Kort: Hope Dr. Mallard knows how good of a friend you are to him
Gibbs: Two way street
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"I don't suppose I could interest you in a game of chess?" Ducky offered nonchalantly.
Gibbs shook his head. "No thanks..."
"Pity," he smiled. "I was going to take it easy on you."
"You always take it easy on me Duck."
"That I do," he moved towards the kitchen. "Brandy?" He watched his friend give a small nod before preparing both of them a drink. "So what brings you to my humble abode at such a late hour?"
"Could have something to do with you being cleared of war crimes earlier today."
Ducky nodded at the statement and raised his glass. "To freedom."
Gibbs mirrored the gesture. "To friendship."
"Touching," he responded after a small sip. "If I didn't know better I'd say this ordeal has moved you almost as much as it has me."
"Maybe."
He had to smile. "You know Jethro…"
"This remind you of another time you were cleared of war crimes?"
"No," he chuckled softly. "I was going to thank you." He put his hand up to stop a response. "And before you tell me I do not have to…I will say that is an honor to be your friend."
Gibbs examined him silently. "You trying to get me to cry Duck?"
"Did it work?"
"Not even close." Gibbs threw an arm around his shoulder. "There's only one sure way to get me to cry…"
Ducky had to smile as his friend guided him towards the chest set. "Check mate?"
"Gets me every time…"