Week Four, Part Two

Wake-Up Call

Tony slowly became aware of the light shining past the curtains. He kept his eyes closed, gradually remembering where he was and why. He had mixed feelings about showing up at Sammie's place unannounced and having her hold his metaphorical hair while he puked his guts out… it wasn't exactly the romantic scenario he'd imagined before Tim was shot.

He gradually realized that he was being watched. Figuring Sammie was still lying in bed next to him, he reached over, eyes still closed, but her side of the bed was empty and the sheets felt cool.

The feeling of being watched intensified. He opened his eyes to see Jack's nose an inch or so from his own, canine eyes gazing at him curiously.

Tony and the dog stared at each other.

"Still better than an iguana?"

Man and dog turned their heads in unison to look at Sammie, who stood in the doorway. Jack woofed and leapt off the bed, managing to plant a hind foot squarely on Tony's abdomen.

"Debat… able," Tony commented as he tried to get his breath back. "Leroy's… growing on me, though."

Sammie smiled at him as she scratched the top of Jack's head. "Hungry?"

Tony nodded.

"There's a good diner not far from here… not as good as Elaine's place, but good enough."

"You've met Elaine?"

Sammie nodded.

"Bet she adores you."

Sammie grinned. "I like to think so, since I'm sure I'll be eating there a lot."

Tony stretched. "What time is it?"

"Almost ten." Sammie walked into the room and sat on the bed; Jack jumped up next to her. "You know you're off work today?"

"Yeah, I figured. We usually are if someone gets badly hurt… although with Gibbs in charge, that's not a given."

"Dad called a while ago. He said Ducky told him Tim is doing well, and they might be able to bring him out of the induced coma as early as tomorrow morning." Sammie looked thoughtfully at Tony, who managed not to fidget. "You have epic bed head," she said, a slight smile on her lips.

Tony reached up, attempting to tame his hair. "That's why I like it shorter," he muttered.

"I like it the way it is," Sammie said, "but you'd probably look good with shorter hair too."

"I always look good," Tony stated firmly.

Sammie smiled. "I can't disagree at this point."

He grinned at her. "Gibbs say anything else?"

"Only that he expects to be with ATF into tomorrow. He'll call you… told me to tell you he wants you to go to his place for cowboy steaks tomorrow night."

Tony's smile faded. "If you hear from him, tell him I'll be there."

Sammie tilted her head. "He's not angry with you about Tim, is he?"

Tony thought about it. "Probably not… if he wants to chew me out, he doesn't do it with cowboy steaks." He looked at her, and his smile returned. "Won't take me long to shower and be ready for breakfast… mind if I call Ducky first to get an update?"

"Of course not. I'll be out back with Jack."

As soon as Sammie and Jack left the room, Tony reached for his phone. Ducky picked up on the third ring. "Anthony! My dear boy, are you alright? We've been quite worried since you disappeared from the hospital."

"I'm good, Ducky. Sorry about that… I don't even remember most of what happened after Tim got shot. He's okay?"

"Vital signs are good and he seems stable. Your quick action likely saved his life, you know."

"Gibbs told Sammie they're probably letting him wake up tomorrow."

"Ah, that's where you went. Excellent. Yes, if he continues to do well, they'll likely let him wake at his own pace tomorrow, then we can expect him to be staying home for a week, on desk duty for at least two after that, perhaps longer."

"We'll probably be on cold cases for a while after two joint ops anyway."

"Yes indeed… and Jethro informed me that Director Vance already intended to pull you from the field in the week leading up to Kelly moving back home."

"Huh. Guess Vance has his heart in the right place after all."

"He's a family man, Anthony… and I'm certain he owes Jethro a favor or two."

Tony laughed. "Or three. Thanks for the update, Ducky. I'll be home later this afternoon."

"I'll let Abby and Ziva know, shall I?"

"Please. Oh, and Ducky… if they ask, Sammie and I are just friends… at least for now, but you don't necessarily have to add that last part."

"Mum's the word, my dear boy. Please do give Kelly my regards."

Tony ended the call, wondering if Sammie minded having two apparently interchangeable names. Shrugging slightly, he got out of bed, grabbed his clothes off the chair in the corner, and headed for the bathroom.

Cowboy Steaks

Tony opened the door to Gibbs' house, carrying the beer as he always did. He shut the door and rounded the corner of the foyer into the living room to see Gibbs crouched in front of the fireplace, flipping the steaks.

"Hey, Tony."

"Gibbs."

Tony sat, pulling a bottle from the case, twisting off the cap, and placing it in the hand Gibbs had stretched out behind him. Without turning around, Gibbs raised the bottle slightly in thanks, then brought it around to his lips to take a drink while he used the other hand to shift the steaks.

Tony leaned back on the couch, waiting until Gibbs set the tongs down and turned to face him. "ATF op over?"

Gibbs tilted his head back and forth, then drank some more beer. "Our part's done. Got the guy I was originally after. Organization's international, so Interpol's involved."

"Fun times." Tony drank some beer, then sat forward, placing the bottle on a coaster, resting his elbows on his knees and looking at his hands. "Any more news on Tim?"

Gibbs nodded, watching his second. "Heard from Duck a little while ago. Everything looks good, no sign of infection, vitals are stable. They're planning to ease off the drugs first thing in the morning. Duck'll let us know when we can go see him."

Tony stayed silent, the fingers of one hand rubbing the back of the other. Gibbs watched him for a moment, then spoke. "You did good, Tony. Saved his life."

Tony frowned, still looking down. "Everyone keeps saying that. You gave me the team. My responsibility. My fault he got shot in the first place."

Gibbs shook his head. "No. You had bad intel. Whoever went in first was gonna be a target no matter what." He waited, but Tony didn't speak and continued staring at his hands. "Hey."

Tony finally looked up.

"Tim's gonna be fine. Some rest, some PT, Duck says he'll be good as new, just another scar to add to the collection." Gibbs hesitated, then added, "Glad it wasn't you. Kelly would have killed me."

Tony's face paled, then turned red. His eyes darted around the room as he tried to figure out how to respond.

"It's okay, Tony."

Tony's eyes met Gibbs'. "It is? What is?"

One side of Gibbs' mouth quirked up in a smile. "You and Kelly."

Tony stared at him.

Gibbs grinned, then turned to look at the steaks. He grabbed the tongs, tested the meat, then reached for a plate. Once both steaks were served up, he moved over to the couch. Both men picked up their beers, clinked the bottles together, and dug in.

After a few minutes of eating, Tony spoke up. "How can it be okay?"

Gibbs glanced at him. "What do you mean?"

"You just got her back. And…"

"Go on."

"You said she deserves the best."

Gibbs nodded. "Meant it." He set his utensils down and turned to face his second. "And just so we're clear, you are the best."

Tony's jaw dropped, and he stared at Gibbs, his eyes wide.

Gibbs sighed. "I told you once, never settle. I don't want her to either. Kelly's a good judge of character." Grinning suddenly, he continued, "So's my grand-dog, and he likes you. Hell, Tony, you're already family. Why wouldn't I be happy to see my daughter with someone I trust?"

Tony stared at him, then smiled slowly. "Should have listened to her. She said you meant it that way."

"I did."

They returned to eating. After finishing his steak, Tony sat back and looked at Gibbs thoughtfully. "Not gonna tell me the many ways you'll torture me if it doesn't work out?"

Gibbs laughed. "Kelly'll take care of that all by herself." His eyes widened. "She'd probably bring her Aunt Tina in on it."

Tony grimaced, then cleared his throat. "You do know she and I… we're just friends."

Gibbs nodded.

Clearing his throat, Tony looked seriously at Gibbs. "But I think that's gonna change."

Gibbs smiled. "Just do your best to make her happy, Tony. That's all I ask."

They both sat quietly for a long moment. Tony finished off his beer, set the bottle down, then reached up to scratch the back of his head. "Think I can, Boss?"

Gibbs started to speak, then stopped, giving the question the consideration it deserved. "Yeah, I do." He took a sip of his beer, then turned to face the younger man. "Kelly… she's a lot more serious than I remember." There was a pause while Gibbs sat with his eyes unfocused. "She was so funny… we used to pull pranks on each other, swear dire retribution…" He grinned suddenly. "Shannon and Kelly used to gang up on me, sometimes… there was one time, with water balloons… in the house." He shook his head, then looked back at Tony. "She went through a lot, and it's clear that affected her. She's more reserved, cautious."

"People change a lot as they grow up," Tony offered.

"Yeah, but I see that spark is still there… like with the iguana."

Tony grinned. "You mean Leroy?"

Gibbs stared at him. "You named the iguana after me?"

"Sort of." Tony shrugged. "If I was really going to name it after you, I'd call it Gibbs. Or Boss. Jethro would be third choice. I never think of you as Leroy."

Gibbs shook his head. "Anyway… I think you could bring that side of her back out. And she can balance your occasional craziness."

Tony thought about that. "Yeah, she probably could."

Sitting back on the couch, Gibbs asked, "So… what are you looking for?"

Tony's eyes widened. "Are you asking for my intentions?"

Gibbs shrugged. "Not really. A little early for that, don't you think?"

"No kidding." Tony sighed. "I dunno, Boss. Way back when, in Baltimore, I knew what I wanted with Wendy. But you know how that turned out. Wasn't serious about anyone again until Jeanne… and that ended just as badly." He sat forward, resting his elbows on his knees again, looking at the dying fire. "All I can say for sure is that being around Sammie has me thinking about possibilities I stopped thinking about."

Gibbs kept his eyes on Tony. "You have any idea what she's looking for?"

Tony turned his head to look at him. "She said she wants a family someday… kids. And just based on the little we've talked about, she wants someone who'll be there even though she's going to be busy with school and work."

"Any of that scare you off?"

Tony sat quietly, his gaze unfocused. His eyes narrowed, then he refocused on Gibbs, shaking his head slowly. "No, actually. Sorta surprising."

Gibbs smiled. "Then see where it leads, Tony." He sat up, reaching out to rest his hand on Tony's shoulders. "I'm the last person to have unrealistic expectations about relationships. Not gonna kill you if things don't work out, as long as you don't intentionally hurt her."

Gibbs squeezed his shoulder, then let go. Tony took a deep breath. "Thanks, Gibbs." He shook his head. "It's a risk… if it falls apart, I don't want things between you and me to go so far south we can't work together anymore. And I'd miss cowboy steaks."

Gibbs nodded. "We've got a lot of history, Tony. I think we can work through most things." He looked seriously at his friend. "You're right, it's a risk… but she's worth it."

Tony nodded slowly. "Yeah… she is." He cleared his throat again. "I'm gonna go for the obvious subject change now… can you get a baseball game on that thing?" He gestured toward the old television.

Gibbs laughed and got up to turn it on.

Phone Call from Sammie to Gibbs

"... and then there were young birds flying all over the exam room. It was a little nuts."

Gibbs chuckled and took a step forward in the line to the coffee cart. "I can see why you said you needed a break."

"It took forever to catch them. So, how's Tim?"

"Waking up slowly. We're all headed to the hospital in a few hours."

"Is Tony still blaming himself?"

"Probably. Less than he was."

"Are you blaming yourself?"

Gibbs smiled, remembering several similar conversations with Shannon. "Promise you, Kells, I'm not. Like I told Tony, shooting was unavoidable given what they didn't know. Wouldn't have made a difference if I'd been there. Bullet missing Tim's vest was just bad luck."

"I'm not sure that makes me feel any better about you doing what you do."

"Part of who I am now, Kelly. Your job isn't always safe… you could get kicked in the head by a horse. Or a dog could bite your face off."

"Maybe we should all retire and live on an island somewhere."

"That would make us all a lot like Mike Franks."

"Never mind… hold on."

Gibbs could hear her talking to someone else.

"I've got to go in a minute, Dad… a client just called in with an emergency. Her dog has afib and collapsed a few minutes ago, isn't coming out of it the way she should."

"Okay, Kells. Hey… just so you know, I gave Tony a little nudge last night."

"Over cowboy steaks? Are you sure it was just a little one?" Sammie laughed. "Thanks. I know I told you to stay out of it, but I'm kind of glad you did. He was worried, and he respects you way too much to go behind your back… and so do I, Dad. Oops, gotta run… love you!"

"Love you too, Kelly." Gibbs flipped his phone shut and stepped up to the counter, suddenly in the mood to buy for his whole team.

Visiting Tim

Tony smiled broadly when he and Abby walked into the room to see Tim propped up on several pillows. Ducky stood at the far side of the bed, looking down and smiling at the young agent.

"Timmy!" Abby rushed forward, taking Tim's hand. "How are you feeling?"

Tim smiled at her. "Been better, but not too bad, all things considered." His voice was quiet and a little scratchy. He looked over at Tony. "Hey."

"Hey, Probie." Tony gave him a quick once-over. "Looking good. I expected you to be attached to more machinery."

Tim huffed out a laugh. "Like a borg?"

"Well…"

"Timothy is doing quite well, Anthony," Ducky spoke up, with a broad smile. "His vital signs are excellent. Blood pressure is good. He's just come back from a scan, and I'm happy to report there's no sign of internal bleeding."

Tony relaxed as he processed that news. "That's great, Ducky." He looked down at his teammate. "Gibbs and Ziva got delayed in MTAC."

"They were literally on the elevator with us," Abby said. "The doors were just starting to close when Gibbs' phone rang, and I swear they opened back up all by themselves. Gibbs said 'Ziva, MTAC' (she lowered her voice to mimic the team leader) and they were gone."

Tim's brow furrowed as Ducky gazed at Abby indulgently. "Everything okay?"

Tony nodded. "Mossad requested a conference. No idea what it's about. I caught Gibbs saying 'she's not going anywhere, Leon' before the doors shut."

Ducky turned his attention to Tony and frowned. "Didn't she resign from Mossad?"

Tony nodded. "Had to, to get approval for special agent status." Shrugging, Tony added, "She still has contacts, and uses them."

Ducky's phone rang; his eyebrows shot up as he pulled it from his pocket to answer. "Good evening, Jethro… I see. Well, I have been visiting for a while now, but Abigail just arrived… alright, we'll be there shortly." He hung up and looked at Abby. "I'm so sorry, my dear, but Jethro has requested our help. Apparently some of Ziva's former coworkers want us to put our heads together. We have forensics and autopsy data to analyze."

Abby made a face, then squeezed Tim's hand. "I'll come back as soon as I can, Timmy. Need me to bring Bert?"

Tim smiled and shook his head. "Keep his good vibes in the lab, Abby."

Tony looked at Ducky. "Need me to go along?"

Ducky shook his head. "Jethro specifically said for you to remain and keep Timothy company."

Ducky and Abby left the room; Tony grabbed a chair and pulled it next to Tim's bed. Tim looked at him seriously as he sat. "Ducky said you saved my life. Thanks."

Tony shook his head. "EMTs did that… brought you back in the ambulance. I just kept you with us until they got there."

Tim rolled his eyes. "That's kinda what saving my life means, Tony."

"Yeah, well, I also got you shot."

Tim's eyebrows rose. "You didn't shoot me."

"I know that, Probie. But you got shot on my watch."

Tim shrugged, then grimaced at the pain. "Someone had to take point. Happened to be me." He smiled slightly. "Your turn next time."

"You got it."

Tim shifted slightly, grimacing again. "Hand me the water?"

Tony grabbed the mostly-full cup off the stand and held it out. Tim took it with his good arm, drinking a good deal of it through the straw before handing it back. "Thanks."

Tony nodded, watching as Tim's eyes started to slide shut. The younger agent blinked rapidly and reached up to rub at his face. "Sorry… you'd think I wouldn't be so tired after being in a coma for a few days."

Tony smirked at him. "Talk to Gibbs. Maybe you guys can start a support group."

Tim snorted, then wrinkled his nose. "Ow. Try not to make me laugh, huh?"

"Can't you just see Gibbs in a support group? All those monosyllabic responses…" Tony's voice trailed off as he watched Tim's eyes close. "Rest, Tim. I got your six."

Text from Tony to Ziva

All good?

Everything is fine. We are simply sharing information. How is McGee?

Sleeping. Looks pretty good, though, for someone who almost died.

He did not. You need to let it go, Tony.

Are you going to start singing?

I do not understand the reference.

Frozen.

That did not help.

Disney movie marathon, you and me. Important aspect of American culture, growing up with unrealistic expectations.

And Sammie? Will she be at this marathon?

Why would Sammie be there?

She is important to you.

She probably knows all the movies.

You are deflecting.

Only a little. We're just friends.

She likes you.

How do you know that?

There may have been a conversation when we were helping her with her room at Gibbs' house.

Well, I like her too. But we're just friends.

Until she moves here?

I plead the fifth.

Ha! I knew it.

If you knew it, why did you have to ask?

Now I have proof. Jimmy and I had a bet.

A bet? About me and Sammie?

About whether you had the, I will call it courage, to date Gibbs' daughter.

I'll have you know Gibbs is fine with it.

You have discussed it?

No, I used my psychic powers. Yes, we discussed it. I wouldn't sneak around.

You could not try to sneak around Gibbs and get away with it.

No kidding. Wait - Jimmy bet against me?

He may have been projecting.

Then that's ok, I guess.

I must go back. Please tell McGee we will come see him in the morning.

Will do. Watch your back.

In MTAC? Why?

I don't trust Mossad.

You may have a point.

Phone Call from Ducky to Sammie

"Ducky! How are you?"

"I am very well, thank you, Kelly. Are you enjoying your trip?"

"I am! It's been a long time since I've been to New York. And it's great to have a long weekend. Everything okay there?"

"There are no problems here. I wanted to let you know that my psychiatrist friend has confirmed that Joann Fielding is now a patient of his."

"Oh. Well, good."

"I thought you would like to be made aware, since I believe you made therapy a condition of communication between the two of you?"

"Oh, yeah. Though I'll admit I was sort of hoping she wouldn't… which is bad, because not going to therapy would make it more likely she would try to hurt Dad… but of course going now means I'll have to talk with her… sorry, I babble when I'm nervous."

"Most understandable. It is a difficult situation."

"Does Dad know?"

"I have taken the liberty of informing him as well."

"I guess this means I should expect a phone call?"

"Perhaps. I did tell my friend of the condition you set. I would not be surprised if he advised her to hold off, focus on herself for now. But forewarned is forearmed, is it not?"

"Will he let you know if she stops going?"

"He will. He cannot, of course, disclose any details of their conversations."

"I know."

"I do believe we shall all rest a little easier knowing she is getting help. And perhaps there is a bright side… I'm sure Joann can share many stories concerning your mother."

"You're right… that would be a positive. Thanks so much for the heads up, Ducky."

"Of course, my dear. Enjoy your trip! I have always had such unique experiences in the city that never sleeps."

Sammie laughed. "I will be sure to let you know if anything unique happens! Say hi to everyone for me?"

"I shall do that."

Text from Tony to Sammie

Your dad got me good.

*picture of Tony's desk covered with little plastic iguanas*

*picture of Tony's chair with a large stuffed iguana sitting in it*

That was my idea for his desk!

Must be genetics because he obviously had the same one. Unless you spilled the beans.

I would never! Which one is Leroy?

*picture of Leroy suspended from the Challenger's rear view mirror, wearing a tiny harness*

Abby made the harness. Gibbs hasn't seen him yet.

Scene in a Parking Lot

"Seriously, Gibbs, what's with the lizards?"

Gibbs laughed, surprising Vance. "You don't want to know, Leon." Glancing over at the director as they both walked toward their cars, Gibbs noted the raised eyebrow. "Reference to something that happened a long time ago, back when Tom was in charge. Nothing you need to worry about."

Vance hesitated next to his car, then kept walking, following Gibbs. "Speculation at the office is going wild."

"Well, only me, Tony, and Kelly know what it's about." Gibbs tilted his head. "And probably Abby. Kate would have told her."

"Kate Todd?"

"Yeah."

"And your daughter knows because…"

"Tony told her."

Vance raised both eyebrows. "Something going on there?"

"Hope so."

Vance stopped walking. "Seriously? DiNozzo and your daughter?"

Gibbs turned and shook his head. "Leon, when are you going to stop underestimating him?"

Vance blinked. "I know he's a damn good agent. But… dating your daughter?"

"They're just friends for now."

"And you're okay with that."

Gibbs grinned. "Tony wouldn't ask her out if he wasn't serious. Wouldn't you want Kayla protected by one of the best agents in the business?"

"Kayla's not allowed to date until she's thirty."

"Good luck with that." Gibbs opened his car door and got in. Vance leaned down to say something, then stopped and stared at the rear view mirror. Gibbs followed his gaze and laughed, reaching out to tap Leroy with his finger, watching the iguana swing back and forth.

Week Five

Another Surprise Visit

Sammie groaned when the doorbell rang. She'd only just settled on the couch with a book after a long day at work. Sighing, she looked at Jack, who raised his head, scented the air, and made a strange sound that was part growl, part whine, jumped off the couch, and ran upstairs.

Sammie's head dropped to her hands; only one person caused that reaction. Sighing, she got to her feet and made her way to the foyer, closing her eyes for a moment before smiling brightly and opening the door. "Aunt Tina!"

"Hey, sweetie!" Tina leaned in, hugging Sammie tightly, then pushed past her into the house. "Where's the mutt?"

Sammie closed the door and followed Tina into the living room. "He went upstairs."

Tina nodded sagely. "Discretion is the better part of valor. Only thing I like about that dog." She settled into the armchair.

Sammie resumed her spot on the couch and gave her aunt a quick once-over. Today's t-shirt was blue and said 'Think Like a Proton and Stay Positive' in big green letters. Tina's hair had green stripes along with the pink. "You're in a good mood."

Tina simply grinned at her. Sammie sighed. "I did tell you to wait until this summer to visit." She sat back, smiling slightly. "I expected you to show up last week after you ambushed Dad."

"Nice looking man, that," Tina said thoughtfully. "I wouldn't kick him out of bed."

Sammie laughed. "You'd kill each other within two days."

"But we'd have fun until then." Tina winked at her. "When are you moving?"

"Saturday. No, you can't help."

"You're right, I can't. I'm going hiking in New Hampshire with some friends."

"Thank all the powers that be."

"Now, sweetie, be nice."

"You drove all the way from Indiana to DC, then back to Indiana then back here, next to New Hampshire?"

"You know me, I like adventure."

"And you were bored."

Tina nodded, eyes wide. "And I was bored." Tina put her purple-sneaker-clad-feet up on the coffee table. "Going to see your father was completely impulsive. I just couldn't get the whole story out of my head. Figured I should check him out before you actually moved in with him."

Sammie laughed suddenly. "I can't believe you accused him of trying to lure me into prostitution."

Tina grinned. "I was proud of that one. You should have seen his face…. he's too serious, hon, you'll have to do something about that."

Sammie shook her head, remembering Gibbs pretending to call Tony. "He's not so bad. I remember a lot of pranks and a lot of laughter…" Her voice trailed off.

Tina watched her for a moment, moved her feet to the floor, and got up to sit next to Sammie on the couch, taking her hand. "You got lucky, sweetheart… two loving sets of parents. I know I can be a little difficult, but I just want you to be happy."

Sammie rested her head on Tina's shoulder. "I know. Pop thought you were hysterically funny."

Tina put her arm around her niece. "Drove Lys crazy."

"Oh yes… but she loved it. You're going to drive Dad crazy too."

Tina chuckled wickedly. "I'm looking forward to that."

Sammie sighed. "Dad told me you called Tony 'sugar'."

"Tony? Who's Tony?"

"The really good looking guy Dad works with."

Tina's eyes narrowed. "Oh, him. So?"

Clearing her throat, Sammie put her arm around Tina. "Call him 'sugar' again and I will burn your t-shirt collection."

Tina laughed. "It's like that, is it?"

"Probably."

"Alright, sweetie, I'll keep an open mind."

"Thanks." Sammie sat up. "Are you staying over?"

"Do you need any help packing?"

Sammie shook her head. "Not really. Rented the house furnished. Everything will fit in the car and Dad's truck. Most of my stuff is still in storage, along with all of Momma's and Pop's things."

"Then I'll take you out to dinner before I leave later tonight."

"Do you ever stay in one place for long?"

"Only when there's something wrong with me." Tina said cheerfully. "Come on, let's go cause some mayhem."

Sammie grinned as she got up to follow Tina. "I knew they should have cast you in the Allstate commercials."

Phone Call from Sammie to Gibbs

"Really, Dad, everything's okay, I promise."

"Kelly… you were arrested!"

"No, I wasn't! Tina was. I was an innocent bystander in the passenger seat. They just wouldn't let me drive home because her car was impounded as evidence."

"Why didn't you call me?"

"Well, I figured it would be better to keep you and Tina separated… she's having a great time, holding court with the officers. I think she might have a date with one of the detectives, actually. And it all worked out… Tina thought Ducky was just the cutest thing. She's a sucker for accents, though Australian is really her favorite. I didn't want to call any of my friends from work because I'd never hear the end of it. I did try Abby, but I couldn't reach her… and given what I've heard about Ziva's driving… and I could have just taken a taxi or something, but I figured you'd hate that."

"I would. You're sure you're alright."

"Right as rain… hang on…"

"Jethro! I checked Kelly over, and I promise you she's fine. It was a minor fender bender, and she was wearing her seat belt."

"Thanks, Duck."

"Hi, Dad, me again."

"You could have called Tony."

"No, I couldn't… Tina called him 'sugar' at your office, remember? I threatened her t-shirts, but she's dangerous when she's on a tear."

"What made her decide to be so reckless with you in the car?"

"Honestly, she wasn't that bad. The driver in front of us stopped short, and Tina was just following a little too closely. It would have been fine if she hadn't started arguing with the cops who happened to be parked on the corner."

"Do I want to know what they were arguing about?"

"I'm thinking absolutely not."

"I'm getting a headache."

"That happens a lot when Tina's around… sorry. I just think since she's going to come visit this summer, it's best if certain things don't come to light."

"Is Ducky taking you home?"

"My home, yes. Jack's there, and Ducky says he doesn't mind. Hold on…"

"Jethro, it's perfectly fine! It's just the sort of adventure Mother would have appreciated. I must say, Kelly's Aunt Christina reminds me of Mother in some ways, although perhaps not in terms of her wardrobe."

"Okay, Duck. I owe you."

"Nonsense, Jethro. I appreciate the opportunity to get to know Kelly better. I shall stay in her guest room overnight if I feel too tired to drive home. I'll give you back to her now."

"Hey, Dad."

"Kells."

"I would have called you if Ducky hadn't been available, I promise."

"Are you going to have to deal with your aunt tomorrow?"

"I would place bets that by morning the charges will be dropped and she'll be on her way to New Hampshire."

"Good."

Email from Sammie to Abby

Hi Abby!

I love the color scheme you all put together for my room! And the desk is perfect. Thanks for helping Dad with that. I can't wait… only a few more days! It's going to be wonderful living with Dad again… I've really missed him the past several weeks. Tell Ziva I want us all to have a girls' night out soon.

I'm glad Tim is doing so well! Tony seems to have let go of the guilt, right? And in answer to your question, we are just friends… but yes, after I move in with Dad, things might change.

The bed you got Jack for the living room is great… I'll work on that with him. He's used to the couch. But you're right, we'll need the space for team dinners. I can't believe Dad hasn't done those more often with all of you… actually, remembering what the house looked like that first day, I can believe it. I hope he's ready for a lot more changes… like this party you have planned for Saturday. You really didn't have to do that, but I'm definitely looking forward to it!

Finishing Touches

Gibbs stood in the doorway of Kelly's room, taking one last look around. It was certainly an adult's bedroom now, with a queen-size bed, dresser, bookshelves, and a desk large enough to house textbooks and provide ample working space. He wasn't going to entertain the idea that she wouldn't get into veterinary school.

"Watch out, Gibbs!" Abby pushed past him, her arms full of framed pictures and dog toys. He grinned as she strategically placed some pictures on the dresser and arranged dog toys in several different places, including on the bed. A framed picture of himself and Shannon sat on the nightstand, and several pictures of Kelly as a child were scattered around the room, including a few with Maddie Tyler.

Abby looked at him. "I figured she can choose which ones she wants to put up on the walls."

Gibbs smiled at her, leaning in to kiss her cheek as she walked closer. "Thanks, Abs."

They both left the room and went across the hall to Kelly's bathroom, which had gotten updated as well. Ziva and Jimmy were finishing off the decorating in that room; Abby joined in, debating about the placement of a fake flower arrangement. Gibbs left them to it and went downstairs to where Tony was placing more framed pictures on the mantle.

A picture of Kelly with the canine Jack, taken by Tony the morning after Tim was shot, had a prominent place now, and next to that were pictures of Gibbs with Shannon and Kelly, as well as pictures of Lyssa and Will with Kelly at various ages.

"What'd'ya think, Boss?" Tony turned to look at him.

"I think Kelly's going to love having her other parents in here," Gibbs said softly. "I owe them a tremendous debt."

Tony looked at one of the pictures of a teenaged Sammie with her adoptive parents; the joy in all their faces was tangible. "I dunno… I don't think raising her was a hardship for them." He glanced at Gibbs, just catching the regret in his face before it was replaced with a more neutral expression. "You okay, Boss?"

Gibbs nodded slowly. "You gonna be ready to leave early tomorrow morning?"

Tony sighed, accepting the change in subject. "You realize tomorrow is Saturday, right? Do we really have to be there by seven?"

Gibbs' gaze rested on the pictures. "No… I just don't want to lose any more time," he said softly.

"Gotcha, Boss." Tony stood a little awkwardly, looking from Gibbs to the pictures on the mantle.

Gibbs shot him a small smile. "Stay in the guestroom tonight. That way you can sleep a little later."

Tony grinned at him. "Thanks!"

"And food's on me tomorrow, Tony… breakfast at the diner on the way back, and we'll order lunch in."

"We won't need lunch… party starts at two, and everyone is bringing food."

Gibbs sighed, but he knew Kelly would enjoy the party. He looked around the room, then pulled the keys to the Challenger from his pocket. "I'll be back in a little while."

Tony nodded and watched him go, then turned back to the mantle and started rearranging the pictures.

Phone Call from Joann to Sammie

"Hello?"

"Hi Kelly."

"Joann… how are you?"

"I'm alright. How are you, dear?"

"I'm great… moving back home with Dad tomorrow. Trying to get everything here as clean as possible since the house is going on the market Monday."

There was a long silence.

"Joann? You okay?"

"I suppose you know I'm working with the psychiatrist you recommended."

"I do… we wouldn't be speaking otherwise."

"Yes… well, I've met with him three times."

"Already?"

"Yes. He wants us to talk twice a week."

"Do you think it's helping?"

There was another silence.

"Joann?"

"I resent your father, Kelly."

"Um… that's not exactly news. But what happened to us wasn't his fault."

"If he'd been home…"

"Maybe it would have changed things. Maybe it wouldn't. Maybe Mom wouldn't have witnessed a murder. Maybe she'd have been killed right there when it happened. Tons of maybes, Joann. None of us can know what might have happened."

"He would have stopped that man."

"If everything had been the same, and Dad had been with us? Who knows. We could both resent you just as much for identifying another girl as me. You're not blameless here… you carry more blame in this situation than Dad does. He didn't kill Mom. A drug dealer did that."

When Joann spoke again, Sammie could hear a quaver in her voice, as if she were in tears. "I lost everything."

"I'm sorry that happened," Sammie said carefully. "I don't know why you and Mom's dad split up. I don't know why you and Dad didn't stay in touch and help each other. All I know is what I dealt with, how I moved forward. That's what we all need to do… move forward. Dad lived in the past for too long. Now it's your turn to stop."

"The doctor wants me to go to a hospital for a while."

"Will you?"

"I don't know."

"Is it because he thinks you might hurt Dad?"

"He said something about that."

Sammie sat on the couch. "You know hurting him would hurt me too."

"I know. But I still want to."

"Then go to the hospital. You're hurting yourself, carrying so much hatred. And you'll lose even more if you do something awful."

"I might not speak to you for a long time if I go."

"But going might give us a better chance of having a good relationship."

There was silence again for a few seconds. "I hadn't thought of it that way."

"Seems to me getting that kind of intensive help could lead to a much better life."

"I'll think about it. Thank you, Kelly."

"Let me know what you decide to do."

"I will. Goodbye."

Sammie ended the call and stared at her phone, then looked at Jack, who tilted his head to one side. "That was weird. But maybe really good." She reached out to the dog, who moved closer. Rubbing his fur behind his ears, she talked, partially to herself, partially to him. "I should probably tell Dad… but it can wait until tomorrow. I don't really want to think about her right now." She looked at Jack. "Let's go for a walk, buddy."

She smiled as Jack ran for the door.

Talking to Shannon

Gibbs parked the Challenger in the same spot he'd parked when he'd brought Kelly to the cemetery. He sat in the front seat for a moment after turning off the engine, soaking up the quiet. He tapped Leroy, sending the plastic iguana spinning before getting out of the car and walking to where Shannon was buried.

He sat on the grass next to the stone and traced the engraving of her name with his fingertips. "Hi, Shan." He looked over at Kelly's name and nodded to the stone. "Samantha."

Gibbs was lost in thought for a while, all sorts of memories running through his head. "Our girl's coming home tomorrow," he said softly. "You'd be so proud of her. Handled your mother like a pro." He sighed. "Joann's getting some help. I've tried to do right by you, for her, but it's out of my hands now. As I guess it should have been from the beginning." Laughing quietly, he continued, "Just about the whole team gave me hell over her. DiNozzo became my self-appointed bodyguard, Duck, Abby, and Ziva staged an intervention… but if anything was gonna make a difference for her, it would be Kelly, and it might have worked."

He watched some birds fly by. An older couple moved slowly through the cemetery, further off down a hill, and he watched them. "Wish that could have been us," he whispered. They reached their destination, placing flowers next to a stone. "I'll bring you some of those next time," he promised.

"Hey… speaking of DiNozzo… he and Kelly have a connection, and I gotta tell you I recognize it. You would too. A lot like we were, but without the awkwardness that came from being so young and clueless." He grinned as a small twig fell from the tree nearby and landed on his head. "Okay, you're right… I was the clueless one, not you." He looked at Shannon's name on the stone. "Don't be surprised if he officially becomes family… I have a feeling she tends to get what she goes after, and I'm pretty sure she's got her sights squarely on him. Good choice on her part, don't worry. I know I've told you some stories, but the DiNozzo I met in Baltimore was completely committed to Wendy, the woman he was engaged to, so I know he can be like that again."

Gibbs shifted over until his back was to the side of the stone. He rested his head on it, closed his eyes, and let his mind drift through memories.