Gibbs stared at the paperwork on his desk as he briefly considered pulling out his lighter and torching it. Not that that would solve anything. Damned machines would just make more of it and he have to fill out other paperwork on the wanton destruction of government property or some other such nonsense. He was angry, frustrated, bored with the tedium of management and, if he would admit it, exhausted. He was the perfect candidate for a two-year-old temper tantrum. Only Marines did not have temper tantrums. They barked at people until things got done.
Tony rolled his eyes. Now what?' Yeah, Boss? He tried to sound upbeat.
Search warrant! Gibbs snapped out the words like the jaws of a steel trap slamming shut.
Working on it. We're still pretty thin on evidence to search more than just the kitchen. Abby's still working on some of the trace from the cold cases hoping to find something we can use. The younger man leaned his chin on his fist as he watched his superior.
Go see how she's doing. This time the words had a grinding quality to them, as if the man's jaws were clenched.
Gibbs, I just got back from the lab twenty minutes ago... Tony began in a low, serious tone, but it didn't help.
The cold, blue eyes pinned the other man. I don't care, just get me my... The ringing of Gibbs' desk phone interrupted his tirade. With one final glare at Tony, Gibbs nabbed the receiver and barked at it. Gibbs! Oh... That's good news... yes... not a problem, we can have someone there in under half an hour. Thank you.
The older man took a breath and turned to Kate and Tony, who was still lingering in the bullpen. That was Dr. Eames, for Candy. She's ready to be released. Would you two like to go pick her up? I need to take care of a few things for her and Kitty.
Tony slid his eyes toward Kate. Her face held as much surprise as he felt. He would have guessed his boss would have grabbed at the opportunity to go to the hospital.
Kate spoke quickly. Sure, Gibbs, not a problem. But wouldn't you rather go?I need to see to these arrangements for the girls now. The words were crisp, as if directed toward the hard of hearing. he continued, softly, as he ran a hand over his face in exhaustion. Once I walk into her room, I'm not leaving her again.