Sunday February 6 continued

The rest of the guys had left shortly before eleven pm, but Mark hung around to see what topic of conversation would come up once they were alone. It had been the annual Super Bowl party, albeit in a scaled back fashion from how many enjoyed the iconic Sunday game, but this year was special. A month from now, after a stellar fifteen year career with his team, Darien 'Red Hot' Kent, would retire and the game of football would cease to be a part of his life for the first time in over two decades. Except, of course, for the scrimmage games the frat brothers played just for fun.

When the door closed behind their friends, Mark got up to pour himself a cup of coffee and sat down across from a man who'd been one of his best friends since they were eighteen. "Well Red, what do you think?"

Darien blew out a breath and leaned back against the cushions. "Making it to Division Playoffs wasn't so bad for a final run."

"Not bad at all." Mark sipped the strong brew. "You had a great career bro, you should be proud of what you accomplished."

"I am. It's just...strange to think of what life's going to look like come the first of March."

Mark chuckled. "You'll have a whole lot more free time, that's for sure. But you're also gonna have to hit the gym on a regular basis to make up for all the playing and practicing you're missing."

"Offering your services Papa Smurf?"

"Well, I am a licensed Personal Trainer."

Darien nodded. "I'll keep that in mind."

Silence fell between the two men for several moments. "Lotta changes coming," Mark commented. "Sure you're good with them?"

"We've had this conversation before. I'm good."

"Yeah, but before it was only hypothetical," the group leader pointed out. "Like 'someday when I retire'. Now it's all happening for real. What's your first step?"

Darien glanced at the framed photo on an end table showing his entire family group at their Christmas get-together. "I'm going home."

Mark sat up. "To stay?" That would be news he hadn't expected.

Darien chuckled. "And leave you all unsupervised without me? It would be total chaos."

"Probably," Mark conceded. "So not for good then."

"Nope. I'm a Southern boy born and bred, but this is where my roots are now. I'm gonna take a month, visit some old haunts, catch up with my siblings, spoil all my nieces and nephews, listen to my grandparents tell stories, eat lots of Mama's home cooking and walk the farm with Pop. Just find myself again, without all this," he waved his hand to encompass the room, where pictures and trophies from his career were displayed.

"I think that's a good choice buddy. Then what?"

"Always have to be one step ahead Reece?"

Mark gave his friend a pointed look. "I just want to know that you know what's coming. And that we'll all be here for you during the transition."

Darien folded his hands. "We didn't put you in charge for no reason. How much of Cassie is behind these questions?"

"Would you rather she came over and grilled you about the future?"

The big brown man winced. Cassie cared so deeply for those she'd designated as family that it often spilled out in tears. All the guys, including her husband, were total goners when that happened. "At least with you I don't need kleenex."

Mark chuckled. "You wouldn't know what to do without her."

"Nope," Darien agreed. "Or any of the rest either. That's why the second thing on my list is to move."

Mark cast a curious gaze around the spacious apartment. "Something the matter with this place that I don't know about?"

"It's not going to fit my lifestyle anymore. And I want to be closer to the people who matter in my life."

"I won't argue with that," Mark grinned. "But you realize that makes you more available to babysit, right?"

"Bring it on," Darien laughed. "Those amigos got nothing on me."

"You let us know when the right place comes up," Mark got serious. "We'll have a packing and moving party, get it all done in one day."

Darien started to say he could make professional arrangements, but realized that a long, loud, busy day of them all going in and out of his apartment, wrapping things, carrying boxes, laughing and joking around would probably be the best medicine for a melancholy he expected to feel with this momentous life change. "Done."

"And?"

He spread his hands. "Does there have to be an 'and'?"

"There usually is with you."

"Before you feel the need to get nosy, I'll tell you. Financially, I'm set. I knew this day would come eventually, I planned for it. There's no need to get all mother hen on me and worry about how I'm going to make it." Mark rolled his eyes. They never stopped teasing about the concern and big brother approach he took, but he also knew they depended on it. Not that they'd ever admit to that, of course. "As for the rest, well, I'm not quite sure I know what I want to be when I grow up, but I've already been by a couple high schools to see what might be out there for coaching jobs. One is coming up next year and I think I'll take it. See how I like standing outside the lines for once."

"Good for you. I think you'd make an excellent coach."

"Thanks. And until then I'm gonna take it one day at a time and see if I can't just enjoy life a little now that it's going to be running a whole lot slower."

Mark leaned forward. "I know Cassie's going to ask, so let me get ahead of the game here - can we throw you a retirement party?" Since Darien was more the strong, silent type, he didn't want to do anything that would make him uncomfortable.

Darien thought about it. "Will I have to wear a hat?"

Mark chuckled. "If Ken has anything to do with it, you will definitely have to wear a hat."

"Wouldn't miss it for the world. Count me in."

"Cool." The clock chimed another quarter hour and Mark couldn't ignore it any longer. "I hate to be a wet blanket, but you know Cass won't go to sleep until she knows I'm home, so I better start heading that direction." They both stood and shook hands, then Mark pulled him into a hug. "Hang in there man, you're almost done."

"Will do. Thanks Mark, for coming, for the support, just, for everything."

"You're welcome." He headed for the door. "See you next week?"

"Definitely."

"Our door's always open if you need something before then."

"And I know your phone number. Thanks Mom."

Mark stepped into the hall. "G'night Darien."

Darien leaned against the doorframe and watched his friend go. He wasn't sure what he'd done to end up as part of this group, but very little made him more thankful. How many people got so lucky as to have two amazing families who would do anything for them? It was a really special feeling and he looked forward to many more years to come.

NCIS

Monday February 7

"The blood drive starts today," Ziva mentioned as they rode the elevator to work.

"Yeah," Tony sighed. "I think I got that from the three reminder emails Abby sent before we left on Friday."

"What are you going to do?" She was very well acquainted with her husband's dislike of needles.

"Conveniently forget?" he offered, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don't know what else to do."

"I suppose it is too late to call in sick," Ziva conceded as the numbers counted up.

"Wish I'd thought of that before," he muttered darkly.

Thankfully they arrived to an empty squadroom, as the rest of Team Gibbs was already fulfilling its civic duty by making an appearance at the clinic. Ziva deposited her things by her desk and squeezed his shoulder sympathetically on the way by to join their co-workers. Tony amused himself by playing with a face distorting app until they returned and lined up along the partition to observe, waiting for him to notice.

He spun around with a fake smile plastered on. "Oh, hey guys, where've you been?"

McGee made a face. "Why didn't you answer my text?"

"Text?" Tony held up his phone. "Oh gosh. Sorry, it was on vibrate." He gave an insincere little laugh like he didn't have a care in the world.

Ziva arched an eyebrow. "It is Monday Tony." The blank look he gave her required elaboration. "The blood drive?" She prompted. He still stared. "Eight to ten?" Tony checked his watch, mouth falling open like he had no idea.

"We all gave," McGee stated petulantly.

"Oh no!" He couldn't've sounded less false if he tried.

"Where were you?" his partner pestered, grateful he knew she was only keeping up their cover.

Tony's gaze focused on the little stickers their shirts bore to indicate participation. "Oh, that's today from eight to ten." He looked at his watch again. "And it's just after ten, so I guess... Well, there's always next year."

They began filing to their desks and Gibbs totally burst his bubble while getting something out of the filing cabinet. "They're going to be there every morning this week."

His monotone response told Ziva that wasn't what he wanted to hear. "Of course I can always try and do it tomorrow."

Tim had to throw a little dig out on the way by. "If you want to make Agent of the Year it's not going to look good if you don't give."

Ziva began thinking of other ways for him to avoid that chunk of time for the next four mornings, and while she was pondering solutions Gibbs was called to Vance's office. Tony, ignoring for now the bleak reality that lay in front of him, surreptitiously printed his doctored photo of Abby and proudly stapled it to his bulletin board. He leaned back in his chair, quite pleased with himself, and she couldn't help but smile at the little things that brought him joy.

NCIS

After the briefing in which NCIS was basically tasked with babysitting Adriana Gorgova, daughter of the Belgravian Defense Minister targeted with assassination, the partners were more than a little put out when Gibbs paired Ziva with McGee and himself with Tony for the protection detail shifts. Tony's first thought had to do with their boss not trusting them with protection detail, as if they were still being punished for the outcome of Jenny's choices, but Ziva had a strong feeling that her surrogate father was just not encouraging a whole lot of alone time for two people he thought were already too close for his comfort.

As always, they managed to steal a moment alone in the copy room before attending to their assigned duties. Tony leaned back against the counter and tucked some hair behind her ear. "Just when I was used to falling asleep beside you again."

Ziva rolled her eyes. "Do not be dramatic Tony. It is only for a few days."

"So this doesn't bother you?" he asked, both eyebrows raised.

"Of course I would rather be with you, but I am also glad for a reason to spend more time with Tim. I like an opportunity to check up on his life once in awhile. At least this situation does not require the elevator to get stuck so we can talk."

He chuckled briefly. "Fair enough. But Gibbs and I have the opposite problem - trying to have a conversation with that man is more than likely to directly result in my own bodily harm. And if he does talk, I have no interest in getting grilled on my feelings for you."

She patted his cheek. "I do not think you have to worry. He will either read or patrol. You, on the other hand, may want to take the portable DVD player for some amusement."

Tony stuck his hands in his pockets, striking a surprised expression. "Oh darn. Must've left that in my other clothes."

Ziva shook her head. "The next time you are home I mean."

"Meh, I'll just play games on my phone and text my wife."

"Don't forget your charger then. And if you text your wife in the middle of the night when she's sleeping, I doubt you will like the result."

He pulled her close and kissed her slowly, dragging it out for a full ten seconds before releasing her. "I love you. I'll miss you. Stay safe. Don't do anything I wouldn't do."

Ziva nestled her face against his neck. "Mmm...the same goes for you."

Their time together ticked down and she stepped back, though he still held her hand. "Keep me updated, okay?"

"Of course. I love you." Then she slipped out the door before he could stall her any longer.

Ziva and McGee's first task was to actually find the daughter. The embassy had tried to set up a meeting for her with the team but she claimed to be unavailable because of her class schedule. They parked across the street from her house and McGee whistled. "Geez, I definitely did not live in a place like that when I was in college."

A pretty, stylish redhead came out the door and Ziva's brow furrowed. "Is that her?"

They both studied the photo they were given and McGee pursed his lips. "I don't know, you think?"

"Six years in America changes people," Ziva mused.

He looked interested. "Are you referring to yourself as well?"

She met his gaze. "Do you not think I am different now than when I first came?"

McGee took a moment to remember the confident, feisty, dangerous girl who saved their butts on her first tag-along case and nodded slowly. "Yeah, definitely."

There was no more time for conversation as they caught up with the young woman but it appeared to be a wasted trip when she refused the protection detail. "There was an attempt on your father's life," Ziva pointed out. "I do not think it is your choice."

"Adriana," a voice called from across the street, causing them all to look that way. A boy with longer brown hair crossed the street, focused only on the younger woman. "Sorry, I got hung up at work."

"Give me a minute, Judd," Adriana requested, sounding slightly strained. She stepped towards the agents and lowered her voice. "I've lived here independently and have enjoyed my privacy. My father's identity is known to very few and I intend to keep it that way."

Judd leaned in. "Adriana, we're-we're late for the study group."

She glanced at him and gave her parting shot to Tim and Ziva. "Take your protection detail, and shove it." Then she smiled and turned away. "Let's go Judd."

They stared after her and Ziva shook her head in disbelief. "Wow."

McGee and Ziva returned to the office after being dismissed by Adriana and reported their attempt to Gibbs, who passed that information onto Vance, and the director in turn spoke with Defense Minister Gorgova, who assured him the matter would be resolved in the morning. Meanwhile all members of Team Gibbs continued to look into Adriana's life and determine possible threats. Late afternoon arrived before Ziva recalled her promise to Adrian and pulled up the Tijon website, digging around in her purse for the list she'd made at their family dinner regarding which guy wanted what cologne. Around that time McGee happened by, returning from a visit to the coffee shop down the street.

He leaned on the partition. "What's Tijon?"

Ziva blanked the screen. "You are getting to be as bad as Tony."

Tim rounded the side and sat on the corner of her desk, holding out a small paper bag. "I brought you a cookie."

His gesture softened her expression and she swivelled her chair to face him. "That is very kind, thank you." She broke a piece off the raspberry filled, lemon shortbread treat.

He nodded at the computer screen. "So?"

Ziva sighed and opened the webpage again. "Tijon is a perfumery. They make their own hand mixed perfumes and colognes. It is a good...gift idea, if you know someone well."

McGee's smile was genuine, not teasing. "I'm sure Rob trusts your judgement."

Her brow furrowed. "I did not say who it was for."

"Come on Ziva, you've been emailing the guy for five months. There's got to be something there."

She glanced down, then sideways at him. "Some things are private McGee."

Tim took the hint with no malice in his gaze. "Fair enough. But someday we're going to want to check him out, make sure he's good enough for you. Right Tony?" He stared at the senior field agent who was too caught off guard to come up with an explanation that did not involve eavesdropping for why he was leaning over his computer and watching them closely.

"Uh...yeah," he agreed tightly. "Right."

Ziva shot her husband a sympathetic glance and returned to her task, getting the order placed so their friends could have their belated presents sooner rather than later.

With no protection detail now looming tonight the team was dismissed early, which suited Tony and Ziva just fine. "I guess we jumped the gun on that goodbye," Tony observed as they headed out to the car.

She shrugged. "Better to say if again than risk not getting to say it at all. And this reprieve gives us a chance to prepare for being away tomorrow."

Tony was thinking more along the lines of something involving them being naked and folded his fingers between hers as they headed for the car. "I'll make you a deal - dessert first, responsibilities later."

A smile curved over her lips and she stopped in front of him, walking her fingers up his chest. "Well, I am always interested in dessert." He grinned and Ziva cocked her head to the side. "Do we have any cake left?"

His bubble burst, Tony's shoulders sagged and he whined. "Zi."

Chuckling softly, she went up on tiptoe to press her lips to his. "Of course, I would like the other kind of dessert just as well too."

As it turned out, both forms of dessert came into play once the couple were home. Bedroom activities satisfied a little more of Tony's longing, while Ziva's desire for the remaining iced cake was also met. She even shared a couple bites with her husband as they stood at the kitchen counter in bathrobes. Then, reminded of the part of the deal including responsibility, Tony and Ziva donned pyjamas and began updating their go-bags, retrieved from her NCIS locker before they left. All essentials were accounted for, though this kind of protection duty wouldn't likely allow for sleep.

Once that was accomplished they returned to the kitchen and whipped up chicken alfredo for a, by now, very late supper. At bedtime Tony tucked his wife close against his body and buried his nose in her hair. If this was the last time they were in the same bed for awhile he wanted to savour every moment.

NCIS

Just before lunch the phone rang and Cassie answered the kitchen extension with her signature, "This is Cassie."

She could hear the smile in her father's voice. "Hello Precious."

This had felt like the longest month of her life, but she'd been determined not to butt in on the new life her father was building with Claire, so she and Mark had agreed to wait until he contacted them once the newlyweds were settled after their honeymoon and Claire moving in to her dad's house. "Hi Dad. I missed you."

"Me too Mattie. How are you? How're the kids?"

Cassie couldn't help her smile. "Oh, you know, busy as usual and loving every minute. McKenna's ballet class just chose their piece for the recital. It doesn't happen until June, but you wouldn't know it by the way she's gushing. Every important person in her life is required to come. I'm sure she'll hit you up too the first chance she gets."

"I wouldn't miss it for the world." He was the kind of grandpa that actively participated in his grandchildren's lives and he'd been there for every important moment since they were born.

"And Alec is having a blast with basketball. They won their first game." She began wandering around the first floor, as she didn't like to sit still during conversations. Every time Mark witnessed the routine he'd tease her about taking on some of Adrian's personality.

Matthew sighed. "A month is an awfully long time sweetheart, I've missed those kids like crazy."

"No more than they've missed you."

"I want our Friday nights back honey, and I'm sure you and Mark would appreciate the time to yourselves again."

Cassie shrugged. "We've been patching things together with the group to make it work Dad. Don't feel like you have to."

"Cassidy," he said sharply, catching her attention and bringing back memories. Her name wasn't short for anything, which had caused difficulties when she was in trouble and there wasn't a fuller form of her name to call her by and let her know about it. Because of that, her mother had long ago taken to calling her 'Cassidy' in those situations, so whenever she heard that Cassie knew she was in for it.

"Wow," she chuckled, "it's been awhile since I heard that tone." But lightening the mood wasn't what Matthew was going for.

"Have I ever given you cause to think I take my grandkids once a week because I feel like I have to?"

Rightfully reproached, she hung her head. "No."

"Then why say it now?"

Cassie swallowed, sliding down the wall to sit on the floor. "Because...I'm trying Dad, but I don't know Claire well enough to be comfortable leaving the kids there overnight." She knew her dad would not have married the woman if she wasn't kind and trustworthy and loving, but as a mom who'd struggled with this life change for weeks she just wasn't ready to give over care of her children to a woman who felt like a stranger to her.

Matthew was quiet for a moment. "I see only two ways this can go Mattie. Either you cut us off from any contact with the kids, which I personally think would be selfish and cruel, or you make it your mission to get to know Claire so she can become part of all of your lives and not just mine."

Talk about having it laid bare for her. Cassie's mind raced for another avenue, but in her heart she knew her father spoke the truth. "Then I guess," she said quietly, "I'll have to talk to Mark. Can we call you back tonight?"

His first reaction was relief that she was willing to listen to reason, but he kept that carefully hidden. "Of course Precious. Anytime."

She nodded. "After the kids are in bed." She hesitated. "I love you. I'm...sorry to be difficult."

Matthew shook his head slowly. "Cassie Matanah, I have loved you every moment of your life, both difficult and sweet. I know the kind of child you were and I am so proud of the woman you've become. I know your heart is for Jesus and of anything else that's what will smooth the way in this situation. Have you been taking your struggles to him?"

"Everyday, just like you taught me." She'd learned to pray and lean on God even before she was tall enough to kneel beside her bed. "I'm sure He's working on it right now."

"So am I. We'll talk later."

"Okay. Bye."

She hung up the phone and leaned her head back, replaying parts of the conversation over and over again. That was how Mark found her when he came home on lunch break and it made him pause just inside the entry. "Cass?"

The smile she offered was a bit weak. "Hey you."

He toed off his boots and came over to crouch beside her, studying her face. "What's that look?"

"Dad called," she explained simply. "He wants the kids back for Friday nights."

"I know two people in this family who wouldn't complain about that."

"And it would be easier than imposing on the gang," she agreed. "But..."

"Yeah," he sighed. "But then there's Claire. Any new thoughts on that?" He shifted to join her on the floor, taking one of her cold hands in his to rub.

Cassie shrugged. "Dad didn't give me much of a choice. Either we shun them, or I have to get over myself and start treating her like a member of the family."

Mark knew Matthew pretty well after close to two decades being married to his daughter. "I highly doubt he said it like that."

"No, but that was the idea. And he's not wrong. I told him we'd call him back later tonight."

He gave her a minute of space to sort out her feelings. "So?"

She frowned in his direction. "Don't you have an opinion?"

"I do. But it doesn't hold any weight until you've settled in your heart how you are going to proceed. I'm here to support you however you need."

"Great, leave it all on me."

Mark turned her chin to face him. "I'm not going to fight with you Cass. You know my feelings already. I like Claire. She's been nothing but nice to us. And it's good to see Matthew smile that way. You already know the answer honey, now you just have to accept it."

Why did the significant men in her life have to be so wise and discerning? Cassie battled her human nature again with what she knew Jesus would have her do, just like the initials on the bracelet she'd worn all through high school, and finally gave in with a sigh. "Well, I suppose we start with having coffee." She huffed a laugh at herself. "And if I survive that, maybe dinner with the whole family."

He kissed her temple. "I'm proud of you."

"I wish you and Dad would stop saying that. I don't deserve it yet." She hated feeling so conflicted, especially when she knew what the right thing to do was and hadn't been doing it.

"We don't deserve it from God either, that's why it's called grace."

"Okay." Cassie leaned into his side. "Have I ever told you how thankful I am to have you for my husband?"

Mark grinned. "Probably. But you can always say it again."

Her lips found his and she whispered, "I don't know what I'd do without you," on his skin before indulging in a long shared caress. Tonight things would be changing once again and Cassie knew she'd need to keep a tight hold of the right attitude so she didn't ruin whatever chance they had of finally being a complete family once more.

NCIS

Tuesday February 8

Already prepared to spend a few days apart, Tony and Ziva did no more than exchange quick glances when she and McGee were called to Director Vance's office fifteen minutes after the arrival of Defense Minister Gorgova and his unhappy daughter. They stood rather uncomfortably off to the side observing the conversation.

"You will do as you are told, do you understand?"

Adriana stood face to face with her father. "I am twenty-four years old and have been on my own for six years. I don't need to be chaperoned by anyone."

"You have not been on your own. I have supported you!" Mr. Gorgova countered. "You are in this country on student visa, it can be revoked immediately." Very displeased, Adriana regarded her father while she weighed his threat. He continued quieter. "I am concerned for your safety Adriana." He moved closer, set hands on her arms, and pressed a kiss to her forehead.

The man's ultimatum made Ziva think of Eli, but the next moment when he revealed his concern any similarities vanished. Director David had never cared like that.

Mr. Gorgova approached the agents. "I apologize for my daughter's behaviour. You will see she is a very intelligent young lady. And reasonable," he cast a gaze back at her, "when she wants to be."

"We will watch after her Sir," Ziva promised.

While Director Vance was showing her father out, Adriana walked over to Tim and Ziva. "Okay. You can tag along if you want. But understand I am not changing my routine for you. I've got classes, I am behind on my dissertation, and I'm training for the National Marathon next month."

"We won't get in your way," McGee assured her.

Adriana checked her watch. "I have an appointment for a facial and Brazilian at ten."She aimed a flirtatious glance at McGee. "Are you coming?"

Ziva smiled and McGee just rolled his eyes. As they followed Adriana through the door, he glanced at his temporary partner. "Uh...think you could take this one?" He had a mom and a sister and past girlfriends so he know about those kinds of appointments, but he had no desire to actually be in on one.

She patted his arm. "I will take the inside. You can keep watch from the car."

Once Adriana got her beauty regimen out of the way they drove her to the school for a full afternoon of classes, taking turns who sat in on class and who monitored exits. That Adriana didn't like being shadowed was plain to see, and from the looks friends were giving as two armed escorts trailed her through the halls she'd have an awful lot of explaining to do when this was over.

After her last class the group stopped to pick up dinner on their way to Adriana's apartment, and once there Ziva and McGee were quick to check everything inside and out of the building before declaring it secure. "Thanks," Adriana said sarcastically when she entered, one of the few words she'd spoken to the agents all day, and one of the last.

They all ate sitting on barstools facing the kitchen, then McGee retired to the couch with a blank notepad to continue working on his next book while Ziva stayed close to Adriana. It was now after seven and as soon as Tony arrived home she got a text. How's it going?

We are still in one piece.

Good place to start. Get dinner?

Veggie wraps. Adriana is a bit of a health nut.

Right up your alley.

He didn't elaborate and she smirked. You have something in the microwave, yes?

There was no response for over a minute and then she almost heard the wince accompanying his next message. Maybe?

Ziva chuckled and McGee looked up. "Something funny Ziva?"

She immediately cleared her expression. "Inside joke."

"Between you and your guy in Miami?" he inquired, pretty sure he knew the answer.

Ziva only smiled because Tony, wary of her silence, sent a concerned, Am I in trouble?

She shook her head. Of course not. Enjoy.

I'd enjoy it more if you were here with me.

I will see you soon.

That concluded their conversation for now and Ziva picked up the book she'd set aside. In her years of stakeouts, and for pleasure in general, she'd gone through a wide variety of material. But she was truly enjoying plumbing the depths of Cassie's fascinating collection and so thankful her friend was willing to lend out even favourite novels so others could enjoy them like she had. The current treasure was a tale that switched back and forth between modern times and the past, tracing the family legacy through a pearl and amethyst broach handed from generation to generation, looking for the secret to redeem the future of a young girl and her great-grandmother. She hadn't expected it to be so engrossing, but made herself put the novel down every fifteen minutes to do a circuit of the apartment, scanning the street and checking each window and door just in case.

At one point when Adriana wanted to spread out more of her papers and needed the space, Ziva joined McGee on the couch. She planned to get right back to her story, but couldn't resist a comment first. "Is that for your book?"

Slightly distracted, Tim nodded. "Mmhmm."

Ziva leaned towards him. "Are there any familiar characters in this one?"

He sighed heavily. "I told you before-"

"You can deny it to your dying day, we all know it is true."

McGee grimaced. "You've been spending too much time with Tony."

She let the observation slide considering she'd implied something similar to him yesterday and opened her book again. Several minutes later he looked up and noticed her absently fiddling with the emerald ring on her right hand. Figuring turnabout was fair play, it was his turn for a question. "That's a pretty ring Ziva, where'd you get it? I don't think you ever said."

She didn't even take her eyes from the page. "It is from an old friend."

The vague answer wasn't what he hoped for and McGee frowned. That always seemed to be her fallback line. Usually when she said that they assumed Rob, but it didn't work for this because she'd been wearing it for years. He thought back, trying to remember the early days after she joined the team and didn't think the ring was a fixture then, but it had appeared at some point after. Could Michael have given it to her?

While he pondered the mystery Ziva pulled the ring off her finger, a soft expression on her face as she studied it. "Can I see?" he asked, sure there was more to the story.

Rather an offer him the jewellery, she slid it back on and held out her hand so he could get a closer look. "Wow, nice," McGee said after a moment, wondering what the big secret was. "Must've been a special guy who gave that to you."

"Why do you assume it was a man?" she murmured, nudging his thoughts towards her family.

He took the tangent, wondering who else there was left of the Davids besides Eli and her aunt. After mulling that over in his head for awhile, Tim concluded that in her own way she was gently but firmly refusing him any more information and decided to give up on the topic...for now.

Not too much later Adriana had a meltdown about her computer when the dreaded blue screen of death appeared. "No, no, no, no, no!"

"What?" Ziva moved towards their charge, resuming her previous position at the counter.

"My computer just crashed. I've lost everything!"

McGee joined the conversation. "Well, you know, it's really not possible to lose everything. Mind if I take a look?"

Adriana waved a hand. "Uh-uhn. This paper's too important. I need somebody that actually knows what they're doing."

Ziva chuckled. "Well, McGee is pretty good with computers." That seemed to be his cue to go over and investigate the problem. "Among his degrees he has a Masters in Computer Forensics from MIT."

Before McGee could get all modest about his accomplishments the buzzer went, indicating someone was in the lobby. "That must be our replacements." She went to the wall and pushed the intercom button, receiving confirmation that it was Gibbs while McGee started checking Adriana's computer.

"He sounds pleasant," the girl commented upon hearing Gibbs' signature growl.

Ziva smiled. "That's our boss. A man of few words."

"To quote the agent that'll walk in here with him," McGee elaborated, "'a functional mute.' I suggest you don't mess with him too much." He got her file back and set the word processor to auto-save every minute.

With her coat over her arm, Ziva watched the scene fondly from the entry way. Tim looked like he didn't expect a beautiful woman to make conversation with him, but she thought he deserved to get some of the attention for once. Often it was Tony fake trying to steal the show instead. Hearing the special knock on the door she knew it could only be one person on the other side, but protocol demanded she check first and make sure. Ziva found her husband very close, staring into the peephole and smiling like he knew it would be her. A very significant look passed between them when he walked in with Gibbs right behind him that clearly stated he wished they were on protection detail together.

Thankfully they got a few moments alone while McGee introduced Gibbs to Adriana and briefed their boss on a so far uneventful shift. While standing with his wife Tony glanced over at Adriana, recalling years spent going after girls like her. He shook his head at himself and muttered, "So glad you grew up DiNozzo."

Ziva arched an eyebrow. "I have been gone so long you resorted to talking to yourself?"

Tony brushed his fingers over hers and grinned. "Nah. I was just thinking I wouldn't change a thing."

She followed his gaze and caught on quick. "I am proud of you."

He never got enough of the way she looked at him, admiration and love etched clearly in her dark eyes, but now was not the time for her to be so open. He cleared his throat, nodding his head in the direction of their boss. Ziva's face fell for a moment, though she knew he was only being practical, and Tony took the chance to murmur. "It was so worth it." This time the smile only touched the corners of her mouth, and then McGee came over pulling his coat on.

"Ready Ziva?"

The 'I love you' she'd meant to convey would have to be silent now that a witness was present, so she merely nodded. "Goodnight Tony." She cut a glance back at Adriana. "Good luck."

He seemed a bit uncertain as they left. "Am I going to need it?"

Ziva's first mission once she and McGee parted ways and she arrived home was to take Meira for a long walk that actually became more of a sprint at times. Apparently both she and the dog had some extra energy to work off tonight. After that she started laundry and wandered into the kitchen while the machine was running. She wasn't overly hungry herself, but for Tony she would eat something. Then it occurred to her that her husband would likely be on his own again tomorrow, so she started a simple casserole that employed more breakfast foods than supper ones, though it worked for any meal.

She cut a few pieces of bread into cubes, dropping the odd one for Meira who sat pressed against her right leg, and spread them in the pan. Sausages leftover from their morning meal a couple days ago were sliced and added to the bread. Again one or two hit the floor, making her dog's tail wag with excitement as she licked them up. Some spinach in the fridge just waiting to be used she chopped and added in. Unlike Adrian, Tony didn't have a rule that green (read: healthy) food was all bad, especially when he could hardly taste it for all the other ingredients. A portion of cheese was grated and sprinkled on top the rest, then several eggs were beaten with milk, salt, and pepper before the mixture was poured evenly over the entire concoction.

By the time the dryer was tumbling the last load Ziva pulled the glass pan out of the oven and dished herself up a portion of egg bake. It was as good as she remembered and she settled on the couch, feeling like she was indulging in a guilty pleasure by watching Sound of Music while her husband was away. The movie played a third of the way through, then Ziva made herself get up and do something useful, first by putting away supper and then grabbing the first basket of clean laundry to fold.

That got old rather quickly and she abandoned the rest, completely ignoring her training about seeing jobs through to the end and being thorough about every task, choosing instead to get comfortable in the livingroom chair with her sketch pad. Going from memory, she drew a picture of she and her husband dancing together, putting quite a bit of effort in to make it her best work. Drawing itself was always enjoyable but to create an intimate scene they'd so often played out in real life, with ample opportunity to close her eyes and relive those moments, kept a small smile on her face almost the entire time. She was nearing the end of both the movie and the artwork when her phone dinged with a text message.

If Probie hadn't been quite so prompt, I was going to say 'I love you'.

What a coincidence. Those words would have been my next thought as well.

Miss me?

She shrugged nonchalantly. It is hard to say. You have always had a problem with Maria.

The reference was grasped within seconds and she could almost see him shaking his head. Whatever makes you happy babe.

How is it going?

Slow. Gibbs insists we keep watch and nap in one hour shifts, but not until Adriana's in bed. She seems to be a nighthawk so I doubt I'll be sleeping any time soon.

Just for that, Ziva decided she would also make her husband cookies, and returned to the kitchen to set out ingredients. They chatted back and forth for the next hour and she managed not to give away the surprise by commenting how incredible the warm and still gooey cookies tasted. While waiting for his reply to one of her messages she found a few sticky notes and left them in various places around the house, anticipating the path he would follow when he returned home to sleep in the morning. Then she regretfully informed him that she was headed to bed.

Be safe, she warned after sliding under the covers. AOO.

I love you too, he sent back. Sweet dreams.

Ziva got as comfy as she could as the lone occupant of the bed and closed her eyes. Sleep might not come as easily without him by her side, but as long as the blankets and pillow smelled like her husband she still felt safe, and thankfully it wasn't long before his familiar scent began soothing her into slumber. It would always be one of her favourite things in the world.

NCIS

Wednesday February 9

Unless there was an active case Ducky and Jimmy didn't have to be at NCIS until ten, which made a dark quiet Autopsy the ideal place for Gibbs to nap, regardless of how startling it was for the medical examiner and his assistant to find a living, breathing, talking body on one of their tables. All told Gibbs got about three hours of sleep between the night before and this brief rest, but coffee and years of practice going without would get him through the day.

Tony also dragged himself home when a wide awake McGee and Ziva took over for them at nine am. He barely offered a smile to his wife before trudging out the door covering a yawn. He perked back up on his way into the house because the first thing he saw was a blue sticky note. Welcome home neshama. Check the kitchen after you change. She knew him so well. He hung up his coat, catching sight of a small purple paper attached to the dog leash. Meira has already been walked. Do not let her convince you otherwise. The dog in question came out of the office just then, carrying her beloved bunny.

"Hey pretty girl," he murmured, ruffling her fur on the way to the bedroom. There he divested himself of work clothes, pulling on instead checkered flannel pyjama pants and a dark t-shirt. Only marginally coherent he shuffled to the kitchen, grinning at the wrapped plate of cookies. Help yourself, a bright green square offered. They were made with you in mind. The PS was accompanied by a smiley face. They are even better warmed up. Popping a couple in the microwave, Tony opened the fridge door to see what was fit for breakfast. His mouth watered at the sight of a nearly full glass pan, where a yellow note proclaimed, Egg bake. Enjoy! I left you something on the coffee table as well.

Inhaling the delightfully soft, chocolatey cookies, he scooped out a large bowl of casserole and set the microwave for a minute. Once the steaming food was ready he collapsed on the couch and reached for the remote. A red piece of paper let him know she'd recorded an episode of one of his shows on the DVR last night. Do not stay up too long ahava, you need your rest.

Utterly thankful for such a thoughtful wife, he ate breakfast slowly while watching half the show, then slipped Meira a treat, brushed his teeth, and headed for bed. On Ziva's pillow was the final pink square. Sleep well Tony, I love you. An imprint of her lips graced the paper and he pressed his own there as well. "I love you too sweetheart." He managed enough lucidity to send a quick text, then closed his eyes and was asleep before two more minutes passed.

NCIS

At nine-thirty Ziva and McGee trailed Adriana to a meeting in her professor's office. They insisted on checking the room first, but did concede to wait outside until she finished. Adriana had made no secret of how much she disliked having the agents around. Luckily there were chairs provided in the hall for just such an occasion, so Ziva and McGee made themselves comfortable. Not long after sitting down, Ziva's phone dinged and she opened it, not surprised to see a message from her husband. You're amazing. Thank you. I owe you at least two kisses for that.

She chuckled and immediately replied. Maybe even three. You're welcome.

Seeing the fondness in her expression, McGee tried to get a glimpse of the screen, only to have Ziva pull it closer to him with a rebuke in her tone. "McGee."

He cleared his throat. "Sorry." After spending so much time with her the past couple days, he couldn't help his curiosity about the guy she was keeping so secret. "You texting him?"

Ziva purposefully misinterpreted 'him' to mean her husband who was supposed to be in bed. "It was a thank you for something. At least he did not ask me what I was doing." Now she'd gone back to referring to Rob, to continue the charade.

"And you can't give him too many details," McGee nodded knowingly.

"A relationship is difficult under any circumstances," Ziva replied. "More so in our line of work."

"Relationship?" he asked, wondering if she'd accidentally let that detail slip.

Since her husband hadn't responded, she set another text. I hope the silence means you are sleeping. AOO. Then she looked at McGee. "How long do you think we're going to be together?"

His brow furrowed. "You and Rob?"

Ziva shook her head. "No, us - Gibbs' team. I mean, you've been here seven years, Tony's been here even longer."

"Yeah, I do think about that myself sometimes," McGee agreed. "I mean, Tony turned down that post in Spain four years ago, career-wise he can't do that again."

Surprise coloured her expression. Rota had always been something Tony wanted kept on the down low, not wanting a very sensitive choice to become water cooler gossip fodder. He'd never mentioned sharing that information with their teammates. "When did he tell you about that?"

McGee could tell by the way she phrased it that she used to be the only one who knew. He guessed it made sense, the partners were pretty tight as friends by her second year with the team. He smiled a bit sadly. "We talked about a lot of stuff when we were the only two on the team."

Somalia and her choice to stay in Israel alone, confused, and without back up slapped her in the face and she drew herself upright. Of course during that summer Tony had been pretty convinced they were over, so it made sense that he would've confided in others, even if he couldn't share his deepest hurt - losing her. "Oh, I see."

Tim squeezed her hand gently. "Don't worry Ziva, you're still his best friend."

She gave him a tight smile, then shook away the past and continued. "Do you think you'd want to lead your own team?" While waiting for a reply, she let her thoughts drift, wondering briefly if the rules would be different for she and Tony on a different team. But her husband deserved that honour too, of being team leader. Which was only likely to happen if Gibbs ever decided to hang up his gun and retire, something not expected anytime soon by what she knew of him.

McGee mulled the idea over in his head. "Yeah. Yeah. Someday, sure." He didn't sound all that confident, however, and she wondered what he'd really do if the opportunity ever arose.

Judd, Adriana's study partner, arrived then and interrupted anything else that might've been said. Both agents were left in a contemplative mood by the conversation Ziva had started just to get a feel for how things might change eventually. After the upheaval that was their lives post-Somalia, she was rather attached to everything staying the same. But that wasn't possible, because she had promised her husband their secret wouldn't stand forever, that someday she'd be brave enough to claim their choice in front of everyone. The only question was, would the consequences be worth the freedom to not hide their marriage from the world?

Replies:

Guest - Thank you :) Cassie's definitely on her way there. It's not so much that she's worried the kids won't remember her mom (she died before they were born), she's just having a really hard time getting used to someone knew in her dad's life who is essentially taking the place of her mom. She and her dad have been super close her whole life and she's kind of threatened by the change. It's a lot of confusing emotions. Not everyone deals with life changes calmly and with no anxiety. She'll come around to the right answer, but she's got to work through her own stuff first. She's not doing it to try and be selfish, but sometimes it takes awhile to get your heart pointed in the right direction even if you know in your head what the right thing is to do. I'm not sure if that makes sense, but I hope it helps clarify the situation a little bit. Thanks for reviewing :) ~Aliyah

Melissa - Hi. Thanks for the thoughts. Unfortunately all that family stuff was dealing with my grampa who passed away last weekend from cancer he's been fighting for 10 years. It sucks, because I would've rather had him here, but he was a Christian so he's in heaven with God now. I'm grateful to know I'll see him again someday. Our whole family made it to the hospital in time to say goodbye and we were all standing around his bed singing hymns as he slipped away. It was very peaceful and I'll remember that moment forever. I miss him but I'm glad he's not in pain anymore. We has some really good moments at the hospital, a lot of telling stories and laughter, so there isn't as much sadness attached to losing him as I expected.

I'm glad you're enjoying the story. I'm basing Z's bad months off of one of my friends who has really painful cycles, so much so that she struggles to function. Tony is great, isn't he? Sometimes I wish I could clone that man :) I'm going to do my best with R and EJ. I think I still have a few chapters before EJ shows up, she'll be the biggest nuisance. Most of the R stuff is already written and dealt with. I'm glad you're looking forward to where the story is going. I don't think your English is bad at all, I really appreciate the review! :) ~Aliyah

Allie - lol...you're welcome. I don't mind if you repeat a few words, it's always nice to hear what people are thinking about the story. I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter, more to come soon I hope. haha...no one's ever put a BOLO out on me before, that makes me feel special :) Thanks for reviewing! ~Aliyah

Debbie - Yup. Mine are not that bad, but I have a friend who has really intensely painful cycles and I always feel so bad because almost nothing makes her feel better. I love Tony and I love watching the way he loves Z, it's so cute :) Mark's got an ulterior motive, besides visiting Kevin, for taking the extra work. But the other reason behind it won't come out until April or May, so still several chapters away. Cassie and Mark make a good team. They've worked hard to create a good marriage. I like seeing it in action. Thanks for reviewing! ~Aliyah