Disclaimer: What do you know? I still don't own NCIS.

Chapter Two: An Explosive Introduction

Ziva knows that Tony is genuinely, seriously affected by Wendy's appearance when he refuses to discuss it. On smaller matters, you can't get the man to shut up, but when it comes to the important things, he is surprisingly private.

(If Ziva is perfectly honest, it irks her that Wendy is important enough to justify one of Tony's rare silences.)

So when they catch Wendy trailing them, Ziva uses it as an opportunity to get more information. Fortunately for her, Wendy seems more than willing to talk. Most of what Wendy says is case-related, but she does make a little dig about Tony not having 'the best track record' at keeping his promises.

This statement both piques her curiosity and makes her a little angry. Because Tony may be many things, but he is one of the most trustworthy people she knows; she finds it hard to believe that he was so very different in that respect nine years ago. (Then again, nine years is a long time. People change.)

Meanwhile, Tony's slightly-bitter response of "Me? Are you kidding?" suggests that perhaps it was Wendy who didn't honor an important promise.

(Which could explain so, so many things.)

After Wendy's car half-explodes, Ziva calls the fire department, Gibbs, and a tow truck. In that order. Then they head back to NCIS headquarters. The ride is awkward, but Ziva finds herself enjoying it if only because watching Tony squirm rarely fails to amuse her.

"I don't believe that we've been properly introduced," Wendy says, smiling pleasantly and proffering her hand. "Wendy Miller. Globe reporter, NCIS informant, and Tony's ex."

"Ziva David," Ziva says, reaching forward and firmly shaking the woman's hand.

Wendy has a good handshake, but she expected that from a reporter.

"Great, now you two know each other," Tony says rapidly. "So, how about this weather we've been having, huh? I blame it on global warming, personally."

Ziva exchanges an amused glance with Wendy.

Tony can be very predictable sometimes.

"So how do you know Tony?" Wendy asks, ignoring the man in the driver's seat.

"We are partners," Ziva says. Glancing briefly at Tony, she notices that the man's knuckles have whitened slightly on the wheel. "I can drive if you prefer, Tony."

"Uh, let me think about that…" Tony chuckles in a strained voice. "No. I'd prefer to get back to HQ alive, thanks."

"Tony is under the impression that I am a poor driver," Ziva tells Wendy conspiratorially.

(Establish a bond with the suspect and he or she is more likely to open up and trust you. And if someone trusts you, they are more likely to give things away.

Establishing a bond with Wendy is made easier by the fact that, despite herself, Ziva reluctantly likes Wendy. She has… spunk, yes? There are some traits in her that Ziva recognizes in herself, among which is an unwillingness to be cowed or deterred. That doesn't mean that she trusts Wendy, however.)

Wendy laughs. "Yes, that sounds like Tony."

Tony scowls. "You haven't been in a car with Agent David behind the wheel before. It's a… religious experience. Your life flashes before your eyes."

"Please," Ziva scoffs, but is secretly a bit pleased at his comment, even as she is irritated.

"So where are you from?" Wendy asks. "Israel, I presume?"

"You would presume correctly, Lois Lane," Tony interjects.

"Let Agent David speak for herself," Wendy chides.

Ziva shakes her head slightly and says, "Yes, I am from Israel."

"A beautiful country," Wendy says. "I did a bit of reporting in Tel Aviv once."

"Mmmm," Ziva murmurs noncommittally.

Her memories of Israel are… mixed these days, to say the least.

"So tell me, how did you and Tony first meet?" Ziva asks.

She already knows the answer. Wendy's response will give her a baseline to test future answers against.

"Oh, look, we're at the Navy Yard," Tony says in false disappointment. "As much as I hate to cut this conversation short, ladies, we have an appointment with Gibbs."

"Later?" Ziva asks Wendy casually.

"Later," Wendy agrees.