No ordinary love

by Shelbylou

Tim and Gibbs have fallen easily into their relationship, or at least until a small discovery completely rocks their world. **WARNINGS - CONTAINS SLASH, MPREG AND EXPLICIT SEX, WHUMPING, x over with criminal minds, rated M due to the warnings -

14. Breakdown

A/N Hey guys, firstly I would like you all to know that I haven't written this chapter, it's all Alisa so if you review can you make sure you address them to her (you can do it through the review button as normal but please make sure she gets a lot of the praise because all I've done is the formatting and thrown some ideas in there)

Just a quick warning to you all, this is heavy on the angst for our poor Tony boy and though it seems like we are Tony and Ziva bashing, I want you all to remember everything has a place and we do have a plan.

Anyway, Alisa, I love this chapter, well done hon and hope you all enjoy as much as I did

Oh, and it's another long one lol

Shelbylou x

****************NCIS****************

Two weeks later..............

Jethro was finally back at work and had just hung up the phone to Tim. He had to admit to himself, that at the moment, life was good. Tim's back was better, it still twinged painfully every now and then, but the bed rest he had been on really helped. He felt like he was getting somewhere with his team too and Ziva had been summoned to the director's office earlier in order to start the disciplinary actions that would hopefully punish her for the dire attitude over the past few weeks.

He heard the door slam above his head and watched as Ziva stalked down the stairs, her face set hard as stone as she followed Tony into the Men's room. He sighed heavily and hoped she was going in for an apology and decided to wait to see how it all played out.

Tony walked into the men's room after his lover; he had waited for a good 5 minutes before entering and walked straight over to the urinal to take care of business. He heard Derek fumble with his belt buckle in the stall and grinned.

'Hey D, that you in there?'

He stood at the stall patiently waiting for Derek's reply.

'Yeah babyboy, like you didn't know. You couldn't wait to get me alone?'

Tony chuckled lightly and sighed with relief at his swiftly emptying bladder, damn he had drank far too much coffee this morning.

'Something like that D. Hey, what do you think about the lead we have?'

'Not sure, It's a long shot. Even with Abby's talent's I'm not sure whether the images can be cleaned up enough to get a good ima..........'

Derek was cut short by the sound of the bathroom door slamming against the wall, he had just about finished buckling his trousers and was about to leave the stall when he heard Ziva's voice boom across the bathroom.

'I need to talk to you Tony'

Tony sighed and finished tucking himself away. He turned to walk towards the sinks but was blocked by Ziva as she ran over and shoved her finger directly in his face.

'You will NEVER be the great leader that Gibbs is, Tony. I still do not understand how you ever managed to become an NCIS agent and remain so all these years'

Tony recoiled slightly at the vicious tirade and found his feet frozen to the harsh white tiles of the bathroom floor.

'What the fuck Ziv...........'

Ziva didn't move and her eyes were unyielding as she lost the battle to rein in her temper.

'You know what DiNozzo, when you killed Michael, you should have paid with your life and I should have been the one to kill you. There were only two people who had that authority and I was one of them'

Tony was dumbstruck, he had absolutely no idea where this was coming from and to be honest, he really didn't care. All he could think about was the fact that his friend and ex-lover hated him to the degree that she wished him dead. He felt a tidal wave of hurt wash over him and shook his head slightly.

'You don't mean that Ziva. Shit what the hell has gotten into you lately, you've turned into some kind of crazy bitch'

He felt the hurt slowly dissipate only to be replaced by pure anger, he had no idea what was going on and hoped Derek would have the good grace to stay in the stall and leave him to deal with the enraged Israeli.

'Crazy bitch? It was a mistake to make you lead agent when Gibbs was in Mexico and you managed to blow one of your first cases as team leader, you remember Tony, Gibb's had to clean up after your mess as always'

Ziva's tirade was venomous and Derek cringed in the stall. He felt torn as the struggle to stop himself running out into the open bathroom battled within him. He had made a promise after the trouble started and he had no intention of breaking his word. He stood there listening with his head resting firmly against the door.

'When Director Shepperd was murdered Tony, I told you it wasn't your fault. Well I lied, had you put your personal feelings aside then maybe she would still be alive. You should have done your job properly at the time'.

Enough was enough and Derek felt the anger flow through him. He unlocked the door and glanced over towards the standoff before walking over. He grabbed Ziva by the arm roughly and pulled her away from his friend and lover to give him enough room to stand in the middle of the feuding pair.

'Ok Lady, and I use that term loosely! How about you back the fuck off?'.

He shook his head and pushed her into the wall roughly. Ziva was dumbstruck, she hadn't expected anyone to be in the bathroom and felt a jolt of panic shoot through her at being caught.

'Now I don't know what the HELL your problem is, but I do know one thing for sure and that is the fact that this man is one of the best damn agents NCIS has got aside from Gibbs and you can be damn sure I will be filing an official complaint with both Director Vance and your Agent Gibbs. Your actions are unacceptable Agent David and I for one will not let this lie'.

Tony had slowly moved backwards towards the wall and started slightly when he felt the cold tiles behind him. He hadn't noticed the small tremors that started to wrack his body and looked up to find himself being scrutinised by his pissed off team mate.

'Ha, you can't even defend yourself. Look at you Tony, you're boyfriend is doing it for you. You are nothing but a weak little man and it's no wonder your father wants nothing to do with you'.

Tony watched as his lovers anger started to boil out of control, there was nothing he could do but hang his head as if trying to get away from the tirade he was receiving. He was jolted out of his thoughts by a loud bang and looked up to see the mirror behind Ziva crack ominously when Derek slammed his hand into the wall.

'Derek, don't. Please, just get her out of her..........please, baby she's not worth it, just.....'

Derek watched his lover slide to the floor slowly and felt his anger subside slightly, he knew deep down how much of a bad idea it was losing his temper the way he did but the fact that this bitch had caused Tony so much pain pissed him off. He pulled Ziva away from the wall and moved towards the door, he moved his head next to her ear and whispered so as not to upset Tony any more.

'This isn't over David; that is something you can be sure of'

Derek found himself pushing Ziva roughly out of the door and paused to rest against it while he tried to get his breathing under control. He stayed there for a couple of minutes and slowly felt the adrenaline wear off leaving an inane weariness in its place. He rubbed his hand across his face and looked up with a deep frown at the sound of retching in one of the stalls. He pushed away from the door and made his way to the open stall, calling out to his lover as he went.

'Tony, babyboy you ok?'

He frowned deeply as the retching worsened and looked round to see Tony kneeling in front of the toilet, his hands gripping either side of the seat as though his life depended on it.

'Oh Baby, Hey, easy there, she's gone now and it's just me an you. I'm here now babyboy'

Tony felt the spasms ease momentarily and leans back on his heels, his body moulding into Derek's tight chest. He felt the heat of embarrassment flush his cheeks and let a lone tear trickle down his cheek.

'Shit Derek, I'm so sorry. You shouldn't have had to witness that. I.......I didn't realise how much she hates me'

He felt Derek kiss the top of his head gently before reaching over to grab a handful of toilet paper to wipe at his face.

'Tony, let's get this straight now baby, you have nothing to apologise for. She was in the wrong. Remember the times she's gone off on you in public before....'

Tony flinched at the memories and cringed. He knew his lover had a point but had let the other times go over his head. He tried to stand but found himself locked against Derek's firm chest.

'No you don't Tony, You've done a wonderful job leading the team while Gibbs has been on sick leave and you're team have done nothing but make it difficult for you. Do you have any idea how fucked up that is because in my opinion it is one of the most fucked up things I have ever seen'

He held Tony close and rocked him gently back and forth to try to ease some of the pain his lover was feeling. It broke his heart to see Tony like this and he felt completely hopeless as the harsh sobs jolted Tony's body against his chest.

They stayed like that for a couple of minutes, the two men embracing on the bathroom floor, one in need of comfort and the other offering it, it wasn't long before the sobs subsided and Derek pulled away to make sure Tony wasn't going to throw up again. He helped Tony stand and reached over to flush the toilet before pulling the lid down and helping Tony sit on it. He would have given Tony time to calm down and then let him get back to work but he noticed the trembling that ran through every bone in his ailing lover's body and made the decision to take Tony home. He kneeled down and placed a hand on Tony's knee.

'Babyboy, I'm gonna get you some water so you can rinse your mouth, I want you to rest here for a minute ok'

Tony nodded weakly and looked up at him with tired eyes that threatened to break Derek's heart. If anything, he was the one person Tony had gone to when the team had put him through hell with their attitudes. He could understand it better if it was the case that caused him the heartache, but it wasn't, Tony was going through hell by the people who were supposed to be his team mates and friends. The very same team mates who had shown him little or no respect.

Tony glanced up and looked into the deep brown, caring eyes of the man who seemed to truly love him. During these long, hard months as Team Leader, he'd been so damn thankful to have Derek Morgan in his corner and knew that no matter what, he would always be loved and respected. He looked up at Derek and smiled, it was a small gesture but it helped put Derek's mind at ease.

'I'm not planning on going anywhere anytime soon D, just.....just don't be gone long please, I don't wanna be alone right now'.

Derek frowned and ran his hand over his lover's cheek, it was all he could do to stop his anger from surfacing at the sound of his lovers tired, broken voice.

'I won't be long, I promise. Just relax and I'll be back soon ok'

He knew what he needed to do and stood up slowly before turning and walking towards the door, if anything, he would make damn sure the assholes at NCIS knew exactly what had been going on. He opened the door and resisted the urge to slam his fist into the already broken mirror on the wall.

He walked out of the bathroom and looked over at Ziva, her body language tense as she pounded away at the keyboard in front of her. There was no way Tony was going to stay here, Derek could have cut the atmosphere with a knife, he made a decision and pulled out his cell phone.

****************NCIS****************

Ziva stumbled and cringed openly as the men's room door slammed behind her. It was all she could do to stop herself walking back in there to rip Derek Morgan's head clean off his shoulders but instead she clenched her hands into tight fists and stormed back to her desk. Jethro glanced up at his Probationary Agent and frowned deeply when she dropped, heavily into the chair muttering loudly to herself.

'The damn nerve of that man. Who does he think he his throwing me out of there. Like he has the right to lay his dirty hands on me.'

Jethro sat back and watched with interest as Ziva's body language radiated pure fury, her hands swiftly pounding the keyboard of her computer into the desk.

'Ha........Tony couldn't even stand up for himself, he had to have his BAU boyfriend do it for him. I have no idea what that ben zonah is still doing here! The rest of his team went home hours ago'

She pushed her keyboard away and sat back in her chair fisting her hands menacingly on her desk. She huffed out a bitter laugh and stood up to start pacing in her small work area.

'And I will never understand how a cop who struggled to stay in one job for more than two years has been at NCIS as long as he has...............'

Jethro had heard enough, he understood her need to let off a bit of steam and had decided to leave her to rant until it was out of her system. He slowly stood up and grabbed his coffee with his good arm. He knew damn well he needed to address her recent actions, but also knew to tread carefully seeing as she had been reamed out by the director a short while ago. He walked over to her desk and slammed his open palm down on the surface next to her mouse.

'Enough Probationary Agent David. You have already been told about your attitude towards DiNozzo since I got shot but as of right now, I'm back in charge and won't put up with your bullshit any longer'.

She turned and glared at Jethro with venomous daggers and crossed her arms over her chest in a defensive stance.

'Gibbs I........'

'I don't wanna hear it David, now I don't know what just happened in the Men's room but I saw you go in there and know Morgan kicked you out. Now my gut is telling me I'm not going to like it so until I know exactly what went on I expect you to sit down, shut up and do your damn work. Am I clear Probationary Agent David?'

She glared at Jethro and sat back down in her chair, her silence seemed to speak for itself which did nothing but piss Jethro off further. He slammed his hand back down on her desk and leaned down so he was practically nose to nose with his junior agent.

'I said, DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?'

Ziva's eye's narrowed and Jethro could tell it was pure rage and stubbornness that stopped her from moving back, she wasn't one to be intimidated but she really needed to be bought down a peg or two.

'Crystal...........boss'

Jethro moved back slowly and grimaced at the sarcasm that dripped from her use of the word boss. He picked up his coffee and took a large slug, his blue eyes never leaving the smouldering dark brown ones. Anyone who walked past and saw this exchange could see the power struggle and decided to avoid the pair completely. Ziva looked away first and turned back to her monitor.

'Ok good, now we have that cleared up you should know this isn't over......probie'

He walked back over to his desk and sat down shaking his head. He had the feeling that something had gone on in the bathroom and was concerned about what had transpired. He was toying with the idea of going in to make sure everything was alright when Derek Morgan opened the door and bolted for the breakroom. He frowned deeply at the look on the young FBI agents face and rushed after him, sending a stern look Ziva's way before he left.

As Jethro walked towards the breakroom, his mind started to run into overdrive about what exactly has happened between Ziva leaving the directors, and her being ejected forcefully out of the head. He wouldn't have been too concerned but the look on the young FBI agents face made his gut twitch uncomfortably, something had gone on between these three people and it obviously hadn't gone well in there.

He opened the door and made his way over to the pot of coffee sitting on the percolator.

'Morgan, you wanna tell me what the hell's going on'.

Derek was standing at the large window that overlooked the Anacostia and jumped at the sound of the soft voice. He had every intention of going there to grab Tony some water, but knew he needed to calm down considerably before making his way back to his lover.

'It's under control Gibbs, but I will say this. You better keep that bitch away from me and Tony because right now I won't be responsible for my actions'.

Jethro nodded and smiled gently at Derek.

'Oh I'll keep her away alright, but right now, I want you to tell me exactly what the hell's going on'.

Derek shook his head and sighed loudly.

'Look, it's not for me to say ok. I'll talk to Tony to see what he wants. Right now, my main concern is my partner so just do me a favour and let me deal with him'.

Jethro stood leaning against the counter, the two men staring each other out momentarily. He understood Derek's reaction and nodded before heading out with his replenished coffee to go back to his desk to work. His gut still hadn't settle but he was a little more relaxed knowing Tony had someone to look out for him.

****************NCIS****************

Tony was still sat in the toilet cubicle mulling things over in his mind. He really couldn't understand where all the hatred had come from but at this precise moment in time, he really didn't care. All he knew was that Ziva couldn't stand the sight of him anymore and Tim.........his best friend and confidant Tim, had all but shunned him over the past few weeks. He hugged his arms around himself and let the torrent of tears flow freely down his face as the past few stressful weeks finally caught up with him.

His tears didn't distract his mind from the angst it was hellbent on replaying and he hunched forward slightly to try to ease the pain in his chest that the sobbing seemed to create. I mean sure, he teased Tim a lot and corrected Ziva's English all the time but he'd been trying to help keep a semblance of normality to the team whilst Jethro was on sick leave, he'd been trying to help them better themselves in his roundabout kind of way.

Tim.......Well hell, all he wanted was for Tim to stand up for himself, if he could do that with Tony then he could hold his ground better with a suspect. When Tim was nervous over the directors reaction to his friend being pregnant, Tony spent hours researching the Laws that would protect him and his job. Tim's reaction stung a lot more than Ziva's but there was nothing he could do about it now, not in the frame of mind he was in.

Tony thought back to their reactions to his leadership style, he knew they hated the camp fires, but he always felt that they worked well and gave them all the opportunity to share ideas and go over what information they had in a way that they wouldn't be disturbed. He had even asked Ducky and Abby to join them on more than one occasion which, he thought, had gone down a storm seeing as both of their beloved colleagues got to hear more about the cases they were providing evidence for without having to wait for the final reports.

He felt his stomach roll uncomfortably as the storm that was brewing in the pit of his stomach increased his nausea tenfold. Tony jumped up and flipped open the toilet lid to heave noisily into the toilet, his empty stomach producing nothing but sour bile before leaving him dry heaving.

He dropped to his knees and rested his head on the arm that was draped over the seat.

'Please..........Oh god.........Derek, please hurry...........'.

Luckily no one else entered the bathroom to hear his despairing sobs, and for that, Tony was grateful. What he didn't know, was the fact that Jethro had put a sign on the door telling everyone to use the other head because this one was out of order.

****************NCIS****************

Derek stood in the breakroom and made his way over the vending machine in the corner. He needed to get water for his lover and as he put the money in the slot, he was jolted by the flurry of pure concern and worry that crashed over him. He bent down to grab the cold water bottle and rested his head on the cool glass front of the machine, cursing his anger for diverting his attention away from the fact that there was a call he needed to make before he went back.

'Damn it............'

He stood up and pulled his phone out of his pocket. He scrolled through his phone book until he found one of the new additions to his vast personal database and pushed the little green button to connect him to the only person that could possibly help at the moment.

Derek walked over to the large window and sighed heavily when the heavens opened, the deluge of water was in perfect symmetry to the mood he was in at the moment. He waited patiently and sighed heavily with relief when the phone was answered.

'Autopsy, Dr. Mallard speaking'.

'Dr Mallard, It's Agent Morgan, I need to talk to you about something'.

Mirroring his previous actions, he leaned forward and rested his forehead on the window. The loud sigh was not lost on Ducky who had noticed the young BAU agents shaky voice and had taken it to mean bad news.

'Ahh, Agent Morgan. What on earth is the matter young man?'

Ducky didn't know what to expect, after all he had noticed the looks that had passed between Tony and his ...........friend, and against his better judgement, he jumped to the conclusion that Tony was seeing Derek. In a way, despite all the problems the Senior agent had at work, Ducky had noticed a considerable change in Tony's mood and was secretly happy that during these stressful times, Tony had someone to lean on for support.

In the weeks since talking to Jethro about the events in the office, Ducky had turned into Jethro's informant and had helped the team leader document every harsh word and action that had been thrown at Tony, but for all intense purposes, had been kept out of the loop as to how the whole situation had been dealt with. He grew concerned with the silence at the other end of the phone and was about to ask whether or not Derek was still there when the young agent spoke, his voice deep and quiet which betrayed his emotions.

'Dr Mallard............'.

'Ducky my dear boy, were all friends here'.

Derek huffed out a small laugh and continued.

'Ok, Ducky. Um, could you meet me in the men's room off the bull pen? Tony's not feeling too good and I'm kinda worried about him'.

Ducky moved to the large storage cabinet and pulled out his, thankfully, seldom used black bag.

'Of course, Derek.......May I call you Derek?, what seems to be the matter?'

Ducky frowned deeply as Derek reeled off Tony's symptoms and rushed out the door towards the bull pen. He had warned Jethro about the amount of Stress Tony had been under and was concerned that the case mixed with the pressure of being team leader, would finally catch up with his young friend and would affect his health in some shape or form.

'Derek, I'm on my way there now. Are you with Tony now?'

'No, I'm in the break room getting him some water. I'm on my way back there now'.

Ducky felt the urgency of the situation surge through him and impatiently jabbed his finger at the call button of the elevator. He felt torn, one half of him wanted to berate Derek for leaving Tony alone, the other wanted to comment the young man for having the hindsight to tend to Tony's needs. He decided it wasn't the time to cause more tension and sighed with relief when the elevator doors opened.

'Ok, I'm in the lift now so will be with you soon'.

He ended the call and watched as the numbers scrolled by, praying silently that there would be no stops along the way that would keep him from tending to Tony.

****************NCIS****************

Derek made it back to the men's room in record time and pushed open the door, he smiled half heartedly when he saw the note that had been taped to the door and recognised Jethro's scrawl. He made his way over the stall where he had left Tony and pushed open the door.

'Shit, Tony.......come on babyboy'.

He had expected to see Tony still sitting on the can but instead, had been greeted by the sight of his lover lying unconscious on the hard, tile floor. He wasted no time and knelt down before pushing two fingers against Tony's carotid artery, only to find a strong pulse beating underneath his fingertips. The door opened and he heard Ducky's soft, accented voice ring through the bathroom.

'Derek, Tony...........'

'In here Ducky. Tony's passed out'.

Ducky rushed to the stall and put his hand on Derek's shoulder.

'Oh dear Anthony, what have you done to yourself now dear boy'

Derek stood and left the stall to give the ME room to manoeuvre, what he really wanted to do was to pull Tony out of there into the main area but wasn't sure as to whether he should move him or not. He leaned against the door jamb and was overwhelmed by a surge of anger that made him slam his hand against the hard wood.

'God damn it, that woman will pay for this'.

Ducky jumped and was about to scold Derek for his insensitivity when Tony started to stir. He turned his attention back to his patient and pulled his handkerchief out of his top pocket to wipe away the beads of sweat that had formed on Tony's brow.

'Anthony, I need you to wake up now........... can you open your eyes for me'.

Tony stirred again slightly but the fact that he didn't wake up concerned Ducky further. He turned to Derek and motioned towards his prone friend.

'Derek, we need to get him out of this stall, I see you've positioned him as best you could but there isn't any room to move and he can't be comfortable'

Derek stepped forward and helped Ducky move Tony gently out of the cubicle and onto the floor of the main space in the men's room. Ducky watched Derek gently lay Tony's head down on his rolled up jacket and smiled when Derek bent down to place a chaste kiss on Tony's forehead. It was the tender care and affection that Ducky had just witnessed that made him warm more to Derek, he decided to leave Derek to his gentle ministrations and knelt back down to start his cursory exam. He frowned deeply at Tony's slightly laboured breathing and promptly took Tony's pulse.

'Derek, was he having trouble breathing before you left?'

Ducky looked up into Derek's deep brown eyes and cocked his head slightly whilst waiting for the answer. Derek shook his head lightly and turned his attention back to his lover.

'Not that I noticed Ducky, I mean he was upset and shaking but beside's throwing up....why, is there something seriously wrong'.

Ducky saw the pain in the young BAU agents eyes and felt his heart break slightly, he reached over and patted Derek's shoulder gently.

'Because his heart rate seems a little bit fast and his breathing is laboured. I'm not too concerned because it may just be down to recent event's. Do you know whether he has eaten today?'

He saw the abashed look on Derek's face and could pretty much pinpoint the internal struggle, knowing full well Derek was debating on how much he should actually tell him.

'Agent Morgan. I don't know much of your relationship with Anthony but from what I have seen, I can deduce that you are romantically involved'

Derek looked up sheepishly and inhaled sharply, what he didn't want was to 'out' his relationship with Tony to anyone at the moment, especially seeing as Tony's team had turned their back on him. At this point in time, he really didn't want to admit to having lunch with Tony, and struggled with the fact that he couldn't seem to lie about it being the rendezvous being platonic and work relate because right now, his emotions were too raw.

He could sense Ducky's impatience and sat in silence.

'Young man, if you two are romantically involved, then fine. I personally think it's wonderful that Anthony has found someone he is happy with. Now I'm not going to judge you though I will say that if you hurt Anthony in any way.........'

Derek raised his hand and held his open palm in front of him to stop Ducky in his tracks.

'Don't worry Ducky, I've already had the warning from Abby about hurting him, trust me when I say I don't ever want to see Tony in pain and will never hurt him if I can possibly help it'.

Ducky couldn't help but chuckle at the emphasis on 'warning', he knew Abby too well and had heard her threaten people with 'I can kill you without leaving any forensic evidence' before and knew how effective it could be, in all fairness, he should have known better than think the resident Goth wouldn't have had a quiet word with Derek.

'That certainly sounds like Abigail. The dear girl means well but.........anyway, Derek you have not answered my question. Has Anthony eaten today?'

Derek blushed slightly and nodded.

'We didn't have much time this morning so he only had some toast with his coffee, I made sure he ate lunch though and went to the diner round the corner for a sandwich. He didn't eat all of it though Ducky'.

Ducky shook his head sadly and placed his hand lovingly on Tony's cheek. He was half kicking himself for not intervening earlier seeing as he had been worried about the amount of stress his friend had been under, he knew that when Tony was under a lot of pressure, the boy didn't eat much.

'Don't worry Derek. To be honest I'm surprised the poor boy didn't drop earlier seeing how he has looked a little peaky for a while. I'm going to...............'

Ducky was interrupted by a gentle stirring beneath his hand and looked down towards Tony just as his friends eyes slowly opened.

'Nnnngggh'

The low moan that escaped Tony made Ducky frown and the hand that had been so gently cupping Tony's cheek started to pat rhythmically.

'Anthony. Can you hear me? Come on now, Open your eyes.........Ahh that's it, there you are!'

Tony's eyes opened briefly before squinting and closing again. Ducky tried to rouse him again and frowned when he didn't get a response. Ducky looked up at Derek and shook his head.

'Derek, keep trying to wake him please. I'm going to go and call Mr Palmer because I'm afraid we're going to need a gurney'.

Derek tried to school his expression but knew he had failed miserably when Ducky smiled ruefully at him.

'Don't worry dear boy, I just need to examine him in an environment that is perhaps better suited. He'll probably be more comfortable too, I'll go and organise transport and will try to head off Jethro'

Derek nodded at Ducky and watched as the elderly ME walked out of the bathroom with his phone already at his ear. He looked down towards Tony and cupped his palm around Tony's cheek.

'Come on, Babyboy wake up now.........Come on Tony.......damn it Tony, you are starting to scare me here'

He ran his hand up and pushed back the sweaty hair that had started to stick to Tony's forehead. He watched as Tony's eyes flickered and finally opened.

'D? What happened?'

'You passed out Babyboy, I got back with your water and found you passed out in the stall. Listen, Ducky wants to get you down to autopsy so he can take a better look. He's gone to get a gurney........'

Tony struggled against Derek's ministrations and finally managed to sit up. He was still feeling woozy so rested his head on his lover's shoulder until the dizzy spell passed.

'I don't need a gurney D, I'll let Ducky do his thing, but there is no way in hell I am being hauled through the bullpen on a fucking gurney. Shit, could this day get any worse?'

It was all Derek could do to keep the anger he felt towards Ziva in check and silently counted to ten in his head in an effort to calm down. Tony pulled his head away from Derek's shoulders and looked up at his partners tight, worried face.

'D, I'm sorry ok. Please, don't be pissed'

Derek reeled his mind back in and glanced down towards Tony with a deep frown; he cocked his head slightly and nestled into the warm hand that was stroking gently down his cheek. He gazed down at the face he had grown to adore over the past few months and shook his head slightly.

'What have you got to be sorry for Babyboy? You know none of this is your fault right?

He watched as a lone tear slowly trailed down Tony's face and sighed heavily before pulling his lover in for a tighter embrace.

'Awwww crap Tony, shhhh, it's Ok baby. You think you'll be alright on your own for a minute? I need to go talk to ducky'

Tony pulled away and nodded, he really didn't want to be left alone right now but really didn't need the humiliation of being trundled through the bullpen on a gurney. He watched as his lover left the bathroom and pulled his knees up to his chest, his arms wrapped tightly round them whilst he sobbed quietly.

****************NCIS****************

Derek walked out of the bathroom and baulked slightly at the completely empty bullpen, he stood for a moment to take in the sight before moving towards the sound of ducky's voice as the good Doctor relayed instructions to Jimmy.

'No Mr Palmer, I need you to bring a gurney up to the men's room in the bullpen................Yes, that's right and I'd appreciate your discretion............Mr. Palm.........'

Ducky was interrupted by a warm hand on his shoulder and turned slightly to see Derek peering down at him.

'No gurney Ducky, he says he's ok to walk'

Ducky nodded and turned his attention to the phone call.

'Mr Palmer, cancel that gurney but please make sure we have no guests laid out.................Mmmmm I see.............No, our newest guest will be fine in the refrigerator for an hour or so..............thank you Mr Palmer and would you be as kind to start a pot of tea please, make sure there's plenty of sugar'

Ducky hung up the phone and started to walk back to the bathroom.

'Derek, it's against my better judgement, I spoke to Jethro and he managed to clear the bull pen for half an hour whilst we get young Anthony downstairs'

Derek huffed out an exasperated laugh and shook his head.

'I know, thanks. It's just that.....shit.......you know what a stubborn SOB Tony can be and he doesn't want the embarrassment of being wheeled through the bullpen'.

Ducky paused at the door to the bathroom and looked up into the soft, dark brown eyes that seemed to hold nothing but adoration for his ailing friend.

'I understand fully, though this is not a prudent choice. Anthony is a little bit jaded when it comes to his own health. You know poor Mr Palmer didn't know what to do, the poor thing has been a good friend to Tony and seemed slightly stressed out at the situation'

They made their way back into the bathroom to find the floor completely empty. Ducky called out, his soft accented voice ringing through bathroom.

'Anthony...........'.

He was interrupted by the sound of someone heaving violently in one of the cubicles and laid his palm flat on the bottom of Derek's back to gently nudge him in the direction of the noise. He pulled his phone out and dialled Autopsy again. He waited and smiled gently at the harassed sound of his assistant when Jimmy answered the phone completely breathless.

'Autopsy........'

'Ahh Mr Palmer, I think we are going to need that gurney after all. Would you please bring it down?'

Ducky shifted slightly and rested his hip against one of the sinks. He heard Jimmy sigh on the other end and knew that, despite being a med student, his assistant would be fretting about the whole situation.

'I'll be right up Doctor Mallard..Um......Is there anything else I should bring?'

Ducky recognised the familiar stammer and could almost picture Jimmy standing in the middle of autopsy, carding his fingers through his hair with sheer worry. Ducky was soon distracted by another round of heaving and looked over warily at the stall.

'Oh, er yes, can you bring an emesis basin down, I'm afraid Anthony may need it'.

I'll b right up doctor, See you in a short while'.

Ducky hung up his phone and lifted his glasses to pinch the bridge of his nose. He had no idea how today had turned out so badly, but knew that there was a conversation he needed to have with his old friend about the dynamics of his team. It wasn't a talk he was looking forward to, but Jethro needed to know the extent of the toll the whole situation had taken on Tony and felt the need to remind Jethro of the fact that his team was on the brink of destruction.

****************NCIS****************

Bullpen 20 minutes ago...................

Jethro stalked back to his desk with his fresh coffee in his hand, he stopped briefly to glance at Ziva to make sure she was doing what he told her and sat down heavily, his heart beating rapidly because of the whole situation. He looked up and let his eyes follow the figure that emerged from the break room, watching warily as Derek walked back into the men's bathroom to tend to Tony.

It didn't take long for Ducky to come rushing out of the elevator like a bat out of hell and rather than stopping to get a sitrep from the team leader, he ran directly to Tony. This was something Jethro was pleased about; after all, if Tony was in bad shape he knew Duck would be the best person for his agent right now. He turned his head back to his report and sat staring at it because his mind was completely lost in the situation at hand. He heard Ziva snort loudly and turned his head in her direction.

'Oh please, Tony probably hit the wall with his hand and loverboy is over reacting to it. I really don't know what the little FBI agent see's in that little ..........'

Jethro slammed his coffee cup down on the desk and made it across to Ziva' in a matter of seconds. He grabbed her roughly by the arm and yanked her up, hissing in her ear as he did it.

'Jesus Ziva, I've just got done telling you that you are already in hot water over your lack of respect. You can't just can it can ya, now if you can't shut up on your own then I'm telling ya now.......KNOCK IT THE HELL OFF RIGH NOW!..............'

Jethro let go of her arm and started to stomp back to his desk, he turned abruptly and pointed his finger sharply at the abashed Israeli.

'AND THAT IS A DIRECT ORDER PROBATIONARY AGENT DAVID. AM I UNDERSTOOD'

'Fine Boss, now if that is all, maybe you will let me get back to work'.

Jethro's anger pretty much boiled over as he changed direction and went back to Ziva's desk.

'Yeah, you can get back to work. As long as you do it in silence. Seriously Ziva, I want you to keep your God damned mouth shut right about now!'

Ziva huffed and turned back to her computer leaving Jethro leaning angrily on the edge, shooting death glares in her direction. Jethro scowled at his 'probie' and turned sharply, only to crash into an extremely harassed Ducky.

'Jethro would you please watc........'

'Sorry Duck. How is he?'

Ducky turned and walked towards the stairs leading to MTAC and turned towards Jethro to let him know to follow. Jethro started to walk in Ducky's direction and trailed after him, finally coming to a stop behind the stairs. Ducky turned and removed his glasses before cleaning them nervously.

'Jethro, I need you clear the bullpen. It's relatively clear right now but I need to get Anthony down to Autopsy'.

Jethro peered round to the five or six desks in the bullpen that were currently occupied and nodded his head.

'Sure, why do you need it clear Duck?'

'Anthony collapsed in the Bathroom and is in a rather fragile state at the moment. I would like to spare anymore humiliation on his part if I can'.

Ducky looked up at his friend and saw the impatience that pooled in the crystal blue eyes. It was the glare he knew all too well but really didn't have the time or the energy to relay the situation.

'Jethro, please? I will gladly talk to you later but for now I need you to help'.

Jethro stalked off and Ducky heard the familiar short whistle which was loud enough to stop everyone dead.

'Listen up, we have a situation and I need the bullpen evacuating for thirty minutes. Take a break people'.

Ducky smiled gently at the sound of rustling paperwork and footsteps as the remaining agents moved silently towards the elevator. He stepped out and walked slowly over to Jethro.

'Thank you Jethro. Now I must get back to Anthony. I will come and see you when I have him sorted out ok?'

Jethro nodded curtly and sat back down at his desk, there was no way he was going to was going to leave and turned back to his computer. Ducky nodded and made his way back to the stairs to call Jimmy.

7 minutes later............

Jethro was getting worried; he had already seen Derek exit the men's room and talk to Ducky and was currently watching Jimmy step off the elevator with a gurney in tow. The sight of the gurney made his gut twist into a tight knot and he was torn as to whether or not he should walk in to offer his assistance. He thought back to the conversation he previously had with Derek and thought better of it, it wasn't the words, but the look of pure love and devotion on the man's face that left Jethro with a gut feeling that Tony was going to be well looked after.

****************NCIS****************

Present time................

Ducky walked over the stall and peered in at Tony and Derek. Tony had finally finished dry heaving and was currently curled up on the floor with his head resting in Derek's lap. The young FBI agent was gently carding his fingers though his lovers hair and was quietly reassuring Tony, his voice so low that Ducky couldn't quite make out what he was saying. He cleared his throat and crouched down to the two men.

Derek pulled his eyes away from Tony's anguished face and looked up to see Ducky peering over at him. The doctor had been so quiet in his approach, he hadn't noticed him crouching there and it startled Derek. Tony felt the slight jump and tensed, he really didn't know what had spooked his lover but really didn't want to be found on the bathroom floor in the condition he was in, especially seeing as he was in a compromising situation with his boyfriend. He struggled feebly to sit up but was held down by Derek's hand on his shoulder.

'Shhh, it's ok Tony, It's just Ducky and he's already figured us out babyboy'.

Ducky moved in closer to the two young men and reached out to Grab Tony's cold, trembling hand.

'It's alright my dear boy. I have no problem with Derek taking care of you and from what I can see, you seem to be in very good hands'

Tony looked up at Ducky with tired eyes and suddenly felt overwhelmed by the show of support from the elderly ME. He curled his fingers around Ducky's and smiled ruefully, the emotion however, did not reach the eyes which seemed to hold onto the emotionally deadened, dull look. With his last ounce of energy, he turned towards Ducky and was surprised by how weak his voice sounded.

'Thanks Ducky. He's been my rock over the past couple of months and I don't know what I'd do without him, crap I don't think I would have made it through'.

Tony struggled to sit up and felt Derek shift so that Tony was sitting in between the long toned legs. He let Derek pull him back against his chest and sighed heavily.

'You know what's funny Duck? Without Derek being here...........I mean I though the last time was hard, but this time has been shitty. Without Derek, I don't think I would have coped at all. The only fucking saving grace was the fact that I didn't have a director using me for their own personal revenge and pulling me in two different directions'.

Tony let his gaze focus on the smooth wall of the cubicle and Ducky noticed how much the young man seemed to shrink more and more into Derek's embrace.

'That's just shitty Ducky, I mean come on, can someone please tell me what the fuck I have done to deserve this?'

Ducky shook his head sadly, he felt sorry for the young broken man before him and it tore at his already broken heart to hear what Tony was saying. Ducky mentally kicked himself and looked back over the past couple of months. He had known Ziva had been bitching left, right and centre, and knew Tim had been a little bit distant and frosty at times which had led to more than one conversation with Jethro about the treatment Tony had received. He also knew how disappointed Jethro had been in the team and despite recovering himself from the gunshot wound, knew his old friend had been itching to solve the issues. What he didn't know was how much had been done to resolve the issues and judging by the emotionally frayed man sitting in front of him, he was guessing very little. He opened his mouth to reply to Tony's tirade when he was interrupted by a knock at the door and leaned back to see Jimmy peering in through the open bathroom door.

'Dr Mallard............Oh there you are. Would you like me to bring the gurney in here or leave it outside?'

Ducky had stood and was gesturing towards the door, but was interrupted by Derek's smooth voice as it rang loudly through the bathroom.

'Bring it in here please, it'll be quicker and easier. Is the bullpen still empty?'

Jimmy turned and peered back out into the large office space before turning back.

'Er.........no, Agent Gibb's is at his desk and Agent Allen's team has just stepped off the elevator'.

Derek scowled and rested his chin on top of Tony's head.

'Ok, definitely bring it in. It'll make less of a scene getting him settled'.

Derek had been relieved that the bullpen was empty and wanted nothing more than to protect Tony from the questioning eyes of his colleagues as much as possible. He figured Ducky would agree and warmed more to the ME after he had organised to have the bull pen emptied.

Ducky frowned when Jimmy hovered nervously at the door, but quickly realised exactly what the problem was.

'Mr Palmer, I would appreciate it if you would do what young Agent Morgan has asked please. If there are people now in the bullpen, then I believe we should do this as swiftly as possible'.

He glanced down at the two men in front of him and smiled warmly at the grateful look in their eyes. Ducky patted their shoulders gently and stood gingerly to assist Jimmy.

'Ah, the bones are not what they used to be I'm afraid...........Mr Palmer would you be so kind please?'

He gestured towards the cubicle and watched as Jimmy entered the bathroom with the gurney. He could pinpoint the exact moment the heavy atmosphere that hung in the bathroom hit his assistant and sighed softly knowing there would be a lot of explaining to do.

It didn't take long for Jimmy to push his burden over to the cubicle and frowned deeply at the sight of his friend leaning back against Derek. He was slightly taken back by the sight of the BAU agent gently carding his fingers through Tony's hair and noted how bad how his friend actually looked despite the supportive attention he was getting.

If he was going to be totally honest with himself, the sight of his pale, shaking friend worried him, but he shook his head and couldn't help wondering whether or not this show of weakness would paint Tony in a bad light to the BAU agent helping him, especially in lieu of the problems that the NCIS team had recently.

The next few minutes seemed to be a blur of activity as Ducky, Derek and Jimmy helped manoeuvre a protesting Tony onto the gurney. Luckily, in Tony's weakened state, his struggles were futile and they soon had him wrapped in a warm blanket and strapped down so they could move him to a better suited environment.

****************NCIS****************

Jethro glanced at the clock for what seemed like the hundredth time since Jimmy had made his way into the bathroom wielding the squeaky wheeled gurney. It had been a good 5 minutes since Jimmy had arrived and stalled at the door he had held open whilst speaking to the hidden occupants. There had been no further movement and Jethro found himself becoming antsy.

He glanced over at Ziva's desk and couldn't help the terrible thought that curled around his tormented mind.

'What the hell is going on? Did Ziva actually make good on one of her threats to hurt Tony?'

He had decided to replenish his empty coffee cup after seven minutes, but when ten minutes had passed without movement from the bathroom, he stood up and made his way over. He heard the elevator ding and turned sharply to see the exiled occupants of the bullpen stalking quietly back to their desk and knew that, were they to push Tony out now, there would be numerous questions as to what had actually transpired in the half hour they had been out.

He rushed over to the bathroom and pushed open the door, only to be surprised by the emptiness he encountered. He stood and gaped into the large men's room before turning back to the door to pull off the sign he had previously hung there. He stormed back to his desk and tried to make sense of things but when he spotted Ziva sitting at her desk, his mind demanded answers.

'Ziva. What the HELL did you do to Tony, while

you two were talking?'

Ziva looked shell shocked at the abrupt intrusion into her personal space and shook her head angrily before standing up to square up to her boss.

'I didn't do a DAMN THING TO HIM. All I did was tell him a few house truths in terms of I don't feel has any business even leading the team. Right now I don't understand why you've kept him on your team all these years because he's a liablity'

Jethro felt himself shaking with anger and blew out a cleansing breath before raining his anger down on Ziva.

'THAT'S ENOUGH! Tony is still on MY team because he is a damn good agent. Shit, he's the best I've ever worked with. You know what David, right now I suggest you GO HOME and stay the hell away from Tony right now. IS THAT CLEAR?'

Jethro could feel the pure rage radiating off Ziva and held his hand up to stop her incriminating herself further.

'The only fucking words I want to hear from your mouth right now is YES BOSS'.

Ziva was clenching and unclenching her hands with pure, unadulterated anger, it was one thing to be dressed down by the director, but to be sent home by her boss..............well that was just wrong. Deep down, she knew she had crossed the line and dangerously glared at Jethro.

'Yes, you have made yourself very clear.......Boss'.

'That's the best thing you've said all day David, now get out of my sight'

Jethro turned to stalk back to his desk and looked up to the balcony railing outside MTAC. He saw the director standing there looking down at him with a thoroughly pissed off look on his face, the only agreement to Jethro's punishment being a curt nod. Jethro nodded back and made his way back to his desk resigning himself to the fact that he had to do something he wasn't used to..................wait patiently to find out what was going on with his senior field agent.

****************NCIS****************

Tony was sitting on one of the cold, metal autopsy tables and felt his face redden as he worked through the event's of the day. He had no idea what had made him react the way he did, but had no doubt in his mind that the stress he had been under had contributed considerably.

Derek was standing next to him and was gently rubbing soothing circles in the small of Tony's back. He had quickly figured out the best way to soothe his lover and was humming gently, knowing full well that Tony had found it soothing after a stressful day.

Tony started to rehash Ziva's hurtful words and felt the tears start to form. He didn't want to cry again but the tears soon filled his eyes to the point his vision was blurring and he had no option but to blink and let them wash down his hot face. He pulled away from Derek and swung his legs up onto the table to pull his knees up enough to rest on his chin.

Derek looked over at the movement and watched as Tony curled up in himself again. He frowned deeply when he saw Tony's hunched shoulders quiver with each silent sob and moved to place one hand on his lover's shoulder and used the other to raise Tony's head so that the broken man was looking directly at him.

'Hey, it's alright babyboy. I'm here and I'm going to take care of you. Come on Don't cry, you feeling any better........You feeling nauseous again?'

He felt Tony shake his head under his hand and leaned in to chastely kiss his lovers head. When he pulled away, he looked down and brushed the sweaty bangs away from Tony's forehead.

'I'm just going to step over and speak to Ducky for a minute. You want me to grab you anything?'

Tony nodded and replied in a shaky voice.

'A bl...blanket please. I'm cold'

Derek wrapped his arms around Tony and placed another kiss to the top of his head.

'Ok Tony, I'll go ask for one. I won't be long, I promise'.

Derek pulled away and made his way over to Ducky and Jimmy.

'Excuse me, Jimmy........Can I call you Jimmy?'

Jimmy looked like a deer caught in the headlights and balked slightly at being addressed.

'Ye.....Ahem.....yes that's fine. How can I help?'

Derek chuckled slightly at the nervous reaction before answering.

'I don't think we've been formally introduced. I'm Derek Morgan, You can call me Derek or Morgan. I'm easy. Anyway, could you take Tony a blanket over, he's cold..........Oh and maybe stay with him a while whilst I talk to Ducky'.

Jimmy let his gaze flitter between Derek and his boss and waited for the gently ME to give his assent. It didn't take long for Ducky to cotton on and Jimmy soon felt a warm hand pat his arm once.

'That's fine Mr Palmer, go on. If anything our poor Anthony needs to know he has some friendly support right now. Maybe you could refill his tea'

Jimmy nodded and moved over to the storage closet to pull out a rarely used blanket before moving to the teapot that sat on the autopsy table next the one Tony currently occupied. He poured the hot liquid into the cup and added the tiniest amount of milk and copious amounts of sugar.

Jimmy picked up the mug but looked up to see the worried face of Tony's new lover peering at him and shook his head slightly before calmly talking.

'It doesn't change thinks, you know.......him being with you. If anything I'm glad he has someone to turn to. Anyway, I'm not too sure how much help a lowly little autopsy gremlin can be right now so he needs you. Don't worry, you have my full support'.

With his little speech over with, Jimmy walked over to Tony carrying the blanket and the tea. Derek watched with interest as Jimmy placed the tea next to his lover and carefully wrapped the blanket round the trembling shoulders, all the while talking gently to Tony in hushed tones.

Derek had been so wrapped up in the scene in front of him, he hadn't noticed Ducky creep up behind him.

'Was there something you wanted to ask young man?'

Derek jumped slightly and smiled at Ducky gently.

'Is he going to be ok Ducky? I'm worried sick about him right now'.

He stole another glance at his lover and felt his throat constrict slightly.

'You know, I'm having a hard time figuring out what David's problem is. It was I could do to hold back in the bathroom. I swear Ducky, I've never hit a woman unless it was in defence, but I was damn close to knocking her head straight into the fucking wall'.

Ducky frowned and noticed the internal struggle Derek was currently trying to keep in check. He could see that the young man was torn between sheer rage at Ziva's actions and deep concern, the two conflicting emotions threatening to pull the young BAU agent under into a complete meltdown. He sighed heavily and pulled Derek towards his office to try to calm him down, after all, Tony needed the support from his lover at the moment, Not another slanging match.

'Derek, come into my office young man'.

Derek tried to pull free from the insistent hand that grasped his wrist.

'But............'

Ducky shook his head and gripped the firm muscles even harder.

'No buts Derek. Now you do NOT want that young man to see you like this........Don't shake your head sonny, I know you don't want him too. Now come along, he will be just fine with Mr Palmer'.

Derek stole one more glance in Tony's direction and conceded letting Ducky pull him across autopsy. He knew Ducky was right about his lover not seeing Derek break down and felt reassured when he saw Tony chatting freely to Jimmy.

****************NCIS****************

Derek let himself be led into the small, intimate office and moved to sit down in one of the visitors chairs. He cringed slightly when the door closed and looked up to see Ducky leaning precariously on the edge of the large desk.

'Ah, I see you've made yourself comfortable dear boy. Excellent, now how about a spot of tea? Or if you prefer, I'm sure Mr Palmer keeps some instant coffee stowed away somewhere if you would rather have that?'

Derek let Ducky talk and leaned forward to rest his elbows on his knees, he closed his eyes and let his hands cup his head. As he tried to relax, he heard the older man shuffle around the small office and couldn't help but smile as Ducky started to regale him with one of his long stories about his days in college. He had heard all about these stories from his lover and, like Tony, found it strangely soothing so didn't really mind.

Ducky glanced over at Derek and continued with his long winded story whilst making both a cup of earl grey tea for himself and a coffee for Derek. He looked down at the coffee with a pang of regret and wondered whether he should have offered nothing but the tea seeing as the calming effect it would have on the younger man would be more beneficial. He shook his head and took the freshly made coffee over to Derek and set it on the desk in front of him.

'Here, drink this Derek. I have bought over sugar and cream for you'.

Derek pulled his head up and muttered a small 'thanks' before fixing the coffee the way he liked it. He found it strange that the genteel ME could treat people the way he did, personal experience with coroners in the past had not been good and he had found that they served no purpose but to perform the autopsy's and rub him up the wrong way. He sighed heavily and sipped at his coffee, silently admitting to himself that he actually did really like Ducky and now knew exactly what Tony had been talking about all these months, especially after the care and attention Ducky had shown the two of them this afternoon.

He looked up and was surprised to find himself alone in the small office and settled back into the chair he was sat in to wait patiently for the ME to return. It didn't take long and he soon heard the chair at the other side of the desk creek as Ducky lowered himself into his aged, comfortable, leather office chair and waited patiently for the elderly gentleman to talk.

'I do apologize, my dear boy, I wanted to check Anthony's blood pressure and temperature again'.

Derek gazed at Ducky intently but couldn't stand the silence that seemed to have shrouded the room after Ducky's statement.

'And?'

Ducky smiled slightly and took a sip of his tea.

'He's doing better Derek, though he is exhausted. I worry about all the stress he has been under lately. I just thank the heaven's he isn't doing any undercover work like last time'

Ducky was currently nursing his cup and sighed heavily before taking a large sip of his tea again.

'Judging by the level of exhaustion, both physically and mentally I might add, I'm truly surprised he hasn't landed himself a stay at Bethesda. You know the poor boy has been working twenty four seven and the attitude of his team mates really hasn't made it any easier for him'

Ducky chuckled slightly at the memory of the 'campfires' he had been asked to attend and continued.

'You know, the other two really didn't like those little 'campfires' our Anthony is so fond of. I personally really enjoyed the ones I attended. I overheard Tim and Ziva complaining about them once and decided to have a little chat with them about their usefulness'.

Ducky looked over and noticed the way Derek's nose flared with anger at the mention of the campfires and the treatment Tony had received. He decided that now probably wasn't the time and reined in his comments about the little comments that had been made in order to preserve what little dignity the team had left. If the truth be told, Ducky was feeling a little bit angry at the team, including Jethro, and was currently struggling to keep his anger in check.

Derek silently counted to ten and looked up at Ducky.

'You know what Ducky, you seem to really like Tony. I'm happy about that because right now he sure needs someone around here to be a friend. I can kind of understand McGee's problem, hell he's been civil apart from that one blow out, but Ziva.........Who the fuck knows what her problem is. I will say this though, it all ends here. Hell, I'll even go as far as to say, that whilst I know McGee is pregnant, I won't stand for anymore of his bullshit if he decides to snap again. Ziva, she maybe a different story because I will rip her head off her shoulders if she so much as sneezes at Tony again'.

Ducky sat stunned at Derek's diatribe and waited patiently knowing the young man had to get it off his chest.

'You know what else really pisses me off, the fact that this fucking agency seems to hold little or no esteem towards its employees.......Oh I know about your late directors games alright and to be perfectly honest, I'm surprised Tony hasn't snapped long before now. I mean shit, as if leaving him with a fucking team wasn't bad enough, some bitch slaps mind games on him as well'.

Derek looked up at Ducky and frowned at the surprised look on the good doctors face.

'A few months back, I had to take over and lead the unit for Agent Hotchner. There was an Unsub who'd injured Hotch and then killed his ex wife. He needed time to get his head together and I had the full support of my team and Tony, shit I don't know what I would have done without his support at the time. We've been together longer than what you think Ducky and that case was closed just before we asked for NCIS help'.

Derek pulled in a breath and continued.

'I got the impression that our Director was hoping Hotch wouldn't return and Tony listened to me when I needed him the most. That's when he told me about the bullshit Director Shepperd pulled on him. I thought I'd had it bad with Strauss, but Jesus Christ, you're agency seemed to care so little about the welfare of its agents. You know he went to her right? He told her he felt like he was in over his head but she didn't care. If I would have been there things might have been a little different'

Derek stood abruptly and started to pace around the small office and rubbed his hand over his short, wiry hair.

'Sorry, I didn't mean to take it out on you, it's just that......crap Ducky, you were just here at the wrong time'.

Derek fell silent and Ducky could see that the younger man was starting to flag slightly. He knew the exhaustion would finally hit him and decided there and then, that Tony and Derek should go home for the rest of the day.

'Nonsense dear boy, there's nothing to apologize for. I'm just grateful that Anthony has got such a good support system behind him and have to admit to seeing a change in him recently.........despite the stress of work. Now I am going to suggest strongly that you and Anthony need some rest, so am ordering you to take him home for tonight'

Ducky stood and picked up his cup.

'I also want you both to take tomorrow off. Take him out somewhere, stay in and relax.........Do anything Derek, that will help him relax and unwind'

Derek nodded, he silently agreed that his lover needed some time off to relax but knew for a fact that Tony would refuse point blank given the case they were working on right now. If anything, Tony had become more and more intense with this case, and acted as though he wanted to prove himself to everyone involved.

'Tony is gonna like that Ducky, were in the middle of the case and Tony's become kinda intense about it. I'm not even sure Gibb's is going to like that given he's one agent down in lieu of Tim being on sick'

He stopped pacing and leaned heavily against the desk with his arms crossed defensively.

'Though, I think it'll do him some good to get away from that damn woman right now'

Derek practically growled damn woman out and realised he needed time away from her too. He just couldn't seem to curb the sheer hatred and rage he felt towards Ziva at the moment and knew his professionalism would shoot straight out of the window if he saw her again anytime soon.

Ducky noticed the emotional struggle and patted Derek on the arm sympathetically.

'You leave Jethro to me Derek, I know how to handle my dear friend. As for Anthony, well, I'll make his choices clear..................Rest for now or I'll send him straight to the place he hates the most'

Derek looked confused and Ducky watched as his eyebrows knitted together in a questioning way.

'And that would be?'

Ducky laughed at the tone and continued.

'Bethesda Naval Hospital, let's face it, Anthony hates the place and since the plague incident, well he seems rather reluctant to go there. It's made for an excellent weapon to use at times'

'Ducky moved towards the door with his empty cup in his hand and held the door open for Derek.

'Shall we dear boy'

Derek stood up and walked towards Ducky with amazing grace and they both made their way out into the main autopsy lab.

****************NCIS****************

Once Jimmy had Tony settled in the blanket, he pulled over a stool and sat next to the ailing agent. He watched as Tony cringed at the overly sweet tea and grinned.

'Sorry Tony, Doctors orders'

Tony scowled at Jimmy, but despite his playful bitterness, he knew Jimmy wouldn't take it badly. Ever since his last stint as team leader, Tony had found Jimmy to be an invaluable friend and ally and had the utmost respect for him. It still struck him as strange that the two of them had struck a friendship, and was grateful for the support Jimmy had shown recently during the hard times Tony had been experiencing.

He looked over at his friend and handed him the empty tea cup.

'I think Ducky is trying to rot my teeth with that brew Jimmy, it tastes like crap too'

Jimmy took the cup and nodded ruefully, he knew Tony didn't really like tea anyway but was thankful he had the good grace to finish it. He hated seeing his friend so weak and vulnerable and couldn't understand how Gibbs' second in command had been reduced to the shocky young man that sat in front of him. He reached over and pulled Ducky's stethoscope out of the small doctors bag he shared with Ducky and placed the ends of it in his ears.

'I agree, but who's going to argue with Doctor Mallard. I value my life Tony'

Tony huffed out a short laugh and let Jimmy do the checks that had become all to regular over the past hour or so.

'Ok, heart and lungs sound good. Now for your BP, How're you doing Tony?'

Tony closed his eyes and waited for the cuff Jimmy had just attached to his arm to stop squeezing the life out of his bicep. He heard the wonderful hissing that signalled the measurement and looked up into the face of one very happy, nodding Jimmy Palmer.

'Just peachy Jimmy.............'

He watched Jimmy's face fall and rubbed harshly at his eyes.

'Shit, I'm sorry, it's just that........I'm doing ok. It didn't realised how much Tim and Ziva hate me. You know they won't let me forget the fact that I'm not the bossman. Hell, I even think Ziva still blames me for Director Shepard's death and seems hellbent on punishing me over Rivkin. You know what she said to me Jimmy?'

He waited for Jimmy to shake his head and exhaled loudly.

'She told me she would have been more than happy to pull the trigger if she had been ordered to do so. Crap, this even came after our little fling. Now that's just shitty isn't it'

Tony wiped away the tears that free flowed down his face.

'Hell, better not risk her seeing me cry. She'd laugh in my face and call me weak, that'd be the last thing she should see because she'd take is as some kind of sick little victory on her part.........She'd probably even use it to fuel her theory that I shouldn't be and NCIS agent'.

Tony's gaze slowly moved over to the direction of Ducky's office and he smiled slightly.

I honestly don't think I could have gotton through this without Derek. You know he's majorly pissed at Tim and Ziva right now don't you. He can't understand their attitudes, which to be fair, neither can I'.

He grabbed the edge of the blanket and pulled it tigher around himself.

'You should have seen him in the men's room Jimmy. I thought he was going to push Ziva's head through the mirror. She wouldn't let up and he actually pushed her against the wall when she was going on and on at me'.

Jimmy balked at the idea of anyone trying this with the prickly ex Mossad agent.

'No shit.........damn, I can't figure out whether that's brave or just plain stupid. Ziva's deadly'

Tony laughed at his friend and shook his head.

'No shit Jimmy, seriously you should have seen him. The man was possessed! I think Zee got a taste of what would happen if she fucked around with his man and it surprised her. Hell, I don't think she even expected anyone else to be in there with me'.

Tony leaned back and started to lay down on the hard, cold table. He looked up once he was laying flat and found his friends bespectacled eyes peering down at him. He could tell Jimmy was mulling the facts over in his mind and felt as though he needed the reassurance that things were still ok between them, especially seeing as the two lovers had been 'outed' in quite possibly the most dramatic way possible.

'Hey Jimmy, we still ok?'

Jimmy was surprised at the question and glanced down questioningly.

'Sure, why wouldn't we be?'

Tony blew out a relived breath and laughed loudly, the sound ringing through autopsy.

'Wow, that's a relief. It's just that...........You know, I'm gay and am currently in a relationship with Derek. Sorry Jimmy, I never told you and it's not that I don't trust you, it's just........It's just my family were homophobic and I managed to push those feelings down so far that I never really got the chance to explore them till recently'.

Jimmy pulled moved slightly and waited patiently for Tony to continue. When it was clear Tony had finished speaking he waved his hand in a dismissive kind of way.

'Tony, I don't care about you being gay and are in a happy relationship, it hasn't changed who you are and you are still my friend. To be honest, I had an inkling seeing as your female relationships always ended up on their arse'.

Tony chuckled slightly.

'Listen to me now Tony, if that man in there makes you happy, then ultimately that is all that matters and you've got my full support. From what I've seen today, Agent Morgan really cares about you and for that I'm thankful. Hey, does Abby know?'

Tony grinned and nodded his head.

'Ooohhh yeah baby. I think she was the only one who guessed who my new mystery partner is. You know, I'm sure that woman's either psychic or a spy...........now if I could just figure out which one. She's already given him the 'I can kill you and leave no forensic evidence speech' if he hurts me, but all in all she seems happy for me'

Jimmy started to pack away the stethoscope and BP equipment and placed his hand on Tony's shoulder.

'That sounds like our Abbs and of course she's happy for you. All she wants is for her friends to be truly happy. You know, she's been kind of out of sorts recently; I pulled her on it when I took her some samples and she said she was just upset at what's been going on and I'm guessing by the look on Ziva's face when she stormed past me, she got a healthy dose of a very pissed off Gothic forensic scientist'.

Tony chuckled softly but the sound was drowned out by a huge yawn. Jimmy couldn't help but yawn as well and smiled ruefully at Tony.

'Crap, those things really are infectious, I think you've set me off for the rest of the day now. Anyway, as I was saying, it took me a while to calm Abbs down. Who knew someone as mild mannered knew so many cuss words, I felt like taking her to confession just based on those alone'.

Jimmy looked down at Tony and saw his friends eyelids start to droop, it was obviously a battle for his friend to stay awake at the moment so he walked over to the coat rack and pulled down his soft fleece jacket before balling it up and placing it under Tony's head.

'Hey, why don't you close your eyes for a little while, I'll stay right here until Agent Morgan........'

Tony cringed slightly and mumbled at Jimmy, the words were slurring with the sleep that threatened to claim the exhausted agent.

'Derek Jimmy, I'm sure he won't mind'.

Jimmy smiled and carried on.

'Ok, I'll stay right here until Derek comes out of Doctor Mallards office. You want the lights turned down a little, it might help with the headache....and don't you dare tell me you don't have one, I've noticed the way you're squinting'

Tony nodded and smiled before putting his arm over his eyes.

'That'll be great. Thanks Jimmy. Hey, don't suppose you have any Tylenol on ya?;

Jimmy stood up without answering and turned the lights down slightly before pulling out the painkillers for his friend. He walked over to the small refrigerator that was used to store bottles of water and the autopsy staff's lunches and grabbed some of the water for Tony.

He made his way back over to the table and helped Tony sit up to take the medicine, it was a testament to the level of sheer exhaustion Tony felt, because Jimmy had to help hold the bottle of water due to Tony's hands shaking so much. Once the pills had been taken, Jimmy helped him lie down again and watched as Tony's eyes finally closed fully and his breathing evened out.

Jimmy was about to go back to the fridge to get his juice out when he heard movement from the table and looked over to see Tony peering back at him with one eye open.

'Hey man, thanks'

The whispered thanks was enough for Jimmy and he smiled as sleep fully claimed his friend at long last. He grabbed his water and took his place on the stool to watch over his friend until Derek came out.

****************NCIS****************

Jimmy had picked up the medical textbook he had been reading for one of his classes and didn't hear the door to Ducky's office open. He was startled when he felt Derek's large hand firmly grip his shoulder.

'Sorry Palmer. He alright?'

Jimmy felt his heart beating like a jack hammer but soon calmed down and smiled gently at Derek.

'Yeah, he's got a headache and is exhausted, but apart from that and being emotionally drained he's doing ok'

He looked over to Ducky and gave him a brief rundown of what he had done.

'I gave him a couple of Tylenol Doctor Mallard, I hope that was alright?'

The fact that Tony had willingly taken pain killers surprised Ducky seeing as he had battled with the agent many times when it came to him being in pain, if anything, it served as further proof of Tony's delicate position at the moment. Ducky nodded his head slowly.

'That's fine Mr Palmer. I do believe it's time for Derek to take our boy home to get some rest because that hard table is better suited to our other visitors'

Ducky turned his attention to Derek and nodded in Tony's direction.

'Do try to get him to eat something before taking him to bed'.

Derek's head dipped slightly as he walked over to Tony.

'Sure thing Ducky, though the taking him home part will be easy. The eating.........I'm not too sure about that'.

Ducky sighed and shook his head. He had been worried about the obvious drop in Tony's weight recently and had noticed the usually perfectly, fitted suits had started to hang off his young friends frame.

'Just do your best young man. I'll even suggest his favourite Pizza right now if he'd eat it'.

Ducky walked over to Tony and started to shake one of the bony shoulders beneath his hand.

'Anthony, come on my friend it's time to wake up and go home'

He smiled gently as he watched Tony slowly wake up. He could see the struggle Tony had to finally open his eyes and gave the young man a moment to rub his eyes.

'wha..........Duck, what am I doin............Aww crap!'

Tony's eyes scanned the room and finally locked onto his lover who was standing at the side of table rubbing soothing circles on his stomach.

'Mmm, I like that. You might wanna stop though because it's making me sleepy'.

Derek giggled lightly and grabbed Tony's hand to help him sit up.

'Hey babyboy, how bout we get you home, fed and snuggled up in bed'.

Tony's head lolled onto Derek's shoulder.

'That sounds like a damn fine idea. Shit, I'm so god damned tired'.

Derek pulled away and let Tony slip off the table to stand. He grabbed Tony and held him tightly against him as his lover started to sway slightly.

'Woah! Hey can you make it to the car? I'm driving baby, we'll get your car later'.

Derek thanked Ducky for his help and guided Tony towards the door to take him home.

'Er, Derek. I'm really sorr.....'

Derek stopped and pulled Tony in for a kiss.

'Don't you dare apologise DiNozzo. Listen to me now, none of this was your fault and I will not have you blaming yourself. Come on Babyboy, let's go home ok?'

****************NCIS****************

Ducky and Jimmy stood and watched as the two men leave autopsy. Jimmy turned to Ducky with a worried expression and shook his head sadly.

'Doctor, I'm really worried about Tony'.

'I know Mr Palmer, so am I, but at least we know he has someone to take care of him'.

Jimmy nodded and gazed down towards the floor to allow his mind to try to make sense of the events that had transpired over the past couple of hours.

'Tony told me Agent Morgan pushed Ziva up against the wall in the men's room. That woman has got a lot of bal........guts doing that. I'm surprised we don't have him down here'.

Ducky shook his head sadly.

'Mr Palmer, for all her faults........and she has a lot right now........she wouldn't dare incriminate herself further, though I'm afraid that young lady has probably done it this time'.

He moved over towards the stand and put his trilby on his head before draping his coat over his arm. He walked over to his desk and closed his briefcase.

'That's quite enough Mr Palmer, let's go home for the day'.

Ducky waited for Jimmy to grab his stuff and sighed heavily as he turned out the lights, he knew there was going to be another conversation needed and feared he'd have some damage control he would need to do.

****************NCIS****************

Derek had finally got Tony into the elevator and pushed the button down to the car park. He leaned back against the wall and wrapped his arms around his tired lover. He glanced across at Tony's head which rested on his shoulder and sighed when he saw Tony had closed his eyes.

In all honesty, Derek was worried sick and was debating talking to Vance about Tony taking some of his vacation time but knew Tony would only take it once the case was over. Sighing heavily he started to rub his hands up and down Tony's back and smiled when Tony wrapped his arms around him, the action practically melting Tony into him. It felt nice, but Derek knew that recent events had finally worn him down and broken the man he loved.

Tony finally felt safe and resisted the urge to reach over and push the emergency stop button. He was still smarting from the day and felt the tears start to roll down his face again. His breath hitched slightly when Derek tightened his grip.

The elevator opened at the garage and Derek felt Tony pull back.

'D, I need my stu..........'

'Tony, Doctor Mallard asked me to get this for you'.

Tony looked up to see Jimmy standing at the side of the elevator holding his bag and Jacket. He couldn't help the flash of panic that rose through him and looked over at his lover.

'Shit, D, Gibbs is going to be pissed. Can you go let him know......'

Derek smiled and kissed Tony gently.

'Sure babyboy. Jimmy, how'd the old man seem'.

Jimmy blushed at the 'old man' comment and shook his head.

'He didn't really say anything, just glared at me'.

Derek untangled himself fully and gently nudged Tony out of the elevator.

'Jimmy, stay with him ok. Here are the car keys, can you get him settled?'

Jimmy nodded and took the keys before walking Tony over to the car. Derek sighed heavily and pressed the button to the bullpen, knowing full well that this was not going to go down well.

****************NCIS****************

Derek stepped off the elevator and stopped at Tony's desk to grab his bag. Jimmy had forgotten this and if anything, Derek was glad of the excuse to go speak to Jethro.

'Agent Gibbs, I'm going to be taking Agent DiNozzo home for the rest of the day'.

Derek's voice was tight and controlled, though he had no idea why the man sitting in front of him pissed him off so much. He watched warily as Jethro schooled his features and stood up to face Derek.

'On who's orders Agent Morgan? I don't remember giving DiNozzo permission to go home'.

Jethro watched as Derek's face grew tight and felt the anger radiating off the FBI agent. He was relieved to hear his old friends voice interrupt because he had no doubt in his mind that at this point in time, Derek would say something he would regret later.

'On mine Jethro, the poor boy needs to eat and get some rest. I suggest you put it in his file that Ziva has managed to antagonise young Anthony to the point he needs time to recuperate for a day or so'.

Ducky's voice was harsh and made Jethro cringe. The look wasn't lost on Derek who smirked dangerously before schooling his features at the look Jethro shot at him. Ducky turned to Derek and smiled warmly.

'Go ahead young man. I believe Anthony is waiting for you'

Derek nodded and smiled back at Ducky before giving Jethro a hard look. He turned and left the bullpen feeling relieved at the fact that he wouldn't be privy to the conversation that was going to take place.

He stepped into the elevator and looked over at the two men as they stood talking in hushed tones. He knew he could rely on the elderly ME and decided that it was probably best to leave Ducky to deal with Tony's thoroughly pissed off boss.

****************NCIS****************

---

Co-Author's Note:

I just wanted to take a moment to say "Thank you" to Shelbylou, for

giving me this chance....and Thank You to all of you wonderful

readers....I am happy that , you like what we're giving you and hope

we can continue to give you more wonderful stuff.

thanks,

alisa

I just wanted to add, Alisa, you are very welcome honey. Between your original idea and my formatting we have managed to produce a monumentally long chapter lol. You've done a fantastic job so well done.

Also, Alisa has been leaving comments on the review page for you guys and I hope you all take the time to go and give them a read.

I would also like you all to bear in mind that 'No Ordinary Love' is a joint venture between the two of us and has been co-authored thorough out. Me and Alisa would like to thank all of you for your kind reviews and hope we can carry on giving you fanfic's you enjoy reading.

Speak to you guys soon and hope you enjoyed

Shelbylou x