Israel, it would explain why the Mossad Officer had come with her. He stored the little piece of information for later, focusing instead on her for the moment. They very rarely talked about their past, something the both of them preferred, but now he wondered what she had done before becoming an investigator.

Wrapping an arm around her waist he tugged her into his side. She was looking up at him her eyes dark and smouldering, "This could get dangerous." she purred at him.

Jethro laughed, really laughed, a low rumbling sound in his chest. Jenny couldn't help but laugh with him. She liked the sound of his laugh, it reminded her that despite his rough and hard exterior he was human like the rest of them. Resting her head on his shoulder she turned her attention back to the outside world, watching the sun slowly start to set.

The raised voices coming from across the squad room drew their attention and made them pull apart. Kelly was running towards them with Joann trailing behind her, looking more agitated than usual. Kelly stopped right in front of them, her hair as wild as usual and her large blue eyes shining with excitement and mischief.

"Look, daddy, I is a fairy." Kelly twirled around.

It wasn't the first time he'd seen her all dressed up and full of glitter. He had picked her up the past week, fast asleep with a crumpled tutu and smeared with glitter. He'd never encountered something as infuriating and clingy as glitter.

Jethro handed his cup over to Jenny and swooped Kelly up off the floor and threw her up in the air, smiling as she squealed. Kelly laughed a real belly laugh after being thrown up in the air again. She hugged her father tightly, almost choking him as he held her. Giving him a sloppy kiss on the cheek she held out her arms to Jenny.

Jenny took Kelly easily and settled her on her hip, handing the cups back to him so he could throw them away. Kelly was quiet for a while, looking Jenny over, she placed her small chubby hand on her cheek and smiled at her brightly, "You look pretty, Jenny."

"Why thank you, but not as pretty as you fairest fairy." Jenny pressed a kiss to Kelly's wild curls, smiling at the blush that shot across her nose. Kelly really did look pretty, the blue of her costume brought out her large blue orbs more than usual, making her look even more innocent.

"Come on Kelly we have to leave, or we'll be late." Joann smiled as Kelly regretfully said goodbye to Jenny. She was silently thankful that, for once, Jethro had found someone Kelly truly liked; and someone who he seemed to be really fond of.

"Jenny, I wave at you, okay?" Kelly looked at her seriously, not willing to take no for an answer.

"I'll be sure to wave back." Jenny hugged her and placed her back on the floor.

"Hey, what about me?" Jethro growled at Kelly playfully. Kelly skipped over to him, jumping up and down in front of him, the excitement becoming too much for her to bare.

Jethro knelt down, placing his hands on her shoulders. Kelly stopped bouncing around, and looked at him with big eyes and a silly grin on her face, "I wave at you too, okay?"

Jethro grinned at Kelly, pulling her to his chest and holding her close for a moment, savouring the fact that she was there with him. He closed his eyes, suddenly over come with a wave of emotion. He felt bad for being with Jenny and wishing his wife was still alive. Kissing Kelly on the forehead, he tapped her on the bum lightly sending her on her way with her grandmother.

A squeeze to his shoulder made him bury his feelings again, not feeling like answering questions. Looking up he was met with something rather unexpected. Her eyes were warm and comforting, instead of confused and questioning. Standing back up he winced slightly as his knee popped.

"You're getting old Marine." Jenny teased lightly, grinning even more at the glare he shot at her. She swallowed when he stepped closer to her, invading her personal space like only he could.

Leaning into her more, he fleetingly brushed his lips over hers, "I'll show you old, Jen."

Jethro watched as Jenny's eyes slid shut, her lips already parted in anticipation for what would come next. The loud ding of the elevator made him pull away and he heard Jenny sigh, almost irately, at being interrupted. He smirked at her arrogantly, taking her hand in his he pulled her towards the bullpen, where his team was already gathering around as they piled out of the metal box.

Tony was busy fixing his hair trying to look his best when his boss walked past him hand in hand with the redhead. Looking at himself in the black screen monitor, he grinned impishly. He'd known for a while that things between his boss and Jenny were more than just 'co-workers'. He'd rather wittingly coaxed Kelly into spilling the beans on Gibbs and Jenny one afternoon while she was hanging around the office. Ziva, however, had argued that he didn't have to ask much because the toddler seemed to be extremely attached to Jenny, and couldn't stop talking about her.

Meeting a pair of dark brown eyes he smiled charmingly. The last thing that bothered him was her eye roll, and irritated look that there was in fact something between their two superiors. Popping a piece of gum in his mouth he turned off his desk lamp and walked to where Ziva stood near the entrance of the bullpen.

Ziva looked him over, noting that he really did look good in his designer suit, but she chose to keep that to herself, not wanting his ego to get any bigger. Instead she chose to tease him, "You are trying to impress someone, yes?"

"Yeah, my date." Tony grinned, smoothing his hair back and tugging on his collar gently.

Ziva rolled her eyes, "It is a concert with children, and you brought a date?" she looked at him indignantly.

"Yeah she's performing tonight as well."

Ziva's eyes widened, "You're dating Kelly's teacher?"

Tony bit his lip trying hard not to laugh at the look on her face, she seemed seriously disgusted about the idea. He couldn't help it and laughed at her, the glare in return was well worth it.

"I'm just joking with ya, Ziva. I'm only going to see Kelly perform." He could see her shoulders relax and wondered why that was.

"So you were, jerking my train, yes?"

"I'm pretty sure it's chain, but yeah I was." Tony smiled at her and turned his attention to the rest of the people in the bullpen.

Ziva watched him for a while, noting the relaxed way he seemed to carry himself. They had spent increasingly more time together over the last month. He had invited her to watch movies, telling her she needed to be more educated in the American culture. They both knew it was simply a ploy to share light and easy conversation.

An elevator dinged, signalling the arrival of one last person.

Ducky hurried around the corner, "Sorry I am late, but mother was having a particularly bad day." he wiped his forehead with a handkerchief and placed his glasses back on his nose.

"Duck, if you can't come it's fine." Jethro reassured him as he stood and pulled on his coat.

"No, I would not miss this performance for the world." Ducky smiled and winked at Jenny. He had noticed rather early on that there was something going on between her and Jethro. His suspicions were only confirmed when she had confided in him that they were in fact together. He was happy for the both of them, after all he had seen the women Jethro had been with, and he found that Jenny fit the mould perfectly. The only thing bothering him was whether or not Jenny knew about Shannon.

Jenny hovered at the back of the group with Jethro, watching with amusement as the excited atmosphere quickly dissipated into annoyance. They all tried squeezing into the elevator, bumping into one another. Jethro gripped her elbow tightly as she tried to find a spot on the elevator for the both of them. He shook his head at her and pulled her back gently.

"Hey, Boss, you coming?" Tony shouted from the back.

"Nah, you go ahead think we'll take the stairs." The elevator doors started sliding shut.

Tony raised an eyebrow, looking between the two team leaders curiously. He took in their close proximity and a goof grin spread over his face. He could see Gibbs glare at him just as the doors closed, but that was the last thing he was worried about.

Jenny entwined her fingers with Jethro's, squeezing his fingers gently as they waited fro the elevator to come back up. She inhaled deeply, he was smelling particularly good tonight, something else accompanying the usual smell of sawdust and coffee.

The elevator doors opened again, revealing an empty box. Jethro tugged her inside with him, slamming the button for the garage. His hand was on her lower back again, but was sliding dangerously lower.

"Jethro," She growled his name as a warning, the question that followed wasn't, "why didn't we take the elevator with the rest?"

He didn't answer, he simply cupped the back of her head in his palm and brought her mouth closer, his other hand sliding down indecently. Jenny groaned softly, it had been a while since he had kissed her like this.

Panting slightly, Jenny tried to stop the world from spinning, "What brought this on?"

It was the first time she had ever seen Jethro Gibbs look guilty, he grinned at her crookedly and shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. She narrowed her eyes at him, following him to his car. Once they were inside he casually turned to her, "Joann invited us for dinner after Kelly's performance. I said yes."

Jenny felt her heart stop, she had only met the woman a couple of times in her entire life, and now she had to have dinner with her. She had made it perfectly clear to Jethro that she felt extremely awkward about the fact that Joann was his ex mother-in-law, she felt out of place as if she was intruding on something.

"It's going to take more than one kiss to make up for it." Jenny snapped at him lightly, she was going to have to face Joann sooner or later.

"I can live with that." Jethro looked at her, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

---

The small hall was filled with people, making it nearly impossible to navigate the small pathways between all the seats. Tony cursed under his breath as he stumbled when his foot got tangled in the strap of a handbag, he apologised to the elderly woman who glared at him. Soldiering on, he made a mental note to get back at whoever had volunteered him to get refreshments. Finding his seat, he flopped down and distributed the various treats.

Tony made sure that his displeasure of being sent showed clearly on his face, he shoved Kate's water bottle at her, glaring at her for no reason. Something he seriously regretted when she drove her elbow straight into his stomach, knocking the breath out of him.

"Hey!" He whined, giving her a wounded look.

"Don't be a pain, you volunteered to go." Kate bit back at him, glaring at his childlike behaviour.

"No I didn't, I asked who wanted to go." Tony growled at her, clutching his stomach where she had elbowed him.

"Actually, Tony, that is volunteering." McGee retorted from where he sat between Kate and Abby, a cheeky smile plastered on his face.

"Shut it McTwo-faced." Tony snapped irately from his seat, unimpressed that everyone had decided to turn against him.

"If you lot don't shut it, I'll throw ya out myself." Jethro growled from his seat, unimpressed with his teams sudden chattiness. He glared at DiNozzo as the agent still grumbled to himself. Satisfied that Tony would keep his mouth shut for the time being he turned his attention back to the small stage.

Abby shifted excitedly next to him, he watched as she pulled various cameras out of her black leather handbag and propped them all in Tim's hands. Jethro smiled at her when she caught him looking at her, she smiled back at him and continued to produce film for all the cameras.

Turning his attention to the woman next to him, Jethro leaned closer to her, fascinated by the way her hair seemed to glow in the light. He listened to the light conversation that was going on between his lover and his ex mother-in-law. He didn't know whether he should be scared that they seemed to click, or thankful that they did.

Joann seemed to like Jenny more than the other women he had introduced to her. He often wondered if he did it in order for her to chase them away. Diane had been the old woman's doing, she had introduced them a year after Shannon's death, and it had been a disaster form the beginning. Kelly had refused to like her even though she had only been a year old. Diane had accepted the fact that he still mourned his wife's death, but she didn't understand why he couldn't just move on after meeting her.

Stephanie had been a little more understanding and she was considerably younger than him. At first he had thought she might stick around a little longer than just four months, but he soon realised she didn't really like the fact that he had a child and Kelly didn't like her either, and neither did Joann. After an impressive two and a half months she had decided to leave.

Jenny's hand slipped into his as she talked to Joann, he ran his roughened thumb over her knuckles, feeling the softness of her skin. He wondered when things between them would change. He'd noticed on more than one occasion that she wanted to ask him something, but she stopped herself before she could. He wanted to know why she didn't ask questions, why she could so easily accept him and the things he hid from her.

That wasn't what bothered him. What bothered him was the fact that he always felt the need to touch her, to hold her. After what happened a few months ago he had spent considerable time in his basement, arguing with himself over the choices he made that concerned the enticing redhead. Feelings had popped up which he had rather quickly dismissed as a lack of sleep and too much caffeine late at night.

The conversation between the two women slowly started fading once Ducky returned from where ever it was he had disappeared to. Jenny smiled secretively as Joann's face lit up when Ducky took his seat next to her again. Shivering, Jenny moved a little closer to Jethro, soaking up his body heat. She surprised herself with how needy she could get once he was in the vicinity.

Tim McGee swallowed heavily as he gathered the courage to question Abby. He waited patiently for her to fish all the extra film rolls out of her leather handbag and deposit them on his lap as well. Looking down at the three cameras he frowned and looked at the Goth again.

"Abby..." Tim spoke cautiously, "what's with all the cameras?" Out of the corner of his eyes he could see that even Gibbs was curious about all the cameras.

Abby momentarily stopped fishing through her handbag to look at him, her olive green eyes narrowed, "Timmy," she sounded almost offended that he'd asked her such an obvious question, "I don't want to miss one single moment of Kelly performing."

Tim looked at her with a furrowed brow. Looking down at all the cameras he tried to piece what she had just said together. He could see that Abby was almost glaring at him for not seeing where she was coming from.

"Why didn't you just buy three film rolls?" Tim finally asked, too tired to figure out what exactly was going on in Abby's mind.

"Do you have any idea how long it takes to replace the film in a camera?" Abby snapped at him, clearly irritated with his sudden need to ask so many questions.

Tim stared at her blankly for a moment, somewhere between deciding to drop the subject all together or to actually answer her. Knowing he shouldn't ask, he did in anyway, "What if the roll gets stuck when you want to take it out to be developed?"

The young man's cheeks paled considerably as Abby turned on him. If he hadn't known her better he would have sworn she looked hurt by his question; her eyes flashed with annoyance and he could see her curling her hand into a tight fist. Gritting his teeth he waited for the blow to fall somewhere on his body. Abby didn't disappoint him when she punched him forcefully on his thigh.

"Don't jinx me, Timmy. It's easier to have three cameras than having to replace the films." The tone of voice she used left no room for an argument.

The hall lights dimmed, indicating that the show was about to start.

There were various children scattered across the small stage, each more concerned about finding their parents in the large crowd than actually doing what their teachers were enthusiastically doing along with them. Some of the children were simply staring at their audience, frightened that so many people were staring back at them.

Jethro shifted restlessly in his plastic chair, he could feel the pins and needles start in his toes from sitting with crossed legs for too long. He heard the woman behind him huff in annoyance as he shifted around once again. Gritting his teeth, he turned to give her a piece of his mind, when a set of nails dug into his thigh. He met Jenny's green gaze and settled back in his seat.

The half an hour performance was starting to feel like a life time and he was starting to lose his patience with every woman cooing around him. The group of children on the stage started descending down the steps as a group of girls filtered onto the stage, all of them wearing blue tutu-like dresses.

Kelly twirled across the stage, taking her place right in front. She scanned the large group of people, looking for her father and Jenny. The smile on her face was slowly fading when she couldn't find them, just before she could give up on looking for them, Tony jumped up shouting her name. She easily spotted her father and Jenny, she waved wildly, her smile returning.

Both Jethro and Jenny waved at her, followed by the whole team. Abby jumped up, her three cameras at the ready. She pulled McGee along with her as she moved into the isle in order to get closer to the stage. Jethro watched with pride as Kelly twirled around the stage, her smile never faltering. He couldn't help the smile that curled his lips.

Jethro's smile disappeared when he noticed the group of boys joining the girls on stage. One of the boys broke away from his group to join Kelly. He scowled at the kid as he danced alongside Kelly.

"That's Kyle." He heard Joann whisper to Jenny as the boy took his daughter's hand and danced with her across the stage.

Upon hearing the boy's name he immediately disliked him.

The lights in the hall were turned back on and the kids disappeared off the stage. Abby was bouncing down the isle, dragging McGee after her, she smiled at Gibbs excitedly waving her cameras in the air. She let go of McGee's hand and rushed to where Gibbs was making his own way into the isle.

"Gibbs, Gibbs, Gibbs! Kelly was so cute, and that little boy with her too. He looked so shy at first." Abby rambled on as she walked alongside Gibbs.

Jethro smiled at her tightly. He knew deep down that he was being ridiculous for disliking the kid because of his name, but he couldn't help himself.

The corridors bustled with activity as Jethro tried to navigate his way to Kelly's classroom, constantly trying to avoid either one of the parents or the over excited toddlers running between classrooms. A small boy whirled past him, it wasn't long before the young boy's mother was rushing after him, her patience clearly running out.

Jethro scanned the corridor, trying to locate the green door that indicated Kelly's classroom. He now knew why the doors were colour coded, they were easier to locate in the never ending hall of doors. He felt almost disoriented in the noisy building, it was hard to concentrate with so many people talking at once and children shouting around him. Squaring his shoulders he pushed through the crowd that seemed to have collected in front of one specific class.

There was a trail of blue glitter leading to Kelly's class, and he cringed at the thought of his toddler jumping all over him covered in tiny blue flecks of foil. Jethro knocked on the door out of habit before stepping into view. Kelly was seated in the far corner of the classroom, playing alongside her friends.

Jethro bravely ventured into the classroom, careful to avoid the toys that were scattered across the carpeted floor. He was about to call Kelly but the little girl seated next to her pointed straight at him and whispered in her ear. He couldn't help but smile when her face lit up and she barrelled towards him, almost tripping over her own feet in her haste. He swooped her up off the floor and hugged her close to him, kissing her forehead.

"Daddy, did you sees me? I waved."

"Yup, we saw you." Jethro grinned at her and kissed her cheek when she blushed, "Go grab your bag and shoes, everyone's waitin' for us."

Jethro looked around the classroom curiously. He felt someone bump into him as he glanced around the room, stepping out of the way he simply growled at the mumbled apology shot his way. Jethro glared at the man in front of him.

"Maddie!" The person yelled at the blond haired girl affectionately.

Jethro narrowed his eyes at the man suspiciously. Something about the blond tennis ball haircut seemed familiar. He saw Kelly wait for Maddie to collect her own backpack before rushing back to him, her wild curls starting to slip out of their tiny ponytail. He knelt so he could help Kelly pull on her sneakers.

"Hello, Mister Kelly's daddy." Jethro looked up to see who the small voice belonged to. He heard Kelly giggle from where she was sitting on the floor staring up at everyone else. He met a pair of curious brown eyes as he looked up at Maddie. He'd seen the little girl once or twice from the times he could pick Kelly up from school.

"Maddie, don't bother other people. Sorry about that." The man from earlier scolded the girl lightly, reaching out and picking her up.

"Yeah, no problem." Jethro said distractedly as he settled Kelly on his hip and swung her backpack over his shoulder.

"Gunny?" Jethro's head snapped up at the nickname. He stared at the blond man, trying to piece together during which point of his military career he'd known the slightly younger man.

It took him a while to realise that they had been stationed together in Somalia and that the young man was in fact the kid who had been assigned to him almost at the end of his tour. Seeing him took him back to a different time, a period where pain had been ever present in his life for a while. Jethro's reaction was a little slower than usual as he tried to bury the memories that resurfaced.

"Daniel, it's good to see you." Shaking his hand he stepped back, looking between Daniel and Maddie.

"This must be that little girl in the picture you always carried with you." Daniel looked at Kelly, smiling at her and waving.

Jethro nodded proudly, looking at Kelly as she shied away from the attention. Resting his hand on her back he looked at Daniel, curiosity eating away at him. The last he could remember Daniel hadn't mentioned anything about expecting a child of his own. All he could remember was the jokes they had made about the hotheaded kid with all his girlfriends and that he'd get one of them knocked up.

Daniel cleared his throat and a blush flashed across his cheeks, he looked at Maddie and hugged her a little closer. "Remember that lady I wanted to see after we got back from Somalia?"

Jethro nodded, a smile already playing on his lips.

"Turns out our pre-deployment fling turned into something more." Daniel looked at Maddie as she busied herself with the toys still clutched in her hands.

"She changed your life for the better, Dan." Jethro said after a short while of silence. He looked Kelly over, scrunching his nose at her as she looked at him, her large blue eyes almost understanding.

Both men were silent as they left the busy classroom and headed towards the exit of the building. The car park was still full as they stepped into the cold night air. Daniel shifted uncomfortably, something clearly bothering him. He looked at the older Marine with his daughter wrapped in his coat.

"You know, Gunny. When I heard your wife passed away, I never understood the pain you had to go through." Daniel stopped talking, hugging his little girl closer, "I get it now, and I don't think I'd be able to find someone I love as much as I love my wife."

Jethro simply stared at him. He couldn't answer him, whatever he wanted to say got stuck in his throat. It was hard to swallow the lump in his throat. Seeing Daniel and hearing him mention Shannon made him deal with emotions he had buried the day he said goodbye to her. Scanning the lot his eyes met a pair of emerald green orbs, he smiled at her briefly before turning back to the man in front of him.

"You just have to hope it finds you." Jethro said almost inaudibly.

Kelly rested her head on her father's shoulder as they crossed the parking lot, she coughed and rubbed her eyes. Burying her head against his neck, she exhaled softly. It wasn't long before her hand found the buttons on his shirt and she played with them.

Jethro frowned, wondering if Kelly was just tired or if she was on the verge of catching a cold like she usual did when the seasons started to change. He pulled his coat a little tighter around them and quickened his pace. He prayed that she wouldn't be as sick as the previous winter.

Kelly reluctantly let go of her father as he lowered her into her car seat. Small chubby hands went straight to the small ponytail on top of her head, she pulled the hair tie out of her hair, tossing it somewhere on the floor. Kelly wrinkled her nose cutely, irritated with the fact that she had to tie her hair. Looking up she saw Jenny look at her, she smiled almost shyly at being caught manhandling the hair tie.

Jethro clipped the car seat's safety belt in place and kissed Kelly on the forehead. He hurried to the driver's side and slid into his seat. It wasn't long before they were caught in the sudden rush of cars leaving the school parking lot. Jethro eased back in his seat and listened to the muted sound of the radio as it filled the silent car.

Kelly wasn't her usual babbling self and he suspected the excitement of earlier was starting to crash, if not the excitement of the whole week. Jenny was unusually quiet as well, she wasn't an overly talkative person, but he knew something was bothering her. For the first time in a very long time the silence was making him uncomfortable.

Moving his hand from where it was resting on the center console, he placed it on her thigh and applied brief pressure. He smirked at her lazily as she looked at him, clearly somewhere else as she stared out her window. He felt her soft hand slip over his and grip it gently, he grinned at her as she glared at him for staring at her. When he didn't stop his persistent staring she shrugged her shoulders, the golden rings around her eyes indicating that she was becoming annoyed.

"What is it, Jethro?" Jenny whispered, mindful of the sleepy toddler in the back seat.

"You're quiet." Came his reply, that silly grin still curling the corners of his mouth.

Jenny raised an eyebrow at him in amusement, she found it almost strange that he wanted her to talk since he was so tight-lipped. Shaking her head at him, she pursed her lips a little and turned back to staring out the window.

Feeling the hand on her thigh slide higher she bit her lower lip, hard, to stop the smile that was threatening to show. Digging her nails into his skin, she looked over at him. Jenny bit her lip again, almost drawing blood, the way his eyes darkened as he looked at her made her skin tingle all over. It almost distracted her from her thoughts, but they were impossible to ignore.

She had noticed the change in him when he approached her after he had said goodbye to whoever he had been speaking to. The distracted look in his eyes was back, the same look she had seen earlier that night while she was speaking to Joann. She was dying to ask him who the man was he had been speaking to and why he seemed so pained to see him.

Jenny chewed the inside of her cheek, trying to decide whether she should ask Jethro now or later, after they had had dinner with the rest. The curiosity inside her gnawed at her, sighing she turned her attention back to the man next to her.

"Who were you talking to?" Jenny rolled her eyes at herself, any attempt at making it sound like a casual question had gone right out the window. She was sounding like a suspicious wife.

"Old buddy, we served together in Somalia. Turns out his daughter and Kelly are best friends." Jethro chuckled, the creases on his forehead easing away, he looked almost relieved that she had questioned him. "Back then he was popular with the women. Turns out he got one of them knocked up."

Jenny smiled at him, relieved that he wasn't snapping at her for asking questions.

Kelly coughed in the back seat and sniffed once she stopped. She grumbled as she shifted around in her seat trying to get comfortable. Leaning her head against the seat she blinked tiredly at the two adults who had turned to look at her.

Jethro averted his gaze to the rear view mirror, keeping a close eye on Kelly. He ran a hand through his hair, clenching his jaw tightly. He shuddered at the thought of staying up all night in the coming weeks with a grumpy toddler. Kelly became extremely clingy and grumpy when she was sick, which had the potential to drain the life out of anyone.

"Daddy, I no feel good." Kelly grumbled from her seat, her eyes were closed as she pressed her face into the seat. The usual rosy colour that tinted her cheeks had drained, leaving her pale and covered in a thin sheen of sweat.

Jethro gripped the steering wheel tighter, praying that she wouldn't be sick in the car, "I know honey, we're almost at Nana's, okay?" He watched her nod weakly. Joann's house came into view, the driveway packed with federal plated Dodges.

The car rolled to a stop behind the other cars. Jethro was still unbuckling his safety belt when Kelly crawled between the two front seats. He watched as she crawled onto Jenny's lap and leaned against her, her eyes screwed shut and a frown creasing her forehead.

Jenny ran her hands through Kelly's slightly damp hair, smoothing the unruly curls down. Pressing a hand to her forehead she hugged her closer, cradling her in her arms.

"Jethro, she has a fever."

"Think Joann's got somethin'. Sit tight, I'll come round and get her." Jethro unbuckled his safety belt, already having opened his door.

"I can carry her. If that's okay with you." Jenny looked up from studying the little girl's face. Jethro smiled a little and nodded.

Jethro opened Jenny's door, helping her out of the car as she adjusted Kelly as she slept against her shoulder. Slamming the door behind her, he placed a hand on her lower back and steered her towards the front door.

Kelly stirred in her sleep as the door opened and the noise of everyone talking filtered into the cold night air. Arthur scurried into the foyer, barking at the intruders. Kelly grumbled and tightened her hold around Jenny's neck. The Chinese Crested tilted his head before starting to yap at them again. They could hear Joann scold the small dog from the kitchen as she hurried to welcome them inside.

Joann appeared in the foyer, a dish towel thrown over her shoulder and an almost irritated look on her face. The irritation seemed to ease a little once she saw them, concern took over as she hurried towards Jenny, who was still holding Kelly close to her. Pressing a hand against her forehead, she clucked at Jethro disapprovingly.

"It's because of these late nights out in the cold." Joann stated matter of factly, resting a hand on Kelly's back soothingly. She narrowed her eyes at Jethro.

Jethro raised his eyebrows in surprise, pointing a finger at himself, "Don't look at me. You picked her up, you should have taken her jacket." He snapped at Joann who had turned on him.

"Joann, my dear. Is it Jethro at the door?" Ducky's voice drifted in from the kitchen. It wasn't long before he appeared around the corner.

Jethro clamped his mouth shut, knowing there was no point in arguing with the older woman. Seeing Ducky, he stepped around Joann, making his way to where Jenny was standing almost awkwardly near the front door. He rolled his eyes at Joann as he looked at Jenny, feeling slightly better when Jenny struggled to hide her smile. Resting a hand on Kelly's back and the other on Jenny's shoulder, he steered them into the living room.

"Hey, Duck. Got anythin' for a fever?" Jethro asked over his shoulder.

"I've got some medicine, I'm sure it'll help. Donald?" Joann looked at Ducky, silently asking him to join her.

Jenny watched the two disappear, an amused look on her face. She turned to Jethro who was busy setting up a makeshift bed for Kelly, "Do you think those two..." She trailed off, not sure if she should actually say what she was thinking. Jethro shook his head at her, pulling his face almost in disgust.

"I rather not think about it." He grumbled as he took Kelly from her so he could lay her down.

Jethro smoothed Kelly's hair back, out of her face, the wild curls almost soaked with sweat. He crouched next to her, kissing her temple soothingly as she moaned. Kelly scrunched her face as she opened her eyes, meeting her father's, the tears already threatening to escape.

"Daddy," Kelly whimpered, her arms already reaching out towards her father.

"I know honey." Jethro whispered softly, "I know you feel icky, but Ducky's going to help you feel better, okay?" All he received was a half hearted nod and a quivering lower lip.

The old doctor appeared out of nowhere, a dark glass bottle in one hand and a thermometer in the other. Jethro stepped back, allowing Ducky to take over. Shrugging off his coat and jacket, he glared at Jenny as she snickered softly, his dark dress shirt was covered in blue glitter and the inside of his coat and jacket didn't look any different.

It seemed like all the glitter Kelly had been covered in had rubbed off on him, Jenny was almost spotless, except for the few blue glints in her hair. He kept that little piece of information to himself though, he actually liked the way her hair sparkled when the light caught the blue pieces of foil.

"Kelly has a slight fever, nothing too serious, but if it gets any higher it might be cause for concern." Jethro reached out to help the Medical Examiner to his feet, clapping him on the shoulder.

"Thanks Duck."

Joann stormed around the corner, the irritated look on her face back, she glared at Jethro darkly. Folding her arms across her chest as she regarded him, "Jethro, if you don't tell that very special agent of yours to keep his hands to himself around the dinner table, I'm going to break his fingers."

The dinner table buzzed with conversation. After Jethro had explained that Kelly was sick and had calmed Abby down enough so she could take her seat again, they had finally settled down for dinner. Something Tony DiNozzo was very thankful for, since Joann had threatened to kill him instead of just breaking his fingers, and the wild look in her eyes told him she actually would.

Tony shoved yet another mouthful of food into his mouth, ignoring the distasteful look both Kate and Ziva were giving him. He looked up from his plate, scanning the table for anything he hadn't had yet. Tony sat back in disappointment when he realised all the dishes were empty. Tony frowned as he looked at his boss.

The light seemed to catch the older man just right, causing his shirt to glitter. Tony grinned to himself, feeling particularly brave since Gibbs was on the other side of the table, right across from him, and that there were witnesses if he did decide to kill him.

"Hey Boss," Tony drew his attention momentarily, he grinned at his boss slyly, "I didn't know you liked to impersonate Liberace."

The Italian let out a strangled cry as a booted foot made contact with his shin, "Ow! Boss."

Jethro glared at a giggling Jenny, she squeezed his hand that rested in hers under the table.

"Who's ready for dessert?" Joann stood from the head of the table.

Tony's hand shot up immediately, forgetting that he should appear injured. Joann shook her head but smiled anyway.

"I'll help." Jenny offered, prying her hand from Jethro's in order to stand up.

Joann waved her off, winking at her, "No, no, you sit. Jethro is perfectly capable of helping." She didn't miss the glare from him as he excused himself from the table.

Jenny watched them until they disappeared from sight, before turning her attention back to the story Ducky was currently telling them. Sitting around the dinner table listening to the older man regaling them with a story or two, reminded her of the rare occasions she had spent with family.

A movement near the door caught everyone's attention, causing Ducky to trail off halfway through his story. Kelly peaked around the corner, her eyes squinted, trying to keep the bright light out of her eyes. She yawned loudly and glared at everyone. Shuffling further into the dining room, she looked around the table.

"Come sit with me, Jelly Kelly." Tony coaxed softly, holding out his arms to the toddler. Kelly glared at him even more, shying away from his out stretched arms. He could hear everyone laugh quietly at his expense.

Jenny looked at Kelly with concern etched across her face. The little girl was even more pale than a couple of hours ago. The little girl looked straight at her and she felt her heart break as the tears slipped down Kelly's cheeks as she rushed towards her. Kelly wasted no time snuggling into her, one hand already fisted tightly in Jenny's blouse.

Placing a soft kiss on her forehead, Jenny slowly rocked Kelly, trying to get her to calm down.

The noise coming from the dining room was hard to hear from the kitchen, it always puzzled Jethro why the two rooms were so far apart. Sighing, he rolled his head from side to side trying to relieve some of the tension between his shoulder blades. Leaning against the counter, he waited for the kettle to boil. He heard Joann shuffle around and the clink of glass.

Jethro watched to old woman closely as she moved around the kitchen, there was something bothering her, he could see it in the way she tried to avoid looking at him. He found it strange, she usually badgered him with question until he snapped and told her something.

Trudging to where she stood, he reached up and took the rest of the bowls down that she couldn't reach. He grabbed her arm gently as she tried to push past him. He shook his head at her once she started to protest to being manoeuvred around her own kitchen.

"What is it?" Jethro growled at her when she tried to pull free of his grip. He let her go after a moment, scowling at her instead.

"What are you talking about?" Joann asked after putting a fair amount of distance between them, taking his spot where he had leaned against the counter.

Joann knew there was no point in playing dumb with Jethro, he would figure out she was hiding something sooner or later. When his pointed glare didn't falter she rolled her eyes at him and crossed her arms over her chest, in no mood to be intimidated by him.

She'd had ulterior motives in asking him to help her, but now that the opportunity presented itself, she was starting to wish she had taken Jenny up on her offer instead. Tonight she had felt the loss of her daughter more than usual, and it reminded her once again of how short life truly was, and that there was no use in shutting people out.

Jethro had grown impatient and had taken it upon himself to dish out dessert, his back was turned to her and she knew he was dividing the apple pie in unfair portions. "Jethro," her tone was scolding but amused all the same, it still surprised her that he actually had a sweet tooth when it came to dessert.

Letting out a breath, Joann squeezed her eyes shut, "I thought about inviting your father." she blurted out before losing her nerve. The unmistakable sound of steel hitting glass echoed through the silent kitchen. Joann pursed her lips in frustration, preparing herself for the fight to come.

Jenny padded down the hall, a whimpering Kelly in her arm she tried her best to sooth her. The sound cutlery almost breaking caused her to stop right in her tracks.

"So he could spoil the evening by bringing a date?" Jethro's question was cold and full of unspoken accusation. Accusation that went back to the day of Shannon's funeral. He wanted to blame her for his father's choice of bringing a date to a funeral.

"The only person who would have spoiled everything, is you." Joann snapped at him.

Jethro grit his teeth, his top lip curling up in anger. He curled his hand into a fist, trying to stop himself from slamming it down on the counter. Turning on the older woman, he glared at her darkly.

"What Jethro? Don't you thing Jack deserves to be a part of Kelly's life?" It was a low blow, she knew how much he respected his father despite the bad blood between them. Jethro still didn't know that Jack had met Kelly, it was a secret that was slowly eating her up on the inside.

"No, Joann. If he wanted anything to do with his granddaughter he would have called, and apologised." Jethro growled at her, doing his best to keep his voice low and to avoid the rest of their guests to over hear their conversation.

"Oh for the love of..." Joann trailed off, rounding the island and standing in front of Jethro, "Why don't you call and apologise for being unreasonable?" she poked him right in the chest, looking up at him.

"Unreasonable. He brought a date to my wife's funeral." Jethro ground out between clenched teeth.

Joann stepped back, an eyebrow raised, "You can't accept the fact that your father moved on." the words slipped out before she realised it, "You of all people should know that it isn't easy to do that." she added quietly.

Joann sighed, reaching out to take Jethro's hand in hers, she gave him an almost shaky smile, "Jethro, your father misses you and it's killing him that you're not talking to him."

"Joann, he-" Jethro started but Joann held up a hand and stopped him from speaking.

"He is your father Jethro, and parents make mistakes; you've made some of your own. That doesn't give you a reason to pretend he doesn't exist."

Jethro turned from staring out the window to looking at his ex mother-in-law, he opened his mouth to say something when a movement in the hall, leading out of the kitchen, caught his eye. Stepping around the older woman, he moved quickly to see who was hiding around the corner.

Jethro stormed around the corner, ready to head slap his senior field agent for eavesdropping on his conversation. He swallowed as he came face to face with a pair of emerald green orbs. He knew she heard his entire conversation with Joann, the angry and hurt look in her eyes told him that much. She shook her head when he attempted to explain what she had heard. Looking from her to Kelly, he could see the concern in her eyes despite being angry at him.

"She's been asking for you." Jenny managed to say calmly, prying the toddler's tight grip loose and handing her over to her father, "Her fever is back, I think she could do with some more medicine."

Jenny ran a hand through Kelly's damp hair, she hesitated for a moment, wondering if she should leave or stay and face him when they were alone. Chewing her bottom lip lightly; she felt herself leaning towards leaving, she didn't want to go into their pasts, she had too much to hide. Forcing herself to let go, she dropped her hand to her side and turned to leave.

Jethro's hand clamped around hers in a vice like grip, rooting her to the spot. Squeezing her eyes shut, she cursed his inability to let go of certain things.

"Don't..." It was all he said, and she could see that it was taking a lot out of him to try and stop her, to explain himself to her.

They didn't stay for dessert, Jethro excused them shorty after their confrontation, saying Kelly was looking worse and that he wanted to get her home. It wasn't a lie, but it wasn't the whole truth either. The ride to her Georgetown mansion was shorter than expected, and she found herself wishing that she had insisted Ziva bring her home.

They sat in silence for a while, the air crackling between them, whether with sexual tension or anger she wasn't sure. She wasn't all too sure about having this conversation with him. She had ignored the issue of Kelly's mother from the moment she found out about the little girl, she had never even bargained on them actually lasting this long. It might have been wrong of her to listen in on a conversation rather than announcing her presence, but she doubted Jethro would have told her.

Jethro looked over his shoulder at Kelly, who was fast asleep wrapped in his coat. He knew that he was supposed to say something since he had stopped her from running away, ultimately digging his own hole and now he didn't know how to get himself out.

He should have known that sooner or later the easy going relationship between them would go south. Secrets didn't make for a stable environment, and somehow he knew he wasn't the only one who had them. What angered him the most was that he felt like owing Jenny and explanation before she left his sorry ass.

"Walk you to your door." It wasn't a question.

Jenny nodded and opened her door, she cast one last glance in the back seat, watching for a moment as Kelly slept.

Jethro was waiting in the footpath, watching as she traced the frown on Kelly's forehead before extracting herself from the car and thundering past him to her front door. He rolled his eyes at himself when he realised he was jogging after her, almost like a lost puppy. What he did find interesting was the fact that she could move so fast in those heels, the woman really was going to be the death of him.

"Goodnight." The old cherry wood door was already open, all she had to do was slip inside and slam the door in Jethro's face.

"Jenny," Jethro growled at her, pulling her back before she could slip through the door.

The redhead glared at him, the golden rings around her eyes indicting just how upset she was with him. In the back of his mind he realised that her eyes looked the same when she was turned on. Pushing the thought to out of his mind, he dropped her hand and stepped back, running a hand through his cropped hair. This was harder than he thought.

"Why didn't you tell me Kelly's mother was dead?" There was no point in ignoring what she wanted to know. He'd lied to her from the beginning, and she didn't take very kindly to being lied to.

Jethro scowled at her, his uneasiness easily betrayed by the way he was clenching his jaw. Something she noticed he did when they were teetering on the edge of something serious that forced him to open up, or act in a certain way. Crossing her arms she raised her eyebrows at him, waiting for an answer.

When his only response was to shrug, she felt her restraint slowly start to slip. On any other day his preference for a non-verbal reply would have been endearing, but she wanted a straight answer from him, not one of his riddle-like questions. Stuffing her hands in her coat pockets, afraid she might snap and slap him for being a bastard, she stepped closer to him.

"All I want is a straight answer from you Jethro." She looked up at him, still considerably shorted than him in her heels. Jenny felt the irritation and anger radiate off him, uncomfortable with being confronted.

"Didn't think it would make for good conversation." Jethro snapped aggressively, he had to remind himself that she had every right to be upset with him. He would have been if she had lied to him.

Jenny's cheeks flushed, "You could have told me the night I asked you."

Jethro's glare darkened, he knew she was right, she had given him the perfect opportunity to come clean the night she had invited him to dinner. It dawned on him that she had given him every available opportunity to come clean about Shannon, when she could have easily accessed his personal file.

Jenny had opened the front door again, her one hand curled around the knob tightly. She was halfway through the door, on the verge of stepping inside and slamming the door in Jethro's face when his voice stopped her.

"Shannon died a month after Kelly was born." It was the same straight forward don't-ask-questions sentence he recited to all the other women he'd had in his life. The reactions were usually the same. They'd gasp and burst out in anger about being kept in the dark, after that it didn't last long, a week at the most and they'd be gone for good.

A smooth hand rested against his cheek, drawing his gaze from staring at nothing in the distance to looking right at Jenny.

"That wasn't so hard, was it?" Jenny asked gently, the barest hint of amusement seeping into her voice.

Jethro frowned at her. She didn't react the way he had expected and he guessed that, like him, she had dealt with death and loss too much in her life to be shocked by it; or she knew all along and just wanted to hear it from him.

Jenny waited patiently for Jethro to either pull away or answer her. She wasn't too surprised that Jethro's wife had passed away. After all she wasn't stupid, she had somehow known even before overhearing the conversation in the kitchen that Shannon had passed away, woman's intuition maybe.

The anger she felt toward him had faded some since he had at least given her an honest answer. It would have been childish on her part to slam the door in his face and tell him to get lost. Jethro was too much of an introvert to blab about how he felt, or even about his past. It took a lot of coaxing and occasionally anger to get him to say at least something about how he felt.

"Why aren't you talking to your father?" Jenny felt Jethro falter as he was nuzzling his nose in her hair.

"Don't start, Jen." Jethro's body tensed as he moved away from Jenny. It was one thing telling her about Shannon, and another telling her why he had no contact with his father.

Jethro stood on the last step leading up to the front porch, his back turned to Jenny. He had no particular reason for not talking to his father, only that he'd had a shaky relationship with his old man since his mother had passed away.

"How would you feel if Kelly didn't talk to you?" She realised too late that it wasn't the right thing to say.

"How can you ask that?!" Jethro shouted at her, his eyes flashing with pain and anger. He had made his way back up the stairs, invading her personal space, "You don't even have a kid, so you don't even know how it would feel." Jethro's anger had clouded his judgement, and he said the first thing he thought would hurt her feelings. He'd seen how much she cared for Kelly, and he knew she had a basic concept of how it would feel.

Tears sprung to her eyes, angry tears that stung. Jenny quickly took a step back as Jethro reached out a hand to her.

Jethro bit his tongue.

Jenny curled her hands into fists, and in that moment Jethro realised she didn't cry because she was angry. They were tears of regret, deep inside he prayed against all odds that she wasn't regretting ever getting involved with him.

"Jen-"

"No, you bastard. Don't try and explain yourself out of this." The front door was once again wrenched open.

Jenny turned just as Jethro decided to follow. She glared at him for even daring to follow her, "I care about Kelly, even though she isn't my own daughter. And I care about you, Jethro." she swallowed down the rest of her tears, "I might not be your wife, or Kelly's mother, but the least you can do is respect me."

The heavy door was halfway shut before she looked him straight in the eye, "Until you learn that a relationship is about mutual respect," her eyes flashed dangerously, "I suggest you don't come near me or even call me!"

The door slammed in his face.

---

The ever present blaring music was turned down enough to actually hear someone enter the forensic lab. The front office was deserted, the only activity coming from the whirring computers running tests in the background. It was enough to raise suspicion amongst those who knew the residing forensic scientist.

Abby's head popped around one of the large filing cabinets, her eyes scanning the lab meticulously, looking for any sign of El Jefe or the Lady Boss. Satisfied that neither of them had wandered into her lab, Abby spun on her platform boots and bounced back to the silver metal table where her co-workers were currently seated.

"Should we not close the door?" Ziva leaned to the side, wanting to make sure no-one was there, listening.

"No, this way I can hear if one of them comes in." Abby retorted with an easy smile, Ziva looked at her unconvinced, Abby shrugghed and perched on one of the empty lab chairs. "So, do we know why Gibbs and Jenny haven't talked to each other in like a week?"

The two women across from her looked at each other, silently agreeing that they'd share what they knew with the Goth. Kate nodded her head towards Abby, urging the Israeli to share what she had gathered over the last couple of days.

Making sure there really was no-one next door Ziva finally caved, "Okay. I do not know the whole story but when I phoned Jenny last Sunday, she called me Jethro and said I should stop calling her." Ziva's brown eyes danced knowingly.

Abby moved forward on her chair, her elbows propped on the table and her chin resting in her palm, the crease in her brow indicating her concern. Shifting only slightly she met Kate's eyes, silently demanding that she share what she knew.

"That's all we know Abs." Kate lifted her hands in surrender as Abby glared at her. "All that I can say is that I'm surprised Jenny held out this long, because if Gibbs is a pain to work with imagine what he's like at home."

"Caitlin Todd," A voice boomed from the doorway.

All three women jumped. Ziva reached for her weapon, which thankfully was locked away in her desk.

"Jeez, Tony!" Kate growled at the grinning Italian.

"What, Kate? You thought I was Gibbs. It'll teach you to gossip without me." Tony pulled a lab chair closer, making himself at home next to Abby, clasping his hand on the table he looked between the three women, "What do we know so far?"

"Je-" Abby started.

"No!" Kate and Ziva shouted, both reaching across the table and clamping a hand over the babbling scientist's mouth.

Abby nodded her head with wide eyes, accepting the two women's silent request.

Tony narrowed his eyes at his two colleagues, unimpressed with their tactic of keeping Abby quiet on what she knew. Sitting a little straighter he smoothed his tie down before folding his arm. It wasn't long before he an accusing finger at someone.

"You're a bad influence." He grumbled at a smug Kate.

Kate grinned at him, fluttering her eyelashes prettily, "You're just jealous, Tony, because we know something about Gibbs that you don't." She shared a sly smile with Ziva before turning back to Tony.

"I expected more from you, Kate." Tony gave them all a hurt look for not including him in their late afternoon gossip session. He looked at his hands, inspecting his nails, determined on irritating them enough so they could share with him; even if it was just to have him leave.

Abby moved a little closer to him, resting her head on his shoulder in a silent apology. Tony wrapped an arm around her and hugged her, winking when she looked at him.

"Why do you think Gibbs and Jenny are fighting?" Abby asked after a short moment of silence, her green eyes large as she from the bright red straw in her Caf-Pow!

Tony narrowed his eyes at her playfully, pretending to think about it, "Maybe the Boss-man asked her for something more serious and she said no. I mean if you think about it, it makes sense doesn't it, he has a kid."

Kate rolled her eyes at Tony, "Don't kid yourself DiNozzo. Maybe Gibbs is the one avoiding something serious." She stared him down when he rolled his eyes at her, but she knew he understood where she was coming from. They both had been around when things had started to go wrong with Stephanie.

Ziva simply looked between the three as they shared their theories, not willing to enlighten them on just how much she knew of the two team leaders relationship. Although she wasn't completely sure what was the reason for their latest tiff, she knew it was something far more complex than what the rest thought.

"What if Gibbs asked her to marry him?" Abby burst out all of the sudden, her eyes glazing over slightly as she thought about it.

Kate looked at her in shock, along with Tony who looked almost terrified by the idea. Ziva snorted, rather unladylike, with laughter at the thought of her friend getting a marriage proposal. She had spent two years with Jenny Shepard and the last thing she wanted was to be married, no matter how remotely serious she was about the person.

There was movement near the door leading into the lab, and the sound of footsteps were barely discernible above the whirring of all the machines and the music playing in the background. Thinking on her feet, Ziva blurted out the first thing to alert the others of someone else's presence.

"The malls have ears." Ziva snapped at a yapping Tony.

Tony simply ignored her, he'd correct her later, and continued, "Gibbs is like a lone wolf with a cub, and no lady wolf – no matter how pretty she is – is going to get near him or his cub."

He was wearing an almost cheeky grin at his, what he thought great, analogy of the Boss-man. When his smile dropped, he realised they were staring at him. He felt the blood drain from his face as he looked right at Kate.

"Gibbs?" Tony mouthed at her as she simply stared. The subtle shake of her head made him swallow heavily.

Spinning on his chair, he looked into a pair of angry green eyes.

"Jenny… Agent, Ma'am. We were just… I mean… I was just… shutting up ma'am" Tony blurted out all at once, the nervousness in his voice causing his words to come out in a jumble.

"Agent DiNozzo, how would you like it if I told Agent Gibbs you were chit-chatting in Abby's lab?" Jenny snapped at the younger agent as soon as he tried to explain himself.

"That wouldn't be very nice of you, ma'am." His attempt of a smile was short lived when he saw Abby shake her head vehemently at him to just stop.

Jenny simply glared at him darkly as he backed away from her, he'd seen her in interrogation before and she was giving him the same look as she did her suspects. He opted for hiding behind Abby since no-one really wanted to hurt her. Something else that terrified him was the rather formal way she addressed him, she rarely called any of them by their titles these days.

They watched as both Jenny and Ziva headed out of the lab.

Tony slumped down in his chair again, looking at his co-workers in shock, "Yikes."

The round button lit up as Jethro jabbed it repeatedly, calling the elevator to the squad room floor, letting out a sigh of relief when he heard the silver box spring into action. Looking over his shoulder, he could see that the rest of his team hadn't miraculously appeared once he left his seat. Only Tim was at his desk, writing up some reports. Jethro shook his head, there was no doubt in his mind that Kate and DiNozzo were somewhere slacking off, and if he found them he was going to wring their necks.

Jethro closed his eyes against the pounding headache in hopes of forcing it away. Kelly hadn't disappointed him in keeping him up at all hours of the night the last few nights. She had seemed better after the first few days and he had felt rather proud of fighting off the cold, he'd even sent her back to school. His victory had been short lived when he'd received a rather panicked phone call from Kelly's teacher saying she'd advise him to keep her home for a few more days.

The fight he'd had with Jenny hadn't helped either. Kelly had been asking about the redhead constantly and he was running out of excuses as to why she couldn't see her.

Jenny. He wanted to blame her for his lack of sleep as well. Whenever he did manage to get Kelly asleep he was lying awake running the things she had said through his mind. He wanted to hate her for saying things that actually made him feel guilty. The mannered person in him knew he should apologise for what he'd said, but he was too much of a bastard to actually say it. At least he'd come to his senses by the fourth time he had tried to call her.

The ding of the elevator brought him back from his thoughts, he waited impatiently for the doors to slide open before he had to face the woman who plagued his thoughts.

The glare he received as the metal doors opened made him narrow his own eyes. He gave no indication of actually moving out of the way.

"Special Agent Gibbs." Came the sarcastic acknowledgement.

"Special Agent Shepard." He bit back equally sarcastic.

Ziva rolled her eyes at the two of them. From what she had gathered from Jenny as she had ranted one morning about men and their incompetent way of thinking, they were fighting about something that could have been resolved with a gentler word – on both their parts.

"Nothing is ever resolved in silence." Ziva looked at them with raised eyebrows, daring them to say any different.

"With," They corrected her simultaneously.

"I meant what I said." The Israeli gave her friend a pointed look before excusing herself and leaving them alone.

Jenny studied Jethro as he stood in front of her. It was hard to miss the tiredness in his posture, or the dark circles under his eyes. She desperately wanted to reach out and smooth down his slightly mused hair; to run her fingers over the frown he wore until he relaxed. However, she was still angry about his remark and was still waiting for an apology she knew wouldn't come.

Clearing her throat, Jenny stepped off the elevator, standing a little closer to Jethro. She could feel the frustration radiate off him as he tried to glare at her. She knew that he was fighting a headache, the frown he wore told her that much, and the way he squinted instead of glared. Going against her better judgement she reached out a hand and rested against his cheek.

It was a silent moment of truce between the two of them.

They weren't any closer to apologising to each other about what had been said, but they needed the moment of contact, even if it was just to draw strength from the other.

Jethro breathed heavily as Jenny pulled away, and for a moment she thought he might apologise. She squeezed his hand tightly as they passed each other, not daring to turn and look at him, she simply squared her shoulders and pretended as if nothing had happened.

A cold wind swept through the suburban street, sweeping leaves up off the ground and blowing them over neatly raked lawns. Jethro turned the collar of his coat up, shielding himself from the icy wind. The curtains in front of the large window rustled as he made his way up the path. The front door swung upon just as he reached the landing.

"You expecting someone else?" Jethro asked as he stepped through the door.

"As a matter of fact, I am." Joann replied with a smile, shutting the door behind him, "Kelly's in the living room, she's been asking for you the whole day."

"She any better?"

"No, her fever spiked early this afternoon and she's been complaining that her tummy hurts. I gave her something for the fever and the stomach ache."

Jethro sighed dejectedly, "So she's worse."

Jethro turned to the closed sliding doors that lead to the living room. Opening the doors he saw Kelly bundled in a thick blanket fast asleep, her grey bear tucked in with her – his gaze immediately drifted to the movement on one of the other couches.

The young boy looked up, meeting his penetrative gaze. Kyle wormed a hand out of the blanket and waved at Jethro shyly. Returning the boy's wave he stopped glaring and offered the kid a small smile.

"Why is he here?" Jethro turned back to Joann, noting the amused look in her eyes.

"He came to visit Kelly, he was worried when she didn't show up for school this morning." Joann smiled at the little boy as he tried not to look at them, "I didn't see the harm in letting him come over. He's been very helpful."

Jethro nodded as he moved towards Kelly. Sinking down next to her, he took the teddy and placed it on the table, picking her up he cradled her in his arms. She stirred in her sleep, but didn't wake up she simply snuggled into the warmth she felt. Jethro sighed, hoping she'd be this peaceful when he got her home. He looked up at Joann as she held out the backpack that travelled everywhere with Kelly.

"Want me to wait 'til his mom picks him up?" Jethro indicated towards Kyle.

Joann shook her head, "No, I'm taking him home. Donald and I are having dinner with his grandparents, Donald knows his grandfather quite well."

Jethro stood with difficulty, the cold weather wasn't doing much for his injuries. He followed Joann out to the foyer, "Where's his parents?"

"His mother is in New York on business, and his father is stationed on a destroyer." Joann looked at Jethro closely, "Talking about fathers, have you thought about calling yours?"

"Joann," Jethro growled at the older woman, it was enough that Jenny had made him feel guilty about the subject.

The patter of feet prevented their discussion from going any further as Kyle rushed around the corner, his blanket trailing behind him and Kelly's bear clutched in a small fist. He stopped in front of Jethro, holding the bear up in the air, "Mister Gibbs, you forgets Kelly's bear."

Jethro took the bear and ruffled the boys mop of hair, "Thanks." the boy smiled shyly and scampered back to the living room.

They hadn't stuck around long after Kyle had given Jethro Kelly's bear. He had inquired what time her dinner date with Ducky was and had left as quickly as possible. He didn't need the older woman pestering him about having to call his father.

The murderous headache made it almost impossible to navigate a whining Kelly and a barking Yoda. Kelly stood on the porch, softly whimpering and complaining that she felt sick and that her tummy hurt. Jethro fished for the keys in his pockets, while trying to sooth Kelly.

"Daddy, it hurts." Kelly whimpered again, clutching her tummy with one arm as she held onto her father's jeans.

The lock clicked open, much to Jethro's relief. Yoda shot past them, barking happily at his owners, he whined and jumped against Kelly. The little girl turned away from the happy pup, leaning against her father. Yoda barked again, undeterred, and headed down the front steps heading straight for the open gate. A loud whistle caught his attention and he turned around heading towards the house instead.

Once Yoda was safely inside Jethro slammed the door shut, dropping his backpack along with Kelly's near the door, he'd tidy up later. Shrugging out of his coat, he knelt and helped Kelly take off her jacket, noting the thin sheen of sweat that covered her skin. He pressed the back of his hand against her forehead, and looked at her with concern.

"Daddy, I no feel good."

"I know, baby." Jethro kissed her forehead and picked her up, carrying her over to the couch.

Grabbing a pair of shorts and a t-shirt, he helped Kelly strip out of her winter clothes and let her dress a little cooler. Picking her up and settling her on his hip, he tried to find her backpack, which had disappeared from where it had been discarded at the door. Jethro narrowed his eyes, "Yoda!"

The Boston Terrier pranced into the living room, Kelly's pink My Little Pony backpack in his mouth. He wagged his tail as Jethro advanced on him, dropping the bag and barking happily at receiving attention. Jethro grabbed the backpack and bopped the dog lightly on the nose, growling at him to get back in his basket.

Once he'd rinsed Kelly's wash cloth in cold water and had measure the right amount of Tylenol syrup in the dosing spoon and let her swallow it; and had placed an urgent call to Ducky, he settled them on the couch. Laying down he let himself relax for a moment. Kelly was sprawled out on his chest, the wash cloth placed on her forehead. The TV already on, an episode of Johnny Bravo playing on the flickering screen. Yoda crawled towards them, and after receiving a glare he jumped on the couch and curled up near Jethro's feet.

Jethro smirked to himself, the cartoon character reminded him of DiNozzo. He let his mind wander to this afternoon, specifically the moment he had almost walked into Jenny.

It still burned where she had placed her hand against his cheek, in a good way. He'd missed her touch since they had decided to avoid each other, again. He'd wanted nothing more than to pull her against him when she had held his hand for a moment.

He supposed he was wrong for snapping at her for what she had said, after all it had hit home. He couldn't bare the thought of not talking or seeing Kelly for years, it would kill him knowing she didn't want anything to do with him. Jethro swallowed, hugging Kelly closer to him. He pushed the thought from his mind and focused on something else instead.

Jethro's thoughts once again turned to Jenny and what she had accused him of. He'd never meant to give her the impression that he disrespected her, or saw her as less of a woman because she wasn't Kelly's mother. If anything he envied her ability to bring everything into a relationship that was clearly far more complicated than what they had imagined. He had to at least let her know that much.

He had been worked up and had taken it out on her. It was unfair of him to wonder why she didn't ask questions when clearly his reaction didn't invite her to actually ask something. A weight had been lifted off his shoulders though, when he had told her about Shannon, what she did with the knowledge was up to her. The reaction he received was something he was still trying to get over, there had been nothing but understanding in her eyes.

Jenny Shepard was one of a kind, and he was a damn fool if let her slip through his fingers. All he had to do was admit that he had been wrong, it was the same thing keeping him from seeking forgiveness.

Kelly groaned softly as she shifted around; her face contorting with pain and letting a soft wail.

Jethro sat up, placing Kelly on his knee to look at her, he cupped her cheeks in his hands making her look up at him, "Kelly, does your tummy still hurt?" When all he received was a nod, he hoped Ducky didn't take too long.

"Does it feel like you're going to be sick?" Jethro asked almost nervously, the words brought back too many bad memories of ill judgement on his part.

"No," Kelly mumbled and moved closer to him, cuddling into him and resting her head on his shoulder. Leaning forward he picked up the, now warm, wash cloth and threw it on the coffee table. Yoda crawled towards him, whining softly.

Jethro lifted his arm, the Boston Terrier moved closer to Kelly and rested his head on her thigh, offering her his own brand of comfort. Scratching the pup behind his ears, Jethro eased back a little, still aware of the fact that Kelly looked a little green in colour.

It was hard to decide who had heard the unmistakable rumble of the old Morgan first as it turned onto their street. Yoda jumped up, snorting rather than barking as he scrambled to get off the couch and to the door. Jethro wasn't far behind him, struggling to his feet with a sleeping Kelly, his tired body was struggling to co-operate with having to react so quickly. Yoda started yapping hysterically as he heard footsteps headed towards the door.

"Yoda!" Jethro snapped irately at the dog, his poor attempt at barking wasn't doing wonders for his headache. The dog looked at him briefly with bulgy brown eyes and growled instead.

As the door swung open and it became clear who the intruder was; Yoda stopped barking and wagged his tale and snorted in excitement. He stood patiently as he was rewarded with a scratch behind the ear and his chew toy flying across the floor, which had been kicked by none other than his master.

Ducky watched as the Terrier shot across the room to happily chew on something other than his toys. Taking off his hat and coat, and placing his medical bag on the floor, he hung them neatly before turning to his patient and her father.

"Oh dear." The Scotsman looked at the toddler worriedly.

"Hey, Duck, I don't wanna keep ya from your date with Joann, but could you look Kel over and tell me if I have to make and appointment?" Jethro looked from Kelly to the Medical Examiner.

"Let's hold off on that appointment shall we." Ducky smiled at both reassuringly, grabbing the black leather bag at his feet and directing them towards the couch instead. He wasn't aware that Jethro knew about his dinner plans with Joann, he hadn't seemed too upset about it either. Ducky just hoped Jethro didn't know about the other reason he had agreed to visit.

Ducky pulled his stethoscope from its case – a gift from an old friend – giving young Kelly a warm smile he lifted her shirt just enough to press the diaphragm against her chest. He didn't have to tell her to breathe, she'd visited him enough by now to know what to do – thanks to her father's paranoia, at least he'd calmed down over the last year.

"Can it be her tonsils, Duck?" Jethro asked from where he was sat on the coffee table, watching Kelly closely.

"There's no visible inflammation," Ducky tried to feel for any sign of swelling, "has she been complaining about a sore throat?"

"Nah, just keeps complainin' that her tummy hurts." Jethro supplied, scrubbing a hand over his face tiredly.

"Ah I see." Ducky said knowingly, taking the thermometer he'd given Kelly after he'd examined her throat. It only gave a more precise reading of the fever he knew she had. Tapping the little girl's nose affectionately he placed a hand on her forehead, "My dear Kelly, do you feel like being sick?"

"No," She whispered, "my tummy hurts."

Jethro smiled wearily.

Ducky fished for something in his bag and pulled out a lollipop, offering it to his young patient. He smiled warmly at the soft thank you he received. Closing his bag he stood, motioning for Jethro to follow him outside.

He placed his hat on his head adjusting it a little, trying to stall for as long as possible. Jethro followed behind him in sock clad feet, making him even more stealthy than usual. He cleared his throat to chase away the nervousness, a feeling he rarely felt. Hesitant as to how to say what he wanted he chose to start with what he knew.

"It seems like Kelly might have a stomach virus, although I'm afraid it is only just starting." Ducky avoided looking at his colleague.

"Thanks Duck, apologies for keeping ya from dinner." Jethro turned, making his way back up the front steps.

"Jethro," Ducky's voice stopped him, "I suggest some time off, maybe a weekend away."

Jethro narrowed his eyes suspiciously, he was lost with what the comment meant. Running a hand through his hair, he moved down the steps and stopped in the footpath. Placing his hands on his hips he smiled slightly, "I've never been one for riddles, Duck." he was forming a slight idea as to what this was about.

Ducky gripped the handle of his bag a little tighter, wondering why he had agreed to talk to his friend about something that was in fact, a family matter. Adjusting his hat so he could look Jethro in the eye, he walked to were the younger man was standing.

"Call your father, Jethro."

"Ah hell, Ducky." Jethro pressed both his palms against his forehead, the subject was getting old, fast. "Who put you up to this, Joann? Or was it Jen?"

Ducky quickly saw an opportunity to deflect Jethro's question, "Is that the reason you and Jennifer have been fighting?"

Jethro let out a heavy sigh and shrugging in defeat, "I don't know. She seemed more upset about my dad than she did about Shannon."

Ducky didn't show any form of surprise, Jenny had told him all about what she had over heard, and he too had been caught off guard when she had confided in him that she wasn't upset about it. He admired her ability to understand why Jethro had kept that piece of information a secret, but he had detected pain that she seemed to share with her lover – albeit a different kind, he had seen the vengeance in her eyes.

"Jennifer is an understanding woman, maybe if you talk to her she'll understand."

Jethro narrowed his eyes, "Don't you have somewhere to be, Duck?"

Ducky let out a slight chuckle, "Yes, I better get going."

Jethro waited until the old Morgan backed out of his driveway and made it's way up the street. He shook his head, the nagging to call his father was starting to get on his nerves. The insistent scratching against the door lured him back inside.

It was somewhere before nine o'clock when Kelly started showing signs of being really sick. She'd complained about not feeling well and had refused to eat any of her dinner, despite the fact that she hadn't had anything solid to eat the whole day, except yoghurt and the lollipop Ducky had given her. Jethro had been in the process of washing the dishes when Kelly had alerted him she felt like being sick. They had just burst through the bathroom door when she couldn't hold out any longer.

Jethro settled Kelly in the bathtub, his knees protesting as he knelt down on the tile floor. He twirled his hand in the lukewarm water, trying to make the bubble bath liquid foam more. Taking the sponge that floated around in the water, he squeezed the water over the tiny body sitting in the tub. He prayed that the water might break her fever.

"Daddy," Kelly spoke after she was drenched in water, her curls plastered against her forehead.

"Yeah honey?" Jethro asked while squeezing conditioner into his palm.

"I wanna see Jenny." Kelly looked at him earnestly, her eyes shining with tears.

Jethro sighed, giving her a tight smile, pressing a kiss to her forehead he whispered against her temple softly, "Me too."

Kelly rinsed her own hair while Jethro looked around for a clean towel, "Remember to keep your eyes closed, Kel."

He heard her huff.

Jethro shook his head, a smile playing on his lips. Grabbing one of the towels in the closet he hurried back to where Kelly was waiting patiently in the tub. He was relieved when she looked as if she had a bit more colour in her cheeks. Lifting her out of the water, he wrapped her in the oversized towel and carried her back to his bedroom. Jethro helped Kelly dry off and let her get dressed while he hung the towel and grabbed her hair brush that had made its way onto his dresser.

Jethro watched as Kelly struggled to keep her eyes open, placing the brush back on his dresser he chose to rather struggle with the knots in the morning. He heard Yoda rushing up the stairs, his paws scraping on the wooden floor. It amazed him how the dog knew exactly when Kelly was about to fall asleep.

Yoda barrelled into the bedroom and jumped onto the bed. He found an opening to get under the covers and curled up next to Kelly. Jethro waited until both his companions for the night were settled before he turned off the light.

Feeling his way towards the bed he sunk down on the soft mattress, groaning as he stretched out. Kelly rolled towards him and rested her head on his shoulder, grumbling as Yoda moved closer to her and pressed himself against her back. Jethro reached out and scratched the pup until he settled down and started snoring, Kelly following closely behind him. Closing his eyes he tried to get some rest as well.

"How would you feel if Kelly didn't talk to you?"

Jethro's eyes snapped open, he could hear Jenny say those words, and if he closed his eyes he could see the sadness in her eyes.

Frustrated he searched for the switch that would turn on the lamp next to his bed. As soon as the room was dimly illuminated he grabbed his mobile phone – something he had acquired after the whole Kyle Boone fiasco – holding the phone in the dim light he ran his thumb over the keypad.

The red numbers on his alarm clock blinked, showing that it was nearing ten o'clock. Jethro cleared his throat, if memory served him right his old man usually stayed up until well past midnight. The keypad beeped with each number he punched in for his childhood home.

There was one number left.

Jethro narrowed his eyes, contemplating whether he had the energy to speak to his father. Kelly shifted and snuggled into his side. He'd do it for his daughter.

The final button beeped and the dial tone started almost immediately. Pressing the phone against his ear he waited for someone to pick up. It suddenly struck him that he didn't know whether his father still lived in the same house, or if he had someone to keep him company at night.

The dial tone continued for a while longer and Jethro considered hanging up before someone answered. Before he could go through with his plan, there was static on the line and voices being turned down in the background. Despite his hostile feelings, he smiled.

"Hello?" The familiar rasp of a voice came over the phone.

Jethro grit his teeth, still seeing the opportunity to hang up the phone.

"Hello?" Came the voice again, the annoyance in his voice clear.

"Jack," Jethro finally spoke, his father's name felt strange as he said it.

"Leroy." The older man sounded surprised, no doubt being caught off guard by the late night phone call, "Is everything all right? Did something happen?"

Jethro was silent for a moment, he hadn't spoken to his father in years, not even at the funeral. He scraped his throat before answering, "No, everything's fine." he closed his eyes and shook his head, this was pathetic, "How are you?" There was silence on the other end of the line, he could hear the cogs turn in the old man's head as he tried to find the right answer without setting off a fight.

"Everything is as good as it can be. How's my granddaughter?" It seemed like the safest topic to discuss given the circumstances.

"She's good, she's got the flu, but other than that she's just perfect." Jethro let out a deep breath.

Silence descended once again, neither sure what to say or ask next. Jethro pressed his palm against his forehead, running it through his hair and pulling slightly. He wasn't in the mood for a fight and he found that a serious conversation over the phone was too impersonal, and he suddenly felt the need to end the call.

"Can we come up for a weekend as soon as Kelly is better?"

"Nothing would make me happier. I'm sure you still know the way." It was impossible not to hear the smile in Jackson's voice at the thought of seeing them.

"Night." Jethro said roughly.

"Night, son."

Jethro flipped his phone shut, resting his head against the headboard. He was relieved at the thought of everyone getting off his back now that he had called his father.

He had been serious when he had asked if they could come up for a weekend, the change of scenery would be good for the both of them. In the dead silence of his bedroom he let his mind wander to the last time he had been in his home town.

The memories were too painful to relive, and he only then realised that he would have to face them again, alone. There was no doubt that the serious conversation between him and his father would happen, unless there was someone to distract them from doing so.

Maybe he could ask Jenny to join them, it might do the both them some good to be alone for a while, away from prying eyes. Kelly would be too caught up with being entertained by Jack to even pay attention to either of them, that's if she didn't turn into her shy-self when they arrived in Stillwater.

Jethro stared into the darkness, he created more problems for himself than he tried to solve them. There was still the issue of apologising for his actions the other night.

Remembering the brief moment of contact in the elevator, he found himself wanting to hear the redhead's voice before settling to finally sleep. Kelly shifted next to him as he started punching in the number, she groaned and rolled away from him, kicking away the comforter. Yoda looked at him as he moved to his feet instead.

"She's hot." Was his explanation to the confused pup as he curled up once again.

The phone was pressed against his ear again, he wasn't sure if she was still up at this hour or if she was getting the sleep he longed for. He doubted she would be in bed by now, if anything she was still at the office, working on who knows what.

"Shepard." Came the curt answer, he could hear the cleaning crew in the background as they moved through the empty office building.

"Don't you sleep?" It was a stupid question, but he hadn't bargained on her actually answering and he suddenly found himself at a loss for words.

"Looks like you don't either." He felt himself being enveloped by her voice as she purred in his ear.

Kelly sat up next to him, her face once again pale.

"Jen, I have to go-" He dropped the phone on the night stand, grabbing the toddler. "No, Kel, don't!" Yoda gave a panicked bark and jump off of the bed.

Kelly bent forward and Jethro just closed his eyes, knowing it was too late.

---

The warm yellow lights inside the large Georgetown mansion was welcoming as it loomed in the sky proudly. The blood red hearse was parked across the street, it's occupant nervously debating her plan of dropping by uninvited. Grabbing the large leather bag on the passenger seat, she ventured across the street. Pressing the doorbell before she lost her nerve.

The door swung open and a Hispanic woman appeared, her dark eyes kind and warm. Abby's brows knitted together, "Oh, I'm sorry. I must have the wrong address." turning on her high platform boots she headed back to her hearse.

"No, señora, wait!" Noemi pulled her sweater a little tighter and stepped out, "I'm sure you have the right address, you are looking for Jenny?"

Abby stopped, lifting her bag a little higher on her shoulder, she walked towards the woman again nodding to her question. She relaxed when the older woman smiled at her and motioned for her to join her inside. Feeling the nervousness dissipate, Abby allowed herself to relax a tiny bit.

"I take it you are, Abby?" The older woman asked her once they were inside and the door was closed behind them.

Abby's eyebrows shot into her hairline.

The other woman laughed softly, placing a hand against her chest, "I am Noemi. Señora Jenny has spoken very highly of you." Noemi smiled again, "I call her for you."

Abby watched Noemi disappear down the hall, leaving her alone in the large foyer. Dropping her bag at her feet, she chose to pace around, running through her mind the various excuses for bothering Jenny at home. It wasn't long before she started twisting one of her pigtails, trying to make sense in her own head.

She jumped slightly when someone cleared their throat almost right next to her.

Abby stared at Jenny with large eyes, "Uhm… Hi."

"Hi, Abby." Jenny returned her greeting. A black blur headed straight for her, enveloping her in a bone crushing hug. Jenny patted Abby's back lightly, hoping she'd loosen her grip.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to hug you so tight. It's just I'm nervous, I hope I'm not bothering you." Abby looked everywhere except at Jenny, "It's just, Ducky said you might visit Gibbs tonight, since he wasn't at work today, and I was wondering if I could give Kelly her gifts from the team so she can feel better."

Taking a breath Abby continued, "I would do it myself, but I know I'll get the flu. Once my cousin had the flu and we were together for like five minutes and I had it. Also I can't afford to stay away from work, because then they'd need to find someone to help out and that could take days. Timmy's got a degree, but he doesn't always understand Major Mas-spec. Tony's just an accident waiting to happen, and he'll just fight with Kate the whole time."

"Abby," Jenny interrupted the woman's ranting, an amused smile curling her lips, "Abby, it's fine I understand, and I really don't mind."

"Oh, okay, thank you." Abby turned to leave, her bag hoisted on her shoulder again.

"Abby," The scientist spun on her boots facing her again, "the gifts."

A faint blush crept across her cheeks. Dropping the leather bag on the tiled floor, she started pulling various packages out of it. There were a stack of VHS tapes, along with a new set of colouring books and new crayons.

"The tapes are from Tony, he said they were her favourite. The colouring books are from the rest of us, we couldn't decide on one so we each picked one."

"I'm sure she'll love it." Jenny took the items from Abby, placing them on the table next to her car keys, "We're fresh out of Caf-Pow!, the best I can do is coffee."

Abby giggled softly at the joke, shaking her head, "Oh, no thank you."

An almost awkward silence fell over the two women, neither sure what to say next. They very rarely spent any time together outside of work, and it was mainly due to the fact that Abby didn't want to interfere between her and Gibbs. The Goth chewed her lip again, wondering if she could speak freely.

"Something on your mind Abby?" Jenny asked when she saw Abby hover between leaving and speaking.

"That was such a Gibbs move." Abby said in the highest regards. After another bout of silence the Goth finally spoke, "I don't know why you and Gibbs are fighting, but I'm sure he didn't mean to hurt you or anything. He's not very good with words and he doesn't always use the right ones, but deep down he's very sweet and caring."

Jenny smiled at the younger woman, reaching out she hugged her, "I know, Abs."

Abby beamed brightly, grabbing her bag were it lay on the floor she made her way to the front door, waving as she slipped into the early night air.

Jenny stood in the foyer, staring at the closed door, her mind miles away. She wondered if the good doctor had let it slip on purpose that she was thinking about visiting Jethro and Kelly, and if he had picked up on her indecision to actually go through with her plan. Last night's phone call had worried her, she had tried to call back but no-one had answered.

"You are wasting time staring at the door." Noemi said from behind her, a container in her hands.

"Is it too late to change my mind?"

"Yes," Noemi gave her a look that left no room for argument.

Noemi held up her hand to stop Jenny from protesting any further. Pushing the container into Jenny's hands she turned and went back to the kitchen. Jenny narrowed her eyes at the older woman. Huffing she pulled her coat on and gathered everything she had to take with her.

"I'll see you tomorrow?" Jenny asked as Noemi returned with a flask in her hand.

"I'll be here, before you are awake. In the flask is coffee for señor Gibbs." Handing over the flask she folded her arms, a teasing smile on her lips, "Will you be home tomorrow?"

Jenny glared at her, she should have know Noemi would tease her about that incident. Noemi gave her a tight hug and kissed her temple, already steering her towards the door, "Now leave before it gets too late."

The urge to runaway was almost over whelming as Jenny made her way up the footpath. She briefly entertained the idea of placing everything on his doorstep, knocking and then heading back to her car. She was finding her inability to stay angry with him increasingly frustrating. He was supposed to apologise for what he had said, not sweet talk her into forgiving him without actually saying it.

Standing on his doorstep, she wondered whether she should let herself in or knock, either way Yoda would still alert him that there was someone at the door. Opting for knocking, she rapped her knuckles against the oval window, and waited. It wasn't long before Yoda was in front of the door, barking at the late night visitor.

There were butterflies in her stomach as she heard Jethro snap at the Boston Terrier, Jenny suddenly felt anxious about dropping by, not sure how she would be received.

Jethro appeared on the other side of the window, a dark scowl on his face.

Jenny bit her lip, she knew he meant to look intimidating, but she found him rather attractive as he glared at her. The hard expression eased away as he realised who she was. He moved to open the door and she admired the way the light made the streaks of silver in his dark hair more prominent.

"What ya doin' here, Jen?" Jethro had stepped aside to let her in, the smallest of smiles playing on his lips.

Walking into the warmth the house offered, she indicated to everything in her arms, "I come bearing gifts."

Jethro raised an eyebrow at her as he shut the door. She handed him the two packages his team had sent along with her, "These are for Kelly, from your team." she held the container up, "As is this, Noemi's famous chicken broth."

Jethro eyed the flaks in her other hand, she grinned at him and held it up, "This," she stepped closer to him, "is for you."

"You stayin'?" Jethro asked as he placed everything on a nearby table.

Jenny pursed her lips, this was her opportunity to make up an excuse and leave. She felt herself being drawn in by the mesmerizing blue orb that stared at her. Against her better judgement, she nodded, already shrugging her coat off her shoulders. Jethro took it from her and hung it on the rarely used coat rack.

Jethro placed a hand on her lower back, steering her into the living room. They stopped near the couch were Kelly was fast asleep with Yoda curled up right next to her. "She's been asking to see you." The surprise on her face was enough to make him smile once again.

"Is she okay? Last night she didn't sound too good." The dark look on Jethro's face told her he didn't want to talk about it.

Jethro took the flask and container and headed for the kitchen, motioning for Jenny to follow. He watched as she took a seat at the breakfast table. He had been surprised when she had turned up at his door, their phone call the previous night had been cut short before either could actually say anything. Unscrewing the top of the flask, he grunted his approval.

"Noemi said she doubted you've had a decent cup of coffee since Kelly had fallen sick."

Jethro poured the bitter brew into two cup, handing one to the redhead, "Noemi is a very smart lady."

The inevitable awkwardness settled over them as they sat across from each other.

Jethro drank from his mug, savouring the unique blend of bitter brew. Licking his lips, he watched Jenny closely as she stared into her cup, he wasn't sure what he was supposed to say. He probably had to explain why he had called her, but the silence was much safer. He desperately wanted to reach out and tuck the strand of red hair behind her ear, but he wasn't entirely sure where he stood with her.

Draining his mug of coffee, he pushed it away. Leaning forward on his elbows, he gave in to temptation and wrapped the lock of hair around his finger, enjoying its softness. She had looked at him when he moved, but had dropped her gaze when he touched her. Taking her chin in his thumb and forefinger he lifted her head gently to look at him.

Running his thumb across her lips he moved even closer, "I respect you, Jen." his voice hoarse as he spoke.

Jenny closed her eyes and nuzzled her cheek into his palm, it was the closest to an apology she was ever going to get from him. Opening her eyes again she met his cobalt blue gaze, she felt her stomach flutter at the earnest look in his eyes. She could clearly see that he really did want her to forgive him. It dawned on her that she was in big trouble if all he had to do was flutter his pretty man-lashes and drop his voice a few notches.

The voice inside her head warned her that she couldn't forgive him that easily, it wasn't that simple, but she ignored it. Pressing a kiss to his palm, she took his hand in hers, "I guess I can forgive you."

Jethro grinned at her, a few creases around his eyes disappearing as he relaxed more in her company. He moved towards her his other hand sliding into her hair, holding the back of her head. He pressed his nose against hers affectionately, drawing a smile from her. Tilting her head to the side he leaned in and kissed her.

Jenny sighed as his lips moved against hers, she couldn't remember coffee ever tasting this good. It felt exhilarating feeling his mouth on hers again, he had a certain intensity in the way he kissed her that she doubted she'd ever get enough of, his tongue touched hers tentatively and all thought left her. She heard him groan in pleasure or pain she wasn't sure, but pulled away in need of breath.

Jethro's pupils were fully dilated leaving dark blue rings around them. She licked her lips, savouring the taste of him. She breathed deeply and closed her eyes, "You kiss everyone like that when they forgive you?"

"Mmm... yeah." The huskiness in his voice sent shivers down her spine. Smiling against his lips she kissed him again, taking advantage of being this close to him.

"We have an audience." Jethro murmured against her lips.

Yoda looked at them, not the least bit phased by the glares directed at him. He shifted around in his basket, snorting obnoxiously as he tried to get comfortable.

"What," Jethro snapped at the pup when he didn't look away from them.

"Daddy!" Kelly called from her place on the couch. Extracting himself quickly, he hurried to where Kelly had sat up, looking around with bleary eyes.

"Are you going to be sick?" Jethro had the bucket in front of her. They'd had too many misses over the last twenty four hours for him to try and get her to the bathroom on time. He was already down to his last pair of sweatpants.

"No," Kelly mumbled, looking at the bucket in distaste. Jethro picked her up and looked at the two packages that had been sent for her, but he doubted she'd be interested when she saw who was waiting in the kitchen.

"Guess who's here."

Kelly yawned and shrugged her shoulders before dropping her head on his shoulder, already falling back asleep. He rubbed her back softly as she snuggled against him, trying to sooth her. She hadn't slept for more than two hours at a time without being sick. It had been the longest she'd slept without being sick or having a high temperature, he hoped the chicken broth Jenny had brought with her would stay down long enough.

"Kel," Jethro whispered in her ear, "look who's here."

Kelly sat up in his arms, blinking tiredly, it took her a moment to focus on who was standing in front of her. She smiled at the redhead tiredly and reached out towards her, "Jenny," she mumbled as she laid her head on Jenny's shoulder, "I miss you."

Jenny hugged the toddler tighter, rubbing her back soothingly. Taking her seat again, she adjusted Kelly to be more comfortable. Jethro was moving around the kitchen quietly, leaving her alone with her thoughts while Kelly slept in her arms.

She watched the little girl sleep in her arms, she kissed her forehead softly. Kelly frowned in her sleep, looking much like her father, smiling she drew her eyes away from the little girl and looked at Jethro as he moved around the kitchen. It was amusing to see how different he was in private as opposed to how he was at work – and it took her back to the first day she'd seen him in the squad room.

Jethro lifted her empty coffee cup, silently asking if she wanted a refill, he twitched his nose at her when she shook her head and turned back to the counter. She looked him up and down, her eyes lingering on his behind a little longer than necessary. Running her eyes upwards, she admired his broad shoulders, the realisation that she was undressing him with her eyes was one she didn't mind all that much. She was still smirking when he turned around, and the heat in her cheeks gave away just exactly what she was thinking.

With a Star Wars bowl in one hand and a fresh cup of coffee in the other, Jethro opted for the seat next to Jenny's. Placing the hot chicken broth in front of her he dropped a spoon next to the bowl. Taking a drink from his mug, he scratched the underside of Kelly's sock clad foot lightly. The little girl wriggled her toes and kicked her father's hand away.

"No tickle." Kelly grumbled as she sat up in Jenny's lap, glaring at her father moodily.

Jethro smiled at her and placed the spoon in the bowl, "Eat, Kel."

"No, I no hungry." Kelly mumbled as she leaned against Jenny again, toying with the strands of red hair.

"Jenny brought it for you." Jethro attempted to bribe her. He was rather proud of himself when Kelly sat up straighter and tried the broth for herself. When she took a second spoonful, Jethro relaxed and sat back, his free arm resting on the back of Jenny's chair.

"Should I be taking that as a complement?" Jenny whispered.

Jethro swallowed his mouthful of coffee, "I didn't think it would work."

Jenny laughed softly, shaking her head at him. He shrugged and let his hand slip into her hair again. She leaned into his touch, closing her eyes as he started massaging her scalp. She wondered if he knew enjoyable it was when he played with her hair, or when he was doing what he was currently doing. There really was no denying it; Jethro Gibbs was good with his hands

"Done," Kelly placed her spoon in her empty bowl and slid down Jenny's lap, "Yoda!" The Boston Terrier shot out of his basket, happily following his mistress to the couch where they crawled under the blankets again.

Jethro shook his head, he moved his chair a little closer to Jenny's. He kissed her cheek softly as she turned towards him, he could hear the soft sigh she let slip, "Tough case?"

Jenny shook her head, smiling slightly, "Long day."

Jethro rested a hand on her thigh, pressing his fingertips into the tight muscles. Nuzzling his nose in her hair, he kissed just below her ear. "I called my dad last night."

"Mmm, and how did it go?" Jenny moved even closer too him, enjoying the attention.

"Said we'd visit him as soon as Kelly's better." Jethro husked into her ear, liking the way she shivered. Taking advantage of her relaxed state he pressed on, "You ever been to Stillwater?"

"No, I don't even know where that is."

"Good, cause you're goin' with us." Jethro kissed her cheek again.

"What?" Jenny moved away from him, her green eyes large, "No, Jethro, I'm not."

Jethro pulled her closer again, once again burying his nose in her hair. "Come on, Jen. It'll be good to get away from everything and everyone. Some time alone even." He kissed down her neck, his teeth lightly grazing the sensitive skin.

"Why do I feel like that's not the real reason you want me to go with you." Jenny spoke softly into his ear, enjoying the way his skin broke out in goosebumps.

"You're too perceptive for your own good." Jethro said with a slight laugh. Resting his hand on her cheek he turned her face towards his. Pressing a soft kiss to her lips he rested his forehead against hers, "Please?"

Jenny raised an eyebrow at him, "You can be very sweet when you want something." all she received was a grin in return. Shaking her head, she kissed him back, "I don't have much of a choice do I?"

"Nope."

"Then I suppose I could go with you." Jenny leaned into him, breathing him in. It was only now that she was this close to him that she realised how much she had missed him. There was something about his silence that was calming.

Jethro coaxed her mouth open and deepened their kiss. It wasn't long before she felt his rough hands slip under her sweater. Wrapping her arms around his neck she pulled him even closer in their awkward position. He was about to pull her onto his lap when her phone went off.

With great difficulty she extracted herself from him and answered the offending piece of technology.

Jethro could gather from her side of the conversation that their time together was about to be cut short. He cleared the table and waited for her to finish. After a brief conversation in Hebrew with Ziva she snapped her phone shut and turned back to him.

"Dead marine?" He couldn't help his curiosity.

"Domestic violence."

Jethro only nodded, he'd had his fair share of cases involving beaten women and children to make his blood boil. He followed Jenny as she made her way to the front door, he stood back as she said goodbye to a sleepy Kelly. He smiled when Kelly returned the kiss to Jenny's cheek.

Helping Jenny pull on her coat, he opened the door for her. When he tried to follow her out she stopped him. "She might need you." She kissed him and turned to leave when he grabbed her hand.

Pulling her into his chest, he slid a hand into her hair and placed the other on her butt. He swayed with her a little, drawing the moment out as long as possible before she had to leave. Kissing her deeply until she was breathless, he pressed his lips against her ear.

"I care about you too, Jenny."

---

Jethro rolled his head from side to side, causing it to pop. Yoda yapped at him from the back seat, earning himself a glare from Jethro and a growl from Jenny, Kelly was too deep a sleeper to hear anything. Kelly had been the first to fall asleep as soon as her father had loaded her in the truck. Jenny had kept him company an hour into their drive before she too had fallen asleep. The silence in the cab had made him face the reality of what it meant, the last time he'd been home he'd just turned twenty, and now nearly eighteen years later he was returning.

After Shannon had moved to Washington with him, neither of them had felt the need to go back. He doubted much had changed since the last time he had been in Stillwater.

The sun was slowly starting to rise, turning the dark sky into a soft blue hue. Jenny stirred in her seat as the sun started heating her skin, she mewled softly as she stretched in the limited space. Her eyes opened against her will and she watched as the landscape flicked past her, she knew there was no point in trying to go back to sleep. Twisting in her seat she stared at Jethro instead.

"Morning," Jenny mumbled as she straightened in her seat, once again trying to stretch.

"Mornin', did the dog wake you?" Jethro glanced at her briefly before turning his attention back to the road.

Jenny shook her head and settled back in her seat a little more comfortably, "How long was I asleep?"

"'Bout an hour." Jethro rested a hand on her knee.

"Daddy, I am hungry." Kelly said sleepily, she rubbed her eyes and yawned loudly, smacking her lips, "Daddy are we there yet?"

Jethro chuckled, "No, were not there yet. And we'll have breakfast soon." when he received nothing in return he assumed that his little girl was satisfied with his answer.

The silence hadn't lasted more than five minutes before Kelly started asking all sorts of questions. Questions that even Jenny secretly wanted the answers to. Jethro felt his patience start to wear thin as Kelly asked the same questions over and over again. He was gritting his teeth by the time she asked him if he and his father looked the same for the tenth time. He'd never been happier to see an exit for the nearest gas station.

Kelly forgot all about her questioning once she was out of the truck and happily rolling around on the grass with Yoda. Jethro left her to play, at least he'd have some time to sort through his thoughts before they set out for the final stretch towards Stillwater. Jenny had offered to find them something that at least resembled a light breakfast, since Jackson insisted on having brunch with them once they arrived.

Kelly giggled as Yoda pounced on her and waited for her to throw his chew toy so he could fetch it. Tossing the toy as far as she could she jumped up and ran to her father for safety. She jumped into his waiting arms and laughed as he scooped her up and tickled her.

Kelly settled down as Jethro held her and they both watched Yoda make use of the large expanse of grass. He could feel his daughter's inquisitive gaze burn a hole in the side of his head as he made sure Yoda didn't wander off.

"Daddy?" Kelly rested a hand on his cheek, and turned his face so he could look at her, "Why I never meet grandpa?"

Jethro frowned a little, "I was angry with him for a long time." he answered his daughter truthfully. He didn't see the point in lying to her.

She didn't say anything, she just rested her head on his shoulder and hugged him.

The sound of Jenny clearing her throat drew their attention away from Yoda rolling in the grass. Jethro saw the way she looked at him and knew she'd heard the conversation between him and Kelly. This trip was harder than he'd thought, he was facing memories that were both old and painful to relive. Admitting to his father that he'd been wrong in pushing him away was going taking more out of him than he had bargained for.

"We've got a choice of blueberry, chocolate chip and bran muffins." Jenny presented the three choices in muffins as they took a seat on the nearest picnic table. She'd taken the disgusted look on her lover's face that he wouldn't be picking the last one.

"Which one would you like, Kelly?" Jenny turned her attention back to the little girl. Jethro leaned down and whispered in Kelly's ear.

"Blueberry." Kelly looked up at her father confirming her choice, when he nodded at her discreetly she grinned.

Jenny glared at Jethro as she passed Kelly her muffin along with a bottle of fruit juice, "I should make you eat the bran muffin." she continued to glare at him.

"No, it's bad for my health." Jethro said deadpan.

Jenny shook her head, fighting the urge to laugh at his comment, when he gave her a lopsided smirk she laughed softly. She slid one of the tall Styrofoam cups across the table, she watched him drink the bitter swill and lick his lips. He hummed in appreciation and drank the scalding liquid again.

Breaking a piece off her muffin, Jenny fed Yoda under the table when Jethro wasn't looking. Jenny rolled her eyes when the dog snorted as he ate, so much for being discreet. Kelly tried to hide her giggles as Yoda whined and barked for more. Jethro took a long drink from his cup and raised an eyebrow at her. Yoda barked again looking at Jenny with large eyes.

"He's your problem now." Jethro said simply as he drained the rest of his coffee.

Kelly moved around on the bench where she was seated next to her father, kicking her legs as she stared at her juice bottle. She chewed the inside of her cheek as she waited for her father to finish his conversation with Jenny. She tugged on her father's hand urgently until he turned to look at her.

"What's wrong, Kel?" Jethro looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

Motioning for him to come closer, she whispered in his ear. When she pulled away she avoided looking at Jenny and busied herself with the decorative buttons on her jeans. Jethro rested a protective hand on her head and made her look at him.

"Do you want Jenny to take you?" He asked quietly. Kelly shook her head violently and buried her face in his side, not wanting to look at anyone.

"Is she okay?" Jenny asked concerned.

"Yeah she's just shy," Jethro stood and hoisted Kelly onto his hip, "you see the head anywhere?"

Realisation dawned on her, "Yeah, inside."

Jethro made his way across the parking lot, adjusting Kelly a few times since she couldn't keep her legs still. The small shop was surprisingly busy for six o'clock on a Friday morning, nodding politely at the woman behind the counter, Jethro managed to find the long hallway that lead to the bathrooms.

A sudden panic settled over him as he realised that there was no family bathroom.

Double checking the doors to make sure he hadn't passed it, he came to a harsh realisation. He he'd never taken his daughter on a road trip before, and the last time they had travelled over a long distance she had been a month old baby. Pushing the thought to the back of his mind he stared between the two signs that indicated the different bathrooms. He didn't feel right about exposing his daughter to a men's restroom, it just felt wrong, and it was probably no where near as sanitary as it should be.

"Daddy." Kelly said urgently.

Looking around, he made sure there was no-one around before entering the ladies restroom. Thankful that it was empty he ducked inside the first stall, and struggled to manoeuvre himself and Kelly so he could just close the door. Placing Kelly on the floor, he turned his back to give her at least some privacy.

Jethro felt his heart sink to the soles of his shoes when the restroom door swung open and a group of women came in. Despite his current predicament he couldn't help but listen to what they were chatting about.

"Daddy." Kelly whispered.

Jethro quickly helped Kelly. Standing her in front of him he helped her fasten her jeans, he'd hoped the women would have left by now but he had no such luck. Taking Kelly's hand, he tried to fight down the heat in his cheeks as he opened the door. The chatter didn't stop until both he and Kelly were stood between all the women.

The chatter stopped immediately, Jethro rolled his shoulders and walked with Kelly to the sink. Lifting her to sit on the counter top he proceeded in washing his hands and Kelly's. He could see the surprised, and a few sympathetic, looks directed his way in the mirror. He felt proud of himself when he succeeded in making them more uncomfortable than he was when he glared at them.

Handing Kelly a paper towel he waited patiently for her to dry her hands before throwing it away. Lifting her down he took her hand and lead her to the door, he'd hardly closed the door when the restroom erupted in chatter.

Jenny was already waiting in the truck with Yoda on her lap barking at every car that drove past them. Jethro buckled Kelly into her car seat and slid into his own seat. Jenny noted his flushed cheeks as he avoided looking at her. She didn't have to wait long before he blurted out what caused him to blush so profusely.

"I went into the women's restroom." He appeared almost scarred by the incident.

"And?" Jenny prodded a little further, enjoying how uncomfortable Jethro was with recounting his experience.

"Do you women always refer to..." Jethro looked at Kelly making sure she wasn't listening, still uneasy he mouthed the word.

'Sex.'

"As colouring?" He glared at her when she grinned at him dangerously.

Leaning closer to him she whispered in his ear low enough that only he could hear, "Yeah, and sometimes we compare the size of crayons."

The wide-eyed look he shot her was enough to make her day.

The small town really hadn't changed at all since the last time Jethro had seen it. The small business signs were all the same, and he was willing to bet that the faded paint covering the walls were still from when the doors to the stores had opened the first time. He felt a sense of dread as the sign for the general store came into view, but his eyes strayed to the little clothing store next door.

If he closed his eyes he could still see her standing there in the window, looking right through him with the most beautiful blue eyes he'd ever seen.

People had stopped to see who had rolled into town, curious as to who the visitors might be. Jethro got out of the truck, scanning the side walks. He recognised a few faces, some as friends of his father's others as fellow classmates back in the day. Their judging looks turned from him to the redhead who had accompanied him, there was no doubt that rumours were already doing their rounds, since he knew his father would have told everyone about his visit.

Ignoring the stares, he helped Kelly out of the truck. Rolling the window down he left Yoda in the truck, they'd be back before he even knew they were gone, and his father would have a coronary if he took the rambunctious pup into the store.

Jenny looked around, equally curious. She'd never been in a town so small that people literally knew everyone. It gave her insight into Jethro's strong need for privacy, he'd grown up with people almost constantly looking over his shoulder. The gentle pressure of Jethro's hand on her lower back made her stomach flip. She was in all honesty nervous to meet his father.

Jethro opened the door to the general store, hearing the familiar jingle of the bell took him back to a time where he had been the one working the cash register on weekends. He let Jenny in first before following right behind her. He felt her small hand slip into his as they stood near the counter.

"I'll be with you in a minute to help!" The raspy voice echoed from somewhere in the store.

Kelly slid down her father's side to the floor, hopping to the counter that displayed various jars and containers packed full of sweets and treats.

Jethro felt Jenny occasionally clench her hand in his as they waited. He laced his fingers with hers, her nervousness was making him more edgy than it should. He leaned in to whisper something in her ear but the moment was ruined when Kelly intervened, drawing Jenny's attention to the sweets display.

Jenny squatted next to Kelly, wrapping the little girl in a hug, listening as she rattled on about nothing in particular. He recently found himself admiring Jenny even more when she interacted with Kelly. There was a softness in her that came out whenever she was around Kelly, she became more relaxed and her green eyes seemed to sparkle even more. It made him feel something he hadn't felt in a long time.

His musing was cut short when he heard footsteps approach from the back of the store. Straightening up, he crossed his arms over his chest, pursing his lips.

"How can I.." Jackson trailed off when he saw his son standing near the door, his granddaughter wasn't too far away happily talking to a woman he assumed was Jenny. He hadn't expected him to actually show up.

The two Gibbs men stared at each other.

Jenny looked over her shoulder and was slightly surprised by how similar father and son looked. Standing she steered Kelly away from the tempting treats and towards her father.

"Jack!" Kelly exclaimed excitedly. She still remembered him from months back and the lunch she had shared with him.

Jethro was shocked as Kelly whirled past him and straight into Jack's waiting arms. She laughed as he scooped her off the floor and showered her with kisses.

"Daddy it's Jack! The astronut!" Kelly said happily hugging her grandfather, "Jack, why you not in space?"

Jackson laughed, "I'm home for the weekend."

Jethro was still in a state of shock when Jackson carried Kelly towards them. He'd never seen Kelly so easily run to a stranger, but the cogs in his head were already turning. She said he was the astronaut, which made him remember her obsession with space and someone named Jack, it hadn't made sense back then, but it did now.

"She didn't tell you." It was a statement, not a question. Jackson looked at Kelly and winked, "I had lunch with Joann, she'd brought Kelly along."

Jethro simply nodded, he'd mull over everything later. He had to swallow a few times, his father seemed older than he last remembered, there was more salt than pepper in his hair. He still looked good for a man his age, but for the first time Jethro could see his father was getting old.

"Honey," Jethro addressed his daughter with a smile. "Jack's your grandfather." He knew Kelly had been excited to meet her grandfather after he had explained to her that he was like her Nana, only he was his father as well.

"You can call me Papa if you like." Jack smiled at Kelly as she mouthed the word softly.

"Papa Jack." Kelly stated before hugging him tightly.

Jethro still looked taken aback by the fact that Kelly was so smitten with Jack.

Jackson placed Kelly back on the floor before extending a hand towards the redhead, offering her a warm smile, "Jackson Gibbs, Leroy's father, but you already knew that." Jackson took her hand in his and winked at her.

"Jenny Shepard, Leroy's girlfriend." Jenny returned his greeting with a smile, as confident as usual.

Jackson smiled at her, and she could see where Jethro had gotten his crooked grin from. He seemed amused by her introduction of who exactly she was.

"I like her." Jackson said to his son with an easy smile.

The door to the store burst open and a young African-American boy stumbled through the door. Kelly jumped in surprise and ran to her father, hiding behind his leg. The young boy looked over his shoulder before turning his attention to Jack.

"Sorry I'm late mister Gibbs." The young boy apologised earnestly, taking his backpack off his shoulder and dropping it behind the counter.

"It's all right Duncan." Jack patted the young man on the back, looking out the large window onto the street, "Was that Gantry boy bothering you again?"

"It's nothing." Duncan dismissed the issue, moving to take his place behind the cash register.

"Gantry?" Jethro asked, looking at the boy, "Ed Gantry's son?"

"Now, Leroy, don't you go raising hell over this, you just got back give it a day, at least." Jack said knowingly. Jethro just rolled his eyes at his father.

"Okay, Duncan, I'll be back by noon so you can take the afternoon to study for that big test of yours. I don't want your mother breathing down my neck if you fail." Jack gave the young man a knowing look as he started ushering his visitors out the door.

"Don't you worry about her mister Gibbs. Nice meeting you!" Duncan called as they headed out the door receiving waves from everyone.

The old Ford truck rolled to a stop a few blocks away from the general store. Things really hadn't changed at all, the traditional white picket fence was still up around the front of the old house, the only thing that changed was the brand new coat of white paint that covered it. The roses that had been planted in front of the house were in full bloom for fall. Jethro swallowed against the memory of his mother watering them early in the morning. She was the reason he had roses in his own garden back in DC.

Getting out of the truck with a heavy heart, Jethro made his way to the bed of the truck. Jack was already ushering Jenny and Kelly up the footpath with Yoda prancing after them. Taking a moment he took in the old house, his eyes scanned the top row of windows and stopped when they landed on the last one on the left. The room had been his safe haven since his mother had passed away, before that it had simply been just a room.

Grabbing his duffel bag, he hoisted it over his shoulder. Pulling Jenny's closer he was thankful that she had listened and had backed light. The last two was filled with Kelly's belongings, one for her clothes and one for her various toys. Carrying the bags up the footpath, he stopped and took a breathe before heading inside.

Jethro scanned the foyer, all the pictures still hung on the walls, and as before everything was still the same. He could hear Kelly's laughter come from the kitchen and he lugged all their bags with him.

Kelly was sat on Jenny's lap, safely wrapped in the redhead's arms, watching as Jack started the old percolator. Yoda was sniffing around, familiarising himself with his new environment. Catching Jenny's eye, he smiled at her, taking comfort in the fact that she was there to distract him form the memories.

"We'll discuss sleeping arrangements later, Leroy. Why don't you get the bacon and eggs while I start the coffee and toast."

Jethro packed the duffel bags neatly in the hall, and set out starting brunch. He placed a gentle hand on Jenny's shoulder when she wanted to help, telling her that he was fine.

It was entertaining to see how easily Kelly could wrangle something out of her grandfather, by the time brunch was ready she had managed to get Jack to make her chocolate chip pancakes. Jethro had given her several warning looks, and by the end she was skating on very thin ice. Jack brushed him off several times telling Kelly she could have what ever she wanted.

"Jenny," Jack said as he sipped his coffee, "How did my son manage to attract a lady such as yourself?"

"Dad," Jethro growled, dropping his knife in his still full plate out of frustration.

Jenny reached under the table to squeeze his knee gently. He looked at her and she smiled at him, winking she turned her attention back to Jack, "He was being a chauvinist and I wouldn't have any of it."

Jack smiled at her, his eyebrow raised sceptically. He could see right through her, and he could tell that she wasn't going to admit right in front of his son how she truly felt about him. He'd studied and interacted enough with people to know that what they felt was reciprocated by the other. He'd also seen the way the other's eyes would glisten when they spoke to each other.

"Well I better be off, Duncan needs to study, and I want to stop by Elise's place to let her know you're here." Jack stood from his chair, "Do you mind if I take Kelly with me?"

Kelly looked at her father excitedly, she could see he was contemplating saying no since she had pushed her luck earlier. Sliding off her chair she skipped to where he was sitting, throwing herself on his lap she looked up at him with pleading blue eyes.

"Please daddy? Please, please, please, please? I be good, I promise."

Jethro took a bite of his bacon, looking Kelly straight in the eye while he made her wait before he answered. "I hear one word that you misbehaved, it's going to be you and me young lady."

Kelly hugged him tightly, leaning up to kiss his cheek before sliding off his lap to take Jack's hand. The older man winked at her and waved at the other two leading his granddaughter to the front door, "I trust you two can sort the sleeping arrangements. Have fun now!" with that Jack closed the door behind him.

Jenny stared out the screen door that opened to the large backyard, sipping the sweet coffee Jack had insisted on making for her. She couldn't remember the last time she'd had sugar in her coffee, probably just before her father had died.

Watching Jack and Kelly together made her think about her own father. The Colonel would have adored the little girl with her quirky questions and answers. Jethro often reminded her of her father, it's where she had learned that given enough time they started opening up after a while. She liked to think that the two men would have enjoyed each others company, but life wasn't that simple. If the Colonel had still been alive then she'd still be a lawyer, and she would have never dreamed of meeting someone like Jethro Gibbs.

Jethro watched as Jenny stared out the back door. He could remember his mother doing the same after she had found out she was sick, he'd always wondered what she thought about. He ate in silence content to watch Jenny as she sipped her coffee, she looked peaceful and he hated the thought of disturbing her, but he desperately wanted to ask her what she was thinking about.

Yoda whined, staring out the screen door at the large backyard. Jethro glared at the pup as he brought Jenny out of her quiet musing.

"Can I let him go out?" Jenny asked placing her empty cup on the table.

"Yeah, sure. He can burn off some energy." Jethro answered around his last bite of bacon and toast.

Jenny unclipped Yoda's harness and let him outside. The Terrier let out something between a snort and a bark as he shot to the nearest tree, seeing something between the branches.

Jenny took her seat again, raising her eyebrows as Jethro leaned back and placed a hand on his stomach squeezing his eyes shut. He looked extremely uncomfortable. "You have too much to eat?" Jenny couldn't keep the amusement out of her voice, she knew he had a large appetite but by the looks of things he had over done things.

Jethro groaned softly, not wanting to admit that she was right.

Jenny stood in the doorway, her duffel bag in one hand. The room was decorated in various shades of grey and white, diverting one's attention to the three large framed paintings. They all seemed to have a nautical theme in common. Jethro pushed past her, opening the large window to let fresh air in. She could see he was avoiding looking at the paintings or at her.

Walking closer to one of the paintings, she studied it closely. The paintings fascinated her, she didn't recognise the artwork as something she had seen before, and it looked like it was an original. Turning she saw Jethro stand around almost uncomfortably.

"Is it a local artist?" Jenny asked, already moving to the next painting.

"Yeah," Jethro sounded uneasy, "You can take this room, it has it's own bathroom. Kelly and I will be down the hall."

Jenny looked after him as he headed down the hall, she saw him hesitate before opening the door. His sudden need to get away from her threw her off. Dropping her bag at the foot of the bed she walked to the last painting. This one had a little more detail, with all the small fishing boats tied to a pier. She looked in the corners for a name, and in the right hand corner she found a name scrawled neatly in black paint.

Padding down the hall, Jenny stopped outside the last door, peaking around the corner.

It was clear that the room had once belonged to a teenage boy. There were posters on the walls, showcasing various muscle cars, cars that were now considered classics. There were various books on the bookshelf above the bed, most of the titles indicating that they were military. Jethro was sitting near the window staring out onto the street.

Jenny knocked on the door softly, not wanting to make him feel crowded, she'd give him his space if he wanted it. He turned to look at her slowly, his face void of any emotion. Jenny pursed her lips, turning away, knowing that he wanted to be alone.

"Jen," He called her back.

Her head popped around the door frame, "Yeah?"

"You can come in."

Jenny looked almost hesitant, but her curiosity made her give in. Taking a seat on the bed she looked around the room. The rest of the room was littered with posters of cars and one or two football stars. On one of the night stands was a football ball covered in a thin layer of dust.

Sinking down on the bed, she looked around the room one more time. She didn't know what she had expected when she had stepped into Jethro's childhood bedroom. In her mind she had thought he'd have posters of half naked women posing over motorcycles and on the hoods of cars, or maybe she had spent too much time around DiNozzo to be a judge on what a teenage boy's room should look like.

Facing Jethro, she noticed a picture frame in his hand. The image had faded over time but there was no doubt in her mind that it was his mother with him. He looked from her to the picture he was holding, he ran his thumb over it before passing it to her. Taking the picture, she studied it closely, noting the features the two of them shared.

"She's beautiful." Jenny said softly, running a finger over the woman in the picture.

"We named Kelly after her." Jethro was looking out of the window as he spoke, "Her first name was Kelly. She always went by her second name."

Jenny listened to him speak, she could hear him struggle at the end as he remembered his mother. Placing the photo on the small table she reached out and took his hand in hers. "Was she the one who encouraged you to paint such breathtaking landscapes?"

Jethro didn't look at her, instead he kept staring out the window. The blush that shot across the bridge of his nose and cheeks made her smile. For someone who oozed with confidence, Jethro was extremely modest – shy even – when someone gave him a compliment.

"I guess." Came his reply.

Leaving it at that, she decided to change the subject since he clearly didn't want to talk about it.

"You know, you can really take the other room. There's more space for you and Kelly, and not to mention the double bed." Jenny leaned back on the bed, leaning on her elbows.

Jethro moved to the edge of his chair, grabbing her waist and pulling her upright again. He kissed her gently, "Or," he grinned at her his eyes dancing, "You and I can share. After all we're just going to sleep."

Jenny pushed him away playfully, her laughter full of mirth, "I think you and I both know that's not going to happen." She leaned towards him again, running her hands through his cropped hair and resting them at the nape of his neck.

"Yeah? And why is that?" Jethro's eyes flicked to her mouth as she licked her lips.

Jethro's eyes rolled to the back of his head as he felt her breath in his ear, "Because I don't think I'll be able to keep my hands to myself."

Jethro groaned low in his throat, pushing her down on the bed he crawled over her. Nipping her bottom lip gently, he relished in the way she gasped in surprise. Her lips became pliable against his and he took advantage. Jenny's hands gripped his polo tightly, trying to pull him even closer to her as he rocked his hips against hers. Sliding a hand between them he found the buttons of her shirt.

Reality came crashing around her and Jenny pushed him off of her gently, she was breathing heavily. Jethro lay next to her equally out of breath. She laughed breathlessly as she looked at him, "See what I mean."

---

The bell jingled as the last customer left the store. Jack watched as Kelly skipped towards the counter, coming from where ever she had been keeping herself busy. He watched as she looked at all the jars lining the counter, enchanted by all the sweetness they held. He was more than confident in the fact that she had inherited her father's sweet tooth.

Jack made quick work of cashing out, a skill he'd acquired since owning the store. He kept a watchful eye on his granddaughter as she climbed onto one of the chairs at the table. She laid her head on the table as she hummed a song he was unfamiliar with.

"Are you tired?" Jack asked as he rounded the counter, his jacket along with Kelly's in one hand.

"No." Kelly betrayed herself when she let out a tired yawn, she blushed and hid her face in her arms.

Jack laughed and helped her off of the chair and into her jacket. Lifting her onto his hip he walked up to the various jars, "Pick whatever you want."

"I'm allergic to peanuts." Kelly filled him in, lifting her left wrist so he could inspect the pink bracelet that was always there. Jack nodded thoughtfully, silently ruling out the home-made peanut brittle.

"Would you like some chocolate fudge?"

Kelly nodded eagerly, her blue eyes lighting up. Jack placed her back on the floor and unscrewed one of the jars, holding it at Kelly's eye level so she could pick one. Once she had her treat she waisted no time in tasting it.

"Mmm, it tastes like the ones daddy make." Kelly said as she broke off another small piece of fudge and popped in her mouth. Wrapping an arm around his leg she hugged him, "Thank you, Papa Jack."

Jack smiled at her and kissed her forehead, ushering her towards the door. Kelly waited patiently for him to lock everything before they started down the street, enjoying the cool breeze that swept through the small town.

Kelly clutched her grandfather's hand tightly as she ate her fudge and looked at all the stores they passed, most of them starting to close early for the weekend. She studied the people with fascination as they greeted her grandfather as they passed them by. As they crossed the street she gripped Jack's hand even tighter, she relaxed as they stepped on to the side walk.

"Papa Jack?" Kelly enquired as they walked down the quiet street, her fudge long since finished.

"Yes, Kelly bear."

The toddler giggled at the nickname, "Are you really my daddy's daddy?"

"I sure am. Why do you ask?"

Kelly shrugged her shoulders, she narrowed her eyes and stopped, looking up at her grandfather, "I no think daddy was a little boy."

Jack laughed, shaking his head, he'd forgotten how strange children's minds tended to work. Ruffling her wild curls he hugged her to him. They continued down the street, enjoying the autumn sun before it disappeared. They stopped outside a small house, the lingering smell of fresh baked cookies wafting out the open kitchen window.

Walking up to the front door, Jack knocked and waited for someone to open it. Kelly leaned against his leg, fighting to keep her eyes open. Scooping her up he let her rest her head on his shoulder, she yawned but refused to close her eyes.

The door cracked open, revealing a relatively short woman. Her, still thick, shoulder length blond her teased and her light blue eyes warm and friendly. She smiled and blushed prettily at the sight of Jackson. Stepping aside she let him inside, watching the little girl who had hid her face from her with curiosity.

"Is this Jethro's little girl Kelly?" Elise asked as she closed the door and followed them into the kitchen.

"Nah, found her wandering around on the streets." Jackson smiled at her, his own blue eyes twinkling. Elise rolled her eyes at him.

Jack sat with Kelly on his knee, she was still awake but too shy to look at their hostess. Jack leaned down whispering in her ear, "I bet if you greet her she'll give you a cookie."

Kelly rested a hand against his shoulder, pushing herself upright to look at him, "Daddy say I no take something from someone I not know." she did her best to imitate her father, by creasing her brow in a scowl and lowering her voice.

"Well I know miss Hannigan, and she's a very good friend of mine." Jack looked over the little girl's shoulder at the woman across from him.

Kelly looked conflicted for a moment, not sure whether she should turn around or not. Huffing she moved around until she was facing the stranger. Her cheeks were flushed as she looked at the older woman shyly, giving her a small wave.

Elise waved back at her, hoping to calm her nerves a little. When Kelly broke eye contact and leaned against her grandfather, Elise dared to look up at him. "She looks just like him at that age, she even has his eyes." She'd been there for Jack when his wife had died and then when Jethro had decided to break all contact with his father. This visit was more than just making up for lost time, it was an attempt at fixing something that had been broken for far too long.

"How about a cookie and some milk?" Elise asked when the silence went on for too long between them.

Jack looked down at Kelly, but she was fast asleep, her fingers curled in his jacket. "I think we'll have to take her as a to-go."

Elise smiled and quickly grabbed a container filling them with cookies for Jack to take with him. Filling a large mug with coffee she placed it in front of him. Taking a seat across from him, she waited for him to start talking. It didn't take long before he couldn't hold it in any longer.

"He looks good, better than I expected." Jack adjusted Kelly to be more comfortable, "The woman he's with, Jenny, she seems like the kind of woman who can put him in his place." Jack fell silent, a far away look clouding his eyes. "She reminds me of Ann."

Elise smiled sadly, reaching out to rest her hand on his, lending him silent support.

"Her name," Elise said after a while, talking about Kelly, "it was sweet of them."

Jack looked down at Kelly stroking the little girl's thick curls, moving them out of her face. He rested a hand on the little girl's back gently, "He loved his mother too much, to not honour her in some way."

"I better be goin'." Jack struggled to his feet with Kelly asleep on his shoulder, "I'll send Jethro this way when the cookies are finished."

Elise smiled and opened the door for him, "I'll be on the look out."

The continues whining of the Boston Terrier was slowly starting to get on Jethro's nerves. He'd run out of chew toys to throw in order to distract him from the fact that Kelly wasn't there. Jenny was curled up next to him on the couch her nose buried in some trashy romance novel, and by the look of things she was too far away to hear anything going on around her.

The TV was playing in the background, the squeaky voices of the cartoon characters providing some sort of white noise, it was what he usually did when she wasn't home. Yoda yapped one last time before he decided to curl up in his basket, his head resting on the edge as he stared at the door. Jethro paged through the local newspaper, hoping to find something he hadn't read yet.

Folding the paper, he placed it on the coffee table and leaned back, resting his head on the back of the couch. Jethro's head lolled to the side, watching Jenny through lidded eyes as she read. His eyebrows rose in surprise, she had started a couple of hours ago and she was already in the middle of the book.

He observed her as she read, enjoying the various expressions that flickered over her features as she took in the words of the book. She'd smile slightly, close her eyes for a second and then continue to read. A few pages later she started to frown, clearly upset with a character in her book. He watched as she huffed and propped a hand under her chin, frowning.

The frown slowly ebbed away, the smile from earlier returning. Jethro wondered whether she knew he was watching her and was simply ignoring him, or if she was really that enthralled by the story. He knew that he should look away, and that what he was doing was probably considered creepy.

A slow blush was rising up her neck, making its way to her cheeks. Jethro smiled to himself, he found it endearing that a woman as confident as Jenny could blush so easily when the right thing was said. He was more than curious to know what exactly was happening to cause her to blush.

Jenny's eyes cut to his, and he knew it was too late to pretend he wasn't looking at her. He simply raised his eyebrows at her, not the least bit phased by the fact that he'd been caught staring. Her eyes flicked between him and the page she was currently on, and the blush that had coloured her cheeks intensified.

"What, Jethro?"

"Nothin'." He drawled, giving her a smirk.

Jenny shifted a little, turning so he couldn't see the words on the pages. It only made him more curious, shifting around he moved closer to her, leaning against her a little. When she looked at him he grinned at her again, "What ya readin', Jen?"

"A book." Came her sarcastic reply.

"What's it about?" He wasn't going to let her get away that easily. She was blushing and he wanted to know why.

"I doubt you'd like it, much less read it." Jenny retorted easily.

"I might surprise you." He was taking pleasure in the fact that he was starting to annoy her, which meant she was either going to tell him, or leave for the sanctuary of the back porch.

"I doubt it." Jenny had stopped reading, her book once again closed. The raised eyebrows she received was a clear indication that she had momentarily distracted him from his original question. If only it could stay that way.

"You saying I can't surprise you?" He sounded almost irritated, not with her but with himself. It wasn't a secret that he took pride in the fact that he could surprise people, and the thought that he was failing in that aspect with Jenny, was a low blow to the ego.

"That's not what I said." Jenny licked her lips slowly, placing the novel on the arm rest and moving closer to him, casually tangling her legs with his as they rested on the coffee table.

She placed a hand on his chest, toying with the buttons on his polo shirt, he was pissed off by her earlier comment and she was hoping to appease her slip of tongue. Jenny pressed closer to him, kissing along his jaw, feeling the tense muscles relax against her lips. He turned towards her, seeking out her lips. She smiled to herself as he deepened their kiss, hoping she'd distracted him enough.

Jethro pulled away, breathing slightly heavier than usual, brushing his lips over Jenny's as he spoke, "What are you reading?"

"I always thought it was, what are you wearing." Jenny whispered in his ear.

Jethro growled low in his throat. Gripping her thighs, he grabbed her and pulled her underneath him, pinning her down on the couch. He laughed at her squeak of surprise. She didn't push him off of her, instead she placed her hands on his chest, slowly unbuttoning the three buttons on his polo.

"You really want to know what I was reading?" Jenny asked as she slipped her hand inside his shirt. Lightly running her fingers over his collarbone.

"It made you blush." He stated matter of factly.

Jenny rested her other hand on the back of his head, playing with his soft hair. Licking her lips again she contemplated telling him, "They were colouring."

It took him a moment to comprehend what she meant, and when it finally sunk in he stared at her almost in disgust.

"That's what you read?"

Jenny rolled her eyes, hooking her legs around Jethro's as he moved to get off of her. Sliding both hands down his back to rest on his hips, she held him in place, "You asked."

"Yeah, I wouldn't have if I knew that's what you were going to say." Jethro relaxed against her, enjoying the moment of closeness unconsciously.

"Is it because I referred to sex as colouring?" She had lied somewhat in the truck when he had first asked her. It was the first time she had heard of it being referred to as colouring, it was actually clever, and the opportunity to toy with him was too much to resist.

"Why does the analogy bother you so much?" She was curious why it made him so uncomfortable.

Jethro glared at her, not wanting to tell her, his demeanor only darkened when she laughed softly. Her hands where in his hair again, and he felt his resolve slip slowly. "I have a three-year-old daughter, Jen. Things will never be the same again."

Jenny laughed – really laughed – her whole body shook with laughter, much to Jethro's displeasure. He narrowed his eyes at her, "It's not funny, Jen."

Jenny schooled her features, giving her lover a warm smile. Cupping his cheek she tried not to laugh, "Yes Jethro it is." she bit her lower lip, "You do realise she's going to be a teenager and then an adult, right?"

The colour in his cheeks disappeared a little as the thought dawned on him, looking down at Jenny he met her gaze, "I'm gonna keep her locked in the house."

"Oh, Jethro." Jenny's hands slid out of his hair to cup his cheeks, her thumbs running over the soft skin of his cheeks. She'd learned more about him in the last three hours than she had over the last six months. She knew he was joking, but there had been a brief flicker of fear in his eyes that Kelly would grow up and not need him any more. Jenny desperately wanted to reassure him that she would still need him – she knew from experience – but she didn't want him to start asking questions about her father.

Yoda sat up in his basket, his bat-like ears still a little floppy as he pulled them back to listen. The pup whined before starting to bark again, it wasn't long before there where footsteps on the front porch. Yoda shot out of his basket, barking happily.

Jethro moved off of Jenny, pressing a kiss to her forehead as she stood with him.

Yoda was sniffing around Jackson's feet, looking for Kelly. He ran back to the living room barking, before shooting back to the foyer, whining up at Jack.

"Yoda!" Jethro snapped at the pup, irritated with the dog's sudden need to whine and bark.

"Leave him, Leroy." Jack closed the door behind him with difficulty.

Jethro appeared around the corner, cups in hand with Jenny right behind him. He quickly passed the two cups to Jenny to help his father. Taking Kelly off his father's hands he cradled her in his arms, smiling when he saw the chocolate smears on the corners of her mouth.

"What's in the container?" Jethro reached to open the lid, but Jack smacked his hand away.

"Elise sent this over for all of us, not just you." Jack scolded his son, causing Jenny to stifle a laugh.

Jackson smiled at the redhead, holding out his arm for her to join him. Jethro watched as they disappeared down the hall to the kitchen, shaking his head he looked down at his daughter who was still fast asleep. He wondered how much sweets his father had fed her, and if the sugar rush was going to kick in after her nap or before she had to go to bed.

Jenny sat curled up on one of the wooden chairs on the back porch, her bare feet tucked underneath her trying to keep them warm. It was peacefully quiet, something she wasn't used to, her Georgetown mansion was quiet but not in a welcoming way. Nothing had been the same after her father had died, her dream of being a lawyer had died along with him.

Things had changed over the last three years, and it felt like they were starting to change again. It was disconcerting that a man and his little girl could make her lose sight of what she had originally set out to do. She had tried to track down the man responsible for her father's death during her and Jethro's short break, but she had found herself more concerned about Kelly and whether she was going to be all right.

She had pacified her lack of motivation as simply needing a little time to herself to be her. She'd spent the better part of the last three years undercover pretending to be someone she wasn't. Leon had told her to take a break for a year, even if it was just to get her to refocus. There was no way she was going to admit that her lack of motivation was due to her feelings starting to run deeper for one, Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

The screen door banged loudly, drawing her out of her musing. Jack held out a steaming cup of Chai tee, she could recognise that aroma anywhere. The first time she'd tasted the unique flavour of the spiced tee had been in Prague, the coffee shop had been tucked in a residential area she just happened to pass.

They sat in companionable silence, listening to the crickets as they started coming out. Jenny sipped her tee, savouring the taste. Tracing the patterns engraved in the chairs armrest, she looked off into the distance.

"Leroy built these chairs when he was sixteen. He sold a few to make some money to fix up the old Dodge Challenger he'd bought." Jackson spoke, not looking at his companion but staring at the old shed off in the distance.

"Did he ever finish it?" Jenny asked curiously.

"Nah, he never made enough money." Jackson sipped his tee.

Jenny smiled softly at the older man when he looked at her, there was an all too familiar twinkle in his eyes, "Maybe one day he'll have the opportunity to drive one."

It was a rather open ended statement, Jenny raised her eyebrow at him sceptically not sure whether she should trust the look in his eyes. Leaving the subject at that she continued to drink her tee and make small talk with the old man. She'd given up wondering where Jethro was a while ago, she had a feeling he had joined Kelly for a nap.

"Was your father in the military?" The question caught her off guard and she almost choked on her tee. She coughed a little.

"Uhm, yes. My father was an Amy Colonel. Why do you ask?" Jenny avoided looking at Jack, not wanting him to probe any more.

"Just curious." Jack smiled at her, his blue eyes warm. "I was in the Army Air force. I was a pilot during World War Two." He had sensed Jenny's reluctance to talk, something he was used to with his own son.

Jenny looked at Jack appreciating his effort to make her feel more at ease and not asking any further about her father, "Why did Jethro join the Marine Corps?" it seemed strange since his father had been in the Army.

Jackson clenched his jaw tightly, a dark look clouding his features. He ignored her question not wanting to talk about it.

Jenny placed her cup on the small table next to her, thrown off by Jack's sudden change. Reaching out she placed her hand over the older man's, when he looked at her she smiled at him apologetically, "Sorry, Jack. I didn't mean to open old wounds."

He smiled at her, although it didn't reach his eyes like it usually did. He shook his head, patting her hand softly. Silence descended over them again and it stayed that way until the sun had set.

There was an array of clothing strewn over the large double bed in the spare bedroom. Jenny looked over the outfits on display, trying to find something that was warm enough to go out in. Kelly was in her arms, wrapped in a fluffy pink towel, still fresh from her bath. Dressing a toddler wasn't one of her strong suits.

"What do you think Kelly? Jeans and a jacket, or jeans and a sweater?" Jenny looked at the little girl as she contemplated her choices.

"Jacket!" Jenny nodded her agreement.

Getting a toddler dressed was more challenging than she had thought, or it was the fact that Kelly had woken up with a whole lot of energy. First she had struggled to get Kelly to put on her jeans, the little girl had decided that running around the large room in just her underwear was far more entertaining than getting dressed.

When she'd finally convinced Kelly that getting dressed was a better option than having to call her father, they were finally ready. Kelly was sitting on the bed, kicking her legs while Jenny looked around for her sneakers.

Jenny heard the shower down the hall being turned off and she knew it was a matter of minutes before Jethro appeared fully dressed and ready, and she wasn't going to admit that she'd struggled with getting Kelly dressed. Finding the well-worn pair of All Star sneakers she quickly helped Kelly pull them on and tied them securely.

Before she knew it Kelly was off the bed and had opened the door. She shook her head, smiling as she heard the thump of small footsteps down the stairs. Turning back to her bed, she folded the second set of clothing neatly, making sure they didn't wrinkle too much. The bathroom door opened and she could hear Jethro's heavy footsteps as he walked back to his room.

Placing the folded clothes back in the duffel bag, she zipped it closed and sat on the edge of the bed, taking a deep breath. The patience it took to stay calm and convince Kelly to get dressed was more exhausting than she had thought it would be.

Jethro silently walked down the hall to the guest bedroom, watching as Jenny sank down on the bed. Leaning against the door frame, he watched her pull on the pair of black high heels – appreciating the way she looked in tight fitting jeans, a dark red sweater and black heels. Her hair was falling down her back in large curls and he felt like running his hands through her hair.

"You look nice." He hated how hoarse his voice sounded in his own ears.

"You don't look so bad either." Jenny switched off the small lamp and made her way to the door where Jethro was leaning casually.

"Kelly give you any trouble?" There was an unmistakable gleam in his eyes.

Jenny pulled her fingers trough her hair, a coy smile on her face, "No, no trouble at all." There was no chance in hell that she was going to admit that it had taken her the better half of an hour to dress the little girl.

"Uh-huh."

Kelly was running around the living room with Yoda hot on her heels as he chased after her, Jack was watching them contentedly from where he rested in his recliner. Kelly's jacket lay discarded on the couch, all the activity making her tiny body overheat. She came to an abrupt stop when she spotted her father in the doorway, glaring.

"Kelly," he growled as he took in her state of disarray, "calm down."

Kelly's face fell a little, but obeyed none the less. Jethro shook his head and turned to his father, "Dad, you ready?"

Jackson nodded, scooting forward in his seat and slipping his feet into his loafers. He glared at Jethro's offered hand as he struggled to his feet. Giving him a distasteful look when he didn't back away he walked to the door, opening it, "Well, are we going?"

The small booth they'd managed to find was situated a few booths away from the door, giving everyone a perfect view of who had decided to drop by for a visit. Most of the locals had greeted them but they had kindly left them alone. The more people piled into the small diner, the less people took notice of them.

Jenny could feel Jethro grow increasingly tense next to her, she didn't know if it was due to all the whispering that floated past them as people moved to and fro, or that he was just anxious to get away from prying eyes. She tried to listen to Kelly as she regaled them with what she had been up to while helping her grandfather at the store.

The little girl had finally settled down, and they had made sure that all the sugary treats were kept away. Jenny felt the tension between the two Gibbs men grow, they had been civil towards each other the few hours they had spent together. Kelly had been oblivious to what was going on and had defused the tense atmosphere on more than one occasion, the same way she did now.

Jethro's hand lay idly on her thigh as he watched Kelly across from him, listening to her every word. He occasionally squeezed her thigh when silence fell over them, quietly asking her to say something to save him from having to talk.

"Daddy, can I has ice cream?" Kelly asked as she finished the last slice of her kiddies pizza. Jenny smiled at the little girl. She'd noticed Kelly's sentence structure had improved, but when she started becoming drowsy it was downhill from there and sometimes impossible to hear what she said.

"No, you've had enough sugar for one day." The tone Jethro used left no room for argument. Kelly's shoulders fell in disappointment.

"What could it hurt, Leroy?" Jack piped up, winking at his granddaughter.

"Dad, I said no, she's had enough." Jethro snapped irately.

"Oh, Leroy, it's just ice cream." Jack snapped back at him, glaring at his son from across the table.

"You're not the one who's gonna have to stay up to calm her down enough to get into her pyjamas. I said no ice cream and leave it at that." Jethro all but growled at his father.

"Who's faults that, huh?" You never called you never made an effort to visit, so I've missed three years of who my granddaughter really is." Jack voice rose as his anger flared.

Kelly was looking between the two men, her lower lip quivering her blue eyes large and full of tears. She turned to look at her father, "I no want ice cream any more."

Jenny felt her heartbreak at the sad look that crossed the little girl's face. Reaching out she clasped the little girl's hand. Making her look at her, she smiled at her warmly and tucked a loose curl behind her ear. Kelly gave her a shaky smile before sliding of her seat and disappearing underneath the table. A moment later she popped up next to Jenny.

Lifting the toddler onto her lap, she brushed away the few stray curls that had managed to escape. Kissing her forehead soothingly she looked at Kelly closely, "We can come get some ice cream tomorrow, okay honey?"

Kelly nodded as she buried her head in the crook of Jenny's neck, her small chubby fingers reaching for the loose strands of red hair.

Jethro was bristling were he sat, still glaring at his father. He'd fought the urge to snarl back at his father, they'd attracted the attention of the people around them, and they also happened to know him and the situation surrounding him. He'd listened to Jenny as she talked softly to Kelly.

When he tried to butt into their conversation she shot him an angry look, and he could see she was upset about the fact that he and Jack had upset Kelly. He wisely kept his mouth shut, he didn't need to have her upset with him as well.

Jethro's hand still rested on Jenny's thigh, taking comfort from the fact that she was there. He took it as a good sign when she placed her hand on his and laced her fingers with his. Looking anywhere but at his father, he stared at the door, watching people stumble in and out of the diner. Turning back to Jenny, he rested his free hand on Kelly's knee, trying to give her a smile when she looked up. He could feel the hurt slice through him when she didn't return his smile, and the anger towards his father intensified.

"We should leave." Jethro signalled the young woman who'd helped them for the bill. Sliding out of the booth he helped Jenny to her feet, meeting her gentle emerald eyes.

The young lady pushed through the large crowd, fending off the unwelcoming attention from some of the men. She gave Jethro an apologetic smile as she handed him the bill.

Jethro looked the young girl over as she waited for him to pay their bill. There was something familiar about the young girl's features that he just couldn't place, "What did you say your name was again?"

"April, April Jones." She said almost nervously.

"Jones," Jethro muttered to himself as he looked through his wallet, "You wouldn't happen to be Patty's daughter?"

"Wait, how did you know that?" April looked at him with wide eyes.

"My wife," Jethro trailed off, gritting his teeth slightly, his eyes travelling to where Jenny was standing waiting for him, "my late wife, and your mother were best friends in high school."

The light bulb went off in the woman's head and she smiled at him in recognition, "You were the marine that surprised aunt Shannon that one Christmas."

Jethro smiled as he handed her the money, leaving a more than generous tip. He moved to where Jenny was standing waiting for him. They managed their way through the large crowd that had gathered, he glared at the men staring at Jenny as they made it to the door.

Stepping into the cool air he saw his father waiting near the truck. Wrapping an arm around Jenny's waist he lead her to the truck, slowing their steps a little. He dreaded the idea of being cooped up with his father for the rest of the weekend.

Jenny had fled upstairs before all hell broke loose between the two men. Kelly was still awake and she didn't want a repeat of what had happened during dinner. She looked through the small duffel bag for the familiar pair of blue pyjamas. Jenny pulled out the aged Peter Pan novel along with the pyjamas, Kelly took the clothes from her and started getting ready for bed.

Jenny toed off her heels to settle next to Kelly on the bed. She opened the book where the bookmark was and continued reading the all too familiar tale. It wasn't long before Kelly had drifted off, Jenny kept reading preferring to lose herself in the tale and the bitter-sweet memories it brought back.

Closing the book, she looked it over. It was definitely older than her copy at home. Opening the book to look at the date it had been published, she felt her throat constrict and found it hard to swallow. There was a beautifully scripted message on the inside of the cover.

To my brave boy:

No matter what happens tomorrow, always remember to believe.

Love

Mommy

Jenny closed the book, placing it on the night stand. She fought back the tears that threatened to slip, it was unfair that Jethro had to suffer such heartache in his life. He'd told her briefly that he'd lost his mother to cancer when he was fourteen and had said nothing more.

Kelly mumbled in her sleep reaching for the turtle and grey bear that was tucked in with her. Jenny brushed a hand through the little girls hair, kissing her forehead she grabbed her heels and padded down the hall to her bedroom. As she passed the stairs she saw Jethro storm up them, his cheeks slightly flushed with irritation.

She continued to her room, knowing there was no point in talking to him when he was angry.

His heavy footsteps faded as he made his way to his room. Jenny closed her door, sighing deeply, it was too early to try and fall asleep but the atmosphere downstairs was too tense for her liking. Quickly changing out of the jeans and sweater, she slipped into the oversized Marine t-shirt – that belonged to her blue-eyed lover – and a pair of sweatpants.

She'd just picked up her book when there was a knock on the door.

Whoever was on the other side didn't wait for an answer, the door cracked open and a familiar dark head of hair popped around the door. Seeing that she was at least decent, Jethro slipped inside and closed the door behind him. Making his way to the bed, he sank down next to her, stretching out lazily. He'd seen Jenny head to her room and had swapped his sticky clothes for a pair sweatpants and his other Marine t-shirt.

Placing the book back down, Jenny scooted down turning on her side and propping herself up on her elbow. Reaching out, Jenny ran her hands through Jethro's hair, enjoying how soft his hair was. His eyelids had drifted shut, his brow slightly creased. Jenny's nails pricked his scalp lightly, sending goosebumps to breakout over his skin.

"Headache?" Jenny asked softly, knowing the look on his face anywhere.

"Yeah." Jethro grumbled.

Jenny shook her head. Sitting up again she shifted backwards until she leaned against the headboard, watching as Jethro frowned even more. "It's because you get worked up so quickly." His eyes snapped open to glare at her. She raised her eyebrows at him before his eyes fell shut again.

Jethro was content to just lay down for a while until the headache passed, but the gentle tap on his shoulder suggested otherwise. Cracking an eye open, he glared at his lover again, "What, Jen?"

"Put your head on my lap." Jenny said nonchalantly stretching her legs out in front of her.

"Excuse me?" There was amusement in his voice as he repositioned himself, his head resting against Jenny's thighs.

She didn't answer him. Running her hands through his hair one last time her fingers trailed over his creased brow, his eyes were shut once again. Her strong slender fingers pressed against his temples, massaging the tense muscles she found. Jethro relaxed under her touch, clearly enjoying the attention.

"Did Kelly fight you when you tucked her in?" Jethro asked after a while his eyes still shut.

"Nope, she was just a little too quiet. I guess she's had a long day." Jenny ran her thumbs over Jethro's cheeks tenderly before continuing with the massage. She didn't want to tell him that his fight with his father over dinner had upset the little girl.

"I shouldn't have snapped at my dad like that in front of her." The silent admission was a rare occurrence coming from Jethro. "He just can't take no for an answer sometimes."

Jenny smiled at him when he opened his eyes to look at her, "I'm sure he's just doing what grandfathers usually do." Closing his eyes, he just shrugged his shoulders. "If it were my dad, he would have sneaked her ice cream regardless of the amount of sugar she'd had for the day."

Jenny bit her tongue painfully hard. She hadn't meant for the comment to slip out, she was thankful that Jethro's eyes were closed so he couldn't see the panicked look on her face. He was too caught up in his own thoughts to enquire any further on her comment.

"Yeah, but..." Jethro growled, "He just gets on my nerves."

Jenny laughed at him, "You remember that when Kelly's our age." the grimace on his face made her laugh again.

Leaning down she pressed a soothing kiss to his forehead. Jethro shifted around and stretched out next to her again, his head rolled from side to side on the pillow, trying to get comfortable.

"You're making a mistake if you think you can sleep here." Jenny growled at him as he seemed to relax a little too much next to her. She was aware that she sounded uptight, but she knew that if they were to have a more intimate relationship things would change between them. She would have to admit, even just to herself, that she was scared to go that far with him because if the situation demanded that she had to walk away – she wouldn't be able to do it.

Jethro glared at her. Knowing she'd be on his case if he continued laying next to her, he sat up and propped himself up against the headboard. They were silent for a moment, one staring at the ceiling the other at the door. He wanted to ask her if she had ever slept with someone since she was so paranoid that he'd disregard her request of waiting, but he knew she'd most likely kill him for asking such a question.

"I'm not sleepin' here." He assured her.

Jenny seemed to relax, leaning closer to her he pressed a kiss to her cheek. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear he kissed the soft skin below it, "When we get back to DC." he kissed the spot again, "Wanna have dinner with me? Just the two of us."

"If you insist." Her eyes were closed as he placed small butterfly kisses along her jaw.

"I do." He mumbled against her lips.

---

Jack watched his son from a distance as he moved around the old shed. Jenny had taken Kelly for ice cream and had given him a rather pointed look when he'd offered to go with them. It was the first time it dawned on him that she was the reason Jethro had decided to visit. If things worked out between him and his son he'd have to thank her.

Jack made his way into the shed, heading for the stool near his workbench. It was getting harder to stay on his feet for so long without pain pulsing up and down his legs. He saw Jethro look over his shoulder briefly to see who had joined him, glaring slightly he turned back to rummaging through one of the many boxes.

"What ya lookin' for, Leroy?" Jack asked conversationally.

"Where's Jen and Kelly?" Jethro still had his back to his father. Moving to the next box he plopped down on a saw-horse.

"Ice cream." Jack sounded almost hostile.

Jethro sighed, shaking his head – he should have known Jenny would find a way to make them talk to each other. Ignoring his father, he looked through the box, finding nothing but old empty tins that his mother had collected over the years. Closing it, he moved to the next one.

"If you tell me what it is you're looking for I might be able to help." Jack piped up again, having seen the irritation his son had shown when he closed the box.

"What did you do with my car?" The anger was unmistakable as Jethro finally faced Jack.

"I can't hold on to all your junk." There was humour in Jackson's voice as he regarded his son's inquiry.

"No, just your junk." Jethro ground out as he picked up another box. Unfolding the lid he found old trophies and medals he'd won while in school.

The two men were silent again, each caught up in their own thoughts. Jethro shuffled through the boxes, opening each one to look through them. Jack was silently observing him, trying to find the right words to express himself.

"What did I ever do to you?" There was no accusation in the question, just a simple plea for forgiveness. Jack saw his son stiffen at the question.

Jethro stopped what he was doing, his dusty hands going to is hips. He pulled his face in slight concentration, his eyes squinting at the wall where the sunlight shone through the cracks in the wood. For a while he ignored his father again, as if he hadn't asked him anything. He saw his daughter's face when he closed his eyes and the sadness in her blue eyes when she saw them fight.

"How about, showing up with a date at my wife's funeral." The statement dripped with hatred and pain.

"That's your excuse for the last three years. What about before that, when you decided to skip town?"

"I didn't skip town," Jethro ground his teeth together, the sound echoing in his ears, "I joined the Core. I served my country."

"Yes, you did, and I'm proud of you son." Jack swallowed heavily, "But this isn't about that. I saw the look in your eyes after your mother died, you were angry that I was getting on with my life."

"Dad-" Jackson held up his hand.

"Let me finish." Jack gave his son a warning look, "I can only try and understand the grief you felt when your mother died. But there was no point in holding onto the past." Jack took a deep breath, "When you've felt love so intense and pure, you'd give anything to experience it again."

"There was a look of vengeance in your eyes as well." Jack continued, fighting the emotions the conversation was bringing to the surface. "Now that look disappeared when you met Shannon, but it returned quickly after she died."

Jethro snapped, "My wife was murdered!" he swallowed, "Mom was sick, and we knew she didn't have long. My wife..." Jethro let out a shuddering breath, "my Shannon was killed. There ain't no explanation that can justify that."

Jackson had abandoned his seat, making his way to where his son stood. He'd seen the pain flash in his son's eyes, and talking about Shannon had been too much for him to be able to hide how much he still hurt. Jack placed a hand on his son's shoulder comfortingly, watching as the muscles in jaw rippled as he clenched his teeth.

"What do you see now?" Jethro asked quietly after he'd reigned in his anger.

Jack smiled at him, "Love, adoration, joy and it's all thanks to that little girl of yours. If it hadn't been for her I doubt you'd still be the man you'd been when you left town."

Jethro smiled at his father.

"And I've seen the way you look at Jenny, and how she looks at you. You'd be a fool to let her slip through your fingers."

Jethro opened his mouth to say something, but Jack simply held up his hand, indicating that he didn't want to hear about it. They looked at each other and hesitantly reached out to give the other a hug. Jack pulled his son close, holding him tightly and trying to fight the tears that threatened to fall.

"Now, what was it you said you were looking for?"

"A chisel." Jethro said as he picked up yet another box.

Jack frowned slightly, "Which one?"

"The one grandpa gave me." Jethro said distractedly as he opened the box.

"It's in the house." Jack said after a moment a smile on his face when Jethro glared at him slightly. "What do you want to use it for?"

"My boat." Jethro answered as he followed his father out of the shed and started sliding the doors shut.

"You building one from scratch with hand tools?" Jack asked as they made their way back to the house. All he received was a nod.

"Where are you building it?"

"In my basement."

Jack stopped watching his son disappear into the house. He looked up towards the heavens, "He'll never change."

They were all seated outside, enjoying their last night together. Kelly was relatively calmer than the night before, thanks to her lower intake of sugar. The little girl was seated in her grandfather's lap on the lawn, staring up at the bright stars above them, listening to his every word as he told her one of his many fables.

Yoda was prancing around the yard energetically, sniffing through the grass to find the crickets that were annoying him. He looked up when he heard a familiar whistle and ran back to where his master was sitting on the porch steps. Obeying the command to sit, he snorted in excitement when he was given a large bone as a reward.

Jethro was thankful for the conversation he'd had with his father, it had soothed wounds that had been open for too long. They'd had the whole early afternoon to themselves, only to discover that Jenny had decided to go on a shopping spree while in the small town, returning with all sorts of unnecessary things.

Jethro watched as Kelly held onto her grandfather tightly, and he shuddered thinking about the tears when they would had to say goodbye tomorrow. Dismissing the thought he listened as his father told his story, one he'd heard countless times as a child.

He felt her behind him, watching them. Twisting around he saw the glazed look in her eyes, one he'd seen more than once during their stay in Stillwater. Motioning for her to join them, Jethro shifted so Jenny could sit between his legs since the steps were so small.

Jenny sank down on the step, leaning back against Jethro as she listened to Jack's raspy voice as he spoke. Jethro wrapped his arms around her, hugging her to him, she relaxed and enjoyed the moment.

She didn't want to go back to DC, to where dark and painful memories were waiting for her. The small town and its people had charmed her. Jethro rested his chin on her shoulder, kissing her cheek. She realised that this was what she so desperately wanted in her life, to feel the contentment that only the people who cared could offer.

But she wasn't sure whether that was meant for her.

---

I would have liked to add more Kelly and Jack moments, but I ran out of time. This isn't my best work, but I hope to improve on the next one.

That's all for this chapter folks, thanks for reading. Feedback is much appreciated. :)