Thanks for all of your support. You guys are the best! Just so you know there are a few parts in this chapter that reflect Tim's thinking and POV.
Gibbs anxiously paced back and forth as he cradled Tim in his arms and fed him his morning bottle; cherishing the last precious moments between them before the McGees arrived. The team had arrived early to start preparing brunch and add some finishing touches to Timmy's room. Looking down at his sweet, innocent boy, Gibbs smiled as he thought back to the previous day and how the entire family had pulled together for the two of them.
XXX
It had been a long day of cleaning, cooking and more cleaning as the team prepared for the McGees arrival. Jethro the dog had been given a bath by Tony and Jimmy, which in turn required another round of cleaning and much needed laughter after the dog escaped his two handlers, leaving a trail of water and soap suds in his wake. Everyone enjoyed watching Tony and Jimmy chase Jethro throughout the house before they were able to corner him and retreat to the bathroom. Breena Palmer brought pizza and after getting over the initial shock of Baby Timmy, turned out to be a great help to Ziva and Abby in the kitchen. Once he was satisfied with the work they'd accomplished he thanked the team and sent them home for the night. Finally alone with his little guy, he was intent on savoring what could be their last night together as father and son. He had always been a 'glass half full' kind of guy, but as the looming hours approached he couldn't help but worry what tomorrow would bring. Once finished with their nighttime routine he grabbed the bottle, cradled Tim in his arms and collapsed into the recliner. Tim snuggled up and rested his head on the older man's shoulder, giggling as the stubble from Gibbs' chin brushed against his forehead.
"You thirsty, kiddo?"
Tim's eyes widened and he nodded as the nipple of the bottle approached his lips. Clamping down he let out a small sigh and huddled closer to his protector as the sweet creamy liquid trickled into his mouth. Between the rocking, the warm milk filling his tummy and Gibbs' thumb rubbing soothing circles on his forehead it wasn't long before he was fighting to stay awake.
"Sleep my son. Daddy will be here when you wake up." Gibbs soothed as he brushed the hair from Tim's forehead.
Briefly opening his eyes, Tim gave Gibbs a resolute look causing the older man to chuckle. "Don't worry about me, Timmy. I'll try and get some sleep."
Placing his tiny hand on top of Gibbs,' Tim grunted and pushed the bottle away from his mouth. Wiping the milk as it dribbled down the toddler's chin, Gibbs asked, "You done already? Normally you take the entire bottle."
Shaking his head, Tim replied, "Lub u dada."
Swallowing past the sudden lump in his throat, Gibbs' voice cracked as he leaned down and kissed Tim's forehead, "I love you too, son."
At that moment Tim reached over and curled his tiny fingers around the older man's thumb, pulled it towards him and rested it on his chest. Eyeing the bottle he opened his mouth and waited for Gibbs to reinsert the nipple between his lips. Sucking contentedly Tim's eyes drooped as he allowed the warmth from Gibbs and the rocking to lull him to sleep. Once certain he was asleep, Gibbs removed the bottle and carded his hand through the toddler's hair. The moonlight streaming in through the blinds reflected off Tim's face and reminded Gibbs of earlier that afternoon in the car. Once again Tim looked like the perfect little cherub and he couldn't help but think it was a sign from up above that they were meant to be together. He sighed remembering his two girls and the fun times they had as a family. That's the life he wanted to give his Tim, a loving, nurturing home where saying 'I love you', hugs and kisses were everyday occurrences. There was no doubt in his mind that if Shannon and Kelly were still alive they would have welcomed Tim into their family with open arms.
He watched Tim for a long time as he slept peacefully unaware of the heartache and turmoil his daddy as well as both his families were going through. Leaning his cheek against Tim's forehead his eyes filled with tears as the pent up frustration, sadness and anxiety overwhelmed him. He was torn, was it selfish to want to keep Tim and raise him as his own when he knew Tim's family was probably capable of doing it? Although Admiral John McGee had been a less than stellar father, Tim had Penny who had been a stable and caring influence in his life. However, she was older and was always traveling to one country or another. Then there was Sarah, Tim's sister who was beginning her career although he couldn't see her putting it on hold to raise her baby 'older' brother. He had never met Tim's mom before, but the bits he'd overheard his youngest saying in the bullpen made him feel as though she was done raising kids and excited to have the freedom to come and go as she pleased with her boyfriend. Wiping away the stray tears, he sighed; the best he could hope for was that the McGees realized Tim needed him as much as he needed Tim.
Pulling out the footrest of the recliner he leaned back in the chair and pulled Tim up onto his chest. The youngster whined at the unexpected movement but as soon as Gibbs started stroking his back he settled down. Fighting to stay awake as the exhaustion weighed down on him, Gibbs wrapped his arm loosely around Tim's back. He hoped for many more years like this, protecting Tim from the imaginary monsters under his bed, teaching him how to ride a bike, all the fun activities that fathers and sons did together. Although he wouldn't always be there to catch him when he fell or made a mistake, Tim would always know he was loved, protected and taken care of.
XXX
"Jethro?"
Gibbs startled when he heard his name being called. Looking around he noticed the entire team watching him closely. Even Timmy who had finished his bottle was keeping an eye on him. Shaking his head as if to clear it, Gibbs moved Tim to his shoulder and began patting his back, "What time is it? Is everything ready for our guests' arrival?"
"It's 11:45, Boss. Technically they could be here any moment. The mimosas are ready if anyone cares for one."
Everyone gave Tony a disapproving look upon his admission.
"What?"- Figured it would loosen everyone up. Plus, Boss told me it was okay last night."
Coffee, I need coffee Gibbs thought as his heart rate increased and a feeling of panic overwhelmed him. This wasn't right, he was supposed to be the rock, the 'dad' everyone depended on to make them feel safe. Although he knew the team was aware of his fears he wasn't used to being this vulnerable around them or anyone for that matter. Suddenly a mug was shoved into his hand and he stared down at it and then up to the person who had placed it there. Ducky smiled warmly and guided him to sit down in one of the dining room chairs.
"Did I say that out loud, Duck?"
Ducky chuckled, "No my dear boy, we've been friends long enough that I know what helps calm you down."
Gibbs nodded and then suddenly realized Tim was no longer in his arms. Ducky patted his hand, "I had Anthony take him into the kitchen, don't worry you can have him back when we're done."
Trembling, Gibbs took a sip of the fresh brew, "Guess I've been kind of out of it, can't believe I didn't realize DiNozzo took him from my arms."
"Unfortunately stress and the fear of losing a loved one can throw off your entire psyche. Have you discussed the McGees arrival with Timothy? I'm concerned if they decide to keep the young man the situation could be catastrophic."
"Ya think, Duck?"
The older man raised his eyebrows slightly and was about to speak when Gibbs continued.
"I'm sorry." He sighed, "I'm sure Tim realizes there's something wrong but I haven't explained the situation to him yet." He paused as his voice began quivering, "How do you explain to a baby that he might be taken away from his daddy? I don't know if he's going to remember the McGees and I would rather cross that bridge when we come to it before burdening him with something he wouldn't understand. It's too heartbreaking for me to even think about the possibility of losing Tim."
"I know Jethro. It would be heartbreaking for all of us if the McGees decide to keep young Timothy. So what's the strategy? Do you plan on telling them the story of Timothy's regression before we introduce him?"
Shaking his head, Gibbs replied, "I plan on introducing them to Timmy first and then I'll explain the story of his regression."
"I'm not sure that's such a good idea my friend. Perhaps if we tell them the story first we'll be able to gauge their reactions and then determine the proper time to introduce them.
Gibbs squeezed his shoulder and smiled, "I appreciate your concern, Duck. However, I've put a lot of thought into this meeting and this is what I feel is best for both of us. No more beating around the bush, best to get it out there in the open. Are you with me?"
"Do I have a choice?" Ducky responded as he patted Gibbs on the arm and continued, "I'm proud of you. We're all here for both of you, we always have been and we'll always continue to be.
"Thanks, Duck. I don't know how I would make it through this without you. It means a lot to both of us."
They sat for a moment, quietly gaining strength from one another when Jethro the dog started barking. Gibbs' eyes widened and he glanced towards the window as a car pulled up to the curb and parked. Taking a deep breath Gibbs clapped his hands to get everyone's attention. This was it, the moment they'd all dreaded and would ultimately determine their fate as a family. None of them could imagine their lives without Tim. He was a breath of fresh air in a sometimes dangerous and depressing profession. The team gathered around the dining room table, the fear evident on all their faces. Everyone except for Tim who was quietly sucking his thumb and stretching out his free arm in his daddy's direction. Gibbs took him from Tony and addressed his team, adamant on looking all of them in the eye as he glanced from person to person.
"The two of us couldn't have a better family to be apart of. That being said, I want to thank you for all your help and no matter what happens today we will always be family. Whether we're thousands of miles apart or living in the same area, I will always be here for each of you as you've been here for us. Now let's show the McGees why we're the best family for our Timmy."
Abby wiped away tears while Tony looked at the floor determined not to cry. Joining Gibbs' team had been the best decision of his life. It was the first time since his mother passed away that he felt as though he belonged. Even though the team was often annoyed by his antics they were a tight knit group and he didn't want anything or anybody to change that.
As the doorbell rang they quickly dispersed into the family room. Gibbs knew Penny would recognize Ducky so he nodded to the older man and took a seat in the overstuffed armchair with Tim in his lap. Once the team had settled in various seats throughout the family room Ducky took one last deep breath and opened the door.
"Hello, please come in." Ducky greeted the family with a warm smile and scooted to the side, allowing them to step in from the cold.
"Donald, it's good to see you again." Penny said somberly and greeted him with a hug.
"It's lovely to see you too, Penny. However, I wish it were under different circumstances. Please accept my condolences regarding your son."
Penny nodded, "Thank you." Turning she noticed the rest of the team gathered around the blazing fire. "Oh, excuse me, I didn't see all of you there. You all know Sarah but I don't believe you've ever met Timothy's mother, Maggie McGee."
While Sarah, Penny and Maggie greeted the rest of the team, Gibbs was observing Tim's mother from afar. Tim resembled his father in many ways but he could definitely see traits he'd acquired from Maggie. She was of average height with brown curly hair, big expressive eyes and had the same lips as her son.
Gibbs stood up and immediately felt Tim tremble in his arms. After greeting Sarah and Penny with a nod he extended his hand to Maggie, "Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs. I'm sorry to hear about John."
She smiled and gently shook his hand, "Thank you. Maggie McGee, it's nice to finally meet you, I've heard such good things about you from my Timothy. Speaking of which Director Vance assured me Timothy would be here today. I know he was never close to John but Penny and Sarah said he didn't even show up at the hospital to say goodbye. That's certainly not the type of person he is."
Suddenly interested in the toddler in Gibbs' arms she asked, "Who is this cutie? You look an awfully lot like my son did when he was little." She gently squeezed Tim's arm causing him to scream and start wailing as he buried his face against Gibbs' neck. The team exchanged concerned glances, out of the entire time they'd been around baby Tim they had never witnessed such a strong reaction from him.
NOOO! Nother cwazy wady twying to gwab me! She wook wike a meany! No touchy wady me onwy wan muh dada!
"Oh, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to upset him. What's his name?"
Clearing his throat, Gibbs rubbed small circles on Tim's back in an attempt to calm him down. He sighed as the wails became louder and longer. Maybe Ducky was right and he should have waited to introduce Tim. Although if Maggie hadn't touched him, he would have been fine. Catching Ducky's eye he shrugged his shoulders, how was he supposed to know Tim was going to have such a strong reaction? While Gibbs was tending to him, Ziva and Abby brought out refreshments for the entire group. Although the little guy had a bottle earlier they figured it would be worth a try to see if it would calm him down. Focusing solely on Tim, Gibbs didn't notice the activity until Ziva placed the warm bottle in his free hand. "Perhaps it will calm him down Gibbs."
Offering her a small smile he replied, "Good idea, Zeever."
She nodded and retreated to her seat and her conversation with Sarah. Suddenly the crying had stopped and the room became quiet as all eyes were on Gibbs as he worked his magic. After whispering endless reassurances into Tim's ear the wails became sniffles and he contently took the offered bottle. Cradling the toddler in his arms, Gibbs took a sip of coffee and looked up, surprised to see he had an audience.
"You plan on telling us who this sweetheart is Agent Gibbs?
"Please call me Jethro and yes I plan on telling you who this little guy is." Glancing around the room, Gibbs attempted to gather strength from the team as the moment had finally arrived and everything was about to change. All of them gave him a small smile and nod, reassuring him that they had his six.
Taking a deep breath, Gibbs adjusted Tim in his arms so they could all see his face. "I would like to introduce you to Timmy."
Maggie gasped, "Where's Timothy? Are you telling me that my son has a kid and never bothered to mention it to any of us?"
"How could he do that?" Sarah continued as Maggie was rendered speechless, the shock and anger clearly written all over her face.
"Now, now perhaps Timothy has a good reason." Penny attempted to be the voice of reason as the two younger McGees huffed and puffed their disappointment. Expecting Tim to pop out from another room, Penny kept her eyes peeled for her grandson. When he didn't appear like she thought he would she continued, "You can stop hiding now Timothy. We all want to hear about your new son. We're not upset just surprised that you didn't tell us sooner."
Gently grabbing Penny's hand Ducky shook his head, "Timothy is not hiding from you my dear."
"Well where is he? Director Vance assured us we would be able to see Timothy and quite frankly I'm getting tired of all these games. I want to see my grandson now!"
Ducky gave Gibbs an exasperated look urging him to set the record straight. As the commotion continued, Gibbs stood up and knelt down in front of Penny and Maggie. The two women stopped arguing and focused their attention on Gibbs and Tim. The youngster who had been enjoying his bottle immediately stopped sucking and began trembling in his daddy's arms. Stroking his thumb down Tim's arm to soothe him, Gibbs addressed the two older McGees. Sighing, he said, "This is your Timothy. He's not hiding from you and he doesn't have a son that you've never met. Tim is now a toddler instead of a grown man."
Both of their jaws dropped and their eyes widened upon Gibbs' admission. Sarah came over and sat on the arm of the couch and the three of them stared for a long time before anything was said.
Sarah was the first to speak and she chuckled nervously, "You can't be serious! This is a joke, right? Tim is going to come out and everything is going to be fine." Biting on her bottom lip she glanced worriedly at Ziva who nodded and motioned at Timmy.
"NO, NO, NO I refuse to believe it!" Sarah shrieked as she gasped for air.
Dis cwazy gurl scweamin wike Ab. She scawin me! Dada mak hur stop! Me no wikey!
The sudden high-pitched scream scared Tim and tears began welling up in his eyes again. Kissing the toddler on the forehead, Gibbs gently stroked his cheek vaguely aware of the intense scrutiny from Penny and Maggie. While Gibbs tended to Tim, Ducky guided Sarah to a chair and knelt down in front of her, "Sarah, we need to control your breathing. Follow my pattern my dear." Nodding, she followed Ducky's directions and was soon breathing normally again. Ziva handed her a glass of water and rubbed her back as she worked to control her emotions.
Gibbs was worried; Penny and Maggie had yet to say a word regarding Tim's regression. He knew they were in shock much like he was when he discovered Tim three weeks ago. However, he wished they would say something, anything to break the awkward tension in the room. He didn't have to wait long as Maggie opened her mouth to speak but all that tumbled out were incomprehensible words.
Tim had finally settled down so Gibbs offered him the rest of the bottle and took a seat next to Penny and Maggie. "I know you have a lot of questions and we're going to do our best to answer them."
"How?" Penny asked still in a state of shock but also fascinated with the fact that the last time she saw her grandson he was a grown man not a toddler.
"A Navy scientist by the name of Lucy Grey developed a regression pill that has the capability of turning grown adults into babies. She crossed paths with us after one of her test subjects escaped and we were handed the case. Grey was enthralled with Tim and after she was incarcerated she contacted her sister who slipped a double dose of medication into Tim's drink at a bar one night. I found him the next morning in his apartment after he failed to report to work."
Gibbs decided to leave the kidnapping ordeal out of the initial conversation. He wanted the McGees to know he was perfectly capable of taking care of Tim and divulging those details would not help his case.
"Ho how lo long?" Maggie stammered as her eyes roamed over Tim's tiny body.
Continuing to stroke Tim's chubby cheek, Gibbs replied, "It's been about three and a half weeks since his initial regression. I'm sorry you weren't informed earlier, but all of Grey's victims returned to adulthood after a week. Doctor Mallard and I assumed that's what would happen with Tim. After the first week we held out hope that adult Tim would return to us, but that doesn't appear to be the case."
Sarah who had been listening closely suddenly turned angry. "When did you plan on telling us Agent Gibbs? If it hadn't been for my father passing away then it seems you and your team would have kept this a secret from us as long as possible!"
"Sarah, calm down. Each time you raise your voice you scare the living daylights out of poor Timothy."
"Don't tell me to calm down Penny! I can't believe the two of you don't have more to say about this!" Throwing her hands up in the air in frustration, Sarah stood up and grabbed her coat off the nearest chair, "I'm going for a walk."
Gibbs sighed and motioned for Abby to follow her. He knew the Goth would be the easiest and most sensitive person for the young woman to talk to.
"Donald, how old is Timothy? Can he walk? Is he potty trained? What about his mental capacity?"
As the questions tumbled out of Penny's mouth, Maggie joined in, "Does he even know who we are?
Maggie reached out her hand to touch Tim once again. The youngster squirmed and grunted around the nipple invading his mouth. Noticing his reaction she pulled back and placed her hands in her lap. "He doesn't remember us does he? That's why he screamed earlier when I touched him and shied away from me just now?" Breaking out into tears she sobbed quietly, "My poor Timmy, I just want to hold him and hug him and let him know everything is going to be all right now that Mommy's here."
Swallowing past the baseball size lump in his throat, Gibbs felt as though he'd been stabbed in the heart. For the past three weeks he'd been the caregiver, protector and daddy and now Maggie was involved and could possibly sweep the rug right out from underneath his feet. Even though he would have felt the same way if the roles were reversed he couldn't help but feel like he needed to protect his Timmy. It was obvious the youngster had no recollection of his family and he wasn't about to hand him over without putting his heart out on the table and letting the McGees know how much the two of them needed each other.
After Maggie calmed down they continued to answer all of the McGees' questions. Everything ranging from Tim's mental capacity to which foods he preferred along with his daily routine. Sarah and Abby had returned with the younger woman in a much better mood than when she left. Tim had fallen asleep in Gibbs' arms as he rocked him and stroked his back. Penny was amazed at the bond the two appeared to have. Even with a room full of people, some of them who Tim knew he was always focused solely on Gibbs and vice versa. When she met the stone-faced Marine two years ago she would have never imagined he would be so good with kids. If she knew Maggie like she thought she did, Penny assumed she would want to take Tim back to Texas and continuing raising him. Although she loved both of them she knew that Tim would be better off with Gibbs especially since the toddler had no recollection of them. It would be a cruel and unusual punishment to take him from the only people in his life he remembered. Making a mental note to have a talk with Maggie regarding Tim's future she followed the crew upstairs for a tour of Tim's room while Ziva and Abby finished preparing brunch.
As Gibbs opened the door to Tim's room a chorus of ooh's and aww's could be heard from the McGee family.
"Wow this place is fit for a king." Sarah exclaimed as she ran her hand over the railing of the crib.
Smiling, Gibbs responded, "Timmy is very important to me."
With the team's help the room had been transformed from a guest bedroom to a nursery overnight. The matching crib and changing table were strategically placed on opposite sides of the room. A new recliner sat in the corner giving ample space in the center of the room for a play area. Toys were neatly stacked in bins as a giant stuffed dog stood guard next to them. Opening the closet door Maggie was surprised at the amount of clothes hung neatly along with boxes of diapers and other supplies. Perhaps the best part of the room was the pictures hanging on the wall. They had been a surprise from the team for Gibbs and Timmy that morning. The previous day they had all taken individual pictures with Tim and then Abby sent them off to be printed and framed. There was also a family shot taken by Breena complete with Jethro the dog. However, the biggest surprise had been the picture that Abby had taken three weeks earlier of Tim asleep on Gibbs' chest. Although he was upset that Abby had disobeyed and not deleted the picture, under the current circumstances he was glad she'd kept it. Maggie pointed to the picture, her voice cracking, "I have a similar picture of Tim and John from over thirty years ago."
Wiping the tears from her eyes, Sarah wrapped her arm around her mom's shoulder; "I remember that, it's probably my favorite picture of Tim and Dad."
"Grandpa took that picture," Penny smiled at the two women, remembering the day they'd stopped over and found the two napping on the couch together.
"I can see why Tim likes it here; he's got everything he could ever need." Sarah said motioning to the various toys and clothes. Although she was shocked and angered at the fact her brother was now a toddler she'd come to the realization during her walk with Abby that there wasn't much she could do. Based on her conversations with the Goth she'd come to learn that Gibbs loved Tim very much and the two were inseparable. Tim would always be her brother and she loved him very much but as the youngest of the three McGee women she wasn't ready for motherhood. It was very obvious over the past hour they'd talked that Gibbs was already a dedicated and doting father. Even though she was younger she always felt bad about the way her father treated Tim when they were growing up. Many of his confidence issues came from being shot down time and time again by the Admiral. If Gibbs continued to raise Tim she knew he'd grow up to be a sensitive yet confident man. As long as she was still able to be a part of Tim's life she had no problem allowing Gibbs to raise him. However, she knew her mom was going to be a much tougher nut to crack. After all, who would willingly give up their own child even if it were for their benefit? She wondered what was going through Penny's head and if together they could persuade Maggie to do the right thing.
"I must say, Jethro you have done a wonderful job on my Timothy's room. However, he's my flesh and blood and while I appreciate what you've done for him, I couldn't possibly abandon my baby boy."
"Well you can't have him!" The words tumbled out of Tony's mouth before he could stop them.
"I beg your pardon? Timothy is my son and if I wish to raise him then that's my right."
Tony laughed, "Good luck with that, lady. Can't you see Tim is deathly afraid of you? He doesn't know who you are and you're going to drag him back to Texas and expect him to live a happy and healthy life?"
Gibbs glared at him, although he felt the same way as his senior field agent, belittling Maggie was not the correct way to handle the situation.
Knowing trouble when he saw it, Ducky grabbed Tony's arm and attempted to guide him out of the room. "Anthony let's go get some fresh air."
Pulling his arm from Ducky's grasp, Tony turned to leave and when he got to the door, looked over his shoulder and said, "Tim won't let anyone change him except Gibbs, Ducky and me. Good luck!"
Maggie stood there shocked at the strong reaction from Tony. She wouldn't expect a middle-aged man to care so much about a toddler. It was obvious that these people cared a lot about her son but so did she. And the right thing to do would be to take Tim with her back to Texas.
The commotion had awakened Tim and he stretched lazily in Gibbs' arms. As his eyes adjusted to the light he saw the faces of the three women from earlier. He immediately shied away when Maggie approached him.
"Dada!" Tim shrieked as Maggie's finger gently glided over his baby soft skin.
Pulling her hand away, Maggie sighed, "Why is he so scared of me? I know he doesn't know I'm his mother but he's awfully shy isn't he? I thought babies were supposed to be trustworthy and happy to cuddle with anyone."
Sarah was more enthralled with the fact that Tim called Gibbs, Dada. Picking her jaw up off the floor, she said, "Did he just call you Dada? Does he speak a lot?"
"Yes, and that's because I am his Daddy. You have to remember when Tim was first regressed he still had his adult mindset. He knew all of us and of course still does. It wasn't till lately that we noticed the drug had erased a lot of his knowledge and memories of people. He's normally a quiet lil guy, but we still love him. "
As the McGees were processing that information, Ziva knocked quietly on the door. "Brunch is ready in five minutes."
Tim was getting fidgety and Gibbs could tell his diaper was soaked and he wanted to change him before they sat down to eat. Catching Ducky's eye the good doctor ushered the women out of the bedroom, "Jethro just wants to clean young Timothy up, let's go downstairs and take our seats."
As the door closed, Gibbs took a deep breath and felt the tension in Tim's tiny body begin to dissipate. He was determined to be strong for Timmy even though he wanted to jump out the window, run away and never look back. If Gibbs expressed his emotions then Tim would only feed off that causing more tension than a toddler should be subjected to. Savoring what could be their last moments as father and son, Gibbs took his time gently cleaning Tim up. Following a clean diaper, Gibbs pulled Tim's jeans back up and leaned down to kiss his forehead, "I love you, Timmy."
Giggling, the youngster responded, "Lub u too dada. Pwease mak cwazy wady go buh buh."
"That's your mommy, Timmy. She loves you very much just like me and the rest of the team."
Tim shook his head and curled his tiny fingers around Gibbs' thumb, "No onwy hab dada."
"I wish that were true, son. Those women are the McGees...Maggie your mom...Sarah your sister and Penny your grandma."
"Dada silwy!"
"Daddy is silly sometimes, son, but unfortunately not about this." Realizing Tim was in denial and he could spend all day trying to explain it to him he decided to change the subject, "Abby and Ziva are cooking breakfast...are you hungry?"
"Uh huh me wanna sit wit dada dough."
"You got it kiddo."
Picking Tim up off the changing table he laid him over his shoulder and gently patted his bottom a few times, "It's you and me against the world, kid."
When the McGees reached the bottom of the stairs, Penny guided Sarah and Maggie off into the family room. "We need a moment to discuss this, Donald."
"Of course take your time my dears."
While Ducky went to join the rest of the team in the kitchen, Penny addressed Sarah and Maggie, "Listen I know this morning has been full of surprises, but I want to say that I think it's best for Timothy if he continues to stay here with Jethro. It's obvious they've created a special bond and I have no doubt that Jethro would lay his life on the line to protect Tim."
"I would have to agree." Sarah responded as Maggie shot them both a disapproving look.
"Timothy is my son and will always be my son. I don't care how much he and Agent Gibbs have bonded, he has no right to keep me from my flesh and blood."
"Mom, I don't think he's trying to keep Tim from us. Abby told me that Agent Gibbs lost his wife and daughter, having Tiny Tim around has completely changed his life. Perhaps we can work out some sort of custody arrangements because I still want Tim in my life too."
"I can't believe you two! I don't care for either of your opinions in this matter. I'm taking Tim back to Texas and that's the end of it."
Gibbs had reached the bottom of the stairs with Timmy when he heard Maggie's declaration. Now was the time to pour on the charm and allow her to see why he was still the best fit as a guardian for Tim. Upon entering the kitchen he saw Tony sipping on a mimosa trying to calm down. Squeezing his shoulder, Gibbs leaned down and whispered, "I know it's hard, Tony. I appreciate what you were trying to do earlier, but it probably didn't help the situation."
"But Boss..."
"No excuses, Tony. Choose your words carefully, son."
The younger man nodded and ran his hand through his hair. "I'm starving, is it time to eat?"
"Glad to see the stress has not affected your appetite, Tony."
"What can I say? Eating relaxes me, Ziva."
"Well you will be happy to know that it is time to eat."
By that time the McGees had joined them in the kitchen. Abby was pulling the French toast casserole out of the oven while Ziva was removing the last few pieces of bacon from the frying pan.
Abby pointed to the plates on the kitchen table, "We're doing this buffet style so take a plate and help yourself. We have French toast casserole, scrambled eggs, hash browns, bacon and my Aunt Gert's famous grits."
"Looks and smells delicious, Abby." Penny smiled warmly, took a plate and began filling it. After the McGees filed through the line, Gibbs grabbed a plate loading it up with enough food for both him and Tim. Jimmy warmed a bottle as Tony tied a bib on Tim's neck. Carrying the youngster into the dining room he took a seat across from Maggie and placed Tim in his lap.
"I noticed the high chair in your kitchen, does Tim normally sit in that?"
"Yeah, but sometimes he wants to sit with me and I allow it. It's a special time that we get to spend together."
Gibbs offered Tim a piece of bacon to keep him satisfied while he cut up his food. However, when the toddler noticed the gooey syrup cascading over the French toast casserole, he threw the bacon down and grabbed a piece of the casserole. Humming in delight as the sweet treat entered his mouth he gave everyone a mostly toothless grin and began chewing. The entire table laughed as Tim continued to shovel food into his mouth. Penny and Sarah were in awe at how patient Gibbs was with the little guy. He was firm yet attentive and loving and they knew they'd made the right choice in wanting Tim to grow up with Gibbs as his father.
"Gibbs is a good daddy." Abby chimed in as everyone dug into his or her food.
"I realize that and I appreciate everything you've done for him. Yes, I know it's not only Jethro who has helped care for Tim over the past three weeks. However, I feel it's my responsibility as his mother to do what's best for him and right now that's taking him back to Texas with me."
Everyone stopped eating and looked at Gibbs and Tim. Although they knew it was possible they couldn't believe this woman was coming in and swooping Tim out of their lives, possibly forever.
Ducky cleared his throat, "Maggie, might I suggest a different alternative? Timothy is not familiar with your family and taking him away from Jethro without him understanding is cruel."
"I agree with Donald. It's obvious Timothy is happy here, you have to remember that the next eighteen years of your life will be spent raising him instead of traveling the world like you planned."
"Yeah, Agent Gibbs is willing to give Tim a proper childhood and you're ruining it. No offense, mom, but I agree with Penny. Look at that little face, he's content, protected and loved."
To know that Penny and Sarah were on his side made Gibbs feel a bit better but he was still concerned about Maggie. She was determined on taking Tim with her no matter how much pain it would cause them, especially Timmy.
Maggie scoffed, "I don't need anyone's opinion in this matter. Timothy is coming with me so I suggest you enjoy these last few moments with him."
Gibbs wrapped his arms around Tim and kissed the top of his head, "Maggie" his voice cracking as he began to speak. "I'll never know a mother's love for their child. That being said, I do know a father's love for his child. Although he's not my own flesh and blood, I'm the only parental figure he's ever known. You taking him away from me would be like removing a giant piece of my heart. Please reconsider and we'll work out some sort of custody arrangements. If you love him like you say you do then do the right thing."
"That's all very touching and sweet Jethro, but how do you expect to raise a child? You and your team have very dangerous jobs, what if something happens to you, then what's going to happen to Timothy?"
"Agent Gibbs insisted a daycare be opened at NCIS. Tim stays there during the day while we're all at work." Jimmy replied and smiled warmly.
"That sounds lovely but a daycare is no place for a child to grow up. If he was with me he would be home all day long."
"Tim will only be there until he starts school. I have time throughout the day that I can visit him and I plan on scaling back my schedule to provide a stable home for him. Please allow me a chance to give him the paternal stability he lacked when he was younger."
Maggie threw her napkin down on the table, "Jethro, please don't bring John into this situation. He tried to be a good father but unfortunately..." She paused, looked at Sarah and sighed, "Work was more important to him."
"I promise I will never take Tim for granted. If that means retiring from NCIS then so be it. Tony is more than capable of taking over as team leader. He belongs with me and the rest of my family."
The entire team's jaws hit the floor at the thought of Gibbs retiring and no longer being a part of NCIS. While it was true that Tony was more than capable and had taken over the team on several occasions none of them could imagine Gibbs no longer associated with NCIS. Nevertheless, knowing Gibbs was willing to retire from a job that he loved only confirmed what they already knew and that was he was the best father for Timmy.
Sighing, Maggie stood up, "The brunch was lovely but we must be going. Say your goodbyes to Timothy and I'll pay you for the car seat in order to take him along with us."
"Mom!"
"Maggie!"
"You can't do that!" Abby shrieked in disbelief as the rest of the team sat in shock. They knew that today could be the end and the McGees had the right to take Tim but they weren't expecting it to happen so soon. All they were going to get was a quick hug and have to say goodbye.
Standing with her hands on her hips, Maggie said, "I can and I will. We can either do this the easy way or I'll call the police and describe the situation to them. Which do you prefer?"
Gibbs was so heartbroken he wanted to punch his hand through the dining room table. However, he knew he needed to remain calm until after Tim left. There was no way he'd be able to stay strong while saying goodbye to his little boy but he was going to try. Clearing his throat he stood up and cradled Tim in his arms, opting for one last plea, "Maggie, I'm begging you, please don't take Timmy away from me. He doesn't understand who you are and assumes you're going to hurt him. Please...please...please reconsider..."
"I'm sorry, Jethro. I've made up my mind, you'll still be able to visit him but I think it's best if we make a clean break. Let me get my purse and I'll give you money for the car seat."
Everyone was upset that this was how the situation was being worked out. Abby was sobbing hysterically and Gibbs would have been right there with her if it wasn't for the need to keep Tim calm. Ziva, DiNozzo and Jimmy sat with their arms crossed practically shaking in anger as Penny and Sarah gave them apologetic looks. Ducky was straight faced although Gibbs thought he could see some unshed tears in his eyes.
Swallowing past the baseball size lump in his throat he ordered DiNozzo and Jimmy to remove the car seat from his car and install it in the McGees. Unwillingly Ziva and Abby packed up some clothes, diapers and bottles to hold Tim over until Maggie could go shopping while Gibbs took Timmy into the bathroom to have some privacy and say goodbye.
Taking a seat on the lid of the toilet, he sat Tim in his lap facing him and wiped the crumbs from his face. Tim looked at him, confused as to what was going on. Wrapping his muscular arms around the toddler he pulled him towards his chest and soothingly ran his hand up and down Tim's back. Choking back tears he whispered in the youngster's ear, "Daddy is so sorry, son. I thought we would have a different outcome and you would be able to stay here with me. Instead you have to go with Mag...your mommy. She's not a bad person and loves you very much." Pulling the toddler away from his chest so he could look him straight in the eye he continued, "Can you be a big boy and do that for me?"
Tim's bottom lip stuck out in a pout as the tears began to flow. "NO, NO, NO! I wan muh dada!"
"I know, sweetie. Believe me I don't want you to go either but it's what your mom wants and I don't have a whole lot of say in the matter. I want you to know that I'm not abandoning you! You will always have a special place in my heart.
The sobbing increased and as the team listened from the other side of the door there wasn't a dry eye amongst them.
"I hope you're happy!" Abby shrieked and stormed off to the family room as the rest of the team gave Maggie the stink eye and followed. Tim and Gibbs spent another few minutes saying goodbye until Maggie knocked on the door, "You've had plenty of time to say your farewells. We have funeral arrangements we need to make before John's memorial service on Thursday."
Opening the door, Gibbs ignored Maggie as he walked out to the family room where he could hear the team had congregated. Tim had a death grip around his neck and his face buried against his shoulder. His body trembled as the sobs racked his tiny frame and he muttered incoherently about being separated from his daddy. One by one the team members patted his back, kissed him and whispered reassurances in his ear. They were all dealing with the grief in their own ways, but there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Even Penny and Sarah were moved by the precious goodbyes and upset that Maggie was causing Tim so much pain.
Maggie ignored them as she slipped a blanket over Tim and motioned for Gibbs to follow her to the car. Numb and in a daze he quietly followed her, taking Hero from Tony's clutches along the way. The wind was fierce and the temperature below freezing but he didn't feel any of it as his world was coming to an end. This was the second time he'd lost a child in his life and although under different circumstances it was still the same mind numbing pain. The toddler screamed and thrashed as he pried Tim's tiny arms off his neck and buckled him in the car seat.
"DaDa...DaDa...DaDa...DaDa!" Tim shrieked through the sobs, his voice raising another octave as he repeated his cries for help.
Somberly Gibbs squatted down, kissed Tim on the cheek and handed him Hero. Tim threw the stuffed dog to the side as he fought against the restraints, screaming and sobbing for the man who loved him unconditionally.
"I love you, son." Gibbs whispered as he slammed the door and watched in gut wrenching sorrow as Maggie started up the car and drove away. As the heartbroken sobs of his little guy rang out over and over again in his ears everything suddenly went black.