Summary: The death of two of his friends is about to change Tony's life forever. Gibbs wants to help but will his presence help or hinder the situation. SLASH GIBBS/TONY. I'm rating it M for later chapters.
This story is an ideal from Hotshow. Hope she enjoys it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Feedback is always welcome and appreciated. Thank you everyone for all the feedback on the first three chapters. I am always amazed and humbled by the wonderful feedback. Thanks you, thank you, thank you. Hope everyone enjoys the next chapter.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you to Cookie62 for beta reading you're awesome!
"What's up?" Reed asked as they pulled into the driveway and saw all the cars parked around the house.
"I think Uncle Tony decided to invite some friends over." Gibbs sighed.
"Friends from NCIS!" Reeds excitement grew.
"Yeah." Gibbs chuckled.
"Sweet!" Reed grinned at Gibbs.
Climbing out of the car and walking over to the passenger side Reed was already undoing his seat belt.
"Will they like me?" Reed was suddenly serious.
"Oh yeah." Gibbs grinned. "Especially Abby."
"Who's Abby?" Reed smiled.
"Our forensic scientist."
"What's that?" Reed made a weird face.
"She looks at fingerprints, blood, computers, everything."
"Cool."
Gibbs grabbed Reed. "And she's my favorite."
"WHAT!" Reed looked shocked.
Putting him down on the ground, Reed looked up at Gibbs upset.
"Uncle Tony should be your favorite."
"Because he's my boyfriend?"
"Yeah." Reed nodded.
"Uncle Tony is my favorite agent."
"Okay." Reed accepted that.
Gibbs grabbed the bag with Tony's present and handed it to Reed.
"Can I give it to him now?"
"Sure." Gibbs nodded.
Reed ran towards the house opening the door and barreling in yelling Tony's name. Gibbs followed wondering what had made Tony decide to invite everyone over.
"Hey what's up?" Tony grinned, coming into the living room from the kitchen.
"I got a jungle gym!" Reed smiled.
"No way." Tony put out his hand towards Reed and they hi-fived. "Awesome."
"This is for you." Reed held up the bag to Tony.
"What's this for?" Tony asked.
"Letting me come live with you." Reed shrugged.
"Shouldn't this be a present for Jethro."
"I can't buy a present for him when he's with me." Reed rolled his eyes.
"Oh right." Tony pulled out the movie. "The Big Sleep! How did you know I didn't have this?"
"Jethro told me." Reed smiled proudly. "But I picked it out."
"I gave him three options." Gibbs smirked.
"This one looked best."
"It is." Tony smiled. "Thanks."
"Can I meet your friends now?" Reed asked happily.
"After you wash your hands." Tony paused. "There's lunch out back."
Without a word Reed ran up the steps to wash up.
"You didn't have to do this."
"He wanted to." Gibbs smiled. "I just helped pick it out."
"And the money?" Tony grinned.
"He had three dollars." Gibbs chuckled. "Allowance."
"Thanks."
Gibbs nodded. "What's with the guests?"
"I thought it would be nice to have help with the jungle gym." Tony smiled. "And I know they all wanted to meet Reed."
"And us?" Gibbs asked not sure how Tony wanted to handle that.
"In time."
"Okay."
"I'm ready let's go." Reed grabbed each of their hands.
"Alright. We're coming."
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"You are so cute." Abby grinned at Reed sitting next to her on the picnic bench.
"You are too." He smiled up at her.
"AHH thanks." She hugged him.
"And pretty." Reed added before taking another bite of his hamburger.
"Charmer." Abby smirked.
The jungle gym had arrived and Gibbs, Tony, McGee, Palmer, and Ducky were putting it together as Abby and Ziva talked to Reed as he finished eating.
"You're pretty too." Reed smiled at Ziva.
"Thank you." Ziva smiled back.
"Can I come see you at work?"
Ziva and Abby looked at each other.
"You'll have to ask Uncle Tony about that." Ziva leaned towards Reed. "But I bet he'll say yes."
"I'll ask Jethro." Reed smiled. "He's the boss."
The two women smirked.
"Yes he is." Abby nodded.
Reed nodded vigorously. "Uncle Tony says I have him wrapped around my finger."
Both women laughed.
"What does that mean?" Reed asked looking up at Abby.
"That he loves you and will let you do whatever you want." Abby grinned.
Reed shook his head. "He makes me brush my teeth."
Another laugh.
"But we get to live here forever now." Reed took another bite.
The two women exchanged surprised looks.
"You do?" Ziva looked at Reed.
He nodded. "Now that Uncle Tony and Jethro are boyfriends."
Abby and Ziva stared at each other eyes wide then looked back at Reed.
"Boyfriends?" Abby's eyebrow was up.
"Yup." Reed giggled. "They kissed last night."
"On the lips?" Ziva asked.
He nodded. "I saw them in the bedroom."
Again both women exchanged shocked looks.
"Did you tell them you saw them?" Abby needed more information. Reed could have been mistaken.
"Yeah. They stopped kissing when they saw me." Reed giggled. "They said they're boyfriends now and I get to live here forever."
"Are you sure they said they were boyfriends and not just friends?" Abby pushed.
Reed rolled his eyes. "They are boyfriends. Two boys can love each other. So can two girls."
"Um yeah. I know." Abby nodded.
"Are you a bigot?" A sadness laced Reeds question.
"What? Me. No. God no!" Abby shook her head surprised by Reeds understanding of the word bigot. "I'm just surprised."
"Because you thought they liked girls?"
"YEAH!" Abby nodded again.
"I'm gonna go help." Reed climbed down and ran towards Tony.
The two women watched as Tony picked the boy up putting him on his shoulders.
"You so owe me twenty bucks." Abby smirked extending her hand to Ziva.
"He is a child." Ziva barked. "He could be making it up."
Abby turned her head slowly and glared at Ziva.
Reaching into her pocket Ziva pulled out a twenty and slapped it into Abby's palm.
"Eight days!" Ziva shook her head. "I thought it would take at least two weeks."
##############################################################################
"So what do you think?" Tony asked Reed as they all stood looking at the finished jungle gym.
"I think I need to play!"
"Of course." Tony rolled his eyes. "What do you say first?"
"Thanks everybody!" Reed cried out as he climbed up the rock wall. "Abby, Ziva come watch me."
Gibbs smirked as he glanced over at Tony beside him.
"I know." Tony shook his head.
"He was flirting with the sales girl at the store today." Gibbs grinned. "Invited her over to play."
"We are so in trouble." Tony sighed.
"Oh yeah." Gibbs chuckled.
"Everything's ready." Ducky called from the grill. Lunch had now turned into dinner and Ducky was playing grill master.
Sitting at the picnic table and chairs that had been pulled up to the ends, everyone started eating. Gibbs sat across from Tony and Reed.
"Why aren't you sitting by Tony?" Reed looked over at Gibbs.
"You're sitting by him." Gibbs went to put a fork full of macaroni salad in his mouth.
"But you're boyfriends you should sit next to each other."
Gibbs stopped the fork half way to his mouth. Tony who had a mouthful of hamburger suddenly coughed, almost choking.
Abby and Ziva started laughing as the other men exchanged glances then looked at Gibbs and Tony.
"Boyfriends don't always have to sit next to each other." Gibbs said then took the bite of food on his fork. Gibbs answer was calm, showing none of the surprise that should have come with the statement.
"Okay." Reed shrugged going back to his dinner.
Tony grabbed his glass of water and took a long drink, hoping if there was something in his mouth no one would ask any questions.
Ducky leaned in towards Palmer and whispered. "You owe me fifty dollars."
Gibbs and Tony turned towards Ducky and Palmer. Palmer turned red.
"Who won the pool?" Ducky smirked unaffected by the stare.
"The pool?" Gibbs raised an eyebrow.
"Yes well. I had a side bet with Jimmy, but there is the pool." Ducky was dead serious.
"Maybe now isn't the time for-"
"No." Gibbs glared at McGee cutting him off. "Who won the pool?"
McGee swallowed the lump in his throat and pulled a paper out of his pocket. "Um, ME."
Everyone looked at Ducky.
"It's not me." Ducky looked confused.
"Who's ME?"
Gibbs smirked.
"You knew about the pool?" Tony looked shocked.
Gibbs rolled his eyes. "I know about every pool that goes on."
Tony made his oh shit face.
"Yeah." Gibbs nodded. "I knew about that one too."
"Sorry." Tony spit out quickly.
"You have a pool at work?" Reed looked up at Tony.
"No it's um." Tony sighed.
"This pool meant everyone had a bet on when Tony and I would become boyfriends." Gibbs explained.
"Oh." Reed nodded then cocked his head and grinned. "I knew you would be boyfriends."
"Yeah." Gibbs chuckled.
"How did you know?" Abby grinned at Reed.
"They cuddled in bed." Reed giggled.
Abby smirked and looked at Gibbs. "Before they were boyfriends?"
"Yup." Reed nodded. "And Uncle Tony had googlie eyes."
Everyone laughed.
"And Jethro always looked like he wanted to kiss him."
Again everyone started laughing.
"Okay that's enough." Gibbs glared at Reed.
It just made Reed giggle again.
"The glare does not work on him." Ziva smiled.
"That's Jethro's silly glare." Reed grinned. "Not his serious glare."
"Ah yes. He already has you figured out." Ducky smirked.
"So he thinks." Gibbs winked at Reed.
"Can I go play?" Reed asked looking back and forth between Tony and Jethro.
"Yeah." Tony picked him up and put him beside the picnic table.
"You coming?" Reed asking smiling at Abby and Ziva.
"Oh right." Abby nodded. "Sure."
Reed took both of them by the hand dragging them towards the jungle gym.
Gibbs chuckled and shook his head.
"It's good for him to have positive female role models." Ducky smiled at Gibbs.
"Can't get better than those two." Gibbs smirked.
"I believe I can speak for everyone." Ducky paused. "When I say we are happy for both of you. And Reed."
"Thanks Duck." Gibbs nodded.
The other men around the table nodded in agreement. And then it was done, their friends wanted nothing but their happiness and that was all the mattered. Conversation came and went, as did Reed's playmates. Abby and Ziva finally taking a break and Palmer and McGee took over.
"Tony come play" Reed yelled from the top of the climbing wall.
"Alright." Tony made his way over and grabbed Reed making the boy laugh.
"He is so sweet." Abby smiled sitting down next to Gibbs. "If you two ever want a babysitter let me know."
"Good." Gibbs nodded.
"You know when you two wanna cuddle. Get busy." Abby raised her eyebrows. "Do the nasty. Hit the sheets."
"I get it." Gibbs snapped.
Gibbs looked over seeing Reed pulling Tony down from the rock wall and climbing onto his chest. They were both laughing. Gibbs smiled and if compelled by their new connection, Tony glanced over and smiled back. Reed caught the exchange and rolled his eyes. Tony grabbed Reed's head and messed up his hair.
"That is the sweetest thing ever." Abby sighed.
Gibbs shook his head.
"It is like you have two children." Ziva chuckled.
"Sometimes." Gibbs chuckled.
"And you love it." Abby smirked.
"Yeah." Gibbs smiled.
Abby laid her head on his shoulder.
Reed suddenly came running towards them.
"Is there something to drink?"
Gibbs took his glass and filled it with some more juice.
Reed took the glass and down it all. Putting the glass down, he hugged Gibbs.
"I love the jungle gym. Thanks." Then he let Gibbs go and tore off back towards the jungle gym.
Palmer scooped him up in mid run and tossed him up into the house section.
"I'm not sure who is going to be more tired, Reed or the rest of you." Gibbs chuckled.
"Us!" Abby groaned.
"Tony looks happy." Ziva stared out where Tony was trying to grab Reed as he hung from the monkey bars.
"I think he is." Gibbs smiled as he watched the scene before him.
"I never thought I would see him so enthralled by a child." Ziva glanced over at Gibbs.
"Neither did I." Gibbs chuckled. "But they are a lot alike."
"That's scary!" Abby smirked.
"Reed was flirting with the sales girl today."
The two women started laughing.
"And the music and movies." Gibbs sighed.
"Rethinking that decision to let Reed and Tony live here forever?" Abby grinned.
Gibbs looked at her and shook his head. Realizing Reed had been talking with her. "Never."
"AHHHHH." Abby sighed hugging him. "You're cute when you're in love."
Gibbs rolled his eyes. "I'm not cute."
"And here I thought you'd deny the love part not the cute part." Abby raised her eyebrow looking at Gibbs.
There was no response.
"You're in love." Abby giggled.
"God you sound like Reed." Gibbs smirked.
"Okay I'm done teasing you." Abby bumped his shoulder. "And I need to go."
"Thanks." Gibbs kissed the side of her head.
Abby started the wave of everyone leaving as the sun set behind them.
Reed eagerly accepted all the attention everyone poured on him as they left, hugging Abby and Ziva within an inch of their lives.
Tony stood by the door with Reed watching as the last car pulled away.
"Your friends are awesome!" Reed smiled up at Tony.
"They're your friends now." Tony grinned as he shut the door.
Reed ran into the living room jumping up onto the couch and into Gibbs' lap.
"Hey." Gibbs grinned.
"Can I go to work with you?" Reed asked excited. "Abby said I could see her lab. If you say okay. Ziva said she's show me around. Ducky said I could see autotopsey as long as there was no bodies. Jimmy said he'd show me x-rays of people's teeth. Tim is gonna show me the computers."
Gibbs looked at Reed and realized he was finally done.
"Yeah. You can come to work one day."
"Sweet!" Reed smiled.
"You have a good time tonight?" Gibbs asked.
"Great time!" Reed grabbed Gibbs' hands and leaned back, his head hanging down by Gibbs' knees.
"Like everyone?"
"They're super cool." Reed laughed as Gibbs shook him causing Reed's body to shake.
"Good because they really liked you." Gibbs smiled.
"Yeah." Reed grinned.
Gibbs could see the heaviness in Reed's eyes.
"I think you're tired." Gibbs chuckled.
"No."
"Yes." Gibbs stood Reed on the ground. "Time to get ready for bed."
Reed groaned.
"Come on." Tony smirked taking Reed's hand. "Let's go."
Pulling away Reed ran over and hugged Gibbs. "Night. Love ya."
"Love you too." Gibbs smiled as he hugged Reed.
Reed took Tony's hand again and they headed up the stairs.
Slumping back into the couch, Gibbs ran his hands over his face. So easy to get attached. He'd told Tony that but now he felt exactly the same way. Not just about Reed. Leaning his head back, Gibbs felt his muscles already stiffening up as the soreness set in. That's what building a jungle gym will do, even with the added help. All he wanted was to climb into bed and hold Tony in his arms as he fell asleep.
A smirk spread across Gibbs face as he felt the couch shift then the weight in his lap.
"That was quick." Gibbs lifted his head looking at Tony.
"He fell asleep putting on his PJ's." Tony chuckled. "I had to finish putting on his shirt."
Gibbs laughed. "Told you that jungle gym would wear him out."
Tony bit at his lower lip. "You also said something else about that."
"That I wanted to make love to you uninterrupted." Gibbs smirked. His hands grabbing Tony's hips.
"Yes." Tony sighed.
"Oh I want that." Gibbs nodded.
Grabbing Gibbs' face with both hands Tony crushed their lips together, devouring him with all the passion he possessed. He needed Gibbs to know this was everything he wanted and needed, and nothing would stop him from getting what he desire.
"Jethro." Tony moaned pulling back breathless.
Dropping his lips to Tony's neck he tasted the soft tender flesh as his hands found their way under Tony's shirt clawing at his back.
Tony reached down squeezing Gibbs' cock whimpering when he felt how hard Gibbs was.
"Make love to me." Tony sighed as he rubbed Gibbs' cock. "Now."
Gibbs moaned as his fingers knotted into the hair on the back of Tony's head, staring into those haunting blue eyes.
"Do you want me to beg?" Tony panted.
Gibbs shook his head. "I want you upstairs and naked in bed."
Tony nodded climbing off Gibbs, lap and without a word walking up the steps never looking back.
When Gibbs followed a few seconds later, Tony was already laying in the bed naked. Making his way towards the bed, Gibbs removed his clothes along the way, reaching the side of the bed naked. He crawled into the bed bringing his body over Tony's.
"You are amazing." Gibbs sighed, his green eyes completely dilated with desire.
Tony shook his head then suddenly grabbed Gibbs, tossing him down and straddling his body.
Gibbs' eyebrow went up as Tony grabbed his wrist pinning them above his head.
"What do you want." Gibbs growled.
"You." Tony rubbed himself over Gibbs' cock.
Gibbs head dropped back as he felt the need already building.
"Tell me what you want to do to me." Tony sighed.
Looking up at Tony Gibbs sighed. "Make love to you."
Tony shook his head. "You can do better than that."
"Tony." Gibbs moaned.
Leaning down Tony's lips brushed Gibbs ear. "Tell me. And stop being so sweet about it."
Breaking free of Tony's grip, Gibbs grabbed Tony's arms and jerked him forward, Tony's chest pressed against his, their faces inches apart.
"I want my cock buried inside you." Gibbs growled. "Fucking you until we both come."
Tony moaned. "God yes, please Jethro."
Another jerk forward as Gibbs placed his lips against Tony's ear. "On your hands and knees."
As the words left his lips, Gibbs let go of Tony tossing him down beside him. Tony laid there on his stomach when he heard the drawer on the bedside table open. Tony heard the snap of the cap and the slight slick sound of Gibbs' hand rubbing the lube over his cock. The simple action caused Tony to moan with anticipation. Feeling the bed shift, Tony shuttered when he felt Gibbs move between his legs and lean forward.
"Now you can beg." Gibbs leaned forward and whispered in Tony's ear.
"Fuck me. God Jethro, please just do it." Tony groaned. "Please."
Holding his cock he pressed it between Tony's ass, pushing gently against Tony's tight opening, the head of his cock slipping in.
"Oh God." Gibbs groaned as Tony's muscles squeezed around his cock drawing him in.
"More." Tony sighed.
Grasping Tony's hips, Gibbs pulled him to his knees and without another thought slammed into him.
Tony opened his mouth to cry out in pleasure but the sound caught in his throat. His voice useless, Tony pushed back against Gibbs, the only way he knew to continue to beg him for more.
The action caused Gibbs to moan as he began thrusting in and out at a steady pace. Originally he had wanted this night to go slow, wanted to take his time explore Tony's body. But the need was to great, the desire to strong and Tony's request to enticing. And now he was completely immersed in making love to Tony. It was what he had wanted so long that it still seemed like a dream that he would wake up from. Letting his hands drift up Tony's chest, he pulled Tony up right, Tony's back resting against his chest.
"Don't stop." Tony moaned taking Gibbs' right hand and placing it on his cock. Instantly Gibbs' hand wrapped around it and started stroking causing Tony's body to shake.
Gibbs' lips pressed a kiss just below Tony's ear. "You're so close I can feel it."
"Yes." Tony nodded.
"So what will it take?" Gibbs' hand stroked faster.
Tony reached back clutching Gibbs' hip, feeling the back and forth motion of his body.
"Oh I know." Gibbs growled as he lunged harder into Tony.
"Then say it." Tony voice shook as the release built.
Brushing his lips against Tony's ear the words dripped from Gibbs' lips.
"I love you." Gibbs sighed. "Have for so long."
Tony's eyes closed as the words settled into soul washing through his body.
"Jethro." Tony fought to keep his voice low as his body trembled and the orgasm seized him. He felt his body about to fall, then Gibbs' arm encircle his waist and hold him up.
Gibbs movements became shorter, quicker, driving deeper into Tony as his own need threatened to overtake him.
"Oh God." Gibbs moaned tugging Tony's body tightly against him. "Tony."
"Jethro please." Tony whimpered.
Gibbs swallowed the scream as he buried himself deep inside Tony and came. Every muscle in his body tensed and he crushed Tony to his chest. They were frozen there for what seemed like hours, as Gibbs body relaxed, his muscles loosened and his clarity returned. He dropped a kiss on Tony's shoulder.
"You can let me go now." Tony smirked.
"And if I don't want to."
"You never have to." Tony reached back touching Gibbs' cheek.
Still holding onto Tony, Gibbs pulled their bodies down onto the bed. Twisting in Gibbs' embrace, Tony turned and faced him.
"Tell me you will always want me this much." Tony sighed.
"I will always want you this much." Gibbs answered capturing Tony's lips and pulling him closer. As their lips slowly drifted apart Tony smiled.
"This still all seems like some weird dream." Tony shook his head.
"Good weird?" Gibbs chuckled.
"Not just "this"." Tony grinned. "You, Reed, us."
"That's a lot." Gibbs nodded.
Tony smiled at Gibbs. "I became a parent, something I never wanted but now can't imagine not having Reed."
"Yeah."
"And then there's you." Tony's hand caressed Gibbs' cheek. "Something I always wanted and never thought I would have."
"You have me." Gibbs took Tony's hand and kissed it.
"Mark's calling tomorrow to let me know what he found out about the whole me being married thing."
"It'll be fine." Gibbs pulled Tony's hand to his chest.
"And if it's not?" Tony paused.
"Guess I'll have to marry you." Gibbs smirked.
"Not funny." Tony smacked Gibbs' chest.
"Tony. I won't let anything happen." Gibbs voice was filled with conviction. "to you or Reed."
"I love you."
"I know." Gibbs smiled.
"And I want you." Tony grinned, pushing Gibbs back down on the bed. "Again."
"Are you always going to be this insatiable?" Gibbs' hands clawed up Tony's back and his lips kissed down his neck.
"Always." Tony moaned his hand wrapping around Gibbs' cock.
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Trying to untangle himself from the body against him, Gibbs felt Tony hug him tighter.
"Don't get up." Tony sighed.
"Work." Gibbs chuckled placing a kiss on the top of Tony's head.
Tony picked up his head and glanced over at the clock then put his head back down. "How do you do that?"
"What?"
"Get up right on time without an alarm clock."
"Go back to sleep." Gibbs smirked climbing out of bed. Tony grabbed Gibbs' pillow hugging it against his body.
##############################################################################
"Can I go out back?" Reed asked as Tony finished doing the breakfast dishes.
"Give me just a minute."
"I can go by myself." Reed rolled his eyes. "I'll sit at the picnic table."
Tony looked at Reed torn. "Fine but stay at the picnic table. I'll be out in a minute."
Reed tore out the back door.
Finishing up the dishes, Tony dried his hands and walked outside a few minutes later. As promised Reed was sitting at the picnic table staring at the ground.
"You okay." Tony asked sitting down next to him.
Reed sighed. "Are mommy and daddy in heaven?"
Tony felt his heart sink and his throat fill with bile. He wasn't prepared for this conversation, this was such a conversation for Gibbs.
"Did your mom and dad teach you about heaven?" Tony had no idea if Gabby and David had taken Reed to church, or a synagogue or mosque, or anything. They accepted everyone's religion.
"Yeah." Reed nodded. "Mommy taught me about all kinds of places."
"That's good." Tony sighed.
"She said everyone believes in different things." Reed looked over at Tony. "But that everyone was just trying to get to the same place."
"She's right." Tony smiled.
"So are they in heaven?"
Tony took a deep breath. "Your mom and dad were amazing people."
Reed continued to stare at Tony.
"They are in their idea of heaven." Tony paused. "And they will always watch over you, no matter where you are or how old you are."
"Jethro said they know I'm happy."
"They do." Tony smiled.
"But that I can be sad too."
"You can be." Tony looked at Reed. "You can miss your mom and dad, be angry, upset and cry if you need to."
"I cried already." Reed picked at the wood of the table.
Tony remembered the nights of crying all too well.
"I miss them." Reed looked at Tony. "But I have you and Jethro now."
"And we will always be here for you."
"Plus I have all my friends too." Reed smiled. "Abby, Ziva, Tim, Jimmy, Ducky."
Tony grinned. "Don't think I didn't notice you put Abby and Ziva first."
Reed giggled.
"I think you have a crush on them both." Tony started tickling Reed.
"Nuh ah." Reed laughed.
"Reed and Abby sitting in a tree k.i.s.s.i.n.g." Tony paused. "Reed and Ziva sitting in a tree ki.s.s.i.n.g."
"They're pretty." Reed managed to say through his laughter.
"Yeah they are." Tony smirked pulling Reed onto his lap. "And they like you too."
"I'm pretty sure I like girls." Reed said then giggled.
"Believe me you definitely like girls." Tony chuckled.
"Tony, Reed."
The familiar female voice drifted out to the backyard.
Reed's eyes went big and he jumped out of Tony's lap and ran in the house.
Tony laughed and shook his head. "You absolutely like girls." It was funny Tony had never thought about sexuality at four. Reeds so called flirt really wasn't flirting, but innocent childlike excitement. Still it made Tony think back to friends who had told him they knew at four and five that they were gay or straight.
"Hey you." Abby bent down and Reed ran into her arms.
"Abby."
Tony walked in smiling at the scene before him.
"What's up Abs." Tony nodded.
"I came to hang out with my new main man." Abby grinned at Reed.
Reed turned and glanced back at Tony.
Tony shook his head.
"Gibbs said you had some calls to make and things to deal with." Abby smirked. "I thought I could hang with Reed while you do what you need to do."
"You like to draw?" Reed asked.
"Of course." Abby's eyes widened.
"Can we go to my room and draw?" Reed looked at Tony.
"I'm not sure I can trust you alone with Abby."
Reed giggled and dropped his head back.
"Go have fun." Tony nodded towards the stairs.
"Come on." Reed took Abby's hand and pulled her towards the stairs.
"Okay I'm coming." Abby waved back at Tony before being dragged up the stairs.
###############################################################################
Ziva heard her phone beep and picked it up. She started laughing as soon as the picture appeared on her screen.
"I have something for you." Ziva's face suddenly turned serious as she walked over to Gibbs' desk.
Slipping on his glasses he took the phone from Ziva. He smirked and shook his head looking at the picture. Reed's cheek was smashed against Abby's so both their faces would fit in the close up picture. They were both making a face and sticking out their tongues.
Gibbs handed the phone back to Ziva. "Guess I need to learn how to do all that picture stuff on my phone."
Ziva looked shocked but then grinned. Who knew it would take a kid to make Gibbs decide to learn how to use his phone as more than a phone. Ziva's phone beeped again and she smiled.
"Here." She handed the phone to Gibbs again.
He looked at the screen and smiled. Reed was squished between Tony and Abby holding up a piece of paper that said Miss You.
Ziva had never seen Gibbs smile like that before. One of happiness, love and complete devotion.
Again he handed the phone back to Ziva. "Can you send those to my phone?"
Ziva smiled. "Sure."
##############################################################################
Tony stood in the doorway watching Abby and Reed color. They had been up here most of the day, only coming down for lunch, then coming right back up. Tony was thankful for Abby being here. Countless phone calls had kept him busy most of the morning. The conversation with Mark taking what seemed like hours, then talking to the school, canceling the appointments to look at houses, trying again to explain to his landlord the situation to get him out of his lease, and the numerous other calls he had to make.
Reed looked up and smiled at Tony. "I made pictures for you and Jethro."
"Cool can't wait to see them." Tony smiled.
"And he colored a picture for me." Abby grinned. "I'm going to put it in the lab."
"Wow that picture must be special if Abby is going to put it in her lab." Tony grinned at Reed.
"It's a bat." Reed held up the picture he had colored of the bat. "Abby likes bats."
"Yeah I know." Tony chuckled.
"I think we've made or colored a picture for everyone." Abby glanced at the pile of pictures before them.
"Abby don't you need to get back to work?" Tony paused. "I think I'm done with calls for the day."
"I'm good." Abby smiled. "Gibbs was hoping I could stay till he got home so you two could talk."
"Right." Tony grinned, understanding that Gibbs didn't want to be interrupted when they talked.
"He was going to try and leave early." Abby grabbed another crayon from the box.
"Gibbs is going to leave early?" Tony shook his head. "That's a first."
"Family comes first with Gibbs." Abby smirked.
"Yes it does."
Tony jumped at the sound of Gibbs voice behind him.
"I hate when you do that." Tony sighed.
"Did you get the pictures?" Reed asked.
"I did." Gibbs nodded. "Ziva showed them to me and sent them to my phone."
"To your phone?" Tony looked surprised.
"I'm learning." Gibbs smirked.
Tony nodded. "Can we go talk?"
"Yeah." The concern evident on Gibbs face.
They both looked at Reed and Abby.
"We're good." Abby smiled.
"We have pictures to finish." Reed grinned.
#############################################################################
"Why do I have the feeling I'm not going to like this." Gibbs sighed as he dropped down on the couch, Tony sitting next to him.
"It's mostly good news." Tony forced a smile.
"And the bad news?" Gibbs leaned forward putting his elbows on his knees.
"I explained to Mark what is going on between us." Tony glanced at Gibbs. "He's concerned, specifically about Child Services."
"Because?"
"Because we just started this relationship. It doesn't exactly show a long term commitment having only been together a few days." Tony chuckled nervously.
"Did he have any suggestions?"
"A few." Tony sighed. "But you're not going to like them."
"He's a lawyer, he told you to lie."
"Not lie exactly." Tony paused. "Just not tell the whole truth."
"About how long we've been together?"
Tony nodded.
"And the other option."
"Get married." Tony's voice cracked.
"Married?" Gibbs looked shocked. "Because that will show after a few days we're committed."
"No we just say we've been together a long time and decided it was time."
Gibbs rubbed his forehead.
"I told you that you wouldn't like the options."
"Those aren't options Tony." Gibbs sighed.
"Or I can move out, have a house of my own. Show I'm caring for Reed by myself."
"Not gonna happen." Gibbs stared at Tony.
"We say we're not together and that I'm just living here till I find a place." Tony paused. "The final option."
"Reed could never keep our relationship a secret." Gibbs chuckled.
"Yeah." Tony smiled.
"Is this a one time visit from Child Services?" Gibbs asked.
"Mark says it depends." Tony shrugged.
"On?"
"How the first visit goes and how long it takes to get a court date." Tony sighed. "Mark thinks the court date should be set pretty quick since there is no blood family to contest the guardianship.
"I'll talk to Leon see if he has any pull with the judge." Gibbs didn't like asking Leon for a favorite but at this point he'd do anything he needed to so this would end quickly.
Tony nodded, the worry plastered on his face.
"It will be okay." Gibbs smiled taking Tony's hand. "We'll figure it out."
Another nod.
"All child services does is make recommendations to the court, they don't have the final say." Gibbs was trying to make Tony see the positives.
"I know." Tony forced a smile.
"They will see how happy Reed is here." Gibbs touched Tony's cheek. "How happy we are."
Leaning forward Tony's lips brushed Gibbs. "Thank you."
"For what?" Gibbs grinned.
"Making everything alright." Tony smile.
Gibbs nodded. "Okay on to the good news."
"The school a few blocks over has openings for their fall Kindergarten class but Reed will have to retest here. Their requirements are different than Ohio."
"Not a problem." Gibbs chuckled. "Reed's smart, he'll pass. Although he won't like having to take the test again."
"No. I'm sure he won't." Tony sighed. "But he needs to learn this address, this phone number, other stuff. They are sending the paperwork."
"Your apartment?"
"Landlord is willing to only make me pay for half of the remainder of the lease."
"Which is?"
"Four months." Tony knew Gibbs wasn't going to like that.
"No." Gibbs shook his head. "I'll go talk to him."
"Jethro. No!" Tony's eyes widened. "I can't have you get arrested for beating up my landlord. Not now."
"I'll talk to him." Gibbs paused. "That's all."
"No." Tony took a deep breath. "I will talk to him again."
"Then I'll talk to him."
"So protective." Tony grinned. "It's sexy."
Gibbs rolled his eyes. "Anything else."
"Child services could show up at any time, probably this week."
"Okay."
"So what are we going to do?" Tony asked still not feeling they had made a decision about how to handle the child services.
"Tell the truth." Gibbs looked at Tony waiting for the reaction.
"Sure." Tony looking at the floor.
"The truth." Gibbs finger went under Tony's chin, forcing Tony to look at him. "That we've been in love for years. What that relationship entailed they don't need to know."
Tony smirked. "Rule number seven, but in a different way."
"Yeah. Be specific about the necessary details." Gibbs grinned. "We've been together for the last ten years in a lot of ways."
"Yes we have." Tony shook his head. "We've probably spent more time together than most married couples."
"I've spent more time with you than all three of my ex-wives put together." Gibbs laughed.
Tony couldn't help but laugh with him.
"Now let's let Abby get home and get some dinner."
#############################################################################
"But why do they have to come?" Reed looked worried as he pushed his empty plate away from him.
"They just need to make sure you're happy here and that we are taking good care of you." Tony was trying to explain why some stranger was going to come for a visit and make decisions about Reed's future.
"I can tell them all that."
"And I'm sure they will ask you." Tony nodded.
"Can they take me away?" Reed tried not to cry.
"No." Tony tried not to lie but also didn't want Reed more upset.
"Promise." Reed looked at Tony pleading with him.
"Promise." Tony reassured him.
Reed looked at Gibbs.
"I told you. You two aren't going anywhere." Gibbs smiled.
Reed nodded.
There was a knock at the door. The sound caused Gibbs and Tony to look at each other.
"It wouldn't be?" Tony looked scared.
"I'll get it." Gibbs got up and made his way to the door.
Tony took a deep breath and waited.
Gibbs walked back into the dining room with an unfamiliar woman and Tony knew immediately why she was here.
"Tony this is Mrs. Tamlin from Child Services."
"Mr. DiNozzo." The talk, thin blond smiled as she shook Tony's hand.
"Please, Tony."
"Tony." She turned and looked over at Reed seeing the concerned look on his face. "You must be Reed."
He nodded.
"We were just explaining your visit." Gibbs paused. "He's concerned."
"Don't worry." She smiled at Reed. "I'm just here to talk to everyone."
Another nod.
She looked back at Tony. "Maybe it would be better if I talked to you first. Give Reed a little more time to process all this."
"I'll take Reed out back." Gibbs nodded walking over to Reed. "Let's hit the jungle gym."
Climbing off the chair, Reed followed Gibbs with none of his normal enthusiasm.
"Please sit." Tony forced a smile leading the woman into the living room.
She sat down in the chair by the couch and Tony took a position on the couch next to her.
"I received the updated information." She said pulling a file out of her bag. "That you and Mr. Gibbs are not married."
"No."
"Any talk of marriage?" She smiled.
"We talk about everything."
"How is Reed adjusting to being here?"
"He just got a jungle gym a few days ago." Tony grinned. "He's running us ragged."
"I bet." She chuckled.
"He really does love being here." Tony smiled. "He has his own room, we brought all his stuff from Ohio, and he's met all our friends. They adore him and vice versa."
"Good." She nodded. "And has he talked about his parent's death?"
"Starting to." Tony sighed. "Little things. Asking if they know he's okay, that he's happy and if it's okay to be happy and sad."
"That's normal."
"Asked me if his parents were in heaven." Tony shook his head. "That was hard."
"Understandable." She paused. "Is he sleeping okay?"
"He is now."
"Some problems?" She asked.
"Waking up crying for his mom and dad. For a few nights, but that's stopped."
"And who handled that?"
Tony looked surprised by the question. "We both did."
"Did Reed know Mr. Gibbs before this?"
"No." Tony shook his head. "Well, he knew of him but hadn't met him."
"Reed accepted him."
"Jethro is great with kids, Reed took to him the first time they met." Tony smiled.
"And you moved in because of Reed?" She looked at Tony.
"Not just because of Reed." Tony paused. "But with having the house and being in a good neighborhood. Jethro really thought it would be better for us to be here with him."
"How long have you known Mr. Gibbs?"
"Ten years."
"And when did your relationship begin?"
Tony chuckled. "The first time I saw him."
She paused a moment then smiled. "Love at first sight?"
Tony nodded. "Yeah."
"How did you meet?"
"I arrested him."
Her eyebrow went up. "Arrested?"
"No." Tony laughed. "He was undercover for NCIS, he wanted to be arrested."
"Okay."
"I was a Baltimore cop working a case, Jethro was undercover working on a suspect involved in our case." Tony remembered the day all too well.
"And now you work together?"
"Yes."
"He's your boss?"
"Yes."
"Is that why you've kept your relationship quiet?"
"What exactly does this have to do with my guardianship of Reed?" Tony asked slightly annoyed at the line of questioning.
"Goes to the stability of the home." She paused. "And the question of the inconsistencies in the will and guardianship."
Tony took a deep breath. "Gabby and David made their will three weeks before they died. She never though anything would happen this soon. She knew how much I love Jethro and marriage would be the next logical step. She assumed by the time the will would be needed we'd be married."
"Is your relationship a concern at work?" She went back to the questions.
"No." Tony sighed. "There are no rules against agents dating or being married."
"Does anyone at work know about your relationship?"
"Our friends, the people who matter."
"Reed is expected to start school in the fall have you-"
"I've already talked to the school a few blocks over." Tony cut her off. "They have an opening and Reed will take his test for placement in a few weeks. I spoke to Principle Thomas Juery if you want to call and verify."
"Why are you annoyed?"
Tony leaned forward. "Because we love Reed and we have spent the last week and a half trying to make sure he feels loved, safe, and cared for after losing the two most important people in his life. And the fact that you want to come in here, asked a few questions, see the surroundings and then make a determination as to my ability to raise Reed is asinine."
"Maybe so." She stared at Tony. "But the court requires it."
Tony shook his head and leaned back. "Next question."
"I think we're done." She smiled. "I'll speak to Mr. Gibbs briefly then Reed."
Standing up, Tony nodded. "I'll have Jethro come in."
Walking out into the backyard. Gibbs and Reed both froze.
"She'd like to speak to you." Tony nodded at Gibbs.
Walking over to Tony Gibbs smirked. "You told her off?"
"No, I just told her I think this is a joke." Tony rubbed his hands over his face. "I'll be fine."
Gibbs placed a kiss on Tony's forehead, then walked inside.
Mrs. Tamlin went to stand up as Gibbs walked in.
"Please." Gibbs shook his head telling her not to get up. He took Tony's vacated seat.
"This is your home."
"It's our home." Gibbs nodded.
"Tony just moved in, with Reed?"
"Yeah."
"Why is that?" She asked.
"Big house, good neighborhood, better for kids."
"You had never met Reed?"
"No." Gibbs shook his head.
"But you were willing to just take him into your home and help raise him?"
"Yes."
She looked at him perplexed.
"Problem?"
"Do you ever answer with more than one word?"
"If necessary."
"Okay." She nodded. "Reed's been here a little over a week, how is your relationship with him?"
"He's a great kid, I'd do anything for him."
"Like helping him when he wakes up scared."
"Yeah."
"Giving him a home?"
Gibbs nodded.
"Is your willingness to help Tony with Reed, an effort to replace the family you lost?"
Gibbs looked at her then shook his head. "Do you have kids?"
"Yes."
"Could you replace them?"
She didn't answer.
"I didn't think so." Gibbs paused. "Let's pretend you didn't ask that question since I'm sure it's completely inappropriate and was asked without thought."
She cleared her throat and asked the next question. "When did your relationship with Tony begin?"
"Ten years ago."
"In Baltimore?"
"We met in Baltimore." Gibbs smiled.
"That makes you smile?"
"It's a good memory." Gibbs smirked.
"Love at first sight?"
"Yeah."
"Is marriage in your future?"
Gibbs took a deep breath. "I'm sure your file talks all about me and marriages."
"Three divorces."
"Yeah, I remember." Gibbs chuckled.
"That's humorous?" She stared at Gibbs.
"No. What's humorous is what you'll make of it."
"And what's that?"
"I'm not stable, make bad decisions, fall in and out of love, countless other things I'm sure."
"And that's not true."
Gibbs shrugged. "The bad decisions maybe."
"Care to elaborate."
Leaning forward Gibbs stared at her. "That question we're pretending you didn't ask, about replacing my family."
She nodded.
"I tried replacing my wife, doesn't work." Gibbs paused. "I learned that the hard way and believe me I'll never do it again."
Gibbs saw her swallow then nod again.
"Let's just get it all out." Gibbs smirked.
"Okay."
"I love Tony. I love Reed." Another stare. "Nothing is going to change that. And no one is going to take that away. And I'll fight with every last breath in my body to make sure of that. Understood?"
"Threats?" Her eyebrow went up.
Gibbs chuckled. "No. I don't make threats. It's a promise."
Standing up, Gibbs extended his hands to her. She took it hesitantly.
"You want to talk to Reed now."
"Yes."
"Alone?" Gibbs asked.
She nodded.
"I'll send him in."
Shortly after Gibbs walked out back, Reed slowly walked in to the living room.
"Hi Reed."
"Hi." He said looking at her suspiciously.
"Do you mind if I talk to you a few minutes?"
He shook his head as he came over to the couch and sat down.
"I hear you have a jungle gym out back?" She grinned.
"Yeah. Jethro bought it for me." Reed picked at the fabric of the couch.
"That was nice of him."
Reed nodded. "He let me pick it out."
"I bet you picked a great one."
"He said I picked the best."
"Did you help put it together?"
Reed glanced up at her. "Yeah we had lots of help."
"Your new friends." She smiled.
"From NCIS."
"Are they all nice?"
"Yeah." Reed half smiled. "Abby and Ziva are pretty"
She tried to stifle her chuckled. "Really?"
He nodded. "And Tim and Jimmy are really cool so is Ducky."
"They all helped build the jungle gym?"
"Yeah and they stayed and played with me and Ducky grilled burgers."
"Sounds like a lot of funny."
"It was."
"I heard you had some trouble sleeping."
"I was sad." Reed paused. "About Mommy and Daddy."
"But you feel better now?"
"I still get sad." He looked at her with a serious expression. "But I'm allowed it doesn't mean I don't like it here."
"I understand." She nodded. "You can be sad about your mom and dad and still like it here."
"I love it here." Reed smiled.
"Why do you love it?" She grinned.
"Because Uncle Tony and Jethro love me and I love them."
"That's important."
"And they read to me at night." Reed grinned. "Jethro does the voices better."
She chuckled.
"But Uncle Tony is practicing."
"What else do you all do together?"
"We painted my room, make dinner, play. OH!" Reed suddenly got excited. "And I get to go to work with them one day. And the boat!"
"The boat?" She questioned.
"Yeah Jethro is building us a boat and I'm helping." Reed smiled. "Uncle Tony helps too."
"A real boat?"
Reed giggled. "A real boat wanna see?"
"Sure. Do you think it's okay?"
"I'll ask." Reed jumped off the couch and ran to the back door looking out the screen. "Can I show the lady the boat?"
Mrs. Tamlin laughed and heard both men answer yes.
Reed ran back in and took her hand. "Come on."
"Okay." She followed him to the basement door and down the steps.
Reed smiled when he saw her surprise.
"It's cool isn't it?"
"Very cool." She grinned.
"Here." He pulled her closer. "Feel here."
Reed placed her hand on the section he had finished sanding.
"I sanded that part all by myself." Reed said proudly.
"That's amazing."
"Once I'm older I can learn how to use the other tools." Reed looked at her. "Wanna see my room?"
"I would love that."
"Okay." Reed started back up the steps and waited for her to follow leader her upstairs. Opening the bedroom door he rushed in and smiled back at her. "It's JINORMOUS!"
"It's very big."
"I picked out the paint."
"I love it!" She smiled at Reed.
"We all painted." Reed laughed. "And had a paint fight."
"A paint fight." She snickered.
"We were all blue."
"And is this all your stuff from your house?"
"This is my house." He looked confused.
"From your house in Ohio."
Reed nodded. "Some of it Uncle Tony and Jethro got me."
"This is a really great room." She nodded. "I can see why you love it here."
Reed leaned against the bed. "Do I get to stay?"
She sat down on the bed next to where he stood. "I don't make that decision."
"But you tell the person that does."
She nodded.
"Can you tell them I don't wanna leave?"
"I can."
"And that they can have my jungle gym if I can stay."
She touched the side of his face. "That's not necessary."
"But I want to stay here." He looked at the floor. "Uncle Tony and Jethro are my family."
"I know." She shook her head fighting back the tears. "Let's get back downstairs. Can I see your jungle gym?"
He nodded.
As the two of them walked outback, Gibbs and Tony looked up sitting at the picnic table.
"Isn't it awesome." Reed grinned looking at the jungle gym.
"That is definitely the best one I've seen."
"Can I go play now?" Reed looked at Tony and Gibbs.
They in turn looked at Mrs. Tamlin
"We're all done." She smiled.
Gibbs got up and scooped up Reed who started laughing as Gibbs carried him over to the jungle gym.
"I'll walk you out if you're ready to leave." Tony stood up.
"I am."
Reaching the door Tony opened it and extended his hand to her.
"Tony." She shook his hand.
"Can I ask a question?"
She nodded.
"Is there any way you can let us know if you visit again." Tony took a deep breath. "I don't want Reed upset like this."
"If I have to come back." She paused. "I'll let you know."
"Thank you." Tony nodded. "I appreciate that."
"But I don't think I'll need to come back."
Tony eyes narrowed, then he smiled.
She nodded "Please tell Reed, he can keep his jungle gym."
"What?" Tony looked puzzled.
"He wanted to give up his jungle gym to stay here."
Tony shook his head. "He shouldn't have to feel that way and worry like this."
"I agree." She sighed. "It's not my decision but my report will say Reed should stay here, with his family."
"Thank you." Tony fought back the emotion. "So much."
She nodded as she walked away.
Tony shut the door and fell back against it, the tears demanding retribution.
"Tony can you help me get a drink." Reed yelled out as he ran in and stopped when he saw Tony crying. "What's wrong?"
Tony ran his hands over his face and shook his head. "Nothing."
"Why are you crying." Reed looked scared. "Is she gonna tell them to take me away?"
"No." Tony smiled. "They're happy tears."
"She's gonna tell them I can stay?" Reed asked.
Tony nodded and squatted down. "Come here."
Reed ran into Tony's arms and Tony hugged him tightly.
"And she said to tell you. You keep the jungle gym."
Reed nodded.
"You don't have to ever give anything up to stay here. Okay."
Another nod.
"Okay." Tony smiled. "Now let's go get you something to drink."
Gibbs walked in the back door as Tony walked into the kitchen carrying Reed.
"Everything okay?"
"I get to stay here." Reed grinned. "The lady said so."
"I knew she would." Gibbs winked at Reed.
Putting Reed down, Tony went to the fridge and pulled out the bottle of juice.
Gibbs grabbed a glass holding it for Tony to fill, and then handed it to Reed.
"Thanks." Reed said before taking a long drink. Then he looked up at Gibbs. "Can I go to work with you tomorrow?"
"Does it have to be tomorrow?" Gibbs asked.
"I made pictures for everyone." Reed put his cup on the counter. "I want to give them to everybody."
"Why don't you and Tony come to see me at work tomorrow?"
Reed looked at Tony. "Can we?"
"Yeah."
"Sweet!" Reed grabbed Gibbs hand. "Come upstairs and see the pictures."
"Alright." Gibbs followed Reed up the stairs, Tony bringing up the rear.
Stepping into the bedroom Reed stopped at his table in the corner. "This is for Tim."
Gibbs chuckled as Reed held up a picture he had colored of a computer. "Perfect."
"I colored a bat for Abby." Reed grinned.
"And Ziva?" Gibbs hoped there weren't any pictures of knives or guns.
Reed flipped through the pictures and finally pulled one out. "This one."
Gibbs smiled at the picture of a flower. "She'll love it."
"And this is for Ducky?" Reed held up a colored picture of a duck.
"Fitting."
"And this is for Jimmy." Reed held up a picture of a man in a weird outfit.
Gibbs was afraid to ask.
"It's a wrestler." Tony chuckled realizing Gibbs didn't understand the picture. "Palmer likes WWE."
Gibbs nodded. "Got it."
Rummaging through the pictures again Reed pulled one out and handed it to Gibbs. "This one is for you."
Looking at it Gibbs smiled the emotion and pride showing on his face. "I love it."
"It's you, and me and Tony on the jungle gym." Reed explained proudly.
"I can see that."
"Will you hang it in your office?"
"Absolutely." Gibbs nodded. "I have just the place for it."
"Tony hung his picture on the fridge." Reed looked at Tony. "He said that way you both can have a picture at home too."
"Good idea." Gibbs agreed.
"Brush your teeth and get your pj's on." Tony looked at Reed.
"Okey dokey." Reed went to his dresser and pulled out his pj's and ran to the bathroom.
Tony came up behind Gibbs wrapping his arms around Gibbs' waist.
"You're a big softy." Tony dropped a kiss on Gibbs neck.
Gibbs shook his head.
"I saw you." Tony grinned. "You got all emotional when Reed gave you that picture."
"It's a good picture."
"I know." Tony chuckled. "Would have loved to have seen your face when you got the picture with the miss you.
Gibbs sighed.
"Don't worry. I won't ruin your reputation." Tony whispered in Gibbs' ear.
"Yeah well little late for that."
Reed bounced into the room. "Done and Done."
"Then climb in." Tony let go of Gibbs and went over to tuck Reed in.
Reed climbed under the blankets and settled back.
"Story tonight?" Tony asked.
Reed shook his head his eyes already heavy with sleep.
"Night." Tony kissed his forehead. "Love you."
"Love you too." Reed smiled. He looked over at Gibbs. "Love you too."
"Love you more."
Reed grinned.
"Now go to sleep." Gibbs smirked as he and Tony walked out of the room.