A/N Long chapter to make up for lost time. Thanks for all the kind words regarding this story. Hugs!

XXX

After a long nap Gibbs woke up feeling invigorated. He was starting to feel the stiffness set in from climbing the hill over and over again, but it was a good pain. Walking down the hall he peeked in Tim's room and saw that the toddler was still asleep giving him time to take a hot shower to soothe his old bones. By the time he stepped out of the shower he was feeling refreshed, a small bounce in his step as he grabbed a pair of jeans and his favorite sweatshirt out of the dresser. It was December 23rd, one day before Santa would arrive and he couldn't wait to see the look on Timmy's face on Christmas morning. He'd missed a few Christmases during his time in the Corps and he was beyond grateful that he had an opportunity to relive that magic once again. Grabbing his phone off the nightstand he dialed Jack's number, pacing back and forth across the bedroom until the older man answered, "Hello Leroy."

"Hey Dad," he paused and took a deep breath, "How's it going?"

"I'm doing okay. Ducky has been a gracious host." He cleared his throat and continued, "We talked some last night. The man is a really good listener, Leroy. I think you need to take him up on his offer."

"Dad." Gibbs growled, "My way - my time."

"I'm sorry, son. Forget I even mentioned it. You've always marched to the beat of your own drummer and I need to respect that." Sensing the awkwardness he decided to change the subject, "Did you have fun sledding?"

"Yeah, we all had a good time. I think Tim enjoyed it the most followed closely by DiNozzo."

"That's good to hear, son. I hope you took some pictures of Tim's snow adventures. I'd really like to see them some time."

"How about tonight? Ziva left her camera behind so I could look through some of the photos with Timmy. It would be nice if we could look through them together."

Jack's breathing hitched and he managed to whisper, "I'd really like that."

"I'm making meatloaf for dinner. I meant what I said yesterday, you're welcome to join us."

The elder Gibbs chuckled, "Since when did you start cooking? I don't think I can remember a time with the exception of grilling steaks that you've ever cooked a meal."

Gibbs sighed, "Times have changed, dad. I have a growing boy who needs three healthy meals a day. It's part of our routine and I must say that I'm a pretty damn good cook. If you don't believe me, ask DiNozzo, he's always raving about my cooking."

"Well I can't wait to taste it for myself, Leroy." He paused and added, "I really am proud of you."

Swallowing past the lump in his throat, Gibbs responded, "I know, dad. That's all I really ever wanted from you. To know that I make you proud and that you brag about me to all your friends."

Jack sniffled, blinking back tears that threatened to fall from his eyes. "I'm sorry I didn't always give you the reassurance and love that you needed. That's something I'll regret for the rest of my life. I know that you'll never do that to Timothy."

There was silence as each man digested the revelations that had just been shared. Gibbs was the first to recover, speaking softly, "I'll call one of the kids and see if they can drop you off for dinner."

"Don't worry about that, already have it covered. Abby has some last minute Christmas shopping to do and asked if I wanted to tag along. I'm sure she wouldn't mind swinging by your place while we're out."

Gibbs chuckled, "I better get started while Timmy is still sleeping. We'll see you around 6:30?"

"I can't wait. I love you, Leroy."

"Love you too, Dad."

Running his fingers through his hair, Gibbs disconnected the phone and plopped down on the bed. Tossing the phone to the side he took a few moments to compose himself. With the exception of yesterday it had been a long time, if ever that he'd heard his dad say that he was proud of him. He knew he was on the right path toward forgiving him and that it would take some time, but he was also worried about how Tim would react when he saw the older man. Tim's only recollections of Jack were not joyful and he hoped the little guy would be willing to start over and eventually show some trust. Suddenly the doorbell rang, startling him from his musing and he tore downstairs before the visitor had an opportunity to ring again. The last thing he wanted to deal with was a cranky toddler because he didn't get enough rest after a busy morning. He glanced out the window in time to see a delivery truck speeding away and opened the door. Looking down he saw a giant package and bent over to pick it up. He was surprised when he saw the return address, wondering what his father had sent from Stillwater. Carrying the package over to the Christmas tree he set it down next to the others he'd received from Maggie and Penny. Tim was going to be one spoiled little boy if he wasn't careful, but it was his first Christmas and he decided to make an exception. Once Tim was older he would teach him the importance of helping those less fortunate. Flipping on the baby monitor he listened for any indication that Tim was awake. When he didn't hear any he sighed in relief and headed into the kitchen to start dinner. Thankfully he'd done a huge shopping trip a few days prior in preparation for Christmas and rummaged through the fridge looking for the ingredients for dinner. After collecting all the supplies he washed his hands and found the recipe he'd used the last time. It was an old Mallard family recipe that had been passed down through generations.

While Ducky was recovering and still on a liquid diet he talked about how he couldn't wait to have his grandmother's meatloaf. Gibbs had noticed the recipe hanging on the older man's fridge and surprised him with dinner once he was given the all clear to try solid foods again. Everyone had thoroughly enjoyed it; Ducky even commented that Jethro's version was better than his grandmothers. He had made it a few times since then, as it was an easy meal that Tim enjoyed and ensured plenty of leftovers. Starting a fresh pot of coffee, he whistled while he worked, chopping onion, mixing meat and sculpting a perfectly shaped loaf. Once the meatloaf was covered and tucked away in the fridge until it was ready to be baked, he selected some potatoes and went to work washing, peeling and chopping. He never imagined he would enjoy cooking, but found it very therapeutic and an easy way to distress after a long day. Finally finished with the potatoes he put them in a pot of water and tucked them in the fridge as well. Pouring a fresh cup of coffee he set all the dishes to soak in the sink and was about to sit down when a cry rang out over the baby monitor.

Jet, who had been asleep on the kitchen floor, whimpered softly and looked expectantly at Gibbs. The older man chuckled, "Don't worry, boy, Timmy is perfectly fine."

"Dada!"

Tim's shriek of unhappiness caused the canine to jump up and grab hold of Gibbs' shirtsleeve attempting to drag him toward the stairs. Shocked by the dog's behavior, Gibbs growled, "Hey! What's gotten into you?" Jet barked and took off upstairs, stopping halfway to see if Gibbs was following him. With urgency in his step Gibbs proceeded to follow Jet up to Timmy's room. When he arrived the dog was scratching at the door desperate to get inside. Gibbs' heart felt like it was going to beat out of his chest. He'd never seen Jet so adamant about anything and he was worried what he'd find behind the door. Pushing the door open he gasped when he saw that Tim had scaled the crib; had one leg over the railing and was trying to figure out how to get the other leg over. The toddler was startled by the sudden noise, teetering back and forth when he lost his concentration. Suddenly he was falling and if not for Gibbs' quick reflexes the toddler would have landed on the floor. Instead he was fully enveloped in his daddy's strong arms. Exhaling loudly, Gibbs squeezed Tim tightly against his chest, "What do you think you're doing young man? Are you trying to give me a heart attack?" Tim looked up at him innocently, batting his long eyelashes and flashing a mostly toothless grin. "Dada do gan," he squealed happily.

"Oh, no, no, no we're are not doing that again." Gibbs reached down and rubbed Jet's ears. "Nice job, boy. Remind me to get you a treat when we go back downstairs." The dog snorted and once he saw that Timmy was okay, left the room. Carrying Tim over to the changing table he lay him down and tickled his tummy, "Let's get you cleaned up you silly little monkey." Tim lay contently as Gibbs tended to his soggy diaper and changed him into a more appropriate outfit for dinner with his father. Gathering Tim in his arms he glanced over at the crib and sighed, "Looks like I'll have to lower the mattress all the way down tonight before you go to bed." Planting a kiss to Tim's temple he continued, "We're lucky Jet had a feeling you were in trouble otherwise this could have turned out a lot worse." Tim instinctively nuzzled closer to Gibbs as the older man descended the stairs and walked into the kitchen. On cue Tim's tummy grumbled and he blushed when his daddy's eyes widened. "Sounds like someone is hungry." Tim nodded, patting his chubby little tummy, "Baba?"

Gibbs set the little guy down in his highchair and snapped in the tray. "You can have half a bottle, but you need to eat some real food too. I was planning on making you lunch after we got through sledding; however you fell asleep before I got the chance." Jet wandered into the kitchen, waiting patiently near the cupboard where the treats were stored. Chuckling, Gibbs gently patted the canine's head, "I think it's safe to say you don't forget anything. Especially when it has to deal with food." Jet hopped around excitedly as Gibbs dug through the cupboard and pulled out a large bone. "I've been saving this for a special occasion, but you certainly earned it today."

Jet barked, eagerly snatched the treat from Gibbs' hand and took off toward his bed. "All right, kiddo, now that Jet's taken care of I can make you a snack. I don't want you to get too full otherwise you won't eat dinner and I'm making one of your favorites tonight - meatloaf." Tim clapped his hands together, enthusiastically bouncing up and down in his highchair. Chuckling, Gibbs responded, "I figured you'd be excited, sweetie." As he went to work assembling a small snack consisting of fruit, cheese and crackers he continued, "We're also having company tonight."

Tim looked at him inquisitively and shrieked, "Toey? Gwapa?"

"Umm you're half way right, son. You'll see all your aunts and uncles tomorrow night along with Grandpa Ducky." He paused as he put Tim's plate on the highchair and sat down, "My daddy is coming for dinner tonight. I don't know if you remember him..." Tears welled up in Tim's eyes and he dropped the piece of cheese he'd been holding. Gibbs was surprised to see all the memories of that day come flooding back into Tim's mind and he wondered if he made a bad decision in telling the little guy beforehand. Frantically kicking his legs and pounding his tiny fists on the highchair, he screamed, "NO NO DADA!"

"Shh it's going to be all right, sweetie." Gibbs cooed, unsnapping the tray and lifting his boy out of the chair. Tim buried his face against his daddy's shoulder, sobbing quietly as the older man rubbed comforting circles on his back. "I promise it's going to be different this time around. Jack is very sorry for the way he acted and really wants to get to know you." Gibbs could feel Tim shaking his head against his shoulder and wrapped his arms tightly around the little one's trembling frame. "I won't let anything happen to you." Softly humming Tim's favorite lullaby he rocked side to side, attempting to soothe his little one. He felt awful that his son was terrified of coming face to face with his father. However, it wasn't surprising given the emotional rollercoaster he'd been through with the Greys and Maggie McGee. He understood Tim's concern, but meeting with Jack was something that needed to be done. It would help all their healing processes and hopefully over time the two would become inseparable.

Once Tim's tears subsided Gibbs leaned down and whispered, "You want to try to eat something for daddy?" Tim shook his head, nuzzling closer to the older man's neck. "Aw, come on sweetie. It's going to be a while before dinner is ready."

Rearranging the toddler in his lap he picked up a piece of cheese and offered it to the little guy. Tim slowly opened his mouth allowing Gibbs to feed it to him. As he chewed, Gibbs leaned down and kissed the top of his head, murmuring, "That's my boy." They continued on, Gibbs feeding him pieces of food until it was all gone. Tim had finally started to relax, tucked comfortably under his daddy's chin while the older man fed him lunch. Gibbs didn't mind at all, relishing the closeness and comfort of his baby. Nevertheless, he still had a few items to prepare for dinner and motioned to the baby bottle on the table. "You want to go in the family room and watch cartoons while I finish dinner?"

Tim turned to face Gibbs, hesitating for a moment while he contemplated his suggestion. "C'mon it will be fun, Timbo. Two of your favorite things combined - a bottle and cartoons. I figured that was an offer you couldn't refuse."

"Kay Dada," the little guy nodded, giggling as Gibbs peppered him with kisses as he stood. Grabbing the bottle off the table he handed it to Tim as he walked into the family room. Slowly kneeling down on the floor, he grimaced as a sharp pain shot through his right knee. Breathing through the pain he deposited the little fella on the floor and ruffled his curly hair. "Let's find a show for you to watch, hmm?" Tim gurgled happily around the nipple of the bottle, eyes fixated on the television screen as Gibbs scanned through the channels. When Mickey Mouse's Clubhouse appeared on the screen Tim bounced up and down with excitement, not even noticing when Gibbs retreated to the kitchen.

An hour and a half later the doorbell rang causing Timmy who was cuddled comfortably in Gibbs' arms to cower closer to his protector. Gibbs sighed, wondering if Jack's visit was too soon and too much stress for his little boy. Standing up he laid Tim over his shoulder, hugging him tightly against his chest. "I'm not going anywhere son and I certainly won't let anything happen to my little baby." Tim snaked one arm securely around Gibbs' neck, burying his face in the crook of it. He wanted to believe what his daddy was saying was true, but unfortunately this hadn't been the first time he'd said that. Patting Tim's bottom as he walked to the door he took a deep breath before opening it. Jackson smiled as the door swung open revealing his son and grandson.

"Well hello there it's good to see you again." He handed a bag to Gibbs, wiped his feet on the mat and stepped inside.

"Hi Dad," Gibbs responded, giving his father's shoulder a strong squeeze. Tim slowly turned his head to catch a glimpse of the older man and quietly watched the interaction between the two Gibbses. Gibbs could feel the apprehension in the toddler's body and whispered soothingly in his ear, "Try and relax kiddo. I've got you."

Once he'd removed his coat and hat Jack turned his attention to his grandson. "I don't know if you remember me kiddo, but my name is Jack. I hope we can become buddies and then gang up on your daddy together." Tim stared at him intently, brow furrowed, his bottom lip stuck out in a pout. Jack chuckled, "He's got the cutest little features. They start at the top with his curly blonde hair and finish with his adorable pouty lips." Instinctively he reached up to ruffle the little guy's hair and was taken aback when Timmy suddenly smacked his arm away, bellowing, "NO!"

Jack threw his hands up in surrender and chuckled, "I'm sorry Tim I shouldn't have done that."

Gibbs was surprised that Tim had resorted to physical violence. Normally the baby was shy and would cling to him as if he was drowning, but he'd never hit anyone. In the back of his mind he was thinking, score one for Timmy, but he couldn't let his dad or son know that. It was his responsibility to teach him between right and wrong and that it was never okay to hit, bite or kick anyone.

"Timothy..." Gibbs growled deeply, tilting the toddler's chin to make eye contact. "It is not okay to hit."

"It's fine, Leroy." Jack responded, waving his hand at the younger man before continuing, "There was no harm done and to be honest I would be scared of me too after the way I treated both of you."

"It's not fine, Dad. Tim has to learn that hitting people is not an effective means of communication."

Jack sighed and patted Gibbs's back, "I know, son. However, I shouldn't have tried to make contact with him. I need to earn his trust and I hope over time he will see I'm not the terrible man he met in Stillwater."

The younger man smirked and replied, "He's definitely stubborn like his old man." He paused, tickled Tim under the chin and added, "He's only a year old, but I'm excited to find out what's in store for the rest of our lives. I'm sure it won't be easy, however I seem to remember you telling me that nothing great is worth having unless you work hard for it."

Clearing his throat and nodding Jack picked up the bag he'd brought with him and rummaged through it. "When I was cleaning out the garage I found some of your old keepsakes." Gibbs raised his eyebrows slightly, leaning over to peek in the bag full of old memories. He smiled as his dad pulled out a well-loved stuffed dog that was faded in color and missing an eye. The furry friend caught Tim's attention and he leaned over to get a better look.

Gibbs took the stuffed animal from his father's hand, inspecting it closely. "I can't believe that 'Dog' was packed amongst the boxes. I always assumed he'd been donated or lost after all these years."

"Doggy!" Timmy squealed, hugging the dog close to his chest when Gibbs handed it to him.

"Your mother and I could have never gotten rid of your favorite pooch." Jack said with a laugh before continuing, "We always used to joke about how the dog's name was actually Dog. No matter how many times we would try and suggest a different name you were adamant that his name was Dog. I'm glad to see that Timothy is taking so kindly to it. You carried Dog everywhere and it appears your son might do the same thing."

"Actually..."

"Hewo!" Timmy burst out, interrupting his daddy as he scanned the downstairs looking for his other furry friend.

"Who's Hero?" Jack questioned as Tim became more and more agitated about his missing pooch.

Gibbs scanned the family room, noticing the German Shepard peeking out from under the chair. Readjusting Tim in his arms he walked over to the chair; crouched down and grabbed the furry dog. "He's right here, son. Hero was just playing a game of hide and go seek with you." The little guy held the dog out for Jack to see and murmured, "Hewo," then pointed at his daddy and repeated the name, "Hewo."

The older man appeared slightly confused as to what his grandson was trying to say and looked to his son for help. "I understand that Hero is Tim's dog, but what I don't understand is why he's referring to you as well."

Pressing a kiss to Tim's temple he motioned for Jack to join him in the kitchen. He gestured toward the coffee pot and when the older man nodded he poured him a fresh cup. Placing it in front of his dad he took a seat next to him and plopped Tim down in his lap. Wrapping his arms around the toddler he felt a surge of pride run through his body. "DiNozzo got that dog for Tim because it resembles our actual dog, Jet. The former drug dog that Abby exonerated and forced Tim to take after her landlord wouldn't allow pets." Jack's eyes widened and he took a sip of coffee as Gibbs continued, "He's a good dog and very protective of Tim, but I figured it would be easier if he was securely tucked away upstairs tonight. Anyway, before Tim lost most of his knowledge he told us that the dog's name would be Hero because I was his hero and he wanted to name him after me."

Tears welled up in Jack's eyes at the sweet sentiment of his new grandson. "Bless his heart to think of such a fitting name for his pal. I haven't spent any time with him but I can already tell he has such a gentle heart and soul."

"Yes he does and I'm lucky that he's a part of my life." He paused and glanced down at his son, "Actually he's become my whole life and I would do anything for him."

Jack smiled and reached over to pat Gibbs's hand, "As it should be, son. Thanks for having me here tonight, giving me a chance to meet my new grandson." He bowed his head in regret and added, "I'm such an idiot for reacting the way I did when you told me about him. I've missed some time that I could have already been getting to know him."

Gibbs couldn't argue with that; even though Jack was dealing with his own grief there was no reason for him to react the way he did. Jack should have been happy to have a new grandson rather than being jealous. He wanted to tell him that, get it all out there in the open, but something was stopping him. Perhaps it was Timmy's presence but more than likely it was to avoid a massive fight. For years he'd always been on the losing side of every battle. Everything and anything he would ever say or do was wrong. While they were together Shannon had encouraged him to speak up but after her untimely death all the confidence he'd gained during their marriage had come crumbling down. Now in his fifties he was still intimidated by his father, which had contributed to their estrangement since Shannon and Kelly's deaths.

Suddenly the timer rang out, thrusting Gibbs from his reverie. Jack chuckled as his son jumped slightly in his seat. "What were you thinking about son? It appeared as though you were doing some heavy duty thinking."

"Oh, umm nothing, dad." Gibbs replied rising from his seat and setting Timmy down in his highchair. "I hope you brought your appetite because dinner's ready."

Jack watched Gibbs carefully as he pulled the meatloaf out of the oven and stirred the mashed potatoes. The older man knew his son well enough to know that something was bothering him. He'd be the first to admit that he was harder on Gibbs after Anne's death, they were both dealing with the pain of losing a wife and mother, but he'd changed and he really wanted to work things out with the younger man.

"Anything I can do to help?" Jack asked as he stood up and admired Gibbs's work. "It smells delicious; I can't wait to try everything!"

"If you don't mind getting some plates down from the cabinet we can make our plates here and take them over to the table to eat."

"Sounds fine by me," Jack responded, reaching into the cabinet and pulling out two regular plates along with a Mickey Mouse plate for Timmy. Gibbs noticed what plate Jack had picked out for his grandson and laughing said, "Looks like you'll score some extra points with Timmy. That's his favorite plate to use."

"What little one doesn't like Mickey? You know what this means right?" Gibbs was perplexed and shook his head.

"It means you're going to have to take him to Disneyworld when he gets a little bit older."

"Yes it does and I can't wait. Actually it will be sad when my little baby starts getting older, but that only opens up more activities that we can do together. Shannon and I were saving money to take Kelly before they died. We had put the money in a separate account so we weren't tempted to spend it and after they passed away I didn't have the heart to take the money and close out the account. In fact every month since then I've added a little bit." He swallowed hard and glanced over at Tim before continuing, "I don't think Shannon and Kelly would mind if we used that money for our trip when we finally go."

"Dada!" Timmy shrieked, pounding his fist on the tray of the highchair.

Jack chuckled, "Sounds like we better move along before the little guy starts chewing on something that's not food."

After dishing out meatloaf, mashed potatoes, asparagus and salad for all of them the two men took a seat back at the table. Tying a bib around Tim's neck, Gibbs then placed the plate of food on the tray in front of him. The toddler quickly reached for a piece of meatloaf and shoved it in his mouth followed shortly after by another piece. "Whoa calm down, kiddo. Daddy doesn't want you to choke."

"Like father like son." Jack stated, slicing into his piece of meatloaf. Gibbs glanced over at him and raised his eyebrows. The older man shrugged his shoulders and continued, "When you were that age you did the same thing. Your mother would put a plate down in front of you and before we were even seated you had a mouth full of food. It seems as if a lot of kids around Tim's age do it."

"I know it's the age he's at, however that doesn't make it any less terrifying as a parent."

The older man took a bite of meatloaf, surprised at the eruption of flavors that invaded his mouth. He nodded his approval as he continued to chew and swallow. "Wow son the meatloaf is amazing! Who knew you had such a hidden talent?"

Gibbs shrugged his shoulders as he took a bite. Yep, it was damn good and he smiled inwardly at the feeling of finally doing something right regarding a situation with his father. Sure it was only meatloaf nevertheless it was a small victory he'd gladly take.

"I'm glad you like it, but as long as you follow a recipe, cooking isn't that hard. I just haven't had a reason to try it before now. Turns out I'm half way decent and I enjoy doing it. Tim hasn't turned a meal down yet." He pause and laughed, "DiNozzo either, for that matter."

While they continued eating they discussed the plans for Christmas Eve and Day. The team had decided they would celebrate both days at Gibbs' house instead of Ducky's with the doctor still recovering from his ordeal. Plus it would be easier on Timmy as all his toys would be in one place and when he needed a nap there would be a comfortable place for him to sleep. After a lengthy discussion regarding the menu they finally decided on prime rib for Christmas Eve and turkey for Christmas Day. Gibbs would handle the two meat dishes while the others would each bring a side dish.

Timmy had finished eating and reached over to tug Gibbs's shirtsleeve. "Baba?"

"Oh yeah sorry kiddo I forgot to make you one."

"Allow me to do it son. You finish eating while your dinner is still warm." Gibbs nodded, "Thanks dad. There are a few bottles that I washed earlier in the drying rack. You can fill one up and pop it in the microwave for about thirty seconds." As Jack went to work making the bottle, Gibbs noticed the bag that the older man had brought with him from Stillwater on the floor next to his chair. "What else did you bring from home, dad?"

"Oh, just some things I thought you might like to see. Perhaps pass them down to your own son now." Gibbs finished eating and stood up to clear the table. "Hey I don't know what you're doing but I was going to go back for seconds perhaps even thirds!"

Smiling, Gibbs replied, "There's plenty left so help yourself. I'm going to feed Timmy his bottle while you enjoy another helping." Jack handed Gibbs the bottle in exchange for his plate, his mouth watering as he sliced another piece of meatloaf. After cleaning Tim up the best he could, the toddler was going to need a bath as he had mashed potatoes smeared in his hair, Gibbs unsnapped the highchair and lifted him out. The youngster was hesitant when Jack sat down and smiled at him, however the temptation of the nipple inches from his mouth eventually won out. Clamping down on it he relaxed back against his daddy's chest, sucking contently.

Jack finished his piece of meatloaf and patted his tummy. "I don't think I could eat another bite." He stood, taking his plate over to the sink and grabbed the coffee pot. Refilling both their mugs he patted his son on the shoulder, "You're a great cook, son. Your mother would be so proud of you." He paused, "I'm not referring to just your cooking. She would be proud of how you've handled everything."

The older man returned to the table and sat down, "I know I've already said this, but I'm proud of you too. The way you are with Tim is nothing short of amazing. You deserve this more than anybody that I know. I want us to move on from this - be able to express our feelings - although I know that was tough for both of us after your mom died." Gibbs swallowed the lump in his throat and nodded. He didn't want to talk about it now. Certainly not with Timmy in his lap and nobody there to mediate.

"I have some things I'd like to discuss, but it's not going to happen tonight. Tonight is for you to get to know Timmy. I want his first Christmas to be joyful not weighed down by our issues."

"Fair enough, Leroy." Jack picked up the bag from the floor and placed it in front of him. Digging through it he pulled out a yellow and white afghan, "Remember this?"

"Of course I do." Gibbs ran his fingertips over the soft yarn and smiled, "Mom made this for me when she found out the two of you were expecting."

"Yep she sure did. She spent the remainder of her pregnancy working on it. It was in one of the old boxes in the garage, I was surprised when I found it because I thought it had gotten lost ages ago. I want Timmy to have it as a reminder of his grandmother. When he gets older maybe you can tell him a little about her."

"Of course, dad. It was really nice of you to bring some of this stuff with you. What else did you find?"

"If you ask me this is the best memento of them all." Jack revealed, manipulating an old tattered photo album out of the bag. Gibbs smiled, vaguely remembering his mother taking time to make sure each picture was in chronological order. "Now Timmy can see what his daddy was like when he was a kid." Tim perked up when Gibbs slid the album in front of him and opened the front cover. The first few photos had to have been taken when Gibbs was just a newborn. Looking down at the page Timmy pointed to the picture of a sleeping Gibbs. "Dada ba be?"

"That's right, kiddo; your daddy was just a baby in that picture." The older man reached over to ruffle Tim's hair, but stopped when the toddler yelped and cowered back against Gibbs' chest.

"I'm sorry, Timmy. I won't do it again."

Gibbs sighed, "Let him come to you, dad. It will happen when he feels comfortable."

"I know, but he's my grandson and it's hard not being able to touch him. I understand I only have myself to blame."

They continued flipping through the pages, stopping to reminisce about shots of the two Gibbses fishing or the grand opening of Jack's store. Tim became more comfortable as the night continued and before long was resting his tiny hand on Jack's arm. The older man was the first to notice and nudged his son's foot underneath the table. Gibbs quickly saw what his dad was referring to and mouthed 'told you so.' After they finished with the photo album Gibbs snatched Ziva's camera off the counter, "I promised I would show you pictures from sledding this afternoon." They all laughed when the first photo the popped up was one of DiNozzo making a snow angel.

"Toey!" Timmy squealed causing the two older men to jump.

"Yep, that's your Tony, kiddo." Gibbs chuckled, pressing a kiss to the top of his head.

As they were scanning through the pictures the entire Gibbs clan had smiles plastered on their faces. It was a day they certainly wouldn't forget anytime soon. In fact, Gibbs was counting down the days until Timmy asked to go again. By the time they reached the end of the memory card they could hear a car honking in the driveway.

"That would be my ride." Jack admitted as he stood up and added, "Abby had more shopping to do and said she'd pick me up when she finished." Timmy yawned and stuck his thumb in his mouth. The older man chuckled, "Right on time too. Our boy needs a good night's sleep, couple of busy days ahead for all of us."

By this time Gibbs was standing and escorted his dad to the entryway. "You're right about that. We don't want Timmy to be cranky otherwise Santa won't come to visit."

Jack gathered his coat and hat that was draped over the chair while Gibbs signaled out the front door to Abby that they'd heard her.

"I see you received my package." Jack noted, slipping into his coat and donning his hat.

"Yeah, but dad that wasn't necessary."

"Nonsense Leroy it most certainly is. I hope you two like your presents because one of them is non-refundable. Besides I couldn't miss out on the opportunity to buy my grandson gifts, now could I?"

"No, I guess you couldn't, dad." Gibbs sighed, pulling the older man in for a hug. Tim giggled as he was lightly squished between his dad and grandpa. "Sorry sport I didn't mean to squish you."

"He's fine - aren't you sweetie?"

Timmy nodded, tentatively reaching out his hand as Jack turned toward the front door. Ecstatic over his grandson's willingness Jack reached out and grasped the tiny hand. Bringing it up to his mouth he kissed it, blinking back tears. "That's so nice of you, kiddo. Grandpa Jack will see you tomorrow night."

Ushering his father to the door Gibbs gave him one more pat on the back, "Thanks for coming tonight, Dad and reminding me of all those old memories."

"Thanks for having me, son. I had a great time getting to know Tim, spending time with you and of course tasting your cooking."

"Yeah, the night didn't turn out too bad. Better get going I don't want to keep Abby waiting much longer. Good night."

"Good night, Leroy...Timmy."

Once Gibbs opened the door and flipped on the outside light switch Abby got out of the car to ensure that Jack made it safely. She waved at the two younger Gibbs, shuffling behind the older man until he made it to the car. Opening the door she waited until Jack was situated and closed the door. "We'll see you two tomorrow! I can't wait!" She bellowed, walking around to the driver's side.

"Sounds good, Abs. Thanks for giving Jack a ride tonight. I really appreciate it."

After Abby's car had backed out of the driveway, the two returned inside to hear Jet barking from upstairs. "I guess it's time to let doggy outside before he makes a mess and then its bath time for you cutie pie."

"Bubble?" Tim asked hopefully as Gibbs climbed the stairs.

Gibbs huffed, "Is there any other kind in this house anymore?"

"Bubble."

"Yeah, bubble I heard you the first time, kid." When they reached the top of the stairs he pressed a kiss to Tim's forehead, "You won't understand what I'm saying until you're older, but I never want our relationship to be like the one I have with Jack. I will always be proud of you for who you are. I promise to always listen to what you have to say, guide you through life's difficult moments and most importantly I will always love you."

Tim threw his arms around Gibbs' neck, "Lub u dada."