Because there is no new episode this week, I am hoping to bring you at least some form of sunshine through this. Good luck people, it's long and full of fluff.
THANK YOU to the absolutely amazing bookdiva. She puts up with a lot of rambling stuff from me and helps me figure out my thoughts. She is nothing short of amazing!
One more thing - to every person who has followed/favorite/reviewed this, I am absolutely blown away. Thank you all so SO much!
Two more weeks had gone by since Kensi had gone back to work. She hated leaving him every day, but he had been cleared to drive a few days ago, so at least now she didn't have to worry about him getting around without her. He was due back for desk duty the following Monday, and Kensi couldn't be happier. He may not be in the field with her for a while, but he would be there. And that's what mattered.
It was Friday afternoon, and she was more than ready for the day to be over. Deeks had been kind of quiet the last couple of days, and she wasn't sure why. She thought maybe it was because he was bored at home all day.
She pulled up, anxious to get inside. In her haste, she didn't notice his red car was missing from the parking lot. When she opened the door, she immediately realized something was very off. The lights were dimmed and there no Deeks or Monty to greet her. She put her gun and keys on the table next to the door before she noticed the rose petals on the floor. A huge grin on her face, she followed the petals to the bedroom and looked around. The bed was made, and the scent of roses filled the room. Glancing around, she noted that the only light in the room came from the flameless candles that littered the top of the dresser and side tables. The rose petals made a heart in the middle of the bed, and in the center was her favorite pale purple paper. Grabbing it, she sat on the bed as she read his words.
My beautiful Kensi,
It's been a long day. A long week. A long month. Go, wash away your worries and soak away your stress and doubts. Tonight is all about you, and showing you just how much I love you.
There's a timer in the bathroom in the form of music. Once the music stops, it's time to get out and get ready for the next part. Don't worry, I've given ample time for you to enjoy your bath. Your next set of instructions are on the closet door. No peeking Kensi Blye – I know how you roll. Please, do this for me. I love you, more than life itself. Smile Sunshine! - D
Smiling at his words, she resisted the urge to look at the closet and walked to the bathroom. More of the flameless candles were scattered about the small space, casting a romantic glow around the room. She noticed the stereo on the counter with the words PRESS PLAY on top. Turning the water on, she let the bathtub fill up to the brim. She pressed play, listening to the sounds of a violin float through the air. She briefly remembered Deeks telling her he used to play the violin. Undressing, she stepped into the hot water and sank down. For the next 45 minutes, she listened to a lone violin player serenade her as she let her mind shut off.
When the last of the chords melted away, Kensi sighed and got up. She hadn't realized just how badly she had needed that until now. Stepping out of the cooling water, she noticed how much more relaxed she felt. She rolled her shoulders and shrugged into the robe hanging on the back of the door.
Padding her way to the closet, she saw the note taped the door. She pulled it off and smiled.
So Princess, I hope you feel a little better now that you got to soak for a while. Here's a little secret just for you. That amazing violin player you listened to? That was me a long time ago. I hope that the music soothed you as it did me when I played it.
Now, in the closet is a black bag. Everything you need is in it, from shoes to accessories. Once you are dressed and ready, walk outside. Don't worry about taking a purse, phone, or gun. Your next set of instructions will be waiting. I love you, always have, always will. XOXO – D
She felt giddy as she opened the closet and looked for the black bag and saw Smile Sunshine taped to the outside of the bag. It was towards the back and she grabbed it, putting the hanger on the door so she could undo the zipper.
Opening the bag, she saw a maroon halter top dress with black lace covering the top half. A black high waist belt separated the bottom half which was just maroon with a small amount of the same black lace at the bottom. She pulled a pair of black wedges from the bottom of the bag along with bag containing two jewelry boxes. Kensi quickly slipped the dress over her head and smiled. It fit perfectly. The top was nice and snug while it flowed out after the belt and ended about 2 inches about her knee. It was elegant and comfortable. She opened the jewelry boxes, finding a black diamond bracelet and matching earrings. She quickly fixed her hair and makeup and looked at the final product in the mirror. Wow, Deeks did really good with this outfit. That man has good taste.
Smiling, and wondering what the next part of this entailed, she did as instructed and walked outside, locking the door before she closed it. She waited, having no idea what she was supposed to do now. As she slowly turned around, she didn't see Nell walk up. When she made the turn, finally noticing Nell, she audibly gasped.
"Nell! Oh my god you scared me. Are you taking lessons from Hetty or something? What are you doing here?" Nell smiled at her friend, not giving anything away.
"I'm the instructions you were waiting on. C'mon Kensi, we have to go." Nell turned around and started walking to her car, Kensi following.
As Nell got in, she discretely pressed play on a voice recorder hidden near the console.
"So, where are we going?" Kensi knew her friend wouldn't tell her, but she figured it wouldn't hurt to ask anyway.
"Come on Kens, you know I'm not going to tell you." Nell and Kensi both chuckled.
"Do me a favor Kensi. Tell me your favorite memory of Deeks while I drive you to your next destination." Kensi thought about it for a minute.
"My favorite memory of Marty Deeks. Really Nell, I don't have just one favorite memory of him. Every day we are together, he has this way of making me smile, just by a look. He makes every moment together count, even if it's just a touch of the hand on our way into a shoot-out. The way he insists on
opening doors and pulling out chairs for me. Sparring with him in the gym and feeling a sense of pride when he actually wins." They both laughed at that, knowing it didn't happen often.
"I don't know Nell. If I had to pick a favorite memory, it would have to be a tie between the day he came back from the LAPD undercover mission and we became official, and our first date – our last first date. We were both so nervous, but really, I have no idea why. He's my best friend, and I should have known he would blow me out of the water with it. I have never felt more special than I did that day. Although, this one is quickly going up on the list. Do you know what's going on Nell?" Kensi raised her eyebrows at her.
"You're not getting anything out of my Blye. Don't even try." She smiled over at her friend, knowing this was going to far surpass the first date.
A few minutes later, Nell pulled up and parked in front of a flower shop. Kensi raised her eyebrows at her.
"Okay Kens. This is where you get out. Go inside. That's the only instruction I have for you."
"Will you be here when I get out?" Nell just smirked at her and shrugged her shoulders.
"You're very good at the whole mysterious clue thing Nell." They both laughed, and Kensi leaned over to give her a hug.
"I don't know what's going on, but thank you."
"Anything for you guys." Nell pulled back and smiled at her, tears pricking her eyes. "Now, get outta here and go get your next clue." Kensi nodded her head and climbed out. Nell waved at her, watching her friend go inside the shop.
Kensi opened the door to the flower shop and walked in. She looked around at the beautiful flower arrangements. She saw a little old man with white hair and glasses smiling at her from behind the counter. She gave him a smile and walked up.
"Good evening ma'am. I have something for you." He pulled a gorgeous bouquet out and laid it carefully on the counter. Kensi gasped at it. She had never seen anything as beautiful as the flowers laid out before her.
"When Marty came in and wanted to put this together, it took us two hours to come up with the perfect arrangement. He picked out every flower here." He started pointing out the different flowers, telling her their meaning.
"The Gerbers means you are the sunshine of my life. The Lemon Blossoms symbolizes a promise to be true and fidelity in love. Phlox represents harmony and a good partnership. The white Zinnia's are goodness, while the magenta Zinnia's show lasting affection. I now see the reason he chose the variegated Tulips, as it represents beautiful eyes, which you certainly have. The Delphinium's equals fun. Edelweiss shows courage and the Gladiolus means strength of character and love at first sight. The red Roses throughout are for passion, the pink Roses for perfect happiness and the coral Roses are desire. Even the Baby's Breath equals purity of heart and innocence."
By the time he had finished telling her what each flower represented, she had tears in her eyes. He pulled a pale purple piece of paper out next and handed it to her. She smiled at him.
"Thank you so much. You have no idea what this means to me."
"Oh young lady, but I do. I was young and in love once. She was my entire world, and I made sure I did everything possible to show her how important she was to me every day."
"You talk about her in past tense?" His eyes misted for a minute.
"We were married for 53 years when we received news she had cancer. By the time the doctor's found it, there wasn't anything they could do. She passed away peacefully two months later in my arms." By this time, Kensi had tears trickling down her cheeks.
"I am so sorry for your loss." She sniffed, not even able to fathom losing the love of her life.
"It's okay dear. She gave me 53 years of memories and three children to hold onto. Those children have now given me grandchildren, and I thank God every day for the time I had with her. I know she is in Heaven waiting for me, and while I can't wait for the day I see her face again, I know that I am surrounded by the love and support of our family, and there is nothing else I could ask for." He patted her arm. "Don't cry for me child. Cherish the love that this young man has for you, and I hope that you two have as many happy years as we did." She nodded her head, unable to form words right now. The man walked around the counter and gave her a hug before walking to the back. She stood there for a minute, thinking about his words. She unfolded her note and read the words the man she knew she would love forever had written her.
To The One Who Holds My Heart,
Every flower I chose for you means something. I know Mr. Williams explained the meaning of them, and I hope you realize just how special you are. You are my world Kensi. Words and flowers cannot even come close to expressing the love that I have for you, but it's a start. I will love you with every breath that I take for the rest of my life, and I will spend every second of that showing you how much you mean to me. And even then it wouldn't be enough. But I will never stop trying. I believe in you, in us, and I know that no matter what life throws our way we can make it through.
Now, it's time for the next part. All you have to do is walk outside, and you will know what to do. I love you sweetheart. I know that if Mr. Williams told you part of his love story, you probably have tears in those beautiful eyes right now. So I need you to smile sunshine! - D
She took a breath, and did as Deeks told her - she smiled. Taking the bouquet gently into her arms, she walked outside, wondering how she would know what to do next. Looking around the quiet street, she noticed Eric's truck sitting there. He saw her and got out, smiling at her.
"Hey Kensi. Your chariot awaits m'lady." He gestured grandly to his truck and she laughed.
"Thank you kind sir." He opened the door for her, making her laugh even more. She watched him run to driver side and jump in. She missed the little gesture he did with his hand, thinking he was just messing with the air controls.
"We never seem to have time, just the two of us. There's always other people around." Eric was trying damn hard not to sound nervous, and was fairly proud at his attempt.
"Yeah. We should hang out more. I'm sorry we haven't done that in the past Eric."
"Hey, it's fine. We all get busy and all of that. I understand, really. Can I ask you a question?"
"Sure." She watched him, wondering why he seemed nervous, but deciding not to call him out on it. This was the first time he had ever been around just her and not acted too awkward, and she wanted to keep it like that.
"What's your favorite thing about Deeks?" She sat there, wondering where these questions were coming from. Nell had asked her a similar question, wanting to know what her favorite memory was of them. Deciding not to question it, maybe they were just curious, she thought for a minute.
"My favorite thing about Deeks…. Well, I think it's his ability to know exactly what I'm thinking, before I even know myself. He has an uncanny ability to read my mind, and it used to scare the bejesus out of me. No one had ever been able to read me like that. But now, I am thankful that he can do that, because sometimes I can't verbalize my thoughts, and he just seems to know when I need a smile or something equally as simple. Sometimes, just the touch of his hand can calm me down. It's insane and scary and soothing to have someone know you that well." She stopped and smiled.
"A close second would be his eyes. As well as he knows me, I know him just as well. He tries sometimes to downplay things, but I can read his eyes and know exactly what's going on, good or bad. I love seeing the mischievousness and twinkle when he's happy. I can see every mood he has by his eyes, no matter what his facial expressions or body language says. We can even have conversations without words, communicate with just a look. That has saved our lives more times than I can count, and I couldn't be more grateful for it. For everything about him." Eric looked over at her and smiled as he pulled up to her favorite coffee shop.
"What are we doing here? You thirsty?" Now her eyes held confusion, not quite understanding what was going on.
"Nope, but I bet you are. It's been a long day, why don't you go in and get some coffee." She was now starting to put some pieces together.
"If the last stop was anything to go by, you aren't going to be here when I come out, are you?" Eric tried so hard not to say anything, and Kensi took pity on the pained expression on his face.
"It's okay Eric. You don't have to say anything." He looked relieved, knowing if he had to say anything else he might spill the whole plan.
"Thank you Eric. For everything. And anytime you wanna hang out, let me know." She smiled at him and he returned it.
"Sure thing, Kens. And you're welcome." Kensi hoped out of the truck and grabbed her flowers. She walked into the deserted coffee shop and frowned. This place was usually hopping with people. It was Friday night, shouldn't they be busy? She walked up to the counter, and the girl standing behind it smiled.
"Hello. Give me two minutes, and I will have your beverage ready for you."
"How do you –"
"Trust me." The girl smiled at her and walked off. Kensi just stood there and watched. Deeks had thought of everything.
True to her word, two minutes later she set the large cup in front of her along with a piece of homemade lemon bread and a note.
"Thank you." Kensi smiled at her.
"You are very welcome. It was my pleasure." The girl walked off, leaving Kensi alone. She maneuvered the flowers in her arms so she could carry the drink, bread and her note to a nearby table. After getting everything settled, she sat down and took a sip of her coffee. Opening her note, she took a bite of the lemon bread and moaned in appreciation.
Sugarbear,
If I know you, you moaned when you took the first bite of the bread, didn't you? I did the same thing when I tried it. It's amazing. Maybe you can try and make it sometime? I know that baking soothes you. I hope you enjoy the coffee. You have ten minutes to enjoy the bread and drink your coffee (even though I know you'll be done in five). When you finish, wander on outside, where the next part of your adventure begins. I love you Sweet Tooth Blye! - D
Well, this is definitely an adventure, she thought to herself as she finished off the lemon bread. As she sat there at the table, she thought back to the events of the night. Here was a man who had taken a lot of time and effort to set this up for her. That was the kicker. It was all for her. She had never - not oncein her whole life - felt this loved and appreciated.
Finishing up her coffee and throwing away her trash, she carefully tucked her notes into the paper around the flowers. The door rang as she opened it, and she stepped out, immediately recognizing the black Challenger in front of her with Sam at the wheel. He put his hand up to stop her from walking. Getting out, she started laughing as he walked around the car and offered his arm to her. She happily put hers through his and they finished the walk to the car together arm-in-arm.
As he opened the door for her, she couldn't help but shake her head. "It would seem that the men in this family don't think a woman can open her own car door." It would have seemed like an almost rude statement if she hadn't been laughing when she said it.
"Chivalry is still alive and kickin', Kens. We are just reminding you of that fact. Enjoy it." He smiled at her as he closed the door. As he got in the driver's side and started the car, he messed with something near the air conditioner and looked at her.
"You look beautiful tonight. Happy." He put the car in drive and started towards their next destination.
"Thank you. I am happy Sam. Sometimes I feel like it's more than I deserve." She looked out the window.
"Kensi Kensi Kensi. You deserve nothing less than the happiness you are feeling right now. I hope that it does nothing but grow, every day. Because you do deserve it Kens. Every ounce of it." He reached over and squeezed her hand, making her look at him.
"Thank you Sam. I am so glad I have you as a brother."
"Same here Kens. I couldn't have asked for a better sister. Hell, a better family." She nodded, understanding exactly what he was saying.
"Hey, tell me about the first time you met Deeks. I know bits and pieces, but only how it pertained to the case. What were your thoughts?"
She let her mind drift back the Blood and Guts Warrior gang and the MMA gym where she had first met Marty Deeks and she started laughing.
"I knew Jason Wyler was hinky. The way he looked at me when I introduced myself as Tracey, girlfriend of Zuna. His eyes immediately narrowed, and I could tell he didn't believe me. But I couldn't understand why. There was also something else in his eyes. Wariness yes, but interest maybe? If I believed in that sort of thing, I would say it was love at first sight that I was seeing. He stood out among the others, not only because he was wearing red and white while the others were wearing black and grey, but just… something was off." She shook her head at the memory.
"I remember when Callen and I went to Zuna's house to check it out and he walked in. It was definitely not something I was expecting, and I was on guard, especially after seeing the gun. I came up with the photos thing but he didn't believe it so I switched to a drug buy. I remember the electricity that ran through me when Callen knocked on the door and Deeks walked by me, bumping into me. It was a shock to my system, I swear my shoulder tingled for the next two hours." She took a deep breath.
"Then there was the almost embarrassing amount of relief I felt when we found out he was with LAPD on an undercover assignment. At least I didn't have an almost primal attraction to a dirty scumbag." Sam chuckled at that. "I remember the sense of urgency when you were alone with Janklow, hoping he would get there in time. And the rush of relief and gratitude when he waltzed in, telling the whole world he didn't want to renew his membership and helping you out."
"I still maintain that I had it in there. I didn't need his help." Sam tried keeping a straight face, but even he didn't believe it. It made Kensi snort.
"Yeah, okay." She was silent for a minute, thinking back to that fateful case, when Sam's voice cut through her thoughts.
"You know, Callen and I called it. We both said you had a thing for those baby blue eyes and his fluffy hair. Even Callen said you were stuck, smitten –"
"-whatever," she finished for him. "I remember, don't worry."
"Hey, you were the one who said you were stuck on him first. We were just stating the obvious."
"Sam, can I ask you a question?" She looked over at him. For his part, he glanced at her and nodded.
"Anything."
"How do you… how do you make it work? The relationship and the partnership?" Sam furrowed his eyes, taking a moment before answering her.
"You do it exactly as you have been. It's not easy, but nothing in our line of work ever is. When you add something more to it, it either works or it doesn't. You and me, it's worked. Many others before us have tried and failed. You two, you bring out the best in each other. Deeks has learned to be more serious and you have lightened up and stopped taking so many risks. You two have found that precarious balance between work and home. And just like your 'thing,' that line will constantly change. But after a time you learn the moves and change with it."
"I think the thing that scares me the most is knowing each day could be our last. There's that fear that every time we walk out of OSP, one of us won't be coming back." She looked at her hands folded in her lap.
"Living life in fear is not living Kens. Would you rather go back to when you were just partners? Would you give all this up because of fear?" Her answer was instantaneous.
"No."
"Then don't dwell on the what if's in life. Don't let it rule over you. If anything, our job makes each of us appreciate the beauty in this world a little more. We all make sure to live life to its fullest, just in case it is our last day. And God forbid, if one of us doesn't come back, we know that each one of us lived with no regrets. And at the end of the day, isn't that what everyone wants?"
"No regrets." She smiled over at him. "Although, if Callen doesn't find out what the 'G' stands for, he may be the one that has regrets." Sam laughed.
"We can always make something up to put on his tombstone. Because God knows I'm going to bury him. That way we don't have to worry about where he is anymore." They both laughed, knowing Callen would probably come back to haunt every one of them until they figured out his first name.
The rest of the drive was fairly silent. Suddenly Kensi recognized the area and before she knew it, they were pulling up outside the MMA gym… the same gym she had met Deeks at. She turned, looking at Sam.
"What… Sam, why are we here? What's going on?" She had confusion written all over her. Of all places she had gone tonight, she had never expected this.
"Trust me Kensi. And don't worry. The place is secure and you won't be alone. And Kens, before you even think it, yes we all know you can take care of yourself. But this is your night, and there's no reason for you to feel like you need your guard up tonight. Enjoy what's waiting for you." He got out and walked around, opening the door for her and helping her out.
"Thank you Sam. I don't know what exactly is going on, but thank you for helping with it."
"Anything for family Kens." She gave him a hug and smiled before turning and walking in the door. She let the memories come flooding back as she walked up the steps. Turning at the top, she shook her head. Everything was just like she had seen it last time, however this time the boxing ring was framed in white rope Christmas lights, providing the only light in the place. As she walked up to it, she saw the little table set up in the middle of the ring with a chair and a computer on top. Briefly wondering how she was going to maneuver the ropes to get to the table, she noticed that one side of the ring had the ropes down. She went over and used the stairs that were strategically placed. Wow, he really thought of everything.
Placing the flowers on the table, she saw two purple pieces of paper taped to the top of the computer that said BEFORE and AFTER. Taking them both off, she opened the 'before' paper.
Kensalina –
It turns out, it didn't take much to find this little gem you are about to watch. I am entrusting you to keep your little dancing monkeys secret.
And… Action!
The only thing she could think of when she read this was 'please, please let this be what I think it is.'
She opened the laptop and pressed play on the screen. She watched as a young Marty Deeks walked up on stage with some other kids behind him. He looked to be in high school and had clearly not yet begun to have facial hair. The smoothness of his face made him look even younger and she chuckled. She watched as the band started warming up. I wonder who shot this footage.
After a couple of minutes, the lights dimmed a little and a spotlight hit teenage Deeks. She could now clearly make out Touching Wood on his shirt and she laughed out loud, unable to suppress it.
She listened to him belt out a few songs, more impressed by him than she would ever admit. He was a lot better here than that day she had found out about his little band and he tried to do an impromptu show for her, being unable to do anything but say 'Baby'. She laughed again thinking of that day. She sang along with the next song and then realized the show was over. Sighing a little bit, she wondered what she could bribe him with to get a repeat performance. And then the mother of all ideas hit her. He used to dance… exotically. He could dance and sing for me. Oh yeah, that's happening. Laughing almost manically now at where her thoughts had gone, she almost forgot about the second note. Sobering quickly, she pulled it out and opened it.
Well Fern, now you know all the deep, dark secrets. Well, the embarrassing ones anyway. I still have a few secrets, but don't worry, I'll tell you what they are, just not today. The stuff I showed you today, the violin playing and the concert, those were for amusement (although I hope you actually enjoyed both very different performances). Do you know how many YouTube videos I went through to find this thing? Anyway, you don't want to know what else I found scouring the universe for this (I think I'm still having nightmares about it). Told you I wasn't that bad.
I hope the trip to the gym brought back good memories. The place where it all began. Can you believe it's been that long ago? I knew from the moment I laid eyes on you that day that you were going to make a difference in my life. Exactly how that difference was going to be made I wasn't sure yet, but I think it was love the moment I saw you. Well, Jason definitely fell in love Tracey the moment their eyes met. But I think Marty got the better end of the deal when he fell in love with Kensi. I was infatuated the moment you said I was lucky you didn't shoot me. And it only grew from there. The more I got to know you, the more you let me in, the more I fell in love.
So Princess, grab your stuff. Don't worry about the computer (and yes, you will get a copy of this video) and head outside. Smile Sunshine! XOXO – D
She sighed and looked around. He's right, this is where it all began. She took in the walls and the paint, the equipment hanging up. She hoped to one day bring their kids here, taking them down memory lane.
As she grabbed her flowers and tucked her notes away with the other ones, she let her mind wander to what their kids would look like one day. She hoped the little boy had his daddy's blue eyes and her hair. The little girl would have her daddy's hair and her mismatched eyes. They would both be a perfect combination of the two of them. She smiled as she opened the door, not surprised to see Callen leaning against the hood of his car.
"Well hey there Kens. I figured you'd be another 5 minutes, at least." He smiled at her, offering his arm to her and walking her to his car.
"Oh yeah, why's that?" She let him open the car door, just like Eric and Sam had done. By this point, she wasn't going to question it anymore. Before Callen closed the door, he leaned in.
"I could hear the witches cackle out here. I love you Kens, but sometimes your laugh is terrifying." He closed the door and she glared at him until he opened the door to the driver side, sliding in. She immediately hit his arm when he closed the door.
"Hey, don't abuse the driver." He rubbed his shoulder. Since Deeks had joined the team, he hadn't been on the receiving end of her punch in a good while. Good to know it hadn't lessened any over time.
"Well don't insult the passenger." Satisfied that she had effectively reminded him that she could still pack a punch, she settled in as he drove off.
She watched as he messed with the controls for the air. She narrowed her eyes a little.
"Is there a reason every person I have ridden with has messed with the controls as soon as they start driving?" Callen just looked over at her. Damn, she's good, he thought, but he kept his face neutral.
"I was getting warm, figured you were too. If you don't want air, just say the word." He fixed the temperature until cool air started blowing out of the vents. "If it gets too cool, just let me know." She nodded at him.
"So how was the trip down memory lane?" He looked over at her in time to see the smile that lit her face.
"It was really great. I thought I had a good memory of that day, that case, but it was so much more vivid the moment I walked into the gym. It was incredible."
"Now that you mention it, you've talked about when you two first met. Where do you see yourself in ten years?" Kensi looked over at him.
"Personally or professionally?"
"Both."
"Professionally, I have no idea. I absolutely love what I do now, but I guess that kinda rolls in the personal aspect. Ten years from now, I hope I'm finally married to Deeks. If we are lucky enough to have kids, I'd like to think that I could find something within NCIS that isn't as dangerous as what we do now but doesn't take me out of the field completely. Maybe something with forensics? I don't know yet. It's a long time down road. A bridge we will cross when we get there. I'm happy with the status quo right now. It's not something I'm ready to give up." She saw him nod his head, obviously happy to hear that the team dynamics won't be changing for a while.
"Personally, other than the marriage and kids, I want a house by the beach, so Deeks and I can go surfing. Have you ever really seen him surf Callen? It's pretty amazing. I don't know why he never went pro with it, he's that good. I want him to teach our kids, even though I will have to act like I don't want him to. And I want Uncle Sam and Uncle Callen to teach them all their secrets. Uncle Eric and Auntie Nell can teach them all about technology, and Grandma Hetty will bestow her ninja secrets." He laughed at the last part.
"So the thought of marriage and kids doesn't scare you? You used to avoid the subject like the plague, Ms. One Date Only.
"Honestly? The thought still scares me. But I know with the right person, the fear lessens, somehow morphing from 'I don't want it' to 'will I be good enough?' And I know that Deeks is the right person."
Callen looked over and grabbed her hand. "I'm glad Kensi. I want you to be happy. I want you to have the husband and the kids and the house with the white picket fence. It's still a little weird that Deeks is the one to give that to you, but I also know that there is no man alive who can love you and give you those things like he can." She squeezed his hand, knowing his acceptance of it – their thing – was huge. She hadn't realized she had been wanting his approval until he had given it.
"Thank you Callen. You have absolutely no idea what that means to me." He pulled into the parking lot of the beach and parked the car.
"Alright Kens. This is the end of the line." He got out and walked around, opening the door for her. She took his offered hand and got out.
"By the way, you look amazing tonight. I'm sorry I didn't tell you that earlier." She set the flowers carefully on top of the car and wrapped her arms around him, hugging him with everything she had.
"Thank you Callen. For absolutely everything. We may not be blood, but you are my family, the brother I never had. I love you so much, and I'm sorry I never tell you that. Thank you for always being there for me." She whispered this to him, feeling the blush on her cheeks. She and Callen had never really had a heart to heart, but that didn't mean she didn't love him like a brother.
"I know Kens. I love you too, and I will always be here for you, no matter what." He pulled away from her and smiled. "Now, it's time for you to smile. Follow the path right over there." He pointed behind her and she turned. "You may want to take the shoes off, though. Sand can be tricky." She laughed, and he smiled. He held her arm as she took the shoes off, handing her the flowers and gently nudged her.
"Get going. You've got happiness to find." She cocked her head at him, wondering what he meant by that.
"Bye Callen. Thank you." He nodded at her and climbed back in his car.
Kensi started walking down the beach, seeing the flameless candles again lighting her a path. It wasn't until she was started around a sand dune that she heard Callen's car start and he drove off. As she made the turn, she stopped and admired the way the moon reflected off the waves. The night was perfect, a gentle breeze coming off the ocean and the sound of waves lapping at the shore. She followed the candles a little father before she saw a blanket sitting on the ground, surrounded by the candles. She was in a secluded cove now and she looked around. She didn't see Deeks at all, but she knew he couldn't be too far.
As soon as she was a little closer, she noticed something in the middle of the blanket. When she finally reached the blanket, she saw it was a piece of paper, but not on the normal pale purple paper. She looked around again and didn't see anyone. Setting everything down beside her, she picked up the paper. She started shaking as soon as she saw the handwriting, recognizing it was her dads.
I will never have the pleasure of meeting you, talking to you, looking you in the eye as you ask for my daughters hand in marriage. I will never see the love you have for her shining in your eyes, or hear the smile in her voice as she talks about you. I will never shake your hand or smoke a cigar with you or give you the third degree to make sure you are good enough for her.
Kensi Marie Blye won't just fall in love with anybody, though. He has to be fearless and brave, tough and smart. He has to know when to be funny and when to be serious. Because my baby girl is way too serious for her own good.
I hope you make her smile. Every day. Because there is nothing in this world that can compare to the REAL Kensi smile.
I hope you make her laugh. Even as a child she was serious, and I want you to make sure she takes time to enjoy life and appreciate the small things.
I hope you are her safe haven. She would take on the world if she could. She needs someone she can come home to who helps her remember that she doesn't have to do it by herself. Someone who shoulders her responsibilities with her, not for her. If she wants your help, don't make her feel helpless.
I hope you are her best friend, her most trusted confidant. Let her tell you her secrets, but safe guard them. She doesn't trust easily, and if she trusts you, you have the world at your feet. But trust her in return with your secrets and fears.
I hope you are her light in the darkness. The one who will always be there to chase away her demons and save her from the nightmares. She needs someone she can count on always. Don't let her push you away, no matter what. If she thinks she is protecting you from something, she will do whatever she has to. Do NOT let her do that to you. Remind her, every day, you are in this with her, that she doesn't have to do anything alone. One day, hopefully, she will fully understand this.
I hope you are patient with her. She is proud, and stubborn, and hard-headed. She can argue with you until she is blue in face, regardless of if she is right or wrong. I think she got that from me.
But most of all, I hope you love her, every day, no matter what. She deserves nothing less than that. If you are reading this, Julia gave it to you because she feels that you are THE man for my Kensi. She has seen the way you look at her, the way you treat her, the way you love her. And she has seen the way Kensi loves you. That's good enough for me. So young man, know this. She is my everything, even though I am not there anymore. Treat her right and love her with everything you have. If you can do that, then you have my permission to marry her.
- Donald Blye
Kensi was almost sobbing at the end of the letter, unable to fully comprehend what was happening. When did her dad write this? And where did it come from? She sat there for a minute, rereading the words. She gasped when everything started clicking into place. She immediately looked up and yelped a little, her partner right next to her on one knee.
"Kensi Marie Blye. You are the most perfect woman I have ever met. Maybe not to everyone, but you are perfect to me. The love that I have for you is not something I can even begin to describe, the feeling so overwhelming at times I find it hard to breathe. You make me want to be a better man, every day. I want to be the man you deserve. I know I can't promise blue sky's ahead, because there is not one good relationship that hasn't had issues, but one thing I can promise you - I will love you for the rest of my life. If there comes a time when there is nothing constant in our lives, know that my love for you will always be there, never wavering. Because everything in my future is you. I want to have a house with you, I want to have kids with you, grow old and sit in our rocking chairs talking about the good ole days."
He smiled at her, and she chuckled, recognizing the words she had written when he was in the hospital.
"I want to be everything your dad wrote in that letter. I would be honored to be the one who makes you smile and laugh every day, as that has been my mission in life since meeting you. I want to be your best friend, your safe haven, the place you go to for comfort and advice. I want to help you shoulder your problems, because you don't have to take on the world alone. I will always be here, whether it be a shoulder to cry on or someone to laugh with. I will always be on your side, no matter what side that is. I promise Kensi that you will be the first thing I think about in the morning and the last thing I think about at night - forever. Because I can't imagine anything less than that."
Deeks opened the little blue box, revealing a 1 carat princess cut diamond ring, surrounded by smaller diamonds. Kensi's hand flew to her mouth, tears still coming down.
"Kensi, will you join me in forever? Will you marry me?"
Kensi couldn't breathe, she just sat there. Deeks wasn't worried. He knew that sometimes it took her a minute to catch up. He just kneeled there patiently, watching her face with amusement. A good minute had passed before Kensi looked up, making eye contact with him.
"Are you going to put it on me?" He raised his eyebrows at her and cocked his head to the side.
"I was kinda waiting on an answer first."
"What? I said yes Deeks!"
"Princess, I am pretty sure I would have heard you say that. You didn't move until just now, much less give an answer."
"Are you sure?" She really hadn't said anything?
"Really sweetheart? Trust me, I would have heard that word." He just sat there looking at her, a smile on his lips. "You know, you could always say it again. Just for good measure and not in such an accusatory tone."
"Yes! Yes Deeks, I will marry you. Now put the ring on my finger damn it." She laughed and held her left hand out. As soon as he slid it on she tackled him, pressing her lips to his and kissing him with every ounce of love she had for him.
This whole evening had been incredible. She had started out just thinking this was some kind of elaborate date idea, because Deeks was known to do that. But reading the letter her dad had written, she knew this was so much more than a normal date.
Hearing Deeks tell her he would love her nothing short of forever, she knew that she felt the exact same way. He was her everything, and together, their love was perfect. She pulled away from him for a minute.
"I love you so much Deeks. Always have, always will." He rolled them a little so they were both lying on their sides facing each other.
"Forever Kens. That's how long I will love you." He couldn't wipe the grin off his face if he tried.
She had never seen him smile like that before, but it was definitely a look she could get used to. She caressed his cheek as he let his hand wander her up and down her back.
"This dress looks amazing, by the way."
"Thank you. You look pretty good yourself." She hadn't really noticed what he was wearing until now. Black trousers and a sea-blue button up collared shirt that made his eyes pop. Yeah, good was an understatement. A thought suddenly popped into her head.
"Deeks, when did you set all this up? I mean, I know it was pretty easy since you've been home, but this… this is elaborate. And getting everyone involved?"
"As for setting it up, you answered that yourself. I've been home during the day. It was easy to get everything set up while you weren't there being nosy. And getting everyone involved? Well, that took a little more finesse. And some favors that you may need to help me work off."
Kensi raised her eyebrows at him while they sat up. "What kind of deals did you make? Wait, do I even want to know?"
"You know what? You're probably right, I don't think you want to know." He shuddered, more for effect than anything, making her laugh.
"Seriously though Deeks. Everything was amazing. The most romantic thing I have ever experienced, hands down. I didn't think anything could top our first date, and here you are, blowing it out of the water."
"Well, I guess your one-upper syndrome rubbed off a little. Except instead of trying to one-up you, I'm going to have to one-up the romance." This made Kensi snort.
"Wow, maybe you should have started off smaller. This is going to be hard to top." Deeks grabbed her hand, unable to go without contact with her for long.
"I think you need to have a little more faith in my romancing abilities Fern." He pulled her to him, kissing her with a passion that she returned with equal fervor, grasping the front of his shirt to get him closer. They stayed like that until air became necessary. He started kissing her cheeks when he heard her stomach growl, making him laugh.
"Hungry Princess?" She laughed a little. "Yeah, I could eat something."
He snickered at her. "I now know just how long coffee and a piece of lemon bread can last. Gonna need to store that information for the next stake-out we go on. Although, I think a box of Twinkies can still outlast this. Really though Kens, you think maybe you could share the treats next time?"
"I'll share next time IF you promise me something." He could see the twinkle in her eye and knew he was going to regret this, but he couldn't deny her anything anyway.
"Anything."
"Oh oh oh, you are going to regret that statement." He hung his head for a minute before looking back at her.
"Bring it on Blye. Lay it on me."
"I want you to promise that I will get a repeat performance of the Touching Wood concert I saw earlier tonight." He narrowed his eyes at her.
"What else is there to that? Seems to easy." She grinned widely at him, almost shaking with excitement.
"I also want what I already paid for." He cocked his head to the side, the pieces not quite coming together. She decided to take pity on him.
"I paid you for a dance… and not just any dance, I want to see the Marty Deeks Exotic Dance Special while serenading me with songs from your rock band days."
"Oh. My. God." She couldn't stop laughing at the look of almost embarrassed horror on his face. Yeah, this was the best day ever.
"Is there any way we could negotiate the terms of that promise?"
"Nope. Take it or leave it." She kissed him again, showing Deeks how much she liked the thought of him dancing for her. She pulled back and smiled at him sweetly.
"Fine. Deal. But I want at least 3 Twinkies out of that box." She laughed.
"You got it. I think I can live without three Twinkies, especially for what I'm getting in return."
"For the record, this will be a one time show. And no recordings." Kensi started pouting. He likes taking the all the fun out of it.
"What uh, what can I do to change your mind on that?" He raised his eyebrows at her. "Which part Princess?"
"Whichever part you think I can change your mind about." She licked her lips, hoping to seduce him into giving up something.
"I see what you're doing right now. Damn you and your witchy powers. Let's leave it at this. If I make it through performance number one without breaking a hip in my old age, AND I get a Kensi Blye Special Dance in return, we will talk about a repeat performance."
"I can tell you right now, you break a hip and we may have to rethink this marriage thing." He laughed at her, shaking his head.
"Well? Deal or no deal?" He stuck his hand out, waiting to see if she would take it. Kensi thought about it for a minute before putting her hand in his.
"Deal. Now, it's time for actual food. I'm hungry."
He kissed her again, soft and sweet this time and grabbed the picnic basket. He pulled out two containers of Thai food from their favorite spot around the corner and handed her box over.
Kensi, in all her sophisticated glory, started shoveling food in her mouth. Deeks just sat there, watching his beautiful bride to be, and smiled to himself. It will definitely never be boring. But that didn't matter to him. All that mattered was them being together. And in his mind, the sooner the better.
AN - For anyone who wants more of the Kensi/Deeks engagement talk, stay tuned. This chapter got a little out of control. However, on that note, I would LOVE to hear your thoughts on it. Please review. Please? :)