A/N Hi Everyone! I wanted to thank you for your reviews, questions and advice. Hopefully some of your questions will be answered soon. I appreciate your patience with how slowly each chapter is being updated. Sometimes real life has other plans.

XX X

The last few days had been a whirlwind for Gibbs and Timmy. Between Christmas and Jack's visit they'd kept very busy. Jack had left to return to Stillwater yesterday afternoon, but that didn't mean the two could finally relax. Iris and Ezra Klein, the owners of the wonderful Bed and Breakfast in Bloomsburg were set to arrive today to spend a few days. They'd kept in touch through email over the past few months and the older couple was anxious to see their honorary grandson. They'd suggested that Timmy and Gibbs come visit them for New Year's; however Gibbs had a better idea. Iris had mentioned that it had been a while since their last vacation and Gibbs didn't want her to worry about having to serve them. Instead he proposed that the couple come to visit and allow him to show the Kleins the same hospitality they'd received. He was also excited about introducing his family to the couple as he'd shared so much about them over the last couple of months.

He'd done all of his errands yesterday after he dropped Jack off at the airport, but now he had to tidy up around the house. With Tim down for a nap it allowed him time to work without worrying about what kind of mischief the little guy would be getting in to. As the dryer buzzed signaling the cycle was complete he grabbed the sheets and carried them into the guest bedroom. The Kleins would be staying downstairs in the room located just to the right of the kitchen. It had been empty for years, but when Timmy took over the second bedroom upstairs they'd moved all the furniture downstairs. Tony had persuaded him to buy a television for the room, convincing him that it would be a nice escape for the older couple if they needed it. Abby and Ziva had helped decorate to make it feel homier. Dropping the sheets on a nearby chair he ran his fingers through his hair and looked around. If it hadn't been for the two girls the room would have consisted of a bed and dresser instead of the wonderfully decorated masterpiece that it had morphed into. Sorting through the linen he found the fitted sheet, carried it over to the bed and began stretching it out over the mattress. Once he was finished making the bed he folded towels for the bathroom, dusted and vacuumed. Finally giving the room his stamp of approval he closed the door and started on the next chore on his list.

It was late afternoon by the time Gibbs received a phone call from Iris letting him know they were half an hour away. By this time Timmy was up from his nap and playing in the family room with his new toys. Gibbs was putting the finishing touches on the lasagna and was popping it in the oven to bake when he hung up with the woman. After pouring another cup of coffee he quickly cleaned up the mess he'd made and wandered into the family room.

Tim was immersed in one of the books Ducky bought him for Christmas, looking up only when Gibbs cleared his throat. "Whatcha doing, son?"

The toddler giggled as the roar of a lion filtered out through the small speaker of the book he was looking through. "That lion sure sounds hungry, kiddo." Tim shrugged his shoulders and flipped to the next page, bellowing, "Moooo!"

"That's right, buddy. The cow says "Moooo."

The youngster laughed at how silly his daddy sounded and patted the floor next to him. Gibbs smiled, adoring the fact that his son wanted them to look through the book together. He took one last look around the downstairs, wanting everything to be perfect for the Kleins arrival.

"How about you come sit on daddy's lap while we wait for grandma and grandpa to get here. If I sit on the floor, I don't think I'll make it back up."

Gibbs set his cup of coffee on the end table near the end of the couch before scooping Tim up in his arms and smothering him with kisses. "Are you excited to see grandpa and grandma? They're really excited to see you."

"Yesh!" Tim shrieked as Gibbs collapsed onto the couch and adjusted the toddler in his lap.

"Good, we're going to have some fun these next couple of days." Taking the book from Tim's grasp he leaned back against the couch, opened it and continued, "How about we start from the beginning?"

Tim bounced in his lap with excitement, squealing as he pushed the button and the sound of a dog barking emanated from the speaker. "Doggy!"

"Good job, sweetie. That is a doggy and he sounds an awfully lot like Jet."

As the two continued through the book, Gibbs' mind began to wander to the Kleins. He had good news for the pair and hoped he'd made the right decision for all parties involved.

-Flashback-

Gibbs stepped off the elevator, surprised when he didn't hear the familiar sound of music blasting. Everyone was trying to restore a sense of normalcy after Ducky had been shot, but the older man's injuries had been difficult on all of them, especially Abby. Although it had been two weeks since the ordeal and they knew Ducky would survive, the Goth had been very subdued lately. Gibbs hoped what he was about to ask would help her focus on something other than the doctor.

"Hey Abs it's awfully quiet in here."

"Oh, hey, Gibbs. I didn't hear the elevator ding."

"I brought you this." He set the Caf-Pow down on her desk and was concerned when she turned to face him. She appeared as if she hadn't slept in days and it looked as though she was wearing the same outfit as the day before. He couldn't be certain of that though because a lot of her clothing looked the same. Sighing, he pulled up a stool and sat down next to her.

"Do you want to talk about it?"

Abby glanced at him skeptically, "You're asking me if I want to talk about it? Who are you and what have you done with Gibbs?"

The older man exhaled sharply, running his fingers through his hair. "C'mon Abs I'm trying to be better about communicating. It's not only for Tim's benefit, but for the rest of you as well. So, I can try to help you or you can continue feeling miserable."

She shook her head and turned back to face her computer; "I don't want to bother you with my problems."

Gibbs knew this was a typical Abby move. She would pretend not to want to bother anyone, but when he or she started to leave the words would begin tumbling out of her mouth. Patting her on the shoulder he stood up to walk away when she yelled out, "Stop!"

Rolling his eyes he spun back around and plopped back down on the stool. "I'm listening."

It was if all of Abby's worry and frustration over the past few weeks had chosen to explode at that moment. Standing up she frantically paced back and forth across the lab. Finally Gibbs grabbed her arm, forcing her to stop and think about what she wanted to say. Nervously she pulled on her pigtails and began babbling, "I don't understand how the rest of you have managed to stay calm while Ducky is fighting for his life. It's bad enough that I have to worry about all of you when you're out in the field, but now I have to deal with it when you're not at work, too?"

The older man steered her over to the stool and motioned for her to sit down. "First of all, Abby, Ducky's doctors assured us that he'd make a full recovery. I'll admit it was touch and go for the first 72 hours, but he's a fighter and he's going to be fine." He chuckled, hoping to lighten the mood before continuing; "You know what he told me once he was fully awake?"

Abby shook her head, blinking back tears. Gibbs snaked his arm around her shoulder, pulling her close. Kissing her forehead he continued, "Ducky told me that there was no way in hell he was going to let some little punk end his life. He went on to say that it wasn't a fair fight- if the guy hadn't had a gun then he would have won the fight. I suspect if you ask Ducky if he would do it all over again, he wouldn't hesitate. I know we've all been physically and emotionally drained by the events of the past 2 weeks, but at some point we all need to move on. We all know you have a big heart, Abs; however it's not your responsibility to worry about all of us all the time. You'll only make yourself sick and we need you to be a part of this team, especially now that Tim's no longer an agent."

Sniffling, she wiped the tears from her eyes and took a deep breath. "It's weird because I know Ducky will be fine, eventually, but it's taking my heart awhile to catch up with what I already know. What if next time the outcome doesn't work out in our favor? I've already lost too many friends and I don't think I could handle another one."

"You can't continue to live your life wondering what may happen, Abby. Perhaps you need to talk with a therapist."

Abby huffed, folding her arms across her chest, "I don't need a doctor, Gibbs."

"It's just a suggestion. They may be able to teach you coping skills and it will give you an unbiased person to talk to. Please tell me you'll think about it."

"Fine. I'll consider it, but I'm not making any promises."

Gibbs threw his hands up in surrender, "That's all I can ask, Abs." Digging a piece of paper out of his pocket he set it on the keyboard and continued, "I have a project for you if you feel up to it. Might help keep your mind busy."

"Go on." She said, an intrigued look appearing on her face as she picked up the paper and unfolded it.

"I need your help tracking down a young woman. All the information that I know about her is on that piece of paper. Unfortunately it's not a lot, but if there's anyone who can find her, it's you."

"You're right, there's not a lot to go on. However, that only makes the chase that much more fun. I'll call you when I find her."

With a renewed sense of energy she ushered Gibbs out of her lab and went to work tracking down the mystery woman.

Three hours later Gibbs pulled into the parking lot at Bethesda and found a spot. Abby had managed to locate Andrea Schneider formally known as Andrea Klein in less than an hour. Andrea had recently moved back to the East Coast after living in California. She was working as a nurse at the hospital and based on her background information she was recently divorced and the mother of three children. Gibbs pondered on how he would introduce himself to the younger woman. If he called she might not agree to speak with him, but if he showed up unannounced he felt he'd have a better opportunity. His heart pounded as he walked through the hospital doors. He wanted this to work out for Iris and Ezra's sake, hoping she would at least listen to what he had to say. Abby had informed him she worked in the maternity ward so he glanced over the directory near the elevator and rode it up to the third floor.

When he stepped off the elevator he noticed a nurse's station to the right and headed in that direction. A young woman caught his attention almost immediately as he made his way closer. It was without a doubt, Andrea Schneider. She was medium height and had dark brown hair that was pulled back in a ponytail. Studying her face from a distance he recognized Iris' eyes and mouth along with Ezra's nose and chin.

As he walked up to the desk one of the nurses glanced over at him and asked, "Can I help you?"

"Yes, I'm looking for Andrea Schneider."

The nurse glanced curiously at Andrea and back at Gibbs. Folding her arms up in front of her chest she huffed, "And who are you?"

By this time the entire nursing staff had turned their attention to Gibbs. Realizing it was going to be difficult to speak with the younger woman he pulled his badge out of his pocket and said, "Special Agent Gibbs from NCIS. I just have a couple of questions for her."

Andrea sighed and stepped forward, "Did I do something wrong?"

"No, not at all." With multiple sets of eyes on him he cleared his throat nervously and continued, "Is there somewhere we can speak in private?"

"Yeah." She paused and glanced over at an older nurse. Gibbs figured she was probably one of the managers. When the older woman nodded, Andrea added, "I have a fifteen-minute break coming up. Would you care to join me in the cafeteria for a cup of coffee?"

Gibbs nodded, "I would love to."

Awkward silence fell over the elevator as the pair rode it down to the main lobby. As they navigated through one long hallway after the next, Gibbs breathed a sigh of relief when they finally made it to the cafeteria. Once they each had a cup of coffee they found a small table in the corner, tucked away from the lunch crowd. Taking a sip of coffee they each sighed as the beverage tickled their taste buds. Andrea chuckled at their synchronicity, but quickly turned serious. "Do you want to tell me why you're here, Agent Gibbs?"

"I'm a friend of your parents."

The younger woman sat in disbelief and shock. Focusing her gaze on the table, Gibbs could tell she was trying to figure out how her parents had found her after all these years. "H h ho how?" She stuttered, lifting her head to make eye contact with him.

"I am a federal agent and work with some very talented people."

Andrea slumped back against the chair and sighed, "I knew coming back to the East Coast was a bad idea. You can tell my parents that I have nothing to say to them. They abandoned me when I needed them the most."

Gibbs swallowed hard; he knew this would be a tough conversation. The truth of the matter was he only knew Iris and Ezra's side of the story.

"I can't pretend I know what it must have felt like to be in your situation. However, I do have experience with complicated relationships when it comes to parents. I met your mother and father when my son and I stayed at their Bed and Breakfast. I had just been in a huge fight with my own father when we came upon your parents' place. Your mother and I were talking about our kids and that's when she mentioned you." He paused and took a swig of coffee, adding, "Both your parents love and miss you. It might be beneficial for all of you to try and rebuild your relationship. Life is too short to have regrets."

"All that sounds nice Agent Gibbs, but you have no idea what I've been through. I can't tell you how many times I needed my mom and dad over the past twenty years. How come they didn't look for me sooner?"

"According to your mom they've been looking for you for years. They even went as far as hiring a private investigator to find you. Apparently you've been keeping a low profile all these years."

Andrea blinked back the tears that threatened to fall and whispered, "Really?"

Gibbs nodded, "Yep, they really want to work everything out. They don't know that I've found you. The plan is for them to come stay with me over New Year's and I think it would be a perfect opportunity for all of you to meet." Taking a business card out of his pocket he slid it across the table and continued, "Why don't you take some time and think about it and call me when you decide. If you feel you're not ready, that's okay too, but I think you are Andrea."

In one swift motion Gibbs stood and extended his hand, "I don't want to take up your entire break. I'll leave you alone and allow you time to decompress before you have to go back to work. It was a pleasure meeting you and I hope we'll see each other again soon."

"Pleasure meeting you, too."

Two weeks had gone by before Gibbs received a phone call from Andrea saying that she'd thought about it and really wanted to see her parents. The two planned where the reunion would take place and all Gibbs could hope was that Andrea would not change her mind at the last minute.

XXX

It wasn't until he felt Timmy tugging on his shirtsleeve that Gibbs snapped out of his musing. Glancing down he noticed that the toddler had finished the book and was now vying for his attention.

"What's up, kiddo?"

Tim fluttered his eyelashes as he patted his tummy. "Wan ba ba Dada."

"Is my boy getting hungry?"

A small growl escaped from the little guy's tummy causing both Gibbses to giggle. Glancing at the clock he ruffled Tim's hair, "Dinner is going to be ready soon, but I can't let my little boy starve now, can I?"

Tim shook his head as Gibbs stood and padded into the kitchen. Grabbing a bottle from the drying rack he opened the refrigerator and took out the milk. Tim salivated as the older man poured the white, creamy liquid into the bottle.

"I think you're almost old enough for a sippy cup, kiddo."

"No! Ba ba!" Tim whined, reaching for the bottle that was sitting on the counter.

Gibbs sighed; he couldn't believe that his little baby was growing up so quickly. The next few years would be interesting for both of them as they navigated through each new stage of Tim's life. In many instances Tim was further along than his peers; however, Gibbs wasn't sure how the drug would affect the toddler's overall development. After the holidays were over Tim would be put through a battery of tests, recommended by Ducky, to make sure the drug hadn't caused any unknown problems besides the regression.

After popping the bottle in the microwave Gibbs ran his fingers through Tim's hair, "Grandma and Grandpa should be here soon, kiddo. Are you excited to see them?"

"Yesh!" Tim squealed, although his attention was focused solely on the numbers as they counted down on the microwave. When the microwaved beeped Tim reached out to try and grab the handle.

"Whoa buddy I have to screw the lid on first."

Tim bounced happily in his daddy's arms as the older man screwed the lid on and handed it to him. The toddler sucked greedily on the nipple, stopping only when he heard the doorbell ring. Letting out a small burp he giggled innocently and blushed when Gibbs patted him on the back and uttered, "Got anymore in there?"

"No." Tim mumbled as he stuck the nipple back in his mouth and continued sucking.

"Well, I think grandpa and grandma are at the door. Why don't we give them a big welcome?"

The little guy suddenly became shy, burying his face in the crook of Gibbs' neck as the older man walked to the door. Jet had appeared from upstairs at the sound of the doorbell and was waiting patiently to see who was at the door. Gibbs couldn't help but smile as he unlocked the deadbolt and flung open the door.

"Hey! It's good to see you! Come on in; let's get you out of the cold."

Huge grins were plastered on the Kleins' faces. Even though they'd only met once and corresponded through email for the past couple of months they felt like family. Iris was the first to wrap her arms around Gibbs and Timmy, holding on to the two of them as if they were a life preserver. Once the youngster started to squirm she backed away, maternally cupping Gibbs' cheek in her hand.

"You look great, Jethro."

"Thank you," he responded, leaning over to kiss her cheek.

"You mind if I get in on some of this?"

It was at that moment that Gibbs realized they were blocking Ezra's entrance into the house. Iris chuckled as she moved aside to allow her husband inside. "I'm sorry, dear; I got a little carried away, as usual."

Ezra chuckled, "I'm quite used to it, sweetheart."

Extending his hand toward Gibbs, he waited until the younger man clutched it before pulling him into his embrace. "It's nice to see you two again. We've been so excited to come for a visit."

Gibbs patted the older man on the back, "I'm glad I was able to convince you to take some time off."

As the two men pulled away from each other, Jet whimpered loudly causing everyone to turn their attention toward the dog. Ezra crouched down so that he was at the canine's eye level and ran his fingers through his thick coat.

"Who do we have here?"

"That's our dog, Jet. He's super friendly and really protective of Timmy. They're best buddies."

"He's a beautiful dog. My family had a German shepherd when I was growing up. We used to get into all sorts of trouble together."

Gibbs sighed, "Yeah, that's what I'm worried about. However, at this point in time he's an excellent babysitter."

Ezra nodded, "I can't tell you how many times good ole' Beau saved my butt. He was definitely part of our family." The older man zipped his coat, adding, "I have to get the luggage out of the car, but I'll be back in a few."

"Let me help you."

"Nonsense, son, it's only a couple of bags."

Gibbs shook his head and leaned down to whisper to Timmy. "Why don't you go see your grandma while I help grandpa get their luggage?"

The little guy was hesitant at first, but when Iris extended her arms, he practically fell into them. "You've gotten so big since the last time I saw you, sweetie. Handsome as ever - just like your daddy." She brushed the hair off his forehead and continued, "Let's go sit on the couch so you can finish your bottle."

After grabbing his coat out of the closest Gibbs followed Ezra out to the car. As the older man unlocked the trunk he turned to Gibbs and said, "Quite a nice place you have here."

"Thanks!" Gibbs responded, lifting the heavy suitcase out of the trunk. "As you know, when you own a house you feel as though your work is never done. Especially when you have a fifteen month old that you're trying to keep up with."

Ezra chuckled, "Ah yes I remember those days quite well. It's particularly difficult when your home is also your business. There is no rest for the weary."

Gibbs clasped Ezra's shoulder and smiled, "Perhaps not then, but there is now. You are our guests and I don't want you to do anything but relax while you're here."

"Try telling that to my wife." Ezra huffed as he grabbed the last bag and flung it over his shoulder.

"Oh, don't you worry, I will. Although from what I've witnessed at your house it's going to be hard for her to relax. I'm hoping Tim will keep her occupied though."

As Ezra closed the trunk he turned to Gibbs and sighed, "The holidays are hard on both of us, particularly Iris. She's been quite depressed lately and I'm hoping this getaway will be the perfect antidote."

Gibbs swallowed hard, he'd noticed the tone of Iris' emails change after Thanksgiving, but hadn't realized she was so depressed. If he had any doubt left in his mind about finding Andrea it had all disappeared after Ezra's acknowledgement of his wife's condition.

Picking up the heavy suitcase Gibbs tilted his head toward the house and huffed, "Well, let's make sure this is best damn New Year's Eve she's ever had."

As the two men walked through the front door they stopped dead in their tracks, mesmerized by Iris' beautiful singing. Apparently they weren't the only ones either, Timmy was tucked safely in her arms with his eyes closed, sucking contently on the bottle.

"She has an amazing voice." Gibbs whispered, trying to avoid disrupting Iris.

"It's the first time I've heard her sing this song in decades. She used to sing it to Andrea all the time." Ezra murmured, blinking back tears that had formed in his eyes.

Gibbs wrapped his arm around Ezra's shoulder; pulling him close as the pair listened to Iris finish the song. When Ezra began clapping, she startled and gasped, "My goodness! You scared me, dear." Taking a deep breath she continued, "I got so caught up in the song that I didn't realize you two had returned with the luggage."

"I'm sorry, sweetie, I didn't mean to scare you. It was nice to hear you singing again."

"You have a beautiful voice, Iris."

The older woman blushed, "Thank you, hon. It's been a long time since I've sung that particular song, but Tim got fussy when you walked out the door and it was the first thing that came to my mind."

"It looks like it worked. I haven't seen him that relaxed in a long time."

Gibbs stared at his son, amazed at how relaxed his features had become from listening to Iris sing. He was thrilled that Timmy had already formed a tight bond with her, as the little guy would benefit from her maternal instincts. Iris was desperately seeking a child willing to accept her love and Tim needed more female influences in his life.

"I'm glad I could help. I think it was therapeutic for the both of us." As Tim neared the end of the bottle, Iris sat him up and patted his back. The toddler blushed as he burped loudly causing the adults to erupt with laughter.

"Aww don't be embarrassed, sweetie! That was a good one! I bet you learned that from your daddy, didn't you?"

Chuckling, Gibbs held his hands up in surrender, "I plead the fifth. Hey, why don't we give you a tour of the house and you can get cleaned up for dinner."

Ezra patted his stomach, snickering when a small growl escaped. "It smells fantastic! We weren't expecting gourmet meals, Gibbs."

"Well, that won't be a problem because my meals are far from gourmet. Timmy seems to like my cooking though. Don't you son?"

Tim nodded, "Yesh dada!"

As Gibbs grabbed the largest suitcase he wheeled it through the family room and motioned for the couple to follow. Once they caught up with him he stopped in front of the kitchen and said, "Obviously that's the kitchen; feel free to make yourselves at home." He paused to make sure he had Iris' attention before continuing, "That doesn't include making any meals. You are our guests and that means you don't lift a finger, got it?"

"Fine, I'll try, but it's not going to be easy for me."

"Oh, I know..." Gibbs gestured at Ezra, adding, "Something tells me we're going to have fun watching you try."

"Uh huh we'll see about that." The older woman adjusted Tim on her hip and cooed, "Isn't that right, Timmy?"

The toddler's eyes darted amongst all the adults before he slowly laid his head down on Iris' shoulder and stuck his thumb in his mouth.

"Is that his sign for defeat?"

Gibbs shrugged his shoulders and ran his fingers through his son's hair. "I wouldn't call it defeat - it's more his way of letting us know he's not taking sides. C'mon let's keep going your room is at the end of the hallway."

When they reached the bedroom, Gibbs stood with his hand on the door handle and huffed, "It's not as nice as the room we stayed in at your house, but I hope you'll find it suitable for your visit."

"Oh dear," Iris reached up and cupped Gibbs' cheek with her hand, "Please stop worrying about whether all you've done for us is good enough. We are thrilled to be here, even if that means having to sleep on an air mattress."

Gibbs felt himself leaning into the older woman's touch. He enjoyed her endearments, the way she smelled and the warmth in her eyes. It was at that moment he realized that for the first time in his life since Shannon and Kelly, he was truly allowing another woman into his heart. He'd been worried about Tim not having enough motherly figures in his life when it was him who needed one the most. Taking a deep breath he turned the doorknob and scooted aside to allow the Kleins into the room.

"Oh, it's beautiful, Jethro! How could you possibly think we weren't going to like it?"

Ezra sighed as he plopped down on the bed and continued looking around the room. "This room is so cozy. It reminds me of this cabin we stayed at in Shenandoah Valley. We had a great time on that trip and I'm sure this will be no different."

"Good I'm glad you like it." Gibbs pointed to the bathroom and continued, "There's a full bath in there - should be enough towels, but if you need any more then please let me know. I need to go check on dinner if you want to take some time to unpack before dinner. C'mon Timmy let's give grandma and grandpa some privacy and get you into your highchair."

Iris begrudgingly handed Tim over to Gibbs. "I'll see you in a few minutes, sweetie. Grandma wants to hear all about your Christmas!"

"Oh, Santa was very good to him. Wasn't he, kiddo?" Gibbs responded, patting Tim on the bottom as he stepped out into the hallway and closed the door. The little guy's face crumpled when Gibbs shut the door. His grandparents had just arrived and he was already being separated from them. Noticing his son's disappointment Gibbs leaned down and kissed the top of his head. "Don't worry, buddy, they're getting settled in and then they'll come have dinner with us. Daddy made one of your favorites tonight - lasagna."

That appeared to appease Tim and by the time they'd made it to the kitchen he was smiling again. After the youngster was securely buckled in his highchair Gibbs opened the oven door to check on the pasta. He was happy to see that it was done and he pulled it out of the oven to cool while the garlic bread was baking. Once he grabbed the salad out of the refrigerator he started a fresh pot of coffee and took the dishes out of the cupboard. He'd decided that dinner would be served buffet style to allow the Kleins to take as much as they wanted. Once everything was laid out on the counter he heard the door to the guest room creak open and footsteps coming down the hall. It was at that moment he spotted part of the Klein's Christmas present sitting on the kitchen table. Carefully sliding it in his back pocket as Ezra walked into the kitchen he breathed a sigh of relief. He didn't want to give it to them until the morning.

"Any particularly place you'd like me to sit, Jethro?"

Gibbs signaled to two empty chairs, "Take your pick, my friend. What would you like to drink?"

Ezra inhaled deeply, "That coffee smells delicious."

"Coffee it is; what about Iris?"

The older man opened his mouth to speak for his wife when she came walking into the kitchen.

"Coffee for me too, please."

"Great. Once this pot is done brewing you can have at it."

When the timer buzzed Gibbs pulled the garlic bread out of the oven, relieved to see he bought the brand that was already sliced.

"Dinner is served. Plates are on the counter along with the utensils."

Ezra leaned over and nudged his wife, "Ladies first, dear."

"Oh, yes..." She chuckled, "Sorry, I'm used to serving others rather than having someone serve me. This is quite a treat!"

The older woman got up from the chair followed closely by her husband. Their mouths watered at the crisp lettuce leaves, piping hot lasagna and crispy garlic bread.

"You did a great job, Jethro! I can't wait to taste it. I might have to get the recipe from you."

Gibbs wrapped his arm around Iris' shoulder and laughed, "You should probably taste it first before you get your hopes up."

"Nonsense, dear!" She huffed, gently nudging him in the stomach, adding, "I can already tell I'm going to enjoy it."

Once everyone had filled their plates and received their drinks they sat down to eat. Dinner was filled with conversations about Christmas, the plans for New Year's Eve and the tourist attractions the Kleins wanted to visit while they were close to Washington. Iris appeared upbeat throughout dinner until Gibbs started cleaning up the dishes. He wondered if he'd said something wrong, but when Ezra gave him a reassuring look he realized it had to do with Iris' depression.

Leaning back against the sink as he waited for another pot of coffee to brew, he felt the card in his back pocket crinkle against the cupboard. He was going to wait until morning to tell the Kleins about finding Andrea, but with Iris' current mood he felt now was as good of time as any. After pouring a fresh cup for everyone he slipped the envelope out of his back pocket and sat down at the table. Clearing his throat so that he had both of their attentions he held the envelope up so they could see it.

Iris jumped out of her seat, exclaiming, "Oh, are we doing Christmas presents now? Wait, you have to let me go get what we brought!"

"Actually..." Gibbs trailed off, gesturing for Iris to take a seat. "I'd like for the two of you to open this first."

Gibbs couldn't help the trembling that had appeared in his voice and he could tell by the look on the Klein's faces that they knew it was something important. Taking a deep breath he extended his arm in the couple's direction. "It's something you need to open together."

Ezra nodded; his hand shaking as he took the envelope from Gibbs. Reaching across the table he took a hold of Iris' hand. "You ready?"

The older woman squeezed his hand tight and Gibbs could tell it was taking everything in her power to remain calm.

"Okay, here we go," Ezra stammered as he tore open the envelope and stared blankly at the card. Iris scooted her chair closer to her husband and when she gave a nod he opened the card.