Disclaimer: I do not own NCIS or any of these characters.
This story is set in an AU where Ari did shoot Kate, but the bullet only grazed her head and she is in a coma throughout season three. And, since this is my story and I can do whatever I want, I've made it Kibbs.
After 'Honor Code'
Gibbs sighed, staring at his fiance's unconscious form. The nurses had been hesitant to let him in, but a few glares had gotten him ushered into the room. He ran a hand over his face, feeling sheepish for some reason. He hadn't been to see Kate since before Ziva killed Ari, and he felt guilty, but he hadn't been ready to see her again. "We could have really used you with this case, Kate. You were always good with kids." There was no answer, but Gibbs could imagine what she would say. "I am good with kids, Gibbs. I'm not dead yet." He chuckled a little. "I know, Katie. But you didn't fall in love with me for my conversation skills." He smiled as he pictured her rolling her eyes. "Certainly not." Gibbs leaned forward onto his elbows, looking at his hands, before looking back up at Kate. "I'm sorry, Kate, that I haven't been to see you." He smirked at the picture his mind was providing him. In his mind's eye, Kate was staring at him, a small smile on her lips, clearly surprised. "Apologies are a sign of weakness, Gibbs." Gibbs huffed. "I know. I taught you that. But, if you recall, you taught me that I've got to be weak sometimes. You're plenty strong enough for both of us. So, I'm gonna be weak for a minute, think you can handle that?" He smiled as the Kate in his mind widened her eyes and nodded mutely. "All right. We need you, Katie." He swallowed. "I—I miss you. And we really need you." He stood up, unable to bear watching the unmoving form of Kate as an imaginary version smiled at him in his mind. He pressed his lips to her pale forehead and murmured, "I love you, Kate." Then he left to drown his sorrows in bourbon and woodshavings.