Author's Note: I haven't done an episode tag in forever... But I felt like I needed to explore Nick after that last episode. Tag to S16/Ep11.
Ellie didn't hesitate when Gibbs gave them the OK to go home. Nick watched her silently pack her bag and walk toward the elevator. He had to say something... he couldn't let her leave without trying to apologize.
"Ellie...wait..."
She turned and looked at him as she stepped into the elevator. He really wanted to tell her what he was thinking.
"Good Night."
Nick watched the elevators doors close, and collapsed at his desk.
I'm such an idiot.
He grabbed his gear and headed to the elevator to make his exit before Gibbs returned to the squad room. He needed to go somewhere and think.
He got into his car and drove to the Thirsty Turtle.
It was uncharacteristically quiet when he entered the bar. He took a seat at the bar and ordered a beer. It was set in front of him quickly.
He took a sip and reflected on his actions. What had possessed him to answer the text on Ellie's phone? He had no right to invade her privacy. He'd succeeded in damaging his friendship with Ellie, and for what?
I was jealous. Damn, I was jealous!
He ordered another beer and ran a hand over his face. Why was he doing this to himself? Why did he have to be such a selfish bastard?
The answer came to him, and he suddenly paled.
He paid for his beers and left. He needed advice.
Half an hour later, he found himself in the hallway in front of McGee's apartment. Gathering his nerves, he knocked. The door opened, and McGee stood there, holding his son. Tim noticed the distressed state of his friend.
"Nick, are you all right?"
"I need to talk to you."
"Come on in. I'm putting the kids to bed."
Nick stepped into the apartment, and Tim shut the door and disappeared into the twins' room. He came out and motioned to the kitchen. Nick followed him there, and Tim put on a pot of coffee.
"What's on your mind?" Tim asked as he handed Nick a cup of coffee.
"I have feelings for Ellie."
Tim chuckled. Nick was perplexed by his response.
"What's so funny?"
"You don't hide it very well."
"How long have you known?"
Tim sat across from him at the table.
"Long enough."
Nick sipped his coffee.
"I did a stupid thing today ... sending that text from her phone." He looked up at Tim. "I hurt her today. I'm not sure what to do from here."
Tim sat back and sipped his coffee. It was painfully obvious that Nick had fallen for Ellie. Hard.
"You love her."
Nick nodded without thinking.
"Yes. I also care too much about our friendship to hurt her."
"Give her time. Earn her trust back. Don't do anything else stupid. Let things happen naturally."
Nick had to chuckle. This had been a very odd conversation, but somehow it cleared his mind.
He emptied his coffee cup and stood.
"I'd better go. Thanks, Tim. I'm glad I came here."
"Anytime."
He let himself out of the apartment. Tomorrow was a new day, and he was determined. His friendship with Ellie was too important to mess up with jealousy. Tim was right... He was going to let things play out, and see what was in the stars.
END