A/N Sorry for the delay! This week has been crazy here in Atlanta with the "Snowpocalypse" but it gave me some time to write. Thanks for all the reviews, favs and follows! You guys are the best!

Gibbs smiled as the sweet innocent giggling of his baby boy carried into the kitchen. It was finally the day of Tim's adoption and if all went according to plan, Tim would officially become a Gibbs. He never imagined a month ago when he found Tim regressed, alone and terrified that this would be the outcome. Between Tim's initial regression and kidnapping, Gibbs didn't think the situation could get any worse. That was until he met Maggie McGee and was forced to reveal what happened to grown up Tim. He'd really thought he had lost Tim forever after the toddler was ripped kicking and screaming from his arms. To say he was grateful and relieved she'd finally realized Tim was better off with him was an understatement.

Carrying their lunch back into the living room he stopped and chuckled at the touching sight. Doggy Jethro was sprawled out on the floor and Timmy was using the dog's stomach as a pillow as he watched cartoons. It had been such a stressful week and Gibbs was glad they finally had some time to relax as a family. Continuing further into the room he stopped in front of the duo and looked down at Tim.

"You ready for some lunch, kiddo?"

Tim appeared torn between the cartoons and bottle of milk that sat on the tray Gibbs was holding. His eyes darted between the two before he finally gave an affirmative nod, rolled onto his stomach and crawling followed Gibbs over to the table.

"I knew my boy wouldn't refuse food." Gibbs snickered as he gathered Tim in his arms and deposited him on the couch.

"Ba ba?" Tim asked hopefully as the older man tied a bib around his neck and moved a plate within the toddler's reach.

Taking a bite of his sandwich, Gibbs motioned toward Tim's plate and mumbled, "Eat some cheese and fruit and then I'll give you the bottle."

Tim shook his head as his bottom lip formed a pout and he blinked back tears. Sighing, Gibbs brushed the toddler's hair to one side, "You have to have more than milk, Timmy. You need to eat so you can grow up to be big and strong just like Daddy." Handing the toddler a piece of cheese he bit back a smile when Tim smelled it and slowly stuffed it in his mouth.

"That's my boy!" Gibbs exclaimed, ruffling Tim's curls in praise.

By the time they had a few bites, Jethro discovered the food and was waiting patiently near Tim in case any crumbs happened to fall in his direction. Tim had picked up a piece of cheese and was ready to give it to the dog when Gibbs cleared his throat.

Tim's eyes widened and he slowly turned his head when he realized he'd been caught. Shoulders sagging in defeat he popped the piece of cheese into his own mouth.

"Good job, Timmy. We don't give doggy people food. He has his own food in the kitchen."

Jethro snorted and gave him an indignant look, resting his chin on the couch as they continued to eat. With the smell of fresh coffee wafting from the kitchen, Gibbs rose from his seat and tapped Tim on the cheek, "I'm going to get some coffee, but I'll be right back. No feeding Jethro while I'm gone, okay?"

Continuing to chew the piece of cheese, Tim nodded and watched Gibbs head toward the kitchen. Casually glancing between Jethro's big brown eyes and the kitchen, Tim picked up a piece of cheese and giggled as he dropped it on the floor. What Tim didn't know was that Gibbs was hiding around the corner waiting to see if his son would follow orders and not feed the dog. When he saw Timmy drop the cheese he shook his head and covered his mouth to muffle the laughter. He couldn't possibly be mad at Timmy; he had a big heart, felt the dog was hungry and was helping out a friend. Besides, the little fella was only a year old and had a lifetime of learning to do. Gibbs was however curious to see if Tim would answer honestly if the question was posed to him. Pouring a cup of coffee he walked back to the living room to finish lunch. They enjoyed the rest of their food, Tim occasionally glancing at his daddy with a guilty look on his face. It took all of Gibbs willpower to appear oblivious to the fact his son was fighting his conscience. Once Timmy had swallowed the last piece of fruit he crawled over to Gibbs and laid his head in the older man's lap.

"Ba ba?" He mumbled around the thumb that had crept up to his mouth.

Stroking the toddler's back, Gibbs took a sip of coffee and retrieved the bottle off the table. "You want to cuddle with Daddy or do you want to be a big boy and do it yourself?"

Tim removed his thumb from his mouth, got onto all fours and climbed further into Gibbs' lap.

"I'll take that as cudd..LL…ING" Gibbs voice raised an octave and he gasped as Tim's knee made contact with his delicate region.

The toddler's eyes widened as Gibbs quickly scooted him to the side while he breathed through the pain.

"Sowry dada." Tim said innocently and reached up to stroke Gibbs' cheek until the grimace the older man was sporting slowly disappeared.

Leaning down, Gibbs kissed Tim's forehead and replied, "Don't worry about it, kiddo. Daddy knows you didn't mean to."

Tim smiled and snuggled closer to his protector as Gibbs situated the young boy in his arms and positioned the bottle. Bouncing in delight as the bottle was inches from his mouth, Tim was confused when Gibbs didn't stick the nipple between his lips.

"Daddy is going to give you the bottle but I want to know something first. Did you give doggy food while I was gone?"

Shrugging his shoulders, Tim glanced down at Jethro who was lying near Gibbs' feet. Gently grabbing the toddler's chin, Gibbs tilted it toward him and said, "I'm not mad, sweetie. I want you to be able to tell me the truth." He paused and smiled, "Always."

Tim's face reddened with embarrassment and he threw his hands up to cover it. Gibbs sighed and soothingly ran his fingers through the youngster's hair. "C'mon son it's okay." The older man stated, prying the tiny hands away from Tim's face. As the tears threatened to fall, Tim wiped his shirtsleeve across his eyes.

Gently tapping the baby on the nose, Gibbs continued, "It's not a big deal, kiddo. I already know the answer but I wanted to hear it from you."

The toddler stared at him for a moment before finally nodding and mumbling, "Yesh."

Wrapping his muscular arms around Tim's tiny frame he pulled him closer to his chest and smothered him with hugs and kisses. Gibbs was adamant that Tim know no matter how much trouble he caused or was in, that wouldn't change the way he loved him.

"That's a good boy, Timmy."

However, it was also his job to make Tim aware of the consequences for bad behavior. "I'm glad you told me son. We're going to have a little timeout and after that I'll allow you to have the bottle."

Tim pouted briefly, but one look at his Daddy's face and he resigned himself to the fact he would have to wait. He was surprised when after a minute Gibbs hitched him up in his arms and stuck the nipple of the bottle between his lips. Sucking for all it was worth he sighed contently and snuggled closer to the older man. Gibbs had decided he would use the same punishment with Tim as they did with Kelly. Because Tim was only a year old he would only serve a one minute timeout. The number of minutes would correspond with his age at the time and if he got up or was still acting badly, time would be added onto the punishment.

Sinking back into the pillows, Gibbs smiled and looked down at his little boy who was thoroughly enjoying his bottle. There was no place in the world he would rather be than snuggled up with his son, while the fire roared and Jethro snored softly at his feet. This was the first time since the beginning of the week the two had spent lazily lounging around the house. He was a bit anxious to get the adoption papers signed and prayed that Maggie didn't have any last minute tricks up her sleeve. Halfway through the bottle, Tim's eyes drooped shut and once Gibbs was certain he was asleep he stood and carried him upstairs to finish napping. He'd wished he could take a nap along with the young boy, but he needed to finish a few last minute things before the McGees arrived.

Once Tim was situated he descended the stairs and headed into the kitchen for another cup of coffee. Retrieving his phone from his pocket he sat at the table, pushed the contact information for DiNozzo and waited as the phone rang. After the fourth ring Gibbs was about to hang up when a groggy voice answered, "Hey Boss."

"Did I interrupt your beauty sleep, DiNozzo?"

Tony cleared his throat and sighed, "Started feeling a bit under the weather last night. Talked to Ducky and he believes it's the start of a cold and told me to get plenty of fluids and rest." He paused and Gibbs could hear the faucet running in the background before he returned to the phone. "Sorry I'm boiling water for tea. Ducky said it would help my scratchy throat." He paused again and suddenly questions flowed out of his mouth in a panic, "Wait, why are you calling Gibbs? Everything okay with Tiny Tim? Did you sign the adoption papers yet?"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa calm down, DiNozzo. Take a deep breath everything is fine."

Gibbs waited until he heard the young man exhale before he continued, "I was hoping to do this in person but with everything that's happened over the past few days I haven't had time. Nevertheless, I wanted to ask you before I signed the adoption papers"

Tony was curious as to what his Boss was about to ask him and could feel his heart rate increase with every second of silence between them. Finally unable to stand it any longer he blurted, "The anticipation is killing me Gibbs! What's wrong?"

Chuckling, Gibbs responded, "Nothing is wrong, Tony. The reason I'm calling is because I've been impressed with the way you've bonded with Timmy over the past month. For someone who has been afraid of kids you've certainly reached outside your comfort zone and stepped up to the plate when I'm not around."

"Thanks, Boss. That means a lot coming from you. Timmy is different from other babies though. First and foremost he's my friend and I couldn't let him down when he needed me the most. But you didn't call me just to tell me that so what's really going on?"

"Once I sign the adoption papers tonight and Tim legally becomes my responsibility I need to make sure if something happens to me that Timmy will be in good hands."

Swallowing past the sudden lump in his throat, Tony felt his knees become weak and he slid onto one of the barstools to compose himself. Gibbs could hear heavy breathing through the phone line and hoped his senior agent wasn't about to pass out.

"Tony?! Talk to me!"

"B B Boss?" Tony stuttered as a wave of dizziness hit and he saw double.

"DiNozzo! Pull yourself together! This wasn't meant to be a bad thing. It would make me feel much more at ease if I knew Tim would be well taken care of if anything happened to me. I know you love him as much as I do and even though you act like a child yourself sometimes there is nobody else I would rather have raise Tim if it can't be me."

There was silence and Gibbs was worried that DiNozzo had indeed fainted until he heard a barely audible sigh come from the younger man. "Do I need to call Ducky and have him come over there?"

"No Boss. I'm here and all right. Just in a bit of shock that's all. Don't you think Ziva or Abby would be a better choice than me? They know all about babies and kids whereas I don't know a damn thing."

"I suppose I could ask them but I didn't, Tony. I asked you and I have faith that you're going to be a good father if and when you settle down. This isn't a decision I made lightly but I trust you with my life and I trust you with Tim's life. I understand it's a big commitment so if you want to think about it and let me know, that's fine with me."

"Uh yeah let me think about it and I'll get back to you. Don't mean to change the subject, but have you talked to Vance?"

"Talked to him this morning. We agreed that you would all go back to work on Monday. I'm not certain Tim is ready to be back in daycare yet so we'll play it by ear. I'm taking him to visit my dad this weekend, thought he might want a chance to meet his new grandson. The Director and I have faith that you'll hold down the fort while I'm gone."

"Of course, Gibbs." Tony's voice was getting raspy and Gibbs knew it was time to hang up and allow the younger man to get some rest.

"Tony, go get some sleep and take care of yourself. Let me know when you decide about Timmy."

"Don't worry, Boss. Nurse Ziva is on her way over and we're going to watch some movies."

Chuckling, Gibbs replied, "Just don't call Zeever your nurse in front of her. There's nobody there to referee if things get ugly."

"Good point. I'll take to you soon."

Hanging up the phone, Gibbs proceeded into the laundry room to change loads. Once that was finished he brought the laundry basket full of Tim's clothes to the family room to fold. After he finished folding he lugged the suitcase down from upstairs and began packing for their weekend visit to Stillwater. He hadn't told Jack about Timmy and was nervous about his reaction to the little guy. There would definitely be the initial shock and questions but Gibbs was confidant by the end of their visit, Jack would be spoiling Tim just like the others did. The rest of the afternoon was spent packing and cleaning until he heard Tim sobbing over the baby monitor. Walking into his bedroom he found Tim sitting in the middle of the bed rubbing his eyes and wailing loudly. Gathering the toddler in his arms he bounced up and down trying to calm him.

"Shh Timmy. Daddy's gotcha...everything is all right, sweetie."

Tim immediately buried his face against Gibbs' shoulder and let his Daddy soothe him. After a few minutes of reassurances and affection, Tim's tears turned to intermittent hiccups and he pulled back from Gibbs' shoulder.

"Dada?"

"What is it baby?" Gibbs soothed as he brushed the tears from Tim's chubby cheeks.

The youngster pulled at the waistband of his pants letting Gibbs know that he needed a change. Gibbs squeezed the sodden diaper through his jeans and patted Tim's bottom a few times, "You're soaked my boy! That's what happens when you have milk before bed."

Gently laying him on the makeshift changing table he removed Tim's jeans and gagged at the smell that invaded his nostrils. "Oh Timmy, I think you left me quite a mess to take care of."

Timmy giggled as the older man grabbed a clean diaper and removed a bunch of wipes from the package. As he removed the tape from the diaper and pulled it down he took a step back to survey the damage. "Geez kiddo what's your Daddy been feeding you?" Using one hand to secure Tim's ankles he lifted him up and proceeded to clean every nook and cranny. Satisfied his boy was thoroughly clean he slid a new diaper under his hips, pulled it up and fastened the tape. Sliding Tim's jeans back on, he buttoned them and leaned down to kiss his forehead. "Feel better, sweetie?" When Tim nodded, Gibbs continued jokingly, "We need to ask Ducky when we can start potty training."

After disposing of the diaper and a quick trip to the bathroom to wash his hands, Gibbs collected Tim in his arms and headed downstairs. "I've got dinner ready. We need to eat early because our company will be here in the next forty five minutes."

Depositing Tim in the high chair, Gibbs removed the leftover lasagna from the oven and waited for it to cool as he poured a bottle for Tim and started a fresh pot of coffee. By the time he finished that, the lasagna was ready for consumption and he cut it up for Tim. Fixing his own plate he took a seat next to his little guy and watched as he hesitantly looked at the pasta before picking up a piece and shoveling it in his mouth. Ruffling Tim's hair, he smiled and said, "That's my boy!"

They ate in companionable silence and with only a few minutes left before the guests were to arrive he was able to remove most of the sauce from Tim's hands and face. There was a little bit in the baby's hair, but Gibbs resigned himself to the fact that would have to wait until his bath. Putting the dishes in the sink to soak he let Tim out of his highchair and the toddler crawled into the family room to play with his toys. After feeding Jethro and allowing the dog outside, Gibbs was scrubbing the table when the doorbell rang. Walking through the dining room to the family room he heard Tim whimper and call out for him. Sighing, he stopped to gather him in his arms and proceeded to the door. Opening it he moved back out of the way as Ducky stomped his feet to rid them of the excess snow and stepped inside. An older man followed, removed his hat and reached out to shake Gibbs' hand, "You must be Agent Gibbs. I've heard so much about you from Donald."

Smiling warmly, Gibbs took the offered hand and shook it, "Thanks so much for helping us out on short notice Mr. Richardson. I really do appreciate it."

The man removed his coat, laid it over the chair and set down his briefcase, "Nonsense, it's not that big of a deal. I don't know if Donald told you, but I owe him quite a few favors. By the way, please call me Walter."

Ducky gently squeezed Tim's side, causing him to squirm and produce a small giggle. "How's my grandson doing today?"

Tim shrugged his shoulders and reached out his tiny arms in Ducky's direction. Surprised the toddler wanted him instead of Gibbs, Ducky gladly took Tim in his arms and hitched him up on his hip.

"This must be Timothy." Walter said, gently squeezing Tim's chubby thigh.

The youngster shyly buried his face against Ducky's neck, every once in awhile peeking out at the stranger. "He's a bit shy, Walter. However, once you get to know him he's a complete snuggle bug and enjoys being held and loved."

"Well he certainly is adorable with those chubby cheeks and expressive green eyes." Walter turned toward Gibbs and added, "Better watch out for this one, he's going to be a ladies' man."

They all laughed at his comment and Gibbs ran his fingers through his hair, "I'm afraid it's already begun. He has all the ladies wrapped around his little finger. Let's go into the kitchen, where we'll be signing the papers, while we wait for the McGees to arrive." Walter nodded and grabbed his briefcase, following the two men into the kitchen and taking a seat at the table.

"Would you like a cup of coffee or tea?"

"Coffee would be nice. Thank you."

"Duck, do you want some tea?"

The older man chuckled, "Do I even need to answer?"

Gibbs shook his head, filled the kettle with water and placed it on the burner. Pouring a cup of coffee for Walter and refilling his own from dinner he asked, "Cream or sugar?"

"What's the point of having coffee if you're just going to put all that extra crap in there? I enjoy my coffee black and strong."

Gibbs liked this guy, he didn't hold back his opinion and was one of the few people left on the planet who enjoyed their coffee the way it was meant to be. As he handed Walter the mug there was a knock on the door and Gibbs excused himself to go and answer. When he opened the door he was surprised to see Sarah had decided to tag along, until she offered to play with Timmy while the papers were being signed. Following Gibbs into the kitchen, the three McGees were introduced to Walter and they made small talk for awhile until Tim started getting restless on Ducky's lap.

Retrieving the bottle from the counter, Gibbs handed it over to Sarah and took the squirming baby from Ducky's arms. Brushing Tim's hair off to the side he kissed him on the cheek and whispered in his ear, "Wanna go play with Sarah?"

Tim's eyes darted between Sarah and his Daddy. Although he enjoyed being with Sarah he was still hesitant to leave Gibbs. Realizing his son was afraid of being taken away he told everyone he would be back in a moment and motioned for Sarah to follow him. "Obviously Timmy's a little worried he'll be separated from me again. Why don't I take him up to my room where there's some toys; I think once you start playing he'll be fine."

Sarah nodded and followed Gibbs upstairs. When they reached the top of the landing she pointed at Tim's bedroom, "Why can't we play in there? Last time we were here Tim had a bunch of toys in there."

Gibbs had cleaned up all the glass a few days ago but hadn't had a chance to replace all the broken frames. He sure as hell didn't feel like explaining that to Sarah tonight. Essentially ignoring her question he continued on to his room and opened the door. Once Tim saw the toys he squirmed to be put down and crawled over to the pile. Sarah sat down next to him and the two started playing with an electronic educational toy. Relieved Timmy was happy for the time being he tiptoed out of the room and back downstairs. They only had a small window of time as it was nearing bath time and bed time for the little fella.

When he approached the kitchen he heard Maggie interrupt Walter and utter, "Can we get this over with as soon as possible? I have places to be and people to see." Taking a deep breath, Gibbs entered the kitchen and took a seat next to Ducky. Studying Maggie's face and body language it appeared as if she was hankering for a drink. He hoped that wasn't the case and that she was just distraught about legally handing over Timmy. Walter handed Gibbs and Maggie each a copy of the adoption papers and began explaining each page. Turning toward Maggie he said, "Mrs. McGee, you understand that once you sign these papers that your son, Timothy McGee will legally become Timothy McGee Gibbs and Leroy Jethro Gibbs will officially become his parent and not you?"

Maggie nodded and sighed, "Yes I understand."

Turning toward Gibbs, Walter continued, "Leroy Jethro Gibbs, do you understand that once you sign these papers you will legally become Timothy McGee's father and be legally responsible for him?"

Gibbs was bursting with excitement and wanted to shout his answer from the rooftop but knew that was unacceptable and would only be rubbing salt in Maggie's wounds. He gave the older man an affirmative nod and small smile.

Walter nodded slightly, "Before you sign the papers there is one more thing I need to mention. Here in Virginia it is the birth mother's right to void the adoption within fifteen days after the papers are signed with no questions asked."

Gibbs' heart rate increased and some of the excitement that was bottled up slowly began to dissipate. Anytime during the next fifteen days, Maggie could change her mind and Tim would be taken from him once again. He hoped that she had been convinced enough over the past week that Timmy was better off with him rather than her. Maggie saw the worry on Gibbs' face and reached over to pat his hand, "Don't worry, Jethro. I won't go back on my word. I realize you two have a special bond and it's obvious that he's best with you. As long as we still get to see him and keep in touch."

He wanted to believe her, but there was so much that could happen in fifteen days and he wasn't ready to let his guard down yet.

"Before we move on to signing papers do any of you have any other questions for me?"

All of them shook their heads so Walter flipped to the first page of the adoption contract and took out a pen. "Agent Gibbs I need you to sign where the red X's are and Mrs. McGee you'll sign where the blue X's are. Donald and Penny, as witnesses you'll sign below where the two of them have signed."

In total there were close to fifteen pages that needed signing. Gibbs' hand shook as he finished the last page and watched Maggie sign. He couldn't help the huge smile that appeared on his face when Walter reached over and shook his hand, "Congratulations Papa Gibbs."

Ducky patted the younger man on the back and gently squeezed his neck. "Congratulations, Jethro. Timmy is lucky to have you."

Maggie rose from her chair as Gibbs did and pulled the man in for a hug. Whispering in his ear, her voice cracked, "Take good care of my baby boy. I know he doesn't know who I am but please don't forget to tell him about me and our family."

Swallowing past the lump in his throat, Gibbs responded, "I love Timmy so much and will take good care of him. Don't worry; I'll be sure to let him know about you and the rest of the McGees."

Taking a step back, Maggie wiped the tears from her eyes and smiled softly. Suddenly a wailing baby garnered the group's attention as Sarah raced down the stairs with Tim in her arms. Gibbs rushed to the bottom of the landing and took the irritated baby from her. Tim wrapped his arms tightly around his daddy's neck and sobbed against his shoulder. Soothingly rubbing circles on the toddler's back he attempted to calm him down.

"I don't know what happened!" Sarah exclaimed as everyone looked to her for answers. "One minute we're playing and the next minute he's sobbing and looking for you, Agent Gibbs."

Gibbs had managed to soothe the baby enough to know there was nothing seriously wrong with him. He looked sympathetically at Sarah and sighed, "It's nothing you did, kiddo. It's almost bed time and he's still afraid of losing me. Looks like we finished signing the papers in the nick of time."

Sarah smiled; "Congratulations to both of you! I'm heading back to Texas with Maggie for a week, but I'd like to see him when I get home."

"Of course, remember what I told you yesterday? You're welcome to see Timmy anytime you want."

While Sarah and Gibbs were talking the others gathered their belongings and headed toward the door. Walter shook Gibbs' hand once more and pointed to his briefcase, "I'll file the papers on Monday but congratulations once again Agent Gibbs."

Penny, Sarah and Maggie each said goodbye to Timmy as best they could as the youngster still had his face buried against Gibbs' shoulder. They promised to see him soon and opened the door. Ducky was the last to say goodbye and gently patted Tim on the back, "You are now officially a Gibbs, young lad." Making eye contact with Gibbs he continued, "I'm so proud of you, Jethro. You're a great father and Timothy is lucky to have you."

"I appreciate it, Duck. Couldn't have done it without you."

The group filed out of the house, each waving as they made their way to the cars. Once they pulled out of the driveway, Gibbs shut the door and locked it. Leaning down he whispered in Tim's ear, "Ready for a bubble bath, Timothy Gibbs?"

The youngster's head shot up and he squealed in delight. "Me lub bubble dada!"

"I know you do, sweetie."

Climbing the stairs to his bedroom with his baby boy tucked safely in his arms, Gibbs couldn't imagine any place he'd rather be and was excited to start their new life together as Dada and Timmy Gibbs.