Tony: Apparently we didn't get the full picture…
--
"How's the nose?" Tony questioned a short time after handing her a handkerchief.
"How's your face?" She reached out to touch it gently and watched him shy away. "I am sorry you were hurt. It all happened very quickly."
"We don't have time for apologies. Let's find the boss."
She reached out for his arm and took hold of it. "There is always time for apologies Tony."
He shook his head and pulled her hand away. "Not today."
Ziva followed him reluctantly. She could sense the anger permeating from him and made a mental note to keep him from doing anything stupid. Watching your partners six didn't just include keeping them physically safe and she knew that. She watched him carefully during the entire exchange and began to ask questions herself. The ride back to NCIS was tense to say the least.
"Perhaps Gibbs will explain everything to us when we return."
Tony scoffed. "We should've had it explained to us before. I won't be used as a puppet again."
"It will all make sense in time."
"I don't care if it becomes crystal clear. It doesn't make it any easier to swallow."
She examined him for a moment, particularly his bruises. "Wounds fade in time Tony."
He was quiet for a moment before taking his eyes off the road to meet hers. "No, they don't."
She took in a breath. "You were following orders when you went after Grenioulle, what happened, happened. Just like today. We cannot change the past."
He slammed his foot on the gas in response. "No…but we can sure as hell make sure it doesn't happen again."
"Not everything is in your control Tony."
"Maybe not…but the little I do have can go a long way."
She noticed they were almost at their destination. "Just how long would that be?"
"Long enough."