Gibbs/Allison Series:
Choosing Between Old & New # 5
By: MChakotayParis (R. Mason)
Chapter 20
Family Cookout III (Finally All Together) Part II
Sunday dawned just as bright and warm as Saturday, but it was a very sleep Ali that Tobias and Gibbs woke up at nine-thirty the next morning. They'd waited trying to let Ali sleep as long as she could figuring that she would wake up on her own but since she wasn't awake by nine-thirty they went to check on her. They knew she'd had a very busy and exciting day yesterday and hoped that it hadn't made her sick. So as they entered her room they saw that she was still deep asleep curled on her side, clutching her "Puffalump". As the both looked at her they saw that she was little pale and wondered if they should ask Ducky to take a look at her, but before either man could turned and get the man Ali turned over and smiled around her pacifier as she saw both men standing beside her bed.
"Morning Daddy, Papa" mumbled Ali, then removed her pacifier placing it on her night stand.
"Morning Princess, how are you feeling?" asked Gibbs as he sat down on the bed and gently brushed the hair from her face. She didn't feel warm but she didn't have her normal color either.
"My tummy hurts a little Daddy" said Ali truthfully
"I'll go get Ducky Jethro, be right back sweetheart" said Tobias then left and a few minutes later both men returned and Ducky took Gibbs place beside Ali on the bed. After a quick examination and a few questions it was determined that Ali had eaten a little too much for dinner yesterday and he stomach was having a hard time digesting it.
As Ducky leaned down and gave Ali a quick kiss on the forehead he said softly. "I'm going to talk to Jethro and Tobias sweetheart I'll be right back okay?"
At Ali's nodded, then watched as the three men move away from her bed to talk.
"What's wrong with her Ducky?" asked Gibbs as he looked over the man's shoulder at the women still lying in the bed.
"A simple stomach ache Jethro, I think she got a little greedy yesterday while eating dinner. I suggest either just letting it works itself out or if you want we can give her an enema to clean her out now" said Ducky.
"Let's ask her what she wants to do, we've never had to take care of this problem before" said Gibbs with a slight blush on his face. Since he'd been with Tobias they both knew about enemas and even used them on occasion but never with Ali. As they all headed back towards the bed they noticed that Ali had retrieved her pacifier and it was back in her mouth, she must really feel back if she needed that comfort.
"Sweetheart, Ducky says that it's just a stomach ache from eating too much yesterday, so we have two opinions. We can either just let it run its course or we can give you an enema and flush it out, which do you think you want to do. It's your choice sweetheart" said Tobias as he looked down at the women in the bed.
After a few minutes Ali looked at the three men standing by her bed then said "It really hurts Papa, I think I want to take care of this now" said Ali softly
"Good choice my sweet, I'll go get everything ready while you're daddies explain what's going to happen, okay?" said Ducky as he smiled the left the room.
"Ali if you'd…." started Gibbs then stopped as Ali took his hand in hers
"It's alright Jethro, I know what's going to happen, and if either you or Tobias are uncomfortable with helping me I'm sure Auggie will be happy to help me with this problem" said Ali as she looked at the two men beside her.
This would be the first time that either one of them would have to do anything other than just shower and change her. She knew that they both loved her and would do anything for her but she was after all a grown women and this was a little different than just changing her.
"No Ali, we're you're daddies and we will take care of you, that is if you want us too?" said Gibbs
"Of course I do Daddy, I want both you and Papa there with me please" her little girl voice coming back and sounding a little bit scared.
"Of course sweetheart, how about you just rest here while we get everything ready then we'll come and get you okay?" said Tobias as he leaned down and gently kissed her forehead.
At his answer Ali replaced the pacifier in her mouth then turned on her side re hugging her "Puffalump" to her stomach.
Ten minutes later the bathroom was ready and Gibbs returned to Ali's room and carried her into her bathroom. When they had remodeled Ali's bathroom a few years ago they'd put in a small pillar sink and then added an extra bathroom counter against one of the walls which was large enough for her to lay flat on so they could change her in the bathroom if they wanted to. Now the bathroom nice and warm with several fluffy towels covering the countertop and Gibbs gently laid her down still on her side, he quickly undressed her but then covered her with a towel so she would stay warm. After a few minutes they had the enema nozzle inserted and the warm soapy water was gently flowing into her. Gibbs stayed by her hip gently holding the nozzle in with one hand the other on her hip as Tobias was at her head gently talking to her and rubbing her tummy.
After about three minutes Ali begin to whine a little and Tobias gently whispered. "It's alright baby girl, Papa and Daddy are here and were almost finished"
It took another five minutes before the bag was empty and Gibbs gently pulled the nozzle out. Ali was able to lay still for another three minutes before she begin to softly cry and Gibbs picked her up and sat her on the toilet. After she expelled all of the dirty water Gibbs carried her back to the counter and laid her down again, this time reinserting the nozzle and letting the warm clean water flow into her to clean her out. After she'd expelled all of her rinse water Gibbs carried her into the shower and gently gave her a quick but thorough shower then replaced her on the counter and as Tobias dried and diaper her Gibbs redressed. After Ali was diapered and redressed they took her back into her bedroom and placed her back in bed where Ducky reexamined her.
"I think she's going to be fine Jethro, although I would give her a bottle of Gator Aide so she won't get dehydrated from the enema" said Ducky as he watched Tobias head towards her refrigerator to get a bottle.
As Tobias put the bottle to Ali's lips he asked "Should we have her eat anything?"
"I'd let her rest first, but when she does eat it needs to be just soft foods, toast or oatmeal should be good" replied Ducky
"What are we going to do about the household chores at your house Jethro, they really need to be done and we've already put them off for two weeks now since Jack has been here?" asked Tobias.
"Ali will sleep for a couple of hours or more so why don't you and Jethro take the younger generation to his house for the chores while the older generation stays here with Ali. I'm sure between Jack, Auggie and myself we can handle our little one" suggested Ducky
"If you sure Ducky?" asked Gibbs then stopped when he saw the look on the older man's face. He and Auggie had been dying to spend some quality time with Ali for the past two weeks but had taken a backseat to Jack because Ali needed to bond with him. Now she was bonded and it was their turn to spend some time with their Ali. "Alright, alright Ducky. Let's go tell everyone what we're going to do while their eating breakfast. That way we can get gone and get done faster so we can get back to Ali." then headed towards the door to inform his older children of the change of plans.
As Ducky watched Gibb's back he had to smile, he really was the quintessential parent, not wanting to be away from his little girl any longer than he had to especially when she was sick. Well he could understand, Ali wasn't normally sick but when she was it could turn into something serious very quickly so that's why they watched her so closely, and he was really glad that she had asked for the enema to flush out the blockage.
He hadn't told Jethro or Tobias but Ali's bowels had been very compacted when he'd examined her the first time and since she's said she hadn't been able to have a bowel movement since yesterday afternoon he was worried that she wouldn't be able to pass the obstructions without some kind of help. He had a feeling that the medical knowledge she was learning in her biology course had helped her know that she needed some help so he was thrilled when Jethro had told him that she had asked for the enema. After making the enema as warm as he thought she could take he'd used the mildest soap he could find not wanted to irritate her any more than necessary, then told Jethro to give her a rinse after she'd expelled the first bag. As he hoped her blockage was totally gone and now all she needed to do was to give her body time to recover from the stress of the buildup.
As Ducky looked up he saw Tobias still standing beside him trying to read his expressions "Is she really alright Ducky?" asked Tobias
"My dear Tobias, Ali will be just fine. Right now what she need's is to do is rest, so let's let her do just that" said Tobias as he gently lead Tobias out of Ali's room.
Down stairs both men were greeted with a barrage of questions.
"What's wrong with Ali Ducky?" asked Auggie.
"Is the squirt alright?" asked Tony
"Should we leave?" asked Abby
"She's fine, and no Abigail you should not leave. Ali is just experiencing the childhood problem of gluttony, which has been taken care of and she will recover. Now I'm sure Jethro has explained what is going to happen and by the time you get back I expect Ali will be recovered" said Ducky as he lead Auggie into the kitchen and breakfast was fixed in a subdued atmosphere.
Just before Gibbs, Tobias and the younger members left for his house Gibbs took Jack, Ducky and Auggie out to the work shed to show him his latest project for Ali. He'd gotten the idea the time he'd had to sit in Tobias' lap while Ducky and Jimmy read with Ali on the couch. Even though they had bought an extra couch he knew how much Ali enjoyed cuddling closely together in a chair and had even noticed her rocking a few times. So after some computer searching he'd found the plans for an extra wide rocking chair.
It had been hard to keep this project from Ali but since she'd been spending most of her time bonding with Jack it had been a little easier but now he wanted to show it to Jack and give him a change to be a part of the project to if he wished. As he opened the work shed they could see a large object in the far corner covered with a heavy drop cloth. As he carefully pulled the cover off he heard the gasps of approval and knew that this had been the right thing to do.
"Oh Leroy, it's beautiful" said Jack
"You made this Jethro?" asked Auggie
"It's beautiful Jethro" said Ducky
"I've been working on it ever since that episode with you and Jimmy reading with Ali on the couch" said Gibbs with a blush.
"Yes well, I'm sure that Ali will love it" said Ducky
"You've done excellent work Leroy, but why are you showing it to us now, its finished." said Jack as he gently ran his hand over the chair.
"Not quiet Dad, and I was hoping that you would help me stain and seal it before you left, that is if you want to" said Gibbs quietly
"I'd love to son, thank you" said Jack just as softly
"I've got some stains on the back shelf you can use or you're welcome to get some more if you'd like. We were thinking of putting it in the living room so she could cuddle with whoever is there even if there isn't couch space" said Gibbs
"I'll see what I can do son" said Jack absentmindedly already thinking of what color they could stain it
"And I have an idea for the perfect seat and back cushions if you'll let me help to Jethro?" asked Auggie as she looked at the chair, already picturing the pretty spring flowered cushions she wanted to buy
"Thank you Auggie that would be wonderful"
"We'll I don't know what I can do to help but I'll certain furnish all the books she wants to read while using this lovely chair Jethro" said Ducky
"I didn't expect you all to help with the project, I just wanted to show you what I'd been making for Ali. If she likes this one I'm even thinking of making another one for the beach house as well"
"We'll count me in on that one as well Jethro please, and I'm sure Ali will love it. Thank you for showing us. Now you had better get going, our Ali might be awake before you get back if you don't hurry" said Auggie with a smile.
"Oh gosh yes, guys if you are sure…."
"Jethro….Leroy!" called all three voice at once and with a slight tint to his face Gibbs left the work shed and he and Tobias herded his younger team members into their cars to go do the household chores at his old house.
Tobias had given Auggie the remote baby monitor before leaving and tried to give her detailed instruction on what to do if Ali woke and started fussy but Auggie shushed him pushing him out of the door then slammed it in his face. Those two were really something when it came to Ali. But as she stood looking at the chair that Jethro hand lovingly made for his daughter he couldn't help but blame them. Ali was something special and she was once again very glad that the three of them had found each other.
"I think I'll go check on Ali and make sure that herd didn't wake her up while they were leaving" said Auggie as she headed back inside the house.
As she entered Ali's room she saw that the woman was indeed still asleep, just drinking the last few sips of her bottle, as she finished Auggie gently pulled the bottle out of her mouth then replaced it with her pacifier before Ali could complain.
"It's all right baby girl Grandma Auggie's here, I'm sorry your feeling bad but I'm sure you're daddies have made you feel all better. We really do love you sweetheart, sweet dreams angel" whispered Auggie then gently kissed her forehead and moved quietly out of the room.
Downstairs Auggie was meet by a grinning Jack and Ducky, and promptly started stammering "Well you see...I..."
"We heard Auggie and it's quiet alright, I know you both have stayed away so Ali and I could bond and I'm grateful for that. But she's your granddaughter just as much as she is mine so if you want to check on her and spoil her I won't object, although I think Leroy and Tobias might have something to say about it though" said Jack with a smile
"Oh phooey, they can complain all they want. They get to spoil our little girl all the time, we only get her on weekends and family cookout and you less than that" said Auggie strongly
"Your a woman after my own heart Augustina Chandler" said Jack with a smile the pulled the woman into a hug.
After that the rest of the morning was spent with Auggie, Ducky and Jack sitting quietly in the living room with one of them periodically going up to check on Ali. As predicted Ali was awake before Gibbs and Tobias got home so as Auggie went up to change her Ducky and Jack fixed Ali some toast and oatmeal. Ali came downstairs with Auggie still a little pale and wobbly but dressed in one of her play set sundress. Auggie had tried to tell her that she could just wear her diaper and a sleep top but she said she wasn't yet comfortable enough to wear just her sleep clothes around Jack. So Auggie agreed that one of her play set sundresses would be loose and comfortable enough for her but keep her modestly dressed from Jack, so with just thick socks as her shoes Ali and Auggie made their way downstairs.
Ali was greeted with a warm smile and a hug from each of her new grandparents and told to sit down in the living room and rest while Ducky brought her breakfast to her. As Ali sat on the couch she was filled with a warm feeling of love from all three of her new grandparents. A few minutes later Ducky brought her a piece of dry toast and a small bowl of oatmeal with a little bit of applesauce on top. As he placed it on her lap, Ducky leaned down and kissed her forehead then said softly "Now eat my little one, then we'll see what you feel like doing after you're finished"
Ali looked at the older man then smiled saying "Thank you Grandpa Ducky" then picked up the toast and took a small bite. Since the food didn't upset her stomach she tried a spoonful of the oatmeal and had soon finished all her small breakfast. After she'd eaten everything on the tray Ducky returned and took the tray asking "What do you feel like doing now my sweet?"
"May I lay on my comforter and watch T. V. my tummy still hurts a little when I sit up" said Ali
"Of course baby girl, you stay right there and Jack and I will get your comforter for you alright?" said Auggie as she quickly got up and went to retrieve the comforter from the hall closet.
"Thank you Grandma, thank you Grandpa Jack"
"Your welcome sweetheart" said Jack as he headed back upstairs to retrieve Ali's Puffalump and pacifier, he had a feeling she'd be more comfortable laying down with them, when he returned Auggie and Ducky had the furniture moved and the comforter down on the floor and were just helping Ali to lay down on one of the two pillows Auggie had brought for her. After handing Ali her "Puffalump" and placing her pacifier in her mouth he asked "Do you want a bottle now or wait a while little one?"
"Now please Grandpa Jack" mumbled Ali around her pacifier then made herself comfortable on the comforter and pillow just as Auggie placed one of her fluffy fleece blankets over her. With a smile she snuggled down, then pulled her pacifier out and asked "Can I watch Gilligan's Island please?"
As Ali watched her grandparents fill her requests she was struck by how much these people loved her. Loved her just as she was adult baby and all. With a deep sigh Ali settle once more into the soft haven of her comforter knowing that she was deeply loved. At her sigh she almost instantly felt a hand on her forehead and opened her eyes to see the worried face of her Grandpa Ducky with a smile she removed her pacifier then said "I'm fine grandpa" then as he eyes closed again she mumbled "I love you"
"I love you too my sweetheart" replied Ducky softly then went to sit on the couch closet to Ali as the meloidcal music of Gilligan's Island theme song filled the room.
At twelve-thirty a very upset Gibbs and a loud Tony reentered the house saying "I told you to be careful Tony, but instead you ended up playing around and we all spent an extra forty-five minutes having to clean up your mess"
"I said I was sorry Boss, but I'm sure Ali's..."
Both men were stopped by the irate faces of the three older adults in their family. Ducky saying softly but firmly "Jethro please, Ali..." Auggie simple pointing to the comforter on the floor and Jack staring daggers at his son and younger members of his team
As Gibbs saw where Auggie was pointing, he was instantly on the comforter beside the women laying there quietly sleeping. As he knelt down beside her he gently brushed the hair off her forehead calling "Ali baby, how do you feel?"
At Gibbs' voice Ali opened her eyes, and started to throw her arms around the man then stopped once she got of a whiff of him and said "Ewe... Daddy, you smell"
At her comment Ducky quickly to her side saying "Be careful Jethro, she just ate and her stomach might not tolerate strong odors right now"
"Sorry baby girl, how about Papa and I take a shower then I'll give you a hug" said Gibbs with a smile on his face, she really did make the cutest faces when she was Ali sometimes.
"Okay, I'll wait right here. Hi Papa" called Ali as she laid back down on the comforter
"Hello princess, we'll be right back alright?" said Tobias
"Okay Papa" whispered Ali as her eyes started to close once again.
As Gibbs stood he saw the rest of his family standing in the foyer all just as dirty and smelly as him "Alright everyone up stairs, shower and change before anyone comes near Ali" said Gibbs firmly then herded his other children up stair to their room to shower and change.
Ten minutes everyone was back downstairs with Gibbs and Tobias on either side of Ali watching her sleep.
"How is she Ducky?" asked Tobias as he looked at the women in front of him, she looked better but he could tell she still wasn't feeling perfect yet.
"She's fine Tobias, she ate some toast and oatmeal about an hour and a half ago and she's been resting on the comforter since then. She finished another bottle of Gator Aide about thirty minutes or so and might need to be changed" answered Ducky as he watched the two men .
Tobias quickly pulled back the blanket to check Ali's diaper and sure enough she was wet. "She's wet Jethro"
"Alright, you take her upstairs and I'll see what we can fix for her lunch" suggested Gibbs
"Might I suggest chicken broth and some more toast" said Ducky as he looked at Gibbs
"Good idea Ducky, you got her Tobias" asked Gibbs as he watched his partner lifting Ali off the comforter
"I've got her Jethro I'll be right back" said Tobias then left carrying Ali upstairs to change her diaper.
Five minutes later Tobias and Ali were back downstairs with Tobias placing Ali on one of the couches just as Gibbs brought in a tray for Ali. As he placed the tray on her lap Ali asked. "Where are the guys Daddy, did they leave?"
"No baby girl there in the kitchen fixing lunch, do you want to see them?" asked Gibbs
"Yes please Daddy" said Ali
"Tony, Tim, Abby, Ziva, Jimmy get in here, Ali wants to see you" called Gibbs loudly and a few minutes the rest of her extended family entered the living room
"Hi squirt, are you feeling better?" asked Tony
"Hi Ktantonet, I'm sorry you don't feel well" said Ziva
"How are you feeling Ali" said Tim and Jimmy together
"Are you alright now Ali?" asked Abby
"Hi guys, I'm sorry I got sick and couldn't help you with the chores at Daddy's house today" said Ali
"It's alright Princess, just as long as your feeling better now" said Jimmy
"I am now Jimmy thank you, maybe after lunch and my nap we can play outside a little?" asked Ali as she looked at Gibbs and Tobias
"We'll see how you feel baby girl, right now you need to eat and then rest okay?" said Tobias
"Okay Papa, and thanks for staying guys" said Ali as she started eating her lunch
"No problem squirt, but you owe us some free chores time" said Tony
"Tony!" called Abby and Ziva then they all heard the sound of a hand hitting the back of a head
"Ouch!" exclaimed Tony
After that lunch was the it's normal festive event with Ali happily talking to everyone as they ate, when Gibbs finished eating he took Ali back upstairs and put her down for her nap. As he came back downstairs everyone was cleaning up the kitchen so he gratefully sank down on the couch with a sigh, closing his eyes and leaning his head back.
"Leroy, do you trust me?" asked Jack as he stood looking at his son. He'd seen him come down the stairs and wearily sink on the couch. He knew he was tired from his chores but also tired from worrying about Ali. No matter how hard they tried to hide it these two hardened, tough-nosed federal agents were just softies when it came to their baby girl.
"Of course Jack, why" asked Gibbs as he opened his eyes and looked at his father
"Then take that partner of yours and go take a nap, let us take care of both of you for a little while. I know you're tired from work and worrying about Ali so take a break, we'll be here be here if there is a problem" said Jack with a worried look at his son
Gibbs was about to object then with one more look at his father, he smiled and pushed himself off the couch saying softly "Thanks Dad"
As Gibbs entered the kitchen he saw Tobias filling another cup of coffee and quickly intervene knowing that if he started on that they'd never get to sleep, so with a quick hand Gibbs took the cup and coffee pot out of Tobias' hand and pulled him out of the kitchen saying "Good night all"
"Al right bossman, go get him" called Abby with a wolfish whistle
"Getting lucky Boss" called Tony with a smirk on his face
"Shut up DiNozzo, now I want all of you to go upstairs and take a nap as well. Ali wants to play this afternoon and she doesn't need a bunch of tired out brother's and sisters' stopping her" said Jack as he pinned each member of Gibbs' team with a glare
"Yes sir" said Abby as she pulled Tim out of the kitchen and upstairs to their bedroom
"As you wish Jack" said Ziva then grabbed Tony by the ear and said "Come on Tony before you really do earn yourself a spanking this weekend"
"Are you sure Doctor Mallard?" asked Jimmy as he looked at the three older adults
"Mr. Palmer!" said Ducky firmly
"Yes sir, night Jack Auggie" said Jimmy quickly then rushed up the stairs following the others
The three older adults smiled at the retreating backs then looked at each other and asked "We'll that's taken care of now what should we do?" asked Ducky
"We'll I don't know about the two of you but I was thinking of starting on that project of Leroy's for my granddaughter" said Jack as he poured himself another cup of coffee then headed towards the back yard
"Would you like some help Jack?" asked Auggie
"Would mind it at all Augustina, would you care to join us Ducky?" asked Jack
"I believe I will thank you" said Ducky, then the three older adults headed towards the work shed to work on their granddaughter's project.
-NCIS-
By three-thirty Ali was beginning to wake up, and with a quick knock on the master bedroom they let Gibbs and Tobias know that they were needed. A few minutes later both Gibbs and Tobias emerged from their bedroom and went to check on Ali. As they walked it they could tell that Ali was feeling better. She had a little bit of color back in her cheeks and she was gently stretching in the bed as they approached. As she saw they she smiled, quickly removing her pacifier.
"Hi Daddy, Papa" said Ali happily
"Hi princess, are you feeling better?" asked Tobias
"Much better Daddy, may I still go and play outside?" asked Ali as Gibbs started changing her diaper. While he changed her diaper he gently felt her stomach and noticed that it once again felt soft and normal, with a smile he fastened the tabs of her diaper then gently pulled her to a sitting position.
"Looks like your back to normal, but I want you to promise me not to run around to much while you're out in the sun" replied Gibbs with a smile
"Oh thank you Daddy...thank you. And I promise" said Ali happily as she started bouncing slightly on the bed.
"Alright princess, calm dow and let's get you dressed then we can find you a snack okay?" said Tobias as handed her her clothes then helped her redress
After Ali was redressed Tobias and Gibbs followed Ali downstairs to find the rest of their family already in the kitchen eating as Ali entered Auggie dished out a small bowl of applesauce and gently slid it towards the women as she sat on one of the stools
"Thanks Grandma" said Ali then dug in with a smile.
At Ali's enthusiastic eating Tobias just smiled then went and poured a cup of coffee for himself and Gibbs then watched as Ali finished her snack, placed her bowl in the sink then quickly kissed man on the cheek then ran out to the backyard.
"Are you sure it's alright for Ali to play out in the sun Boss?" asked Tim
"It's fine Tim, just don't let her do a lot of running around and she should be fine" replied Gibbs as she watched his daughter out in the yard rummaging through her toy box
"Got you Boss, come on McCautious. Hey squirt why don't get your football out and we can play catch" called Tony as he lead Tim and the others out to the backyard.
The rest of the late afternoon was spent watching Ali play catch with Tony, Tim, Jimmy and Ziva at dusk everyone retired to the house and after a quick change for Ali started a light dinner of grilled chicken and baked potatoes. After dinner everyone went into the living room and spent the rest of the night watching movies with Ali. By Ali's bedtime was once again cuddling against Tobias' side sound asleep so as usual the guys carried Ali upstairs then reminded the other's not to stay up to late and retreated to their bedroom.
-NCIS-
By Monday morning Ali was back to her normal bubbly self and uncharacteristically threw a fit when Jack announced at breakfast that he thought it was time he headed back to Stillwater.
"But Grandpa Jack, you can't go! You just got here!" yelled Ali
"Ali, it's been over two weeks now and Jack has a business to run at home" reminded Gibbs
"I don't care he can't go! He just can't!" screamed Ali
"Allison Desirae Fornell-Gibbs that is enough now you apologize to Jack right now" said Tobias firmly
"No I won't... I won't!" cried Ali then ran out of the kitchen crying
Everyone sat in stunned silence until a few minutes later Auggie started to rise saying "I guess I'd better go find out why that happened?"
"Can I Augustina, since I'm the one she's obviously upset with I'd like to see if I can handle it" asked Jack with a look at both Gibbs and Tobias along with Auggie
At their nods Jack slowly rose from the table to go and find Ali, she had retreated to one of the towers in her place set where she kept a plastic box with her extra comfort items. Jack found her huddled in the corner with her pacifier, a stuffed animal and a blanket. As he awkwardly climbed the steps to the tower he stopped just short of the top and asked.
"Hi princess, can I come in?"
Ali didn't say anything so after a few minutes waiting he climbed in and sat across from her on the floor.
"Look princess, I'm sorry I upset you but Leroy is right. I've been away from my business for to long now, I really need to get back and make sure he hasn't burnt the place down" said Jack with a little laugh, getting nothing from Ali he moved a little closer and tried again.
"I really had a wonderful time her with you Ali, and I'd like to come back sometime soon and maybe stay longer next time"
At this Ali finally looked up at the man and asked in a small voice "Really, you want to come back?"
"Of course sweetheart, this was never meant to be just a one time trip to meet you. You're family now, and I don't know if Leroy ever told you but us Gibbs never leave anyone behind"
"That's the Marines Grandpa Jack" said Ali softly but with a smile
"Well they stole it from us, anyway I wanted to come down and meet you so I could make plans to come back later on and spend more time with you, Leroy and Tobias. If you'd like me to?" asked Jack
"Oh...yes grandpa please...please come back" cried Ali as she launched herself at Jack, throwing her arms around the older man.
"That's my girl, now are you okay with me leaving for now?"
"Uhhhh, but I'll miss you grandpa" said Ali softly against his shirt
"And I'll miss you too my sweetheart, but you can call and write all you want just so long as it's okay with Leroy and Tobias"
"Promise grandpa?"
"I promise sweetheart, now what do you think you ought to do about telling your Papa no?" asked Jack.
Jack knew in his many talks with Gibbs since he'd found out about Allison/Ali that Ali was mostly a model child but on occasions she did act out and needed to be punished. On such occasions either Gibbs or Tobias had spanked her and while he didn't object to either one of them spanking Ali he felt it wasn't his place so he'd leave that part up to them but he did feel that she owed them an apology.
"I should say I'm sorry, and to Daddy to" said Ali sadly.
She knew she'd disappointed both men with her tantrum but she just couldn't bare the thought of just finding Jack and then losing him in two short weeks. These past weeks had been one of the best times of her life, right up their with the time she spent at the beach house just her daddies.
"I think you're right, so are you ready to go apologize now?"
"Yes sir" said Ali then she quickly packed up her comfort items back into her plastic box and then climbed dow and waited for Jack to descend the steps. When Jack reached the ground again he and Ali walked slowly back to the house finding everyone now sitting in the living room. Ali walked over to stand in front of Tobias and Gibbs, her head down and her lips slightly quivering.
"I'm sorry I yelled at you and told you no Papa, you to Daddy" said Ali softly.
"Speak up Ali and say it properly where they can hear you" said Jack firmly with a tap to her shoulder.
At his touch Ali raised her head and stood straight facing both her fathers and said in a clear but slightly wavering voice "I'm sorry I yelled at you and told you no Papa, you to Daddy"
"Can you tell us why angel" asked Auggie
"Because I was afraid that he would leave and never come back" said Ali, her voice finally breaking and she fell into her Daddy's arms and cried.
"Oh sweetheart, Jack just needs to go back to Stillwater for a little while to run his general store. He'll be able to come back later this summer or maybe even for Thanksgiving or Christmas. You're not going to lose your Grandpa Jack Ali" said Auggie
"Honest?" asked Ali as she finally stopped crying and turned around in Gibbs arms but did make a move to leave.
"Of course princess, Augustina's right, I've got a general store to run and a lot of people depend on my store in Stillwater. Sort of like you're Grandma Rachael and Grandpa Todd in Chesapeake Beach. This summer I'll make arrangements for the store to be taken care of longer so I can spend more time with you. After you get back from you're beach house that is. Okay?"
At this Ali nodded then threw herself once again into Jack's arms "I'm sorry Grandpa Jack, I love you...please forgive me"
"Of course I forgive you sweetheart, but you've got to promise me that you will listen to what Leroy and Tobias tell you. I don't want to hear about any more tantrums okay?"
"Yes sir. Daddy may I go read my book now?" asked Ali, knowing full well that some sort of punishment was coming from Gibbs and Tobias.
"Yes you may sweetheart" said Tobias as he leaned down and kissed Ali on the side of her head. "And remember, we both love you very much"
"I know Papa, I love you both too" said Ali then left to go upstairs and read her medical book in her room.
"We'll I guess that cuts the weekend short, so I guess we should all leave. Tell Ali that we will see her on Tuesday" said Tony as he and the other's headed upstairs to pack their bags.
Auggie and Ducky both sat for a moment then Auggie stood saying "Well I guess I should leave as well, thank you Jethro, Tobias for a wonderful and interesting weekend. And I'm glad to meet you Jackson Gibbs" then extended her hand towards the man. If this recent event proved anything it was that he would indeed be a valuable assets to Ali's family. He had the patience, caring and thoughtfulness to handle Ali even at her most difficult with out losing his temper or resorting to violence like so many in her past had done.
"Glad to meet you to Augustina Chandler, and I look forward to seeing you again soon" said Jack as he leaned over and gently kissed the women's cheek.
Auggie blushed and touched her cheek as she moved mechanically towards the stairs, not only was the man patience, caring and thoughtful he was a charmer as well. Must be were Jethro gets it from, we you know what they say like father, like son.
Now there was only Ducky left and as the three men stood together Gibbs sighed and back down to the couch.
"This is not how I envision this weekend to end Ducky"
"I don't think any of us could have foreseen this coming Jethro. Who knew that Ali would form such a strong bond with Jack in only two weeks after his initial reaction to her. But she has and it is obvious that he is very important to her, even more important than we are I'm afraid"
"Now Ducky..." started Gibbs but stopped at Ducky's smile
"No it's quiet all right my friend, I'm quiet glad that Ali has formed such a strong bond with Jack, that means that she really and truly thinks of you as her father and therefore Jack as her grandfather. It means that even though she is not your flesh and blood she considered herself your daughter. She has truly given up all vestige of the Grayson name"
"It's been that way for us for years now Ducky but I'm glad it's finally settled in her mind now maybe she can truly think of herself as a Fornell-Gibbs and start her new life"
"Well let me say again how happy I am for the three of you, but I must agree with the others. I think it is time to take my leave. I believe some quality Daddy and Papa time is in order. Call us when you're ready to take that extra time at the beach house and we will arrange everything for both you and Tobias" said Ducky as he patted both men on the shoulders then left to go upstairs and pack his bag as well.
Earlier the previous morning while they were taking care of Ali's stomach problems, Ali and Tobias had talked about how she wanted to have the guys make up their misunderstanding to her and she had finally told him that she really just wanted more Daddy and Papa time with them at the beach. For the past several years now all they'd been able to spend down at the beach during the summer months were a week or two and that just wasn't enough time for her. So to make it up to her she'd asked for more time at the beach house with Gibbs and Tobias.
When they'd told everyone what her wish was they all readily agreed that they would work it out with Director Vance and the FBI director so that the family got a month of to spend at the beach. All they had to do was tell them whey they wanted to go and they would set it up for them. So with that thought in mind the two spend the rest of the morning plan for their extended stay at Chesapeake Beach.
At lunch time Gibbs went in to find Ali asleep in her chair with her biology book in her lap, he gently woke her up and changed her then lead her downstairs for lunch then back upstairs for her nap. After her nap Ali spent the rest of the late afternoon on the floor working on her puzzle then after dinner she cuddled on the couch with Gibbs and Tobias as they watched television.
By nine o' clock Ali was trying unsuccessfully to stay awake against Gibbs' side and after several attempts to keep herself awake Gibbs pulled her to his side and rocked her until she feel asleep. They stayed that for another thirty minutes until Ali was sound asleep then Gibbs picked her up and carried her upstairs. After a quick diaper and clothes change Ali was put to sleep and he came back downstairs to find Tobias still on the couch with the news on.
"We'll this was certainly one of our more eventful family cookouts, but I'm not sure how many more of these I can take" replied Tobias as Gibbs sat down beside him
"I know what you mean, I just hope Ali truly understands that Jack isn't leaving her after just this one visit" said Gibbs
"Oh I'm sure she will once she see's his part of your gift to her" said Tobias with a smile.
Before Jack left he'd taken Tobias aside and shown him how he'd finished Ali's rocker. He'd stained it a beautiful light oak finish and underneath the varnish he'd painted a huge heart on the back of the rocker with her full name on it Allison Desirae Fornell-Gibbs. It was beautiful and he knew that both Ali and Gibbs would love it when they saw it. So with intertwined fingers Tobias pulled Gibbs to his feet and took him out to the work shed to show him Ali's present.
Jack had told him that he needed to leave it uncovered for another day just to make sure the varnish was totally dry then they could wrap it however they wanted to when they gave it to Ali so right now it sat in the middle of the work shed windows and doors open drying. As they neared the shed Tobias stopped just a few feet short of the door and turned Gibbs to face him.
"Close you're eyes Jethro" said Tobias softly.
"Tobias is this is one of you're games I not really in the mood" said Gibbs with a sigh, he still felt bad about Ali's tantrum and everyone leaving early. They'd planned another cookout for that evening but because of Ali's tantrum everything had been cancelled.
"It's not a game love, you trust me don't you?" asked Tobias
"You know I do Tobias" said Gibbs firmly
"Then close your eyes and trust me"
"Alright" answered Gibbs with a sigh and slowly closed his eyes.
After Tobias was certain Jethro's eyes were closed he lead him the rest of the way to the work shed and just inside the doorway where he stood with his arms wrapped around his waist then flipped on the light.
"Now open them" whispered Tobias in Gibb's ear.
A few minutes later Gibbs opened is eyes and he saw the beautiful rocking chair that he had made and his father stained. As he slowly moved out of Tobias' arms he slowly circled the chair taking in the exquisite staining that his father had done until he got to the back and saw the heart and Allison's name. With that simple heart Jack had let Ali know that she was now a fully a Fornell-Gibbs in his heart.
"Oh Tobias, you knew about this didn't you?" asked Gibbs as he came back to the man and once again pulled him into his arms.
"Yes, Jack showed it to me just before he left. He said to tell you that it probably needed another day to fully dry but after that it should be ready to give to Ali went ever you were ready. He really has excepted her as his granddaughter hasn't he?" asked Tobias
"Yes he has" said Gibbs softly looking into the eyes of the man he loved with all his heart. He knew that it still upset Tobias that Emily his own flesh an blood daughter had yet to except Ali as part of their family while Gibb's father had. "Give her time Tobias, Emily's still young and doesn't understand all the trials and tribulations of adult hood. She just see's it as being free of parental control, but doesn't understand that when you're an adult you are totally responsible for yourself or in Ali's case several other people and if you screw up no one will come in and fix it for you. She doesn't know that she's giving up the joys and freedom of childhood for a lifetime of total responsibility. I they did kids wouldn't be in such a rush to grow up, they'd savor their childhood and soak in every minute of carefree joy that they could because you get precious little of them when you're an adult"
"You can say that again, Auggie was right. How'd you get so damn smart for such and onery old bastard wit two b's" asked Tobias jokingly.
"Living with and loving the two of you" said Gibbs as she leaned in and stole a quick kiss then grabbed Tobias by the hand and lead him upstair to show him just how much he'd learned from him.