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To Retire or Not to Retire
Chapter Four
The next two weeks went by quickly for both Holly and Jethro. The condo where Holly was staying was nice but it was small and not near the water. It was not far from the shelter and its offices but Holly wanted something closer to the water and she knew Jethro would feel very cooped up in the small confines. She began looking for a cottage or at least a larger condo. She appreciated that the condo was being loaned to her for free but in reality, Holly didn't have to worry about money. She had made a very good living in her past life and had invested wisely. Part of the plea deal she had made when she and Jethro first met-and he arrested her-was that she kept her money. With that security she had been able to leave her past behind and start over in a legitimate and worthwhile business. Now, she was going to use some of that money to find a place she and Jethro could enjoy together when he visited during the next year.
While Holly was busy getting the new shelter and its associated programs off the ground, Jethro was equally busy with routine but stressful cases. Nothing out of the ordinary but still it seemed he and his team were constantly working. He was pleased with the progress at the house and more than anxious to be able to move out of his basement. He talked to Holly every night and she seemed to be settling in and just as busy as he was. He didn't know about the real estate hunt she was on because she wanted it to be a surprise.
When Holly had been gone for a month Jethro finally had the weekend off and managed to hop a ride from Andrews AFB to MacDill in Tampa. He arranged for a ride to the condo and surprised Holly at about seven o'clock Friday night. He hadn't given any thought to the idea that she wouldn't be home but as he walked up to the door his suddenly realized she might be out with friends from work. He decided to call her.
Holly was in the bedroom just changing out of work clothes into something very casual for lounging at home. She planned to call Jethro and then just stay in with a movie or a book. The week had been very busy and she was tired. The phone rang as she headed for the kitchen and she was delighted when she saw who was calling.
"Jethro, hi I was going to call you in a few minutes."
"Hi babe. Listen could you do me a favor? I had something delivered to you, could you look and see if it arrived.?"
"I got home about thirty minutes ago and there was nothing here."
"Should be there now. Go check. Please."
"Sure. Hang on."
Holly went to the door and opened it to find her favorite person standing there with a big smile on his face. She was in his arms in two seconds. He never got a chance to say hello or surprise or anything for that matter. Holly was kissing him before he even knew what was happening. It didn't take him long to process though and very little time to catch up with her. He wrapped her in his arms and walked them through the door and into the condo without dropping his bag. He kicked the door shut and then he dropped his bag and swung her around.
"Surprise," he finally said when Holly let him breathe.
"A wonderful surprise at that. I am so damned glad to see you. Can you tell?"
"I'm not sure but I figure you can show me again. How are you?"
"Much better now. Oh, I've missed you so much, Jethro. Thank you for coming."
"My pleasure I assure you. I've missed you too. A lot."
Holly took him by the hand, "Come and tell me how you are. You look tired. But wonderful. Oh, I am sooo glad to see you."
She led him in to the small living room and with both arms extended she turned in a circle showing him the room.
"Welcome to my little place. Cozy isn't it?"
"Yeah, kinda small, like you said. But big enough for you. And me sometimes. Right?"
"Yes, because when you're here you aren't allowed to be very far away from me anyway."
"How are things going? You happy with the people you've hired and how things are set up?"
"Yes, very much but I don't want to talk about work. I want to know how the house is coming along and how you are. Have you been sleeping okay? Eating?"
"I'm fine. Work has been busy and the house is coming along. I have some pictures to show you. I sleep okay and yes, I eat."
They were sitting on the couch now and Jethro couldn't keep his hands off her. He pulled her onto his lap and ran his fingers through her hair and kissed her. When they came up for air, Holly put her hands on his face and looked him in the eyes. God, how she'd missed those beautiful blue eyes. He did look tired though.
"I was just going to have a glass of wine and relax. Do you want a drink? I can fix us some supper. I bet you haven't eaten."
"Yes, I'd love a drink. We can order out if you want."
"No, I have some lasagna left over from last night. I'll heat that and some bread. It's homemade lasagna from one of the women at the office. Delicious."
"Sounds great."
"Take a look around. The bedroom is the second door on the left."
Jethro got up and grabbed his bag and headed for the bedroom. He decided to take a quick shower and ten minutes later he was back in the kitchen in a pair of old shorts and a Marines tee shirt. He went to the patio door and looked out.
"Not bad really. Are you okay here?"
Holly came up behind him and handed him a glass with two fingers of his favorite bourbon in it.
"It's fine. Better with you here of course. You have pictures of the house?"
"Oh yeah, let me get them."
Jethro went to his bag and came back with a brand new tablet which he handed to Holly and said, "Abby sent this with me. The pictures are on there. She said you'd know how to find them."
Holly took the device from him and smiled at him indulgently. Jethro was definitely not a techie but he had so many other talents she didn't care if he could barely operate a cell phone.
"What's the password?"
"Bossman."
"Of course it is. I love it."
Holly entered the password and quickly found the photo icon. Jethro watched her pull up the first shot which was him holding a sign that said "OUR NEW HOUSE".
"Cute. Who took these?"
"Abby did most of them. I did a few after she insisted I learn to use the darn thing. Pretty cool little gadget I have to admit."
Holly was anxious to see the house but suddenly she stopped and looked at him and narrowed her eyes.
"Wait a minute. Abby took these and she knows you're here with me?"
Jethro realized he had never told her about the team knowing about them. He laughed at the shocked look on her face.
"Oh yeah. I forgot to tell you. They all know about us. Tony told me when we were chasing Sergei. He was worried about you and asked me if we should put some protection on you. Then he went on to tell me how they had each seen us out together at different places over the past months and they got together and figured it out."
"How'd they take it?"
"Fine. Abby was a little put out at first but she's fine with it. With you. Us. Tony said he knew because my hair was longer, my clothes were more expensive and I was happy. And you know what? He's right on all counts. Of course he better be; I trained him "
Holly laughed. She was relieved really because she knew Jethro didn't like keeping them a secret from his team. They were his family after all, especially how that Jack was gone.
"I'm glad. Are you okay with it?"
"Sure. It's a relief really. Okay, let's get to the picture show."
Jethro led her back to the couch and she settled in close to him. He put one arm around her shoulders holding his bourbon in the other. He watched her as she used one perfectly manicured and polished finger to move from picture to picture. She didn't say anything and moved fairly quickly through all twenty or so photos then went back and studied each one more closely.
"So?"
"I like it. Everything looks just as I had hoped. The kitchen cabinets are perfect. The glass in those two doors gives it just the look I wanted. What do you think?"
"I like it very much."
Holly continued on, making a comment here and there. She liked the floors downstairs and the wall color and the finishes in the bathroom. When she got to the pictures of the master bedroom and bathroom she spent a bit more time even though there was less completed there than downstairs. She paid particular attention to one picture of Jethro standing in the doorway of the future walk-in closet.
"Why are you in this one with that silly grin on your face?"
"Just remembering the last time I was against that wall. Or rather you were against it and I was against you."
Holly gave him a light jab in the ribs with her elbow. "I hope Abby didn't ask why you wanted to be in that particular shot and why you had that look on your face."
"She asked. I didn't answer."
"Which was like answering; for her anyway."
"Probably."
Jethro took the tablet from her and leaned into her and kissed her quickly.
"Let's go try out that bed of yours. I really need some lovin, and I need it right now."
"What about supper?"
"Later."
Jethro pulled her to her feet, she detoured them into the kitchen so she could turn off the oven and supper was officially delayed.
"I like this bed."
"Really? What's so special about it? It's just a regular queen size bed."
"You're in it. That makes it anything but regular."
"Sweet talker."
Holly raised her head from where she was resting on his chest and kissed him on the chin. She was stretched out with as much of her body touching his as was possible. Arms and legs tangled together and hands were roaming all the places she loved touching on Jethro. His hands were doing much the same thing on her.
"I have really missed this. How much longer until you retire?"
"About six months unless you want me to leave early."
"I want you to stay in this bed forever but that's not practical. Let's stick to the plan."
Jethro thought if lightening struck him at that moment he'd die a happy and satisfied man. Since that didn't seem likely he rolled over, pinning Holly beneath him and kissed her thoroughly and with a passion he'd been holding onto for weeks. When he finally pulled back he rolled over again and set his feet on the floor.
"Let's rinse off and then eat. I'm starving."
"I'm sure you are. You just burned up a lot of calories."
After they had eaten and cleaned up the dishes they went back to the couch. Holly looked at the pictures of the house again and Jethro promptly fell asleep. Holly watched him sleep for a long time. She never got tired of looking at Jethro. She still found herself surprised sometimes that she and this man were in love and still together after almost two years. In her wildest imagination she never expected to fall in love with someone like Jethro. She thought she'd be with some sophisticated businessman and travel the world staying in expensive hotels, eating in fancy restaurants and wearing designer clothes. At least that's how she pictured it when she was in college and then later working in the shadowy world she had inhabited for so long. Getting arrested and being unknowingly involved in murders for hire had changed her perspective very quickly.
Holly reflected on the many powerful men she had encountered in her past business life and how they had used her and vice versa. She had an elaborate network of important men and women who, over the years, had owed and paid her many favors. None of them had intrigued her nearly as much as did Special Agent Gibbs. Jethro of course, knew all about her days as DC's most prominent madam and what he hadn't learned during his investigation of her, she had told him about later. She had named names and been very honest with him about her life and her business. He had listened carefully as he always did and then he had asked her if she wanted to go back to that life or if she really wanted to lead a different life in the future. When her community service was over Holly had considered moving to another city and starting over. She certainly had the connections and references to go back into business elsewhere. She had given that idea very serious consideration but then Jethro invited her to lunch one day and she was so intrigued by him that she put off moving and before long she knew she didn't want to be somewhere where she couldn't see Jethro at least occasionally.
They had certainly come to their present circumstances from different places but over time they had learned that they were more alike than either would have imagined. Holly was now just as passionate about helping women escape violence and degradation as Jethro was about catching bad guys. They both cared about people who often didn't have an advocate; victims of all kinds, and they were committed to getting justice for those harmed by violence. Their methods may be very different but in their own ways they were both striving for the same end.
Holly put the tablet down and carefully woke Jethro with a light kiss.
"Let's go to bed lover."
Jethro woke up just enough to follow her to the bedroom, undress and fall into bed. Holly got ready and when she slipped in beside him, Jethro rolled over and pulled her back against his chest, holding her close with his arm around her waist.
"Night babe. I love you," he mumbled into her hair.
"I love you too."
The next morning Jethro was awakened by a phone ringing. He knew it wasn't his so he ignored it at first. When it didn't stop and he realized Holly wasn't in the bed he reached for the offending device and managed to answer it.
"Yeah, Gibbs."
The person on the other end was about to hang up when the grumbling voice answered. He didn't know who Gibbs was and thought he might have misdialed.
"Sorry. I'm calling for Holly Snow."
"Jus' a minute."
Jethro got out of bed and wandered into the bathroom. Holly was in the shower.
"She can't come to the phone right now. Wanna leave a message?"
"Please tell her Eric called."
"Got it."
Jethro put the phone down on the counter and then stepped into the shower.
"Well, good morning. I wasn't expecting you. You were so sound asleep when I got up I wanted to let you sleep in."
"Eric woke me up." Jethro wrapped a soapy, wet Holly in his arms and kissed her good morning. He was just barely awake but even in his sleep he knew what to do with a beautiful, naked woman in the shower.
"Eric?"
"Yeah he said to tell you he called."
"Oh."
The next thing Holly knew she was pressed up against the tile and Jethro was kissing her and running his hands up and down her sides and making it very difficult for her to think. She gave up and decided to enjoy this unexpected bonus. Shower sex was always a welcome way to start the day after all.
One of the many things Holly loved about Jethro was his body. Unlike a lot of men she had known, Jethro was still in great physical condition. He was all muscle and hard edges. In more ways than one, Jethro was a hard man. He didn't mind doing the dirty work in an investigation and if someone threatened his team he made sure that threat wasn't carried out. He had seen the cold reality of war and he was not hesitant to use force if necessary. He was notoriously quiet, he had a strict personal code he lived by and he tolerated very little in the way of nonsense. But….he was very gentle when he was with her and he was the most compassionate person she knew. He was unfailingly generous and never turned his back on anyone who needed help. She knew he was drawn to children and it saddened her that he had never been a father again after Kelly died. She knew he would make a great mentor to the young boys who were often at the shelter with their mothers. She had plans for him when he retired; he just didn't know it yet.
By the time they finally got out of the shower Holly had forgotten all about Eric calling. Jethro had not.
"Who's Eric?"
"What?"
"Eric. He called. Are you okay?"
Holly laughed and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"I'm very okay. You know, sometimes you make it hard for me to think straight. You overwhelm me Jethro."
"Is that a complaint?"
"Oh hell no. Just telling you how it is. Okay, Eric is a realtor who is helping me look for a place closer to the water. A place for us."
"You don't like this place? I thought it was free."
"It is but I want us to have a place on the beach. It was supposed to be a surprise but maybe he's found something we could look at while you're here."
Jethro finished drying off and went in search of his clothes. He hadn't said anything and Holly wondered why. She ran a comb through her hair and quickly dressed. She found Jethro in the kitchen in a pair of shorts and a tee shirt. He was, of course, making coffee.
"Jethro? What's the matter?"
"I'm just wondering if you're planning to stay longer than a year."
"No, I most certainly am not. I just want us to have a place we can enjoy. You will lose your mind in this tiny place when you come down fulltime. Right? Besides, we'll be coming back for part of the year in the future won't we?"
"Yeah, that's what I figured. I just thought we'd get a condo on the water somewhere. Sanibel or wherever."
"We can do that but for this year I wanted us to have a place we will enjoy. I'm just thinking of renting, not buying."
"Okay. That makes sense. Are they paying you enough to afford that?"
"No."
When she didn't elaborate, Jethro gave her a look but didn't say anything. They had agreed in the very beginning they would not talk about her money. He didn't know how much there was or where it was and he didn't want to know. Plausible deniability he called it one day. Holly was fine with that arrangement.
"So, you should call Eric back and see what he wants."
What Eric wanted was to show them a two bedroom cottage on the water in St. Petersburg. They drove over and met him there at eleven o'clock. It wasn't much bigger than the condo in terms of square footage but it had a porch on three sides, a garage and it was as close to the beach as you could get which was pretty darn close. Holly fell in love immediately. Jethro of course looked a little closer and found some things that needed fixing. Nothing big but enough that he was concerned with the overall condition of the home.
The three of them were sitting on the porch looking at the beach and the water. Holly had made up her mind but Jethro had questions.
"What's the story on this place?"
"The couple who own it have moved to an assisted living place. Their children don't want to let go of the place but none of them can live here right now. One of the daughters is planning to move down here in about a year or so. They want someone reliable to live here until then. I know there are some things that need fixing and Holly had said you are handy with stuff like that so I was hoping you two would be interested. I've known these folks for years and I really want someone trustworthy in this property. They are willing to let you have it at a very reasonable price and of course any work you did would be reimbursed or come off the rent."
Jethro thought it all sounded reasonable. The only thing that worried him was Holly living there alone until he moved. He voiced that concern and Eric was quick with his response.
"I understand that of course. This is a very safe neighborhood. I know because I live just three houses down the street. Holly will have someone nearby in case of emergency. My wife works from home and walks the beach several times every day so she will watch the house. I wouldn't suggest it for Holly if I didn't think it would be safe."
Jethro looked at Holly and then Eric and she knew what he was wondering.
"Eric's wife, Suzanne, is a volunteer at the shelter. I told her what I was looking for and voila, here it is. What do you think?"
"I think it's perfect. I will be able to keep busy and we will take good care of the place until the daughter can move in."
Holly asked, "What about furnishings? All our stuff is in storage in Virginia."
"Everything can stay. In fact they'd prefer it did. All the family's personal items have already been taken out."
"Then I have to agree with Jethro; it's perfect."
They sealed the deal over lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant but only after Eric agreed to have a security system installed. Jethro told him they would pay for it since he was insisting on having it done and Eric said he thought the owners would be fine with that. While they waited for their food, Eric called the daughter, Sarah Cooper, and told her he had the perfect renters. She was thrilled and gave him the go ahead to sign the papers. She agreed to having the security system installed and authorized Eric to deduct half of the cost from the rent. Jethro and Holly said they could meet him at his office later that day to finalize the paperwork. After lunch, Eric left to work out all the details and Jethro and Holly took a walk on the beach and then explored the area where Holly would be living and Jethro would be visiting; at least until the end of the year when he moved down.
"I know I kinda sprang this on you but I really think we'll enjoy it here. Are you okay with it?
"Of course. I like the house and the location couldn't be better. I like that you'll have someone nearby who you know. I think I may have to come visit more often."
"Gosh I never thought of that."
Even though they were on a public street, Jethro leaned down and kissed her. They had a couple of hours before they would meet Eric and Jethro was wishing they were back at the condo. His time with Holly was short and as much as he was enjoying seeing the area he really wanted some alone time.
"Eric gave you a key didn't he?"
"Yes. You want to go back and look the place over again?"
"I'd like to go back and look you over. Think they'd mind if we christened the place before we signed the papers?"
"Jethro!"
"Hey, I have to go home in about twenty-four hours. Time's a wastin' babe."
Holly didn't need to be convinced. They walked back to the cottage and let themselves in. They made sure to lock the door behind them then went straight to the larger of the two bedrooms. There were no sheets on the bed but Holly quickly found the linen closet and just managed to get a bottom sheet on the mattress before Jethro tackled her and kissed her until she couldn't think of anything or anyone outside that room.
Maybe it was the sneaking into a house that wasn't theirs yet or maybe it was seeing so many young, fit men walking around and noticing Holly, but whatever it was, Jethro was suddenly in a hurry. This was not a slow, seduction and careful lovemaking. This was hot and hurried and probably a little rougher than Holly was expecting. Sometimes, rarely, Jethro forgot how much bigger he was than her and he forgot he could be intimidating even when he didn't mean to be. This was one of those times. The first in a very long time and Holly was so surprised by his intensity she was almost swept away. Almost.
With her palms flat on his chest, Holly pulled her mouth from his and said very firmly, "Jethro, stop!"
That was all it took and he immediately went absolutely still. His eyes were closed and he was breathing hard. His hand between her legs moved to her hip and he rested his forehead on hers.
"What's going on all of a sudden?"
"Did I hurt you?"
She knew he hadn't meant to but yes, he was close to hurting her. This had not happened in a very long time and when it had happened before it was because they were both being rough.
"No, but you were going in that direction. You were almost out of control. What's going on?"
He rolled off of her and sat up on the side of the bed. He covered his face with his hands.
"I don't know. God, I'm sorry, Holly. You know I'd never hurt you on purpose."
Holly moved behind him and wrapped her arms around his chest and kissed his shoulder.
"I know that. Tell me what you were thinking about."
Jethro didn't answer for a long time. He covered her hands with his and tried to get control of his emotions. He didn't know what caused him to lose control and he didn't like that.
"I don't want to lose you."
"What? Where in the world did that come from? Jethro we just agreed to rent a house together. We're remodeling a house in Virginia. We love each other. What is it in all that that makes you think you'll ever lose me?"
"Seeing you here in a new place, happy and working. Building a new life. All the men who were looking at you today."
"Stop right there! Look at me Jethro!"
She pulled on his shoulder until he turned to face her. She was furious. In fact, Jethro had never seen her so angry; not at him anyway.
"Stop that shit right now! Do not insult me by thinking I would be the least bit interested in any other man! I. Love. You. At this moment I am not sure why but I do. You see me happy because you're here, stupid! I'm here because I want to do something good and because you gave me the courage to do it. Whatever your insecurities are you need to get rid of them right this instant! What any of that has to do with how you make love to me I don't know but you need to figure it out. And be quick about it!"
Holly got off the bed and quickly dressed and stalked out of the room. Jethro heard the door slam and figured she was on the porch. He scrubbed his hands over his face and fell back onto the bed. What the hell just happened? He really didn't know what had gotten into him and made him lose control like that. He admitted to himself that he was just a little bit anxious about Holly being down here by herself. He had just enough of the old Jethro left in him that he still wondered when she would wake up and realize what a bastard he was. He still sometimes expected to find her gone one day. Stupid he knew, but still, it was there in a tiny little place in his brain. Apparently today it had morphed into something not so tiny. He wondered if admitting that would make things better or worse. He pondered that for a little bit and then got dressed, took the sheet off and folded it and went to find Holly. He had always been honest with her and he figured today should not be any exception.
He found her sitting in the porch swing. She was swinging a bit more aggressively than that old swing was probably used to and he hoped it was up for the challenge.
"Can we talk?" His voice was soft and quiet and Holly knew he was feeling pretty low.
"Yes, but we need to go meet Eric. Let's hold off until we get back to the condo."
"Okay but I have to say one thing. I love you Holly. More than I ever thought I could love someone. I need to know you believe that."
"I do. If I didn't I wouldn't still be sitting here and you'd be walking back to the condo. Come on, we need to go."
Holly reached for his hand and Jethro pulled her up. They walked, still holding hands, to the car and made the drive to Eric's office in silence. Jethro was organizing his thoughts and Holly was working very hard to figure out what had triggered this meltdown or blow up or whatever the hell it was. Whatever they were calling it, she wanted it resolved tonight. Jethro felt like he couldn't breathe. He and Holly hadn't had a serious disagreement or any sort of issue between them since they got together. They had done all their arguing and storming out in the very early days of their relationship. The fact that Holly would stand up to him, disagree with him and storm out only to come back the next day or allow him in her house the day after that, was what had convinced Jethro that he had finally found a woman he could be with for a long time. He most certainly did not intend to let that be ruined by his fear. He had been sure until about two hours ago that he was through being afraid of having the woman he loved walk away from him. Now he had to make sure Holly knew the problem was all in him and that he had no doubts about her.
When they got to the condo, Holly went straight back to the bathroom without a word to him. Jethro paced back and forth in the living room waiting. When she came out Holly sat on the couch and Jethro immediately sat on the coffee table facing her. He took her hands in his and took a deep breath. Holly just waited. She could be maddeningly patient with him. She studied his face; the face she loved so damn much it hurt sometimes. She saw uncertainty in his eyes. And maybe a little bit of fear. She had already forgiven Jethro for what he had said so all she needed now was for him to explain himself so she could help him get past whatever it was that was wrong. She had a pretty good idea what was scaring him but she needed Jethro to talk to her about it. Otherwise this would keep happening periodically and she didn't think that was healthy.
Finally, Jethro was ready. He looked in her eyes and gave her a small smile.
"First of all, I'm sorry I got too rough and hurt you. I never want to do that. Second, I want you to know; you have to know, that I trust you absolutely. I have no thought or idea that you would take up with another man. Please believe me when I say this is all my problem. Holly, there is still a part of me that wonders when you will wake up and realize you could do so much better. Alex says I just don't have a frame of reference for what we're doing together; staying together for so long. I don't want to screw it up but sometimes I think I will anyway. No woman I've loved has ever put up with me for this long. No one but Shannon. Not any other wife, not Jenny, no one. I guess Ducky is the only person who has been able to stick it out with me for the long haul.
I never expected to fall in love with anyone after Jenny died. I figured I'd lost my chance and I was okay with that. I was okay with short term arrangements. Then you came along and, well we know what happened after that. I guess today I just let that little, insecure part of me take over and I was operating out of fear instead of love. I don't ever want to do that to you again."
During his little speech Jethro looked at Holly a few times but mostly he concentrated on their hands. Holly was rubbing her thumbs back and forth over his knuckles the entire time he was talking. She never took her eyes off him and when he looked at her she looked him in the eyes and tried to let him see she loved him. Jethro took a deep breath and looked up finally. His eyes were wet and he blinked a few times trying to ward off the tears that were threatening to fall.
Holly pulled their joined hands up and kissed his fingers. Then she let go and reached for him. She put her hands gently on his face and pulled him toward her for a soft, lingering kiss.
"Jethro, what can I do to help you believe in us? I know we are in some new territory and there are a lot of changes going on for us but especially for you. As much as you need me to believe in your love, I need you to believe in my commitment to you. You know I love you. I want to be with you always. I want to live with you, celebrate with you, cry with you and grow old with you. Please, please put that voice that tells you bad things out of your head once and for all."
Holly could tell without him saying so that he had talked to Alex about them and about his fears. It was obvious by the way he phrased things and she was glad because Jethro always paid attention to what Alex told him and she trusted her advice. If he had talked to her about his fears that was half the battle. Getting them out in the open was always better. At least Holly thought so.
"Babe are you worried about retiring?"
Jethro moved to sit beside her on the couch.
"Yeah, I think so. I mean I'm not conscious of worrying but I think I am. We've had some complicated cases lately and I've been really focused and honed in on a lot of stuff and I wonder if I'm going to miss that. I just never thought I'd be in this position and I'm not a hundred percent sure I'm doing the right thing."
"Have you talked to Leon about it yet?"
"No. Well, I've hinted but I haven't come right out and said I've made up my mind."
"Then don't. Jethro you don't have to give up the job you love right now. We're working okay and we'll continue to be okay. When the house is finished I'll be up there more often. Maybe you should just take some extended leave over the holidays or whatever and then decide if you want to go back."
"Don't suppose you'd like to just tell me what to do?"
"If it was up to me you'd call Leon right now and say you weren't coming back. But it's not up to me. I want you to be happy and be sure. I'll be with you no matter what you decide and I mean that. I'm not going anywhere."
"I think with the whole Sergei episode over and fading into the background I might be forgetting how sure I was just a few months ago. He's gone but I have to remember there will always be another Sergei around the corner. I can't afford to forget that."
"What does Ducky say?"
"About what you say. Be sure, don't retire for the wrong reason."
"Have you talked to Alex about it?"
"No. Maybe I will but I think I just need some more time. Anyway, let's not talk about it anymore. Are we okay?"
"Yes, we are very much okay. Thank you for talking to me about this, Jethro. As long as we talk about things we will be fine. Remember what I told you in the very beginning about what it would take for me to walk away from you?"
"Yes, if I ever hit you or cheat on you. Two things I will never do."
"Then I guess you're stuck with me. I know other women have made promises to you and then broken them. I won't do that. The only way you'll know that's true is to stick with me. Right?"
"Right. Can we be through talking now?"
Holly's response was to get up, pull off her shirt and head for the bedroom.
"Last one in the bed is on the bottom!"
Jethro wasn't sure whether to hurry or not. He liked it when he was on the bottom. And when he wasn't. One thing was certain, he didn't stay on the couch thinking about it.
About three hours later Jethro woke to the very pleasant sensation of Holly's breath puffing out on his chest and her body wrapped more or less around his. Her head was on his chest, left arm slung over so her left hand was on his right bicep and her left leg was wedged between his legs. Her right leg was up against his left leg. She was obviously asleep but as was her custom she was moving. Barely but still her body was moving against his and he was either going to have to do something or just lie there and endure the sweet torture she was unknowingly performing.
Jethro very lightly ran his hand up and down her bare back and occasionally under the sheet he had pulled over them to pay some attention to her perfect smooth, soft butt cheeks. That elicited more moving and pretty soon Jethro's reaction was more than just the enjoyment of having a beautiful, naked woman in his arms. Now he was definitely going to have to move. He threw the sheet back and expertly turned them over. Now he was about half on top of Holly with his leg between hers and his hand softly caressing first one breast then the other. Holly opened her eyes and smiled up at him.
"Well hello there Marine. Whatcha doin'?"
"Thinkin about doin you if that'd be alright."
That brought out a laugh and Holly pulled him down and kissed him.
"Oh well I suppose it would be alright. In fact I might insist on it."
She wrapped her hand around his cock and kissed him again and that was all she wrote for a while. Jethro took his time and kissed pretty much every inch of her before he went back and tasted his ten or twenty favorite spots. By the time he finally gave in to her pleading and insisting, they were both so far gone it didn't take much to push them over the proverbial edge.
When she could speak again Holly asked him, "Do you think we'll ever get tired of that?"
"Hell, I'm tired now."
Holly began laughing and couldn't stop. Tears ran down her face she laughed so hard and Jethro couldn't help but join her. He knew in his soul he would never get enough of this woman and in that moment, lying with her, exhausted from wonderful sex, he believed she would never leave him. Not by choice anyway. He damn sure wasn't ever going to leave her.
They finally got out of the bed and ate supper. They sat up late talking about the little house on the beach, her work, his cases and all the things people talked about when they were planning a life together. Jethro was as relaxed as he had been in weeks. He was happy that Holly was so excited about the work she was doing and was very happy when she reiterated that she planned to be there for only the first year. She was confident the staff they were assembling would do a wonderful job and she knew her heart was really with the shelter and programs in DC. Not to mention her new house and the love of her life being there as well.
On Sunday morning they went out to breakfast and then back to the cottage. Eric had given them an inventory of the furnishings there and they wanted to go over it and sign for everything and also see what they needed to buy for themselves. There was a list of everything plus photos so they took their time and made sure everything was as listed. While Holly concentrated on the lists, Jethro took photos and notes on some of the repairs he thought needed to be made. There was nothing major; the family had taken good care of the home, but there were some minor things that obviously the old couple had not been able to fix themselves. Jethro wrote it all down and then added a note to Eric that he would work on these little things whenever he could. He didn't find anything that needed immediate attention. The only thing he insisted he wanted immediately was the security system. Holly agreed and said she would take care of it before she moved in.
"Promise me you won't move in before you have it installed."
"This from the man who never locks his own door."
"I do when you're there. Promise me."
"I promise I will not move in until a security system is installed."
"I'm going to have McGee call you with a recommendation as to what you should have. Okay?"
"Sure. Will you also let him teach you how to do face time on that tablet you brought down?"
"No but I'll have Abby show me."
"Or, I could teach you when we get back to the condo. I'm finished checking the lists and everything is here just like it says. Are you through?"
"Yeah. You want to take a walk on the beach before we go?"
"Absolutely."
They took a long walk, holding hands and enjoying the afternoon together. They stopped at a small café and had lunch then walked back to their car. Jethro was catching a very early flight in the morning so they made it an early night. Holly did give him a tutorial on how to face time on the tablet and he was happy to show her he did have some ability with technology. They went to bed early and fell asleep all tangled up in the sheets, sweaty and tired but very pleased with each other.
Jethro's phone alarm woke him at four o'clock. He carefully got out of bed, took a shower, shaved and dressed. He gathered his clothes and bag and then sat on the bed to tell Holly goodbye. He smoothed her hair back from her face and kissed her softly on the mouth.
"Gotta go babe. Love you. Call me later."
Holly opened her eyes and wrapped her arms around his neck pulling him down for a more satisfying kiss. She didn't want to let go of him but she did, reluctantly.
"Bye. Thank you so much for surprising me. I love you, Jethro. Please be careful. I'll try and come up in a few weeks."
"Okay. Bye. Go back to sleep."
Jethro kissed her on the forehead and forced himself to get up. His ride would be there any minute and he needed to get going. He hated this being in different states but it was only for a little while. He kept telling himself that all the way to the base and then all the way back to DC.
For the next few weeks things settled into a routine for Jethro and for Holly. They were both busy in their respective jobs but tried to talk every night. Sometimes Jethro's work didn't allow that and on those nights neither of them slept as well as they did when they were on the phone together before they went to sleep. The house was almost finished and Holly had been trying to find a weekend when she could get up to DC and help deal with moving all their stuff in. She had ordered the bedroom furniture online and it was scheduled to be delivered on Wednesday afternoon the following week. She hoped Jethro would be able to be there for the delivery.
"Wednesday? Really? How am I supposed to be at home in the middle of the week in the middle of the day?"
"I don't know, Jethro but that is when it is being delivered so you need to be there."
Holly was exasperated and Jethro was frustrated so neither of them should have been on the phone with the other.
"I'm sorry but that is the only day this company delivers in our area. I gave you this date two weeks ago when the order was confirmed."
"And I told you that I can't predict when someone is going to get murdered!"
"Jethro, please do not shout at me. This is not worth us being angry with each other. I will call them and tell them to hold the delivery until I can be there."
Jethro took a deep breath and ran his fingers though his hair. He was tired and stressed and taking it out on Holly.
"No, don't do that. I'm sorry. Look, I'll be there or I'll have someone there."
"Jethro, what's going on?"
"Just some bad stuff here lately. We're into some stuff that is taking up a lot of time and not producing much in the way of results. Can't talk about it really. Sorry I yelled. When are you going to be up here?"
"The weekend after the furniture delivery. I get in Friday evening and I'll take a cab to the house. I can't wait to see you and the house. And, to try out the new bed."
"That sounds very good. Send me your arrival time and if I can I'll be there. If I'm not there you know I'm working."
"Okay. You take care of yourself, Jethro. I love you and I'll talk to you tomorrow."
"Love you too. Bye."
When that Wednesday rolled around, Jethro and his team were knee deep in a case with the FBI and there was no way he could get away to meet the furniture delivery guys. He sent DiNozzo and McGee in one car and told Bishop to wait for him then he detoured to Abby's lab.
"Abby, I need a favor. Can you get away this afternoon for an hour or so?"
"Sure, what's going on?"
"We're having some furniture delivered and there's no way I can be there. They're going to call when they're about thirty minutes out. Could you go to the house and meet them?"
"Of course, I'm not working on anything right now. Where does this furniture go?"
"In the master bedroom."
Jethro noticed how Abby's eyes lit up and her smile got really big but he didn't say anything. Instead he pulled a piece of paper from his jacket pocket and handed it to her.
"Here's a diagram of where each piece goes I want you to look it all over and make sure there are no scratches or anything wrong with any of it. Call me if there's any problem. Or you can call Holly. Here I'll write her number on here. I guess that might be better since she's the one who's been dealing with this. Anyway, just make sure it's okay."
"I will inspect it thoroughly and make sure it is all exactly where you want it. Is Holly coming up pretty soon to see the house?"
"This weekend. Thanks Abs."
Jethro and his team were raiding a house in Fairfax when Abby let the furniture delivery men in the house. She inspected each and every piece with a fine-tooth comb and declared it all good. She watched carefully as the bed was assembled and other pieces placed in the room according to the diagram Jethro had given her. The furniture was beautiful and Abby couldn't help but imagine her favorite person in this room with the woman he loved. That thought made Abby very happy.
When Holly landed on Friday evening Jethro was not there but he had sent her a text telling her he was working. He had had both of the storage pods delivered to the house so all their belongings were waiting in the driveway. Holly got a cab to the house. She was very disappointed that Jethro couldn't be there when she saw the house for the first time. She was excited about all that had been done and the pictures looked fabulous but she knew it would be so much better if he was there with her when she saw it in person for the first time. It couldn't be helped though so she just went on by herself. When she got there she paid the driver then stood at the door for a long time before she unlocked it and went in.
It was practically a new house and she loved it immediately. Even without their furniture it was wonderful. She had picked out the paint colors and everything was just as she had hoped. The blinds had been installed the week before; again her choice and she loved them. Jethro had insisted she pick out what she wanted and he vetoed her choice only if he really couldn't stand it. That happened only on the backsplash and his choice turned out to be better anyway. He also chose the kitchen and bathroom fixtures and the ceiling fans. Of course she had the same veto power over his choices but she had not exercised it at all. He had wonderful taste and everything he chose, she loved. The floors had been sanded and refinished and they were beautiful.
Holly ran up the stairs to see the bedroom furniture. Abby had sent her a couple of pictures but seeing it for herself was so much better. They had chosen a Mission style set and she loved it even more now that she was seeing it in person. It was large but not massive; masculine in some ways but not overly so. She thought it fit Jethro perfectly and she loved the simple lines and classic styling. She was very much looking forward to christening it later that night.
She tore herself away from the bedroom and went to check out the bathroom and her infamous walk-in closet. The bathroom was just a wonderful as she expected; large walk-in shower with plenty of water jets, a spa tub and a large vanity with two lavatories. Everything was perfect! Holly took a moment to imagine living here with the love of her life for years and years to come. It all seemed too good to be true and was certainly more than she had ever expected. She shook herself and decided she needed to find the linens in her storage pod and make up the bed before Jethro got home.
Everything was neatly organized in the pod and Holly easily found several boxes of linens and towels. She carried them into the house and made up the bed with her favorite sheets and comforter. She hung some towels in the bathroom and put the rest away in the linen closet. The she sent Jethro a text that said, 'bed has clean sheets on it….hope you can come home pretty soon and help me mess them up. Love you xoxox'.
Jethro got the text as he stepped into autopsy to see Ducky. They had finally wrapped up the case they had been working on for three days and he was exhausted. Between working almost around the clock, sleeping in the basement and sleeping alone he wasn't getting any meaningful rest. He refused to sleep in the bedroom until Holly was home. Tonight would be a very welcome change for more than one reason. But he was a bit reluctant to go straight home so here he was with his oldest, most trusted friend to have a drink before heading home.
"Jethro, what are you doing here? Isn't Holly at the house by now?"
Jethro held up his phone and said, "She is indeed. Waiting to christen the new bedroom furniture if I read this text correctly."
Ducky looked at him without expression. "And yet here you are. What's the matter, my friend?"
"Need to get this case and some of this stuff we've been working on out of my head first. Thought you might have a drink with me. And talk a bit."
"Of course. This was a disturbing case I agree. But you've had worse, much worse. What's really bothering you?"
"You know we're picking up some chatter about kids and ISIS; kids being recruited over the internet. I just have a bad feeling we're about to get pulled into something. I can't explain it but you know how sometimes you get a premonition? Well, I'm getting one. Mike used to get a feeling every now and then that a bad one was coming and sure enough in a week or two or three here we'd go with a triple homicide or something like that. Got a bad feeling Duck."
"Well unfortunately your gut is usually right. You know how I feel about borrowing trouble; don't do it. Whatever is happening out there you cannot change it. You will have to deal with it possibly, but right now you will have to wait for it to show itself. More importantly you have a beautiful woman waiting for you at home. Rather anxiously I imagine. That is a luxury you must not take lightly. You should certainly not keep her waiting while you stress and stew about things over which you have absolutely no control. Put all this chatter as you call it out of your head and concentrate on your new house and your lovely lady."
Jethro swallowed the last of his drink and stood up. "That is exactly what I intend to do, Duck. Thanks for letting me vent. It helps a lot. Come on, I'll walk out with you."
When Jethro got to the car he called Holly.
"On my way. You need anything?"
"Just you lover. Hurry but be safe."
"Twenty minutes. Be ready."
He hung up before Holly could reply. She had unloaded several more boxes from the pod but had not opened any of them except a few kitchen things. She was mainly looking for a corkscrew since she intended to celebrate with a bottle of wine she just happened to have for the occasion thanks to the cab driver being so patient as to stop for her on the way home. Surprisingly enough there was some good cheese in the fridge and some acceptable crackers sitting all alone in the cabinet. Not exactly gourmet but it would certainly do for the two of them. When she didn't find the corkscrew she decided beer would have to do. Or, bourbon if Jethro preferred. The wine could wait for another night.
Holly took a few minutes to freshen up then went outside to wait for Jethro. She wanted to walk in the house with him pretending it was her first time to see it. It sounded silly even to her but that was what she wanted to do. She stood in the yard studying the flower beds and thinking about what all she wanted to do this coming fall and then next spring. She had some ideas about landscaping; something Jethro had neglected for too long, and she could visualize such a beautiful yard to go with their beautiful house. Even now when she and Jethro had been together for two years she was still in awe of how wonderful things were turning out for them. She had never been happier.
Jethro drove up and found Holly sitting on the front porch. He smiled to himself and thought how nice it was to have her to come home to. It had been such a long time since this house was really a home and now it would be again. Holly didn't get up; she just sat there smiling at him and waiting. Jethro got out and walked up to her.
"You are a sight for sore eyes Ms. Snow and I like the sight of you sitting there."
Holly stood up and they hugged and Jethro gave her a proper kiss hello.
"I wanted to wait for you out here so we could walk in together and I could pretend to see the house for the first time."
Jethro looked at her with a raised eyebrow and shrugged. "Whatever makes you happy is fine with me."
"You make me happy."
"Likewise. Shall we go in?"
When they walked in the door, Holly reached for Jethro's hand and she didn't let go until they had toured the entire downstairs. She pointed out every detail and told him how much she liked everything that had been done. She exclaimed over the floors, the blinds and the appliances. She complimented him on the paint and the crown molding and the countertops and especially the backsplash. As Jethro listened to her obvious appreciation and excitement he knew all the weeks of sleeping on the couch in the basement were worthwhile. As much as he was pleased with all the renovations he was even more pleased with Holly's reaction.
They moved upstairs and Holly again pointed to all the things she really liked and leading the way was the new laundry room which had been Jethro's idea, and of course the new bathroom. The walk-in closet was a favorite for obvious reasons and naturally she loved the bedroom.
"The furniture looks really good in here. I really like it, you did a great job babe."
"Thank you. I love the colors in here. This is going to be my favorite room, I think."
"Good because I plan on us spending a lot of time in here."
"We could start that right now if you want."
She had her hands on his chest and she was pushing him back against the wall. Then her hands were in his hair and her mouth was moving slowly and deliciously up his throat, along his jaw, finally coming to rest on his lips. She kissed him a just barely there kiss then she leaned in closer and blessed him with a decidedly more urgent and demanding kiss. Jethro responded instantly by tangling his hands in her hair, turning them around so she was against the wall and pressing against her showing her exactly what she was doing to his control. In fact, control was in short supply and within the first few minutes of the kiss they were shedding clothes and falling onto the newly made bed.
All the pent up desire and longing they felt pushed them to an almost frantic pace and they christened the new bedroom with a loud, passionate lovemaking that left them both struggling to get their heart rates and breathing back to normal. Jethro had collapsed almost on top of Holly and when he rolled over they were both flat on their backs breathing hard. Holly reached for his hand and laced their fingers together.
"Wow, I guess we've kinda missed each other."
"Ya think?"
Holly moved over and laid her head on his chest and he wrapped his arms around her. Neither of them spoke for a long time until finally Holly raised up and looked at him with a small smile on her face.
"We are going to be so happy here. I absolutely love the house, Jethro. Almost as much as I love you."
"It's been a long time since this place was a happy home but it is now. And with you in my life it will be for a long time."
"Are you hungry?"
"A little but I want to show you something first. There is one more thing that's new that I'm guessing you haven't found yet."
That got her attention and Holly climbed over him and out of the bed. She pulled on her underwear, slacks and shirt leaving the bra on the floor.
"Well come on Marine I want to see my surprise."
Jethro laughed at her but he got up and pulled on his pants and tee shirt.
He led her downstairs and to the door to the backyard.
"Close your eyes", he directed.
Holly did as instructed. Jethro opened the door and standing behind her with his hands on her waist he guided her out onto the deck. He turned her to the right and let go of her moving to stand beside her so he could see her reaction.
"Okay, open your eyes."
Holly opened her eyes and immediately a huge smile lit her face.
"Oh my god, Jethro! I love it!"
They were standing on a new deck and Holly was exclaiming over the new hot tub in the corner. There was a new table and chairs, umbrella and grill. It was a fabulous outdoor living space that was all brand new. Holly threw her arms around Jethro's neck and kissed him.
"This is wonderful. I had no idea you were doing this. It's perfect."
"Well, I wanted to have a surprise so I wouldn't let Abby take any pictures out here. It was actually Brian's idea. We were sitting out here one evening when they were through for the day and he commented that the old deck needed replacing. We got to talking and one thing led to another and here we are."
"Well, I need to thank Brian for his idea. But I will surely thank you for making it happen. Is the hot tub ready to go?"
"It sure is. Ready and waiting for you."
Holly looked around the backyard and was grateful for the trees and shrubs surrounding the yard. They had almost total privacy since it was near dark.
"I could get us some snacks together if you'll get us some towels."
"Sounds like a plan."
Holly got the cheese and crackers together then found a summer sausage in the fridge so she sliced some of that and got each of them a beer. Jethro came in the kitchen with two beach towels and together they got everything to the deck. They sat at the new table and enjoyed their snack-which would undoubtedly turn out to be their dinner-and talked about anything and everything. Jethro wanted to hear all about the little house on the beach and how things were going with the shelter there. He was secretly hoping that Holly would get things settled to the point that she didn't feel the need to stay there the entire year. Now that the house was finished he wanted her here in DC with him. Especially if he decided not to retire at the end of the year. That was still up in the air but even if he did he wanted her home. Of course he would never tell her that but it was certainly on his mind.
For her part Holly was hoping Jethro had made up his mind about retiring. She didn't want to ask because she didn't want to influence him one way or the other. Of course she wanted him out and safely at home with her but that had to be entirely his decision. Holly thought he seemed preoccupied and tired but then he was tired all the time these days. She knew he'd been living in the basement almost since the renovation began and for that reason alone she was very glad the house was finished and she was here to see it. Jethro could have been in the bedroom for days but she knew he waited for her to get here before he even used the kitchen much less the bedroom. Well, that was over now and he could finally enjoy the house even after she went back to Tampa.
After they had eaten and drank their beer, Jethro took the plates and empties to the trash and came back with two more beers. He pulled off his tee shirt and tossed it on the table then held out his hand to Holly.
"Care to join me for a soak?"
"Certainly."
Holly quickly stripped and stepped into the tub. The water was deliciously hot and felt wonderful. Jethro stepped out of his shorts and joined her. He settled next to her and immediately relaxed. He laid his head back and tried to empty his mind of anything except that fact that he was next to a very beautiful, naked woman who just happened to be in love with him and vice versa. He concentrated to Ducky's advice to not borrow trouble. He thought it was working. He certainly didn't feel worried at the moment.
"Jethro, this was probably the best idea you have had in a very long time. I absolutely love this. Thank you a thousand times."
"You're welcome. I think I like it myself. Especially with you in here and cold beer close at hand.
That was pretty much the end of conversation for a while. There was a lot of kissing and touching and more kissing and then some more intimate touching and some laughing and then things got quiet and they just enjoyed being together.
After a while Holly thought Jethro was much too quiet and his breathing much too deep and she was afraid he was asleep.
"Hey, lover, don't go to sleep on me."
"Hmmm, yeah we better get out or I will fall asleep."
Jethro stood up and wrapped a towel around his waist then helped Holly step out into a towel he held up for her. He wrapped her up and kissed her softly on the mouth.
"You go on in and I'll put the cover on and be right there."
"Okay."
When Jethro got upstairs, Holly had turned down the bed and was in the bathroom brushing her hair out. Jethro went in to brush his teeth and rinse off in the shower. Holly joined him but just long enough to rinse then she got out and dried off. While Jethro was finishing she smoothed on some lotion and brushed her teeth. Now that they were both all clean and smelling good they managed to take their time and give the new bed a more proper christening.
There had been many nights in the last months that Jethro lay awake in the basement remembering times like these. Times when he could spend endless minutes kissing Holly, tasting every sweet spot and caressing every soft place. Tonight, finally being together in their 'new' house, in a brand new, very comfortable bed, he forgot all about the backaches he'd endured from sleeping on his old couch. Tonight, with hardly any furniture in the house, no food in the kitchen, his clothes still in the basement, he felt like he was in a real home for the first time in many, many years. Tonight, with Holly snuggled into his side sound asleep he forgot about the worries he used to have about how they would work their pasts out together.
When they first got together Jethro had sometimes wondered about the men Holly had been with before him. He thought he was bothered by those thoughts because he knew some of them had been in a professional context and not a romantic one. Admittedly, he had been with not a few women in his lifetime but for some reason it seemed different to him. He tried very hard not to let it bother him but apparently, way back in the beginning, he had not always been successful. One night Holly called him on it as they lay in bed after some rather intense but not wholly satisfying sex.
"Jethro, is something bothering you tonight?"
"No, why?"
"Well, that wasn't exactly our best effort for lack of a better word. I just thought maybe something was upsetting you that you might want to talk about."
"Not sure I can."
"Because?"
"I don't want to hurt your feelings or make you angry."
"I see. Jethro we've covered a lot of topics in the last couple of months. I think considering the fact that we have been friends for a while and are now to the point where we have pretty good sex on a pretty regular basis we should be able to talk about anything with each other. I mean, just think about the things we have done with each in this bed. Do you think I have any secrets from you? Do you think I would encourage you to do the things you to and with me if I didn't trust you completely? The answer to that is no, by the way."
Holly was on her side with her head propped up in her right hand and her left hand wandering up and down his torso. Her nails scraped carefully in random patterns that had a tendency to drive him nuts. For his part, Jethro had one hand in her hair and the other ghosting up and down her side. It was a comfortable, intimate embrace they shared quite often.
Jethro screwed up his courage and said, "Sometimes I wonder about the men you were with professionally." He said it in a rush and quietly as if he was embarrassed to be saying it. Which is because he was.
Holly's left hand stopped and she looked at him with narrowed eyes. Jethro immediately wanted to apologize but as he opened his mouth she silenced him with two fingers pressed carefully to his lips.
"What do you wonder about, Jethro?"
Her voice was calm and even and he didn't think she was angry.
"I don't even know. I mean I know it's stupid but I can't seem to completely put it out of my head. I hate that I even said anything. You don't have to explain anything to me about your past. It really doesn't matter, Holly."
"It must. Jethro, you have had four wives and how many girlfriends or casual sex partners?"
"I don't know. A few I guess."
"I have had no husbands and several semi-serious friends with whom I shared a sexual relationship. You know very well that I worked as an escort for some years and during that time I did have sex with men for money. Not often and not for very long because I did not enjoy it. I enjoyed the money; I needed the money and as soon as I could get out of that end of the business I did. For the last ten years or so I have had sex only with men I was otherwise attracted to and involved with and believe me that was not very many. Does that address your concerns?"
"Yes. Please know that I care about you Holly and I don't judge you for what you used to do. God knows there are many things I don't want to be judged for in my life. I respect you for getting out of the business and for what you're doing with your life now. You are very important to me."
He stopped short of 'I love you' that night and it was quite a while later that he finally reached that conclusion and told Holly he loved her.
"Jethro, you need to understand that what you and I have is not something I have ever experienced with another man. I trust you. I feel things for you that I have not felt for anyone else. You are important to me too."
After that night Jethro never gave another thought to Holly's past sex partners. He never again worried about her past or his past or anything else but their present and maybe the future they would have. That was still pretty far away at that point but he was certain that night they at least had a chance.
TBC