Apparently incurring septicemia in the course of fieldwork tended to scare people. Deeks was granted a full four weeks of medical leave, after he was released from the hospital. The first week or so wasn't much fun, but once his wounds and the infection began to dissipate, and his energy returned, it was almost like a paid vacation. Aside from the frequent doctor appointments.

He'd had a multitude of visitors in that time, including all of the team. Eric and Nell had come bearing a massive gift basket, balloons, and tickets to a show Deeks had wanted to see. Roberta's visits were fraught with varying levels of hysteria and overwhelming mothering. Even Kilbride dropped but one day for a very awkward encounter.

While he hadn't enjoyed the first part of the whole endeavor, he was healthy again and nearly back to normal. More importantly, he felt more secure in his abilities and position with NCIS than he had in years.

Now exactly four weeks and six days after he'd collapsed, Deeks walked into the bullpen, Kensi by his side. There were met by the entire team, and a variety of greetings. Based on Kensi's smirk, she'd had forewarning about this little get together.

Deeks had just enough time to register that was back before she rushed toward him. He bent down for a hug, her arms tight around his back.

"You are not allowed to get hurt while I'm gone again," she ordered, giving him an extra squeeze. "I'm glad you're back."

"Me too."

"Looking nice and tan there," Sam commented when Deeks and Nell parted. He pulled him in for a one-armed hug.

"Hey, I hear sun's supposed to be good for your health. Vitamin D and all that," Deeks said with a grin.

Sam snorted. "Right. You spent every day in the ocean, didn't you?"

"Oh, he tried," Kensi divulged. "I had to remind him he was recovering from a major infection."

"You are looking a little skinny," Callen said helpfully. "Way better than the last time I saw you, though."

"Thanks, man. I missed you too."

"I can get you back to fighting weight," Sam said, the offer somehow slightly menacing.

"Well, I think you look great," Eric said from his perch on the edge of Kensi's desk.

"I'm feeling pretty good. Thanks for everything you've done while I've been out. The visits, the food. The life-size CHIPs poster." Deeks nodded at Eric for the last. "I've really appreciated it."

"Like we'd let you languish at home," Fatima said, getting to her feet. "Now, c'mon and get some cake."

"Cake?" Deeks repeated, vaguely bemused.

"Yeah, we wanted to celebrate your return," Rountree explained. "Do you want banana, chocolate, or vanilla?"

As the discussion of cake flavors continued, Nell taking charge of the cutting of said cake, Callen intercepted Deeks, and wordlessly handed him a coffee.

A few minutes later, they all had plates with slices of cake covered in a thick coating of red and blue icing.

"Well, well, well, so the conquering hero returns," Kilbride drawled, strolling into the bullpen, hands tucked into his pants pockets as he eyed the cake.

"Admiral," Deeks said.

"Morning Sir, would you like a piece?" Fatima offered, managing to keep a straight face somehow as she held out a slice of garishly colored cake. From what Deeks had gleaned, she'd been a little frosty towards Kilbride since Deeks' collapse.

"No thank you, Agent Namazi. We have a new case, so I suggest you all finish up this little get together and head upstairs," Kilbride said.

"We'll be right up," Callen said.

"Good." Kilbride started to walk away then paused, turning back around. "It's good to have you back, Deeks. You were missed." He caught Deeks' eye with a knowing, measured look. Deeks returned it was a single nod. Then Kilbride was off again, grumbling under his breath.

"Ok, what the hell was that?" Nell wondered loudly once Kilbride was out of earshot. "Did he just give you a death glare?"

"No. When I was in the hospital, Kilbride and I had a discussion. I guess you could say we've reached a new stage in our relationship.

"What does that mean?" Kensi asked.

"Progress," Deeks said, tugging Kensi into his side.

A/N: Two years after starting it, this story is officially done. Thanks so much to everyone who has stuck with it, offered their thoughts and comments, and been so supportive.