A/N: A random little Kensi and Rosa fic.
"Kensi, can you a question?"
"Of course," Kensi told her, then immediately amended. "Unless it's something that Mama Deeks said. It's probably best if you ignore any of her stories."
Rosa laughed softly. "No, it's nothing like that." She folded her hands on her lap, something about the position telling Kensi this was more than the usual school or friend related talk. "Um, so the other day, you and Marty were talking about making some doctor's appointments."
Kensi nodded slowly, remembering the conversation, but not certain where Rosa was headed.
"I'm sorry, do we need to reschedule something? We tried to work around all of your classes and after school activities," Kensi apologized.
"The times are fine," Rosa insisted. "No. When you started talking about the dentist, you mentioned both of you taking the day off and something about Deeks needing medication." She picked at her nails, her brows furrowing with worry. "Is he ok?"
Kensi closed her eyes briefly, internally cursing herself. Of course Rosa would think the worst and be concerned about Deeks. With both of her birth parents gone, she had to be horrified at the thought of losing another father.
Taking both of Rosa's hands between her own, Kensi shook them lightly until she looked up. "Hey, listen to me. Deeks is alright. He's not sick or hurt," Kensi assured her. "I won't tell you specifics because it's Deeks' story to share. What I can tell you is that several years ago, Deeks was involved in a really awful case where he did get hurt. Since then, dentist appointments of any kind have been difficult."
"Oh my god," Rosa whispered, freeing one hand to cover her mouth.
"It's much, much better now. Deeks uses medication just in case."
"Well, is there anything I should do to help?"
Kensi pressed her lips together to combat the sudden urge to cry. They really did have the greatest kid.
"Oh sweetie, you don't have to worry about that. Deeks might just be a little out of it or on edge. Honestly, he'll probably come home and sleep the rest of the day," Kensi told her.
Over the years, she'd gotten used to the unfortunately necessary routine as had the rest of the team. She forgot that Rosa was new to all of this and would likely have questions. Rosa was so observant and empathetic too, so she picked up on the things they thought were being discreet about.
Rosa nodded, her expression just as serious as earlier. "Thank you for telling me," she said. "I'd rather know than worry. I know you and Deeks want to protect me, but I don't want to be sheltered."
"I'll remember that," Kensi said. She held out her arms, and Rosa immediately sank against her chest.
When Deeks came home, they would need to talk about this. They would need to figure out a plan to share some of the hard parts of their lives. For now though, she'd comfort their daughter.